11 Nov What Is an Exotic Vacation and 13 Suggestions
You often hear the expression “exotic vacation” used in travel industry terminology. When customers call me about taking an exotic vacation I’m excited because I have the entire world to work with. Literally. But people come from all walks of life and what one may consider exotic could be entirely something else to another traveler.
So what exactly is an exotic vacation?
In the most basic terms, an exotic vacation can most often be:
- A vacation to somewhere uncommon. Many travelers see exotic vacations as a trip to someplace they have never been before or to a place that few have travelled in the past. Maybe photographing giraffes striding the Serengeti at sunrise or hiking the high steps to Machu Picchu.
- An escape to a beach retreat. Many travelers associate the term exotic vacation with crystal clear waters and white sands. From the cliffs of Cala Mitjaneta, Menorca, Spain, to the pink sands of Spiaggia Rosa, Sardinia, Italy, and the clear waters of Bora Bora, French Polynesia. The list of beach vacations is endless.
- A destination far from home. For others, an exotic vacation means traveling to a new country that holds appeal and enchantment. Be it the lost city of Petra, Jordan, rising out of the cliffs between the Red and Dead Seas, or scuba diving in the Great Blue Hole, Belize, to exploring caves in Cappadocia, Turkey.
No matter what you envision your ideal exotic vacation to be, Driftwood Travel is here to make your dreams become reality. We create tailored, seamless, custom, travel insider-style itineraries that leave our clients soul struck and awe inspired. To us travel is about the journey and the destination, and the glorious afterglow that happens when you’ve experienced another trip of a lifetime. We are luxury travel advisors, but we see it as art.
If you’re considering an exotic vacation we put together a treasure trove of suggestions.
1. Madagascar
For those seeking a still relatively off-the-radar vacation, look no further than wild and virtually unexplored Madagascar. This thriving hotspot of biodiversity is a dream for naturalists and adventurers alike; the island is teeming with endemic wildlife, 80% which can be found nowhere else on Earth.
Unknown to most, Madagascar has some of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean. Check out Nosy Be, Madagascar’s most scenic coastal spot, where travelers can spot humpback whales and lemurs on the coastline.
Think days exploring lush tropical rainforests and watching turtles nest on the deserted sandy beaches.
2. Salta, Argentina
In contrast to the Italo-Spanish metropolis of Buenos Aires and the surrounding grassy Pampas, Argentina’s northwest boasts a strong Andean and spiritual heritage as a meeting point for South America’s indigenous communities. The region is famed for its spectacular scenery and richly colored landscapes, thick red rock valleys, multi-colored and monochromatic hills, and terra-cotta peaks magically set against stark blue skies. The diversity of this area makes it a haven for trekking, horseback riding, rafting, driving 4X4s, and a plethora of other adventure activities.
The city of Salta contains some of the best preserved colonial architecture, attractive plazas, and regional cuisine in all of Argentina, making it an off the beaten track cultural gem.
3. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Located in the chilly waters between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a real delight. The dramatic landscapes completely redefine the idea of “untouched archipelago” giving travelers access to a wilder side of the Danish Kingdom.
Rugged coastlines once considered Viking territory are home to natural wonders best explored via old fishing boats for a mystical effect. But the Faroes are also beginning to take their first steps towards modernization, with chic shops and a two-Michelin-star restaurant.
With good reason, the Faroe Islands are limiting tourism to preserve the ecosystem and authentic culture so plan in advance (far in advance) if the adventure piques your interest.
4. Georgia
With the renewed interest surrounding this country and its importance in the history of the silk road, now is the time to head to Georgia while it’s still very “in the know.” Underneath the surface of this mostly rural country lies a unique European culture most travelers have little knowledge of, where hospitality and warmth shine as travelers and guests are considered “gifts from God.”
Rich in history, unique culinary traditions, green hilltops, snow capped mountains, and spring waters, Georgia will easily capture your attention. The birthplace of wine, Georgia’s Signage, has a history of producing wine as far back as the fifth millennium BC and many vintners still employ the traditional methods of their ancestors.
5. Congo
For travellers looking to get off the beaten path and go where few tourists have been before, there are not too many destinations that rival the Congo. A whole new kind of safari destination, the Congo offers luscious forests, rare and exotic wildlife, and safe cities in between.
The Congolese capital, Brazzaville, is known as “The Paris of Africa.” It’s a must see, boasting some of the safest and cleanest streets in Africa. Trek, kayak, or cruise through the heart of Odzala-Kokoua National Park and track endangered western lowland gorillas before you wade through the Lango Bai in search of forest elephants and buffalo. For the true globetrotter, this is really adventure at its purest.
6. Andaman Islands
A hidden jewel off the coast of West India, the Andaman Islands are a secluded hideaway known for pristine shores and impressive aquatic life. The tropical jungles and secluded islands are a tranquil (and quite perfect) way to round out a trip after spending time on the mainland of India.
A few days in the Andamans will help you reset and restore after being immersed in vibrant colors, bustling crowds, and sensory overload from exploring buzzy Mumbai or romantic Udaipin.
7. Ethiopia
One of Africa’s most fascinating and culturally captivating countries has only recently become more accessible to intrepid travelers. The area has seen a wave of new experiential lodges in (now more easily accessed) remote parts of the country, offering travelers a chance to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Ethiopia (which is home to the most UNESCO world heritage sites of any country in Africa).
Within this stunning backdrop, head on safari in search of the elusive Ethiopian wolf and fully dive into the local culture scoring coffee and wild honey at local markets. For the adventurous, sojourn through the Danakil Depression, where travelers can trek via camels across lakes of salt, view volcanoes that light up the night sky, and climb the summit of Erta Ale for the ultimate sunrise vista.
8. Wadi Rum, Jordan
The dramatic and desolate desert landscapes of Jordan have enticed explorers to trek throughout its unforgiving landscapes for a millenia. But what most travelers don’t know is that it’s more accessible than you might think; unlocking the area’s hidden gems and Bedouin culture via Wadi Rum (a protected desert wilderness) should be a must for many adventurous travelers.
Planning a comprehensive hiking tour through this historic, otherworldly landscape is highly advised and the best way to explore the very setting that staged scenes from Lawrence of Arabia. For a cultural must, travelers can explore the seven jagged rock columns, the natural landmark from which T.E. Lawrence’s famed novel, The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, takes its name. Adventurers can tour via camel or jeep, stopping off at Bedouin communities along the way and overnighting in luxury desert camps where traditional meals are served around a fire under the stars.
9. Guacalito De La Isla, Nicaragua
Perched on the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua, home to 30 miles of untouched beaches, Guacalito De La Isla is an under-the-radar Central American haven.
From surfing and ash boarding down volcanos, to nature and bike paths through pristine jungles where monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds abound, the chances for adventure are endless. Here, the infinite pleasures of doing nothing are also not to be underestimated; simply lie back, relax, and take in those panoramic views of the Ocean.
10. Ladakh
The Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh is one of the few places on earth that remains virtually untouched and unexplored. Situated at an average altitude of 11,500 feet, Ladakh is crisscrossed by four mountain ranges: the Great Himalaya, the Ladakh, the Zanskar, and the Karakoram. Boasting mega mesmerizing views at every turn, it’s one of India’s best kept secrets. Enjoy the calm serenity of the fresh mountain air, incredible views, and rich Buddhist heritage throughout the region. Tour the city of Leh with local royalty, meet local monks, stargaze to your heart’s content, and even catch a match at Ladakhi Polo, all the while enjoying the ultimate escapist’s dream.
11. Puglia, Italy
Puglia, the heel of Italy’s stylish boot, has a wonderful distinct allure stemming from its rural landscape and patchwork past of Norman, Spanish, Greek, and Byzantine influences. The region is quickly rivaling Tuscany’s gourmet title, offering a glimpse into true Italian traditions and values.
With miles of beautiful coastline, replete with verdant landscapes of olive groves and vineyards, this pristine region produces some of the country’s best, oft undiscovered, wines and olive oils.
12. Stockholm Archipelago
Located east of Stockholm, the Stockholm Archipelago is the unobtrusive spot where Sweden’s well-heeled flock for the summer. Known by locals as skargarden, setting sail is the best way to see all the skerries (reefs) and rocks in the Swedish gem.
Untapped by tourists and preserved by locals, the Stockholm Archipelago is a cluster of 3,000 islands that offer incredible views and access to Stockholms scenic soft sand beaches, historic castles, lush forests and stunning coastlines. Locals and visitors alike can cruise like royalty as you split your time between land and sea, with mornings sailing through the untouched, scenic waters and afternoons exploring storybook villages and Stockholm’s Old Town.
13. Mancora, Peru
Often overlooked, Mancora, Peru, is home to the tranquil Mancora Beach. Rooted in it’s love for the sun, fresh fish, and surfing, Mancora’s barefoot bohemian vibe make it a must-visit destination for those with an uninhibited affinity for the natural world. Seemingly in a constant summer, Mancora is a year-round haven for kite-surfing, plunge pools, and fresh dining options. Humpback whale spotting season is a prime time to visit, and runs from June to October.
As a member of the invitation-only Virtuoso network (reserved for the top 2% travel advisors in the world), Driftwood Travel can offer clients unparalleled access and benefits. Our extensive network of partners across the globe with hotels, tour operators, and cruise lines will provide our clients with VIP treatment, exclusive access, and more.
Whatever “exotic vacation” means to you, we can make it happen. Call us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And then come back for another!