Off to Europe on holiday? How about heading to Poland? Not your typical destination but one with lots of charm and history.
The obvious European holiday hot spots will be filled with global travellers out for a good time or adventure, or to make good use of their selfie sticks.
But consider new destinations that are still opening up and not subject to the usual onslaught of Asian neighbours filling up the high street shops and boutiques.
Liesa Bissett of Trafalgar Tours says Krakow, in Poland, is quite special.
“Poland is an underrated destination — and a must if you want to stay away from all the popular holiday spots,” she enthuses.
For those unfamiliar with Poland, the guided tours Trafalgar Tours lays on would be a good way to explore the place.
Though rarely associated with tourism, Bissett insists it has much to offer in the way of nature, scenery, culture, and history.
The must see sights include the historical streets of Warsaw Ghetto and Old Town, for example, which were the backdrop to the story of Wladyslaw Szpilman, as depicted in the film The Pianist.
Or the Jasna Gora Monastery, home to the Black Madonna. There are also more places of interest in cities like Krakow and Poznan — from Gothic churches to the world’s oldest salt mine.
Hot Destinations
Bissett, who is Trafalgar’s European Product Development Director, picked a few other bright spots.
Scandinavia, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Great Britain and Italy are the top destinations in the upcoming seasons.
She advises holidaymakers to capitalise on some of the fantastic air deals available on flights to countries like Norway, Finland, and Denmark. She says that these far-flung lands now represent great value thanks to cheap flight deals.
Those in search of cool new adventures can also consider Iceland — Trafalgar offers a new winter programme, where you can see the Northern Lights or take an expedition into the Arctic Circle.
If you are of a sunny disposition, Bissett suggests the sun-kissed coasts of Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Rich in food, wine, and culture, the region is great for a summer trip. Portugal, she exclaims, is also great for value right now.
“It’s one of the few places you can still get a cappuccino for less than one Euro!”
If value is what you are looking for, Bissett recommends that a trip to Great Britain may be in the cards. With the UK still reeling from the effects of Brexit, the weakening of the Pound is ripe for exploitation by the canny traveller.
