Trips to Book a Year (or More) in Advance
When it comes to your holiday, a little planning goes a long way. Recently, we’ve noticed a pattern of both last-minute and long-term bookings, which we’ve named the Concertina Effect. But why are people booking so far in advance? Our co-founder, Tom Barber, thinks ‘anticication’ has something to do with it: ‘in uncertain times, planning something joyful far ahead becomes an act of hope’. Whether admiring cherry blossoms in Japan, celebrating the Holi festival in India, cruising down the Nile on the Steam Ship Sudan, or spotting gorillas in Uganda, some holidays require extra attention. Read on for our list of trips to book a year (or more) in advance...
- Island-hopping in Norway’s Lofoten
- Cherry blossoms in Japan
- Holi festival in India
- Aboard the Steam Ship Sudan in Egypt
- Gorilla trekking in Uganda
- Luxury lodges in Chilean Patagonia
- Summer in New Zealand
Island-hopping in Norway’s Lofoten
Norway’s Lofoten Islands are first on our list of trips to book a year in advance, particularly if you want to visit between June and September. With the Midnight Sun, idyllic hiking weather and wonderful wildlife, it’s no wonder the archipelago is high on people’s travel radar.
The Midnight Sun lights up the sky from late May to mid-July, a natural phenomenon that provides 24-hour daylight and seriously scenic vistas. September brings hikers to Lofoten’s trails, with hikes like Reinebringen offering picturesque views over Reine and its rugged mountain backdrop, while summer in Lofoten promises puffins, sea eagles and seabirds, making it the perfect time for RIB safaris.
Image by Jérôme Galland
Cherry blossoms in Japan
Is Japan at the top of your travel bucket list? You’re not alone. The cherry blossom season, from late March to mid-April, is the most popular time to visit. But fear not, with the expertise of our travel specialists, you can plan your trip at least a year in advance and experience the beauty of the sakura-lined streets. From Lake Kawaguchiko and Hakone National Park to Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path and Osaka Castle, there’s no shortage of swoon-worthy spots to witness these flowers in full bloom.
Japan similarly bursts into colour come autumn, attracting large crowds between late September and mid-November. In fact, its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage draw in visitors year-round, so planning ahead is essential for any trip to Japan. Whether you’re after a sword-handling workshop in Kanazawa or an exclusive dinner with a geisha in Kyoto, preparation is key.
Image by Eric's library - stock.adobe.com
Holi festival in India
A holiday to India is next on our list of trips to book a year in advance, particularly around Holi. This world-renowned celebration sees ancient cities, palaces and temples transform into colourful canvases. The cities of Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai are painted with powder, while the villages near Karnataka’s UNESCO-listed Hampi ruins come alive with dancing and drumming.
Holi typically falls in March, or occasionally in late February, so early preparation is essential. Our top-pick properties include restored palaces and havelis (traditional mansions or townhouses), which are in high demand and fill up quickly, so be sure to book ahead to nab the best rooms.
Image by Alex KENT/Redux-REA
Aboard the Steam Ship Sudan in Egypt
Follow in Agatha Christie’s footsteps aboard the Steam Ship Sudan. To secure a spot on this authentic steamer, we recommend booking your trip at least 18 months in advance (yes, it’s that popular). Inside, elegant cabins await, each with its original woodwork and rich fabrics.
Set sail from Luxor and cruise along the idyllic River Nile, with visits to the Karnak Complex (one of the world's largest sacred monuments) and the Temple of Luxor. As you continue your voyage, explore the Valley of the Kings and enjoy enchanting sunset views in Edfu. Round off your trip in awe-inspiring Aswan and pay a visit to the historic Philae Temple complex. As our co-founder, Tom Barber, discovered on his own journey, ‘it’s often the moments between temple tours that prove the most memorable.’
Image by boby
Gorilla trekking in Uganda
Stuck on where to go on holiday next year? For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, go gorilla trekking in Uganda. With limited daily gorilla permits and short dry season windows (December to February and June to August), booking at least nine months to a year in advance is key, especially to secure your preferred accommodation and make the most of your chance to encounter gorilla families.
Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, where steep mountains, dense forests, and most importantly, gorillas await. Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for anything from a couple of hours to a full-day-long trek, depending on the movements of these majestic animals. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the lush jungle is also home to 346 bird species, so have your binoculars at the ready.
Image by AndamanSE/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Luxury lodges in Chilean Patagonia
Keen for a Christmas getaway or to ring in the New Year in style? Chilean Patagonia has you covered. Be sure to plan ahead, as some of our favourite lodges have only ten to 15 rooms. Book at least a year in advance to nab a stay at a luxury lodge inspired by historic Patagonian huts, perched on the edge of Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the sweeping plains of Patagonia and the glassy waters of Lake Pehoe, framed by muscular mountain peaks. And don’t miss the photo-worthy views of Salto Grande, a waterfall on the Paine River connecting Lake Nordenskjold and Lake Pehoe.
Image by Frank TOPHOVEN/LAIF-REA
Summer in New Zealand
If you’re still debating where to go on holiday next year, a trip to New Zealand between January and February is popular for good reason. With summer in full swing, visitors flock to the country’s lofty mountains and shimmering lakes for hiking, biking and kayaking adventures. Abel Tasman National Park, on the northern tip of the South Island, draws in large crowds, so our preferred lodges book up well in advance.
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is another hotspot, especially in January and February. Spend the day exploring dramatic glaciers and snow-capped mountains, then wrap up the evening stargazing on a guided night sky tour (if the weather allows). And if you miss out on summer in New Zealand, fear not. According to our Australasia expert, Meg, the shoulder season in New Zealand is a great way to beat the crowds and experience diverse seasonal beauty.
Image by Terence Connors
Header image by Miren Alós
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