Extraordinary getaways in 2015

Extraordinary getaways in 2015

Abhay Singh, January 28, 2015
Life is short and the world is wide. I better get started

When the conventional places get boring, pack your bags and get set for a quirky experience across the world. From Finnish Lapland to the island of Australia, trot all over the globe and make 2015 a year to remember.

1. Finland, Northern Europe

1. Finland, Northern Europe

Heard about ‘breaking the ice? Well, this time, we literally mean just that. Aboard ‘Sampo’, the icebreaker cruise for a thrilling and unique experience of pulverising the hard Arctic ice. Built-in 1960, ‘Sampo’ crushes the thick ice of the Gulf of Bothnia leaving even the most seasoned seafarers awestruck. After the colossal clash between the massive bulk of the steel and the thick coat of ice, stay afloat on the icy cold waters. The neoprene suit not only makes you float but also safeguards you from the numbing chill. From witnessing the majestic Northern Lights, enjoying reindeer sleigh rides to residing in glass igloos, brace yourself to witness a fairy tale fantasy come true. Adding to the charm are the splendid views of the night sky against frozen trees and lakes with the fantastic local Sami cuisine. Other activities include husky sleigh rides, snowmobiling over the pristine Finnish wilderness, ice-fishing trips, skiing lessons and much more that make this Nordic country a must-visit. A holiday in this ' land of the midnight sun' is worth every bit of chill.

2. Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa

Table Mountain, Cape Town

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain perfectly positioned to enjoy a mesmerising panoramic view of Cape Town, Robben Island and Table Bay. To reach the top, either hike or grab a cable car from Tafelberg Road. Perch yourself atop the mountain and experience the privilege of witnessing one of the very scenic valleys wake up from dusk of the previous day to the dawn of a new day. Carry some food and blankets to keep you cosy through the night. From the vantage point, one can overlook Cape Town's magnificent night skyline. No trip to South Africa is ever complete without an encounter with its unique wildlife. From the big five (elephants, lions, Cape buffalo, rhinoceroses, and leopards) to ostriches and Jackass penguins, South Africa is surely a must-visit destination in 2015. Check out our South Africa tour package to plan a getaway to this unique destination.

3. Lord Howe Island Group, Australia

Lord Howe Island Group

This unique UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts of flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. You have to go there to believe us. There's no dearth of activities that you can engage in. Depending on your interests, you can partake in birdwatching, water activities like scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking, mountain climbing, fish feeding, game fishing, kite surfing and golfing. You can just sit back and soak in the eternal blues to enjoy the calm serenity of this idyllic getaway. Away from mainland Australia, this group of islands is accessible within two hours by flights from Sydney and Brisbane.

4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio

A year round party destination, Rio de Janeiro is largely bustling with live music from the traditional samba to modern rock ‘n’ roll. The 2015 Rio Carnival is all set to throb the streets from February 13, 2015 to February 18, 2015. Sambodromo (stadium of samba) where the samba parade takes place, is the highlight of the carnival. Massive fireworks are set off at midnight from offshore barges, lighting up the night sky in a spectacular display of lights and colours. Rio attracts huge crowds every year on its iconic Copacabana beach.

5. Scotland, United Kingdom

Scotland

Food, beverages, adventure sports, music, history, wildlife landscapes, beaches and nightlife, Scotland is one country that invites travellers of every kind with open arms. When in Scotland, don’t miss out on the ‘honest-to-goodness’ Scotch whisky brewed from single malt grain. Major attractions in Scotland are Edinburgh Castle, Scottish Highlands, The Palace of Holyroodhouse and Glasgow Cathedral. Harry Potter fans are in for a surreal experience with a visit to the grand locations of the film. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002) featured the outstanding view of Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Highlands and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) had Steall Falls against the backdrop of Glen Nevis.