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TRAVEL
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October14
Where to Go
On the first day of Christmas, we’re hoping our true love gives us tickets to a fabulous
holiday somewhere in the region or beyond. And to narrow the destinations down a bit,
here are four festive suggestions from bespoke tour operator
Lightfoot Travel
.
CULTURE – Sri Lanka
This tiny teardrop-shaped island packs a huge holiday punch in terms
of things to do. Start by visiting the Cultural Triangle, for its stunning
archaeology and mountaintop temples. Next, hop on one of the old
British trains as it winds its way through magical hill country dotted with
tea plantations and colonial hill stations. Then head down to the southern
coast for some beach time, making sure to stop and explore the Dutch fort
at Galle. Sri Lanka’s diverse landscape is incredibly safe to travel through
with your private guide. Meet warmand friendly people, and for the foodies
out there, savour their fresh seafood curries and world-famous dhal.
Why go:
Great meeting point for families or groups of friends coming from
both Asia and Europe or America, superb private villas
Where to stay:
Families – Leopard Safaris
Couples – Ceylon Tea Trails
Villa – Pointe Sud
This Christmas
BEACH – Phuket
While definitely not off-the-beaten-path, Phuket tops
our list of Christmas beach destinations largely for
its accessibility and weather – sunny skies and
minimal rain. There are dozens of family-friendly
resorts and romantic boutique hotels, and if you’re
travelling as a group, fully staffed private villas
provide excellent value for money. There really
is nothing better than concluding each day with
sundowner cocktails by the pool, followed by a
delicious in-villa dinner with friends and family,
prepared with the freshest of local ingredients.
Why go:
Great weather, range of activities and day
trip options, sophisticated dining scene
Where to stay:
Families – Six Senses Yao Noi
Couples – Trisara
Villa – Shanti at Jivana