Escape the Australian Winter: Where our Y Clients are Travelling
As winter sets in across Australia, many of our astute clients are trading black puffer jackets and grey skies for breezy attire and long, sun-filled days in amazing destinations around the globe. From the romance of Italy, to the exotic charm of Thailand, to the rugged beauty of Alaska, here’s where Y Travel clients are jetting off to shake off those winter blues. Join us as we dive into the destinations and unforgettable experiences they are savouring this season.
EUROPE & THE UK - TIMELESS ELEGANCE AND UNMATCHED BEAUTY
Italy: The Quintessential Summer Escape
Italy remains a perennial favourite, with our clients flocking to its sun-drenched shores and vibrant cities to enjoy a little dolce vita. The Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Ischia beckon once again this year with their stunning vistas, azure waters, and charming villages.
City stays are also high on the list, with Rome’s ancient wonders, Milan’s fashion-forward vibe, Bologna’s culinary delights, Florence’s Renaissance art, and Venice’s romantic canals all drawing crowds from around the world. For those seeking cooler climes and outdoor adventure, the Dolomites offer our more active travellers a range of spectacular summer activities. Staying in the North, Italy’s picturesque lakes of Lake Garda and Lake Como continue to lure our discerning clients.
Greece: Island Hopping and Hidden Gems
The Greek Islands are synonymous with summer, and our clients are soaking up the sun and fun in the vibrant Cycladic hotspots of Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Milos and Crete. This year we have seen the Peloponnese region gain attention with its offering of rich ancient historical sites, stunning landscapes, incredible local culinary experiences, and a more tranquil escape for those travellers looking for an alternate Greek adventure.
Spain: A Feast for the Senses
Spain’s Rioja wine region and the picturesque coastal town of San Sebastian in the north are perfect for those travellers who appreciate fine wine and gourmet cuisine. In Andalusia, our clients will be discovering the Moorish-influenced historical towns of Seville, Cordoba, and Granada which offer a rich tapestry of culture and history (and great tapas!), while Mallorca’s chic beaches and vibrant nightlife continue to allure.
Santorini, Greece
Luxury Cruises: Unparalleled Elegance
For a truly luxurious experience, our clients are opting to hit Europe’s seas and rivers for a unique way to view and experience multiple incredible destinations with the convenience of only having to unpack their luggage once. Our Y Traveller’s have chosen a diverse range of interesting cruising options and itineraries, from a Ponant cruise between Malta to Venice via the medieval Croatian coastline, an Oceania Cruise from Dublin to Copenhagen, visiting the Shetland Islands, Norwegian fjords, and Swedish coastal towns along the way, and finally a gorgeous ‘Blue Danube’ Riverside Cruise between Budapest to Vienna, embracing the art of ‘slow travel’ amongst the breathtaking castles and forests of Hungary and Austria.
France, Switzerland and the Netherlands: Mediterranean Chic, Picturesque Alps, and Dutch Delights.
In Switzerland, Zermatt’s snow-capped peaks and the fabulous Park Hotel Vitznau on the shores of Lake Lucerne provide the perfect summer retreat. Imagine yourself waking up to breathtaking mountain views, before spending your days exploring pristine lakes and charming alpine villages!
The French Riviera never goes out of style, and the famous Hotel du Cap in Antibes is the epitome of Mediterranean chic, attracting our clients looking forward to basking in the glamour and sunshine of this lively town by the sparkling azure sea.
Amsterdam is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of history, culture, and fun activities (and of course, pushbikes). We have planned an unforgettable holiday itinerary for a family of five, who can’t wait to explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere, charming canals, and museums and galleries featuring the works of legendary Dutch artists such as Van Gogh and Vermeer.
The UK and Ireland: Festivals and Fun
For our clients seeking culture and laughs, the lively atmosphere of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is a must-visit this year. Ireland and Scotland also promise breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences, from the rolling green hills to historic castles.
Destination Weddings: European Romance
Destination weddings are a growing trend this year, with our clients on their way to attend stunning and romantic ceremonies in Rome, Krakow, Siena, and Lecce. These locations offer the perfect blend of historical charm and modern luxury - and of course beautiful wedding photo backdrops - making for unforgettable celebrations with close friends and family.
ASIA: EXOTIC RETREATS & CULTURAL IMMERSION
Thailand: Tropical Bliss
Thailand is a top choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure that’s a little closer to home, but far enough to be abundant in tropical warmth. This winter, our clients are unwinding in Koh Samui (perfect this time of year due to it’s dry season), experiencing the urban sophistication in Bangkok, and rejuvenating body and mind at the Chiva Som wellness retreat in Hua Hin.
Japan: Tradition Meets Modernity
Japan offers a unique blend of the ancient and the contemporary, and this year our clients are immersing themselves in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo and the serene beauty of Kyoto, staying in traditional Ryokan accommodations that provide an authentic Japanese experience.
Vietnam: A Journey of Discovery
Vietnam is once again capturing hearts with its rich history, vibrant culture, amazing food, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, our clients are discovering the beauty and diversity of this Southeast Asian gem.
Six Senses Samui, Thailand
NORTH AMERICA: MAJESTIC LANDSCAPES AND EPIC ADVENTURES
Alaska: The Last Frontier
While the Alaskan thermometer in summer may not be that much higher than that of our winter, Alaska’s breathtaking beauty and accessibility during these months makes it a perfect wilderness escape. Our clients are looking forward to embarking on luxury cruises with Ponant and Silverseas, both of whom offer an unparalleled way to explore its rugged coastline, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife with elegance and style.
Canada: Rocky Mountain Majesty
For those seeking awe-inspiring landscapes, a rail journey through the Rocky Mountains on the famous Rocky Mountaineer is a true bucket-list experinece. With its domed carriages offering unparalleled panoramic views, our clients are experiencing the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies (and that famous Canadian hospitality, eh) - from Vancouver, through authentic ‘frontier’ towns, to breathtakingly beautiful turquoise glacial lakes - in total class, comfort, and convenience.
USA: Luxe Desert Retreats
Travellers seeking a unique wilderness escape amidst some of the most beautiful natural settings in the United States are heading to the exclusive Amangani at the doorstep of the Grand Teton National Park, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, before experiencing hiking, fishing, and Native American culture in the heart of the Rocky Mountains at the stunning The Lodge at Blue Sky in Park City, Utah.
Amangani, Wyoming
AFRICA: ADVENTURE AND LUXURY COMBINED
South Africa: A Journey Like No Other
The Rovos Rail journey in South Africa is an icon of luxury train travel, offering our clients a glimpse into the country’s stunning scenery and rich history. They will also be experiencing Cape Town’s vibrant culture and food scene, the majesty of Victoria Falls, and finishing their South African journey on safari in the Greater Kruger National Park promising an unforgettable wildlife experience, sipping sundowners while watching elephants wander past—truly the stuff of safari dreams!
Simbavati Lodge in Kruger National Park
PACIFIC: ISLAND PARADISES
Hawaii: Tropical Getaway
Hawaii’s islands of Oahu and Maui are perennial favourites for those seeking sun, surf, and the aloha spirit. As the skies stay dreary back home, our Y Travellers will be enjoying pristine beaches, lush landscapes and resorts that offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Fiji: Ultimate Island Luxury
Fiji’s exclusive Vomo Island and Six Senses Fiji are the epitome of barefoot-chic providing secluded paradises where our clients can relax, soak up the sun, and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life under gently swaying palm trees - all whilst enjoying the renowned friendliness and hospitality of the Fijian people - and maybe a cocktail or two!
Hawaii
So as winter takes hold in Melbourne, it’s not too late to arrange your own last minute escape to warmer climates (or too early to start planning ahead for next year)! Whether you’re dreaming of the elegance of Europe, the exotic charm of Asia, the majestic landscapes of North America, or the tropical allure of the Pacific, the team at Y Travel is here to help your find your own winter escape ‘Y’. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags, leave those winter coats behind, and let’s chase the sun together!