Hotel technology platform STAAH unveiled insights into its network of 19,000+ properties, revealing that in 2023, Indian travelers continued to remain inclined to book directly with hotels, despite the resurgence of online travel agencies.
21.12.2023 - 13:48 / nationalgeographic.com
One of the most rewarding ways to plan a trip is by building it around a specific event connected to a deep interest or passion. Taking part in something meaningful on your travels creates a unique connection with a destination that can lead to memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s testing your athletic derring-do in an ultra-marathon in Peru or whipping out your spray cans at a graffiti festival in Bristol, we’ve rounded up some of the most exciting events for you to participate in for 2024.
Gujarat, India
8-14 January
Kite-makers from around the world launch their creations at this jubilant celebration of the return of sunshine after winter. You’ll enjoy traditional styles from Japanese rokkaku (fighting kites) to Malaysian wau bulan (moon kites). Locals and visitors get involved, too — so bring your kite and join in. The festival takes place in Ahmedabad; Gujarat state’s largest metropolis and a UNESCO World Heritage City.
Sydney, Australia
16 February to 3 March
A parade on 2 March — led by First Nations peoples, Dykes on Bikes and 78ers (the folks who founded Mardi Gras in 1978) — is the highlight of Australia’s foremost Pride event. The LGBTQ+ community celebrates love and community in a glittering ceremony, and visitors are encouraged to join the revelry. Actual glitter is banned for environmental reasons, and attendees are asked to pick up sparkle-wear at secondhand shops.
Rift Valley, Kenya
15-22 November 2025
Wheeling from Lake Nakuru to the Maasai Mara, this expert-led, 310-mile, seven-day route takes up to 60 cyclists through Lake Elementaita, Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate and Narok. It’s held to raise funds for the Child.org charity, which supports neonatal care in the country. Run in conjunction with the Kenyan Wildlife Service, the event can include a large number of animals sightings. Application required.
Manú National Park, Peru
2-10 June
With racers facing 143 miles of dense Amazon rainforest — and even denser heat and humidity — this is among the toughest ultramarathons. Navigating such terrain demands resilience and determination, but the camaraderie of the trail team will keep you going. Peru’s nearly four-million-acre national park comprises diverse tropical habitats, including cloud forest and Andean grassland ecosystems. Application required.
Kauhava, Finland
15-16 June
This is one for old-school explorers, as your team of six needs solid map-reading and compass navigation skills for the overnight relay. It’s among the world’s most prestigious orienteering challenges, with seven legs of up to nine miles each — all amid some of Finland’s most dramatic scenery (“The terrain may surprise you!” declare the organisers). Sign up for the later legs to see in
Hotel technology platform STAAH unveiled insights into its network of 19,000+ properties, revealing that in 2023, Indian travelers continued to remain inclined to book directly with hotels, despite the resurgence of online travel agencies.
Air New Zealand has once again captured the title of safest airline in the world.
Why not get the new year off to a great start by visiting Finland, often said to be the happiest country in the world. The country has an endless supply of amazing adventures tailored for every kind of traveler. The enchanting landscapes, teeming with thousands of lakes, millions of saunas, and a bounty of fresh, forest-inspired cuisine, provide a perfect backdrop for well-deserved rest and holistic wellbeing. Here’s a curated list of the best nine experiences in Finland to add to your travel bucket list for the upcoming year.
AirlineRatings.com Names Air New Zealand As Its Safest Airline For 2024
The 2024 sporting calendar is out. The opportunities for luxury tourism are literally everywhere, with different events waiting to whisk you around the world and back, leaving lifelong memories along the way. Some events—Wimbledon and Formula 1 come to mind—have a history of providing luxury hospitality year after year. Others might not have the same long history, but their novelty is too precious to pass up. Olympic breakdancing in Paris? Check. Major League Baseball games in Seoul? Yes, that too.
There’s plenty of evidence that 2024 will be a watershed year for luxury travel.
Unforgettable history lessons, cultural connections and precious family time are just some of the reasons to consider a big trip in 2024. Stretch your children’s imaginations with these meaningful getaways, mixing nature time with once-in-a-lifetime city breaks, unique accommodations and long-distance rail travel. It might just change the way your family looks at the world.
What are the safest places to visit in 2024? A new report from International SOS—a medical and travel security risk services company—offers invaluable insights for travelers.
On January 1, 2024, more than 1,000 hikes will be available in state parks throughout the county. The distance and rigor of the hikes vary from park to park, but they all aim to create a fun experience for the whole family. Savor the beauty of our state parks’ natural, cultural, and historical resources, and be inspired to take advantage of these local treasures all year long.
African countries are seeing a surge in international travel, fueled by luxury safari experiences with repeat visitors. Returning travelers remain excited by the continent’s iconic wildlife. However, they want to mix up their experiences beyond spotting game from the back of a Jeep.
Taking your first solo trip is a rite of passage for a traveler. It gives you a chance to step outside of your comfort zone, deepen your sense of empowerment and independence, and spend your time exactly how you want.
At the USA’s leading museums, a spirit of friendly competition prevails for creating the most compelling yet crowd-pleasing displays that will make news – and draw crowds.