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After traveling to over 40 countries around the world, I think everyone should visit these 5 underrated spots

<ul class="summary-list"><li>By the time she was nine, Sally Prag had lived in five countries for her dad's job.</li><li>Her upbringing made her a confident traveler, but she's also struggled to be a consistent friend.</li></ul>This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed conversation with Sally Prag, 49, from the UK, about traveling with her parents during her childhood. The following has been edited for length and clarity.I was born in <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/millennial-old-house-renovation-before-after-japandi-kuala-lumpur-malaysia-2024-5">Malaysia</a>, where my dad was doing one of his projects.He was a consultant economist. When he went abroad for work, our family would often accompany him.We moved back to the UK when I was six months old, but when I was four and a half, we moved to Tanzania for a year and a half. Before I'd turned nine, we'd also lived in Kenya for a year and Ghana for eight months.We settled back in the UK around the time my older sister had to start secondary school. My parents decided we'd stop traveling as a family, and my dad would carry on by himself. He took another job in <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/indonesia-new-capital-city-nusantara-when-will-it-be-ready-2024-8">Indonesia</a>, and when I was 10 and 11, I spent two summers there with him and also visited him in Nepal when he worked there a few months later.I'm grateful for the childhood I had, but it made me accustomed to a short-term lifestyle. I struggled to adjust when we moved back to the UK, where I spent the rest of my childhood. I'd advise parents <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/american-who-raised-kids-abroad-what-it-was-like-china-2023-9">raising kids abroad</a> to help their children maintain long-term friendships and hobbies.<h2 id="eafa8bbd-60cd-4bfa-ae5f-51393bf79fdf">Our expat lifestyle showed me how hard life can be in other parts of the world</h2>When we lived abroad, our mom stayed at home with us while our dad worked.Though we periodically spent time in England growing up, my memories of Africa are much clearer. I do remember UK winters — huddling up in a dressing gown and turning the TV on.In Africa, we were outside most of the time. In both <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tanzania-student-visited-north-korea-summer-camp-kids-enjoyed-it-2024-7">Tanzania</a> and Kenya, we lived very close to the sea and swam a lot.We were part of a large <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/bali-raising-kids-crowded-tourists-expats-2024-9">community of expats</a> in Tanzania — I attended a small school for expat children.I understood we were visitors from England and not in our own country. In Tanzania, we lived close to a mud hut village, and I knew the residents lived differently from us. I made friends with one of the village girls called Tatu, who was around my age, but lost interest in the friendship after a while because she had to work so hard at home.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/british-expat-bought-one-way-ticket-to-singapore-2024-8">Being expats</a> and having a certain lifestyle handed on a plate to us, we always had people working in the house, like cooks and a housekeeper, but I don't think this sheltered me from the reality of domestic work. My parents did most of the cooking, but in Tanzania, we had a domestic worker who prepared a simple lunch for us.I saw how hard life was for our house helper's family. They lived with 10 to 15 people in a house that was no bigger than our house with four people. It made me aware of inequalities in the world. Now, as an adult, I often feel more knowledgeable about news in remote areas than in the developed world.<h2 id="7a3b450e-fe80-4737-9230-ba8960e33314">A childhood of traveling wasn't as glamorous as people think and I struggled with life back in the UK</h2>People always ask me how amazing my childhood must have been.It really was amazing, and I'm grateful for the experiences I had, but it wasn't as glamorous as people imagine.We did have hired help, but we weren't waited on full-time. We dealt with snakes, and I caught malaria when I was eight in Ghana.Going back and forth between Africa and the UK was challenging. When we returned from <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/friends-spent-money-celebrate-40th-birthday-trip-ghana-worth-it-2024-8">Ghana</a>, the British winter was bitter and freezing. I really struggled.I loved school in Africa. We had short days and finished at lunchtime. In the UK, the school system felt more rigid. I didn't understand what was expected of me — being told to stand behind our chairs and filing into assemblies felt very regimented. For weeks, I cried about it.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/making-friends-older-age-how-make-new-connections-2024-6">Making friends</a> wasn't difficult because I was used to adjusting to new places, but most of my friendships only lasted a short time, and I'd never see them again when we moved away.It instilled a notion in me that everything is short-term, so I'd give up on things easily.Back in the UK, I took up swimming. I loved it for a while, but when the winter mornings became too cold and dark, I quit. I tried dance, but because it involved getting on a bus on my own as a 10-year-old, I quit that too. I'd done so many things that lasted a short period of time, so quitting things seemed normal to me and my family.I'm a parent now, and my daughters dance. Seeing them progress and how far I could have gone makes me regret my choice. But I've since learned the value of seeing things through. <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/only-child-had-multiple-under-3-years-2024-9">Having children</a>, which is a project for life, played a big role in that.<h2 id="9ec0c78b-d678-4b67-b8fb-c5a882ba2559">My advice to expat parents is to help your kids keep up long-term friendships and hobbies</h2>Because of my upbringing, I'm a confident traveler. When I was 26, I <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/family-moved-from-uk-to-france-have-no-regrets-2024-6">moved to France</a> for three years. I've also taken my children on trips to see the world. We've been to India and France and have done road trips over the summers. But we always return to our home in Devon, England, where I work as a freelance writer and editor.Being rooted and having a place to call home has been very important to me as an adult. I don't have some unquenched need to satisfy, perhaps because I've traveled a lot already.When I traveled to India, I met <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/finland-happiest-country-in-the-world-immigrants-2024-3">expat couples</a> who decided to live there full-time. They set up businesses there, and during monsoon seasons, they'd travel to other locations. The idea of doing that with children terrified me. Because of my childhood experiences, I couldn't bear to travel several times a year while maintaining an education and social life for my kids. I wanted them to have stable friend circles and activities they could keep doing.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/i-moved-back-to-india-after-living-abroad-for-decade-2024-9">Living abroad</a> is a wonderful thing to do, but one piece of advice I have for parents is to try to help their kids keep up friendships they've made through writing or meeting up later in life. And if you're moving between different places, make arrangements for your child to continue doing activities they love.My upbringing made me self-reliant, which can be a valuable trait, but a negative impact is I've become someone who dips in and out of friendships and communities. I'm not a rotten friend, but I struggle to be consistent and value community projects.Instilling a sense of longevity into your kids' lives is a valuable thing to do. I didn't have that, but I would have benefited from it.Do you have a personal travel or relocation story you want to share with Business Insider? Email ccheong@businessinsider.com

My expat parents took me traveling with them when I was young. Now, I'm terrified by the idea of moving around a lot with kids.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>An astrologer warned Erin Levi not to travel around her 40th birthday.</li><li>She ignored his advice and convinced her boyfriend to join her on a last-minute trip to Uzbekistan.</li></ul>When I was 38, an astrologer in New York City warned me about <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/altitude-psychosis-hiking-hallucinations-mountain-climbing-rules-to-follow-avoid-2024-8">traveling around my 40th birthday</a>. "Stay close to home," he said. While I'm all for letting the stars decide where to travel next and have been intrigued by astrocartography — a type of <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/astrology-stock-market-trading-gen-z-retail-investors-2024-6">astrology</a> that tries to determine the best places to visit — on that day I was seeking love and career insights. I wasn't there seeking travel advice, and I found his ominous words triggering. According to family lore, a <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/kate-tomas-corporate-psychic-business-hollywood-2024-5">psychic</a> told my mother when she was in her 20s that she would experience a terrible loss at the age of 40, and two months after she turned 40, her youngest brother, my uncle Howard, died of AIDS. More than a prediction, it felt like a curse. I spiraled. Am I not meant to travel because, God forbid, my plane could crash? Is nuclear war imminent? Or, worse yet, might something happen to my parents?But as my birthday loomed, I, a longtime travel writer and semi-nomad, was too eager to re-explore a place that has had such a strong impact on me. <h2 id="c44e71f6-edc3-4beb-940f-30f09560d47d">I ignored the astrologer's advice and went with my gut</h2>And so, I decided to flout his advice and booked a last-minute <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-underrated-places-to-visit-frequent-traveler-80-countries-2024-7#uzbekistan-has-a-rich-history-3">trip to Uzbekistan</a>.I first moved to New York in 2007 after earning a graduate degree in Middle East and Central Asian Security Studies from St. Andrews University in Scotland. It was a summer language program I attended in Samarkand, a <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/100-trips-everyone-should-take-in-their-lifetime-according-to-the-worlds-top-travel-experts-2017-8#travel-back-to-babylon-in-samarkand-uzbekistan-10">legendary Silk Road city</a>, that always left me wanting to return to Uzbekistan.Back in New York, I pursued opportunities to keep the country in my life, from adding it to The New York Times list of 52 Places to Go in 2019, to recently taking on the job of English editor at The Bukharian Times, a Bukharian-Jewish newspaper published in Queens.That new job opportunity landed on my plate a few months before my 40th birthday, and I took it as a sign. <h2 id="951dab3a-6260-43cf-8945-0786ed2a3afb">Planning my trip to Uzbekistan</h2>I booked a $1,100 ticket to Samarkand on <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/turkish-airlines-economy-review-worth-it-good-perks-2024-3">Turkish Airlines</a>, with a free stopover in Istanbul. I then convinced my boyfriend to do the same and join me on the trip. Despite being just six months into dating, and in an age-gapped relationship — we're 14 years apart; I'm older — he was totally down for the adventure. While my birthday trip was my fourth visit to Uzbekistan, it was the first one I'd planned and organized myself. A lot has changed since my first <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/took-sabbatical-returned-work-better-employeee-2024-9">trip to Uzbekistan</a> in 2007, when I flew on a hand-written airline ticket my dad got for me with a money order at a Brooklyn travel agency because Uzbekistan Airways didn't accept credit cards.Now, thanks to a series of economic reforms, you can book flights and apply for visas online. <div type="image" title="Couple outside the Ark of Bukhara in Uzbekistan" height="4032" width="3024" msid="113306689" hostid="261" sizebytes="587382"></div>It was also my <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/first-couple-vacation-together-10-days-great-idea-relationship-stronger-2024-8">first international adventure with my boyfriend</a>. I made sure we'd hit all the top sights, like Samarkand's Registan Square (we slipped the guard about $20 to climb to the top of the crooked minaret), Bukhara's walled historic center, and Tashkent's bustling Chorsu Bazaar.<h2 id="43de40a6-c523-47f1-ad94-9520e7bb8850">When my birthday arrived</h2>On my actual birthday, we enjoyed brunch on the hotel balcony. Replete with balloons, the balcony overlooked old Soviet rowing canals that have become the backdrop for Samarkand's newest attraction: Eternal City. After brunch we flew from Samarkand to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-350-kilograms-of-rice-pilaf-is-cooked-every-day-2022-4">Tashkent</a>. We had spotted business class tickets for $50 a seat, so it was an easy, last-minute splurge. We checked into the InterContinental, and I blew out more birthday candles at the rooftop restaurant that evening. While I did experience some paranoia that day, wondering if flying on my birthday was too risky, all went smoothly.As much as the trip to Uzbekistan was a <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/mom-left-family-celebrate-40th-birthday-alone-switzerland-travel-solo-2024-8">birthday present to myself</a> (it ended up costing us about $2,500 each), the real gift, I realized, was shaking the family curse — and learning to trust myself.

An astrologer warned me against traveling around my 40th birthday. I didn't listen and booked a trip to Uzbekistan.

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="23944870" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sonya-Moore" source="keywords">Sonya Moore</keyword> decided that if Trump won in 2016, she would leave the US.</li><li>She followed through and has been living abroad for seven years.</li></ul>"If Trump wins this election, I'm <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-reelected-americans-are-planning-to-flee-in-droves-2024-3">moving out of the country</a>." I said those words in November 2016. So did a lot of other Americans: so many, in fact, that <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/canadian-immigration-site-crash-election-2016-11">Canada's immigration website crashed</a> as votes were being tallied due to increased traffic. No joke. I don't know how many others <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/americans-who-left-us-because-of-trump-talk-biden-presidency-2020-12">followed through on that declaration</a>, but I did. Trump won the election, and 9 months later, I left the US. Full disclosure: Trump becoming president was not the only reason I left — it was also about being fed up with my corporate job, coupled with a strong desire to explore the world. I was 37, single, with no children or pets, so I was free to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/working-mom-quit-job-expat-move-abroad-qatar-singapore-2023-12">quit my job</a>, uproot myself, and take off. I did own a house at the time, which I sold a few months after I left. Upon my departure, I didn't have much of a plan other than the intention to spend some time slowly exploring Asia and teaching English when I needed to make money. This no-plan thing was out of character for me, but I was very comfortable with <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/southeast-asia-travel-mistakes-packing-weather-clothing-traditions-medicine-2024-4">solo international travel</a>, thanks to previous study abroad experiences and 14 years of intensive overseas work-related travel. <div type="image" title="Sonya Moore in Siem Reap, Cambodia" height="1280" width="1600" msid="115071450" hostid="261"></div><h2>The move opened a new chapter in my life</h2>As months unfolded, I discovered that when you leave space for it, life guides you to the places, people, and opportunities that are meant for you. Seven years later, I'm still living <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/boomer-couldnt-afford-retirement-in-california-moved-abroad-travel-happy-2024-10">happily outside the US</a>. While my decision to leave opened up a horizon of experiences beyond my wildest dreams and led me to the man of my dreams, it hasn't all been a bed of roses. The first year, I lived off savings while traveling slowly through Asia. I started my travels in India, where I spent 10 days at a silent meditation retreat, attended teachings by the Dalai Lama, and took a <keyword id="20626363" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="yoga-teacher-training" source="keywords">yoga teacher training</keyword>. I promptly got hooked on teaching yoga. After four months in India, I continued <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-to-pack-traveling-in-southeast-asia-singapore-thailand-bali-2023-9">making my way through Asia</a> for eight more months. I swam in the crystal clear waters of the Maldives, visited healers in <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/american-family-kids-bali-decompress-relocate-slow-life-work-remote-2024-10">Bali</a>, witnessed breathtaking sunrise views from mountaintops in Laos, went island-hopped through the Philippines, rode motorbikes around Thailand's islands, and discovered ancient pagodas in Myanmar The cost of living in much of Asia is so low that savings can stretch a long way. I have high standards for my accommodations, and while traveling, I usually spent around $20 to $25 per night on hotels. Lower-maintenance friends of mine found simpler places for $6 per night in India. Meals usually cost around $3. After six weeks in India, I considered a lunch bill of $5 to be expensive. <h2>There have been times along the way when I've felt lost </h2>From time to time, I experienced stretches of feeling <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/relocation-moved-to-milan-living-abroad-emotionally-exhausting-unspoken-truths-2023-9">unsettled and lacking a sense of purpose</a>. Over the years, I learned that those periods of doubt and uncertainty will continue to surface. But I also learned to just keep trusting, and the way forward would eventually reveal itself. People often ask me if I was ever afraid while <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-women-need-to-know-traveling-solo-southeast-asia-tips-2022-12">traveling alone through Asia</a>. I never was — except a couple of times in India when riding on some precariously high Himalayan roads with no guardrails. But of people? I never had a reason to be. After a year away, I found an opportunity to teach yoga in a small mountain town in Myanmar. Life there was quiet, simple, and beautiful. I lived there for 9 months, and I was profoundly happy most of the time. But there were times <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/loneliness-how-to-make-friends-remote-worker-freelancer-new-city-2024-2">I felt lonely</a>. The locals were sweet and kind, with love in their eyes and actions, but I missed friends who spoke my language fluently, with whom I could have deep conversations over a glass of wine. And the dating scene? Nonexistent. <div type="image" title="Sonya Moore kissing a man at the airport" height="2118" width="1754" msid="115071453" hostid="261"></div><h2>I found love during my travels</h2>Another yoga teaching opportunity took me to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Siem Reap is not a big city, but after my small-town Myanmar life, it felt like Manhattan. There were so many restaurants, bars, social events, friends, and even some attractive single men. I fell in love with the town, the quality of life, and the locals. It was easy to get a tourist or work visa to live here long term, and it was almost as inexpensive as India and Myanmar. I was living in Siem Reap when COVID-19 hit. By that time, I was in a <keyword id="20752574" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="long-distance-relationship" source="keywords">long-distance relationship</keyword> with a French man I met during my travels. After the closed borders of the pandemic kept us apart for 7 months, I moved to France to be with him. Our story was long and winding, but it felt like destiny. He <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/my-partner-couple-travel-together-full-time-one-date-2024-5">loves global travel</a> like I do. We've been together for four years and are living together in Papua New Guinea. Our plan is to go back to a nomadic slow-travel lifestyle. My career has gradually evolved to encompass creative pursuits that light me up inside: retreats, writing, photography, and yoga. I am deeply grateful to my former self for <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/live-abroad-cheap-low-cost-living-high-quality-life-2024-1">choosing to leave the US</a>. I sometimes miss family and friends, but thanks to technology, our connection stays alive across the distance, and I go back to visit once a year. I still love America and feel lucky to have been born and raised there. But there's a big world out there waiting to be discovered. Do you have a personal essay about relocating to Asia that you want to share? Get in touch with the editor at <a target="_blank" href="mailto:akarplus@businessinsider.com">akarplus@businessinsider.com</a>. November 11, 2024 — An earlier version of this story mentioned Trump becoming president was not the reason Moore left, it was not the only reason.

I swore I would leave the US if Trump won the 2016 election. Here's how that worked out for me.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>My family recently visited <keyword id="20054308" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ireland" source="keywords">Ireland</keyword> to celebrate my son's third birthday.</li><li>It's the perfect country to visit with a toddler.</li></ul>Many families dream of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-places-to-go-in-europe-travel-planner-favorite-destinations-2024-10">traveling around Europe</a> because it's a great continent for kids. I've been to every country in Europe (except Russia), and in my opinion, one of these countries provides the ideal destination for toddlers: Ireland. I recently went with my own 3-year-old, and we had an amazing time. As soon as our ferry docked in Dublin, my son seemed amazed. My partner and I organized the trip to celebrate his third birthday, and I shouldn't have been surprised he was enjoying himself, as nowhere is quite as magical as Ireland. <div type="image" title="Jennifer Sizeland's son running on a beach in Ireland." height="1536" width="2048" msid="114281848" hostid="261"></div><h2>The coast acts as a wonderful base for a family trip</h2>An <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-under-the-radar-places-in-ireland-2022-4">ideal way to see Ireland</a> as a family is to stay in a cottage or caravan near the coast, which can act as your base for exploring the surrounding areas by car, bike, or <keyword id="19919009" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="public-transport" source="keywords">public transport</keyword>. This was what we decided to do and was a great choice; Ireland's roads are quieter than much of the rest of Europe, as it is sparsely populated, aside from its main cities. Even though you should take the usual precautions, it felt safe and people are very welcoming, especially to children. If you want to learn about Ireland's tangible history without the kids getting bored, there are so many beautifully preserved castles and estates with sprawling gardens to get lost in. The famous <keyword id="23623420" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Blarney-Castle" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Blarney Castle" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Blarney Castle">Blarney Castle</keyword> (home of the Blarney stone) is especially intriguing with a rock close, a poison garden, and a waterfall all hidden around its vast grounds. My son enjoyed playing hide-and-seek among the vast avenues adorned with sculptures and giant plants. There is also the John F. Kennedy Arboretum, a huge parkland and tree collection dedicated to the former president. <div type="image" title="Jennifer Sizeland's son running in a marsh in Ireland, the sky is cloudy and blue." height="2213" width="2950" msid="114281854" hostid="261"></div><h2>Public transportation is great in Ireland, and wildlife is everywhere</h2>There are many ways to explore Ireland with its excellent <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/taking-public-transportation-solo-backpacking-europe-2023-9">public transport system</a>, which includes buses, trams, ferries, boats, and trains that little ones will love riding. If you want to extend your overland trip, you can take ferries from the east and southern coasts of Ireland to France, England, Wales, and the Isle of Man to avoid the hassle of flying. You might even see a dolphin or a whale in the Irish Sea if you're lucky. Seals also haul out on the beaches and rocks along the coast, so it's fun to try to spot them. My son loved visiting the Seal Rescue Center in County Wexford, where we saw baby seals being nursed back to health. The abundance of countryside means that there is wildlife everywhere, including seabirds, deer, and otters. <h2>It's not hard to get food for even the pickiest eaters</h2>It also means that there are plenty of farms, so it's easy to find fresh local produce wherever you go. While my <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/your-kids-may-not-grow-out-of-picky-eaters-study-2020-5">toddler is a picky eater</a>, the basics in Ireland, like bread, butter, and meat, are all delicious, and he loved the sandwiches and stews. As sustainability is also important there, many towns and cities have zero-waste stores and discounts for people who bring their own coffee cups. Much like any parent with a young child, I'm trying to leave a better world for him, which was much easier to do in Ireland than most places I've visited. <h2>There's just something magical about the country</h2>While these are all reasons enough to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/long-flight-with-toddlers-snacks-entertainment-2024-2">visit Ireland with a toddler</a>, perhaps the best incentive is the mythology behind this emerald isle. From fairies to leprechauns, there is a tale to capture the imagination of every child. The books about mermaids were a particular hit with mine. Museums, visitor centers, and gift shops often sell storybooks, postcards, toys, and trinkets that bring these legends to life in a way that children can bring home with them. There are so many waterfalls, toadstools, coves, and fairy pools to discover all around the country that even as an adult, I believe the stories to be true. Correction: October 16, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated where the ferries depart from. They are available on the east and southern coasts, not the west coast.

I've traveled to 86 countries and Ireland is the best place I've visited to bring a toddler on vacation

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s rank on the <keyword id="20020435" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Economic-Forum" source="keywords">World Economic Forum</keyword>'s <keyword id="21747126" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Travel-Tourism-Development-Index-2024" source="Orion">Travel &amp; Tourism Development Index 2024</keyword> has risen to 39th place, with global tourism activities returning to pre-pandemic levels, the annual report showed on Tuesday. While the US topped the list, India is ranked highest in South Asia and among the lower-middle-income economies, the <keyword id="102110" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="WEF" source="Orion">WEF</keyword> said. India was ranked 54th in the previously published index in 2021, though changes made to the index parameters limit its comparability to earlier years. After the US, Spain, Japan, France and Australia figure among the top five in the 2024 list. The index, prepared in collaboration with the University of Surrey, showed India is highly price-competitive (18th) and boasts competitive Air Transport (26th) and Ground and Port (25th) infrastructure. In particular, India's strong Natural (6th), Cultural (9th) and Non-Leisure (9th) Resources help drive travel, and the country is only one of three to score in the top 10 for all the resource pillars, the WEF said. Moreover, despite a decline compared to 2019, the country still scores well for <keyword id="2173225" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="travel-and-tourism" source="Orion">travel and tourism</keyword> demand sustainability, especially thanks to more sustainable long stays among inbound visitors. It further said that as with many economies, travel and tourism enabling conditions in India have been impacted by global inflationary supply-side trends for the sector, with price competitiveness declining, while air transport and tourist services infrastructure are yet to recover to the 2019 level. As a result, the country's overall TTDI (Travel and Tourism Development Index) score is 2.1 per cent below its 2019 level. High-income economies in Europe and Asia-Pacific continued to lead the index. "International tourist arrivals and the travel and tourism sector's contribution to global GDP are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels this year, driven by the lifting of COVID-19-related travel restrictions and strong pent-up demand," the WEF said. The Middle East had the highest recovery rates in international tourist arrivals (20 per cent above the 2019 level), while Europe, Africa and the Americas all showed a strong recovery of around 90 per cent in 2023. The biennial index analysed the travel and tourism sectors of 119 countries around a range of factors and policies. Germany was ranked 6th, followed by the UK, China, Italy and Switzerland in the top ten. The results highlighted that high-income economies generally continue to have more favourable conditions for travel and tourism development. This was helped by conducive business environments, dynamic labour markets, open travel policies, strong transport and tourism infrastructure, and well-developed natural, cultural and non-leisure attractions.

India rises to rank 39th on WEF's Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, becomes highest ranked South Asian nation

Travelling solo can be an exhilarating experience, offering a chance to explore new places at your own pace and on your own terms. The solo trip helps you to discover your inner self and experience something that you’ll remember for life. India, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities, is an excellent destination for solo travellers. Here are the top seven places in India that are perfect for solo adventures. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Amazing places for Solo travel in India" comment="subhead" text="Amazing places for Solo travel in India">Amazing places for <keyword id="7313290" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Solo-travel-in-India" source="Orion">Solo travel in India</keyword></cmsannotation> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand" comment="subhead" text="1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand">1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110378484" hostid="261" sizebytes="1470019" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Tranquil ashrams and thrilling adventure sports along the Ganga River.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Set in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the holy Ganga River, is a haven for yoga enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known for its serene ashrams and vibrant spiritual energy, If you are <keyword id="1251521" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Solo-travelling" source="Orion">solo travelling</keyword> for exhilarating activities like white-water rafting, Rishikesh is a perfect blend of tranquillity and thrill. Why Visit: Yoga and Meditation: Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh offers numerous ashrams and yoga retreats. Adventure Sports: Engage in thrilling activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking. Spiritual Vibes: Visit the iconic Laxman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, and attend the Ganga Aarti for a spiritual experience. Best Time to Visit: February to May and September to November. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/article/7-best-tourist-places-to-visit-in-rishikesh/articleshow/109564949.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Best places to visit in Rishikesh</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="2. Udaipur, Rajasthan" comment="subhead" text="2. Udaipur, Rajasthan">2. Udaipur, Rajasthan</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110378490" hostid="261" sizebytes="2408298" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Majestic palaces and serene lakes in the &amp;quot;Venice of the East.&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," Udaipur is known for its lakes and palaces. The majestic City Palace and the romantic boat rides on Lake Pichola capture the essence of Rajasthan’s royal heritage, while the vibrant bazaars and cultural performances bring its rich traditions to life, definitely a perfect destination for Solo Travellers. Why Visit: Royal Heritage: Explore the majestic City Palace, Lake Pichola, and the beautiful Jag Mandir. Cultural Richness: Enjoy traditional Rajasthani dance and music performances. Tranquil Ambiance: Stroll around the serene lakes and enjoy the city’s peaceful vibe. Best Time to Visit: September to March. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="3. Varkala, Kerala" comment="subhead" text="3. Varkala, Kerala">3. Varkala, Kerala</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110378495" hostid="261" sizebytes="1987922" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Breathtaking cliff-top views and pristine beaches.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>With its stunning cliff-top views over the Arabian Sea, Varkala offers a tranquil escape with pristine beaches, therapeutic Ayurvedic spas, and a laid-back atmosphere. The beach town is an idyllic spot for solo travellers for relaxation and rejuvenation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Why Visit: Pristine Beaches: Relax on the quiet and clean beaches, ideal for a peaceful getaway. Healing Centers: Benefit from Ayurvedic treatments and massages. Cliff Views: Enjoy stunning views from the cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. Best Time to Visit: October to March. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="4. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="4. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh">4. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110378504" hostid="261" sizebytes="1871276" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Spiritual retreats and Tibetan cultural experiences in the Himalayas.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>One of the best destinations for <keyword id="3495996" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Solo-trips" source="Orion">solo trips</keyword> in India, McLeod Ganj also Known as "Little Lhasa," is a vibrant blend of Tibetan culture and Himalayan beauty. Home to the Dalai Lama, this serene town offers spiritual retreats, delicious Tibetan cuisine, and breathtaking treks, providing an enriching experience for both the mind and soul. Why Visit: Tibetan Culture: Visit the Dalai Lama’s temple, and Tibetan monasteries, and enjoy Tibetan cuisine. Scenic Beauty: Trek to Triund Hill for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Calm and Peace: Ideal for meditation and introspection amidst nature. Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/article/top-tourist-places-to-visit-in-mcleodganj/articleshow/109749761.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Top tourist places to visit in Mcleod Ganj</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="5. Hampi, Karnataka" comment="subhead" text="5. Hampi, Karnataka">5. Hampi, Karnataka</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110378509" hostid="261" sizebytes="2066682" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Ancient ruins and stunning boulder-strewn landscapes.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi is a treasure trove of ancient ruins and captivating landscapes. The boulder-strewn terrain intricately carved temples, and historical significance of this erstwhile Vijayanagara Empire capital make it a fascinating destination for history buffs and adventure enthusiasts alike. Why Visit: Historical Ruins: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient temples, palaces, and stone-carved structures. Natural Beauty: Enjoy the stunning landscape with boulder-strewn hills and the Tungabhadra River. Laid-back Vibe: Experience the slow-paced, rustic charm of the village. Best Time to Visit: October to February. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="6. Pondicherry (Puducherry)" comment="subhead" text="6. Pondicherry (Puducherry)">6. Pondicherry (Puducherry)</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110378514" hostid="261" sizebytes="2003502" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Charming French colonial architecture and vibrant seaside life.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Pondicherry, with its charming French Quarter, offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, vibrant streets, and beautiful beaches. The fusion of French and Indian cultures is evident in its cuisine, language, and lifestyle, making it a delightful destination for cultural exploration and seaside relaxation. Why Visit: French Architecture: Wander through the French Quarter with its colonial-style buildings and tree-lined streets. Beautiful Beaches: Relax at the serene Promenade Beach and Paradise Beach. Cultural Blend: Enjoy the unique blend of French and Indian cultures, cuisines, and festivals. Best Time to Visit: October to March. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="7. Leh, Ladakh" comment="subhead" text="7. Leh, Ladakh">7. Leh, Ladakh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110378515" hostid="261" sizebytes="2166938" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Rugged mountain landscapes and serene Buddhist monasteries.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>A land of stark natural beauty, Ladakh presents a dramatic landscape of high-altitude deserts, pristine lakes, and towering mountains. Known for its adventure opportunities and Buddhist monasteries, this remote region offers a soul-stirring experience for those seeking both thrill and tranquillity amidst nature's grandeur. Why Visit: Stunning Landscapes: Marvel at the rugged mountains, clear blue skies, and pristine lakes. Adventure Activities: Experience thrilling adventures like biking, river rafting, and trekking. Monasteries and Culture: Visit ancient monasteries like Hemis, Thiksey, and Spituk to learn about Buddhist culture. Best Time to Visit: June to September. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tips for Solo Travellers in India" comment="subhead" text="Tips for Solo Travellers in India">Tips for Solo Travellers in India</cmsannotation> Stay Connected: Ensure you have a working mobile phone and internet connection for maps and communication. Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Stay Safe: Keep your belongings secure and avoid isolated areas after dark. Plan Ahead: Research your destination, book accommodations in advance, and have a rough itinerary. <keyword id="1187982" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Solo-travel" source="Orion">Solo travel</keyword> in India can be a rewarding and life-changing experience, offering a chance to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Whether you seek adventure, tranquillity, or cultural enrichment, these seven destinations provide a perfect backdrop for your solo journey. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. Is it safe to travel alone in India? Yes, solo travel in India can be safe if you take standard precautions. It's important to stay in well-reviewed accommodations, avoid isolated areas after dark, dress modestly to respect local customs and keep your belongings secure. 2. What are some essential items to pack for a solo trip in India? Essential items include comfortable and modest clothing, a good pair of walking shoes, personal hygiene products, medications, a first-aid kit, a power bank, travel insurance, copies of important documents (passport, ID), a reliable mobile phone with a local SIM card, and a guidebook or maps. 3. How can I manage transportation while travelling alone in India? India has a wide range of transportation options including trains, buses, flights, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Booking transportation in advance, especially for long-distance travel, is recommended. Apps like Ola and Uber are available in many cities for safer and more convenient taxi services. Additionally, familiarising yourself with local transportation routes and schedules can help. 4. What are some budget tips for solo travellers in India? To travel on a budget, consider staying in hostels or budget guesthouses, eating at local eateries, using public transportation, and booking tickets for attractions online in advance to get discounts. Travelling during the off-peak season can also save money. Additionally, bargaining at markets and choosing homestays or dormitories can further reduce costs.

Solo Trip - 7 best destinations for your solo trip in India

<ul class="summary-list"><li><a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-billionaire-travelers-do-las-vegas-hotels-restaurants-shows-2024-10">Wealthy travelers</a> are vacationing at a mix of traditional and emerging destinations.</li><li>European hot spots like Rome and Paris will likely always be popular.</li></ul>I see London, I see France.After that, then what?Well, apparently, China, Canada, and Slovenia, to name a few.According to luxury travel agency Virtuoso, a growing number of wealthy travelers plan to venture to major cities like New York, Rome, and Paris in the fall of 2024 compared to 2023.But let's be real — these famed metropolises will likely always be popular with globetrotters of all stripes. And after a few laps around the Colosseum and a few glasses of Bourdeaux by the Eiffel Tower, many find themselves asking: What's next? "We have so many repeat guests to Europe, and they've done all the traditional places," Misty Belles, Virtuoso's vice president of global public relations, told BI. "They're looking for something more unusual, unique, and authentic than some of the more traditional tourist places."<h2 id="36df8b1b-71fa-4720-bd18-94cea3f024d2">The Asian countries wealthy travelers are increasingly visiting</h2><div type="image" title="FOUR SEASONS RESORT KOH SAMUI" height="1280" width="1707" msid="114153955" hostid="261" sizebytes="382720"></div>According to Virtuoso, bookings for summer trips to Thailand were up 95% from 2023 to 2024. Japan experienced a similar mammoth 110% boost, while China saw 68% ( fall bookings for the latter ballooned 146%).Belles said the growing popularity of trips to China and Japan was not surprising.Both East Asian countries were relatively slow to reopen following the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Japan, in particular, was already seeing a growing number of tourists prior to 2020, creating even more pent-up demand further padded by the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/japan-weak-currency-yen-boosts-foreign-tourism-luxury-purchases-travel-2024-4">weak yen</a>.As for their Southeast Asian counterpart — "brace for Thailand to go crazy next year," Belles said.She cited the expected 2025 premiere of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/white-lotus-season-3-hotel-location-thailand-resort-four-seasons-2024-1">"The White Lotus" season three</a>, which was reportedly shot at the country's luxurious Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui and Anantara Mai Khao Villas Phuket. The first two seasons of the hit HBO series were filmed at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-travel-white-lotus-hawaii-italy-movie-tv-shows-2023-3">Four Seasons resorts in Maui, Hawaii, and Taormina, Italy</a>. Both saw a boom in interest following the show's debut.<h2 id="b5be4c71-886c-4abf-863a-136f1392aedd">The European hot spots</h2><div type="image" title="Church on island in Slovenia" height="1414" width="1885" msid="114153945" hostid="261" sizebytes="229668"></div>"Ongoing, <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wealthy-celebrity-travel-motorcades-security-2024-10">affluent travelers</a> are drawn to a mix of classic and emerging luxury destinations," Melissa Krueger, CEO of luxury travel wholesaler Classic Vacations, told BI in an email. She said Europe "continues to be a top choice," especially Italy's "timeless experiences."But if you've already done Rome, Florence, and Tuscany, why not try Slovenia?According to Virtuoso, summer bookings for the central European country were up 24%."You're starting to hear more about them," Belles said, noting the country's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/most-environmentally-friendly-countries-2016-3">sustainability</a> practices. "It's pristine, easily navigated, and much closer than people think. It's pulling in that client who has done other parts of Europe and is looking for something new and different."<div type="image" title="canal running through a city in Slovenia" height="1378" width="1837" msid="114153951" hostid="261" sizebytes="414144"></div>Vacations to Portugal were similarly up 34% this summer.Yes, Lisbon has, as Belles put it, "always been there." But the country's vibrant culture, lifestyle, and authenticity are starting to attract more people, she said, adding that it's more affordable than other European countries. "It doesn't feel like a super touristed destination."If you've already been to Lisbon, try the three-hour drive north to Porto. Classic Vacations told BI that bookings for the coastal Portuguese city increased by 63% from the first eight months of 2023 to the same period in 2024.<div type="image" title="A ship in the water in front of a city with colorful buildings on a sunny day." height="4441" width="5921" msid="114153946" hostid="261" sizebytes="2494228"></div>Or, for a greener, chillier getaway, head to the United Kingdom and Ireland. According to Virtuoso, these countries saw a boost in popularity this summer, with 32% more bookings than the year prior.It's a phenomenon travel concierge service Quintessentially has noticed as well.Its senior vice president of travel, Kelly Grumbach, told BI that the company has seen an "exponential" growth in client requests for Ireland and Scotland, drawn to the destinations' outdoor offerings, accessibility, emerging food scene, and luxury hotels.Not just once, but twice. "We've seen a lot of return to the United Kingdom," she added.<h2 id="e6100b1a-2bbb-481c-9606-717e42e6b975">For closer options, try Canada or the Caribbean</h2><div type="image" title="Spray River in Banff National Park." height="795" width="1200" msid="114153954" hostid="261" sizebytes="209298"></div>Head north if you don't want to venture too far from the US.Virtuoso reported a 40% increase in bookings to Canada for the summer of 2024 compared to the year prior, partly because more travelers are seeking vacations in cooler climates.Like Ireland and Scotland, America's upstairs neighbor ticks plenty of boxes for the outdoorsy traveler, such as the iconic Banff National Park and its picturesque Lake Louise.<div type="image" title="lake louise in the winter" height="2621" width="3495" msid="114153957" hostid="261" sizebytes="372952"></div>"People want to hike and have a farm-to-table dinner experience," Classic Vacations' CEO said, calling out British Columbia. "They want to go somewhere where they caught the salmon and picked the blackberries today. Where there's local microbreweries or wineries."Suppose you prefer warmer weather and the sands of Caribbean beaches. In that case, book a trip to the Dominican Republic, which saw a 23% boost in bookings this summer with another 105% surge for the coming holiday season, according to Virtuoso. St. Lucia is seeing a similar 305% growth in holiday bookings, too.<div type="image" title="Dominican Republic" height="1327" width="2000" msid="114153944" hostid="261" sizebytes="320904"></div>Or, follow the jet-set crowd and fly to Saint Barthélemy, which, according to the luxury travel company, experienced a 37% gain in summer bookings.St. Barts has always been a popular destination — even more so now that resorts have been beautifully rebuilt following the devastation from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/hurricane-irma-2017-photos-of-damage-in-the-caribbean-2017-9">Hurricane Irma</a> in 2017, according to Virtuoso's spokesperson.The "piece of the south of France placed in the Caribbean," as Quintessentially's Grumbach called it, is also a destination where the firm sees the most repeat business.<div type="image" title="Boats anchored off Shell Beach, Gustavia, St Barts." height="1000" width="1500" msid="114153950" hostid="261" sizebytes="191150"></div>"There are gorgeous people, the restaurants are amazing, and travelers are happy because they're in the Caribbean," Grumbach said. "You don't have to drive through poverty to get to your resort, unlike a lot of the islands there."Her clients also often seek out neighboring hot spots like Jumby Bay Island and Anguilla. But not the Dominican Republic, she said — unless they're going to the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/4-luxury-hospitality-companies-ultra-luxury-cruise-lines-photos-2023-2">Aman</a> resort, of course.

Wealthy jet setters are flocking to these unexpected countries, travel agents say  

New York [US], May 21 (ANI): International tourist arrivals and the <keyword id="2173225" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel-and-tourism" source="Orion">travel and tourism</keyword> sector's contribution to <keyword id="572312" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-GDP" source="Orion">global GDP</keyword> are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels this year, driven by the complete lifting of COVID-19-related <keyword id="19916662" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="travel" source="keywords">travel</keyword> restrictions and strong pent-up demand, as per the new <keyword id="20020435" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Economic-Forum" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="World Economic Forum" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="World Economic Forum">World Economic Forum</keyword> travel and <keyword id="19997361" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourism" source="keywords">tourism</keyword> study, released on Tuesday. Topping the 2024 list of economies are the US, Spain, Japan, France and Australia. The Middle East had the highest recovery rates in international tourist arrivals - 20 per cent above the 2019 level, while Europe, Africa and the US all showed a strong recovery of around 90 per cent in 2023. <keyword id="21745194" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Travel-and-Tourism-Development-Index-2024" source="Orion">Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024</keyword> (TTDI), a biennial report published in collaboration with the University of Surrey, analysed the travel and tourism sectors of 119 countries around a range of factors and policies. "This year marks a turning point for the travel and tourism sector, which we know has the capacity to unlock growth and serve communities through economic and social transformation," said Francisco Betti, Head of the Global Industries team at the World Economic Forum. "The report offers a forward-looking window into the current and future state of travel and tourism for leaders to navigate the latest trends in this complex sector and sustainably unlock its potential for communities and countries across the world." The <keyword id="840423" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-tourism" source="Orion">global tourism</keyword> industry is expected to recover from the lows of the COVID-19 pandemic and surpass the levels seen before the crisis. As per the report, this is largely being driven by a significant increase in demand worldwide, which has coincided with more available flights, better international openness, and increased interest and investment in natural and cultural attractions. However, the report painted that the global recovery has been mixed. While 71 of the 119 ranked economies increased their index scores since 2019. Although the sector has moved past the shock of the global health crisis, it continues to deal with other external challenges, from growing macroeconomic, geopolitical and environmental risks, to increased scrutiny of its sustainability practices. In addition, labour shortages are ongoing, and air route capacity, capital investment, productivity and other sector supply factors have not kept up with the increase in demand. This imbalance, worsened by global inflation, has increased prices and service issues. Out of the top 30 index scorers in 2024, 26 are high-income economies, 19 are based in Europe, seven are in Asia-Pacific, three are in the Americas and one (the United Arab Emirates) is in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA). The top 10 countries in the 2024 edition are the United States, Spain, Japan, France, Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Italy and Switzerland. The results highlight that high-income economies generally continue to have more favourable conditions for travel and tourism development. This is helped by conducive business environments, dynamic labour markets, open travel policies, strong transport and tourism infrastructure, and well-developed natural, cultural and non-leisure attractions. "It's essential to bridge the divide between differing economies' ability to build a strong environment for their travel and tourism sector to thrive," said Iis Tussyadiah, Professor and Head of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Surrey. "The sector has big potential to foster prosperity and mitigate global risks, but that potential can only be fully realized through a strategic and inclusive approach." If managed strategically, the travel and tourism sector - which has historically represented 10 per cent of global GDP and employment - has the potential to emerge as a key contributor to growth, it said. (ANI)

Worldwide tourism and its contribution to global GDP to return to pre-COVID levels this year: WEF study

<ul class="summary-list"><li>African safaris are often considered bucket list vacations.</li><li>Some luxury travel agencies and tour operators say they've seen an uptick in travelers booking <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/budget-vs-luxury-safari-africa-private-game-reserves-2024-3">luxury safaris</a>.</li></ul>The sound of hyenas crunching on bones is one Sophie Serrano will never forget.The trip she heard it on was just as unforgettable.Serrano, a 28-year-old travel content creator, went with her family on her first safari in November 2023. It was her mother's bucket list vacation, she told BI, estimating that they paid $9,000 to $10,000 per person to spend 10 days at three luxury Tanzanian lodges (plus an additional three days in Zanzibar)."It's a trip we had talked about for many years, and realistically, it just wasn't affordable for us in the past," Serrano said. "We got together and discussed if it was a financial sacrifice we wanted to make last year, and we all said yes."<div type="image" title="Sophie Serrano standing in front of tent" height="3692" width="4615" msid="114953935" hostid="261" sizebytes="1508408"></div>Being surrounded by a group of monkeys was especially memorable — as was getting a massage during her stay at the high-end Siringit Serengeti Camp "with the sounds of the birds around.""I've completely fallen in love with Africa," Serrano said. "I want to see all of it."She's not alone — as of late, a growing number of travelers have been itching to go on a luxurious <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/mistakes-african-safari-trip-first-time-lessons-learned-2024-9">African safari</a>, too.<h2 id="f8f5dd15-0429-4409-a714-8c798a840df6">Some operators and lodges are seeing a windfall</h2><div type="image" title="car near three giraffes" height="3332" width="4443" msid="114953949" hostid="261" sizebytes="1567962"></div>Luxury tour operator Abercrombie and Kent's African safaris have always been among its <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/vacation-destinations-popular-ultra-wealthy-unexpected-countries-travel-agents-2024-10">best-selling vacations</a>, the company told BI in an email. After the COVID-19 pandemic, interest has increased strongly.The company offers dozens of these adventurous itineraries. Most first-timers book its 14-day Kenya and Tanzania program, which promises the opportunity to spot the "Big Five" — lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and Cape buffalos — starting at about $24,800 per person in 2025, it said.Dennis Pinto, the managing director of high-end safari operator Micato Safaris, told BI in an email that demand for its vacations has been "stronger than ever."<div type="image" title="people sitting on car near rhinos" height="1416" width="1888" msid="114953952" hostid="261" sizebytes="243072"></div>Micato's bookings ballooned 21.4% from 2023 to 2024, he said. Looking forward, reservations for 2025 are already pacing 19% ahead of this time last year.Custom itineraries have been especially popular among its customers, according to Pinto. Its most booked itinerary is a "glamourous, unabashedly luxurious" 15-day Kenya and Tanzania itinerary, which includes six flights, a hot air balloon ride, and two nights at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (or a comparable hotel) — all for a starting cost of $37,000 per person in 2025.<div type="image" title="elephants by the pool at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti" height="1280" width="1707" msid="114953946" hostid="261" sizebytes="233456"></div>If you prefer to plan your own high-end safari, there are countless lodges and camps to choose from. During your search, you'll likely come across Singita's chain of luxury eastern and southern African safari lodges, whose <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cntraveller.com/article/singita-sabora-tented-camp-review">guests have included</a> Oprah and Ellen DeGeneres.Good luck booking them — Singita has seen 80% to 90% occupancy rates throughout 2024, mostly in Tanzania and Rwanda, a spokesperson told BI. It no longer experiences a low season, they said, and <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/summer-travel-vacation-now-fall-autumn-instead-2024-10">shoulder season</a> "barely ceases to exist in the safari world."A one-night stay at its newest 10-guest Milele villa in Tanzania's Grumeti Reserve will cost upward of $35,000. The price is set to increase to $36,400 in 2025.<div type="image" title="empty pool of Singita Milele" height="2667" width="3556" msid="114953954" hostid="261" sizebytes="1112250"></div>"Post-COVID-19, people said, 'I am going to take that greatest-of-all-time trip," Melissa Krueger, CEO of high-end travel wholesaler Classic Vacations, told BI. The company launched its African portfolio, which includes properties with safari experiences, in March. "They want to do something highly memorable. We'll continue to see an increase in business."<h2 id="776aa8ce-1a09-4768-94f5-87cde7d34c0b">Some luxury travel agencies are noticing it, too</h2>Luxury travel agency Indagare told BI in an email that safari bookings are "trending upward.In 2023, the company sold 78 safaris, a 73% boost from the year prior.For agencies like Scott Dunn Private — whose members must spend a minimum of $100,000 on travel annually — safaris have always been popular. Lately, Botswana has been a big hit, with bookings growing 75%, Julie Durso, a Scott Dunn Private travel manager, told BI.<div type="image" title="Lions in front of jeep on safari" height="1414" width="1885" msid="114953936" hostid="261" sizebytes="565116"></div>The company's safari-seeking clients — often honeymooners, empty nesters, and multi-generational families — are especially partial to higher-end options, spending an average of $1,500 to $2,000 per person and day, Jackie Roth, another Scott Dunn Private travel manager, told BI.With such prices, some travelers might consider luxury safaris a once-in-a-lifetime experience.<h2 id="eec6ed08-7c27-4b46-b3a5-3c6c72fa397d">For others, the first time is the start of a fixation</h2><div type="image" title="Serrano family, Taasa staff in front of car" height="4672" width="6224" msid="114953937" hostid="261" sizebytes="3191220"></div>Misty Belles, vice president of global public relations for luxury travel agency Virtuoso, told BI that safaris have remained consistently popular among Virtuoso's clients, some of whom are repeat visitors.Take Serrano, for example. She's going on her second safari at the end of November, a year after her first, and is already planning another Gorilla trekking trip.Isabella John, a 25-year-old travel content creator and cofounder of social media management agency Nomad Social, has already been twice.<div type="image" title="safari-goers watching buffalo cross the road" height="3264" width="4352" msid="114953942" hostid="261" sizebytes="569748"></div>She called both experiences — the most recent a girls' trip to Umlani Bushcamp in the Timbavati reserve in March — "humbling.""I was flooded with emotions of gratitude," she told BI. She remembers crying alongside her friends as they saw their first herd of elephants and falling asleep to the distant sound of roaring lions as they spent a night in Umlani's open-air tree house. "It was an emotional trip.""It is pricey, but it's worth the sacrifice," Serrano said.She may travel for a living, but "nothing will compare to a safari."

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