We’ve rounded up our most-loved travel destinations – the ones that keep calling us back again and again! 

There are some places that people return to time and time again – and for good reason. Whether it’s the food, the beaches, the wildlife, or just that magical feeling you can’t quite put your finger on, these destinations have won a permanent place on our travel radar. From African adventures to Asian gems and island escapes, here are the destinations we just can’t get enough of – and you won’t be able to either! 

1. Cape Town, South Africa 

A Cape Town holiday package has it all – dramatic mountains, world-class beaches, buzzing food markets, and a laid-back energy that makes it hard to leave. Take the cable car up Table Mountain, explore the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, or sip your way through the Cape Winelands. 

Top Tip: Book your Table Mountain ticket online to skip the queue – and go early in the morning when it’s less crowded and the skies are clearer. 

2. Mpumalanga for the Kruger National Park 

No bucket list is complete without a proper African safari, and Kruger is the ultimate spot. Think open-top game drives, Big Five sightings, and evenings around the campfire. It’s wild, raw, and absolutely thrilling. 

Top Tip: Plan your trip during the dry season (May to October) for better wildlife spotting – animals gather around waterholes, making sightings more frequent.

3. KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa 

KZN is often overlooked – and that’s a mistake. From the lush Drakensberg mountains to iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the warm Indian Ocean beaches of Durban, it’s a region packed with natural and cultural treasures. 

Top Tip: If you're heading to the Drakensberg, pack layers – even in summer, the mountain air can get chilly at night. 

4. Mozambique 

If you want beautiful beaches without the crowds, Mozambique holidays delivers. Soft sand, swaying palms, and warm turquoise waters set the scene for a holiday that’s all about chilling out – with a touch of adventure thrown in. 

Top Tip: Bring snorkelling gear – the reefs around the Bazaruto Archipelago are teeming with colourful marine life, and visibility is usually excellent.

5. Thailand  

From limestone cliffs to neon lights and peaceful islands, a Thailand holiday package has it all. Krabi is ideal for adventure – kayaking, climbing, and island hopping. Koh Yao is your go-to for peace and quiet. Phuket is where it all comes together: resorts, nightlife, and gorgeous beaches. 

Top Tip: Hire a longtail boat early in the morning to visit the islands around Krabi before the day-trippers arrive. And always agree on the price upfront.

6. Namibia 

Namibia’s landscapes are straight out of a sci-fi movie – massive dunes, salt pans, and desert animals surviving in extreme conditions. Visit Sossusvlei, explore Etosha National Park, and soak in the surreal beauty of the Namib Desert at sunrise or sunset. 

Top Tip: Self-driving in Namibia is popular, but roads can be remote and rough – make sure you’ve got a 4x4 and know how to change a tyre!  

7. Mauritius 

A firm favourite for romantic getaways and family holidays, Mauritius mixes laid-back island life with loads to do. Hike through lush forests, try every water sport under the sun, or just lounge poolside with a cocktail in hand. 

Top Tip: Head inland to visit Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earths and sample local rum at a distillery – there’s so much more than just beaches here. 

8. Zanzibar, Tanzania 

Zanzibar is a tropical paradise with a twist. You’ll find powdery beaches, turquoise water, and stunning coral reefs – but also a fascinating culture rooted in African, Arab, and Indian influences. 

Top Tip: Spend a night or two in Stone Town before heading to the beach – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with incredible food, architecture, and spice tours. 

9. Bali, Indonesia 

Bali is the kind of place where one trip is never enough. Surf the beaches of Canggu, get spiritual in Ubud, catch a sunset at Uluwatu Temple, or just unwind in a luxury villa with your own private pool. 

Top Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, consider staying in Sidemen or Lovina – quieter areas that show a more traditional side of Bali. 

10. India 

India is bold, colourful, and full of contrasts. See the Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore the palaces of Rajasthan, or go south for beaches and spice plantations. It’s not always easy – but it’s always worth it. 

Top Tip: Travel with a guide, especially on your first trip – India’s pace and complexity can be overwhelming, but a good guide will help you make the most of it. 

11. Dubai, UAE 

Where else can you ski indoors, shop in the world’s biggest mall, and go camel riding in the desert – all in one day? Dubai is flashy, fun, and full of surprises. 

Top Tip: Book your Burj Khalifa tickets in advance and aim for late afternoon – you’ll get daylight, sunset, and nighttime views all in one visit. 

12. Maldives 

Overwater villas, coral reefs, and some of the clearest water you’ll ever see – the Maldives is pure luxury. Whether you’re honeymooning or just treating yourself, this is the place to switch off and recharge. 

Top Tip: Look out for resorts with all-inclusive options that include excursions – like dolphin cruises or snorkelling trips – for great value. 

Ready to Go? Let Thompsons Help You Get There 

With so many incredible places to explore, the only hard part is choosing where to go first. The good news? All of these dream destinations are now on sale in our exclusive JetSet Sale – so it’s the perfect time to book.  

At Thompsons, we don’t just sell travel – we live it. Our expert team knows these destinations inside out and can help tailor the perfect holiday package for you, whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both. 

Let us take the stress out of planning – and the guesswork out of choosing. Contact us today and let’s get you travelling!