With “no sign” that travel demand is declining in 2024, Kensington Tours has revealed its insiders picks and insights for 2024. With destinations ranging from Africa and Antarctica to Greece and Turkey, the Toronto-based tour company says its list reflects a diverse array of trips sought by clients, from “evergreen European cities to bucket list adventures.”

“While 2023 was a huge year for travel… (and) if anything, we are seeing more requests from clients to help them explore new destinations or revisit favourite places but with fresh perspectives (in 2024),” says Helen Giontsis, President of Kensington Tours.

She adds, “The destinations our team has selected encapsulate experiences seeking adventure, luxury, and access to unique experiences.” Among them are:

France

All eyes are set on Paris as it gears up to host the 2024 Olympics, which has sparked a surge in interest to travel to France. An event of this nature can often have a strong ripple effect for tourism, and Paris is no exception. The city is working hard to put its best foot forward for what is expected to be the most significant spectator event in its history. However, those considering a visit to the City of Light this summer should prepare early. Hotel prices have already skyrocketed, and finding accommodation during the games will be extremely challenging.

“If you’re planning a trip to France in 2024, it’s wise to finalize your plans now,” advises Jason Susinski, Director of Product at Kensington Tours. “It will be very challenging to get around Paris in July and August as there will be larger than usual crowds, potential unexpected road closures, and possible attraction shutdowns. While the main events are in Paris, other cities like Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille, and Nice will also host events. They might not face the same level of congestion and price surge as Paris, but disruptions are still possible. For a smoother experience, consider visiting in the first half of the year.”

Turkey

“Turkey is somewhat of a trifecta and a perfect choice for curious travellers as it hovers the border of both Europe and Asia with a culture that is heavily influenced by the Middle East,” says Briana Klaudrat, Lead Product Consultant, Europe, who notes that as Turkey has heavily invested in its tourism infrastructure and transportation network, travellers are realizing that they can very cost-effectively explore this country with accommodations ranging from a luxurious resort on the Turquoise Coast to a trendy boutique property in Istanbul or a unique cave hotel in the heart of Cappadocia.

For a full exploration of the country, Kensington’s ‘Grand Turkey Journey’ offers a multifaceted travel experience that will appeal to a wide range of interests with historical sites, bustling bazaars, breathtaking views from a hot air balloon over trendy Cappadocia, and diverse landscapes with stunning coastlines starting and ending in Istanbul for the best flight options.

Portugal

Portugal offers travellers history, excellent food and wine, a warm climate, friendly people, and rich culture, all at exceptional value compared to other European destinations. Lisbon is ranked as Europe’s top city break destination for affordability and is a popular choice for repeat visits. For adventurous travellers, the Azores Islands are gaining recognition as an affordable alternative to Iceland, offering dramatic landscapes and thermal waters.

“For those looking for a trip that covers the must-sees of Portugal, the ‘Lisbon & Porto Explorer’ offers experiences from learning to understand peak Portuguese culture and music at a sultry Fado night, or settling in for a tasting at a local, family-owned winery tucked into the stunning Douro Valley,” says Klaudrat.  “For more adventure, the Azores Adventure encompasses four of the nine archipelago islands boasting insanely dramatic landscapes and activities for everyone from watching a blue whale crest on the surface of the Atlantic right in front of you with the dramatic coast of Faial Island in the backdrop.”

Greece

Greece is a must-visit destination for both couples seeking romance and families looking for a friendly setting. It offers ancient history, beautiful beaches with clear waters, a rich culture, and delicious cuisine and wine.

“While Santorini and Mykonos are popular, there’s a growing trend of travellers seeking a more authentic Greek experience on quieter, better-value islands,” says Klaudrat. “Our ;Hidden Gems of the Greek Cyclades; itinerary highlights islands like Naxos and Milos. You can explore Naxos Town’s whitewashed streets and nightlife one day, and the next, enjoy a farm visit with a local to learn about the island’s agriculture through a culinary tour. Milos, on the other hand, offers a unique landscape with moon-like beaches. The smaller Cyclades islands are brimming with proud locals eager to showcase their culture, making them a perfect choice for an authentic Greek experience without compromising on quality boutique hotels.”

 

Costa Rica

“The ultimate destination for adventure seekers, Costa Rica offers something for everyone: rafting, volcano hiking, hanging bridges, birdwatching, and abundant wildlife, alongside miles of beaches,” says Erika Linares, Destination Lead, Latin America, who recommends Kensington’s ‘Costa Rica Signature’ itinerary for first-timers, which she says “covers it all” – from rafting in Arenal, cloud forest experience and zip-lining and birdwatching in Monteverde. And those seeking an ultra-luxe experience should consider the ‘Costa Rica Luxury Villa Retreat.’ Set on the Papagayo Peninsula, Villa Belvedere, spanning 110 sq. m. is perfect for multiple families. The experience includes guided jungle and volcano hikes in Rincon de la Vieja National Park and an exclusive catamaran sailing adventure along the Papagayo Coast.

Antarctica

The ultimate bucket list adventure for many, one of the best ways to witness firsthand the stark beauty of Antarctica is to combine the best of a luxury cruise and private guided landed tours from Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, Buenos Aires and Santiago. A 17-day trip to Antarctica and Iguazu Falls, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World – allows travellers to experience all four seasons.  “One day you’re in awe of a magnificent waterfall, the next you’re watching humpback whales breach polar waters,” says Noraly Barillas, Destination Expert for South America. For those seeking luxury and adventure, a ‘Journey to the White Continent’ includes crossing the Drake Passage in style with options to take the path less travelled in a hike through the White Continent, or to kayak with expert guides to soak in the beauty and wildlife.

Alaska

The Last Frontier remains a popular destination for adventure seekers. In addition to traditional itineraries to Alaska, Kensington Yachts – the sister company to Kensington Yachts dedicated exclusively to yacht charter trips – offers a luxe option featuring.  Guests will spend a week aboard their luxury yacht with fully staffed crew that will serve as the base from which they will be able to experience activities such as whale watching, kayaking, salmon or halibut fishing, glacier hiking, helicopter glacier flights, zip lining and floatplane sightseeing trips.

Australia

Another bucket list destination that is trending from pent-up demand, Australia’s vibrant cities, Great Barrier Reef and Outback are always popular and for many travellers, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip so they want to soak it all up in one epic trip.  Kensington’s Signature Australia itinerary does just that hitting all of the major points of interest from Sydney’s Harbour and Bondi Beach to aboriginal culture in Ayers Rock to snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef and penguin spotting on Phillip Island.

Japan

In 2023, Japan saw a surge in tourism as it was one of the last nations to fully reopen post-pandemic. This trend is expected to continue into 2024. “Japan is a great destination throughout the year, but the Cherry Blossom season is particularly popular due to its stunning beauty,” notes David Crimi, Product Manager. Kensington’s ‘Cherry Blossom’ itinerary includes private-guided visits to Tokyo and Kyoto’s temples, shrines, and landmarks; trips to Hakone, the entrance to Mt. Fuji and its national park; and a visit to a sake museum with a tasting session.

Africa

There’s a growing trend of travellers revisiting Africa for another safari adventure. Andrew Drummond, Manager of Product, explains, “Many first-timers, after just a few game drives, become enamoured with the safari experience they’ve long dreamed of. On subsequent visits, we provide them with deeper, more immersive experiences.” These adventures extend beyond the usual ‘Big 5′ safaris, offering explorations on foot, canoe, boat, and even helicopter, to give varied perspectives.

Other trends that Kensington Tours’ experts are seeing:

Insider access and exclusivity

Kensington Tours says it has raised the bar in the luxury travel space with the launch of several new products, including Black Book by Kensington Tours, which presents a select collection of exclusive experiences that were once only accessible to a select few insiders. These experiences encompass attending a prestigious Hollywood event celebrating the year’s best in film called “The Party”; viewing the world’s greatest car race in Las Vegas from above the team’s pit; and journeying to Europe’s premier cities on a private jet, complete with exclusive shopping and dining experiences.

Privacy, more space, and ultra-luxe accommodation

As the trend of multi-generational travel expands, travellers are seeking spacious luxury villas that offer exclusivity and concierge services. To meet this demand, Kensington Tours introduced Beyond Villas by Kensington Tours featuring private villas for those desiring ultimate privacy, complemented with custom-made travel plans.

Luxury on the high seas

Just as private air travel has surged among luxury travellers, so, too has the interest in yacht charters. To that end, Kensington Yachts formally launched as a sister company to Kensington Tours as a full-service yacht brokerage that matches the perfect vessel with unique land experiences, luxury transfers, hotel and villa stays, and private jet and helicopter transfers.

For those who prefer more traditional river and cruise options, Voyages by Kensington Tours pairs the client’s cruise of choice with pre- and post-cruise experiences that are privately guided and fully customized to destinations throughout Europe as well as other popular and trending destinations such as Alaska, Antarctica, Asia, Galapagos, Egypt, and the Arctic.