The only thing more certain than absence to make the heart grow fonder is enforced absence. With this in mind, Travel Industry Today has asked readers to reveal their bucket list, or all-time favourite, destinations that are lingering in their minds while waiting for the world to welcome travellers again. This issue, readers Suri Pillai of Discount Coach Tours and Nigel White weigh in with suggestions:
Suri Pillai – South Pacific:
South Pacific island hopping fascinates me as I am more of an independent traveller. Exploring the islands by flights, ferries, boats experiencing the very essence of a local traveller.
You can explore by regions Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia.
Why South Pacific?
The South Pacific is remoteness redefined. If the escapist inside you is looking for true seclusion, it’s the ultimate fantasy of tropical islands ringed by white sand beaches and luminous turquoise waters.
Culture & Traditions: Pacific Islanders live a very social lifestyle, both immediate and extended families work together. Their cultures follow customs and traditions based on ancient principles that promote living an honourable and noble lifestyle.
Embedded deeply into Polynesian culture are traditional music, dance and food. And cultural storytelling, music, and dance are ancient ways of passing down history from one generation to another
Food: Seafood has long been a staple and major source of protein for Islanders, almost 300 varieties of fish are found in the waters of these islands. Root vegetables and tubers, such as taro, sweet potatoes and yams are also central to their diet, along with a wide variety of tropical fruits. Coconuts are another staple and coconut milk is used in many dishes. Popular beverages include coconut milk and beer.
Nigel White – Sri Lanka/Maldives:
Well, I was meant to be going away for my 50th birthday this year, but we have postponed until next year now, and before I turn 51 (LOL). Our itinerary consists of Toronto-Dubai, stay two nights Dubai, then on to Sri Lanka for two weeks, on a private tour all over featuring: Columbo/Sigria/Kandy/Yala/Galle and a few places in between, with seven of my closest friends. Then five days relaxing on Meeru Fushi in the Maldives. We hope to still do this itinerary next year. Hopefully, all this will be over by then.
We welcome contributions: Send yours with the subject line “Where I Want to Go When This Is Over” to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com. (All submissions are subject to editing for length and style).