World Tourism Day – 27 September 2020

World Tourism Day (27 September 2020) celebrates the cultural, social and economic benefits of tourism while respecting the preservation of historical sites and supporting sustainable, responsible travel. Now it is more important than ever to support the global tourism industry; here are some ideas on how you can do so responsibly and sustainably.

Get off the beaten track in Peru in 2021 – tailor-made with Sunvil Latin America*
World Tourism Day invites us to celebrate the cultural, social and economic benefits of tourism while respecting the preservation of historical sites. There is no better way to mark the day than by planning a 2021 trip to a lesser-visited spot further off the classic tourist trail. Enter Choquequirao, the fascinating archaeological site which was the last refuge of the Incas before the arrival of the Spanish. It’s not easy to get to – access is via a four-five day hike, camping along the way – but the journey and the reward on arrival are indescribable. Combine with a visit to historical Cusco and a few days in vibrant Lima for a Peru tour with a difference. For more information: peru.travel/en. AITO* member Sunvil Latin America can tailor-make trips to this fascinating country. Call 020 8758 4774 or visit www.sunvil.co.uk/holiday/peru.

Visit one of Italy’s lesser-seen yet most historically important cities – Ravenna from £698 pp with Kirker*
The last capital of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna is remarkably little-visited in comparison to Rome or Florence. Yet this quiet and charming city is awash with eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, remnants of its Roman and Byzantine past, and is also home to some fine regional restaurants. Stay at the Palazzo Bezzi, an 18^th century palazzo decorated in a contemporary style, with a panoramic rooftop and a wellness centre. The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, MAR Art Museum and the historic heart of Ravenna are a short walk away. The price is from £698 pp (two sharing) including flights (Heathrow to Bologna), transfers, three nights’ B&B & Kirker Concierge. Call AITO* member Kirker on 020 7593 2283, www.kirkerholidays.com.

Explore Botswana’s unique landscapes and incredible wildlife – from £4,995 pp with Jules Verne
Celebrate the wonders of the natural world on a once-in-a-lifetime safari holiday in Botswana. On this nine-day small group tour to Nxai Pan National Park and the Okavango Delta, go on game-viewing tours by mokoro (traditional canoe), take bush walks to learn about how the San people lived and hunted, enjoy a sunset cruise, and witness rich wildlife – from elephants and hippos to the rare Red Lechwe antelope. Stay in a range of unique eco-friendly camps, with transportation in between via electric vehicles. Botswana Explorer is from £4,995 pp (two sharing) including flights (Heathrow), transfers, eight nights’ full board, excursions, guides & local reps. Two overnight flights. Call Jules Verne on 020 3553 3722 (www.vjv.com).

Scandinavian lodge on the edge of the North York Moors – from £114 pp with Canine Cottages
Frida (sleeps eight, plus two dogs) is fantastic for families and friends gathering to celebrate a special occasion. Dogs will love this luxury Scandinavian lodge in North Yorkshire, set in beautiful private grounds, a mile outside the village of Great Ayton. Not only does it lie on the edge of the North York Moors for epic walking adventures, it provides canine guests with their own room in the garden, aptly named the ‘Dog House’. This is a special place where families can reconnect, make memories and enjoy a new leash of life. A three-night stay costs from £114 pp (£908 total). £20 supplement per dog. Call Canine Cottages on 01237 459821 (www.caninecottages.co.uk). 

Cabin on stilts in the New Forest National Park – from £290 pp with holidaycottages.co.uk
The striking house, Crow’s Nest Cabin (sleeps two, plus one dog), is set in a leafy and tranquil position beside the Beaulieu river and very close to historic Beaulieu. Standing on stilts within the trees, the beautiful New Forest National Park is right on your doorstep, offering miles of open forest to explore on foot or by bike. Those wishing to get active have plenty of choice locally including, kayaking, canoeing and riding, with numerous popular pubs and cafes to try out along the way. A three-night stay costs from £260 pp (£519 total). £20 supplement for a dog. Call holidaycottages.co.uk on 01237 59888 (www.holidaycottages.co.uk).

Discover the eco-friendly wildlife hotspot of Tilos – Greek islands from £869 pp with Sunvil*
Many Greece holidaymakers centre on the Cyclades and the Ionian islands – and deservedly so. But head to the under-the-radar islands of the Dodecanese and you’ll find pristine beaches, undeveloped villages, charming family-run tavernas, unspoiled landscapes, and idyllic island life. Tilos leads the way in eco-tourism, and the islands and its islets are a protected Important Bird Area, a natural paradise for wildlife lovers and walkers. Stay at the charming family-run beachfront Eleni Beach Hotel on Tilos – a ten-minute walk from the lovely fishing village of Livadi. The price is from £869 pp (two sharing) including flights (London), transfers & ferries, & seven nights’ B&B. Call AITO* member Sunvil on 020 8758 4758 (www.sunvil.co.uk).

*AITO is The Specialist Travel Association: more than 120 specialist travel companies providing an unrivalled collection of holiday ideas that cover every corner of the world. Consumers booking with AITO can be assured of high-quality holidays and excellent personal service. Visit www.aito.com for further information.

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