Europe remains one of the most sought after holiday destinations for South African travellers. Given the wealth of age-old culture and history, cuisine and iconic attractions, the continent tops many travellers lists. But the best way to travel Europe in 2020 takes eager explorers beyond the must-see sights and allows them to discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
Given current economic uncertainties, many South Africans are seeking out value for money travel that ticks all their boxes for the perfect holiday too. Increasingly popular, guided holidays seem to be the answer, particularly for travelling Europe.
Trafalgar Holidays, the world leaders in guided holidays, lets us in on the best way to travel Europe in 2020, and what you can discover along the way:
Hidden gems
Whether you’re a first-time traveller, want to make the most of your precious time, be assured of getting value for money or want to dive deep into the delights of Europe without any hassles at all, a Trafalgar travel director is your key to unlocking the best kept European secrets.
Think, discovering the graffiti art of French artist Clet Abraham that is snuck onto traffic signs across the streets of Florence, Italy. Or finding a favourite off the beaten track gelato master or locating the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon. Or showing you the best view of the Rialto Bridge in Venice. These are just some of the hidden gems Bernadette Willis, one of Trafalgar’s Travel Directors, likes to show her guests.
“[The bridge] it provides one of the best photos of the city – and it’s free, but most people don’t even know it’s there. I love hearing the guests’ expressions of joy when you walk them out there to take in the view,” says Willis.
Unique boutique accommodation
Forget your cookie-cutter hotel. The 2020 traveller is looking for much more than just a comfortable place to lay their head.
From an ancient Irish castle with intriguing South African ties to a colourful oasis of historic Andalusian buildings in Seville’s Jewish Quarter, accommodation that shares the stories, history and lives of the families that call them home is the best way to sleep in Europe.
Dine with the locals
Time and time again, Trafalgar guests name the Be My Guest experience as the cherry on the top of their European holiday.
“The very first Be My Guest experience took place in the lemon groves of Sorrento, Italy in 2009,” says Teresa Richardson, Managing Director of The Travel Corporation South Africa. “The Esposito sisters welcomed Trafalgar guests into their home for a traditional, home-cooked meal and, of course, some limoncello. The magical experience was the perfect way to kickstart the Be My Guest experience. Today Trafalgar offers these immersive culinary experiences on all their trips.”
You’ll soon discover that the best way to thoroughly explore Europe in 2020 is by seeking out these experiences from the experts.
Author: Jenna Berndt
