Now that travel has resumed, not only are people going on vacations but they’re choosing to do so in an interesting manner. Travel experts from Scott Dunn observed some key travel trends that have emerged in the first quarter of the year and here are the top three that can serve as inspiration for your next getaway!

Horseback expeditions

Looking at our header image of horseback riding on the Inca Trail in Peru, Scott Dunn’s experts have observed a rise in requests for horse-riding trips from a range of guests regardless of their level of expertise. From rugged safari adventures on horseback in Kenya to immersing oneself in the full gaucho experience in Argentina, guests are eager to get into the saddle and embark on an exciting equestrian expedition in 2023.

Nairobi is an excellent destination to explore on horseback. Solio Lodge is an exquisite lodge property that exudes elegance and exclusivity and is set within a private conservancy, nestled between the slopes of Mount Kenya and the rolling peaks of the Aberdare Mountains. Here, the experts at Scott Dunn have prepared an itinerary that allows you to canter into the wild on horseback as you wake up to the dawn chorus of birds. And while you’re at it, you could also follow in the tracks of black rhinos as well as venture out on a game drive to feel the thrill of being in a leopard’s presence, as they gaze out at you from between the branches of an acacia tree.

In the Perito Moreno National Park, Patagonia, Argentina

With the vast grasslands of the Pampas and the rugged trails of Patagonia, Argentina makes for a rich riding country. Away from the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires and to the sprawling grasslands of Cordoba, you’ll find a whole new world, beginning at the charming family-run Estancia Los Potreros. One of the Scott Dunn team’s favourite untapped Argentinean hideaways, the 6,000 acre working cattle farm that has remained in the same Anglo-Argentine family for four generations is great for families looking for a horse riding adventure whether complete beginners or experienced riders. A three-night horseback adventure into the rugged landscape represents the best way for you to immerse yourself in the gaucho world as you get the chance to traverse hidden valleys that lead to tumbling waterfalls and wooded paths. And for the full estancia experience, expert guides handpicked by the Scott Dunn team will share with you stories of Argentina’s cowboy culture throughout your ride and — if you’re game enough — challenge you to a game of polo.

Parent-child bonding holidays

Another growing trend is the increasing popularity of one parent taking one child away for a bonding holiday to spend quality time together. Mother and daughter trips, in particular, are on the rise – ranging from exciting city breaks to soothing wellness retreats. Father and child trips are also growing in popularity, as these pairs take the chance to bond over shared interests like learning to surf, or heading on a bucket-list trek.

Greece is a family-friendly destination that has seen an uptick in interest from Scott Dunn’s guests. From exploring the islands and discovering ancient ruins with your children to tasting local delicacies together, the Scott Dunn experts are at hand to deliver a perfect itinerary for some precious bonding time between parent and child. A three-hour drive from Athens brings you to Costa Navarino: Along the way, you’ll be able to stop at the remarkable ruins of Epidavros and Corinth, both important ancient Greek sites, or the impressive Corinth Canal.

Rome, Italy

On the other side of the Ionian Sea lies Italy, another perfect destination filled with a bevy of parent-child bonding activities. In Rome, Scott Dunn can prepare a fun Leonardo da Vinci treasure hunt: Be prepared to work your brain cells as you complete tasks and answer riddles while you explore Rome’s rich history and iconic architecture, with the final puzzle leading you to the famed Leonardo da Vinci Museum, where you can immerse yourself into the story of the celebrated inventor. Culture vultures and shopaholics alike will adore the majestic Hotel de Russie, located right between the Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps; the stunning terraced gardens are but one of the reasons that the famed French poet Jean Cocteau dubbed the property a ‘paradise on earth’.

Train journeys

Sometimes, the journey means more than the destination and train rides are growing in popularity as one can admire iconic landscapes such as the Alps, hidden gems of Bergen and exotic views of Machu Picchu from the comfort of the train. There’s something about the romance of slow travel that sets a cathartic rhythm for the whole holiday.

As you hop aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer sleeper train in Peru, you’ll be taken through the nation’s colourful culture and dramatic landscapes all while being pampered by Scott Dunn’s fantastic and unparalleled service. One of the many fascinating stops along the way is the iconic Machu Picchu. Surrounded by dramatic forest-clad peaks and vertiginous valleys, Machu Picchu is a masterpiece of ancient architecture, a mysterious and majestic wonder that rises proudly from the jungle. A private guided tour awaits you as you soak in the mountain views while winding through the valley floor before you enjoy a specially arranged lunch at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. Continue travelling with Belmond as you step into the Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel, which is the only property to be located right inside the Machu Picchu. It serves as an incredible base to visit the awe-inspiring ruins and the beautiful surroundings — plus, a stay here promises that you’ll be among the first and last to visit the ancient ruins.

Bergen, Norway

Norway has been ranked as “the most beautiful railway in the world” by Lonely Planet, and the Flämsbana Railway is a must if you’re looking to experience the best sights and sounds of Norway on a train. The 55-minute journey takes you from Flam to Myrdal on one of the world’s steepest train lines as you pass through a breath-taking landscape of steep mountains, glistening fjords and plunging waterfalls. Along the railway is Bergen and Hordaland, a region that marries the harbour city of Bergen with the fantastic scenery of the iconic Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord. From seascapes to vast valleys, hairpin bend roads sweeping down to mirror still waters, the region offers a diverse range of natural and cultural attractions for every traveller. Scott Dunn’s travel experts can also arrange for a truly unique remote experience at the Flatflesa Lighthouse where you will be accompanied by the lapping of waves and birdsong. The lighthouse comes fully staffed, with chefs and serving staff on hand to serve up delicious local fare including, of course, wonderfully-fresh seafood. The muted colours of the rooms ensure that the star of the show is the endless sea views you can enjoy from each window.

For more travel destinations and ideas, you may want to hop on over to Scott Dunn’s website here.

Images: Scott Dunn