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65 Best Tourism Industry Events & Travel Conferences 2024/25

Looking for the top travel conferences 2024 has to offer? If you’re working in the tourism industry and you haven’t booked a ticket to one of the many events, what are you waiting for? Not only are these events an excuse to get out of the office and network with like-minded people, but they’re also great opportunities to learn more about travel and tourism.

Travel conferences are great for making new deals, discovering up-and-coming innovations, learning new skills, or just some good old networking. And there are some really exciting travel and tourism conferences in 2024 that exemplify the importance of travel .

We’ve put together this comprehensive list of conferences happening all over the world in the next year. Have a look at which ones you don’t want to miss and start planning your trip now.

Best Travel Industry Conferences 2024/25 by Month

January: Fitur – International Tourism Trade Fair

February: Travel & Adventure Show

March: B Travel Trade Show

April: World Travel Market

May: Tbex San Sebastian Spain

June: ITT Conference

July: Web in Travel (WIT)l Conference

August: Global Business Travel Association Conference

September: World Youth and Student Travel Conference

October: TBEX Africa

November: The Phocuswright Conference

December: International Luxury Travel Market – Worldwide

Fitur — International Tourism Trade Fair

Dates: 24 – 28 January 2024

Location: Madrid, Spain

Fitur is held every year in Madrid. It is one of the biggest tourism fairs in the world and an ideal gateway to Latin American markets. Fitur draws an international crowd of tourism professionals and travellers alike. It provides a platform to develop strategies for consumer demand and communication.

The first three days of the conference are for trade visitors only, with doors opening to the public on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can use this conference to network with other tourism professionals and travellers, as well as gain new insights and knowledge in the industry.

Find more info here

Matka — Nordic Travel Fair

Dates: 19 – 21 January 2024

Location: Helsinki, Finland

Being the largest travel conference in Northern Europe and the Baltic Region, Matka attracts over 1000 exhibitors annually. These exhibitors travel to Finland from more than 80 different countries, allowing for a diverse crowd. The conference is open to the public and trade buyers, with two days solely dedicated to the professionals.

The main aim behind Matka is for tourism trade professionals to learn about new products and services. As well as make valuable connections, and gather information on the ever-moving innovations of the travel industry.

Travel & Adventure Show

Dates: 13 – 14 January 2024

Location: Chicago, USA

Dates: 20 – 21 January 2024

Location: Denver, USA

Dates: 27 – 28 January 2024

Location: New York, USA

Dates: 3 – 4 February 2024

Location: Los Angeles, USA

Dates: 17 – 18 February 2024

Location: Phoenix, USA

Dates: 24 – 25 February 2024

Location: Washington DC, USA

Dates: 9 – 10 March 2024

Location: Atlanta, USA

Dates: 16 – 17 March 2024

Location: San Francisco, USA

Dates: 23 – 24 March 2024

Location: Dallas, USA

The Travel and Adventure Shows are a series of exhibits that take place across the USA. So American visitors have the option to catch the business travel conferences closest to them.

Discover new travel destinations across the globe, and take the chance to rub shoulders with some big travel celeb names. These travel events bring tourism businesses and the public together.

Dates: 19 – 21 February 2024

Location: Melbourne, Australia

This is the Asia Pacific region’s leading meetings and event industry trade conference. Decision-makers in the event industry engage with each other during this three-day event to share, connect, and do business.

The 2024 AIME is preparing to be one of their biggest yet as they celebrate their 30th birthday. They expect to host 400 buyers and 2000 visitors from around the world, making it a business tourism conference of 2024 you won’t want to miss.

Business Travel Show

Dates: 28 – 29 June 2024

Location: London, England

The largest business travel conference in Europe will be back in 2024. This conference is very business-oriented, so it’s the perfect place to find suppliers and network.

It also offers the opportunity to grow your business knowledge. This is the type of travel industry networking event that will challenge you and teach you to innovate and grow.

Travel Technology Europe

Despite only lasting two days, this is one of the top travel tech conferences in 2024. The event draws in over 5000 attendees and more than 30 conference sessions. It’s focused on technological development in our ever-growing industry.

Travel professionals looking for technological solutions to the industry’s current problems can find all the latest findings at this conference. It’s a gathering place of refreshing ideas and exciting opportunities.

Dates: 5 – 7 March 2024

Location: Oman

The ITB conference is the perfect place for B2B travel trading and gives visitors a taste of future travel and tourism trends. From panel discussions to keynote speakers, there is no better place to get an inside scoop on the year’s upcoming trends.

The three-day conference is exciting and informative, a great way to get exposure to the respective markets and the ideas that are shaping them.

Women’s Travel Fest

Dates: 3 – 5 March 2024

The Women’s Travel Fest is a conference just for ladies who love travelling. It’s been growing since 2013 and has become the largest women-in-travel summit. Join more than 30 amazing female speakers and network with other like-minded women.

This conference is an incredible opportunity to make good connections and upskill in all the right areas. The aim of this travel convention in 2024 is to connect, support, and inspire women to travel the world safely. It is undoubtedly one of the best tourism fairs in the world for solo female travellers.

Web in Travel (WiT)

Date: 5 – 6 July 2024

Location: Tokyo, Japan

Date: 27 July 2024

Location: Penang, Malaysia

Date: 2 – 4 October 2024

Location: Singapore

Date: 2 November 2024

Location: Seoul, South Korea

For anyone interested in travel technology, distribution, and marketing, this conference will bring it all into one room. Join the masses as you get the opportunity to meet with others in the travel-tech and marketing space and gain new insights into the industry.

While the event occurs in several live locations throughout the year, it’s also one of the few travel technology conferences offering a virtual space. So you can connect with travel and marketing gurus from across the world.

Select Traveller Conference

Dates: 17 – 19 March 2024

Location: Buffalo Niagara, New York

This conference aims to boost the relationship between travel clubs and travel loyalty programs. If you are in the industry and hoping to increase your club membership or add value to your loyalty program, this is the place to be.

B Travel Trade Show

Dates: 15 – 17 March 2024

Location: Barcelona, Spain

The tourism trade show is a great all-around travel trade fair. You’ll learn a lot, be introduced to world-class products and ideas, and socialise with industry leaders. It’s Southern Europe’s biggest travel event, with over 24,000 visitors annually, so expect a crowd.

Travel Technology Initiative

Dates: 20 March 2024

TTI continues to establish and maintain technology standards within the travel industry. This conference is the main event of the year, where all the big travel tech names come together. Learn about the technological trends that will affect your business and the greater travel industry.

Travel and Words

Dates: 12 – 14 November 2024

Location: Missoula, Montana

This is a conference built on passion and voluntary work. The Travel and Words event is a great place for travel bloggers , writers, and destination marketers to get together. Here, they can discuss the future of travel marketing in media and print.

Its focus is on freelance travel writers in the Northwest, making it ideal for exposure to potential new markets.

International Luxury Travel Market – Worldwide

Dates: 19 – 22 June 2024

Location: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Dates: 18 – 21 September 2024

Location: Baha Mar, The Bahamas

Dates: 4 – 7 December 2024

Location: Cannes, France

Dates: 7 – 10 May 2024

Location: São Paulo, Brazil

The ILTM conferences showcase the ultimate luxury travel brands to handpicked travel advisors in different regions. It is here that luxury and travel combine to display fantastic holiday opportunities in each country.

Simply put, it’s one of the best international travel events of the year for luxury marketers and business owners.

World Trade Market

Dates: 6 – 8 November 2024

Dates: 2 – 4 April 2024

Dates: 10 – 12 April 2024

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Dates: 6 – 9 May 2024

Location: Dubai, UAE

WTM hosts thousands of travel professionals in multiple locations each year.

The Latin America WTM showcases the best of Latin America to the rest of the world. Travel agencies, service providers, and travellers themselves all congregate together to see the best of Latin American Tourism.

WTM Africa does much the same, except for the African Continent. All tourism industry people, from hotel owners to tour guides and everyone in between, will meet under one roof to share and expand their network and knowledge.

WTM London celebrated 40 years in 2020 and will host many travel and tourism professionals in 2024. Here, you can connect and mingle with the industry’s head runners, as well as learn more about the world of travel and tourism.

International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association Global Convention

Dates: 4 – 7 October 2024

Location: San Juan, Puerto Rico

The IGLTA tourism convention exists to connect the LGBTQ+ community with gay-friendly travel and tourism brands, suppliers, and buyers. There are interesting educational workshops and numerous networking receptions for all attendees.

IGLTA also runs events around the world for LGBTQ+ travellers and promotes equality and safety within the tourism industry.

Skift Forum

Dates: 26 – 28 September 2024

Dates: 12 – 14 December 2024

The Skift Global Forum 2024 provides a space for innovative leaders in travel and tourism to come together and share, gain, and develop new ideas. With research-driven actionable insights, amazing speakers, and an excellent opportunity to network, it’s one of our favourite travel marketing conferences in 2024.

Women in Travel Summit

Dates: 12 – 14 April 2024

Location: Salt Lake City, USA

This is a wonderful conference for women in the travel and tourism industry. There will be brands, influencers, and creators.

Visitors can attend workshops and talks on travel directed specifically to the ladies. It’s A great opportunity for travel writers and influencers who want to expand their monetization strategies and learn from others.

Africa’s Travel Indaba

Dates: 9 – 11 May 2024

Location: Durban, South Africa

Africa’s tourism and travel industry are showcased well at this annual event, with exhibitor booths for travel services and product suppliers. Buyers, media, and the public can enjoy a first-row seat to the best that Africa has to offer.

This conference is geared more towards businesses (like tour operators and travel agents) than travel writers.

Digital Travel Summit 2024

Dates: 12 – 13 September 2024

Location: South Carolina, USA

One of the best tourism conferences for travel executives, Digital Travel, caters to their niche perfectly. With big keynotes and small face-to-face discussions around customer engagement and personalization, you’re bound to come away with creative new strategies to grow your business.

We Are Africa

Enjoy the luxurious side of African tourism as this event hosts both an African and International audience. It focuses on rebranding Africa as a top luxury destination with exciting investments and lavish products.

Tourism & Leisure Studies Conference

Dates: 14 – 16 June 2024

Location: Granada, Spain

This conference offers a space for travel industry professionals to discuss matters within the industry. Past, current, and future trends, issues, and innovations are presented and debated with like-minded individuals.

This is a great space for those looking to change their business model and adapt to relevant tourism in the new decade.

IPW Conference

Dates: 3 – 7 May 2024

IPW is where US travel exhibitors connect with travel buyers and media from more than 70 countries.

This is one of the best tourism events of 2024 that showcases products and builds relationships. It’s a national showcase of what America has to offer and brings in a great deal of tourism to the country.

Global Business Travel Association

Dates: 13 – 15 August 2024

Location: Toronto, Canada

Dates: 22 – 24 April 2024

Visit Canada’s largest conference for business travel and management professionals. As it attracts over 900 attendees, the event is a fantastic way for travel innovators to showcase their latest products and services to industry professionals.

It’s comparatively small in scale to other travel events of 2024, making it best for networking.

Keyframe 23 by Traverse

Dates: 13 – 16 April 2024

Location: Malta

This travel conference is aimed at bloggers, influencers, YouTubers, and other content creators. The vibrant festival combines travel and technological innovation. Digital content creators from around the world will gather to learn, progress, and develop new ways to show off the world of travel.

ITT Conference

Dates: 5 – 7 June 2024

Location: Doha, Qatar

The Institution of Travel and Tourism conference is held each year to provide a space for all those in the tourism industry to discuss and share.

You can find guidelines on how to be a professional in the industry, as well as support and advice on your travel career. You can also enjoy some networking with others in the industry.

Future Travel Experience

Dates: 19 – 21 September 2024

Location: California, USA

Dates: 8 – 9 November 2024

Learn more about the future of travel and hear from hundreds of airline and hotel representatives. Whether you attend the global travel industry event, the Asian event, or both – there is much to learn and many faces to network with.

As the name suggests, it is all about forward-moving tech and industry.

Digital Travel Summit EU

Date: 15 – 16 November 2024

All things digital and travel combine perfectly in this two-day event held in London. Along with industry-leading speakers, there are workshops, presentations, and small group sessions. There are also over 400 other digital travel professionals to network with.

Global Travel Marketplace

Date: 18 – 20 July 2024

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

This travel conference is an appointment-only event connecting influential travel advisors with travel suppliers. It’s small-scale and tends to lead to many exciting new business deals.

TECNZ Tourism Conference

Dates: 8 –11 August 2024

Location: Rotorua, New Zealand

TECNZ Tourism Conference is for anyone interested in making partners and learning about New Zealand’s tourism innovations and trends.

Inbound 2024

Dates: 5 – 8 September 2024

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Inbound is a yearly conference where big ideas are shared and expanded. It’s all about actionable strategies for growth and improvement. And with nightly parties, you’re likely to make good friends with your new connections.

Massive and exciting, it can be a little daunting. But there’s a surprising opportunity to make close connections and brainstorm your niche challenges.

Travel Writers and Photographers Conference

Dates: 10 – 13 August 2024

Location: Corte Madera, California

More niche than most options on our list, this conference is the perfect place for all travel writers and photographers to come together and expand their knowledge and skills.

Hosted by Book Passage, there is a world of knowledge to be shared over the 3-day event. With workshops, panels, and evening activities, you’ll come away with actionable insights and a lot of new contacts.

PATA Travel Mart

Dates: 4 – 6 October 2024

Location: New Delhi, India

The Pacific Asia Travel Association hosts the PATA travel mart each year. The role of PATA in tourism is essential, allowing sellers, buyers, and other industry professionals in the Asia-Pacific region to meet, greet, and network.

There is also a public day when traders can meet visitors and exhibit their products.

Travel Mart Latin America

Dates: 20 – 22 September 2024

Location: TBD

This is a long-standing conference showcasing Latin American tourism. It’s a great place for tour operators, wholesalers, meeting planners, and incentive companies to meet and share their businesses.

Travel Mart is also an expo of all travel and tourism opportunities in Central and South America.

World Youth and Student Travel Conference

Dates: 12 – 15 September 2024

Location: Lisbon, Portugal

This conference is a must for professionals who work in youth and student travel. It hosts over 150 buyers, represents 100 countries, and offers workshops and networking events aplenty, making it a conference worth your time.

Vestnorden Travel Mart 2024

Dates: 17 – 18 October 2024

Location: Reykjavik, Iceland

This is an extremely important trade show for the North Atlantic region. It allows B2B trading and networking for all travel professionals in and around Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroes Islands.

TBEX Africa, North America, and Europe

Dates: 17 – 20 July 2024

Location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Dates: 28 – 31 May 2024

Location: San Sebastian, Spain

TBEX has quickly become the largest conference and networking event for content creators, travel brands, and industry professionals. Partnering with fantastic destinations across the globe and attracting hundreds of delegates each year. This is a great place to network and do business.

It’s one of the best travel and tourism conferences in 2024, with the fantastic convention occurring in Africa, North America, and Europe.

Luxury Travel Advisors Ultra Summit

Dates: 20 – 22 June 2024

Location: Scottsdale, Arizona

This is a great international tourism conference for travel agents to attend to network with suppliers and learn more about the industry. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their businesses and what they offer.

TTG Travel Experience

Dates: 11 – 13 October 2024

Location: Remini, Italy

Anyone looking for a gateway to the Italian travel market should attend the TTG conference. With over 130 countries being represented, this is considered the largest B2B trade conference in Italy.

International Tourism Film Festival

Dates: 24 – 27 October 2024

Location: Caldas Da Rainha, Portugal

This unique event brings travel filmmakers and businesses together, showcasing industry greats and newcomers alike. It’s not a travel conference we all need to attend, but if you have a special talent for promotional travel films or are looking for someone who does, check it out.

GBTA + Conference 2024

Dates: 14 – 16 November 2024

Location: Hamburg, Germany

It’s one of the top business travel conferences in 2024 for B2B exposure. You’ll learn about the latest trends in tourism and make valuable new connections.

Phocuswright Conference

Dates: 13 – 16 November 2024

This is a great place for travel leaders and influencers to meet and discuss the latest innovations in the travel and tourism industry.

Top Travel and Tourism Conferences 2024/25

2024 is an exciting year for travel, with new solutions and innovations constantly breaking ground and a global public itching to explore.

Are you planning to attend any of these conferences? You may just see our team at a few of them too! So maybe, see you there.

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The BIG Travel Trade Event 2024

Register now to secure your space!

Registration for the event is NOW OPEN!

The Big Travel Trade Event 2024 is BACK with LOTS of new additions! The NI Travel News Team is excited for the return of the Big Travel Trade Event on the 4 th & 5 th of June in the Crowne Plaza Belfast.

We have over 90 + suppliers representing the travel industry from Airlines, Cruise Lines, Tour Operators, and Tourist Boards with LOTS of  BRAND-NEW companies joining us for the first time! You will have the chance to network with these AMAZING suppliers over the 2 days to gain valuable industry knowledge on everything travel related!!

We have an educational, & fun-packed  2-day schedule for 2024!!

Speed Network with 20 suppliers on the first day before enjoying a Spanish Coffee Morning with PortAventura!

Gear up for an exciting game-show-themed lunch hosted by Travel Solutions, where old-school TV Gameshows come to life at The Big Travel Trade Event! Night one will be hosted by The Spanish Tourist Office and a partner so get teamed up you are off to the BIG Spanish Quiz!!! Enjoy delicious Spanish-themed food and a live quiz atmosphere for everyone to enjoy!!

Day 2 will be packed with more non-stop fun! Oceania will be sponsoring a brand-new event for 2024 with a culinary experience for a group of invited agents! We also have a NEW EXCITING theme for the finale night with Jet2holidays which is sure to end the Big Event with a YEEHAW!

Please fill in your contact details below and tick the boxes for the events you wish to attend during day 1 and day 2 of the event.

There are VERY LIMITED spaces available, please secure the events you would like to attend. You will get a confirmation email from NI Travel News confirming your booking. If you need to amend your booking at any time (including cancellation), please let us know.

Click the link below to register your interest –

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Upcoming global travel trade events to attend in 2024

Monday, December 11, 2023 Favorite

The year 2024 promises a diverse selection of travel industry events throughout the world. From the famous ITB Berlin in Germany to the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai and the World Travel Market in London, these events cover a wide variety of regions and industries of the travel industry. Maximise your business in 2024 by attending key travel industry events worldwide. From ITB Berlin 2024 and Arabian Travel Market 2024 to World Travel Market London 2024, these trade shows offer unparalleled business networking, travel and tourism insights, and versatile collaboration opportunities.

Don’t miss these influential travel trade shows to stay informed, connect with industry leaders, and propel your travel business forward.

24 – 28 Jan 2024

IFEMA, MADRID

FITUR, a premier global tourism trade exhibition, marks its 43rd edition from January 24 to 28, 2024, at IFEMA MADRID. Recognised for its international significance, the event showcases innovations, trends, and collaborations across the tourism industry, with support from governments, institutions, and key stakeholders. A vital platform for exploring specialization, technology, and sustainability in global tourism.

BALTTOUR 2024

2–4 February, 2023

Riga, Latvia

Balttour, the leading international travel trade fair in the Baltics, aids travelers in destination selection and planning. It also serves as a vital networking platform for tourism professionals. Scheduled for February 2–4, 2024, it enhances regional tourism sector growth.

EMITT Istanbul 2024

6 – 9 February 2024

TUYAP Fair & Congress Centre

EMITT, a global top-five tourism exhibition, draws 40,000 industry professionals and tourists annually, showcasing travel opportunities and fostering cooperation. Organized for 26 years and supported by key entities, EMITT contributes significantly to sector growth. The 27th edition in 2024 is backed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, TOBB, Turkish Airlines, and Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.

19 – 21 February 2024

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne hosts the prestigious Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event 2024 (AIME), blending business opportunities and cultural experiences. Scheduled from 19–21 February at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, this trade event unites event planners and exhibitors, fostering connections through AI-driven appointments and 13,000+ meetings.

ITB Berlin 2024

5 – 7 March 2024

Berlin, Germany

The ITB Berlin Convention 2024, themed “Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together,” leads the industry from March 5 to 7. Experts will discuss innovative concepts and strategies across 17 tracks, covering trends in marketing, technology, hospitality, and broader industry challenges.

Arabian Travel Market 2024

6 – 9 May 2024

The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, from May 6 to May 9 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, explores the evolving luxury travel market in the Middle East. Global experts will delve into themes of heritage, innovation, and sustainability.

World Travel Market Latin America

15 – 17 April 2024

São Paulo, Brasil

WTM Latin America is the premier B2B travel event in the region, providing unparalleled business opportunities and ROI. Connecting professionals from travel agencies, operators, airlines, and more, it’s a 3-day platform to discover trends, new products, and enhance your business network.

ILTM Africa

7 – 9 April, 2024

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Cape Town

ILTM Africa is a key sales and marketing opportunity for travel specialists seeking to enter or expand in the African market. With curated meetings connecting exclusive experiences to top agents, it’s the place to meet clients, generate leads, and build lasting relationships.

IBTM Africa

10 – 12 April 2024

Cape Town, CTICC

14-16 May 2024

Frankfurt, Germany

IMEX is the epicenter for the global business events community, uniting 3,800 meeting planners and 2,900 suppliers worldwide. Enjoy expert education, discover event trends, and make powerful connections for real ROI. Attend IMEX 2024, where participation is completely free.

IBTM America 2024

August 21 – 22, 2024

Centro Citibanamex, Mexico City

IBTM America, held annually in Mexico City, is the premier event for the Americas’ incentives, meetings, and business travel industry. It offers a platform for professionals to discover products, network, and build relationships, with seminars and workshops providing valuable insights and connections. Stay ahead in the industry at IBTM America.

Uzbekistan International Travel Market 2024

16 April 2024 to 18 April 2024

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

UITM (Uzbekistan International Travel Market) is scheduled from April 16 to 18, 2024, at the International Hotel Tashkent. This event serves as a platform for companies in the tourism sector, showcasing news and developments in Uzbekistan and internationally. With a focus on tourism, UITM provides an opportunity for networking, collaboration, and the exchange of information within the industry, contributing to the growth and promotion of tourism in Uzbekistan and beyond.

IGTM – International Golf Travel Market

14–17 October 2024

Lisbon, Portugal

IGTM (International Golf Travel Market) is a community for golf travel professionals seeking a focused and cost-effective platform for business growth. Pre-scheduled meetings form the core, connecting golf destinations, resorts, and courses with leading travel agents to boost the global outbound tourism market.

1 – 4 July 2024

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

ILTM (International Luxury Travel Market) presented their latest research, “Decoding the Luxury Traveller’s Mindset: Spotlight China,” during the ILTM Asia Pacific Opening Forum. The report, a collaboration with Altiant, delves into the behaviors and expectations of Wealthy Chinese travelers, serving as a crucial resource for luxury travel professionals.

WTM London 2024

5 – 7 November 2024

ExCeL, London

World Travel Market London 2024, the global travel and tourism event, witnessed a remarkable increase in attendance, with numbers rising by more than a fifth compared to the previous year. The event continues to be a significant platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and explore new opportunities in the travel sector.

Tags: Arabian Travel Market , ITB Berlin , ITB Berlin 2024 , travel trade events , World Travel Market London 2024

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50 events worth travelling for in 2022

By Tristan Parker

With a global travel situation over the past two years that can be labelled ‘temperamental’ at best and a sudden over-familiarity with the word ‘postponed’, it’s entirely possible you’re lacking inspiration for your 2022 calendar. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to 50 events taking place this year that we feel you need to know about.

Our selections are taken from all over the globe and cover a lot of bases – because the world still is a big and busy place. You’ll find carnivals, food fairs, music festivals, art showcases, children’s events, cultural traditions, once-in-a-lifetime wildlife-spotting opportunities, all-out parties and much more, with options for every month. Some of these events will take a little work and time to get to, but all are worth the trip. Here’s to widening your world again.

Always check government guidelines before booking and before travelling.

London International Mime Festival, England

12 January-6 February

Think again if you’re expecting three weeks of Marcel Marceau impressions, as this undersung London gem is an exhilarating exploration of physical theatre . The wide-ranging schedule covers contemporary dance, puppetry, cinema, circus and lots of great children’s shows. Two of many highlights are a circus strong-lady performance combining personal storytelling and wince-inducing lifting, and The Chosen Haram, a powerful reflection on faith, sexuality and addiction, performed on two Chinese poles.

Price: Events priced individually Address: Various London venues Website: mimelondon.com

Kiruna Snow Festival, Sweden

26-30 January

Winter doesn’t seem so bleak when you’re at what’s claimed to be the world’s cosiest snow festival. The highlight is a snow sculpture competition that attracts international talent and spawns genuinely amazing work, but there’s also the Snow Blower World Championships, figure skating and a kids’ playground – made from snow, naturally. Being in Sweden ’s northernmost town also means you have a fine chance of glimpsing the Northern Lights .

Price:  Free Address: Gruvvägen 1, 981 31 Kiruna, Sweden Website: snofestivalen.com

Noć Muzeja (Museum Night), Croatia

This popular annual event sees museums across Croatia open their doors for free on the last Friday in January, from 6pm-1am, with some hosting special exhibitions and events. Hundreds of museums take part, but the biggest concentration is in Noć Muzeja’s birthplace, Zagreb, where venues as varied as the Chocolate Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum all welcome night-time visitors.

Price:  Free Address: Venues around Croatia Website: nocmuzeja.hr

Yves Saint Laurent aux Musées, Paris, France

29 January-15 May

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Yves Saint Laurent’s first runway show, six major Parisian museums are staging a simultaneous exhibition to honour the iconic fashion designer. Each institution will display YSL creations alongside artwork from their collections, highlighting how the designer was influenced by artists like Matisse and Picasso, and looking at wider links between fashion and art. Give yourself a few days – at least – if you want to attempt all six venues.

Price:  Entry fee for each venue priced independently Address: Six museums across Paris (Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Centre Pompidou, Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, Musée National Picasso-Paris, Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris) Website: museeyslparis.com

Armagh Fusion Festival, Northern Ireland

4-20 February

If you’ve never visited Armagh before, there couldn’t be a better occasion than this culture-crammed celebration of the region’s history and heritage – if you have been before, there’s still plenty to learn. Take your pick from theatre-hopping walking tours, ceilidhs, road bowling and brunch, an ‘art after dark’ showcase, printmaking workshops, a silent disco, mindfulness days in the grand Palace Demesne and much more besides.

Price:  Events priced individually Address: Venues  around Armagh city Website: visitarmagh.com

Carnevale di Venezia, Venice, Italy

12 February-1 March

Those who like their carnivals classy will do well at one of Venice ’s biggest calendar dates. Seeing the city awash with elaborate period costumes and distinctive masks is a big draw, but there are also canal parades, competitions, street performances, masquerade balls and fancy suppers if you want to splash out. St Mark’s Square is a constant hub of activity and theatrical goings-on throughout.

Price:  Free with some ticketed events Address: Across Venice Website: carnevale.venezia

Marrakech International Storytelling Festival, Morocco

12-20 February

Hear tales big and small, funny, moving, magical, educational and eye-opening, relayed by 50 poets, performers and experienced tellers from around the globe. Stories take place at cafes, museums and riads around Morocco , alongside workshops and social events. The festival is also the next step in the World Storytelling Cafe, a digital project born during the pandemic that allowed international storytelling to continue safely.

Price:  Free Address: Venues around Marrakech Website: worldstorytellingcafe.com

Madeira Carnival, Funchal, Portugal

23 February-1 March

If you can’t stretch to Rio Carnival , the festivities on this sometimes-overlooked Portuguese island are a suitably extravagant substitute. No expense is spared and you’ll find all the parades, floats, samba bands, colourful costumes and dancing you’ll need for a surprisingly wild time. The main parade hits the streets on Saturday 26 February, before the fun ends on Shrove Tuesday with the trapalhão parade (‘slapstick’ or ‘clumsy’ parade), with lots of kooky costumes.

Price:  Free Address: Avenida do Mar and nearby, Funchal, Madeira Website: visitmadeira.pt

Altitude Comedy Festival, Mayrhofen, Austria

28 March-1 April

Combine slopes and jokes at this Alpine comedy festival, hosted in ski -obsessed Mayrhofen. The idea is to ski to your heart’s content in the daytime and then kick back in the evenings at daily comedy shows. This year’s line-up includes co-founders Marcus Brigstocke and Andrew Maxwell, Rich Hall, Zoe Lyons and Shaparak Khorsandi.

Price:  From £149 (five-day ticket) Address: Sport & Spa Hotel Strass, Hauptstraße 470, Mayrhofen, 6290, Austria Website: altitudefestival.com

Cartagena International Film Festival, Colombia

16-21 March

This will be the 61st edition of Latin America’s oldest film festival, and while the primary focus is on Colombian and Latin American cinema, diversity in filmmaking is also prioritised. At the time of writing, the 2022 schedule hasn’t yet been announced, but sections of the programming highlight work from communities and cultures around the world. Look out for starry special guests, as previous editions have welcomed the likes of Tilda Swinton, Ethan Coen and Isabella Rossellini.

Price:  TBC Address: Venues around Cartagena Website: ficcifestival.com

Las Fallas, Valencia, Spain

15-19 March

While the origins of Valencia ’s biggest celebration are uncertain, what’s clear is that today’s incarnation is a loud ride. Ready yourself for daily ‘concerts’ of firecrackers, huge firework displays and bonfires burning the towering ninots (painstakingly crafted papier-mâché sculptures, usually satirical versions of politicians and celebrities) that are paraded through the streets all week. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it is welcoming and a whole lot of fun.

Price:  Free Address: Across central Valencia Website: visitvalencia.com

Monarch butterfly migration, Mexico

Throughout March

Every autumn, millions of monarch butterflies leave North America’s chilly temperatures and journey around 3,000 miles to a sprawling, far-warmer forested area in central Mexico for five months. This forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sections of it can be visited to witness orange-and-black swathes of these beautiful creatures in their toasty winter habitat, resting amongst trees and darting through the air. It’s a life-affirming spectacle.

Price:  Free Address: Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Michoacán, Mexico 

Cherry blossom, Mount Yoshino, Japan

Throughout April

Japan ’s Instagram-breaking cherry blossom trees can be viewed from numerous locations during their spring bloom, but Mount Yoshino remains the most revered, and it’s hard to argue with its popularity. Get there early (we’re talking 6am) to beat the crowds, then ascend through the four sections, marvelling at some 30,000 trees lining the slopes, and the carpets of pink and white snaking across the hillsides.

Price:  Free Address: Mount Yoshino, Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Nara 639-3115 Website: yoshino-kankou.jp

Children’s Culture Festival, Reykjavík, Iceland

Providing yet-another reason to visit Reykjavík is this week-long celebration of creativity, where children and young people can lose themselves in activities hosted in schools, museums, libraries and theatres across the city. Participation is key to the festival and the schedule includes theatre workshops, puppetry, music, dance, storytelling, film, visual arts and circus performance. Because why should adults get to hog all the Nordic-cool vibes?

Price:  Free Address: Venues across Reykjavík Website: childrensculturefestival.is

Sónar Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal

Barcelona ’s benchmark of festival cool launches a new chapter in the Portuguese capital. Sónar Lisboa follows the same blueprint, mixing cutting-edge electronic music with visual art across the separate day and night showcases, with some parties lasting through the night. Confirmed artists so far are a mix of progressive producers, DJs and musicians, including Charlotte de Witte, Honey Dijon, Thundercat, Nina Kraviz and Floating Points.

Price:  £36.55-£54.82 (single event night ticket), £45.68 (single day-only ticket), £100.51 (two-day ticket), £228.42 (full day and night ticket) Address: Venues across Lisbon Website: sonarlisboa.pt

The Reel Store, Coventry, England

April (opening date TBC)

As Coventry ’s UK City of Culture status draws to a close, the opening of the UK’s first permanent immersive digital art gallery will help cement its cultural legacy. Housed in the former offices of the Coventry Evening Telegraph, the 800m2 space will launch with a fittingly innovative statement. Machine Memoirs: Space, by tech-focused artist Refik Anadol, uses AI and machine learning to display heady 360-degree digital interpretations of NASA space photography.

Price:  Ticket prices TBC Address: The Reel Store, Telegraph Hotel, Upper Well Street, Coventry, CV1 Website: coventry2021.co.uk

Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature, Cornwall, England

This blissful Cornish harbour town was the home of celebrated author Daphne du Maurier, who provides the influence for this festival. As such, book readings, writing workshops and other literary goings-on are a big focus, but the event is still huge fun for non-bookworms, thanks to live music, art exhibitions and Fowey’s cosy pubs, restaurants and nearby coastal walks .

Price:  Events priced individually Address: Venues around Fowey Website: foweyfestival.com

Edinburgh International Children’s Festival, Scotland

This expertly curated festival with 30 years under its belt handpicks children’s theatre and dance shows from around the world. The resulting programme features diverse performances for all ages – from toddlers right the way up to teenagers – including intelligently presented shows for the older audiences that don’t shy away from difficult issues. There are also free pop-up events around Edinburgh .

Price:  Shows priced individually Address: Venues around Edinburgh Website: imaginate.org.uk/festival

Berlin Design Week, Germany

Unsurprisingly, Berlin ’s annual design deep-dive is a slick affair with an eye firmly on current trends. Exhibitions, tours, open studios, parties and business speed dating are offered in the programme, which will appeal to artists, creatives and anyone with an eye for aesthetics. But the event is more than just a visual feast, and will explore how design can address sustainability and societal challenges through its 2022 theme, ‘higher purpose’.

Price:  Events priced individually Address: Venues around Berlin Website: berlindesignweek.com

Dak’Art, La Biennale de Dakar, Senegal

19 May-21 Jun

One of Africa ’s largest and most established biennales, Dak’Art focuses on contemporary art from around the continent, alongside international contributions. For its 14th edition, 59 artists and collectives will exhibit paintings, installations, photography, sculpture, textiles and audio. Make sure to also seek out work from Dak’Art OFF – hundreds of unofficial exhibitions happening across the city, showcasing local talent.

Price:  Free Address: Ancien Palais de Justice, Dakar, Senegal Website: biennaledakar.org

Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival, California, United States

Kudos to whoever thought of combining two marvellous things – hot air balloons and wine – into a three-day festival. See Temecula’s spectacular vineyards from above as you drift over in a balloon, before sampling the goods when you land at daily wine tastings – local microbreweries will be on-hand if beer’s more your thing. There’s also a ‘balloon glow’ (grounded balloons are inflated and lit up at dusk), plus live music TBA.

Price:  £25-45 (one-day ticket), £74-£92 (three-day ticket) Address: Lake Skinner Recreation Area, 37701 Warren Road, Winchester, CA 92596, United States Website: tvbwf.com

National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, Oslo, Norway

The largest art museum in the Nordic region opens in June after a seven-year wait, merging collections from three other prestigious Norwegian institutions. Among the 5,000 century-spanning items on display will be a van Gogh self-portrait and The Scream by Norway ’s own Edvard Munch, who gets a dedicated room. There’s also contemporary art, photography, textiles and fashion (including items from Norwegian designer Edda Gimnes), alongside the striking architecture of the new venue.

Price:  TBC Address: Brynjulf Bulls plass 4 0250, Oslo, Norway Website: nasjonalmuseet.no

FLUGT, Refugee Museum of Denmark, Oksbøl

Opening date TBC

A former hospital in what was Denmark ’s largest refugee camp following the Second World War is being transformed into a museum, to tell the stories of some of the 35,000 refugees who were housed in the camp. FLUGT will also explore the lives and challenges of refugees in modern-day Denmark.

Price:  TBC Address: Præstegårdsvej 21, 6840 Oksbøl, Denmark Website: vardemuseerne.dk

Pride Toronto, Canada

Toronto ’s Pride is one of the largest in the world, meaning lots is going on throughout June leading up to the main parade, Trans March and Dyke March – plus music and parties galore – at the festival weekend (24-26 June). Performers include dancehall artist Spice and former RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Symone, and there’s a welcome sustainability gesture in the event’s banning of flatbed floats and petrol vehicles in parades.

Price:  Free with some ticketed events Address: Across Toronto (parade routes TBC) Website: pridetoronto.com

Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland

Nowadays, jazz is just one component of this highly respected festival. The 2022 line-up is still under wraps, but considering Montreux has hosted everyone from Nina Simone to David Bowie to Kendrick Lamar over the years, assume you’re in safe hands. There’s also a sizeable free programme (concerts, pool parties, star-studded jam sessions) and the dreamy Lake Geneva shoreside location to enjoy.

Price:  TBC Address: Montreux Music & Convention Centre, Avenue Claude-Nobs 5, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland Website: montreuxjazzfestival.com

Galway International Arts Festival, Connacht, Ireland

A mix of international entertainment and local culture is what you’ll find at this festival in beautiful Galway . Starry musical headliners playing a riverside big top tent include The Flaming Lips, Sinead O’Connor and Jon Hopkins, but traditional Irish folk music, literary readings and poetry are never far away. And that’s before you’ve explored Galway’s charms, such as Michelin-starred restaurants and the buzzy Latin Quarter.

Price:  Big top shows from £30, other events TBC Address: Venues around Galway Website: giaf.ie

Cambridge Folk Festival, England

One of the longest-running folk festivals in the world has evolved into a big deal but still feels intimate and fun. Wandering around the site, you’ll hear far more than ‘just’ folk music – blues, soul, jazz, and other global sounds are all readily available. Acts for 2022 include Seasick Steve, Suzanne Vega, Chico Trujillo and heralded guitarist Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram.

Price: £31-£78.28 (adult day ticket), £187.46 (adult weekend ticket) Address: Cherry Hinton Hall, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridgeshire, CB1 8DW, England Website: cambridgelive.org.uk

Commonwealth Games, Birmingham, England

28 July-8 August

Lace-up your running shoes and prepare for a spectating marathon, as Birmingham hosts some of the world’s top sporting talents from 72 nations. Events include judo, diving, wrestling, beach volleyball, swimming, triathlon, athletics and what’s claimed to be the largest integrated para-sport programme in history.

Price: From £15 for adults and £8 for under-16s Address: Venues across Birmingham  Website: birmingham2022.com

Seoul POPCON, South Korea

25-28 August

The Seoul chapter of Comic-Con will transform into Seoul POPCON (Pop Culture Convention) for 2022, broadening its remit to represent gaming, NFTs, metaverses, animation, film and music – as well as comics, of course. Exhibitors and a wider schedule are yet to be announced, but judging by the hype, POPCON promises to unleash a whole universe of cult delights.

Price: TBC Address: Coex 513, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06164, South Korea Website: seoulpopcon.org

Tahiti Pro Teahupo’o, French Polynesia

11-21 August

Surfing is a great spectator sport, especially when you’re in Tahiti . Every year, the small village of Teahupo’o is the setting for one of the World Surf League’s most thrilling championship events (on both the men and women’s tours), thanks to some truly monstrous waves arising in a select spot. It’s a remote location but well worth seeking out for the thrills and the scenery.

Price: Free Address: Teahupo’o, Tahiti-Iti, French Polynesia Website: worldsurfleague.com

Jersey Battle of Flowers, British Isles

11-12 August

If the Chelsea Flower Show is just too static for you, this horticultural carnival dating back to 1902 should do the trick. Impossibly intricate flower sculptures, ranging from 12-45 feet in length, travel the streets in two parades, including an illuminated night-time parade. Previous battles have featured floral versions of Arctic wildlife, scenes from Avatar and mock-ups of The Muppets while marching bands, fireworks and dancers add to the fun.

Price: £19-£35 (single parade ticket) Address: Victoria Avenue, Jersey, British Isles Website: battleofflowers.com

Melbourne International Film Festival, Australia

4-21 August

Melbourne ’s film festival was launched in 1952, making it one of the world’s oldest and a big date on the city calendar. The event presents innovative films plucked from around the globe and one of the world’s largest Australian film showcases. Broaden your horizons even further with masterclasses on acting and directing techniques.

Price: Events priced individually (multi-film passes cost £58 and £105) Address: Venues around Melbourne Website: miff.com.au

The Great Migration, Maasai Mara, Kenya

Throughout August

Yes, a Kenyan safari at any time of year will reap rewards, and there are certainly less-crowded months than August, but sometimes the main event is worth a little inconvenience. The Great Migration – when over 1.5 million wildebeest (plus zebras and antelopes) make their way from the Serengeti in Tanzania to Kenya’s Maasai Mara – is one such event. The migration is an ongoing cycle throughout the year, but the Maasai Mara section is the most famous, due to the mighty herd’s epic Mara River crossing. It’s a sight you won’t forget – just make sure to do some research and choose an ethical safari.

Price: Varying depending on safari Address: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Rift Valley Province, Narok, Kenya

Abergavenny Food Festival, Wales

17-18 September

Any self-respecting – or just hungry – foodie needs to visit this market town ’s acclaimed annual festival, when chefs, traders, producers and punters from around the UK gather in the streets to cook, eat, drink, talk and eat some more. Local and wider Welsh producers are – quite rightly – heavily represented, and there are chef demos and a kids’ cookery school alongside an array of global food stalls.

Price: TBC Address: Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, Wales Website: abergavennyfoodfestival.com

Dieppe International Kite Festival, France

Every two years, the skies above an eight-hectare seafront strip of Dieppe are filled with astronauts, unicorns, seahorses, dinosaurs and thousands of other characters and colourful shapes, as one of the world’s largest kite festivals hits town. There are acrobatic kite competitions and workshops for all ages, but just observing the hypnotic aerial action alongside several hundred thousand other visitors is the most rewarding activity.

Price: Free Address: Dieppe seafront, Normandy, France Website: dieppe-cerf-volant.org

Whale watching, Hermanus, South Africa

Throughout September

Whale watching presents its own set of ecological concerns. One way around this is to visit Hermanus , one of the best whale watching spots on Earth, which has an abundance of shore locations where southern right whales can be observed – surprisingly closely – without disturbance. The 12km Cliff Path is peppered with viewpoints, such as Dreunkrans and Roman Rock, and September is the perfect month for shoreline spots.

Price: Free Address: Cliff Path, Hermanus, 7200, South Africa Website: Hermanus.co.za

Sun in a Glass, Pilsen, Czech Republic

16-17 September

European beer festivals aren’t all lederhosen and Löwenbräu, as this small but perfectly formed microbrewery festival proves. Sip through as many craft beers as you dare from around 80 brewers, including many homegrown Czech operations like Urban Třebíč and Malý Janek, all taking place in Purkmistr Brewery’s courtyard.

Price: Free Address: Selská náves 21/2, 32600 Pilsen, Czech Republic Website: slunceveskle.cz

Olivia Morelli

Alexander Ron

Sarah James

Connor Sturges

Ottobrata Zafferanese, Sicily, Italy

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 October

For over 40 years the village of Zafferana Etnea, near Mount Etna, has hosted gastronomic gatherings every Sunday in October to trade and champion regional produce. The markets and food stalls are a big focus, and you’ll find blissfully fresh porcini mushrooms, pistachios, chestnuts, olive oil, grapes, mustard and wine – each Sunday highlights different items. Art exhibitions, documentary screenings and live bands accompany these lively local meetups. 

Price: Free Address: Zafferana Etnea, Catania, Sicily, Italy Website: ottobratazafferanese.it

Cheltenham Literature Festival, Gloucestershire, England

7-16 October

If you’re going to celebrate the power and enjoyment of the written word, the world’s oldest literature festival (as organisers say) seems the place to do it. As well as readings from high-profile authors and guest curators (Bernardine Evaristo, Maggie O'Farrell and Richard Dawkins are previous contributors), there’s a substantial children’s offering and a Lit Crawl with comedy and parties popping up around town.

Price: Events priced individually Address: Venues around Cheltenham Website: cheltenhamfestivals.com/literature

Exmoor Dark Skies Festival, England

14-30 October

Designated an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2011, Exmoor is privy to some of Britain’s clearest night-time skies, making it a stargazing hub. The region’s popular Dark Skies Festival celebrates this status, featuring activities like dusk safaris, stargazing suppers, guided night walks exploring the area, children’s craft sessions and astrophotography workshops.

Price: Events priced individually Address: Venues around Exmoor Website: darkskiesnationalparks.org.uk

Diwali, Jaipur, India

There are countless fantastic locations across India in which to spend Diwali – the Festival of Lights and a time for celebrating – but the ‘Pink City’ is one of the most magical. It’s a visually intoxicating place year-round, but during Diwali, its landmarks and streets are draped head-to-toe in lights – Johari Bazar and Albert Hall Museum both look dazzling for the occasion. Also, consider heading up to Nahargarh Fort for superlative views across an illuminated city.

Price: Free Address: Jaipur, Rajasthan, India Website: tourism.rajasthan.gov.in

Iceland Airwaves, Reykjavík, Iceland

2-5 November

Not all the best music festivals happen in summer, as proven by the Icelandic capital’s deep dive into forward-thinking sounds. Established international names usually headline (though still on the alternative side of things – think Caribou and Blood Orange), but the real joy for non-locals is being introduced to tons of Icelandic acts. Another bonus is hopping between impromptu gig venues across the city, such as museums, record shops, churches and bars.

Price: £102 (Four-day ticket) Address: Venues around Reykjavík Website: icelandairwaves.is

Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnivals, England

Begins 5 November

Why celebrate Bonfire Night just once when there are so many days in November? This seems to be the ethos behind one of the UK’s oldest illuminated processions, consisting of eight separate carnival dates in different towns (and one city, Wells). Beginning in Bridgwater, each carnival features elaborately decorated, illuminated ‘carts’ (similar to carnival floats), some up to 100 feet in length, plus bonfires, fireworks and other festivities.

Price: Free Address: Regions around Somerset throughout November (Bridgwater – Saturday 5; Burnham-on-Sea – Monday 7; Weston-Super-Mare – Friday 11; North Petherton – Saturday 12; Midsomer Norton – Monday 14; Shepton Mallet – Wednesday 16; Wells – Friday 18; Glastonbury – Saturday 19) Website: somersetcountycarnivals.com

Real Ale Wobble, Llanwrtyd Wells, Powys, Wales

Find out what happens when you combine mountain biking with pint-quaffing at this marvellously muddy adventure. The boozy bike ride launches the Mid Wales Beer Festival in Llanwrtyd Wells (Wales’ smallest town) and offers riders a choice of 15 or 25 miles through show-stopping Cambrian Mountain scenery. ‘Refreshment’ stops on route provide choice ales from a local brewery, hence the inevitable wobble.

Price: TBC Address: Llanwrtyd Wells (starting point TBC), Powys, LD5, Wales Website: green-events.co.uk

New York Comedy Festival

Laugh your way through a chunk of November at this respected comedy festival, which has showcased hundreds of big names and up-and-coming comics since launching in 2004. It’s a rewarding exploration of the US comedy scene for both super-fans and newcomers, with some international talent represented, too. Previous guests include Jon Stewart, 2 Dope Queens, Amy Schumer, David Cross, Margaret Cho, Jimmy Carr and so many more.

Price: TBC Address: Venues around New York Website: nycomedyfestival.com

Queenstown Marathon, New Zealand

19 November

If you’ve resolved to run a marathon in 2022, make it a special one – like Queenstown ’s 26.2 miler, one of the world’s most scenic marathons. Glimpsing Lake Wakatipu’s blue expanse, the aptly-named Remarkables mountain range and the cute, gold rush chic of Arrowtown will help weary legs power through. You can also enter as a walker or opt for a half-marathon or 10km.

Price: £110 (full distance), £80 (half-marathon), £45 (10km), £18 (kids’ run) Address: The Avenue, Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown 9371, New Zealand Website: queenstown-marathon.co.nz

Hong Kong WinterFest

Throughout December

If you want a far-flung Christmas getaway but can’t do without tinsel, artificial snow and twinkling fairy lights, go revel in Hong Kong ’s annual WinterFest, featuring all of the above and a towering Christmas tree in Statue Square. Victoria Harbour and the surrounding areas hold the richest concentration of illuminations, making it the ideal way to get your holly jolly fix amid the urban sprawl.

Price: Free Address: Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong Website: discoverhongkong.com

Art Basel Miami Beach, United States

1-3 December

Before winter moves in, stock up on Vitamin D by basking in Floridian sunshine at the Miami chapter of this unapologetically hip art fair. The contemporary programme is packed with bold and experimental work from galleries around the globe, but the sheer scale means there’s enough to appeal to pretty much everyone. A big part of the experience is hunting out the numerous satellite art fairs and afterparties (some decidedly glitzy) that flood the city.

Price: TBC Address: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139, United States Website: artbasel.com/miami-beach

Réveillon, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

31 December

Go all out for New Year and spend it in party-primed Rio , where the traditional celebration, Réveillon, is second only to carnival in terms of size. The highlight for many is the vast party on Copacabana Beach, attracting over two million people and featuring live music stages (with plenty of samba), plus an almighty firework display erupting at midnight. Follow local good luck traditions by wearing white and (safely) jumping through seven waves in the sea, facing away from the beach .

Price: Free Address: Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Website: visitbrasil.com

Amsterdam Light Festival

Throughout December and January, launch date TBC

Every December, light artworks and installations by international artists are scattered around Amsterdam ’s canals, parks and streets, giving the city a heart-warming glow. The works also form a trail that can be followed by purchasing a digital map and audio guide, or by boarding a Light Festival canal cruise . Or just work out the route for yourself – either way, it’s an illuminating experience.

Price: Free/ticket prices for audio guide and cruises TBC Address: Around Amsterdam Website: amsterdamlightfestival.com

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Is experiential travel the next big trend?

The nature of travel is changing, with a stronger focus on immersive experiences. What does this mean for travellers?

  Broadly speaking, the concept of experiential travel refers to immersive experiences — the kind that aims to forge a deeper connection with a destination than can usually be had from traditional leisure holidays. These often involve an element of adventure, whether physical, cultural or spiritual. According to trend-spotting agency Mabrian, these kinds of trips are now almost as high on the average traveller’s wish list as more conventional holidays — defined as involving activities such as sunbathing, family gatherings or shopping.

Where are people going?

Experiential travel usually delves deeper into a given destination, ensuring visitors can experience it as authentically as possible. As such, tours tend to focus on less-touristy spots. Since the pandemic, for example, upmarket ski specialist Powder Byrne has found that destinations like Japan better represent a blow-out family ski trip than somewhere such as Switzerland. Add-on experiences such as temple tours and samurai sword-fighting displays add extra dimension.

What kind of trips are being taken?  

Active adventures are growing in popularity, with more extreme options on offer than ever before. An example includes the Shackleton Challenges. Launched to complement Shackleton’s polar-proof outdoor clothing, they’re — for the most part — Arctic and Antarctic mini-expeditions. Even the entry-level Polar Skills Challenge in Norway involves hauling a pulk (an equipment-laden sled) as you ski tour across the snow.  

What about closer to home?  

The growth of experiential travel isn’t restricted to long-haul pursuits. Take, for example, the popularity of wild camping in the UK. Of course, lovers of Britain’s national parks have been doing it for generations. But when a YouTuber such as Claire Wildbeare attracts an audience of 220,000 subscribers and posts 113 wild-camping and bivouacking videos — closely followed by fellow YouTube star Paul Messner — it’s clear something extraordinary is going on. Every weekend, it seems, a small army of thrill-seekers is dispersing across Britain’s moors, fells and munros. Their mission: to experience Britain in its rawest, most unvarnished state. As a result, mountain sports outfitter Ellis Brigham has seen its robust, weatherproof tents fly off the shelves. “It seems that enthusiasm for the adventurous side of camping is stronger than ever,” observes Luke Scrine, the brand’s chief tent buyer.

What if it’s not for me?  

Of course, not everyone wants this kind of experience. People still fly and flop in their millions. And while some well-heeled travellers are hoping to come back with tales of life-changing encounters in faraway places, others are flocking to the next must-stay luxury hotel. HBO’s TV series White Lotus was cynical about such behaviour in 2021 and 2022, but that didn’t stop demand for the property featured in its second series — the Four Seasons Hotel in Taormina, Sicily — skyrocketing in the show’s wake.  

What are the benefits?  

The deeper we get into a destination, the more widely our money spreads. Original Travel’s Tom Barber is well aware of the benefits. “We’re big promoters of community-based tourism,” he says. “We identify locally owned accommodation, restaurants and activities so our clients can make informed decisions as to where their money goes. It’s important not to be preachy, but more and more clients are opting for experiences and accommodation where they know their money can be used to make a genuine difference.”

The benefits remain for the traveller, too. Spending time chatting to locals and getting to know about their day-to-day lives — including tour guides, hosts and others who work in tourism — could provide meaningful insight into the lived reality of a given destination. These kind of colloquial exchanges also contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of a place, which could prove just as memorable as a guide’s treasure trove of facts and history.

What do I need to know?  

Travellers should check the exclusions on their travel insurance policy closely before they go, particularly if there are likely to be physical activities. There will also likely be a level of fitness required for some activities too   — check you’re fully prepared before booking.  

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• EXPEDITIONS
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• EXPLORATION

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