Last Updated on January 12, 2023
Beach Holiday Alternatives
Have you started thinking about your 2023 holiday? Do you fancy something different from the typical beach holiday? If so, here are just a few of the alternatives that you could consider for this year:
Skiing
Many people find the thought of a skiing holiday quite intimidating, particularly as a first-timer. Don’t let this put you off, a skiing holiday can be a lot of fun and offers great variety. Ski resorts will typically offer lessons for beginners as well as a range of slope difficulties, meaning you can enjoy them no matter what your current ability is. If you are planning a holiday with a group and are worried about the ranging experience of everyone, fear not, pro skier or total beginner, you will all be able to meet up for hot chocolates at lunch or the infamous après ski in the evening.
Walking
If you are looking for something slightly slower-paced, and warmer, there are plenty of walking holidays in Europe to be enjoyed. A walking holiday offers the perfect opportunity to explore a country and really immerse yourself in nature and the culture. Booking onto a walking holiday rather than planning the route yourself will remove the stress of trying to fit everything in, and means you are in the hands of a knowledgeable native. From the Amalfi Coast to the Swiss Alps, there are locations and terrains to suit everyone.
Cycling
If you’d prefer to travel on wheels but still want to explore the depths of a country, a cycling holiday may provide the perfect solution. Staying fit whilst taking in breathtaking views, cycling holidays offer something truly different from the usual beach holiday. Similar to walking holidays, booking in with a group will allow you to avoid any route planning and simply sit back and enjoy the ride (literally). Traveling with a group will also allow you to meet and form friendships with people with a similar interest to yourself, an opportunity that doesn’t always present itself on other holidays.
Cruise
Cruise holidays often divide opinions, but they can certainly provide something very different from a beach holiday. Cruises are often praised for their value, as not only do you get to see multiple locations in one trip, but your fare includes your travel, accommodation, food, and entertainment all in one. This is ideal if you’re on a tight budget or looking for something fuss-free. This could be a good option if you are traveling as a family and would like to meet and socialize with other families during your holiday. But cruises aren’t exclusive to families, there are kids-free cruises, singles cruises, and over-50s cruises. Whatever your criteria, there will be a cruise out there for you.
City Break
City breaks are a great alternative to beach holidays if you are looking for something more jam-packed and for a shorter time. Depending on where you’re traveling to and from, city breaks can work in as little as two days, up to about five or six. The options are endless so to help you narrow down your choices why not speak to family and friends about their previous city breaks? Another way to decide which city to choose would be to decide on the types of activities you’d like to do whilst you’re away and go from there.
Spa
If your idea of a dream holiday is being able to completely switch off and unwind then there is no better place than a spa. If you enjoy pampering, then this could be the holiday for you. Typically located in tranquil places, when you aren’t relaxing in the sauna or getting a massage you can explore the spa grounds for a bit of fresh air. This is a good option if you are happy to stay in one place and are looking for something one to three days long.
Safari
For a truly unique holiday, you could consider going on a safari. One of the more costly options, safari holidays really provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not only will you get to see some impressive animals, but you will also get the chance to learn about conservation, all whilst exploring a new landscape. There are lots of safari holidays on offer so make sure to do thorough research before booking and opt for a company that places importance on both conservation and community support.
Camping
If you like the sound of an outdoorsy holiday but aren’t up for the travel time and cost of a safari, then you should definitely consider a camping trip. From wild camping to glamping, there is something to suit every budget. There are fewer ways to embrace nature more than camping in it, and this is not the only benefit. For children especially, camping offers a fun alternative to being at home and there is lots of fun to be had from playing in the campsite playground to roasting marshmallows around a campfire.
Interrailing
Known for being a popular gap year activity, interrailing is not just for students. With a range of passes on offer, Europe is your oyster. Whether you like planning your holidays down to the minute, or prefer spontaneity, interrailing works for both. Using the vast train network, you can explore the depths of the European countryside right through to the busiest cities all in one trip. There are lots of resources online that will help you plan an optimal route.
Road Trip
If you don’t want to travel by train but are still keen to explore multi-locations, a road trip might work for you. Getting to benefit from the comfort of traveling in your own (or a rented) car, you can pack as much as you want and don’t have to worry about heaving it all onto a train. A road trip gives you the chance to travel at your own pace and plan your own route, so you get the chance to see everything you want, without the pressure of relying on public transport.
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