Gennady Podolsky, global travel industry entrepreneur and business owner, shares several of his recommended “bucket list” experiences for travelers seeking a memorable experience.
A personal “bucket list” travel experience is indeed the trip of a lifetime. Some travelers choose a luxury train journey while others opt for a next-level wellness experience. An unforgettable safari or family adventure could also be worth the expense. Global travel advisor Gennady Podolsky highlights seven “bucket list” travel experiences worth consideration in 2024.
Luxury Train Journey
With luxury travel experiences’ increasing popularity, superbly appointed trains are joining the preferred modes of transportation. Newly outfitted cars that combine top-tier amenities are joined by carefully restored luxury cars featuring a timeless ambiance. Either way, travelers will be treated to a truly luxurious living environment. Chef-prepared gourmet meals enhance this extraordinary experience.
In contrast with commuter and short-haul trains, luxury trains’ multi-day itineraries wind through scenic mountains and valleys. Treks along stunning coasts, past charming villages, and near renowned historic sites are also frequent occurrences. As the train powers along, passengers can also gain an appreciation for an area’s culture.
Luxury trains frequently crisscross multiple European countries. Alaska and the Canadian Rockies are also desirable destinations, as are Africa and the Peruvian Andes. Each traveler’s timeframe and “bucket list” destinations can help inform their luxury train travel decision. An experienced travel advisor can also provide valuable insights.
Memorable Wellness Experiences
Fast-paced 21st-century life often brings reduced time for self-care and relaxation. With health and wellness advocates increasingly calling for breaks from physical and mental stress, travelers may wish to treat themselves to a next-level wellness vacation. Global travel advisor Gennady Podolsky profiles two wellness experiences worth consideration.
Global Luxury Wellness Retreats
Travelers focused on self-care and health are increasingly choosing a luxury wellness retreat. Often located in spectacular natural settings, these wellness retreats feature first-class accommodations and nutritionist-guided gourmet cuisine. Premier spa furnishings and services, along with expert-guided workshops and fitness classes, are among the retreats’ offerings. Stress management and meditation help promote guests’ serenity and relaxation.
At top-tier retreats, each well-heeled guest receives a personalized wellness program. Experts integrate physical, emotional, and mental health into each guest’s plan. A typical guest’s follow-up regimen will include the knowledge, virtual tools, and other resources that enable them to bring their healthier habits into their everyday lives.
Luxury Wellness Destinations’ Specialties
Varied luxury wellness destinations offer distinctive specialties. To illustrate, Bali, Indonesia is known for its serene meditation and yoga programs. Upscale travelers visit the Swiss Alps’ medical spas and detoxification facilities.
In Costa Rica, the region’s natural beauty sparks eco-wellness along with adventure offerings. In a similar vein, the Maldives’ overwater spa bungalows offer a serene yet energizing setting. Finally, Sedona, Arizona is renowned for its energy healing and spiritual growth experiences.
Relaxing Thermal Baths (Galicia, Spain)
Since the Roman Empire (and possibly before), northwest Spain’s Galicia region has become known for its complex of thermal springs. Located near the town of Ourense, the inviting hot springs are scattered around the countryside. While weary travelers de-stress their bodies and minds, they can often enjoy striking scenery as well.
Although travelers can access some of Ourense’s thermal springs free of charge, others carry a small usage fee. Access hours will vary, so travelers should plan ahead. And when they step out of the springs, refreshed and rejuvenated, Ourense’s historic cobbled streets and tapas bars can deliver historic charm plus a feast for the senses.
Specialty Safari Experiences
An African safari experience brings travelers front and center with expansive scenery and majestic wild creatures. Global travel advisor Gennady Podolsky highlights two luxury safaris ─ each with a distinctive twist.
Tanzanian Mobile Safari Camp
Many safari itineraries revolve around a central base camp. During the day, guests search for wildlife in guide-driven vehicles. At night, everyone returns to the base camp to plan the next day’s activities.
However, an innovative Tanzanian wilderness camp moves with the Great Wildebeest Migration. As the herd treks through the Serengeti, the mobile safari camp travels with them. Guests enjoy a full-immersion wilderness experience via a daily guided walking safari.
Safari and Stargazing in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park, some lucky safari participants view game drives in a mostly private sector of the park. At night, guests will have up-close perspectives of a frequently visited watering hole. An elevated star-shaped bed makes an ideal platform for stargazing without 21st-century light pollution.
Fun Family Adventures
Finding a next-level family vacation can often be a challenge. Although theme parks and water parks typically offer thrills and spills, they’re not enriching activities that families will remember for years. Fortunately, experienced travel concierge Gennady Podolsky has discovered two family adventures that will satisfy parents and youngsters alike.
Dolomite Alps Family Lodgings Experience
Italy’s beautiful Dolomite Alps are the setting for a family-only hotel that was previously home to an old farm. This family-owned lodging features toddler-proof wooden floors and walls plus gorgeous panoramic views.
Parents can relax in the luxurious spa or enjoy a scrumptious meal in the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant. Unlike many higher-end eateries, fellow guests probably won’t complain about babies’ and toddlers’ high-decibel antics.
High-energy children can enjoy plenty of activities during their stays. A petting zoo, a roomy adventure playground, and a five-pool water park are among the facilities. A tailored kids’ club (complete with a baby room) rounds out the children’s offerings.
Should parents wish to take a short break, they can sample a nearby resort’s beginner ski slope. While parents take a 30-minute bus ride (each way), and revel in the striking Alpine scenery, the well-equipped hotel will provide childcare services.
Finnish Lapland Holiday Season Visit
Stunning Finnish Lapland, in Finland’s northernmost region, is a memorable destination during any time of year. Visiting throughout the December holiday season is a special treat for children and adults alike. Lodgings may include luxurious igloos with glass roofs, ideal for viewing the dazzling Northern Lights.
During this magical time of year, families can enjoy a memorable sleigh ride (as there’s always plenty of snow). A trip to the toy factory is not to be missed, and families can visit Santa Claus at his Finnish Lapland headquarters.
From December through March, Finnish Lapland also offers a host of winter season activities. Dog sled and reindeer sled rides are fun for all ages. Adults and older children may wish to try snowmobiling and skiing as well.
Bespoke Travel Experiences Continue to Gain Popularity
Well-heeled travelers often have the time and resources to arrange a bespoke travel experience. Regardless of the destination or itinerary, global travel advisor Gennady Podolsky recommends partnering with a seasoned travel professional. With insider knowledge and deep industry connections, these travel experts can create a once-in-a-lifetime trip guests will remember for years.