The Return of Travel
As vaccinations continue finding their way into arms around the world, travel is showing green shoots for the second half of 2021. With perennial favourite destinations leading the way, we take a look at the top five cities where travellers are heading this year, and some of the most popular experiences you can enjoy when there.
Whether it’s first-time visitors ticking off bucket list destinations or multi-generational families revisiting classic cities such as Paris and London, private tours offer a unique experience in the comfort of your chosen tour group. Our top five is based on trips booked for 2021.
Boston: top dog
The compact city of Boston is ideal for exploring on foot, making it perfect for families and those seeking a city break without the overwhelming city attitude of some of its compatriot destinations. Discover Boston’s history through its array of architectural styles and stories of the Freedom Trail and Civil War on a half-day walking tour or a family-specific itinerary. Visit Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, or take a drive to the historic town of Concord, the site of the first battle of the American Revolutionary War. Stroll the cobblestoned paths of Cambridge as you get an insight into Harvard and MIT, and enjoy a beer at your local guide’s favourite bar. We can’t guarantee everybody will know your name, but Boston will certainly charm you.
Paris: eternal favourite
About the only good thing about the recent Netflix programme ‘Emily in Paris’ was seeing the stunning locations of the titular city. Yet as much as you think you know about Paris from movies and tv, the city always has more to offer. Art fans can marvel at the Mona Lisa on a tour of the Louvre or be entranced by masters of Impressionism at the Musée d’Orsay, or step out of the galleries and explore Montmartre, home of Renoir, Picasso and Van Gogh, by foot. Revisit the French Revolution with a tour of Le Marais or watch the City of Light come to life at night with an evening stroll and cruise along the Seine. Paris remains a city sought out by lovers, families and friends.
Washington, DC: political power
Claiming third place in our most popular destinations for 2021, Washington DC has soared in popularity since 2020, when the world’s eyes were glued to the US election campaign and transition in governments. Uncover some of the secrets of presidents and politicos as you explore Pennsylvania Avenue, or pay homage to past presidents and heroes of war and space at the Arlington National Cemetery. Sip a cocktail at the Mayflower Hotel as you hear how this iconic DC landmark hosted presidential inaugural balls, international spies and was central to the reign of J. Edgar Hoover. Step away from the politics to be bedazzled by the Hope Diamond at the Museum of Natural History and discover key moments at the National Museum of American History with a tour of two Smithsonian Museums. DC is the place to be in 2021.
Dublin: cheers to Ireland
The pandemic has reminded us that a good craic is one of life’s moments to cherish and where better to rediscover your party spirit than amongst the cultural bustle of Ireland’s largest city! A UNESCO City of Literature, follow in the footsteps of literary giants like Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker and James Joyce. Enjoy an overview of this vibrant city with a Historic Highlights tour, or venture further out into the suburbs with a driving tour. Whet your appetite for the city even more with whiskey tasting and pub tour - with drinks included. Sláinte!
London: the old and the new
Similar to Paris, London is one of those cities that even first-time visitors feel familiar with. Represented in countless works of art, literature and movies, fans can explore the city through themed tours based on Downton Abbey, Bridgerton’s Regency London, Shakespeare and Harry Potter. Blending centuries of history with a modern outlook, popular London excursions also include a look at the Caribbean heritage of Brixton, the journey of Canary Wharf from bustling port to the global financial centre, and the music and artistic culture of Camden. Whether exploring the streets of Soho on foot or discovering the city from the back seat of a traditional London cab, the city is constantly evolving.
Travel Curious is continually expanding the tour portfolio, including developing and curating bespoke experiences to immerse travellers in history, culture, food, arts and community. Whether your venue has a unique story to share, or your neighbourhood has a fascinating history of community spirit, we can work with you to create tours that are entirely your own.
To learn more about creating a bespoke experience, contact our Partners team
