Bucket List Destinations for Your Clients’ Vacations

There’s a lot of momentum moving into 2023 when it comes to traveling. A lot of people would like to fully put the pandemic in the review mirror, but the reality is a few destinations are still working on reopening and getting back to normal and some people are only now beginning to feel comfortable with getting on a plane or venturing further than they have the past few years.

All these factors combined are building up a strong urge in travelers to start checking off their bucket list trips, and you can help them to do so. Whether they have a specific place in mind or are in search of finding a far-off destination to visit, you can play a huge role in planning their vacation of a lifetime. If you’re in need of some inspiration, here are a few destinations you might want to consider suggesting to your clients moving into the new year.

Japan

Only as of October 11, 2022, did Japan reopen to visa free tourism, and your travel partners are just as excited as your clients are.  Banyan Tree Group is celebrating by welcoming guests to visit two newly opened hotels in Kyoto – Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto and Dhawa Yura Kyoto. Visitors can book these properties using “The First Trip” package which includes special savings and added perks.

Collette also showed excitement around the reopening by announcing two itineraries for travelers to book: Japan: Past and Present and Cultural Treasures of Japan. “We’re so excited travelers can once again explore Japan. Prior to the pandemic, Japan was one of our most popular destinations. Nearly every departure we offered was sold out,” said Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, president of Collette, at the time of the announcement. “Our product development team just returned from a three-week review of our two itineraries. Our partners – everyone from hotels to restaurants to local guides – and of course our tour managers cannot wait to welcome travelers back to Japan on two culturally-rich tours.”

Sensoji Temple in Asakusa Tokyo Japan. (photo courtesy of Collette)

Chile

From exploring lakes and volcanoes to sipping wine while strolling beautiful vineyards, Chile invites all types of travelers in. Adventure and relaxation live parallel lives in this destination, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Chile Travel provides suggested itineraries on its website to help travel advisors inspire their
clients.

Chile was recently recognized as the World Champion of Green Tourism for a third time at the World Travel Awards. “As a government we are very happy for this recognition. This reinforces our commitment to continue developing a green and sustainable tourism industry, promoting rural tourism and experiences that support local communities, respect the diversity of flora and fauna and work to preserve our country’s natural heritage,” said Verónica Kunze, Undersecretary of Tourism.

Frutillar (photo by Sernatur courtesy of Chile Travel)

Australia

In October, Tourism Australia began a campaign to remind travelers that there is no place quite like Australia. “This global tourism campaign is a critical step to rebuilding our visitor economy and supporting our tourism industry, which has been through the most challenging period in recent years,” said Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell. “Come and Say G’day is an iconic Australian welcome, and the use of some of the most recognizable and stunning scenery will remind the world why Australia is the best place to take a holiday.”

If this destination isn’t somewhere you’ve been yet, it’s the perfect time to learn more about it so you can better sell it to your clients. Travel advisors can participate in the Aussie Specialist Program and become a certified Aussie Specialist in under 90 minutes. Those who register and complete the “Introduction to Australia” curriculum by January 31, 2023, are eligible for a fam trip to the destination in spring of 2023.

Tahiti

While the overwater bungalows are gaining traction in the Caribbean, making this unique vacation concept available closer to home, many travelers still have their sites set on visiting the South Pacific. Tahiti is a destination that makes the bucket list time and time again, and having your clients stay in an overwater bungalow here is a must.

Booking a trip to Tahiti doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Travel advisors can easily piece together an itinerary through Blue Sky Tours. White sand beaches, romantic accommodations and unique excursions await your clients.

After a few years of not being able to travel wherever they want, many of your clients are likely more than ready to check off a destination on their bucket list – and you can help make those dreams become a reality.

About the Author

Codie Liermann is the managing editor of The Compass. She began her career in the industry as a travel advisor prior to working as an editor. With a passion for creating valuable content for travel advisors, she aims to develop meaningful relationships with all types of travel companies in order to share their unique messages with the travel agency community.