Sights without the Crowds – Bucket List Sites all to Yourself

A new travel trend – bucket list sights all to yourself!

Vaccinated travellers and those lucky enough to be able to travel at the drop of a hat will have the unique opportunity to be one of the first few tourists back in a country as soon as it opens. And with vaccinations being rolled out, this may happen soon.

Fewer flights and restrictions on numbers of tourists allowed in sites will allow us to experience them in a very different way – without the crowds – giving us the chance to really soak up the sights and drink in the views without being distracted.

And of course, we’re here to let you know as soon as countries open up so you can book those holidays asap!

This is where we’ll be heading to as soon as we can… 

Angkor Wat – Cambodia

Few can say they have stood in front of the majestic Angkor Wat at sunrise without selfie sticks blocking the view. The first few visitors to these ancient Khmer temples will almost be able to imagine how French explorer Henri Mahout felt in 1860 when he stumbled upon the soaring towers and dramatic carvings swallowed up in the heart of the Cambodian jungle.

Wander through the empty stone corridors and courtyards passing by saffron-clad monks. Stroll beneath the gargantuan smiling faces carved into the huge gothic towers in the Bayon Temple. Ta Phrom Temple – haunting at the best of times, takes on an ethereal atmosphere without the hordes of tourists. Devoured by giant jungle roots, the ‘Lara Croft’ temple gives the feeling of discovering something hidden and truly ancient. The Angkor complex covers over 400 square kilometres so book a three day pass, hire a bicycle or tuk tuk with a driver and just take your time.

Where to stay:

The centrally located Park Hyatt Siem Reap is a luxurious colonial residence not far from the restaurants and night markets. With architecture inspired by the Angkor temples, exquisite Cambodian décor and authentic culinary journeys, this opulent hotel will perfectly compliment your Angkor adventure.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay, in the Gulf of Tonkin, is an otherworldly landscape of steep limestone pillars and islands that rise dramatically from the emerald water. The 1,500-square-km area contains some 3,000 rocky and earthen islands along with floating fishing villages, uninhabited islands, secluded bays, and mysterious caves and grottos. All of which blend together to produce an exotic and picturesque seascape.

The islands have a history that dates back roughly 18,000 years and feature Many types of marine and land mammals, reptiles, fish, and birds can be found in the waters and tropical forests.

 Where to stay:

The only way to fully appreciate Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise – but to ensure you help preserve the beauty of the bay, book with Bhaya Cruises, the most environmentally-friendly cruise line in Halong.  Stepping into a post-pandemic world, Bhaya Cruises has introduced new ‘sustainable’ cruises using their completely private 1-5 cabin ships – Bhaya Legend and Bhaya Premium. Not only do you get to see the sights of Halong, but you will also spend a night in a homestay and get involved with the local community. Read more about their sustainable cruises here.

Pyramids of Giza – Egypt

One of Egypt’s biggest mysteries – the Pyramids of Giza continue to amaze and baffle. The ancient engineering feats at Giza were so impressive, that even today, scientists cannot be sure how the pyramids were erected. Built to endure an eternity, these monumental tombs are burial sites for Egypt’s pharaohs, who expected to become gods in the afterlife.

Due to open late 2021, the Grand Egyptian Museum located on the Giza Plateau will be one of the largest, most modern, and most renowned museums in the entire world. Be one of the first to step through its doors into ancient Egypt.

Where to stay

Less than one hour’s drive from the pyramids, in the middle of Old Cairo, is Le Riad Hotel de Charme.  This luxury boutique hotel has been inspired by the surrounding environment and architecture of Beit El Sehemy and its exceptional Ottoman houses. All 17 suites reflect Old town Cairo architecture with rich warm colours, Fatimid fabrics, and paintings from talented local artists dating back to the past era.

Grand Palace – Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s most famous attraction is undoubtably the dazzling Grand Palace – the official residence of the kings of Siam since 1782. Within its high walls lies a collection of ornate buildings – some inspired by traditional Thai architecture, others by the European renaissance era. It is also home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most important temple in the kingdom. Without the usual hordes of tourists, you can find peace within these jewel encrusted walls.

Rent an audio guide on arrival, and take a leisurely walk around. Don’t leave without saying hello to the giant demonic guards posted in front of the former royal residence.

Where to stay

Set in the heart of the Sukhumvit-Thonglor area, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok wows with a blend of warm Thai design and modern urban flair complemented by elegant suites, infinity pools, stunning views, and traditional hospitality. The stunning rooftop pool and cabana lounge offer 360 degree views of Bangkok.

Chiang Mai – Thailand

The former seat of the Lanna kingdom, Chiang Mai is steeped in culture. Founded in 1296, this city in the mountainous north of Thailand is like a living museum. The Old City still retains the ruins of walls and moats, and is home to hundreds of crumbling Buddhist temples, including 14th-century Wat Phra Singh and 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang, adorned with carved serpents.

Just outside the city, sitting majestically on the top of the mountain is the Doi Suthep Temple. A 306-step staircase flanked by naga (mythical sea serpents) takes you to a magnificent golden chedi and expansive views over the city and the mountain’s densely forested slopes.

Where to stay:

Villa Mahabhirom certainly lives up to its translated name of a ‘villa of great pleasure’! A collection of antique teakwood houses on stilts have been meticulously restored and adorned with objet d’arts and antiques from the private collections of the three owners. The result is eclectic but charming – like staying in a living history museum. The salt water pool is set within lush gardens full of palm trees, cacti and blooms. You’ll find this hidden luxury retreat in the leafy Wat Umong area, away from the tourists, yet close enough to walk to the hot spots of the city.