NI travel experts Oasis Travel share their must-see destinations
Sri Lanka
January:
Sri Lanka
It’s simply breathtaking. Imagine rolling hills covered in lush tea plantations, stunning beaches, and ancient temples.
My personal favourite from my last trip was spending time on the south coast in Mirissa, where each evening we would enjoy a walk along the beach while the sky changed colour at sunset.
Sri Lanka is also perfect for lovers of wildlife. In one day, I got to see elephants on a safari, leopards in their natural habitat, and then went whale watching — how amazing is that? And let’s talk about the food! Sri Lankan cuisine is ideal for foodies. The spicy curries and fresh fruits were to die for. I couldn’t get enough of the street food scene and kottu became my go-to dish.
What really surprised me was how affordable everything was. I found great places to stay and easy transportation that made exploring iconic sites like Sigiriya Rock totally doable without breaking the bank. Whether I was trekking through the Cultural Triangle or lounging on beautiful beaches, every day was an unforgettable journey filled with rich culture and stunning scenery. Scott McCabe, managing director
South Africa
February:
South Africa
My 10-day trip to South Africa was a whirlwind of adventure! I started in Cape Town, where I loved exploring the lively V&A Waterfront and taking in the stunning views from Table Mountain. The highlight for me was whale watching in Hermanus, where I saw Southern Right Antarctic whales breaching the water. It was such a beautiful experience that left me in awe of nature.
I also visited the picturesque Winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, enjoying delicious wine tastings surrounded by rolling vineyards.
One of the most unforgettable parts of my journey was staying at Phinda Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. This coastal reserve offers incredible wildlife experiences. Every moment in South Africa reminded me of the beauty of nature and how lucky I am to witness it all. Julie-Anne Vaughan, portfolio manager
Antartica
March:
Antarctica
Last year I finally had the opportunity to experience the white continent myself, and it certainly exceeded every expectation. From the moment our ship navigated through the iconic Drake Passage, I knew this was a special trip.
The landscape is otherworldly — pristine white glaciers, massive icebergs, and wildlife that seems completely unbothered by human presence. Penguins waddled fearlessly near our group, seals lounged on ice floes, and the occasional whale breach made my heart skip a beat.
What struck me most was the absolute silence. No city noise, no traffic — just the pure, crisp Antarctic environment. The safety protocols are incredibly robust, with expert guides ensuring every traveller’s comfort and the continent’s preservation.
As a travel executive who’s planned many of these trips, experiencing it first hand was phenomenal. Antarctica isn’t just a destination; it’s a transformative journey that reconnects you with the raw beauty of our planet. Mark Davidson, portfolio executive
Canada
April:
Canada
Vancouver stole my heart from the moment I arrived. Walking through the cobblestone streets of Gastown and soaking up the city’s skyline from Stanley Park was magical. And the food — wow! From the freshest sushi to the superb poutine, every bite was a delight. Vancouver is such a vibrant, exciting city, and I loved every second of exploring it.
Next was Whistler, and April was the perfect time to visit. As the snow started to melt, the town transformed into a springtime paradise. I hiked through blooming alpine meadows, zip-lined through the trees, and soaked up the breathtaking mountain views. The crisp spring air made it all even more special.
What made the trip truly unforgettable were the locals. Their warmth, friendliness, and insider tips made every moment even better. With my camera full of stunning photos and my heart full of gratitude, I left knowing this won’t be my last trip to Canada. Naomi Wilson, travel executive, Oasis Travel Lisburn Road
Vouliagmeni
May:
Vouliagmeni, Greece
This charming seaside suburb, just a short drive from Athens, is truly exceptional. The highlight was undoubtedly Lake Vouliagmeni, with its stunning turquoise waters, warm enough for year-round swimming. The beaches are equally spectacular. I spent leisurely afternoons at Astir Beach, enjoying the sun and gentle waves, surrounded by inviting beach clubs and delicious dining options.
Exploring the local area was a delight, with quaint streets lined with cafes and shops. The blend of luxury and laid-back vibes made it feel both special and accessible. Vouliagmeni is a hidden gem on the Athenian Riviera, offering a unique experience that I can’t wait to share with my clients — everyone deserves to discover this slice of paradise. Sandra Corkin, executive director
Cancun
June:
Cancun
I had the most fantastic time. The beaches, the vibrant culture, and the most beautiful weather definitely made it feel like the perfect holiday! We hired a boat and went snorkelling — conquering my fear of the sea over the coral reefs in Cancun was such a magical experience. The vibrant underwater world with all the colourful fish and corals was magnificent.
Coco Bongos is truly a one-of-a-kind experience! The energy, the performances, the music — it’s like a non-stop celebration.
Mexico is such a beautiful country with so much to offer. From the picturesque beaches of Cancun to the rich culture, history, and delicious food, it truly has something for everyone. Julie Jordan, travel executive
Australia
July:
Australia
My adventure began in Sydney, and what a city it is! Strolling along the iconic Sydney Harbour, with the Opera House on one side and the Harbour Bridge on the other, was unforgettable. Bondi Beach exceeded my expectations, and the coastal walk to Coogee offered incredible ocean views. The food scene was fantastic — fresh seafood, delightful brunch spots, and a perfect flat white to finish.
Next, I snorkelled in the Great Barrier Reef’s crystal-clear waters, surrounded by vibrant coral and tropical fish. It was truly a magical experience.
In Melbourne, I found a perfect blend of culture and creativity. Exploring hidden laneways filled with street art and enjoying some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted was a dream come true. A drive along the Great Ocean Road showcased the stunning Twelve Apostles and dramatic coastal scenery. Dorothea Pop, travel executive
Orlando
August:
Orlando, Florida
Home to iconic theme parks such as Walt Disney World, Universal and Seaworld, Orlando has to be my top travel destination as a family of thrill seekers. Beyond the parks Orlando is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful award-winning beaches. Just a short drive will have you exploring beaches along both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Clearwater is a favourite of mine and makes for a perfect rest day away from the theme parks.
If shopping is your thing, Orlando has options to suit all budgets and for luxury shoppers, The Mall at Millenia is a must! For those seeking bargains, the Orlando outlets offer significant discounts on designer brands.
Every holiday to Orlando is different. From single centres, multi centres and even a cruise and stay, you can visit time and time again and have a not experience the same thing twice. With 300 days of sunshine per year and a direct service from Dublin, what are you waiting for? Nicole McKittrick, travel executive
Perfect Day at CocoCay
September:
Perfect Day at Cococay
Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, is honestly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of excitement and relaxation wash over me. This place has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to kick back or dive into adventure.
I started my day with a delicious Coco Loco at the swim-up bar, enjoying the tropical vibes while soaking up the sun. One of my favourite moments was lounging in my own overwater cabana — it felt like a slice of paradise right out of the Maldives!
For a thrill, I couldn’t resist tackling Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America. What a rush! Afterwards, I found my happy place on Chill Island, where the soft sand and gentle waves were just perfect. Alison Hamilton, sales, marketing and cruise development manager
Crete
October:
Crete
Our trip to Crete was unforgettable, with visits to five exceptional Grecotel properties and the enchanting Agreco Farm. Each hotel offered a unique experience: the luxurious Amirandes welcomed us with palm trees, fairy lights, and a calming atmosphere. Highlights included our Royal Villa with a private pool and a stunning champagne breakfast by the ocean.
Marine Palace and Aqua Park was family-friendly fun, featuring a fantastic water park, Grecoland for kids, and seven pools. The Creta Palace impressed with its protected beach, luxury accommodation, and world-class Elixir Beauty Spa.
The intimate Caramel Boutique Resort was serene, with personal service and vibrant bougainvillea-lined paths. LuxMe White Palace stood out with its luxurious vibe, ocean views, and delectable dining. Lisa Sexton, travel executive, Oasis Travel Web Team
Malaga
November:
Malaga
One of my favourite cities in Europe is Malaga. A short flight takes you to this bustling city, great for a long weekend with the girls. The old town is beautiful, and it is full of great tapas bars, cocktails bars and great shopping! The port is full of restaurants and with the city fast becoming a favourite cruise destination, it is also good to spend a few days pre or post cruise. Malaga also has the added advantage of a beach which has good beach bars serving freshly grilled sardines — a lovely place to spend an afternoon. It is over the Christmas period that this city truly comes to life. The lights are spectacular, and the atmosphere is second to none. With light shows held every night in the season, the streets are full of music, dancing, singing and families enjoying this magical festive time. Jocelyn Hall, ambassador, Oasis Travel Hillsborough
Seychelles
December:
Seychelles
From the moment our ship glided into the turquoise waters of the Seychelles, I knew this was going to be a journey unlike any other. Even though I have travelled extensively over the past 40 years, the beauty of the Seychelles is something unforgettable.
It’s paradise — the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious relaxation. An archipelago of over 100 islands, make Mahé, the largest island, your first stop. We took a cruise and got to see giant tortoises roam freely, and snorkelled above spectacular coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life.
A truly memorable trip that’s perfect in December — the start of the calm, wetter season which brings refreshing rain and glorious sunshine. Sandra Corkin, executive director
For more on Oasis Travel, see www.oasis-travel.co.uk