Looking for unique holiday destinations that feel a little different from the usual big-name hotspots? Whether you’re dreaming of Arctic skies, hidden coastal gems, or colourful towns you’ve never even heard of, this year is full of fresh travel inspiration.
In This Guide
As a tailor-made travel planner, I specialise in creating stress-free, personalised holidays for couples and families who want something special without the hassle of piecing it together alone. From under-the-radar city stays to once-in-a-lifetime adventures, here are my ten favourite unique holiday destinations and how I can help you get there.
João Pessoa, Brazil
Best for: Sunseekers, culture lovers, slow travellers.
One of Brazil’s best-kept secrets, João Pessoa offers golden sands, turquoise waves, and a relaxed, unhurried pace. Cabo Branco and Praia de Tambaú are perfect for lazy beach days, while the city’s colonial streets and artisan markets immerse you in its cultural roots. It’s also the first place in the Americas to see the sunrise - a magical way to start your day.
How I help: Boutique beachfront hotels, private guided tours, and a seamless itinerary that blends relaxation with local flavour.
Tromsø, Norway
Best for: Northern Lights chasers, winter adventurers, photographers.
The Arctic city of Tromsø is pure magic in winter, with snow-draped mountains, cosy cafes, and endless stargazing. “Noctourism” is big here - think aurora hunting, whale watching, and night-time snowshoeing under a blanket of stars.
How I help: I time your trip perfectly for aurora season and arrange unique stays that combine comfort with Arctic charm.
Sanya, China
Best for: Tropical wellness retreats, spa lovers, and adventurous foodies.
Dubbed “China’s Hawaii,” Sanya offers palm-fringed beaches, lush rainforest hills, and luxury resorts with world-class spas. You can spend your days at yoga retreats, sampling fresh seafood, or exploring hidden temples inland.
How I help: Seamless flights, curated resort stays, and optional cultural add-ons into mainland China.
Trieste, Italy
Best for: Architecture lovers, history buffs, slow travel fans.
Perched on the edge of Italy but shaped by Austrian and Slovenian influences, Trieste offers a deliciously different European city break. Think Viennese cafes, pastel-hued buildings, grand piazzas, and sweeping Adriatic views - without the crowds of Venice or Rome.
How I help: I love pairing Trieste with Ljubljana or coastal Croatia for a Two-Part Escape.
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Best for: Stargazers, hikers, and luxury adventure seekers.
The Atacama Desert is a surreal world of lunar valleys, salt flats, and shimmering lagoons. Its clear skies make it one of the best places on Earth for stargazing, while high-end lodges offer luxury in the middle of the wilderness.
How I help: Private guides, luxury lodges, and an itinerary designed to maximise both adventure and comfort.
Houston, USA
Best for: Culture hunters, foodies, and city explorers.
Forget the stereotypes. Houston is one of America’s most diverse and vibrant cities. You’ll find world-class museums, incredible food beyond Tex-Mex, sprawling parks, and street art trails. It is perfect as part of a wider Southern USA itinerary.
How I help: I create bespoke US road trip routes that make the most of your time, including hidden gems you will not find on booking sites.
Naha, Okinawa, Japan
Best for: Peace seekers, history lovers, and gentle-paced travellers.
Naha blends ancient castles and serene gardens with lively markets and sushi bars. It is an island escape that still gives you a taste of Japan’s cultural richness, but at a much slower pace.
How I help: Perfectly balanced twin-centre trips combining Okinawa with Tokyo or Kyoto.
Villajoyosa, Spain
Best for: Families, beach lovers, and those who like their holidays low-key.
With candy-coloured houses lining the seafront, a chocolate-making heritage, and calm, crowd-free beaches, Villajoyosa offers pure coastal charm without the bustle of Spain’s better-known resorts.
How I help: Hand-picked boutique hotels or private villas just steps from the beach.
Tignes, France
Best for: Year-round outdoor enthusiasts and active families.
Famous for skiing, but so much more. Tignes offers hiking, paddleboarding, mountain biking, and glacier walks in summer, plus excellent snow sports in winter.
How I help: I plan seasonal alpine escapes that suit families and couples, including those tied to school holidays.
Willemstad, Curaçao
Best for: Winter sun seekers, culture lovers, snorkellers.
This Caribbean island is bursting with Dutch colonial charm, pastel buildings, and turquoise waters. It is sunny, laid-back, and far less crowded than other Caribbean spots.
How I help: Boutique hotels that balance culture with calm, no giant resorts required.
FAQs About Unique Holiday Destinations
Q: What is the best unique holiday destination for winter?
A: Tromsø for the Northern Lights, Willemstad for Caribbean sunshine, or João Pessoa for a warm, cultural escape.
Q: Which unique destination is best for families?
A: Villajoyosa in Spain for safe beaches and relaxed charm, or Tignes in France for year-round activities.
Q: Can I combine two destinations into one trip?
A: Yes. I specialise in Two-Part Escapes, such as Trieste with Ljubljana, or Naha with Kyoto.
Q: How far in advance should I book a unique destination?
A: Ideally, 6 to 12 months ahead for the best choice of flights and accommodation.
Why Choose Blue Turtle Escapes Over Big Booking Sites?
Booking platforms like Expedia or Booking.com give you endless options but zero personalisation. You are left guessing about locations, transfers, or whether the photos match reality.
When you book with me at Blue Turtle Escapes, you get a completely different experience. I am an independent travel advisor working with The JLT Group, an award-winning travel company. That means every holiday I create is financially protected, backed by trusted supplier relationships, and designed entirely around you.
Here’s why that matters:
I Care About Your Holiday. You are never just a booking reference. I’ll get to know your preferences, remember what matters to you, and look out for future trips you’ll love.
100% Financial Protection and Ongoing Support. Every holiday is fully protected, and I am here before, during, and after your trip - whether it is for questions, changes, or emergencies.
Time Saved and Better Options. I compare hundreds of suppliers and use insider contacts to bring you the best options, often ones you would not find yourself.
Independent and Impartial Advice. I am not tied to any operator. My only priority is finding the right holiday for you, whether that is tailor-made, a cruise, or a tour.
Experience and Global Connections. My travel know-how and trusted partners mean I can often add special touches or exclusive extras.
Here When It Matters. From flight cancellations to world events like COVID-19, I am on hand to rebook, refund, and find solutions fast.
Genuinely Grateful. I never take your booking for granted and will always give you my best.
Ready to Plan Your Unique Escape?
Whether one of these unique holiday destinations has caught your eye or you would like me to suggest something tailored to your style, I will make it happen, stress-free. Complete the form below to get started or contact me via email or phone.
Email: rachael@blueturtleescapes.co.uk
Call: 01822 742105
Based in Tavistock, Devon, happy to meet locally.
Let’s create a holiday that is 100% you, without the overwhelm of planning it yourself.
Fill in this short form to book your call. I’ll talk through what matters most to you and uncover exactly what you want from your holiday - from the big picture to the little touches that make it truly special. Let's Plan
Hi, I’m Rachael, your holiday matchmaker and travel designer, based in Tavistock, Devon. I help families, couples, and solo travellers find or create the perfect trip - from wildlife adventures and expedition cruises to relaxing stays at beautiful resorts and fully tailor-made escapes. I’m proud to be part of The JLT Group, which means every holiday I book is fully financially protected and backed by an award-winning travel company. I take care of every detail so you can focus on making memories.
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