Seven Long-Haul Trips to Set Your Sights On in 2022

Looking for a long-haul getaway? We’ve rounded up our favourite off-grid adventures to visit in 2022. From a secluded safari camp in Botswana to a remarkable river cruise in Cambodia, these are the ultimate destinations for thoughtful travellers this year.

Nothing quite makes you spring out of bed like an airport wake-up call. For once, your alarm feels gratifying and the frosty air is refreshing. It's no secret that we're all ears for a spontaneous city break, which, more often than not, looks like hurriedly stashing essentials into a backpack and making a last-minute dash to the departure gate.

But, with months more of restrictions and cancellations under our belts, the resurfacing options for off-grid escapes have never been more attractive - or exciting. With that in mind, we've been on the hunt for destinations that will allow for slower and more thoughtful travel in 2022. Follow us as we spotlight everything from botanic gardens to rooftop cocktails.

Bon voyage: seven long-haul trips for 2022

Phnom Penh

Cambodia

Cambodia is often overlooked in favour of Southeast Asia's crowd-pulling hotspots - we're looking at you, Bohol's Chocolate Hills, and you, Singapore Botanic Gardens. Yet, sandwiched between Vietnam, Thailand and Laos sits a country that oozes visual splendour: Cambodia. We're making the country's laidback capital Phnom Penh our base: think a serene setting framed by traditional temples, powder-sand beaches and soft streams flowing from the Mekong River. There's a vibrant and bustling streetscape to discover, too. Start by heading to the Russian Market, where you'll find a range of colourful handicrafts and antiques - fashionistas shouldn't expect to leave without brimming bags of patterned silks. Next, and for a true taste of Cambodia, target the Central Market - the noodle soup is out of this world. If you prefer more tranquil travel, take the four-hour Mandarin Cruise to Vietnam.

Bishkek

Kyrgyzstan

Central Asia often conjures images of unforested grassland and a hefty serving of traditional temples, but the lesser-trodden landscape of Kyrgyzstan completely contradicts this narrative. The country feels worlds apart from its neighbours, being generously endowed with sprawling and gloriously green jagged peaks. Kyrgyzstan is ideal for those looking to switch off completely from the everyday and recharge their batteries alongside nature's best bits - digital detox included. For a taste of city life, head to the beautiful, barren capital Bishkek and explore the vast State Museum of Fine Arts and the imposing Opera and Ballet Theatre. Don't miss the wild and breathtakingly beautiful Ala Archa Nature Park, a 35km-drive south of the city.

Buenos Aires

Argentina

Nicknamed "the Paris of South America", Buenos Aires is a city whose buzzy energy goes far beyond that of its European counterpart. Bustling neighbourhoods burst with artistic flair and quintessentially Argentinian cafés spill onto pavements, while every street tells a story of this cosmopolitan capital's complex history. To explore Argentina in autumn (and swerve it's sweltering temperatures), you'll want to visit between April and June. We'll be spending our stay at Home Hotel, tempted by its 20 Scandi-styled and French-inspired rooms - all eclectic boutique meets cosy bolthole. Dreamy design-led crash pads aside, art lovers should carve out some time to visit Galería Patio del Liceo, a go-slow gallery that hosts local artists and a handful of pop-up stores.

Tel Aviv

Israel

Everyone stay calm: Israel has officially reopened its borders. We know it's bad manners to have favourites, but we can hardly hide our obsession with Israel's coolest coastal city. Tel Aviv is a destination that attracts crowds of party people from all over the world thanks to its non-stop nightlife scene. So, when golden hour comes around, make a beeline for a rooftop sundowner at Speakeasy, or, for something a little more relaxed, check out The Beer Shop - craft-beer bliss incoming. Sun-drenched days are best spent exploring the likes of Jaffa's flea market, Gordon Beach or the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Insider tip: Hotel Saul makes for both an ideal location and snug stay.

Belitung

Indonesia

Done Bali? Book Belitung. Situated off the east coast of Sumatra, this verdant island feels like a scene straight out of a fairy tale: picture a serene spot wrapped by palm-fringed azure waters, where, with breathtaking beaches at virtually every turn, you'd be hard pressed to find a bad angle. Lather on the factor 50 and put on your shiniest pair of sunnies, then savour days spent lazing on the sand, ploughing through your reading list and cooling off with a paddle (or snorkel) in the water. We're ranking Tanjung Kelayang Beach as the best on the island. To wake up just a stone's throw away from its unspoilt shores, you'll want to bed down at Swiss-Belhotel. Rest assured, if you're someone who struggles to slow down, there are plenty of kayaks on hand for a gentle midday sail to a nearby island.

Okavango Delta

Botswana

The vast, inland Okavango Delta is a truly magical place, with its glittering river that cuts through Botswana's grassy plains, providing a lush habitat for a diverse array of migratory wildlife. It's hardly surprising that it is today one of the world's most sought-after safari destinations. To bed down in a tent that could easily pass as a five-star suite, book a stay at Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp. Those who'd prefer to wake to more distant trumps and roars should check out Jao. Lodges nest at treetop height, making for the best position to soak up sunrises and sunsets. Don't miss taking a Botswana-style safari, during which you'll glide past wildlife on horseback or atop an elephant, squeezing and dipping through spaces a four-wheeler never could.

Jalisco

Mexico

As a child, a certain thrill comes with snagging grapes straight from their vine and scoffing as many as you can before being seen. If, like us, you never quite outgrew your love of harvest time, a visit to the birthplace of tequila will appeal. Situated on the centre of Mexico's west coast, Jalisco is a region blessed with immense beauty. Those keen to explore the Tequila Route should base themselves in Guadalajara, home of 700 named tequila brands. Whip on the walking boots and get trekking between the endless rows of agave plants, every twist and turn made worth it by the reward of a shot or two. And, while natural beauty abounds in the region's sweeping beaches and emerald-green jungle trails, there's also plenty to be found in the local boutiques, which are filled with colourful ceramics and hand-crafted jewellery.

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