Find the Perfect Holiday with Friends for 2019

It’s a new year, which means, above all things, it’s time to get that diary of yours filled with exciting things to see and do.  For me that means tickets to the theatre, comedy gigs and holidays.  You know me, I love a good trip whether it be long or short haul, for a weekend, a month or anything in between and with my boyfriend, travelling solo or a holiday with friends.

Im sure so many of you out there will be wanting to organise a fabulous weekend or week away with your best friends this year. But what to do? Should you book an all-inclusive pool trip, a fancy Sex and the City style city break, a staycation or even villa holiday from the likes of Villa Plus – where you’ll get the poolside dream with added privacy.

The choice is all yours of course, and only you and your friends will know what’s best for you. With so many places suggesting where the best spots are, I’ve made my own list of places to go with friends this year.

TURKEY

Whether you’re poolside bathers or explorers, then Turkey is the place to go.  I’ve been 5 times to Gumbet and Icmeler and both times I did lots of trips as well as plenty of relaxing!  For those who love their history, it is filled with ancient sites like Ephesus and Cappadocia to name but a few, so you’ll be surrounded by more history than you’ll know what to do with.  For those who prefer relaxing around a pool, enjoying the night life or walking along the beach then Icmeler is a great shout… I’ve been so many times and I love it for an affordable break away in the hot sunshine.

MAJORCA

If you’re on a budget, you’ll find Majorca to be the ideal holiday destination in 2019.  A well-loved holiday destination, this part of Spain is filled with wondrous beaches, hot weather, tasty food and crystal-clear waters waiting for you to swim in. You’ll also be able to explore or relax, making this a holiday designed for all.  Plus, it is only a short flight from the UK so if any of your party doesn’t like to be sat on a plane for too long, then this is the place for them!

CRETE

If relaxing is more of your thing, Crete is most definitely designed for your needs.  Sporting some of the most fabulous beaches in the whole of Greece, you’ll be able to lay down and unwind as you soak up the sun without a care in the world.  You’ll also find wonderful countryside to explore, interesting culture and delicious food from the moment you arrive.  In 2017, my friend Sarah and I went to Crete on a last minute holiday for some much needed relaxation.  We stayed in Stalis which gave us just the right amount of evening entertainment and daytime relaxation that we needed.  When I was 16 I went to Malia in Crete with the girls which was much more lively so if you’re booking a trip with young adults who love to full on party, then Malia may be the better place within Crete for you.

The great thing about the Greek islands in general is that you’re not restricted to staying in one location for the duration of your trip.  Find a base and you’re able to travel across the island on plenty of day trips or on your own if you rent a car!

BALI

One of my favourite places in the world and somewhere I feel a deep spiritual connection to.  If your group of friends are true explorers or are looking to find their inner calm then Bali is the place for you.  Visit temples upon temples, try the tastiest Indonesian cuisine and the most colourful smoothie bowls, surf and try yoga, look deeper into yourself with a traditional healer, explore neighbouring islands and learn all about the culture of the incredible Balinese people.

I first visited the country of Bali in May 2017 and it really did change my life forever.  I’ve written a post all about 5 things I learned in Bali that I’d recommend checking out as it was a trip that changed the course of my life and one for which I’m very thankful.  I went back to Bali in May 2018 to travel solo and had just as strong a connection then as well.  It’s one of those amazing places where you’ll totally understand what I mean if you go!

PORTUGAL

Finally, I’m going to finish with the place that is on my wanderlust wishlist; Portugal.  I’ve ALWAYS wanted to visit as the scenery looks so beautiful and I think it’ll be a great place to relax and chill out.  If you love a stroll around a pretty village or if you prefer more of an active holiday, you’ve got the best of both worlds with Portugal.  It has the most amazing scene-stealing scenery and stunning beaches and you can take your pick from exploring the rocky coast or hop on a bike and cruise through the pretty countryside and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Adventure can be as high on your agenda as you want it to be as can the relaxation!

No matter what you and your friends are looking to do this year, the world is filled with wondrous places to explore.  I’ve found so much value in travel; the quote ‘travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer’ is so true and I’ve found so much happiness, joy and wisdom have come from investing in seeing the world.  So don’t just sit there, get planning and book that 2019 holiday you’ve all been craving!

Where in the world would you recommend for a girls trip?