Exceptional Destinations

Japan

Nikola Uhrová

Private Travel Consultant Exclusive Tours

Where exactly did you travel, why did you choose this particular destination and what was your overall impression?

I have visited Japan three times in total, and it fascinates me just the same every time. I travelled the route Tokyo – Hakone – Kyoto – Nara – Osaka – Himeji – Hiroshima. Japan is a destination that one wants to return to over and over again.

 Why should a client go to this particular destination?

The combination of traditions, culture and the modern world is absolutely matchless. In addition to historical temples and rituals, there are the most modern technologies and perfectly organised infrastructure, while the entire country gives a very safe, clean and inspiring impression.

 When is the ideal time to visit and why?

The ideal time to visit is spring and autumn, when Japan is adorned  by blossoming Sakura and colourful leaves. But summer is also a great alternative, for example, the island of ­Okinawa, where there are beautiful beaches – ideal for families during our summer holidays. For the future, I am also attracted to the winter option, especially skiing in Niseko. Among the traditional experiences, I would definitely recommend dressing up in a kimono, where the very process of dressing is a strong cultural experience. Also worth visiting is the Sumo wrestler training or the opportunity to try swordsmanship and gain an insight into the history of Samurai culture. Staying in an onsen ryokan was also a very compelling experience for me, thanks to the combination of hot springs, peace and Japanese hospitality.

What should definitely not be missed there?

My personal tip is not to be afraid to combine big cities with quieter locations and to take the time to perceive the details – whether it is a tea ceremony, small local restaurants or the quiet corners of temples.

Botswana

Kristýna Kopečková

Product Manager & Senior Private 
Travel Designer Exclusive Tours

Where exactly did you travel, why did you choose this particular destination and what was your overall impression?

I travelled to Botswana for the Nature and a unique safari. It is a country where you can experience a safari without crowds of tourists. For someone like me, who loves to take photos, it is a wonderful opportunity for the best photography.

 Why should a client go to this destination?

In Botswana, many lodges are located in private concessions, which means that different rules apply here than in national parks. Thanks to this, the safari experience is more personal. Moreover, there is a truly diverse landscape here – from the Okavango Delta wetlands and open Chobe savannas to the breathtaking salt plains and Kalahari Desert.

 When is the ideal time to visit and why?

The best time is the dry season from June to September or October, when the animals retreat to the water. From June, the Okavango Delta begins to fill with water flowing down from Angola, creating amazing scenes. This is one of the main attractions of Botswana – the landscape changes every year and offers unsurpassed safari experiences.

 What should definitely not be missed there?

I enjoyed the mokoro cruise in the Okavango Delta the most – a quiet water safari where you get really close to Nature. The connection is indescribable.

Iceland

Dominik Kohel

CEO Exclusive Tours

 Where exactly did you travel, why did you choose this destination and what was your overall impression?

I went to Iceland because I love Nature and adventure. You will find yourself in a land of elements that presents a whirlwind of the unexpected. I haven't been this impressed in a long time.

 Why should a client specifically go to this destination?

You don't make the plans here, but uncompromising Nature does. Here, you don't chase after the main icons, but rather the unexpected moments between them. They come at times when nothing seems to be happening.

 When is the ideal time to visit and why?

The warmer months are suitable for tourism and for visiting more places. The colder months are characterised by much harsher weather, but also fewer tourists and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights. Since the island's capacity is limited, I recommend planning weeks or months in advance.

 What should definitely not be missed there?

Start in Reykjavík. The name means "Smoky Bay" and comes from the fact that the ubiquitous steam from hot springs floats above the Icelandic horizon. This smoke reputedly attracted the attention of the Vikings 1000 years ago. Your attention will surely be drawn to the Icelandic waterfalls, such as Skógafoss, the glacier caves and black beaches. One of the important points of the Golden Circle is Geysir. On the other hand, a less exposed location is the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. A visit to the Blue Lagoon is also breathtaking, as are the wellness facilities at the hotel – The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland.

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