Unique Escapes in 2021 for Travelers Who Have Been Everywhere

Unique Escapes in 2021 for Travelers Who Have Been Everywhere

Whether it’s reconnecting with family and friends on a bubble group trip or exploring the world solo in more meaningful and sustainable ways than ever before, here are some exciting adventures that Scott Dunn recommends for a renewed 2021 travel bucket list.

A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY THROUGH JAPAN
Explore Buddhist and Shinto shrines while admiring the vast dramatic landscapes of this tech empire’s countryside

Tokyo has long been a destination for travelers to tick off their list, but beyond Japan’s extremely tech-advanced cities is a wilderness full of small towns and villages shrouded by misty forests and tumbling waterfalls. From sacred temples to tea ceremonies and ancient rituals, Japan offers a uniquely spiritual journey for travelers and has recently become a favorite destination among Scott Dunn guests. For a meaningful personal journey throughout Japan, Scott Dunn recommends the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage to visit the area’s three major Buddhist / Shinto shrines - Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha. The pilgrimage consists of a network of trails through the Kii Mountain Range and is one of the two pilgrimages in the world registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

THE NEW AMERICAN SWEETHEARTS: MONTANA & WYOMING
Horseback riding, freshwater fishing and mountain biking throughout the Western U.S.

Hot on the list of domestic travel destinations in 2021 are Wyoming and Montana, both ideal for multi-generational travel for those looking to reconnect with friends and family. Scott Dunn recommends Brush Creek Ranch, a working ranch in Wyoming set within 15,000 acres of rolling prairie or The Ranch at Rock Creek in Montana, open to all ages and boasting over 6,000 acres of wilderness to explore. Both properties offer exclusive-use options with ample space to enjoy and explore. Guests of Bush Creek Ranch will enjoy horseback riding, and wrangling as well as fly and freshwater fishing, hiking and curated mountain adventures with expert guides. Over at The Ranch at Rock Creek guests can take up frontier skills, art lessons and photography workshops as well as scavenger hunts, hiking and mountain biking.

Scott Dunn offers a 9-night Montana and Wyoming Discovery from $9,200 per person including accommodation, private transfers, daily experiences, daily breakfast and a car rental. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

THE ULTIMATE SOCIAL DISTANCING TRIP IN COSTA RICA
Opt for a solo adventure to Costa Rica with The Scott Dunn team by your side each step of the journey

Solo travel has never been more relevant and convenient for the adventurous traveler. Costa Rica is the perfect destination for a first-time or experienced solo traveler thanks to the friendly locals, easy accessibility and expat community. With the help of Scott Dunn, solo travelers can be as adventurous as they want from hiking Tortuguero National Park on their own or scheduling a surfing lesson on Nicoya Peninsula with a local guide for an added sense of support. Some must-have items to pack recommended by our travel experts for a solo excursion include - download maps prior to arrival; portable charger; comfortable bathing suits; appropriate footwear (sneakers and sandals); and lots of layers for staying comfortable in varying climates!

Scott Dunn offers a 10-night Costa Rica Uncovered experience from $4,600 per person including internal flights, private transfers and selected experiences. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

EXPERIENCE OLD WORLD EUROPEAN CHARM IN SLOVENIA & CROATIA
A twin center trip to discover the storied cobblestone streets of Slovenia and Croatia

For those craving a different taste of Europe, travelers can experience old world charm starting their journey in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Great for those who are both active and interested in sightseeing, Slovenia is rich in history and architecture and gives access to the lake region, making hiking and outdoor pursuits a fun option. Travelers can opt to head down the eastern coast to Croatia for truffle hunting, then head over to the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik, walking around the ancient city walls and admiring the views of the city’s iconic terracotta rooftops.

THE PERTHSHIRE HILLS & LIFE ON THE SQUARE IN EDINBURGH
The Glorious Playground expands to Edinburgh with Gleneagles Townhouse making its grand debut in Fall 2021

From the beautiful landscapes of the Scottish Lowlands to the perfect glass of Scotch Whisky, it’s no mystery why travelers traditionally relish Scotland as the ideal destination for countryside experiences. Travelers looking to explore Scotland can now visit both the iconic Gleneagles at its vast Perthshire estate, as well as the new ‘Gleneagles Townhouse’ in Edinburgh, making its debut in Fall 2021. The iconic sporting and country estate is launching its first ever city outpost in St Andrews Square, formerly the Bank of Scotland headquarters for the past 200 years. Presenting the perfect urban gateway, the Townhouse will have 33 bedrooms, each uniquely designed to imbue a sense of understated luxury, an all-day restaurant perfect for breakfasts, long lazy lunches and spirited dinners, and two striking bars, and a rooftop terrace where guests will enjoy extraordinary views over the city.

Scott Dunn offers a 15-night Grand Tour of the British Isles from $11,200 per person including visits to London, Cotswolds, Kerry, Clare, Dublin, Gleneagles and Edinburgh with accommodations, private transfers, daily experiences, daily breakfast and a private guide. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

DISCOVERING THE GREAT WHITE NORTH IN CANADA
In an untouched remote area of Canada, journey on an Arctic safari experience to trek polar bears, black bears, moose and more

For travelers looking to book an unexpected safari experience in the Great White North, Scott Dunn recommends the skilled team at Churchill Wild who will guide guests on an Arctic safari experience where wildlife sightings include everything from polar bears, black bears, belugas, wolves, moose and more, in addition to a front-row view of the Northern Lights. Travelers can embark on the journey of a lifetime with a stay at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, a remote rustic lodge, with just eight guest rooms, located on the edge of Hudson Bay offering guests a combination of wildlife and wellness with hiking, meditation and fitness classes in a truly remote setting, where no other human presence can be found for 100 miles. Untouched by over-tourism, Nanuk is ideally situated in the wilderness, allowing guests the closest possible setting to the area’s spectacular polar bear population.

Scott Dunn offers a 5-night Ultimate Polar Bear experience from $7,900 per person including daily experiences and activities. For more information please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

MARATABA’S NEWEST CONSERVATION CAMPS
Immerse in conservation projects and intimate game viewing experiences

For a special, immersive community experience in South Africa, Scott Dunn recommends Marataba Conservation Camps a 52,000-acre, privately managed section of the Marakele National Park. Uniquely situated where lush bushveld gives way to the Kalahari sands in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Marataba is one of South Africa’s most innovative conservation models with a focus firmly on protecting the area’s diverse flora and fauna through modern and hands-on conservation practices. In partnerships with South African National Parks, the country’s highest conservation authority, Marataba secures the future of this unique eco-system, preserving it for generations to come. Marataba has a population of white and black rhino of global significance, and supports the repopulation and range expansion of rhino by preparing the animals for relocation to conservation areas across the continent. Guests can book a stay at Founders Camp or Explorers Camp, each with access to a private vehicle and guide to offer flexibility around conservation participation. Enjoy a selection of mix and match conservation and general activities for tailor-made stays: day and night game drives, boating, wild walking, family-friendly nature walks, tracking, camera trap set up, game census logging, tree planting and land rehabilitation, rare species monitoring and identification and more.

Scott Dunn offers a South African city and safari itinerary starting from $6,500 for 8 nights, splitting the time evenly between Cape Town and Marataba Founder’s Camp in Marakele National Park. Price includes all accommodation, transfers, internal flights, safari & conservation activities, and designated board basis. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

A TRANQUIL ESCAPE TO ISLA ESPIRITU SANTO
Enjoy safari-style camping under a bed of summer night stars in Mexico

Unplug from the modern world and escape to privacy within the idyllic Isla Espiritu Santo (Baja California, Mexico), where Camp Cecil’s tranquil shores and eight charming walk-in, safari-style camping tents await. The property offers guests the option to become closer to nature and sleep under the stars, without compromising on luxury. Visitors will find themselves immersed in Mexico’s gorgeous ecosystem, with daily encounters with wildlife such as whales, dolphins, sea lions, turtles and manta rays on exciting excursions out to the Sea of Cortez. Snorkelers will revel in the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside the majestic whale sharks in the turquoise waters of La Paz, considered an example for responsible whale shark tourism. Ideal for families or couples looking for an accessible remote escape, Camp Cecil has plenty to offer in adventure, relaxation and education.

Scott Dunn offers a 7 night Baja expedition starting from $5,265 per person including visits to the charming towns of Loreto, La Paz and 4 nights at Camp Cecil on the private Isla de Espiritu Santo. Price includes accommodation, private transfers, designated board basis, and daily experiences with a private naturalist guide throughout.  For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

ART & DESIGN THAT ELEVATES AFRICAN ARTISAN TALENT

XIGERA SAFARI LODGE
Botswana, Africa
Opening January 2021

Opening January 2021, Xigera Safari Lodge is a boutique safari lodge whose inspired hospitality and design reinvent what it means to experience the African bush. The lodge’s 12 individually designed air-conditioned suites, including one two-bedroom family suite,  extend over two islands and were built in complete synergy with their surroundings. Commissioning works of art from more than 80 artist and artisans from Botswana, South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Mali and Eswatini in collaboration with Southern Guild gallery, every object and surface that guests encounter will be a celebration of African craftsmanship, featuring bespoke items made exclusively for Xigera. Unlike other highly structured safaris, Xigera will offer guests total flexibility with morning, afternoon and night game drives available at guests’ leisure.

Scott Dunn customizes journeys throughout Botswana and offer a 9-night best of Botswana itinerary starting  from $18,100 per person to include visits to key areas like the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Linyanti and Xigera Safari Lodge in the Okavango Delta. Price includes all accommodation, transfers, internal flights, safari activities, and fully inclusive board basis. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

PLUNGE INTO THE REFRESHING WATERS OF THE SOUTH CHINA SEA

ZANNIER HOTELS BAI SAN HO
Phu Yen, Vietnam
Opening Early 2021

Located in Phu Yen on over 240 acres of garden, close to Quy Nhohn, Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô is a first-rate holiday resort that is opening in early 2021. Surrounded by spectacular hills and lush vegetation, this discrete peninsula lies far away from the mainstream tourist paths, in the province of Bình Định standing out with its soul and historical authenticity. The untouched and well protected coastline unmasks an impressive coral bay and offers guests an array of activities including snorkeling, fishing, surfing, water skiing and even just a simple swim in the deliciously refreshing blue waters. Guests can select accommodations from 71 suites and villas, all built according to three different architectural styles, each melting into the lush natural background.

Scott Dunn offers a 14 night classic Vietnam itinerary starting from $6,000 per person including visits to Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Phu Yen and Saigon. Price includes all accommodation, private transfers, daily experiences, daily breakfast, private guide and internal flights. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

FOREST BATHING THROUGH ANCIENT WOODLANDS

CASTELLO DI RESCHIO
Umbria, Italy
Opening April 2021

Castello di Reschio is a one-thousand-year-old castle meticulously restored and stylishly reimagined into a stylish hotel. Dating back to 1050, this historical marvel is filled with stories of mystery and intrigue. Following years of careful transformation, it is now an enthralling hotel boasting rooms and suites with contemporary design that are imbued with personality and panache as a nod to the intriguing characters who once called the property home. Guests can enjoy from luxuriating in the property’s ethereal subterranean pool, riding horses across rolling hills, lake swims, hiking through ancient forests and cooking lessons throughout their stay.

Scott Dunn offers a 7 night journey through Italy starting from $5,500 per person including visits to Florence and Castello di Reschio. Price includes accommodation, daily breakfast, transfers and a private guide in Florence. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

RUSTIC GLAMOUR & A CULINARY EXPERIENCE STEEPED IN HISTORY

THE FARMYARD AT THE NEWT
Somerset, England
Opening Spring 2021

The Farmyard will complement existing accommodation at The Newt in Somerset Hidden in a secluded corner of the estate and accessed through traditional cyder orchards, The Farmyard offers 17 bedrooms and suites. These are housed within historic buildings such as a Farm House, Cyder Mill, Apple Loft and Cheese Barns. Owner Karen Roos has added touches of modern luxury to rustic buildings made of Hadspen limestone the color of burnt orange, oak beams silver-gray with age, and blue lias flagstones. The Farmyard includes an indoor swimming pool, bar and games room and an authentic farm-to-table culinary experience. Along with full access to the wider estate – including the main restaurant, spa, gardens, Cyder Cellar and The Story of Gardening experience center.

Scott Dunn offers a 9 night journey through England starting from $8,000 per person including visits to key highlights like Bath, London, and The Newt in Somerset. Price includes accommodation, private transfers, daily breakfast, and private guided tours throughout. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

FOR THE ULTIMATE PRIVATE ISLAND EXPERIENCE

ELANG AT BAWAH RESERVE
Anambas Islands, Indonesia
Opening Early 2021

Situated in the remote Anambas Islands, Indonesia, 160 nautical miles from the closest city Singapore, Bawah Reserve is made up of six tropical islands, 13 white sand beaches and two crystal clear lagoons and is only accessible by private seaplane. In 2021, Bawah is launching six new cliffside lodges on a previously untouched island named Elang. Further enhancing the reserve’s private island experience, guests over 18 can opt to book the entire island – the perfect escape for those looking to reconnect with family or close friends. They will have exclusive access to the island's own clubhouse as well as a beachside restaurant and bar, spa, private beach and saltwater infinity pool, created from a natural hollow and refreshed with every tidal change. Guests of Elang can take part in the plethora of activities included in the all-inclusive rate, in addition to full board dining experiences and daily spa treatments.

Scott Dunn offers a 16-night Indonesia Ultimate Luxury experience from $9,400 a night per person, including flights, transfers and selected experiences. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

A PATAGONIAN ADVENTURE IN TRADITIONAL LUXURY ESTANCIAS

EXPLORA EL CHALTÉN
Patagonia, Argentina
Opening Early 2021

With views to the Electric Valley and the Marconi Glacier, Explora El Chaltén will open its doors in 2021. With a unique location, Explora El Chaltén is the perfect headquarter from where to visit the amazing geography of the Argentinean Patagonia. The property offers explorations that go off the beaten track and delve deep into the natural surroundings of this region. Visiting guests can travel through the vastness of Patagonia – from its valley and rivers to its mountains and glaciers – along with bilingual guides and market by the seal of the world’s leading expedition company. With a typical design of the ancient Argentinean Patagonia estancias, El Chaltén’s comfortable rooms are thought to ensure travelers’ deep rest and the perfect place to recharge batteries after a day of exploration.

Scott Dunn offers a 10-night Epic Highlights of Patagonia experience from $8,100 per person including internal flights, accommodations, private transfers, shared transfers and selected experiences. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.

BIBLICAL HERITAGE IN THE ANCIENT NEGEV DESERT

SIX SENSES SHAHARUT
Negev Desert, Israel
Opening March 2021

Capturing the hearts of adventure-seeking travelers and historical buffs everywhere, the Negev Desert is the epitome of desert landscapes. It is on this boundless horizon that the new Six Senses Shaharut resort in Israel nestles into a dramatic cliff. Guests of the hotel will enjoy accommodations from suites and villas that offer uninterrupted desert panoramas with views of epic sunsets that meld into the orange dunes to become an inky sky scattered with stardust. Complete with private swimming pools, each accommodation is perfect for the ultimate hideaway and respite after a day’s worth of outdoor activities. From camel trekking to mountain rides and hiking trails, there are enough extreme sports and interactive destination experiences to fill an itinerary from dusk until dawn. Wind down with breath-taking views of the starlit desert skies and an evening of storytelling and stargazing while snacking on s’mores.

Scott Dunn customizes journeys throughout the Middle East and offer a 12-night Israel and Jordan vacation from $11,500 per person to include visits to key historical sites including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the Dead Sea,  Petra and Six Senses Shaharut. Price includes all accommodation, private transfers and selected guided experiences. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/us.