Give the gift of travel this Friendship Day

Make memories that will last a lifetime at these exotic destinations that promise adventure, relaxation and a break from routine. 

Keen to let off steam and feel like a kid again? Call your friends and hop on a plane to the Riviera Maya where the all-inclusive Occidental at Xcaret Destination hotel awaits. Located next to Mexico’s most famous eco-archaeological park, Xcaret Park, guests can upgrade to an unlimited experience allowing them direct and unlimited access to the park as well as many luxurious extras such as a bottle of tequila in their room. While enjoying your Friendship Day travel in Mexico, explore the cultural attractions and shows, try your hand at water sports or get up close with the exotic flora and fauna as you enjoy every corner of the park. The hotel’s luxurious all-inclusive service will ensure that all cravings are met and that you can fully rest and relax during your stay. 

Searching for an adventure of a lifetime? The Thai island of Phuket offers an intoxicating blend of adventure and luxury. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture as you explore the idyllic beaches such as the sundrenched sands of Patong Beach and Kata Beach. Snorkelling is a must in these azure waters and those with a PADI licence can explore the underwater marvels of the Andaman Sea at select dive spots off the Phi Phi Islands. 

Culture enthusiasts will enjoy getting up close to the 45-metre-tall Big Buddha sculpture as well as visiting the most important Buddhist temple on the island, Wat Chalong. For a real once-in-a-lifetime experience, swim with elephants at the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park while you participate in the conservation efforts to protect them. But, of course, no trip to Phuket is complete without visiting the Old Town and the many night markets where you can tuck into delicious street food.

Looking for a quick getaway that can fit into everyone’s busy schedules? These are the best destinations to travel to with friends, without venturing too far from home.

Not sure about Friendship Day? Once you have seen the breathtaking landscapes of Madeira, awarded a silver prize for sustainable tourism by EarthCheck, you will beg your friends to join you on your next adventure. Explore the captivating capital, Funchal where you can explore landmarks such as the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and race down the hilly streets in the iconic basket carts. Visit the local markets and support local artisans by stocking up on souvenirs. Or, explore the biodiversity of the area with an eco-friendly whale-watching tour that aims to educate and conserve the marine life surrounding Madeira. When visiting Funchal, immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the bewitching beauty of this city.

Friends make life better, especially if they agree to be your travel companion for a holiday in Cape Verde. That’s the thing about Friendship Day, it unites you with your favourite people and reminds you to make your long list of travel plans a reality.

Cape Verde is for nature lovers so if you love impressive vistas and action sports, you are in for a treat. Comprising 10 islands, Cape Verde’s hot spots are Boa Vista and Santiago. Enjoy the untouched sands of Praia de Santa Monica, Boa Vista, an ideal spot to soak up the sun or enjoy the marvellous marine wildlife as you snorkel the azure waters. Help locals protect sea turtles with the conservation project Projeto Biodiversidade which allows you to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat. Or, quad bike across the island’s volcanic landscapes with the Pico do Fogo volcano in the distance. 

Santiago on the other hand is home to the bustling capital city, Praia. Admire the historic architecture of the Plateau district, stopping off to shop at the vibrant markets. Don’t miss a visit to Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich with history and ancient ruins. For a taste of local life, enjoy a traditional Cachupa meal while listening to the soulful rhythms of Cape Verdean music.

Morocco is an ideal destination to visit if you are on a tight schedule but are craving a grand adventure. This North African country is an assault on the senses offering a dizzying mix of sights, sounds and tastes that will make you feel as though you are in a different world. Start your travels in Marrakech, a real-life tale of two cities. Stay at the Barceló Palmeraie and explore the bustling souks, the famous Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace and the historic medina among other key landmarks. Then, replace the buzz of city life with a beachside escape to Agadir. Here life moves at a slower pace giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sunkissed shores of Agadir Beach, be wowed by nature in Paradise Valley and learn about the city’s heritage at the Agadir Kasbah and the Medina. Yet, all travellers to Agadir must visit the El Had souk, full of colourful souvenirs created by local artisans. 

The Canary Islands offer all-year-round sunshine making them an ideal destination to visit with friends. Lanzarote, famous for its lunar landscapes and volcanic terrain is capturing the attention of travellers looking for a taste of silent luxury. Follow in the footsteps of César Manrique, a famous architect from Lanzarote who transformed the island during the tourist boom with his holistic, creative and sustainable vision. Museo Lagomar and Jameos del Agua are just two of the many Manrique creations open to the public today. Take time to explore the island’s agricultural heritage and enjoy a local wine tasting or tour of an aloe vera farm during your holiday in Lanzarote. Of course, no trip to the island is complete without exploring the beaches. Our favourites? Playa Blanca, Papagayo and Famara Beach are all must-visits.