New Generation of World Travelers Seeks Unspoiled, Exotic Destinations That Offer Spiritual and Cultural Immersion
(TRAVPR.COM) NY - April 21st, 2015 - Bhutan, Myanmar, and Mozambique are among the top emerging destinations, according to Sheri Fazleabas, founder and president of A&S Signature Journeys, a boutique tour company that offers the ultimate customized vacations for sophisticated, seasoned travelers. Fazleabas attributes the growing popularity of these destinations to their appeal to travelers who are seeking authentic, “experiential” vacations in the more unspoiled and exotic regions of the world.
“Today’s sophisticated travelers want to explore the ‘road less traveled’ and see the ‘hidden gems’ of the world,” said Fazleabas. “They want to feel as if they are going to a place that no other person has been to before.”
Fazleabas offers the following observations on the growing interest in these destinations:
#1 Bhutan
Bhutan is for people in search of a spiritual getaway. Only a limited number of tourists are permitted to visit each year, thereby appealing to travelers who want to get away from the crowded, touristy sites. “Flying there is a ‘spiritual journey’ in itself,” noted Sheri, “with visitors being treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.”
A trek to one of the country’s most sacred monastery, the “Tigers Nest”, a fortress monastery perched high on a cliff in Paro, is among the highlights. Another traveler favorite is a visit to a local farm house, where they can relax their sore muscles in a therapeutic hot stone bath like the locals do.
The colorful Tsechu festivals, held annually, reflect the spiritual and mystical beliefs of the Bhutanese people. They honor the saint that brought Buddhism to Bhutan – the land of the Thunder Dragon. Other popular activities include a visit to Bhutan’s capital city of Thimphu, located on the shores of the Wang Chhu River. Its attractions include the Tashichho Dzong, a 350-year-old structure that houses government offices and the king’s throne room. It is also the summer quarters of 2000 monks.
#2 Myanmar
Situated between the two great civilizations of India and China, Myanmar faces the vast Indian Ocean next to Thailand and borders the Eastern Himalayan mountain range. Since the reopening of its borders to tourists after years of isolation, Myanmar has become a “hot spot” for travelers. Only just emerging into the modern world, Myanmar is still a mysterious and undiscovered destination blessed with breathtaking beauty.
Among the many popular activities is a visit to Bagan, on the banks of the Ayeyarwady River. Considered one of the richest archaeological and historical regions in Asia, it is the site of more than 2,000 ancient ruins of pagodas and Buddhist temples dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Visitors enjoy spectacular views while sitting atop ancient temples, as well as early morning hot air balloon rides over the area, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other traveler favorites include visiting Myanmar’s Shan State, a trekker’s paradise thanks to its rolling hills and friendly locals. Reaching it is an experience in itself, with the local train passing by the second tallest viaduct in the world.
Also among the attractions is Yangon, a city filled with enormous timber mansions built by the British captains of industry that once lived there. Another popular attraction is Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar and its cultural center. The city houses the most revered Buddha statue in the country, the Maha Myat Muni, and is famous for its beautiful sunsets. It is also known for the Kuthodaw Pagoda, where the entire Buddhist Canon in inscribed on 729 marble stone slabs.
#3 Mozambique
Situated along the south-eastern coast of Africa and bordered by Tanzania in the North and South Africa in the south, Mozambique boasts one of the longest coastlines in the world – more than 1,500 miles. Its diverse and contrasting landscape, as well as its location, allow travelers to combine a safari to a game reserve in South or Eastern Africa, for example, while also relaxing and soaking up the sun at some of the most exclusive and pristine beaches in the world.
Travelers are discovering that they can have two different vacations in one trip when they go to Mozambique. It’s easy for them to spend the early morning on a safari and the latter part of the day at the beach. They can also indulge in a variety of water sports, marvel at the exotic birds, and visit numerous private islands far from the bustle of civilization.
A Travel Agent’s Personal Travel Specialist
A & S Signature Journeys works closely with travel agents, providing them with meticulously planned itineraries that are custom tailored to their clients’ particular interests. It was founded by its president, Sheri Fazleabas, a recognized tourism expert and former executive of an internationally renowned tour operator. Sheri brings extensive experience creating luxury tours and has traveled to every destination in which A & S specializes. She is recognized as a qualified lecturer in tourism for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. She is also invited to speak at various travel events and local colleges.
For more information, contact A & S Signature Journeys at 630-889-8275 or by email at
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