There’s a certain comfort in holidaying in the same holiday resort for a few years in a row.
For starters, you’re so familiar with surroundings that you slip straight into relaxation mode without scrambling to find out where the supermarkets and bars are, staff might provide preferential treatment for everything from drinks measures to discounted activities, and since your travel companions know what to expect, the chances of complaints are low.
That said, those of us who find it hard to suppress our adventurous streaks soon yearn for something different – familiarity can breed contempt and, when boredom sets in, what was previously a home from home will start to feel frustratingly humdrum.
So perhaps you should consider a specialist holiday to spice things up a bit? This is the type of vacation where you exercise your passion for a certain subject, energise your body and stimulate your intellect.
If this sounds sublime, here are three niche holidays you need to know about.
Tuneful Jamaica trip
If you’re a reggae fan, Jamaica needs no introduction – this tough and terrific tropical island has spawned a musical culture with a global footprint.
And if you fancy feeling the vibes in person, there are a few highlights you shouldn’t miss out on. The Bob Marley Museum at 36 Hope Road, Kingston, is a must for fans of the late, great superstar, while live music fans will love the Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay in mid-July.
But if you’re all about that bass, Kingston Dub Club is a cool DIY-style venue in the Kingston hills where you can unwind your spine like a born Jamaican.
Cape Town shark diving
Cape Town is one of the world’s most beautiful cities – nestled around natural attractions like Table Mountain and Cape Point, this magnificent multicultural city has a fascinating history and cool contemporary culture.
But if more mainstream excursions like visiting Robben Island and chilling out in trendy Camps Bay aren’t exciting enough, perhaps meeting a real-life Jaws will float your boat? If you’re game, then White Shark Divers will submerge you in a cage where you’ll stare slack-jawed into the mouth of one of nature’s most efficient killing machines.
French Alps snowsports
If you like your holidays action-packed but cycling or martial arts don’t tickle your fancy, why not strap on your cosiest outdoor gear and head to the awesome French Alps for some snowsports?
Even if you’re a newbie to the slopes, ski package providers like NUCO Travel can create the perfect custom package that includes lessons, ski passes, equipment hire and meals.
And apart from the pristine powder, the other great thing about holidaying in a legendary ski resort like Tignes or Val d’Isere is the apres-ski – these outdoors types really know how to party.
So there you have it – a hattrick of niche holidays that couldn’t be more different from each other.
However, the one thing they have in common is that there’s absolutely no way you’ll be bored!
So ends our list, but please share your own niche holiday tips in the comments section.