IT’S out with the old and in with the new, as holiday-makers seek out less visited destinations.
This year will see growing interest in “Cinderella destinations”, previously overshadowed by more heralded neighbours, finds research for operator Riviera Travel.
Bookings for South Korea are up 167 per cent, year on year, while those for Uzbekistan have risen by 42 per cent.
So, before securing next year’s getaway, take a look at Sophie Swietochowski’s alternative suggestions . . .
TRANSYLVANIA
You might think Transylvania, a Romanian region strongly linked to vampires, should only be visited at this time of year as we approach the spooky season.
But there’s so much culture and fascinating history to be explored, beyond the Dracula myths.
Glorious hiking trails make it a rambler’s paradise while animal lovers should keep their eyes peeled for brown bears, which are highly concentrated in this area of Romania.
This eight-day Transylvania and Bucharest tour will tick off the must-sees, from tiny villages with medieval squares and clocktowers to Bran Castle, inspiration for the Gothic lair in the Dracula books.
GO: The eight-day trip costs from £1,749pp based on two people sharing and including return flights and transfers, accommodation in four-star hotels, daily breakfast, two lunches and two dinners, and 12 experiences. For details, check out rivieratravel.co.uk.
SRI LANKA
While Sri Lanka is not exactly an undiscovered destination, it has become more popular in recent years as more and more travellers favour it over the much-visited Thailand.
Tourist numbers are lower than for other nearby destinations, meaning prices are still cheaper and travellers can get more bang for their buck.
Also, you won’t be dealing with mega crowds and tourist traps.
Instead, you can expect high-end accommodation and loads of wildlife (a half-day safari trip should be top of your list of things to do).
If wildlife is what you’re after then a stay at the 5H Sun Siyam Pasikudah offers great value for money — and you’re likely to spot monkeys and cows strolling the beach or elephants in the backstreets nearby.
GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the 5H Sun Siyam Pasikudah is from £1,379pp including flights from Gatwick and transfers on April 13. Book by October 15. See travelbag.co.uk or call 0203 393 9620.
SLOVENIA
Those on the hunt for glorious alpine views and vast lakes tend to make a beeline for Switzerland or Austria.
These destinations can make a heavy dent in the wallet, though.
So why not look to Slovenia instead?
Its glacial rivers and snow-drenched peaks could rival those in the fanciest resort towns of popular holiday countries, with the dramatic Lake Bled offering the most glorious backdrop for tourist snaps.
Make sure to visit the Vipava Valley, too.
It’s Slovenia’s answer to Tuscany and home to some unique white wines that you won’t find anywhere else.
GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 4H Triglav Bled is from £459pp including flights from Luton on February 22. See loveholidays.com.
UZBEKISTAN
Brits can visit Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days, which is more than enough time to indulge in the country’s fascinating architecture.
Turquoise domes and colourful mosaics are a key feature of many notable buildings, including the Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand, which was built between the 11th and 15th Centuries.
The ancient trading route that makes up the Silk Road passes through the heart of the country and, if you have got cash to splash, you can soak up the best of it on an 11-day adventure.
The trip starts in Tashkent before heading to the Ayaz-Qala desert fortress, Khiva (a Unesco World Heritage city), Bukhara and Samarkand.
GO: The Silk Road trip is from £3,249pp based on two people sharing, including return flights and transfers, nine nights in three to four-star accommodation, daily breakfast and nine meals, plus ten experiences. For details, check out rivieratravel.co.uk.
SOUTH KOREA
Forget Japan, South Korea’s K-pop music, quality beauty products and fascinating culinary scene have the younger generations hooked.
And with the recent launch of direct Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow to South Korean capital Seoul, the country is now easier than ever to reach.
So if this sounds like your cup of tea (or bowl of kimchi), book now before visitor numbers skyrocket.
Seoul, in particular, blends history and culture with modern-day living — palaces sit between skyscrapers, and traditional markets are close to contemporary shopping areas.
GO: Eight nights’ room-only at the 5H Grand Hyatt Incheon is from £1,458pp including flights from Heathrow on May 12. Check out virginatlantic.com/holidays.