Where to go?

[Firstshoes]

Myself and DH would like to go somewhere special in September 2027 for our 40th anniversary. We go abroad a lot but always Europe and have only really dong long haul once. We are not wealthy, income about 55k so want to book as far in advance as possible to pay in installments. We only want a week as leaving two adults dcs at home. One has ASD. They will be fine for a week but we'd worry if longer. Really unsure where to go! We like sightseeing and also enjoy sitting around a pool/beach with a cocktail. We would like somewhere interesting. No idea where though! Does anyone have any ideas?

Lake Garda (day trip to Verona/Venice)
Amalfi Coast (Pompeii, Herculaneum)
Nice (Monaco and the coastal towns)
Marseilles (for Avignon and Provence)
Croatia islands
Seville/Cadiz
Barcelona/Tarragona/Sitges

So many places, what are your interests and what are the important things for you to see and do.

Apologies, I have only mentioned European destinations but I think you may be considering long haul.

I did all my long hauls when I was younger so have no advice on that, but maybe someone else can help.

Sounds like you'll have a great trip wherever you go!

Long haul for a week can be hard because of jet lag. South Africa maybe? You could get a 2-3 day stay in a safari lodge and then maybe a few days around Cape Town.

Also you will be reducing your choice if you want to pay in instalments. You probably can't do that at all for air tickets anyway. I would suggest getting a personal loan or putting it it on a credit card.

once in a lifetime?? Iceland?? Or a specific holiday like a cruise or safari or river boat??

South Africa is perfect for a week as no jet lag. We once did 3 nights safari then 4 nights cape winelands/Cape Town

Turkey is fabulous. I especially like Selimiye which is a bit off the tourist trail but is absolutely gorgeous.

Nile cruise. Loads to see without travelling miles in a coach, bar and pool. Some of the boats are really small - ours had about a 60 passenger capacity. Tours done in 6s or 7s with an Egyptologist (who had worked on one of the temples - but tours paid his bills). PM me if you want to know the contact who arranged it all for us.

I really didn’t enjoy our Nile cruise. I didn’t like Egypt, they are cruel to horses and the poverty is upsetting. Every time we went on an excursion there were children begging.

Would recommend Barbados as there is sightseeing and beautiful beaches. There are lots of lovely restaurants so would suggest not going all inclusive. I’ve been several times and would recommend checking out Bougainvillea Hotel.

Malta?