The Best Private Trips to Book for Birthdays

Birthdays can be landmark occasions in one’s life, which often sparks feelings of dreams unfulfilled or adventures yet to be had. Well, if a big bucket-list getaway is how you want to celebrate that occasion, you’ll struggle to find a destination more befitting of the word ‘landmark’ than Egypt. Our nine-day tour of this storied land combines the country’s most famous sights with some lesser-known gems. We’ll start in the bustling streets of Cairo and the ancient ruins of Giza, where you can visit the Pyramids, the Sphinx and the brand new Grand Egyptian Museum. From there we’ll trace the Nile south, first by train and then via a luxury river cruiser, which we’ll call home for a few nights. Explore the candlelit remains of Luxor Temple at night, haggle away in busy souks and explore the islands of Aswan by kayaking along the Nile – now that should make some serious damage to your lifelong bucket list.

This island paradise is the perfect place to gather your favourite people for some pure escapism. From unique cultural experiences to serene tropical landscapes and world class hospitality, a trip to Bali can mean laid-back retreat and adventurous escape in equal measure. That’s certainly the case on our epic 12-day itinerary. You’ll start by making a traditional Balinese offering and placing it in a sacred temple, before hiking through rice paddies and rural villages, and picnicking amid hidden waterfalls. Our guide will take you to yoga and cooking classes, as well as temples and royal gardens. On day five you’ll have to make sure everyone’s alarms are set early for our sunrise hike to the peak of Mount Batur, but things get more chilled on Gili Trawangan, a tiny island where we’ll spend a few nights at a luxurious beach resort. Lounge by the pool, hit the beach or walk around the entire island – it only takes a few hours – and don’t forget to join our guide as we go snorkelling with sea turtles off the coast of the Gili Islands.