The Ultimate ‘Round the World Travel Itinerary

Dreamy Travel Inspo for 2016

As the next set of New Year’s Resolutions rolls around, now is the time to assess your travel bucket list for 2015, see where you succeeded, where you failed, and which leftover items you can cross off in 2016. Chances are, you still have some travel to be completed. Perhaps those lofty goals, multiple continents and new experiences drifted to the bottom of your priorities, but the good news is,  it’s not too late. You can still squeeze in a last minute trip over the holiday season or start booking in trips for the New Year! Get on top of your desired travel destination list and get a shot of inspiration from the travel experts at KAYAK.com.hk. They’ve found the ultimate ‘round the world route to cover a year’s worth of travel in just 12 days… who knows, it might inspire you to book your own trip! 

London, United Kingdom

Depart Hong Kong: 24 December, 23:55
Arrive London: 25 December, 04:50
Flights: Hong Kong to London from $3,388*

Kick off your journey from Hong Kong and head direct to Europe, first stop: the buzzing metropolis of London. Make sure you catch some sleep on the plane, because your pre-dawn arrival means the day is yours to experience Christmas as Londoners do, and you don’t want to be caught napping. Follow the crowds to a morning church service at iconic Westminster Abbey, then meander along the Thames River to take in must-see sights including Tower Bridge, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Tune in for the Queen’s speech for an update on the year just passed, or find a cosy pub in Greenwich Village for a late Christmas lunch followed by a pint or two. As the sun sets, make your way to Trafalgar Square and absorb the festive cheer around the famous Christmas Tree, which is donated by Norway each year and decorated in true European style. If you’re really energetic, a boxing day jaunt through the Winter Wonderland festival in Hyde Park will give you your fill of Christmas stalls, rides and good tidings.

Time in London: 51.5 hours

Where to stay: Hotel 55 from $989* per night

Frankfurt, Germany

Depart London: 27 December, 08:20
Arrive Frankfurt: 27 December, 11:00
Flights: London to Frankfurt from HK$1234*

The rumours you’ve heard about German Christmas delicacies are all true, and Frankfurt is the perfect destination to get each and every one under your belt, so to speak. Obviously, currywurst is a traditional essential, but seasonal favourites like Glühwein (hot mulled wine), roasted chestnuts and Bethmännchen (delectable marzipan and almond biscuits) are also worth seeking out. These sweet and savoury treats will keep you fuelled up for your next activity – shopping The Zeil, Frankfurt’s premier pedestrian retail promenade. You’ll want to pack light for this trip, to save space for all the goodies to be found in the specialty shops, stylish department stores and independent boutiques. Spoil yourself with some well-deserved Christmas gifts.

Time in Frankfurt: 21.5 hours
Where to stay: 25hours Hotel by Levi’s from $566* per night

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Depart Frankfurt: 28 December, 20:30
Arrive Dubai: 29 December, 06:10
Flights: Frankfurt to Dubai from $3,016*

Leave the wintery European climate behind and head to sunny Dubai. The thriving expat community, melting pot of cultures and over-the-top extravagance could have you spinning in circles, so it’s best to hit Dubai with a plan. 21 hours is plenty of time for a unique adventure, and fortunately, the airport is very close to the city, with easy transport options. Grab a taxi and head straight for the Old Souqs, particularly the Gold Souq, which has over 300 outlets, and the Spice Souq, to pick up spices from all over the Middle East. If you just must try indoor skiing (let’s face it, we all want to), a 2-hour ski package at The Mall of Emirates is actually quite economical, and available right up until 10pm, 7 days per week.

Time in Dubai: 21 hours, give or take
Where to stay: Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre from $2,109* per night

Perth, Australia

Depart Dubai: 30 December, 03:00
Arrive Perth: 30 December, 17:35
Flights: Dubai to Perth from $3,639*

With more than two full days in Perth, this is the relaxation portion of your trip. That is, until the New Year’s Eve parties start. When you arrive, head straight to Cottesloe Beach for a balmy evening swim. Pop over to pristine Rottnest Island the following day, enrol in a surfing lesson and meet Instagram’s latest darling, the native Quokka. Don’t let the sweltering 40 degree heat stop you from engaging in the New Year’s festivities. Start your evening with a dinner cruise in Mandurah, and enjoy the 9pm fireworks from on board. Then ring in the New Year with a touch of glamour at The George Masquerade Party.

Time in Perth: around 55 hours
Where to stay: Pan Pacific Perth from $940* per night

Manila & Boracay Island, Philippines

Depart Perth: 2 January, 00:25
Arrive Manila: 2 January, 16:30
Flights: Perth to Manila from $5,263*

The Philippines is known for the longest Christmas festive season globally, so if you’re still chasing Christmas cheer, you’ll find it here right up until 6 January. Alternatively, you can continue the chilled vibe and book a resort room on beautiful Boracay Island. Spend some time writing your 2016 resolutions, then get started on the health side of things by participating in the amazing range of recreational activities on offer. Start with something tame like hiking or horseback riding, then take it to the next level with cliff jumping. What better way to kickstart your year than with something that truly makes you feel alive?

Time in Manila: about 39 hours
Where to stay: Boracay Regency Beach Resort & Spa from $1,335* per night
Depart Manila: 4 January, 08:00
Arrive Hong Kong: 4 January, 10:15
Flights: Manila to Hong Kong from HK$1319*

Got ideas for your own ultimate itinerary? The multi-city flight search on KAYAK.com.hk lets you choose up to six different legs, with filters to really narrow down your preferences. No matter how simple or complex your journey may be, travel tools such as Trips can help you organise and manage your travel from start to finish. We hope the above trip has given you a shot of inspiration for 2016 travel!

*The flight path was collated on 9 December 2015 using KAYAK.com.hk. Flight prices are based on a one-way economy fare for one adult. Hotel prices are for double occupancy per room per night.  Prices are subject to change, availability may be limited or offers may no longer be available.