Choosing the perfect holiday destination can be both exciting and overwhelming. With countless places to explore across the globe — from serene islands and bustling cities to cultural heartlands and adventure-filled landscapes — making the right choice comes down to your interests, budget, goals, and timing.
Whether you’re planning a solo getaway, a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a group trip with friends, this guide will help you pick the destination that best suits your needs.
✈ 1. Define the Purpose of Your Trip
Before browsing travel sites or booking flights, ask yourself:
Are you looking to relax and unwind?
Do you want to explore new cultures and historical sites?
Is it a romantic escape or honeymoon?
Are you seeking adventure, wildlife, or sports?
Do you want a family-friendly destination with lots of kid-safe activities?
Are you traveling to shop, party, or attend an event?
Understanding the why of your trip will help you narrow down your options significantly.
💰 2. Set Your Budget
Your budget is one of the biggest factors in choosing where to go.
Low Budget: Consider destinations in Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand), Eastern Europe (Georgia, Albania), or within your home country (e.g., Obudu, Badagry, Calabar in Nigeria).
Moderate Budget: Explore places like Turkey, Egypt, UAE (Dubai), or South Africa.
Luxury Travel: Think Maldives, Seychelles, Switzerland, Bora Bora, or a European tour.
Remember to factor in:
Flight costs
Accommodation
Food & drinks
Activities/tours
Transport within the destination
Travel insurance
Visas & COVID-19 requirements
Tip: Off-season travel can cut costs significantly!
🗓 3. Consider the Season and Weather
Timing is crucial. Research your destination’s best time to visit in terms of climate and festivals.
Region Best Time to Visit
Europe April – June, Sept – Oct
Caribbean Dec – April (dry season)
UAE/Dubai Nov – March (cooler months)
East Africa June – Sept (wildlife safaris)
Nigeria Dry season (Nov – March) for smoother travel
Avoid destinations during:
Monsoon or hurricane seasons
Political unrest
Major tourist surges (unless for festivals)
👪 4. Match the Destination to Your Travel Group
Solo Travelers:
Great for introspection, socializing, and flexibility.
Try: Bali, Portugal, Morocco, Ghana, Thailand
Couples:
Focus on romance, privacy, and ambiance.
Try: Santorini, Zanzibar, Seychelles, Paris, Maldives
Families:
Look for safety, entertainment, and kid-friendly attractions.
Try: Orlando, Dubai, Cape Town, Mauritius, Obudu Ranch
Group of Friends:
Seek fun, nightlife, and adventurous options.
Try: Ibiza, Mykonos, Nairobi, South Africa, Accra
🌍 5. Explore Visa and Travel Requirements
Before settling on a location, check:
Do you need a visa? Is it on arrival, eVisa, or embassy-based?
How long does it take to process?
Are there COVID-19, health, or vaccination requirements?
Is your passport valid for at least 6 months?
Popular visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations for Nigerians (as of 2025) include:
Ghana
Kenya
Barbados
Maldives (visa on arrival)
Seychelles (visitor’s permit)
Dominica (visa-free for 21 days)
🧭 6. Research the Local Culture and Language
Understanding local customs, etiquette, and language helps avoid culture shock and enhances your experience.
Is the destination English-speaking or will you need translation tools?
Are there dress codes, religious sensitivities, or social norms?
What’s the cost of living and safety level?
Tip: Use apps like Google Translate, TripAdvisor, or Culture Trip to prepare.
🏖 7. Think About Activities and Interests
Make sure your destination offers what you love.
Interest Destination Examples
Beach & Chill Maldives, Zanzibar, Barbados
History & Culture Rome, Cairo, Benin Republic, Istanbul
Adventure Kenya, Nepal, Cape Town, Rwanda
Food & Wine Italy, Thailand, Georgia (Europe), Morocco
Nature & Wildlife Uganda, South Africa, Costa Rica
Shopping Dubai, London, Istanbul
📆 8. Look for Events and Festivals
Attending local festivals or global events can make your trip unforgettable.
Dubai Shopping Festival (Jan)
Calabar Carnival (December)
Notting Hill Carnival (UK) (August)
Rio Carnival (Brazil) (Feb–Mar)
Christmas markets (Europe, December)
Note: Traveling during major events? Book in advance — hotels and flights sell out fast.
🛡 9. Consider Safety and Health
Check travel advisories from your government or reliable travel sources.
Is the destination politically stable?
Are there travel restrictions?
Is travel insurance required or recommended?
Are there high risks of disease, scams, or natural disasters?
Tip: Carry basic medications, and register with your embassy if going off the grid.
🎒 10. Use Travel Agencies or DIY?
If you’re new to international travel or planning a family trip, using a trusted travel agency like Mewo Travels can help with:
Visa applications
Flight bookings
Hotel deals
Group tours
Travel insurance
For experienced travelers, DIY (Do-It-Yourself) with tools like Skyscanner, Airbnb, Booking.com, and Google Maps can give more flexibility.
✅ Conclusion: Make the Right Choice for You
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer to picking the best destination. What matters is choosing a place that fits your budget, interests, travel style, and safety needs.
Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury escape in the Maldives or a cultural road trip across Nigeria, the right destination is the one that aligns with your goals and leaves you fulfilled.
✈ Need Help Choosing Your Next Holiday Destination?
Mewo Travels offers custom travel planning, visa assistance, curated holiday packages, and group tours for every type of traveler.
📧 Email: info@mewotravels.com.ng
📱 WhatsApp: +2349060002413
Let us help you discover the perfect place — anywhere in the world.