Iran and Jordan on Cox & Kings' 'hot list' for 2017

Established in 1758, Cox & Kings has been making predictions about travel for centuries.

The operator has made its predictions for “on trend” destinations next year, based on political changes in the world and major events and anniversaries.

Chile

British Airways introduced direct flights from London to Peru and Costa Rica earlier this year and Chile is set to follow in January.
A flying time of 14 hours 40 minutes will make it the airline’s longest direct flight.

India

It is the 70th anniversary of India’s independence in 2017 so Cox & Kings is predicting an increase in demand for travel to India.

The operator said bookings are already showing this; with two India group tours currently in the top ten for Cox & Kings overall.

The second series of the BBC’s Real Exotic Marigold Hotel is set to air in the New Year.

The first series led to more interest in longer stays in traditional havelis (former merchant houses) and Cox & Kings predicts a similar impact for the second time round.

Iran

Cox & Kings reintroduced Iran to its Middle East collection in October 2015 for the first time since 2011.

The operator said demand from clients to travel back to Iran has been “remarkable but not surprising”.

The operator explained that it used to be one of the most popular tours offered by Cox & Kings.

British Airways relaunched its direct flights in September so the country is even more accessible.

Jordan

“With new bookings up significantly last month, there are signs that confidence is growing in travel to Jordan,” said Cox & Kings.

It was one of Cox & Kings’ most popular destinations in September.

The operator said it is possible to drive the length of the country in less than five hours, making it easily accessible, and travellers can cover all the main sites of interest in a short amount of time.

Russia

Next year will mark the 100th anniversary of the Russian Revolution which Cox & Kings thinks will attract visitors.