Experts' top 10 destinations for 2008

Ethical holidays and destinations, such as the Isles of Scilly, Naples in Italy, and Cambodia, are predicted to be some of the top attractions for 2008.

The experts from the Association of Independent Tour Operators (Aito) are predicting travellers will find responsible holidays "an intrinsic issue" - not least because more and more tour operators are meeting stringent ethical criteria.

Aito chairman Derek Moore, explained: "2008 is the year when responsible travel will truly become an intrinsic issue for travellers. I would strongly recommend people book with a tour operator that takes seriously its responsibilities to the environment."

Independent tour operators' top ten destinations for 2008

1 - Tresco, Isles of Scilly

"The West Country is one of the best-loved destinations in which to take a holiday at home but many travellers overlook the Isles of Scilly. The opening on February 1st of The Flying Boat Club - an exclusive, luxury development of contemporary houses on Tresco - will put this particular tropical island firmly on the map," explained Aito.

2 - Naples, Italy

Though attractions such as Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast have long made Naples and must see location on the Italy tourist trail, the city itself has not been so highly regarded.

However, Aito reports the city's landmarks have recently been restored, which has "transformed it into a city worth stopping in, rather than just a landing base".

"Subterranean streets, swanky shops and regular ferries to fancy Capri further the cause. For accommodation, try the hip Hotel Micalo, an elegant and intimate hotel spanning the middle floor of a17th century Palazzo. It has raised mezzanine bathrooms (overlooking main bedrooms), floors made from traditional southern stone and sea views from a bar balcony."

3 - City breaks in France

French cities are set to get that bit closer thanks to Eurostar and the new High Speed 1 line, and bookings to Paris are already up by 30 per cent on last year, according to luxury city break specialist Kirker Holidays.

"The outstanding hospitality offered by the French during the Rugby World Cup, combined with what we already know about the charm and scenic splendour of La Belle France, seems to have reminded British travellers there really is no more agreeable short-haul European destination," commented Aito.

4 - Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Free access to the world heritage site of Angkor Wat may be ending, says adventure holiday specialist Explore.

The company also reports public access to the upper level has been closed, and the right to go anywhere you like on the site may be restricted. Plus prices are set to keep rising, so those that have not seen the wonder of the Cambodian temples will want to get in there before changes mean less of the site can be seen.

5 - Western Iceland

If you are looking for seclusion and a holiday where you will not be disturbed, Icelandair recommends heading to western Iceland, in particular Hotel Hudir.

The hotel is close to the glacier and volcano at Snaefellsjokull, which was referenced in Jules Verne's story Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

6 - The Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Voted one of the New Seven Wonders in 2007, Chichen Itza is set to give Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula lots of new interest, predicts Aito.

"Lovingly restored, luxury haciendas; pyramids that rival those of Egypt; charming colonial cities such as Oaxaca and Merida and unusual cuisine with French, Spanish and Lebanese influences are all adding to the appeal."

7 - The Cook Islands, South Pacific

The Cook Islands are an excellent stopover destination for some serious winter sun on the way to the Antipodes.

However, the islands may well be more attractive in 2008 thanks to the pound's strength against the New Zealand dollar.

"The Cook Islands offer great quality accommodation - everything from budget traveller options to luxury over-water bungalows - blended with breathtaking scenery and the genuine unrehearsed charm of the islanders," Aito noted.

8 - Monte Carlo, Monaco

This year's exciting Formula One Grand Prix season, led mostly by Britain's Lewis Hamilton, has renewed interest in one of the sport's most famous tracks - Monte Carlo.

One of the spots for all out luxury this season is the newly refurbished Fairmont hotel which overlooks the hairpin of the same name.

2008 also sees the Historical Grand Prix competition, which is held every two years. The competition takes place from May 10th -11th, and holidaymakers can see classic racing cars from the pre- and post-war periods take to the track once more.

A stay at the hotel may cost £300 a room a night over the weekend, but getting there does not have to cost much - Easyjet has Luton to Nice flights from £45.

9 - Family safaris in Zambia

Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana may be more popular, but the excellent game viewing and lower prices make Zambia an exciting safari destination for 2008 - particularly for families.

"Somehow, the word's out and Zambian safaris are zooming - and particularly family trips. It's easy to see why: there are great tribe-sized safari houses with good facilities, and it's a safe, interactive destination. 2008 is expected to be the last year before prices truly surge skywards," explained Aito.

10 - Togo and Benin, west Africa

The truly exotic destinations of Togo and Benin offer an opportunity to discover a fascinatingly different side to Africa, one which is little visited by most British tour operators.

Aito members Explore and Dragoman Overland are among the few tour operators that visit the countries, and interest in their trips has been consistently strong since they first started.

"Exotic cultures and religions, fascinating fetish markets, python temples, fire-dancing and mask ceremonies - and you can even meet local kings! Gone are the days of unimaginative short breaks," concludes Aito.