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Reasons to Visit Sumatra

Reasons to Visit Sumatra

Sumatra is one of the largest and most beautiful islands in Indonesia; it's three times the size of the UK and, unlike its neighbouring islands of Bali and Java, sees far fewer tourists. It's also one of the most biodiverse areas on earth, known for its extraordinarily rich flora, fauna and wildlife. Want the lowdown? Read on to discover our reasons why you should visit Sumatra. 1. Step into the unknown2.

Why Visit Norway?

Why Visit Norway?

Norway’s surreal scenery has to be seen to be believed. A land of majestic fjords, wild isles and imposing mountains, every inch of this country will take your breath away. It’s not difficult to see why it’s consistently voted as one of the world’s top travel destinations; visit Norway on holiday, and you’ll leave wanting to run away to the mountains and never return. So, why visit Norway? Read on for a list of reasons you won’t be able to argue with.

Hit the Trail: The Best Hiking Holidays Around the World

Hit the Trail: The Best Hiking Holidays Around the World

We're all for a relaxing holiday, but sometimes an active adventure is just what the doctor ordered. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a complete beginner, it’s no secret that immersing yourself in nature is a great way to unplug and destress, and a good long walk in a dreamy destination is certainly more appealing than a stroll around your local park. So, if you're sitting at your desk dreaming about your next trip, this roundup of the best hiking holidays is the perfect-pick-me-up to get you inspired.

The Best Road Trips in Italy

The Best Road Trips in Italy

Driving in the land of la dolce vita can be intimidating. Honking horns, reckless overtaking and tailgating are all (unfortunately) part and parcel of an Italian road trip holiday. But as soon as you hit the road, you’ll forget all about these anxieties – there’s no better way to experience the country’s beauty than on a road trip. Read on for our pick of the ten best road trips in Italy, whether it’s snaking through the towering Dolomites, cruising across Sicily, or rolling along the glittering Amalfi Coast.

Best Hikes in Nepal

Best Hikes in Nepal

Nepal is home to an impressive eight out of the world’s ten tallest mountains, so it’s no surprise that the hiking is legendary. The Himalayas are a rambler’s dream, with thriving forests, glistening glaciers, perilous mountain passes and thrilling panoramas. But trekking in Nepal isn’t for the fainthearted. High altitudes, steep ascents, changeable weather, and tricky terrain are all part of the challenge (and fun).

The Best Places to Watch the Sunrise Around the World

The Best Places to Watch the Sunrise Around the World

Rising with the sun is often the last thing you want to do during a holiday, but if there’s one thing that is worth acknowledging your alarm for, it’s seeing the sky streaked with heavenly hues. Combine the morning golden hour with a backdrop of some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and you’ll have no trouble dragging yourself out of bed. As the saying goes, ‘the early bird catches the worm’ (or in this case, ‘captures an Insta-worthy snap’), so read on for our best places to watch the sunrise around the world.

Best Hikes in British Columbia

Best Hikes in British Columbia

If Canada is a country renowned for its natural beauty, British Columbia is the jewel in its crown. Boasting a rugged landscape of rocky coastlines, thick forests, vast plains and majestic mountains, Canada’s westernmost province is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. But where to begin with such mind-bogglingly beautiful nature? Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you – minus the actual hiking – and rounded up the best hikes in British Columbia to suit fair-weathered folk and seasoned hikers alike.

Reasons to Visit New Zealand

Reasons to Visit New Zealand

The scenery speaks for itself when it comes to reasons to visit New Zealand. Even so, we’ve listed a few more to sway you; naturally, the draw of the Hobbiton film set also goes without saying. Sitting pretty in the South Pacific Ocean, New Zealand’s North and South Islands boast everything from geothermal landscapes and mirror-like lakes to extensive mountain ranges and majestic glaciers. Tongariro

Best Places to Surf in California

Best Places to Surf in California

Big beaches, big waves and a big reputation – California offers some of the world’s most sensational surfing. Aptly nicknamed the Golden State, sun-soaked surfers flock to its 840-mile coastline on USA trips to wrestle with waves that range from gentle rollers to towering giants. Whether in Santa Cruz, Orange County or Newport Beach, California treats riders of all abilities to waters worth waxing a board for.

Best Places to Surf Around the World

Best Places to Surf Around the World

A sport that has been making waves since the 12th century, surfing is a cultural phenomenon that has influenced the likes of fashion, music and language. From the mighty swells of the Pacific Ocean to the arching waves of the Atlantic and tropical Indian, our humble planet has almost 400,000 miles of oceanic coastline to explore. Whether you opt for a speedy shortboard or a classic longboard, one thing’s for certain:

Top Three Safari Sleepouts

Top Three Safari Sleepouts

With so little light pollution, stargazing in Africa is about as good as it gets. Whether you’re a budding astronomer or simply spellbound by a sky full of stars, we can arrange the perfect experience for you. The Milky Way will never look so beautiful, and the noises of the bush at night will never sound so thrilling. Be sure to bring a good torch with you to help spot nocturnal animals wandering around, and binoculars for epic dawn game sightings.

Whistler Ski Holidays

Whistler Ski Holidays

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie strapping on skis for the first time, Whistler Blackcomb is the crème de la crème of ski resorts. The largest of its kind in North America, its slopes are packed with black runs (and backcountry opportunities for off-piste adventures), ziplines, cross-country trails and skating rinks. So, even if you find that you're somewhat snow-challenged, there are still plenty of things to do, other than ski, on Whistler ski holidays.

Seven Best Hikes in Stockholm

Seven Best Hikes in Stockholm

Any hiker setting out to explore Sweden is blessed by allemansrätten – also known as the Right of Public Access. Enshrined in the Swedish constitution, the law gives people unhindered access to the outdoors. That covers hiker-friendly freedoms like wild camping for a night, collecting flowers and wild fruits and swimming in lakes – all things that make for a sublime holiday in the outdoors. And you can exercise your allemansrätten without travelling too far from the capital, as our round up of the seven best hikes in Stockholm shows.

Bird’s-Eye View: Best Treehouse Hotels Around the World

Bird’s-Eye View: Best Treehouse Hotels Around the World

Travel allows us to see the world from a different perspective, and we’re big believers in heading off the well-worn track to expand those horizons. Whether this entails seeking out hidden corners of a country, visiting local communities or trying out new activities, travel has the power to transform your mindset and help you view things in a new light. But how about extending this philosophy to include your accommodation?

Our Favourite Festivals Around the World

Our Favourite Festivals Around the World

Every June, more than 200,000 revellers descend on a field in Somerset, flowers in hair, wellies on feet and tents in tow. There’s mud, there’s body paint, there’s tie-dye and, of course, some music too. You guessed it – Glastonbury Festival. Catching up on the post-festival footage got us thinking about festivals in general. They do, after all, take you straight to the heart of a place, be it through music, culture, history, food or myriad other forms.

Unmissable Landscapes in Norway

Unmissable Landscapes in Norway

It’s no surprise that Norway is regularly named one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Readers of Rough Guides voted it seventh in their shortlist of stunning spots – and once you start planning a trip here, you’ll soon see why. From the fjords to the famous northern lights, Norway has no shortage of spectacular scenery. So, whether you want to hike among magical mountains, take a road trip to remember or marvel at the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle, the views will never disappoint.

The Best Experiences on Sea, Land and Air, from East Coast to West Coast Australia

The Best Experiences on Sea, Land and Air, from East Coast to West Coast Australia

Australia is the land of plenty. With a huge diversity of landscapes, climates and cultures, there is so much to explore across this vast country. In fact, you’ll probably need to visit multiple times to really get under its skin. On a recent trip Down Under, in Tropical North Queensland, Sydney and Perth, Meg, our Asia and Australasia Specialist, had the chance to discover Australia’s east and west coast from every angle.

Best Hikes in the Rockies

Best Hikes in the Rockies

From mountain escapades, lakes so pristine it's hard to believe they’re real and ever-in leaf larch forests, Canada’s world-renowned Rockies are what dreams are made of. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake make for the ultimate start lines for many of the best hikes in the Rockies (it’s always good to have an Instagram-worthy backdrop) but really these hikes speak for themselves in terms of beauty. From the constant creaking of distant glaciers to the smell of rainbow-hued wildflowers drifting by on the breeze, hikes in the Rockies are truly like nowhere else on Earth.

Simply Blue-tiful: Things to do in Chefchaouen

Simply Blue-tiful: Things to do in Chefchaouen

When you think of Morocco you probably think of mesmerising medinas, tantalising temples and pretty palaces, not little blue-washed artsy towns that look like they belong on Greek islands. Chefchaouen is Morocco’s anomaly. Perched beneath the rugged Rif Mountains, this is a town that has fused everything from religion and architecture to colour (who knew terracotta and topaz went so well together?).

Best Road Trips in Croatia

Best Road Trips in Croatia

When you want to set your own pace, take in the sights, and have extra space for picking up souvenirs, a road trip (preferably in the comfort of an air-conditioned car) is a great way to explore. From the Adriatic Highway, which serpentines above shimmering seas, to routes dotted with Roman sites that transport you back through time, road trips in Croatia have something to entice every traveller. Whether you’re hiring a car for a few days, or embarking on a more ambitious automotive adventure, our round-up of Croatian road trips will point you in the right direction.

Dog Sledding in Swedish Lapland

Dog Sledding in Swedish Lapland

Swedish Lapland – a region synonymous with snow and endless wilderness – provides the perfect opportunity for a sled dog tour with a gorgeous pack of huskies leading the way. Gliding over wide plains, frozen lakes and forest trails is an unparalleled winter holiday experience, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the crunching of the snow and the panting of the excited huskies. Escape to a region far removed from the stresses of daily life on a climate-friendly adventure, exploring remote corners of nature and leaving behind nothing but pawprints.

Ways to Enjoy Fishing in Sweden

Ways to Enjoy Fishing in Sweden

No matter what your dream fishing excursion looks like, chances are you’ll find it in Sweden. Whether you’re hoping to cast a line in rapid rivers, fish within city limits, or explore deep sea waters, Sweden is an angler’s paradise. Home to 100,000 lakes and a seemingly endless coastline bordered by the mighty Baltic and North Seas this a seriously stunning pocket of Scandinavia. Head to the south of the country and you’ll encounter lowland lakes and island archipelagos.

Our Guide to Kayaking in Sweden

Our Guide to Kayaking in Sweden

With around 100,000 lakes, myriad winding rivers and a long coastline dotted with thousands of islands, Sweden is made for adventures on water. From north to south, and east to west, there’s a vast array of canoeing and kayaking options, including city paddling in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. Whether you’re drifting through the tranquil southern waters of Skåne or tackling the rapid rivers around the Arctic Circle, kayaking is a wonderful way to discover all that this stunning country has to offer.

Our Guide to Trekking in the Himalayas

Our Guide to Trekking in the Himalayas

2023 marks the 70th anniversary of the first successful ascent of Mount Everest. Thankfully, a lot has changed since, and trekking in the Himalayas today is a much more accessible and comfortable experience (and doesn't have to involve summiting the world's highest peak). Many assume the Himalayas is only for rugged types who enjoy roughing it. That was true in 1953, when Everest was first summited, and trekking tourism didn't exist.

An Interview with Dereck and Beverly Joubert

An Interview with Dereck and Beverly Joubert

Award-winning filmmakers and conservationists Beverly and Dereck Joubert have watched life and death play out on the open plains of Africa since the 1980s, highlighting predators and their plight. In 2006, they also launched an iconic collection of safari properties across Botswana, Kenya and Zimbabwe that are among our experts’ favourites in all of Africa. Read on to discover more about their love affair with the African outback in an exclusive interview by Stephanie Drax.

Best Hikes in Sweden

Best Hikes in Sweden

With its landscape of vast forests, arctic mountains and rolling hills, Sweden’s popularity as a hiking destination is no mystery. The country boasts 100,000 lakes, along with 30 national parks and nearly 400 hiking trails; its Allemansrätten (right of public access) permits you to walk anywhere you wish, as long as you leave the area exactly as you found it – long story short, the possibilities are endless.

Active Adventures in India

Active Adventures in India

Active adventures in India mean something different to every traveller - for die-hard mountaineers it means gearing up for a hike through the Indian Himalayas, for families it means practicing ancient forms of fishing on Vembanad Lake and for couples it means enjoying a hand-held walk through the lush rainforest of the Andaman Islands. But one thing’s for sure: with endless beautiful landscapes just waiting to be explored, it’s virtually impossible not to stay active on a holiday to India.

Best Hikes in Costa Rica

Best Hikes in Costa Rica

To hike in Costa Rica is to experience nature in all its burgeoning glory, and with over 28 national parks, 6% of the world’s biodiversity and a quarter of its land dedicated to conservation, the Central American nation boasts nature in abundance. From unhurried meanderings and multi-day treks to volcano trails and thundering waterfalls, there are all manner of wonderful walks weaving their way across the country.

Must-Sees in Costa Rica

Must-Sees in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the queen of all things eco. The Central American nation boasts a whopping 6% of the world’s biodiversity (while covering only 0.03% of the earth’s surface), over a quarter of the country is dedicated to conservation and almost 98% of its energy is generated through renewable sources. It’s no wonder then that wildlife thrives here and its varied cast of creatures are at one with the natural environment.

Walking in Sweden: Our Favourite Trails

Walking in Sweden: Our Favourite Trails

The world has already embraced all things Sweden, whether that’s slick cars, innovative Scandi furniture or the countless ABBA numbers that graced the charts. So, it seems only right that travellers should succumb to its natural beauty, Viking lore, and Scandinavian charm too. With spectacular scenery around every twist and trail, there’s a lot to love about walking in Sweden whether you’re a relaxed rambler seeking slower-paced walks, or an avid hiker eager to scale the next summit.

Lesser-Known Peru Treks

Lesser-Known Peru Treks

Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are the undisputed king and queen on Peru’s chessboard of attractions. Elusive yet ubiquitous, scores of travellers are compelled annually to embark along the well-trodden pilgrimage route in search of the sought-after Incan city. Sadly, the ancient site’s long-standing popularity means that it’s now listed as endangered by UNESCO and visitor numbers have been restricted in an effort to preserve the delicate ruins.

Scenic seaplane flights to hop aboard next summer

Scenic seaplane flights to hop aboard next summer

To truly see the world, you must take to the skies. Whether that is on a tiny plane floating high above gorgeously green Caribbean islands or soaring high above the clouds aboard a commercial jet, looking down on our incredible planet is a pretty magical experience. We are particularly fond of seaplanes. There is something truly thrilling about being able to see your plane’s pilot; to be able to see what snack they are eating, what shoes they have on or what they look like.

The Five Best Road Trips in Spain

The Five Best Road Trips in Spain

There’s something truly captivating about driving on the open road. The wind whipping your face (if you’re fortunate enough to be in an open top car), the ultimate road trip playlist blasting from the speakers (likely a Bruce Springsteen number) and nothing but the distance ahead and the promise of adventure. Road trips are about the journey as much as the destination, as you weave along scenic roads and soak up magnificent views.

Bucket List Busters: Best Things to do in Central America

Bucket List Busters: Best Things to do in Central America

Encompassing seven countries and two coastlines, Central America plays host to more than 100 volcanoes and is home to over 17,000 species of wildlife. The list of adventure activities and cultural attractions is equally extensive, and visiting the continent should be a bucket-list addition for every intrepid traveller and wildlife lover. History buffs will be inspired by Guatemala’s ancient Mayan ruins, underwater-explorers should flock to Belize’s colourful reefs, while shutterbugs can capture the astonishing wildlife in Costa Rica’s jungles.

The Ten Best Road Trips in Norway

The Ten Best Road Trips in Norway

For thrill-seekers, nature-lovers and under-the-radar adventurers alike, a road trip is the best way to discover Norway’s rugged and diverse landscapes. Natural forces have slowly sculpted the striking scenery, and with over 58,000 miles of roads snaking their way through the cinematic surroundings, there’s plenty of ground to cover. Norway has also earned the accolade of the safest place in the world to drive, with a seat-belt-wearing rate of 95%, a fact which only adds to the already extensive list of reasons why the country was made for road-tripping.

Best Road Trips in the USA

Best Road Trips in the USA

John Denver asked to be taken home via country roads, Steppenwolf told us we were born to be wild and Ray Charles told Jack to hit the road and not come back. And Jack probably did so in a red convertible Cadillac, past shimmering seas into sand-swept valleys where crimson skies blend perfectly into proud sanguine rocks. Put simply, US holidays were made for road trips. Classic Ford Mustangs and Chevrolet Corvettes practically scream cross-country adventure,

Best Hikes in Bhutan

Best Hikes in Bhutan

With its dramatic landscapes that include everything from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys, Bhutan is a seriously dreamy destination when it comes to hiking holidays. And while the Bhutanese Himalayas may be home to the highest unclimbed mountain in the world, Gangkhar Puensum, there are a number of more accessible trails that criss-cross the stunning countryside and can be completed in a day.

Three Ways to Experience Antarctica

Three Ways to Experience Antarctica

Until space tourism becomes a thing, Antarctica remains the final frontier. There was a time when the only way to visit Antarctica was by ship from Ushuaia in Argentina, travelling through the notoriously rough seas of the Drake Passage. Although this is still very much an option, it is increasingly possible to bypass the crossing and even, in some instances, bypass the coast as well en route to the holy grail of the pole itself.

Slovenia: a Hidden Holiday Gem

Slovenia: a Hidden Holiday Gem

The prospect of travelling to Slovenia was no small feat for a 4ft 11 solo traveller such as myself... what could I eat there (the most important question in any given scenario)? Do they even have proper shops? Will they understand me? Will I be safe? My dad isn't Liam Neeson, after all. What does one even do in Slovenia?   Alas and predictably so I was unequivocally wrong - Slovenia is not a backwards country which hasn't seen a glimpse of the modern day, it's an absolute gem of a destination that thoroughly defied my expectations.

Going off Grid in Australia

Going off Grid in Australia

Are you in desperate need of some time away from screens, social media and emails? Then Australia might just be the answer. Heading to the other side of the world will give you the chance to be in a completely different time zone to everyone on the other end of those emails and calls, and, as if that isn't enough, we've put together our top recommendations for how to get as far off the grid as possible in Australia.

Bring Out Your Inner Columbus - Our Favourite Americas Adventure Cruises

Bring Out Your Inner Columbus - Our Favourite Americas Adventure Cruises

The word 'cruise' may conjure images of tourists crammed onto vast ships, spilling out into the ports of seemingly unsuspecting Mediterranean towns in a manner similar to that of the Great Wildebeest Migration, but we'll let you in on a little secret... we love a cruise. Well, when we say cruise, we mean aboard small, luxurious boats which ply remote corners of the globe with expert crew and guides helping to get you up close and personal with your surroundings.

Location Lust Pending: The Destinations From James Bond's Latest Release

Location Lust Pending: The Destinations From James Bond's Latest Release

This November will see the release of the 25th Bond film and we simply cannot wait. Yes, we're excited for the soundtrack, the new gadgets, guaranteed dramatic escapes and clammy-hand-inducing bust ups, and of course we don't want to miss the final chance to see Daniel Craig as Bond, James Bond. But, surprise, surprise, what we're most excited for is the sure-fire incredible filming locations and dramatic landscapes that the Bond films are known for.

Getting Off The Beaten Track - is it Really Worth The Effort?

Getting Off The Beaten Track - is it Really Worth The Effort?

Getting off the beaten track when travelling is routinely touted as a good and worthy thing, but it almost always requires extra effort and sometimes a little discomfort. Many would argue that any country or region's most popular tourist targets (think Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal) are famous for a reason; they represent the best that that destination has to offer, and these days so many of them are connected by air it's easy to box-tick all regional highlights in a single trip.

The Ultimate Adventure in Antarctica

The Ultimate Adventure in Antarctica

They always say that you shouldn't meet your idols. In travel terms, Antarctica has been that idol for me; ever-present at the top of my bucket list. The question was - could it live up to my extremely high expectations?   Living up to Expectations A few weeks ago, I was fortunate enough to meet my idol. I had of course, as with most places on earth, already seen a vast array of photos, read various books and articles and watched numerous Attenborough masterpieces on Antarctica so there should have been no real surprises.

Discovering Magnificent Madagascar

Discovering Magnificent Madagascar

Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world and a mere 250 miles off the coast of mainland Africa but it still remains a largely undiscovered corner of the continent. I've just returned and can really only describe it as the most fascinating and beautiful country I've ever been to. It is a place that completely has its own vibe; it's not African, or Asian or European but then, at the same time, it is all those things.

Why a Gulet Cruise in Turkey Might Be The Most Fun Holiday You Ever Have

Why a Gulet Cruise in Turkey Might Be The Most Fun Holiday You Ever Have

There are a few holiday types that deserve 'classic' status: the family ski week in the Alps, the road trip, the African safari and the sexy city break to name but four, but I'd like to add another one in to the mix - a week long gulet cruise in Turkey.   - Gulets (pronounced goo-lets) are traditional Turkish sail boats once used to carry cargo, so they are wide-hulled which means plenty of space both below decks and on deck for serious sun worshipping.

Skylodge Via Ferrata and Zip Line

Skylodge Via Ferrata and Zip Line

Scary? Yes - absolutely. Incredible? Definitely. Set 380m on the side of a vertical limestone cliff in Peru's Sacred Valley cling four pods - three bedrooms and a restaurant. And how do you get there? You climb!   The Via Ferrata This 'via ferrata' (meaning iron way) was set up seven years ago for adventure seekers searching for their next adrenaline rush. Fixed firmly into the cliff are steel hoops with a steel rope running alongside that you carefully clip yourself onto.

The Final Frontier

The Final Frontier

Space travel may be coming to a Virgin store near you in the not-so-distant future but there's really no need to start practising your zero gravity moonwalk when there is so much of good old Planet Earth left to explore. Space may be the final frontier (thanks for the soundbite, Captain Kirk) but there are still a fair few earthly frontiers which remain ripe for exploration, from kayaking through a jungle backwater spotting rare species on the riverbank to sinking your toes into the soft sand of an undiscovered beach.

A Client View: Climbing Kilimanjaro and Achieving Goals

A Client View: Climbing Kilimanjaro and Achieving Goals

Client and guest blogger Malcolm Durham shares his very honest thoughts on climbing Kilimanjaro, a once in a lifetime holiday experience - and how the skills required to achieve something so arduous can translate into everyday life...   A hill and back Kilimanjaro is an irritating hill. It's not 6,000 metres high it's 5,895m. That's not 20,000 feet it's 19,341. There are no views to inspire you and the food that can be carried up there is dull, dull, dull.

Riding the Cresta Run from Top

Riding the Cresta Run from Top

What exactly is the Cresta Run? An adrenaline-charged 80mph thrill, with your face just inches above the ice, explains OT founder and ski fanatic Nick. For a once in a lifetime holiday experience, head to Switzerland for the adventure to beat all adventures... 1. British Olympic Gold 2. How Cresta originated... 3. 80mph, face just inches above the ice... 4. Off we go 5. Again, please! 6. Riding with Olympic athletes 1 British Olympic Gold Last year, Amy Williams brought the little known sport of Skeleton to our screens as she slid at breakneck speed to Winter Olympics Gold in Vancouver.

10 Best Explore Holidays

10 Best Explore Holidays

If fly-and-flop holidays just aren't your thing, consider one of our best explore holidays. Not only do they give more structure to your time away, but new skills can be learnt and developed along the way, making them truly unique holiday experiences. Many of the active trips we offer are open to all abilities, and can be enjoyed alone, in couples or as families. 1 Walking in Iceland A pretty short three hour flight from London takes you to the spectacular country of Iceland.

The Best Road Trips in Australia

The Best Road Trips in Australia

Outback desert, stunning beaches as far as the eye can see, rugged coasts and steep mountains, pristine forests, rivers, gorges and canyons, Australia is full of natural treasures that are best discovered by car. From state to state, inland or on the coast, here is a selection of the best road trips in Australia. 1 Great Ocean Road, Victoria Anglesea - Aireys Inlet - Lorne - Wye River - Kennett River - Apollo Bay - Lavers Hill - Port Campbell - Peterborough 150 miles You can't drive in Australia without taking the most famous of its roads, the Great Ocean Road on the Victoria coast.

Crete's Forgotten Walking Trails

Crete's Forgotten Walking Trails

"There is a kind of flame in Crete – let's call it 'soul'".   To really connect with this poetic description by the great Greek author and philosopher Nikos Kazantzakis, you have to go walking in Crete, particularly in the west and south of the island.   Arriving in Chania is an experience in itself, with its elegant Venetian harbour today dedicated to pleasure-boating. Enjoy a first glass of Cretan white wine as the sun sets, sheltered from swells and the Etesian winds.

Doing the Engadin Ski Marathon

Doing the Engadin Ski Marathon

I've done Switzerland's Engadin Ski Marathon for the last three years, and although I'm certainly not the future of British Nordic skiing, these are my tips if you're thinking of doing it...   Logistical advice Enter the event - that way there's less of an excuse not to do it! If you're first timers, you might be encouraged to enter Classic style - but ignore this advice! Classic is slow, a groin breaker and a blister breeding ground.

A Jaunt Around Java

A Jaunt Around Java

Our resident Indonesia expert has been lucky enough to travel around the archipelago many times, and recounts how her visits to Bali, Lombok and Sumatra have really brought home just how different and unique all of the Indonesian islands are. And it was on her latest trip to visit Java, that she discovered an entirely new side to this ever-fascinating island nation…   Something different Sure enough, Java brought its own charm and something entirely different to my knowledge of Indonesia than the other islands had.

An Open Letter to Top Gear: The Best Roads In The World

An Open Letter to Top Gear: The Best Roads In The World

Dear Top Gear producers, we couldn't help but notice you've been to some pretty cool locations over the years, most recently across the mountains and desert plains of Ethiopia (while we're on the subject, kudos to you on the new series, we're big fans). But this got us to thinking of a few places you've missed off the list so far. We're not talking about your run of the mill road trips, driving through pretty country roads and stopping for lunch in lovely scenic spots, but dramatic mountain passes with hairpin bends and uneven terrain, sure to test your driving ability.

The Best Road Trips in South Africa

The Best Road Trips in South Africa

With diverse scenery, pristine coastlines, unconventional towns and wild landscapes which stretch as far as the eye can see, South Africa's roads are undoubtedly among the most beautiful in the world. Whether in the semi-desert region of the Karoo or traversing the rugged hills of the Wild Coast, adventurous travellers do not need to worry about going off the beaten track, as South Africa's road infrastructure is much better than those of neighbouring countries.

The Best Roads in New Zealand

The Best Roads in New Zealand

This is arguably one of the best countries for road trips. Glacial lakes, snow-covered fjords and mountain peaks, volcanoes, fertile plains, subtropical forests, beaches and rugged coastlines : New Zealand's roads and trails traverse landscapes of astonishing diversity and spectacular beauty. Here's a selection of our favourite road trips in New Zealand. Our New Zealand specialists offer you their selection of the best routes to travel.

Top 4 European Road Trips

Top 4 European Road Trips

Europe is ideal road tripping territory with its endless contrasting scenes, from long winding stretches of empty mountain road to mile-upon-mile of golden coastline and rolling rural farmland. There is so much variety to be had in just one European road trip. Discover all of these at your own pace, with the ability to stop and explore wherever you please, and get a taste of a more nomadic lifestyle on one of our favourite road trips in Europe… 1 France,

Top 5 Things to Do in Cape Town for Adventure Lovers

Top 5 Things to Do in Cape Town for Adventure Lovers

Everyone wants to see the top sights while in a city as beautiful and diverse as Cape Town, however, if you’re a bit of an adventure seeker it can be fun to try and get a different angle on some of these much loved attractions. So here are our top 5 suggestions of things to do during your holidays to Cape Town if you are more of an adrenaline junkie than a culture vulture… 1 See this Iconic City from the Sky The view from the top of Table Mountain is real take-your-breath-away territory, but if you’ve been there and done that, go one step further with an even more impressive view:

Five Reasons to Visit Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking and More

Five Reasons to Visit Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking and More

Rwanda, the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’, is a fascinating country that is bursting with natural beauty and truly unforgettable experiences. From gorilla trekking (the country is home to more than half of the world’s entire gorilla population) to safaris in Akagera National Park and tea plantation tours in Nyungwe, read on for a roundup of our top five reasons to visit Rwanda. 1 Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial Located in the country’s capital, the Kigali Genocide Memorial is a museum designed to educate and increase awareness about the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi minority.

Desert... Or Mountains in Uzbekistan

Desert... Or Mountains in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan might be best known for its ancient Silk Road cities' rich culture, history and art, but the country’s spectacular scenery should not be overlooked. One of the great things about this little-visited nation is that you can be in the sultry deserts of Karakalpakstan (a semi-autonomous region in southern Uzbekistan) one day and the snow-capped mountains bordering Kazakhstan the next. Whether you prefer desert or mountain vistas, read on to discover the best of Uzbekistan’s scenery…   1.

Six of the Best: US National Parks

Six of the Best: US National Parks

First introduced by President Ulysses S. Grant, the US National Parks system began with Yellowstone National Park, an Original Travel favourite, and now includes 58 parks which protect approximately 52.2million acres of mountains, forests, and wilderness, not to mention the countless creatures who live within their boundaries and provide a haven for outdoorsy types looking for luxury experiences. So, strap on your most sensible shoes and get ready to explore six of our favourites to inspire your next USA holiday.

Off-The-Beaten-Track Holidays

Off-The-Beaten-Track Holidays

They say three is the magic number but really we all know it's 57,268,900. It is, after all, the landed area of Earth in square miles - positively spacious, we think you'll agree. It would seem that there's a whole world of, well, world out there to explore. Which can be hard to believe when you find yourself on holiday and having to slalom your way past hordes of selfie-taking fellow tourists or being ushered at breakneck speed through a museum along with approximately 7,648 others.

Adventure at Victoria Falls

Adventure at Victoria Falls

Connecting two countries, spanning a massive 5,605ft wide and falling for a dramatic 354ft, Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of water in the world. There are numerous ways to see the falls and a whole load of fantastic activities on offer on both sides of the Zambia/Zimbabwe border. So if you're looking for inspiration on how to get the best out of your time at the falls, or can't decide which side of the Zambezi River to base yourself on, let us lend a helping hand with this list of our favourite things to do in the area.

Four Reasons Why Swedish Lapland Should be Your Next Holiday

Four Reasons Why Swedish Lapland Should be Your Next Holiday

Arriving in Swedish Lapland in early January, I stepped off the plane to a ""warm"" -10ËšC (as described by a local)... this is a land of snowy wilderness, where there are more reindeer than people, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in nature in its purest form and escape the chaos of everyday life. Here are four reasons why Swedish Lapland should be your next holiday destination...   Experiences Swedish Lapland is the perfect place for both the hard-hitting winter adventure seekers and the relaxing-in-nature types alike, or those looking for a bit of both!

Pimp My Ride

Pimp My Ride

Some roads demand to be driven, so a bog standard hire car just won't cut it. Add some horsepower to your holiday with these upgrades...   Sea to Sky Highway, Canada Feel the rush of driving a Ferrari or a Lamborghini on this ultimate three-hour supercar driving experience. Travelling along the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Squamish the scenery is as stunning as your supercar's performance, so buckle up and enjoy the views.

My Trip to Tanzania's Ngorongoro Area: Hiking and The Highlands

My Trip to Tanzania's Ngorongoro Area: Hiking and The Highlands

When you think of Tanzania and its Ngorongoro Crater, which I've just returned from, I am sure that 92% (precise, expert figure here) of those who haven't been before would not immediately associate either with the Scottish Highlands. But believe it or not, the similarities are uncanny. What's weird is that a holiday to the Scottish Highlands is not something I would normally leap at, I'd even go so far as to say it is something I would actively avoid.

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