According to mythology, many of Greece’s islands were crafted by the gods, and these creation myths appear apt given the islands’ exceptional beauty and other-worldly qualities. Estimates for the number of Greek islands and islets dotted along the expansive coastline vary between 1,200 and 6,000, of which 227 are inhabited, leaving you with plenty of options when planning a holiday in Greece. You can’t really go wrong with any of the Greek islands – each possesses its own individual charm and a scattering of stunning beaches – but if you’re struggling with where to start,
Sculpted by wind and wild weather for decades, centuries and even millennia, sand dunes are some of the most extraordinary natural landforms on Earth, with their seemingly limitless cumin-coloured cascades or caster-sugar sands. Sand dunes are dotted across deserts, coastlines and semi-arid regions around the world, some with pointed peaks, some towering above the rest, and each different to the next.
5th January 2025 - The Natural World
Last updated: March 2025 by Ben Williams, our Conde Nast Traveler Egypt Specialist Hello, fellow traveller. You may find yourself here because you’ve typed ‘Is it safe to travel to Egypt’ into your search engine. Or perhaps you’ve stumbled upon us in the same way those archaeologists accidentally found hundreds of rock-cut tombs in Egypt in 2021. Either way, you’re in the right place to learn more about this country (particularly if you’re already looking at flights) because it’s always worth doing some research before exploring somewhere new.
2nd November 2023 - Egypt Travel Tips
Sharing a border, coastline and mountain-range, the similarities between Colombia and Ecuador make it challenging to choose just one as a holiday destination. Both countries have recently been removed from the restricted travel list, making now the perfect time to also cross them off your bucket list. The question is: which one first? Evenly matched in many respects, Colombia vs. Ecuador promises to be a close contest,
10th November 2021 - Travel Inspiration
Italy is undoubtedly one of the prettiest places on the planet, and it’s no wonder that it’s the fifth most visited country in the world. Home to soaring snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, idyllic vineyards and a breathtaking coastline, the country’s natural splendour is abundant. Italy’s beauty comes in many forms, however, and you’ll find equally enchanting vistas throughout the urban cityscapes; Renaissance facades, ancient palazzos and Baroque basilicas juxtapose contemporary skyscrapers and boutique bistros.
10th January 2025 - Italy Travel Inspiration
The Amalfi Coast is the pastel-coloured crown jewel of Campania. Expertly stacked fishing villages spill down the cliffsides, charming coves punctuate the coastline and the world’s jet-set flock here come summer for sublime Italian food, fine wine and the postcard-primed setting. In other words, this slice of the Sorrentine Peninsula is nothing short of iconic and a must-visit on your next holiday to Italy.
23rd June 2023 - Italy Travel Tips
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, can be seen in various polar regions, but the Norwegian far north is one of the best destinations in the world for observing these famous green rays. When it appears in the darkness of night, this emerald spectacle is a breath-taking natural phenomenon which never fails to enchant and delight those who see it. Often people become so wrapped up in the magic that they turn into ‘aurora hunters’ during their Norway trips and get caught up in a never-ending quest to see the lights again and again.
22nd December 2021 - Norway Travel Tips
The poster-child for all things eco, Costa Rica is the star pupil in the world’s ecotourism class. Sandwiched between Nicaragua and Panama, this tiny Central American country prides itself on the conservation and protection of its wonderfully biodiverse environment. The country is home to half a million species and one quarter of the country’s wild lands are protected by law. Boasting 26 national parks,
28th June 2021 - Costa Rica Responsible Travel
The wonderful thing about the USA is no two cities are the same. Each has its own distinctive personality, quirks and beat, and so choosing just five of the most beautiful cities in the USA was a tough ask. While Charleston is known for its southern charm and rich history, Portland, Oregon has hipster style and hangovers – home to many bustling breweries. Seattle features the iconic Space Needles tower, while Savannah is renowned for making seriously sweet iced tea.
28th December 2024 - USA Travel Inspiration
With the football world cup in full swing, we are all in for some healthy competition, and when it comes to travel, these countries put on a thrilling match. Thailand and Indonesia are two tropical paradises that sit high on every traveller’s bucket list. With striking scenery, fabulous food, unique landmarks and tropical climates, these Southeast Asian hots spots are worthy competitors and it’s a tough bet to make.
3rd January 2023 - Travel Inspiration
White waves crash onto the inky Icelandic shore, creating foamy holographic patterns on the sweeping pitch-black sandy beach. Infamous for its perpetual volcanic activity and rugged scenery, Iceland’s black sand beaches draw crowds from far and wide. Age old lava is broken down into glistening onyx-coloured sand to form one of the most beautiful yet unearthly attractions that tourists can explore. A visit to some of the island’s volcanic beaches is a must for budding photographers, geography enthusiasts and those who admire the sheer wonders of the Icelandic landscape.
7th March 2022 - Iceland Beaches & Islands
Portugal’s main cities seem to get most of the attention. Lisbon is lauded as the perfect place for a city break, while Porto is praised as the capital’s charming culture-filled counterpart. Both are blessed with the added benefit of close proximity to the coast, meaning your city stay can feature a seaside sojourn as well as world-class dining, exquisite architecture and vinitourism (wine tasting).
26th September 2022 - Portugal Beaches & Islands
From soaring sand mountains to misty coastal dunes and polar ice sheets, the most beautiful deserts in the world are a diverse lot. Whether you’d rather seek out Earth’s tallest sand dunes in Namibia or enjoy some stellar stargazing in Chile’s Atacama, there’s a quiet beauty found in every harsh environment. But with 33 major desert areas in the world, the question is, where to begin? Read on for our roundup of the best of the bunch… 1.
29th December 2024 - The Natural World
For those of us who don’t have to adhere to the constraints of the school holidays, we have a wide choice when it comes to choosing what season to travel in. Though the summer remains a top choice, thanks to the good weather across much of the Northern Hemisphere and the general societal norm of treating ourselves to a break at this time, the so-called ‘shoulder season’ is becoming ever-more popular.
28th October 2025 - Travel Inspiration
When it comes to romance, Greece’s islands set the bar high. From Paros’ sun-kissed beaches and Folegandros’ blush-pink blooms to Sifnos’ culinary delights and Hydra’s slow-paced streets, each island radiates beauty. Whether you fall in love with the sunset in Santorini or the atmosphere in Apollonia, the perfect spot awaits. Read on to discover the most romantic islands in Greece... Paros Folegandros Sifnos Hydra Santorini Paros Best for:
27th October 2025 - Greece Travel Inspiration
Sustainability is fast becoming a key factor in travel decisions. In fact, 76% of travellers say they want to travel more sustainably over the coming 12 months, with 53% saying climate change news has influenced them to make sustainable travel choices. Over 80% of travellers worldwide said they believed sustainable travel is important. But given that travel is often synonymous with planes – which are famously an environmental challenge – how can you achieve your dream of a sustainable break?
23rd October 2025 - Responsible Travel
When you think of cherry blossom, we’d bet you picture Japan and its springtime Sakura. Now, we’re not denying that Sakura season is beautiful, but its reputation means it draws flocks of visitors, contributing to overtourism and disrupting local life. To combat this, we’re on a mission to shout about South Korea’s cherry blossom. Known locally as beotkkot, South Korea’s cherry trees bloom at a similar time to Japan’s and are just as breathtaking – without the pesky crowds (and skyrocketing costs).
20th October 2025 - South Korea The Natural World
On a research trip to Umbria and Tuscany, our Europe specialist, Valeria, discovered that the best way to explore the Italian countryside is by car. During her road trip, she marvelled at Marmore Falls, admired the beautiful views over Lake Trasimeno and wandered through the UNESCO-listed village of Castiglione d'Orcia. From cooking classes to wine tastings, her trip was jam-packed with Italian delights.
14th October 2025 - Italy Travel Tips
Thanks to you, we’ve once again been voted one of the world’s top tour operators in this year’s Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. Nearly 200,000 readers in the UK cast their votes for travel experiences they’ve adored the most – from hotels and airlines to destinations and tour operators – and to be named as one of the best in the business means the world to us. We’re particularly proud because this recognition comes directly from you, the travellers we craft truly tailor-made trips for.
8th October 2025
When it comes to your holiday, a little planning goes a long way. Recently, we’ve noticed a pattern of both last-minute and long-term bookings, which we’ve named the Concertina Effect. But why are people booking so far in advance? Our co-founder, Tom Barber, thinks ‘anticication’ has something to do with it: ‘in uncertain times, planning something joyful far ahead becomes an act of hope’. Whether admiring cherry blossoms in Japan, celebrating the Holi festival in India, cruising down the Nile on the Steam Ship Sudan, or spotting gorillas in Uganda, some holidays require extra attention.
6th October 2025 - Travel Inspiration
Spring in New York is an underrated sweet spot. While the Big Apple typically tempts travellers with its magical winters and sizzling summers, spring promises the gift of crowd-free fun. As the weather begins to warm, coats and winter blues are shed, cherry blossoms explode to life and rooftop bars reopen. Tick off the city’s classic corners (hello, Times Square) and join in with the seasonal festivities.
30th September 2025 - USA Guide
Every year, the same story plays out: employees in the UK let holiday days go to waste. One recent survey found that 65% of UK workers don’t use up their allowance – and a whopping 17% leave five or more days unclaimed. Another source concurs: in 2023, 61% of workers reported not using all of their annual leave. This is all especially galling when you compare us to our European neighbours. Across the EU, the average entitlement (including public holidays) is about 34 days per year, whereas in the UK, many of us are left with just 28 days.
29th September 2025 - Travel Inspiration
Two hundred years ago, the world’s first passenger train chugged into motion. To celebrate that milestone, we’ve put together The Right Track – our latest brochure, celebrating the world’s finest rail journeys. Train travel has a way of opening a window into a country’s soul, and our latest stories capture that magic. And now, after centuries of evolution, train travel is experiencing a remarkable resurgence.
24th September 2025 - Slow Travel
Wedding anniversaries are all about celebrating love, and here at Original Travel, we believe the best way to do that is on holiday. We understand that every couple is different, so whether you two are after bucket-list adventures in Norway or total relaxation in South Africa, we’ve got you covered. Ready to mark the occasion? Read on for our comprehensive list of the best anniversary holidays… First Anniversary:
23rd September 2025 - Travel Inspiration
You may have noticed something different. Our logo now bears the words ‘by Voyageurs du Monde'. This isn’t a change of direction but an acknowledgement of something that has been true since 2017: Original Travel is part of the Voyageurs du Monde family. In practice, little changes. We remain committed to our mantra of kaizen – continuous improvement – to create truly tailor-made travel curated to our clients’ exact requirements so they can really connect with a destination.
16th September 2025
Searching for the best safaris in India? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re keen to track tigers in Madhya Pradesh, admire Asiatic lions in Gujarat or photograph forest eagle owls in Kerala, your India holiday awaits. While Bengal tigers steal the limelight in Bandhavgarh National Park, don’t forget about the shaggy sloth bears (though they’re not as cuddly as they look). Feeling up for the adventure?
15th September 2025 - India Safari & Wildlife
Keen for a road trip abroad, but don’t want to drive on the other side of the road? You’re not alone. Luckily, around 30% of countries in the world drive on the left, so there’s plenty of open road for us Brits to discover. While not every left-handed country is suited to self-driving (we’re looking at you, India), it’s undeniable that some are best explored via their roads. From the epic alpine scenery of New Zealand to Namibia’s desert delights, read on for the best road trips in countries that drive on the left… 1.
11th September 2025 - Slow Travel
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
For those of us who don’t have to adhere to the constraints of the school holidays, we have a wide choice when it comes to choosing what season to travel in. Though the summer remains a top choice, thanks to the good weather across much of the Northern Hemisphere and the general societal norm of treating ourselves to a break at this time, the so-called ‘shoulder season’ is becoming ever-more popular.
28th October 2025 - Travel Inspiration
When it comes to romance, Greece’s islands set the bar high. From Paros’ sun-kissed beaches and Folegandros’ blush-pink blooms to Sifnos’ culinary delights and Hydra’s slow-paced streets, each island radiates beauty. Whether you fall in love with the sunset in Santorini or the atmosphere in Apollonia, the perfect spot awaits. Read on to discover the most romantic islands in Greece... Paros Folegandros Sifnos Hydra Santorini Paros Best for:
27th October 2025 - Greece Travel Inspiration
When it comes to your holiday, a little planning goes a long way. Recently, we’ve noticed a pattern of both last-minute and long-term bookings, which we’ve named the Concertina Effect. But why are people booking so far in advance? Our co-founder, Tom Barber, thinks ‘anticication’ has something to do with it: ‘in uncertain times, planning something joyful far ahead becomes an act of hope’. Whether admiring cherry blossoms in Japan, celebrating the Holi festival in India, cruising down the Nile on the Steam Ship Sudan, or spotting gorillas in Uganda, some holidays require extra attention.
6th October 2025 - Travel Inspiration
Wedding anniversaries are all about celebrating love, and here at Original Travel, we believe the best way to do that is on holiday. We understand that every couple is different, so whether you two are after bucket-list adventures in Norway or total relaxation in South Africa, we’ve got you covered. Ready to mark the occasion? Read on for our comprehensive list of the best anniversary holidays… First Anniversary:
23rd September 2025 - Travel Inspiration
A holiday to Norway in May is all about good food and even better views. Enjoy the flourishing landscapes and quieter hiking trails before the busy summer crowds. Sample fresh seafood in Bergen and celebrate Norway’s National Day, or delve into Trondheim’s music scene at the city’s annual Jazz Festival. For outdoor lovers, Lofoten awaits. Embark on a sea eagle safari, kayak through the fjords or marvel at the Midnight Sun.
1st September 2025 - Norway Travel Inspiration
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
On a research trip to Umbria and Tuscany, our Europe specialist, Valeria, discovered that the best way to explore the Italian countryside is by car. During her road trip, she marvelled at Marmore Falls, admired the beautiful views over Lake Trasimeno and wandered through the UNESCO-listed village of Castiglione d'Orcia. From cooking classes to wine tastings, her trip was jam-packed with Italian delights.
14th October 2025 - Italy Travel Tips
From the 12th October 2025, the EU is introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) for all non-EU travellers visiting Europe for short stays. This applies whether you need a visa or can already visit visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180 days. So, what does it mean for you? (Don't worry, it's nothing to lose sleep over) At passport control, your facial image will be taken and – the first time – your fingerprints scanned.
10th September 2025 - Travel Tips
Americans know a thing or two about wide, open spaces, and our USA specialist, Dave, discovered what all the fuss was about during his research trip to the Rockies and the American West. He dug into dinosaur discoveries in Bozeman, snapped pictures of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon and spotted bears and bison in Grand Teton National Park. When he wasn’t cheering at a Major League Baseball game in Denver, he was tucking into South Dakota’s specialty steak dish.
15th July 2025 - USA Travel Tips
With its dramatic landscapes, explosive geysers and wonderful wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of our favourite places in the USA. Spread across two million acres of land and spanning three states, the park is set on a dormant supervolcano and boasts spectacular geological features. Each season in Yellowstone brings a new spectacle – winter brings snow and serenity, while spring offers fantastic flora and fauna.
30th June 2025 - USA Travel Tips
On a recent research trip to the Peloponnese in Greece, our Europe specialist, Emily, self-drove around the region’s most photo-worthy spots. When she wasn’t basking in the sun on Elafonisos’s beaches or devouring Greek dishes at local tavernas, she was putting on her history hat and exploring the ancient archaeological sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus. From Arcadia’s muscular mountains to the velvety sands of the Mani Peninsula, it was an adventure to remember.
17th June 2025 - Greece Travel Tips
Welcome to the fourth issue of Original Traveller. Inside you’ll find wonderful articles by the UK’s finest travel writers, accompanied by pictures from award-winning photographers. These lovely long-reads are supplemented by the latest travel news, views and trends brought to you by the Original Travel team, who have – as ever – been circumnavigating the globe on research trips. The issue is themed around travel’s simple pleasures, so you’ll also read about our recommendations for sleeping under canvas (in comfort), foodie foraging tips and new train routes to take. Happy reading!
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