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
Since the beginning of time, humans have been drawn to lakes, whether it’s to appreciate their beauty or see first-hand the places where monsters such as Nessie (Scotland) and Ogopogo (Canada) are said to reside. Fortunately, we’re spoilt for choice, from Lake Como’s bluer-than-blue waters to Moraine Lake’s magnificent mountainous backdrop. Fancy a trip to one of the world’s best bodies of water? Read on for our shortlist of the most beautiful lakes in the world… Lake Como,
9th May 2025 - The Natural World
Is it always possible to see the Southern Lights? No. Is it worth trying? Without a shadow of a doubt. The Southern Lights (aurora australis) are notoriously more difficult to see than their northern counterparts, but that only makes the swirling rivers of greenish blue even more spectacular when you do catch a glimpse of them. The best time to see the aurora australis is during the Southern Hemisphere’s darker, cooler months – from March to September – when the skies are clearest and the nights are longest.
14th March 2025 - The Natural World
Crisscrossing through every continent, rivers are a vibrant and vital part of the Earth’s ecosystem. They’re also exceptionally easy on the eye. Cutting through thick forests, flowing through cities and winding around mountains, a river’s route can reveal incredible landscapes just steps from its banks. From the colourful Cano Cristales to the dreamy Danube, read on for our pick of the most beautiful rivers in the world… Cano Cristales The Nile The Danube The Kenai The Amazon Cano Cristales Aptly nicknamed the ‘liquid rainbow’,
28th February 2025 - The Natural World
The most beautiful islands in Norway have to be seen to be believed. Rugged cliffs rise from icy fjords, colourful villages brim with storybook charm and craggy mountains kiss the clouds. Hop between the Lofoten Islands, north of the Arctic Circle, or play spot the tail on a whale-watching tour off the coast of Andoya in Vesteralen. To witness the ever-elusive Northern Lights, visit Senja or head to Bo Island for prime birdwatching opportunities.
17th February 2025 - Norway The Natural World
Whether you climb up them, ski down them or drive around them, there’s no denying a mountain’s beauty. With many dating back millions of years, these mighty monoliths are a testament to Mother Nature’s endurance and artistic talent. And although each one is impressive in its own right, we all have favourites (and that’s okay). Ready to be amazed by these hefty hunks of rock? Read on to discover our pick of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
10th February 2025 - The Natural World
There’s a reason why the signs into British Columbia read, ‘welcome to the most beautiful place on Earth’. Canada’s southwestern province is home to scenery that’s as diverse as it is breathtaking. From soaring mountains and lush green forests to sparkling coastlines and bustling cities, British Columbia (BC) has it all. The whole province, from Vancouver Island up to the Yukon, has some of the most staggering natural scenery we have ever seen.
8th January 2025 - Canada The Natural World
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
Mother Nature has plenty of tricks up her sleeve and never fails to impress with her many marvels. And while there are myriad man-made wonders worth travelling to, there’s something special about witnessing the natural world at its most powerful. From the otherworldly spectacle of the Northern Lights to the sci-fi splendour of a solar eclipse, the natural world really puts us in our place. Part of their charm lies in their transience, so travelling to see them requires careful calendar coordination.
1st January 2025 - The Natural World
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
Spread across Borneo, Sumatra, Namibia, the Eastern Himalayas and coastal East Africa, rhinos are some of Africa and Asia’s most iconic animals. There are five species in total – black, white, Indian, Javan and Sumatran – and while they share common characteristics, each species has distinctive traits. From super speed to communication quirks, read on for a roundup of our top rhino facts… Name origins Strong horns Super speed Quirky communication Strong swimmers Remarkable recovery Enormous appetite Name origins Black and white rhinos’ names aren’t as self-descriptive as they seem.
24th December 2024 - The Natural World
Pint-sized Costa Rica might be small, but it sure is mighty. Fusing thrumming cities like San Jose and Limon with outstanding nature, this pocket of paradise boasts two rugged coastlines, a strip of smouldering volcanoes and plenty of lush rainforests, jade green lakes and misty mountain peaks. It’s no wonder we struggled to pick just six of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica for this roundup. From waterfall chasing at Tenorio Volcano National Park and rafting down the Pacuare River,
21st December 2024 - Costa Rica The Natural World
Not to be mistaken for the big-headed bison, buffalo are some of nature’s most robust beasts. Two distinct species, African and Asian water buffalo, are scattered across their respective continents, weighing over 2,000lb and standing up to six feet tall. While they share similarities – like their characteristic curved horns – each boasts species-specific differences. From their grudge-holding tendencies to their mud-loving ways,
2nd December 2024 - The Natural World
Marine iguanas are some of the Galapagos’ most resilient residents. By adapting to their harsh environment over millions of years, these remarkable reptiles have set themselves apart from any other lizard on the planet. With aquatic adaptations that see them foraging in the ocean and distinctive salty sneezes, this scaly species is testament to the power of evolution. Eager to learn more? Read on for a deep dive into our favourite facts about marine iguanas.
14th October 2024 - The Natural World
One thing the Golden State isn’t short of is beauty. Whether it’s the sun-drenched coastline, the mountainous interior or the diverse national parks, there’s something to marvel at in every corner of California. Add in an enviable climate and some must-visit cities, and it’s no surprise that this sparkling state is high up on everyone’s travel bucket list. But when it comes to nature, nowhere does it quite like Cali.
7th October 2024 - USA The Natural World
The world is full of legendary landscapes, and the rugged Rocky Mountains are no exception. Carving incredible views from North America’s New Mexico to Canada’s British Colombia, no trip to either country is complete without visiting the Rockies. Providing enviable views, adventurous activities and heaps of history year-round, their mountainous national parks shine in every season. So, read on to discover some of the best places to lace up your boots and explore an ancient rocky world.
30th September 2024 - USA The Natural World
Fjords are one of Norway’s defining features. Long, narrow inlets of the sea, carved by glaciers between high cliffs, the name ‘fjord’ is an ancient Viking term that combines the phrase ‘crossing point’ and the word for ‘ferry’. These distinct topographies make up much of the Norwegian coastline and contribute to the awe-inspiring scenery that sees visitors flocking to the Scandinavian nation for Norway holidays.
26th September 2024 - Norway The Natural World
When it comes to alluring African animals, giraffes are – quite literally – head and shoulders above the rest. With their slender necks and long black tongues, these curious creatures appear to be plucked straight from a child’s imagination. And while their appearance is striking enough, facts about giraffes only further enhance this wonder of nature. From aiding space exploration to having a bumpy birth, read on to discover our top ten giraffe facts.
13th May 2024 - The Natural World
With their iconic spots and unmatched hunting abilities, jaguars command attention wherever they roam. Dotted across Latin America’s tropical rainforests, savannahs and grasslands, these ferocious felines are apex predators with distinct traits and behaviours. Read on to discover our top ten jaguar facts, from their super senses to the ongoing efforts to ensure their survival amid human challenges… ‘He
6th May 2024 - The Natural World
Whether you were lucky enough to experience 2024’s total solar eclipse first-hand or, like us, had to enviously watch it through a screen, one thing’s for sure: we’ve all been frantically asking, ‘when is the next solar eclipse?’. It’s natural to want in on the action. Eclipses are a phenomenon straight out of a sci-fi film, and here in the UK, we won’t experience a total one until 2090. And while you never need an excuse to get away, chasing one of the future solar eclipses around the globe is the perfect reason to indulge in a travel adventure infused with cosmic wonder.
24th April 2024 - The Natural World
Known for their enormous wingspans, terrifying talons and piercing gazes, eagles are fearsome birds of prey you may have been lucky enough to see gliding in the sky above you. But just how much do you know about the majestic eagle? From their cunning hunting tactics and keen eyesight to their popular symbolism, read on for an eagle education with our top ten eagle facts… 1. Symbolic power2. Multiple species3.
11th April 2024 - The Natural World
The Original Travel team is bursting with travel specialists (check out our Top Travel Specialists selected by Conde Nast Traveler), so when asked about our favourite birds in India, we passed the mic over to Frances Mavor. As a feathered friend fanatic and India expert, Frances knows her stuff when it comes to the birds ruling this slice of Asia’s sky. Read on to discover a few of her favourites and learn a thing or two about the glorious,
4th April 2024 - India The Natural World
If you go down to the woods today... you may just learn one or two bear facts. From the great grizzlies of North America to the playful pandas of China, bears have long captured our imaginations and graced countless books, films and teddy bear picnics. Aside from being almost ten-feet tall when standing on their hind legs, bears are known for their incredible adaptations, intelligence and species diversity.
26th March 2024 - The Natural World
Fast, fearless and fur-ocious, the majestic leopard is nature’s answer to an efficient and elegant predator. Despite being the smallest member of the big cat family, leopards pack a punch with their guttural roars and fierce appetites. With nine subspecies spread across various regions of Africa and Asia, they also play an integral role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Interested in learning more about this spotty species?
8th March 2024 - The Natural World
Gorillas take the crown as the largest primate, their muscular bodies standing up to a mighty six feet tall. But beneath their burly exterior, you might be surprised to find a gentle jungle giant. Just like humans, they can laugh, feel sadness and have complex social systems. Despite their shy nature, dense forest habitat and tendency to travel long distances making them difficult to study, there’s no denying their magnificence.
28th February 2024 - The Natural World
Is it a pinecone? Is it an artichoke? No, it’s a pangolin, the quirky creature that lives across parts of Asia and Africa. Looking like a mashup of an anteater and an armadillo, pangolins are one of nature’s most confusing creations. They’re the only mammals wholly covered with scales from head to tail and are more closely related to cats, dogs and bears than their armadillo lookalikes. Confused and intrigued?
26th February 2024 - The Natural World
What’s orange, painted with black stripes and the largest species in the big cat family? That’s right, the humble tiger. But despite their iconic facade, there’s more to the tango-coloured creatures than meets the eye (of the tiger). Want to brush up your knowledge of these ferocious cats? Read on to uncover some of our favourite tiger facts, from their aquatic abilities to their temporary terrible eyesight.
21st February 2024 - The Natural World
The Planet Earth III filming locations transport us to some of the most captivating corners of the planet. These scenes, accompanied by David Attenborough’s warm words of wisdom, remind us that the natural world is a force to be reckoned with. Raging oceans, scorching deserts and fierce forests sustain the life of countless creatures and leave us wandering what life is like across the globe. But put your pondering on pause, as we’re here to help turn those thoughts into reality.
15th November 2023 - The Natural World
Mother Nature has been kind to Canada and blessed this North American nation with UNESCO-worthy national parks, soaring mountain ranges, shimmering lakes and celestial skyscapes. But with great beauty, comes great responsibility, and Canada also holds the accolades of the world’s longest coastline (151,600 miles) and largest country in the Western Hemisphere (the UK could fit into it 40 times). This immense size can seem daunting, and however willing you are to explore, you’ll need to decide on a starting point.
12th October 2023 - Canada The Natural World
Often described as ‘a world in one country’, South Africa is the continent’s jack of all trades. With landscapes that range from expansive savannahs and pristine beaches to world-class game reserves and colourful cities, there’s a little bit of everything on the southern tip of Africa. But this isn’t to say that the ‘Rainbow Nation’ is master of none – in fact, it does beach breaks, city sojourns and safari stays all exceptionally well.
4th October 2023 - South Africa The Natural World
Yosemite National Park is a display of some of Mother Nature’s finest work. Dating back millions of years, the valley is home to cascading waterfalls and granite rocks whose size seems to defy the laws of nature. But no matter how unbelievable this landscape appears, we can assure you it’s all too real – the yearly 3.5 million visitors can vouch for it. Given its enormity, it’s difficult to know where to start when planning how to spend just one day here on your next USA trip.
25th September 2023 - USA The Natural World
The label ‘small yet perfectly formed’ seems very appropriate for Slovenia. This compact country might be half the size of Switzerland and smaller than the US state of New Jersey, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in scenery. Rivers and lakes, valleys and vineyards, caves and coast – almost everything in Slovenia is within a two-hour drive of the capital Ljubljana, so holidays here can be as rich and varied as the landscape.
13th September 2023 - Slovenia The Natural World
When it comes to bucket-list experiences, seeing the celestial spectacle of the Northern Lights (or aurora borealis) is a popular pick. However, it can be a tricky one to tick off. First, you’ve got to travel to the right place (typically the Nordic nations) at the right time (between September and April). Then, once there, you’ll need clear conditions, just enough solar activity and a dose of good luck.
12th September 2023 - Finland The Natural World
Sri Lanka is rightfully renowned for its diverse landscapes, attracting travellers from across the globe to experience some of Mother Nature’s finest work. Whether you’re travelling with your other half or with youngsters in tow, the scenery leaves little room for disappointment; think lush tea hills, stirring mountains and enticing coastlines. Eager to fly to the uniquely pear-shaped island? We’ve compiled a list of some of the most unmissable landscapes in Sri Lanka.
11th September 2023 - Sri Lanka The Natural World
The scenery of South Africa spans pristine beaches, wild national parks, majestic mountains and so much more. As your plane touches down on South African tarmac, it’s a good idea to free up some space on your phone, ready to fill your camera roll with photo after photo of natural beauty. From the iconic peak of Table Mountain to the gorgeous Garden Route, landscapes in South Africa are easy to fall in love with.
6th September 2023 - South Africa The Natural World
From the dramatic peaks of the Andes to the lush vastness of the Amazon rainforest, Peru’s scenery makes a holiday here truly special. Natural beauty is something this South American destination does incredibly well, so it’s no wonder that it regularly appears on travellers’ wish lists. Multicoloured mountains, mysterious ruins and (of course) the majestic Machu Picchu are just a few of our favourite unmissable landscapes in Peru.
4th September 2023 - Peru The Natural World
We think that flowers are blooming lovely. And if you’re inclined to agree, then a well-timed trip can allow you to reap the bountiful rewards of nature and see landscapes transformed by patchworks of pigment. Some countries have come to be defined by their floral fanfares; in 2019, some 63 million people travelled to Japan during cherry blossom season, while the Netherlands’ tulip fields have become a staple of springtime.
31st August 2023 - The Natural World
There’s a lot to love about hiking holidays. The fresh air; the exercise-induced endorphins; the jaw-dropping views. But there are downsides too, chief among them the standard of accommodation. If you opt to camp, you’ll get up close and personal with Mother Nature for sure, but maybe too close, what with the bad back from sleeping on the ground and eyebags from the early morning sun-streaming-into-your-tent wake-up calls.
31st August 2023 - The Natural World
Sitting pretty between snow-capped mountains and the ocean, Vancouver regularly ranks highly on lists of the best places to live. And it’s easy to see why. Canada’s third-largest city is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an oasis for the outdoorsy. You can hike, swim and sail, all the while sampling some of the best culinary and cultural delights you’d expect from a cosmopolitan city like Vancouver.
29th August 2023 - Canada The Natural World
A short-haul destination that serves up exotic scenery at every stop, Morocco is easily accessible from the UK yet a world away in culture and character. Morocco welcomed a record number of visitors in the first quarter of 2023. And when you look closer at the country’s vastly varied landscapes, it’s easy to understand why the country is trending with travellers. Lofty peaks, dune-filled deserts and ancient cities all vie for attention, while national parks and blissful beaches ensure there’s something to entice every type of holidaymaker – from hiker to honeymooner.
28th August 2023 - Morocco The Natural World
Sunsets are one of Mother Nature’s most magical quirks. Seeing the sun sink beneath the horizon while the sky turns incredible shades of pink, orange and purple is a wonderful finale to a day well spent. This is all the sweeter when you can enjoy it on holiday, away from any crowds and with a chilled drink in hand. Stunning landscapes and colourful skies combine in these five destinations for some of the best sunsets in the world.
27th August 2023 - The Natural World
Beloved by backpackers, beach bums and families alike, Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. And with good reason. From idyllic islands and cosmopolitan cities to national parks filled with natural wonders, the country has it all in one aesthetically-pleasing package. To help you plan a trip that’s jam-packed with picturesque vistas and unforgettable views, here’s our round-up of unmissable landscapes in Thailand.
24th August 2023 - Thailand The Natural World
We’ll level with you. Drawing up a shortlist of unmissable landscapes in New Zealand has been challenging to say the least. The country is one unmissable landscape after another; volcanos, mountains, beaches, geysers, forests, vineyards, fiords, glaciers and so much more. The Kiwis don’t call it Godzone (God’s own country) for nothing. So, with the caveat that we could never cram every extraordinary sight into a single blog post, here are just a few of our favourites.
23rd August 2023 - New Zealand The Natural World
Whether you’re wildlife-spotting on safari, hiking a dormant volcano or taking it easy on a tropical beach, Kenya delivers spectacular scenery at every stop. It’s a playground of picturesque vistas and vibrant culture, where the most pressing problem is which wild species or natural wonder to see first. From grassy plains to grand peaks, here’s our shortlist of unmissable landscapes in Kenya – hand-picked to help you plan a trip that’s packed with the very best views.
14th August 2023 - Kenya The Natural World
It’s no surprise that people travel from all over the word to get a taste of Bolivia’s spellbinding natural landscapes. From the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca and the vast salt planes of Salar de Uyuni to the hairpin bends of North Yungas Road and the ancient archeological site of Tiwanaku, the landscapes in Bolivia are proof that Mother Nature can’t help showing off from time to time. Read on
7th August 2023 - Bolivia The Natural World
Planning a trip to South America? Make sure Argentina is on your itinerary. This incredible country is divided into four regions, each with its own treasure trove of natural wonders. In the north, there’s the enchanting subtropical lowlands, home to the dramatic horseshoe-shaped Iguazu Falls. Venture further west and you’ll be greeted by the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains with its high-altitude vineyards.
1st August 2023 - Argentina The Natural World
Your trip Down Under might begin in a jet-lagged haze, but once your body clock is back on track and you head out on an Aussie adventure, some extra-special scenery is waiting to say g’day. From coastal roads and coral reefs to majestic mountains and ancient monoliths, Australia is all about bucket list landscapes. So, if your idea of the perfect itinerary is one that’s packed with panoramic views and picturesque places, keep reading for our round-up of unmissable landscapes in Australia.
31st July 2023 - Australia The Natural World
There are few greater feelings than the sense of wonderment that comes with tipping your head back and gazing up at the night sky. And while we’re not about to start banging on about antimatter, circumstellar discs and magellanic clouds (although they all sound marvellous), we are in the know when it comes to the best places to see stars. It's alarming, then, that some scientists predict that, due to the encroachment of light pollution, we may not be able to see the night sky and stars across large sections of the planet beyond 2025.
25th July 2023 - The Natural World
While city living has its own advantages, there’s no denying that the star-studded skies of the suburbs possess a certain type of magic. Increasingly, travellers are seeking out the reflective calm of the night sky and the phrase ‘astrotourism’ has come to define these star-chasing experiences. Chile has long championed such encounters, with laws in place to prevent light pollution and maintain dark sky sites.
17th July 2023 - USA The Natural World
Norway might be the first Nordic country that comes to mind when you think of fjords, but there are more than 100 fjords in Iceland too. Many were formed during the last Ice Age as glaciers moved towards the sea, carving deep and narrow inlets into the landscape. Today, the fjords remain a striking feature of the coastline; spectacular, serene and surrounded by mountain peaks, waterfalls and walking trails.
12th July 2023 - Iceland The Natural World
Calling all budding historians and amateur archaeologists, this one’s for you. Gone are the days convincing family members history tours of Italy are better than fly and flops on the Amalfi Coast. Thanks to a new and exclusive partnership between Original Travel and Past Preservers – a global network of renowned archaeologists, historians and authors – you can have both. Once only available to production companies for TV and films like the Discovery Channel’s What on Earth and Channel 4’s Great British Dig,
11th July 2023 - The Natural World
If you’re reading this, it’s likely you already know what a 'wadi' is, but for those in the dark, it roughly translates from Arabic as ‘valley’. While planning your Jordanian holiday, you’re probably also already aware that the country is 75% desert, but that fact blew our minds so much, we just had to write it down. It’s safe to say Jordan is ripe with bucket-list worthy must-sees – from the archaeological ruins of Petra to the awe-inspiring draw of the Dead Sea.
6th July 2023 - Jordan The Natural World
Want to see the diverse landscapes in Costa Rica in real life, just to make sure they’re as incredible as they sound? It’ll be the trip of a lifetime, that’s for sure. Located in Central America, this relatively small country is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a popular destination for travellers from across the world. Costa Rica has two coastlines: the Caribbean coast and the Pacific coast.
29th June 2023 - Costa Rica The Natural World
For just a few weeks each year, Japan’s parks, pathways and mountainsides are transformed by the blossoming of 'sakura' (cherry trees). 'Sakura' have a deep cultural significance in Japan, symbolising not only the arrival of spring, but also beauty, good luck, new beginnings and the value of life, which is precious and impermanent. Cherry blossom season, which generally runs from late March to mid-April, is marked by celebrations, ceremonies and the arrival of various 'sakura'-themed delicacies in shops and restaurants.
26th May 2023 - Japan The Natural World
A haven of natural wonder beckoning travellers from around the world, Sweden certainly knows how to put on a show. The yin to the Northern Lights’ yang, the Midnight Sun is the phenomenon of endless days. From late-May to mid-July, the sun hangs low in the sky but never sets, bathing everything in a surreal soft glow. Forget about sleep, this is the time for adventurers to amplify the summer fun. In addition to picture-perfect views and lingering light, visitors can enjoy late-night hikes, swims in crystal-clear lakes, wildlife watching tours, and festivals to celebrate the extended days.
25th April 2023 - Sweden The Natural World
Breath-taking views are not too hard to come by in the land of colourful clapboard buildings, sweeping national parks and seemingly endless islands. But for those with a penchant for seeking out those viewpoints that have that something extra, that sprinkle of magic which takes a vista from a nine to a ten, you’re in luck, as we’ve already done the handwork for you. We’re taking you from the clandestine rooftops of Stockholm’s old town to the some of the most celebrated viewpoints in the snowy lands of Swedish Lapland, and just about everywhere in between.
31st March 2023 - Sweden The Natural World
Packed with dense rainforest, wild coastline and rugged mountain ranges, Costa Rica guarantees views that make your heart skip a beat. It may be small compared to neighbouring Nicaragua and the vast countries of South America, but every corner is full to the brim with natural beauty and wondrous wildlife. Whether you’re hiking, swimming or simply lazing on the beach, this stunning Central American country offers scenery like you’ve never seen before.
28th March 2023 - Costa Rica The Natural World
Iceland, nicknamed the 'Land of Fire and Ice’, is a Nordic nation known for its diverse and somewhat alien landscapes. The country is best known for being a snow-cloaked paradise, enticing winter lovers with its iceberg-filled lagoons and Northern Lights sightings. But the Scandi hotspot also plays host to a lot of geothermal activity, too, and there are plenty of steaming hot springs to bathe in. Of course, donning a swimsuit for a dip in the natural waters seem like an almost ludicrous suggestion in an Arctic country, but trust us on this one.
11th March 2023 - Iceland The Natural World
Watching the night sky come alive with dancing beams of green, purple and pink is a life affirming experience that many travellers chase, as they scour the globe in search of their next adventure. Famously elusive (with sightings sadly not guaranteed), the Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis) are a unique natural occurrence caused by electrically charged sunlight particles colliding within the Earth’s atmosphere.
27th February 2023 - Sweden The Natural World
Nicknamed the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’, Iceland basks in the natural splendour of its menacing volcanoes, striking glaciers and turquoise lagoons. The otherworldly geographical foundations of the island means that over 80% of the land is uninhabited, making it possible to admire some dramatic, unspoiled and wildlife-rich landscapes in total peace and quiet. When it comes to tourist attractions in Iceland,
13th February 2023 - Iceland The Natural World
The unspoilt sprawling natural wonders of Iceland look torn straight from the chapters of a fairy-tale, where each turn of the page reveals a new active spluttering volcano, cascading waterfall, mist-snagging mountain peak and mirror-like lake, all longing to be appreciated. This enigmatic land has fjords, glaciers and highland plains in abundance, and thankfully there’s three national parks in Iceland to protect, preserve and nurture this unique ecosystem.
1st February 2023 - Iceland The Natural World
With the nickname of 'det avlånga landet' (the elongated country), Sweden is home to dramatic and varied landscapes from vast alpine wildernesses and ancient pine-scented forests to rock-peppered shores. With such special, world-class landscapes, the Swedes decided to establish a number of national parks to protect the last true wilderness areas that fill this snow dusted country. In 1909, they set aside nine noteworthy landscapes,
16th December 2022 - Sweden The Natural World
India is a country of contrasts, where the compulsive chaos and cacophony of sounds ripple across the land, calling curious travellers from far and wide. It’s a place where spiritual beliefs, traditions and staggering natural landscapes intertwine to form a captivating medley of sights and sounds. From the depths of the Thar desert to the lapping waves of the Andaman Islands, there is much to be explored on an India holiday.
13th December 2022 - India The Natural World
With one foot in its storied past and the other stepping into a promising future, Oman is a diverse and exciting destination topped off with a wealth of staggeringly beautiful landscapes you can click your camera at. This is a place where warm Arabian hospitality ripples through the mountainous slopes of Jebel Akhdar and into the deep canyons of the Hajar Mountains. The Oman landscapes offer swoops of sand dunes, golden crescent beaches and mountains that carve their way across the skyline.
24th November 2022 - Oman The Natural World
Sweden is about so much more than ABBA, meatballs and sleek interiors, even if these do make for a pretty spectacular Scandinavian adventure. This wintry wonderland is home to some of Earth’s most astonishingly beautiful spots with stunning seascapes, storybook fjords and quaint historic towns, as well as the sometimes-elusive Northern Lights. Whether you want head out into a snow-filled wilderness,
15th November 2022 - Sweden The Natural World
When it comes to wildlife, Brazil tops the list of ‘mega-diverse’ countries, boasting between 15 and 20 percent of the world's total biodiversity. This title could equally extend to the breath-taking variety of environments which weave together to form the fabric of this extraordinary nation. As the largest country in Latin America, Brazil’s landscapes are legendary in scope; among them you’ll find the world’s largest waterfall system (Iguaçu Falls), one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (Christ the Redeemer) and part of the planet’s largest tropical rainforest (the Brazilian Amazon).
20th September 2022 - Brazil The Natural World
Standing in the centre of a forest, gazing up at gargantuan trees towering overhead, is a wonderfully humbling experience – one which can instantly bring you back down to earth and diminish any semblance of stress. The mood-boosting and worry-relieving benefits of the natural world are often touted, and ambling through one of the most beautiful forests in the world is a gratifying way to reconnect with Mother Nature.
8th September 2022 - The Natural World
For those of us who live in light-polluted cities, it can be hard to imagine how magnificent a clear night sky looks. Luminous pinpricks decorate the sky’s deep velvet fabric as celestial bodies convene overhead, and constellations emerge out of a fathomless canvas. In common parlance, stars are to be wished upon and deciphered by horoscopes, yet gazing deep into space can offer a perspective-shifting experience in more remote regions of the world.
11th August 2022 - Chile The Natural World
Our Earth is brimming with natural marvels. Great glistening lakes, mountainous amphitheatres and lunar-like salt plains are among some of the most amazing natural spectacles that fill the Earth’s surface, but there are seven places in particular that should be at the top of your bucket list. Whether hiking to the world’s tallest peak, watching from a snowmobile as the sky becomes a natural light show or listening to a deafening slab of water from a hovering helicopter, Earth’s natural wonders never fail to impress.
9th August 2022 - The Natural World
The landscapes in Vietnam are renowned for their beauty. From rice-terraced mountains and lush tropical jungles to palm-fringed beaches and idyllic islands, there’s a lot to love about this long (and slightly skinny) land. It’s a country that’s unapologetically Vietnamese and while its journey has not always been a positive one, it’s continuing to acknowledge and grow (much like the lush vegetation) from its tumultuous past.
5th August 2022 - Vietnam The Natural World
Created by geothermally heated water emerging out of the Earth’s crust, hot springs are some of the most tranquil and therapeutic natural wonders that you can encounter while travelling. If you’ve spent the day switching between planes, trains and automobiles, an afternoon of soaking in one of nature’s hot tubs is the ideal way to relax and unwind. As an added bonus, the mineral-rich waters of each hot spring are said to provide a number of medicinal benefits, such as stress relief and skin detoxing.
18th July 2022 - The Natural World
‘Marsh is not swamp. Marsh is a space of light, where grass grows in water, and water flows into the sky.’ At least that’s how Delia Owens, author of the Sunday Times bestseller ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’, defines them. With a multifaceted role as protectorate, teacher and carer of Owens’ protagonist Kya, it is clear that the North Carolina marshes depicted in the book are much more than the uninhabited and underestimated spaces many believe them to be.
15th July 2022 - The Natural World
Our wonderful Earth’s crust is scattered with holes and openings, known by some as gateways to hell and simply as volcanoes to others. Some are active and unpredictable, while others are the shells of their former selves, now home to lush greenery and wildlife rather than magma. Whether it is the uncontrollable spewing of fiery red lava that intrigues you or perhaps the challenge of scaling the vertiginous flanks of one of Earth’s most epic escarpments,
7th July 2022 - The Natural World
If you aren’t an arboriculturist or a tree enthusiast, it may be likely that to you, a tree is just a tree. You may even think trees are just somewhere to shelter under in the rain or something a cat might get stuck up, however our Earth is brimming with leafy wonders of all shapes and sizes, some filled with magical flowers, some standing tall above the rest. The Whomping Willow from 'Harry Potter' or the Tree of Life from 'The Lion King' may come to mind when you think of famous trees,
15th June 2022 - The Natural World
Once venerated by the ancient Mayans as sacred water sources and sites of sacrificial offerings, cenotes are one of Mexico’s defining features and can be found floating at the top of many travellers’ bucket-lists. The natural sinkholes are formed from the collapse of soluble limestone rock, revealing tranquil groundwater below, and are synonymous with the Yucatán Peninsula, where the majority of the 6,000 or so in Mexico are found.
31st May 2022 - Mexico The Natural World
Oman, the most beautiful and peaceful of all the Gulf monarchies, is neatly divided between mountains, beaches and deserts. It's the antithesis of its neighbouring Emirates, described by Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta as 'a fertile land of streams, trees, orchards and palm groves' in the 14th century. The statement remains true today and we think there's no better way to discover the country than through its amazing wadis.
28th August 2021 - Oman The Natural World
One of the most serene places I've ever been... Awesome backdrop of volcanoes One of the most serene places I've ever been. Lake Atitlan was formed many years ago (84,000 according to Wikipedia) after a volcanic eruption, and is surrounded by three other volcanoes and a backdrop of mountains. The lake feels immense. I stayed in one of the villages perched up on the side, called Panajachel. We took a boat for the day which stopped at three villages around the lake, San Pedro, San Antonio, and San Augustino.
28th June 2021 - Guatemala The Natural World
Ding Ding! The gloves are off as we compare two of our favourite historic wonders. It's the Grand Canyon vs the Cachaqui Valley. The Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA is over 17 million years old, 277 miles long, 18 miles wide and 1 mile deep and is constantly changing as the Colorado River continues to run its course. The Native Americans viewed it as a holy site and due to its natural beauty, making pilgrimages to it to see what is left of the cultures from ancient civilisations.
28th June 2021 - The Natural World
The White Continent was always going to be home to some impressive ice bergs - but what lay ahead was quite simply stunning and out of this world. Along our journey we experienced myriad types, shapes and sizes of ice resembling everything from dragons to mushrooms. According to the illustrated Glossary of Snow and Ice (yes, that is a real thing) there are around 40 classifications of snow and ice. Here a few of those that we experienced in Antarctica.
28th June 2021 - Antarctica The Natural World
Iceland is a fascinating country, albeit a little surreal. One of our Iceland specialists headed over to the 'Land of Fire and Ice' to discover the magic and wonder that Iceland is known for. From steaming geothermal pools and glacier trekking to puffing spotting and quad biking under the midnight sun, our specialist saw and did it all... Plunging into geothermal pools at Blue Lagoon I have recently returned from a fascinating, if somewhat surreal research trip to Iceland, visiting Reykjavik and the south coast.
28th June 2021 - Iceland The Natural World
Something that has become abundantly clear this year is that people love the challenge of a good old fashioned quiz. Whether it's a traditional pub quiz, or a virtual get together with friends and family from the comfort of our homes, many of us have been putting our general knowledge to the test. If you're keen to continue the learning, we've got you covered with a super speedy lesson on Botswana's Okavango Delta - a vast inland river delta in the north of the country - so that if the question "what is a delta?
28th June 2021 - Botswana The Natural World
Wolwedans is a collection of superb luxury lodges set on the enormous NamibRand private nature reserve, a place of incredible beauty, space and tranquility. A perfect spot to begin or end your trip, quietly soaking up the scenery, both at day and night. They boast the second best skies in the world for star gazing, second only to the Atacama. It was so breathtaking I decided to forgo the luxurious bed in my tent and instead slept on the sun lounger on my deck, mesmerized by the show above.
28th June 2021 - Namibia The Natural World
I recently returned from an incredible two week trip to the little-visited (by Brits, anyway) Baja Peninsula and Copper Canyon areas of Mexico and was, quite frankly, blown away. Baja California From the super-swanky resorts in Los Cabos to the laid-back vibe in Todos Santos on the Pacific coast, Baja California is much more than featureless desert. Take the stunning Espiritu Santo Island, which Jacques Cousteau described as the world's aquarium.
28th June 2021 - Mexico The Natural World
Veronique Durruty's Travel Story I travel alone, or with my little girl (who is no longer little) and accompanies me less often. Unusually, all three of us, my mother, my daughter, and I visited Jordan together. Three women, three generations, three types of expectations. We rented a car, my mum was driving. Fascinated by the beauty of the place, I wasn't paying attention to the road, I was a poor co-pilot.
28th June 2021 - Jordan The Natural World
Now David Attenborough has sprinkled his TV magic on the island of Madagascar we suspect the destination will see a serious hike in arrivals. If you caught the series you know the drill - separated from Africa and India as the continents gradually drifted apart, but large and diverse enough to have harboured several distinct ecosystems, Madagascar is a biologist's boon. 3/4s of Baobabs prefer Madagascar And while the lemur in all its glorious variations has become the Madagascan equivalent of the finch in the Galapagos,
28th June 2021 - Madagascar The Natural World
In the northern-most reaches of the Earth, there’s magic in the skies. It’s an elusive, colourful sort of mystical presence that transforms the heavens into a luminescent light show. Read on to discover everything you need to know about this most magnificent of displays… There’s nothing quite like the Northern Lights – an otherworldly display of vibrant colour that streaks across the sky. Nature’s
28th June 2021 - The Natural World
If the conditions are right and the skies are clear, the boreal winter season, from October to March, is the best time for visitors staying near the North Pole to see the magical aurora borealis. Here's all the info about when to see the Northern Lights country by country. Best time to see Northern Lights in Canada, Greenland and Alaska? The famous North American Northern Lights are visible throughout the winter in Canada, Greenland and Alaska.
28th June 2021 - The Natural World
An essential destination for romantic visitors in the 19th century, the great Italian lakes are still popular for their beauty and enchanting atmosphere. Nestled in the sumptuous environment of the mountains that surround them, the romantic lakes boast magnificent landscapes, charming resorts and lush gardens. The lakes are enchanting places to enjoy 'la dolce vita' on an Italy holiday. Each has its own personality and character.
28th June 2021 - Italy The Natural World
In a book describing Japan's most famous peaks, mountain writer Kyuya Fukada counted a hundred. Climbing these peaks is a challenge for hikers, but on a Japan holiday, you can simply walk through their valleys and breathe in their forests in summer or taste their powder snow in winter. Sometimes you might even experience a volcano erupting, like Mount Asama in February 2009. This was nothing too serious, but lava spilled while a column of white smoke escaped from the snowy crater and flakes of black ash flew to the port of Yokohama.
28th June 2021 - Japan The Natural World
The rules are simple when hoping to see the Northern Lights: you should be near the North Pole on a winter night when the sky is clear. It's not worth trying your luck on a snowy day. All you will get is a stiff neck. Here are our picks of the best places to spot the Northern Lights. From Iceland to Canada and Norway, here are a selection of places to admire this magical phenomenon. 1 Viewing the Northern Lights in Iceland Iceland is the ultimate land of Northern Lights hunters and is full of places to see the sky ablaze with colour.
28th June 2021 - The Natural World
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We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
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