Borneo
The Sepilok Orang Utan Centre is on everyone’s Borneo bucket list and we agree it shouldn’t be missed. Also on the list: proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and searching for pygmy elephants along the Kinabatangan River, walking the trails and canopies of virgin rainforest in Danum Valley, and sitting beside the South China Sea on at least one of the islands or beaches.
In less than two weeks, you can take in these classic stops and have time for the unique flowers and plants of Kinabalu Park and a visit to longhouses to hear legends of headhunters and days gone by. A holiday to Sabah will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Philippines
With ancient rice terraces and tribal culture in the north and more beaches than you can count in the south, the Philippines is best explored from top to bottom. Start with a glimpse of Manila’s once-walled city then head to the mountains for treks to rice terraces and a cliff-face adorned with colourful coffins.
From there, it’s tough to decide between the rugged beauty of Palawan and the silky sands of the Visayas. To round out the holiday, we vote for Bohol in the Visayas to spot wildlife and stretch out on the sand. Kayak through mangroves as the sun sets and fireflies come out, look for tiny tarsiers in the trees, and go dolphin-spotting on your way to snorkel or dive with turtles.
Did we mention the white beaches, boutique hotels, and some of the freshest, most innovative food in the country? The question is: is one island enough?
Malaysia
To pack in the highlights of Malaysia in less than two weeks, start with multi-cultural Kuala Lumpur. From the Hindu temples of the Batu Caves to nightly light shows at the Petronas Twin Towers, see how the traditional and the modern come together. No visit to Malaysia is complete without time in Penang and the heritage city of George Town with its mouth-watering food, beautiful architecture, and streets lined with art.
From there, Langkawi offers the ultimate contrast to the buzz of the mainland. Grab a patch of sand, look up in the leaves for gentle dusky langurs, and take in a stellar sunset from your own balcony. With so much to offer, Malaysia may be one of Southeast Asia’s best kept secrets.
Vietnam
Vietnam offers fantastic beaches, great food, activities and culture; it’s just the perfect destination!
Our Culture & Coast tour showcases the best of Vietnam north to south, ticking off all those can’t miss highlights from UNESCO World Heritage sites in Halong Bay and Hoi An, war history in Saigon, and the unmatched beauty of the rural north.
Sri Lanka
The hit list for Sri Lanka is extensive – ancient culture in Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, sandy beaches on all sides, 8 UNESCO heritage sites and lush natural parks filled with elephants.
But it’s always catching the scenic train through the rolling tea fields that seems to be the most unmissable for our visitors!
Maldives
The Maldives is a bucket-list destination all of its own, but snorkelling with manta rays and whale sharks in the protected waters of Hanifaru Bay tops the list for our Maldives specialist Carly.
If budget allows, consider a liveaboard charter and cruise until you find your perfect sleep spot…
South Africa
South Africa has so much to offer… it is beautiful, stunning, exciting, adventurous, and ever so relaxing. The nature is out of this world, the serenity of the African bush is incredible and the people so wonderful. South Africa is so incredibly diverse and every place enchants in its own way.
Whether savannah, table mountain, lakes, incredible panoramic roads, rugged coasts, waterfalls, the Drakensberg, canyons, beautiful beaches or urban, trendy Cape Town. South Africa really has it all! Just one warning … There is a high risk of getting addicted!
Kenya
Hardly any other country reflects the romantic idea of Africa as much as Kenya.
Wild animals live here like you remember them from your childhood’s books. The nature parks and the white sandy beaches let you experience picture postcards live. Immerse yourself in a country that combines big city flair, wild animals and a unique natural spectacle. You too can fall in love with this country at the Indian Ocean.
Kenya has a large number of national parks, most of which are located in the southern and central parts of the country. The best known are Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo and Lake Naivasha. Most of Kenya is mainly characterized by savannas.
Tanzania
Four reason why you should visit Tanzania: One for the huge migrating herds of animals in the Serengeti National Park. A second for Ngorongoro, the safari hotspot with the highest concentration of predators in Africa. Three, the Kilimanjaro and those are three of the African Wonders.
Last but not least, the whispering palm trees on the warm beaches of Zanzibar. Tanzania is considered the most beautiful country in Africa. The country is simply gorgeous and nowhere else is there as much wildlife as here.
Botswana
Botswana is considered “Africa’s last paradise” and impresses with untouched and varied natural treasures. The extensive Okavango Delta alone is worth a trip and a trip in a dug-out canoe across the beautiful river landscape is an unforgettable experience. Diverse landscapes, impressive natural wonders, cultural encounters and last but not least the adventurous wildlife make Botswana a unique travel destination.
The Moremi Game Reserve and the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the Chobe National Park are world famous for their wildlife.
Namibia
Your gaze wanders to the horizon. The landscape shines in a dazzling play of colours. The wonder of the world. Even the most expressive words couldn’t express the real beauty of Namibia. Experience a country with all your senses, where the true African heart still beats. A country for the explorer and adventurer in you. For your longing for lonely wilderness and a truly authentic travel experience. Welcome to Namibia!
The sunsets in Namibia are probably the most colourful you have ever seen in your life. The starry sky is probably one of the clearest that our planet has to offer. No light or air pollution, that prevents the stars from shining in their full beauty. In the vastness of the wilderness, you often feel like the only person on earth on your journey. Loneliness, adventure and freedom. This is Namibia in all its beauty.
St. Lucia
The Caribbean island paradise St. Lucia, is characterized by picturesque, green landscapes with dreamy sandy beaches and a year-round tropical climate.
The entire island of St. Lucia is a true wellness wonder.
Volcanoes provide the country with mineral mud and hot, steaming springs. Offering relaxation and body treatment, so here in the beautiful wilderness of St. Lucia you can switch off, relax and do something good for your body. The hospitable and balanced mentality of the people and tropical pleasures do the rest to make this holiday under the palm trees a trip to paradise.
Chile
Chile is a surprising country full of awe inspiring beauty and in my opinion must be visited north to south. The moon-like scenery of the Atacama desert perfectly complements the lush landscapes of the lake district and the glaciers of southern Patagonia.
There’s so much to see, but don’t be disheartened – with a well planned itinerary, you can absolutely tick off all of the highlights! After taking in the breathtaking vistas, add a few nights in the capital and the wine region to stay on track for an unforgettable holiday!
Brazil
Brazil is such a big country with so much to do and see!
If it is your first time here, stick to the highlights to get a perfect introduction to the country. Stay a few nights in Rio, don’t rush your time here. This is a city like no other and will get under your skin even if you are not a city lover.
Go to the Amazon! It must be experienced at least once in your life so visit it on your first visit and tick it off your bucket list. Combine it with the Iguazu Falls and even better the Pantanal, for a full immersion into the country’s wildlife. And of course relax at the end of your holiday in one of the many beach destinations. Paraty, Ilha Grande and Buzios are great places and easily reached by land from Rio!
Egypt
Home to one of one of the greatest civilizations of all times and one of the wonders of ancient times, prepare to be amazed and awed in this cultural and historical mecca!
The great pyramid of Giza, Valley of the Kings and Karnak temples are some of the most awe-inspiring ancient monuments in the world! Combine a historical holiday with a relaxing cruise down the Nile onboard one of our favorite traditional sailboats on full board basis to avoid the crowds and enjoy a truly authentic experience while getting soaked in the peaceful Nile ambiance. For big families or groups of friends we strongly recommend chartering a sailboat to have a personalized experience and save some money! The fully dedicated staff will make you feel like home.
Add a few extra days to your holiday to relax by the Red Sea to catch some sunshine before returning home, the perfect way to start or finish your holiday! Check out our sample itineraries for inspiration.
Japan
Japan is a country where the past meets the future in perfect harmony, from ancient temples and kimono- clad geisha hurrying between traditional tea houses in Kyoto to lightning-fast bullet trains connecting the high-tech cities. The “Land of the Rising Sun” is a destination like no other, offering heritage and history one day and futuristic city living the next. Ist very unique and particular culture and gorgeous nature and wide cultural heritage make it, without any doubt, one of the most interesting and beautiful countries to visit in the world.
Japan is beautiful all year around, however, you will encounter the best weather in spring and autumn. Spring is the time to go to experience the famous cherry blossom season – certainly one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the world as thousands of cherry trees bloom at the same time all over the county! The Autumn season is also gorgeous when trees are at the peak of their gorgeous colorful foliage. Check out our sample itineraries for inspiration.
Thailand
Gorgeous beaches, lush jungle, delicious food and interesting and authentic culture, ethical elephant sanctuaries… Thailand has it all for everyone – no matter the age! It also has crowds but with the right planning you will avoid the crowds and enjoy an authentic holiday.
Visit the hill tribes in the north, gorgeous and unique temples in Chiang Mai area, explore National Parks with lush jungles with adventurous and fun activities, relax in one of our favorite boutique hotels to enjoy the breathtaking idyllic beaches of the islands of the south. Check out our sample itineraries for inspiration.
Thailand is the perfect destination for everyone: families with young or older kids, honeymooners, experienced travelers and first timers… this gorgeous country has so much to offer!
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan in Central Asia is one of the last unexplored frontiers and is becoming more popular with tourists. This diverse destination has so much to offer! From mind blowing historical sites, stunning desert landscapes, local encounters and walking in the Nuratau Mountains. It is home to three of the world’s oldest cities – Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva – often described as open-air museums, once powerful and important trade centres, where architecture and the arts were highly developed.
Getting around and travelling in Uzbekistan is relatively easy, as our tours include a private vehicle with driver and local guide. Also, Uzbekistan has recently developed its transport infrastructure and introduced high-speed train networks to the main cities. Many of our clients enjoy travelling by train on tour and many of our tours include a train journey.
Slovenia
With its crystal clear emerald-green water nestled against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Julian Alps, it’s no wonder Lake Bled is Slovenia’s most visited attraction. Visitors can take a traditional wooden pletna boat to reach the island in the center of the lake, where the iconic Church of the Assumption stands, and climb the 99 steps to ring the wishing bell for good luck.
At the top of a steep hill overlooking the lake, the medieval Bled Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the area. Lake Bled is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including swimming, kayaking, cycling, and hiking. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and ice skating on the frozen lake. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Lake Bled is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.
Morocco
Morocco is a vast country, extending from its Mediterranean shores in the north to the desert wonderland of the Sahara in the south. Spend an afternoon sipping tea on a Marrakech rooftop, take a camel ride through the desert, or hike in the snow-topped High Atlas mountains; whatever you choose, you’ll love experiencing everything Morocco has to offer.
My personal number one experience is the night in the Sahara Desert, It’s hard to describe the feeling of approaching a desert to someone who has never seen one before, so I won’t spoil it as no words can describe it.
Jordan
Follow in the footsteps of Indiana Jones as you explore the Unesco World Heritage site of Petra, visit the ‘Mars on earth’ A.K.A. the Wadi Rum (it’s hard to find an experience more breath-taking than racing across the desert in the back of a jeep, watching miles of sand disappear behind you and feeling the cool wind against your face) and float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. A universal adventure awaits!
“Petra is a must see at least once in a lifetime”
Turkey
Vibrant Istanbul, whether the start of a grand tour of Turkey, or a short weekend break, this exotic city that straddles continents guarantees fond holiday memories…
Visit the impressive Topkapi Palace, towering Blue Mosque and Aya Sofya in famous Sultanhmet, take a tram down Istiklal Caddesi in bustling Taksim and head over (or even under!) the glittering Bosphorus to the lesser known and arty district of Kadikoy on the Asian side, if you visit for a couple of days or a whole week, there is never a dull moment!
Charlotte visited with friends last month and despite being a sensitive time due to the devastating earthquakes far away in the east of Turkey, the locals were as welcoming, kind and hospitable as ever, and so grateful for our custom and support.
Written by Val Garibotti
Top Travel Tip
“Travel is about discovery and digging under the surface of a country. Take your time, go off the beaten track and plan ahead if you can.”
– Valeria Garibotti – Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay expert
