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Author Archives: Vincent I. Porter

  1. 5 Hiking Adventures for Summer 2018

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    After spending months cooped up in your office, staring at a screen and hunching your back over, nothing sorts you out quite like a hiking holiday. Finally, you are out in the open air with plenty of space to stretch your legs out. You can fill your lungs with fresh, crisp air that isn’t contaminated with the sweat and tears of your colleagues. And, best of all, you don’t have to waste your time responding to boring emails and phone calls. You can disconnect from the world and engage in one of the most wholesome activities on the planet.

    So, where should you head this summer for the best hiking adventure? Here are a few of our suggestions for incredible hiking routes around the world.

    The Salkantay Trail, Peru

    It is quite likely that if you choose to hike along the Salkantay Trail this summer, you will go for days without seeing another living person. If that is what you are after then book your flights right now. The trail starts in Soraypampa, a tiny village in the middle of the Sacred Valley. From there you will walk for four days until you reach the town of AguasCalientes – the base town for Machu Picchu. One more day of hiking takes you up the mountain to the famous ruins – the ultimate end point for a breath-taking hike.

    The Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

    This is a hardcore trek for people with a good level of fitness and a lot of motivation. Reaching a peak altitude of 5,416 metres above sea level, this hike has some incredibly challenging parts, but that’s all part of the fun. And, of course, every step of the way you will be rewarded with scenery that will blow you away. Make sure you stop off at the stunning, turquoise Gokyo lakes on your way and be prepared for mouth-watering Nepalese food served from people’s homes along the way.

    Blyde River Canyon, South Africa

    There are few views more staggering than those you will find in the Blyde River Canyon in South Africa. This plunging canyon is lined with verdant vegetation and stretches out as far as the eye can see. Throughout the canyon and surrounding area, there are dozens of different hiking trails to choose from, depending on your level of confidence. The Leopard Trail is an excellent option for those who don’t have a lot of time or only want to commit to one day of hiking.

    Harding Icefield Trail, USA

    The trail that leads through the Harding Icefield in Alaska is a truly unique hike and will get you out of that summer heat for a bit. From certain points on the trail you will have panoramic views of the icefield’s glaciers. The trail is eight miles long and can easily be completed in a day but take note that it is quite a strenuous undertaking. The elevation of the trail increases by roughly 300m every mile, meaning you reach some serious altitude during the hike.

    Abel Tasman Coast Track, New Zealand

    For those who want to enjoy the beach but also want to get up and moving, this hike is perfect. There are around 30 miles of trail to enjoy but make sure you go in the southern hemisphere summer (November – February) so you have the best hiking weather. The trail runs along the sandy coast of the South Island and takes anything from two to five days to complete, depending on how long you fancy walking for. The scenery is gorgeous and there are plenty of birds to admire as you walk.

  2. Top 5 Destinations for a Winter Adventure in Summer

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    Everyone goes on about how great summer is going to be. Somehow the whole world transforms itself when the sun is shining. People are visibly happier and cities are filled with the buzz of positive energy. There is no denying that summer is great – but it isn’t for everyone.

    Some of us don’t like the constant heat of summer or the fact that every time you go outside you are instantly drenched with sweat. Some of us prefer being able to see our own breath on a crisp winter’s morning and to fill our lungs with a sharp intake of cold, fresh air.

    For people who wish it could be winter all year round, there are vacation destinations that will cater to your needs. If you are looking for a winter adventure this summer, look no further than these destinations.

    Patagonia

    This is the ultimate destination on every travel bucket list, whether you are looking for a winter adventure or not. Located right at the bottom of the world, in the very southernmost part of South America, Patagonia is a desolate region filled with glaciers, volcanoes and lakes. Some highlights of a trip to Patagonia include trekking across the top of the Perito Moreno glacier, hiking to the base of Mount Fitz Roy, and sailing through the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.

    New Zealand

    When things heat up in the northern hemisphere, they cool down in its southern counterpart. Huge swathes of New Zealand transform from hilly countryside just like you saw in the Lord of the Rings into frosty havens for snow sports enthusiasts. Head to Treble Cone in Wanaka for some top quality skiing during your summer vacation. There are plenty of runs on offer as well as opportunities for heli-skiing. After a day on the piste, come back down for some après ski in Wanaka’s finest bars and pubs.

    Dubai

    Ok, if you thought that I had lost my mind when I put this on the list I wouldn’t blame you. No-one in their right mind would ever think of Dubai as a winter destination. However, I do have my reasons for doing so. Dubai is home to the impressive indoor ski resort Ski Dubai. This indoor resort is the biggest of its kind in the world, measuring a staggering 22,500 square meters.

    There is so much to do here on top of skiing and snowboarding, such as sledging and playing in the giant snowballs, that you can easily spend a few days here. And, best of all, if it gets too cold in there, you can pop outside for a minute to warm up.

    Norway

    Home of the Northern Lights and some of the most northern towns in the world, Norway is a magical destination for a winter adventure. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, head up to Tromso, which is located in the Arctic Circle. If you travel to Tromso in the summer you will be treated to the phenomenon that is the midnight sun. This is when the sun never sets for around 2 months of the year.

    Canada

    Not all of Canada will be ripe for winter adventures in the summer, but if you are willing to travel North, you will find the icy climates you so desire. One place in particular stands out as being great for winter travels in summer: Churchill. Located in the frosty regions of Manitoba, Churchill is a harsh destination that is only for the brave. However, if you can handle it, you will be treated to husky dog rides and polar bear safaris. Not a bad trade-off, eh?

  3. Where Can You Ski in Summer?

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    It’s tough being a winter person. When the sun comes out the whole world rejoices. People take their usual indoor activities and shift them outside and suddenly the parks are full of people talking, eating, drinking and generally enjoying themselves. But, not all of us like sitting in the stifling heat for hours on end, sweating and trying not to burn. For some of us the crisp chill of a winter morning as we look out on blankets of snow is the ultimate pleasure.

    If you’re a winter person and you want to escape the heat this summer, why not hit the slopes? Skiing keeps you outdoors and active but still gives you that frosty feeling you’ve been craving. Here are some of the top summer ski destinations in the world.

    Argentina

    In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are backwards. That means instead of blistering sunshine in July and August, the South of Argentina is covered in snow. One of the most popular ski destinations in Argentina is the town of Bariloche, located in the country’s Patagonia region. Despite its Latino heritage, the town has a distinct Alpine feel to it – so much so that you would be forgiven for forgetting you’re not actually in Switzerland. The slopes here are covered with world class powder so the skiing is top class.

    Chile

    Argentina’s next door neighbour and home to some impressive glaciers, Chile is another Southern Hemisphere ski hub. Chile has a huge number of different resorts to choose from, including Valle Nevado, which is roughly an hour and a half drive from Santiago, the capital – ideal for those who don’t have time to travel far. Other renowned Chilean ski resorts include Ski Portillo and Corralco, the latter of which has abundant off-piste and backcountry opportunities.

    New Zealand

    New Zealand has some of the best skiing in the world. In fact, it is so good that even Europeans and Canadians head over there sometimes when they want to take a break from the Alps and Rockies. Ski fields in New Zealand are not large but they are all about quality rather than quantity. Treble Cone and Cardrona are great spots with plenty of runs to try out. Elsewhere, more adventurous skiiers can ski down a live volcano in Ruapehu.

    Australia

    Australia might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think about skiing but believe it or not this gigantic island has some pretty decent resorts. To find any snow you will need to head South. In New South Wales is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest ski resort: Perisher. This field has runs for all abilities as well as night skiing and a weekly fireworks display to boot. In Victoria, just a few hours from Melbourne, is Mt. Buller, which comprises 25 runs and some spectacular views.

    Dubai

    No, I haven’t lost my mind, Dubai really is a great summer ski destination. Of course, you won’t be outside while you ski – no snow could survive the heat of the UAE. But, Dubai is home to the colossal indoor ski resort: Ski Dubai. Here you will be able to skiand ride on toboggans to your heart’s content and when you get a bit too cold, all you need to do is go outside and you will be in the sun again. This is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.

  4. The Best Time of Year to Go on a Sun-Filled Vacation

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    Let’s be honest – we could always do with a holiday. After months slaving away in the office, there is nothing better than escaping away to the sunshine of some foreign land. However, not all vacation destinations are ideal all year round. There are some places that are bathed in sunshine over summer (June-August) and others that are perfect for getting that highly coveted winter sun (December – February). Wherever you decide to go on vacation, make sure you go at the right time of the year so you’re not met with sunshine rather than monsoons.

    Check out our top suggestions for a sun-filled vacation this year.

    January – Sri Lanka

    In January, Sri Lanka is blessed with beautiful sunshine that radiates from the highlands to the coast. The sea is perfect for swimming and the warm temperature is ideal for wildlife spotting.

    February – Chile

    From the beaches of Viña del Mar to the rugged cliffs of Patagonia, February is prime summer time for Chile. This means you’ll be able to soak up some rays while you enjoy some of the world’s most staggering natural beauty.

    March –Vietnam

    March is the driest month of the year for Vietnam, which makes exploring the country easy and pleasurable. Whether you head for the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh or the sparkling coastline around NhaTrang, sunshine kisses every corner of this wonderful country.

    April – Japan

    If you have ever seen photos of Japan, you might have been struck by the flurries of pink cherry blossoms that adorn the country. The cherry blossoms come out to bloom in April. This, combined with perfect weather, makes April a fantastic time to visit Japan.

    May – Spain

    Spain can get pretty hot in peak summer, but in May the weather is absolutely perfect. The south is drenched in the sun’s golden glow, while the north is hot but not unbearable. This is the ideal time to hike through Spain’s abundant nature and explore its pulsing cities.

    June – Belize

    There is never a bad time to visit Belize, but June is particularly good thanks to the month’s never-ending sunshine. Enjoy snorkelling around the Cayes or caving on the mainland before feasting on lobster in the evening.

    July – Canada

    Those who want sunshine but want to avoid blistering heat should head up to Canada in July. The weather sits in the mid to high 20s around most of the country – the perfect temperature for strolling along nature trails, exploring forests and relaxing on the beaches.

    August – Zimbabwe

    August in Zimbabwe is right in the middle of the dry season. This means you can go on safari without the fear of being caught in a downpour. A benefit of travelling at this time is that the big game will all be gathered around the few remaining water holes, making wildlife spotting much easier.

    September – Morocco

    Now that the heat of summer has somewhat passed, Morocco is perfect. September still sees high temperatures and lots of sunshine but in a much more manageable fashion. Check out the medinas and sand dunes while you top on vitamin D.

    October – Australia

    Winter is well and truly over by October in Australia but summer isn’t quite there yet. This shoulder month is less busy than other times of the year and still has gorgeous weather – what more could you want? Byron Bay is calling!

    November – St Maarten

    This tiny Caribbean island is home to the famous Maho Beach, where planes skim the heads of beach-goers as they come in to land on the island’s runway. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or not, November in St Maarten is the very beginning of the dry season and the perfect time to visit.

    December – India

    Once the monsoons have finished, the sun comes out in full force and bathes the whole of India in its warming glow. December is high season for the South, including party central Goa and mystical Kerala.

  5. Top 4 Unusual Summer Vacation Destinations in 2018

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    Summer is just a couple of months away and it’s time to get thinking about where you’re going to whisk yourself off to on vacation for a couple of weeks. You could, of course, go to the same place you go every year. After all, there is something comforting about that level of familiarity. But, the world is full of beauty and wonder and trying out a new destination gives you the chance to experience more of that.

    Why not make 2018 the year you choose somewhere completely different for your summer vacation. Forget Spain and Thailand and choose an unusual destination for your trip. If nothing else, you will come home with unique and incredible memories and stories.

    Georgia

    Georgia, the country, not the US state, sits right on the border or Europe and Asia and is becoming rather fashionable with off-the-beaten-track travellers. For starters, the capital, Tbilisi, is a thriving city with a distinctly European vibe but without the price tag. Quite possibly the cheapest capital on the continent, Tbilisi has an abundance of pulsing bars and clubs as well as spectacular eateries that will fill you to the brim for just a few pounds. Outside of the cities you can find nature that defies belief. Pebble beaches are just hours from the magnificent Caucasian mountains that carve out the border between Europe and Asia. Overall, it’s a pretty sensational place for a vacation.

    Ecuador

    When people think about travelling to South America, they normal have Peru or Brazil in mind. While these countries are amazing, Ecuador is all too often forgotten about and that is a real shame. For starters, the country is home to the legendary Galapagos Islands – an archipelago filled with endemic wildlife. On top of that, it has all kinds of excitement going on on the mainland. Quito, its capital, is thoroughly picturesque with its big leafy plazas and craggy mountains in the background. Meanwhile, Baños is filled with waterfalls and is the adventure sports capital of South America.

    Madagascar

    This African island has no end of things to enchant and delight visitors. Most striking is its population of lemurs that inhabit the treetops. The creatures can be found throughout Madagascar along with a range of other exotic and endemic animals. In addition to its fauna, Madagascar is overflowing with natural beauty. The national parks range from lush jungles to rocks pillars, as can be found in the TsingyBemaraha National Park. And, of course, there are sublime beaches in every direction, just waiting for you to enjoy their golden sand.

    Mongolia

    If you really want to get away from everything this summer then consider travelling to the relatively undiscovered plains of Mongolia. Mongolia is the least densely populated country on earth, which gives you plenty of space to explore while you’re there. Venture out into the countryside and you might not see another living soul for days on end. But, solitude is just one of the country’s appeals. Mongolia is home to one of the last authentic nomadic people and allows visitors to get an insight of what this unusual lifestyle is like. A highlight of a trip to Mongolia is camping in the Gobi desert and gazing up at the billions of stars overhead.

  6. Top 5 Emerging Travel Destinations

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    Italy, Mexico, Australia, Thailand – these are well-know and much-loved travel destinations that most people either intend to visit or have already ticked off their bucket list. There are a handful of countries that have long been hailed as tourism hotspots. We love them now and we will love them in the future. But, right now, it is time for some other countries to take the limelight.

    2018 is the year of the emerging travel destination. Countries that we previously thought were off limits or not interesting enough to be worth visiting are proving that they are just as capable of captivating our hearts and souls as the big-hitters.

    The following list is five of the hottest emerging travel destinations at the moment. You might not have ever considered visiting them before but it is never too late to change that. Read on, be inspired, and rethink your next vacation destination.

    Rwanda

    For a long time Rwanda was synonymous with genocide and, naturally, this put people off wanting to visit. Nowadays, Rwanda has the fastest growing economy in Central Africa and is just finishing off the process of completely reinventing itself. Those who venture to this tiny African nation will be treated to landscapes that defy description. Lush green jungles, teeming with wild gorillas are the main selling point along with the stunning Lake Kivu and buzzing capital, Kigali.

    Bhutan

    Steeped in mystery, Bhutan remains one of the most untouched nations on earth. This is partly due to its extortionate tourist tax ($250 per person per day) and partly due to the fact that it is forbidden to enter the country without an official guide. However, if your bank balance can stomach the hit, you will be in for one of the most incredible experiences of your life. In Bhutan, ancient monasteries hang from the edges of cliffs and prayer flags speckle the landscape. All the while, the Himalayas loom majestically in the background.

    Mongolia

    It is a shame how few visitors Mongolia gets, but for those who do visit, it is a blessing. As one of the least densely populated countries on earth, Mongolia is ideal for people who want to escape the hubbub of the cities and immerse themselves in nature. Camping is permitted anywhere in Mongolia, so those looking for adventure need only grab a tent and some supplies and start walking. There is no shortage of natural beauty to be found here.

    Montenegro

    Europe is pretty well mapped out, but Montenegro seems to have been left in the dark. However, this tiny country towards the East of the continent is finally starting to get the recognition it deserves. Montenegro is a nation of startling natural beauty with verdant forest stretching down to sparkling coastlines. Simply strolling through one of its medieval villages is enough to utterly enchant you.

    Bolivia

    Often overshadowed by neighbouring Peru and Chile, Bolivia has a lot to offer travellers willing to give it a bit of time. Bolivia’s most popular attraction is its Salar de Uyuni, an immense salt flat located in the Altiplano. But, Bolivia is more than just huge stretches of salt. Sucre, Samaipata, La Paz and Isla del Sol are all definite highlights of this small but diverse country. Whether you want nature or city or something in between, there will be something for you in Bolivia.

  7. Top 4 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2018

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    There is no greater thing than travelling to foreign lands and experiencing new cultures. Unfortunately, travel doesn’t come for free. Once your flights have been paid for along with any visas you might need and travel insurance, you could well have already spent several hundreds pounds. And that’s before you’ve even set foot in your destination. When you arrive you then have to think about accommodation, food, internal transport, activities – the list goes on.

    There is no way to avoid spending money when you are abroad but there are ways to minimise how much you need to spend. Choosing a destination that doesn’t cost a fortune to enjoy is the best way to travel on a budget. This means that Australia, Norway, and the Seychelles are pretty much out of the question. But, don’t worry, there are dozens of cheap destinations around the world that will offer you everything you could possibly want from a vacation but won’t break the bank.

    1. Nepal

    Travelling to Nepal is like stepping back in time, before nature was completely destroyed by man. Nestled in the Himalayas, the natural beauty of Nepal is breath-taking – and that’s not just because of the altitude! Most travellers that head to Nepal usually have one thing on their mind: Everest. Trekking to the Everest base camp features on a lot of bucket lists and is far from impossible. Just grab your backpack, hire a Sherpa, and get trekking. It’s not an easy climb but it is exceptionally rewarding. When you’re done, head back to Kathmandu and fill up on delicious Nepalese food in a local eatery.

    2. Nicaragua

    No, I’m not just going for countries that being with N. Nicaragua is a Central American gem that is often overlooked in favour of its neighbour Costa Rica. While Costa Rica certainly has a lot to write home about, it is significantly more expensive than Nicaragua and far from budget friendly. Nicaragua boasts beaches, rainforests and volcanoes as well as an interesting cuisine and good weather. Could you ask for any more from a vacation destination?

    3. Bolivia

    If you want to experience South America and you don’t have loads of cash to splash then Bolivia is your best bet. But, don’t let Bolivia’s affordability let you think that it is an undesirable travel destination. Bolivia is an incredible place that is full of beauty and adventure. Most people who travel here beeline straight for the famous salt flats in Uyuni. These are truly spectacular but just the tip of the iceberg of what Bolivia has to offer. The jungle and waterfalls in Samaipata and the white-washed buildings in Sucre are equally delightful and sure to captivate your heart.

    4. Cambodia

    Cheaper than neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam and more interesting than Laos, Cambodia is the ultimate Southeast Asian destination. Not only is it home to the phenomenal Angkor Wat temple complex, but it has all kinds of other attractions that are less well known. Head to the coast and Sihanoukville will keep you entertained with its laidback vibe and cool nightlife. Meanwhile, Kampot is filled with spiritual wanderers swinging in hammocks and eating Khmer delicacies. Give Cambodia some of your time and you won’t be disappointed.

  8. 5 Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Flights

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    Unless you are flying first class, long-haul flights can be a real drag. You’re stuck in a metal tube, whizzing through the sky at an unfathomable speed, wedged into a narrow seat with your legs contorted as they try to fit into the leg-room provided. Ok, it isn’t as bad as I’m making out. And, besides, flying long-haul means you are either going or coming back from some exotic destination. The flight is just part of the experience.

    However, there are things that you can do to make these long flights more bearable. How is that possible, I hear you ask. Check out my list of travel essentials and you will see how your long-haul nightmare could turn into something dreamy.

    A TV Series

    You know all those times you wished there were more hours in the day so you could carry on watching your favourite show? Well now you have all the time in the world. Grab your tablet, laptop, or smart phone and load it up with episodes of that show you have been desperate to watch.

    Most online streaming services, including Netflix and Amazon Prime allow you to download TV series and movies onto your device to then watch later without an internet connection. This is crucial as you probably won’t have a WiFi connection at 30,000 ft. Although planes are now increasingly providing WiFi, it is often quite slow and expensive to use so it is better to avoid the risk altogether and download everything you need at home before you go.

    A Battery Pack

    Some planes have charging points. Others do not. Unless you are 100% sure that your plane has a charging outlet and will accommodate whatever you need to plug in (often they only have USB sockets), you should take your own back up power supply. If you are willing to invest in a decent battery pack, you will find that for less than £25 you can get a small, nifty device that will allow you to fully recharge whatever device you have between 3 and 5 times.

    Make sure the power supply is fully charged before you get on the plane and then use it to keep your devices alive while you travel. You will thank yourself when this means you can carry on bingeing through the TV shows you downloaded.

    A Neck Pillow

    Being comfortable cannot be under-estimated when it comes to long-haul travel. It will make your flight infinitely more bearable and stop you from getting off the plane with your neck cramped into some horrendously awkward position. Some neck pillows go around your neck and clip together at the front, under your chin. I recommend buying one of these as they stop your head from lolling forward while you snooze.

    Snacks and Water

    Planes really dry you out so it is important to stay hydrated. Taking a water bottle with you is essential as planes usually only provide you with a small cup of water every now and again. Of course, you can ask for more but do you really want to be the passenger pestering the stewards every 10 minutes for a drink? As for snacks, plane food is rarely gourmet and often is barely edible. Taking your own stash of snacks means you don’t have to rely on plane food or risk starving to death in transit.

    Beauty Bag

    Men, this one is for you too. Everyone should have a little pouch filled with the following things while they travel long-haul. Firstly you need moisturiser. Your skin will dry out on the plane so a good moisturiser and some lip balm will stop your skin going flaky while you travel. Secondly, grab yourself some toothpaste to get rid of your plane breath before you land. That’s it! Simple yet effective.

  9. How Does the World Celebrate Easter?

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    Easter is coming up and we are all looking forward to having a bit of time off work while schools are out. This time of the year is celebrated differently all over the world. While we indulge in Easter egg hunts and eat our body weight in chocolate, other countries view the holiday through a much more religious lens. Ceremonies, rituals and festivals pop up across the planet to commemorate this holy period – so why not go and join in with the fun?

    We have compiled a list of some of the most interesting ways Easter is celebrated around the world. If you like the sound of them, be sure to add the destination to your travel bucket list!

    Brazil

    With the largest Roman Catholic population in the world, Easter in Brazil is a really big deal. An important part of the holiday involves relaxing at home or travelling to be with relatives in other parts of the country. The Brazilians also exchange chocolate eggs with one another. In addition to this, the Brazilians have one particularly weird tradition. It is common to make straw dolls of Judas, which are then hung in the streets and beaten up. If there has been any political scandal in the previous few months, sometimes the straw figures of the disgraced politician will be used instead.

    Sweden

    As a secular country, it might seem odd that Sweden is on this list. Sweden celebrates Easter in a way no other country does. During the holiday, the children dress as Easter witches and go from door to door asking for sweets (just like Halloween in the U.S). This tradition stems from folklore, rather than Christianity but there are some elements of Swedish Easter than remain religious and relate directly to the suffering of Christ.

    Corfu, Greece

    If you happen to be on this Greek island over Easter, make sure you stay off the streets on the morning of Holy Saturday. On this day, the residents of the island throw pots, pans and earthenware out of their windows, smashing them on the streets. It is believed that this is a way of getting rid of old things in order to make way for the new, as is the general tradition in spring. It is a noisy and chaotic tradition but it is good fun to watch and even join in with whilst soaking up the ever-present Greek sunshine.

    Czech Republic

    Perhaps one of the weirdest celebrations you will see over Easter, in the Czech Republic men run around the city spanking women. Ok, it isn’t actually quite as bad as that. Handmade whips, crafted from willow and ribbons are used to gently spank women, as it is believed that the willow tree is a symbol of fertility. By spanking women with its branches, the fertility is supposed to transfer into the victim. Don’t worry, the spanking is playful – no-one gets hurt!

    Philippines

    When it comes to going all out for Easter, no country tops the Philippines. On Good Friday, Catholics drag crosses through the city, self-flagellate and dress just as Jesus is supposed to have done on that fateful day. Passion plays are also performed in the city and in San Fernando, the play ends with the actual crucifixion of three devotees. That’s right, three people are actually nailed to crosses. They are let down afterwards but it is still quite a gruesome spectacle to behold!

  10. Top 5 Incredible Places Everyone Should Visit Before They Die

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    The world is an enormous place and it is impossible to see it all, even if you spent your entire life traveling.

    They say that travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer and we couldn’t agree more. There is so much beauty and wonder out there, once you get a taste of what’s on offer you’re bound to be hooked. So, to satisfy your wanderlust we have compiled a list of places that you need to visit in your life-time.

    Get your passport ready and start planning your round the world trip to see these incredible places.

    1. Semuc Champey, Guatemala

    Nowhere on earth showcases the sheer power of Mother Nature quite like Semuc Champey. Located in the Guatemalan jungle, the sight consists of a number of natural rock pools that flow down, one into the next, in a series of waterfalls. Water, lush jungle, secret look out points and eerie caves. What more could you want? Be sure to check out the swing that flies out over the water for an adrenaline rush while you’re there.

    2. Temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia

    A 3am wake up call is usually the last thing you want while you’re on holiday, but if it means you get to see the sun come up over the most incredible temples on the planet, it’s really not so bad. The temple complex at Angkor Wat is an astounding feat of architecture from a time when it seemed inconceivable that such incredible structures could have been built.

    3. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

    Who would have thought a huge piece of salt would be such a tourist attraction. Well, the salt flats of Uyuni are the biggest on earth and well worth the travel time it takes to get to this remote part of the world. Jeep tours take intrepid travellers far out on to the salt flat, where they can take photos and walk around. The serenity that accompanies this isolated stretch of white salt is unparalleled and the photo opportunities are spectacular.

    4. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

    Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress in the heart of Sri Lanka. It is quite striking to behold as it looks like a colossal boulder that has just been placed in the middle of this beautiful island. However, the first sight is just the beginning. Once up close, travellers will be able to climb the rock to the top. Here, they are treated to spectacular views of the lush plains that spread out to the horizon. Make sure you go to Sigiriya early so you don’t end up hiking in the midday heat.

    5. Chefchaouen, Morocco

    The city of Chefchaouen is a little piece of calm in the chaos of Morocco. The walls of the buildings that line the streets of Chefchaouen have been completely painted blue, giving the whole city a completely magical feel. The number one activity here is taking a leisurely stroll in the permanent sunshine that bathes the city. Snap some photos, sample some local delicacies and lap up the magnificent beauty of this incredible place.