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Author Archives: Vincent I. Porter

  1. Top 4 Travel Trends for 2018

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    There have been some very distinct trends developing in the travel world recently and 2018 looks set to be the year that these trends hit the mainstream. No doubt, the fact that travel has become so accessible means that the travel landscape is changing at an unprecedented pace. As air fares continue to drop and budget hostels crop up all over the world, you no longer need to be one of the rich and famous to be able to travel.

    We are certainly seeing a shift in the way that people travel but which trends are the most popular in this day and age and how have they transformed the tourism industry? Let’s take a look at some of the most important travel trends of 2018.

    Responsible Travel

    More than ever, there is a sense of each one of us being an international citizen. That means we can no longer, in good conscience, visit countries in an exploitative or damaging way – it is truly and universally unacceptable. This is great news for the world in general as we are now taking more care with the way we travel. We do not want to use tour companies or stay in hotels that do not properly remunerate their staff. Nor do we want local people to have to degrade themselves for our entertainment. Responsible travel is all about seeing the world without leaving a mark; to immerse yourself in culture rather than viewing it as an outsider; to respect our differences rather than ridicule them.

    Travel to the Middle East

    Contrary to what the tabloids will have you believe, the Middle East is heating up as a travel destination right now. Its growth in visitors since the beginning of 2018 is greater than that of Europe and South America – two regions that have traditionally been huge tourism hotspots. It may come as a surprise to know that the area that has seen the biggest increase in international arrivals is the Palestinian Territories. Banksy has even opened up a brand new hotel in Bethlehem, despite fears that people would not stay there due to the instability in the region.

    New Family Dynamics

    Two parent families are nowhere near as common as they used to be ten years ago. Today, it is estimated that there around 2 million single parent families in the UK and it is about time the travel industry reformed to reflect this shift. A number of travel companies now offer tours packages specifically designed for lone parents travelling with children. These often come with a discounted price because of the reduced number of travellers. Gone are days of single parents being penalised for being alone and in comes a time where families can enjoy themselves equally regardless of their make up.

    Solo Travel Will Become More Popular than Ever

    People have been travelling alone for decades, but it was once quite an unusual thing to do. Nowadays, solo travel is just as normal as group travel and in some parts of the world you’re far more likely to meet a solo backpacker than a horde of mates. What’s more, solo travel has a number of merits that group travel does not. You don’t have to compromise on your plans or spend ages waiting for everyone to agree on where to eat that night. When you travel alone, you can do whatever you want, whenever you want and simply go where the wind takes you on a day to day basis. This is a nice escape from the confinement and rigidity that makes up the daily grind.

  2. Top 5 Central American Hot Spots

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    Costa Rica aside, Central America doesn’t get nearly as much love as it deserves. Due to its rather turbulent past, travellers have been put off visiting this thin stretch of land. But, today, Central America is completely unrecognisable from what it once was and has reinvented itself as a modern region with a fantastic traveller infrastructure.

    Not only is Central America blessed with spectacular weather all year round, but it has some of the most exceptional natural beauty in the world. Combine this with bustling cities and quaint villages and you’ve got the ideal travel destination.

    So, here are some Central American hotspots that should definitely feature on your bucket list.

    Caye Caulker, Belize

    If you are looking for a paradise island with the most chilled out vibe on earth then look no further than Caye Caulker. Accessible by boat from the port in Belize City, this island is a far cry from chaotic mainland Belize. The people have a deeply-rooted ethos that you should move slow and be happy. The island offers great snorkelling and diving opportunities and is the starting point for trips to the famous Blue Hole dive site. It also has some fantastic restaurants that serve fresh lobster for fabulously cheap prices.

    Antigua, Guatemala

    Antigua is an explosion of colour and is in equal parts beautiful and busy. As one of the main tourist zones in the country, the city is well set up for visitors. There are dozens of restaurants and bars as well as street vendors and markets. If you want to pick up some souvenirs during your time in Guatemala then the main market in Antigua should do the trick. Selling everything from toys to food to clothes to gorgeous hand-woven fabrics, this market has it all. For something more adventurous, strap on your hiking boots and head to one Antigua’s nearby volcanoes.

    Utila, Honduras

    Mainland Honduras still very much bears the scars of its former troubles – some of which are not fully extinguished. But, Utila is the calm in the storm. This lovely island is filled with expats seeking a more relaxing life and diving enthusiasts from all over the world. Utila is one of the cheapest places on earth to get qualified as a scuba diver and the quality of the diving here is unbelievable. Divers will have chance to swim among eels, tropical fish and even whale sharks.

    Ometepe, Nicaragua

    The first thing you will learn about Nicaragua when you get there is that the Nica breakfast is really good. The next thing you will learn is how incredible Ometepe is. Situated right in the middle of the immense Lake Nicaragua, Ometepe is an island that is known for its outstanding nature, which includes the twin Maderas and Concepción volcanoes. Other points of interest include Santo Domingo beach, the Ojo de Agua and the San Ramón waterfall.

    Monteverde, Costa Rica

    Most people think of beaches and rainforest when they think about Costa Rica and there is no doubt that both of those things can be found in abundance here. However, there is a slightly less well-known terrain in Costa Rica, known as the cloud forest, which will take your breath away. Monteverde is a small town in the highlands of Costa Rica. The temperature here is cooler than most other parts of the country and the scenery is second to none. Be sure to save a couple of days to explore the hanging bridges that run through this cloud forest.

  3. Top 5 Cities to Visit

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    Some people travel to escape the city. They want to be free from the chaos and stress that comes with a bustling city full of people. But, there are some people who live for the buzz. For these people, nothing is better than the chance to be swept up in the excitement of a brand new city. The bright lights are just too hard to resist.

    If you fall into the category of people who love checking out cities while you’re abroad, or you think you might find them interesting then read on and let us open your eyes to some of the best cities in the world. So, get your travel bucket list and get ready to make some additions.

    Tokyo, Japan

    Japan is a completely different world to anything you will have experienced before. The culture is fascinating and, at times, utterly bizarre, and there is no better place to fully get to grips with it than the country’s stimulating capital. From the towering buildings of the inner city to the delicious noodle houses that pepper the streets, there is something interesting to be found on every corner of the city.

    Melbourne, Australia

    Known as the food capital of Australia, Melbourne has a truly phenomenal culinary scene. Australia itself doesn’t have much by way of national cuisine but it does spectacular versions of everyone else’s food. Throughout the city you’ll find street food, Asian eateries, South American offerings and plenty more to satisfy your appetite. Once you’re full, be sure to explore the beautiful parks and museums that can found throughout the city.

    Medellin, Colombia

    Sitting in the mountains of Colombia is the city of Medellin – a former red zone that has turned into one of the most thriving travel hotspots on the continent. Medellin is a mixture of cultures and scenes and the city is divided into a number of distinct regions, each with their own selling points. Right in the centre you will find the Botero Museum and sculpture park and over in El Poblado you will find the bars and clubs. You might also want to check out Parque Arvi, located at the top of a cable car track.

    Fes, Morocco

    Fes is everything you imagine Morocco to be and it is here you will get an authentic taste of Moroccan culture. Sprawling markets, known as souks, are found across the city, selling everything from clothes to jewellery to furniture. Make sure you’re well versed in the art of haggling before you attempt to buy anything so you get the best price you can. Fes is also famous for its tanneries and gastronomy so make time to explore both in your itinerary.

    Vancouver, Canada

    Vancouver is the perfect city for people who aren’t sure if they want to spend too much time in a city. The centre of Vancouver is full of high-rises, broken up by malls, brunch spots and purveyors of culture, including galleries and museums. But, if you drive just one hour out of the city you will find yourself surrounded by some of the most beautiful nature in the country. With the Rockies on one side and the Pacific on the other, those who travel to Vancouver really are spoilt for choice.

  4. Top 5 European Airlines

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    Flying can either by an incredible experience or an incredibly stressful experience depending on a number of factors. The most significant of these factors is which airline you decide to travel with. In Europe, we are fortunate enough to have a huge number of different airlines at our disposal, from budget flights that get you from A to B for just a few pounds, to heavyweight players who guarantee all sorts of luxuries.

    Sometimes the destination you want to travel to will only have one or two carriers that service it. In this case, your airline choice is pretty much made for you. However, as is much more often the case, there may be several airlines for you to pick from. If you’re faced with this kind of decision, then you should know a bit about the airlines rather than just blindly choosing. Here are our five favourite European airlines to help get you started.

    Lufthansa

    Passengers and the media are constantly praising this German airline and if you take a flight with the company you’ll see why. The product really is top of the range and while it is not a budget airline, you get what you pay for. The service is exceptional, the seats are comfortable and the airline’s premium classes are utterly divine. In fact, Lufthansa won an award for having the best first class dining – you know you’re doing well when even the dreaded plane food is good.

    Aeroflot

    It might surprise you to see this notorious company on the list of best European airlines. But, Aeroflot have come a long way since its early days and has dramatically improved its commercial offering. The planes are infinitely safer and the pilots are no longer ex-soviet fighter jet pilots, but instead correctly trained commercial captains. The airline was even named number one in Eastern Europe.

    Swiss International Air Lines

    This airline is just a baby, having only launched in 2002 from the remnants of what was SwissAir. The airline is part of the Lufthansa family so it should come as no surprise that it meets the standard of its big brother. The staff has been lauded for its smiles and accommodating nature and the comfort level seems satisfactory at least. Of course, the jewel in the crown on these flights is the complimentary Swiss chocolate that is given out at the end of the flight.

    Norwegian

    Based out of Oslo, this European airline has finally given travellers the chance to fly trans-Atlantic without forking out huge sums of money. Recently, Norwegian took the limelight in the aviation world thanks to its introduction of low cost flights from Europe to New York. You would think that a flight of that distance for such a small price would come with a few inconveniences, but the airline is remarkably classy. The seats are comfortable, the stewards are willing to go above and beyond and the food is pretty good – although you will have to pay extra for it.

    Air France

    France has certainly had a few hiccups recently, particularly due to labour and finance issues. However, this doesn’t seem to have had any long-lasting effects on the airline, which has now wowed the world with the unveiling of its new first class suites known as “La Premiere”. The ultimate in aviation luxury, these suites have certainly given this European airline the boost it needed to cement its position in the top five airlines on the continent.

  5. Top 5 Multi-Day Treks in the World

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    Anyone can do a day hike, but it takes someone with a really adventurous spirit to take on a multi-day trek. These excursions require stamina, resilience and determination. If you think you tick these boxes and are ready to fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors then you might want to think about adding on a multi-day trek to your travel plans.

    Take note that most multi-day treks will require some advance planning so make sure you factor this in. You should also make sure you pack appropriately for the trek – this means making sure you have the right clothes and gear.

    The Salkantay Trail, Peru

    Most people have heard of the Inca Trail, but far fewer have heard of the Salkantay. Just as beautiful and challenging as its better known counterpart, this trail has the added benefit of being absolutely free. Simply hire the gear you need in Cusco and head off – you don’t even need a guide! Once you start walking the path winds through the mountains of the sacred valley, over the Salkantay pass and all the way to Aguas Calientes, the base town for visiting the famous Machu Picchu.

    The Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

    The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most famous treks in the world but it is not for the faint hearted. The trek can last up to 14 days depending on which route you take and how quickly you walk. But, every single drop of sweat that falls from your body as you walk is made up for by the staggering views of the Himalayas that accompany you every step of the way. The Annapurna Circuit allows you to see Nepal at its finest.

    W Trek, Chile

    If you’re the kind of person that likes the idea of being completely immersed in nature then the W Trek will be right up your street. This trek runs through the Chilean part of Patagonia and takes between 5 and 7 days. Along the way you will see glacial lakes, beautiful forests and rugged wilderness that constitutes one of the last vestiges of completely untouched nature. The highlight of the trek is the chance to see the jagged Torres del Paine peaks.

    Kepler Track New Zealand

    Encompassing around 60km of pure, natural beauty, the Kepler Track is a spectacular trek that boasts some breath-taking vistas. The route is one of the easiest on this list and can be completed in just 3 days. The track is well maintained, which makes it both easy to follow and pleasant to walk on. Points of interest along the track include waterfalls, caves and lakes.

    Dogon Country, Mali

    The trek through the Dogon Country is perfect for people looking for something a bit different. The trek leads explorers through traditional Dogon villages, filled with friendly people who are happy to share their culture and traditions with those who want to learn. In addition to the picturesque landscape of West African desert peppered with stone huts, this trek is rich with history just waiting to be uncovered.

  6. Top 5 International Foods To Try On Your Travels

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    It’s no secret that one of the best things about travelling the world is getting the chance to sample exotic foods from foreign lands. There is something exciting about stumbling across some local delicacy that is a taste sensation unlike you’ve ever experienced before. Of course, this is accompanied by bragging rights, which allow you to smugly recount your gastronomic tales to your friends. So, if you’re planning on travelling anytime soon, keep your eyes peeled for the following culinary delights.

    Langos, Hungary

    This isn’t the healthiest thing on this list but it might just be the tastiest. Langos is a simple dish that consists of a disc of deep fried dough – roughly the size of a dinner plate. The dough is pulled out of the deep fryer and left for a few minutes so the oil can drain off. It is then smothered with generous lashings of sour cream and sprinkled with cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous you can opt for other toppings such as ham or onions.

    Ceviche, Peru

    Some people are wary of eating raw fish – and with good reason. Done badly, it can cause you some serious health problems. However, ceviche, when prepared properly, will dispel all your fears of raw fish. This mouth-watering dish is made with raw fish, which has been marinated in lime, onion, chilli and coriander. It is usually served with sweet potato or corn kernels. It’s an unusual flavour but one you will grow to love.

    Nasi Goreng, Indonesia

    Who ever said simple food can’t blow your mind? Nasi Goreng is one of the simplest dishes on the menu in Indonesia and yet it was voted to be in the top 50 most delicious dishes on earth. Made up of fried rice combined with egg, chicken and, sometimes, prawns, it is a hearty meal that will leave you fully satisfied. What’s more, if you buy this in Indonesia it will only set you back a dollar or two.

    Tagine, Morocco

    A tagine is a type of Moroccan stew, which typically includes lamb, apricots, vegetables, spices and a small amount of liquid. It is then left to cook for hours on end on a low heat. The end result is meat that falls apart in your mouth and a flavoursome stew that can be eaten with couscous. If you don’t like lamb or apricots then mix up the recipe with other meats and dried fruits.

    Pho, Vietnam

    Pho is a staple in Vietnam and while it might not look like much, it will keep you full all day. The premise of pho is simple. It is essentially a big bowl of noodle soup. But, it is so much more than that. The broth that makes up the soup is made from simmering bones and the meat is slow-cooked so it is as tender as can be. Your server will place some noodles in a bowl, pour some broth over it and then garnish it with beansprouts, coriander and lime.

  7. Top 5 Scuba Diving Spots

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    It is easy to see how people can get addicted to scuba diving. Plunging yourself into the great unknown, breathing underwater, seeing wildlife you’ve only ever seen on TV – it all combines to create an unforgettable experience. Unfortunately, in the UK, and other countries that are not exactly renowned for their great weather, there’s not much scope for scuba diving. Even if you found a good spot to dive, the water would be so cold it would make the experience quite unpleasant.

    But, if you head out to the tropical islands that pepper the world’s oceans, you will find scuba diving spots that will make you wish your oxygen tank would last forever. Here are some of the best scuba diving spots in the world.

    Utila, Honduras

    The top spot on this list has to go to Utila. Honduras has a pretty bad reputation when it comes to safety and most tourists will avoid it if they can. However, while the mainland can feel a bit dangerous, the islands are a completely different story. Filled with diving enthusiasts and expats, Utila is one of the cheapest places on the planet to get your PADI licence and the diving here is utterly sublime. Not only are the reefs teeming with exotic fish, octopi, sharks and starfish, but the water is perfectly warm.

    Koh Tao, Thailand

    Far from the madness of the Full Moon Party of Koh Phangan, or the party strip on Koh Samui, Koh Tao is an oasis of calm. Just like Utila, Koh Tao is known for its cut-price diving courses. With money you save acquiring your licence, you will be able to do even more diving once you’re qualified. The diving itself in Koh Tao isn’t as beautiful as many other spots but this is where those on a budget or people who have never dived before should start out.

    Blue Hole, Belize

    The Blue Hole brings in scuba divers from all over the world and with good reason. Sitting just off the coast of Belize’s beautiful Caye Caulker and Caye Ambergris, this dive site is a complete natural phenomenon. This site takes divers down to an other-worldly place that is at once beautiful and eery. Sharks roam freely once you get down to a certain depth and the sight of stalactites that date back millennia is truly breath-taking.

    Thistlegorm, Egypt

    Situated in the Red Sea, the Thistlegorm is one of the most famous shipwrecks in these warm, clear waters. Diving here allows intrepid adventurers to explore the wreck and seek out some of its forgotten treasures. Once surrounded by these artefacts it feels like you have been transported back in time and if you use your imagination you might even be able to get an idea of what the ship was like back in its hey day.

    Sipadan Island

    Everyone who knows anything about diving will tell you how amazing the diving on Sipadan Island is. Head over to Barracuda Point and you will find yourself in the middle of a tornado of gleaming barracuda. If you are lucky enough to have an under-water camera then this sight is not to be missed. Equally, the Coral Garden and Drop Off provide yet more stunning photo ops. If you don’t have a camera then just admire the wonder of the sites with your own eyes. They are guaranteed to blow you away.

  8. Where Are You Going for the Holidays?

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    If you are lucky enough to have an office that closes from Christmas Eve through to the New Year or you have enough holiday left to take some days off then you might want to think about heading off somewhere exciting over Christmas. Whether you want something perfectly Christmassy or you want to escape the cold to some tropical getaway, there will be somewhere in the world that ticks all your boxes. If you’re at a loss as to where you should be going for the holidays then read on and let us inspire you.

    For the Ultimate Christmas: Iceland

    When it comes to Christmas there are two kinds of people – those who love it and those who don’t. If you fall into the first category then Iceland is going to be your ultimate Christmas destination. With plenty of snow all around, you won’t be able to escape the wintery excitement of Christmas. What’s more, Iceland is packed full of reindeer – adding an extra Christmassy touch to your vacation. Spend your days exploring the incredible nature and sampling the delicious cuisine this country has to offer.

    For Winter Sun: Australia

    When things start to freeze over in the Northern Hemisphere, it all heats up down under. If you’re sick of freezing to death over winter and want to spend your Christmas having a BBQ on the beach then Australia is your dream destination. The sun will be out in full swing and everyone will be in summer mode. Grab your swimsuit and thongs (that’s what the Aussies call flip-flops) and head to the beach to ride some waves and soak up some much needed vitamin D.

    For Great Food: Mexico

    Everyone loves Mexican food. With so much variety and a tidal wave of flavour, it is impossible not to fall in love with the cuisine of this wonderful country. But, of course, as great as your local Chipotle might be, it is nothing compared with the food right from the source. It will come as no surprise that the best Mexican food in the world is in Mexico but what might shock you is the price. No more paying $12 for a burrito. In Mexico you can fill yourself to bursting with tacos and guacamole for less the $3. It’s a dream come true for a foodie.

    For Something Different: The Philippines

    Perhaps not the most obvious choice for a winter getaway, the Philippines has a lot to offer travellers willing to put in the time it takes to get there. Predominantly known for its incredible nature, the Philippines will blow you away with its landscapes, beaches and waterfalls. But the excitement doesn’t end there. Spend some time in Manila, the capital, before heading to the coast and doing some island hopping. Be sure to stop off on Palawan and Boracay islands as you travel through this stunning archipelago. To top it all off, a trip to the Philippines won’t break the bank either.

  9. Top 5 Island Getaways

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    Sometimes you just need to pack up your bags and jet off to a beautiful island. Winter is in full swing and the dreary grey outside most likely has you pining for sunshine. A tropical island adorned with lush nature and pristine beaches would solve all of your winter blues. But, where is one to go for such things?

    Let me transport you to some of the best paradise islands on the planet. Whether you want wildlife or nightlife, it’s time to find your perfect island getaway.

    Tioman Island, Malaysia

    Often over shadowed in favour of the Langkawi archipelago, Tioman Island is the tropical paradise you’ve been dreaming about. To travel to the island you will need to hop in a boat at Mersing in mainland Malaysia. From there you will cross crystal clear water until you reach the island. As the boat gets closer to Tioman Island, the verdant vegetation will appear in full force. Finally you will disembark on to golden sand, surrounded by mysterious jungle. If you want to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in paradise then this is the place to be.

    Easter Island, Chile

    Steeped in history, Easter Island sits in the Pacific Ocean, around 3,500km from mainland Chile. It is far from the most accessible place on earth but that doesn’t stop people from all over the world making travel plans to visit it. Easter Island is famed for its collection of Moai that can be found all over the island. Moai are the giant stone heads that you have probably seen photos of. To this day these statues still baffle historians and anthropologists alike. The island offers plenty of hiking opportunities as well as a beautiful beach for when the weather is good.

    Kauai, Hawaii

    Kauai, aptly nicknamed the Garden Island, is a formidable example of just how astonishing nature can be. Lush valleys are punctuated by crashing waterfalls and fringed with beautiful beaches. Active visitors to this island can easily spend their day partaking in adventure activities, such as ziplining or kayaking, or hiking around the island’s various crags and cliffs. For those who would rather relax, there is a fantastic selection of beaches to doze on.

    Koh Tao, Thailand

    Predominantly known for its fantastic scuba diving opportunities, Koh Tao is one of Thailand’s more peaceful islands. You won’t find raging full moon parties here but you will find a few bars where you can settle down with friends and a few bottles of Chang. If you aren’t interested in diving or would simply rather keep your feet on terra firma then you can spend the day exploring the island on foot.

    Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

    Not too far from Bali is a little archipelago called the Gili Islands. Most popular of these is the legendary Gili Trawangan – or Gili T as it is known for short. Not only is this beach the definition of paradise island but it can also get pretty lively in the evenings. The typical day on Gili T consists of splashing around in the impossibly turquoise sea; soaking up the sun on the powder white beach; and then hitting up the food market for some freshly caught seafood.

  10. Top 5 Places to See Wildlife

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    One of the best things about going on holiday is seeing things you would never normally get the chance to see back home. This could come in the form of cultural traditions, ancient ruins or eclectic marketplaces, among other things. But, perhaps the most exciting thing of all to see on holiday is exotic wildlife.

    This article is going to outline some of the best places in the world to see animals that will take your breath away. From gigantic sea tortoises to majestic lions – these incredible creatures are a true testament to the power of Mother Nature.

    Galapagos Islands

    You’ve probably heard of the Galapagos Islands. Brought into the spotlight by Charles Darwin in the 1800s, these islands are the pinnacle of biodiversity. Home to the iconic Galapagos Tortoise, the islands have drawn in scientists and nature lovers alike for decades now. Other animals you might see here include land and marine iguanas, sea lions, and mighty albatrosses.

    Sri Lanka

    Sri Lanka’s crowning feature is its abundance of elephants. Head to one of the island’s numerous national parks such as Yala or Minneriya and you will get the chance to ogle these magnificent creatures. You might also spot a leopard or some monkeys if you’re lucky. The best way to see the wildlife in Sri Lanka is to take a jeep cruise through one of the parks. If you’re interested in aquatic animals then take a whale-watching tour off the coast of Mirissa for the chance to see blue whales and dolphins.

    Uganda

    Over half of the world’s population of mountain gorilla lives in the lush highlands of Uganda. This is what has made this country so popular with nature-loving travellers over the years. Tours through the mountains to see the gorillas can be arranged alongside safaris to see the African elephants in the Savannah. Uganda is also a great destination for bird-watchers as a great number of exotic birds fly through the skies here.

    Brazil

    Home to a huge portion of the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil has an exceptional level of biodiversity. Head out into the jungle either by riverboat or by land tour and keep your eyes peeled for movement. If you have an experienced guide with you then they will be able to spot creatures and point them out to you. You could see jaguars, capybaras, ocelots, monkeys and even anacondas. Look to the water and there’s a chance you will find pink river dolphins, piranhas and caimans.

    Kenya

    The king of wildlife, Kenya is one of the best places on earth to spot the Big 5. The Big 5 is a term that was originally used by hunters to denote the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot. These animals are the rhino, lion, leopard, elephant and Cape buffalo. It is every safari-goers dream to catch a glimpse of all five of these animals. At the end of the day, retire to your luxury camp in the Savannah and fall asleep to sound of the cries of animals.