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The Smarter Way to Travel™

Category Archive: Blog

  1. Top 4 Products for Travel

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    Having the right products with you when you travel can really make or break a vacation. Whether it is something that will keep your devices on full battery as you trek through Andes, or just a comfy addition to your plane gear, products can revolutionise the way you travel. If you are planning a vacation in the near future and want to make sure you are travelling like a pro, take heed. Here are some of the best travel products that you should take with you on your journey. Future you will thank past you when these products come in handy, which they inevitably will.

    Portable Charger

    It is amazing how much we depend on technology. Our communication, entertainment, information and a lot more is often all contained within a singular handheld device. While this makes life a whole lot easier on the go, it does mean that if that device suddenly dies on us, we will be royally screwed. So, this is why I recommend investing in a good quality portable charger. With one of these in your bag, you never need to worry about your battery going flat again. The better quality chargers on the market usually hold about 3-5 full charges, which should keep you going for a couple of days at least. Just make sure you charge up your charger before you leave the hotel.

    Travel Pillow

    I honestly cannot stress the importance of a travel pillow. Even if you just use it on the flight to and from your destination, it will make a huge difference to the quality of your journey. If you are planning on taking any long bus or train journeys then it really is a must-have. A travel pillow can be a little irksome to carry around with you – unless you get one that is inflatable. Inflatable travel pillows are ideal if you plan on moving around a lot and don’t want loads to carry around. Simply deflate it when you are finished using it and tuck into a pocket in your suitcase. Easy!

    Toiletries Minis

    How many times have you had to throw away your beloved perfumes and face creams at security because you forgot that they were over 100ml? It happens to the best of us, but it can be devastating to watch that precious Clinique tub get tossed into the bin. Toiletries minis are simply empty containers that you can fill with your own toiletries. Pour moisturiser into one and shampoo into another and you’ll find your security checks go far more smoothly.

    Plug Adaptor

    As I mentioned previously, we are incredibly dependent on electronics. This means that we like to fall asleep at night making sure everything we need for the next day is charging up. You cannot do this with your regular plug in a range of different countries. There are several different plugs around the world and if you don’t know which one you will encounter on your vacation you are better off being prepared for all eventualities. Get yourself a converter that accommodates any plug – you can even get one with USB sockets too!

  2. Getting Ready for Your Summer Vacation: What Do I Need to Know?

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    Summer is in the air and your feet are itching to travel. You’ve got your flights booked, your accommodation sorted and a taxi company phone number scribbled out in a notebook. Everything is ready. All you need to do now is make sure the smaller details are taken care of.

    There is a lot more to planning a summer vacation than simply booking things online. From the contents of your suitcase to your state of mind, there is a whole range of things you should consider before you set off for the airport. Here are some essential things you need to know as you prepare for your summer vacation.

    You won’t wear that many outfits

    Lay out everything you want to take with you on vacation before you put it in your suitcase. Now, walk away from it and come back a few hours later. When you look over what you are planning to take with fresh eyes you will undoubtedly spot a few items that can be left behind. In our zeal to get our suitcases packed and sorted, we often overload with things we do not need. Future you will thank you for packing light so you don’t have to schlep your heavy luggage around.

    What will you be able to buy once you’re there?

    If you are going to travel to a city break then the amount of things you need to take with will be limited. Cities are full of shops, where you will be able to purchase anything you have left behind. City-breakers – don’t worry. Those straying off the beaten track or heading somewhere rural do not have the same luxury. If you’re spending your vacation touring Peru’s Sacred Valley, commodities will be scarcer. If you are heading somewhere remote, make sure you have everything you need before you leave because you never know if you will have the chance to buy things on-site.

    Make an itinerary but keep it flexible

    If you arrive at your vacation destination this summer without any semblance of a plan you risk losing a lot of time to aimless wandering. It is helpful to make a list of things you want to see and do while you are there. However, do not set your itinerary in stone as this takes away your flexibility and spontaneity. You might meet someone on your travels who has a suggestion you want to check out or who tells you that the temple you want to see is a tourist trap you should avoid.

    Read up on local customs before you go

    It is a good idea to know a bit about your destination before you travel there. Things to take note on are tipping culture; social etiquette; conversation topics to avoid; driving rules; religious customs etc. The worst thing in the world is to be branded an ignorant tourist because you have accidentally disrespected someone or something whilst on vacation.

    Get yourself a kindle and fill it up

    One of the best things about going on a summer vacation is having all that time to relax. This down time is the perfect opportunity to catch up on some reading. Whether its classic literature or airport novels, fill up your kindle or e-reader with plenty of reading material that you can devour while you’re on the plane; at the beach; or even in bed at night.

  3. Top 4 Activity Holiday Destinations for Thrill-Seekers

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    Some people like to take their annual leave and spend it lying perfectly still on an exotic beach in the sunshine, moving only when they need food or to cool off in the water. For others, this sounds like fresh hell. If you are the kind of person who wants to spend their time out of the office running around in the great outdoors then the last thing you want is a resort-based getaway where you spend most of your time stationary. Instead, you want adventure, excitement and plenty of nature.

    Fortunately, the world is full of beautiful places brimming with adventure. In fact, virtually every country on earth has something to offer when it comes to activity holidays. Having trouble deciding where to get your kicks this summer? Read on and discover our top picks for the thrill-seekers among us.

    Patagonia

    Spanning the southernmost parts of Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is a stark, barren landscape that captivates the heart and soul. Not for the faint-hearted, Patagonia is a region of extremes – when the sun shines the whole area is bathed in gold, but when the weather turns, hail, rain and gale force winds become common place. Yet, despite the unpredictable and fierce weather, Patagonia remains one of the world’s top spots for activities. From trekking across glaciers to hiking formidable peaks, there is adventure round every corner in this untouched part of the world.

    Norway

    When it comes to natural beauty, few places can compete with Norway. Known predominantly for its gorgeous Fjords, the country is ideal for reconnecting with nature and filling your lungs with fresh air. Popular activities in Norway include boat rides and hiking tours through the Fjords as well as kayaking, and mountain biking. If you decide to travel during the winter you will also have the option of dog-sledding, which involves being pulled across sparkling snow by a team of energetic and adorable huskies – a dog lover’s dream!

    South Africa

    South Africa is the perfect destination for thrill-seekers of all varieties. Whether you feel more comfortable in the water, on land or up in the air, there is something for everyone in this remarkable country. The first thing you might think of when picturing South Africa is probably safari tours. Well, there are certainly safari opportunities in abundance but that is far from everything South Africa has to offer. For those who really want to get the adrenaline pumping, why not try cage-diving with Great White sharks or sky diving? Alternatively, a more relaxing option is a drive along the country’s stunning Garden Route.

    Japan

    Forget about Tokyo, the real adventure is found in Japan’s countryside. Head to the archipelago of Okinawa if you want to plunge into the water, snorkel in tow, and admire Japan’s diverse marine life. Those who would rather keep their feet on terra firma might be interested in the gruelling but awe-inspiring Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage trek through the mountains. Other activity options include hiking Mount Fuji or skiing in Hokkaido, located in the north of the country.

  4. Top 5 Romantic Vacation Destinations

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    Sharing a vacation with the person you love is one of the best things on earth. You get to spend days doing nothing but enjoying each other’s company and loving their existence. In our frantic daily lives, we don’t often get the chance to spend quality time with the people we adore the most and that can take a toll on even the strongest relationship.

    When you both have some time off work and want to go away together, it is important that you pick the right destination. If you are looking for a romantic getaway then you might not want somewhere packed full of tourists. On the flip side, you might not want anything too obscure as they might not have enough of an infrastructure to cater to your needs. Here are a few recommendations of romantic vacation destinations that will tick all your boxes.

    Belize

    Far from being the most popular vacation destination in Central America, this tiny little country has a lot to offer those seeking a romantic break somewhere exotic. Across from the mainland are two beautiful islands, Caye Caulker and Caye Ambergris. Surrounded by turquoise water, these lazy little islands are bathed in sunshine and are both idyllic, relaxing hideouts. On the islands, couples can spend their days snorkelling with the fish and their evenings gorging on fresh lobster.

    Lombok, Indonesia

    Bali tends to be the first place people think about when they picture Indonesia. But, Lombok is just around the corner and it doesn’t have nearly as many rowdy Australians. The island of Lombok is blessed with glittering gold beaches and outstanding nature to explore. It is quiet, beautiful, and has an abundance of restaurants serving top notch Indonesian food. In terms of paradise islands, it doesn’t get much better than this.

    Tanzania

    Tanzania is a romantic vacation destination for couples that want a bit of everything. One exciting activity for those with a lot of energy is scaling the formidable Mount Kilimanjaro. While it is certainly no easy task, it does not require any specialist mountaineering gear or expertise. For something a bit more leisurely, couples can go on safari to seek out the Big 5 or head over to Zanzibar to loll on the pristine beaches.

    Kerala, India

    Away from the noise and chaos of Delhi, Kerala is a little patch of heaven in the South of India. Surrounded by lush vegetation, Kerala comprises numerous backwater rivers, along which traditional boats float. The weather down here is warm and humid, while the jungle canopy provides blissful respite from the sun. This is nature like you’ve never seen before, sparkling with emerald beauty. Shack up in an eco-lodge with the one you love and fall asleep together to the sounds of nature.

    France

    Everyone knows that Paris is the city of love, so why wouldn’t it make the perfect romantic destination. However, not everyone likes a busy city – that’s why France is the ideal vacation spot. You could spend your days strolling through the leafy boulevards of Paris, or you can hop on the TGV and explore the country’s provincial regions. Tiny villages filled with stone houses, connected by a maze of cobbled streets are waiting for you to come and discover their treasures. Wander through farmer’s markets, sample local goods, and end each day with a fine wine in the warm evening. What could be better?

  5. 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.

  6. 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?

  7. 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.

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

  10. 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.