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Welcome to our July/August issue of Inspiring Vacations magazine.
Summer in the Northern Hemisphere, winter in the Southern Hemisphere – no matter where you are in the world, you’ll travel to both this issue. In Greece, we taste test five of the best musttry foods, each more mouthwatering than the last. Grab your woolies as we head over to New Zealand to take in all that this winter wonderland has to offer – everything except skiing, that is.
Heading to Canada? Turn to page 26 and find out what type of Canada traveller you are, plus our very own email marketing manager, Laura, shares her very special Rocky Mountaineer photo album.
We love seeing your travel photos, turn to page 3 for instructions on how to enter our competition and be in the running to win a trip to Spain, Portugal and Morocco. As always, I love to hear your feedback so please get in touch magazine@inspiringvacations.com
Wishing you an adventurous, travel-filled July and August,
01 03 05 07 09 11 14 21
WELCOME
A note from our CEO
WHAT’S ON July/August events, online & offline
IN THE KNOW
Travel news from around the world
TOUR SPOTLIGHT Canada’s Columbia Icefield
FIVE OF THE BEST Must-try Greek eats
CUSTOMER TRAVELS
Diane and Kathryn travel to Sri Lanka
CONTENTS 07 21 14
HOLIDAY AT HOME
The non-skiing guide to New Zealand
WEEKENDER
Lose yourself in Melbourne’s laneways this winter
GLOBETROTTER
What type of Canada traveller are you?
Q&A
Lonely Planet writer, Ruth Dawkins
ARMCHAIR TRAVELLER
26
INSPIRING VACATIONS
MAGAZINE
Editor
Vanessa Mulquiney
Art Director SIXTWO Creative Contributors
Emma Calley, Scott Forth, Kristy Hosking
Marketing & Advertising
Laura Coop
Contact
you see this symbol on our pages, press play and you’ll be redirected to our beautiful destination videos. Inspiring Vacations Magazine is published bimonthly by Inspiring Vacations (ABN 22 623 610 711), Level 2, 420 St Kilda Rd Melbourne VIC 3004. © 2023. All rights reserved. Articles express the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of Inspiring Vacations.
We love seeing our customers travel photos and hearing about their inspiring memories. To submit your photos and be in the running to win a trip to Spain, Portugal and Morocco, scan the QR code below and follow the instructions. It's that easy!
On day 8 we left Kandy by train where the bus met us at the end of the line, and we drove onto Minneriya National Park. This was our third safari of the trip, but all three offer different experiences. On this occasion, as we stopped to photograph elephants, our driver mounted his cabin and offered to take photos of our group. We have such good memories of not only our trip, but our lovely travel companions, too. We stayed at Jungles that night, and in the morning we enjoyed monkeys playing just outside our room while we had a cup of local tea. We would go back to Sri Lanka in a heartbeat!
@JulieCThe highlight of our 16 Day Incredible Rocky Mountaineer and Alaska tour was our two-night stay at Chateau Lake Louise. We had time to see the many faces of Lake Louise and the surrounding landscape, including this amazing scenery on the walk to the far end of the lake.
@YvonneB
For full T&Cs, please refer to the website here
AUGUST 27–SEPTEMBER 4, BURNING MAN
Running across four days and attracting roughly 70,000 artists, party-goers and eccentrics, the iconic Burning Man Festival takes place in Black Rock City, a temporary metropolis erected in the heart of the Nevada desert. The event reaches its apex with the burning of a large wooden effigy, an enduring tradition that remains a centrepiece of the festival.
JULY 1–31, GION MATSURI FESTIVAL
Kyoto’s largest annual festival features multiple events, the most significant of these being the grand procession of the floats on July 17 and July 24. First held all the way back in 869, this historic festival is one of Japan’s most spectacular annual events.
JULY 7–16, CALGARY STAMPEDE
Music, arts and the world’s largest outdoor rodeo, the Calgary Stampede is a massive 10-day event attracting over one million visitors each year. While the athletes ride, race and saddle their way through heart-pumping competitions, the event also features music performances, parades, carnival rides and more.
UNTIL JULY 15, MONTREUX
JAZZ FESTIVAL
For two weeks, the charming lakeside town of Montreux becomes the hub of one of Europe's most lauded musical festivals. This year's lineup boasts iconic artists like Bob Dylan, Lionel Ritchie and Sam Smith, who will all be performing for the estimated 250,000 attendees.
JULY 21–AUGUST 6, BORYEONG MUD FESTIVAL
Mud wrestling, mud baths and mud painting, the Boryeong Mud Festival is a mud-centred event like no other. Located in South Korea’s South Chungcheong region along the country’s west coast, this oddball summer festival ensures visitors will be leaving their finest attire firmly packed back at the hotel.
AUGUST 30, LA TOMATINA
An all-out battle where revellers pelt truckloads of overripe tomatoes at one another, the La Tomatina festival returns for another year of anarchic mayhem. A small town just west of Valencia, Buñol is a quaint town which continues to invite visitors from far and wide to partake in this long standing tradition.
No matter where you are in the world, there’s plenty of events—both online and offline—to enjoy
An unparalleled experience. Sail the Aegean Coast on a traditional gulet, explore Cappadocia’s fairytale landscapes, see Istanbul’s grand sights, Hadrian’s Gate, the battlefields of Gallipoli.
• Small group tour, no more than 14
• 5-star hotels, 3 nights sailing the Turkish Riviera
• Fully escorted by an expert, English-speaking guide
• Inspiring Stays, Sights and Tastes, including a magical stay in a boutique Cappadocia cave hotel
This tour of Turkey was the most amazing trip ... a fun, informative and interesting tour. I cannot speak highly enough of this tour, the country with its incredible landscape and the amazing, friendly people. If you are thinking of doing this tour, do it – you will not be disappointed
Prepare to be dazzled by a breathtaking display of worldclass talent as Australia and New Zealand join forces to host the ninth edition of the FIFA Women's World Cup. For an entire month, from July to August, 64 thrilling games will ignite the passion of soccer fans across nine different cities. With women’s soccer enjoying a continual increase in popularity year on year, this year’s Women’s World Cup is set to be its biggest yet. The 2019 Women’s World Cup saw a staggering 1.12 billion viewers tune into the coverage, a record that is well poised to be surpassed this year. Kicking off the tournament in Auckland will be a clash between Norway and New Zealand, perfectly setting the stage for a journey of passion, skill and determination.
Every three to ten years the world’s driest non-polar desert undergoes a breathtaking metamorphosis as the landscape blooms to form a kaleidoscopic display of amber, pink and gold. Chile’s Atacama Desert is wedged between the Andes mountains and the Pacific Ocean, causing low precipitation and incredibly scarce annual rainfall. When it does rain, the arid landscape hosts a stunning rare super bloom, causing over 200 species of flowers to emerge from the soil. The Chilean government has announced the creation of a 141,000 hectare reserve located roughly 30-km south from the city of Copiapó. Hoping to protect the delicate soil from damage while also encouraging further tourism, the park has been given the fitting name Desierto Florido. Translated in English it means ‘flowerful desert.’
Wadi Rum boasts an extraordinary landscape reminiscent of the red planet Mars, making it a truly one-of-a-kind wonder of nature. Thanks to a recent local endeavour, adventurers can now embark on a thrilling 10-day, 120-km hiking trail that traverses the awe-inspiring desert landscape of this remarkable region. Crafted by the local Bedouin tribes who call the region home, the trail connects old travel, trade, shepherd and hunting routes to form a circuit which showcases the best of the region. From its world famous sandstone interior to more remote lesser-known wilderness areas, the trail is designed to give intrepid travellers an authentic experience that connects them to the region’s local heritage. The Wadi Rum trail is specifically intended to be walked with the help of a Bedouin guide. Their wealth of local knowledge and ability to keep hikers on-track is a must when undertaking this once in a lifetime journey.
Prepare your taste buds for a delectable journey as Italy's iconic culinary treasures vie for a coveted spot on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. For centuries, Italian food has ignited culinary passions with its mouth-watering flavours and rich heritage. The Italian ministries of culture and agriculture have formally submitted their nation's cuisine to join the Intangible Cultural Heritage list, which aims to recognise diverse traditions and practices that contribute to the rich tapestry of human heritage. Building on the previous success of having the art of Neapolitan-style pizza making accepted onto the list, with its traditional techniques and communal values integral to the nation's cultural identity, the stage is now set for the verdict on whether the Italian culinary delights we all love earn their rightful place. The world eagerly awaits the decision, which will be announced in December 2025.
Cool Nordic cities, the famous Lofoten Islands and the magic of wild Finnish Lapland – go husky sledding through the Arctic forest, stay in a glass igloo gazing up at the night sky, visit Santa Claus’ Village in Rovaniemi, cross the Arctic Circle and carve through frozen seas on an icebreaker cruise.
• Small group tour – up to 24 people
• Fully escorted by expert, English-speaking guide
• 15 nights in comfortable, 4-star hotels
• Overnight Santa Claus Express train from Helsinki
• Breakfast daily, 5 dinners
TRAVEL FROM JAN 2024 TO MAR 2024
We have just returned and we thoroughly enjoyed the adventure. We had a fantastic guide who was knowledgeable, caring and with so much humour, he really made our trip.
Imagine standing atop a vast expanse of ice, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas—welcome to the Columbia Icefield, a frozen wonderland straddling Banff and Jasper national parks. The area consists of a series of glaciers totalling roughly 230 sq km in size, making it the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies. A popular spot to stop off along the iconic Icefields Parkway drive, it's also the perfect place to take part in a one-of-a-kind four-wheel-drive adventure.
The Ice Explorer day tour entails exploring the ancient Athabasca Glacier while inside an all-terrain snow coach. There are only 23 of these Terra Buses in the world, with Antarctica’s McMurdo research station being the only other destination where you can find these heavy-duty vehicles. Specially designed to traverse the difficult icy terrain, these large coaches are fitted with big surrounding windows, giving passengers enough visibility to soak in the spectacular local environment.
While out on the glacier expert tour guides share their knowledge of the fascinating local ecosystem and the environmental challenges the area now faces. Once you have navigated to a safe section of the ice, you can also choose to walk out onto the glacier while under the guide's supervision. Walking amid the frozen terrain is sure to make for an unforgettable adventure.
The journey concludes with a tour of the Glacier Skywalk, a 400 metre long glass-bottomed walkway suspended 280 metres above the valley floor. Detailed signs along the walkway showcase all the notable surrounding sights, providing fascinating context to the spectacular views before you.
Adventures across the Athabasca Glacier are scheduled between May and early October, with freezing winter conditions making the ice inaccessible for the remainder of the year.
The vibrant sights of three exotic countries, from Spain’s spectacular Alhambra Palace to Morocco’s maze-like medinas and modern-day masterpiece, the Hassan II Mosque. Barcelona streetscapes, desert landscapes and sunkissed Andalusia await.
• 17 nights in 4 and 5-star hotels
• Cross the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry to Africa
• Fully escorted by expert, English-speaking guides
• Comfortable, dedicated private transportation
• Breakfast daily and 2 dinners TRAVEL FROM OCT 2023 TO DEC 2024
From the planning stages onwards this was a truly wonderful trip – with a very responsive support agent, excellent hotels, a very comprehensive itinerary, and very personable and knowledgeable guide/tour leaders in all 3 countries.
The most famous cheese that Greece produces, feta, can be made from sheep or a combination of sheep and goat’s milk. Protected as a designation of origin product, feta can only be made in Greece. It is brined into a curd that gives it its grainy, crumbly texture and salty aftertaste.
A signature Greek entree, moussaka is said to have worked its way onto the menu in Greece when Arabs brought aubergines to the country. The classic version bakes them in olive oil to form its bottom layer, before adding minced lamb meat, tomatoes and herbs. The final, top layer is a béchamel sauce that gives it its golden-brown topping.
Greek-style doughnuts—enough said. Fried for added flavour and decadence, they also make the most of Greece’s premium honey and flaunt a bright yellow sheen. Versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or alongside chocolate, fruit and syrups, loukoumades are the perfect holiday treat. Wash them down with some strong and finely ground Greek coffee.
Made from salted, strained yoghurt, tzatziki has a cool, punchy flavour that folds in cucumber, garlic, lemon, olive oil and herbs such as dill, mint and parsley. It’s the perfect accompaniment to add even more flavour to souvlaki, gyro or a hearty Greek salad. Served fresh to order, it can also be enjoyed with warm pita and another slug of olive oil for good measure.
Octopus is another local produce that the Greeks’ have turned into a delicacy of their own. Most commonly grilled or braised in wine, oil or vinegar, oktapodi manages to be exotic yet simple. The preparation of the octopus itself is often tricky and time-consuming and chefs have to ensure it doesn’t become too tough or break apart. Bite-size treats can also be found in the form of baby octopi that are pickled with herbs and spices then doused in lemon.
Visit a turtle hatchery, Sigiriya Lion Rock fortress, a tea plantation, unwind at a coastal resort, tour Kandy by tuk tuk, embark on private guided safari drives and take a scenic boat ride on Madu River.
• Small group, no more than 16 travellers
• 13 nights in deluxe, 5-star hotels, including 2 nights at Nuwara Eliya’s renowned Grand Hotel • Iconic train between Nuwara Eliya and Kandy • Fully escorted by expert, English-speaking guide
From temples to tea plantations to ancient ruins, the island nation of Sri Lanka is all charm. Pair these treasures with the perfect neighbour in paradise – the idyllic Maldives.
• 14 nights in central, 3 & 4-star hotels
• Fully escorted by expert, English-speaking guides
• All transport, including flights and the famed shinkansen bullet train
• Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 1 dinner
DEPARTS OCT 2023 TO OCT 2024
I just got back from our wonderful trip to Sri Lanka.
The local tour company looked after us exceptionally well and
Every comfort considered! Relax in the historic city of Trincomalee, see the magnificent ruins of Anuradhapura and the northern city of Ja na’s beautiful temples.
• Small group, fully escorted
• 18 nights in mostly 5-star hotels, including 2 nights at the iconic Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya
• Breakfast and dinner daily, 5 lunches
• Ride the famed train from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy
DEPARTS OCT 2023 TO OCT 2024
What prompted you to book your tour?
We heard so many good reports from people who had visited Sri Lanka previously that it piqued our appetite to travel there ourselves. We were originally due to go in 2019 but had to postpone our trip to March 2023.
Did your expectations meet reality?
Yes! The tour provided a blend of seeing Sri Lanka’s people, places and culture. Given the tour was only 15 days we could not expect to stay long in each place, so don’t be too disappointed. You have to set your expectations to the timeframe. The short stay in the Maldives at the end of the tour allowed us to unwind and relax after a fast paced tour.
INSPIRED TO VISIT SRI LANKA? Check out our tours here
What were the highlights of this tour for you?
We thoroughly enjoyed the safari at Minneriya National Park and seeing the elephants. Also, the train trip from Nuwara Eliya in the highlands and to Kandy allowed us to see a different landscape, vegetation and people. Lion Rock at Sigiriya was spectacular. I couldn’t manage climbing to the top, but was pleased I got to the foot of the Lion. I also enjoyed the tour of the UNESCO medieval city of Polonnaruwa.
What do you say to those pondering whether or not to book?
Go for it! It is great value for money.
Any advice for future travellers?
Read the guide of what the trip offers and the level of accommodation. Most were 3-star hotels. Be patient with the service people in the hotels; check your bills and be courteous.
ew Zealand is an amazing destination to visit yearround, and when winter hits it’s not all about hitting the slopes. Here, our 10 favourite things to do in this winter which don’t involve skiing.
There’s nothing like train travel for creating a sense of adventure. With the TranzAlpine train you’ll experience one of the world’s great train journeys in just five hours. Although short, the journey is anything but repetitive. Beginning with frost-bitten Canterbury Plains and snow-capped Southern Alps, the journey ends after emerging from the Otira Tunnel with the tropical rainforests of the West Coast. To get the most from the trip, head to the outdoor observation car when you reach the cliffs of the Waimakariri Gorge – but be ready for the sudden plunge into darkness when the train hits the tunnels.
Whale watching can be an awe-inspiring experience. For the ultimate whale-watching experience, head to Kaikōura between June and August for peak migration season. You’ll increase your chances of spotting humpbacks, blue whales, and the elusive sperm whale —a species rarely seen outside of Kaikōura. If you’re in the North Island, you can’t go wrong with the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park near Auckland and the Coromandel. It is home to almost a third of the world’s marine mammal species, including the blue whale and the critically endangered Bryde’s whale.
If hitting the slopes isn’t your thing, try these 10 ski-free winter activities in New Zealand
We’ve all heard of the Northern Lights, but did you know about the Southern Lights? Auroras occur around the Earth’s magnetic poles, which means New Zealand is one of the best places to see Aurora Australis, otherwise known as the Southern Lights and winter is the ideal time to go aurora spotting. Insider tip: the farther south you go, the better the view. Head to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve for one of the world’s least light polluted night skies. To get the most from the experience, join a Dark Sky Project tour at the Mount John Observatory. Or visit the southernmost island of New Zealand, Rakiura Stewart Island. Rakiura means ‘glowing skies’ in Te Reo Māori, so you know you’re in the right place.
Hiking New Zealand’s most popular routes out of season is a great way to avoid the crowds and see the country’s alpine regions at their best – covered in a thick blanket of snow. Topping most lists for best day walk is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and it’s not hard to understand why. The 19 km alpine trek covers an alpine landscape that has an almost otherworldly beauty, where bright emerald lakes stand out against a bleak volcanic landscape. For the ultimate view of a snow-capped Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, try the Hooker Valley Track.
Traditionally, Māori celebrate the new year when the Matariki star cluster appears in the night sky, which usually falls around June or July. Today, the occasion is marked across the country with a fortnight of cultural events, ending in a public holiday. For the ultimate Matariki experience, visit Te Pā Tū in Rotorua. Highlights include a fire ceremony, kapa haka (traditional song and dance), and a hāngī (traditional cooking).
Experience New Zealand through food and drink by visiting the Visa Wellington on a Plate culinary festival on May 5-21. Light up a dark winter evening, literally, at the Queentown’s Luma Festival which runs from June 1-5. This four-day light festival is internationally renowned for its illuminated installations and sculpture. Or visit the quiet rural town of Ōamaru for its larger-than-life annual Steampunk Festival, June 2-5.
5. MATARIKI
In New Zealand beaches are for summer, hot pools are for winter. After a full day of sightseeing in Queenstown, unwind at Onsen Hot Pools. The combination of mineral-rich waters and stunning views that no writer can ever fully describe ensures this little hideaway is the perfect way to end the day. For the ultimate geothermal experience, visit Hell's Gate. With the constant steaming and bubbling in the background – which is simultaneously exhilarating and unsettling – you’ll find Hell’s Gate aptly named by Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.
Traversing underground caverns in search of glow worms is an activity beloved by New Zealanders. There’s nothing quite like the simple pleasure of seeing these shimmering little creatures silently lighting up a cave. In the Waikato they’ve been glow-worm spotting for 130 years at the Waitomo glow worm caves—New Zealand’s oldest glow-worm tourist attraction. Another great place to go glow-worming is the caves on the shore of Lake Te Anau. These caves are only accessible by boat, which adds to the fun of it—as winding limestone passages, roaring whirlpools, and underground waterfalls become natural attractions in their own right.
One of the joys of winter is finding a warm spot to sit and reflect over a hot drink or a glass of wine. With crisp sunny days, frosty nights, and some of the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world, Marlborough during winter is one of the best places to do just that. For bars and restaurants with cosy fireplaces and hygge-inducing beverages, try the Marlborough Winter Fireplace Trail.
To understand New Zealand, you need to understand the All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby team. For more than a century the All Blacks have set the benchmark for international rugby. The strength of New Zealand rugby has as much to do with individual talent as it does with New Zealand culture. Visit the All Blacks Experience to find out what takes to make an All Black. Then see the country’s players in action at a live game and find out why Kiwis love this fast-paced winter sport.
Board the luxurious Rovos Rail for a stunning three-day journey, plus classic Southern African experiences: twice-daily game drives in Kruger’s finest reserve, private touring in Cape Town and high tea overlooking Victoria Falls Bridge.
• 3 nights on board Rovos Rail, all-inclusive
• 11 nights in mostly 5-star
Check o every safari experience imaginable through Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Prepare for up-close encounters with the Big Five, float along the Okavango Delta and witness the thundering power of Victoria Falls.
• Small group tour, 14 people max
• 18 nights boutique lodge accommodation, safari camps and 4-star Johannesburg hotel
• Thrilling game drives through Hwange, Chobe, Moremi, Okavango Delta & South Africa’s Kruger
DEPARTS OCT 2023 TO DEC 2024
Explore ancient medinas in Fes and Marrakech and the ruins of Volubilis, dine with a local family at their farm in Midelt and see Ait Benhaddou’s beautiful grand ksar.
• Fully escorted, small group of no more than 12 travellers
• 13 nights in 4-star hotels and boutique riads
• 1 night in a luxury desert camp in the Sahara
• Bonus Inspiring Sight
DEPARTS JUL 2024 TO OCT 2024
Lose yourself in Melbourne’s laneways this winter
Could there be a better weekend destination than Melbourne? Winter is especially cosy, from bar-hopping to boutique browsing and more. Here, the ultimate weekend guide to the laneways of Melbourne.
Start off in one of the laneways that started it all: Meyers Place. Climb the stairs to Loop Roof for decadent cocktails surrounded by palms and panoramic views. Stay close-by for dinner – you're only a short stroll from Bar Lourinhã's delectable tapas, HuTong's famous dumplings, and Pellegrini's homestyle Italian. For a nightcap, head to Liverpool Street's Double Happiness
Breakfast at Cumulus Inc. will see you fuelled to explore nearby street art. Take your camera out and wander down Flinders Lane to Hosier Lane, scouting out stencils and pasteups, murals and installations. For the local, inside word on Melbourne's famous urban art, consider taking a street art walking tour.
Check out the murals on Movida Next Door's exterior walls before stepping inside for Frank Camorra's superb tapas. If it's looking a little busy, head next door to Tres a Cinco for a Mexican feast and a lively cantina vibe on Hosier Lane. Spend the afternoon browsing the boutiques in Centre Place and head for an art fix along Flinders Lane at Flinders Lane Gallery and Craft Victoria. If a serious caffeine hit is in order, Industry Beans and Sensory Lab will set you straight, or if it's time for something a little stronger, Flinders Lane's Garden State is just the spot.
Find the perfect feast in Flinders Lane, one of the city's best addresses for dining. Queue up for pan-Asian flavour sensations at Chin Chin or Supernormal, or duck into nearby Pastuso for Peruvian fare on AC/DC Lane.
Nightcap options abound here: head down the stairs to Eau de Vie or explore plenty of laneway bars in between. If entertainment is in order, check out the program at independent gallery and theatre space, fortyfivedownstairs.
Kick start your Sunday with coffee aficionados at Manchester Press before exploring the shops and galleries of Rankins Lane and neighbouring Guildford Lane and Somerset Place. Gentlemen's outfitter and cafe Captains of Industry will fix you a coffee and offer a cut-throat shave, while Comme des Garçons will deck you out in cutting-edge cute. If it's a multicoffee morning, get an extra kick from Cartel Coffee Roasters or a dose of architecture along with Proud Mary coffee at Krimper.
Further laneway retail therapy awaits in Crossley Street, where boutiques stocked with jewellery, fashion, memorabilia, and much in between, stand wall to wall with inviting restaurants and bars.
Like some of the best bars, some of the city's best finds are upstairs, in 'vertical laneways.' Swanston Street's historic Nicholas Building is a creative hub housing artist studios, galleries and shops. Take the almost-antique elevators to explore the art, fashion and curiosities. Make time to browse Blindside gallery and phone ahead to view Louise Macdonald's millinery masterpieces. Downstairs, check out the wares of independent local designers and the retro fabulousness stocked in the boutiques of Cathedral Arcade and around Flinders Quarter.
Further north on Swanston Street, pay a visit to Curtin House, where the seven-level stair-climb takes you to boutiques and restaurants, and bar and bandroom The Toff in Town.
Back on street level, pull up a piece of crate at outdoor bar Section 8, or take the stairs to neighbouring Ferdydurke. For dinner, Chinatown cheap eats are just a chopstick away, and for a special night, inspired Indian at Tonka is well worth the walk back to Flinders Lane.
Stretch out your Sunday with a show at the Butterfly Club and a laneway tipple at Chuckle Park before surrendering to the call of Monday morning.
Premium, in-depth exploration with iconic experiences like an overnight cruise in Halong Bay, learning to make Hanoi’s specialty cuisine and guided tours of cities and the Mekong Delta.
• Small group tour, no more than 16 people
An in-depth journey: be guided through the mighty Mekong Delta, spectacular temples on the Angkor plain and fascinating cities, from the UNESCO-listed ancient town of Hoi An to Hanoi and Phnom Penh.
• Small group tour, max. 16 guests
• 12 nights in 5-star hotels, 1 night on a traditional junk boat cruising the calm waters of Halong Bay
• Ride the spectacular Reunification Express train
DEPARTS OCT 2023 TO DEC 2024
Add three days in charming, mountainous Sapa. Spend one night in a warm homestay here, one night at a resort and spa, and enjoy some trekking around the village in this magical part of Vietnam.
• Small group tour, max. 16 guests
• Fully escorted by expert, English-speaking guides
• 12 nights in 5-star hotels
• Overnight cruise on a traditional junk boat on Halong Bay
DEPARTS OCT 2023 TO DEC 2024
Whether you love hiking, film, or wine, there are several ways to experience the world’s second-largest country
WORDS BY
KRISTY HOSKING
The fact Canada offers something for everyone is a huge part of its charm. The country evokes images of looming mountain tops, epic skiing, ice-blue lakes, pine trees for days, eclectic cities, rugged hiking and so much more. Depending on the type of traveller you are, it’s likely you will choose to explore the country based on what you love.
Vancouver is a postcard-perfect city set around a harbour with a downtown city skyline to envy. You could spend a whole week or a speedy 48 hours exploring all that it has to offer. The pulsating Gastown district attracts foodies and night owls, while verdant green Stanley Park is a haven for nature lovers and cyclists. Take a micro-brewery tour, catch an ice hockey game or chill out in the sunshine while taking in the surrounding snowcapped mountains. It is city living at its very best.
Powder feigns naturally adore Canada, but Silver Star—22 km north-east of Vernon in British Columbia—is the pick of the mountain ski resorts if you love the idea of a family-friendly atmosphere set amid a small, rainbow-like village that seems fresh out of a Disney movie. There are plenty of trails for the cross-country skier and tube riding, bowling and fat bike riding for the kids. It’s more reasonably priced than the bigger resorts, too. If you need a break from the mountain, pop on your skates and hit the resort’s ice rink. Or, head indoors and go bowling.
Wine is serious business in Canada’s Okanagan Valley. With the stunning, 135 km-long Okanagan Lake at the heart of the valley and rolling vineyards that meet the lake’s edge, this really is a wine country with a difference. Think paddock-toplate fare, lilac-coloured fields of lavender, rustic farmhouses, fruit orchards aplenty, 200-plus regional wineries and lakeside walks worthy of a photo—or three.
If walking atop glaciers is your idea of fun, then the Canadian Rockies are calling your name. Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park, Alberta, is said to be one of the most accessible glaciers remaining in the world but it’s disappearing fast, so add it to your to-do list. The glacier is a part of the Colombia Icefield, the largest mass of ice in the Rocky Mountains, a range that stretches 25 km across the Continental Divide. Guided tour companies will take you to the glacier; you can choose from a basic three-hour hike or a longer six-hour hike. You can also scrap the walking and opt for a comfortable snow coach instead — the scenery will blow your mind.
With its European influence, rich Francophone Canadian history, hip bars, bustling food markets and some of the best eats in North America, finding your joie de vivre in Montreal is a given – if you know where to look. Visit the Montreal Botanical Garden and explore its beautiful 75 hectares of greenhouses and themed gardens; sample artisan cheeses, for which Quebec is known (there are over 400 to choose from), and fall in love with age-old structures dating back to 1642 in Old Montreal. When you’ve dabbled in enough culture for the day, hit the bars for the perfect mix of old meets new.
Hello, Ontario. This Canadian province has your name written all over it if you love the idea of going off the grid in the wilderness. In particular, Killarney Provincial Park in Georgian Bay boasts a multi-day 80 km trail, La Cloche Silhouette Trail, which will get your legs working. The pink granite rocks that line the Bay’s shoreline make for a pretty backdrop, and there are more than 50 teal-blue lakes to explore. Alternate your days between rewarding hikes and on-water activities including canoeing, kayaking and trout fishing.
Charming is an understatement when talking about Banff. This beautiful town in Alberta has it all: picturesque lakes framed by imposing mountains, hot springs to soak in, roaming bison and some serious luxe hotels. The resort town turns all this on, and then some, when the annual Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival kicks off every October. The event is a celebration of some of the world’s most remote cultures and adrenaline-fuelled mountain expeditions. Add it to the diary.
Remote, wild, rugged, sparse sums up the Yukon territory in northwest Canada. It has a tiny population which spans 480,000 sq km. Its surface area is larger than the size of Germany and all this space means it’s a region that is untouched, pristine and home to an array of wildlife. Moose are everywhere, and in the upper third of the territory, which is located inside the Arctic Circle, you can even see caribou, Arctic fox and Canadian lynx. The Yukon is also one of the best places to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.
Inspiring Vacations’ email marketing manager, Laura, hopped on board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day adventure in April. Here, some highlights of her journey
The Rocky Mountaineer runs from April to October and offers three routes. I travelled on the First Passage to the West route from Vancouver to Banff. The check-in is seamless and there’s a convenient luggage drop-off service (your bags will be delivered to your hotel room). The boarding call is announced by way of bagpipe.
All aboard! It’s time to leave and as we do the station staff wave us off; it’s a very sweet tradition. When you pass through towns, the locals stand on their balconies and porches and wave, so get ready to do lots of waving on this journey!
INSPIRED TO TRAVEL ABOARD THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER? Check out our tours here
If there’s one thing that can be guaranteed, it’s that you’ll be well fed! Food and drinks are included which begins with breakfast in the morning shortly after departure, lunch, snacks and bottomless drinks. There’s nothing better than starting the day with a mimosa and relaxing in the afternoon with a Baileys infused coffee!
In GoldLeaf, meals are served in the dining room. This is a great time to bond with fellow travellers over a scrumptious feast (my favourite meal was steelhead fish with handmade gnocchi and asparagus). Our hosts did a fantastic job of pairing travellers together during meals and being on hand to make sure every dietary need was met.
I was lucky enough to travel in GoldLeaf, an upgrade option and worth every penny! The GoldLeaf carriages are bi-level with glass domed ceilings—you’ll be treated to the most incredible views from start to finish, no matter where you sit. With very spacious seating, you’re also able to move around, with meals served in the lower-level dining area. There’s also access to the outdoor viewing area with an open-aired vestibule at the back of the carriage.
Rocky Mountaineer’s impeccable service is as amazing as the sparkling rivers and snowcapped mountains you’ll pass. Armed with a microphone and radio, our hosts were in constant communication to make sure no wildlife was missed. At any given moment they would announce an “eagle overhead!” or “elk on the left!.” Knowing the route like the back of their hand, they’d give advanced warning for upcoming sights and the train slows down when passing waterfalls or crossing over gorges ensuring everyone has the chance to capture the moment.
NAME
RUTH DAWKINS
OCCUPATION
FREELANCE WRITER, EXPERIENCE TASMANIA GUIDE CITY
HOBART
WEBSITE RUTHDAWKINS.NET
Describe your ideal Aussie holiday?
I’d take a little tour around to visit some of the friends I have in different parts of Australia. I’d start with some dear friends from Scotland who now live in a beautiful rural spot in North West Tasmania; then I’d head to Melbourne for some good food, shopping and art galleries with a friend there; and finally, I’d head up to see friends in Brisbane so I could enjoy some sunshine and beach time.
What were some surprises you can share while travelling around Tassie for your Experience Tasmania Guide?
I think the thing that takes everyone by surprise is just how big Tasmania is. It might be small compared to mainland Australia, but there’s such diversity of landscapes across the different regions. As a visitor, you really can’t cover the whole state in a weekend – you can’t even cover Hobart or Launceston in a weekend – so I would urge people to take their time and really enjoy exploring what’s on offer.
What are some tips for travelling around Tasmania?
I think a road trip is the best way to see Tassie – regardless of whether you are focusing on a particular region like the East Coast or West Coast, or whether you’re trying to see the whole island. But I would really encourage people to see the driving as part of the fun. Don’t always be rushing on to the next stop on your itinerary. Make time to stop off at roadside food stalls, find a safe place to stop and admire some of the incredible views, and maybe even take an unexpected detour off the main highways. You never know – you might just find a perfectly secluded beach, a just-opened cellar door, or a beautiful rainforest walk.
How would you spend a weekend in Tasmania?
I’d probably head up the East Coast to Swansea: there’s great food at the Waterloo Inn, lovely quiet beaches to walk, and a comfy bed with incredible views at Swansea Beach Chalets.
Where are you off to next?
I’m going back to the UK for three weeks to visit my family.
15 DAY SOUTH ISLAND DELUXE ROAD TRIP
Cruise Abel Tasman National Park, go whale watching o the coast of Kaikoura, hike in Mt Cook National Park and visit New Zealand’s famous glaciers and national parks at your own pace.
The service from the team is excellent from the beginning. Phone is answered quickly, you are not on hold forever and the team you talk to are very helpful and friendly.
This is by far the best travel company I have used and look forward to many more holidays with them.
ALSO AVAILABLE: 11 DAY NORTH ISLAND DELUXE ROAD TRIP AUCKLAND • PAIHIA • BAY OF ISLANDS • WAITOMO • OTOROHANGA • ROTORUA • HOBBITON
Discover Paihia and cruise the Bay of Islands for a full day, visit Hole in the Rock, see the mesmerising Waitomo glowworm caves and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders.
• 10 nights in mostly 4-star hotels
• 9 days car rental (unlimited km, nil excess)
• Breakfast daily
• Flexibility of independent travel with guided day tours, including a winery day in Kumeu wine country
TRAVEL FROM JUL 2023 TO JUL 2024
Japan
Roman Coppola Director
15
Japan’s iconic landscapes and sights: breathtaking Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and beautiful temples, shrines and castles
From the bright lights of Seoul and Tokyo to the ancient delights of Kyoto and Gyeongju, expect rich experiences through these two spirited countries. Natural wonders, ultra–modern skyscrapers and beautiful temples await.
• 17 nights in central, 3 and 4-star accommodation
• Fully escorted by expert, Englishspeaking guides (Day 7–22)
• Comfortable, dedicated transport
DEPARTS JUL 2023 TO NOV 2024
See the best of Japan’s beautiful shrines, gardens and temples, charming Shirakawa-go and Takayama Old Town, Kyoto’s ancient World Heritage Sites and Kyushu’s highlights, incl. the Hells of Beppu.
• Travel on the bullet train with your
7 Day Japan Rail Pass
• 17 nights in comfortable 3-star accommodation
• 2 nights in traditional onsen ryokans
• Scenic cruise on Lake Ashi
DEPARTS OCT 2023 TO NOV 2024
