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Welcome to our November/December issue of the Inspiring Vacations magazine.
As our 15th edition of the Inspiring Vacations magazine, we've filled these pages with some of our favourite destinations to inspire you for an adventure-filled 2023! Road trip along the south west edge of Australia or take in the exotic landscapes of Vietnam.
For those planning their festive season, relax on the sun-soaked sand of one of New Zealand’s best beaches or delight in the magic of a white Christmas with a visit to Finnish Lapland, the home of Santa Claus himself! And if you’re still
searching for that perfect travel-themed gift, we’ve got you covered!
As always, I love to hear your feedback so please get in touch through magazine@inspiringvacations. com and remember to tag #inspiringvacations on your social media for the chance to win a $100 e-gift card.
I hope you enjoy this festive season and as always, safe travels!
Paul Ryan CEOINSPIRING VACATIONS
MAGAZINE
Editor
Vanessa Mulquiney
Art Director SIXTWO Creative
Contributors
Emily Humphrey, Laura Coop, Scott Forth, Tom Pattinson
Marketing & Advertising
Laura Coop
Contact
For editorial and advertising enquiries, please email magazine@ inspiringvacations.com or phone 1300 88 66 88 (AU)
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The
Castle and gardens. To climb up inside the castle and see how it would have been to live there centuries ago was awe-inspiring. We'll definitely be coming back to Japan one day, there is so much
— Karan HI felt in awe when standing looking at the Hassan II Mosque, it is such an amazing building and I was so excited to see inside.
— Linda Dwhole tour was amazing and beyond anything I’ve ever experienced.
NOV 1–9, PUSHKAR CAMEL FAIR
Always held during a full moon, this Hindu festival celebrates the holy month of Kartik with grand camelbased fanfare. A tradition dating back over 150 years, watch as thousands of colourful camels descend on the small town of Pushkar.
NOV 13–FEB 21, THE 40TH NIAGARA FALLS WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
With the Niagara Falls already a spectacle unto itself, this iconic winter experience sees the falls illuminated in a dazzling display of nature-inspired colours.
NOV 19, QUEENSTOWN MARATHON
Set between the breathtaking Crown and Remarkable mountain ranges, the Queenstown Marathon is undoubtedly one of the world’s most spectacular community sporting events.
NOV 25, 96TH ANNUAL MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE
This beloved New York City tradition features elaborate floats, giant balloons and a wide variety of phenomenal entertainers. The parade is by no means exclusive to New Yorkers, with hundreds of thousands tuning in from their homes across the nation.
DEC 2–3, CHICHIBU NIGHT FESTIVAL Chichibu, a small rural city roughly 90 minutes outside central Tokyo, becomes host to one of Japan’s biggest annual float festivals. For two nights, these dark wintery streets become host to elaborately decorated floats, eager crowds and spectacular fireworks displays.
DEC 1–4, ART BASEL MIAMI BEACH
This world-famous international art fair brings in artists, collectors, dealers and enthusiasts from across the globe for a three-day art bonanza. With over 250 galleries featuring works from more than 4,000 artists, Miami transforms into a cultural triumph.
DEC 8–11, FÊTE DES LUMIÈRES
For four magical evenings, the Festival of Lights will see Lyon’s majestic heritage buildings, streets, bridges and squares light-up in an aweinspiring nocturnal landscape. This originated way back in 1852 when the city’s residents placed candles by their colour-glassed windows, a tradition the Lyonese still take part in today.
No matter where you are in the world, there’s plenty of events—both online and offline—to enjoy
WHAT’S
Set to open November 15 and a permanent fixture at Times Square, The Museum of Broadway will celebrate over 200 years of theatre at the world’s most famous theatre district. Featuring a myriad of exhibits and immersive experiences, visitors can learn about the productions that shaped the district today. Over 500 productions will be showcased in total, including classics such as Oklahoma!, Rent and The Wiz
The vote is in: Time Out magazine has officially declared Melbourne’s Gertrude Street the world’s second-coolest street for 2022. Quizzing thousands of experts and discerning city-dwellers, the list totals 33 bustling cultural hubs for the perfect night out. Taking the top spot was Montreal’s Rue Wellington, a pedestrian-only promenade home to an extensive line of trendy new bars and restaurants.
Sharing those Instagram-worthy summit snaps just got a whole lot easier. Mount Kilimanjaro, the roof of Africa and the world’s highest freestanding mountain, is now more accessible than ever. The Tanzanian government has installed high-speed internet at the whopping height of 3,795 metres above sea level. Soon the coverage will extend all the way up to the Uhuru Peak, a staggering 5,880 metres high.
You can now experience Sweden’s forests and folklore in a spine-chilling geo-restricted audio story. The Visit Sweden campaign features a short story penned by world renowned horror author John Ajvide Lindqvist. Lindqvist uses the country’s unique fascination of nature and mythology to craft a thrilling tale of a man encountering creatures from Swedish folklore. Simply titled Kiln, the audio story can only be listened to from one of Sweden’s many forests.
Japan has opened its first ever Ghibli Park, a theme park dedicated to the popular animated works of Studio Ghibli. The studio is famous for producing cinema classics such as Spirited Away (2001), My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and Princess Mononoke (1997). This ambitious attraction includes five distinct areas, each based on a different film from the studio, and is located roughly three hours away from Tokyo. Favouring immersive re-creations over thrill-based fun, Ghibli Park encourages families to simply ‘take a stroll, feel the wind, and discover the wonders.’
Fancy yourself an explorer? Discover the dazzling, desolate beauty of Antarctica with the expedition leaders, Hurtigruten. Learn something new about this otherworldly desert, and the extraordinary animals that call it home, on each and every day.
• 10-night Hurtigruten cruise on board MS Fridtjof Nansen with world-class expedition team
• 3 nights in Buenos Aires
•
A thrilling journey, plus three days exploring the remote Falkland Islands archipelago: rolling, green hills, several thousand penguins, families of fur seals and signs of civilisation like friendly pubs.
• 3 nights in 4-star Buenos Aires hotels
• 14-night Hurtigruten expedition cruise on board MS Roald Amundsen (500 passengers max) in Polar Outside cabin
• Breakfast daily, 13 lunches, 14 dinners
DEPARTS NOV 2023 TO FEB 2024
BOOK ONLINE
Amazing service from beginning to end. Thank you Inspiring Vacations for making my bucket list dream become an amazing reality.
Tick o even more bucket list experiences with an adventure through Antarctica and the chance to experience glamorous Buenos Aires and both sides of Iguazu Falls.
• 5 nights in 4-star accommodation in Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls
• 10-night Hurtigruten expedition cruise on board MS Fridtjof Nansen with Zodiac landings, onboard activities and shore excursions
• Breakfast daily, 9 lunches, 10 dinners
DEPARTS JAN 2023 TO MAR 2024
BOOK ONLINE
WORDS BY LAURA COOP
Regardless of your standing on the naughty or nice list, there’s something magical about stepping foot in this remote village, nestled in the very heart of Finnish Lapland. Chances are, if you’ve ever sent a wish-filled Christmas letter to Mr Claus, it has most likely ended up here at the official residence of Father Christmas himself. Undoubtedly one of Finland’s most popular tourist attractions, the iconic Santa Claus Village is only a short ride from Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland which can be easily reached from Helsinki by boarding a double-decker night train, aptly named the Santa Claus Express.
It’s Christmas year round here! Santa Claus Village is open everyday of the year, no matter the season, and goes far beyond a simple tourist stop. Post a letter at the main Post Office, which receives over half a million letters from around the world each year, attend the Elf Academy to graduate and become one of Santa’s little helpers, visit with Mrs Claus and even take a sleigh ride with one of Santa’s reindeer. Of course, no trip is complete without meeting the man himself!
Every visitor to the village also celebrates an unique achievement: crossing the Arctic Circle. Eager travellers can even get a certificate to commemorate the feat. Outlining the southernmost limit of the Arctic Circle, the area within experiences the unique phenomenon of the midnight sun (in summer) or polar night (in winter). This means that for any visitors to the Santa Claus Village on December 21st, the shortest day of the year, the sun won’t actually rise.
Don’t be caught out with a low phone battery again with this tech-savvy carry-on. Its ejectable power bank comes with both USB and USB-C docks to charge both phone and laptop. The July range is designed to be long-lasting— not to mention stylish—and can also be personalised, so there’s no mistaking your case at the carousel or in the overhead compartment.
The keen traveller in your life will love crossing places off, and gathering inspiration for their next trip. Part wish list, part practical guide, the world’s best-selling travel book covers everything in delightful detail, from a trek through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains to sailing the Mekong River.
Forget what you know about compression socks. These are practical and come in prints like unicorns, corgis and foxes so the lucky recipient is bound to make a serious sartorial statement on their next long-haul adventure.
There’s no misplacing a passport with this chic travel wallet in Saffiano leather. With pockets for boarding passes, card slots and a detachable passport holder, choose from black or taupe and stamp it with your loved one’s initials in gold, silver, or blind embossing. Timeless.
$570
In the mood to splurge? In sterling silver finished with enamel in that striking Tiffany BlueTM, any intrepid explorer would love to see this intricate globe design dangling from their keys. It’s inspired by a vintage Tiffany & Co. logo first used on silverware designs at the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago.
THESE PRICES WON’T LAST – PLACES SELLING FAST
14 DAY UNFORGETTABLE TURKEY & GULET CRUISE
East meets west! Explore Cappadocia’s fairytale landscapes and underground cities, see Istanbul’s grand sights, sail the Turkish Riviera, visit the battlefields of Gallipoli and legendary Troy.
• Small group of 16 guests, fully escorted
• 7 nights in 3 to 5-star hotels
• 2 nights in a spectacular cave hotel in Cappadocia
• 3 nights sailing on a traditional Turkish gulet
• Breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 3 dinners
TRAVEL FROM MAY 2023 TO OCT 2023
A wonderful trip.
All went o without a hitch, everyone was expecting us and were helpful and friendly. Would highly recommend you to others wanting such a wonderful experience.
ALSO AVAILABLE: 19 DAY EGYPT & TURKEY SMALL GROUP TOUR CAIRO • NILE CRUISE • ASWAN • ISTANBUL • GALLIPOLI • CANAKKALE • TROY • KUSADASI • PAMUKKALE • CAPPADOCIA
Two fascinating destinations! Discover the wonders of the Pharaohs, from the Pyramids to the Valley of the Kings, cruise the Nile and experience the sights and culture of vibrant Turkey.
• Small group experience, no more than 20 guests
• Fully escorted by expert guides, including an Egyptologist
• 8 nights in 4 and 5-star hotels
• 3 nights in a memorable cave hotel in Cappadocia
• 4-night Nile River cruise
TRAVEL FROM JAN 2023 TO NOV 2023
19 days per person twin share from just
$8,299*
What prompted you to book your tour to Japan?
Lucine and I had been itching to see more of Japan after a mere six-day tour in 2015 from our base in Vietnam, and two brief pop-ins from passing cruise ships later. This 16-day tour found us meandering through rugged mountainous terrain, overlooking verdant rice field packed valleys, seeing a multitude of places, then staying in ultra-modern cities and towns, from Tokyo to Hiroshima, a fair cross-section of central Japan.
Did your expectations meet reality?
We were not disappointed. Meeting in our Tokyo hotel, our 40-strong eclectic group of seasoned travellers, varying in age from 19 to 91, thoroughly enjoyed the sights, tastes and spontaneous camaraderie which readily evolved. A modern bus, highly competent driver/baggage handler and attentive guide ensured our comfort and personal safety with daily water and information.
Any surprises?
We were gobsmacked at the number of vending machines catering to almost every need. We mastered the slot machine system and purchased drinks, ice creams and hot coffee.
What were the highlights of this tour for you?
From colourful kimonos to karaoke, sumo wrestlers to sushi, the bullet train to Bushido, and whale sharks to traditional weddings, Japan captivated and enthralled us, our cameras and palates, all within a fair budget. The 4-star hotels, expansive breakfasts and a lavish 13-course dinner experience, both sustained and housed us comfortably the entire trip.
What do you say to those pondering whether or not to book?
On any future trip we’d advise potential travellers to opt for cherry blossom season or autumn. We’d like to explore further afield; from Sapporo up north to the Beppu/Nagasaki area down south. Japan provides a warm welcome and thanks to IV, our tour went like clockwork; let’s hope time permits one more visit.
Any advice for future travellers?
We took clip-on koalas as gifts to any helpful, friendly folk, and our coin purse proved invaluable when showered with coins as change. Electrolyte granules, a small utility knife for in-room dining, umbrella, hat, comfy walking shoes/sandals; each were deemed essential. Family stores and 7-Elevens abound to replenish stocks, while the few Japanese words we pre-learned proved helpful and were appreciated by those friendly, courteous and obliging locals we met along the way. Japan was well worth the wait—a memorable destination.
WE KNOW AND LOVE JAPAN!
This is a land where tradition and modernity intersect for a rich travel experience. We’ll show you the best of this beautiful country, from kitsch neighbourhoods of buzzing Tokyo to the torii-lined streets of traditional Kyoto and iconic treasures like Mount Fuji. Our escorted tours are comfortable, value-laden journeys bursting with must-see sights and authentic experiences.
BOOK NOW AND SAVE
Scan the QR code for more information, videos and incredible travel deals
See Kenrokuen Garden, Mount Fuji, the deer of Nara, Miyajima Island’s iconic floating torii gate, Takayama Old Town and UNESCO sites Shirakawa-gõ Village and White Heron Castle.
• 14 nights in well-located hotels
• 1 night in a traditional Ryokan
• Ride the iconic Japanese bullet train
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide
TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO MAY 2024
Japan’s icons and sights, including Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and beautiful temples, and UNESCO-listed Golden Pavilion and Itsukushima Shrine.
• 14 nights in quality 3 and 4-star hotels
• Experience the iconic, exhilarating Japanese bullet train
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide
TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO MAY 2024
Explore delights like feudal relic Himeji Castle and Takayama Old Town. Plus, time to explore the beauty of northern Japan, including Hakodate, Sapporo and a scenic cruise around the islands of Matsushima Bay.
• Centrally located, 3 and 4-star hotels including 1 night in a traditional Ryokan
• Ride the famed shinkansen bullet train
• Explore northern Japan with both independent travel and guided tours
• Expert, English-speaking guides
TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO MAY 2024
Dreaming of sakura season? Japan’s iconic landscapes and sights are even more magical drenched in petals, including Kyoto’s Heian Jingu Shrine and Philosopher’s Path, Tokyo’s Ueno Park and Lake Kawaguchiko.
• 12 nights in 3 and 4-star accommodation
• All coach, rail and ferry transport including the Japanese bullet train
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide
TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO APR 2023
Explore
re you seeking barefoot luxury and a deep connection to nature? Dive into encounters with dolphins, indulge in amazing wines, walk amid towering karri forests, and unwind to the sounds of the ocean—all in the same day.
Before heading south, spend a day on Perth’s secluded island escape, Rottnest Island. A haven of pristine beaches, bays, bike tracks and walking trails, and home to the happiest animal on earth—the quokka. The best part? It’s a short 30-minute ferry ride from either Fremantle or 45 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour. Once docked, explore the conservation-minded reserve on foot, with a hired bicycle or e-bike, via the shuttle, or aboard the hop-on-hop off bus, which loops around the 11km-long island.
The bays and beaches are like a slice of Paradise. With 63 in total, you’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing where to stop for a swim or snorkel: the Basin, Geordie Bay and Little Parakeet Bay, Parker Point, Little Salmon Bay are popular spots to look out for. When it’s time to recharge, stop at one of the many cafés before boarding the ferry back to Perth.
The sooner you get to Bunbury, the more chance you have of meeting the friendly wild dolphins at the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre, so hit the road early. It’s just a two-hour drive from Perth, heading south on the Kwinana Freeway and Forrest Highway, and once you’re there you have a number of dolphin experiences to choose from. Choose from a wide array of accommodation in and around Bunbury for your overnight stay.
Take the 50-minute drive to Busselton for breakfast overlooking Geographe Bay and the longest timber jetty in the southern hemisphere, Busselton Jetty. Walk the 1.8km jetty or ride the train, and take a tour of Australia’s greatest artificial reef. The Underwater Observatory is your window to the colourful sponges, corals and marine life, but you can opt to snorkel or dive the jetty for a closer encounter.
From here, it’s another 25-minute drive to reach Dunsborough and Yallingup for lunch and then head to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to catch an Indian Ocean sunset, stopping to stroll on the pristine beaches of Bunker Bay and Meelup Beach along the way. Between June and December, migrating humpback and southern right whales can be spotted from this vantage point.
Continue south on scenic Caves Road and take your pick from Margaret River’s many accommodation options.
Take a morning walk on the Cape to Cape Track, one of the most diverse coastal trails you’ll experience, or grab a coffee and watch the local surfers in action. You’ll find 40 top surfing spots around Margaret River, but Surfers Point is arguably the most famous.
An afternoon of exploration and indulgence awaits. Hop from cellar door to cellar door to sample the region’s premium wines, and stop by the local gourmet produce stores to taste fine artisanal foods.
While you’re on the road, head south on Caves Road for a scenic drive through the tall karri trees of Boranup Karri Forest. Stay and explore the forest’s enchanting underworld with a guided tour of Mammoth Cave, Lake Cave, or Jewel Cave where you’ll find the world’s longest publicly accessible straw stalactite. Or head 15 minutes south to Australia’s most southwesterly point where you can take a guided tour of Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the largest lighthouse of its kind on the mainland.
Head inland to the old timber town of Nannup—famous for its colour-filled gardens, spring wildflowers and country crafts—and on to the premium cool-climate wine region of Pemberton, the ideal place to stop for lunch or dinner. Explore the region’s dense forests and waterways on foot or bike—the epic Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail meander through nearby Beedelup and Warren national parks. Extend your stay an extra day for a 4WD, bushwalking and fishing adventure among the tall-timber forests, sand dunes and pristine beaches of D’Entrecasteaux National Park (4WD access only).
Continue on the Vasse and South Western Highway to Walpole, where you can walk through the canopy of 400-year-old tingle trees on the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk. The 40m-high treetop walkway—the first of its kind— takes you on a gentle climb, revealing breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. In the afternoon, take the 40-minute scenic drive east from Walpole towards Denmark, stopping off at William Bay National Park, where the towering forest meets the Southern Ocean. Head to the sheltered bay of Greens Pool to swim or snorkel, or explore the national park’s rugged coastline on foot with a scenic walk to see the curious bathing giants at Elephant Rocks.
From Denmark, a 55-minute drive east through Albany will bring you to Discovery Bay and the state-of-the-art National Anzac Centre, where you can step into the boots of one of the 40,000 Anzacs who fought in the First World War.
One of Western Australia’s most dramatic coastlines— Torndirrup National Park—is just a 10-minute drive from Discovery Bay, on the other side of the peninsular. Gaze in awe at The Gap, Natural Bridge and The Blowholes (and if you stand atop these tall cliffs between July and October, you may spot migrating whales, too).
Head back to the heritage buildings of Albany and choose from an array of restaurants, taverns and accommodation options.
A weekend visit to Albany gives you the option of breakfasting at the iconic farmer’s markets for a taste of the region’s fresh local flavours. But you’ll need to rise early to make the most of the day’s activities. Forty minutes north, rising above the karri tree forest, you’ll find the striking granite range of Porongurup National Park—12 peaks sculpted by Mother Nature over the last 1,100 million years.
Take the two-hour return walk to Castle Rock and the Granite Skywalk to take in the rich birdlife, spring wildflowers (August to December) and panoramic views. Continue your journey along Chester Pass Road to Stirling Range National Park and walk the Bluff Knoll Trail ascending Western Australia’s second highest peak.
Plan your day to allow at least three hours for the final leg to Hopetoun for your overnight stay.
Hopetoun is your gateway to UNESCO World Heritage Listed Fitzgerald River National Park, one of the world’s most naturally diverse landscapes. Hit the park’s walking and driving trails to explore this unique wilderness, home to almost 20% of Western Australia’s plant species, with many found nowhere else on the planet.
Make your way east to Esperance and join the Great Ocean Drive Tourist Loop for an afternoon exploring a string of striking white-sand beaches, from the snorkelling and swimming spots of Blue Haven Beach and Twilight Cove, to the top surf at West Beach, Fourth Beach or Observatory Beach.
Explore the 100-plus islands of the Recherche Archipelago on a half-day wildlife cruise. Spot sea eagles and New Zealand fur seals, then head to Woody Island wilderness for a mini land-based adventure among the bandicoots, wallabies and birdlife.
You may also see the extraordinary bubblegum-pink Lake Hillier if you choose to fly or cruise to the archipelago by private charter. Venture 30 minutes east of Esperance and you’ll discover Cape Le Grand National Park and one of Australia’s most famous coastal gems—the white sands of Lucky Bay.
If you’d like to explore further, hit the bushwalking trails for stunning vistas over the Recherche Archipelago, or join an escorted 4WD tour. Consider extending your road trip for an extra day and a 4WD adventure along the outback coast and into the bushwalking, camping and fishing paradise of Cape Arid National Park.
Drive 380km from the coast, and through the Wheatbelt towns of Ravensthorpe, Lake King and Hyden to reach one of Australia’s biggest breaks—Wave Rock, a 15m-high cresting wave of solid granite shaped by the forces of nature over two billion years. As you explore Wave Rock’s 160-hectare nature reserve, be sure to visit Mulka's Cave where a local Aboriginal legend is retold through more than 450 ancient rock paintings.
Take a detour on your journey east to photograph one of the quirkiest attractions in the Wheatbelt—the Tin Horse Highway of Kulin—before continuing to Corrigin’s Dog Cemetery, a touching tribute to man’s best friend. Take the Corrigin-Quairading Road north-west from Corrigin to the grand heritage town of York, which was established in 1831.
With much of its Victorian and Federation architecture lovingly restored, York is the ideal place to stop for lunch, afternoon tea or dinner—it’s a treasure trove of cafes, restaurants, galleries, museums and antique shops. If you’d like a shot of adrenaline with your heritage experience, stay overnight and take a tandem skydive from 14,000 feet over the picturesque Avon Valley. From York, it's an hour and twenty minute drive on the Great Eastern Highway to reach Perth.
LAST 2023 PLACES AVAILABLE – DON’T MISS OUT
17 DAY NORWAY WINTER WONDERLAND
• Small group tour, no more than 24 people
• 14 nights in comfortable, 4-star hotels
• Stay overnight in a glass igloo, looking for the northern lights in Saariselkä
• 1 night on board the Santa Claus Express train from Helsinki to Finnish Lapland
• Fully escorted by English-speaking guide
• Breakfast daily and 5 dinners
• All coach, ferry and rail transport
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS TOUR
Ready for winter scenery so magical it looks otherworldly? Board the Santa Claus Express train to wild Finnish Lapland. Go husky sledding through the Arctic forest, visit Santa Claus’ Village, cross the Arctic Circle and carve through frozen seas on an icebreaker cruise.
Sleep beneath the starry skies in a modern glass-roofed igloo, searching for the elusive aurora borealis from the comfort of your bed.
Then, northern Norway beckons – visit Europe’s most northerly point and celebrate with caviar. A journey along the Norwegian Coast reveals iconic fjords, mountains and breathtaking scenery at every turn.
Wander the colourful streets of the Lofoten Islands and tour cosmopolitan cities Helsinki and Oslo. There’s even a day trip to the Baltics for a guided tour of Tallinn, Estonia.
DEPARTS FEB 2023 TO MAR 2023
The landscapes of this delightful Southeast Asia treasure will charm you
WORDS BY TOM PATTINSON
Much of Vietnam is made up of lush mountainous regions, where thunderous waterfalls crash through the tropical jungle. The Central Highlands, bordering Laos and Cambodia, is populated by minority farming people who live in ‘longhouses’ on the misty mountains. Working on coffee, rubber or tea plantations, the Jarai or Bahnar people—dressed in woollen jumpers and bobble hats—are more likely to see elephants, gibbons and bears wandering through the jungle mountain than a lonely backpacker.
During colonial times, the French would escape the stifling heat by creating hill stations as they went. Da Lat near Lak Lake in the Central Highlands is a far-flung but picturesque resort, whereas Sapa in the northwest is somewhat more accessible and arguably offers the most impressive views of anywhere in Vietnam.
The dramatic scenery around Sapa is what postcards were designed for:
sunlight reflecting on the lush rice terraces, creating magical vistas whatever time of year or day. Minority people populate this region, including the Hmong, who wear bright colourful clothing with extravagant headdresses, and their neighbours the Dao people are recognised for their red headwear on top of dark blue gowns. With babies strapped to their backs, they have spent centuries tilling the land using the same techniques passed on from one generation to the next.
And not all mountains are inland. The jagged karst mountains that crash out from the still waters of Halong Bay made a backdrop you’ll never forget in the nearby Gulf of Tonkin.
One defining feature that can be found throughout the country is rice fields. It wasn’t long ago that rice was Vietnam’s top export along with fish—today, it’s electronics and shoes. But rice is still a staple in Vietnam. Noodles are made from it, even the bread is made from it.
Rice fields, which nowadays can be utilised three times a year or more are incredibly hard manual work to plant and harvest but they keep large swathes of land untouched by the modern industrial world. In the northern hill regions, reflective terraces snake around steep mountains. In the plains of the Perfume River, fields of rice turn into a never-ending ocean when the sun sets reflecting on the wet fields glistening off into the distance. And the water buffalo, knee-deep in mud, that can be seen helping plough the flat lowlands of the Mekong delta create a picturesque view of a time gone by.
For a country not even the size of California, Vietnam has pretty much everything you could ask for: lush green paddy fields, tropical jungle, white-sand tropical beaches—it has it all. A relatively narrow strip of mountainous land descends into the South China Sea, just north of the Equator, giving this small piece of planet earth a huge range of geological gold stars.INSPIRED TO VISIT VIETNAM? Check out our tours here MAIN: Gulf of Tonkin
Lots of rain and lots of heat create a lot of biodiversity. Much of this was destroyed during the American ‘scorched earth policy’ in the 1970s of firebombing and dropping 20 million gallons of Agent Orange and other herbicides on the forests, to destroy the jungle canopy and reveal the location of the enemy. The damage was vast, not just to the land but to the people on it. Half a century on, and the jungles and forests are starting to return with many indigenous flora and fauna returning to the areas. In such climates, it is hard to keep the jungle at bay. The green slime and tough weeds that climb up the walls of the many old buildings are evidence of the jungle trying to fight back.
There are plenty of places to explore the forests and jungles with many areas having been turned into national parks. Cuc Phuong is one of our favourites and only a day trip out of Hanoi.
If it's beautiful beaches you're after, then you won't have a hard time finding one here.THIS PAGE: Bay Mau Coconut Forest; Thien Mu Pagoda, an ancient pagoda on Hue's Perfume River; Early morning fishing on the Mekong River; OPPOSITE PAGE: Rice fields on Mu Cang Chai; My Khe beach, Da Nang; Floating fishing village on Halong Bay at the Gulf of Tonkin; May Rut island in Phu Quoc
Visitors to Vietnam are increasingly drawn to the 3,000 kilometres of coastline the country is lucky to have. Scuba diving is increasingly popular in beach towns such as Hoi An. Nha Trang has become a wind and kite surfing centre, while people are surfing up and down the coast from Da Nang to Vung Tau. But if it’s beautiful beaches you’re after then you won’t have a hard time finding one here.
Phu Quoc, an island at the very southern tip of the country, has some excellent white sandy beaches with clear water. It’s a tropical paradise with coconut palms swaying in the breeze. Hoi An—once a sleepy little fishing village—is still one of our favourite towns, not just for its excellent food and very affordable tailors’ market but because it has a clean white beach just a few minutes’ scooter ride from town. Be sure to check out Bay Mau Coconut forest. Cua Dai beach has enough cafes and bars to keep you in cocktails and sweet, sweet coffee but is quiet enough for you to enjoy the views of the sunset over the nearby Cham Islands.
Nha Trang has grown into a lively town and it has an abundance of coastline. The beaches are fantastic but people come for the great food, the nightlife and the party boats. For something a bit more tranquil, Doc Let beach, on the Hon Khoi peninsula just north of Nha Trang offers some peace and seclusion. A great way to spend a day beach bumming.
Our very own Cassandra Trezise visited Vietnam in June. Here, a few of her tour highlights
Dark and Bright Cave is one of the less popular destinations in Halong Bay, usually a lot of tours skip this place but I was so glad to be here, it’s worth the visit!
Exploring the bustling local market in Hanoi is a great way to see produce you wouldn’t see every day at home, and the locals in their element!
Sunset Halong Bay
Halong Bay cruise—what an amazing experience! The facilities were excellent and so were the activities including kayaking.
Mekong
The Mekong Delta was one of my favourite days on tour. Exploring the waterways, meandering through little towns, talking to locals, enjoying fresh food.
THESE PRICES WILL NOT LAST – BOOK NOW
12 DAY INCREDIBLE VIETNAM & CAMBODIA
Explore the vibrant capital Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, cruise Halong Bay to admire its famous rock formations and see Cambodia’s spectacular Angkor temples, Siem Reap and Tonle Sap Lake.
• Superb 4 and 5-star
Our whole holiday experience was great. We had no problems, we had fabulous guides full of interesting facts and information. Our accommodation was amazing. I highly recommend Inspiring Vacations.
ALSO AVAILABLE: 8 DAY INCREDIBLE VIETNAM HANOI • HALONG BAY • HO CHI MINH CITY
A value-packed discovery of Vietnam’s must-see sights and authentic experiences. Tour Ho Chi Minh City, explore Hanoi and marvel at Halong Bay’s beauty. Optional tours include a cruise along the Mekong Delta and a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Premium accommodation in 4-star hotels
• Overnight cruise on UNESCO-listed Halong Bay
• Escorted by expert, English-speaking guides
• Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
8 days per person twin share from just
$1,499*
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• Dedicated, comfortable air-conditioned transport TRAVEL FROM FEB 2023 TO NOV 2023
Including return international airfares
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Maitai Bay's clean, clear water and soft white sand make it the ultimate summer escape for many Kiwis every year. Swim, snorkel, kayak or simply relax on this remote Northland beach. Or for a short break from the beach, visit New Zealand's northernmost vineyard and winery Karikari Estate and try out some of their wines from Chardonnay to Syrah.
For the outdoor lovers, sleep under the stars at the Maitai Bay campsite, where the only thing obscuring your view will be the beautiful pohutukawa trees (otherwise known as the New Zealand Christmas tree). If you're after something a little lusher, check in at Carrington Estate, a luxurious 3000-acre estate on the pristine and picturesque Karikari Peninsula.
If you're feeling a bit more energetic, head to Ninety Mile Beach for some bodyboarding, horseriding, blokarting or surfcasting. Officially a highway, the beach is only suitable for 4WD so catch a coach tour from Kaitaia or Paihia.
With plenty of accommodation options around, you can stay the night and get even more out of the beach! Rarawa Beach campsite is about 30 minutes drive away or for somewhere a little closer, stay at Hukatere Lodge— a secluded eco-accommodation that is power and water self-sufficient, nestled on the west coast of the Aupouri Peninsula in the Far North of New Zealand.
Often called Auckland's best-kept secret, Tāwharanui Regional Park is located at the end of a long gravel road, about 90 kms from central Auckland. Get here and you'll be rewarded with some of the country's most beautiful white sand, wildlife, walking tracks and rock pools to explore. Bring your tent and stay the night at Tāwharanui campground.
Be sure to check out Sculptureum, only a 15-minute drive from the regional park. Garden, gallery and restaurant all wrapped into one, it makes for an exciting visit. If you're travelling over the weekend, make sure to also stop by the farmers market in Matakana that takes place every Saturday.
One of Auckland's wild west coast beaches, Piha is known for its black sand, big waves and the formidable Lion Rock, an island in the sea. Only an hour from the city, enjoy a picnic on the warm sand while watching experienced surfers tackle the thundering waves. There are also several walks around the area that take you through native forest in the surrounding hills and make sure you check out the beautiful Kitekite Falls.
A must-visit when in New Zealand, Cathedral Cove is accessible by boat, kayak or walking. Take a photo under the stunning, naturally-formed archway before finding a shaded spot for a picnic on the golden sand. If you have time, stop off at another favourite, Hot Water Beach, just 10 minutes drive away.
By the chilled-out surf town, shortened to "The Mount" by locals, Maunganui Beach is the perfect place to unwind in the sunshine. The main beach is consistently voted New Zealand's best for its surf, beachside cafes and seemingly never-ending white sand. Put on your walking shoes and head up Mauao (Mount Maunganui) for a spectacular view of the peninsula.
At the other end of the spectrum is the rugged, remote and wild Wharariki Beach. Perched on the northernmost tip of the South Island, you need to walk across rolling pastures just to get there. Once there, you'll find wildlife, caves, rockpools and huge sand dunes. The best way to explore? On horseback.
There are too many stunning beaches in Nelson Tasman to choose just one. Head to the popular Anchorage Bay for golden sand and beachside camping, visit Awaroa Beach or swim in the turquoise water of Torrent Bay. To truly get away from it all, kayak to Observation Beach and camp by the water.
Hokitika, so full of history, is the only West Coast town located on the beach. It might be wet and wild but you're sure to get a good sunset photo here. Go in summer to see the Driftwood and Sand Festival, where locals create art from materials found on the beach.
There's no better reason to visit Koehoe Beach than to skip along giant rock formations, carved out about 65 million years ago. Each of the Moeraki Boulders, scattered across the sand, weigh several tonnes and are up to two metres high.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Piha Beach; Abel Tasman National Park; Tāwharanui Regional Park; Ninety Mile Beach; Wharariki Beach; Kitekite Falls
What’s been your favourite holiday so far?
This is a tough one! Every holiday is so special in its own way. A stand-out would be the first time I went to New York with my family. It's amazing how much you can see and experience in a short time in this city. My brother and I explored every nook and cranny that we could, trying different foods, visiting museums and galleries and hanging out in time square. It was a few days of wandering around fuelling our souls with new experiences.
What’s your favourite, or most frequent, destination?
Chobe, Botswana (see sunset photo)! After camping through Botswana for a month in 2010 we meandered through the Okavango Delta up to Chobe and the Caprivi strip before heading off to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Botswana is breathtakingly beautiful and every day was an adventure. We were so blessed to see an abundance of wildlife and meet some amazing locals and other travellers. After my first trip I went back every year; it's my favourite place on earth. I even got engaged in this very spot a few years later.
You hail from one of our most popular destinations— South Africa—what’s your number one tip for visitors? What makes Africa hum are its people and the unique African bush. So make sure you step out into the African wild with a local guide, some mozzie repellent, a hat, some binoculars and a sundowner, and you will quickly create memories of a lifetime.
Which famous person would you most love to travel with?
I love to explore the local culinary delights when I travel so I think travelling with someone like Jamie Oliver who loves food and exploring the world would be fun.
Where else would you most like to live in the world?
This is tough but I am drawn to the outdoors where wildlife is everywhere so I naturally gravitate to places with large natural ecosystems and an abundance of animals. I could see myself working from any wildlife reserve as long as it's not too cold and I have good wifi.
Where are you off to next?
We are moving to the Sunshine Coast shortly and I can't wait to explore a new area in Australia. I am hoping to get to Japan sometime soon and will also be doing a relaxing getaway in Thailand in November. New Zealand was always on my bucket list and was my first adventure holiday after moving to Australia. Lake Wakatipu is breathtakingly beautiful especially with the snow-capped Southern Alps behind it. I loved the food and we would take a daily walk along the lake and stop for fresh pancakes from a little stall overlooking the view—I can't wait to go back.
13 DAY INSPIRING CANADA & ALASKA
Excellent trip. The tour guide was great, very informative, friendly and we saw everything we wanted but some extras. Everything was well organised. Would recommend this tour to everyone who has Canada/Alaska on their bucket list.
ALSO AVAILABLE: 23 DAY EASTERN CANADA, THE ROCKIES & ALASKA
Go beyond Western Canada! Discover the beauty and power of Niagara Falls, Quebec’s French-speaking cities, Ban National Park’s natural beauty and the cosmopolitan cities of Vancouver and Toronto.
• 15 nights in central, 3-star accommodation
• 7 nights cruising the Inside Passage and Alaska with Royal Caribbean
• Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
• Fully escorted through Canada TRAVEL FROM MAY 2023 TO AUG 2023
23 days per person twin share from just
$7,499*
AU STORE PRICE
ALSO AVAILABLE IN OUR NZ, US & IN STORES
ADD RETURN AIRFARES FOR $999
Africa – you can see a sunset and believe you have witnessed the Hand of God. You watch the slow lope of a lioness and forget to breathe.
Jodi Picoult American author
YOU COULD BE ON SAFARI NEXT YEAR – BOOK NOW AND SAVE
19 DAY ULTIMATE AFRICA
Check o incredible safari experiences through Botswana,
Done two trips with Inspiring Vacations now, first Vietnam and now Africa. Both have been outstanding. Organisation has been superb. Accommodation terrific and the whole package in both cases has been very well thought out and organised. Both have been excellent value.
ALSO AVAILABLE: 14 DAY SERENGETI, MASAI MARA & THE BEST OF EAST AFRICA
MASAI MARA • LAKE NAKURU • AMBOSELI, TARANGIRE, LAKE MANYARA & SERENGETI NATIONAL PARKS • NGORONGORO
An unforgettable safari experience across Kenya and Tanzania’s plains. Marvel at Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, and look for the famed Big Five at the world-famous Serengeti in Tanzania.
• 15 nights in central, 3-star accommodation
• 7 nights cruising the Inside Passage and Alaska with Royal Caribbean
• Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
• Fully escorted through Canada TRAVEL FROM JAN 2023 TO DEC 2023
$7,499*
14 days per person twin share from just AU STORE PRICE ALSO AVAILABLE IN OUR NZ, US & IN STORES
