Original Travel

Front cover image: Crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge in British Columbia, Canada

LIFE IS IN THE DETAIL

LIFE ...is in the detail

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ORIGINAL TRAVEL

originaltravel.co.uk

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SAFARI ON THE ZAMBEZI

OUTDOOR LIVING IN WEST SWEDEN

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GASTRONOMY IN THE BASQUE COUNTRY

FAMILY ADVENTURE IN NORTHERN OMAN

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WILDLIFE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

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SLOW TRAVEL ON THE NILE

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DIVING IN RAJA AMPAT

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ADVENTURE IN THE SACRED VALLEY

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INTRODUCTION

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LOST CITIES OF NORTHERN CAMBODIA ‘You only live once’; ‘do before you die’; ‘live like a local’. All trending travel terms, and all with one common thread: life, and making sure that you live it to the full.

Travel is certainly one of the best ways to do just that, and any travel company worth their salt should

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SPIRITUALITY IN THE HIMALAYAS

be able to get you to your destination and generally join the dots from there. But are these companies really enhancing the experience when you’re in situ or making the journey as hassle-free as possible?

These are the questions we at Original Travel ask ourselves every single day. How can we take your holiday experience to the next level? How can we make the trip truly (and here’s that word ‘life’ again) life-changing or life-enhancing?

The answer is that on every tailor-made trip we try to help you engage with your destination on a more profound level, be that through the use of the most knowledgeable guides to bring somewhere more vividly to life, or by arranging experiences that are a window into the soul of a place. And

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MOUNTAIN LIFE IN THE DOLOMITES

then there’s our portfolio of additional services.

You can expect fast-track check-in, security and lounge access at the airport (even if you’re flying economy), plus the inside track knowledge of our local Concierges in every destination. All this comes as standard on every Original Travel trip.

But back to this brochure. We wanted to focus on that word ‘life’, with a deeper dive into life in 12 of our favourite places on the planet. If you like the sound of any of them, or any of our other glorious destinations, speak to one of our passionate experts. They know these places intimately, and revisit them on a regular basis.

After all, Life is in the Detail.

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MUSIC IN THE DEEP SOUTH

Nick Newbury and Tom Barber, Founders

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INTRODUCTION

OUR TEAM

After 16 years in business and several lifetimes spent travelling the globe, the Original Travel team of experts have developed a deep understanding of our destinations. We are passionate about these places, taking great pride in our thoughtful approach to planning each and every tailor-made itinerary.

31 15 37 330+

161 17

the number of countries the

the number of countries the

the number of languages spoken

Original Travel team have visited

team have lived or worked in

by the Original Travel team

the number of nationalities represented by the Original

the number of

years combined experience

Original Travel children

working in travel

Travel team

EUROPE

NORTH AMERICA

WHERE OUR CLIENTS HAVE TRAVELLED

5,027

12,624

CARIBBEAN

1,438

SOUTH AMERICA & ANTARCTICA

6,169

AFRICA

10,921

MIDDLE EAST

2,547 9,846 ASIA

INDIAN OCEAN

3,418

AUSTRALASIA

1,452

Since 2003 we have created over 52,000 tailor-made holiday itineraries

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INTRODUCTION

LOCAL CONCIERGES Our global network of Concierges are always on hand to take your holiday experience to the next level. The Concierges live locally, know their destinations inside and out and are a phone call (or WhatsApp, email etc…) away to arrange additional activities. They can:

A DAY IN THE LIVES OF OUR ORIGINAL TRAVEL CONCIERGES

9:00

SOUTH AFRICA Returning from hiking the trails in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, James and Anna realise they’ve locked the car keys in their hire car. Our Concierge Zola

Make any last-minute changes to your itinerary

orders them a taxi and tells the couple to

Recommend the hottest restaurants (and secure

go ahead with their lunch plans nearby

that elusive table)

while she takes care of it. After a

Tip you off about the local haunts most travellers

wonderful lunch, James and Anna

never know about

return to the car to find a locksmith

Generally anticipate your every need while away

with the keys and their car unlocked.

Original Travel is the only travel company in the UK to offer this service – we believe our local Concierges add another dimension entirely to your trip.

12:30 INDIA

As huge Bollywood fans, David and Emily are on a private guided tour of a Mumbai film set.

Our Concierge Alisha surprises them with the opportunity to act as extras on a live film set. Ecstatic, the couple are dressed in traditional costume and join the cast. Alisha later sends them a memory stick with the evidence!

18:00

AUSTRALIA After enjoying a family surf lesson on Bondi Beach, the Greenwood family rush back to their hotel to be in time for their dinner reservation. On arrival, they read a note from our Concierge Denis saying, ‘I hear your surf lesson overran so I moved dinner back by an hour. I thought you might like more time to celebrate catching your first waves!’

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INTRODUCTION

OUR SERVICE

We’re called Original Travel for a reason. We’re constantly looking for innovative ways to make your holiday even better.

We like to call it Original Thinking. Book with Original Travel and these services come as standard…

UK DEPARTURE ASSISTANCE Our team will meet you at the airport and fast-track you through

UK AIRPORT LOUNGE

Enjoy the comfort of an airport lounge with free drinks

FAST-TRACK SERVICES In UK airports, we’ll speed you through check-in and security queues

PRE-BOOKED SEATS Avoid airlines’ random seat allocation

and snacks, even if you’re flying in economy

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INTRODUCTION

ONE POINT OF CONTACT

HOLD SEATS

OUR APP

Our destination expert will

While fine-tuning your trip

Access your itinerary,

create a perfectly tailor-made

we’ll be holding airline seats

destination dossier and live

itinerary for you

updates on our app

BORROW A GOPRO

EXPERT GUIDES

FUN, FUN, FUN PACKS

Borrow one of our GoPros

Our expert guides will help you

Tailored destination info,

on selected trips

really get under the skin

challenges and games for

of your destination

every child (aged 3–10)

24 HOUR HELPLINE

FULLY PROTECTED

PERFECT PICKS

Things can go wrong;

Your holiday is fully protected

We provide you with a

we’re on call 24/7 to offer

destination specific reading

assistance if required

list and music playlist

To view more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, visit originaltravel.co.uk/additional-services

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INTRODUCTION

100% CARBON OFF-SETTING

We are proud to off-set 100% of the carbon generated by our clients’ flights.

For further information see: originaltravel.co.uk/carbon-off-setting

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INTRODUCTION

THE ORIGINAL TRAVEL FOUNDATION We believe travel and tourism should positively affect the people in the destinations we visit.

Our Foundation, created in 2009, supports a number of humanitarian projects in developing countries in Africa, Asia and South America.

Since 2009, nearly £800,000 has been invested in the support of nearly 100 humanitarian projects in 30 countries, focusing on five key areas: Child protection Vocational training Economic development assistance Preservation of cultural and natural heritage Safeguarding the lifestyles of indigenous peoples We also support emergency relief efforts in large natural and humanitarian disasters, spending almost 14% of our annual budget on emergency humanitarian aid.

SUNDARBANS

KENYA

JOSÉ MANUAL PANDO

Our Foundation aims to improve

BOLIVIA

Due to climate change, the number

the living conditions and educational

We’re working to improve the living

of mangroves in India’s Sundarbans

opportunities for the Maasai

conditions of village communities in

region is rapidly declining. Our project

population in Kenya by providing the

the province of José Manual Pando,

aims to plant more than 16 million

following support: helping to set up

where 98% of the population live in

mangrove trees to protect the local

child sponsorship for schooling and

poverty. We support the ‘Weave the

communities’ homes and farmlands

school materials; providing literacy

Future’ project, which trains local

from flooding and to restore local

classes; conducting awareness

farmers to turn wool into high quality

biodiversity. So far 11,110 acres have

campaigns against FGM and HIV;

local crafts and textile products which

been replanted, impacting 250,000

and building a safe drinking water

they can sell to improve their income.

local people, and counteracting

MASAI MARA

dispensary for a village of 80 people.

WEST BENGAL, INDIA

700,000 tonnes of CO2.

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INTRODUCTION

FEELING INSPIRED?

We specialise in a wide range of holiday types. Whether you’re an avid diver or in search of a last-minute Big Short Break, Original Travel can tailor-make something just for you.

For more inspiration visit originaltravel.co.uk/collections

FAMILY

BOATS AND LIVEABOARDS BIG SHORT BREAKS

SABBATICALS

CITY BREAKS

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INTRODUCTION

Top to bottom, left to right:

A Big Short Break in Marrakech, Morocco Piazza Maggiore, Bologna, Italy

A honeymoon in Rajasthan and Agra, India

A family sailing holiday, Greece

Heli-skiing in Monte Rosa, Italy

Sailing on Alexa, Indonesia

A road trip through Monument

Hiking in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

DIVING

Diving in the Maldives

Valley in Utah, USA Villa Mangiacane in Tuscany, Italy

WINTER SPORTS

PRIVATE HIRE PROPERTIES

S

ROAD TRIPS HONEYMOONS

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SAFARI ON THE ZAMBEZI Safari is one of the most exciting and memorable of all holiday experiences, allowing you to get close to astonishing wildlife in some of our planet’s most remote and beautiful destinations. Old safari hands will tell you that if you want to see an abundance of game, head to the nearest water, and the vast Zambezi River is the perfect life-giving proof of that.

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Elephants crossing the Zambezi at sunset

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FEATURE | THE ZAMBEZI

THE WATER OF LIFE

F

irst, we want to correct a common misconception.

Thanks to a (well-deserved) reputation for superb walking safaris, Zambia

is often assumed to be a destination for seasoned safari-goers only. In truth, you don’t need to be experienced to enjoy a walking safari, and besides, this incredibly versatile country has so much more to offer.

Exhibit A: the numerous safari activities on and around the Zambezi.

The river and its many channels are a magnet for wildlife, which in turn lures discerning visitors who can stay in some of southern Africa’s most luxurious lodges, right on the riverbank. That puts paid to another Zambian mis-conception - it’s not all camping under the stars here, unless you want it to be.

The thundering Victoria Falls

When it comes to activities, the differing riverine landscapes and world-renowned guides in the region really come into their own. You can enjoy safaris with a specifically

seven natural wonders of the world.

trained guide on foot, by 4x4, by

Of course no safari would be

elephants (with herds sometimes numbering in the hundreds), hippos,

canoe or even by luxury river boat.

complete without its wildlife, and the

leopards, lions, buffaloes and over

And that’s before we even mention the

Lower Zambezi National Park on the

400 bird species. So sit back, sip on

huge number of ways to explore the

northern border of the river is one of

a G&T and watch the Zambezi drifting

thundering Victoria Falls, one of the

Africa’s best parks for spotting

past and the game coming to you.

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THE ZAMBEZI | FEATURE

A secret sundowner spot at Sindabezi Below: Drinks at the ‘Sand Bar’

SINDABEZI ISLAND WHAT A private island bush camp

on the Zambezi River. Stay in one of the luxurious open-sided chalets and enjoy river views from the comfort of your bed. By day, visit Victoria Falls, head out fishing or go on a game drive. By evening, sip cocktails in the wonderfully exclusive pop-up ‘Sand Bar’ in a dry riverbed, or enjoy gourmet cuisine served while you drift along on a flat-bottomed sampan boat.

WHERE An hour upstream from

Victoria Falls, accessed from Tongabezi on the Zambian side of the river.

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FEATURE | THE ZAMBEZI

SOFA SAFARI WHAT So called because it involves

sitting back and letting the wildlife come to you as you enjoy a morning coffee or an al fresco bath on your terrace. It’s an experience that never gets any less incredible, and one that can be enjoyed at many of our favourite lodges in the Lower Zambezi National Park - along with a range of (all-inclusive) activities should you want a change of scene. For instance, you might like to try a sofa safari of a different kind and spy on wildlife while hidden in a photography hide at water level.

WHERE From our selection of the best

lodges in the Lower Zambezi National Park.

Spotting elephants from your tent at Chiawa Camp

Photography hide at Chongwe River Camp

Lunch on a barge at Chiawa Camp

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THE ZAMBEZI | FEATURE

Lions in the Lower Zambezi National Park

SAFARI IN THE SPLASH ZONE

BY KATIE ORIGINAL TRAVEL AFRICA SPECIALIST ‘A water-based safari on the Zambezi is simply heaven. Whether with a paddle, fishing rod or glass of champagne in hand, keep the binoculars close while the wildlife surrounds you as you cruise along.’

Hippo hide and seek in the Zambezi

Boat trip on the Zambezi

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FEATURE | THE ZAMBEZI

GUIDING LIGHTS

W

e can’t stress enough how important a great guide is to a memorable trip.

Be that on a private out-of-hours visit to the Vatican, or when introducing you to fascinating aboriginal culture in Australia, a knowledgeable guide should bring the whole experience even more to life. Never is a good guide more essential than on safari.

Along with neighbouring Walking safari at Old Mondoro Camp

Zimbabwe, Zambia is widely renowned for having the best guides in the business, thanks to a strict

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THE ZAMBEZI | FEATURE

Above: Boat safari at Sausage Tree Camp Left: Canoe safari at Chongwe River Camp This: 4x4 safari at Sausage Tree Camp

Daniel Susiku, one of the expert guides at Chiawa Camp

training programme that requires

when out on foot for a walking safari,

a much higher level of skill and

every tree and termite mound will be

familiarisation to pass than in other

well known to your guide. Guides also

countries. This means the system

regularly top up their knowledge with

favours guides who are not only

sessions run by Conservation Lower

expertly trained, but who have lived

Zambezi, a charitable organisation

in local areas near the national parks

set up by lodge owners to ensure the

for many years.

region stays at the top of the guiding

In addition to supreme general knowledge of ethical and safe wildlife

and conservation game.

For safari-goers this high level of

spotting, each guide will also become

expertise means a huge variety of

a specialist in a specific mode of

all-inclusive and world-class activities

safari. When you’re canoeing down

can be offered to guests. If there

the Zambezi it’ll be with a dedicated

was ever a place to mix up your safari

canoe guide who knows every channel

experience and get out of the 4x4,

like the back of his hand, and, likewise,

this is it.

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FEATURE | THE ZAMBEZI

While you’re here, WHY NOT… Whether you’ve got a niche wildlife interest or a need for some authentic cultural immersion, Zambia has got you covered.

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ADRENALINE RUSH At nearly a mile wide and over 300ft deep Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of water in the world. Do justice to the majestic setting

with an equally epic experience such as white water rafting, paragliding, zip-lining, bungy jumping, microlighting or a helicopter flight over the falls.

2

SHOEBILL SPOTTING Fly into Bangweulu Swamps (‘the place where the water meets the sky’ in the local Bemba language)

with an expert guide and spend the day searching for elusive and decidedly odd-looking shoebill storks, a true twitcher must-see.

3

MULTI-DAY WALKING SAFARI A full-on walking safari might not be the only thing to do in Zambia,

but for those who like things a little wilder, it is undoubtedly one of the most memorable. Spend your days walking between mobile camps with an expert guide, completely immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the bush.

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THE ZAMBEZI | FEATURE

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THE VALLEY OF THE LEOPARD Head to South Luangwa National Park (otherwise

known as the Valley of the Leopard), home to arguably the most prolific wildlife in the country. Search for spotted cats, but keep your eyes peeled for rare wild dogs, who are thriving here thanks to the work of the award-winning Zambia Carnivore Programme.

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KUFUKWILA CEREMONY Visit Solwezi in north-west Zambia in May and join the Kaonde people to celebrate the traditional Kufukwila

Ceremony. As the first crops of the year are harvested the chief will ceremoniously bless them before a colourful and typically friendly celebration of the region’s heritage and agricultural fecundity.

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SUNDOWNERS IN THE KAPAMBA RIVER Stay at Kapamba Bushcamp and when the sun starts to set, take off your shoes

and roll up you trousers for sundowners served in the shallow waters of the Kapamba River. Complete with a lantern-lit table and chairs you’ll watch the light fade in a truly spectacular sundowner setting.

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CANOEING ON THE DISCOVERY CHANNEL Not the American TV channel, rather a channel of the lower Zambezi River,

the Discovery Channel is a fantastic setting for a canoe safari. As you glide downstream with your professional canoe guide, listen to soothing birdsong and keep your eyes peeled for crocs and ellies on the riverbanks.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR SAFARI

Once the safari bug bites you’ll be smitten for life. Continue your treatment with this selection of worldwide safari spots.

BRAZIL

KENYA

SRI LANKA

The 130,000 square mile Pantanal

Kenya is Africa’s original safari

As one of the only countries in

wetlands region in the middle of Brazil

destination and home to the

the world where you can seasonally

is home to the world’s highest density

legendary Masai Mara; but there’s

see both the biggest land mammal

of jaguars. The open marshes, which

more to the country than endless

(elephants) and biggest sea mammal

are so immense early explorers

savannah plains and migrating

(blue whales), Sri Lanka is prime safari

thought they were a sea, are also

wildebeest, magnificent as they are.

territory. Visit Minneriya National

home to a huge variety of wildlife,

Let us also introduce you to camel

Park to witness a natural gathering of

including giant anteaters, capybaras

safaris across Laikipia’s escarpments,

huge elephant herds, then head to the

and adorable marsh deer, not to

walking safaris with knowledgeable

coast for a blue whale safari. Leopard

mention over 9,000 species of

Samburu warriors, riding safaris into

sightings are also possible year-round.

creepy-crawly.

the volcanic Chyulu Hills and the coast’s beautiful beaches.

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To order your copy of our Safari brochure call: +44 (0)20 7591 4433 or visit: originaltravel.co.uk/brochure

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OUTDOOR

LIVING IN WEST SWEDEN

The Danish word hygge (meaning, roughly, cosiness; pronounced, roughly, ‘hue-guh’) has seeped into the collective consciousness, in the process unleashing a slew of homespun Scandi-homilies including our favourite, the Swedish term allemansrätten. Literally ‘everyman’s right’, the term refers to the right to roam, a concept that underpins the Swedes’ admirable attitude to their beautiful country.

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Island in the Gothenburg archipelago, West Sweden

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FEATURE | WEST SWEDEN

ALLEMANSRÄTTEN n (Swedish): ‘all man’s right’, referring to the right to roam

E

veryone knows those

but come summer and autumn,

And then there are the myriad ways

ever-egalitarian Swedes

Sweden’s west coast – and more

to explore these beautiful landscapes,

willingly accept high

specifically Bohuslän – is the best

from hiking and biking to boating and

taxation to fund a properly

bet for good clean outdoorsy fun.

kayaking, all of which will help you work

functioning welfare state,

Here you’ll find deep forests

up a healthy appetite.

but less well-known is their concept of

straight out of a Hans Christian

allemansrätten, whereby all Swedes

Andersen (a Dane, admittedly) fairy

Sweden is also a foodie paradise;

have the right to roam. So where best

tale, rocky coastlines, islands dotted

allemansrätten encompasses the

to put this admirable notion into active

with clapboard houses and water in all

passionately held right to forage in

practice? Swedish Lapland is a wintry

its forms from waterfalls and lakes to

nature’s larder as you roam. On land,

adventure playground par excellence,

the clear seas of the archipelago itself.

that might be for fab fungi and

As luck would have it, West

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WEST SWEDEN | FEATURE

PADDLE POWER IN BOHUSLÄN WHAT This stretch of coastline

is perfect for kayaking as the low-lying granite islands (8,000 of them) of the archipelago act as an ideal wind and wave break.

Explore the islets and inlets of this beautiful marine environment with your expert guide, spotting seals and seabirds and – for the more adventurous – camping for the night on uninhabited islands.

WHERE The Bohuslän coast

stretches north from charming Gothenburg all the way to the Kayaking in the Bohuslän Archipelago

Norwegian border.

lingonberries in late summer and autumn, but for seafood lovers the bounty reached by boat is the main attraction. At various times of the year it’s possible to join a seafood safari to help gather and then gorge on some of the world’s finest, freshest prawns (all year round), lobsters (autumn), oysters and mussels (spring, autumn), and crayfish and langoustines (spring, summer).

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FEATURE | WEST SWEDEN

POST LIKE A LOCAL

BY HARRIET ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL EUROPE SPECIALIST ‘For a great fun “like a local” experience, join a Swedish postie one morning as he does the rounds delivering mail by boat to coastal villages.’

Above: Delivering post to coastal villages This: The harbour at Fjallbäcka, Bohuslän

Burning candles as an offering to the Buddhas

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WEST SWEDEN | FEATURE

SEAFOOD SAFARI WHAT There’s a certain primal pleasure

that comes from having hunted and gathered your own meal. In the pretty fishing village of Lyckorna we can arrange for you to head out with a boatload of salty Swedish fisherman and then sing for your supper (or, more correctly, lug for your lunch,) as you reach the local mussels farms and help haul in the mollusc-covered chains. Once the haul is in, head for home and, depending on the timing and weather, the fishermen will either cook the mussels there and then, at a local beach, or back at their seafood-specialising restaurant.

Woolly Nordic jumper wearing strongly encouraged.

WHERE Along the Bohuslän coast.

Above: Cooking freshly caught mussels Right: Mussel safari This: Lars Marstone, a local fisherman

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FEATURE | WEST SWEDEN

At the top of Vetteberget, Fjallbäcka

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WEST SWEDEN | FEATURE

KUNGSKLYFTAN GORGE WHAT The narrow Kungsklyftan

Gorge (or ‘King’s Gap’) is named after the Swedish King Oscar II. In 1887 he visited the gorge, in the tiny fishing village of Fjallbäcka, and carved his name into the cliff face. The 65ft deep gorge was formed by an earthquake thousands of years ago, and has – slightly disconcertingly – several enormous boulders wedged in the top like a rock ‘roof’. According to geological boffins the boulders are ‘erratics’ (cue flashback to A-Level geography) deposited here by the ice sheet that covered this part of Sweden during the last Ice Age. More impressive even than the boulders, though, are the views from the top. The highest outcrop, called Vetteberget, towers 240ft over the village below, offering breathtaking (if you’ve any puff left after the hike up) vistas across Fjallbäcka’s pretty clapboard houses and the islands of the archipelago beyond. Meet your guide for the private hike by the bronze bust of actress Ingrid Bergman (who holidayed in Fjallbäcka with her A-list friends) and wind your way up through Kungsklyftan to Vetteberget, working up a healthy appetite for a smörgåsbord picnic in the process.

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FEATURE | WEST SWEDEN

While you’re here, WHY NOT… Explore the rest of what makes the west (of Sweden) the best, or hop across to the glorious capital Stockholm.

1

MURDER MYSTERY Sweden’s answer to Agatha Christie, and the only person to have come close to filling Stieg Larsson’s Nordic Noir

shoes, Camilla Läckberg has set each of her 13 gory detective novels in sleepy Fjallbäcka (of Kungsklyftan Gorge fame), where she was born and raised. We can arrange a tour of the grizzliest murder spots with a former policeman, and tailor it to crime novel fans or novices alike.

2

OLD & NEW Gothenburg will likely be your access point for Bohuslän, so when there make sure to amble around Haga Old Town.

The city’s first suburb was built back in the 17th century and is now a favoured haunt for hipsters and home to vintage stores selling achingly cool clobber.

3

COFFEE CULTURE Gothenburg is the spiritual home of that most Swedish of traditions, the fika – a coffee break (with added cake) and an

excellent excuse for the locals to gossip. The city has hundreds of fika cafes, the best of which are the Da Matteo chain’s two outlets off Vallgatan and Magasinsgatan streets.

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WEST SWEDEN | FEATURE

4

TAKE THE TRAIN If you want to combine Sweden’s west and east coasts in one trip, take the (predictably reliable) train from

Gothenburg to the capital Stockholm. The threehour journey takes in some beautiful countryside and is the most sustainable way to see a country that takes environmental concerns very seriously.

5

A BIRDS-EYE VIEW OF STOCKHOLM Stockholm is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, but for a different

perspective on the Swedish capital, try a walking tour across the rooftops. Part sightseeing trip,

part urban adventure, you’ll wander across the roofs of the old parliament building, hearing anecdotes about the city en route.

6

MIDSUMMER MOOSE SPOTTING The forests near Stockholm are home to the magnificent moose, and

we can arrange a guided evening tour. Start with a traditional Swedish midsummer supper.

Then, thanks to the short midsummer nights in these parts, you can see moose and more in their beautiful natural habitat under the midnight sun before returning to city life.

7

THE BEST MUSEUM IN THE WORLD? The Vasa is the 300-year old flagship of the Swedish navy that floundered on

her maiden voyage and was perfectly preserved in the silt at the bottom of Stockholm Harbour.

Brought back to the surface she now sits in a purpose-built museum and an up-close viewing is a true time travel experience.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR OUTDOOR LIVING

COLOMBIA

NAMIBIA

One of Colombia’s nine UNESCO World Heritage

Namibia is home to just 2.5 million people, making

Sites, the Coffee Triangle might just be the most

this one of the least densely populated places on

beautiful of the lot. Expect a majestic, panoramic

Earth. That means you can explore rich red dunes,

landscape of bucolic green hills and acres of coffee

wonderfully wild coastlines and even a recognised

plantations with volcanoes as a dramatic backdrop.

Dark Sky Reserve (due to total lack of light pollution),

When you're here it’s all about getting out and about

all safe in the knowledge there won’t be anyone else

to explore, on horseback or on foot, to take in the

around. We can arrange a self-drive safari, taking in

remarkable flora and fauna. In total there are over

the coast and big game spotting at the Etosha salt

300 species of bird and many a primate, including

pan, as well as extraordinary light aircraft flying

the very vocal howler monkey.

safaris along the Skeleton Coast.

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WEST SWEDEN | FEATURE

If you like your country big then this fab foursome are also well worth exploring. Read on to find out how they put the ‘great’ in The Great Outdoors.

USA

CHILE

The American West consists of wide-open plains,

As befits a country 2,653 miles long and lying

some truly epic ranches for that quintessential

between the Andes and the Pacific, Chile’s

cowboy experience and awe-inspiring national

landscapes are almost implausibly diverse;

parks in the country that invented this most

each one its own gateway into the great outdoors.

admirable concept. We heartily recommend getting

Embrace all Chile has to offer on a trip taking

out into the fresh air and exploring on foot, on

in the arid beauty of the Atacama Desert, the

horseback or even snowshoe in winter. We can

immense granite towers of the Torres del Paine in

create the perfect itinerary whether you want a

Patagonia and the enigmatic Easter Island, not to

ranching holiday or a national parks road trip, or

mention pretty much everything in between from

a clever combo of both.

glaciers to rainforests.

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LOST CITIES OF NORTHERN CAMBODIA The ancient Angkor temple complex has always been a Cambodian ‘must visit’, but recent laser mapping technology has now revealed that its ornate buildings and lost cities are not just incredibly atmospheric, but formed part of the single largest empire in the 12th century world. Meet our expert archaeologists and tour the temples to find out more.

Monk exploring the ancient Angkor ruins

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FEATURE | NORTHERN CAMBODIA

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap

YOU CALL THIS ARCHAEOLOGY?

Firing laser beams from helicopters to find ancient ruins might sound like something from a new Indiana Jones meets Star Wars movie, but that’s what LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology has made a reality.

S

upported by the Greater Angkor Project and

the temples for yourself. Walking around the

top archaeologists from around the world, the

complex with our expert guides will bring the sites

LIDAR research has mapped and charted the

to life in a way that maps and technology can’t, and

locations of several ancient cities and temples

you’ll instead focus on the stories and folklore that

which had - until recently - been lost to the

will help you visualise what life for the locals in the

jungle for hundreds of years. Visit Siem Reap and spend a day exploring with an Angkor scholar, or

Khmer Empire was actually like.

Once you’ve scratched beneath the surface at

potentially even Dr Damian Evans, one of the

Angkor, your temple touring needn’t stop with Siem

project’s leading archaeologists. During the day,

Reap. In fact some of our favourite temples are

soak up the passion and knowledge while learning

found where the tourist track peters out a little

how the laser technology worked and finding out

further to the north. The likes of Banteay Chhmar

more about the layout of the cities.

and Koh Ker are home to ancient temples with just

Then, armed with your new knowledge, explore

as much history as Angkor but virtually no visitors.

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NORTHERN CAMBODIA | FEATURE

BANTEAY CHHMAR WHAT Due to a long-running

Thai-Cambodian border dispute, the complex was – until recently – off limits. Spend the night in a nearby village, where visitors can enjoy a traditional homestay, before getting up at sunrise to be the first (and, almost certainly, only) people at the temple. Your knowledgeable guide will set up a breakfast picnic to enjoy while overlooking the beautiful, tree-cloaked temple ruins.

WHERE Around three hours

north-west of Siem Reap by car, One of the face towers at Banteay Chhamar

near the Thai border.

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FEATURE | NORTHERN CAMBODIA

Overgrown doorway at Koh Ker

Apprentice monks at Koh Ker

KOH KER WHAT A UNESCO-protected city similar to Angkor,

but with far fewer visitors. Prasat Thom, the central temple, was built as a seven-tiered pyramid and is a superb example of Khmer architecture. Only a small portion of the wider city has so far been uncovered, and the many overgrown doorways here are very photogenic. We work with the best guides to offer both a historical and photographic angle to your visit.

WHERE Around two to three hours north-east of Siem

Pyramidal Prasat Thom temple

Reap by car. Best visited on a day trip.

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NORTHERN CAMBODIA | FEATURE

TOP TEMPLE TIPS

BY HOLLY ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL ASIA SPECIALIST ‘Google “Angkor Wat sunrise” and you’ll be presented with endless images of over-saturated orange skies. My favourite time of day to take photographs is actually at dusk, when the light means you can focus on the temple details rather than the sky.’

Clockwise from top: Dusk at Angkor Wat Sunset at the Bayon, Angkor Sunset reflection at Angkor Wat

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FEATURE | NORTHERN CAMBODIA

While you’re here, WHY NOT… Beyond the temples and ancient culture, contemporary Cambodia offers a wealth of things to see and do.

1

BEACH BLISS Cambodia isn’t well known for its beaches.

Yet. Combine your temple touring in Siem Reap with a few days of beach bliss on one

of the stunning islands off the coast, where our long-time favourite beach hotel, Song Saa, has recently been joined by some great newbies.

2

PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS Enjoy a different take on photography in Siem Reap by heading away from the temples to capture some amazingly

candid portraits of the locals. Accompanied by an expert photographer who is also a popular local, you’ll get to chat to the villagers who will then let you snap photographs with them too.

3

FOODIE PHNOM PENH Away from the poignant political history, Phnom Penh is a beacon for foodies and we can arrange an evening dining tour.

You’ll start with sundowners overlooking the city, move on to a great local’s barbecue spot, sample amok (a creamy coconut curry) and then finish with a classic Khmer sticky-rice pudding on the river’s edge.

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NORTHERN CAMBODIA | FEATURE

4

TOURING TONLE SAP Visit the stilted houses and floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, where you’ll experience a lifestyle unchanged for

centuries. As well as exploring the villages, you can have a go at fishing, keep your eyes peeled for spot-billed pelicans and grey-headed fish eagles, and finish the day with a super-romantic dinner aboard your gently bobbing private boat.

5

CIRCUS SKILLS There’s more to Siem Reap than temples, and in fact one of our favourite activities is visiting Phare Circus, where tightrope

walkers, contortionists and acrobats take the stage for a dynamic artistic spectacle blending visual arts, traditional music, modern dance and classic circus skills.

6

CARDAMOM MOUNTAINS The largely unexplored Cardamom Mountains are home to a fascinating array of flora and fauna. Join expert

rangers on hikes through these wonderfully untamed woodlands, checking camera traps for snaps of elephants and clouded leopards; then retreat back to Shinta Mani Wild, a luxurious new tented lodge perched on the banks of a river. The design brief? ‘Like going on safari in the jungles of Cambodia with Jacky O.’

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR LOST CITIES

Spread your lost city search worldwide and uncover the fascinating history behind some of our other favourite ancient kingdoms.

UAXACTUN, GUATEMALA

PETRA, JORDAN

THE CULTURAL TRIANGLE, SRI LANKA

On a trip to Guatemala you’ll

Magical Petra still casts a spell,

Lift the lid on the lost cities which

almost certainly visit Tikal, but

and particularly at dawn and dusk

form Sri Lanka’s so-called Cultural

try to make time to see Uaxactun

when the crowds have dispersed

Triangle. Start at Sigiriya, the 560ft

(pronounced ‘wah-shahk-toon’), the

and the true beauty of the place is

high rock fortress topped by beautiful

site of another ancient and sacred

revealed. Alternatively, visit off

frescoes and ancient ruins, then

Mayan city where our favourite

season (winter), or take heed of our

visit the huge Buddha carving at

guide, Carlos, grew up sleeping in

clever travel hacks, such as climbing

Polonnaruwa and, finally, cycle around

a hammock amid the ruins. Carlos’s

the Nabatean staircases behind the

Anuradhapura, spotting the stupas

time spent exploring the pyramids

Royal Tombs for spectacular views

which were once the second largest

and temples means he is brimming

of the Treasury from on high.

man-made structures in the world,

with stories about the Mayans.

after Egypt’s pyramids.

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JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...

FAST-TRACK SERVICES In UK airports, we’ll whisk you through check-in and the security queues

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GASTRONOMY IN THE BASQUE COUNTRY

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There are plenty of places where the regional cuisine is an integral part of the wider culture, but few destinations take the ‘food as identity’ shtick as seriously as the Basque Country in Northern Spain and Southern France. Eating your way around Euskadi (as the Basques call their homeland) is a pleasure in itself, of course, but as you learn how intrinsically linked it is to the Basque way of life, the experience becomes even more delicious.

Elaborate pintxos (Basque tapas) in a San Sebastian bar

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FEATURE | BASQUE COUNTRY

EAT EAT EAT » REPEAT «

Artichokes in Ordizia market

Y

Eating the end product is ou’ve indulged

just one part of the Basque

your way

foodie experience. Cultivation

around

of the raw ingredients is

Italy and

taken, if anything, even more

fattened

seriously. There are festivals

yourself up in France, so

for every foodstuff imaginable

where's next? It has to be

(more chances to compete, you

Spain, with the Basque

see), including for the fabulous

Country the jewel in the

local cheeses, and just over the

country's culinary crown.

border in the French Basque

The Basque people’s long

Country there’s even a festival

seafaring history means that seafood

societies and chefs in the Basque

to celebrate the eponymous Espelette

is a staple, with chefs from the region’s

‘capital’ San Sebastian – that has

chilli pepper. Visit the best local markets

numerous Michelin-starred restaurants

pushed the region’s cuisine to ever

with a passionate Basque guide to see

sharpening their elbows to secure the

greater heights. We can arrange for

stalls groaning under the sheer weight

prime catch of the day in fish markets.

a private visit to one of these societies

of fresh produce, and to learn how to

Meanwhile, beret-wearing members of

(lunch included, of course), but the

choose the pick of the bunch. We can

the region’s many secretive culinary

good news is that simply sampling

create a tailor-made road trip itinerary

societies lovingly refine recipes and

the pintxos (Basque tapas) and other

to take in all of the above, as well as the

techniques honed over the centuries.

delectable dishes in the region’s

Basque Country’s glorious neighbours,

It’s this Basque trait for healthy

many restaurants and bars is a

the Rioja wine region and the Picos de

competition – especially between

gastronomic treat.

Europa mountain range.

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BASQUE COUNTRY | FEATURE

PINTXOS TOUR WHAT Donostians (San Sebastian

dwellers) have a very civilised post-work ritual; they poteo-ir-de-pintxos, or ‘search out morsels on sticks’. Our local Concierge will recommend the best pintxos (delicious Basque-style tapas) bars, but you can tell which are good because after the locals nibble on each pintxos they drop their napkins, so the more on the floor, the more popular the place. Keep pointing out which pintxos you want and the barman tots up your bill by counting the sticks left on your plate. Wash down with lashings of txakoli – the slightly fizzy local white wine.

WHERE Wandering the streets of the

Parte Vieja (Old Town).

Clockwise from this: Vegetarian pintxos; Pintxos crawl, San Sebastian Old Town; Pintxos bar, Old Town; Pouring sagardoa (cider)

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FEATURE | BASQUE COUNTRY

PEAK POURING

BY KATE ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL EUROPE SPECIALIST ‘The Basques brew a seriously potent cider called sagardoa. You’ll see it being poured from a great height, which supposedly helps aerate the cider, but which we suspect also gives the locals another chance to get a bit competitive.’

Burning candles as an offering to the Buddhas

Pouring sagardoa cider

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BASQUE COUNTRY | FEATURE

This: Vegetable stall, Ordizia market; Below: Cheese competition, Ordizia

CHEESE TASTINGS WHAT Euskal Jaiak is a local festival

each September where ancient traditions are out in force. Watch bonkers Basque sports such as high-octane wood chopping, and competitions to decide the best in show from every type of goat’s cheese imaginable. The most important day of the festival is Wednesday when, along with the aforementioned cheeses, a cornucopia of culinary goodies are on offer at the weekly market; including heaps of high quality fresh fruit and vegetables.

WHERE Ordizia, a small town about an

hour’s drive inland from Bilbao and home to the region’s oldest weekly market.

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FEATURE | BASQUE COUNTRY

While you’re here, WHY NOT… As your waistband expands, so should your horizons.

Here are just a few of our ideas for extending your trip.

1

REJOICE IN RIOJA The local Basque txakoli white wine might be fine for a night on the pintxos, but for the serious oenophile the neighbouring region of

Rioja is the place to visit. We can arrange vineyard tours and more, including private food pairing courses and top vintage tastings with the owners of some of the region’s finest wineries, some of which – such as the Valdelana estate – are over 500 years old.

2

CROSS BORDER ACTIVITY The Espelette pepper festival (over the French border) celebrates Christopher

Columbus’s Basque navigator, who supposedly brought these famed chillies home from the Americas.

The October festivities see the town host marching bands, Basque games such as harri jasotzea (stone lifting) and dried chilies adorning the streets.

3

CATCH SOME WAVES It’s hard to believe, we know, but there’s more to life in San Sebastian than eating. The Basque capital is also

home to that relative rarity, a city surf break, on lovely La Zurriola Beach. We can arrange lessons for beginners or board hire for pros, and it means you can work up another appetite for your next marathon pintxos crawl.

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BASQUE COUNTRY | FEATURE

4

URDAIBAI BIOSPHERE RESERVE A UNESCO biosphere reserve spanning 136 square miles of salt marshes, cliffs,

forests and beaches between Bilbao and San Sebastian, Urdaibai is home to diverse ecosystems from estuaries to holm oak forests that are perfect for exploring. Go birdwatching with a local guide or walk along the pristine beaches spotting bottlenose dolphins playing offshore.

5

PICK OF THE PICOS The Picos de Europa mountains in neighbouring Cantabria are some of the most dramatic on the continent. Hike the

Cares River Route – also known as the Divine Gorge – following a valley in parts a mile deep that winds seven-and-a-half miles into the mountains. An ideal activity after any gastronomic blow out.

6

HAUTE COUTURE The Basque Country does haute couture as well as haute cuisine, Cristobal Balenciaga – one of the greatest

couturiers of the 20th century – was a Basque boy, and high society hearts across the world broke when he retired in 1968. We can arrange a private after-hours visit to Bilbao’s Balenciaga Museum, which houses 1,200 pieces by him, from gloves to Grace Kelly’s ballgowns.

7

THE GOOG EFFECT In honour of the city’s shipbuilding heritage, the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Bilbao sits like a titanium

plated ship by the Nervión River. The wonderful design and collection of modern and contemporary art have spawned what is known as the ‘Guggenheim Effect’, where one building is the catalyst for a city becoming a tourist destination. Discover the effect yourself on a private guided city tour, and keep an eye out for colossal steel works by Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida elsewhere in the region.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR GASTRONOMY

If your appetite is suitably whetted, why not visit one of these foodie hotspots to continue your epicurean education…

ARGENTINA

AUSTRALIA

VIETNAM

An asado is a traditional Argentinian

Although predominantly celebrated for

The full flavours of Vietnamese

barbecue, where on-the-bone beef is

its viticulture, Australia’s gastronomic

cuisine are best sampled in the

cooked low and slow over hot coals.

landscape has many more dimensions.

country’s numerous street markets.

The technique was developed by the

From street food tours with a food

Devour the best banh mi (Vietnamese

country’s gauchos (cowboys), who

blogger in Melbourne to aboriginal

baguette) at Phi Banh Mi in lantern-lit

had plenty of prime beef to hand as

bush-tucker cook outs, Australia’s

Hoi An, slurp up a steaming bowl of

they grazed the Pampas. Best

foodie scene is all about a hands-on

pho in bustling Hanoi and in Ho Chi

enjoyed around a campfire with a

attitude. In Freycinet, Tasmania, for

Minh City, enjoy a market shopping

generous glass of Malbec or a mate

example, wade into the Marine Oyster

trip and private cooking class with

tea, this is the ultimate Argentinian

Farm to forage for your oyster lunch,

characterful local chef Ms Hong.

culinary experience.

served at a table with waves lapping around you. Waders provided!

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BASQUE COUNTRY | FEATURE

JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...

UK AIRPORT LOUNGE Enjoy the comfort of an airport lounge with free drinks and snacks, even if you're flying in economy

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FAMILY ADVENTURE IN NORTHERN OMAN

Young girl climbing in the Hajar Mountains

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To the parents of school age children reading this brochure: do you remember when they were little and lullable and easily bundled into a pram? Back then family holidays were easy, and besides, you were probably too tired to consider much more than a week on the beach. But now that they’re all grown up and full of energy you need a Plan B: the perfect family adventure playground. The good news is that we know just the place. Introducing the beaches, mountains and desert of northern Oman...

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FEATURE | NORTHERN OMAN

Father and son paddleboarding near Muscat

OMAN FOR ALL SEASONS

hotels provide watersports aplenty to keep the kids busy, while the city souqs and hotel spas ensure Mums and Dads are equally well catered for.

To amp up the adventure, head to the Wahiba Sands and a luxurious desert camp, where the rolling red dunes are perfect for camel rides, stargazing

F

and learning to sand board. En route to the Hajar Mountains, explore huge amilies often overlook

sandcastle-like forts or swim and

Oman in favour of

canyon through wadis (mainly dry river

glitzier Dubai, but

valleys). In the mountains themselves,

thanks to its rich history

try rock climbing and visit local

and the towering Hajar

villages to add an all-important

Mountains, to add to

cultural context.

glorious beaches and desert dunes,

You might be able to tell by now

the country has far more to offer than

that we’re big fans of Oman, but if you

its busier neighbour.

still need persuading, the clincher is

Northern Oman is a particularly

the weather. Oman’s winter sun

great family choice thanks to an

climate makes it perfectly suited to

easily linked loop of adventurous

every school half term and holiday

(but safe) destinations, all found in

except May half term and summer

one accessible area and combinable

(way too hot), so you can pretty much

in a week. Start on the beach in

always slot a week into the most

the fun capital of Muscat, where a

complicated family schedule. Mum,

selection of fantastic family-friendly

Dad, you’d better get packing!

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NORTHERN OMAN | FEATURE

WADI BANI AWF WHAT One of Oman’s most

spectacular wadis (mainly dry river valleys) where we can arrange a private canyoning adventure for families with children aged eight and up. Spend a full day with your expert guide learning the ropes (quite literally) as you’re challenged to slide, climb, swim and abseil through the valley’s famous Snake Canyon. During the day the family will also be introduced to some Omani culture during a visit to Bilad Sayt village, where you’ll learn how the ancient falaj irrigation system helps the locals to live in such dry conditions.

WHERE A two-hour drive

south-east of Muscat. Best visited on a day trip from Muscat or en route to or from the Wahiba Sands.

Top: Snake Canyon Right: Ready for action This: The village of Bilad Sayt

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FEATURE | NORTHERN OMAN

DOLPHIN CRUISE WHAT A dedicated dolphin watching

boat ride in the Gulf of Oman. Over the course of a morning you’ll cruise out into calm open waters in search of dolphin pods, and then spend time at sea watching their playful behaviour and theatrical displays. Most commonly spotted here are acrobatic spinner (by name and nature) dolphins, as well as bottlenose and common dolphins. Pods are regularly made up of more than 100 individuals and over the course of the voyage you’ll often see several different pods. If you’re really lucky you might even spot a humpback whale or two.

WHERE The boat leaves from Muscat

to head into the Gulf of Oman.

Prayer flags leading to Tigers Nest Monastery

This: Spinner dolphin following a dhow Top: Bottlenose dolphins in the Gulf of Oman Burning candles as an offering to the Buddhas

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NORTHERN OMAN | FEATURE

ARABIAN NIGHTS

BY TOM BARBER ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL CO-FOUNDER ‘The children will love dune bashing in the Wahiba Sands; sliding down dunes in your 4x4 and going almost sideways at times.

Camel rides are a little more sedate, except when you get on, which is like riding a bucking bronco!’

This: Camels at sunset Left: Local guides and their camels Right: Dune bashing, Wahiba Sands

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FEATURE | NORTHERN OMAN

GRAND CANYON WHAT Wadi Ghul, also known as Oman’s

Grand Canyon, is – after Arizona’s – the second largest canyon in the world.

Descending from Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak, the canyon plunges near vertically for well over half a mile, making for spectacular and equally dizzying views.

Families who aren’t afraid of heights can join a guide to hike the famous Balcony Walk for another perspective on the red rocky canyon, including a visit to the recently abandoned cliff-clinging village of Sap Bani Khamis. After working up a nervous sweat on the hike, a cool dip in the spring-fed lake near the village is the perfect reward.

WHERE Jebel Shams, Hajar Mountains.

Wadi Ghul, Oman’s Grand Canyon

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NORTHERN OMAN | FEATURE

Clockwise from this: Snorkelling trip; Dhow trip dive bomb competition; Prow of a dhow; Dhows cruising

DHOW CRUISE WHAT Hop aboard an expertly-crewed dhow

(traditional sailing boat) and set sail for a full-day seafaring adventure along the Muscat coast.

In between snorkelling, swimming, dive bomb competitions and a little time simply soaking up the sun, sit down to enjoy a fresh seafood lunch served on the broad, shaded deck of a type of boat that has plied these waters for centuries. This is good old fashioned family holiday fun, and with luck you’ll have a pod of dolphins swimming alongside at some point.

WHERE Cruise along the coast from a marina in

Muscat past medieval forts, dramatic mountains and secluded bays.

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FEATURE | NORTHERN OMAN

While you’re here, WHY NOT… We've only just scratched the surface. Here are a few other highlights of any family stay in Oman.

1

VIA FERRATA The via ferrata (literally ‘iron road’) trails in the Hajar Mountains are the perfect way to channel your little monkeys’ climbing

tendencies into something fun for all the family.

As you traverse the rope bridges and iron ladders with an expert guide you’ll enjoy dramatic views of Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak.

2

DAYMANIYAT DAY TRIP Spend a full day exploring the nine uninhabited Daymaniyat Islands on a boat trip from Muscat. Surrounded by

pristine reefs with colourful corals and all manner of marine life this is an ideal snorkelling (and diving, for older children) spot, with a high probability of seeing at least one turtle. Fins crossed!

3

ZIGHY BAY On the coast of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, Six Senses Zighy Bay is one of our all-time favourite family-friendly hotels.

While the little ones are snorkelling, paragliding, kayaking and making friends in the kids' club, parents can enjoy some fabulously understated luxury, a great spa and stunning mountains-meets-sea views.

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NORTHERN OMAN | FEATURE

4

COOKING CLASS If there’s one way to cure fussy eaters of that most frustrating affliction, it’s getting them involved

in the cooking process. Join a local chef in Muscat and the children can to learn how to make delicious mashakeek (beef skewers)

and khubz rakhal (fresh Omani bread).

5

OMANI FORTS After a few days on the beach building sandcastles, visit Nakhal Fort, essentially an oversized version of the beach variety,

but complete with turret flag and battlements. The kids will love running around and playing with the cannons to defend the fort from imaginary invaders.

6

NIZWA We’ll tailor the itinerary so you're in the ancient capital of Nizwa on a Friday for the centuries-old livestock market.

This is a great opportunity to see Omani culture in action and your guide will show the family around, stopping to chat with locals and for you to snap photographs with the goats.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR FAMILY ADVENTURE

COSTA RICA

GREECE

There are few countries better placed to spark a

Greece has managed to pull off the neat trick of

child’s interest in our planet’s natural wonders than

appealing to both couples and families. In (extremely)

Costa Rica. With smoking volcanoes as a backdrop,

brief, to avoid smooching honeymooners, families

your diminutive David Attenboroughs can white

should consider Corfu for fantastic Durrell-inspired

water raft, mountain bike, windsurf and zip-line

messing about in boats and brilliant villas.

through the rainforest-coated Arenal region before

Elsewhere, there’s Halkidiki’s Kassandra Peninsula

heading to the Pacific coast for surfing, sailing and

for excellent family-friendly resorts and fun activities

snorkelling. This being one of the most biodiverse

from sailing academies to mountain biking; Crete for

places on Earth, they should also keep an eye (and

classical legends galore and the Peloponnese

ear) out for quirky creatures like thunderously loud

peninsula for its beautiful beaches and more family

howler monkeys.

fun, including kayaking.

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NORTHERN OMAN | FEATURE

The average family enjoys an estimated 40 holidays together in a lifetime. Here are a few more suggestions for where children (and parents) can have the most fun…

PORTUGAL

SOUTH AFRICA

Portugal’s coastline is the place for al fresco family

There are few destinations as well set up for family

fun. Our favourite stretch is the beautiful Costa

adventure as South Africa. Start in Cape Town

Vincentina National Park running down the Atlantic

where the children can hunt for hyraxes (oversized

Coast of the Algarve, and home to glorious beach

guinea pigs) on Table Mountain and enjoy a guided

breaks where the whole family can learn to surf and

family-fun tour of the Cape Peninsula, seeing

boogie board. For land-based family adventures,

penguins and boogie boarding on beginner-friendly

enjoy private guided riding or walk between the

beaches. Next, make the road trip along the famous

picture-perfect Salema and Ingrina beaches. To

Garden Route to one of the malaria-free game

inspire the children to explore more, visit the Cabo de

reserves in the Eastern Cape, where you can end

Sao Vincente, from where Portugal’s famous

the holiday by meeting the full cast of The Lion King.

navigators once circumnavigated the globe.

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To order your copy of our Family brochure call: +44 (0)20 7591 4433 or visit: originaltravel.co.uk/brochure

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JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...

PRE‑BOOKED SEATS Avoid airlines’ random seat allocation

To find out more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, see page six or visit originaltravel.co.uk/additional-services

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SPIRITUALITY IN THE

HIMALAYAS With ten of Earth’s tallest mountains, the Himalayan range is our planet’s physical high point, but also home to some of humankind’s most elevated thinking. Many of the peaks are sacred to Hindus or Buddhists or both, and when you’re not simply gawping at the sheer majesty of your surroundings, our expert guides can arrange for you to spend time with some of the region’s enlightened residents. You are all but guaranteed to leave with a heightened sense of spirituality.

Portable prayer wheel

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FEATURE | THE HIMALAYAS

THE MEANING OF LIFE… I

Stakna Monastery, Ladakh

Prayer beads

n this 24/7 digital age, we in the West

of Ladakh, Buddhism is the ruling religion

tend to be too busy to sit back and

and beautiful temples and monasteries can

reflect on the meaning of life. There is

be found dotted across even the most remote

a backlash of sorts going on – witness

mountainsides. Monks, resplendent in their

the rise of meditation, often, ironically,

using an app – but if you want the real deal, then head to the Himalayas, the spiritual home of, well, spirituality.

When surrounded by sparse, rugged

traditional robes, are also a common sight as they wander through towns and villages.

To gain a greater understanding of Buddhist culture, we always recommend combining your temple touring with some more intimate and

mountains and feeling as though you’re

personal experiences. Our knowledgeable

floating high in the clouds, it’s almost

guides can arrange for you to join the locals for

impossible not to feel a nagging need to

a Bhutanese puja (ceremony) and can even

reassess life back home. In a good way.

introduce you to a mystical Indian oracle to

In both Bhutan and the Indian province

witness her communicate with the spirits.

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THE HIMALAYAS | FEATURE

An oracle in Ladakh Below: Typical Ladakhi doorway

CONSULT AN ORACLE WHAT Secure a much sought-after seat

at one of Ladakh’s mysterious oracle ceremonies, where the oracle connects with the spirits to convey their blessings and warnings upon those present. This is an incredibly emotive and atmospheric experience with a tangible sense of otherworldliness, offering a real insight into the strict Tibetan Buddhist beliefs that still hold sway here.

WHERE In the heart of the Indian region

of Ladakh, at the simple village home of one the region’s resident oracles.

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FEATURE | THE HIMALAYAS

Flags fluttering on the way to Taktsang Monastery

PUJA IN BHUTAN WHAT A Buddhist ceremony where

attendees make offerings to Buddha and assorted Bodhisattvas (those who have reached the highest levels of enlightenment) to request their blessing. Whether you prefer to join the locals and receive a general blessing from the monks or have a specific private ceremony to seek blessing for a particular issue, we can arrange the experience and provide flowers, incense and prayer flags for offerings.

WHERE Our guides can arrange a

puja in almost all of Bhutan’s major destinations.

Oil lamp at puja ceremony

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THE HIMALAYAS | FEATURE

(HAPPY) ACCIDENT PRONE

BY MIRANDA ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL ASIA SPECIALIST ‘Bhutan is the land of happy accidents – you never quite know what extraordinary experience you’ll have next. My lasting memory is of running down the hill from Tiger’s Nest Monastery having a snowball fight with some young monks.’

Climbing the stairs to Tiger’s Nest

Above: Snowball fight ready Tiger’s Nest Monastery in the snow

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FEATURE | THE HIMALAYAS

While you’re here, WHY NOT… Away from temples and dzongs (fortresses), the Himalayas offer a wide variety of adventurous and cultural experiences.

1

VILLAGE WALKS IN SIKKIM Traverse the terraced foothills around India’s Sikkim region with a guide and visit local villages for a snapshot of authentic

rural life in the Himalayas. Stop for overnight stays in comfortable converted village houses and, as an honoured guest, the locals will share their way of life with you.

2

WHITE WATER RAFTING IN PUNAKHA Take to Bhutan’s glacier-fed Pho Chu River on an adrenaline-fuelled white

water rafting adventure. As you crash through the rapids and endeavour to stay dry, take in the lush valley scenery and lungfuls of fresh mountain air before finishing up at the base of Punakha Dzong.

3

SPA EXPERIENCE AT ANANDA In the foothills of the Indian Himalayas, the legendary Ananda is one of the most

serene and soul-soothing spa resorts in the world.

Leave your troubles at the door and spend several days indulging in as many massages, Ayurvedic treatments, detoxifying programmes and yoga classes as you can.

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THE HIMALAYAS | FEATURE

4

SPOT SNOW LEOPARDS IN LADAKH Extremely agile and able to survive in some of the harshest conditions in the

world, the majestic snow leopard is a big cat worthy of its mystical reputation. Join an expert guide and go trekking in the mountains in Ladakh to spot this most beautiful of animals in its natural habitat.

5

TEA TASTING IN DARJEELING Stay on a traditional colonial tea estate in the heart of India’s Darjeeling region and

get to grips with the tea-making process from leaf to cup. After touring the factory, finish with a tasting where you’ll learn to recognise the aromas and flavours of the different leaves.

6

HIKING IN BHUTAN For the more adventurous traveller a multi-day walk such as Bhutan’s Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a must-do in

this scenic setting. Spend five days enjoying incomparable views of crystal clear lakes and Himalayan peaks while a support crew helps carry your kit and organise the cooking and camping.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR SPIRITUALITY Still searching for enlightenment? Here’s some inspiration on where to seek your next spiritual awakening…

BOTSWANA

JAPAN

MEXICO

The hunter-gatherer Zu’hoasi

The Japanese religion of Shinto has no

A traditional Mexican temazcal

Bushmen of the Western Kalahari

specific gods: the natural environment

ceremony involves sitting in a domed

are one of the last remaining truly

and the spirits which govern it are all

stone pod, super-heated by volcanic

nomadic peoples on Earth. Stay in a

considered sacred. To see the concept

stones while a curandero (healer) recites

mobile camp in the remote wilderness

in practice, we can arrange a privately

shamanic chants and swirls scented

and join the Zu’hoasi for a day. As

guided hike along one of the beautiful

vapours. Dating from the Mayan era,

the light fades, experience a sacred

thousand-year-old Kumano Kodo trails

this ritual has survived over the

evening trance ceremony, conducted

on the Kii Peninsula, where the

intervening centuries for a good reason:

around the campfire to the beat of

hundred or so oji (shrines) and their

the spiritual immersion (and prodigious

hand claps.

forest setting are equally magical.

sauna-like sweating) leaves you feeling more free in mind, body and soul.

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JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...

100% CARBON OFF-SETTING We are proud to off-set 100% of the carbon generated by our clients’ flights

To find out more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, see page six or visit originaltravel.co.uk/carbon-off-setting

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WILDLIFE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

British Columbia has around 16,000 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline (islands included) and endless untamed wilderness that make ideal habitats for the region’s magnificent wildlife. By day, head out to spot bears, whales and eagles on foot, by kayak or by floatplane. Come evening, learn about these sacred species’ creation stories, as shared around First Nations’ (Canada’s indigenous population) campfires for millennia.

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Humpback whale fluke (tail), Vancouver Island

Calling to the spirits with a prayer wheel

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FEATURE | BRITISH COLUMBIA

WILD THINGS T WHERE THE

ARE

Sea otter, Vancouver Island

Bald eagle in the Great Bear Rainforest

he unbridled wilderness

who share their home. Take the

of British Columbia

mysterious and rare white-coated spirit

(known affectionately

bears, also known as Kermode bears.

as BC) nurtures an

They are considered so sacred in the

astonishing array of

Great Bear Rainforest (the world’s

wildlife. Ecosystems such as the

most northerly temperate rainforest)

mystical storm-battered Haida

that for centuries the local tribe didn't

Gwaii islands off BC’s northerly

breathe a word of the bears' existence

coast and even Vancouver's 1,001-

to hunters and fur trappers, in the

acre Stanley Park are home to a

process almost certainly guaranteeing

bewildering abundance of beasties

their survival. Further south, First

from every link in the food chain,

Nations tribes believed that orcas

including eagles soaring overhead

(killer whales) were the reincarnated

and myriad whale species in the

souls of tribal chiefs. We should be

sounds offshore.

grateful for these far-sighted ecological

Unsurprisingly, the First Nations

instincts; without them several

people who live in the region have

indigenous species would have been

developed an affinity with the animals

wiped out as in other parts of the world.

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BRITISH COLUMBIA | FEATURE

An orca breaching, British Columbia

ORCA SPOTTING WHAT: British Columbia’s coastal waters are home to

both transient and resident pods of orcas (otherwise known as killer whales), making this arguably the best place in the world to see these remarkable apex predators. The resident orcas ‘speak’ to each other using clicks and whistles while hunting fish. On an orca-spotting boat trip you will hear how different pods have developed complex and diverse dialects, and how local marine biologists have learnt to tell the pods apart.

If you’re really lucky you might see the culmination of a successful hunt, when a pod ‘celebrates’ with tail slapping, spyhopping (poking their heads vertically out of the water) and making a whole lot of noise.

WHERE: All the way along the British Columbian coast

from Alaska in the north to the San Juan Islands in

Orca-spotting boat trip

Washington State, one of ‘the Lower 48’ states of the USA.

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FEATURE | BRITISH COLUMBIA

A grizzly with the catch of the day

THE SALMON RUN WHAT: First, the bear necessities. BC’s fully

grown black bears weigh around 300lbs, while Vancouver Island’s coastal grizzlies (brown bears), who are partial to shellfish, weigh in at more like 600lbs. Impressive, when you consider that bear cubs are born weighing just half a pound. To maintain their heft in adulthood, bears have to eat a lot of food – and we mean a lot. That’s why every year, when millions of salmon return up British Columbia’s rivers to spawn, the bears are waiting. On any given day an adult bear can eat up to 100lbs of fish, snatching the fish from the air as they leap upstream, or ‘snorkelling’ to grab them underwater. It is an extraordinary spectacle to behold.

WHERE: The rivers and inlets along

British Columbia’s coastline.

Grizzly bear cubs learning to hunt fish

A spirit bear hunting in the Great Bear Rainforest

WHEN: September to November.

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BRITISH COLUMBIA | FEATURE

SPIRIT BEARS WHAT According to Kitasoo/Xai’Xais

First Nations' folklore, when the glaciers and snow from the last Ice Age began to retreat, Raven – creator of all things – brought spirit bears into being to remind him of the ice and snow, and to make sure that mankind would appreciate the bountiful land that had been uncovered. Scientists may now tell us that these are, in fact, black bears whose parents both have the gene for white fur (much like humans with blue eyes or red hair) but we much prefer the ancient myth.

Today there are – at most – 600 fully white spirit bears and these ghost-like creatures are extremely shy, so seeing one in the wild is a true travel treat. The good news is that it seems their spectral presence gives them an evolutionary advantage when it comes to hunting.

Those same myth-dispelling scientists have discovered that the spirit bears’ fluffy white coats makes them much harder for fish to see in daylight than their black-coated brethren, so they can hunt during the day with far more success. This is a crucial competitive advantage during the brief five-month period they are out of hibernation, when the bears have to eat vast amounts of fish, berries and nuts a day to put on enough weight to last them through their long hibernation.

WHEN Bears come out of hibernation

in May or June and eat their way around the forest until November.

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FEATURE | BRITISH COLUMBIA

BEAR BOATING

BY WILL ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL AMERICAS SPECIALIST ‘Paddling in a sea kayak is a memorable way to explore the BC coast, especially when you see a bear hunting for food on the shoreline as you drift silently by.’

Prayer flags leading to Tigers Nest Monastery

Burning candles as an Early morning kayaking, offering to the Buddhas Vancouver Island

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BRITISH COLUMBIA | FEATURE

THE EAGLES OF HAIDA GWAII WHAT: Bergmann’s rule states that

individuals of any given mammal or bird species tend to be larger in colder climes than in warmer regions. This zoological phenomenon is all to do with surface area relative to volume and staying warm, apparently, but all you really need to know is that the bald eagles in the Haida Gwaii archipelago – 3,500 miles north of the equator – are positively gargantuan. Some have wingspans of up to 7 feet and at certain times of the year, on a guided walk through the remote island forests, you can look up and see a convocation (one of our favourite collective nouns) of hundreds of bald eagles riding the thermals overhead.

WHERE: The Haida Gwaii archipelago,

150 storm-battered islands off British Bald eagle, Haida Gwaii

Columbia’s north-Pacific coastline.

WHEN: Haida Gwaii is only open to

visitors from June to September.

A bald eagle hunting off Haida Gwaii

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FEATURE | BRITISH COLUMBIA

While you’re here, WHY NOT… …enjoy some of the other experiences that make British Columbia so special.

1

SURF’S UP! A few decades ago Tofino was a logging town full of lumberjacks and fishermen.

Fast forward to today and the coastal

town on the end of a peninsula has become Canada’s favourite surf spot. Many of the breaks are protected by rocks, making them ideal for beginners, but the pros flock to Long Beach for almost ten miles of exceptional summer swells.

5 millimetre wet suit absolutely required.

2

FLOATPLANES To reach otherwise inaccessible parts of British Columbia you need to hop on a floatplane. Even the postman has to

fly, and the good people at Canada Post allow visitors to tag along for the ride, leaving from Vancouver harbour and dropping down into tiny villages and anchorages scattered among the coastal islands and fjords.

3

RANCHING Ranch holidays aren’t an exclusively American preserve, and there are several amazing ranches in BC’s wild

interior. Our (and National Geographic's) favourite, is Siwash Lake Ranch, which welcomes guests for a few days of wrangling. Explore an extraordinary and rare post-wildfire ecosystem, famed for enormous open skies. Come nightfall, this is a private dark sky reserve with zero light pollution.

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BRITISH COLUMBIA | FEATURE

4

THE SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY Arguably one of the best road trips in the world, the Sea to Sky Highway does exactly what it says on the tin. With no

stops, the 101-mile journey from Vancouver (the sea) to ski resort Whistler (the sky) only takes about two hours, but it’s well worth a few detours to explore some truly beautiful vistas. We can even arrange for you to rent a supercar for the trip.

5

OKANAGAN WINE REGION Canada produces a third of the world’s ice wine – a delicious sweet wine made from grapes frozen on the vine. The Okanagan

Valley – carved by a huge glacier in the last Ice Age – produces the finest examples of this rare liquid gold (top tip - try the Inniskillin Reisling). If you’re after ‘normal’ wines, Burrowing Owl is one of the very

best estates in Okanagan, producing delicious and complex cabernets, pinots and syrahs.

6

VANCOUVER FOODIE SCENE BC’s biggest city, Vancouver, is regularly voted one of the world’s most liveable

cities, thanks – in part – to the foodie scene. The city’s Pacific aspect means it has a large Asian population and innovative Asian cuisine, including Japadogs; hot dogs with an oriental twist, such as teriyaki sauce, mayo and seaweed, or sliced onion and plum sauce. Way better than they sound, especially at the original stand on the corner of Burrard and Smithe.

7

PEAK 2 PEAK Soar between the twin mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb for nearly two miles on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the

world’s longest unsupported lift (vertigo sufferers need not apply), before taking your pick from 30-plus miles of well-marked hiking or mountain

bike routes back down to town.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR WILDLIFE

BORNEO

RWANDA

Borneo’s lush rainforests and mangroves are

Rwanda’s population of critically endangered

renowned for their biodiversity. This huge island

mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park

is the only place on Earth where you’ll glimpse the

comprises approximately half of all those left alive

comically-nosed proboscis monkey, the wide-eyed

worldwide, with the country one of just three (another

Bornean slow loris and the baby-faced Borneo

being the war-torn DRC) where you can trek to see

pygmy elephant. The Danum Valley Conservation

them. Over in Nyungwe National Park, spot primates

Area in Malaysian Borneo is a haven for a host

of a different kind on dedicated chimpanzee or

of other endemic species, including Bornean

colobus monkey treks, and if it’s the Big Five (lions,

orangutans (lighter haired than their Sumatran

leopards, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos) you’re after,

cousins) and the Bornean bristled shrike – a

Rwanda also ticks that box thanks to the recent

crow-type bird with a bright red head. Even better,

reintroduction of rhinos in Akagera National Park.

scientists are still discovering new species on the island, from mammals to tree frogs.

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BRITISH COLUMBIA | FEATURE

There are myriad destinations around the world where you can see wonderful wildlife, but here are some of our favourite places to spot all kinds of creatures great and small.

TANZANIA

THE GALAPAGOS ARCHIPELAGO

It’s pretty hard to rival Tanzania when it comes

700 miles adrift of Ecuador and deep in the Pacific

to epic wildlife experiences. Home to Big Five

Ocean lies the Galapagos archipelago and its

sightings and the annual Wildebeest Migration

one-of-a-kind natural environment. These are

in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania ticks

the islands where Darwin developed his theory of

several bucket list boxes. For those after more

evolution, and on dry land there’s an abundance

niche wildlife experiences, the Mahale Mountains

of weird and wonderful wildlife. With few natural

are home to the world’s largest known population

predators, the animals are unfazed by curious

of habituated wild chimpanzees; Selous Game

human visitors. Beneath the waves, divers are able

Reserve has a growing wild dog population and

to swim with penguins, huge shoals of hammerhead

Mafia Island plays host to migrating whale sharks

sharks and a kaleidoscope of fluorescent fish.

between October and February.

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DIVING IN

RAJA AMPAT ‘The Underwater Amazon’, ‘The Kingdom of Coral’, ‘The Wellspring of the Oceans’; the Coral Triangle goes by many names, but in a nutshell, this is the most biodiverse marine region on Earth. And while the entire triangle spans 2.3 million square miles, smack bang in the centre you’ll find the jewel in this coral crown, Raja Ampat, the global epicentre of marine biodiversity and a mecca for marine experiences.

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Tiger Blue, a traditional phinisi (Indonesian boat) and luxury liveaboard in Raja Ampat

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FEATURE | RAJA AMPAT

THE UNDERWATER AMAZON: RAJA AMPAT

west of Papua is home to myriad jungle-clad islands, deserted beaches, hidden cays and luminous turquoise waters, but below the surface is where the real magic happens. Like the swirls of van Gogh’s Starry Night, each dive will see you descend into a kaleidoscope of colour as hard and soft corals compete for space on reefs pulsating with life.

To put it simply, there is nowhere else in the world like Raja Ampat. Its remote location, paired with nutrient-rich ocean currents, has enabled a wealth of exotic, bizarre and

S

fantastic endemic species to flourish. The walking (or epaulette) shark and the delicately spotted Papuan garden tretching from the Philippines to Indonesia to

eel share the reef systems with tassled wobbegong sharks,

the Solomon Islands, the Coral Triangle is

thumb-sized pygmy seahorses and rainbow-shaded

(among other accolades) home to 76% of all

(literally) mantis shrimp, giving rise to yet another nickname:

known coral species, over 1,200 species of

‘The Species Factory’. And with passionate conservationists

reef fish, two species of manta ray and six of

like the team at Misool Eco Resort helping safeguard the

the seven species of giant turtle. Located in the bullseye of

archipelago, it continues to thrive, flourish and captivate as

all that mind-boggling marine biodiversity lies Raja Ampat.

– in our opinion – one of the finest diving destinations on the

This Indonesian archipelago of over 1,500 tiny islands

planet. Or, as we like to call it, chicken soup for the soul.

Raja Ampat’s vibrant coral reefs

‘One of the finest diving destinations on the planet’

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RAJA AMPAT | FEATURE

THE PHILIPPINES

THE CORAL TRIANGLE

MALAYSIA

RAJA AMPAT

INDONESIA

PAPUA NEW GUINEA EAST TIMOR

SOLOMON ISLANDS

SAIL TO THE FINAL FRONTIER WHAT Covering an impressive

19,300 square miles, Raja Ampat is huge. The best way to explore is aboard a phinisi – a traditional Indonesian sailing boat.

WHERE Make sure you head south

to Misool, home to some of our all-time favourite dive sites.

WHEN The best time to visit is from

October to April. During the rest of the year, winds can be strong so most liveaboards set sail for the Komodo region (which we also love) instead.

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FEATURE | RAJA AMPAT

A pair of clownfish (or anemonefish) tend to their home

REEF RELIEF

BY LOUISA FISHER ⚫ ORIGINAL DIVING SPECIALIST ‘Scientists believe the coral in Raja Ampat is more resilient to significant temperature fluctuations and, therefore, possibly climate change. While coral bleaching is prevalent elsewhere, Raja’s reefs are thriving and I was amazed by the colour and variety of healthy species.’

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A SHARK THAT CAN WALK WHAT Yes, you did read that right. The epaulette shark

(or ‘walking shark’) uses its pectoral and pelvic fins to navigate the cracks and crevices of reefs. The Hemiscyllium (epaulette shark genus) ocellatum is able to survive for short periods with little or no oxygen, meaning it can hunt the crabs and fish that hide in shallow pools, even at low tide.

WHERE You can spot varieties of these walking wonders

across Raja Ampat, some of which are thought to be endemic to the region (it is a species factory, after all). Insider tip: we recommend staking them out at dawn or dusk when they are most active.

Epaulette shark photographed by Original Diver Louisa on her recent trip

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This: Boo Windows Right: Pygmy seahorse Below: Citrus reef

BOO WINDOWS WHAT Possibly the most iconic dive site in Raja Ampat,

named after one of the most spectacular safety stops (mandatory pauses on the way up to the surface) imaginable. After spending your dive surrounded by tens of thousands of fish, enter two swim through ‘windows’ in the reef carpeted with brightly coloured coral illuminated by shards of light from the surface.

WHERE In the Boo Area, Misool.

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CITRUS RIDGE WHAT An explosion of yellow, orange,

pink, purple and green soft corals drape this aptly named reef, which is home to such a huge variety of marine life it’s often affectionately referred to as ‘the aquarium’. Expect thousands of glassfish dancing over corals; lurking wobbegongs; whirlpools of barracuda, surgeonfish and batfish, and expertly hidden macro critters.

WHERE The Dampier Strait in central

Raja Ampat.

Clockwise from top: Mantis shrimp; Tassled wobbegong shark; Emperor angelfish; Ribbon eel

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While you’re here, WHY NOT… Indonesia is one of our all-time favourite destinations for a reason.

Dive into these other delectable destinations in a remarkable country.

1

LEARN TO DIVE For the perfect introduction to the watery world beneath the waves, Menjangan Island in West Bali National

Park is the place to learn. Menjangan boasts dramatic walls, steep drop-offs, colourful coral gardens and plentiful marine life in calm, clear (visibility regularly exceeds 40 metres) waters.

2

CLIMB A VOLCANO Armed with a head torch, hike up Bali’s Mount Batur under a blanket of stars, arriving at the peak in time to see the

black sky dilute in hues of pink and orange as the sun rises. At 5,600ft above sea level it isn’t too arduous a walk, although the early start might be.

3

DIVE A VOLCANO Discover an untouched corner of Komodo on the remote western island of Sumbawa and dive the bubbling black

sands reef off Sangeang Volcano, scouring the ocean floor for unusual critters. Spend your surface intervals spotting prehistoric Komodo dragons on a secret island (we won’t let the cat – or dragon – out of the bag).

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RAJA AMPAT | FEATURE

4

PHOTOGRAPH ALIENS Alor is home to the world-famous Pantar Strait, with coral and muck diving sites galore. Hone your photography skills

snapping alien-like macro creatures and astonishing corals. In fact, the diving here is so varied you’ll be hard-pressed to experience the same sort of dive twice.

5

GO APE Meander down the narrow waterways of Tanjung Puting National Park on a local klotok (traditional wooden houseboat),

travelling through thick, unspoilt rainforest and spotting roaming, inquisitive orangutans, longnosed proboscis monkeys and other primates.

Look down and you might even spot a crocodile.

6

CIRCUMAMBULATION OF BOROBUDUR Dating from the ninth century, Borobudur is the world’s largest

Buddhist temple. Much older than Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, this colossal stupa-topped site remained buried beneath volcanic ash and vegetation for centuries after a huge eruption of nearby Mount Merapi. Today you can witness the temple towering above the palm tree-studded jungles and rice paddies of central Java.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

TO DIVE

Now you’ve dipped your toe in the water, discover some of our other favourite diving destinations from around the globe.

MALDIVES

MALTA

MOZAMBIQUE

The Maldives might be famous

Malta’s laidback little sister Gozo

The protected Quirimbas Archipelago

for pearl drop islands and turquoise

happens to be home to some of

off Mozambique’s northern coast is

lagoons, but there’s much more to

Europe’s best diving, with caves,

home to over 350 species of reef fish,

the destination than that. Dip below

wrecks and the iconic Blue Hole

humpback whales (July to October)

the glistening waters and encounter

(insider tip: dive in the morning for

and turtles (found on the aptly named

a whirlpool of marine life, with

beautiful, shimmering light effects).

Turtle Beach). Cruise across the atoll

swooping manta rays, gentle giant

The majority of the diving is completed

on a traditional dhow sailing safari

whale sharks, turtles and more.

from the shore and with warm, clear

before decamping at private island

Above water, luxurious private island

waters and excellent visibility this is

paradise Azura Quilalea to dive the

paradises, deserted sandbanks and

a haven for learners and advanced

best sites, including the famous house

surf breaks await.

divers alike.

reef, reached straight from the beach.

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MOUNTAIN LIFE IN THE

DOLOMITES On the fault line between Germanic and Italianate cultures lies the Val Badia region in South Tyrol. Right at the heart of the dramatic Dolomite range, this fascinating region, with a language and culture all of its own, represents a typically intriguing slice of mountain life.

Church in Val Gardena

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HIGH ON A HILL…

F

landscapes where the pace of life is blissfully slow, the locals greet each other with a cheery gruss grot (‘hello’ in Austrian-German) and 20,000 people still list Ladin as their first language.

There’s more to life here than apple strudel (though, this being Italy, it will likely be the best strudel you’ve ever eaten) and quirky language differences. Goatherds really do tend to their flocks high on hillsides and fresh milk at breakfast

irst, the history bit. This particular region didn’t

is a given. In fact, everything here is fresh, especially

become part of Italy until after the First World

the air, which has a clean mountain tang to it. There’s

War – offered as a sort of signing-on bonus by

excellent skiing in winter, but it’s during the summer

the victorious Allies. Up until then it was part of

months that the region really comes into its own,

the Austro-Hungarian Empire but, in keeping

with endless wild flower meadows in bloom. There

with many mountainous communities, remained

are chic hotels and rifugios (mountain huts) to stay

fairly isolated from the rest of the world. So

in, spectacular mountain roads to hurtle down on

isolated, in fact, that Ladin – the oldest Rhaeto-

road bikes and berries or mushrooms (depending

Romance language and culture in the Alps – still

on the season) to forage. We Brits remain stubbornly

flourishes. Visit in summer to sample a delicious

resistant to the lure of the mountains in summer.

Austro-Italian confection of castles and fairy tale

We shouldn’t be.

Ibex in the Dolomites

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THE DOLOMITES | FEATURE

Top: Sun dial, Val Badia Middle: Women wearing the traditional Ladin costume Bottom: Ladin storytelling

LADIN CULTURE WHAT Learn about the intriguing

world of Ladin fables, stories and legends, woven together with a language and culture unlike any other in the world. Fewer than five percent of South Tyrol’s population have Ladin (not to be confused with Latin, though the two are close relatives) as their first language, yet this ethnic minority has had a profound effect on the region.

Ladin stories of princesses and dragons, ancient mountains and mystical lakes have been passed down from generation to generation and, in a fantastic example of art imitating life, each story echoes an event – happy or sad – from Ladin history. We know some wonderful storytellers who keep this tradition alive, sharing their tales around the fireplace and explaining their significance in Ladin heritage.

WHERE Around a select few fires in

the Val Badia.

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RIFUGIOS WHAT Elsewhere in the Alps rifugios,

or mountain refuges, have a reputation as rather grotty (and smelly) hostels for hikers and skiers. This being Italy, things are done a little differently. Most rifugios in the Dolomites have a modicum of charm and serve delicious local cuisine. For the ultimate romantic retreat, how about an overnight stay in a private two-room rifugio deep in the mountains? Spend the night in splendid isolation with supper and breakfast delivered from a nearby Michelin-starred restaurant. For the rest of your stay, you are left totally alone, with a roaring fire and the stars for company, before you whizz back down the mountain on mountain bikes next morning.

WHERE A top secret location in Alta Badia.

Top: Barbecue, Dolomite style Left: Secret shepherd’s rifugio Right: Interior of a rifugio

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THE DOLOMITES | FEATURE

Sunset at the Tre Cime di Lavaredo

GOLDEN HOUR

KATE ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL EUROPE SPECIALIST ‘Even the light here is different, and part of the reason the region was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At sunset the sheer faces of the mountains turn shades of red, pink and orange, called enrosadira (“alpenglow”) in Ladin.’

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IRON ROADS WHAT Visit Val Badia today and it’s hard to believe that the Dolomites

saw some of the most brutal combat in the First World War. Austrian and Italian troops weren’t just fighting each other – they were also battling the elements. In December 1916 alone, heavy snow and avalanches killed roughly 10,000 combatants without a bullet being fired. To allow soldiers to scramble up and down mountainsides and haul machinery, Italian and Austrian engineers came up with an ingenious system of wires, bridges and iron rung ladders known as vie ferrate (literally ‘iron roads’), expanding on the existing network that South Tyrolean people had used to get around for centuries. A century later, every mountain range from Canada to New Zealand seems to have a via ferrata network, but a guided climb along the original routes is the ultimate mountain challenge, and we can tailor the trip to absolute beginners or expert climbers alike.

WHEN Best from June to October.

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THE DOLOMITES | FEATURE

Tackling a via ferrata in the Dolomites

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FEATURE | THE DOLOMITES

While you’re here, WHY NOT… Explore a bit more. After all, this is Italy we’re talking about.

1

FAMILY FUN With so much wholesome, Sound of Music-style fun to be had this is prime family holiday territory. With expert

guides, your little ones can go searching for other mountain-dwelling beasties (the adorable chamois is our favourite) or scrambling up rock faces and even – for maximum Von Trapp effect – have a flugelhorn lesson.

2

BIG APPLES South Tyrol produces more apples than anywhere else in Europe, in part feeding the South Tyroleans’ passion for food.

This gastronomic universe orbits around San Cassiano, a tiny mountain village which is home to two Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as numerous other excellent eating spots. Our favourite is San Hubertus, named after the patron saint of hunting. If it’s on the menu, try the sweetbread, herbs and pine.

3

LA SERENISSIMA Venice, known as ‘the serene one’, might more accurately be called ‘the not-soserene-one’ during the summer months,

but we think we’ve found the answer. Half an hour by water taxi from St Mark’s Square and a world away from the tourist hordes, Venice’s Lido is where Venetians go to get away from it all in summer. Naturally we know the best place to stay.

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THE DOLOMITES | FEATURE

4

LAKE LIFE They may also be surrounded by mountains, but the glamorous Italian Lakes are a world away from the

simple life of the Dolomites. Soak up some of the dolce vita on a private guided tour of beautiful botanical gardens, eat in delicious restaurants (our Italian Concierge can book the best table in the house) and, of course, enjoy a spin around Lake Como aboard a beautifully restored vintage Riva speedboat. Do say hi from us to Como-resident George Clooney if you see him.

5

HIGH WINE Winemaking has deep routes in the South Tyrol, both figuratively and literally. There is evidence to show the Romans made

wine here, and today the region’s vines grow much deeper roots than elsewhere in Italy. Those vines produce crisp white wines and deep bodied pinot noirs, with a distinct Austrian style. For the best wines in the region, head to Manincor, where they have been producing vintages since 1608.

6

WHITE DEER Giorgia and Stefano Barbini are the owners and charming hosts of the most salubrious of all Dolomiti lodges –

White Deer. The perfect double act, Stefano takes guests out into the woods to forage for mushrooms and wild berries before Giorgia – a sensational chef - uses the spoils in a Dolomiti cooking lesson in the private kitchen.

7

ON YOUR BIKE MAMILs (that’s Middle-Aged Men In Lycra) rejoice: the Dolomites are prime road cycling territory.

Several stages of the legendary Giro d’Italia race

(the current champ is our very own Chris Froome) pass right through the mountains, so true fanatics can follow in its wake. There are also excellent mountain bike trails, and we can even arrange electronic bikes so the less energetic can tag along for the epic views and well-earned mountain-top picnics.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR MOUNTAIN LIFE Enjoy a slice of the high life in these other memorable mountain destinations.

ETHIOPIA

GEORGIA

MOROCCO

The Simien Mountains are well known

From the little mountain village of

Morocco’s snow-capped Atlas

for their stark beauty and are home to

Kazbegi, climb the steep back route

Mountains are home to numerous

many rare species of endemic flora

up through the woods to Gergeti

rugged peaks and remote, traditional

and fauna. Fewer visitors venture

Trinity Church to learn about Georgian

Berber communities. Spend three

to the pristine forests of the Bale

Orthodox Church traditions. The

days hiking along valleys and through

Mountains – home to the largest

approach is rewarded with sweeping

walnut groves, staying overnight in a

remaining number of Ethiopian

views of the surrounding mountains.

luxury trekking lodge complete with a

wolves. Stay in a very comfortable

Our Concierge will arrange for you to

hammam steam room for a post-walk

lodge and take guided walks into the

take a picnic and a flagon of delicious

sweat. While out trekking your guide

surrounding forests to track wolves

Georgian red wine and you can find a

will introduce you to Berber villagers

and black-maned mountain lions.

spot in the meadows for lunch.

so you can learn about their enduring mountain lifestyle.

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JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...

LOCAL CONCIERGES Our global network of Concierges live locally, know their destinations inside and out, and are always on hand

To find out more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, see page six or visit originaltravel.co.uk/concierge

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The Steam Ship Sudan on the Nile

SLOW TRAVEL ON THE NILE

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Anyone who has experienced the driving in Cairo might struggle to associate ‘Egypt’ with ‘slow travel’, but there is a way, and one that affords relaxed contemplation and a path to enlightenment. A way that harks back to the golden age of the Belle Epoque and elegant Edwardian travel, and all revolving around a very special and beautifully restored boat with a remarkable history.

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FEATURE | THE NILE

enjoyed Cleopatra-grade pampering, with a smoking room serving port for the gentlemen and watercolour painting at the prow for ladies. Bar the gender stereotyping, not much has changed as the boat has been faithfully restored to retain its unique period features, style and character.

Stay in the Hercule Poirot cabin and

E

(re-)read Death on the Nile in the knowledge that Agatha Christie stayed aboard in 1933 gypt is the showcase for much of

and that the 80s movie was also filmed on

mankind’s history and achievements,

board. In between hugely insightful visits to

from the awe-inspiring Pyramids of

temples along the river banks you can idle

Giza to the monumental temples in

on a sun lounger on the top deck, sipping tea

the far south of the country. And

from a china cup while doodling the swaying

the golden thread connecting the country’s

palm trees as you drift by. Come evening,

antiquity? The fabled River Nile.

congregate in the elegant salon to compare

In 1885 the incomparable Steam Ship

notes on the day’s excursions with fellow

Sudan was built to ply these waters, and

guests as fez-wearing barmen circulate.

under the guidance of Thomas Cook, guests

This is a classic journey. A true treat.

The Nile at Aswan

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THE NILE | FEATURE

STEAM SHIP SUDAN WHAT Ply the waters of the Nile aboard the historic

Steam Ship Sudan in Orientalist splendour for five nights, stopping to see some of the country’s most iconic temples and tombs, and guided by knowledgeable Egyptologists who can help you make sense of the sights.

WHERE The itinerary starts in Luxor and finishes

in Aswan, or in reverse, according to your dates.

WHEN Spring, autumn and winter are the most pleasant

times to travel. The ship is not available in June when she goes in for maintenance.

All images of the Steam Ship Sudan

by Olivier Romano

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ARCHAEOLOGICAL EXPEDITIONS WHAT Every day there are trips to see

the iconic and lesser known sights on the banks of the Nile. Reach them in a horse drawn carriage, or sometimes by tender, and together with your insightful guide you can learn ever more about Egypt’s ancient treasures.

WHERE From the majestic temples of

Karnak and Luxor to the vividly decorated passageways and underground chambers of the Valley of the Kings and Queens respectively, there is a lot to see. Our favourites are the exquisite island temple This: Colonnade in Philae Below: Hieroglyphs, Temple of Hathor Dendera

complex of Philae in Aswan, and the beautifully preserved Dendera near Luxor, both of which date back to the fourth century BC.

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THE NILE | FEATURE

ORIGINAL HIGHLIGHT

BY AMELIA ⚫ MIDDLE EAST / NORTH AFRICA SPECIALIST ‘I loved spending time on the top deck of Steam Ship Sudan watching the banks of the river slide by. You’ll spot herons and egrets fishing, and water buffalo wallowing, all set against a soporific backdrop of swaying palm trees and water reeds.’

On deck aboard Steam Ship Sudan

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While you’re here, WHY NOT… From the pyramids in Cairo to the underwater wonders of the Red Sea, Egypt is a short haul shoo-in.

1

DIAMOND GIZA The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) will be – as the name suggests – a gem. Located near the Pyramids in Giza, the museum is under

construction and on completion will be worth at least half a day’s exploration to take in the enormity of the 100,000 artefact collection. The likely highlight? The stunningly presented contents of boy pharoah Tutankhamun’s tomb, including his chariot for the afterlife.

2

CATCH THE BREEZE Just three hours north of Cairo and the Pyramids is the breezy Mediterranean port city of Alexandria, once home to

another of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world – the Alexandria Lighthouse. Join the daily passeggiata (evening stroll) along the corniche where the lighthouse once stood, stopping for the occasional mint tea.

3

BENEATH THE WAVES The Red Sea is home to arguably the best diving within easy reach of the UK. We can help pair a cruise on the Nile with a visit to

Hurghada to dive (or snorkel) over very healthy coral reefs teeming with aquatic life.

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THE NILE | FEATURE

4

FILL THE SAILS Extend your slow travels aboard La Flaneuse du Nil, a traditional river boat that sails down Lake

Nasser from Aswan to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel (below). En route, visit the Coptic (Egyptian Christian) Saint Simeon monastery and enjoy a ride in a felucca sail boat.

5

TEA ON THE TERRACE Spend an afternoon watching the Nile flowing soft and silver through Aswan from the terrace of the iconic Sofitel

Legend Old Cataract Aswan, one-time haunt of Tsar Nicholas, Agatha Christie and Churchill, who stayed here while attending the inauguration of the original Aswan Dam in 1902.

6

NEARLY NUBIA Located in Egypt’s deep south, after Abu Simbel it’s next stop Sudan (once known as Nubia). The journey to this magnificent

temple complex is long, but well worth it as you gaze up at the temple’s four colossal statues – the guardians of pharaoh Ramesses II.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR SLOW TRAVEL

AUSTRALIA

FRANCE

Australia isn’t necessarily known for its walking,

We can think of very few things more civilised than

but with its incredibly diverse landscapes and

floating down a canal in the heart of the Champagne

superb trails it really should register on your

region. From the sumptuous comfort of your luxury

rambling radar. Start your walking adventures

barge, enjoy six days of tastings and tours at

with the four-day Scenic Rim Trail, which traverses

world-class Champagne houses and first-rate

a chain of mountains in south-east Queensland.

fromageries. Then poke around charming medieval

Pass bubbling creeks as you hike to panoramic

towns for some gentle shopping at the brocantes

viewpoints for stunning views of eucalyptus

(antique-cum-junk shops) before retiring to the hot

forests. Then learn about local aboriginal culture

tub on deck to sip yet more bubbles under the stars.

and dine on gourmet cuisine under the stars

Sounds wonderful, non?

before glamping in luxurious tents.

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THE NILE | FEATURE

The frenetic pace of modern life is a common complaint, but since the world shows no signs of stopping so we can get off, we need a few less radical solutions. Enter: the concept of slow travel; an opportunity to take your foot off the gas and enjoy the world around you at a gentler pace.

For further inspiration see: originaltravel.co.uk/slow-travel

MOZAMBIQUE

ARGENTINA/CHILE

It’s easy to embrace a slower pace of life when

Riding through a remote part of the Andes you’d

you’re sailing between deserted sandbanks on a

be forgiven for feeling as though you’d stumbled

private dhow (sail boat) in the stunning Quirimbas

upon entirely uncharted territory. Let the horses

Archipelago. We can arrange a dhow safari to spend

lead the way and, alongside an expert guide and

three days lingering over fresh seafood lunches,

a small group of fellow riders, spend ten days

snorkelling on pristine reefs and kayaking through

walking and cantering across the wide plains of

wildlife-rich mangroves. Each evening your crew

Argentine Patagonia, past the dramatic peak of the

will find a spot to moor up and you’ll then spend the

Lanin volcano and into the forests and mountains

night around a campfire before sleeping in a special

of the Chilean Lake District, drinking in plenty of

dome tent right on the beach.

fresh Andean air as you go.

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Adventure in the

SACRED VALLEY There’s more to Peru’s Sacred Valley than the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, great though it is. Away from the trail (or the train, if you prefer the more leisurely journey) there is plenty of adventure to be had.

And yes, a little bit of trekking, too.

Inca era pathway in the Sacred Valley

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FEATURE | SACRED VALLEY

T

VALLE SAGRADO – that’s ‘Sacred Valley’ in Spanish

he Urubamba River snakes past the

via ferrata. Oh, and there are some not too

one-time Inca capital of Cusco and

shabby Inca ruins to visit, often with condors

beneath the mystical citadel of Machu

galore circling overhead.

Picchu. Because of its remarkable fertility, the Incas called this the

It’s this cool combo of culture, adventure and wildlife that works so well. On a private guided hike

‘Sacred Valley’, and five hundred years after the end

in Maras you can walk along beautiful trails past

of the Inca era those in search of outdoor pursuits

Inca salt pan terraces while llamas observe your

will find this an equally fertile stomping ground.

progress in their typically aloof manner. Mountain

On the subject of stomping, most people know

bike in nearby Cruzpata and you’ll see authentic

that there is some legendary hiking to be had

Andean weavers in action. Enjoy a half-day ride on

here, but there’s a huge range of other adrenaline-

one of the famously elegant Peruvian Paso horses

inducing activities as well. So much so, in fact, that

and you might come across local farmers tending

any stay of even a few days could reasonably include

their herds of cattle or visit another Inca ruin.

a spot of mountain biking as well as riding, stand up

Whichever activities you choose to do, one thing’s

paddle boarding, white water rafting, zip-lining, and

for sure: your memories will be sacred.

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SACRED VALLEY | FEATURE

LODGE TO LODGE TREKKING WHAT Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas

on a five-day trek through the stunning Sacred Valley, stargazing and staying overnight in luxurious lodges each night. By pairing the Lares Trek with very comfortable lodgings you can forget the sleeping bags and focus on taking in the vast Andean scenery and learning about Inca culture. During the trek you’ll visit the village of Ollantaytambo to see ancient ruins that are actually better preserved than those at Machu Picchu, meet villagers going about their daily lives in the lush valleys and drink in plenty of crisp highaltitude air. The trek then finishes at the magnificent Machu Picchu, which wholly deserves its iconic status.

WHERE The Sacred Valley in the Andean Mountains.

Clockwise from top: Lamay Lodge; A local guide; Hiking through the Sacred Valley; The archaeological site of Moray;

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FEATURE | SACRED VALLEY

Lunch at the Skylodge

LUNCH WITH A VIEW

BY ALEXANDRA ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL AMERICAS SPECIALIST ‘You really earn your lunch at the Skylodge.

Scramble along some pretty steep vie ferrate iron ladders (don’t worry, you’re hooked on!) and then enjoy lunch in a cliff-clinging pod 1,200ft above the floor of the Sacred Valley. When you’ve finished you zipwire back down.’

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SACRED VALLEY | FEATURE

This: A white-tufted grebe Above and left: Stand up paddle boarding on Lake Huaypo

PADDLE BOARDING WHAT Balancing on a board while gently paddling across the still waters

of Lake Huaypo. If you’ve ever wanted to try stand-up paddle boarding then doing it here - home to the highest fleet of boards in the world - is the place to start. Once your instructor has helped you master the art of balance, spend a few hours enjoying the peace and quiet on the lake while drinking in your stunning Andean surroundings. Birders will also want to keep a beady eye out for waterfowl such as the white-cheeked pintail, puna teal, and white-tufted grebe, as this is one of the best birding locations in the Sacred Valley region.

WHERE On Lake Huaypo, about an hour’s drive north-west of Cusco.

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FEATURE | SACRED VALLEY

While you’re here, WHY NOT… Here are some of the other highlights in South America’s third largest country...

1

MACHU PICCHU Shrouded in mist and mystery, and one of the most photographed spots in all of South America, the ‘Lost City of the Incas’

was rediscovered in 1911, more than 400 years after it was abandoned. We’ve talked about how to get here, but we can also lay on the best guide to get you away from the tourists when there.

2

MIL – THE WORLD’S ULTIMATE DESTINATION RESTAURANT 45 minutes from Cusco and nearly

11,500ft above sea level, chef Virgilio Martinez’s latest venture is a sister to Central in Lima – recently voted the fifth best restaurant in the world. Mil serves local produce in innovative ways – think llama tartare – and even the water is Andean snowmelt. (Closer to home, his Michelin-starred Lima, in London, is also excellent.)

3

PADDLE TO PISAC MARKET Kayak along one of the most scenic stretches of the Urubamba River to pick

up your lunch from Pisac market, where every Sunday indigenous Quechua people from the surrounding highlands come to buy and sell their produce. En route, spot wildlife such as howler monkeys and electric blue morpho butterflies.

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SACRED VALLEY | FEATURE

EAT YOUR WAY AROUND LIMA The culinary culture inherited from Lima’s large Japanese community has helped create a genuinely unique fusion cuisine known as Nikkei, best sampled at Maido.

Our Peru Concierge can snaffle you that all too elusive table.

5

RAFT FROM THE ANDES TO THE AMAZON Travel through class IV (ie: challenging) rapids on the Tambopata River, floating

through rainforests teeming with wildlife and setting up camp on remote riverine beaches every night of this multi-day white water rafting adventure.

6

SANDBOARDING Head out into the Paracas National Reserve near Nazca to scale vast sand dunes before reaping the

rewards on a thrilling sandboard ride back down.

Unless you’re a pro snowboarder we strongly recommend sitting on the board rather than standing, but even then, expect thrills, spills and sand everywhere.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR ADVENTURE

ANTARCTICA

MONGOLIA

It doesn’t get much more adventurous than

The seemingly limitless expanse of vast open

exploring the only continent on Earth with no

steppe makes Mongolia tailor-made for adventure.

permanent residents. Even better, gone are the

We know the best private ger (circular felt tent)

days of vast cruise ships; now it’s all about small

camps for authentic immersion into the lives of

research vessels converted to expedition cruisers,

nomadic herders, to observe their routines and

or staying on the white continent itself and even –

hear their stories. One such camp, Mandala

for the truly intrepid – skiing the last nautical

Mongolia, moves location with the seasons and

degree to the South Pole. We can also arrange

has handcrafted en suite gers and comfortable

plane transfers straight to Antarctica so you

big beds ensconced in crisp linen. Early evenings

avoid the long Drake Passage crossing.

are spent enjoying sundowners in the quiet of the steppe before dinner by a roaring fire.

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Does the idea of lying on a beach reading a book fill you with horror? If so, read on for four more adventurous alternatives to a ‘fly and flop’ holiday.

ICELAND

NEW ZEALAND

In the middle of Iceland’s Troll Peninsula sits Deplar

It might be small, but picturesque Queenstown

Farm, a luxury lodge masquerading as a big kid’s

has earned its title as ‘adventure capital of the

adventure playground. Surrounded by mountains,

world’. With panoramic paragliding, the world’s

lakes and rivers, the wilderness of northern Iceland

most famous bungy jump, white water rafting, jet

is right on the lodge’s doorstep and waiting to be

boating and heli-skiing all on offer, it’s little wonder

explored. Highly adventurous excursions are

adrenaline junkies have been making the pilgrimage

planned twice daily and always led by an expert

here for years. For an alternative take on New

guide – think heli-skiing in May, surfing (in very

Zealand adventure, head to Taupo and hike the

thick wetsuits), off-road exploration in customised

one-day Tongariro Alpine Crossing, where you’ll

Sno-Cats and fly fishing on one of Iceland’s finest

enjoy stunning alpine scenery including the

salmon rivers come summer.

infamous Mount Ngauruhoe (aka: ‘Mount Doom’).

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Jazz pianist in New Orleans

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MUSIC in the

DEEP SOUTH They say all roads lead to Rome, but when it comes to music, they take a detour through America’s Deep South. The land of big bands, the blues, jazz, country, bluegrass, gospel choirs and more is a fascinating melting pot of cultures, history and musical milestones, all combinable in one toe-tapping road trip.

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FEATURE | THE DEEP SOUTH

Louis Armstrong in 1953

MOVE TO THE MUSIC F

or millions of people around the world,

to festivals and symphonies to headlining rock

Memphis, Nashville and New Orleans first

concerts, music continues to permeate – and

and foremost mean music. The blues were

enrich – every day you are in the ‘Big Easy’.

born in the Mississippi Delta from a fusion of traditional West African melodies and the

In Memphis you can experience the musical delights of Beale Street and visit Graceland. We

soulful spirituals of slaves toiling in the scorched

can then weave in a tour at iconic Sun Studio, and

cotton fields. On the subject of soul, Stax Records

visits to the Smithsonian’s Rock’n’Soul Museum

hails from Memphis, as did a certain Elvis Presley.

and Gibson Guitar Factory.

Nashville is the capital of country music, and then

In Nashville we will arrange a tour of the

there’s New Orleans, birthplace of jazz and the place

legendary Grand Ole Opry venue and RCA Studio

Louis Armstrong called home. In short, the Deep

B, where the ‘Nashville Sound’ was created by

South was the crucible for the many genres of

Chet Atkins, Dolly Parton, the Everly Brothers,

popular music that would go on to conquer the

Elvis and many others. Don’t miss the live music

world, en route leaving an indelible mark on

at a classic honky tonk bar or a river cruise aboard

American culture and its collective soul.

the General Jackson Showboat.

On any musical road trip, the melting pot of

Along the way you’ll get a deeper cut of the

musical inspirations and innovations that is New

Deep South, enjoy private guiding with musicians

Orleans should be your first port of call. From

and historians and – very importantly in our book

street performers to intimate clubs, jazz funerals

– eat extremely well.

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THE DEEP SOUTH | FEATURE

Sun Studio, Memphis

Recording studio, Sun Studio

SUN STUDIO WHAT This is ground zero for rock ’n’ roll,

another genre that had its genesis in the Deep South. The decades of musical history are almost palpable in the studios where Elvis laid down his first tracks in 1953, and Johnny Cash recorded I Walk the Line. At night, artists – including up-and-coming new acts – still record here and during the day some moonlight as the coolest tour guides imaginable, showing visitors around the tiny studio and sharing stories such as how the muffled sound effect on Jackie Brenston’s Rocket 88, considered the first rock ’n’ roll song, was created with newspapers stuffed into the amplifiers.

WHERE Memphis, Tennessee.

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FEATURE | THE DEEP SOUTH

I’M GOING TO GRACELAND

BY WILL ⚫ ORIGINAL TRAVEL AMERICAS SPECIALIST ‘Cheesy it may be, but no trip to the Deep South would be complete without paying homage to Elvis, who made Graceland and Memphis, the city of the blues, his home despite being all about rock ’n’ roll.’

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THE DEEP SOUTH | FEATURE

THE GRAND OLE OPRY WHAT The Grand Ole Opry has been broadcasting

country music to the world since 1925. Every year, people from across the world come to Nashville to pay homage at the Opry, and see their favourite country acts perform. Die-hard fans (or even just the merely curious) can take a tour behind the red curtain, where the magic really happens. Watch the backstage team set up for the show and the artists warming up before they go out on stage to deliver another barnstormer of a performance.

WHERE Nashville, Tennessee; aka: Music City.

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FEATURE | THE DEEP SOUTH

While you’re here, WHY NOT… We’d always recommend delving deeper into the Deep South. Here’s how...

1

A KING AMONG MEN The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, and the fight for said rights, are as relevant today as when Dr Martin Luther

King was assassinated on this spot in 1968. Take a tour of a museum (once a motel) that looks at the movement through the prism of MLK’s cultural contribution and its continuing impact, ending up on the very balcony where he was killed.

2

NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI Built with slave-owners’ ill-gotten gains, Natchez was the richest town in the USA until the American Civil War. No

surprise then that the antebellum houses that make up the town are some of the most extravagant and beautiful in America.

3

BAYOU COUNTRY For a different perspective on the Deep South take a float plane trip from New Orleans, flying over the fabled French

Quarter, the winding Mississippi River and Louisiana’s sprawling bayou swamps. Swoop down to land in the waterways of the Barataria Preserve to spot alligators and dig into some good ol’ plantation jambalaya (meat and rice stew).

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THE DEEP SOUTH | FEATURE

4

WAKE UP CALL For the best beignets (deep fried pastry and icing sugar, enough said) in the ‘Big Easy’, head away

from the tourist joints to Morning Call Coffee Stand. Rules apply: be prepared to jostle, be ready to order when it’s your turn, and don’t expect to hang around afterwards – dilly-dallying is severely frowned upon.

5

SMOKIN’ To appreciate the Deep South beyond its cities, head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, an

outdoorsy-type’s paradise with more ‘sixers’ (peaks above 6,000ft) than anywhere else in Tennessee and North Carolina, two pretty hilly states. Pull on your hiking boots and walk the four-mile circular Chimney Tops Trail, with its multiple stream crossings and rock scramble climax, for epic views.

6

CREOLE CULTURE Joseph is one of our favourite guides in New Orleans. A born and bred Creole resident, he is bubbling over with tales about seemingly every corner of the city. Walk off some of your inevitable overindulgence with him, taking in everything from the New Orleans Museum of Art to the mausoleums of the city’s early residents.

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WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD...

FOR MUSIC

INDIA

ITALY

Every October Jodhpur’s ancient Mehrangarh

For one night every July, the Teatro del Silenzio

Fort comes alive with the sounds of RIFF

(Theatre of Silence), near Andrea Bocelli’s Tuscan

(Rajasthan International Folk Festival). Spend

home town of Lajatico, is far from quiet. The

several days soaking up the vibrant atmosphere

open-air amphitheatre, which remains unused for

and watching performances from local and

the rest of the year, hosts the maestro of opera as

international musicians alike. With Mick Jagger as

he puts on an emotional performance with many

International Patron you can rest assured that the

of his musician pals, all to raise money for the

quality of music is as top-notch as the beautiful

singer’s charities. The Italian Philharmonic

blue city setting. To complete the package, the

Orchestra accompanies the performance under

festival is timed to coincide with Sharad Purnima,

the stars in the Tuscan countryside.

North India’s brightest full moon of the year.

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If music be the food of your travels, visit these places to broaden your aural horizons...

JAMAICA

MOROCCO

There’s more to Jamaica than beautiful beaches

2019 sees the Fez Festival of World Sacred

and rum punches. This is the birthplace of reggae

Music, held every June in venues around the city,

and its finest proponent – Bob Marley. With your

celebrate its 25th birthday. The aim is admirable:

private guide, retrace Marley’s steps from his

to bring different cultures together through the

childhood church to the Tuff Gong music studios

medium of music, and you can expect to see

he founded in 1965. As you walk the streets of

Senegalese drummers rubbing shoulders with

Kingston - including the iconic Trench Town

Celtic bands. Make sure to catch one of the

neighbourhood - your guide will explain how the

intimate and mystical concerts put on by

city and people left an indelible mark on the

Morocco’s various tariqas (Sufi brotherhoods).

Jamaican superstar and his music.

Even without the music the festival remains a fascinating showcase of cultures in a city with the world’s largest intact medieval medina (old city).

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WE HOPE THIS BROCHURE HAS INSPIRED YOU. For further inspiration, please contact us.

PHONE +44 (0) 20 7591 4433

ONLINE originaltravel.co.uk originaldiving.com

EMAIL ask@originaltravel.co.uk

All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. If you buy a holiday that does not include a flight, as a condition of our membership of ABTA, protection is also provided. Details of this protection is set out in our booking conditions viewable at originaltravel.co.uk.

All prices, are from prices for a trip including flights from the UK in economy class, accommodation and, if specified, organised experiences.

PHOTO CREDITS Roger Borgelid, West Sweden.com (p.2, p.30 & p.31), The Alexa (p.10), Villa Mangiacane (p.11), Time + Tide (p.12, p.13 & p.21), Tongabezi/Sindabezi (p.15), Chiawa Camp (p.16, p.18 & p.21), Chongwe River Camp (p.16 & p.19), Amanzi Camp (p.17), Ol Mondoro Camp (p.18), Sausage Tree Camp (p.19), Shoebill Island Camp (p.20), Tongabezi (p.20), The Bushcamp Company (p. 20 & p.21), Ol Malo (p.22), Per Pixel Petersson/ imagebank.sweden.se (p.24 & p.25), Lukasz Warzecha/ Westsweden.com (p.26 & p.27), Henrik Trygg/ imagebank.sweden.se (p.27 & p.33), Madeleine Landley/ Westsweden.com (p.28 & p.29), Eska Hearne, Lobster & Swan/ Westsweden.com (p.32), Superstudio D&D/ Göteborg & Co (p.32), Schoeman Skeleton Coast Flying Safaris (p.34), Holly Barber (p.39 & p.40), About Asia (p.40, p.42 & p.43), Phnom Penh Food Tours (p.42), Phare Circus (p.43), Shinta Mani Wild (p.43), Viaventure (p.44), Saffire Freycinet (p.54), Twenty3 Extreme (p.59 & p.64), Isabel de Galleani (p.61), Canvas Club (p.61), Oman Tourist Board (p.62 & p.63), Six Senses Zighy Bay (p.64), Tom Barber (p.65), Sani Resorts (p.66), Miranda Boord (p.75), Banyan Tours (p.76), Ananda (p.76), Guides of Bhutan (p.76), Golden Africa Safaris (p.78), Aman Resorts (p.78), Siwash Lake Ranch (p.88), Tiger Blue (p.92 & p.93), Louisa Fisher (p.97), Alex Moling/St Hubertus (p.112), Alex Filz (p.113), San Lorenzo Mountain Lodges (p.113), Kasbah du Toubkal (p.114), Olivier Romano (p.116, p.119 & p.121), Amelia Stewart (p.122), Accor Hotels (p.123), La Flaneuse (p.123), Richard James Taylor/ Belmond (p. 124), Spicers Scenic Rim Trail – Great Walks of Australia (p.124), Ibo Island Lodge (p.125), Estancia Huechahue (p.125), Mountain Lodges of Peru (p.129), Skylodge (p.130), Amazonas Explorer (p.131), Mil Restaurant (p.132), Tennessee Department of Tourism Development (p.141), Grand Ole Opry (p.141), Miranda Boord (p.144).

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To order your copy of our brochures call: +44 (0)20 7591 4433 or visit: originaltravel.co.uk/brochure

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Front cover image: Crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge in British Columbia, Canada

LIFE IS IN THE DETAIL

LIFE ...is in the detail

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ORIGINAL TRAVEL

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