WHAT TO DO Visit Arikok National Park Arikok National Park is located on the wild eastern side of the island, with a vastly different coastline than the whitesand beaches of the west coast. This stunning national park comprises almost 20% of the island. When exploring the Park, you’ll discover a rugged terrain, a breathtaking coastline, and desert-like hills filled with cacti. Here you will also find two of Aruba's most exciting sites, the Quadirikiri and Fontein caves. While Fontein Cave is exceptional for its broad collection of ancient Indian paintings, Quadirikiri provides wonderful opportunities for unique photos thanks to its two chambers that allow filtered sunlight to enter. Travel along the 100-foot tunnel if you are adventurous but do it peacefully; hundreds of (harmless) bats make their home here. The Natural Bridge Years of pounding waves carved amazing natural formations out of the coral limestone along Aruba's wild northern coastline. The first and most popular natural bridge was 25 feet high and 100 feet long, attracting and inspiring a multitude of sightseers from all over the world. Although it collapsed in 2005, this is still an all-time favourite spot for many visitors, especially because of the newest member of one of nature's miracles nearby: the Baby Bridge. Did we mention the beaches Visitors flock to the beaches of Aruba for good reason; they are gorgeous! If you are looking for calm turquoise waters and beautiful, soft ivory sand, then Aruba is perfect for you. Aruba is home to some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches; you don’t want to miss Eagle Beach. This slice of paradise is known as one of the best beaches in the world. Eagle Beach has pristine white sands right next to iconic Fofoti trees. If you’re looking for a bit more seclusion, check out Arashi Beach, Flamingo Beach, Baby Beach, Palm Beach, or Boca Keto. Ayo rock formations Ayo Rock Formations is located to the northeast of Hooiberg and just a couple of minutes away from Aruba's Donkey Sanctuary and Casibari, another popular but more crowded spot to explore the island's unique collection of massive diorite boulders. What makes Ayo a unique location is the tranquillity of its surroundings, which creates a sense of awe and an understanding of why the area was once considered a sacred site by the island's original inhabitants. This natural preserve features some of the oldest Indian drawings, and modern pathways have been constructed in order to help visitors better explore this ancient site while strolling through towering rocks and Aruba's unique variety of flora and fauna. ARUBA Amazing Destinations 51
"The beaches of Aruba are among the cleanest, widest, and most spectacular in the Caribbean region and typically consist of fine powder white-sand, perfect for soaking up the Caribbean sun."
Eagle Beach Amazing Destinations 53
How to get there:The easiest route from the UK to Aruba is with British Airways who offer direct flights from London Gatwick. www.britishairways.com Thanks to: The Aruba Tourism Authority for their assistance in planning this visit. Joanna Walding in the UK and our fabulous host Jonathan Boekhoudt in Aruba, who took the time to show us around his wonderful country. The Butterfly Farm Since 1999, locals and visitors to Aruba have had a unique experience to tick off their must-do list: the island's one and only butterfly farm. With all-day guided tours and hundreds of exotic butterflies fluttering around all year, this little piece of paradise on a paradisiac island is like a double treat. Surround yourselves with delicate beauty and reconnect with nature in this peaceful tropical garden. Early mornings are ideal to visit if you want to see butterflies emerging from their pupa and taking their first flight. Looking for a unique gift or souvenir? Visit the Butterfly Farm Shop and enjoy a great selection of quality favourites. There's something for everyone here. Catch of the Day at Zeerovers Ask any local where to find fresh fish, and they’ll point you to Zeerovers. Zeerover means Sea Pirate, and it’s the place to go for an ice-cold bucket of beers and fresh fried seafood at reasonable prices. This is a very laidback seafood shack at the southern end of the island, in the heart of a fishing village. The fish of the day and shrimp are ordered by weight at the window. If you aren’t sure how much to order, the staff is always friendly and will be glad to help you figure out how much to order for your group size. Learn about Aruba Aloe Aruba is the largest exporter of the aloe vera plant. The desert-like environment actually enhances the aloe plant’s natural healing qualities and produces the best aloe vera gel in the world. If you’ve ever been sunburned, you've probably used aloe to help heal your skin and ease the pain. Be sure to visit the museum, factory, and store all in one to learn about Aruba’s history with the aloe plant. The factory tour is absolutely free, and highly recommend it if you really want to learn more about the history of this plant. Wander the Shops of Oranjestad The colourful capital city of Aruba offers a wide range of options for entertainment, shopping, and dining. Wander around the vibrant downtown area and explore its unique blend of modern and historic architecture. You’ll find luxury retailers, unique boutiques, and dazzling jewellery stor Tour of the San Nicolas street art murals The colourful murals of San Nicolas are an unexpected sight for many visitors to Aruba. This guided tour introduces you to the stories behind each. You'll walk through the streets of San Nicolas and learn all about the significance of each mural and the top international street artists who created them. Our guide was the larger-than-life Mural Art Curator, Tito Bolivar, whose passion for the art and this area of Aruba was intoxicating. ARUBA Amazing Destinations 55
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.HYATT.COM
S urrounded by the delicate beauty of the Caribbean, this sprawling resort is an oasis of great design where you can sense the presence of the sea. Whether you're travelling alone or with your family, the tranquil ambiance, excellent guestrooms, and excellent service will provide you with the ideal foundation for your adventures in Aruba. HYATT REGENCY ARUBA RESORT SPA AND CASINO Our verdict Escape to this beachfront resort in Palm Beach, Aruba, where a long stretch of sugary white beaches and a magnificent blue ocean will captivate your senses from the moment you arrive. Spend idyllic, lazy days by the pool, take part in the endless activities and watersports, or hit the nearby shops and dining venues. This luxurious resort by the sea is perfect for a relaxed Caribbean trip, with open-air, Spanish-style architecture that adds far more individuality than a conventional chain hotel. The grounds are wonderfully managed, with tropical vegetation and plenty of palm trees, and the private beach is dotted with huts, which are visible from the large open-air lobby. The three-level pool complex has a two-story waterslide for children, but adults can relax at their own chic beachfront spot thanks to Trankilo, a premium adults-only pool with private cabanas. Those seeking further perks can upgrade to the Regency Club, which includes a private lounge. If you are adventurous, diving, sailing, and other watersports are must-dos, but if you just want to rest and pamper yourself, there are the peaceful pools and the cutting-edge ZoiA spa, where we enjoyed an incredible full-body couples massage. The hotel's onsite casino is the other major attraction on this side of Palm Beach. This popular venue is ideal for stylish nights out and making new friends. Rooms The Hyatt offers 359 air-conditioned contemporary bedrooms that meet the high standards you would expect from their Regency brand. Our room included a large balcony with an ocean/pool view, a super comfy bed, and a spacious bathroom. All mod cons were present, including a large flat-screen TV, mini bar, sofa, high-quality furnishings, and super-fast wifi. Food & Drink The wide range of food and drink options include a beachside bar and restaurant, a poolside bar, a casino bar, and the resort's main restaurant, Ruinas del Mar, which is known for its faux ruins and waterfalls that run into a koi pond. We enjoyed some delicious seafood in this romantic setting, and there is a good selection of excellent wines available. The Regency Club starts each day with a complimentary continental breakfast in the private lounge, where you may also enjoy evening hors d'oeuvres and wine. Amazing Destinations 57
82 Amazing Destinations Amazing Destinations 58
"Relax in your own chic beachfront spot thanks to Trankilo, a premium adults-only pool with private cabanas at the Hyatt Regency Spa & Casino." Amazing Destinations 59
70 Amazing Destinations DUSHI DELIGHTS In Aruba’s restaurants you’ll find fresh mahi mahi, red snapper and barracuda pulled from the sea and rubbed with creole seasoning. In upmarket restaurants and small local gems, stew pots bubble with rice, chicken and rich Latin and African flavours. All in the same day, you can indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes, sip ice-cold Aruba Aribas by the sea, and pile your plate high with pastechi—with a dash of spice from the local hot pepper sauce, pica di papaya. Around their tables, everyone is welcome. Here are three recommended choices... * Pronounced "Doo-Shee" and meaning very pleasent or tasty * Amazing Destinations 60
Amazing Destinations 61
72 Amazing Destinations VisitTampaBay.com With award-winning local cuisine, craft beer and cocktails, Tampa Bay is a laid-back getaway to savour.
110 CAYA HOUSE The name “CAYA” means “street-calle” in Papiamento/ Spanish. Marco Muscariello from Hostaria Da Vittorio, grew up in that same street where CAYA is located. Partnering with Carlos Yagua, they had a vision for a new escape to touch the streets of Aruba. At CAYA, people will enjoy delicious food and indulge in the art of crafted cocktails, where their mixologists modernize signature classics and create unforgettable memories via their artistry. Featuring a culinary menu, showcasing bold flavors from all over Latin America, featuring dishes like Ceviche De Chicharron, covered in leche de tigre; Asado Negro, consisting of short ribs served in black roasted sauce; and the signature Glazed Pork Belly covered in potato foam. caya.aw BOHEMIAN COCKTIAL LOUNGE Located in the heart of Palm Beach, an oasis of culinary pleasures is matched with charming tropical ambiance and engaging live entertainment. Bohemian Bar & Restaurant serves enchanting dishes sprinkled with French flair and bohemian passion in a unique garden setting tucked away underneath tall sea grapes, positioned on the corner where Barceló Resort meets the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino. Intoxicating lounge music mingles with the sway of palms as young, dynamic dining room staffers—in iconic berets and suspenders—serve cocktails, dinner, and wine with unmistakable French panache. bohemianaruba.com FARO BLANCO Faro Blanco Restaurant is situated right next to the famous California Lighthouse. The Aruban style house that used to be the dwelling of the lighthouse keeper, now serves as the Faro Blanco Restaurant, along with a terrace offering the most stunning sunset views. Faro Blanco offers Italian specialties on one of the most popular dining locations on the island. Those who wish to be part of the magical sunset, or even see the famous 'green flash' are recommended to make reservations in advance as it tends to be busy here. The famous Faro Blanco Restaurant is open daily serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. You are also welcome for a drink during the day on the terrace you can take breathtaking pictures. faroblancorestaurant.com Amazing Destinations 63
LONDON'S Photo: © Antelope Media Solutions. FINEST
Amazing Destinations 107 London hotels know how to indulge. Whether through history, a sense of fun or an understanding that luxury covers everything from an amazing view to a cocktail served in a perfect glass. Martin Mason has curated a list of his current favourites to tempt you into the big smoke for the perfect night out.
110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.LONDON-PORTMAN.NOBUHOTELS.COM
T his stylish Marylebone hotel, like the stunning sculpture that swings from its lobby ceiling, evokes peace and meditation, yet there's also a hint of decadence. Few places in London provide a more unique dining and lodging experience than Nobu Hotel London Portman Square. NOBU HOTEL LONDON PORTMAN SQUARE, LONDON Our verdict Nobu Hotel London Portman Square remains true to its brand identity in a fantastic central location. This luxury hotel is a wonderful fusion of Japanese serenity and global cool that has to be experienced to appreciate it. Of course, the true attraction is the signature restaurant, which lives up to all expectations. The dining is superb, and the cocktails are not to be missed either. Go now! Many people will already be familiar with Nobu, which is named after its empire-building chef. This property is consistent with the still relatively small hotel company formed by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper. That is, it has a contemporary, minimalist style with thoughtful Japanese elements, and the restaurant is at the heart of its offerings. The hotel's minimalist aesthetic has a delightfully peaceful impact. There is a sense of relaxation in every aspect of the hotel, including the Pilates studio in the basement and the first-floor restaurant. Its prime location in Marylebone, just off Oxford Street, also puts some of the city's top shopping and dining options at your fingertips. Rooms You'll notice the typical Nobu style of pale colours and oriental elements; the Japanese influence is visible not only in the colour scheme but also in the special details such as personal tea sets, art works, and furnishings. Alongside these are the five-star amenities you would expect, like a super comfortable bed, crisp quality linens, finely built wooden desks, a spacious, bright bathroom, luxury toiletries, Nespresso machines, a smart TV, and fast wifi. The rooms provide an oasis of tranquilly, but let's be honest: you're not staying here for the rooms. Food & Drink Nobu Hotel London Portman Square restaurant can seat 200 people plus eight at the sushi counter, and while it can get very busy, it's all the better for it. The atmosphere is electrifying, with the feel of a place where everyone is appreciative of being there. Chefs chop and prepare sushi with care; sake flows into glasses; and customers relax in their seats, eating slowly and enjoying the flavours and environment. It felt almost obligated to order the famed Nobu dishes: rock prawn tempura, miso black cod, and yellowtail sashimi. We ordered them, and they were fantastic, along with the rest of the dishes. The service was outstanding, and the sommelier recommended excellent wines. Amazing Destinations 69
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.JUMEIRAH.COM
T here are many gorgeous, luxurious hotels in London, but it can be difficult to locate something distinctive. However, after staying at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah in Knightsbridge, we can confirm that this hotel stands out—and unquestionably so. THE CARLTON TOWER JUMEIRAH KNIGHTSBRIDGE, LONDON Our verdict Surrounded by some of London's most renowned shopping opportunities, best cultural attractions, and a lovely, private stretch of greenery, The Carlton Tower Jumeirah wows with exceptional wellness facilities, superb service, and the uninterrupted knockout views of London enjoyed from upperlevel rooms' balconies. The hotel has been open since the early 1960s, when it was simply known as 'The Carlton Tower'. However, after closing for a £100 million restoration in 2019, it reopened as 'The Carlton Tower Jumeirah' in 2021. Inspired by the clear architectural lines of a classical colonnade, the renovation established a polished, welcoming, and sophisticated feel throughout. It is unquestionably one of London's most prominent settings, just a stone's throw from Sloane Street, footsteps from Harrods, and overlooking the private, pristine 14,000-foot Cadogan Gardens directly across (to which guests have access). The hotel is wellknown for its wellness offerings, which include not one but two levels dedicated to healing your body and soul. The renowned Peak Fitness Club and Spa is housed in a stunning facility with enormous floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a selection of wonderful treatments. Rooms The hotel has 216 rooms, of which 58 are suites. All have miniCentral Park-style views over Cadogan Gardens. Go for a balcony suite, or ideally, luxury balcony suites with interconnecting rooms, if you’re really pushing the luxury. Our breathtaking suite had a view along the length of the garden square and the rooftops of the whole of London, from the Battersea Power Station to the city. Even more striking were the bespoke elements, including personalised slippers. Wonderful touches and very relaxing Food & Drink The Chinoiserie at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah offers a relaxing all-day dining experience in the elegant lobby. Whether you are looking for breakfast, traditional afternoon tea or an informal lunch or dinner, The Chinoiserie offers fantastic food in a luxury setting. The all-day menu has a selection of dishes, ranging from luxury caviar to a casual sandwich, making it suitable for a quick lunch or a more formal meal. Amazing Destinations 71
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.HILTON.COM
T his famous property, with its charming, leafy Mayfair position, has received a stylish makeover as it enters its 70th decade. For location, views, and service, the London Hilton on Park Lane knocks it out of the (Hyde) Park. LONDON HILTON ON PARK LANE MAYFAIR, LONDON Our verdict Stay in the heart of Mayfair at one of London's most renowned locations. The London Hilton on Park Lane is conveniently located near Hyde Park Corner Tube and a 10-minute walk from Green Park Tube, making it ideal for sightseeing. Not that you need to go far; head to the new Revery Bar for champagne and cocktails and Park Corner Brasserie for delicious British fare and sophisticated dining on your door step. The London Hilton on Park Lane is a five-star hotel located in exclusive Mayfair, directly across from Hyde Park, and within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, the Royal Albert Hall, West End theatre, world-class shopping, and Kensington Palace. The hotel opened in 1963 as the first Hilton property in the UK and immediately claimed its place alongside the Park Lane Grande Dames. To celebrate its 60th anniversary last year, the hotel underwent a multi-millionpound renovation, and the remodelling is instantly evident, with a large new lobby. This social space is drenched in warm, gold-toned hues and has comfortable seating. It also boasts stunning artwork of suspended golden leaves by London designer Giles Miller. The large executive lounge is located on the first floor and has been entirely renovated. It was always an exceptional area, but now it appears sumptuous as well. Rooms The new executive rooms have been extensively updated, including new furnishings and sophisticated bathrooms. All modern amenities are available, including huge beds with crisp linens, a smart TV, a coffee maker, and lightning-fast wifi. The views from our enormous suite were just breathtaking, with a birds-eye perspective of Hyde Park and the city's rooftops stretching as far as the eye could see. Food & Drink The hotel has now introduced a smart new bar, Revery, as part of the refurbishment, which is by the lobby. We knocked back a couple of wonderfully crafted pre-dinner cocktails here before heading next door to another new addition, Park Corner Brasserie. This modern British brasserie has a sleek but casual air, with white walls and floors and statement green banquette seating. Everything we ate here was great, with fresh dishes and exceptional service. Highlights included grilled duck leg with potato mash, broccoli, and shallot sauce, as well as lobster mac and cheese with red pepper. It's also where breakfast is served each morning. There is also a sophisticated afternoon tea option which promises to take diners on a culinary journey via a series of delicate yet indulgent savoury and sweet treats. Amazing Destinations 75
110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.THEMANDRAKE.COM
S ituated just ten minutes away from Piccadilly Circus, Bond Street, Soho, and Theatreland, The Mandrake offers an ideal location for discovering the West End of the city. But as you enter, London feels a world apart from the magical fantasy that lies ahead. THE MANDRAKE FITZROVIA, LONDON Our verdict The Mandrake, named after a plant whose root is supposed to have hallucinogenic qualities, aims to offer an "immersive" experience unmatched by any other hotel in London, and it is undoubtedly successful. It’s a luxurious, lush, and eerily beautiful "urban jungle" in Fitzrovia. The Mandrake opened in the autumn of 2017, and its entrance is so unremarkable that you're probably going to walk right by it. The dark doors appear to be the entrance to a closed nightclub, but once inside and along the lengthy, dimly lit hallway, you will find yourself in a strange place with taxidermy, esoteric symbols, and an outdoor atrium covered in jungle vegetation. The design studio led by Tala Fustok created remarkable interiors to create places that perfectly represent London's eccentricity and Paris' luxury. The idea behind this is to "stay beyond yourself," based on the conviction that the soul requires just as much nourishment as the body and mind. Enter the "spiritual wellness concierge service," which provides a selection of complementary therapies derived from conventional and ancient wellness methods. Fitzrovia, located off Oxford Street and in a key position, is surprisingly laid-back despite its address on Newman Street. Almost all of downtown London's major tourist attractions are accessible by foot from this location. Rooms The 34 luxurious bedrooms, which are arranged over four stories and several of them have doors leading to balconies, are tastefully decorated to evoke pleasure, sensuality, and delight. They range from the opulent and enigmatic to the vibrant and bright. The Mandrake's most affordable rooms are small yet cosy, with top-notch bedding. The bathrooms are characterised as "caravan-esque" and are a little small, but they are wellstocked with premium toiletries. Food & Drink The colourful highlight of the hotel's restaurant, YOPO, is "Showgirl," an ostrich designed by Enrique Gomez de Molina that is remarkably dazzling and stands tall in the middle of the space. George Scott-Toft, the highly regarded executive chef, drew inspiration for the menu from his travels throughout South America. Small tapas-style items that are meant to be shared are offered on the a la carte menu. It was a delight to look at and taste each dish that was placed on our table. The highlight was the grilled octopus, which was served with sliced potatoes and smoky paprika, like a hash with deliciously juicy chunks. Amazing Destinations 77
110 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.HYATT.COM
T he Andaz's grandeur is hard to miss, with its Grade II-listed Victorian brick front exuding beauty as it sits adjacent to the hustle and bustle of the City of London. This premium hotel, global in scale yet local in viewpoint, makes you feel at home from the moment you arrive. ANDAZ LONDON LIVERPOOL STREET, LONDON Our verdict This five-star hotel, located near Liverpool Street Station and about a mile north of London Bridge, is the ideal starting point for seeing the city on your next visit to the capital. The building's ancient English exterior hides a dynamic, modern, and energetic interior brimming with personality, from its gorgeous lobby to its bar and restaurant options. If pop culture inspired a premium hotel, the Andaz London Liverpool Street would suit the bill. This City hotel, inspired by its hipster neighbour Shoreditch, is flooded with colour murals and trendy flair, yet it still retains its original lovely tall ceilings, huge rooms, and magnificent staircases. The Great Eastern Hotel, the initial iteration of the hotel, was erected on the former site of the Bethlehem Royal Hospital for the Mentally Ill in 1884. The Andaz is located in the City of London area, a short walk from the River Thames and next door to Liverpool Street Station, which has tube and rail connections to practically anywhere in the city. While it is not in the heart of London's tourist zone, it is nonetheless an excellent starting point for exploring. Rooms The hotel features 267 spacious and modern guest rooms, including 15 suites. Our large suite included street-style art and vintage light switches, a reference to the hotel's rich history. They are spotless and pleasant, with spacious beds and sleek lines. All rooms provide modern amenities like Nespresso machines, minibars, 55-inch smart TVs, and high-quality bathroom supplies. Food & Drink You can join the post-work throng at the famed Lady Abercorn's, which has a classic English pub atmosphere. Eastway Brasserie is a relaxed restaurant with a crowd-pleasing menu and Miyako provides an authentic dining experience where you can treat yourself to a traditional menu of sushi, sashimi, teriyaki and sake in an intimate and contemporary setting. We had brunch at Rake's Cafe Bar, a sophisticated English garden-style restaurant with an East London vibe. It features Hogarth-themed drinks (The Heir, The Orgy, and The Arrest), as well as delicious nibbles and shared dishes inspired by global cultures. The complementary daily wine and canapé hour, which runs from 6 to 7 p.m., is a charming addition. Amazing Destinations 79
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.HYATT.COM
T he Hyatt Regency Blackfriars is a Grade II-listed hotel located on the historic grounds of Henry VIII's Bridewell Palace. With an unbeatable position in the City of London and on the River Thames, it's sure to be a good starting point for your next luxury stay in the metropolis. HYATT REGENCY BLACKFRIARS BLACKFRIARS, LONDON Our verdict A modern hotel that nonetheless exudes historic charm. The Hyatt Regency Blackfriars London is ideally situated for exploring the capital. The rooms are functional, but the hotel's dining offerings are very impressive. Come for the great location, stay for the Chinese food; it's a winning mix. Some five-star hotels achieve a top-tier rating simply by executing all of the essentials really well, and the Hyatt Regency Blackfriars is unquestionably one of these. The comfort here is well-honed and part of a tried-and-tested recipe. That's because it is a Regency hotel, which is one of Hyatt's flagship properties. The hotel's interiors, as one might expect, have been greatly impacted by its local history. Think magnificent marble pottery and imperial gold embellishments that exude historical charm and extravagance. The location is the star of the show, with Blackfriars Train Station and Underground Station close by, providing easy access to London's main attractions. Indeed, this luxury hotel is conveniently located near Trafalgar Square, the British Museum, Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Piccadilly Circus. Rooms The hotel offers 205 spacious and bright guest rooms and suites with clean Scandinavian décor. Each features climate control and the standard amenities, such as flat-screen televisions, high-speed wifi, and premium toiletries. The bathroom was the room's outstanding feature, with its stunning marble vanity unit and walk-in shower. Food & Drink The Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars offers three creative food and drink options, making it an appealing location for foodies. NYnLON is a local bistro that provides an elegant casual dining experience. The Leaf and Cane is a South American-inspired hideaway serving street food alongside creative cocktails and premium rums. We ate at The Chinese Cricket Club, a fine dining restaurant that serves Chinese classics with a modern twist. The restaurant is named after the Shanghai XI cricket team, which toured to England in 1857, and combines traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients in a modern interpretation of classic Chinese dishes. Everything we had was fantastic, and it has quickly become a new favourite. Amazing Destinations 83
Iceland has emerged as one of the world's leading adventure tourism destinations. However, in many ways, it still feels like a well-kept secret. Perhaps this is due to the abundance of natural resources, the vacant roads that weave through the enormous volcanic scenery, or the miles of open land with nothing but wild horses and waterfalls. By Martin Mason
ICELAND THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE
Page 66
ICELAND One of the world's most beautiful countries, Iceland is recognised for its breathtaking scenery, stunning nature, and delicious cuisine. Iceland, located on the northern tip of Europe, like its Scandinavian neighbours, is home to a diverse range of species despite its large land area. Iceland provides a unique setting for seeing domestic animals such as dogs, lambs, and cows up close, as well as wild species such as whales, reindeer, and puffins. Iceland is quickly becoming one of the world's most popular locations, and once you visit this stunning country, you may never want to leave. Iceland has a stunning selection of scenic places that shift as the seasons change. Iceland is the ideal vacation for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its low crime rate, friendly population, and picturesque scenery. Every year, millions of people fall in love with Iceland due to its rich history, charm, and culture. Whether you are a winter enthusiast looking for stunning spots, a photographer looking for magnificent sites to take amazing shots, or a family visiting a Nordic country for the first time, Iceland will take your breath away. Iceland's wide landscapes offer enough to see and do, making it a magnificent destination for visitors. Marvel at the Northern Lights Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for seeing the Northern Lights, which is one of the most popular attractions for travellers. To see one of the world's marvels, full darkness is essential, so plan your visit between September and April. There are various spots in and around Reykjavik and further away where you may observe the Aurora Borealis. Take a South Coast Tour Stroll along Reynisfjara's dark beaches. There is no shortage of stunning black sand beaches in Iceland, and Reynisfjara's is arguably the most well-known. Situated in the south, the beach offers a stunning representation of Iceland's natural marvels. A vast array of exquisite rock formations enhances the beach's ambience. The magnificent scenery has also appeared in well-known television shows like Game of Thrones. Explore the Skogafoss waterfalls Skogafoss, one of Iceland's largest waterfalls, provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with nature. Located in the country's south, this is a photographer's dream, with endless options and viewpoints to capture the ideal snap. On sunny days, you can be lucky enough to watch the waterfalls form rainbows, adding to the magnificent atmosphere. If you're feeling daring, you can stroll across the waters; however, be aware that you'll be soaked, so carry extra clothes. Amazing Destinations 87
FOODIE CITY BREAKS Unwind in the Blue Lagoon A visit to this southern geothermal spa will give you the opportunity to see one of the most well-liked spots in the nation. The spa offers warm, light blue waters with natural minerals that contrast with the surroundings, making it the ideal place to unwind in a stunning setting. For kids under fourteen, admission is free. Explore the nation's capitol Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital, has a lot to offer visitors. Reykjavik boasts a diverse range of colourful homes as well as several cultural, ecological, and historic sites. Foodies can enjoy a variety of delicious local cuisine, including rye bread, seafood, and, if they are feeling particularly daring, reindeer. Reykjavik is rich in wonderful museums that offer insight into the city. ICELAND Amazing Destinations 88
Page 69
ICELAND Explore the Golden Circle by snowmobile Iceland is a huge and wide country, so what better way to explore its stunning landscapes than by snowmobile? Given its name, it's no wonder that Iceland is frequently covered in snow and ice. Snowmobiling provides an excellent opportunity to travel over many of the country's glaciers and even active volcanoes, the bulk of which are covered in glacial ice. Go on a puffin tour Iceland is home to thousands of these magnificent creatures. There are numerous tours available, with many departing from Reykjavik. A puffin trip will take you to observe these colourful creatures in their native surroundings, where you will frequently witness them hunting fish. In addition to puffins, you may also see a variety of other seabirds. Many excursions include binoculars, which let you see the finer characteristics of these wonderful animals. Relax at the Sky Lagoon If you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate during your time in Iceland, then book a spot at Sky Lagoon. With this tour, not only do you get admission to the lagoon but you can enjoy a seven spa ritual that is sure to awaken your senses. Step inside the geothermal pool that is set at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and soak away your stress. A range of packages are availble including indulgent food and drink options. Feel the heat of a Lava Show Take the chance to see a live lava show while in Reykjavik during this experience. Get up close to real molten lava in a controlled environment for a safe but lively encounter. This attraction has garnered multiple awards and recognition for its innovation and educational value, and it isn't found anywhere else. Feel the heat and choose between the classic or premium experience Amazing Destinations 90
Page 71 Rekondo San Sebastian
Travel insurance with you in mind Get instant cover truetraveller.com even if you’re already abroad
In partnership with travel insurance designed by travellers
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT - WWW.HOTELRANGA.IS
HOTEL RANGA HELLA, ICELAND Our verdict Talking about a bucket list is so cliché, yet there are moments when a term just fits so beautifully despite its ubiquity. A stay at the Hotel Rangá provides the best of this captivating country while also serving as a great foundation for thoroughly enjoying the experience. The site is on Iceland's South Coast, and guests can enjoy the splendour of Iceland's most Instagrammable waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, within a short drive. There are neighbouring glaciers to visit, as well as the South Coast's most distinctive black sand beach. There are numerous spots to view the northern lights. Because of Iceland's limited population, there is little light pollution, making it easier to enjoy this phenomenon. The Hotel Rangá is secluded and, particularly at night, appears to be in the middle of nowhere. As a result, it is an excellent site to witness nature's light show. While others may need to plan tours to see the lights, the hotel provides visitors with an extremely easy experience in which the aurora borealis comes to them. Guests can request for a wake-up call, in which the hotel staff will notify them when the lights are visible in the area. From there, they may enjoy the lights from their balcony or one of the various viewing places within the hotel. The most luxurious way to enjoy the lights is in one of the four hot tubs heated by geothermal water, which provides a warm and comfortable viewing experience. Rooms After a full day of discovering everything Iceland has to offer, travellers return to the creature comforts of a luxury lodge. The 51 rooms are divided into many categories, each with its own configuration and size, and may accommodate lone travellers, couples, or families. There are seven distinct trademark suites, each with a design motif inspired by a region ranging from Africa to Antarctica. Food & Drink The eating experience at Hotel Rangá is ideal for an Icelandic visit. Authentic Icelandic cuisine made with locally obtained ingredients is what tourists should expect. The evening usually begins with cocktails at their bar, which is an event in itself. It's always a pleasant and sociable atmosphere, with opportunities to share travel stories with other international guests. The bar is also unique in design, with hardwood log construction and quirky chairs. The cocktails contain an offering from their whisky vault, which boasts one of Iceland's largest whisky collections. Dinner is equally remarkable, with a focus on well-prepared traditional Nordic food using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is in a glass-enclosed space which offers views of the scenery or starry skies in the evening. he Hotel Rangá, is a luxury lodge located among Iceland's most breathtaking natural features. This great hotel serves as an excellent base for exploring this T spectacular region. Amazing Destinations 95
"A stay at the Hotel Rangá provides the best of this captivating country while also serving as a great foundation for thoroughly enjoying the experience".
82 Ama zing TOP BRITISH SEASIDE TOWNS By Martin Mason Amazing Destinations 98
Oh, we do like to be beside the seaside! We all remember having a paddle and building sandcastles as a child - we’re getting all nostalgic at the thought! Now, we want to take our kids to these beautiful beaches with stunning views. Whether it's a popular choice of sandy beaches or the perfect spot for a lovely picnic. A family beach holiday or a weekend getaway - we all want that seaside beach memory. Britain has a wealth of seaside towns that are ideal destinations for a Summer day trip or a short holiday. But with so many towns offering stunning beaches, historical attractions and a variety of nightlife activities, it can be difficult to decide which of them to visit. To help you decide, here are ten of the best...
Amazing Destinations 100