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Published by , 2018-08-31 05:51:23

brochure

brochure

SPAIN

Passionate, sophisticated and devoted to living the good life, Spain is both a stereotype come to
life and a country more diverse than you ever imagined.
An Epic Land
Spain’s diverse landscapes stir the soul. The Pyrenees and the Picos de Europa are as beautiful
as any mountain range on the continent, while the snowcapped Sierra Nevada rises up improb-
ably from the sun-baked plains of Andalucía; these are hiking destinations of the highest order.
The wildly beautiful cliffs of Spain’s Atlantic northwest are offset by the charming coves of the
Mediterranean. And everywhere you go, villages of timeless beauty perch on hilltops, huddle in
valleys and cling to coastal outcrops as tiny but resilient outposts of Old Spain. That's where the
country's charms are most likely to take hold.
A Culinary Feast
Food and wine are national obsessions in Spain, and with good reason. The touchstones of
Spanish cooking are deceptively simple: incalculable variety, traditional recipes handed down
through the generations, and an innate willingness to experiment and see what comes out of
the kitchen laboratory. You may experience the best meal ever via tapas in an earthy bar where
everyone's shouting, or via a meal prepared by a celebrity chef in the refined surrounds of a
Michelin-starred restaurant. Either way, the breadth of gastronomic experience that awaits you
is breathtaking and sure to be a highlight of your trip.

#spainindetail

01

Art Imitates Life Fiestas & Flamenco

Windswept Roman ruins, cathedrals of rare power and incomparable jewels of Islamic archi- For all the talk of Spain’s history, this is a country that lives very much in the present and
tecture speak of a country where the great civilisations of history have risen, fallen and left there’s a reason ‘fiesta’ is one of the best-known words in the Spanish language – life itself is a
behind their indelible mark. More recently, what other country could produce such rebellious fiesta here and everyone seems to be invited. Perhaps you’ll sense it along a crowded, post-
and relentlessly creative spirits as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Antoni Gaudí and place midnight street when all the world has come out to play. Or maybe that moment will come
them front and centre in public life? And here, grand monuments of history coexist alongside when a flamenco performer touches something deep in your soul. Whenever it happens, you’ll
architectural creations of such daring that it becomes clear Spain’s future will be every bit as find yourself nodding in recognition: this is Spain.
original as its past.

TURKEY Turkey is one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations. The rec-
tangular shaped country is surrounded on three sides by three different
seas. Its shores are laced with beaches, bays, coves, ports, islands and
peninsulas. Turkey is also blessed with majestic mountains and valleys,
lakes, rivers, waterfalls and grottoes perfect for winter and summer
tourism and sports of all kinds.

Epic History

From the ancient port city of Ephesus (Efes) to the soaring Byzantine
dome of Aya Sofya, Turkey has more than its fair share of world-
famous ruins and monuments. A succession of historical figures and
empires – including the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans – have all
left their mark on this former stopover along the Silk Road. Experienc-
ing their legacy takes you from the closeted quarters of the sultan and
his harem in İstanbul’s sprawling Topkapı Palace to the romantic and
mysterious Lycian ruins on Mediterranean beaches.

Lyrical Landscapes

Turkey’s diverse landscapes, from Aegean olive groves to eastern
steppe, provide a lyrical setting for its many great ruins. The country’s
most magical scenery is to be found in Asian Anatolia, where beautiful
vistas are provided by the vertiginous Mediterranean coastline, Cappa-
docia’s otherworldly ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations and wavy valleys,
the alpine pastures of the Kaçkar Mountains, and golden beaches such
as 18km-long Patara. Whether you settle down with a çay to enjoy the
view across mountain-ringed Lake Eğirdir or explore the hilly hinterland
on the southwest coast’s many peninsulas, Turkey’s landscape will
leave a lasting impression.

02

Activities Galore

Turkey offers activities to suit every temperament, from outdoors adventure to cultural enrich-
ment. Watery fun includes diving, windsurfing, rafting and canyoning in mountain gorges, kayak-
ing over Kekova’s sunken ruins and traditional gület cruises on the Mediterranean and Aegean.
Or take to the air with Ölüdeniz’ thrilling paragliding flights or a hot-air balloon ride over Cappado-
cia. For a fresh angle on stunning Turkish scenery, trek to highland pastures or walk part of the
Lycian Way trail. In town, take a culinary course, soak in the hamam or sign up for a culinary or
cultural walking tour.

Culinary Exploration

The best thing about sampling Turkey’s delicious specialties – ranging from meze on a Mediter-
ranean harbour to a pension breakfast featuring ingredients fresh from the kitchen garden – is
that they take you to the heart of Turkish culture. For the sociable and family-orientated Turks,
gathering together and eating well is a time-honoured ritual. So get stuck into olive oil–lathered
Aegean vegetables, spicy Anatolian kebaps and dishes from Turkey’s many other corners – and
as you drink a tulip-shaped glass of çay and contemplate some baklava for dessert, remember
that eating is deepening your understanding of Turkey.

POLAND Castles to Log Cabins

In Poland, we have everything: beautiful coastal beaches and The former royal capital of Kraków is a living lab of architec-
sand dunes, glacier-carved lake districts, lowlands as flat as ture over the ages. Its nearly perfectly preserved Gothic core
a pancake, splendid forests, old and new mountains (including proudly wears overlays of Renaissance, baroque and art nou-
the only table-like mountains in Europe!), even a desert. Just veau, a record of tastes that evolved over centuries. Fabulous
you try to say that Poland does not live in wealth! medieval castles and evocative ruins dot hilltops around the
country, and the fantastic red-brick fortresses of the Teutonic
A Thousand Years Knights stand proudly in the north along the Vistula. Simple
but finely crafted wooden churches hide amid the Carpathian
Poland’s roots go back to the turn of the first millennium, hills, and the ample skills of the highlanders are on display at
leaving a thousand years of twists and turns and kings and the many skansens (open-air ethnographic museums).
castles to explore. WWII history buffs are well served. Tragi-
cally, Poland found itself in the middle of that epic fight, and
monuments and museums dedicated to its battles – and
to Poland’s remarkable survival – can be seen everywhere.
There’s a growing appreciation, too, of the rich Jewish her-
itage. Beyond the deeply affecting Holocaust memorials,
synagogues are being sensitively restored, and former Jewish
centres such as Łódź and Lublin have heritage trails, so you
can trace this history at your own pace.

03

Heart-Warming Food

If you’re partial to good home cooking,
the way your grandmother used to make
it, you’ve come to the right place. Polish
food is based largely on local ingredients
like pork, cabbage, mushrooms, beetroot
and onion, combined simply and honed to
perfection. Regional specialties like duck,
goose and trout keep things from getting
dull. As for sweets, it’s hard to imagine a
more accommodating destination. Cream
cakes, apple strudel, pancakes, fruit-filled
dumplings and a special mania for lody (ice
cream) may have you skipping the main
course and jumping straight to the main
event.

Fresh-Air Pursuits

Away from the big cities, much of Poland feels
remote and unspoiled. While large swathes of
the country are flat, the southern border is lined
with a chain of low-lying but lovely mountains
that invite days, if not weeks, of splendid soli-
tude. Well-marked hiking paths criss-cross the
country, taking you through dense forest, along
broad rivers and through mountain passes.
Much of the northeast is covered by interlinked
lakes and waterways ideal for kayaking and
canoeing – no experience necessary. Local
outfitters are happy to set you up for a couple of
hours or weeks.

GREECE

Ancient sun-bleached ruins pierce blue skies as the Aegean laps at the endless coastline. And-
Greek culture is alive with passionate music, inspired cuisine and thrill-seeking activities.

Cultural Treasure Chest
Standing in the shadow of the Acropolis feels other-worldly. Greece is full of such moments.
Step into the ring where Olympians first competed. Climb steps hewn out of stone to Meteora’s
monasteries, perched atop towering rocks. Contemplate the oracle’s insights from the gran-
deur of Delphi, take in a starlit drama at an ancient outdoor theatre and be stunned by massive
marble sculptures dredged up from the Aegean. But then you’ll encounter bold modern art, the
melancholic throb of rembetika (blues songs) and artisans creating new work from traditional
techniques. Greece has endless cultural pursuits and a calendar bursting with festivals, holidays
and exhibits.

Wildly Natural
Whether you’re a serious adrenalin junkie or dedicated beach bum, Greece will bewitch you.
Days melt from one to the next under wide open skies and a sea speckled with islands that
deliver the white-sand, palm-fringed beaches of your dreams. Wander along cobbled Byzan-
tine footpaths, hike into volcanoes, watch for dolphins and sea turtles, and cycle through lush
forests. Meander through olive groves, idyllic villages and petrified forests. Thrill seekers will
discover world-class kitesurfing, wreck diving, and rock-climbing locations with dizzying views.
Or simply hop on a boat and set sail into the glittering blue beyond.

Local Flavours Socially Spirited

The secret to Greek cooking is often found in the chef’s garden. Basic ingredients such as feta Socialising is more than a pastime in Greece – it’s a way of life. Cafes overflow with teenag-
and olive oil are at home across Greece, but the regional produce and cooking styles make ers gossiping or older locals in heated debate. Restaurants are filled with long tables for big
travelling here a culinary adventure. Taste herbs and mountain greens you’ve never heard of, gatherings and friends amble arm in arm down the street. Squares are the focal point, where
mussels steamed in ouzo, bread baked with olives, and fish straight from the sea. Taste-test life unfolds collectively. Immerse yourself, whether it’s a coffee, a shot of ouzo, a chorus on the
regional cheeses: crumbling feta, honeyed soft cheeses and sharp, hard rounds. Find Italian bouzouki or a local celebration. Greeks are passionate and live life to the fullest, even at the
influences in risottos and pastas or Turkish spices woven into delicate sweets. A traditional- most difficult times. The result is a country seemingly riddled with challenges, yet full of people
cooking renaissance has chefs lifting time-honoured recipes to new gourmet heights. loving life.

THE NETHERLANDS

Tradition and innovation intertwine here: artistic masterpieces, centuries-old wind-
mills, tulip fields and romantic candlelit cafés coexist with visionary architecture,
cutting-edge design and phenomenal nightlife.

Art & Architecture

In a country that gave birth to celebrated Dutch Masters like Rembrandt, Vermeer,
Van Gogh and Piet Mondrian, the art legacy is huge. World-renowned art museums in
Amsterdam, Den Haag, Rotterdam, Haarlem and Leiden drip with iconic masterpieces,
alongside a respectable portfolio of contemporary works. The Dutch influence on con-
struction spans more than a millennia, from Romanesque and Gothic medieval mag-
num opuses to Dutch Renaissance palaces and romantic Golden Age gabled houses.
Trailblazing contemporary architecture – green and innovative – is a perfect reflection
of a country perfectly in tune with its environment (and the need to protect it).

Cycling

With fabulously pancake-flat, scenic landscapes beckoning along every last dyke,
canal, river and coastal shore, two-wheeling in the Netherlands is one of Dutch life’s
greatest pleasures (headwinds notwithstanding). While the bike-loving Dutch practi-
cally live on their well-worn, beloved fiets (bicycles) – many, infamously only with
back-pedal coaster brakes – cycling for visitors is a wonderful means of exploring and
getting around. Bike-rental outlets are ubiquitous, and the country is criss-crossed
with some 32,000km of cycling paths, including the Dutch ‘motorways’ of cycling, the
long-distance LF routes. Grab some wheels and go!

Café Culture Landscapes

When the Dutch say café they mean a pub, and there are thousands – with Geography plays a key role in the Netherlands’
glorious summertime terraces peppering flower-strewn canals, looking out iconic landscapes. More than half the pancake-
to sea, hidden down ancient lanes, standing on every town’s Grote Markt flat country is below sea level, and 20% has been
(market square). In a country that values socialising and conversation more reclaimed from the sea, making regimental rows
than drinking, cafés are places for go-slow contemplation and camaraderie, of polders (areas of drained land) omnipresent.
over dusk-time borrel (‘drinks’) with bar snacks or a fabulous meal any time Uninterrupted North Sea winds have powered
of day. The ultimate café kick: revelling in that deliciously snug, Dutch state windmills since the 13th century, pumping water
of gezelligheid (conviviality, cosiness) in a timeless bruin café (brown cafe), over the dykes, milling flour and more. Some
named for the nicotine stains of centuries past. two-thirds of the surface is devoted to agriculture,
including beautiful rainbow fields of crocuses,
daffodils, hyacinths and tulips that burst into
flower each year between March and May.
The kaleidoscope of colour is nothing short of
psychedelic.

PERU

Peru is as complex as its most intricate and exquisite weavings. Festivals mark ancient rites,
the urban vanguard beams innovation and nature brims with splendid diversity.

All Things Ancient
Visitors pilgrimage to the glorious Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, yet this feted site is just a flash
in a 5000-year history of peoples. Explore the dusted remnants of Chan Chan, the largest pre-
Columbian ruins in all the Americas. Fly over the puzzling geoglyphs etched into the arid earth
at Nazca. Or venture into the rugged wilds that hem the stalwart fortress of Kuelap. Lima’s great
museums reveal in full detail the sophistication, skill and passion of these lost civilizations. Visit
remote communities and see how old ways live on. Immerse yourself, and you will leave Peru a
little closer to the past.

Pleasure & the Palate
One existential question haunts all Peruvians: what to eat? Ceviche with slivers of fiery chili and
corn, slow-simmered stews, velvety Amazonian chocolate – in the capital of Latin cooking, the
choices dazzle. Great geographic and cultural diversity has brought ingredients ranging from
highland tubers to tropical jungle fruits to a complex cuisine of Spanish, indigenous, African
and Asian influence. The truth is, fusion existed here long before it came with airs. Explore the
bounty of food markets. Sample grilled anticuchos (beef skewers) on the street corners and
splurge a little on exquisite novoandina (Peruvian nouvelle cuisine).

Land of Incas

Oh, Adventure
Giant sand dunes, chiseled peaks and Pacific breaks a few heartbeats away from the capital’s
rush-hour traffic: from downtown Lima to smack-dab nowhere, this vast country translates to
paradise for the active traveler. All the usual suspects – rafting, paragliding, zip lines and bike
trails – are present. Spot scarlet macaws in the Amazon or catch the sunset over the dusty
remnants of an ancient civilization. Take this big place in small bites and don’t rush. Delays hap-
pen. Festivals can swallow you whole for days. And that’s when you realize: in Peru the adven-
ture usually lies in getting there.

Life is a Carnival
Welcome to a place of mythical beliefs where ancient pageants unwind to the tune of boom-
ing brass bands. Peru’s rich cultural heritage is never more real and visceral than when you are
immersed streetside in the swirling madness of a festival. Deities of old are reincarnated as
Christian saints, pilgrims climb mountains in the dead of night and icons are paraded through
crowded plazas as once were the mummies of Inca rulers. History is potent here and still puls-
ing, and there is no better way to experience it.

TANZANIA

Wildlife, beaches, friendly people, fascinating cultures, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Mt Kilimanjaro, shallows around Rubondo Island; and hold your breath while lions pad around your vehicle in
Zanzibar Archipelago – Tanzania has all these and more wrapped up in one adventurous, wel- Ngorongoro Crater.
coming package
Idyllic Beaches
Wonderful Wildlife Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coastline is magical, with tranquil islands and sleepy coastal villages
More than almost any other destination, Tanzania is the land of safaris. Wildebeest stampede steeped in centuries of Swahili culture. Travel back in time to the days when the East African
across the plains. Hippos jostle for space in muddy waterways. Elephants wander along sea- coast was the seat of sultans and a linchpin in a far-flung trading network extending to Persia,
sonal migration routes and chimpanzees swing through the treetops. Throughout the country India and beyond. Relax on powdery beaches backed by palm trees and massive baobabs; take
there are unparalleled opportunities to experience this natural wealth: take a boat safari down in magnificent, pastel-hued sunrises; immerse yourself in languid coastal rhythms; and sit be-
the Rufiji River past snoozing crocodiles in Selous Game Reserve; watch giraffes silhouetted
against ancient baobab trees in Ruaha National Park; sit motionless as waterbirds peck in the

Mt Kilimanjaro
Sending its shadow across Tanzania’s northern plains, Mt Kilimanjaro beckons visitors with its
graceful, forested flanks and stately snow-capped summit. It is Africa’s highest peak and the
world’s highest free-standing volcano. It is also home to the Chagga people, and to a wealth
of birds and wildlife. Climbers by the thousands venture here to challenge themselves on its
muddy slopes, rocky trails and slippery scree. The rewards: the thrill of standing at the top of
Africa; magnificent views of Kilimanjaro’s ice fields; and witnessing sunrise illuminating the
plains far below.

Captivating Cultures
Wherever you go in Tanzania, opportunities abound for getting to know the country’s people and
cultures. Meet red-cloaked Maasai warriors. Spend time with semi-nomadic Barabaig near Mt
Hanang. Experience the hospitality of a local meal and the rhythms of traditional dance. Chat
and barter at local markets. More than anything else, it is the Tanzanian people – with their
characteristic warmth and politeness, and the dignity and beauty of their cultures – that make
visiting Tanzania so memorable. Chances are you’ll want to come back for more, to which most
Tanzanians will say ‘karibu tena’ (welcome again).

FRENCH POLYNESIA

Sculpted by sky-piercing, moss-green peaks and lined with vivid turquoise lagoons, sultry
French Polynesia is a place to take it slow and experience warm, laid-back island culture

The Dream
Tahiti: just the word conjures up centuries’ worth of images: hibiscus flowers; bronzed dancers
in grass skirts; a humid breeze over turquoise sea. The islands of French Polynesia became leg-
ends the minute the first European explorers reached their home shores with tales of a heaven
on earth where the soil was fertile, life was simple and lust was guilt-free. While the lingering
hype is outdated, French Polynesia is still about as dreamy as reality gets. The lagoons are
just as blue but there are freeways, more conservative values and nine-to-five jobs. It’s not the
untainted paradise of explorer lore, but at least there’s an internet connection.

Lagoon Spectacular
The slim stretches of white-, pink- and black-sand beaches in French Polynesia are really just
pretty springboards into the real draw: the lagoons. Most high islands are surrounded by fring-
ing reef that creates a protected swimming pool of the most intense aqua imaginable. Coral
atolls have this same calibre of lagoon minus the big island in the middle. Fish, dolphins, rays,
sharks, turtles and more inhabit these clear-water coral gardens that are as excellent for snor-
kelling as they are for diving and swimming. Surfers ride glassy wave faces at reef passes while
kitesurfers fly across the water with the trade winds.

To Luxe or Not to Luxe
Over-the-top indulgence has become French Polynesia’s – or more specifically Bora Bora’s –
signature, and often overshadows what the rest of the country has to offer. Resorts on the ‘Pearl
of the Pacific’ are a honeymooner’s dream, with private overwater bungalows and spectacular
views of the island’s iconic, square-topped peak. But if this isn’t your cup of coconut water, or
not in your budget, don’t let that dissuade you from visiting French Polynesia. Small, family-run
lodgings offer a closer-to-the-culture experience for considerably less financial output.

JAPAN

Japan is truly timeless, a place where ancient traditions are fused with modern life as if it were
the most natural thing in the world.

Traditional Culture
On the surface, Japan appears exceedingly modern, but travelling around it offers numerous
opportunities to connect with the country’s traditional culture. Spend the night in a ryokan
(traditional Japanese inn), sleeping on futons and tatami mats, and padding through well-worn
wooden halls to the bathhouse (or go one step further and sleep in an old farmhouse). Chant
with monks or learn how to whisk bitter matcha (powdered green tea) into a froth. From the
splendour of a Kyoto geisha dance to the spare beauty of a Zen rock garden, Japan has the
power to enthral even the most jaded traveller.

Food
Wherever you are in Japan, it seems, you’re never more than 500m from a great meal. Restau-
rants often specialise in just one dish – perhaps having spent generations perfecting it – and
pay close attention to every stage, from sourcing the freshest, local ingredients to assembling
the dish attractively. Moreover, you don’t have to travel far to discover that Japanese cuisine is
deeply varied. The hearty hotpots of the mountains are, for example, dramatically different from
the delicate sushi for which the coast is famous. It’s also intensely seasonal, meaning you can
visit again at a different time of year and experience totally new tastes.

Outdoors Dynamic Cities
Japan is a long and slender, highly volcanic archipelago. It’s over two-thirds mountains, with The neon-lit streetscapes of Japan’s cities look like sci-fi film sets, even though many of
bubbling hot springs at every turn. In the warmer months there is excellent hiking, through cedar them are decades old. Meanwhile, cities such as Tokyo and Osaka have been adding new
groves and fields of wildflowers, up to soaring peaks and ancient shrines (the latter founded by architectural wonders that redefine what buildings – and cities – should look like. There’s an
wandering ascetics). In the winter, all this is covered with snow and the skiing is world class. indelible buzz to these urban centres, with their vibrant street life, 24-hour drinking and dining
(And if you’ve never paired hiking or skiing with soaking in onsen, you don’t know what you’ve scenes, and creative hubs that turn out fashion and pop culture trends consumed the world
been missing.) Meanwhile in the southern reaches, there are tropical beaches for sunning, snor- over. Travel is always smooth and efficient, whether you’re using the subway to get around or
kelling, diving and surfing. the shinkansen(bullet trains) to go from one city to the next.

SEYCHELLES

Talcum-powder beaches lapped by topaz waters, lush hills, a sublime laid-back tempo; these
dreams of a tropical paradise become reality in the Seychelles.

Splendid Beaches
Mother Nature was very generous with these 115 islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, and has
spoiled them rotten. Undeniably, the beaches are the big attraction, and what beaches: exqui-
site ribbons of pearlescent sand lapped by topaz waters and backed by lush hills and big glacis
boulders. And hardly a soul in sight. Choosing your favourite beach is like trying to pick a flavour
of ice cream – they’re all so good! Hot favourites include world-famous Anse Source d’Argent,
secluded Anse Marron, sexy Anse Takamaka and picture-postcard perfect Anse Lazio.

Aquatic Delights
Diving and snorkelling are the most popular activities in the Seychelles, and rightly so. Healthy
reefs, canyon-like terrain, shallow shelves, exciting shipwrecks, impressive granite outcrops and
splendid coral gardens give divers and snorkellers almost instant access to a variety of environ-
ments. The water is warm and clear, and teeming with life from the tiniest juvenile tropical to the
largest pelagic creature, including whale sharks. Whether you’re an experienced diver or slap-
ping on fins for the first time, there are sites for all levels. And you’ll be welcomed by qualified,
multilingual instructors in state-of-the-art dive centres.

Luxury Resorts Ecotourism & Wildlife Spotting
White-sand beaches, secluded coves, coral-coloured sunsets, swish hotels, slick restaurants, Charge your camera batteries, people – the Seychelles is not dubbed ‘The Galàpagos of the
hushed spas. With such a dreamlike setting, it’s not surprising that honeymooners and those Indian Ocean’ for nothing. Watching sea turtles nesting on Bird Island’s sandy beaches or giant
seeking a glamorous tropical getaway have long had the Seychelles at the top of their wish lists. Aldabra tortoises roaming freely on Curieuse is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. If
You too can live the high life at one of the country’s star-spangled hotspots, provided you have you’re hoping to spot sooty terns, tropicbirds, warblers and magpie robins in their natural habi-
the cash. If you’re not a millionaire, fear not. This paradise is more affordable than you think. On tats, the bird sanctuaries of Aride, Cousin, and Bird Islands should figure heavily in your plan-
top of ultraluxurious options, the Seychelles has plenty of self-catering facilities and family-run ning. And Praslin’s Vallée de Mai is a slice of Eden where you can see the very rare coco de mer
guesthouses that are easier on the wallet and offer local colour. palms in their natural state.

Alaska

Bears larger than bison, national parks the size of nations, and glaciers bigger than other US
states. The word ‘epic’ barely does Alaska justice.

The Call of the Wild
Pure, raw, unforgiving and humongous in scale, Alaska is a place that arouses basic instincts
and ignites what Jack London termed the ‘call of the wild.’ Yet, unlike London and his gutsy,
gold-rush companions, visitors today will have a far easier time penetrating the region’s vast, fe-
ral wilderness. Indeed, one of the beauties of the 49th state is its accessibility. Few other places
in the US allow you to scale an unclimbed mountain, walk where – quite possibly – no human
foot has trodden before, or sally forth into a national park that gets fewer annual visitors than
the International Space Station.

All Creatures Great and Small
Who needs zoos when you can get close-up views of brown bears snatching leaping salmon
out of angry waterfalls or see curious moose posing majestically on national-park roadsides?
Alaska is a land for wilderness purists who desire to observe big fauna in its natural habitat.
This is no place for the timid. Hiking in unguarded backcountry might sometimes feel like being
a guest in a very big food chain, but keep your wits about you, and the musk oxen, gray wolves,
bears, caribou and other creatures great and small will quietly accept you into their domain.

Life on the Frontier
Space might be the final frontier, but for those without billions of dollars and their own space
rocket, Alaska can provide a pretty gritty alternative. With scant phone coverage and a dearth of
anything that passes for urban sophistication, this is a region for ‘doing’ rather than hanging out
in coffee bars. Get a skilled bush pilot to land you on a crevasse-riddled glacier, or hire a back-
country guiding company to take you on a bracing paddle down an almost-virgin river. Whether
you go it alone with bear-spray, or place yourself in the hands of an experienced ’sourdough’
(Alaskan old-timer), the rewards are immeasurable.

Tales of the Unexpected
For savvy repeat visitors, the real joys of Alaska are the ones you least expect: ginormous
vegetables, epic bus rides, half-forgotten Russian cemeteries, friendly, hassle-free airports,
and dive bars where no one’s rethought their hairstyle since 1984. Welcome to a state with as
many offbeat attractions as off-the-beaten-track locations. Imagine a land where locals still go
subsistence hunting, campers plan gold-panning expeditions in the wilderness and wi-fi is just
a rumor. Pitch in with a quirky medley of contrarians, rat-race escapees, wanderers, dreamers,
back-to-the-landers and Alaska Natives and discover what makes America’s biggest state tick.

ITALY

Home to many of the world’s greatest works of art, architecture and gastronomy, Italy elates,
inspires and moves like no other.

Cultural Riches
Epicentre of the Roman Empire and birthplace of the Renaissance, this European virtuoso
groans under the weight of its cultural cachet: it’s here that you’ll stand in the presence of
Michelangelo’s David and Sistine Chapel frescoes, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera and
da Vinci’s The Last Supper. In fact, Italy has more Unesco World Heritage cultural sites than any
other country on Earth. Should you walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in Pompeii, revel in
Ravenna’s glittering Byzantine treasures or get breathless over Giotto’s revolutionary frescoes in
Padua? It’s a cultural conundrum as thrilling as it is overwhelming.

Inimitable Style
In few places do art and life intermingle so effortlessly. This may be the land of Dante, Titian and
Verdi, but it’s also the home of Prada, Massimo Bottura and Renzo Piano. Beauty, style and flair
furnish every aspect of daily life, from those immaculately knotted ties and seamless espressos
to the flirtatious smiles of striking strangers. The root of Italian psychology is a dedication to
living life well, and effortless as it may seem, driving that dedication is a reverence for the finer
things. So slow down, style up and indulge in a little vita all’italiana (life, Italian style).

Endless Feasts Spectacular Landscapes
It might look like a boot, but food-obsessed Italy feels more like a decadently stuffed Christmas Italy’s fortes extend beyond its galleries, wardrobes and dining rooms. The country is one of
stocking. From delicate tagliatelle al ragù to velvety cannoli, every bite can feel like a revelation. nature’s masterpieces, with extraordinary natural diversity matched by few. From the north’s icy
The secret: superlative ingredients and finely tuned know-how. And while Italy’s culinary soul Alps and glacial lakes to the south’s fiery craters and turquoise grottoes, this is a place for do-
might prefer simplicity, it’s equally ingenious and sophisticated. Expect some of the world’s ing as well as seeing. One day you’re tearing down Courmayeur’s powdery slopes, the next you
top fine-dining destinations, from San Pellegrino ‘World’s Best 50’ hot spots to Michelin-starred could be galloping across the marshes of the Maremma, or diving in coral-studded Campanian
musts. So whether you’re on a degustation odyssey in Modena, truffle hunting in Piedmont or waters. Not bad for a country not much bigger than Arizona.
swilling powerhouse reds in the Valpolicella wine region, prepare to loosen that belt.

NORWAY

Norway is a once-in-a-lifetime destination and the essence of its appeal is remarkably simple:
this is one of the most beautiful countries on earth.

Stirring Landscapes
Impossibly steep-sided Norwegian fjords of extraordinary beauty cut gashes from a jagged
coastline deep into the interior. Glaciers, grand and glorious, snake down from icefields that rank
among Europe’s largest. Elsewhere, the mountainous terrain of Norway’s interior resembles the
ramparts of so many natural fortresses, and yields to rocky coastal islands that rise improb-
ably from the waters like apparitions. Then, of course, there’s the primeval appeal, the spare
and staggering beauty of the Arctic. And wherever you find yourself in this most extraordinary
country, these landscapes serve as a backdrop for some of Europe’s prettiest villages.

The Call to Action
Enjoying nature in Norway is very much an active pursuit, and this is one of Europe’s most excit-
ing and varied adventure-tourism destinations. Some activities may be for the young, energetic
and fearless, but most – world-class hiking, cycling and white-water rafting in summer; dog-
sledding, skiing and snowmobiling in winter – can be enjoyed by anyone of reasonable fitness.
On our travels we’ve encountered 93-year-old snowmobilers and whole families racing down
rapids. Whether you’re here for seemingly endless summer possibilities, or in winter for the soul-
stirring Northern Lights, these activities are an exhilarating means of getting close to nature.









VIETNAM

A land of staggering natural beauty and cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities and hill-
tribe villages, Vietnam is both exotic and compelling.

Sensory Overload
Unforgettable experiences are everywhere in Vietnam. There’s the sublime: gazing over a surreal
seascape of limestone islands from the deck of a traditional junk in Halong Bay. The ridiculous:
taking 10 minutes just to cross the street through a tsunami of motorbikes in Hanoi. The inspi-
rational: exploring the world’s most spectacular cave systems in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National
Park. The comical: watching a moped loaded with honking pigs weave a wobbly route along a
country lane. And the contemplative: witnessing a solitary grave in a cemetery of thousands of
war victims.

History & Culture
Vietnamese culture is complex, diverse and represents something of a history lesson. The na-
tion’s labyrinthine, teeming trading quarters are rich in indigenous crafts and reflect centuries-
old mercantile influences. Ancient temples display distinctly Chinese influences in the north and
Hindu origins in the south. Meanwhile the broad, tree-lined boulevards and grand state buildings
that grace the capital date from the French colonial period. And it’s impossible to forget Viet-
nam’s pivotal position close to the epicentre of East Asian power and prosperity, for its cities’
skylines are defined by clusters of glass-and-steel corporate HQs and sleek luxury hotels.

A Culinary Superpower
Thailand may contest the top spot, but in Southeast Asia nothing really comes close: Vietnam-
ese food is that good. Incredibly subtle in its flavours and outstanding in its diversity, Vietnam-
ese cooking is a fascinating draw for travellers – myriad street-food tours and cooking schools
are testament to this. Geography plays a crucial role, with Chinese flavours influencing the
soups of the north, spices sparking up southern cuisine, and herbs and complex techniques
typifying the central coastline, rightly renowned as Vietnam’s epicurean hot spot. And up and
down the country you can mingle with villagers, sample local dishes and sip rice wine in Viet-
nam’s many regional markets.

Thrills & Chills
If you have the bills, Vietnam has the thrills and chills. Some require a little physical effort,
such as motorbiking switchback after switchback up the jaw-dropping Hai Van Pass in central
Vietnam. Others require even more sweat: kitesurfing the tropical oceanic waters off Mui Ne or
hiking the evergreen hills around Bac Ha or Sapa. And when you’re done with all that adrenaline
stuff, there’s plenty of horizontal ‘me’ time to relish. Vietnam has outstanding spas – from mar-
ble temples of treatments to simple family-run massage salons with backpacker-friendly rates.

AUSTRALIA

Australia is a wild and beautiful place, a land whose colour palette of red outback sands and
Technicolor reefs frames sophisticated cities and soulful Indigenous stories.

Hip Cities
Most Australians live along the coast, and most of these folks live in cities – 89% of Austral-
ians, in fact. It follows that cities here are a lot of fun. Sydney is the glamorous poster child with
world-class beaches and an otherwise glorious setting. Melbourne is all arts, alleyways and
a stellar food scene. Brisbane is a subtropical town on the way up, Adelaide has festive grace
and pubby poise. Boomtown Perth breathes West Coast optimism and Canberra showcases
so many cultural treasures, while the tropical northern frontier town of Darwin, and the chilly
southern sandstone city of Hobart, couldn’t be more different.

Wild Lands & Wild Life
Australia is an extraordinarily beautiful place, as rich in rainforest (from Far North Queensland
to far-south Tasmania) as it is in remote rocky outcrops like Uluru, Kakadu and the Kimber-
leys. The coastline, too, beset as it is with islands and deserted shores, is wild and wonderful.
Animating these splendid places is wildlife like nowhere else on the planet, a place of kangaroos
and crocodiles, of wombats and wallabies, platypus, crocodiles, dingoes and so much more.
Tracking these, and Australia’s 700-plus bird species, is enough to unearth your inner David At-
tenborough, even if you didn’t until now know you had one.

Epicurean Delights
Australia plates up a multicultural fusion of European techniques and fresh Pacific-rim ingredi-
ents – aka ‘Mod Oz’ (Modern Australian). Seafood plays a starring role − from succulent More-
ton Bay bugs to delicate King George whiting. Of course, beer in hand, you’ll still find beef, lamb
and chicken at Aussie barbecues. Don’t drink beer? Australian wines are world-beaters: punchy
Barossa Valley shiraz, Hunter Valley semillon and cool-climate Tasmanian sauvignon blanc.
Tasmania produces outstanding whisky too. Need a caffeine hit? You’ll find cafes everywhere,
coffee machines in petrol stations, and baristas in downtown coffee carts.

The Open Road
There’s a lot of tarmac across this wide brown land. From Margaret River to Cooktown, Jabiru
to Dover, the best way to appreciate Australia is to hit the road. Car hire is relatively affordable,
road conditions are generally good, and beyond the big cities traffic fades away. If you’re driving
a campervan, you’ll find well-appointed caravan parks in most sizable towns. If you’re feeling
adventurous, hire a 4WD and go off-road: Australia’s national parks and secluded corners are
custom-made for camping trips down the dirt road and classic desert tracks from Birdsville to
Cape York have adventure written all over them.

NEW ZEALAND

Get ready for mammoth national parks, dynamic Māori culture, and world-class surfing and ski-
ing. New Zealand can be mellow or action-packed, but it’s always epic.

Walk on the Wild Side
There are just 4.8 million New Zealanders, scattered across 268,021 sq km: bigger than the UK
with one-fourteenth of the population. Filling in the gaps are the sublime forests, mountains,
lakes, beaches and fiords that have made NZ one of the best hiking (locals call it ‘tramping’)
destinations on the planet. Tackle one of the epic ‘Great Walks’ – you might’ve heard of the
Heaphy and Milford Tracks – or spend a few hours wandering along a beach, paddling a canoe
or mountain biking through some easily accessible wilderness.

Māori Culture
New Zealand’s all-conquering All Blacks would never have become back-to-back rugby world
champions without their unstoppable Māori players. But this is just one example of how
Māori culture impresses itself on contemporary Kiwi life: across NZ you can hear Māori
language, watch Māori TV, join in a hāngi (Māori feast) or catch a cultural performance with
song, dance and a blood-curdling haka (war dance). Māori design continues to find expression
in tā moko,Māori tattooing (often applied to the face) and the delicate artistry of bone, shell
and pounamu(greenstone) sculpture.

The Real ‘Big Easy’
New Zealand isn’t a place where you encounter many on-the-road frustrations: buses and trains
generally run on time; main roads are in good nick; ATMs proliferate; pickpockets, scam mer-
chants and bedbug-ridden hostels are few and far between; and the food is unlikely to send you
running for the nearest public toilets (usually clean and stocked with the requisite paper). And
there are no snakes, and only one poisonous spider – the endangered katipo. This decent nation
is a place where you can relax and enjoy (rather than endure) your travels.

Food, Wine & Beer
British-influenced classics like fish and chips aren’t going anywhere, but NZ gastronomy has
come a long way, baby. Chefs in Auckland, Wellington and Napier borrow influences from as far
afield as South Pacific islands and Western Europe for creative takes on locally sourced lamb
and seafood like abalone, oysters and scallops. Meanwhile, the vegetarian and vegan food
scenes grow evermore prominent and inventive. Wash it all down with coffee culture, an edgy
craft-beer scene and legendary cool-climate wines (like sublime sauvignon blanc and pinot noir).

CROATIA

If your Mediterranean fantasies feature balmy days by sapphire waters in the shade of ancient
walled towns, Croatia is the place to turn them into reality.

Coastal Croatia
Croatia’s extraordinary island-speckled coastline is indisputably its main attraction. The first
thing that strikes you is the remarkable clarity of the water. When it’s set against a dazzling
white pebbly beach, it sparkles with a jewel-like intensity in shades of emerald and sapphire.
There are long sandy and shingly stretches too – perfect for lazy days spent lounging and
devouring trashy holiday novels. If that all sounds too relaxing, there are myriad water-based
activities at hand to lure you off your sun-lounger – snorkelling, diving, kayaking, windsurfing
and sailing, just for starters.

The Edge of Empires
Precariously poised between the Balkans and central Europe, this land has been passed be-
tween competing kingdoms, empires and republics for millennia. If there’s an upside to this con-
tinual dislocation, it’s in the rich cultural legacy that each has left behind. Venetian palazzi snug-
gle up to Napoleonic forts, Roman columns protrude from early Slavic churches, and Viennese
mansions face off with Socialist Realist sculpture. Excellent museums showcase treasures that
cover the gamut of European history, from the prehistoric to the post-communist, telling a story
that is in equal parts fascinating and horrifying.

Beauty on the Inside
Shift your gaze for just a moment from the glittering waters and chances are an almighty moun-
tain will loom into view. The Dinaric Alps, which stretch all the way from Italy to Albania, hug
much of the coast. The limestone karst has bequeathed a wonderland of craggy peaks, caverns,
river canyons, waterfalls and ridiculously picturesque lakes. Head further inland and things flat-
ten out again into rolling farmland. Active types will find plenty of chances to get among it on
the numerous hiking and biking trails, while the more adventurous can have a go at rock climb-
ing, rafting and zip-lining.

Cultural Feast
If you’re lucky enough to cross the tourist/guest barrier and be invited into a local’s home, you’ll
soon become acquainted with the refrain ‘Jedi! Jedi! Jedi!’ (Eat! Eat! Eat!). Sharing food and
drink plays a big part in the culture here, which speaks both to the nature of Croatian hospitality
and to the quality of local produce. Simple home-style cooking is a feature of family-run taverns,
but increasingly a new breed of chefs are bringing a more adventurous approach to the table.
Meanwhile, Croatian wines and olive oils are making their mark on the world stage, garnering
top awards.

ICELAND

Hitting headlines, topping bucket lists, wooing nature lovers and dazzling increasing numbers of
visitors – there seems no end to the talents of this breathtaking northern destination

A Symphony of Elements
An underpopulated island marooned near the top of the globe, Iceland is, literally, a country in
the making. It’s a vast volcanic laboratory where mighty forces shape the earth: geysers gush,
mudpots gloop, ice-covered volcanoes rumble and glaciers cut great pathways through the
mountains. Its supercharged splendour seems designed to remind visitors of their utter insig-
nificance in the greater scheme of things. And it works a treat: some crisp clean air, an eyeful of
the cinematic landscapes, and everyone is transfixed.

The Power of Nature
It’s the power of Icelandic nature to turn the prosaic into the extraordinary. A dip in a pool
becomes a soak in a geothermal lagoon; a casual stroll can transform into a trek across a glit-
tering glacier; and a quiet night of camping may mean front-row seats to the aurora borealis’
curtains of light, or the soft, pinkish hue of the midnight sun. Iceland has a transformative effect
on people, too – its sagas turned brutes into poets, and its stories of huldufólk (hidden people)
may make believers out of sceptics. Here you’ll find some of the world’s highest concentrations
of dreamers, authors, artists and musicians, all fuelled by their surrounds.

Nordic Nirvana A Personal Experience

Don’t for a minute think it’s all about the great outdoors. The counterpoint to so much natural The warmth of Icelanders is disarming, as is their industriousness – they’ve worked hard to
beauty is found in Iceland’s cultural life, which celebrates a literary legacy that stretches from recover from financial upheaval, and to transform Iceland into a destination that, thanks to its
medieval sagas to contemporary thrillers by way of Nobel Prize winners. Live music is every- popularity with visitors, can host more than seven times its population each year. Pause and
where, as is visual art, handicrafts and locavore cuisine. The world’s most northerly capital is consider a medium-sized city in your country – then give it far-flung universities, airports and
home to the kind of egalitarianism, green thinking and effortless style that its Nordic brethren hospitals to administer, 30-odd active volcanoes to monitor, and hundreds of hotels to run.
are famous for – all of which is wrapped in Iceland’s assured individuality. How might they cope? Could they manage as well as the Icelanders – and still have time left
over to create spine-tingling music and natty knitwear?

INDIA

A land of remarkable diversity – from ancient traditions and artistic heritage to magnificent landscapes and culinary
creations – India will ignite your curiosity, shake your senses and warm your soul.

The Great Outdoors
From the towering icy peaks of the northern mountains to the sun-washed beaches of the southern coast, India’s dra-
matic terrain is breathtaking. Along with abundant natural beauties, exquisite temples rise majestically out of pancake-
flat deserts and crumbling fortresses peer over plunging ravines. Aficionados of the great outdoors can scout for big
jungle cats on wildlife safaris, paddle in the shimmering waters of beautiful beaches, take blood-pumping treks high in
the Himalaya, or simply inhale pine-scented air on a meditative forest walk.

Food, Glorious Food
Brace yourself – you’re about to take one of the wildest culinary trips of your travelling life. Here you’ll fry, simmer,
sizzle, knead, roast and flip across a deliciously diverse repertoire of dishes. The hungry traveller can look forward to a
tasty smorgasbord of regionally distinct recipes, all with their own traditional preparation techniques and presentation
styles – from the competing flavours of masterfully marinated meats and thalis to the simple splendour of vegetarian
curries and deep-sea delights.

Expect the Unexpected

India tosses up the unexpected. This can be challenging, particularly for the first-time visitor: the
poverty is confronting, Indian bureaucracy can be exasperating and the crush of humanity may turn
the simplest task into a frazzling epic. Even veteran travellers find their nerves frayed at some point;
yet this is all part of the India ride. With an ability to inspire, frustrate, thrill and confound all at once,
adopting a ‘go with the flow’ attitude is wise if you wish to retain your sanity. Love it or loathe it – and
most travellers see-saw between the two – to embrace India’s unpredictability is to embrace its soul.

Simply Soul Stirring

Spirituality is the common characteristic painted across the vast and varied canvas that is contem-
porary India. The multitude of sacred sites and rituals are testament to the country’s long, colourful,
and sometimes tumultuous, religious history. And then there are its festivals! India hosts some of the
world’s most divine devotional celebrations – from formidable city parades celebrating auspicious
events on the religious calendar to simple village harvest fairs that pay homage to a locally wor-
shipped deity.

SLOVENIA

An earthly paradise of snow-capped peaks, turquoise-green rivers and Venetian-style coastline, Slovenia enriches its
natural treasures with harmonious architecture, charming rustic culture and sophisticated cuisine.

Jaw-Dropping Beauty

From the soaring peaks of the Julian Alps and the subterranean magic of Postojna and Škocjan caves, to the sparkling
emerald-green lakes and rivers and the short but sweet coastline along the Adriatic Sea, tiny Slovenia really does have
it all. An incredible mixture of climates brings warm Mediterranean breezes up to the foothills of the Alps, where it can
snow even in summer. And with more than half of its total surface still covered in forest, Slovenia does more than sim-
ply claim it’s ‘green’, it really is one of the greenest countries on earth.

Outdoor Pursuits

Slovenia is first and foremost an outdoor destination. Local people favour active holidays, and you’ll be invited – even
expected – to join in. The list of activities on offer is endless, with the most popular pursuits being skiing, walking and
hiking in the mountains, and increasingly, cycling. Fast rivers like the Soča cry out to be rafted and there are ample
chances to try out more niche activities like horse riding, ballooning, caving and canyoning. If all this sounds a bit much,

Architectural & Cultural Treasures A Matter of Taste

You might be forgiven for thinking that anything of beauty in this greenest of green lands is, Slovenian cooking borrows a little something from each of its neighbours – Italy, Austria,
well, all natural. But it isn’t necessarily so. Where man intrudes is often to good effect, such Hungary and the Balkans – synthesising and reinventing dishes that emerge both familiar and
as at Lake Bled, where a tiny baroque chapel on a picturesque island and a dramatic castle unique. Slovenians have an obsession for using only fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
looming above complete a harmonious whole. The architecture is wonderfully varied: from the The result is a terrific foodie destination, where you’ll sample dishes in unusual combinations,
Venetian harbour towns of the coast and the rustic Hungarian-style farmhouses of Prekmurje featuring items like scrumptious pasta dumplings of potato, chives and bacon, salads drizzled
to the Gothic churches of the Julian Alps and the art nouveau splendours of Ljubljana. The with nutty pumpkinseed oil, and multilayered gibanica, a wildly decadent dessert. Slovenian
museums are rich and the culture vibrant. wine is.

AUSTRIA River Deep, Mountain High

No country waltzes so effortlessly between the urban and the outdoors as Austria. One day The journey really is the destination in Austria. Perhaps yours will be a meandering one
you’re cresting alpine summits, the next you’re swanning around imperial Vienna. through deeply carved valleys, on railways that unzip the Alps to thread improbably along
sheer mountain flanks, past glaciers and through flower-freckled meadows. Chances are,
Cue High Culture however, that such lyrical landscapes will have you itching to leap onto a bicycle saddle or
lace up hiking boots to reach those enticingly off-the-radar corners of the country. In winter,
Over centuries, the Habsburgs channelled immense wealth into the fine arts and music, collect- the slopes hum with skiers and boarders, while summer beckons white-water rafters and
ing palaces and castles the way others do stamps. You’ll still feel their cultural reverberations canyoners to glacial rivers and lakes that sparkle like gemstones. Der Berg ruft – the moun-
in Austria today – be it watching Lipizzaner stallions prance at the Spanish Riding School, or tain calls!
crossing the Hofburg to eyeball Rubens masterpieces in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, or
Klimt and Schiele at the MuseumsQuartier. The work of classical pop stars such as Mozart,
Strauss, Mahler, Haydn and Schubert echo as loudly as ever at lavishly gilded concert halls,
and music festivals like Salzburg Festival and Bregenzer Festspiele are staged against uplifting
lakeside or mountain backdrops.

Baroque And Beyond Food At the Source

Austria might conjure visions of wedding-cake-like baroque churches, dripping with lavish Guess what? There’s more to Austrian cuisine than boot-sized schnitzels and dumplings
detail, palatial Hapsburg headquarters like Schloss Schönnbrunn, and Gothic crowning glories heavier than bowling balls. The country has come on in culinary leaps and bounds recently,
like the Stephansdom. But the country is more than the sum of its pomp and palaces. A fresh while staying true to its ethos of careful local sourcing. Vegan, organic, foraged, Slow Food:
breath of architectural air and a feel of new-found cool is sweeping through the cities, bring- they are more than just buzzwords. Whether you’re at a farmers market, a retro-style deli, a
ing with it a happy marriage of the contemporary and historic. Some of the most eye-catching cool new brunch spot or a Michelin-starred restaurant, the love of the land shines through time
icons are actually the newbies: Vienna’s MuseumsQuartier in revamped imperial stables, the and again. Asparagus in spring, Marille (apricots) in summer, mushrooms, game and new wine
colour-shifting giant Rubik’s Cube that is Ars Electronica in Linz and the sci-fi ready Kunsthaus in autumn – Austria likes its food to swing with the seasons and taste of the source.
Graz. Prepare to see Austria in a whole new light.

UNITED STATES
OF AMERICA

The great American experience is about so many things: bluegrass and beaches, snow-covered peaks and redwood forests,
restaurant-loving cities and big open skies.

Bright Lights, Big Cities

America is the birthplace of LA, Las Vegas, Chicago, Miami, Boston and New York City – each a brimming metropolis whose
name alone conjures a million different notions of culture, cuisine and entertainment. Look more closely, and the American
quilt unfurls in all its surprising variety: the eclectic music scene of Austin, the easygoing charms of antebellum Savannah,
the eco-consciousness of free-spirited Portland, the magnificent waterfront of San Francisco and the captivating French
Quarter of jazz-loving New Orleans. Each city adds its unique style to the grand patchwork that is America.

On the Road Again

This is a country of road trips and great open skies, where 4 million miles of highways lead past red-rock deserts, below tow-
ering mountain peaks and through fertile wheat fields that roll off toward the horizon. The sun-bleached hillsides of the Great
Plains, the lush rainforests of the Pacific Northwest, the sultry swamplands of the South and the scenic country lanes of New
England are a few fine starting points for the great American road trip. Veer off the interstate often to discover the bucolic
‘blue highways’ of lore.

Food-Loving Nation Cultural Behemoth

On one evening in the US, thick barbecue ribs come piping hot at a Texas roadhouse, while chefs blend Guess what? There’s more to Austrian cuisine than boot-sized schnitzels and dumplings
organic produce with Asian accents at award-winning West Coast restaurants. Locals get their fix of heavier than bowling balls. The country has come on in culinary leaps and bounds recently,
bagels and lox at a century-old deli in Manhattan’s Upper West Side and, several states away, plump while staying true to its ethos of careful local sourcing. Vegan, organic, foraged, Slow Food:
pancakes and fried eggs disappear under the clatter of cutlery at a 1950s-style diner. Steaming plates they are more than just buzzwords. Whether you’re at a farmers market, a retro-style deli, a
of lobster from a Maine pier, oysters and champagne from a California wine bar, Korean tacos out of a cool new brunch spot or a Michelin-starred restaurant, the love of the land shines through time
Portland food truck – these are just a few ways to dine à la Americana. and again. Asparagus in spring, Marille (apricots) in summer, mushrooms, game and new wine
in autumn – Austria likes its food to swing with the seasons and taste of the source.

CANADA

Canada is more than its hulking-mountain, craggy-coast good looks: it also cooks extraordinary meals, rocks cool cul-
ture and unfurls wild, moose-spotting road trips

The Great Outdoors

The globe’s second-biggest country has an endless variety of landscapes. Sky-high mountains, glinting glaciers, spec-
tral rainforests and remote beaches are all here, spread across six times zones. It’s the backdrop for plenty of ah-inspir-
ing moments – and for a big cast of local characters. That’s big as in polar bears, grizzly bears, whales and, everyone’s
favorite, moose.The terrain also makes for a fantastic playground. Whether it’s snowboarding Whistler’s mountains,
surfing Nova Scotia’s swells or kayaking the white-frothed South Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories, adventures
abound. There are gentler options, too, like strolling Vancouver’s Stanley Park or swimming off Prince Edward Island’s
pink-sand beaches.

Captivating Cultures

Sip a café au lait and tear into a flaky croissant at a sidewalk bistro in Montréal; head to an Asian night market and
slurp noodles in Vancouver; join a wild-fiddling Celtic party on Cape Breton Island; kayak between rainforest-cloaked
Aboriginal villages on Haida Gwaii: Canada is incredibly diverse across its breadth and within its cities. You’ll hear it in
the music, see it in the arts and taste it in the cuisine.

Foodie Fare Artistic Flair

Canada is a local food smorgasbord. If you grazed from west to east across the country, you’d The arts are an integral part of Canada’s cultural landscape. You’ll find it from the International Fringe
fill your plate like this: wild salmon and velvety scallops in British Columbia, poutine (golden Theater Festival (the world’s second-largest) in Edmonton to mega museums like Ottawa’s National Gal-
fries topped with gravy and cheese curds) in Québec, and lobster with a dab of melted butter in lery. Montreal’s Jazz Festival and Toronto’s star-studded Film Festival draw global crowds. And did you
the Maritime provinces. Tastemakers may not tout Canadian food the way they do, say, Italian know Ontario’s Stratford Festival is the continent’s largest classical repertory theater? Even places you
or French fare, so let’s just call the distinctive seafood, piquant cheeses, and fresh, seasonal might not automatically think of – say, St John’s or Woody Point – put on renowned shindigs (an avant-
fruits and veggies our little secret. Ditto for the award-winning bold reds and crisp whites pro- garde ‘sound symposium’ and a big-name writers festival, respectively).
duced from the country’s vine-striped valleys.


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