Ecuador's colonial towns and cities are undeniably alluring, but the countryside is worth planning a whole trip around. Breathtakingly diverse, it encompasses 11 national parks, beaches, cloud forest, and active volcanoes. Discover a variety of landscapes with this handy guide to the best of the Ecuadorian countryside.
Japan is made up of hundreds of islands that extend for nearly 2,000 miles (3,210 km). How many days should you spend exploring, and where should you focus your time? From an action-packed four days in Japan to a leisurely three-week itinerary, here are some suggestions for making the most of your time in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Most visitors to Japan hit up Kyoto's temples, Tokyo's shopping streets, and Osaka's food scene—but there's much more to this country than what you'll find in its cities. Soak in natural hot springs, hike through primeval forest, and spot wildlife on a pristine chain of islands with these under-the-radar suggestions.
The sunny, laid-back island of Okinawa is not just a tropical paradise: it's also a foodie heaven with its own unique set of flavors and a famously healthy diet. Whet your palate with this guide to some of the island's classic dishes, and learn where you can try them.
There are nearly 1,200 fjords along Norway's western coast and this trip covers the cream of the crop — Lysefjord, Sognefjord, and Geirangerfjord — using a mix of fun travel modes to amp up the adventure factor. These majestic gems provide the setting for activities like hiking, biking, and sea kayaking. You'll explore everything from tiny fjord-side villages to diverse cities like Oslo, Bergen, Ålesund, and Trondheim.
Sample some of the world's best wines as you circle around Mont Blanc from Switzerland to Italy to France. Visit vineyards nestled in the idyllic countryside in the foothills of the Alps, where ancient grape varieties still produce rare and high-quality wines. Taste local wines in the terraced hills of Lavaux, Switzerland, and toast to the breathtaking views from Pointe Helbronner in France with a glass of Cuvée des Guides — moments and wines to be remembered!
A chain of mountainous islands stretching from the tropics to the Sea of Okhotsk, Japan is home to some of the most beautiful scenery on earth—from active volcanoes and hilly snowscapes to cascading waterfalls and bright pink cherry blossoms. Here are just a few of the natural highlights you can experience on a trip to the country.
Okinawa's attractions have something for everyone. They cater to cocktail-sipping beach bums, history buffs, and active adventurers alike. The island is fairly small, so even a long weekend can make for a refreshing breath of tropical air.
From the glistening backwaters of Kerala to the dreamy lakes and gardens of Udaipur, India has a rich heritage that is best experienced in person. To really explore the country, skip the run-of-the-mill hotel and consider these unique lodging options, such as staying in a luxury tent in Ranthambore or a homestay on a Keralan farm, for a truly one-of-a-kind immersion.
With delicious food, rich cultures, and stunning scenery, India has plenty of opportunities for unforgettable family adventures. You can meet rescued elephants in an animal sanctuary or celebrate cultural festivals like Holi or Diwali. From the misty tea plantations of Darjeeling to the colorful markets of Mumbai, this vibrant and diverse country makes for an awe-inspiring destination.
Check off three memorable cities on this whirlwind 10-day tour, starting with Bogotá's Spanish colonial sites and buzzing nightlife. You'll then fly to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight at a coffee farm, where you'll hike the green mountains of Cocora Valley, dotted with towering palm trees. From here, head to Medellín—a city with outdoor art and spring-like weather—before ending on the Caribbean coast, where you'll explore the romantic streets of Cartagena's Old Town.
This sweeping Colombian itinerary covers major highlights from the country's Caribbean coast all the way to the Ecuadorian border. Start off with two relaxing days where you can unwind in a protected national park with white-sand beaches and tropical rainforests. Continue making your way through three of South America's most scenic and important cities — Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá — eventually heading south towards lesser-known destinations known for gorgeous Baroque architecture, salsa dancing, and a Gothic church built into a gorge.
Travelers headed to Bhutan will find great lodging options in its towns and quiet valleys alike. You'll have your pick of beautiful hotels complete with local design details, scenic views, and even spas. From cozy renovated farmhouses to affordable luxury, here are seven unmissable boutique hotels in Bhutan.
Havana is brim-full of lodging options, from 1950s mobster-era hotels to simple room rentals. For the most rewarding experience, opt for one of the newer, chic boutique hotels or private bed-and-breakfasts, some offering concierge service.
Cuba is the largest of the Caribbean islands and a dream destination unto itself. It's spectacularly scenic, and packed with cultural experiences and fun activities. If you have a week to spend, try one of these expertly crafted itineraries.
Cuba is a complex country filled with limitless options for discovery and adventure—and for travelers, this begs many questions. What's it like traveling in the countryside? Are there restrictions? What's the food like? Here are the answers to these and more of your most pressing questions about Cuba.
Havana is one of the most fascinating cities on the planet. It’s also the biggest in the entire Caribbean—both by area and population—so it’s a good idea to plan how to spend your time. Follow these suggestions to experience the best of Havana in one unforgettable day.
Lima offers history, world-class museums, an unbeatable foodie scene, and the second-largest cityscape in South America. Not sure where to start? To the rescue: a foolproof plan for a perfect day in the Peruvian capital.
Perfect for first-timers, this smart, action-packed itinerary begins in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá and then makes its way to the Caribbean coast. Along the route, you'll drive through the Andean highlands visiting preserved colonial towns, fly to the up-and-coming city of Medellín — and then hike through Tayrona Park to get to white-sand beaches and turquoise sea. Spend your last three nights in the romantic UNESCO-listed Old Town of Cartagena, founded in 1533.
Colombia is a land for dreamers, and those dreaming of outdoor excursions will not be disappointed. If high-endurance, multi-day trekking isn't your thing, don't worry—there are shorter options in every corner of the nation. No matter the environment in which you find yourself, rest assured that lush scenery and stellar viewpoints abound.
The surreal landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is one of Brazil's many treasures, and this 6-day hiking itinerary will take you straight into the heart of this natural phenomenon. Rise early to catch stunning sunrises and trek through tall, white sand dunes dotted with thousands of freshwater lagoons that form in the rainy season. Enjoy quiet evenings and drift to sleep in a swaying hammock amid the sounds of nature.
Go off the beaten path on this moderately easy hike around Þríhyrningur and its incredible, historic landscape. Camp out overnight at the foot of the mountain and share your favorite stories from the day as you sit around the campfire. Explore the stunning Þórsmörk valley, see remote farmsteads, and discover the Vikings' former hiding spots.
It's hard not to fall in love with Cuba. Set to a soundtrack of jazz, rumba, and salsa, it's a place where icy mojitos flow freely, classic cars cruise the streets, and historic hotels evoke the glamour of a bygone era. The perfect place, in other words, for a romantic getaway just after your wedding.
Discover Greece's hidden treasures on this action-packed adventure. Hike the tallest mountains in the Peloponnese, paddle the beautiful Mani Peninsula, and scale the heights of ancient Sparta's Mount Taygetus. Complete your trip with a swim at the southernmost point of mainland Europe.
Visit the world-renowned sea sports paradise of Paros and Naxos islands for 8 days of oceanside hikes, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. And when you're not taking on all the active adventures the islands have to offer? Explore the unique local architecture, delectable cuisine, cosmopolitan nightlife, and impressive archaeological sites.
This fast-paced winter trip through Norway's icy north features a stack of unique Arctic activities and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Each day presents another opportunity for unreal snowy views and a connection with local culture. Snorkel with orcas, dogsled with a team of huskies, stay overnight in an Indigenous Sámi tent, and best of all, get multiple chances to see the northern lights—including on horseback.
The island of Cuba is lined with white sandy beaches and surrounded by turquoise Caribbean waters. But it takes a little effort — and some dedicated travel planning — to break away from the crowds and find your own slice of paradise. Follow this handy guide to the best beaches in Cuba and you'll be relaxing under a palm tree in no time.
Cuba, an island measuring 780 miles end to end, is much larger than many visitors imagine. With its diverse ecosystems and cultural distinctions among regions, you could easily fill several weeks with exploration. Have limited time? Not to worry: you can discover Havana's highlights in just a matter of days.
Peru's cuisine has been hitting the headlines in restaurants around the world for a while now, and rightly so: its colorful, spicy takes on meat, fish, and potato dishes are one-of-a-kind. This journey into Peru's fascinating gastronomy identifies the best of the must-try foods and the ideal places to sample them.
Make your way through some of Scandinavia's most spectacular landscapes and connect with Norwegian culture in the two biggest cities on this 10-day trip. It starts with a train ride from Oslo that connects you to a three-day trek in the brilliant Aurlandsdalen Valley. From here, ride a scenic ferry to Bergen via the famous Sognefjord, then grab a rental car to make your way to coastal villages and mountain towns on your way back to the capital.
Hiking enthusiasts will love this 10-day summer adventure in Central Norway's great outdoors. You'll climb several of the best summits with a guide, and take memorable drives through mountains, fjord-side villages, and working farms. There's also time to hit the water with a kayak in the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord and take a rafting trip in the Driva River. Plus, with overnight stops in Oslo and Trondheim, you'll experience just the right dose of urban fun.
This relaxing summer itinerary checks off Norway's three biggest cities, traveling by train, ferry, and fjord cruise for a true Scandinavian adventure. Spend a night in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund, explore cultural sites and cool neighborhoods with a guide, and take advantage of great hiking, biking, and stand-up paddleboarding along the way.
Rio de Janeiro isn't called Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City) for nothing. For a mega-metropolis, it boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. Whether you prefer to stay in the city or venture out, there are plenty of ways to spend a day: visit Petrópolis, lounge on the beaches of Buzios, or hike to instagram-worthy viewpoints within the city limits.
Originally designed for the Prince of Wales, this easy trek takes you on quiet, off-the-beaten-path trails through the foothills of the Pokhara Valley. From the ridge lines and local villages where you'll stay each night, you'll have stunning views of the Annapurna Himalaya and experience a more rural and traditional side of Nepal.
Over 900 miles southwest of Tokyo, Okinawa-hontō—Okinawa's main island—anchors the lesser-known string of islands straddling Japan's two southernmost prefectures. For those who fancy a beach holiday on their grand tour of Japan, its tropical climate and unique Ryūkyūan culture are just a two-hour flight from Tokyo.
From glacial climbing on snow-capped Chimborazo to an easy hike up Rucu Pichincha, Ecuador offers a tantalizing range of peaks to conquer. There are mountains and volcanoes to suit all levels for climbers and trekkers alike, and Ecuador's lakes, foothills, and extinct craters offer up endless variety.
Follow the Þórsmörk, Fimmvörðuháls, and Þríhyrningur hiking and biking routes through stunning valleys, along exposed ridges, and across gravelly rivers. Trek next to the powerful Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which caused international air traffic mayhem when it erupted in 2010. Visit the isolated Troll Church, a speck of white architecture in a landscape of fire and ice. These day hikes are designed to take you through incredible scenery and give you a varied experience of Iceland's dramatic landscape.
From the world's highest capital in the Andean highlands to the lush Amazon rainforest, Bolivia's natural wonders enchant visitors. Explore the hilly streets of La Paz, visit a community-based agritourism village run by indigenous artisans, and walk along the shores of Lake Titicaca, the second-largest lake in South America. Then float down a jungle river on a log raft and see a wide variety of wildlife in the Bolivian Amazon, including capybaras, macaws, caimans, anacondas, and the unique pink river dolphin.
Discover Rio de Janeiro: a vibrant and diverse city where emerald blue water, inky green forest, and rocky mountains meet. Explore the lush Costa Verde and the picturesque colonial town of Paraty and visit the island of Ilha Grande to relax on dreamy beaches and enjoy a private boat tour. Get up close to the magnificent Iguazu Falls in all their thundering glory.
Crescent-shaped islands surrounded by deep blue sea, Japan has everything from Buddhist temples to great beaches. Home to both a robot restaurant and an ancient rainforest, it's beautiful, diverse, and never boring. Here are ten essential things to do in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Sip coca tea, chat with vendors in colorful markets, and stay in a historic hacienda: from souvenirs to countryside cuisine, here are some ideas for experiencing authentic Ecuador.
This 10-day Chilean itinerary combines city life, nature hikes, and wine tasting. Lose yourself in the cosmopolitan city of Santiago as you explore it on a city tour, visit Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, then head to southern Patagonia to hike in the amazing Torres del Paine National Park. End your trip with a relaxing stay at a charming vineyard, where you'll enjoy wine tasting, horseback riding, cycling, trekking, and other excursions.
Travel to Brazil's Pantanal region for an exotic birdwatching adventure in the world's largest tropical wetland. Avid birders will spot the iconic jabiru—the symbol of the Pantanal—the blue hyacinth macaw, and the roseate spoonbill, among dozens of others. Learn the secrets of this fascinating environment through its abundant wildlife and stunning marsh landscapes.
The Icelandic Highlands are home to some of the most spectacular scenery and breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Trek the famous Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls trails, camp in the Valley of Thor, and walk through volcanic valleys and canyons on this epic week-long adventure.
Grab your hiking boots — this 5-day adventure highlights an epic trek in central Colombia's rainforests. But first, the trip starts (and ends) in the progressive city of Medellín, a place with a rising culinary and art gallery scene, as well as perpetual spring-like weather. Explore the city by foot and gondola, and check out a wave of construction projects happening in every neighborhood. Then set out on a 3-day trek through Colombia’s last untouched tropical humid rainforests staying in local farmhouses, before returning to Medellín's great bars and restaurants.
This rugged 10-day trip is ideal for those who want to focus on nature and the outdoors, as it highlights two of the country's biggest natural attractions. Start with a four-day trek to Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a mountain range close to the Caribbean sea. Dubbed 'the new Machu Picchu', this challenging journey reaches the archaeological ruins of Teyuna -- accessible by steep climbs and several river crossings. Continue the adventure with a sailing trip in the Caribbean Sea, and then spend two days exploring Tayrona National Park. Finish the adventure with a relaxing float on the Don Diego River.
This classic itinerary covers Colombia's Zona Cafetera (coffee zone), bookended by two of Latin America’s most exciting cities. The adventure starts in striking Medellín, where you'll explore this up-and-coming metropolis with a local guide. You'll then drive to the heart of the coffee region and stay overnight at a working farm. Enjoy a day in Salento with a guided hike through stunning green mountains before flying north to Cartagena, where you'll have time to hit the narrow streets of this colonial inner-walled city. Conclude your week with a free day on the coast — perhaps a speedboat ride to the Rosario Islands for white-sand beaches.
This fun 5-day adventure hits two major highlights along Colombia's northern coast. First, you'll experience the culture and fairy-tale romance of Cartagena's Old Town, an inner-walled city oozing with colonial architecture and history, not to mention hip hotels and rooftop bars. Then drive east towards Santa Marta to spend a few days at Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona (Tayrona Park) for a slice of South America's prettiest coastline. Explore on your own or take a guided tour of the park's hiking trails and exotic beaches.
Visit Santa Claus's hometown (Rovaniemi) and fall in love with winter sports haven Ylläs on this snow-dusted winter wonderland adventure above the Arctic Circle! Snuggle a husky, pose for a selfie with a reindeer, snowshoe through the wilderness, participate in epic snowball fights, and hunt for the elusive, magical northern lights.
From the Corcovado to Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana to Ipanema, this whirlwind tour will sweep you through the best, most famous, and most beautiful beaches, neighborhoods, and mountains that Rio de Janeiro has to offer. Cycle along the endless beaches, hike the largest urban forest in the world, and learn how to cook with Brazilian flare and flavors.
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