In the Atacama Desert, it’s not hard to imagine that you’re on another planet. With the flat, crystal whiteness of the salt flats stretching into the distance, and bizarre, rocky outcrops towering overhead, this is Planet Earth like you’ve never seen it before. But what is there to do in this other-worldly landscape? Here are our top 5 activities in the Atacama Desert… Stargazing Few of us have seen a night sky untouched by light pollution, and yet in the Atacama Desert in Chile, it’s as simple as stepping outside and looking up. A deep, velvety blackness stretches and rolls around you, heavy on the horizon but lifting into miles of brilliant, bright shards. The stars here aren’t just dim lights, but stud out shapes and constellations for you to admire. We recommend taking a night-time walk when the moon is full, to enjoy ghostly views of the incredible landscape…
The isolated Rapa Nui – or Easter Island, as it is perhaps better known – is an island located deep in the South Pacific, and one that is simply teeming with outstanding nature, surprising secrets and a remarkable history that make it oh so worth a visit. Here are 5 interesting facts about this mystifying corner of the world. It was the first Pacific island to be registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.. The enormous stone statues that call Easter Island home remain – to this day – as one of the world’s greatest mysteries. Estimated to have been built somewhere between the 10th and 16th centuries, no-one knows exactly why, when or how these incredible statues were built, nor the details behind the mysterious rise and fall of a clearly advanced and prosperous civilization. The entire island was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995. It is home to…
Although we are unable to travel at the moment, you can still discover the joys of Latin America from the comfort of your home. Each week we’ll be posting inspiration from a different destination in Latin America, sharing movies, music, books and recipes to pique your interest, and, this weeks destination is the vast, varied and utterly stunning – Chile. Stretching almost half the length of South America, Chile is home to both the driest desert in the world and to endless, spectacular glacier fields. A land of diverse landscapes, its a country framed by the epic Andes mountain range and the dramatic Pacific coastline, and it has something to offer every taste and budget. Delve deeper into Chile’s wonders with our favourite inspiring read, film and recipe below. Watch:#IDreamOfChile video from Chile Tourist Board Now is a time to pause, but those landscapes you’ve been longing to visit will still be here, more beautiful than ever, waiting…
Although we are unable to travel at the moment, you can still discover the joys of Latin America from the comfort of your home, with movies, music, books and recipes to pique your interest in this diverse region of the world. Our team have chosen some of their favourite Latin American ‘things’. We hope they inspire you! Watch: The Motorcycle Diaries This famous biopic is about Che Guevara’s journey around Latin America, and follows him, with his friend in tow, along an ambitious route through Argentina, the Andes, Chile, the Peruvian Amazon and and Machu Picchu. Gael García Berna plays Guevara in this brilliant movie about the revolutionary’s early life. Read: Cien años de soledad (One Hundred Years of Solitude) Mixing myths, dreams and reality, this novel immediately became a best seller, amazing its readers with a new form of expression that critics called realismo magico (magical realism). Its Colombian author,…
Our Travel Specialist Thomas has returned from a recent trip to Colombia where he found himself faced by a question… Why visit Colombia? I am asked as we board the bus from Bogota airport to our hotel. I’ve rarely arrived somewhere to be asked to think about why, as a visitor, I am there in the first place. Our guide, Pedro, perched over a seat and grasping his microphone as we swerve through traffic, hypothesises: What draws travellers to Colombia? Why is its popularity growing constantly? How much is Narcos responsible for the peak in interest? Here I retreat, conscious of how irksome it must be for Colombians when naive Westerners profane wanting to ‘walk-in Pablo Escobar’s steps’. But far from vilifying Narcos as a negative portrayal of a country through its dark history, Pedro talks of embracing the opportunity that such programmes as Narcos have given the country to…
After more than 14 hours of flying to Manaus, we had finally reached the heart of the Amazon! However, our journey had just begun, as Lydia and I were met at the airport for our 30-minute transfer to the port, then we swapped to travel by boat to cross the famous ‘Meeting of the Waters’; the stunning natural phenomenon where the waters which make up the Amazon river meet. After another road transfer, we boarded our final mode of transport to reach Juma Lodge – an incredible hour-long boat journey which sped through flooded canopies, then wide expanses of the Amazon where we could hardly make out the other bank of the river! We arrived at Juma, a remote and idyllic lodge set on stilts and made up of walkways and individual bungalows. Friendly monkeys roam along the walkways, while caimans sunbathe in the river beneath your feet and iguanas…
Bolivia is unlike any country in South America. Around every corner is a new delight, from bustling markets to other-worldly landscapes, and the unique Bolivian culture is one that will stay with you for a lifetime. See locals in indigenous dress walking the streets of the capital, photograph the crystalline lands of Salar de Uyuni, or take a dive at the world’s highest lake in search of ancient ruins. Whatever you decide to do during your visit to Bolivia, we’ve put together five tips for making the most of your time and dealing with the uniquely Bolivian idiosyncrasies you may come across during your travels. 1. Learn to be patient The pace of life in Bolivia may be entirely different than what you are used to back home. Patience will serve you well while travelling the country, as everything from public transport to restaurant service runs on its own…
Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic places in South America. It is a mystical place full of history, hidden deep in the Andean Mountains. The high quality of the stonework and the mystery surrounding it makes it a must-see for many people. For this same reason, some may choose to skip Machu Picchu as they feel it is too full of tourists. Nevertheless, I think that most people will find a connection with the citadel, whether that is due to its rich history, the beautiful scenery or for spiritual reasons. For me, Machu Picchu was incredible. It hadn’t always been on the top of my ‘bucket list’. In fact, the first time I thought about visiting Machu Picchu was five years ago. I was sitting in my room listening to the song ‘Machu Picchu’ by The Strokes and I thought to myself, ‘imagine if you could listen to…
Southeast Brazil is known for its affinity with nature. Greenery, the deep blue sea and golden, sandy beaches combine to give you the ultimate experience in relaxation. The city of Florianopolis is also available to explore along with the beautiful surrounding area. However, some of the hotels e have on offer might make you think twice about leaving at all… Ponta Dos Ganchos, Santa Catarina Located on a private peninsula in Santa Catarina, 40kms from Florianopolis, this tropical hideaway is certainly a luxury retreat. As exclusive as it is beautiful, it is located amongst secluded beaches and stunning rainforest. The highlight, however, is the view from your window – under unbroken blue skies lies an incredible vista out over the sea, with the mountains framing the horizon. The hotel itself features 25 cabana-style bungalows (some of which have plunge pools for you to relax in) and a range of facilities…
An incredibly beautiful region with close links to nature, Southeast Brazil is known both as an area to relax in, but also has no shortage of nightlife to keep you occupied in the evening. A great idea if you’re looking to escape the trials and tribulations of city life without sacrificing the small luxuries associated with it. The Area The majority of the beaches in the Southeast region of Brazil are based around the beautiful city of Florianopolis, a unique city situated mainly on an island but linked to the mainland by a network of bridges. This city has a lively feel and is well-known as a party town, but also has areas that cater for those looking for peace and quiet, as well as over 40 secluded, sandy beaches for all to enjoy. Florianopolis is also known as one of the best places for surfing in the whole of Brazil, with consistently good…
