I do not believe it is an overstatement to describe a visit to a polar region as a trip of a lifetime. And I believe that if you visit one end of the earth you will feel an inexorable pull to visit the other. Well, that is what I, a couple of my colleagues, and many of our clients have discovered over the last few years, and this has led to the development of our dedicated team of Polar cruising specialists.
The easiest way to visit a polar region is on a cruise, in our summer time to the Arctic and in our winter time to Antarctica, but these cruises are unlike any other. They are journeys of generally between 7 and 21 days on boats specially designed for navigating these waters.
If you are unsure which to visit first, then I would say where better to start than with a simple question: polar bears or penguins?
During the two years that I lived in New Zealand, spring was my favourite season. Clear, crisp days with the sun shimmering off the remaining snow on the mountain peaks, and a landscape revived by the snow-melt: burgeoning rivers, deep green hillsides and birds, plants and people alike shedding their winter shells and stretching their limbs for the months ahead. Even a cold winter doesn’t stop the Kiwis enjoying their beautiful outdoors, but spring brings renewed energy and a feeling that, perhaps, it’s just about warm enough to head back to the water for a surf or to disappear into the wilderness for some off-the-beaten-track walking.
Sri Lanka, otherwise known as the “Pearl in the Indian Ocean”, may be small but the attractions of this tropical island are vast. With a history dating back as far as the 4th century BC, the country is home to numerous religions and within its varied landscapes can be found a rich array of animal and bird life as well as friendly people and excellent food. When planning a trip to Sri Lanka, the country can easily be divided into four distinct regions and the time spent in each depends on your thirst for culture, scenery, wildlife or time relaxing on the beach.
Newfoundland feels like the end of the world. For many, the name conjures an image of a barren bulk of rock lurking in the fog somewhere in the North Atlantic. Glimpsed from an aircraft, its stark outline is often surrounded by specks of ice.
A symbol of Brazil’s strong Catholic faith, the arms of ‘O Redentor’, Christ the Redeemer, embrace the city of Rio de Janeiro, its beaches, forested hills, homes, hotels and all those in it. On July 7th 2007, the concrete and soapstone statue was voted one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ and it is undeniably deserving of its prestige as a local, national and international icon.
The Mekong covers over 4,300 kilometres as it navigates its passage from the Tibetan plateau to the South China Sea. The latter part of this journey is spent meandering through Indochina, forming the lifeblood of this diverse region. Here our Indochina specialists explore some of their favourite highlights along the way.
The beauty of Indonesia is to be found in its sheer diversity. The country is the world’s largest archipelago, consisting of 17,000 islands with a population of over 245 million. The people practise a vast array of religions and, although
officially a Muslim country, any tour of Indonesia will lead to encounters with Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, Confucians and even Animists.
The sheer breadth of religions reflects the various waves of immigration to the country from many parts of Asia and beyond. This melting pot of cultures, beliefs and traditions makes the country a fascinating place to visit. To compliment this, the country is blessed with the verdant volcanic landscapes of Java; abundant wildlife including the endangered orang-utans of Sumatra and Kalimantan; and the white sand beaches of Bali and Lombok, to name just a few.
Diversity does bring one drawback and that is how to decide on what to see in a country with seemingly limitless options. Here we simplify the process, outlining the main highlights on the larger islands, explaining how these can be combined and highlight some outstanding offers.
When originally tasked with setting up Audley’s Australia programme, the company ethos of authentic, cultural, off-the beaten-track tours and experiences rang loudly in my ears. I’ll admit I was just a little worried.
Andrew Hunt, Audley’s North Africa & Arabia Programme Manager, describes why he thinks the Nile is the most famous river in the world.
The dramatic Alaskan coastline is rich with wildlife and natural beauty; Audley’s Elizabeth Beeson explores the coast and describes the various types of cruise ships available on this wonderful journey.
Australia is widely portrayed as a land of amazing diversity and, thanks to the recent screening of the ‘Australia’ blockbuster movie, the country’s rugged landscapes and vast outback scenery have been the recipients of a bag of well-deserved plaudits. Whilst cinemas and tourism campaigns have been filled with a glossy and romantic portrayal of the Aussie outback dream, Australia’s ‘second city’ sits patiently in the state of Victoria, ready to be discovered. Here there is a stark contrast to the roughly hewn cattle-drover and dusty outback image portrayed on screen.
Dan Snow, TV presenter and respected historian, travelled to New Zealand with Audley. His trip was created to combine breathtaking scenery, exhilarating experiences, and of course an insight into the surprisingly rich history of this relatively young country. Dan’s account of his trip brings to life many of the reasons to visit this amazing country, whilst demonstrating that you don’t have to be an ancient country to have a culturally rich past.
Audley’s Mark Garrett answers some common questions about travelling to the Galapagos Islands.
Polar Bears are one of the world’s iconic wildlife sights and a must see for any visitor to Canada and the Arctic. James Butler, Audley’s Canada & Alaska Manager, explains how and where to see these wonderful animals.
It’s a happy coincidence that many of South Africa’s highlights lie upon a clearly defined, easily navigable route, a coincidence that makes it a great destination for first-time visitors. Here is a bit of an introduction to those highlights and how to stitch them all together.
Vietnam has witnessed a huge transition over the last 20 years, once a destination for the more intrepid traveller, it’s now becoming one of the most popular destinations in the region. Craig Burkinshaw, Managing Director, shares some of his early travelling experiences and demonstrates how these changes have benefited the visiting traveller.
Fall is a magical time to visit Canada, and Ontario is no exception. Fiona Pearce’s recent visit started with the iconic Niagara Falls and she then moved on to explore lesser-known parks, wildlife and culture.
Deep in China’s southwest and more than a thousand miles from Beijing, Yunnan has its own unique personality. In a landscape that ranges from sub-tropical jungle to glacial mountain panoramas, this beautiful region is coloured by minority tribes who introduce cultural traces from Burma, Thailand and Tibet. Chris Moore introduces the highlights of his favourite part of China.
From a traditional bach to a luxury villa, Lucy Harrison looks into New Zealand’s newest style of accommodation which encourages visitors to take their time and enjoy the country from the comfort of their own ‘home’.
Threatened on every side by palm oil plantations and logging camps, Borneo’sMaliau Basin is a vital rainforest refuge for 1,800 species of flora and a vast array of wildlife. Nick Ghosh treks into its heart.
Peru’s prices keep rising, but it’s still possible to explore this rewarding destination without breaking the bank. Our Regional Manager for Peru, Mark Garrett, discusses good value options for discovering this wonderful country.
Warmed by the waters of the Malabar Coast and sheltered from the bustling interior by the mountainous range of the Western Ghats, Kerala is a fertile rural paradise that bills itself as ‘God’s own country’. It’s a land ruled by nature, with an easy-going ambience and sense of ease: ideal for a complete restorative getaway but with plenty to do and see. Here our Kerala specialists share some of the reasons why a visit to this state should be top of everyone’s wish list.
Just 130 years ago the windswept peaks and glimmering lakes of Canada’s Rocky Mountains were only experienced by aboriginal communities and itinerant trappers. In 1885 the Canadian Pacific Railway opened up this wonderful wilderness to a wider world and Canada’s greatest secret was out. Jane Robinson says that some highlights just can’t be missed but also suggests other, less visited attractions.
Take picture-perfect images of outback Australia: the deep ochre of a sweeping escarpment cast ablaze at sunset, the verdant green of a surprise oasis or simply an endless stretch of cloudless sky. Add an award-winning producer, two of the world’s most highly regarded film-stars, an epic story and you have this year’s Hollywood blockbuster, Australia, the film. Paul Done, Australia Regional Manager, shows how the movie has sparked a new route into Australia’s remote northern heartlands.
If you think a Japanese train is late the chances are, it’s your watch that is wrong… Japan Specialist Ben Colbridge explains how visiting some of Japan’s many highlights is easier than you might imagine.
Botswana is best-known for its luxury safaris but you can still experience its fantastic wildlife by avoiding luxury lodges and staying in mobile tented camps. Victoria Saner finds these get you even closer to nature.
This year our specialists have been exploring some of the lesser-known, yet equally incredible areas to gain a greater insight into the country and enhance the trips that we design for clients. Sarah Powell has discovered some real gems.
Sarah Kane shares her passion for all things Australian.
Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park is Africa at its most adventurous: canoeing on the river, stalking game on foot and hunting for tiger fish. But it’s also family friendly, as Matt Vlemmiks discovers.
There are some immensely clear and gloriously spectacular night skies across the world, many that must be seen to be believed. Here, our specialists choose their favourites.
Amongst South Africa’s countless attractions, one area is often overlooked. Charlotte Mellor and Sarah McGuinness head
north from Cape Town to find sweeping beaches, pretty fishing villages and San rock art. Best of all, there’s not another visitor in sight.
Hidden in a remote corner of Laos, one of the least developed countries in Asia, lies a memorial to one of the twentieth century’s forgotten wars. Set in a stunning location far from the tourist coaches and group tours, the caves at Vieng Xai are only now coming to the attention of the outside world. Mark Hotham explains.
Patagonia has something of a reputation as an expensive destination. Jonathan Goldsmith reviews the reasons for exploring
Latin America’s greatest wilderness region and says a careful choice of accommodation can keep costs under control.
Mexico and Guatemala are well known for their ancient civilisations; their much visited and impressive archaeological sites of Teotihuacán and Tikal are firmly on the travellers’ map. However, on Sara Wells’ recent journey through the two countries, she discovered an off the beaten track world of coffee plantations, indigenous highland towns with colourful ancient culture, spectacular scenery and vibrant and chaotic markets.
Parts of Thailand may have succumbed to mass tourism but, as James Pook discovered, there are still plenty of paths to take that are less trodden.
New Zealand is often seen as a ‘once in a lifetime’ destination, and perceived as easy to discover without much assistance. Felicity Goldsmith talks to some Audley clients about their personal experiences of the country and finds they gained a lot from our specialist knowledge – and why they are determined to go back.
Next to the enormous landmass of the Australian mainland, Tasmania is perhaps not considered a priority when
exploring this vast and diverse country, but with an abundance of wildlife and easily accessible national parks,
Australia’s small island state is here to remind us that small is very, very beautiful as Jenny Bouquet discovered.
The word ‘Arctic’ conjures up images of polar bears prowling the ice floes, Inuit hunting in sealskin kayaks, of whales and
whale hunting, the Aurora Borealis, and of intrepid explorers of history attempting to reach the North Pole or find a route
from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans through the Northwest Passage. In terms of what a visit to the Arctic means to an Audley
traveller it is small-ship expedition cruising within the Arctic Circle (at 66°32’ and beyond), within the Arctic Ocean.
China’s famously fast-moving society is transforming the travel experience in cities, with a new sophistication bringing boutique hotels and fine restaurants. Beyond the urban centres, however, many parts of China have escaped the rush to modernise, with rural village communities atmospherically unchanged over the millennia. Tom Stapleton and Ben Colbridge compare and contrast.
The hidden kingdom of Bhutan preserves Asia’s cultural past in secretive isolation, but most tours concentrate on the west. Emma Shaw explores the scarcely-visited east of the country, a wild and rugged land where few travellers tread.
Untamed expanses, snow-capped mountains, craggy glaciers and roaming wildlife. Aaron Cork finds America’s far north lives up to all his dreams.
Patagonia has something of a reputation as an expensive destination. Jonathan Goldsmith reviews the reasons for exploring Latin America’s greatest wilderness region and says a careful choice of accommodation can keep costs under control.
The mountain nomads of Kyrgyzstan can become much more than just part of a traveller’s view. North & Central Asia Regional Manager Huw Owen samples their lifestyle at first hand, uncovering a programme that lets visitors contribute directly to local families by staying in their homes.
Australia represents the very definition of long haul travel. The perception that such a trip generates a significant carbon footprint cannot be disputed but as a destination, Australia is environmentally forward thinking and offers a variety of sustainable travel experiences to satisfy the responsible traveller. The cost to the environment therefore can be limited through planning an itinerary that takes advantage of such experiences, ultimately proving that a trip to this part of the world can be considered at least as, if not more, culturally sensitive and environmentally sustainable as destinations much closer to home.
The Canadians are proud of their country and have been something of pioneers in responsible travel. Aaron Cork visits Gaspésie Peninsula, a fine example of this ethos.
Regular readers of Audley Traveller and those who have travelled with us to Jordan will already have heard about the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature. Andrew Hunt, North Africa & Arabia Programme Manager, offers background and history to help explain why we are so vocal in our support of the organisation.
Being immortalised by Kipling hasn’t been enough for the tiger: the king of the jungle no longer lives in a monarchy. Tiger numbers have been dropping fast in India but Harsha Ogale finds that the national parks are now throwing a lifeline to this highly endangered predator.
Peru and Ecuador might not control the largest part of the Amazon rainforest. But the western Amazon has been showing the way in conserving the natural environment and indigenous communities.
You may have only considered Mozambique for its beaches, but Ibo Island is a little secret that deserves discovery. Cate Mackenzie explains.
Stephen Fisher finds a part of India far removed from usual expectations of the country.
Travel writer, Richard Hammond, talks to Ulva Goodwillie, specialist natural history guide on Stewart Island (Rakiura), off the southernmost tip of New Zealand.
Peter Stanley-Jones tries heli-hiking in Canada’s beautiful Columbia mountains.
Malachy O’Neill gets off the beaten track in the heart of Latin America.
Craig Burkinshaw, Audley’s Managing Director, recounts his recent travels to the southernmost parts of South America.
Beatrice Bowen explains why trekking in Nepal is not the preserve of backpackers and mountaineers.
Mention Indonesia and people instantly think of Bali, but this vast archipelago has far more to offer than just the beautiful beaches and cultural heart of this tiny island. Here, our Indonesia specialists discuss some of the other, lesser known islands and why they are special to them.
Marc Dolman reveals how an adventure in the Outback can be both relaxing and exhilarating.
Joanne Soddy explores Belize, the diminutive Central American country with a huge capacity for surprise.
Matthew Vlemmiks gets very, very close to the wildlife on a photographic safari in Zambia.
Alexandra Matts falls under the special spell of Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau.
Paula Kirby discovers a Brazil of empty beaches, sleepy islands and stimulating streetlife.
Chris Moore chooses his top ten experiences in China
Nick Coates, a director at Audley, explains why he was actually glad he went to a business conference.
Katie Fewkes reveales some of the secrets of Uganda’s national parks.
Driving around Namibia, James Down discovers a great deal of life in the Namib Desert.
Our Australia specialists reveal their favourite parts of the “real Australia”.
Marilyn Tromp treks around the Wild Coast in South Africa.
A few of our specialists’ botanical favourites from around the world.
The most satisfying short treks are unveiled by our specialists.
Our New Zealand specialists present their seven favourite experiences to be had in the country.
Heather Miller remembers her flying visit to Namibia’s Skeleton Coast.
Graeme Evemy discusses the aspects of Pakistan that keep tugging him back.
Our Central Asia and Russia speacialists reveal the many cultures and landscapes waiting to be discovered in the former USSR.
Our specialists take to the air in planes, balloons and helicopters for a different view of their favourite destinations.
David Bannister recalls the majestic landscapes of Mongolia.
Exploring on foot is no doubt the best way to experience more of a destination.
Exploring the Peninsula Valdés in Argentina.
Our specialists have chosen ten destinations that we think deserve attention.
Taking the high road to this must see city.
Nick Coates recharges his batteries in one of New Zealand’s quieter corners.
Our specialists explore China just off the beaten track.
The fabulous scenery and timeless charm of the Tibetan Plateau.
The towns and beaches of north-eastern Brazil.
Carolyn Foreman explores the rainforest in style.
Our Chile specialist recounts her trip to this diverse country.
Our specialists make their suggestions for a “must do” experience in 2003.
Rhian Williams recounts her recent trip to Peru.
Our Southeast Asia specialists run-down the region’s top tourist attractions.
Our specialists pick out the best bits of South America.
John Freeman recounts some of his most memorable moments from his trip to India and Sri Lanka.
