The Okavango Delta region, for example, is made up of a number of private reserves that comprise a range of distinct environments in a relatively small area.  Here, visitors can take part in safaris and have overnight stays at small camps out in the bush to experience this wild country and its equally wild life at first hand.  It is one of the most popular safari destinations but there are plenty more

The Moremi Game Reserve in northern Botswana and Chobe National Park farther south are also very popular and the riverfront in the latter is especially busy in the dry season and great for viewing big game.  The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated in a particularly remote region and there are numerous others.

The choices can seem bewildering, but all of the many Botswana safari parks and reserves in the country are supplied with professional guides using four wheel drive safari vehicles so you’ll be in safe hands whatever your choice.

Like all the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria enjoys year-round sunshine, and its sub-tropical climate means temperatures can range between 15 and 30°C.  However, the varied landscape means there are noticeable differences in the different areas of the island with each experiencing their own micro-climate.  The southern resorts such as Playa del Ingles, Puerto Rico, Maspalomas and San Agustin experience the warmest and driest weather, while northern areas have a rainy season which contributes to the verdant and beautiful landscape.

Playa del Inglés is the largest, brashest and most popular of all Gran Canaria’s resorts, and, in keeping with the tolerant, liberal air on the island, is a huge favourite with the gay community.  For those who want to experience Gran Canaria’s quieter side, there are towns such as historic Telde and Agüimes in the east of the island, a beautifully preserved and typically Spanish enclave with excellent diving facilities and some notable cave paintings.  The capital, Las Palmas, has a historic old quarter, and from here it is easy to get to Arucas, the ‘pearl’ of the island, and picturesque Teror in the north.  Outdoors types and wildlife lovers will adore the many protected nature reserves and invigorating mountain walks such as Roque Nublo Park.

Rome has managed to stay prominent even today. Naturally, if you are thinking of visiting Rome, it makes sense to choose a hotel that is reflective of the glamorous glory of this incredible city. Luckily, there are plenty of hotels in and around the city that exactly suit this purpose.

The Hotel ‘Splendide Royale’ couldn’t be more obvious a choice for a glamorous hotel in Rome. The name itself is a give-away to the opulent style of luxury hospitality that a visitor will find inside. The style is entirely fitting to the Italian artistic heritage of Rome, with plenty of high ceilings and pastel coloured panels on the walls to give a very classic romantic feel.

Needless to say, all of the standard luxury hotel services are present and correct, along with large suites with wonderful private terraces offering excellent views.

Another hotel with a grand name and a reputation to match is the St Regis Grand Rome hotel. As an example of the sort of thing to expect, this hotel recently had a renovation that cost an astonishing $35 million!

After spending the day enjoying all the great activities that Lapland has to offer, perhaps skiing or snowboarding, dog sledding or sleigh riding, settle back in your own luxury cabin and enjoy a roaring open fire and a hot drink as you let your mind and body unwind from the experiences of the day.  Enjoy clear, crisp Arctic air, nights filled with silence and the beauty outside your window as you wake in the morning.  With views that could include the Northern Lights, staying in a Lapland cabin is the perfect getaway.

Stay in a Lapland cabin on your own, with friends or with your family, but whoever you choose to bring to this magical part of the world it will be a holiday which will last in your memory for the rest of your life and bring a peace into your world that is so rarely available anywhere else in these hectic modern times.

There are many beaches in the area of Lagos, with Meia Praia being one of Europe’s largest open areas.  This beach is known for its exceptionally soft white sand, as well as its calm water, which is conducive to water sports.  Praia da Batata is another popular beach in Lagos.  Though it is small, Praia da Batata has gained popularity thanks to the music festivals they annually hold there.

Praia da Dona Ana is the beach most visited by tourists.  This is mostly thanks to the visually stunning rock formations that surround the beach.

One of the major attractions in the area is the Menhir of Cabeço do Rochedo, which is believed to be from the Neolithic era.  This monument is a rare glimpse of ancient history.

There is much interesting architecture in Lagos, including government and military buildings from several historical periods.  There are also several churches, such as the Church of Santo António, which dates from 1715, and is adorned with art from the Baroque era.

There are also activities in Lagos that will appeal to visitors of all ages, such as a visit to the Lagos Zoo.

Spain

Visiting Spain is not only about sun, great cuisine, and a warm welcome, but also its rich monumental heritage and dazzling natural environment. There is a perfect destination for everyone, so choose yours. With its many regions, each with its diverse authority and ways of doing things, travelers to Spain will be certain be treated to a plethora of picturesque sights, sounds and experiences.

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a metropolis known for its nightlife. Be entertained with its bars and terazas and enjoy relaxing and drinking in its many bars and discotecas. Three of the finest museums in the world can also be found in Madrid. travel through Spain’s art history as you view the country’s art collection. Museo del Prado is the most famous of the lot. Don’t miss the Alhambra Palace in Granada, possibly the greatest work of Moorish architecture in Spain. At Cordoba, in the South. Look for the Mezquita, Europe’s grandest and utmost gorgeous mosque. Alcazar is another magnificent tourist destination.

Spain’s excellent beaches and resorts also provide the perfect tourist destination and look for accommodation in Costa del Sol and the Costa Brava, at a string of coves from Palamos to Begur.

Portugal has a rich seafaring past, superb beach resorts, wistful towns and a landscape wreathed in olive groves, vineyards and wheat fields. Littered with UNESCO World Heritage sites and graced by one of Europe’s most relaxed and attractive capitals, it also remains refreshingly affordable.

Perched on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal stands out among its neighbors as one of the best winter holiday destinations. Savouring life slowly is a Portuguese passion, and much of the best is humble – traditional folk festivals; simple, honest food drowning in olive oil; music that pulls at the heart strings, recalling past love and glories; and markets overflowing with fish, fruit and flowers.

The north-south axis of mainland Portugal creates regions of dynamic terrain and unique specialties. The popular Douro Valley stretches 125 miles along a winding river and is famous for the string of port wineries at its edges. Cruises are now offered along the entire length of the Valley, beginning in Porto. The resort town of Lagos in the southern Algarve region attracts sun-seekers and history buffs alike. Prepare to be swept away by this hidden gem encircled by 15th Century walls.

Portugal‘s islands

The Azores Islands archipelago lies 907 miles from the coast and is a haven of turquoise lakes, rolling green hills and sandy beaches. Monasteries, cathedrals, forts and ruins dating back to the 15th Century. To the South, the enticing subtropical climate of Madeira Island and the surrounding volcanic archipelago has, luxurious resort accommodation, Madeira wine and more 15th Century architecture standing dramatically on seaside cliffs. Both of these secluded retreats are easily accessible from major airports on mainland Portugal.

From the Ancient Roman Empire to the Medieval Tuscan fortress towns and the Venetian Republic, Italy’s incredible historical diversity has come together to produce a country so incredible, so remarkable, so beautiful as to leave the visitor with an unquenchable desire to return again and again. The legacy of the Renaissance and its masterpieces of art, music, and architecture have left such a tangible mark on the Italian soul one can barely help being swept along in the tide of culture. If you’re a lover of nature, there are majestic mountains, crystal seas, rolling hills, fertile plains, sweeping cliffs, and magical lagoons, you need to travel to Italy.

The 5 most beautiful villages in Tuscany

Tuscany is a favourite region for both local and international visitors for its spectacular scenery, great shopping, food and wines. The region is also rich with history. If you are planning a holiday in Tuscany and would like to visit some of the most beautiful villages the following suggestions will not disappoint you.
A stop in the village of Lucchio in the Lucca Province is a great way to take in a day of history while touring the remains of the 11^th century medieval castle and quaint stone houses that are built into the side of the mountain.

Just south of Florence is the medieval village of San Gimignano, which dates back to the sixth century and continues to host 13 towers that date from 1150, along with the villages, gates, walls and palaces. Do not miss the Duomo, museums and The People’s Palace.

Deep in the Tuscan hills is the traditional town of San Casciano dei Bagni that has become known for its hilltop tower. It is also known for the Fighine Castle, the Collegiata dei Santi Leonardo e Cassia and the small church of San Michele Archangelo that dates back to 1191.

If you are looking for an authentic gift for the food-lover then a trip to Montalcino should be on your list. This tiny town is located in the remote countryside of south Siena where both extra-virgin olive oil and Brunello red wine is made. The town is also known for its beautiful Duomo and 14^th century La Loggia.

If you are visiting Florence or Siena during September, head to Greve as they celebrate their annual Greve Wine Festival, which just happens to be the largest event in the region. The town is also renowned for its 11^th century architecture and paintings as well as convent and religious artefacts.

What to see elsewhere

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and its presence reverberates through the old cobbled streets and beautiful churches. Venice – the most unique and romantic city in the world, stands timeless and beautiful in the midst of the Adriatic, a magnificent creation highlighting man at his most artistic. Finally the majestic and striking natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast, a place to relax, soak in the tremendous natural beauty, dine on the world’s favorite cuisine at its finest, and experience that special joy of being that is uniquely Italian. No matter what you’re seeking, it awaits you when you travel Italy and visit its cities.

In the southern regions, instead, the mean temperatures for January remain around 10C with the exception of the inland mountainous zones. Mean summer temperatures throughout all Italy rise to 24C-25C for July, only being lower in the highest zones. Rainfall distribution also varies considerably, due to the influence of both mountains and prevailing winds. The highest quantities are registered in the Alpine arc (over 3,000 mm pa in the Lepontine and Julian Alps) and on the Apennines (over 3,000 mm pa in the Apuan Alps). The plains, however, including that of the Po, receive scarce precipitation.

Greece

With The Greek Islands are dotted throughout the Aegean Sea, mainly off the south east of mainland Greece. They come in many shapes, sizes and geographical varieties and the people that visit them are as varied as the islands themselves. Whilst you can move between the islands, most people choose to stay on just one for the duration of their holiday. The islands are traditionally divided into seven groups: Cyclades, Aegean, Dodecanese, Sporades, Ionian, Argosaronic Gulf and Crete which, as a single island, is the largest in the group.

Try a Greek Island holiday with a difference by choosing a boutique hotel. You can’t beat the individuality of these small, intimate hotels where detail is a primary consideration and the needs of the guest always come first. Try Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites on Crete, Katikies on Santorini and Ostraco Suites on Mykonos. These are all unique places to stay, offering the ultimate in quiet understated luxury.

The sights

For most people, the attraction of the Greek Islands is the beaches. The quality and size of the beaches varies from island to island, as does the level of development in the main resorts. The sheer number of islands means that you can usually find exactly what you’re looking for; whether its 24-hour entertainment or a quiet relaxing break. For those that want to explore the islands’ culture, there are plenty of historical buildings, traditional villages and museums to visit.

Getting around

You can get to some of the islands such as Mykonos and Santorini by air, but most of the other islands are reached by ferry from Athens. The ferries are regular and there are ticket operators at the harbours, so you can also use them to visit other islands during your stay. To get around an island, you can hire a car or a bike, or use the local bus system. There are no train services once you’re off the mainland. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, hire a sailing boat and navigate your own way around the islands.

France

The South of France, the southern stretch of the country’s coastline that runs between Spain and Italy, has the enviable combination of miles of coastline and fertile rural landscapes and has been the inspiration for artists, composers and writers as well as the new visitor. With its warm climate, fertile landscape and developed coastline, it is one of the most regularly-visited parts of Europe and the perfect winter letting destination.

There is no shortage of hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts and camp sites. For a true taste of the area though, stay in one of our recommended boutique hotels. Small and intimate, they are a home from home and turn a basic holiday into a luxury retreat. All of these hotels offer well-designed and contemporary rooms and the service is discreet and impeccable.

Some of France’s most expensive resorts lie on the south coast, including St. Tropez and Cannes, and where better to watch the yachts and fashions of the rich and famous? The area is famous for its coastline, sailing and water sports and for the cities that lie near it: Nice, Marseilles and Montpelier for example. Inland, Provence is well-known for its rolling landscapes, stretches of vineyards and swathes of wild flowers. With no shortage of historic buildings, local markets and museums to explore, the South of France has something for everyone.