My guide to
Iconic Adventures
These are the once in a lifetime holidays; those you've dreamed about for so many years and you can't quite believe they are happening. The holidays you never want to end with the memories that will last forever. Those when times are tough you just need to say remember when... and happy times comes flooding back.
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Sometimes the iconic moments creep up on us and you find your wow moment somewhere really unexpected. For me these are the very best; those you had no idea would be so amazing.
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I'm very lucky to have experienced some real jaw-dropping moments on my travels, so to be trusted to arrange these long sought after holidays is a real privilege and it's a part of my job that I love.
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You probably have your own bucket list - but if not, here are some ideas to inspire your future travels.
My Six To See
African Safari
Wherever in Africa you choose for a safari, there's nothing quite like a chilly early morning game drive and the anticipation of what you may find in the next few hours.
With a wealth of safari styles from luxury lodges, moving tented camps, canoeing safaris in the Okavango Delta, gorilla trekking in Rwanda or following the migration in Kenya and Tanzania, an African safari is an exhilarating experience - you may find once is not enough!
India - Golden Triangle
A visit to the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur encompasses some of the best heritage and architecture to be found on the subcontinent.
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The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Palace of the Winds, Amber Fort, Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in India.
All of these iconic sights can easily be seen on one holiday.
And a perfect end to a trip here is to search for elusive tigers in Ranthambore National Park.
China
The Great Wall, Tianamen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Lama Temple, Terracotta Warriors - so many famous sights split between Beijing and Xian, these truly are places you visit and have to pinch yourself that you are really here.
I always thought Xian was just about the Terracotta Warriors but this city has so much more to offer.
Cycling the city walls and eating my way around the Muslim Quarter is an experience I'll never forget.
Machu Picchu
Whether you hike the legendary Inca Trail or take the leisurely option of the train, the first glimpse of Machu Picchu on arrival at the Inti Punku Sun Gate will take your breath away.
As you venture further into the site, you'll notice how well the buildings are preserved and the spectacular setting just adds to the drama of this citadel in the clouds. You'll not want your day to end, so book a night at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge just steps from the entrance so you can wake up and enjoys the views all over again the next day!
Although Machu Picchu may be the highlight of a holiday to Peru, there are plenty of other amazing sights to include on your epic adventure: Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, wildlife on the Ballestas Islands and exploring the Amazon from a jungle lodge, even heading into Bolivia to explore the surreal landscape of the Uyuni salt flats or cruising the Galapagos Islands.
Japan
With its distinct culture, skyscraping cities and natural beauty, Japan is a wish list destination that never fails to disappoint.
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In one sleek bullet train journey, you can travel from the dense, neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the fresh, clean air of the Japanese Alps. Buddhist temples dot the country, and in rural areas you can stay in traditional ryokan inns for a taste of Japanese life.
Hike ancient routes on the Shikou temple trail, marvel at the beautiful sakura during cherry blossom season and meet the famous snow monkeys in the natural hot springs.
Unknown to many, Japan has some beautiful islands in Okinawa Prefecture - perfect for a relaxing end to your trip.
Canada
A country of epic proportions, a holiday to Canada is like several holidays all rolled into one and the perfect choice if you love nature, wildlife and the outdoors. So why should it be on your list?
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Natural wonders - Niagara Falls, the Rocky Mountains - no better way to experience these than the famous Rocky Mountaineer luxury train, chase the Northern Lights, take the Ice Explorer and walk on a glacier, explore some of the 48 National Parks.
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Wildlife - discover polar bears in Churchill, whale watching from Vancouver Island, cruise the Inside Passage to Alaska, see grizzly and black bears in Western Canada. For the ultimate experience, take a float plane to one of many remote wilderness lodges - Knight Inlet Lodge is perfect for bear watching. Head east to Nova Scotia and explore the Atlantic coastline for whales, seals and countless bird species, including puffins, eagle and cormorants.
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Cosmopolitan cities - Vancouver, set in a stunning coastal location, is the gateway to Vancouver Island and the Rockies. The Calagary Stampede showcases the best in rodeo and western heritage in July each year. Montreal and Quebec City are a mix of North American with European charm. Easily walkable, full of history, architecture, culture and, as with most of Canada, an exciting restaurant and street food scene. One thing you will do in Canada is eat well!