An Advertising Feature
Accommodation can often be a large percentage of your holiday budget but if you can get a holiday deal and the right home exchange you can still visit the places you’ve always dreamed of.
Mauritius, for instance. What do you mean you never dreamed of visiting Mauritius? Perhaps it’s time to reconsider. This beautiful island, sitting east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, benefits from a tropical climate, stunning beaches and a rich and varied culture. Swimming in its warm seas is a truly rewarding experience as the entire island is surrounded by a coral reef, which also makes it shark-free.
One of the best ways to see the marine life is to book a trip on a special safari submarine, which also takes you past various shipwrecks dating back to the 17th century. Avast there, me hearties! Speaking of which, you can also book a pirate cruise on a wooden sailing boat, with all the crew suitably attired. It’s a great way to explore the coastline and also to have huge amounts of fun. Huge amounts of rum too, which should get you in the mood for the traditional Sega dancing later in the day.
Still not convinced? Try this: Mauritius is home to pink pigeons. Pink pigeons!
Head to the US Wild West
The phrases jaw dropping and awe inspiring are bandied about willy-nilly these days, but it’s hard to think of anything that better describes Grand Canyon. Your first impression when seeing it spread out below you from the North Rim (less crowded than the South Rim) is that you’ve arrived on another planet. Indeed, scenes from the original Planet of the Apes were shot here. With the canyon being over a mile deep in places, it’s one of the few places on Earth where, depending on the season, you can sit in an alpine climate and look out over an area enjoying a desert climate. If you ever get the chance to stay anywhere in the vicinity of Grand Canyon, do so.
Cultural Europe
Of course, there are plenty of places closer to home that can delight and inspire. Head for the south of France if you have interests in history, art, architecture or food and drink, or virtually any combination of the above. History and art buffs, for example, can marvel at the primitive art on display in the caves of Lasceaux. (They’re actually an amazing replica of the real caves that are now closed to the public, but they’re still pretty spectacular.) For art, architecture and heavenly drink, go on a tour of France’s legendary chateaux.
Narrowly missing out on becoming one of the new Wonders of the World in 2007 (along with dear old Stonehenge) is the Alhambra in Grenada, Spain. The Alhambra is one of the most romantic palaces in the world, and certainly the most impressive Moorish palace found outside the Islamic world. With its stunning palatial chambers, fine art and sculpture and gorgeous leafy courtyards, the Alhambra is another contender for your must-see list.
Popularity: 3% [?]
