Royal Highness: Revel like royalty at grand palace hotels where monarchs and aristocrats once slept

In a world where the cost of living keeps rising, experiencing true luxury and opulence can feel out of reach for many. However, an alluring travel trend is allowing more people than ever before to step into the shoes of royalty – if only for a night or two. Around the globe, a growing number of former palaces and grand estates have been painstakingly transformed into world-class luxury hotels, offering guests a chance to live like kings and queens.

Besides the draw of their architectural magnificence, these unique properties afford the opportunity to step back to a simpler time and experience the rarefied world of royalty and aristocracy. At Villa d’Este in Italy, you can sip Prosecco while relaxing on the very same outdoor terraces that once hosted European princes. At the Taj Lake Palace in India, you will be waited on hand and foot by an army of discreet, highly trained staff, just as the Maharajas once were. At Ashford Castle in Ireland, you can imagine yourself as a lord or lady of the manor, exploring the same tapestry-lined halls that have borne witness to centuries of history.

Of course, these ancient palaces and castles also offer ample modern comforts and amenities to complement their historic charms. Lavish spas, Michelin-starred restaurants, state-of-the-art fitness centres and beautifully appointed guest rooms ensure that every creature comfort is catered to. The level of personalised service is unparalleled, with many maintaining a nearly one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, with butlers, concierges and other attendants anticipating every need.

So, whether you are celebrating a special occasion, planning the ultimate romantic getaway, or simply craving a taste of the high life, consider indulging in a stay at one of these storied hotels. From quaffing Champagne in a marble-clad palace suite to gliding across a tranquil lake in a private boat, the chance to live like royalty, if only for a moment, is an experience you’ll never forget.

Historic Charm

Palace hotels are able to balance their historic legacy with modern luxury amenities through a fastidious approach to restoration and renovation. At their very core is the preservation of the original architectural details and character of the buildings. Great care is taken to maintain features like ornate mouldings, grand staircases, intricate tilework and towering ceilings. Furnishings and décor often pay homage to the property’s past, with antique furniture, vintage artwork and traditional textiles and materials.

The goal is to enable guests to feel truly immersed in the history and grandeur of the place as if they have been transported back in time. At the Aman Summer Palace in Beijing, for example, the guest rooms are housed in a series of refurbished Qing dynasty pavilions, allowing visitors to experience the elegant aesthetics of that era. And at Ashford Castle, the 13th-century castle walls and towers have been meticulously restored and maintained.

Modern Essentials

While the historic shell of the palace is preserved, the hotel management companies diligently integrate all the modern amenities that today’s discerning travellers expect. This often involves thoughtful additions and renovations that do not compromise the integrity of the original architecture.

The goal is to create a harmonious fusion of old and new, where guests can experience the elegance and refinement of a bygone era alongside modern comforts and conveniences. The resulting effect is a sense of luxury that is both timelessly regal and freshly contemporary. Visitors are made to feel not just like esteemed guests but as illustrious members of a former ruling class.

Lakeside Luxury

One of the most iconic examples of this trend can be found on the shores of Italy’s picturesque Lake Como. Villa d’Este has welcomed nobility, celebrities and the international elite since first opening its doors as a hotel in 1873. Originally built in the 16th century as the summer residence of a Cardinal, this sprawling villa features stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture, meticulously manicured gardens, and a world-famous floating pool that appears to drift on the lake’s surface. Today, its sumptuous guest rooms, suites and private villas, refined dining and impeccable service have made Villa d’Este a bucket-list destination for luxury travellers.

Here in Asia, you’ll find another former palace that has been transformed into the ultimate in extravagant accommodation. The Taj Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur, Rajasthan, occupies a breathtaking white marble island in the middle of Lake Pichola. This 250-year-old royal residence was once the pleasure palace of the Maharana of Mewar, and its grand, ornate halls, intricately carved details and shimmering reflection in the lake’s still waters create a sense of pure enchantment. Guests arrive by private boat to be welcomed by royal guards; they can get lost in another, magical time amid the intricate network of hidden pathways and courtyards, then dine in ceremonious style on the Royal Barge.

From palace to castle, the turrets, towers and sweeping grounds of Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland, have delighted guests of the landed gentry for more than 800 years; it was once the seat of the powerful Guinness family. Today, the Ashford Castle Hotel is renowned for its exceptional service and facilities. Take your meals in the George V Dining Room, the Drawing Room or the Dungeon, and experience a vast array of activities from falconry to fishing on the private lake.

Palace Pride

To our north, the Aman Summer Palace conjures up the magnificence of the Qing dynasty. After exploring the imperial marvels of the Summer Palace, guests can relax in the hotel’s own serene gardens and partake in calligraphy or the tea ceremony in the Cultural Pavilion before retreating to their luxurious suites, which seamlessly blend traditional Chinese design with modern amenities.

On the other side of the world, another palatial wonder awaits in the bustling seaside city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Conceived by the president as the country’s premier hotel, the Copacabana Palace opened in 1923, and its striking neoclassical façade, grand marble staircase and iconic swimming pool have made it an enduring symbol of old-world glamour. Over the decades, this legendary hotel has hosted everyone from royal families to Hollywood’s biggest stars, who come to enjoy its splendid service, fine dining, prime beachfront location, and during the Rio Carnival, sensational Copa Ball.

Breathtaking Bhutan: The mountainous kingdom is steeped in rich cultural tradition and stupendous natural beauty

Bhutan has until relatively recently lived in glorious isolation, in part due to the challenges of its geography and monumental topography. Wedged between India and the autonomous region of Tibet, China, the Buddhist kingdom has been likened to a gigantic staircase, rising from a narrow strip of land at an altitude of 300 metres in the south to more than 7,000 metres in the north. Its bounteous natural wonders are at their glorious best from late September through December when weather patterns are stable. These months also see some of the best festivals playing out in all their intoxicating magic.

Many of the 790,000 inhabitants of this landlocked state still live off the earth, though there is a growing middle class in urban areas. The capital and most populated city, Thimphu, houses about 15% of the population, and the government is making strides to limit migration from the countryside.

National happiness

Though Bhutan is rapidly modernising and introducing new technology and industrial advancements, the government famously places the concept of Gross National Happiness as a high priority. With the tenets of Buddhism shaping national policy, mindfulness, compassion and well-being, as well as sustainable development, education, health care and good governance are valued above economic growth – which is perceived as a way of achieving more important ends. The country’s coffers are boosted by a daily visa fee of US$200 per visitor.

Religious pageantry

Throughout the year Bhutan’s many dzongs (fortresses) and goembas (monasteries) play host to colourful religious festivals that are adored by travellers and locals alike. These pageants enable the people to immerse themselves in the meaning of their religion and Buddhist teachings.

Constructed at strategic points for political reasons, the dzongs nowadays contain both regional monastic communities and district administrative offices. Some consider these majestic buildings the most beautiful architectural forms in Asia, with their richly decorated woodwork and ethereal pitched roof held within a solid structure of elegant sloping walls.

Tshechus (festivals) are grand social events representing an opportunity for locals to see and be seen. A holiday atmosphere pervades, people wear their finest jewellery and clothes, share their food and exchange news. They take out picnics rich with meat and copious quantities of alcohol.

Masked dance

At the heart of the tshechus are religious dances called cham, performed by monks or lay practitioners wearing spectacular costumes made of yellow silk or rich brocade. Sometimes they don masks which represent animals, fearsome deities, skulls or manifestations of Buddhist gurus. These masks can be so heavy that the performers often bind their heads with strips of cloth to support the weight and protect themselves against injury.

One of the best known, the Drametse Ngacham (Mask Dance of the Drums from Drametse), has been proclaimed as a masterpiece of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by Unesco. The epic display features 16 energetic male dancers dressed in yellow skirts and animal masks and beating drums.

Many tshechus culminate in the unfurling of a giant thangka from a building overlooking the dance arena. Upon sight of these painted or embroidered religious pictures, it is believed that all one’s sins are washed away.

The dates and duration of tsechus vary from one district to the next and are usually performed in dzong courtyards thronging with entranced onlookers. For the grand Thimphu Tshechu festival, held this year on 13-15 September, the capital takes on a carnival air.

A sacred seventh-century monastery in the Bumthang Valley is the setting for the Jambay Lhakhang festival (15-18 November 2024), where a naked fire dance held under the full moon at midnight kicks off the vibrant proceedings. November also sees smaller-scale Trashigang, Jakar and Mongar tshechus, while December welcomes the Trongsa, Lhuentse and Dungkhar festivals.

Architectural splendours

Aside from the magnificent festivals, the splendours of Bhutan’s monasteries and dzongs are legendary, not least Taktsang Goemba, a beautiful building clinging to the side of sheer cliffs perched above whispering pine forests. The site has deep religious significance; legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, a founding father of Tibetan Buddhism, rode here on the back of a tigress to subdue a local demon, after which he embarked on three months of soothing meditation. It is well worth a visit, offering incredible views of the Paro Valley on the trek up past glorious red-blossom rhododendrons.

Paro’s Rinpung Dzong is a fantastic example of a fortress-monastery that majestically guards the valley and town. Above the dzong is an old watchtower, the Ta Dzong, which has been converted into the hugely informative National Museum of Bhutan.

Not far from the gateway town of Paro amid an attractive area for walks is Kyichu Lhakhang, a twin-temple complex whose first building is thought to have been completed in 659 AD by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. Inside this magnificent complex sits a treasured seventh-century statue of Jowo Sakyamuni.

Overlooking the labyrinthine Trongsa Dzong in central Bhutan, the seat of power in the first and second centuries, is a museum dedicated to the history of the dzong and the Wangchuck dynasty, replete with personal effects and Buddhist statues.

At the confluence of two rivers resides Punakha Dzong, one of the most striking examples of Bhutanese architecture. Every spring, the fortress walls are covered in lilac flowers from nearby jacaranda trees, and hordes of red-robed young monks can be seen wandering over a sea of purple petals.

Fantastic trekking

Bhutan is also reputed for its world-class trekking. Many treks reach high altitudes in remote regions of the country’s spectacular Himalayan range, and come with guides and ponies to carry your pack. One of the well-trod Jhomolhari routes within Jigme Dorji National Park entails a two-day gentle climb with just a few short, steep rises over side ridges. The remote village of Lingzhi is accessed by crossing a high pass, and to reach Thimphu yet another high pass is traversed.

Along the popular Snowman trek, similarly away from roads and modernisation, are plenty of chances to glimpse locals tending their crops and animals in the centuries-old tradition. A five-day trek to Duer Hot Springs is an alternative ending to this exhilarating excursion.

Day hikes to monasteries in the cultural heartland of Bumthang are also an option in a region full of valleys nestling dzongs, goembas and temples. The Haa Valley is also a great place to do some trekking. Just a few hours’ drive from Paro, it offers cliffside hermitages, ancient temples, charming villages and accommodation in boutique farmhouses and homestays.

Wildlife protection

A member of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, Bhutan is an environmentally aware society, with immense sources of renewable energy in the form of hydropower; however, melting glaciers caused by climate change are a growing concern.

The country treasures its wildlife and has one of the largest proportions of designated protected areas in the world. With more than 65% of its territory covered in forests and mountains, this wildlife haven offers an amazing diversity of plants and creatures. Scarce species of bird can be glimpsed, or you might spot a troupe of rare golden langurs. In spring, beautiful splashes of red, pink and white dot the landscape in the form of ubiquitous rhododendron.

The national dish, ema datshi, is composed entirely of stewed chillies served with a cheese sauce. Indeed, melted fresh datshi (cottage cheese) cooked along with vegetables, especially potatoes, mushrooms, asparagus and fiddlehead ferns, is a key component of the local diet. This is a spicy delicacy normally served separately in deference to visitors’ taste buds. Rice (white or red) dishes and stews also form a central plank of cuisine in this kingdom of fabled fortresses, festivals and treks.

Seychelles Serendipity: Astonishing natural beauty awaits daily discovery on these idyllic islands east of Africa

The world’s best beaches, lush tropical vegetation, great cuisine and friendly, fun-loving people are just some of the charms of the beguiling islands in the Indian Ocean known as the Seychelles. The East African island nation comprises 115 isles scattered like sapphires and emeralds to form a multifaceted archipelago that represents an unforgettable experience for holidaymakers and honeymooners.

The main, populated islands lie a few degrees south of the equator and rise from shallow banks to mountainous granite; others are tiny coral formations. They have a tropical climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year that seldom rise above 32⁰C. The months from May to October are perhaps the most pleasant time to visit, although there can be occasional southeasterly monsoon rains.

Creole charm

About 100,000 people inhabit Seychelles, a presidential republic which became independent from the United Kingdom in 1976. Given that there is no indigenous population, Seychellois form a diverse ethnic mix of immigrants comprising French, British, African and Arab influences. The official languages are English, French and Creole, the latter being a combination of local languages mixed with the tongue of the colonial masters. The Creole spoken is Seselwa – a hybrid tongue that borrows French phonetics and syntax from its former overlords; Britain annexed the territory in 1794 during the French Revolutionary Wars. Tourism is now the mainstay of the economy.

Each island has its own allure, and limiting a visit to just one would be a mistake The best option is hopping among the inner isles. Travel companies are on hand to facilitate such itineraries; many of the ships plying between the islands are agile sailing boats or traditional schooners that take a maximum of 16 passengers.

Wildlife haven

Above all, the islands are a blaze of colour and a botanical feast, spawning unique flora and fauna particularly reptiles and birds. Much of Seychelles’ natural beauty has been carefully preserved and there are many protected areas.

Native to Seychelles is the magnificent coco de mer tree, whose seed (the sea coconut) is the largest in the botanical world. The trunk populates the densest of forests, while the nut itself can weigh up to 30 kilograms and its erotic shape has made it the fruit of folklore.

Another highlight is the number of giant tortoises, estimated to be about 100,000-strong, with many living on the World Heritage Site of Aldabra, the world’s second-largest coral atoll. They can also be spotted on Frégate Island, and Moyenne Island in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. An Aldabra giant tortoise called Esmeralda, which roams around Bird Island, is thought to be more than 180 years old.

Amazing exotic birds such as the white tern, paradise flycatcher and Aldabra drongo, a beautiful songbird, can be glimpsed on many of the islands.

Tropical diversity

The islands are covered in dense tropical forests of amazing diversity, especially at the higher elevations, and are home to many ornamental plants that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. For instance, the aromatic Seychelles vanilla orchid is blessed with large white flowers and is unique to the islands. Coconut and cinnamon trees, as well as spice plants, add to this fragrant botanical playground.

Areas of natural beauty abound, including the Morne Seychellois National Park on the largest island, Mahé. The Sainte Anne Marine National Park is just five kilometres offshore and is the spawning ground for hawksbill sea turtles; its bountiful aquatic creatures and diverse seagrasses also draw sightseers. The Curieuse National Park off the coast of Praslin is also rich in ocean life.

Ultimately, Seychelles offers many outdoor activities centred around birdwatching, fishing, diving, snorkelling and cruising. Glass-bottomed boat tours are an option.

Honeymoon isles

Some of the islands serve as exclusive resorts. Most notably, the world-famous eco-resort – considered the ultimate in luxury in the midst of unspoilt nature – that attracts wealthy tourists to North Island. One of a handful of privately owned Seychelles islands, this was the honeymoon destination of Prince William and Kate Middleton, who surely took advantage of its environmental credentials and various activities, from mountain biking to paddle boarding. Opened in 2003, the North Island Marriott Luxury Collection Resort boasts a range of splendid bungalows secluded along the beach and coastline, each shielded within their own private enclave from spying eyes. Guests can tap into the valuable insights of expert researchers about nature conservation on the island.

North Island was the first in the Seychelles to be explored by Europeans in 1609. It soon became a suitable hideout for pirates who made use of its many coves and caves dotted along the coast. Settlers made their living out of coconut plantations and harvesting other fruit. When this industry collapsed, the island was abandoned and much of the wildlife died out.

In the mid-1990s, private investment enabled the restoration of its natural habitat. Indigenous animal and bird populations have once again settled here and are thriving on an island which is one of the most fertile in the archipelago. Such was its beauty that Victorian biologist and artist Marianne North, known for her prolific output of plant and landscape paintings, stopped off here during her many travels to ink out on canvas its natural wonders.

Other Seychelles’ private island getaways favoured by the rich and famous as honeymoon destinations are Desroches (home to the Four Seasons), Denis, Cousine and Frégate Island Private.

Mahé magic

By far the largest island in the Seychelles is Mahé, full of palm trees, unspoilt beaches and the nation’s capital, Victoria, a peaceful urban retreat in the north. The Morne Seychellois peak, situated southwest of the capital and rising to a height of 905 metres, is just one of the picturesque lofty mountains often atmospherically shrouded by mist. Mahé is dotted with luxury resorts, and to the south, at Anse Intendance, lies one of the most breathtaking bays in the world.

Victoria is a tiny capital by modern standards, but there are plenty of attractions to keep the visitor occupied. Architecturally, the famous Victoria Clock Tower – constructed in 1903 and known as Little Big Ben – stands in the centre. The imposing Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is built in French colonial style, while not far off is the splendid Capuchin House.

Seafood and soufflé

Seychelles cuisine is appealingly fresh and down to earth. Fish dishes are the mainstay, with lobster, crab and crayfish usually served grilled. Ladob banan is a popular dessert of banana cooked in coconut milk with sugar, salt and vanilla.

Chez Plume on the west coast of Mahé is an excellent French Creole seafood restaurant surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens. It offers a superb passion-fruit soufflé. The Anchor Cafe is a good place to catch the sunset and enjoy the catch of the day. The restaurant at the hilltop Le Jardin du Roi, set among spice plants and fruit and ornamental trees, has amazing cinnamon- and lemon-grass-flavoured ice cream. Mahé also offers tropical island nightlife in the form of lively bars and clubs.

Sustainable tourism

The Seychelles is one of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) which have been encouraged by the United Nations to develop sustainable tourism. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Seychelles, Sylvestre Radegonde, recently outlined how many players in the tourism sector are involved in a certification programme linked to climate change and mitigation adaption. To become Sustainable Seychelles certified, participants need to implement a variety of climate actions as part of their daily operations concerned with waste management, energy efficiency, water management, conservation and community involvement. The issuance of the first blue bond in 2018 by the government was designed to raise funds for marine conservation and sustainable fisheries. The funds raised have already facilitated the expansion of marine protected areas and sustainable tourism development.

Bermuda Bounties: The many charms of this British territory extend from pink beaches to pastel cottages

Bermuda is just a two-hour flight from the East Coast of the United States but has the feel of being worlds away. A hugely prosperous British Overseas Territory, this tiny island retains an old-world charm that never fails to beguile visitors.

Its quaint colonial architecture, lush green golf courses, pastel cottages, manicured gardens, pink oleander hedgerows, pink-sand beaches and pristine waters are all integral to its undoubted appeal. The famous Bermuda shorts worn by business people are another notable part of the relaxed ambience, made possible by a favourable year-round climate that adds to the good vibes. Its diverse range of healthy vegetation and bushes, trees and ornamental plants elicits visual as well as psychological benefits.

Atlantic gem

Bermuda was formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, and it was at the dawn of the 16th century that Spanish sailor Juan de Bermúdez declared himself to be its discoverer – a fact backed up by early maps of the islands drawn by the Spanish. However, the uninhabited archipelago of about 180 islands had little to offer the Spanish, and it was left to the British a century later to lay their claim.

“Bermuda is a real gem in the Atlantic, steeped in history dating back to early British exploration and vital in the American War of Independence. Now it is a bustling place … [with] incredible beaches and weather,” says a spokesperson for the Friends of the British Overseas Territories (Fotbot), an organisation dedicated to raising awareness of the UK’s 14 sovereign outposts.

Mainly linked by road, Bermuda’s total land area of about 54 square kilometres is home to some 63,000 people of mainly African, British and Portuguese descent. Luxurious hotels, cottage colonies and flower-filled guesthouses are a magnet for tourists seeking sanctuary. The island is especially known for its amazing beaches where sand and sea come together in pink and blue crescents.

Backed by a scenic coastal park and hiking trail, Horseshoe Bay Beach is the perfect place to swim, play and soak up the sun.

The rosy sand is lapped by waters which fluctuate from crystal-clear to turquoise to cobalt blue. There is an on-site bar and restaurant and beach rental facilities, and the annual Bermuda Sandcastle Competition is held here in late summer.

Horseshoe is just one of a slew of beaches that stretch along the central parishes of Bermuda’s South Shore. Many of the secluded coves scattered between the larger beaches also possess their own unique allure. Readily accessible from public roadways are Warwick Long Bay, John Smith’s Bay, Chaplin Bay and Stonehole Bay. Most are spacious enough to accommodate every kind of beachgoer, from families to adventure-seeking water sports enthusiasts. It is common for visitors to rent or charter a boat for a blissful tour of the archipelago’s coves, lagoons and islets.

Nightlife and wildlife

Many of the hotels along the South Shore have their own private beach, though the public can access some stretches at low tide without fear of trespassing. Nightlife often spills out from the bars to the beaches, with concerts and beach parties a regular occurrence, especially during the summer months.

On a clear day in spring, it is often possible to see humpback whales from the aptly named West Whale Bay as the huge yet graceful mammals power their way north to summer feeding grounds. Booking a boat trip to witness their awe-inspiring passage is also an option. From May to October, a rather different natural sight occurs – bioluminescent glow-worms lighting up shallow waters around the island for two days after each full moon.

Wrecks and reef

With the clean, clear waters affording divers and snorkellers technicolour views of coral and marine life, underwater caves and shallow wrecks, Bermudians have traditionally been fascinated by what lies beneath the surface. There are more than 500 square kilometres of coral reef teeming with marine life to explore, as well as several shipwrecks responsible for the island being dubbed the ‘Shipwreck Capital of the Atlantic’. One of the biggest wrecks is The Cristobal Colon, a massive Spanish cruise liner which crashed into the reef off the north shore in 1936.

The island also forms one vertex of the infamous Bermuda Triangle, an area of the Atlantic said – erroneously – to experience a disproportionately high number of missing ships and airplanes. It is true, however, that occasional devastating tropical cyclones traverse the region from May to November.

Sporting history

Bermudians live for their sport – both water- and land-based – and golfing enthusiasts especially will be in seventh heaven. Some of the world’s best golf architects have designed magnificent courses, with pros and high-handicappers alike treated to sweeping ocean vistas and landscaping with spectacular blooms. The Mid Ocean Club course is recognised as one of the most prestigious in the world. Part of the challenge is coping with the quirky air currents that can exaggerate any slice or hook.

Cricket is a beloved pastime and equestrian events are also particularly prominent in the sporting calendar. Walkers, joggers and cyclists can enjoy a trail along a former railway line that extends across the island, along craggy coastline and verdant countryside.

Bermuda has its fair dose of historical attractions too, such as St George’s old town, a Unesco World Heritage Site. This is the island’s first settlement and it features the 17th-century St Peter’s Church, as well as a slew of museums and colonial buildings. Wander through alleys lined with traditional shops, pubs and cottages and soak up the laid-back Bermudian vibe. The Lili Bermuda Perfumery and gardens are a fragrant draw.

Local colour

The capital Hamilton, a city filled with parks and quaint back alleys, is also great for walking tours. Climb the tower at the Gothic-style Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity to marvel at the charming pastel houses, many built from limestone with distinctive white stepped roofs that allow Bermudians to collect and store rainwater.

Hamilton also offers Bermuda’s largest and most fashionable collection of shops, many located in bustling Front Street, and the lack of a sales tax is incentive enough to splurge on quality clothing, jewellery and other treats. Front Street is also where the popular Port O Call is located, offering a menu based on fresh fish, Angus steak and local produce. On Fridays, the bar and patio turn into a happy-hour hotspot.

Bermudians are partial to shark hash – minced shark meat sautéed with spices and often served on toast – and codfish cakes, made of salted cod mashed with cooked potatoes, fresh thyme and parsley, and then shaped into patties and pan-fried. Bananas baked in rum and brown sugar are a favourite dessert, and their banana crumble is noted for being sweet and rich.

The capital is also home to the island’s best nightlife, with a good mix of wine bars, sports bars, dance clubs and live music venues to suit your mood. A rum cocktail called Dark ’n’ Stormy, mixed using Bermuda’s Goslings Rum, is a must-try.

Rhythm of life

A vibrant exhibition of food, music and dance, the island’s increasingly popular carnival takes place during the third week in June to celebrate National Heroes Day. Gombey dancing is a Bermudian cultural phenomenon; masked, traditionally exclusively male performers sway to the accompaniment of Congolese-style drums and the shrill whistle-blown commands of the troupe’s captain.

Bermuda has the fourth oldest Parliamentary building in the world and the Fotbot spokesperson highly recommends visiting this Hamilton monument. Over on the island’s West End is the Governor’s residence, which has views of the harbour towards the old Royal Naval Dockyard.

The old British fortress perched here has been turned into the National Museum of Bermuda. Its ancient cave, deep underground, is another hit for tourists in a territory melding natural beauty, laid-back charm and upscale ambience.

Goa Glow: India’s west-coast paradise entices with its colonial churches, beaches, spices and intoxicating nightlife

Goa is rightly considered one of the most desirable destinations in India. It boasts beautiful long, palm-fringed beaches, tranquil backwaters, a slew of historic buildings emanating from its Portuguese colonial past and amazing parties. Its unique blend of the East and West differentiates the state from the rest of the vast expanse of the Indian subcontinent.

This melting pot of influences borders the Arabian Sea on India’s west coast and is located some 500 kilometres south of teeming Mumbai. Its favourable coastal location made it an ideal trading location over the centuries; before the Portuguese arrived in 1510, Hindu merchants flourished, trading spices, silk, pearls and horses. Arab, South Asian, East African and Mediterranean cultures have been fused into the Goan identity.

Rome of the East

The Portuguese added a significant layer to the architectural landscape, not least because the new rulers forcibly converted many Hindus and Buddhists to Catholicism. Old Goa, the site of Goa’s former capital before it was moved to Panjim (now Panaji), is dotted with ornate structures dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Such was its grandeur that it was once known as the ‘Rome of the East’ and many of the imposing churches and cathedrals are still in use or have been converted to museums.

The standout is Se Cathedral (Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina), one of the largest cathedrals in Asia, measuring an awesome 76 metres long and 55 metres wide. Construction began in 1562 under the auspices of King Sebastian I of Portugal, and it took 90 years to complete. The building is noted for its plain, Tuscan style and a lopsided look resulting from the loss of one of its bell towers after a lightning strike. The other tower contains the Golden Bell (Sino de Ouro), famed for the richness of its tone. Inside are several fine carvings and splendidly decorated chapels.

Perhaps one of the most famous buildings in the Christian world, the Basilica of Bom Jesus was completed in 1605 and contains the tomb of St Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa. The saintliness of this missionary was such that his mostly incorruptible body has miraculously survived – so the story goes ¬– for almost 500 years. His remains are kept in a silver casket and viewed by the public once every 10 years. The next decennial exposition of the Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier takes place between 21 November 2024 and 5 January 2025 and will undoubtedly draw thousands of awestruck pilgrims from across the world.

Capital gains

The modern-day capital of the most laid-back state of India is wedged between the Mandovi and Zuari rivers in central Goa, just a 20-minute drive from Old Goa. Exploring Panaji’s historic Latin Quarter of Fontainhas, home to quaint, narrow streets and ochre-coloured mansions with terracotta-tiled roofs, is a delightful and photogenic experience. The pretty Chapel of St Sebastian holds a striking crucifix harking back to the time of the Goa Inquisition.

Panaji hosts a slew of other cultural attractions including the Goa State Museum, housed in the oldest Portuguese-era building in Goa. Elaborately carved furniture used during the brutal 250-year inquisition as well as beautiful Hindi and Jain sculptures decorate its halls. Visitors to the capital will also discover plenty of superb galleries, temples, restaurants and nightlife establishments. A popular walking-tour operator, Make It Happen, offers local insight into Goan history and culture through guided peeks into heritage homes, and for lovers of Portuguese music, a fado performance.

Spice and all things nice

After a stroll around the Latin Quarter, relax and enjoy the wonderfully diverse local cuisine. Goan food is influenced by abundant seafood from the Arabian Sea, the enclave’s historic location along the spice route, and Portuguese cooking techniques. Sorpotel, for instance, is a Portuguese stew made of liver, heart, and tongue of pork or other meat that was adopted by Goan Catholics.

Hotel Venite, with its balcony tables overlooking charming cobbled streets, presents authentic Goan cuisine, with vegetable vindaloo served with Portuguese-spiced sausages and rice, fish curry rice, pepper steak and bebinca, a traditional sticky, seven-layer cake made of eggs, coconut, sugar, ghee and flour. The balcony of the cosy Riverfront restaurant overlooks the creek and Old Patto Bridge and its sister pub – called Down the Road – makes for a nice nightspot with occasional live music.

Trance of a lifetime

Cruises along the Mandovi River may afford a glimpse of a dolphin gliding through the water or a mugger crocodile basking in the estuary. Such tourist excursions are often accompanied by live bands and renditions of Goan folk songs and dances, with some private operators running what can best to described as ‘party’ cruises. Panaji is also noted for its floating casinos, operating ‘offshore’.

Anjuna in North Goa was once the epicentre of the hippie party scene. Indeed, as far back as its 16th-century boozy Portuguese sailors, Goa acquired a reputation for all-night drinking parties, much to the consternation of the locals. Infamous drug-fuelled trance parties in the 1990s led to a government crackdown, and now the psychedelia takes place on special occasions such as Christmas, New Year or full-moon nights. The legendary Anjuna dive of Curlies received a demolition notice, but you can still get your party fix at Hill Top in Vagator and venues in and around Morjim.

Anjuna is also famous for its weekly Wednesday flea market, where exotic merchandise sourced from all over India delivers a fascinating injection of local life. The Friday market at Mapusa provides fresh produce, spices and textiles.

Natural pleasures

Goa has become world famous for its beaches, and the sandy stretches of North Goa, particularly at Baga and Calangute, draw the biggest crowds. There is a booming nightlife scene, trendy bars and restaurants, yoga retreats and easy access to water sports, such as parasailing, jet- and water-skiing, scuba diving and snorkelling.

In South Goa, the curved, palm-fringed beach at Palolem, with its golden sands, balmy waters, gentle-swaying palm trees and water sports in the sheltered bay, is one of Goa’s most postcard-perfect spots. Even quieter beaches at Patnem and Agonda are not far off, and beautiful Butterfly Beach can be reached by hiring a boat from Palolem while taking in an unspoilt coastline.

Just nine kilometres southeast of Palolem is Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, where an overnight stay increases the likelihood of spying on various species of monkey, deer and the occasional panther. Goa offers numerous other natural attractions, such as bird sanctuaries, spice plantations and the mountainous splendour of the Western Ghats.

This hedonistic state loves to put on a colourful festival and indulge in nonstop revelry. Aside from the many Catholic feast days, traditional Hindu celebrations such as Diwali and Shantadurga are celebrated, as is the International Film Festival of India, held in Goa, generally in November, since 2004.

Venetian Finds: With water everywhere and palaces galore, Venice captivates the imagination like no other city

The only city in the world constructed purely on waterways, Venice has a beguiling beauty. It has over the years provided an endless canvass for writers, painters and philosophers and the backdrop for haunting films. Packed with palazzi and other must-see cultural attractions, this most remarkable of Italian destinations oozes charm, with the lapping canal water leaving an indelible mark on bewitched visitors.

Perched upon more than 120 islands within a sheltered lagoon, the maritime melting pot was the centre of a formidable Venetian trading monopoly in the Middle Ages and Renaissance era; legendary 13th-century merchant-explorer Marco Polo called it home. Inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List in 1987, the city has seen its population dwindle by more than half since the end of the Second World War to less than 50,000 today. Talk of its demise is nothing new, and Unesco has twice considered declaring this wonder of the world endangered as it combats a multitude of existential threats, from tourist overcrowding to subsidence.

Grand tour

The six districts of Venice lie either side of the majestic watercourse known as the Grand Canal, the main artery of the city. There are an estimated 3,000 alleys to explore and 400 bridges to cross. Ponte de Chiodo is the one remaining bridge with no parapet (side wall or rail).

A voyage down the Grand Canal – Canalazzo to the locals – reveals more than 200 ornate palaces and grand houses lining the banks. The vaporetto (water bus) starts at Piazzale Roma and snakes through the city on waters full of colourful flotillas of gondolas, ferries, taxi launches, high- speed police boats and barges stacked high with fresh produce. Ferry line No. 1 takes in all stops and offers the best views. If possible, grab outside seats at the front or rear of the boat for the full journey to San Marco, Venice’s foremost district, then return in order to drink in the full scenic glory of the palazzi from the opposite direction. A night- time boat trip is perhaps even more magical.

Building bridges

The ride passes under some splendid bridges. Dating from 1588, the Ponte di Rialto is perhaps the most famous – an iconic eight-metre-high structure with a span of 28 metres positioned at the narrowest point of the Grand Canal. The bridge is the central focus of the city’s commercial hub, the Rialto. Here the wet market, full of luscious fruit, vegetables and fish, is a treat for the senses and has enlivened the quayside since medieval times.

San Giacomo di Rialto, the oldest church in Venice, is located nearby. To cross the Grand Canal here board a traghetto, a large gondola in which passengers traditionally remain standing. No visit to Venice would be complete, of course, without floating along some part of the canal network in a black-painted, flat-bottomed, banana-shaped boat guided by an expert gondolier – musical serenade optional.

Another notable bridge on the Grand Canal is the Ponte dell’ Accademia. This wooden structure erected temporarily in 1932 has become a much- loved permanent fixture and affords superb views of waterborne life.

Masters of art

Riva del Vin, one of the few banks of the canal with pavement access, hosts a clutch of open- air restaurants and hotels. The colossal Baroque palace of Ca’ Pesaro houses the city’s modern art collection and is beautifully floodlit at night. Works by 19th- and 20th-century masters such as Gustav Klimt and Marc Chagall and a strong Italian assemblage are highlights.

Also located on the Grand Canal is Italy’s leading museum for 20th-century European and American art, the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, which houses the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. The American mining heiress, who began amassing magnificent paintings while living in Paris in the 1920s, relocated to the 18th-century Venetian palace after the war.

Around the square

Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) is adorned with monuments that bear testimony to Venice’s rich history. Here you will find the great Basilica di San Marco cathedral church, considered the perfect architectural fusion of East and West. Booking a guided visit beforehand is recommended to avoid the queues. The building has been replaced twice, with much of today’s church hailing from 1071, and it became the city’s cathedral in 1807.

Striking exterior details include the original mosaic over the leftmost door – depicting the transfer of St Mark’s body from Alexandria to Venice – and Romanesque carvings above the central door. The interior is embellished with resplendent historical works of art. The Basilica Museum houses the famed quarter of gilt-bronze horses looted from Constantinople by Venetian forces during the Crusades.

Adjoining the basilica is the Doge’s Palace, a superb combination of Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Construction began in 1340 and it served as the powerhouse of the city’s rulers until 1797, when Napoleon’s occupation of Italy ended the Republic of Venice. The building became a museum in 1923 and contains terrific works from Venetian painters such as Titian, Tintoretto and Bellini.

Blessed with many architectural styles, Campo Santa Margherita (St Margaret’s Square) is another lovely square. Its cafes provide charming rest stops to sit and soak up the bustling life of thriving market stalls.

Food with a view

Turning to dining delights, Venetian restaurants range in style from cool 18th-century refinement to rustic gentility. Venice embraces a wide range of foreign communities and this influence has given rise to Italy’s most eclectic and subtle cooking, according to many culinary experts. The elegant terrace of Grand Canal Restaurant at Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal in San Marco offers picture-postcard views over the lagoon. Venetian, Italian and international dishes are served including fish soup, vegetable risotto and scampi.

Next door is the legendary watering hole of Ernest Hemingway and many other writers, painters, artists and aristocrats. The success of Harry’s Bar has been attributed to personalised service and lack of imposition. The Bellini aperitivo is said to be invented here and the food is good, too, with an emphasis on classic Italian dishes.

Originally a 1720s coffee house, Antico Martini is another Venetian institution. Located in San Fantin Square beside La Fenice Opera House, it is a lovely place to sit and watch the sun go down. The warm historical ambience, excellent Italian menu and wonderful background music draw in the crowds.

Festia pizzazz

Venice is host to a multitude of fantastic festivals. The most famous, the Carnival, is a spectacular parade of masked, caped and gowned revellers staged during the 10 days prior to Lent. In 2024, the city’s internationally acclaimed film festival will take place from 28 August to 7 September, while music lovers can enjoy evening concerts at various venues – in palaces, churches and the open-air – throughout the year. The word regatta originated in Venice, and an amazing historical water pageant precedes a competitive race around the lagoon on 1 September.

Bohemia Rhapsodies: The ancient spires of Prague nod to a city steeped in history and charm

Prague is one of the most majestic and architecturally amazing cities in Europe. This ancient settlement, once the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia, is a gem from a bygone age whose splendid buildings are seemingly unspoilt by modernism, war or natural disaster. The city’s core remains intact and world-famous structures date back more than 10 centuries.

A bird’s eye view of Prague would reveal a melting pot of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque landmarks, plus some 19th-century revivals and a sprinkling of 20th-century Art Nouveau. The tightly knit architectural haven is ideal for visitors to spend joyous days wandering through beautiful alleyways, passages and cul-de-sacs before heading back to one of many luxury hotels now populating the Czech Republic’s main city.

Bridging the past

A dawn crossing of Charles Bridge, a magnificent 14th-century bridge lined with Baroque statues that spans the Vltava River, is considered a quintessential Prague experience. The excursion from the Old Town to the Lesser Town or Little Quarter is made even more memorable by an approach under the arch below Old Town Bridge Tower, which itself is considered one of the finest Gothic buildings in the world. Here, the rib-vaulted viewing gallery provides wonderful views of Prague’s 1,000-year-old hilltop castle. The bridge became pedestrianised after the Second World War, having nobly withstood five centuries of wheeled traffic – its sturdy sandstone blocks were strengthened (according to legend) by mixing the mortar with egg yolk.

The structure’s series of Baroque statues (some are copies, with the originals residing in Czech museums) stare indifferently at the assembled gathering of buskers, jazz bands, hawkers and tourists. One of the artistically most remarkable is the sculpture of St Luitgard, dating from 1710 and based on the vision of a nun kissing the wounds of Christ.

The Little Quarter Bridge Tower, on the opposite river bank, also affords superb views of this glorious City of 100 Spires. Aside from an early morning visit, the bridge is one of many great places to watch the sunset.

Prince of the castle

Occupying a high and commanding position above the river, Prague Castle was founded in the ninth century by Prince Bořivoj. Its walls enclose a complex of palaces, churches, halls, a monastery and picturesque artisans’ cottages – a little village in its own right.

Czechia’s beating heart, the castle has huge cultural and historic significance; it boasts buildings from every period of the country’s history and has contained the seat of presidential power since 1918. There are also many physical treasures within these walls, such as the Bohemian crown jewels and exquisite works of art in Lobkowicz Palace from the former royal family’s private collection. The Prague Castle Picture Gallery contains wonderful paintings from the 16th to 18th centuries, with works by Titian and Rubens among the highlights, as well as some impressive sculptures.

Gothic glory

One of Europe’s most beautiful urban spaces, Old Town Square is a must-visit. Dotted with fine historical attractions, it has been the city’s main marketplace since the 11th century and remains a focal point, with a tourist information centre, plus numerous restaurants, cafés, shops and galleries. The south side of the square has an array of fine Romanesque and Gothic houses, while the east side is home to the Rococo-style Kinsky Palace, now an art museum whose façade is dressed with elaborate stucco decoration, and the 13th-century Stone Bell House, restored as a Gothic palace.

Another of the city’s top attractions is the Old Town Hall, established in 1338 after King John of Luxembourg allowed the district to have its own council. Carefully restored following damage sustained during a 1945 uprising against the Nazis, the complex embraces a row of immaculate Gothic and Renaissance buildings, some of which are open to the public. Atop the Old Town Hall tower is a famous astronomical clock that features, on the hour, a medieval marionette show lasting 45 seconds.

Worship wonders

Important religious landmarks include St Vitus Cathedral, located within Prague Castle and the country’s largest church. Work on the Gothic building began in 1344 and was finally completed in the 19th and 20th centuries. The first church on the site dates back to 930 and was built at the request of Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia – “Good King Wenceslas” of carol fame was murdered five years later. He became the patron saint of the Czech state, and his tomb can be found within the cathedral, along with the aforementioned crown jewels.

Constructed in the first half of the 18th century, the Church of St Nicholas is a Baroque masterpiece in the storybook setting of the Lesser Town. It was the brainchild of father-and-son architects Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, Prague’s greatest exponents of High Baroque. Its statues, frescoes and paintings are by preeminent artists of their time, notably including Karel Škréta’s Crucifixion.

The Prague Jewish Museum is also worth a visit. It encompasses half a dozen ancient synagogues, a ceremonial hall and former mortuary, plus the Old Jewish Cemetery, all clustered together in a corner of the Old Town.

Cultural cheers

Prague is famous for its beer, or pivo in the native tongue, with the Czechs being among the world’s most enthusiastic beer drinkers. The country perfected the first Pilsner-style lager, the Pilsner Urquell 1842, and the pub is a focal point of Czech culture, a place to have fun, discuss art and put the world to right. The city is awash with breweries, large, small and micro, and craft beers. Favourites include Ležák, a classic pale lager; the yeast beer Kvasnicové; and the coffee-flavoured Kávové.

A few minutes from the castle, U Černého vola Beerhall is one of the best-known old-school pubs, serving classic snacks such as pickled camembert- style cheese, head cheese with onions or baked ham and eggs. Another good watering hole is U Hrocha, located near the British embassy. There are also plenty of late-night drinking spots and dance clubs to party into the small hours. Studio 54’s reputation as an excellent after-hours club playing a wide range of music is well-earned.

Cracking pork

The Czechs are also known for their fondness for pork (vepřový maso), with roast pork, pork goulash (vepřový guláš) and pork schnitzel (vepřový řízek) heading the menu. Boiled bread dumplings (knedlíky) are perfect for soaking up the gravy, while tomato, cucumber, lettuce and pickled cabbage add colour and crunch to local plates.

Ensconced within an iconic Old Town building, La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise prepares modern dishes inspired by 19th-century cuisine and serves them in tasting feasts of up to 11 courses. For panoramic views of this ancient city, visit Villa Richter, where gastronomic delights and exceptional wines can be enjoyed amid the St Wenceslas vineyards of Prague Castle, the oldest in the country.

EL Heaven: A sanctuary of spectacular scenery, El Nido meets the needs of today’s eco-conscious luxury traveller

The remote paradise of El Nido has gained international repute over recent years for its magnificent white-sand beaches, abrupt limestone formations, luscious turquoise waters and amazing coral reefs that are a magnet for scuba divers. As its accessibility has improved, so has its appeal, and it is now one of the most popular resort destinations in the Philippines. Its location in northern Palawan provides the perfect gateway to the Bacuit archipelago, where fabulous island-hopping tours of surreal lagoons and world-famous beaches will take your breath away.

Natural beauty

The northern reaches of Palawan island – the largest province in the Philippines – boasts many scenic locations that are staunchly preserved and attractive villages with tree-lined streets. Here, the indigenous Bataks with their dark skin and curly hair look unlike most Filipinos. Dwindling in numbers, these once nomadic people have settled in river valleys along the eastern coastline.

The municipality of El Nido is fronted by karst limestone cliffs similar to the spectacular rock formations of Guilin in China or Phang Nga Bay in Thailand. These days, its many charms and luxurious accommodations can be conveniently accessed by a flight from Manila that lasts just over an hour. Before the local airport was built, though, the town could only be reached via road from the coastal city of Puerto Princesa about 238 kilometres to the south – a rather precarious journey that could at times fray the nerves. This area is also home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park, acclaimed as a natural wonder of the world for its underground habitat of cathedral caverns, massive stalactites, icy lagoons and swooshing bats.

Birds’ eye views

El Nido means ‘the nest’ in Spanish and is so- called as swiftlets flock to the nooks and crannies of the towering black cliffs to build their homes. Unlike most birds, who conventionally gather twigs, dead leaves, grass or feathers to construct nests, the swiftlets – or balinsasayaw as they are known here – use their own saliva, which hardens when exposed to the air. Locals clamber up rickety bamboo scaffolding to harvest these prized edible nests from the high crags and caves.

The precious nature of this culinary ingredient is reflected in the hazardous method of collection, the loneliness of guarding the scaffolds and nests from poachers, and the effort involved in separating hardened saliva from inedible leaves or feathers. Bird’s nest, often made into soup, is thought by some to have aphrodisiac and youth- preserving properties. It is also said to boost the immune system and strengthen the lungs.

French destination

El Nido has thrived on human endeavour as well as birdlife, with many fine restaurants and beachside bars built so holidaymakers can sit and watch the sun go down. The town has become a favourite destination for French travellers. A beachfront watering and eating hole exuding a relaxed vibe, La Plage Sunset Restaurant & Bar is noted for its French and Asian cuisine and the added luxury of a pool overlooking the beautiful bay. Boasting one of the region’s best hotel bars, La Salangane is also famous for French cuisine – including vegetarian options – and making its own uniquely flavoured rums.

The El Nido Boutique Artcafé, not far from the beach, is another excellent place to eat, drink, relax and soak up the gorgeous surroundings. It has excellent salads using lettuce and arugula from its own organic farm, homemade bread, seafood, curry, pizza and scrumptious sweets like pineapple upside-down cake and chocolate and mango tarts. Live acts perform at least five nights a week while guests sip smoothies, cocktails, beers or wine and take in the sea breeze and stunning views. The venue also acts as a travel centre, offering domestic-flight bookings and local land and sea transportation for trips around El Nido’s famous hotspots.

Marine pleasures

Indeed, El Nido has a slew of diving and tour centres since the most popular activities are island-hopping and snorkelling. It is a haven for lovers of aquatic sports, and visitors can become PADI-certified divers while on vacation. The municipality comprises 45 islands and 50 beaches, some of which have been voted among the world’s finest.

Excursions to the limestone outcrops of Bacuit Bay zip through crystalline waters containing hundreds of species of fish and coral. Much of the area has been given marine-protected status and the health of the underwater ecosystem is monitored. This is a mesmerising landscape of jagged limestone islands, white, sandy beaches, lagoons and coves that leaves a deep impression whether you are underwater or simply soaking up the vista on a beautiful beach.

Numerous upmarket, honeymoon-worthy resorts have pool, beach and canopy villas dotted around these majestic islands, such as Apulit Island in Taytay Bay and Miniloc Island Resort. Some flaunt their eco credentials; at Miniloc, native cottages stand on stilts right over the edge of a cove and guests are invited to hand-feed the wild fish, which will greedily gobble up all offerings.

Paradise found

Miniloc Island is known for its three lagoons – Big, Small and Secret – which are all hugely photogenic. Accessed by an extremely shallow channel and surrounded by unspoiled jungle-clad karst cliffs, Big Lagoon is an enormous, unforgettable natural swimming hole where snorkellers can while away the hours among exquisite coral formations. Reaching Small Lagoon is an adventure since it involves swimming through a hole in a rock wall or paddling through on a kayak at low tide. Inside is a wonderful hidden world with a small cave waiting to be explored. Secret Lagoon is similarly dwarfed by steep basalt walls and requires crawling through a rocky crevice.

Another island worth visiting in the archipelago is Pinasil, which harbours the stalactite splendour of Cathedral Cave, wide enough for motorboats to enter. At Pangulasian Island Resort, an eco-luxury island getaway, you can marvel at the brilliant white sand along the extensive stretch of beach, the jungle trials teeming with wonderful flora, and the marine sanctuary right on the doorstep of your well- appointed accommodation.

State of Grace: From Brisbane to the Whitsundays, coasting through Queensland brings boundless natural rewards

Queensland is perhaps the most beautiful and varied of Australia’s states, and its vast coastline, in particular, has so much to offer. This area is perhaps the personification of the ‘Lucky Country’, with the most appealing sights and pastimes spotlighting the glorious natural advantages of the great outdoors.

The state capital of Brisbane, located in the fastest-growing area of Australia, is blessed with year-round sunshine. Ultimately it is a wonderful place to visit, sandwiched between the world-famous Gold Coast to the south and the charming Sunshine Coast, while further north are the idyllic island getaways of K’gari and the Whitsundays.

Brisbane is named after the state’s longest river, and near the Central Business District is a bend in the Brisbane which was the fishing ground of the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, the area’s traditional custodians. North Quay was home to a penal colony during the country’s inauspicious British colonial beginnings. Times have moved on, however, and Brisbane is now a smart, ultra-modern city with an ever-expanding range of skyscrapers sprouting up to add to the unforgettable skyline.

Brisbane browsing

The architecturally acclaimed Riverside Centre and Riparian Plaza dominate the Riverside Precinct, which features a slew of bars and restaurants overlooking the Brisbane River. The popular Aquila Caffe Bar is a great place to have a wholesome breakfast of eggs or an acai berry bowl and watch the ferries ply the river or eye the climbers on the top girders of Story Bridge. It is possible to join the adventurers on this iconic bridge (see sbac.net.au) to claim the best views of the skyline.

Another popular place to eat is Sage On Ann, with its Turkish eggs or zucchini and asparagus tart for breakfast and lunchtime draws of wild mushroom risotto and beef massaman curry. The Port Office Hotel dining room serves superb steaks, plus excellent vegetarian dishes and seafood. Dining at the Howard Smith Wharves offers sublime views of the river.

Many of the interesting sites and attractions in the city centre are within close proximity so they can be viewed via a leisurely stroll. Along the Rocks Riverside Promenade is the Victorian-era, copper- domed Customs House, a colonnaded construction that provides a striking contrast to the towering skyscrapers. The Anglican St John’s Cathedral was constructed on and off for 100 years, beginning in 1906, and boasts a wondrous vaulted ceiling made entirely of stone. The Old Windmill on the edge of Wickham Park is Queensland’s oldest surviving building; dating back to 1828, it was built by convicts who were then forced to work its treadmill as a form of punishment.

Brisbane City Hall, located in King George Square, hosts the Museum of Brisbane with its superb contemporary art display. Its clock tower affords brilliant views of the city, whose detailed history is also recorded in the museum. One of Australia’s largest maritime museums is in Brisbane – the Queensland Maritime Museum. Queensland Museum, located in the cultural hub at the northern end of South Bank Parklands, holds the World Science Festival Brisbane every March (15 to 24 March this year). A festival of a different sort follows soon after: the Brisbane Comedy Festival, to be held from 26 April to 26 May 2024, is sure to raise more than a few laughs.

Gold Coast rush

From Brisbane, it is easy to explore other parts of Australia’s magnificent East Coast. A car drive to the south reveals the glittering Gold Coast with its golden beaches and colourful theme parks. The chic boutiques and trendy cafes of Main Beach attract the wealthy and stylish, while further along the sandbar at Marina Mirage, luxury yachts vie for attention with designer boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Mariner’s Cove Marina, next door, also has good dining options as well as watersport activities.

As the name of its most famous seaside resort attests, the region is a surfing paradise with excellent breaks all along the coast, many surf schools are introducing the uninitiated to the marvels of standing on a surfboard. Surfers Paradise itself, situated just south of Main Beach, is known for its tasty waves, and rather more controversially, its bikini-clad meter maids. A must-do is ascending to Level 77 of SkyPoint for breathtaking vistas stretching from Brisbane to Byron Bay.

Sun and scenery

North of Brisbane is the Sunshine Coast, where splendid sights can be ticked off during a full day’s outing by car from Brisbane. Take the tourist route for fabulous panoramic glimpses of the Glass House Mountains and access to walking trails along the craggy, eroded volcanic peaks.

A short drive north of here is Australia Zoo, made famous by the late Steve ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ Irwin, where many mammals, birds and reptiles live within natural Australian and recreated Asian habitats. The Edge Restaurant in Montville offers pasta, steaks, salads, seafood and spectacular views across the hinterland to the Pacific Ocean.

Head to the sand

Considered a must along the East Coast is a three-day four-wheel-drive adventure on the world’s largest sand island – K’gari, or Fraser Island. Access is by ferry, and it is possible to hire a 4WD in Brisbane, in the adjacent Hervey Bay, or at Kingfisher Bay Resort – the award- winning ecotourism resort that is a focal point of the island. K’gari is a breathtaking mixture of rainforests, pristine freshwater lakes and streams, and sand dunes accessed along seemingly endless tracks.

Natural wonders are aplenty, from the amazingly clear night sky to a 120-kilometre stretch of uninterrupted sand (Seventy Five Mile Beach) flanked by dunes and the Pacific, to translucent blue lakes of magical beauty. Take a swim at Eli Creek and float down the stream on the freshwater that spews out of the creek. The rusty relic of a passenger liner, the Maheno, that ran aground in 1935 adds a surreal touch to the beach.

Back on the mainland, Hervey Bay is a beautiful seaside resort with an endless beachfront esplanade. There are fantastic opportunities daily to get up close to majestic humpback whales – or dolphins outside of the peak whale-watching season.

Whitsunday wonder

Another popular Queensland destination is Airlie Beach. Located more than 800 kilometres north of Hervey Bay, it is known for its picturesque marina and as a staging post for sailing, cruising, diving and kayaking adventures to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef beyond. A ferry from the port delivers visitors to Hamilton Island, which also has an airport with flights to Brisbane or Cairns on the state’s northern coast.

Spanning 74 isles, the Whitsundays are considered one of the world’s most beautiful archipelagos with adorable secluded bays and coves, deserted beaches and world-class hiking. Notable among the stunning beaches on Whitsunday Island itself is Whitehaven, where azure blue waters lap the pure white silica sand.

Javanese Joy: From Jakarta to the temple to the sea, the world’s most populous island draws visitors galore

Indonesia is a sprawling archipelago with literally thousands of isles, but the main focal point of this nation of almost 280 million inhabitants is the elongated island of Java. Housing 150 million of the total population, it is its beating heart and has a great deal to offer the visitor, as much can be experienced even during a short stay.

Jostling Jakarta

Most visits start with a stay in the nation’s capital – the huge conurbation of Jakarta on Java’s northwest tip with a population of around 11 million. Though it has become known as the capital of logjams, traffic congestion notwithstanding there is plenty to do and see. There are a slew of great museums, superb buildings of great architectural heritage emanating from the Dutch colonial period, a lovely old harbour to stroll around, great shopping, antique and craft shops and world-class nightlife.

A must-see is Fatahillah Square in the Old Town – here the enchanted visitor can admire historic buildings in the Dutch architectural style. Some have been converted into museums, such as the neoclassical town hall built in 1712, now the Jakarta History Museum. Guarded by magnificent cannons, its interior is packed with treasures, while outside in the garden stands a statue of Hermes to protect traders of yore.

Other buildings around the square include the Museum of Fine Art and Ceramics (Museum Seni Rupa dan Keramik), with its superb collection of rare porcelains and art gallery, the Shadow Puppet Museum (Museum Wayang), housing a plethora of puppets and masks, and the architectural splendour of Red House (Toko Merah), a Dutch colonial landmark dating back to 1730. Street performers in the square entertain amused onlookers during weekends and add vibrancy to the area.

Freedom and beyond

To gain a panoramic view of the capital take a ride up the 132-metre-high obelisk called Monas (National Monument) to the observation deck. Located in Merdeka (Freedom) Square, a wonderful green space in the heart of the city, this perch is awe-inspiring. All the way down in the basement, exhibits tell the story of Jakarta’s fight for independence from the Dutch.

Dotted around the square and well worth a visit are the National Museum of Indonesia, one of the country’s oldest museums, crammed with magnificent exhibits; the Merdeka Palace, the official residence of the country’s president and open at weekends for guided tours, and the neighbouring State Palace, which is used for formal diplomatic occasions. The enormous marble Istiqlal Mosque, the largest in Southeast Asia, and the splendid Jakarta Catholic Cathedral adjoin the square.

Jakarta life began with spice traders at Sunda Kelapa Harbour and a morning stroll along the two- kilometre wharf is an excellent way to soak up the early beginnings of this great city. Boat tours of the harbour are available, and many traditional wooden boats are still moored here, though they are now often motorised. Further along the waterfront lies a cluster of beachfront hotels, restaurants and the Taman Impian Jaya Ancol theme park.

Shop and dine

The capital of Indonesia boasts some superb shopping experiences with Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia considered two of the best malls. Here you will find an extensive range of eateries and culinary delights to satisfy most tastes. The five-star Grand Hyatt, adjacent to Plaza Indonesia, is an ideal spot for afternoon tea and absorbing superb city views through the huge bay windows. Pacific Place Mall is another great place for relaxing, trying local and international restaurants and browsing luxury shops.

Many fine restaurants are spread throughout the city. Table8 in Hotel Mulia is very popular, serving Cantonese and Sichuan dishes, street food and tea from different regions of China. The Ritz-Carlton’s restaurant, Pasola, is also a good choice.

Thousand surprises

A great way to unwind from the hustle and bustle of Jakarta is to take a day trip to the islands just off the north coast. Known as Kepulauan Seribu (Thousand Islands), they variously offer ruins of an old Dutch fort or beautiful bird sanctuaries. Some of the outer-lying isles are more developed with hotel complexes offering activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, swimming and fishing.

Another great escape is Puncak Pass where wonderful cool highlands overlook the capital. Visitors can drive through a safari park of free-range exotic wildlife, or take an enlightening tour and horseback rides at Gunung Mas tea plantation. A road trip to the high- altitude Cibodas Botanical Garden affords amazing views of surrounding volcanoes. Cibodas is also home to one of the country’s five presidential palaces – the majestic Istana Cipanas, which is usually open to the public.

Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, is situated nearby and has plentiful fauna; a trek to Cibeureum Waterfall to visit the hot springs is not to be missed. Hiking and canopy trails can be explored at Bodogol, a scenic 90-minute drive across the mountain range.

Temple heaven

Many travellers to Indonesia head for the cultural majesty of Yogyakarta in southern Central Java – most notably the attractions of the Royal Palace (Keraton) and Borobudur Temple.

Home to the reigning sultan, the Royal Palace was built in the 18th century for the first Sultan of Yogyakarta and is a fine example of traditional Javanese palace and court architecture. The layout of this magical compound follows the ancient Hindu- Javanese concepts of the cosmos, and the complexities of how Keraton is harmonised with divine forces are best comprehended via a guided tour, possibly with a descendant of the royal court or a servant. Dance performances form a feature of the compound, while a museum houses royal regalia and sacred objects.

Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, is a magnificent Unesco World Heritage site constructed more than 1,100 years ago. It is a site of supreme spiritual importance and again, a local guide will ensure a clearer understanding of its true significance. Amazingly, more than 2,600 intricately carved bas- reliefs provide decoration along the monument’s nine stacked platforms.

After exploring the ancient splendours of Yogyakarta and its vicinity, local specialities like ayam goreng (fried chicken) and gudeg (jackfruit stew) will revive flagging energy levels.

Volcanic spectacle

Java is also an island of volcanic might. Spectacular moonscapes can be observed atop the huge volcanic crater at Mount Bromo in East Java. For the most memorable view of this ancient caldera, take an early morning hike to the crater’s edge and stare into the mountain’s sulphur-belching hole. The whole of the Tengger highlands holds great spiritual significance for the local Hindu community. Near the village of Sapih is the enchanting natural grandeur of Madakaripura Waterfall, thought to be the final meditation place of an ancient warrior.

Off the west coast of Java lies Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau). The island, which was formed in 1927 during further volcanic activity 44 years after the devastating eruption of Krakatau – one of the largest volcanic eruptions ever recorded – can be accessed by boat from Carita, 150 kilometres west of Jakarta.