Lonely Planet World, The

By Regis St Louis, Mark Baker, Ray Bartlett and 11 more

Every country in the world, in one guidebook: Lonely Planet's The World. A Traveller's Guide to the Planet.

We've taken the highlights from the world's best guidebooks and put them together into one 900+ page whopper to create the ultimate guide to Earth. This user-friendly A-Z gives a flavour of each country in the world, including a map, travel highlights, info on where to go and how to get around, as well as some quirkier details to bring each place to life. In Lonely Planet's trademark bluespine format, this is the ultimate planning resource.

From now on, every traveller's journey should start here...

• Nearly 1000 colour photos of must-visit highlights
• More than 200 colour maps
• The guidebook every traveller needs to own

About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company and the world's number one travel guidebook brand, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and phrasebooks for 120 languages, and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You'll also find our content online, and in mobile apps, video, 14 languages, 12 international magazines, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more, enabling you to explore every day. Lonely Planet enables the curious to experience the world fully and to truly get to the heart of the places they find themselves, near or far from home.

'Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other.' - New York Times

'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves, it's in every traveller's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' - Fairfax Media (Australia)

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lonely Planet
• Release date: Nov 1, 2024
• ISBN: 9781837586929

Regis St Louis

Regis St. Louis creció en una pequeña población de interior de EE UU (uno de esos sitios que alimentan los sueños de viajar), y desde niño desarrolló una fascinación por los dialectos y culturas extranjeras. Pasó sus años de formación aprendiendo ruso y un puñado de lenguas romances, que le fueron muy útiles durante sus viajes por buena parte del globo. Ha colaborado en más de 50 títulos de Lonely Planet escribiendo sobre destinos en los seis continentes. Sus viajes le han llevado desde las montañas de Kamchatka hasta aldeas en islas aisladas de Melanesia, pasando por muchos grandes paisajes urbanos. Cuando no viaja, vive en Nueva Orleans. Se pe puede seguir en www.instagram.com/regisstlouis.

Book preview

Front CoverLonely Planet Logo

The World 3

A TRAVELLER’S GUIDE TO THE PLANET

THIRD EDITION

CONTENTS

PLANNING

Welcome to the World

Map

Our Picks

Itineraries

Get Prepared

The Guide

Afghanistan

Albania

Algeria

Andorra

Angola

Anguilla

Antarctica

Antigua & Barbuda

Argentina

Armenia

Aruba, Bonaire & Curaçao

Australia

Austria

Azerbaijan

Bahamas, the

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Barbados

Belarus

Belgium

Belize

Benin

Bermuda

Bhutan

Bolivia

Bosnia & Hercegovina

Botswana

Brazil

Brunei Darussalam

Bulgaria

Burkina Faso

Burundi

Cabo Verde

Cambodia

Cameroon

Canada

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Chad

Chile

China

Colombia

Comoros & Mayotte

Congo (DRC)

Congo, Republic of the

Cook Islands

Costa Rica

Côte d’Ivoire

Croatia

Cuba

Cyprus

Czechia

Denmark

Djibouti

Dominica

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

Egypt

El Salvador

England

Equatorial Guinea

Eritrea

Estonia

eSwatini

Ethiopia

Falkland Islands

Fiji

Finland

France

French Guiana

Gabon

Gambia, the

Georgia

Germany

Ghana

Greece

Greenland

Grenada

Guadeloupe

Guam

Guatemala

Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Guyana

Haiti

Honduras

Hong Kong

Hungary

Iceland

India

Indonesia

Iran

Iraq

Ireland

Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Italy

Jamaica

Japan

Jordan

Kazakhstan

Kenya

Kiribati

Kosovo

Kuwait

Kyrgyzstan

Laos

Latvia

Lebanon

Lesotho

Liberia

Libya

Liechtenstein

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Macao

Madagascar

Malawi

Malaysia

Maldives

Mali

Malta

Marshall Islands

Martinique

Mauritania

Mauritius

Mexico

Micronesia

Moldova

Monaco

Mongolia

Montenegro

Morocco

Mozambique

Myanmar (Burma)

Namibia

Nauru

Nepal

Netherlands, the

New Caledonia

New Zealand

Nicaragua

Niger

Nigeria

North Korea

North Macedonia

Northern Ireland

Northern Mariana Islands

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Palau

Panama

Papua New Guinea

Paraguay

Peru

Philippines

Pitcairn Island

Poland

Portugal

Puerto Rico

Qatar

Romania

Russia

Rwanda

Samoa

San Marino

São Tomé & Príncipe

Saudi Arabia

Scotland

Senegal

Serbia

Seychelles

Sierra Leone

Singapore

Slovakia

Slovenia

Solomon Islands

Somalia, Somaliland & Puntland

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Spain

Sri Lanka

St Kitts & Nevis

St Lucia

St Vincent & the Grenadines

Sudan

Suriname

Sweden

Switzerland

Syria

Tahiti & French Polynesia

Taiwan

Tajikistan

Tanzania

Thailand

Tibet

Timor-Leste

Togo

Tonga

Trinidad & Tobago

Tunisia

Türkiye

Turkmenistan

Turks & Caicos

Tuvalu

Uganda

Ukraine

United Arab Emirates

USA

Uruguay

Uzbekistan

Vanuatu

Vatican City

Venezuela

Vietnam

Virgin Islands, US & British

Wales

Yemen

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Storybook

A History of Humanity in 15 Places

Meet the People of the World

Global Meals of a Lifetime

Traveling for Good

A Not So Lonely Planet: How Will Travel Change in the Future?

This Book

Welcome to the World

Iceberg, Antarctica | POSNOV/GETTY IMAGES ©

As the poet Wallace Stevens once noted, ‘The most beautiful thing in the world is, of course, the world itself.’ Our planet is packed with countless wonders: waterfalls hidden in tropical rainforests, craggy peaks towering above flower-filled meadows and golden beaches fronting coral reefs teeming with marine life. Then there are the fabled human creations — from 2000-year-old temples to vertiginous skyscrapers, along with less tangible masterpieces like Afro-Cuban jazz and Maasai warrior dances under an African sunset. This is just the beginning, and when it comes to traveling the world, there really is no end.

Allow this book to serve as inspiration for your own voyage of discovery. Within these pages, you can explore all of the world’s 220-odd countries, as well as Antarctica. Each listing includes some top sights and experiences to whet your appetite, basic practical information and a map to help you plot a rough itinerary.

In the words of Lonely Planet’s founder, Tony Wheeler: ‘All you’ve got to do is decide to go and the hardest part is over.’

Regis St Louis, writer

Yellowstone National Park | FERRANTRAITE/GETTY IMAGES ©

Regis has spent half a lifetime exploring far-flung corners of the globe, and he has contributed to more than 100 Lonely Planet guides across six continents.

@regisstlouis

My favorite experience is tramping through wintery forests in snowshoes while tracing the rim of a majestic canyon. Seeing Yellowstone National Park under heavy snowfall is magical.

Maasai warriors, Kenya | VADIM PETRAKOV/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Contributing writers

Mark Baker

Ray Bartlett

Cristian Bonetto

David Eimer

Anthony Ham

Stephen Lioy

Karyn Noble

Nanjala Nyabola

Jack Palfrey

Kevin Raub

Anu Taranath

Brana Vladisavljevic

Dr Jenny Walker

Country Map

Where the Wild Things Are

Orangutans swing through the jungle canopy, zebras thunder across the dusty grasslands and griffon vultures soar above chiseled peaks. When you leave the cities and towns behind, you discover a world of astonishing variety, from massive humpback whales to tiny synchronous fireflies. Whether you’re setting out on an African safari, or going island-hopping in the South Pacific, be prepared for once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. The biggest challenge is deciding where to go.

Leopard, Okavango Delta | Richard Juilliart/shutterstock ©

A Wildlife Spectacle

The world’s greatest mammal migration occurs when more than 1.5 million wildebeest seeking greener pastures travel from Tanzania’s Serengeti (pictured above) to Kenya’s Masai Mara, then back again.

Claudia Uribe/getty images ©

Field Guides

A good field guide to birds and other wildlife is indispensable. If you want to travel light, download a good app like Merlin Bird ID.

mallardg500/getty images ©

Closer Encounters

You can get more out of your wildlife viewing by packing a decent pair of binoculars – or, better yet, a spotting scope.

Best Wildlife Watching Experiences

map

Photograph big cats, elephants and other species in the Okavango Delta 1, one of the world’s last great wildernesses.

Snorkel past curious sea lions and speedy penguins, then encounter giant land tortoises in the Galápagos Islands 2.

Book a jungle lodge stay in the Brazilian Amazon 3, where you can look for monkeys, macaws and capybara.

See massive bison herds along with pronghorns, elk, and bears in the mountains of Yellowstone National Park 4.

Complete an epic animal-spotting checklist in Indonesia, with its many extraordinary species, including Komodo dragons 5.

All the World’s a Stage

Wherever you roam, you’ll have the chance to experience the raw power of nature. Biologically diverse rainforests, red-rock canyons and thundering waterfalls are just the beginning. There are also misty cloud forests, Technicolor coral reefs and caverns full of otherworldly formations. All offer extraordinary possibilities when it comes to reconnecting with Earth’s wild places – whether engaging in outdoor activities or simply sitting still and enjoying the extraordinary beauty of a place like nowhere else.

Vatnajökull National Park | Smit/shutterstock ©

Pinus Longaeva

Hidden high up in the US Sierra Nevada, Great Basin bristlecone pines are the world’s oldest living trees. The most ancient specimen is more than 4800 years old.

Bill45/shutterstock ©

The Greatest Chasm

The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon in Tibet is the deepest canyon on earth; in some places it extends more than 5300m from top to bottom.

Fei Yang/getty images ©

Early Risers

Beat the worst of the crowds by hitting the key attractions at first light. Alternatively, come in the afternoon, when most visitors have dispersed.

Best Landscape Experiences

map

Contemplate the earth’s age while visiting the Grand Canyon 1, with its layers of geologic history.

Make a journey by guided 4WD out to Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni 2, the planet’s largest salt flats.

Hear the thundering roar and feel the mist on your face at Victoria Falls 3, the spectacular cataracts in Southern Africa.

See a mix of glaciers and active volcanoes amid the stunning scenery of Vatnajökull National Park 4 in Iceland.

Float beneath the cathedral-high ceiling of stalactites in Laos’ Tham Kong Lor 5, a 7.5km-long underworld in remote Khammuan Province.

The Party Never Ends

Across the globe, celebration takes myriad forms. In Brazil, you can shimmy through the streets during music-fueled Carnaval celebrations, while 4000 miles north pre-Lenten revelry means colorful floats, shiny beads and brass bands at New Orleans’ Mardi Gras parades. There are traditional costumed shows in Melanesia, magnificent lunar celebrations in Southeast Asia and massive music fests across Europe and North America. Festivals large and small are reason enough to head off on a great journey.

Carnaval, Rio | Celso Pupo/shutterstock ©

Water, Water Everywhere

Thailand’s water-themed Songkran festival is a time of cleansing and renewal, as well as super-soaking parades that cool everyone under the hot April sun.

Lauren DeCicca/Getty Images ©

India’s Most Colorful Festival

Anyone venturing into the streets during Holi gets doused with water and coloured powder, as the country turns yellow, blue, red, green, pink and purple.

Himanshu Khagta/Getty Images ©

Power Couples

One of Europe’s oddest competitive events is the Wife Carrying World Championships held in Sonkajärvi, Finland. The top prize is the wife’s weight in beer.

Best Festival Experiences

Admire the artful feather headdresses, rustling grass skirts and evocative face and body paint during the Goroka Show 1 in Papua New Guinea.

Munch on special seasonal foods, attend open-air concerts and see graveyards come to life on Día de los Muertos 2 in Mexico.

Eat mutton pancakes while watching wrestling matches, horse racing and archery competitions in Khatgal 3, Mongolia.

Join revelers in the streets of Ipanema, Centro and Santa Teresa for music-fueled parades during Rio’s Carnaval 4 season.

Pull on some lederhosen or a dirndl for a celebration of beer quaffing, live music and folk dancing during Munich’s Oktoberfest 5.

Delicacies from East & West

In the lamplit lanes of Bilbao lively tapas bars fill with diners. Meanwhile in southern Asia, crowds gather at a sprawling food market to feast on curries and spicy noodle dishes. Perhaps more than anything, food is one of the great gateways into a culture. ‘[It’s] everything we are,’ as the travel documentarian Anthony Bourdain once said. You can make a pilgrimage to fabled foodie destinations or seek out regional delicacies in far-flung corners of the globe.

Pho, Hanoi | CC7/shutterstock ©

Children of the Corn

Maize is the building block of Mesoamerican civilization and features prominently in tacos, tamales, chilaquiles (breakfast nachos), pozole (hominy stew) and many other dishes.

rez-art/getty images ©

Mythic Market

One of London’s oldest and largest food halls, the Borough Market features more than 100 stalls selling everything from Iberian ham to freshly foraged mushrooms.

Alex Segre/shutterstock ©

Ancient Wine Makers

Discovered in 2007, a cave complex in Vayots Dzor, Armenia, shows evidence of wine production dating back over 6000 years, making it one of the world’s oldest wine regions.

Best Eating Experiences

Munch on pintxos (Basque tapas), which are small morsels of gastronomic perfection, in San Sebastián 1, Spain.

Feast your way around Tokyo 2, home to an astonishing array of culinary diversity.

Tuck into the world’s finest pho in Hanoi 3, followed by bun cha, the Vietnamese capital’s other famous noodle dish.

Go on a taco crawl in Mexico City 4 to find your favorite fillings, from cochinita pibíl (slow-roasted pork) to chapulines (grasshoppers).

Join locals over celebrated Mediterranean fare in Crete 5, an island famous for its mouthwatering morsels from the sea and countryside.

50 Shades of Blue

Cast off, set sail then fall under the spell of the world’s seaside destinations. Head to tiny islands ringed by coral reefs, fishing communities overlooking aquamarine seas, and white-sand beaches backed by tropical rainforests. Travel in high style or go local, overnighting at homestays and in rustic bungalows, immersing yourself in the rhythms of village life. You can also plan a trip around aquatic adventures – diving, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking or simply basking on the shoreline.

Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre | nycshooter/getty images ©

Diver’s Paradise

The Coral Triangle contains the world’s most biologically diverse marine ecosystem. It spans parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, PNG and several other countries.

VitalyEdush/getty images ©

Essential Beachwear

If there’s one thing you mustn’t forget, it’s a handy sarong, the quick-drying wrap-cum-beach-blanket. It’s lighter and less bulky than a towel and far more versatile.

SrdjanPav/getty images ©

Undersea Gear

It’s well worth packing a snorkel and mask for your trip. These aren’t always available to rent, and you’ll find ample opportunities to use them in the tropics.

Best Seaside Experiences

map

Base yourself in northern Queensland for trips to the Great Barrier Reef 1, home to dazzling marine life.

Breathe in the sea air while paddling a kayak amid the spectacular fjords near the Greenlandic village of Tasiilaq 2.

Spend your days snorkeling amid vibrant marine life and relaxing on stunning beaches in Brazil’s Fernando de Noronha 3.

Walk the waterside trails in the Italian Riviera 4. Stop for gelato and a swim off Cinque Terre’s Riomaggiore.

Go island-hopping in the Turks and Caicos 5, a Caribbean archipelago with breathtaking beaches, seaside resorts and world-class diving.

Relics of the Past

Ancient temples and towering monuments lie hidden in jungles, deserts and rocky ravines. Despite the passage of time, these remnants of once-mighty kingdoms have lost none of their power to transfix. Learn about the Maya, the Aztecs or the Inca while exploring fabled ruins in Latin America, or see the astonishing assemblage of Hindu and Buddhist monuments in Southeast Asia. Whether seeking out the famous or the lesser known, these human-made wonders are worthy additions to anyone’s bucket list.

Borobudur | John Elk III/getty images ©

Clifftop Spirituality

Perched atop a soaring rockface, Moni Agias Triados is Greece’s most dramatically set monastery and was famously featured in the 1981 Bond film For Your Eyes Only.

EGUCHI NAOHIRO/shutterstock ©

Dressing the Part

In many parts of the world temples are sacred spaces, so visitors need to dress appropriately. Some temples will offer visitors sarongs or they can be rented.

Sergii Figurnyi/shutterstock ©

Amazonian Discoveries

Archeologists continue to unearth major finds, like the 2024 discovery in Ecuador of an ancient city that was once home to as many as 100,000 people.

Best Ancient Monument Experiences

Wander jungle-clad paths surrounding the towering Mayan pyramids of Tikal 1, built more than 1500 years ago.

Hike the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu 2, a mysterious lost city in the Andes.

Marvel at the the world’s largest Buddhist temple at Borobudur 3, with more than 2000 relief panels and hundreds of statues.

Delve into the 12th-century wonder of Angkor Wat 4, a magnificent Hindu-Buddhist temple complex.

Clamber into the tombs of the Valley of the Kings in Luxor 5 to gaze at the resting places of the New Kingdom pharaohs.

River Deep, Mountain High

Strap on those crampons, slip into that wetsuit or light up your headlamp. There are countless adventures to be had in this great wide world. Plan a multiday rafting trip along frothy, canyon-walled rivers or plot a course through the Andes (or Himalaya or the Rockies) for an epic climb up a towering summit. Fresh powder lures skiers to glistening alpine slopes while surfers paddle out to the photogenic waves barreling off tropical shores.

Matterhorn | Pathara Buranadilok/shutterstock ©

World Firsts

Kawarau Bridge, near Queenstown, New Zealand, is the site of the world’s first commercial bungee-jumping operation…and you can still jump there now.

NICRAM SABOD/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Superb Snorkeling

Don’t despair if you don’t dive, because snorkeling is also rewarding even in places like the Great Barrier Reef. Strap on a mask and fins and be astonished at the marine life.

ARTINCAMERA/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Saving Money

For skiing on a budget, skip the famous resorts in the Bavarian Alps and check out resorts in Germany’s Black Forest or Bavarian Forest.

Best Adventure Experiences

Lace up your boots in New Zealand, home to some of the best trails on the planet, including the fabled Milford Track 1.

Slip on your scuba mask and dive into the bays near Ko Tao 2, a stunning Thai island fringed by coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Feel the power of the Alps at the Matterhorn 3, a renowned for hiking and climbing in summer and skiing in winter.

Hop into a raft for white-water adventures on eSwatini’s Great Usutu River 4, famous for its thrilling rapids and rugged scenery.

Book a surfing holiday in Portugal 5, and enjoy some of the best waves and beaches in Europe.

ITINERARIES

Across Africa

Africa offers vast landscapes, dazzling natural wonders and an opportunity to see wildlife on a scale unrivalled anywhere else in the world. Returning home, you’ll undoubtedly have envy-inducing photos of the ‘Big Five’ animals, though your fondest memories may come from the people you meet along the way.

ALLOW: 3 months DISTANCE: 22,700 km

Lion, Serengeti | kjekol/GETTY IMAGES ©

1 SOUTH AFRICA

2 WEEKS

Spend a few days immersing yourself in the wonders of Cape Town from sweeping views atop Table Mountain to the sparkling Clifton Beaches. Enjoy wine-tasting amid the scenic vineyards of Winelands (pictured), then head out on a safari at the world-renowned Kruger National Park.

Detour: Add five days in eSwatini, rafting the Usutu River and rhino-spotting in the Mkhaya Game Reserve.

vanderje/Getty Images ©

2 NAMIBIA

10 DAYS

Head to the Fish River Canyon, a 160km ravine that looks particularly dramatic at sunrise. Take in even more surreal landscapes at Sossusvlei, with its soaring red sand dunes rising above the stark white salt pans. Continuing north, take in fabled petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein (pictured), the remote wilderness of the Skeleton Coast and wildlife-viewing at Etosha National Park.

Fabio Lamanna/shutterstock ©

3 BOTSWANA

10 DAYS

Start with a trip into the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, a parched landscape of sand dunes, grasslands and primeval river valleys. Leave time for the Okavango Delta (pictured): spend a few nights in a lodge and fill your days photographing elephants, hippos, cheetahs and countless other species.

Detour: Tack on two days to see stunning Victoria Falls, which roar between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

thejack/Getty Images ©

4 TANZANIA

2 WEEKS

Make the ascent up Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa, or overnight in the area and enjoy the prime views. Enjoy downtime in Zanzibar, an enchanting island sprinkled with picturesque beaches and an old quarter full of atmospheric lanes. Don’t leave without visiting Serengeti National Park. Here you can see vast herds of wildebeest along with zebras, giraffes and lions.

Mitch Diamond/GETTY IMAGES ©

5 KENYA

12 DAYS

You can see more of the great animal migrations in the Masai Mara, Kenya’s most famous wildlife reserve. Next head into the Rift Valley for hiking and animal encounters amid the cliffs and canyons of Hell’s Gate National Park. Another opportunity for more wildlife-watching is in the Kakamega Forest (pictured), with is verdant flora, primate species and rich avian life. Afterwards, treat yourself to a few days on Kenya’s cinematic beaches.

tristan tan/shutterstock ©

6 EGYPT

2 WEEKS

Take a cruise on the Nile, with stops at some of Egypt’s ancient wonders, including stunning Luxor (pictured) and the Valley of the Kings. In Cairo, deepen your knowledge at the outstanding Egyptian Museum, then explore the sprawling atmospheric market stalls of the Khan al-Khalili Souq. Last up is Alexandria, a vibrant city on the Mediterranean and a perfect place to celebrate the transcontinental journey.

bloodua/GETTY IMAGES ©

ITINERARIES

The Asian Odyssey

Sacred mountains, tropical islands and bustling food markets are just a few features you’ll encounter on this expansive journey across one long stretch of eastern Asia. You’ll travel by train, boat and ojek (motorbike taxi), and will have ample opportunities for adventure – from exploring ancient shrines to snorkeling over coral reefs packed with colorful marine life.

ALLOW: 10 weeks DISTANCE: 12,400 km

Temple, Chiang Mai | alongkot-s/GETTY IMAGES ©

1 JAPAN

1 WEEK

Start in Tokyo, one of the world’s most fascinating urban enclaves. Check out cutting-edge architecture and verdant gardens, sample great cooking and imbibe at creative drinking dens, then head west to climb Mt Fuji (pictured). Continue by train to captivating Kyoto, known for its palaces, garden-fringed temples and grand museums. Finish in nearby Nara, which has luminous shrines, the oldest dating to the 8th century.

mapman/shutterstock ©

2 PHILIPPINES

10 DAYS

Get a dose of art, history and nightlife in Manila, then take in the surreal beauty of Sagada, with its hanging coffins, caves and waterfalls in the Cordillera Mountains. Journey east to Bicol for myriad adventures, including surfing, snorkeling with whale sharks and volcano hikes. Afterwards, treat yourself to a coastal retreat at stunning Boracay (pictured), a tiny island ringed with photogenic white-sand beaches.

Andrey Danilovich/GETTY IMAGES ©

3 VIETNAM

2 WEEKS

Spend a few days taking the pulse of Hanoi (pictured), visiting colorful Buddhist temples, strolling the atmospheric Old Quarter and indulging in delectable street food. Then set sail through Halong Bay, a sublime region of verdant rock faces soaring above topaz waters. Head to picturesque cities like Hoi An, before savoring the idyllic island of Phu Quoc.

Gwengoat/GETTY IMAGES ©

4 CAMBODIA

1 WEEK

Founded more than 600 years ago, Phnom Penh mixes extravagant pagodas and teeming markets, along with plenty of 21st-century cool. Visit spiritual shrines and disturbing relics from the dark days under the Khmer Rouge. Go north to Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat (pictured), one of the world’s most impressive temple complexes. Afterwards, escape the crowds in the peaceful riverside town of Battambang.

Efired/shutterstock ©

5 THAILAND

2 WEEKS

Move between worlds in Bangkok, an entrancing city of over-the-top gilded shrines, old-fashioned market halls and soaring skyscrapers, plus an unrivaled dining scene. Point northward to explore the foodie and temple epicenter of Chiang Mai (pictured) and the stunning mountain province of Chiang Rai. Don’t leave without a few days by the beach: Ko Lipe, with its white sand and famous sunrises, is a great choice.

hadynyah/GETTY IMAGES ©

6 INDONESIA

2 WEEKS

Every island is like a nation unto itself in Indonesia, a country of astonishing cultural and geographic diversity. Travel across Java, stopping for temple gazing at Borobudur, then catch a ferry to Bali for the allure of the culturally rich town of Ubud. Add wildlife encounters to the Indonesian experience, visiting Komodo National Park, famed for its massive lizards, and Raja Ampat (pictured), launchpad for under sea adventures.

Darryl Leniuk/GETTY IMAGES ©

ITINERARIES

Adventures in Latin America

Andean peaks, tropical beaches and hard-to-reach ancient cities have long drawn adventurous travelers to this vast swath of the Americas. You can tick off the grand highlights in a little over two months, though with more time on your hands, you can embrace slow travel, moving about by local buses and sometimes riverboats.

ALLOW: 10 weeks DISTANCE: 24,500 km

Hikers, Fitz Roy Range | Westend61/GETTY IMAGES ©

1 MEXICO

2 WEEKS

Immerse yourself in the sights and dining scene of Mexico City, then journey to the impressive pyramids of Teotihuacán. Spend the next 10 days winding your way south and east, stopping in Oaxaca (pictured) for fiestas and handicrafts, the Yucatán peninsula for a look at architecturally striking cities (like Meridá) and ancient Maya temples (including Chichén Itzá), and San Cristóbal for its rich indigenous heritage.

Marco Bottigelli/GETTY IMAGES ©

2 GUATEMALA

1 WEEK

Dense rainforest greets you upon arrival in mountainous Guatemala. If your Spanish is rusty, head to Quetzaltenango for lessons, then burnish your skills on travels around the country. Spend time amid the colorful architecture of Antigua (pictured) then get a dose of nature in lovely Lago de Atitlán. Hit the craft markets at Chichicastenango, and don’t leave without visiting the spectacular ruins of Tikal.

Roberto A Sanchez/GETTY IMAGES ©

3 ECUADOR

10 DAYS

Relatively compact in size, Ecuador is packed with wonders. Spend two days exploring Quito, known for its historic UNESCO-listed center and extravagant centuries-old churches. Nearby Cotopaxi offers ample Andean adventures (hiking, climbing). Next, fly to the Galápagos (pictured) and spend a week on a cruise around the archipelago, visiting volcanic landscapes and having close encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas and other extraordinary wildlife.

Steve Allen/shutterstock ©

4 PERU

10 DAYS

The great Andean nation has a treasure chest of famous sites. Start off in Huaraz, gateway to memorable hikes in the Cordillera Blanca. Follow the Andes south to Cuzco, with its rich Inca and Spanish heritage. From there, hike the Inca Trail to the fabled ‘lost city’ of Machu Picchu (pictured). Later visit the extraordinary 17 floating reed islands on Lake Titicaca and historic Arequipa.

Anton_Ivanov/shutterstock ©

5 BRAZIL

10 DAYS

Get your nature fix in the mother of all rainforests by spending a few days at a jungle lodge near Manaus in the Amazon. Trade the forest for the beach in Salvador, an enchanting city of Afro-Brazilian art, music and cuisine near breathtaking beaches. Hop from there down to Rio (pictured) for more urban beach action, plus samba-fueled nightlife and grand views from atop its forested mountains.

Philippe Cohat/Getty Images ©

6 ARGENTINA

2 WEEKS

See some of the most dramatic waterfalls on the planet at Iguazú with over 200 misty cataracts backed by rainforest. Next up is the scintillating Argentine capital of Buenos Aires, with its fascinating neighborhoods and famed restaurant and bar scene. Down in Patagonia, take hikes in the Fitz Roy Range and get close to glaciers like Perito Moreno (pictured). End the trip down in Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city.

Marco Bottigelli/GETTY IMAGES ©

ITINERARIES

The Grand Tour of Europe

Whether it’s your first trip or your 50th, it’s impossible not to feel a thrill of excitement exploring Europe’s cobblestoned lanes, gazing at centuries-old architecture and stumbling upon astonishing cultural treasures. Beyond the city streets, Alpine peaks and Mediterranean shores beckon, along with castles and villages that look straight out of a fairy tale.

ALLOW: 11 weeks DISTANCE: 10,250 km

Salerno, Amalfi Coast | ValerioMei/shutterstock ©

1 ENGLAND

2 WEEKS

Spend a few packed days amid the sights and sounds of London, taking in theatre, world-class museums and grand buildings. Balance urban life with rural exploring, taking in the villages of the Cotswolds before continuing up to the misty mountains and verdant hills of the the Lake District (pictured).

Detour: Add four days in Scotland with countryside rambling in Skye followed by a dose of culture in Edinburgh.

Richard Whitcombe/shutterstock ©

2 SPAIN

2 WEEKS

Start your Spanish journey in Andalucía: home to the vibrant city of Seville with its venerable foodie and flamenco traditions. Continue to the streets of Barcelona (pictured), a Mediterranean city famed for its medieval and Modernista architecture, plus legendary dining and drinking spots. Head to the nearby Costa Brava for beaches and coastal walks, then take things up a notch on the rugged trails in the Pyrenees.

Vladitto/getty images ©

3 FRANCE

2 WEEKS

Start on the Atlantic coast, for seaside fun near the towering Dune du Pilat. Head east to the glorious chateaux of the Loire Valley (pictured), then on to Paris, for famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Loop south for the famous markets of Provence, then ascend to Chamonix for activities in the French Alps.

Detour: Spend five days in Switzerland, enjoying Lake Geneva, alpine walks and dramatic train rides.

Alexander Demyanenko/shutterstock ©

4 GERMANY

2 WEEKS

Make your first stop the Black Forest, a verdant region for scenic drives, walking trails and picturesque villages. Head north from there, stopping in the historic university town of Heidelberg en route to the lovely Rhine Valley, famed for its steeply terraced vineyards and hilltop castles. Veer east to Berlin, for immersion in its cutting-edge arts scene, then loop back south for Bavarian culture in Munich (pictured).

T.B. photo/shutterstock ©

5 AUSTRIA

1 WEEK

Experience the magic of Salzburg (pictured) on a wander through the Old Town, followed by a visit to the hilltop fortress of Festung Hohensalzburg. Continue to Vienna for a wander through imperial palaces and the art-filled Museums Quartier.

Detour: Spend four days in Slovenia: make the ascent up picturesque Mt Triglav, explore the fascinating neighborhoods of Ljubljana, then enjoy the Adriatic coast at Piran.

canadastock/shutterstock ©

6 ITALY

2 WEEKS

Lose yourself in the foggy, mazelike lanes of Venice, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Next up is Tuscany (pictured), with Renaissance masterpieces and vineyard-covered countryside. Leave ample time for Rome, with its architectural treasures that span the centuries. Finish near Naples, with seaside exploring on the Amalfi Coast.

Detour: Add a week in Greece, hitting the Parthenon in Athens, followed by island rambles in the Cyclades.

Janoka82/getty images ©

ITINERARIES

North American Road Trip

You could spend a lifetime exploring North America’s largest countries and barely scratch the surface. While there are countless ways to approach these huge neighbors, this route takes you to dynamic cities, along the coast and through awe-inspiring wilderness. Out west, there’s no better place on Earth for an epic road trip.

ALLOW: 5 weeks DISTANCE: 7,950 miles

Old Faithful | f11photo/shutterstock ©

1 NEW YORK

4 DAYS

Start off with some action-packed days in NYC. See a Broadway play, visit a hallowed museum like the Met or the MoMA, take in some vital green spaces (Central Park, the High Line; pictured) and build in some unstructured time to wander a neighborhood or two (Lower East Side, West Village).

Detour: Catch a train northeast for two days of exploring the historic cobblestones of Boston.

CristinaMuraca/shutterstock ©

2 QUÉBEC CITY

3 DAYS

You might feel as though you’ve stumbled across the Atlantic while visiting the Parisian-style bakeries tucked along the cinematic streets of the Québec City old quarter. Wander the 300-year-old fortifications and cutting-edge art museums, then indulge in unique Québécois fare like poutine.

Detour: On your westward journey stay a few days in Toronto, Canada’s dynamic epicenter for art, music and cuisine.

christopher babcock/shutterstock ©

3 CANADIAN ROCKIES

5 DAYS

In the Canadian Rockies Banff (pictured) could delay you the whole summer with its outdoor temptations, but make do with three days to hike up Sulphur Mountain, relax in hot springs and hunt for beavers around Vermilion Lakes. Next, head to Lake Louise to trek to the Plain of the Glacier teahouse. Spend the last two days in Jasper, visiting Maligne Lake and the boulder fields of Whistlers Mountain.

Matteo Colombo/getty images ©

4 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

4 DAYS

Pack four days with wonder in Yellowstone, America’s oldest national park. Visit the geyser fields surrounding Old Faithful, look for herds of buffalo and other wildlife (including wolves) in the Lamar Valley, then admire the thundering waterfalls roaring through the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Detour: Head to nearby Grand Teton National Park, for fabled hikes around mirror-like lakes backed by chiseled peaks.

Agnieszka Bacal/shutterstock ©

5 CALIFORNIA

1 WEEK

Home to captivating coastal cities and nine national parks, California is a state that warrants deep explorations. Spend two days exploring the diverse neighborhoods of hilly San Francisco (pictured) then head to Yosemite for rugged hikes amid waterfalls and craggy peaks. Make your way along the winding sea cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway en route to Los Angeles, then hook up with Route 66, another legendary road.

Hayk_Shalunts/shutterstock ©

6 THE DEEP SOUTH

1 WEEK

After a memorable road trip from the west, allow for two days in New Orleans for Creole cooking, neighborhood wanders (the Bywater, the Garden District) and fiery jazz by night. Follow this with a trip to Memphis for blues culture and Nashville for country music and other sounds in buzzing honky-tonks. Cross the Appalachian mountains for a look at Savannah and historic Charleston (pictured).

f11photo/shutterstock ©

Get Prepared

Useful things to load in your bag, your ears and your brain.

Paul Biris/getty images ©

Clothes

Hot-Weather Fabrics

In many places you visit, there will be serious heat and humidity. You’ll want to bring lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool and feel less sweaty.

Layers

For colder places, it’s wise to pack a light jacket and a fleece. Strategically worn layers can save you having to pack a heavy coat.

Hats

Keep the sun off your face. A wide-brimmed sun hat is a good option.

Footwear

Versatile walking shoes will serve you well on cobblestone streets and on hiking trails. Make sure they’re well broken in, with a nonslip sole (eg Vibram). Water shoes come in handy for aquatic activities like rafting as well as for frolicking along the shoreline.

Trong Nguyen/Ashutterstock ©

Rain Gear

Precipitation is always a possibility, so don’t forget to pack a lightweight rain jacket.

Manners

Smile

Kindness will often serve you better than forceful words. Getting angry and arguing are considered a loss of face in many places. Whatever situation you’re in, it’s always best to smile.

Relax

Life runs at a different pace in many parts of the world. Slow down and go with the flow.

Gratitude

If invited to someone’s home, take a small gift, such as flowers.

WATCH

Wild

(Jean-Marc Vallée; 2014) A woman throws caution to the wind to undertake a hike of self-discovery on the USA’s Pacific Crest Trail.

Y Tu Mamá También

(Alfonso Cuarón Orozco; 2001) Evocative coming-of-age road movie about friendship, love and mortality.

Kundun

(Martin Scorsese; 1997) Beautifully chronicles the life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama until his exile from Tibet.

Before Sunrise

(Richard Linklater; 1995) Captures the romance and surprises of traveling the railways and cobblestones of Europe.

Sembene!

(Samba Gadjigo; 2015) Inspiring documentary about the life and art of Ousmane Sembène, considered the father of African cinema.

Greetings Around the World

Australia (Strine)

G’day, mate. How ya goin’? Catch you later - Hello. How are you? See you later.

Bali (Balinese)

Om Swastiastu - Literally May God’s blessings be upon you. (traditional greeting)

Brazil (Portuguese)

Tudo bem?

All’s well? Can reply with Tudo certo. E você? - All is great. And you?

Estonia (Estonian)

Tere/Tervist - Hello

Kuidas läheb? - How are you?

Hästi. Ja sinul? - Fine. And you?

India (Hindi)

Namaste/Namaskar - Literally means I bow to you and at its essence contains the idea that ‘the sacred in me recognizes the sacred in you.’

Jamaica (Jamaican patwa)

Wah gwaan? - How’s it going? (literally What’s going on?) Reply: Everything cook an’ curry (Everything is just fine) or Mi aright (I’m OK).

Japan (Japanese)

Ohayō gozaimasu - Good morning

Konnichiwa - Good day

Konbanwa - Good evening

Kenya & Tanzania (Swahili)

Hujambo? How are you? or less formally Mambo? What’s up? Reply: Sijambo - I am fine

Morocco (and much of the Arabic-speaking world)

Salaam alaykum - Peace be upon you. Reply: Wa alaykum salaam - And peace be upon you

Papua New Guinea (Tok Pisin)

Gude - Hello

Yu stap gut? - How are you?

Mi stap gut - I’m well

Peru & other Andean countries (Quechua)

Allin punchay - Good morning

Allin suka - Good afternoon

Allin tuta - Good evening

Senegal & the Gambia (Wolof)

Na nga def? - How are you? Reply: Maa ngi fi - I’m fine, thanks

Vietnam (Vietnamese)

Bạn khỏe không - How are you?

Khỏe. Còn bạn thì sao? - Fine. And you?

LISTEN

History

(Bokanté; 2023) A dynamic mashup of world beats, with influences from West Africa, the Arab world and the Caribbean.

Eghass Malan

(Les Filles de Illighadad; 2017) Ground-breaking all-female Tuareg band creating rhythms both hypnotic and playful.

Ghost Gamelan

(Susheela Raman; 2018) Mesmerizing blend of British-Indian singer Raman’s vocals with haunting traditional Javanese percussion.

Transcontinental Shuffle

(Gogol Bordello; 2010) Carnivalesque gypsy punk rock that’s the perfect soundtrack for travels in Eastern Europe and beyond.

READ

The Great Railway Bazaar

(Paul Theroux; 1975) Celebrated work chronicling an epic train journey across Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

The Thing Around Your Neck

(Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie; 1999) One of Nigeria’s most gifted writers weaves thought-provoking tales in this award-winning short-story collection.

Eat Pray Love

(Elizabeth Gilbert; 2006) Memoir of a year of extraordinary travel experiences in Italy, India and Bali.

Catfish and Mandala

(Andrew X Pham; 2009) A life-changing bicycle journey by a Vietnamese-American around his ancestral homeland.

THE GUIDE

Afghanistan

A battered but beautiful country, Afghanistan’s road to recovery remains uncertain yet the resilience of its people and beauty of its landscapes endure.

Jono Photography/shutterstock ©

map

CAPITAL

Kabul

POPULATION

39.2 million

AREA

652,230 sq km

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

Dari, Pashto

AFGHANISTAN FORMED PART of the original overland hippie trail, beguiling visitors with both mighty mountain landscapes and the people of Afghanistan themselves. This allure has only been heightened by inaccessibility over the past five decades, with only brief periods seen as stable enough for independent travel.

Throughout its long history, Afghanistan has been united against invaders but divided within itself. The current cycle of violence started with the Soviet invasion of 1979, a bloody ‘David and Goliath’ conflict with the underdogs eventually besting the superpower. However, this war’s dividend wasn’t peace, but a ruinous civil war – a morass that came back to haunt the West in the form of the Taliban, whose ousting and eventual return as a result of foreign intervention is but one more iteration of this tragic centuries-long cycle.

When to Go

HIGH SEASON JUN–AUG

Pleasant in the cities, the mountains stay cool longer.

SHOULDER SEP–OCT

The driest months, with mountain routes most accessible.

LOW SEASON NOV–MAY

Rainy lowlands and snowed-in highlands.

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Top Experiences

1 Kabul

Kabul is exciting, frustrating, inspiring and shocking in equal measure. Once a stop on the old hippie trail to India, then ruined by the civil war, the city has boomed in recent years with fancy restaurants and an air thick with the sound of mobile phones. But recent years aren’t so rosy – Kabul’s path to reconstruction continues to be rocky.

2 Wakhan & Afghan Pamir

Rugged even by Afghan standards, the Wakhan Corridor and Afghan Pamir lie at the convergence of the Hindu Kush, Karakoram and Pamir Ranges – known in Persian as Bam-e Dunya (roof of the world). Despite instability to the south, this remote corner has continued to see a trickle of community-based tourism visitors drawn by the incredible mountain landscapes.

3 Herat

Herat is as much Persian as it is Afghan, and wears an air of independence as the country’s old cultural heart. While many of Herat’s historic monuments are in a sorry state, in the Friday Mosque (pictured left) the city still possesses one of Islam’s great buildings and certainly Afghanistan’s finest.

Food & Drink

Pulao Rice with meat, almonds, raisins and grated carrot.

Kebabs Diced or ground lamb, with bread, onion and spice.

Fruit Melons, pomegranates, apples, grapes and mulberries.

Tea Hot green and black tea in small glasses.

Albania

Limestone-painted seas, spectacular mountain hiking and thousands of years of history etched into crumbling ruins – it’s hard to understand why some still skip Albania.

MASTER2/GETTY IMAGES ©

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CAPITAL

Tirana

POPULATION

3.1 million

AREA

28,748 sq km

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

Albanian

ALBANIA’S BORDERS WERE shut for much of the 20th century due to a brutal strain of communism steered by the iron fist of leader Enver Hoxha. What travellers discovered after communism fell in 1991 was an enchanting land where the wind whistled through half-forgotten Roman and Greek ruins and azure water drifted gently up empty beaches. These days, the secret’s out, but the prices aren’t close to nearby Greece or Croatia, and you can still find quiet beaches and authentic towns.

In Tirana, cranes and stylish bars are evidence that this European capital is on the upswing. Inland, Berat and Gjirokastra’s Ottoman architecture graciously remains intact. The Albanian Riviera’s cool blue water is a refreshing respite from the summer heat, while bike-friendly Shkodra is a perfect gateway to breathtaking Accursed Mountains trails. Visit this amazing country while you can still beat the crowds.

When to Go

HIGH SEASON JUL–AUG

Sunny and hot, with packed beaches.

SHOULDER SEASON APR–JUN & SEP–OCT

A great time for mountain hikes.

LOW SEASON NOV–MAR

Explore Tirana and old Ottoman towns.

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Top Experiences

1 Hiking the Accursed Mountains

Names don’t come much more evocative than the Accursed Mountains, also known as the Albanian Alps. The dramatic 3000m peaks of northern Albania truly live up to the drama of their name, with snow-sprinkled pinnacles, deep green valleys, thick forests and villages holding on to tradition. Most people come for one spectacular day hike between Valbona and Theth.

2 Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera was a revelation 15 years or so ago, when backpackers discovered the last virgin stretch of the Mediterranean coast in Europe. Since then, things have become significantly less pristine, especially around Saranda (pictured left). But drive north on the mountain coastal road and you’ll find plenty of space to throw down a towel and while away a day under the beaming sun.

3 Butrint

Early in the morning, when the rocks are still tinged in the yellow dawn light, you might just imagine that the ancient walls of Butrint are whispering secrets of long-past lives. Easily the most romantic of Albania’s ancient sites, this great fortified city was for over 2500 years a stronghold for various empires, including Greeks from Corfu, Romans and Byzantines. The ruins are in a fantastic natural setting, part of a 29-sq-km national park.

4 Gjirokastra

Overlooking the fertile Drina Valley, Gjirokastra’s massive castle rises commandingly above a stone town of some 600 Ottoman-style houses. Wander the charming Old Bazaar alongside enticing traditional restaurants, souvenir shops and hip cocktail bars. Stay on the lookout for archways with metal doors – they’re probably bunkers built by paranoid Gjirokastra-born former dictator, Enver Hoxha.

5 Berat

Wander through 2500 years of history in Berat, which started as an Illyrian settlement around the 5th century BCE. Cascading down from its castle are preciously preserved 14th- and 16th-century stone neighbourhoods and photo-deserving white houses that give Berat its moniker of ‘town of a thousand windows’. In spring and summer, wildflowers burst from gaps between the stones, giving the place a magical feel.

6 Rafting the Osum River

White-water rafting excursions through the Osum River canyon, the most impressive gorge in southern Albania, are hosted by Albania Rafting Group. The experience is exhilarating, as tall marble cliffs tower up to 100m on both sides, narrowing to barely the size of the raft; be prepared to get soaked in gushing waterfalls. The rafting season is February through June; the highest rapids follow the winter rains.

7 Tirana

Lively Tirana has come a long way since its communist era. The capital is bursting with colour, from parks flourishing with foliage to buildings painted in vibrant hues. Chic locals stroll past mosque minarets and church domes to fill sprawling patios for a fancy cocktail in the dapper Blloku neighbourhood. Visit Tirana’s communist-bunker museums and take the cable car up Mt Dajti for stunning views.

Berat | JACKMALIPAN/GETTY IMAGES ©

Food & Drink

In coastal areas the calamari, mussels and fish will knock your socks off, while high-altitude areas like Llogara have roast lamb worth climbing a for.

Fërgesë Tiranë Traditional Tirana dish of offal, eggs and tomatoes cooked in an earthenware pot.

Byrek Pastry with cheese or meat.

Qofta Minced-meat rissoles.

Raki Popular spirit made from grapes or mulberry.

Coffee The standard national drink of choice at any time of day.

Getting Around

Bus Bus and and furgon (minibus) are the main forms of public transport in Albania. Fares are low, but expect long, crowded rides, infrequent trips and occasional breakdowns. Municipal buses operate in all major cities.

Car A car will give you the most flexibility, especially for exploring less-visited towns, beaches and hiking spots. But car hire can be pricey and roads off the major highways dicey. City driving is also pretty aggressive.

Ismail Kadare | Agence Opale/Alamy Stock Photo ©

Ismail Kadare

Born in Gjirokastra in 1936, Ismail Kadare is Albania’s greatest author and one of the most renowned scribes of the 20th century. Both celebrated and threatened during communist times, which prompted his escape to France in 1990, Kadare managed to have extraordinary books published, revelling in the absurdity of the times they describe. His novels, many of which are translated into English, are a great source of information on Albanian traditions, history and social events, and exquisitely capture the atmosphere of the country’s towns, as in the lyrical descriptions of Kadare’s birthplace in Chronicle in Stone (1971), set during WWII. Broken April (1978), set in the northern highlands before the 1939 Italian invasion, describes the life of a village boy who is next in line in a desperate cycle of blood vendettas. Kadare won the inaugural Man Booker International Prize in 2005 for his entire body of work, has been nominated for the Nobel Prize for literature multiple times, and continues to publish into his late 80s.

Best for Art & Culture

Marubi National Photography Museum Shkodra’s unique museum displays the fascinating work of Albania’s first photographers.

Museum of Medieval Art This superb collection of Orthodox religious paintings is located in the charming city of Korça.

Durrës Archaeological Museum A mesmerising collection of Roman and Greek artefacts gathered from nearby archaeological sites.

Onufri Museum Berat’s museum inside a church is devoted to the work of the seminal 16th-century Albanian colourist Onufri.

Algeria

From Saharan oasis towns and some of the finest desert scenery on Earth to vibrant coastal cities, Algeria could just be Africa’s best adventure-in-waiting.

Prisma by Dukas Presseagentur GmbH/Alamy Stock Photo ©

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CAPITAL

Algiers

POPULATION

44.8 million

AREA

2.4 million sq km

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

Algerian Arabic, Berber (Tamazight)

AFRICA’S LARGEST COUNTRY lies just a short hop from Europe and, with tourists still a novelty, offers attractions as unpeopled as they are varied.

Algeria’s capital, Algiers, is one of the Maghreb’s most urbane and charismatic cities, with a mix of colonial and modernist architecture, and a traditional medina at its vertiginous heart. Across the north are stunning coastlines, lush rural hinterland and a number of well-preserved Roman cities. The country’s trump card, though, is its extraordinary Saharan region. Whether it’s a glimpse of the sand seas that surround Timimoun, or a plunge headlong into the far south from Tamanrasset, these are the desert landscapes of dream and legend.

Perhaps best of all, Algerians welcome visitors with warmth and a genuine curiosity. For accessible adventure and a complex, enthralling cultural odyssey, head for Algeria now.

When to Go

HIGH SEASON Jul–Sep

High season on the beaches, too hot for the Sahara.

SHOULDER SEASON May–Jun

Spring wildflowers, warm, dry days.

LOW SEASON Oct–Apr

Mild temperatures, autumn date harvest, Sahara high season.

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Top Experiences

1 Explore Algiers

Algiers (Al-Jazaïr; pictured left) is a city of rare beauty and of thrilling contrasts: wide French-built boulevards lined with Parisian-style cafes and villas sit alongside the steep, hillside Casbah where labyrinthine streets spill down to the yawning big blue of the Bay of Algiers. Get out and walk.

2 Haggle for Carpets in Ghardaïa

In the river valley of the Oued M’Zab is a cluster of five towns often referred to collectively as Ghardaïa. Bargain for a boldly patterned carpet in the main square, peek at a pristine medieval town then swim in the shade of date palms. Ghardaïa is a friendly, laid-back place, especially around sunset when locals emerge into the evening cool.

3 Discover the Sahara in Tassili N’Ajjer

The southwestern oasis town of Djanet serves as a gateway to the wonders of the Algerian Sahara. Rock formations weathered over millennia, otherworldly and fabulous, bring character to the Tassili N’Ajjer National Park and the surrounding Tadrart area, with vast seas of sand dunes nearby. Explore in a 4WD or by camel.

Food & Drink

Algerians love their grilled meats, but in the south dates are king.

Bourek Beef-stuffed pastry rolls.

Tagine Savoury stew with meat, vegetables and spices, often served with couscous.

Drinks Mint tea and coffee.

Andorra

The miniature Catalan-speaking principality of Andorra, a dramatic realm of mountain scenery amid the Pyrenees, is one of Western Europe’s most intriguing corners.

Dawid Kalisinski Photography/getty images ©

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CAPITAL

Andorra la Vella

POPULATION

85,500

AREA

468 sq km

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

Catalan

IF YOU’RE ON the lookout for great hiking or skiing, then the curious nation of Andorra is for you. Neatly wedged between France and Spain in the mountainous eastern Pyrenees, it’s one of Europe’s smallest countries. This minicountry offers by far the best ski slopes and resort facilities in all the Pyrenees. Racing down snow-packed pistes, mollycoddling après-ski mulled wine and sleeping snug between boutique-hotel ice walls is how most think of this tiny principality. Shake yourself free of the capital city’s tawdry embrace, take one of the state’s three secondary roads and you’re very soon amid dramatic mountain scenery. Once the snow melts, there’s also an abundance of great walking, ranging from easy strolls to demanding day hikes in the principality’s higher, more-remote reaches. Strike out above the tight valleys and you can walk for hours, almost alone.

When to Go

HIGH SEASON JUN–AUG & DEC–MAR

Summer sunshine; ski the mountains.

SHOULDER SEASON SEP–NOV

Good for Pyrenean paths without summer crowds.

LOW SEASON APR–MAY

Spring flowers make this perfect Pyrenees hiking time.

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Top Experiences

1 Hit the Slopes

Shush your way over the snowfields of the massive Grandvalira ski area (pictured left). With some 200km of runs and a combined lift system that can shift more than 100,000 skiers per hour, it’s the largest ski area in the Pyrenees.

2 Hike Across the Roof of Europe

Ordino is Andorra’s most attractive village, and at an elevation of 1300m, it’s a good starting point for summer-activity holidays. From mid-July to mid-September, the Canillo and Soldeu gondolas whisk you up to the higher reaches, from where you can walk or hire a mountain bike to whizz back down.

3 Wallow in Warm Mineral Water

Steep yourself in the warm mineral waters of space-age La Caldea spa in the capital of Andorra la Vella. All glass and gleaming like some futuristic cathedral, Europe’s largest spa complex offers lagoons, giant Jacuzzis, vapour baths and saunas, fed by warm thermal springs. It is a blissful experience after a day of high-speed fun on the ski slopes or invigorating summertime walks.

Food & Drink

Cabrito con picadillo de frutos secos Goat meat, roasted with almonds and pine nuts.

Escudella A thick soup of albóndigas (meatballs), chickpeas, carrots and potatoes.

Pato con peras de invierno Roast duck with pears.

Angola

Angola is an emerging tourist destination, having been shut off from the world by war for decades. Be among the first to see first hand its astonishing natural beauty.

SYTExperience/getty images ©

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CAPITAL

Luanda

POPULATION

36 million

AREA

1.2 million sq km

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

Portuguese

FRONTING THE ATLANTIC and stretching deep into Africa’s interior, Angola is a diverse land of traumatic history and startling natural treasures. Angola is also one of Africa’s last great travel mysteries, thanks in part to limited tourist infrastructure beyond Luanda, stringent visa policies, high prices and a history that’s been more about war than peace.

And yet, Angola has the potential to be one of Africa’s cultural and geographic highlights. Lurking within its wild borders lie the continent’s second-largest waterfall, scattered remnants of Portuguese colonial history, a handful of emerging national parks, beaches galore and a diverse and unbelievably stoic cross-section of people.

For the time being, Angola’s physical beauty lies untapped, but with peace now well established, any visit here involves that all-too-rare pleasure of pushing back the frontier of adventure travel.

When to Go

HIGH SEASON Jun–Sep

Best time to visit; cooler temperatures, clear skies.

SHOULDER SEASON Oct–Nov & Apr–May

Generally fine, with early/late rains possible.

LOW SEASON Dec–Mar

Rainy season kicks in, especially in the wet, tropical northern jungle.

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Top Experiences

1 Discover Kalandula Falls

Among its varied landscapes, Angola has some unusual and spectacular natural features. Topping the list are the Kalandula Falls on the Lucala River near Malange. These massive waterfalls are as spectacular as any in Africa and among the continent’s largest falls by volume, but get very few