After graduating from the DeVry Institute of Technology, he worked in IT for over 20 years before deciding to escape the office and dedicate the rest of his life to travel and participation in active outdoor pursuits. Some guides take years to make and are very specific in the details they write for certain locations. The maps tend to be better and easier to read in these types of guides as well. His videos showcase the top places to visit in different countries with some of the best drone shots you’ll ever see. Travel is a huge industry which means there are more guides than you could ever possibly use.

• The main event in a traditional Catalan festival is usually a parade, either promenading behind a revered holy image (as on saints’ days or at Easter) or a more celebratory costumed affair that’s the centrepiece of a neighbourhood festival.
• The crypt’s two other star tombs are those of Nelson and Wellington, both occupying centre stage and both with more fanciful monuments upstairs.
• You can have a virtual play on medieval instruments such as the crumhorn or sackbut, prepare your own edition of Shakespeare, and feel the thatch, hazelnut-shell and daub used to build the theatre.
• Our passionate team of writers and local travel specialists provide in-depth insights into destinations worldwide, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
• In addition, the country’s largest market and most popular shopping district lie within this area, as does Namsan, a small mountain in the very centre of the capital.
• Even today in the backstreets around c/de Sant Pau and c/Nou de la Rambla are found pockets of sleaze, while a handful of old bars trade on their former reputations as bohemian hangouts.

You can find the most inspiring places, map material, and tips on our visitBerlin app Going Local. Uganda’s single most important tourist hotspot is the 331km² Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP), which protects a rugged landscape of steep hills and valleys abutting the Congolese border south of Ishasha and north of Kisoro. Rolling eastward from the Albertine Rift Escarpment, the tangled forested slopes of Bwindi provide shelter to one of Africa’s most diverse mammalian faunas, including 45% of the global mountain gorilla population. Today, 18 habituated gorilla groups can be tracked in Bwindi, a thrilling venture regarded by most who have undertaken it to be a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

With appropriate permits – subject to restrictions in popular parks – backpackers can also usually camp in the backcountry (a general term for areas inaccessible by road). As a general rule, for a 3-5 day trip, we suggest choosing one destination – a city or region. If you have a week to 10 days then you can plan 1-3 places in either the north OR south of Italy. In a two-week trip you could cover 3-4 places and see both north and south. Traditional guidebooks definitely have their place for planning a trip to Italy.

Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano 2025

You can also save your favorite places and experiences in a destination and view them on a map. However, if you are looking for a planning tool, we recommend trying a better travel planner. You can select the destination and review the Heroes available there. Each Hero has a detailed bio outlining their personality, travel specialty, and expertise. Although Lonely Planet is not as resourceful and updated as it used to be, it’s still one of the best travel sites to get an overview of destinations. You can also book accommodation and dining options via the website.

European highlights

Welcome to the online Seville travel guide with the best travel tips and tourist information for visiting Sevilla Spain! The city of Seville (or Sevilla in Spanish) is the capital of the Spanish region and province of Andalusia and has about 700,000 inhabitants, making Seville the fourth largest city in Spain. In the cultural, political, economic and artistic realms, Seville is the most important southern Spanish city and has the largest historic centre of Europe. The historic city centre of Seville offers many attractions, such as the Real Alcázar de Sevilla, the Seville Cathedral with the Giralda Tower and the Torre del Oro at the river.

Kidepo Valley National Park

You’ll probably want to “do it all” but really have a think about your interests and what will best suit you and your travel style. Once you have some ideas, it’s best to consult a structured resource to check your assumptions and thoughts. Although we are past the worst of the pandemic and travel restrictions, things can change quickly – you can check our article Can you travel to Italy plus current situation. While Hong Kong is a place to do business, Macau has leapt ahead in recent years as a haven for gambling, its thirty-odd casinos making the enclave a veritable Las Vegas of the East. The wealth has funded a modern cityscape, but evidence of its colonial past persists in extensive quarters of antique, Mediterranean-style architecture, along with Portuguese wine and Macanese cooking, a fusion of colonial and Chinese styles. Nevertheless, this apparent modernity is based on a civilization that has remained intact, continually recycling itself, for over four millennia.

The 78-mile walking route offering a new perspective on London

There’s also a bunch of glitzy and vibrant clubs where people let their hair down to cutting-edge sounds minus – this being Singapore – any assistance from illicit substances. Some venues regularly manage to lure the world’s leading DJs to play, too. As with heritage buildings the world over, today’s surviving shophouses are often but a handsomely restored shell concealing insides that have been totally gutted and rejigged. Many no longer serve as shops, homes or clan houses, functioning instead as bars, beauty salons or offices.

Australian destinations you simply can’t miss

It has an incredible variety of almost everything any traveler wishes to explore or experience. It offers great value for money, and an art and culture that is unique in this world, authentic, and alive. If you want to leave the mass tourism behind, all you need is a short drive and you will enter a Bali that has almost not changed in decades. There are countless areas and sites that are absolutely remote, quiet and almost untouched, where magnificent nature shows her beauty. With a week in Rome, you can truly immerse yourself in the city’s culture and lifestyle.

Homosexual activity is illegal in Uganda, and has been since colonial times. In 2009, existing anti-homosexuality laws were amplified by the submission to parliament of a draconian, so-called ‘Kill the Gays’ bill that caused a furore in the international community, and led to threats of withdrawal of aid and the like. The Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) was eventually passed in February 2014, albeit in a moderated form (with life imprisonment replacing the death sentence). The AHA was overturned by the Supreme Court on 8 August 2014 and a pioneering Gay Pride rally was held outside Kampala in 2015 on the first anniversary of this ruling.

Travel Itinerary Suggestions for visiting Bali for the first time

If you want to learn more, you can take a look at my guides to spring, summer, autumn, and winter in London. They’ll fill you in on the highlights of each season and help you decide when is the best time to visit for your style. Today I want to bring you A Lady in London’s ultimate London travel guide. From big attractions to secret spots, I’ve endeavored to share as much of the city as possible with you.

How many days to spend in Colombia?

Travelers from other countries or if you intend to stay longer than 60 days, or travel with a business purpose, then you need to apply for 211A Visit Visa before you arrive. If you have not been to Bali yet and want to get a brief overview, then this little Travel FAQ will help you to start your travel planning. Travelling by train from most places in Italy, or indeed Europe, you arrive at Termini station, centrally placed for all parts of the city and meeting point of the two metro lines and many city bus routes. The small streets that surround Campo de’ Fiori square are filled with restaurants, wine bars and cafes while the square itself hosts a produce market.

Fiji Tourist Visa: Do You Need a Visa to Visit Fiji? 🛂

If you’re only in Lisbon for two days, check out our 2-day Itinerary of the city. In our travel guide, you’ll find updated information on what to see, where to sleep, and the best places to eat. Don’t miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Looking for Accommodation?

I’ve also written a guide to the best hotels near London’s top attractions. If there’s a particular landmark you’d like to be near when you’re visiting the city, it will help you find the perfect accommodation. The ideal way to see the great outdoors https://softfootprints.com/ – especially if you’re on a low budget – is to tour by car and camp in state and federal campgrounds. Typical public campgrounds range in price from free (usually when there’s no water available, which may be seasonal) to around $30 per night. Fees at the generally less scenic commercial campgrounds – abundant near major towns, and often resembling open-air hotels, complete with shops and restaurants – are more like $20–35. If you’re camping in high season, either reserve in advance or avoid the most popular areas.

Not sure which websites and companies you should be using to book and buy everything for your trip?

Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are great starting points for a late afternoon / early evening soiree. Explore this historic and artistic neighborhood with its cobblestone streets and colonial houses. Every February, Rio’s world-famous carnival kicks into action, with floats, extravagant outfits and often an important message about years behind and ahead. Although now more inclusive than ever, the carnival has famously welcomed people from all walks of life to participate and celebrate.

Situated along the south of the country’s west coast, Lisbon (Lisboa in Portuguese) boasts an incredible mix of museums, historic buildings, eclectic music, a wild nightlife, charming plazas, and laid-back cafés where you can watch the world go by. Lisbon, Portugal’s hilly and scenic capital, is one of my favorite cities in the world. The winding streets, ocean views, and flowing wine entice me at every turn. Castello is home to the impressive Arsenale and the Biennale Gardens, where the prestigious Venice Biennale art exhibition takes place.

SidemenThe hidden Gem of Bali. Spectacular Rice terraces and landscapes

Seoul finally ended up under South Korean control, though most of the city lay in ruins, but despite – or perhaps, because of – all these setbacks, there has been no stopping it since then. Lisbon is a year-round destination, with warm summers and mild winters. Hot summer temperatures are cooled off by the Atlantic breeze, while in winter they never reach the freezing point.

Huge public inter-island ferries connect Bali with nearby islands, including Lombok and Java. However, they aren’t particularly concerned with safety standards. Most family homestays are in traditional compounds and have real Balinese charm. Mid-range hotels often have pools and a dash of artistic style, while upscale options are wonderfully luxurious, many with rice paddy or river views.

• Dating back more than forty years, the Caribbean carnival is a tumult of imaginatively decorated parade floats, eye-catching costumes, thumping sound systems, live bands, irresistible food and huge crowds.
• Though they might sound dodgy, the reality is somewhat tamer; most are open all night, making them an incredibly cheap way to get a night’s sleep – prices tend to be around W6000.
• Backcountry ski lodges dot mountainous areas along both coasts and in the Rockies.
• With its charismatic character and irresistible blend of old-world charm and sun-kissed coast, a vacation in Portugal is bound to leave every traveler in awe.
• If you’re planning to include Italy as part of a longer European trip you could choose to invest in an InterRail pass.

Why is Thailand worth visiting?

• Greece is the birthplace of the Mediterranean diet, where every meal becomes a feast for the senses.
• In 2020, our preferred booking site GetYourGuide refunded all tours canceled due to the pandemic and stand by their policy of allowing cancellations with a full refund up to 24 hours before your activity starts.
• Spring comes with beautiful flowers, and autumn graces the city with seasonal foliage.
• To learn more about the history and culture behind Lisbon’s cuisine, take a food tour.
• The art here is supplemented by elaborate antique doors, carved gamelan ornaments and examples of wayang kulit puppets that echo the origins of the classical style.
• Lisbon is a year-round destination, with warm summers and mild winters.
• However, staying informed about safety measures and travel tips is always recommended.

Coffee is one of Uganda’s major cash crops, but brewed locally it almost invariably tastes insipid and watery, except at upmarket hotels and restaurants, and specialist coffee shops. Given nearly 25,000 kilometres of rugged coastline, 150,000 lakes and some of the world’s best angling rivers, it is no surprise that a huge variety of locally caught fish and seafood predominate in Norwegian kitchens. Norway’s diverse landscape also provides habitat to a range of sheep, elk, reindeer and woodland fowl that graze on some of the greenest, most unpolluted grasses in the world, lending their meat a rich, succulent taste. And the country’s temperate summers allow plants to ripen at a slower pace than elsewhere, infusing fruits and vegetables with a supple flavour that you can taste the instant they hit your tastebuds.

Rail bookings can be made up to 4 months in advance on high-speed intercity and standard intercity trains. It’s easy to underestimate transit times and getting in and out of airports and train stations. Plus, you want to have plenty of time to enjoy yourself and soak up every last moment. Please note – this information is subject to change and it is always best to check with your local foreign office for the latest advice on travel to Italy.

Never miss a trip

Not far from the city, Changhua is noted principally for its Great Buddha Statue, and atmospheric Lugang is celebrated for its craftsmen and classical architecture. East of Taichung, picture-perfect Sun Moon Lake makes a fitting introduction to Taiwan’s mighty central ranges, a place for languid lakeside walks and gorgeous views. Just outside Puli, to the north of the lake, Chung Tai Chan Monastery is a man-made wonder, a remarkable blend of modern architecture and Zen Buddhism. Heading south, Chiayi provides a staging post for the cool valleys and Tsou villages of the Alishan National Scenic Area.

You can learn more about how to become a tourist guide from the Institute of Tourist Guiding. Most restaurants (unless they are very informal/street food) will usually add a 10% service charge to your bill, this is sufficient. To see the highlights across a broad range of destinations, I think you need at least 3 weeks, 4 weeks would be more leisurely. If you’ve got 2 weeks or less, you would need to start making choices (Boquete vs El Valle de Anton for hiking, Santa Catalina vs San Blas Island vs Bocas del Toro for beach time). We travelled across the border from Costa Rica, so we naturally travelled one-way south in a very linear route and flew out of Panama City.

It’s worth making a detour to ride the rails from Podgorica to Bar – the final leg of the legendary Belgrade to Bar train – which delivers incredible views as it ambles across the lake bridge. Alternatively, you could simply kick-back with a glass of award-winning carmenère, cabernet sauvignon https://softfootprints.com/ or merlot and watch the world drift by. The fertile valleys of central Chile are the heart of the country’s internationally renowned wine industry. A patchwork of green hills rolling south from Santiago towards the Biobío River, the region is sprinkled with picturesque vineyards, ranging from small-scale, family-run concerns to major household names. One of the remotest inhabited places on the planet, the UNESCO-listed Easter Island (known locally as Rapa Nui) lies more than 3,500km west of mainland Chile in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. This tiny speck of land was settled sometime between AD 800 and 1200 by pioneering Polynesian seafarers, who subsequently created a remarkable collection of monumental statues known as moai as a form of ancestor worship.

San Jose, the bustling capital, blends urban chaos with rich cultural heritage. Costa Rica was my first time on a plane and out of the country. For the past 11 years, I have been traveling back to this beautiful place that I instantly fell in love with. I mean this literally and figuratively, as I actually ended up falling in love and marrying a Costa Rican. If you fancy a walk along the sea, Sveti Jakov Beach is just a 15-minute walk from Old Town and is a hugely popular spot among the locals.

Cape Town

• We can even let you in on the secrets to Peru’s national fish dish ceviche in a private cooking class with our Michelin-starred chef friends at Central Restaurant (trust us – it’s delicious).
• Historically, there has been a number of notable incidents occurring, particularly in the south and centre of the country – and particularly concerning secretarial issues between Sunni and Shia Muslims.
• Internet and phonesAs a country, Russia entered the digital world a long time ago and in virtually all areas, digitalization has long since taken over.
• From Herceg Novi all the way to Ulcinj, every day in Montenegro is filled with ‘wow’ moments.
• While 9/11 caused severe unrest, and Pakistan has definitely had ups and downs as far as security, we like to say that these rumors are often fueled by negative media.
• Evocative, captivating and inspiring, Antarctica is the most remote place on earth and for many is quite simply the pinnacle of travel.
• Whether you’re planning an entire golf holiday or just looking to nip out for a quiet couple of rounds, the South of France is home to some top courses.
• Just bear in mind that insurance is mandatory and can significantly increase the overall cost.

If luxury experiences are more your thing, we have you covered with our 10 luxurious experiences in the South of France. If you’re looking to challenge yourself, try hiking the Gorges du Verdon – they’re definitely not for beginners, so make sure you’re confident and kitted up accordingly. Nearby, you can also explore the hilltop village of Moustiers Ste Marie and its fragrant fields of lavender. Le Palais des Papes in Avignon proudly holds the title of the biggest Gothic palace in Europe.

They’re the heart of it all – so warm, so kind, and so full of life. I first visited in 2009, crossing the border from Kenya, and it was love at first sight. The light was golden, the landscape was a gorgeous mix of greens and oranges, and everywhere I looked, people were smiling and waving – it was like stepping into a dream. Either way we have Spa destinations that just browsing the images make you feel better. Is where design, history, and soul collide making it a rare private-hire house in Alentejo.

In this list, we take you to the most beautiful places in Tirol. Fly into Podgorica, Tivat or Dubrovnik, (Croatia); train from Belgrade; drive/bus from any neighbouring country. If driving, allow 10 days for the highlights; 2 weeks to see (almost) everything. Many people use the terms ‘United Kingdom’, ‘Great Britain’ and even ‘England’ interchangeably but they’re all describing distinct parts of the British Isles.

The ultimate Switzerland travel guide

It’s always best to check in with park rangers or your accommodation before setting off on any hikes without a guide, as non-violent robberies can occur. It’s not a widespread problem, but best to check the latest reviews on AllTrails and get the updated information on the ground. Panama City as a whole is a safe city, but there are certain areas you shouldn’t visit.

• Whether you’re trekking with mountain gorillas, cruising the Nile, or chilling by Lake Victoria, it always feels special.
• They have the skills and knowledge to help you write well-researched and polished content that will entice readers.
• Travel content writing services feature experienced writers who specialise in creating engaging and informative travel guides.
• Examples include, marketing officer, volunteer co-ordinator or visitor attraction manager.
• Indulge in organic farm-to-table dining and immersive experiences—where heritage meets eco-conscious living and design for an unforgettable escape.
• With a well-written and optimized guide, you’re more likely to attract travellers and potentially increase your revenue.
• Eligible purchases through American Express Travel exclude non-prepaid car rentals and non-prepaid hotels.
• We literally splurged on beauty products, souvenirs and toys for our kids.

Best hotels in Manchester for 2025, reviewed

However since the price of Japan Rail Passes rose nearly 50% in 2023, I generally do NOT recommend getting a JR pass as they do not offer good value anymore for most travellers. I generally use a combination of local subways and trains, the high-speed Shinkansen “bullet train” and buses. I’ve also caught one or two taxis in cities like Kyoto and Kanazawa that rely more on the bus network than the subway, however taxis are pretty expensive in Japan. Japan is very much a cash reliant society, though I’ve noticed that more places take cards after returning post pandemic. However, many smaller businesses still operate with cash, and you will need to keep some yen on you at all times.

The ultimate Netherlands travel guide

Spring can actually be a bit unpredictable (especially with rain – those April showers even extend to the Cote d’Azur!), so if you’re after a tan-topping stay with more time in the pool, plan your trip between May and October. In light of improvements to security within the country, as of 2019, Pakistan changed its visa restrictions to encourage more tourists to visit. If exploring history and culture is what you’re after, then Guatemala has your back. With a specialist guide, treading through the ancient jungle ruins of Tikal amongst long hanging vines and grey-green stone Maya temples, is somewhat surreal. In the dense canopy, monkeys, agoutis and turkeys will accompany your extraordinary expedition through this UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s like stepping into another world. We also recommend a visit to Iximiche, secluded Mayan ruins favoured by native Guatemalans, but rarely seen by travellers.

Accommodation in Panama

You just have to navigate any language barriers to get on the right prepaid plan! I’ve specified any particularly helpful ones in my relevant destination guides and pinned them on my Panama map. If you have a great experience with a tour guide, it’s nice to show your appreciation with a tip but it’s not expected and unlikely you will be asked to tip. Most sailing trips depart from Cartagena in Colombia and sail to the Caribbean Coast in Panama over 5 days, including a few days island hopping around the archipelago. Panama only has one major international airport, the PTY – Tocumen International Airport in Panama City. A few other airports around the country have the ‘international’ label, but they only receive flights from Costa Rica.

How to Plan a Polar Holiday

Here at Oliver’s Travels, it’s undoubtedly one of our favourites, too. With an extensive portfolio of villas to rent throughout the region, our travel experts know their stuff when it comes to planning holidays in the South of France. So, we’ve compiled our top tips, some of our best blogs, and a few suggestions for things to do into a handy South of France travel guide. Read on to find out more, and don’t forget to check out our France travel guide before you set off. In my heart for more than a decade, South Korea is the country I dreamed to visit for a long, long time.

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Those who look for action during their villa holidays will love Central France. Earthy cycle routes, natural parks and ‘Green Venice’ – find our best natural picks below. Central France is home to swathes upon swathes of vineyards, some gorgeous undiscovered stretches of coastline and the infamously beautiful chateaux. However, not everyone can rely on a car so here is a quick breakdown of the need-to-knows. The pastures, orchards, forests and farmland of Northern France are rolling and peaceful.

Coastlines, Craters and the Wild West: Washington, Oregon and Nevada Road Trip

Just a heads up – accommodation in Japan can be expensive, especially in touristy places like Kyoto. Flight prices vary on your location and time of travel, plan to spend around $800 – $1500 on return flights from Australia to Tokyo per person. For a more detailed breakdown and cost analysis from my 4-week trip, check out my Japan Trip Cost Breakdown here. I haven’t visited Japan in the summer months of June to August, however, I personally wouldn’t visit during this time. A great thing about Japan is that you can travel all year round.

American Samoa

In its relative seclusion from the travelling masses, seldom visited by busy hordes of tourists, Guatemala is a special country that most know little about. Expect a warm welcome and the chance to delve into its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, all while staying in some outstanding boutique hotels. Travel to Russia is safe, with normalcy in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, Perm, Ekaterinburg, Irkutsk, and Vladivostok. The Trans-Siberian Railway is connecting Moscow with Vladivostok and the Sea of Japan as usual and all the interesting sights along the railway are open for visitors.

Belize: Barrier Reefs and Beautiful Beaches

To receive the breakfast credit, the breakfast bill must be charged to your hotel room. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay).

Lyon city guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay

From Lonely Planet phrasebooks to help you acclimatise, to maps and trails of the best walks in Britain, find the books that both educate and excite the wanderlust in you. Our selection includes the titles by top authors like Paul Theroux and Bill Bryson. Plan your holidays or embark on literary travel with the best books from around the world. There is also a high likelihood terrorists  will try to carry out attacks, including in major cities. Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). No matter which means of transport you choose – Tirol is very well connected.

New York Design Guide

Located in central Chile, flanked by snow-topped Andean peaks, Santiago is the country’s political, economic and cultural hub. Home to almost seven million people, the capital is an engaging, fast-developing place that bears comparison with more lauded South American cities such as Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro. For a glimpse at the history of the Lake District, head to the regional capital of Valdivia, one of Chile’s oldest cities. As well as enlightening museums, it has some impressive 17th-century forts, a lively fish market and – thanks in large part to the German immigrants who made their home here – excellent locally brewed beer. Most travellers fly into Santiago, the dynamic capital of this distinctively long, thin country in southwestern South America.

Despite Korean-dramas stories are quite far from real-life romantic behaviours of Korean couples, they still teach you a lot about the culture, food, social interactions and thinking of the people. By watching those K-drama in original language you can even pick-up some common expressions and use them to interact. If you are planning to travel to Korea, there are a few tips that I can share with you to make you ready for your trip. Don’t miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals. Find real and unique Scottish experiences on our Scotland travel blog. From the rugged coastline to sparkling city lights, the ancient Caledonian forests of the Highlands to the rich history of the Lowlands, there are plenty of places to start your Scottish adventure.

Situated in a national park, the Río Dulce is also a must-see feast for the senses. The river, a lifeline and a key method of transport for many locals, is encircled by flourishing vegetation, and is home to chirping choruses of tropical birds. Welcome to postcard-perfect Peru, where rich cultural heritage strikes a balance with trend-setting modern society.

• Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
• Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express® Card, in the eligible Cardmember’s name, and that Cardmember must be traveling on the itinerary booked.
• So much that we had to buy an extra luggage to take all this stuff with us.
• So, if you’re a foodie like us, be sure to sample these local delicacies.
• Depending on how your Panama itinerary is structured, you can connect with a domestic flight after landing to start your trip elsewhere, like Bocas del Toro.
• Get your hands on titles you know or have a go at something completely new with our ethical, circular book service.

Furthermore, it is one of the best safari destinations in the world. Follow in the footsteps of adventurers near and far, whether to Swedish Lapland to see the Northern Lights, or to Patagonia on a hair-raising road trip. Plus, there’s the Bazaar editors’ expert recommendations on where to go, what to pack and who to go with. A JR Pass is a rail pass you need to purchase before getting to Japan that offers unlimited travel within a 7, 14 or 21 day period. They used to be very popular as they were a good value option if doing a return Tokyo-Kyoto/Osaka-Tokyo trip in 7 days versus buying individual tickets. Where Guatemala is more populated, there’s also plenty to explore.

Today, Valparaíso (or Valpo, as it’s known locally) is one of the most beguiling cities on the continent. For sublime views, catch a cable-car to the 880-metre summit of Cerro San Cristóbal, home to Santiago’s biggest park. And, if you fancy a change of scene, sensational skiing and snowboarding, dozens of hiking trails and numerous vineyards all lie within easy reach of the city.

However, even if you don’t find an old love letter in your second, third, or fourth-hand copy of Don Quixote, you’ll still be guaranteed a riveting read when you buy from World of Books. Dip your toes in the capital, Podgorica, a city everyone loves to hate on, before heading for the incredible Lake Skadar. Shared between Montenegro and Albania, the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula is as picturesque as it is bio-diverse.

The southern regions are flat and dry, and so the summer is best avoided with the oppressive heat regularly reaching 50 degrees. The winter months are far more preferable and pleasant with temperatures ranging from early 20’s to mid 30’s. Comfortable footwear is advised, and trekking shoes if venturing on a walking tour. If trekking, ensure you pack layers to combat the colder evenings – thermal underlayers, insulated jacket, warm socks, scarf and gloves will keep you warm.