5 Classic movie locations around the world

Movies have long inspired the latent traveller in all of us. Who can honestly say they’ve watched the Sound of Music without wanting to hot foot it to the Austrian Alps?
OK. But, whether you’re a total movie buff or a casual cinema goer, including some of these classic movie destinations around the world is sure to give it star quality!

1. The Godfather, New York

Regularly rated as one of the best films of all time, this Francis Ford Coppola masterpiece was shot on location in the Big Apple. Head to Staten Island to see where the famous wedding scene was filmed. The Edinson Hotel bar will look familiar to Godfather fans... it’s where Sollozo meets Lucia Brasi, who sleeps with the fishes incidentally. If you want to visit all the locations of this gangster classic as part of your RTW trip, you’ll have to travel as far afield as Nevada, Los Angeles and Italy.

See RTW tickets that include the USA

2. The Lord of the Rings, New Zealand

The incomparable natural beauty of New Zealand was chosen as the setting for Middle Earth, a fantasy land of hobbits and goblins. Based on the books written by J.R.R Tolkien, the film was shot on location in the Tongariro National Park, in and around Wellington and the Southern Alps. Like most of New Zealand, these are all areas of mind blowing scenery which you’ll love whether you’ve seen the film or not!

See RTW tickets that include New Zealand

3. The Rock, San Francisco

Alcatraz Island, also known as The Rock, was the location for... you’ve guessed it, The Rock. It was also the setting for Escape From Alcatraz, so you can kill two movies with one stone, so to speak. Imagine your Clint Eastwood or Sean Connery plotting a daring escape, before hopping on to a boat back to San Francisco’s Fishermans Wharf for a bowl of clam chowder!

See RTW tickets that include the USA

4. The Shining, Oregon

Featuring Jack Nicholson at his maniacal best, this film is an all time classic. Visit the spooky Timberline Lodge in Oregon, the setting for the remote Overlook Hotel, where caretaker Jack Torrance spends a winter with his family and goes slowly insane. Run along the corridors shouting ‘red rum, red rum’ and put an axe through a door and shout ‘Here’s Jonny!!’ On second thoughts, on behalf of those lovely people who run the Timberline Lodge, please don’t do that.

See RTW tickets that include the USA

5. Motorcycle Diaries, Peru

Featuring the ultimate road trip, this movie recreates the journey a young Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara and friend take around Latin America on the back of an old motorcycle. The film features footage of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca ruins. Even if you’ve never seen the film, Peru’s magical presence will leave an indelible mark on you.

Stopping over in Mexico City

Mexico City is North America's highest city, and is famous for being one of the world's most densely populated. Despite its reputation as chaotic and frenetic, there’s plenty of places to discover historical gems and plenty of green, open spaces to retreat to.
Home to world-class museums and galleries, palaces and cathedrals, historical ruins, attractive squares and modern skyscrapers and shopping, this city has a lot to offer. Watch the busy-ness around you with the solace of a cup of coffee, listen to a Mariachi band or take yourself off to the backwaters to see the city from a boat. Here are our tips for stopping over in Mexico city…

Getting around

Mexico City’s International Airport is six miles (10km) east of the city. We can always arrange your airport transfers for you, but if you want to make your own way, the easiest option would be the Metro subway which links the airport to downtown, or you can take a taxi. Taxis are regulated and passengers can pay in advance at the taxi counter in Arrivals.
At night, don’t hail a taxi from the street, use the hotel or restaurant to arrange for you instead as this is much safer – it’s generally considered safer to have your hotel call a taxi than to use one of the (cheaper) prolific green Beetle cabins you’ll see everywhere. For years there have been stories of tourists being mugged in the green taxis – just be aware of the risk if you take one.

The city itself is easy to get around using metro, buses, trolley buses and minibuses (peseros or colectivos). The metro is the fastest and easiest option. Buses are reliable, but can be more complicated for non-Spanish speakers. All public transport is heavily crowded during peak hours and is best avoided at this time. The peak-time overcrowding on the metro puts even London to shame – start planning to get off about 4 stops ahead and you might just make your own stop!

Where to stay

The no-frills guest houses provide the cheapest rates, and some of the most reasonable places are in the Centro Histórico. Some of the more well-known international chains are concentrated in Polanco and the Zona Rosa. For midrange options featuring restaurants and bars, the Alameda and Plaza de la República areas are where you need to look, although though they tend to lack character and opt for neutral modern comfort, otherwise head to the trendy Roma and Condesa neighbourhoods if you are looking for hostels or chic boutique hotels.

What to see and do – our favourite picks!

Mexico city’s contemporary and colonial flavours are evident everywhere - soak up the atmosphere and architecture of downtown Mexico City, head to Plaza Garibaldi-Mariachi for some café culture and people watching, learn about the history of the Aztecs at any of the great museums on offer.
El Zocalo
The second largest city square in the world, El Zocalo is the central gathering place of the city. It’s always filled with activity and is a good starting point for exploring the city – you might even catch a free gig if you’re lucky – everyone from Shakira to Justin Bieber to Paul McCartney has performed a free live gig here!

Bosque de Chapultepec
The city’s largest and most popular park houses everything from a zoo, sculptures and monuments and several museums including the impressive Museo Nacional de Antropologia and the Chapultepec Castle.
Frida Kahlo Museum
Mexico city’s famous artistic alumina include both Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Make the pilgrimage to the ‘Blue House’; home and studio of Frida Kahlo, which has since been converted into a museum.
Palace des Belles Artes
For an insight into Diego Rivera’s important mural work, head to the Palace des Belles Artes where you can see his  ‘Dream of a Sunday in Alameda Central’ portraying notable people throughout Mexico’s history, imagined in one park, in one fresco.
San Angel
Wander through this colourful neighbourhood of cobbled streets and colonial houses home to several museums of interest and the former monastery complex El Carmen. Make sure you have a Saturday factored into your timeframe, so you can head to this Saturday bazaar (Bazar Sabado) which showcases some of Mexico’s great handicrafts and artisans. Make sure to take your camera as this is area is a photographic delight!
Xochimilico
You can pass a peaceful afternoon being escorted around in a beautifully colourful wooden barge to the sounds of Mariachis playing traditional Mexican tunes. The network of waterways in Xochimilico is a fascinating insight into the lives of locals as you ply past houses and gardens of the city’s residents. The equivalent to punting on the river in Oxford or Cambridge!

Exploring further afield

Guanajuato is a colonial gem with bright coloured houses, crooked cobbled stone alleyways, strolling musicians in bright coloured dress and great historical architecture. It’s reachable by bus, about 4 hours from Mexico City and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Teotihuacan ‘a place of the gods’ is the site of Mexico’s largest ancient city. Another UNESCO World heritage site dating back to about 300-600 BC, this is a site you shouldn’t miss if you have some time in the city. It’s about an hour from the city by bus.

Tepotzotlan possesses a magical energy that will recharge your batteries after the frenetic chaos that can be Mexico City. Head to the breath-taking geography of this sheltered and relaxed town to chill out and unwind and soothe your soul. Located 1.5 hours by bus ride from Mexico City.
Puebla is known for its food. World famous for its ‘mole poblano’, pecan and pine nut fudge and sweet potato based desserts, head to this delightful Baroque city of angels to seduce your palate. It’s about 2 hours away by bus.

10 Reasons to fall in love with Western Australia

On account of Western Australia’s enormous size, we’ve rounded up a mighty 10 reasons to check out it’s major attractions.
Sometimes overlooked in favour of the rival East Coast, WA is a state brimming with the weird and wonderful, in fact there are some unique sights you simply won't find anywhere else! Here are our 10 reasons to fall in love with Western Australia…

1. Western Australia IS one third of Australia

Welcome to the largest state in the largest island on the planet.
Western Australia occupies the entire western third of Australia - more than one million square miles! With just 2.4 million inhabitants, the vast majority of whom live in or around Perth, one thing you are guaranteed is plenty of space. The empty roads are perfect for exploring by campervan like the Perth to Broome route. Plan your route carefully beforehand, as if you’re heading to remote areas like the Kimberley you’ll more than likely need a 4WD vehicle. Having your accommodation with you means you can stay over in some really remote spots, whether it’s along the beautiful Coral Coast or out in the wilds of the Great Outback.

2. State capital Perth is nearer to Indonesia than Sydney

Nothing beats getting away from it all and in Western Australia you’ll get away from, well, everywhere! Perth is the most remote capital city in the world and is closer to the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta, than it is to Canberra, capital city of Australia. So remote is Perth that the original American astronauts named it the ‘City of Lights’ - due to the lack of any significant light interference within thousands of miles of the city, from outer space it stood out as the brightest spot on the planet!
If you want to sample the incredible remoteness of Western Australia without compromising on creature comforts, treat yourself to a few days at El Questro Wilderness Park or Emma Gorge Resort at El Questro in the awe-inspiring Kimberley. If you’re looking for an adventure, check out these small group tour ideas running out of Perth.

3. It’s full of hidden gems. Quite literally.

Western Australia is the richest area in the world for natural mineral wealth – quite a claim to fame. The Argyle mine to the north of the state is the largest producer of diamonds in the world while the eccentric town of Kalgoorlie remains Australia’s largest producer of gold.
Take a step back to the days of the gold rush on a full day tour of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, where you’ll see striking 1890’s architecture along the infamous Hay Street and explore the Hannans North Tourist Mine, where you’ll learn all about the history of this famous boom and bust town. There are also treasures to be found beneath the seas – tropical Broome, situated on the beautiful and undeveloped north coast, is the pearl capital of the world.

4. The sun always shines on Western Australia

Well, almost always. Perth averages 8 hours sunshine every day, 365 days a year. And because Western Australia is so vast, it’s always a good time to visit! In Australia’s winter from June to September the tropical north is the place to be – not that it ever gets really cold further south.

5. It’s home to the largest fringing coral reef in the world

The virtually untouched Ningaloo Reef, located approximately midway between Perth and Broome stretches for some 260km. It’s the largest fringing reef in the world and nowhere else on the planet can a reef of this size be accessed so easily – in many places, it’s just a short swim from the shore.
Its remarkable biodiversity, with more than 500 species of fish and 300 varieties of coral has given it World Heritage listed status. It’s arguably most famous for being one of the few places in the world where you can swim with the world’s largest fish. Whale sharks, which can grow up to 15 metres in length are visitors to Ningaloo every year between late March and mid July.
At the southern end of the reef, the Bayview Coral Bay makes a great base to explore from. Or, if you really want to push the boat out, the Sal Salis in the Cape Range National Park offers exclusive wild bush luxury just metres from the water’s edge.

6. It’s home to the biggest rock in the entire world

The Northern Territory’s Uluru (Ayers Rock) may be the most famous rock in Australia, but it’s actually  not the biggest: that honour belongs to WA's Mount Augustus, known as Burringurrah by the local Wadjari Aboriginal people.
900km north of Perth, it’s not only the largest rock in Australia, it’s the largest in the whole world! This sandstone monocline is more than twice the size of Uluru and measures a staggering 8km long, by 3km wide and 377 metres high. There are a couple of climbing trails leading to the rock’s summit – the climb takes 2-3 hours and you should allow 4-5 hours for the return trip. The heat can be fierce so make sure you wear a hat, take plenty of water and avoid the hottest part of the day. It’s a tough climb but the stunning views across the desert from the summit are more than ample reward!

7. More Aboriginal art than anywhere else in Australia

Western Australia has the greatest concentration of Aboriginal art to be found anywhere. At the Burrup Peninsula, Dampier, there are estimated to be between 500,000 – 1 million Aboriginal petroglyphs, or ancient rock engravings, some of which are said to date back to the last ice age some 10,000 years ago.
The Burrup Peninsula, also home to pristine white beaches, is located between Exmouth and Broome on Western Australia's beautiful north coast. It’s free to explore the area but its well worth joining an organised tour from the nearest town of Karratha, around 30km away. Much of the area is only accessible by 4WD and you’ll also gain a fascinating insight into the history of this area.

8. It’s a total mecca for surfers

Forget the east coast – as far as surf goes, west is best. Margaret River, 170 miles or so south of Perth, draws surfers in from all over the globe. Some of the largest and best surfing waves in the world can be found along this beautiful and unspoilt stretch of coastline. Spend a few days in Margaret River and when you’re all surfed out, you could also relax by taking a tour of one of the region’s many outstanding wineries.

9. Earth’s oldest living thing lives here

Stromatolites, living fossils which can take the form of rock like structures, can trace their history back some 3.5 billion years! Shark Bay, on Western Australia’s west coast 800 km north of Perth, has the planet’s most abundant and diverse examples of living marine stromatolites, leading to it being declared a World Heritage Area. These dome shaped structures can be seen along the shoreline and in the shallow waters of the Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve. There’s no entrance fee to the marine reserve and a timber boardwalk allows visitors to get a close up view of these natural phenomena.

10. Perth has the biggest city centre park in the entire world

Yes, even bigger than Central Park in New York. At 1,003 acres, Kings Park in Perth is the largest inner city park anywhere in the world. This green space at the heart of the city was the first park in Australia to be designated for public use in 1872. A great vantage point from which to survey the magnificent surroundings is the top of the DNA Tower, so called because it is shaped like a DNA molecule. The spiral staircase is 15m high and there are 101 steps to the top, but the sweeping views across the park, Swan River and city skyline make it well worth the effort of the short climb.

Here are some ideas for multi-stop tickets that include Perth

London - Mauritius - Perth - Kuala Lumpur - Maldives - Colombo - London Flights from £1,295 pp including taxes
London - San Francisco // Los Angeles - Auckland - Sydney - Alice Springs - Melbourne // Perth - Singapore // Bangkok - London Flights from £1,445 pp including taxes
London - Lima // La Paz - Iquiqe // Santiago - Auckland // Christchurch - Sydney // Adelaide - Perth - Dubai - London Flights from £1,850 pp including taxes

Best places in the world to go skydiving

Falling through the clouds before floating back down to earth is an experience like no other. A skydive gives you an eye-popping chance to see some of the world’s most magnificent landscapes from above, taking in the changing panorama as you drift towards the ground. Skydiving is far more rewarding than it is terrifying, so if you can muster up the nerve to give it a try, you won’t regret it for a minute. Suit up, steel up and go for it!
Jumping out of a plane is completely beyond the realms of the everyday, defying both logic and instinct. So, if you’re understandably a little twitchy about the idea of skydiving, you’ll be relieved to learn that during free-fall, skydivers rarely experience a cheek-wobbling, stomach-dropping "falling" sensation. This is because the resistance of the air to the body at speeds above about 80 km/h (50 mph) provides a comforting feeling of weight and direction.
There’s a generous sprinkling of jump zones across the planet, so when it comes to skydiving, the world is there for the taking. Tumble towards the bright orange dunes of the vast Namib Desert, get a bird’s eye view of Sugarloaf Mountain, catch a coast-to-coast vista of Hawaii or float down towards the snowy peaks of the Alps - whatever floats your proverbial boat. If you’re looking for the extreme supreme, you can even skydive over Everest, landing in the world’s highest drop zone.
Our hardy consultants have tried skydiving in all manner of destinations, and here’s our pick of the bunch:

1. New Zealand, Fox Glacier

Image courtesy of: www.yha.co.nz
Second only to Everest in terms of skydiving scenery, Fox Glacier in New Zealand really does have it all. Floating peacefully with your canopy back down towards the ground, you’ll see rainforest, lakes, mountains and the wild Tasman Sea, not to mention the awe-inspiring Fox and Franz Joseph Glaciers. The sheer variety of the landscape puts this firmly at the top of our list. From miles above, the Fox Glacier does actually look like a glacier mint!

• Height: The most popular jump takes place at 12,000ft with a whopping 65 second free-fall
• Cost: The 12,000ft dive costs $299 NZD or £150
• www.skydivingnz.co.nz/

2. Namib Desert, Namibia

Image courtesy of: www.namibiatourguide.com
With an epically empty landscape like part of a sci-fi set, the Namib Desert is a great place for a truly surreal skydive. With burnt orange dunes swept by the wind into all kinds of bizarre formations set against an impossibly blue sky, there’s nowhere like it in the world. Think no cities, no wildlife, no greenery - just a silent world of orange and blue.

• Height: 10,000ft
• Cost: $270 USD/ £135.
• www.skydiveswakop.com.na/

Our consultants say:

Stacey: You might think that a desert isn't the most scenic of locations for a skydive, but at 10,000 feet I can promise you that it's absolutely spectacular! Swakopmund is located right on the coast so there's miles of desert stretching out in one direction and the ocean as far as you can see in the other and because view is completely uninterrupted it seems to takes ages to reach the ground! I was told that Namibia is actually the only place in the world that the air gets cooler the closer you get to land, and it seemed to be true, although I can't say I was the most reliable source - I was trying to take it all in! Skydiving here still remains one of my highlights and I'd recommend it to anyone - if you can do it just in time for sunset, you'll get an even more magical experience!
Chris: You get an amazing adrenalin rush as you jump from a perfectly good aeroplane 13000 feet in the air. Not only do you experience the fear and excitement of a skydive but you do it in one of the most picturesque places on earth. The blue waters of the Atlantic ocean contrast with the orange sunlit glow of the desert and huge rolling dunes. An incredible highlight of a stunning country.

3. Hawaii

Image courtesy of: www.skydivehawaii.com
Skydiving, tropical style! Taking the jump over Hawaii will give you a panoramic vista across almost the entire island, including Pearl Harbor, Diamond Point and Keana Point. It’s a brilliant way to get a bird’s eye view of paradise and even better, it’s energy efficient! When you dive here, you’ll reduce your skydiving footprint by almost 40%, as the local companies use energy efficient planes. Student discounts are also available, making it even harder to resist!

• Height: 12,000ft
• Cost: A tandem 12,000ft skydive costs USD $225, but if you’re a student it’s much cheaper at $125 USD. That’s £138 for a tandem and only £76 for students.
• www.skydivehawaii.com/

4. Wollongong, Sydney, Australia

Image courtesy of: www.visitnsw.com
Falling through the sky towards an exotic beach, where dolphins play in the surf and pods of whales splash in the water, is an experience of a lifetime. Plunging from a plane over Wollongong will give you a breathtaking view of the Australian coastline for up to 7 minutes as you swoop leisurely towards the ground under your parachute. It’s also Australia’s highest altitude skydive, which is bound to buy you bragging rights.

• Height: 14,000ft
• Cost: During the week, a tandem skydive will set you back $289 AUD (£160) and on weekends this rises to $339 AUD (£190).
• www.skydivethebeach.com.au/

5. Mount Everest

Image courtesy of: www.dropzone.com
This is the big daddy of skydiving - the extremest of the extreme. Skydiving over Everest is exclusive, expensive and totally exhilarating. With only four diving trips per year, the highest drop zone in the world and a deposit that stacks up to a total of USD 15,000 (!!!), this isn’t for the light of pocket or the faint of heart. However, if you’ve got a mountain of cash and a penchant for the Nepalese mountains, there’s nothing to compare.

Our consultant says:

Obviously, I can’t afford it!

• Height: You’ll jump from a (quite literally) breathtaking 29,500ft. Eek!
• Cost: You may need to sit down around now. One tandem skydive and an Observation Visit to Ama Dablam Base Camp costs USD $35,000, the equivalent of £21,320. Gulp. Or you put down a deposit on a house!
• www.everest-skydive.com/price/

6. Interlaken, Switzerland

Usually, we would stop at our Top 5, but as Everest is prohibitively pricey we’ve added a bonus spot to the list. If, like 99.9% of people on the planet, an Everest skydive is out of your price universe, this is another way to plummet towards snowy peaks. Sandwiched between two Alpine lakes, jumping from a helicopter over Interlaken in the Swiss Alps is spectacular. Float over lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, valleys and villages, taking in the picturesque scenery of Alpine Europe. In winter, it’s like hurtling down towards a huge Christmas cake!

New Zealand: Best things to see by campervan in the North Island

Oh New Zealand... One of my favorite countries! Such an amazing and beautiful place, and there is no doubt about it, travelling around in a campervan is the best way to see it all. I’m lucky to have been to New Zealand before as my boyfriend is a Kiwi, but this was my first time on the North Island. We spent a couple of weeks in a campervan, travelling from Auckland to Wellington, sightseeing and visiting family here and there. I loved every minute of it! The North Island has so much to offer in terms of landscapes, culture and activities.
Hiring a campervan is definitely the best way to do it if there are at least two of you. Distances in New Zealand are not too big so the most you will need to drive to get from one place to the other is roughly 3 hours. There's not much traffic and it’s quite hard to get lost as there aren’t that many roads... Remember there are only 4 million people in the whole country!


Campervans are really good value and give more of a sense of adventure. Your campervan is not just your transport, it’s also your “hotel and your restaurant”! Travelling in a campervan means you don’t have to stick to strict bus timetables, you’re free to stop wherever and whenever you want and for however long you want. And it’s just really fun! If like me, you’re just travelling in the North Island. Jucy is your only option as they are the only suppliers who have a depot in Wellington. Jucy campers are cool and will get you noticed with their bright green flashy color!

Auckland and around

You will probably enter or leave the country here so why not spend a couple of days checking out the local attractions like the the Skytower (NZD $25) for amazing views over the city and harbor; have food and drinks in the Viaduct area, take a ferry to Waiheke Island and Rangitoto for some walks. We decided to also head out of the city to Piha Beach, west of Auckland, a beautiful beach which has good waves for surfing. This is where a campervan comes in handy because no buses go there. A nice little getaway from the city.

Coromandel Peninsula

From Auckland we set off to Coromandel Peninsula. It’s a great area to drive around with beautiful scenery. Make sure you stop off in the town of Coromandel and try the green lipped mussels, the local specialty. Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach are the two main attractions. Hot Water Beach has a layer of warm water under the sand so bring a spade and start digging your own private spa pool! However this will only be possible in the 2 hours before and after low tide. Make sure you also stop at Hahei beach on the way to Cathedral Cove, it’s absolutely stunning.

Waitomo

The only reason you would go to Waitomo is to discover the world famous glow warm caves. You can do walking tours in the dry caves but the main attraction for the thrill seekers, is black water rafting with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company. There are various tours you can choose from, ranging from $125 to $225, some more adventurous than others including abseiling and climbing. Fortunately my boyfriend’s cousin is a black water rafting guide so we were able to get in for free! We opted for the Black Labyrinth Tour which consists of down through the cave tunnels. It’s pitch black and the only bit of light comes from the hundreds of glow worms. It’s quite spectacular, a lot of fun and scary if you feel a bit claustrophobic in the dark like me!

Rotorua

Rotorua, the egg smelling town! It’s definitely worth stopping here to see and experience all the steaming natural hot springs, mud pools and geysers. A big part of the population is Maori so it makes it culturally very interesting.
We went on a tour in one of the only thermal living villages, Whakarewarewa ($30) where Maoris have lived for centuries. Included in this tour, they will show you how they cook in their underground ovens (‘hangis’) and there is also a short cultural performance. I would also recommend you go to the impressive which are located 20 minutes South of Rotorua. It takes about an hour and a half to walk around all the different colorful geothermal pools.
Before you leave Rotorua, make sure you treat yourself to a nice spa at the Polynesian Spa.

Taupo and Tongariro National Park

Taupo was probably my favourite place. The lake is absolutely stunning with a backdrop of volcanic mountains. If you’re travelling with a campervan, there is a great free campsite called Reids farm, along the Waikato River just a few minutes from town.
Taupo is also a famous place to try out skydiving! There is a beautiful walk to Huka Falls which takes about 2 hours from town (one way). The path follows the Waikato River; why not stop along the way for a bungee jump or swing? There’s even a free local hidden hot stream along the walk, so take your swimming gear. The water is so clear; I don’t think I’ve seen anything like it before. The falls are really impressive too. You can also experience the falls on the water by getting really close to the base in a jetboat.
The highlight of the trip was doing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It’s a 19.4km day walk in Tongariro National Park, known as the finest day walk in the world. The scenery is breathtaking and like no other. This national park is composed of three active volcanoes, Mount Ngauruhoe (otherwise known as Mount Doom for you Lord of the Rings fans!), Tongariro and Ruapehu. The last eruption was in 2011, we were told to run if we felt the ground moving!

The first two hours are quite tough but well worth the effort when you get your first glimpse of the stunning blue emerald crater lakes. Words can’t quite describe how great this trek is, so experience it for yourself, it’s free!
Again, having a campervan or a car makes it a lot easier as you can park it at the finish point and take the shuttle bus from there in the morning to the start point ($30 one way). There are free DOC campsites dotted around in the National Park. This means that when you finish the trek you don’t have to wait around for a shuttle bus. You should definitely aim to start the trek as early as possible in the morning to try avoid the crowds, the afternoon heat and to make it back in time before dark! It’s a proper trek so make sure you have all the right gear and information before heading off.

Napier and around

Napier is an art deco coastal town, completely rebuilt after a massive earthquake in 1931. Napier is situated in Hawks Bay, a famous wine region so there are plenty of vineyards and wine tours to choose from. Go to Te Mata Peak, the landscape is breathtaking! Because we were staying with family we went to lesser known places like this really cool farmers market just on the outskirts of Hastings and we also went to Ocean Beach. This is an amazing beach tucked away, with good surf, white sand and warm water. You will need your own vehicle to go there.

Wellington

I’m not much of a city person, but I loved Wellington as soon as we got there. It has it all, a bustling city, a harbor, beach and lush countryside on its doorstep! Make sure you visit the Te Papa museum, probably the best museum I have ever been to. It goes through the history of New Zealand, the Maori people and culture and the country's geology. Walk along Cuba Street, the alternative and arty side of town. Take the cable car up the hill for an amazing view and meander your way back through the botanical gardens. Having your campervan means you can take a drive around the bay starting at Evans Bay and all around to Lyall Bay. Stop off in Shelly Bay and relax in the sun on beanbags for a BBQ lunch at Chocolate Fish Cafe looking out onto the harbor and city.
If you are a solo traveller, another great way to travel around is by bus.

5 reasons to fall in love with New South Wales

Beyond the slick city life of Sydney, (which itself offers many more than 5 reasons to visit!) New South Wales offers unspoilt beaches in Port Macquarie, Jervis Bay and Yuraygir National Park contrasted with the striking mountain ranges of the Blue Mountains and Snowy Mountains. Sip the best from the vines in some world-class Hunter Valley wineries and you’ll soon realize that sun, sea, sand and snow of this ensure there is much to keep you occupied! Here are our top 5 reasons to fall in love with New South Wales…

1. The world’s most southern most coral reef: Lord Howe Island

Regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific, Lord Howe Island is surrounded by the world’s southernmost coral reef and it’s the nearest reef to Sydney. Hop on a 2 hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane and you’ll soon be exploring the crystal clear waters teeming with rare coral and marine life surrounded by the island’s endemic species.
The mountainous terrain of Mt Gower ranks amongst Australia’s best day walks and it’s easy to see why. Here you can hike amongst misty forest with panoramic and breathtaking 360-degree views.
Acquaint yourself with the underwater world of an extinct volcano which is a snorkeling, scuba-diving and fishing paradise. Head to Ned’s Beach or Ball’s Pyramid or take a boat trip to the neighbouring Admiralty Islands, an intriguing group of volcanic formations with another 25 or so great dive spots.

2. Head into the hills: explore the Blue Mountains

An easy and short drive from the city, head into the Blue Mountains which take their name from the blueish hue that seems to shroud the hills as sunlight blends with drops of eucalyptus oil from the trees that blanket this area.
Photograph the legendary rock formations known as The Three Sisters - said to be three sisters who were turned to stone to prevent them marrying some neighbouring tribesman, who then couldn’t be turned back. In Katoomba, experience one of the world’s steepest railways (formerly used by miners) as you explore the Jamison Valley.
Here you’ll find plenty ofbush walks, natural retreats and the internationally recognized Jenolan Caves. If music and entertainment appeals, Oktoberfest and the Blue Mountains Music Festival in Katoomba and the Garden Festival at Leura transform these small, outback towns to a buzzing hive of entertainment.

3. Get into the Outback

Sun-baked sand dunes meet national parks and lush wetlands teeming with wildlife in over 120,000 hectares of remote and stark landscape. Lunar landscapes and red-stained sand, make this a unique and colourful area to explore. You can houseboat holiday in Wentworth, embark on a caravan fishing trip in Brewarrina or bushwalk in Cobar.
Head to the ruggedly beautiful Mutawintji National Park for astonishing Aboriginal rock art; paintings, stencils and engravings that are thought to be some 30,000 years old.
Mungo National Park, part of the Willandra Lakes Region is a World Heritage Area comprised of dried up lakes and sand dunes. This area is where some key archaeological treasures were uncovered; the remains of Mungo Man, the oldest human skeleton discovered in Australia, and Mungo Woman, the oldest ritually-cremated remains ever found.
Check out some of the remote townships and their landmarks; the Mundi Mundi plains and Living Desert sculptures of Broken Hill or take a dip in the warm artesian waters of the bore baths of the opal mining town Lightning Ridge

4. Drive through the Border Ranges and stop for an impromptu swim

Border Ranges National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area and is a wilderness of untouched ancient rainforest and unique plants. This is a great area for self-drive – if you follow the Border Ranges Loop, you could picnic at Antarctic Beech picnic area and swim in any of the gorgeous swimming holes made by surrounding rivers.
On the rim of an ancient volcano, ranges and plateaus, this region is dotted with small towns and little centres full of markets, handicrafts, cafes and local produce. South of Mt Warning (Wollumbin) you’ll encounter picturesque hinterland villages including Lismore and Nimbin. These little towns offer art trails and festivals, and you’ll find alternative living and organics are all in abundance here. Check out the markets at Channon or the gallery at Blue Knob.

5. Restore your Zen in Byron Bay

There’s much more to this hip Northen Beaches town than just surfing and swimming! Byron Bay’s packed calendar of festivals, concerts, music and theatre and vibrant nightlife makes this cosmopolitan yet alternative town a welcoming stay and it’s easy to see why visitors flock taste their piece of the pie.
Explore any of the town’s 15 great beaches or take a drive out into the countryside through quaint curvy hallows and wooded avenues to the historic heritage of small town Bangalow. The majestic camphor laurel trees host a canopy of shade for the delightful markets.
Treat yourself to some wellness with one of the many health spas, workshops, courses or therapies. From Ayurvedic exfoliation, floatation tanks to hot yoga, there’s plenty on offer in this boho haven of counter-culture!

Which are the best national parks to visit in the USA?

The USA's national parks are a fascinating insight into the landscape and wildlife of America. From the wide glaciers of Alaska to the underwater paradises of Florida, there are nearly 59 national parks to choose from.
We've chosen our favourites to show you how and why you should enjoy a trip to the stunning National Parks of America. Whether it's wildlife watching, relaxing on a beach, rock-climbing or just enjoying a breathtaking view, we'll help you find just what you're looking for!
If you're planning on visiting several national parks it might be worth buying a National Parks Pass, which allows you entry to all of the parks in the system. These cost $80 so if you are visiting 3 or 4 parks it is usually worth it. They can be bought online in advance or just at the first park you visit, so if you have this pass then the entry fees listed below are non-applicable. Plus it is valid for a whole year - time to plan a return trip already?
In the mainland US states, driving is almost always the most convenient to get around. If you can't do without the comforts of a hotel room, car hire is probably the best choice but if you want to get out there and experience the landscape, why not choose a camper van and discover the joys of hanging your hat wherever the road takes you.
Accommodation varies hugely in National Parks - from camping to luxury lodges, the cost can fluctuate. We can find any style of lodging you fancy; whether you'd like to keep it cheap and stay outside the park or stay right in the action at the heart of nature. Request a quote and we'll help find your perfect accommodation.

Our pick for mountains: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park was one of the earliest parks to be established, way back in 1890. Deep in the heart of California it is a haven of wildlife where hiking and rock-climbing are the most popular activities. The huge El Capitan is 3000 ft at its tallest point and is a huge pull for base jumpers and climbers from around the world but if you're looking for something a bit less challenging, there are many different levels of climbing throughout the park. The hiking trails range from 0.5 to 15 miles and the stunning views of the valley are well worth the walk. Skiing is a popular activity in the winter as well as horse riding all year round but believe me, some days merely soaking up the spectacular views is activity enough!
Entry Fee: $20 per vehicle/$10 for an individual on foot - valid for a week.
Gateway City: San Francisco is the best city to fly to, as it's approx. 4 hours drive from Yosemite.
Road Trip: Yosemite is the perfect National Park to visit on a road trip - it's location in mid California means that there are scores of other great areas close by. Why not hire a car and drive the Pacific Coast Highway down to Los Angeles before looping north to Yosemite NP and visiting Lake Tahoe on your way back to San Francisco - a perfect loop of California.
Tours: If you'd rather have the logistics sorted out for you, check out our Yosemite Active Adventure tour, taking in all the highlights of the park. Hiking, camping and horseriding - you can enjoy the full Yosemite experience on this brilliant 10 day tour.

Other mountainous national parks...

Grand Teton NP in Wyoming. Just south of Yellowstone NP, Grand Teton is too often cast in it's famous neighbours shadow but head out in a canoe to the oxbow bend and the view of the Teton Mountain Range will firmly cement this beautiful park in its rightful place amongst the best.
Rocky Mountains NP in Colorado. Cross the continental divide, the spine of North America, by trekking on horseback through the forests and valleys of the Rocky Mountains NP, emerging on top of the world. Experience the American Rockies at their best and you'll be itching to return!

Our pick for desert: Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is definitely one of the most famous parks, especially outside of the US. The hiking trails in the canyon really are unrivalled - from an afternoon walk to a 2 week trek, there is something for everyone in this huge expanse of land. White-water rafting is also a massively popular activity, with 2 week long trips along the Colorado River offering the chance to really get under the skin of the park. Those looking for something a bit more low key - try a short trail along the South Rim where the views are plentiful and the pathways paved. If you're still craving the view, hop in a helicopter and embark on a short flight over the vast canyon - it's expensive but is often the highlight of the trip!
Entry Fee: $25 per vehicle/$12 for an individual on foot - valid for a week.
Gateway City: An added bonus to Grand Canyon NP is that the easiest city to fly into is Las Vegas, so you can combine a trip to see the canyon with a visit to glamorous 'Sin City'.
Road trip: Grand Canyon NP is part of a cluster of parks very close together in Utah and Arizona, which makes it very easy to visit lots in one trip. Starting in Vegas, you can party the night away on the strip, hopping between hotel buffets and casinos before enjoying the drive along the long winding roads of Utah to Bryce Canyon and Canyonlands National Parks. Discover the Navajo culture in Monument Valley and dip back down into Arizona to experience the wonders of the Grand Canyon. The Las Vegas Loop is the ultimate Western road trip - a must do!
Tours: For the ultimate activity filled adventure try the Hike, Bike and Raft tour which includes visits to various other national parks in the area. After the energetic loop of the desert, return to the city and have a well deserved rest by the pool of a fabulous Vegas hotel.

Other desert national parks...

Arches NP in Utah. The red rock rainbows of Arches National Park are the classic American landscape and is a photographers dream. Take your tripod and a spare memory card and you'll be snapping away from dawn to dusk!
Joshua Tree NP in California. It's the perfect stop on the drive from Los Angeles to Vegas - a couple of hours hiking in the cactus strewn wilderness is a great contrast to the fast-paced glamour of these two cities.

Our pick for islands: Acadia National Park

Acadia is the only National Park in New England and its unrivalled coastal beauty attracts over 3 million visitors each year. The majority of the park is on Mount Desert Island, full of deserted beaches and endless hiking trails through the lush forest. Cycling is one of the best ways to experience the park as there are many miles of carriage roads that are perfect for mountain biking, which are available to rent. Hiking is also very popular, with trails leading right along the coast to the top of Mount Cadillac, the perfect place to watch the sun rise out of the Atlantic. Humpback whales and porpoises are often spotted off the coast but inland there are beavers and red foxes amongst the woods, as well as over 300 species of birds. Bar Harbour is an excellent place to base yourself when exploring Acadia as well as a good place to try the famous Maine lobster - fresh from the sea with lots of butter!
Entry Fee: $20 per vehicle/$5 for an individual on foot - valid for a week.
Gateway City: Boston. Explore this historic city before heading to Acadia NP up the coast. It's a six hour drive but a stop at the Cape Cod seashore is a good way to break it up.
Road trips: Including Acadia NP in a New England road trip is a great idea, especially in the autumn. Boston is the gateway to New England so after a few days in the city, pick up your car and head north to the Maine coast and Acadia. After tasting the classic Maine lobster, head west to the White Mountains of New Hampshire and take the cog railway to the top of Mount Washington. After a quick tasting session at the Ben and Jerry's factory in Stowe, Vermont skip your way back to Boston through the green and gold leaves of Massachusetts.

Other island national parks...

Dry Tortugas NP in Florida. This cluster of islands is set 70 miles west of Key West, with snorkling and diving being order of the day. With no accommodation or shops - just camping on the beach ($3 per night) - this a great park to visit when all you fancy is lying on a beach and embracing the relaxing outdoor life. Arrive by sea plane or catamaran.
Channel Islands NP in California. Only a stones throw from the central California coast, the Channel Islands are a haven of marine life, from sea stars to sharks. The best way to experience the islands is by kayak - the Santa Barbara Adventure Company operate sea cave kayak tours, dipping in and out of the rugged caves and maybe even spotting a whale on the boat ride out to sea!

Our pick for wildlife: Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park is one of the most impressive places in the world to view brown bears in the wild. Lynx, red squirrels and moose are found throughout the park, as well as sea otters and killer whales off the coast, but what people really come to Katmai for is the bears. The Brooks Falls, where bears gather to catch the jumping salmon, is the best place to see them and simply gazing at these magnificent creatures can easily take up most of the day! If you are able to tear yourself away, Katmai is world renowned for its sport fishing, with rainbow trout and coho salmon abundant in the lakes and rivers of the park. Bring your gear but remember -  the bears are after the fish too, so don't get too close!
Entry Fee: Free! but a camping fee of $5 applies.
Gateway City: Anchorage. Not only your gateway city but probably your base for any trip to Alaska, Anchorage is a modern city with the perks of having the wilderness of Alaska on its doorstep! A good place to return for home comforts after a few nights roughing it in more remote areas. Katmai is a short flight from Anchorage down to King Salmon near Kodiak Island.

Other wildlife filled national parks...

Yellowstone NP in Wyoming. Yellowstone is a haven for animals, especially mammals including bison, wolverines, grizzly and black bears, cougars, moose and the recently reintroduced wolves. Keep your distance when watching the wildlife - the highest concentration of wild animals in the US is not to be trifled with!
Everglades NP in Florida. The subtropical mangroves of the Everglades are teeming with wildlife and the best way to encounter the marshes is by canoe/kayak. The park provides free trail maps so renting a canoe and paddling around the swamps is pretty easy and worth it when you start spotting that wildlife! Alligators, crocs, flamingoes, cormorants, river otters - the list goes on for miles and with a bit of luck they can all be spotted from a kayak.

Our pick for trees: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in the USA. The vast landscapes of America would be nothing without the trees and this park is an excellent example of their beauty. Head to the park in autumn for the stunning red and gold colours and you'll be able to experience the park in its full majesty - hike to the double peaked summit of Chimney Tops for a stunning 360 degree panorama of the surrounding forests. Horse riding and fly fishing are also available and are a great way to immerse yourself into the relaxed pace of life of the park. If you are a really keen walker, why not tackle the Appalachian Trail, from Georgia to Maine. At a mere 2,200 miles its certainly a long one but if you're up for the challenge the months long hike is a real achievement to have completed. The trail passes right through the Great Smoky Mountains NP and is a fantastic way to experience rural America.
Entry Fees: Free!
Gateway City: Knoxville, Tennessee. A small college city, Knoxville is a fantastic southern charm and is situated perfectly for a day trip to Nashville, or as it's commonly known 'Music City'.
Road trip: If you're interested in exploring other parts of the Deep South, why not fly into Washington DC and drive the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway through Virginia and North Carolina before heading into Great Smoky Mountains NP and finishing the trip in the bright lights of Atlanta or Knoxville.

Other tree filled national parks:

Redwood NP in California. This beautiful park was created to protect the groves of redwood trees that are native to California and Oregon. The best time to visit is dawn when fog clings to the trees in the early morning haze and you can experience the ethereal splendour the trees are famous for.
Kings Canyon and Sequoia NP in California. Though not the tallest, General Sherman, located in Sequoia NP has the largest volume of any living tree on earth. Standing at the bottom and looking up, it's hard to find a more humbling spot to marvel at the joys of nature.

Our pick for geothermal activity: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

A visit to Hawaii usually inspires images of white sand and clear blue waters but Hawaii is so much more than just its beautiful beaches. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and Kilauea is the most active of the 5 volcanoes. Kilauea has been erupting into the sea continually since 1983 and new land of Hawaii is being created every day. The lava is especially enchanting after dark when you can easily spot the orange red glow as it streams into the sea with a puff of steam. For a fantastic view of the smoking caldera, head to the Jaggar Museum which also houses working seismographs. A visit to the volcanoes is an essential part of any trip to Hawaii and the stunning geothermal activity of the islands really is a wonder to behold.
Entry Fees: $10 per vehicle/$5 for an individual on foot, bike or moped - valid for a week.
Gateway City: Honolulu. Most international flights will arrive in Honolulu which is on the island of Oahu, however you can easily hop onto another aircraft and make your way to any of the major islands, including the Big Island, where the Hawaii Volcanoes NP is.
Road Trip: A great way to get around Hawaii, whichever island you are on, is by scooter. You don't need to have a license to drive a scooter less than 49cc so you can hop on a moped and zoom around the islands exploring. It's a great way to make sure you don't just sit on the beach and really experience the varied and exciting culture of Hawaii.

Other geothermal national parks...

Yellowstone NP in Wyoming. Yellowstone is a mecca for travellers seeking the thrilling natural springs and geysers. The Grand Prismatic Spring, as well as Old Faithful (the most predictable geyser), are popular highlights but exciting features of the park abound so why not head to Sulphur Cauldron and the Mud Volcano for bubbling hot pools. The fantastic colours of the Upper Geyser Basin include the pretty Blue Star Spring - a must see!

Enjoying Thailand away from the beaches...

Thailand is surely most famous for its stunning white sand beaches that encircle each of the islands that are scattered like emeralds around its coastline. Despite the beauty of the crystal clear water and tropical fishes, there are a wealth of places to see and amazing activities to enjoy if you take the time to step inland and experience the north of Thailand. From elephants to history lessons, you're sure to find something for you in the fabulous area of northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is Thailand's second city set deep in the north of the country, surrounded by forests and mountains and the ideal base if you want to explore the area. The city itself is small but with a rustic charm that captures many people as soon as they arrive. With shops, restaurants and bars galore, you can't run out of things to do here, so much so that some people I was travelling with eventually decided to move here! Make sure you hire a moped and zoom up to the top of Doi Suthep to see the Wat Phrathat temple and for stunning views out over the city. Watch out for the hairpin bends!
Getting there: Chiang Mai is an easy hop from Bangkok, whether you decide to fly up or take the train. When I lived in Thailand I took the train to Chiang Mai many times and would absolutely recommend it as a way of getting around the country. The night train leaves Bangkok in the early evening and arrives into Chaing Mai station at around 9am. For full details on the train times, visit Seat 61 (a brilliant train website) or the Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok when you arrive. You are allocated a wide seat which, at around 9pm gets turned into a bed by the train attendant. I would also recommend you book the lower bunks as they are slightly larger plus you will have a window. If there are two of you travelling this means that you will be sitting side by side with the aisle in between you, rather than opposite one another.
Highlight: It's hard to pick a highlight in such a great city but my day with the elephants has got to be it. Baan Chang Elephant Park was where I did a 1 day Mahout Training course. Consisting of getting to know the elephants before feeding, taking them for an hour long ride into the wood for some more food and eventually washing them, this was one of the most fantastic experiences of my life, let alone just in Thailand. The most important thing about this is that you MUST BOOK ONLINE. In Thai 'Baan Chang' just means 'happy elephant' and simply requesting an elephant experience day at 'Baan Chang' will not guarantee that you go to this camp. Booking online means that you can directly tell them your hotel name and they will come and collect you personally.
Don't miss: A strawberry and banana smoothie at the Funky Monkey Cafe!

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is the perfect base for a visit to the Golden Triangle, the area where Thailand, Laos and Burma meet and the mighty Mekong merges with the River Ruak. This beautiful area of the country is perfect for hiking and trekking, whether you fancy a week long trek or just a short walk through the hills. It is a good area to come and find a boutique hotel and absolutely relax after an action packed trip to Thailand. The city also has a bustling weekend night market and is a hive for local produce and crafts from around the area. If you want to pick up some genuine Thai products on your trip, this is the place to go!
Getting there: Chiang Rai is in the far north of the country and does not have any train links that reach it. If you are missing out Chiang Mai, then it is easiest to fly from Bangkok straight to Chiang Rai but if you want to combine the two, there are plenty of bus services between them each day.
Highlight: The trekking in this area is fantastic but it's who you'll meet while you're walking that will really make this trip a highlight. The hill tribes of the area live simply but are some of the most friendly and welcoming you'll find in Thailand. It's a great of finding out how they live their day to day lives and enjoy the north of Thailand at a relaxed pace.
Don't miss: Khao soi - the tastiest noodle dish in northern Thailand. Made using both boiled and deep fried egg noodles and mixed with cabbage, shallots, chilli and usually pork in a coconut based sauce - the combination of crunchy and soft noodles is fantastic! It's a common street food in the area and although available in other areas of the country, this is definitely the best place to try it.

Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park is the oldest national park in Thailand and is a fantastic place for wildlife spotting. Elephants, muntjacs and bee-eaters are commonly seen but the more rare animals include tigers, sun bears, gibbons, crocodiles and leopards. Doing a wildlife tour is your best chance of spotting any animals; an English-speaking guide will accompany you around the park and help you spot things that you otherwise might miss! There are several lovely waterfalls that can be visited as well as the bat caves where, at dusk, you can watch thousands of the creatures as they launch themselves into the night.
Getting there: From Bangkok you can catch a train or bus to Korat, which leave throughout the day. From there it is easy to get a songthaew (a shared taxi) to the park's entrance.
Highlight: Khao Yai is one of the few places in Thailand where you can still see wild elephants. To get the best chance of spotting them, go on a night wildlife tour and wonder at these marvellous creatures, somehow so different from their tamed cousins.
Don't miss: Khao Yai Winery for a taste of Thailand's finest wine. Perhaps an unexpected place for a vineyard, the wine from this area has been served on Thai Airways flights and is one of the best places in the country for tasting and touring vineyards. With a restaurant looking over the estate, the Khao Yai Winery is the perfect end to any trip up north.

Ayutthaya 

Ayutthaya was made the capital city of Siam in 1350 and by the 18th Century was one of the most important cities in Asia. In 1767, the Burmese invaded and almost the whole city was burnt to the ground. All that remains are the stone relics of the temples and palaces that survived the blaze, situated on their island in the middle of the Chao Praya, Pa Sak and Lop Buri rivers. Although the temples are only ruins, it is still important to dress modestly and respect the various temple complexes throughout the island.
Getting there: From Bangkok, you can either take the train or get a minibus from Victory Monument in the centre of Bangkok. Minibuses usually leave when they are full and take around an hour to reach the temples. The train takes slightly longer but is a great way to see some of the country on your way up to Ayutthaya.
Highlight: Renting a bicycle and riding from temple to temple is the best way to see the city. City maps are available for free and it is a great way to explore if you'd rather be independent.
Don't miss: Just off the island there is an elephant park where you can visit and feed some elephants. It is mainly an overnight park but it easy to visit for half an hour or so and buy a bucket of cucumbers to feed the elephants.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is the gateway to the River Kwai and all of the historic museums and relics that surround the area. In World War II, 16,000 prisoners of war and 90,000 Asian workers died working on the Thailand-Burma Railway, more commonly known as the Death Railway. The bridge over the River Kwai, made famous by the film of the same name, is able to be crossed on foot, with several "pull in" areas available for when the train comes. The area has several museums where you can learn about the history of the area, the best of which is the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, next to the cemetery. It is an interesting place to visit but be prepared to learn about the horrors that occurred here.
Getting there: Easy to reach by both bus and train, Kanchanaburi is a regular stop on tours of Thailand, thanks to its bloody history. From Bangkok, the minibuses leave Victory Monument when they are full and are probably the easiest method of transport to the area. Trains leave from Thonburi station in Bangkok which is less central than the main Hua Lamphong terminus. The morning train leaves at 07.50 and the next is not until after lunch so make sure you have time to get there, otherwise take a minibus.
Highlight: The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is one of the most humbling places you can visit in Thailand, with over 7,000 graves of prisoners of war from Australia, the Netherlands and the UK. Some of the graves bear moving personal inscriptions from family members where other merely mark the grave of 'A Soldier of the 1939-1945 war'. It is a moving place to visit and is beautifully maintained - a lasting tribute and resting place for many men.
Don't miss: The Erawan Falls in nearby Erawan National Park are an amazing place to visit from Kanchanaburi, especially if you are there for a few nights. The 7 tiered waterfall has brilliant pools for swimming but make sure you bring good walking boots as the trail to the top can be tricky. Easily reachable to tuk-tuk or public bus.

Tours

If you'd like to experience the north of Thailand but you fancy joining a group of like minded people, we have a whole host of tours that might appeal, from short treks to a full two week trip.

Northern Thailand Discovery
Meet saffron-robed monks, visit hilltribe villages and delve into the different on an adventure that includes Thailand's wild northwest corner. With a 3 day trek into the Thai countryside, it doesn't matter whether your crossing the bridge in Kanchanaburi or cycling amongst the temples of Ayutthaya, this trip will let you really absorb the spirit of this diverse country.
 
Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle
Take time to get to know Thailand's second city of Chiang Mai. With shops, markets, temples and street food galore, a visit to Doi Suthep is a must do, before heading to Chiang Rai to meet the elephants. Finally venture by boat to the threshold of three different countries—the Golden Triangle—where the borders of Thailand, Burma (Myanmar) and Laos meet.

Northern Thailand Hilltribes Trek
This tour is perfect for someone who wants to get to Chiang Mai under their own steam (whether its by flight or train) but then wants an organised tour of Northern Thailand waiting for them when they arrive. With 4 nights camping this is a real deal trek, where you'll get to experience the beauty of the countryside and meet the hill tribes that inhabit the area. Also features an elephant ride and a rafting experience after all that walking!