South Africa & the Indian Ocean

Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is among the world’s finest beach destinations with glittering white sand beaches and jewel-like seas. Away from these, the island is steeped in history, with structures such as Big Buddha – a huge white marble covered statue dedicated to the late King of Thailand; and Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most important temple. Close to Phuket, reached by boat, is magnificent Phi Phi Island, with sheer cliffs and a beach-fringed jungle, reaching down to the jade green waters below.

Capital city of Mauritius, located in the breath-taking Indian Ocean, Port Louis is a colourful town with a colonial and maritime history. Whilst the island is best known for its outstanding beaches, Port Louis is home to the most famous postage stamp in the world, housed at the Blue Penny Museum. The waters which surround Mauritius are home to a stunning underwater world of colourful coral and tropical fish, and over 400 marine species, including bottlenose dolphins, tuna and marlin.

Named after a British naval commander who landed troops on the Zululand coast in 1879, Richards Bay is situated on what was originally a floodplain between Durban and Kosi Bay, and has the deepest natural harbour in the Southern hemisphere. Its unspoilt wetlands are teeming with wildlife including hippos, crocodiles and over 300 species of bird; and is the gateway to Zululand. Richards Bay is also close to a number of game reserves where it’s possible to see the Big Five.

The flat-topped Table Mountain – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, stands tall over the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. This iconic city is known for its lively Victoria & Alfred Waterfront area, full of restaurants, attractions and shops; but away from the hustle and bustle is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, full of indigenous flora, including the South African national flower, the protea. Cape Town is also renowned for its Winelands region, producing world class wines.

Jamestown, capital of St. Helena, is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It is the final resting place of Napoleon, who was exiled there, and his gravesite in a colourful, flower-laden glade can still be visited. Still a British Overseas Territory, the town’s main attractions include the Museum of Saint Helena, which showcases St. Helenian stamps, island communications, religious icons and geological specimens; The Cenotaph; and the view from Jacob’s Ladder – its 699 steps rise from the capital to Half Tree Hollow above.

Praia, the capital of Cape Verde on Santiago Island’s southern tip, is a lively city just a short bus ride from the port. Enjoy wandering through its busy streets, soaking up its authentic atmosphere, and if you head out of the city, you’ll find lush valleys and plantations waiting to be explored. A visit to Cidade Velha, the first European-established city in West Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds deep historical ties to the slave trade, is not to be missed. You will have the opportunity to experience the town’s unique blend of African and Mediterranean influences and immerse yourself in local culture with a traditional Funaná dance. Upon arrival, you can expect to be greeted by warm, friendly locals and discover the charm of a place that's full of character and history.

Las Palmas is perhaps the most popular destination in the Canary Islands, loved by those who enjoy year-round sunshine. The island was originally occupied by the Canarii people, from the 5th century BC, whose cultures and lifestyles can be discovered at several sites around Gran Canaria, including the ancient burial ground of El Maipés Necropolis. The twin towers of Santa Ana Cathedral stand tall in the centre of Las Palmas, a unique combination of Renaissance, Gothic and Neoclassical styles.

The vibrant 9th-century port town of La Coruña, on the Iberian Peninsula, is a delicate combination of old and new architecture, with the shimmering glass of modern buildings prompting the locals to nickname it ‘The Crystal City’ juxtaposed against the deeply historical medieval district; rich in Galician culture, history, gastronomy and natural beauty. The centrepiece of this region is the Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where it is said the Relics of James the Apostle are buried – an incentive for the pilgrims who make the journey along the Camino de Santiago each year. From climbing up the world’s oldest working lighthouse to exploring the small collection of immaculate bays, La Coruña’s many treasures make this a town worth discovering.