Barca d'Alva sits quietly along the Douro River, right at Portugal’s eastern border with Spain. Once the final stop on the historic Douro railway line, this riverside village remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. The surrounding landscape filled with terraced vineyards, olive groves, and almond trees form part of the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro Wine Region.
Tortuguero, located on Costa Rica’s remote northern Caribbean coast, is a destination unlike any other in the country. Accessible only by boat or small aircraft, this coastal village sits between the Caribbean Sea and a network of freshwater canals. Its name, meaning "place of turtles," comes from the thousands of sea turtles that arrive annually to lay their eggs on its beaches, including green, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles.
This bustling holiday resort is a major cruise ship destination and a jumping-off point for visiting the ruins at nearby Ephesus. The beaches of Kusadasi a beautiful, welcoming and perfect for all ages!
Nova Scotia covers an area of 21,425 sq. miles, and Halifax is the capital. This is an area rich in history — Gaelic is still spoken here in some areas by descendants of the early settlers. The coast is peppered with fishing villages, and inland the climate boasts sprawling valleys and rocky headlands.
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah on the island of Borneo, is a vibrant city where modern life meets wild landscapes. Overlooking the South China Sea and backed by lush rainforests and mountains, it serves as both a cultural hub and a gateway to Borneo’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Khao Sok National Park in Thailand is a stunning natural haven that promises a truly immersive experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled in southern Thailand, this sprawling park is renowned for its lush rainforests, dramatic limestone cliffs, and tranquil lakes. The park’s centerpiece, Cheow Lan Lake, is a breathtaking expanse of emerald waters surrounded by towering karst formations, ideal for boat tours and exploring floating lodges.
The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, offering opportunities to spot diverse species in their natural habitat. With over 300 bird species and a variety of mammals including the elusive Malayan sun bear and the rare Indochinese tiger, Khao Sok is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Guided jungle treks take you deep into the heart of the forest, where you can marvel at ancient trees and cascading waterfalls.
Khao Sok’s unique limestone formations create a dramatic landscape that offers spectacular hiking and caving experiences. The Nam Talu Cave adventure is particularly popular, guiding visitors through a labyrinth of underground tunnels and chambers illuminated by natural light. For a more relaxed experience, you can enjoy a serene canoe ride along the Sok River, where the jungle canopy provides a cooling shade and a chance to spot wildlife.
Fun Fact: Khao Sok is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, estimated to be over 160 million years old. This ancient forest predates even the Amazon and harbors a treasure trove of biodiversity.
Visit Khao Sok between November and April for the best weather conditions, with less rain and pleasant temperatures that make for ideal outdoor adventures. This hidden gem in Thailand promises an unforgettable escape into one of the world’s most enchanting natural landscapes.