Destinations A to Z

Afghanistan
Afghanistan's strategic location has guaranteed it a starring (and bloody) role in history – but its wild landscapes are only intermittently accessible by travellers

Alaska
The great outdoors doesn’t get any greater than Alaska. The Alaskan wilderness has bewitched travellers, writers and explorers for centuries and it’s easy to see why

Albania
Hikers will love the Albanian Alps, cyclists will enjoy Albania's ancient tracks, archaeology and history buffs can explore significant sites and castles galore

Algeria
Algeria boasts Roman ruins, Ottoman palaces, not to mention the Sahara desert and the M'Zab Valley, perfect for desert safaris

American Samoa
Centrally located in the South Pacific Ocean, this island nation has been blessed with a rugged, volcanic landscape and a vibrant population with rich traditions

Andorra
Detractors will tell you that Andorra is all about skiing and shopping, but beyond the slopes and duty-free stores there's plenty of year-round fresh air and fun to be had

Angola
Little-visited Angola, nestling north of Namibia, is a place for pioneers - hike its deserts, visit its waterfalls and explore its cities with few other tourists

Anguilla
British Overseas Territory, northernmost Leeward Island and home to some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the Caribbean

Antarctica
Antarctica, the White Continent, is the most pristine place left in the planet, a land of sculptural icebergs, breaching whales and a lot of penguins

Antigua and Barbuda
The Caribbean mecca for beachcombers, boatmen and birdwatchers alike

Argentina
Tango in Buenos Aires, hike the Andes, spot penguins on the Atlantic coast and ride horses in Patagonia and the Argentine pampas – Argentina, on the move

Armenia
As the world's oldest Christian nation, Armenia has a fascinating history and numerous crumbling churches to explore. The welcoming Armenians will delight in revealing more about their artistic and spiritual heritage

Ascension Island
Suspended in the South Atlantic Ocean, the volcanic island's landscape is dominated by lava flows and cinder cones. From November to May the protected green turtle comes ashore to lay its eggs

Australia
Wonderful waterside cities, red Outback vastness, the world's biggest coral reef and rainforest filled with unique critters – Australia is a land apart

Australia, East Coast
The East Coast of Australia is a traveller's dream – trace its 18,000km of surf-bashed beach, wildlife-rich rainforest, colossal coral reef and cool cities

Australia, Tasmania
Tasmania may be small compared to mainland Australia but, with its high peaks, raging rivers, wildlife-infested rainforest and fine beers, it packs a big punch

Australia, The Outback
Outback Australia – the wild, vast, red expanse stretching from the Northern Territory to South Australia – offers desert, big rocks, Aboriginal encounters and tasty bush tucker

Australia, West Coast
Western Australia is massive – with great travel experiences. Sleep in the Outback, swim with whale sharks, trek the Bungle Bungles and savour top wines

Austria
Fresh air, fresh air and more fresh air – Austria is the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts

Azerbaijan
Known as the 'Land of Fire', Azerbaijan entertains the adventurous traveller with colourful markets, a cosmopolitan capital, hilltop castles and snow-capped peaks

Azores
The islands of the Azores, marooned out in the Atlantic Ocean, are a haven for volcano walking, spectacular flowers and some of the world's best whale watching

Bahamas
Seven hundred sand-drizzled islands idyllically set in the Caribbean Sea, the Bahamas is for island hopping, diving, fishing and sailing

Bahrain
This small island in the Persian Gulf provides a unique experience for travellers. Look past the glittering skyscrapers to discover the remnants of an ancient civilisation

Bangladesh
Sun-dappled waterways, spice-infused alleys, tigers and tea fields: Bangladesh is full of surprises

Barbados
It may have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but Barbados is also the perfect location for snorkelling, hiking and watching cricket

Belarus
Enjoy picturesque Belarus with its unique spirit and rich history. Indulge in the city's bars and restaurants or visit the majestic castles and museums for a real insight into Belarus life

Belgium
Often overlooked, Belgium offers an interesting mix of languages, cultures, fine cycling, big bird flocks and, yes, mouthwatering beer and chocolate!

Belize
Belize is one of Central America's smallest countries – but for a tiny place, Belize is big on adventure

Benin
Tiny Benin, a thin sliver of West Africa, packs a big punch. Come to Benin for voodoo ceremonies, fetish markets, friendly locals and truly wild national parks

Bermuda
Marooned in the north Atlantic, Britain's oldest colony is home to great diving, pink beaches and courteous locals with a penchant for a party

Bhutan
The last of the Himalayan kingdoms, there’s nowhere on earth quite like Bhutan. Thanks to a long history of isolation and controlled modernisation under the previous king, a trip to Bhutan feels like a journey into the past

Bolivia
From mountain to jungle and the wide Altiplano, Bolivia is truly at the heart of South America

Borneo
Adventure doesn't get more exciting than Borneo. With luscious rain forests, endangered wildlife and diverse culture - this destination is perfect for adventure and nature lovers

Bosnia and Herzegovina
Not that long ago the only foreigners who visited Bosnia and Herzegovina were aid workers. Slowly travellers are discovering the country’s charms

Botswana
Simply, Botswana is one of Africa's - if not the world's - greatest wildlife destinations. Find pristine wilderness, animals galore and fascinating Bushmen culture

Brazil
Steaming jungle, beautiful beaches, the wet wonderland of the Pantanal and booty-shaking beats of Carnaval – Brazil's a big, bold blend of attractions

Brunei
Brunei combines natural beauty with a rich traditional heritage. Visit the Sultan's house - the largest palace in the world featuring a unique blend of contemporary and traditional Islamic architecture

Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a bold and beautiful place with scenic mountains, golden beaches and spectacular ski resorts

Burkina Faso
Get way off the beaten track in Burkina Faso, to find camel traders, elephant herds, friendly people and Africa's best film festival

Burma/Myanmar
Years of isolation have kept Burma an unspoiled gem, with creaking teak monasteries and temples of stone, gracefully ageing in a cycle-paced society

Burundi
One of the poorest countries in the world, Burundi has spectacular national parks and is close to the Great Lakes of Eastern Africa

Cambodia
Cambodia is a captivating land of beautiful temples, wild jungle, unspoiled countryside, colonial architecture and sandy beaches

Cameroon
Cameroon has it all - climb mountains, trek with gorillas, laze on beaches and meet local herdsmen in intriguing West Africa

Canada
O Canada – the opening lyrics to Canada’s national anthem, and a typical reaction to the size and scale of this vast, rugged country

Canary Islands
Tenerife, Lanzarote and co. may be a byword for package tourism, but beyond the black sand beaches lie great walks, local culture and Spain's highest mountain, volcanic Mt Teide

Cape Verde
A little piece of Portugal floating off the west coast of Africa, sun-kissed Cape Verde offers fine sand, atmospheric city streets and soulful music

Cayman Islands
Escape the commercialised Grand Cayman Island to explore the secret caves and deserted beaches of the Cayman Islands by boat

Central African Republic
During times of political stability, Dzanga-Sangha national park in the southeast is the perfect place for intrepid explorers to meet gorillas and elephants in the wild

Chad
A tough climate and civil unrest has made Chad a challenging destination for travellers. However, for those who make the trek, Chad has captivating desert landscapes and diverse wildlife

Chile
Tall, slim and washed by the Pacific, Chile is adventure heaven, with deserts, vineyards, volcanoes, lakes and glaciers: great treks perfected by fine local wine

China
China is a world to itself, with mountain ranges, ancient cities, charming wildlife and a fascinating culture – not to mention THAT wall

Colombia
Shrugging off its edgy reputation, Colombia is a tantalising mixture of Andean foothills and Amazon jungle, pre-Columbian sites and Caribbean beaches – get there soon

Comoros
The desert landscapes and luscious rainforest of the Comoros Islands makes this remote part of the world a fantastic place for hiking - and keep your eye out for giant bats

Costa Rica
Costa Rica is red hot and green all over – an epicentre of wildlife-watching and adrenaline activities

Cote d'Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire – the Ivory Coast – is Africa for the most adventurous travellers, who'll be rewarded with mud mosques, chimpanzee sightings and super trekking

Croatia
Croatia has many charms, including a spectacular coast and more than 1,000 islands

Cuba
Travel in Cuba and experience crumbling Cuban cool, coloured by 500 years of rollercoaster history

Cyprus
Sun, sand, sea, seriously ancient ruins and unspoiled mountains, Cyprus is a beach destination with a whole lot of history

Czech Republic
Prague is undoubtedly the jewel in the Czech Republic’s crown. With its wonderful array of Gothic, Baroque, Art Nouveau and Cubist buildings, who could blame the millions of visitors who flock there each year?

Democratic Republic of the Congo
Africa's 'heart of darkness' is still challenging travel territory, but mountain gorillas, bonobos and other primates reward the intrepid explorer

Denmark
Denmark is a tranquil place with an abundance of picturesque villages and towns, historic castles and monuments, and a coastline that varies from broad sandy beaches to small coves and gentle fjords

Djibouti
Good things come in small packages. A haven for hiking and diving - with a delicious cuisine to boot - this is certainly the case with this tiny Eastern African nation

Dominica
The strong Rastafarian culture of Dominica ensures you a warm welcome to this Caribbean island. Dominica has superb trekking trails - with a Boiling Lake and dramatic waterfalls hidden amongst its jungle palms

Dominican Republic
The capital Santo Domingo is the social hub of the island - infusing a mixture of cultures. Out of the city, sugar plantations dominate the landscape

Dutch Antilles
Just off the Venezuelan Coast, the Dutch Antilles has a fascinating mix of cultural influences. Along with its colonial architecture and laid-back Caribbean way of life, frequently held festivities encourage travellers to the islands

East Timor
With basic infrastructure East Timor is not an easy place to travel. But with deserted beaches, beautiful countryside and charming locals it is perfect for the adventurous

Easter Island
Get a heads-up on the giant moai (carved stone sculptures) of Easter Island

Ecuador
It's South America in a bite-sized package – Ecuador has the wildlife, the mountains, the rainforest and even the Inca heritage, all in easy reach

Egypt
Cultural powerhouse of the ancient world, Egypt is a peerless land of coral-filled seas and rolling desert, seas of sand preserving temples, tombs and pyramids

El Salvador
Volcanoes, surf breaks and coffee plantations: wake up to the appeal of El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea
Rich in oil, the fear of foreign coups has made it difficult to gain entry into Equatorial Guinea. However, if you don't mind the odd frisking, you'll delight in discovering more about the traditional cultures of the people

Eritrea
A little bit of Italy in Africa - Eritrea boasts stylish architectural reminders of its past colonisers, twinned with wild lands, great diving and quirky charm

Estonia
Estonia has become the hottest new discovery of Eastern Europe. With its gorgeous medieval capital Tallinn, its enormous forests, beautiful wetlands and remote offshore islands, Estonia is fast becoming a fascinating destination

Ethiopia
Mighty mountains, deep depressions, sunken churches, unique wildlife and damn fine coffee - Ethiopia has it all

Falkland Islands
These rugged, isolated isles welcome birdwatchers and wildlife fans – the Falkland Islands are among the best places for a penguin encounter

Faroe Islands
Halfway between Iceland and Norway, to the north of Scotland, the Faroe Islands are a jigsaw puzzle of 18 volcanic islands, lying far off the tourist radar.

Fiji
Fiji is a paradise comprised of more than 300 volcanic and coral islands. Its tropical climate and perfect location on Pacific air routes has made it a prime destination for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure in one

Finland
Finland is the down-to-earth sibling of the Nordic countries. It has a natural purity with idyllic scenery, beautiful architecture and most of all warm hearted people, making it an exceptionally rewarding place to visit.

France
Renowned the world over for its culture and its cuisine, France is also a land of spectacular and greatly diverse landscapes

French Guiana
Bolstered by financial support from France, French Guiana is one of the wealthiest nations in South America. It combines an interesting colonial history with pockets of diverse wildlife

French Polynesia
The names Tahiti, Bora Bora and Rangiroa conjure images of blissful paradise – golden sands, blue lagoons, swaying palms. A fairly accurate summation, as it happens. With striking mountains and wildlife too, French Polynesia has the lot.

Gabon
Gabon could be the next big thing in African ecotourism: its forests are packed with chimpanzees, gorillas and more – you just need a bit of patience to see them

Galapagos Islands
They inspired Darwin and they enthrall wildlife-watchers with their fearless animals. The Galápagos Islands are a dream destination for anyone curious about the natural world

Gambia
The Gambia is a tiny slice of West Africa, but it packs in fine beaches, a world-class chimpanzee reserve, colourful markets and some of the continent's best birding

Georgia
Georgia is a land blessed with striking beauty and varied landscapes. From enclosed high valleys to vine-draped courtyards, and winding streets, Georgia has stunning scenery accompanied with a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Germany
With fairytale castles such as Neuschwanstein, timber-framed medieval towns like Münster and outstanding areas of natural beauty, Germany is a romantic’s dream.

Ghana
Chaotic cities, crumbling castles, birds, beaches and hypnotic drum-beats, the lively West African nation of Ghana offers an intoxicating mix

Gibraltar
Welcome to Little Britain, where bobbies walk the beat, ladies buy their smalls in Marks and Spencer and pubs serve real ale with the scampi in a basket

Greece
Greece is where classical civilisation meets sunloungers – where the myth-shrouded landscapes of Mount Olympus and the Peloponnese compete with equally legendary beaches and turquoise seas

Greenland
Cut off from the rest of the world for eight months of the year when the fjords freeze over and lying mostly within the Arctic Circle, Greenland is way off the beaten track

Grenada
Grenada attracts less visitors than its neighbours Barbados and St Lucia, making it a great place to explore the coral reef and laze on deserted sandy beaches

Guatemala
Volcanoes, jungle-clad Mayan ruins, vibrant fiestas – no wonder Guatemala is one of Central America's hottest tickets

Guinea
Although the security situation in this part of Africa is frequently volatile, Guinea has been blessed with tropical forest, abundant wildlife and some of the best hiking in West Africa

Guinea-Bissau
The friendly people of Guinea-Bissau will be eager to teach you more about their customs and traditions. They will also point you towards the beautiful delta islands of the Arquipelago dos Bijagos

Guyana
A frontier country with thundering waterfalls and diverse wildlife, Guyana beckons intrepid travellers with a taste for adventure

Haiti
In January 2010 an earthquake wreaked havoc on this poor Caribbean nation. Although struggling to rebuild their country and still mourning their dead, the Haitian people will greet you with a warm smile

Hawaii
Only six of Hawaii's 100-plus islands and atolls welcome visitors, but those six sure are pretty

Honduras
Known as the original Banana Republic - Honduras is a country of lowlands and fertile valleys, with a fascinating pirate history and superb tropical beaches.

Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a dynamic metropolis of East meets West. An eclectic mix of modern skyscrapers, colonial buildings and traditional temples makes Hong Kong a popular destination for travellers

Hungary
Hungary is home to historic urban centres and evocative landscapes, not to mention quality wines, rejuvenating thermal springs, and a thriving arts and music scene

Iceland
It’s truly cool, but Iceland is not really that icy – well, except for a handful of truly massive glaciers

India
Mighty castles and exquisite palaces set India’s past in stone, a backdrop to an exotic society of devout religion, timeless custom and vivid colour

Indonesia
Dizzying in scale and variety, Indonesia is a captivating mix of natural beauty and cultural depth, tropical islands and traditional lifestyles – at a bargain price

Iran
Sublime architecture, a rich poetic tradition and wildly diverse landscapes – Iran is a beautiful country that defies the media headlines

Iraq
When Iraq is safe for travellers again, this beautiful and culturally-rich country has the potential to become one of the most popular travel destinations in the Middle East

Ireland
Think of Ireland and the stereotypical image of Guinness and Leprechauns tend to spring to mind, but Ireland has much much more to offer

Israel
Rarely out of the news, Israel doesn’t immediately spring to mind as a travel destination – but for walkers, culture-seekers and those who want to see the tangled political situation for themselves, the country has much to offer

Italy
Italy - beautiful landscapes, beautiful buildings, beautiful people. From Roman Empire ruins to the art of the high Renaissance, Italy is a travel classic

Jamaica
The most colourful island in the Caribbean - Jamaica's attractions include idyllic white sand beaches, tropical blooms, blue mountain peaks, leafy parks, handsome colonial towns and neon-lit nightlife.

Japan
A country of contrasts, Japan's city Tokyo dazzles with bright lights and high-tech gadgetry while the cherry blossoms in Kyoto’s Maruyama Park are symbols of peace and beauty

Jordan
Jordan is best known for its true world wonder, the rose red city of Petra, carved from stone and long hidden in its desert canyon

Kazakhstan
Despite the efforts of "Borat Sagdiyev", Kazakhstan is still a rarely visited part of Eurasia. With a sophisticated cafe culture and ecotourism programmes thriving in stunning countryside, this will not be the case for much longer

Kenya
Kenya is more than safari – when you’ve seen the ‘big five’, go trekking with tribesmen, hike mountain peaks and scuba dive reefs in the Indian Ocean

Kiribati
Kiribati is still in its infancy but is moving further into the tourist spotlight with its superb white sandy beaches and crystal-clear lagoon waters

Kosovo
In world terms, Kosovo is a little baby. Long a part of the Ottoman Empire, then an autonomous region of Serbia, it was only in 2008 – following bitter battles

Kuwait
This small city-state has put its violent recent past behind it to become one of the Gulf's most surprising and rewarding destinations

Kyrgyzstan
Packed with nomad culture, mighty mountains and super horse-riding across the steppes, Kyrgyzstan is the adventure hub of Central Asia

Laos
Discover the delights of this laid-back country of mountains and rivers. Travellers will be well rewarded with luscious landscapes, friendly people and unique glimpses of a country that's hardly changed for over a century

Latvia
Located on the Baltic sea, Latvia is a small country with ancient history and traditions. Fabulous architectural monuments, nature parks, lakes and beautiful forests make up this splendid destination

Lebanon
With one foot in the Arab world and another in the Mediterranean, Lebanon is a lush, culturally-rich but often troubled crossroads

Lesotho
Surrounded by South Africa and dubbed the 'Kingdom of the Sky', mountainous Lesotho is the perfect place for outdoor adventure and tribal encounters

Liberia
When Liberia is safe for travellers, the African people are quick to share their passion for art, dance and storytelling with visitors

Libya
Packed with the rolling dunes of the Sahara and well-preserved ancient ruins, Libya is a the place to travel back in time and live out those Arabian Nights fantasies

Liechtenstein
Little Liechtenstein is a curious enclave of princely castles, hearty cuisines and a whole lot of mountains

Lithuania
One of Europe's most enchanting countries, Lithuania is a land of castles, lakes and forests, consisting of vast plains parted by hills and sand dunes along the Baltic shore

Luxembourg
Luxembourg is an attractive country with a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and valleys, forests, vineyards and striking sandstone rock formations

Macau
Tiny Macau, an enclave on China's Pearl Delta, is best known for glitzy casinos but also offers a fun fusion of colonial style and Asian flavours

Macedonia
Off-the-beaten track Macedonia offers an Eastern European enclave of lakes, mountains and traditional merry-making

Madagascar
Neither Africa nor Asia, Madagascar defies classification. From desert to rainforest, mountain to beach it’s packed with endemic species and a culture all of its own

Madeira
With its luxuriant plant life, levada walking trails and volcanic landscapes, Madeira has more to offer active types than its middle-aged image suggests

Malawi
Heaps of wildlife, tranquil lake-life, granite peaks, great cycling and big smiles – that's what awaits travellers heading to Malawi

Malaysia
The rising star of South-East Asia - Malaysia is a vibrant mix of tropical island resorts, warm coral seas, lush rain-forest, majestic mosques and temples and wonderful wildlife

Maldives
Blissful, turquoise-lapped dots in the Indian Ocean, the islands of the Maldives offer great beach lazing but also great diving and whale watching, too

Mali
Mali offers an abundance of essentially African experiences – camel trek into the Sahel, visit a mud mosque, join the masses on a riverboat and listen to world-class musicians at the Festival of the Desert

Malta
Don’t let the tiny islands of Malta and Gozo fool you. With more historical monuments per square kilometre than anywhere else, history buffs will be in heaven

Marshall Islands
The Marshall Islands, nearly a million square miles of Pacific islands and deep blue ocean to the east of Micronesia, is a diving hotspot

Mauritania
Little-visited Mauritania, nestled onto Africa's Atlantic coast, is a land of empty desert, wildlife-filled wetland and intrepid travel

Mauritius
Mauritius is an Indian Ocean stunner – but it's more than fine beaches: find lush hikes, super diving and a fascinating cultural mix

Mexico
Hot as a habanero chilli, cool as a dip in the Pacific, ancient as the Mayan temples and new as Mexico City's bars and restaurants – Mexico bridges North and Central America

Micronesia
The Pacific doesn't get more idyllic or remote than these diver-friendly specks in the ocean

Moldova
Moldova, in the far east of Europe, is home to fine wine, ancient monasteries and a rather curious breakaway republic

Monaco
Glam up for a mini-break in Monaco – peruse classic cars, posh yachts and a few hidden green corners for a slice of the European high life

Mongolia
Ghengis Khan's backyard is still frontier territory, home to nomadic herders and eagle hunters

Montenegro
Montenegro is Europe's hidden gem – compact, yet bursting with gorgeous Adriatic beaches, some of Europe's finest mountains and activities aplenty

Montserrat
The tiny Caribbean island of Montserrat is a lively place – in part, for the wrong reasons. In 1995 its resident volcano rumbled into life; by 1997, capital Plymouth was sitting under metres of ash and half the island was declared off-limits

Morocco
Accessible and exotic, Morocco has it all: mountain trekking, Atlantic surf beaches, boutique riads, labyrinthine bazaars and some of North Africa's tastiest food

Mozambique
Lapped by the turquoise Indian Ocean, resurging Mozambique offers beautiful beaches, succulent seafood and big game parks on the up

Namibia
Huge and wonderfully empty, Namibia is the lesser-known star of southern Africa, offering wilderness, wildlife and the world's biggest sand dunes

Nauru
Nauru, one of the world's smallest countries, plonked in the Pacific just north of the Solomon Islands, boasts beaches, good diving and, er, rather large phosphate mines

Nepal
Nepal's historic towns and cities are atmospheric bases for tea-house treks amongst the snow-capped Himalayas: add lowland jungle wildlife and you have it all

Netherlands
There's much more to the Netherlands than capital Amsterdam: hire a bike and discover tranquil islands, pretty canals, bustling cities and great beer and cheese

New Zealand
New Zealand, with its high peaks, volcanic grumbling, weird wildlife, raging waters and high-octane thrills, is the ultimate outdoor playground

Nicaragua
Central America's biggest country is perhaps its most misunderstood – but with volcanoes, beaches and fine colonial architecture, it's well worth getting to know

Niger
Around 80% covered by the Sahara, West African Niger is a land for the intrepid to live out their desert fantasies

Nigeria
Troubled Nigeria can be chaotic and confusing, but you'll also find wildlife-rich national parks, Atlantic beaches and a warm West African welcome

North Cyprus
Quiet beaches, Crusader castles and nesting turtles: Cyprus' less-visited half deserves greater recognition – in every sense

North Korea
Probably the planet's most secretive, little-visited country, North Korea is a destination unlike any other

Norway
Think Norway and images of fresh air, dramatic fjords and untamed wilderness spring to mind. And quite right too: Norway is a geographical stunner

Oman
Authentic, wild and brimming with mountain and desert activities, no wonder Oman has become the Middle East's adventure hub

Pakistan
Mountainous and beautiful, Pakistan is simultaneously forbidding and incredibly friendly. Discover bustling bazaars and Himalayan highways

Palau
Pacific nation Palau is a paradise of verdant islands and superlative diving, plus the chance to snorkel with thousands of stingless jellyfish

Panama
Much more than a canal... Panama boasts wildlife-rich jungles, chilled beaches, surf breaks and fascinating indigenous cultures

Papua New Guinea
Little-visited Papua New Guinea is a land of pioneering travel: find pristine reefs, highland tribes and jungles bursting with the world's most bizarre birds

Paraguay
The hidden heart of South America, Paraguay's cowboys, Guaraní people and Mennonite communities make for a fascinating cultural melting pot

Peru
The Inca left their mark on Peru, but there's more to the country than Machu Picchu. Hike Andean trails, take boats through the Amazon, and surf Pacific rollers

Philippines
With an archipelago so large, numerous and disparate, the Philippines is dizzyingly diverse – come for beautiful beaches, tribal cultures and volcanic landscapes

Pitcairn Island
Pitcairn Island, a sub-tropical outpost in the South Pacific, offers lush landscapes, fine fish suppers and fascinating naval history

Poland
Right in the heart of Europe, travellers to Poland can find both pristine beaches and snow-covered mountains. Bask in the sun on the Baltic coast, explore the vibrant streets of Gdansk, and come face to face with the native European Bison in Bialowieza, Poland’s first National Park

Portugal
One of Europe's most laid-back nations boasts a strollable capital, rugged interior and rich cultural history

Qatar
Qatar offers desert drives and an outstanding Islamic art museum, making this chunk of Arabia worth a look

Republic of Congo
The lesser-visited of the two Congos is a raw travel experience, but also one of the best places to see western lowland gorillas

Reunion
It's France, but not as you know it... the island of Réunion, stranded in the Indian Ocean, offers lush volcanoes, Creole cuisine and top diving with a French twist

Romania
Forget the Dracula clichés, and get your teeth stuck into the wild landscapes and medieval villages of the Carpathians

Russia
Russia, the world’s biggest country, is huge. Spanning 11 times zones, it can take days to travel from one city to another. Don’t even think about tackling it all at once unless you’ve got a serious amount of time on your hands

Rwanda
Landlocked East African Rwanda has had a troubled recent history. Now however, the scars are healing and Rwanda is firmly back on the travel map

Saint Helena
One of the world's remotest islands, South Atlantic St Helena offers whales, wildlife and an intrepid sea voyage to get there

Saint Kitts and Nevis
The Leeward Islands of St Kitts and Nevis sit lush and lovely on the Caribbean – visit for inland hikes, sandy beaches and cool culture

Saint Lucia
St Lucia is the stereotypical picture-perfect Caribbean getaway, with a fantastic mix of golden sands, sheltered coral reefs and lush jungles.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
St Vincent and the Grenadines is the authentic Caribbean – island-hop on the regular mailboats to find gorgeous beaches, great food and local gossip

Samoa
Remote Samoa is worth the effort of reaching: laze on Pacific beaches, climb volcanoes and discover one of the world's quirkiest cultures

San Marino
Diminutive San Marino is the world's oldest country, and a surprising pocket of alleyways and villages perched on the picturesque Italian hills

Sao Tome and Principe
The small islands of Sao Tome and Principe are truly undiscovered Africa – come for great diving, vivid birdlife and no other tourists

Saudi Arabia
The home of Mecca is a tough proposition for non-Muslims, but rewards those who persevere with ancient cities and bustling souks

Senegal
Senegal is the world music hub of West Africa - dance in Dakar's clubs before heading off to explore pink lakes, sandy beaches and wild national parks

Serbia
Serbia is emerging as one of Southern Europe’s newest and most popular tourist destinations. Despite its recent history, the country has an amazing variety of historical and cultural attractions, this on top its stunning natural beauty

Seychelles
Possibly the world's ultimate beach spot? But there's more than sand to the Seychelles - trek the lush interior, dive deserted waters and meet the unique creatures of Aldabra, the Indian Ocean's Galapagos

Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is slowly making its mark on the travel map, boasting beautiful beaches, chimpanzee sanctuaries and some of Africa's most beguiling scenery

Singapore
South-East Asia's buzzing island city, Singapore is a shopping and foodie mecca

Slovakia
Slovakia is full of little-known delights – country villages, lakes perfect for swimming, extensive national parks and period architecture

Slovenia
Lovely little Slovenia packs a lot of mountain, cave, river and adventure into its small proportions

Solomon Islands
The site of fierce fighting in WWII, the 992 islands of the 'Sols' remain home to traditional tribal cultures, dramatic atolls and diverse marine life

Somalia
The security in this patchwork state is volatile, making it difficult for travellers to visit. Somaliland - a fertile and mountainous territory - is the safest corner

South Africa
South Africa has it all - from penguins to vineyards, from Zulu battlefields to zebra-strutted plains: hike, kayak, drive, bungy and explore Africa at its most accessible

South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands
Remote South Georgia, sitting in the south Atlantic just north of Antarctica, is a wild island packed with penguins and legendary explorer history

South Korea
A contradictory collision of ancient traditions ad hyper-modern cities, South Korea is one of Asia's offbeat hotspots

South Sudan

Spain
Britain's most popular holiday destination has enough culture, energy and sheer geographic diversity to last a lifetime

Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka – the island of serendipity – rises from tropical sandy beaches into cool highland regions, rich with temples and tea plantations shrouded in mist

Sudan
Sudan is the biggest country in Africa, and within its generous proportions you'll find rolling desert, hidden pyramids, multicoloured fish and fascinating peoples

Suriname
This unexplored corner of South America is a haven for nature lovers. The brave can search for crocs, anacondas and piranhas lurking in Suriname's swamps and rivers

Svalbard (Spitsbergen)
Svalbard is the archipelago haven of the Arctic. This polar region has a range of arctic wildlife including polar bears, seals, reindeer and more

Swaziland
Smiling Swaziland is southern Africa in miniature, a traditional kingdom with mountains and savannah, wildlife and time-honoured culture

Sweden
Stretching from the high Arctic to sunny southern island beaches, Sweden offers outdoor activities and cosmopolitan cities for every taste

Switzerland
Switzerland is only about a sixth in size of the UK, but with its German, French and Italian parts it is one of Europe’s most diverse countries

Syria
Exotic city break to Damascus or full-on desert adventure with the Bedouin: Syria is a welcoming and authentic trip back in time

Taiwan
It's China, but it's different – Taiwan has a culture, cuisine and scenery all of its own

Tajikistan
Wedged between Central Asia, China and Afghanistan, Tajikistan is a mountainous land with outstanding trekking and one of the world's great road trips

Tanzania
Tanzania is perhaps Africa's ultimate destination – come for really wild wildlife, huge skies, the continent's highest mountain and its spiciest island

Thailand
Delicious food, beautiful beaches, great diving, trekking and wildlife-watching – what doesn't Thailand do brilliantly?

Tibet
Arguably the most enticing destination in the Himalaya, Tibet remains a dramatic yet controversial destination for adventurous travellers

Togo
As long as you don't fall under a voodoo curse, you'll love the food, customs and beautiful capital of this fascinating West African nation

Tonga
Time begins in Tonga but that doesn’t mean life is fast-paced. Settle down to a cup of kava in this tiny haven of Pacific islands

Trinidad and Tobago
You get two for the price of one with this stunning Caribbean couple. Although each island has its own unique identity, both have been gifted with beautiful beaches and cheery locals

Tristan da Cunha
Tristan da Cunha is an active volcano island isolated in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean with rare wildlife

Tunisia
Tunisia is a land of sand, with glorious Mediterranean beaches and the rolling Sahara, plus ancient souqs and abundant adventures

Turkey
Turkey is where Europe and Asia collide, where secular modernisation meets ancient Muslim traditions

Turkmenistan
The oddest of the Central Asian 'Stans' is a personality-cult police state with a wild hinterland harking back to the old Silk Road

Turks and Caicos Islands
With some of the world's best beaches and most discreetly luxurious hotels, this British Overseas Territory is a paradise for sun-lovers, divers and high-rollers

Tuvalu
One of the smallest and remotest countries on earth, these South Pacific islands are utterly laid-back – but under threat from rising sea levels

Uganda
Uganda is a land of biggies: visit for big mountains, big waterfalls, big white-water rafting rapids and big primates – the matchless mountain gorillas

Ukraine
Ukraine's chequered history has seen its people weather occupation, corruption and financial paralysis, the Orange Revolution has been the catalyst for a renaissance

United Arab Emirates
Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the smaller emirates may be best-known for jaw-dropping glitz, but traditional culture and serene desert landscapes beckon too

United Kingdom
Four countries in one, the UK is a land of stately palaces and soaring cathedrals, mellow cities and rural landscapes of vivid green. Add a vibrant modern culture and you have it all

United States of America
Travel in the USA, where the buffalo roam, the deer and the antelope play and the skies are not cloudy all day. Or so the folk song goes

Uruguay
Beef and beaches – Uruguay's main claims to fame draw Argentines from across the border and, increasingly, travellers keen to explore new frontiers

Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan's ornate mosques and medressas hint at its legacy as the historic trading hub of Central Asia – key caravanserai on the ancient Silk Road

Vanuatu
Home to land-divers and jungle-clad volcanoes, this South Pacific archipelago is often reckoned the happiest place on earth

Venezuela
Venezuela is where the Andes meet the Caribbean – a land of astonishing variety and a great introduction to South America

Vietnam
Vietnam has emerged as one of the hot travel tickets of South-East Asia. And why not?

Western Sahara
This disputed and challenging territory, claimed by both Morocco and the local Saharawi population, offers Atlantic surf, rare seals and serious desert

Yemen
Intact medieval cities, epic deserts and the 'Arabian Galapagos' of Socotra island make Yemen a unique frontier destination – but security issues continue to hamper travel

Zambia
Zambia is where those in the know go on safari, a land of unbelievable wildlife, pioneering bush walks, thundering waterfalls and sublime lodges

Zanzibar
Zanzibar: without doubt one of the most evocative words in a traveller's vocabulary

Zimbabwe
With Zambia, South Africa and Botswana among its neighbours, landlocked Zimbabwe occupies a prime position in southern Africa’s safari zone