If traipsing to the same hotel in the same country every summer is getting monotonous, perhaps it’s time to add a little flavour to your stale routine. Qube has ten of the most extraordinary places in mind.
Africa
Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique – Encompassing the most beautiful stretch of the African coast, Mozambique satisfies several holiday desires in one. Snorkel meandering rivers and mangroves down to the ocean and dive some of the most staggeringly beautiful coral reefs in the world. Track exotic wildlife across dusty plains. If all else fails, indulge in the height of luxury and daydream on a deserted beach with a fresh fruit cocktail.
India
Kerala, India – Although much of India is hit by the monsoon throughout the summer, southern India stays relatively dry. Glide through Kerala’s peaceful backwaters on a houseboat and sail past fisherman navigating traditional canoes. Marvel at the proud colonial buildings in Fort Kochi. Trail through tea plantations in Munmar, or ride an elephant through fields of spice in the foothills. Combine with a short flight to the Maldives and bask on sun-kissed shores.
Europe
Basilicata, Italy – A remote and undiscovered part of Southern Italy, Basilicata has an unusual and intriguing history. Famous for its urban cave dwellings, now designated World Heritage site status, the town was used to film Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. Survey the timeless, mountainous horizon and stroll through quaint fishing villages. Soak up some of Italy’s best wines in the captivating volcanic vineyards.
Budapest, Hungary - An enchanting city rich in culture and teeming with architectural sights, Budapest is also the only capital where you can go caving. Roam the mysterious subterranean maze and explore an altogether different world beneath the city surface. Emerge to soak up the afternoon sun and walk alongside the Danube riverside. Spoil yourself in a world-class thermal spa or sip a glass of wine and people-watch from a discreet cafe in Heroes’ square.
Asia
Jiuzhaigou Sichuan, China – The surreal scenery in this nature reserve really does feel a world apart. Dip your toes into ice-blue lakes and tackle the labyrinth of walking trails that wind ever-upwards. Breathe in the woody smell of lush trees and feel the crunch of pine needles under your step. Stealthily creep through ancient forests and spot an endangered giant panda, native to the region. Wander deep into the jagged alpine valley overlooked by snow-capped mountains and cascading waterfalls.
Muscat, Oman – Escape eastward and roam Oman’s thrilling cities and glowing dunes. Haggle in the lively souk and commute across barren deserts on a cantankerous camel. Investigate crumbling historical forts and trace vast rock formations on the golden coastline. Spend the night in a luxurious silk tent with an elaborate four poster bed in the middle of the desolate sands. Drape yourself in jewels and imagine that you reside in one of the magnificent Sultan’s palaces.
North America
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California - Home to quite the colony of artists, Carmel-by-the-Sea is renowned for its European charm. Amble along the picturesque beach-front and take a deep breath of salty air. Be lured into the boutiques and contemplate bits and pieces, leave with something you want but don’t need. Peek inside the picturesque galleries and muse over paintings. Lunch in a busy bistro and line up with the locals to see the latest fancy performance.
Central America
Roatan, Honduras – Experience uncompromised opulence in the scattered boutique retreats while this destination remains relatively under-wraps. Wander along the beach-side shops on the West End and quench your thirst with a Salva Vida (Honduran beer that translates as ‘Life Saver’). Take a trip to the ancient ruins of Copan, where night-time brings velvety blue skies punctuated with scintillating stars, or partake in sunrise yoga beside a waterfall in the depths of the rainforest.
South America
Iquitos, Peru - Often dismissed in favour of leading tourist attraction, Macchu Picchu, Peru in fact hosts a large portion of the Amazonian rainforest. Rise in darkness to catch the deafening chorus of multi-coloured parrots on the clay cliff-side. Trek beside the river and spot a luminous tree-frog devour a cricket twice its size. Watch the monkeys swing through the canopy and learn the medicinal secrets of the jungle from native Peruvians. Encounter a large poisonous spider and conquer your fears.
Australia
Daintree Rainforest, Cairns – Daintree is the oldest living tropical rainforest in the world, and this World Heritage Listed area contains the highest number of rare plant and animal species in the world. Hide out in your very own tree house, complete with all essentials (and a Jacuzzi on the balcony). Sample Tasmanian oysters or smoked crocodile in a secluded spot by a freshwater lagoon. Indulge in a healing massage with organic oils from the Rainforest, or take part in the local Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal traditions.
