10 travel adventures from volcano treks to zeppelin rides
Puma spotting in Chile, Havana's salsa nights, a German coalmine-turned-culture hub… could they be on your holiday hit list? Caption here pls... Summer travel vacation concept, Happy traveler asian woman with white bikini relax in hammock on beach in Koh mak, Thailand
Whether you're fired by the magic of Cuba or the Caribbean, are looking for the ultimate luxury adventure to mark a special occasion, or just fancy a new destination for your next weekend away, this travel collection delivers inspiring escapes of every kind.
The featured operators and brands focus on quality and service. Some include bespoke extras to help you book activities ahead, or guide you to the heart of what's most exciting, beautiful or remarkable about places to visit.
And they all share a passion for stylish travel – from luxury Adriatic holiday properties to brilliantly designed luggage. All you need now is a dash of wanderlust…
An exceptional prime real estate opportunity in the Adriatic, Luštica Bay is a place to holiday in – and belong.
Set in the Bay of Kotor, this emerging resort town offers luxury, community and culture, plus Montenegro's famed natural beauty.
Property developments here have shown consistent year-on-year growth, comparing favourably to similar locations in the Mediterranean region.
There's excellent shopping, dining and entertainment, and first-class activities – from watersports to beachfront yoga sessions.
An elegant marina, five-star hotel and Gary Player-designed golf course (with sea views from every hole) further elevate Luštica Bay's investment proposition.
And it's eminently accessible – within three hours' flight from most European hubs.
Golf villas, townhouses and apartments are now available for a 20 per cent down payment.
Open-concept layouts, panoramic views and a focus on privacy and seclusion are standard, as are private pools, landscaped terraces and high-end amenities.
Prices start from €785,000 (£670,000). Quarterly instalment plans spread over four to five years are available, and payments can still be made two years after delivery. Upon handover you can immediately move in or rent out the property.
View properties at lusticabay.com
From glacier trekking in Patagonia to a 4×4 drive through the vast Atacama desert, Chile offers the chance to truly break free.
At Torres del Paine National Park, you can book a luxurious wood cabin and go hiking to spot incredible wildlife, including pumas and condors.
It's just one of over 40 national parks in Chile, and is soon to be joined by the newly designated Cape Froward National Park at the country's southernmost tip.
This wooded region has a stunning coastline, and is perfect for watching sei whales and humpbacks.
Fine dining and exceptional wines also await. Acclaimed vineyards like Concha y Toro and Santa Rita are in the area around the capital Santiago.
The beautiful Casablanca Valley, famous for its wineries, is an easy distance away from laidback coastal city Valparaiso.
Chile has some of the planet's clearest night skies, so there are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy extraordinary stargazing.
Find out more at chile.travel/en
On small-group and private tours, Incredible Amsterdam's English language guided experiences get to the heart of the Dutch capital.
Curating routes that appeal to many interests, from cultural and historical explorations to culinary outings, the operator takes in must-sees but then goes further.
Its passionate local guides reveal the stories and places beyond the usual tourist trail.
Take the poignant Anne Frank Tour, the lively Red Light District Tour, or the scenic Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Or customise your itinerary with a tailormade private outing on foot, by bike or on the water.
Also offering corporate events and team-building activities, Incredible Amsterdam understands how attention to detail and exceptional service can transform a city break.
The company has been sharing Amsterdam's rich mix of culture, entertainment and leisure with visitors of all ages and tastes for nearly ten years.
But it remains on a mission to discover new, hidden treasures of this gorgeous city and reveal them with a sense of fun and warm enthusiasm.
Visit incredibleamsterdam.com for all the tours
Based in London and Switzerland, EnVogue Travel presents luxury concierge services and authentic experiences across all seven continents for high net wealth individuals.
Its unique portfolio of adventures provide a gateway to less explored corners of the world and offer an entirely fresh perspective on much-loved destinations.
Each experience is ultra bespoke and underpinned by exclusivity, elegance and style.
For journeys to extraordinary landmarks, hosting celebrations in the planet's most sought after locations, booking the best private villas, or accessing to the world's finest brands, EnVogue's team is on hand to help.
From luxury lodging in the great Australian wilderness to alfresco feasts on a Silk Road journey to personalised, family-friendly African safaris, it's all possible.
Every client is paired with a dedicated private travel designer who takes time to understand their interests and lifestyle, and is on hand for tailored support before, during and after each trip.
No matter how complex the request, EnVogue's service is for those who wish to travel the world beyond traditional conventions.
Create extraordinary journeys at envogue.travel
The Caribbean's 'Emerald Isle', Montserrat is an unspoilt paradise of quiet coves, volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests and a vibrant cultural heritage.
With new scheduled flights, including increased services by Winair via the island of St Maarten, and price-capped travel ensuring affordability and convenience, it's easier than ever to discover this gem.
There are a host of reasons to visit at any time of year. A perfect escape from the British winter, the Christmas Carnival (December 14 to January 2) exuberantly fuses traditional festivities with Caribbean revelry.
Another highlight is the St Patrick's Festival (March 8 to 17), a powerful celebration commemorating the island's African and Irish heritage, and a slave uprising in 1768.
From exploring the fascinating Soufrière Hills volcano and hiking verdant trails to relaxing on secluded black sand beaches, you'll enjoy authentic adventure and sublime down time here.
Go to visitmontserrat.com, Facebook , Instagram and YouTube
Surrounded by distinctive architecture, cultural colour, natural beauty and a rich, complex heritage, it's like being on a film set from the moment you arrive in Cuba.
Savouring rum cocktails and salsa nights in Havana or exploring the exquisite countryside by bike. Hearing the country's finest performers in music centre Santiago de Cuba and enjoying feasts of seafood dishes…
Whatever you want to do, the key to experiencing Cuba is to plan your trip just right.
Cue Love Cuba, the UK's leading holiday specialist for the country, with superb Trustpilot reviews.
Crowned Cuba's Leading Tour Operator at the World Travel Awards 2024, the company is also a British Travel Awards multiple winner.
Its UK-based specialists and Cuban representatives on the island will help organise your preferred getaway – great-value fully escorted or private tours, city breaks and beach stays.
Times readers receive £50 off per person for Love Cuba breaks with code LCTIMES. Visit lovecuba.com or call 020 7071 3636 to check out the latest deals and Love Cuba escorted tours. Explore on X , Instagram and Facebook
Taking boutique cruising to a new level, this operator hosts exclusive journeys around the Greek islands and beyond.
With a maximum of 50 guests on its Elysium yacht and 12 on the Gemaya, this is a chic yet relaxed small ship experience, with personalised service, tailored activities and soothing spa therapies.
The 25-cabin Elysium is luxuriously fitted for exploring in style. The new 33m-long Gemaya features five deluxe suites for ultimate yachting comfort without a five-star price tag.
Swim in pristine waters and visit secluded coves, join yoga sessions, dip into the Jacuzzi on the Wellness Deck or book a spa session.
Then head for a volcano hike in Santorini, or a cooking session at a local farm, explore pretty villages and embrace chilled Mediterranean life. Sundowners and regional cuisine complete your day.
For a regular booking or private charter, take a life-enhancing trip with Elixir Cruises. The clue is in the name…
Visit elixir.cruises for special offers, or email info@elixir.cruises to book. Follow on Instagram and Facebook Photo: Tranquility Beach Anguilla
Since opening in 2020, Tranquility Beach on Anguilla has already won several awards for its boutique hotel experience.
Sitting on Meads Bay beach – frequently ranked one of the world's best – the resort features just 15 luxury suites and villas.
Designed and equipped for self-catering, with private hot tubs and decks, these chic spaces are carefully configured for solo, group and family visitors.
For summer 2025, the resort's third Oceanview penthouse villa is launching, with exclusive use of the new Sky Deck.
Each stay is enhanced by a five-star, concierge-led service, offering a luxury beach hotel escape.
Soft sands and the turquoise sea are steps away. Here beach butlers ensure everything is on hand, from sunscreen and fresh towels to drinks and beach toys. Fabulous food options include beachside casual and fine dining.
From morning to night, Tranquility Beach offers first-class relaxation in paradise. Suites and villas are offered for luxury holiday rental and turnkey ownership, including resort buyouts. There are group rates for weddings and corporate retreats.
Discover the resort on Instagram and visit tranquilitybeachanguilla.com to book
Easy to reach, Essen in the heart of Germany's Ruhr region offers all the diversions of a great city break.
But as a trending destination, it appeals to those who love exploring somewhere many others have yet to discover.
Essen's Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex was once the largest coal mine in the world. Today it thrives as a Unesco world heritage site, with museums, arts and culture to discover.
Or visit Museum Folkwang for free to see paintings by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir and many more greats.
Outdoor fun is right at your feet – Essen has 120km of hiking trails – and in the air. This city is one of only two places in the world where you can ride in a zeppelin.
Then relax by Lake Baldeney, with kayaking, boating, surfing, tennis and golf.
For nature, culture and action, Essen is waiting to be discovered. No wonder it was recognised by booking.com as a trending destination for 2025.
Go to visitessen.de/en for further information
Whatever you choose, and wherever your travels may take you, the right luggage –stylish yet durable, organised yet easy to handle – is essential.
Available in three sizes and a range of timeless colours, the Nere Venture is a best-selling suitcase collection crafted from durable, scratch-resistant polycarbonate and made to handle every journey with ease.
Venture features a unique dual-opening function with front and middle access, making packing more intuitive.
Inside, smart compartments – including a wet pocket and structured divider – help separate and secure your essentials. An officially approved lock system adds extra peace of mind.
Each suitcase is equipped with smooth-glide spinner wheels and cleverly designed compartments to keep your belongings in place. And the lining is made from recycled material.
With minimalist looks and maximum utility, the Nere Venture collection is built to last, and is backed by a ten-year warranty.
Whether it's a weekend getaway or a long haul trip, Venture keeps you on the go and looking good – and all at an excellent price.
Shop at neretravel.co.uk and visit Instagram and TikTok
This a commercial article paid for by our advertising partners
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