The Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Australia’s sixth largest city, the Gold Coast is a modern metropolis of glinting high-rise buildings surrounded by sun-kissed beaches, including the world famous ‘Surfers Paradise’. It opens the door to some of Queensland’s most exciting natural attractions, such as the lush natural parks which include Lamington, Border Ranges, Main Range and Nightcap, the chance to go whale-watching for majestic humpback whales and the opportunity to delve deep into the area’s Aboriginal culture.
Hawaii
Fresh floral air and flawless coasts make Hawaii a tropical paradise. Having surfaced from the sea millions of years ago – fuelled by the power of volcanoes – Hawaii is one of the few locations across the globe where visitors can get up close and personal with an active volcano. Its calm, transparent waters make it the perfect spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, but one of the most unique underwater experiences is manta ray diving, where visitors can stand inches away from huge mantas and learn more about these alien creatures.
Cape Town, South Africa
With its white sandy beaches and mountainous backdrops, Cape Town is packed with activities. If you’re hooked on fishing, the waters of Cape Town are home to the largest of the tuna species, the Yellowfin tuna, as well as cape salmon and hake. If you have bigger fish to fry and are a fan of Jaws, cage diving offers the opportunity to come face to face with Great White sharks, the streamlined swimmers that grow up to 20ft long.
Dominica
Tangled with tropical gardens and sprayed by towering waterfalls, Dominica is home to a host of wildlife, including frogs, parrots, turtles, whales and iguanas. The streets are filled not only with birdsong, but with calypso, reggae and local folk music. Float past rainforests and through rapids on a river tubing excursion or canoe through mangroves up the Indian River into the Glanvilla Swamp, a perfect site for keen birdwatchers.
Madagascar
The world’s fourth largest island, Madagascar offers impressive landscapes, unusual history and rich wildlife. Wander through the rich green rainforest of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park and search for the native lemurs or explore the complex patterns of the coral reefs of Nosy Be, where you’ll find volcanic lakes, colossal whale sharks and vibrantly-coloured panther chameleons.
