The Natural Reserve

22/11/2021

Fresh from its Olympic and Paralympic success, Japan is a dream holiday destination that should be firmly on your list for 2022. This year, however, it's time to go beyond Tokyo and explore the country's rural side. Japan's newest bullet train route, Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen, is set to open between Nagasaki and Saga in autumn 2022. This will help speed up Nagasaki connections from the current Kyushu bullet train line that comes into Fukuoka from Tokyo.

The trains themselves will be called kamome meaning 'seagull,' following the popularity of lockdown video game franchise, Ghost of Tsushima, which is set on the stunning archipelagos surrounding the city of Nagasaki. Over the next decade, there will also be new bullet train lines joining Tokyo directly to traditional Fukui, snowy Sapporo and passing through the Nakasendo walking trails of the Kiso Valley. Japan is set to be one of the biggest rail holiday destinations of the future...

22/11/2021

If ever there was a year to visit the Netherlands, it's 2022 when the Floriade floral spectacle takes place, with its timely eco-theme of ‘growing green cities’. Held every 10 years, the Floriade Expo returns for six months from April to October and will bring an array of unique and fascinating exhibitions to Almere, near Amsterdam.

With a focus on imagining sustainable, city living for the future, you can expect inspiring gardens, workshops and exhibitions mixed with striking attractions and tasting sessions. The 150-acre site is also where 300 eco-homes have been built, with plans for the area to be turned into a green residential neighbourhood of 660 homes, so if you're after a sustainably-focused holiday destination for 2022, Holland is the place worth considering.

22/11/2021

From major events taking place, to new flight routes opening up beautiful places and highly anticipated movie releases bringing Hollywood-worthy locations to our holiday wish lists, there are many reasons to get excited about travelling in 2022.

In sport, the FIFA World Cup in Qatar will put the Middle Eastern country under the spotlight - but with its ultra-modern architecture influenced by Islamic design and thriving arts and culture scene, you might wish to discover the destination before the football crowds arrive.

Closer to home, Holland will host the magnificent Floriade Expo. With its timely eco-theme of ‘growing green cities’ and fascinating floral exhibitions, we'll have six months to soak up the horticultural marvels at this once-in-a-decade attraction.

For beach-lovers, one classic Caribbean island has become easier to reach from the UK with a new flight route from Virgin Atlantic that winter sun fans will appreciate. In fact, there are two Caribbean beauty spots on our radar for 2022.

When it comes to hopping over to the continent for a city break, a new European Capital of Culture offers a photogenic destination you might have previously overlooked. Its tree-lined promenades and historic architecture are worth the low-cost flight.

Here on home soil, we’ve got our eyes on the foodie city hosting the Commonwealth Games. And there's countryside close to Edinburgh with a host of new openings and glorious coastal views.

Check out our top picks for the best holiday destinations to visit in 2022.

22/11/2021

Host of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, from 28 July to 8 August, Birmingham will welcome 19 different sports to various venues across the city next summer. During a visit to England's second city, there's plenty to entertain you alongside the archery and tennis. Birmingham is becoming a serious gastronomic destination, collecting Michelin stars (it now has five) and featuring on various 'best UK restaurant' lists.

Opheem, Purnell's and Harborne Kitchen are some of the finest places to dine, while the world-famous Balti Triangle area should be on your list for feasting on a memorable curry. New hotels to check into this year include the impressive Grand Hotel, a landmark that underwent a £45 million restoration and refurbishment. While here, be sure to check out the canal quarter, admire nature at the Botanical Gardens and soak up the creative scene of The Custard Factory, too.

19/11/2021

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.8 million people last year. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here.

Though the park dropped five spots this year, it continues to be an amazing vacation destination. It makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites (over 2,000!).

19/11/2021

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries.

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

19/11/2021

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends.

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area.

19/11/2021

Hot tip: While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact: The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

19/11/2021

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

Cancun itself is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling.

18/11/2021

ABSORB THE ARCHITECTURE OF JERÓNIMO’S CHURCH & MONASTERY
Some of the wealth generated from Portugal’s Age of Discovery was spent erecting magnificent monuments. Few are more impressive than Jerónimos Monastery, built to commemorate the return of Vasco de Gama from India, who is also buried here.

The church also contains the tomb of Luís de Camões, a Portuguese poet. His tomb is facing that of his wife so they can be together when they are resurrected. Stained-glass windows illuminate the tombs in an eerie ethereal manner, beside beautifully sculpted, towering columns.

18/11/2021

CLIMB UP TO THE DOME OF THE PANTEÃO NACIONAL
The striking baroque National Palace was originally built as a church but now houses monuments to the great and the good, linked to the golden era of Portuguese history. Like many landmarks in Lisbon, it pays particular homage to Vasco da Gama, the sea-faring hero who returned fabulous wealth to Portugal.

Climbing the stairs to reach the internal perimeter of the domed roof provides the best view of what 16th-century money can buy. The entrance is lavishly adorned with geometrical marble flooring, plush gold detailing and grand stone columns.

18/11/2021

HUNT FOR WEIRD TREASURES AT FEIRA DA LADRA (THIEVES’ MARKET)
At the square beside the National Pantheon, a flea market takes place twice a week (Tue & Sat) which has a reputation for being known as the thief’s market. Despite the appealing stories of the market being stocked to the brim with stolen goods, the name actually comes from ladro referring to a bug found in antiques.

Nonetheless, it’s one of the quirkiest things to do in Lisbon. The market sells everything you will never need: old rotary phones, broken mannequins and pre-loved vinyl. There’s also plenty of handmade crafts, CD’s, military objects and nana’s discarded furniture. Tourist prices tend to sneak in, so practise your best haggling.WANDER THE CLOISTERS OF SÃO VICENTE DE FORA
The Church of São Vicente de Fora has had a chequered history, including being devastated in the 1755 earthquake. Thoroughly renovated throughout the 17th century, it remains today an exquisite hidden gem, that houses the tombs of many Portuguese Kings. It’s a wonderful thing to do in Lisbon.

The church itself is decent, but the cloisters next door are thoroughly impressive. Lisbon’s story-telling azulejos cover the walls under the protection of white vaulted ceilings. The sacristy walls are covered with intensively elaborate marble designs and intricately painted ceilings.HUNT FOR WEIRD TREASURES AT FEIRA DA LADRA (THIEVES’ MARKET)
At the square beside the National Pantheon, a flea market takes place twice a week (Tue & Sat) which has a reputation for being known as the thief’s market. Despite the appealing stories of the market being stocked to the brim with stolen goods, the name actually comes from ladro referring to a bug found in antiques.

Nonetheless, it’s one of the quirkiest things to do in Lisbon. The market sells everything you will never need: old rotary phones, broken mannequins and pre-loved vinyl. There’s also plenty of handmade crafts, CD’s, military objects and nana’s discarded furniture. Tourist prices tend to sneak in, so practise your best haggling.

18/11/2021

WANDER THE CLOISTERS OF SÃO VICENTE DE FORA
The Church of São Vicente de Fora has had a chequered history, including being devastated in the 1755 earthquake. Thoroughly renovated throughout the 17th century, it remains today an exquisite hidden gem, that houses the tombs of many Portuguese Kings. It’s a wonderful thing to do in Lisbon.

The church itself is decent, but the cloisters next door are thoroughly impressive. Lisbon’s story-telling azulejos cover the walls under the protection of white vaulted ceilings. The sacristy walls are covered with intensively elaborate marble designs and intricately painted ceilings.

18/11/2021

TAKE IN THE VIEWS FROM SÃO JORGE CASTLE
São Jorge Castle was once a Moorish castle, but subsequent occupiers have altered the building so much that little of its original construction remains. However, as it operated as the Royal Palace from the 13th to the 16th century, it’s lost little of its grandeur.

The most compelling aspect of the castle, however, is the stunning view over the beautiful city. Lisbon’s patchwork of terracotta tiles interrupted only by narrow rambling lanes is a sight to behold.

02/11/2021

From South Korea's flourishing capital to the Canadian hinterland.

02/11/2021

Spring - time to Start Traveling. Nature is blooming, Beaches and are Cities not crowded. See the best Spring Travel Destination worldwide

02/11/2021

12 Best Places to Visit in Germany | PlanetWare

Not only is Germany the economic powerhouse of the European Union (EU), it just so happens to be one of the best places to visit for those seeking an authentic, exciting vacation on the "continent." Thanks to the superb network of highways (autobahns) and railways that crisscross this central Europe...

02/11/2021

Whether you’re a couple that loves nature, culture, food or city breaks, we’ve got you covered in this list of the 50 best travel destinations for couples.

29/10/2021

Unique honeymoon ideas: ten alternative romantic escapes

Looking to make your romantic escape a little more special? Here are some unique alternative honeymoons with a twist!

29/10/2021

Bulgaria is a popular destination amongst digital nomads and budget travelers. In fact, since 2020, more and more nomads decided to move to Bulgaria, especially to Bansko, a trendy digital nomad hotspot for outdoor lovers.

Thinking of living in Bulgaria? Moving to Bulgaria can be easy ✔️ thanks to all our tips for expats. Learn how to move to Bulgaria.

29/10/2021

Some mistakes are expensive. $2500 was the particular price tag of this one.

When I look back on my journey, I'm reminded how some struggles were inherent, and others were self-inflicted. Either way, lesson learned!

29/10/2021

10 Best Things to do in French Polynesia for Adventurers

After spending 10 days there, here is my top 10 best things to do in French Polynesia, especially if you love nature and being outdoors!

28/10/2021

The 40 Most Beautiful Places in the World
Time to dust off your passport.

Time to dust off your passport.

28/10/2021

These otherworldly landscapes and awe-inspiring natural wonders need to move to the very top of your travel list.

A compilation of Mother Nature's greatest hits.

28/10/2021

Let these gorgeous destinations inspire you to travel more.

28/10/2021

The definition of beauty has many interpretations, but whether you’re talking awe-inspiring landscapes or wildlife, feats of architecture, or cultural immersion, these 24 destinations are the most beautiful places in the world, IOHO. Just try to take a bad picture—we dare you.