The Republic of Costa Rica is a Central American country located between Nicaragua and Panama, bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean. Costa Rica’s terrain comprises coastal plains interspersed with rugged mountains and volcanoes. It houses some of the major volcanoes of the world and many tourists come here to view them in all their spectacular glory.

Costa Rica is one of the most bio-diverse places on the planet. It is believed that parts of the country host almost 6% of the world’s flora and fauna. Almost 25% of the country is protected through national parks and reserves. Corcovado National Park is famous for its big cats and tapirs. Tortuguero National Park, on the other hand, is known for the annual nesting of the endangered green turtles here. Tourists also venture to Montverde Cloud Forest Reserve in search of quetzals, Baird’s tapirs, ocelots and jaguars. Arenal Volcano National Parkcontains a great wealth of geologic and biological complexity, as evidenced by the active and incredible Arenal Volcano.

The capital city of San José hosts high-rises, slums, and everything in between. There are many museums to be explored, exquisite cuisines to be devoured, and exciting nightlife to be experienced here. The people of Costa Rica are usually of an easy disposition and willing to help out tourists when in need. Travellers are, however, advised to exercise caution, as there is an increasing crime rate within San José.

Located in East Asia, the People’s Republic of China is the most populous country in the world and the second/fourth largest in terms of land area. The country’s terrain is mostly mountainous with high plateaus and deserts in west; the east on the other hand comprises plains, deltas, and hills. From the awe-inspiring complex of the Forbidden City in Beijing to the cosmopolitan streets of Shanghai, travellers from across the globe are heading to China to experience its remarkable sights and sounds. Travel to China for an unforgettable holiday!

Shaanxi holds some of China’s most incredible ancient sites, including the Terracotta Warriors, the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi, as well as Xi’an’s historic Muslim Quarter and ancient city wall. Simultaneously, Shaanxi’s mountains and rural farm villages are untouched by modern development, and provide an incredible contrast to the province’s bustling cities. The nature reserves of Changqing and Foping are a wildlife paradise hosting China’s most incredible endangered animals like the golden snub-nosed monkey, undisturbed by crowds of visitors.
Not to be outdone, Chengdu’s Wenshu Monastery, the holy mountain of Emei Shan, and world’s largest stone-carved Buddha are some of the most interesting travel destinations in the Sichuan province. And with verdant low-lying valleys, spectacular white-capped mountains, rustic towns and villages, and a lively mix of twenty-six ethnic minority communities, Yunnan has long inspired poets and travellers alike.

Spanning a vast range of cultures and landscapes, Chinese society is increasingly defined by its staggering contrasts. A world away from the metropolises of the east coast, guests can travel to ethnic minority villages among the jagged peaks of the Tibetan highlands, visit lush nature reserves or pandas in their breeding centre, or even stroll along the ancient Silk Road.

The Republic of Indonesia is located in Southeast Asia and is an archipelago comprising over 17,000 islands. It shares its borders with many countries including Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Malaysia. The country has a tropical type of climate and varied geography. It has the world’s second highest level of biodiversity. Approximately 60% of the country is covered with forest. This, along with its many beautiful temples, bustling cities, colorful markets, humbling volcanoes, and scenic water bodies makes Indonesia a truly exotic getaway that is as diverse as its people.

Wildlife and nature enthusiasts will find themselves quite at home in the remote forests of Indonesia. Trek through the wilderness of Sumatra and be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing endangered wild orangutans. Go diving at one of the many world-class diving sites to explore coral reefs. Travel to remote villages and enjoy the hospitality of the local tribes. Take a canal tour across the waterways of Banjarmasin, often known as the “Venice of the East”. For an unforgettable holiday in Indonesia, stay at a traditional tribal longhouse or experience personalized cruising along some of the most secluded parts of Kalimantan.

Indonesian culture has many different influences, the most prominent one being the Hindu culture of the former Majapahit Empire. The most popular Indonesian art is wayang kulit shadow puppetry, where beautifully detailed cutouts are used to depict scenes from the Mahabharata, Ramayana and other popular mythology. The locals are friendly and willing to help tourists. However, considering that hundreds of different languages are spoken with in the country, communication might sometimes be an issue.

Botswana is one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations and thus, a popular African holiday choice. A beautiful country of breathtaking landscapes teeming with wildlife, it has managed to convert its natural resources into sustainable wealth for its people.

Botswana's geography is mostly flat land with a major part occupied by the Kalahari Desert, and the rest by Okavango Delta, an unspoilt reserve for wildlife and the world’s largest inland delta. The Okavango River and Chobe River provide water for millions of migrating animals each year.

Popular things to do in Botswana: Travel in a mokoro (canoe) along the Okavango Delta and view the Nile crocodile, hippopotamus and the lechwe jumping across the reeds. Journey across Chobe National Park and Makgadikgadi Pans to sight the Big Five—African Elephant, African buffalo, Lion, Leopard and Black Rhino. Travel to Botswana to witness one of the world’s largest concentrations of wildlife.

Located in South East Asia, Malaysia shares borders with Thailand, Indonesia and Brunei. It is also linked to Singapore by a causeway and a bridge. West Malaysia, also known as Peninsular Malaysia hosts most of the country’s population and the capital city of Kuala Lampur. East Malaysia comprises one third of the island of Borneo, rich in wilderness and wildlife.

A major part of Malaysia is covered in rainforest and the country houses diverse flora and fauna. Along with the world’s tallest tropical tree species, tualang, Peninsular Malaysia alone has over 8000 species of plants. Borneo is in a league of its own, it hosts the biggest known flower species, rafflesia, the biggest cockroach species in the world, and the biggest land mammal, the elephant. Nature enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice between Gunung Mulu National Park (home to the world’s largest chamber, the Sarawak chamber), Bako National Park (spot the rare proboscis monkey here), Taman Negara National Park (famed for birding), Niah Caves National Park (fascinating caves featuring rock paintings dating back to over 40,000 years ago) and Pulau Kalampunian Damit (famous for its snake island). Also not to be missed is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SORC), one of only four orangutan sanctuaries in the world. If you’re in the mood for trekking across jungle trails and viewing gushing waterfalls, head to the Cameron Highlands or Kelabit Highlands.

The official religion of Malaysia is Islam but you will find that the population is a mix of Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Buddhists and many other religions contributing to the unique culture of the nation. The capital city of Kuala Lampur is a heady cultural blend of modern and traditional values. Explore the aromas of quaint Chinese markets, experience peace at the many temples and mosques or indulge in retail therapy at one of KL’s world-class malls. Head to the boroughs of Georgetown for old-world charm, narrow streets, colonial architecture and beautiful beaches.

Other places of interest include:

• Colonial architecture in the city of Ipoh
• Beaches of Langkawi, Pulau Tioman, Pulau Redang, Pulau Pangkor and Sabah
• Batu caves
• Chinatown in Malacca

Sri Lanka is an island country located in the Indian Ocean, off the southern coast of India. This legendary ancient kingdom features magnificent wildlife, pristine beaches, quaint tea estates and bustling metropolises.

Sri Lanka is a recognised bio-diversity hotspot and conservation efforts are plenty and active. Even though the country is small in size, there are 24 wildlife reserves here. Sri Lanka’s diverse fauna includes teak, mahogany, ebony and ironwood trees, flowering acacias and evergreen forests. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sinharaja Rainforest (part of Wilpattu National Park) is home to numerous endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna. Almost 60% of the tree species found here are endemic and 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic mammals and insects dwell here as well. The country has over 250 resident bird species out of which many water birds including storks, pelicans and ibis can be found at Sri Lanka’s largest national park, Wilpattu National Park. Tourists, however, prefer to visit Yala National Park located 300 kms away from the capital. The park is famous for its population of Asiatic elephants and leopards. There are also over 120 species of birds found here.

The coast off the quaint seaside town of Weligama has one of the highest concentrations of dolphins and whales. Nowhere in the world do blue whales come so close to land as they do near the southern shores of Sri Lanka.

The people of Sri Lanka come from many different faiths including Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity. The locals are friendly and a majority of the urban population can converse in English. The capital city of Colombo is a melting pot of culture featuring beautiful architecture, pretty markets, a peaceful beachfront and various shopping and dining opportunities. The hillside city of Kandy and picturesque cityscape of Jaffna also deserve a visit.

The Republic of Ecuador, the second smallest country in South America is surprisingly also one that scores large on the travel quotient. Bordered by Columbia, Peru and the Pacific Ocean, this diversity hotspot also comprises the laboratory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands.

Apart from amazing wildlife, Ecuador also preserves some rare historical locations including the capital, Quito, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Banos, famed for its interesting nightlife. The country also holds the distinction of being the first to have enforced Rights of Nature through its constitution. From the majestic Chimboraza Volcano to the wild Cajas Nationa Park, the serene Lake Mica and exciting Andean mountain trail, Ecuador offers you a chance to truly indulge in wilderness.

Greet the armadillos, the tapirs, the parrots and the cockerels, discover the land of evolution at the Charles Darwin Research Centre in Galapagos, feel the thrill as you explore the ruins of Ingaprica and step into the extremely bio diverse Cotopaxi National Park. In Ecuador, you breathe in the wilderness, relive history and reinstate your belief in the strength of nature

The Republic of Peru is located in western South America. It shares borders with Ecuador, Chile, Brazil, Bolivia, Columbia and the South Pacific Ocean. It is not only a land of great historical significance, but also one of natural beauty. Discover the labyrinth city of Cuzco – the gateway to Machu Picchu, trek the perilous mountains of Cordillera Blanca and gape at the wonder of Peru’s many volcanoes.

Peru is extremely rich in terms of bio-diversity as it hosts the Andes and the Amazon, and is linked to the Pacific coast. The jungles of Peru are rich with varied flora and fauna. You can spot rare cats like the puma and the jaguar, different species of bears, and river dolphins in the Amazon. Explore the wilderness of the Iquitos, spot giant river otters at the Oxbow Lakes and go birding across the Amazon. Peru has 53 protected natural areas, so there is a lot to discover and keep the wildlife enthusiast satisfied.

Any holiday to Peru is incomplete without a thorough exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu - the lost city of the Incas. You can either follow the Inca trail and trek all they way to the top, or take a bus from Aguas Calientes to get there. It is still not exactly clear why the Incas built Machu Pichhu, some archaeologists believe that it was a city for the elite while others believe that it was a place for religious gatherings and ceremonies.

The Peruvian capital of Lima is also bound to be on your list as this is the most popular way to arrive in the country. The people of Lima, and Peru in general, are usually laid back, welcoming and willing to help tourists when in need. The city itself is a mix of contemporary establishments and colonial architecture.

Kenya is a land of natural wonder, rich with culture and history. Situated in East Africa, across the equator and along the Indian Ocean, Kenya has mountains, deserts, open grasslands, sandy beaches and corals. The country is a photographer’s delight with abundant natural beauty to capture.

Witness some of the mightiest mammals that trod the face of the earth, ranging from the cunning ‘Big Cats’ to the famous ‘Big Five’, and more on a Kenya safari. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that Kenya is also counted as one among the top five birding destinations in the world.

In July, the Masai Mara becomes a destination for one of the most amazing events in the wild – The Great Migration, an event where 1.5 million wildebeest migrate from the neighbouring Serengeti National Park. An expert-led Great Migration Safari is the best way to witness this spectacular event!

That’s not all, if you want to experience an adrenaline rush you can go snorkelling at the Marine National Park, or trek along the glacial ridges of Mt Kenya. A hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara can be an experience of a life time. Meet the friendly Maasai people, observe their unique culture and revel with them in their celebration of life.

Popular Things To Do in Kenya include:

• Visiting Great Rift-valley lakes: Baringo, Bogoria, Naivasha and Nakuru
• Exploring Mombasa’s Portuguese fort
• Relaxing at Diani and Tiwi Beaches
• Trekking up the snow-capped Mount Kenya
 

Namibia, situated in southern Africa, is sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean to its west, and the Kalahari Desert to its east. Angola and Zambia lie along its northern border, Botswana marks the eastern limit, and South Africa in located to its south. Namibia's geography is known for its contrasting landscapes that include beaches, rough mountains and vast spans of barren desserts. Rock paintings and engravings suggest that the area was a seat of early human habitation, dating back to a period of about 2900 to1500 years.

Namibia’s unique environment attracts people from all over the world on holidays to witness natural wonders like the Fish River Canyon, red sand dunes of the Namib desert – the oldest in the world, the Great Escarpment, and many interesting wildlife species that reside in popular national parks and reserves.

Take time out to tour Windhoek, the capital city, it is the largest city in Namibia and still bears old-world charm. The beach city, Swakopmund, with a milder temperate climate, is an ideal gateway for some relaxation by the sea.

Other popular Things to Do in Namibia include:
• Hiking along the rim of the Fish River Canyon & Sesriem Canyon
• Taking a desert walk in the Sossusvlei area
• Adventures at Swakopmund include: quad biking, sand boarding, sky diving, dolphin cruise, scenic flights and fishing

A tour to Namibia is incomplete without meeting indigenous tribes like the lively San tribe and the pastoral cattle-breeding tribe – Herero, amongst others.