On a soft-sand beach, I’m wrapped in my unhung hammock as if it’s a blanket, since the U.S, National Park Service doesn’t allow them in trees. The ocean current swooshes onto the shore and the clear night sky reveals four planets in alignment.

A seaplane lands on Dry Tortugas Island in Key West, Florida, where some wonders are reserved for those who stay to camp and kayak. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

Earlier today, we arrived at Garden Key, the main island in the Dry Tortugas, an American national park just 70 miles from Key West, Florida (about two hours on the main ferry). I watched as hordes of day-trip passengers poured out of the Yankee Freedom II ferry and into Fort Jefferson like ants with no direction. Opposite the fortress, a seaplane landed in the heavenly blue abyss.

Staking a Camp Site on Dry Tortugas

While the other campers were loading belongings into wooden push carts, AJ, my kayak go-to and new-found friend, went sprinting across the island without a word, leaving me staring at the impressive three-story fort, the largest masonry structure in the United States.

As I loaded our gear, which consisted of a cooler, life jackets, waterproof bags and ready-to-eat items, AJ reappeared with a huge grin on his face.

Fort Jefferson in Florida's Key West looms large as one of the finest works of masonry in the United States. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

“We got the best camping spot! Tons of shade!” He used to work on the Fast Cat, a second Dry Tortugas ferry that ceased operations, and had been to the island at least 100 times, but only for the hour allotted to crew. He had always wanted to camp and I started to understand how much this meant to him. This time, instead of saying “thank you” when everyone else left the ferry, he’d finally have a chance to stay.

After settling into the campsite, AJ wandered off to make friends with the remaining campers and I waved goodbye to the ferry as the hundred or so day-trippers headed back to the mainland. The few of us left (and the park rangers) suddenly owned the island. I heard the little girl in the camp next to us asking her father questions.

“Daddy, where are we now?”

“You’re still in Florida, honey,” he replied. I understood her confusion. It didn’t feel like Florida.

As dusk falls on this island in Florida's Key West, anticipation builds fora high-stakes kayak exploration the next day. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

Nightfall and Sleeplessness

It’s getting chilly on the island and I could kick myself for not bringing a blanket. I can’t sleep. All I can think about is our kayak trip tomorrow. A month earlier, I hadn’t heard of the Dry Tortugas and its shroud of mystery. Reading up on the park, I soon learned of this empty ghost town where an unfinished Civil War–era fort still stands, having never seen a single battle. The surrounding islands offered explorers nothing but sand, scorching sun and a graveyard of sunken ships that wreckers have tried to salvage, but to me they were a warm and inviting playground, especially the tiny nearby island of Loggerhead Key, which is home to a turtle nesting area (about 250 nests per summer) and a massive protected reef called Little Africa (it’s shaped like the continent), I’d made up my mind then to make the crossing.

“The only way you can reach Loggerhead is by private boat. Or you can kayak,” the staff of the Yankee Freedom II informed me. So I put a Craigslist posting up asking for a kayak rental and received several responses, all saying “it’s treacherous” and “people have died.” Then I talked to AJ.

It was nearly impossible to believe that we had this place - Loggerhead Beach in Florida's Dry Tortugas - all to ourselves. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

“Well, I don’t want to scare you but the idea you are proposing can be dangerous if you are inexperienced. I’ve wanted to do that trip for a while but I haven’t found anyone that’s interested,” AJ said on the phone. He had spent a lot of time kayaking in Alaska and was currently in the process of starting his own business, Kayak Kings of Key West.

“But is it possible?” I asked.

“It’s very possible,” he said. That was all I needed to hear.

Three weeks later, after dozens of calls and emails, here we are. How could AJ possibly be sleeping right now? I am way too excited. I start contemplating going into the fort. Even though it’s forbidden at night, I can’t resist the urge.I climb the winding staircase up the lighthouse tower – it smells of musk and old paint – to the third tier of the fort. As I walk along this ledge of history, I wonder what it was like to live here during a storm and to look out as lightning sparked up the night sky.

The grassy courtyard beneath me is eerie from the glow of the moonlight and the absolute silence. The park benches look lonely and suddenly I feel a chill run up my spine. My breathing becomes heavy and my hands begin to tingle. I remain calm and, after a minute, the sensation fades away.

WIth AJ leading the way, the 'impossible' dream can happen, like kayaking to a remote island in Florida's Dry Torugas. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

An Island Abandoned

The sounds of ocean waves and seaplane propellers pry my eyes open. The first thing I see is a graceful sunrise and miles of blue staring back at me. After breakfast, we check in with the ranger who informs us that we have to return by sundown. AJ is overly prepared with more safety equipment than the park service requires and has already done a trial run around Key West in 25-knot winds. We load the gear and set off on our quest.

Loggerhead’s 150-foot lighthouse looms in the distance like New York did the first time I arrived. Those massive buildings had called to me that it was going to be tough, but I could do it. The journey to Loggerhead is three miles across an open stretch of changing currents that have caused around 250 ships to sink. Luckily, conditions couldn’t be more perfect for our trip: just a slight wind and beautiful sunny skies, but in the back of my mind I can still remember the warnings I’ve received. AJ is incredibly patient and gives me tips and guidance. As we reach the halfway point and the lighthouse is directly in front of us, kayaking becomes more natural to me and my concerns begin to melt away.

The kayak slides through the sand bar and onto the beach, and I cannot believe what I see before me: the fort is barely visible and the coral reefs create endless and harmonious layers of blue that flow together like a marble swirl of cerulean and aquamarine. To the left is a small dock for the private boats. The entire rest of the island – except for the beach – is covered in a thick brush. The only way to reach the other side is along the narrow path that winds around the lighthouse and keeper’s quarters.

Once you reach Loggerhead in Florida's Dry Tortugas, a vibrant seascape of coral and teeming fish awaits. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

“Hello?” AJ calls. “Is anyone here?”

There is no answer. Do we have this island to ourselves?

“This is awesome!” AJ shouts and takes off toward Little Africa like a kid in a candy store. Neither of us can get the enormous grins off our faces. How, in this day and age, can someone frolic around an abandoned island, unobserved? I wonder what was going through the mind of Ponce de Leon when he found the Dry Tortugas, and I suddenly want a flag to stake our claim.

Exploring a Dream

We hang everything up on some driftwood, put our snorkel gear on and enter the water around Little Africa. It’s stunning: the purple reef fans are vibrant, the sunlight glitters on the coral beneath the surface, and there are fish everywhere. AJ points out an enormous hogfish and I try to get his attention when a barracuda sails past us. I spot several blue tang and many seem to pose for the camera. I’m in a trance-like state as dozens of tiny fish are dancing to an ocean beat that I can almost hear in my mind. There are several areas of the reef to explore and nearby – a mile off the west coast – is the Windjammer shipwreck, still intact.

We take a break for a bite and a walk around the beach. We soon discover that we are not alone. Two volunteers have just arrived to tend to the beach and lighthouse. They are an older couple and are the first to stay on the island in the last nine months.

“Should we try to make it out to the wreck?” AJ asks. I’m interested, but we worry about getting back in time. Instead, we opt to kayak around the island. As we pass the southwestern point, there is large sand wall blocking our view, and it adds to the suspense of what is on the other side. We turn the corner and just stop paddling.

“Wow,” is all I can say. From this angle, we can see the full scale of Little Africa and the entire length of the island. It seems artificial, and certainly doesn’t look like any other part of Florida.

Living the dream at Loggerhead Key of Dry Tortugas National Park. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

Our final stop before heading back is the eastern tip, a narrow stretch of sand a few feet wide that has been created by the varying currents. Each side of the strip is a different shade of blue, and it points to a sand bar that must be a mile long. We stare out at the open ocean, and I have such a feeling of accomplishment. I feel content with this paradise around me, and am completely “blissed out.” I hope the ferry never drops visitors off at this island. I appreciate it so much more knowing how far I had come to make this happen.

Letting It All Sink In

A large bull shark swims next to our kayak as if to say it’s time to go and we say our goodbyes to Loggerhead. The kayak trip back is so much easier than on the way there, even though my energy is fading with the sunset. When we arrive on Garden Key, there are more sailboats anchored off the shore and two women from one boat are in awe of our adventure.

“We have to take a photo of you. That is really incredible,” they insist. It starts to sink in that what we just did was really incredible. Not because it was some outrageous distance, but because we had made a dream happen. We had the freedom to do it, all we needed was the dream.

As I board the ferry to return to Key West, I wish I could be one of the campers waving goodbye again from the island. I want more time here.

Camping and kayaking are key ingredients of the recipe for bliss in the Key West of Florida. Photo courtesy of Amber Nolan

Dry Tortugas Tips:

• Reserve camping months in advance. Ferry reservations can be canceled up to 48 hours before your stay.

• The camping rate does not include a $3-per-person, per-night fee that must be paid in cash upon arrival. The gift shop does take credit cards, but there isn’t much in the way of supplies; it’s mostly just books.

• Don’t bother staying just one night. To truly enjoy the island and relax, you need at least two. I recommend taking your time and staying all three nights.

• Call the park service to find out what you can bring and do; the rules change frequently. Fires are not permitted, nor are any fire starters (only charcoal briquettes).

• If you are bringing a kayak, tell the Yankee Freedom II when booking. They charge an extra $20. If you don’t have a kayak, I highly suggest contacting AJ at Kayak Kings of Key West.

• Bring headlamps, bug spray, tons of water and put all of your food in sealed containers. A telescope or stargazing map would come in handy, as well as a waterproof camera. Some people bring Frisbees, fishing poles, bocce balls, playing cards, and disk golf to pass the time.

• There are no showers on the island, but the new compost outhouses are available for camper use.

• Contact the park service for more information about volunteering – they need you!

For more information on planning a trip to the Dry Tortugas, be sure to visit the National Park website.

Located off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde is one of the continent’s best-kept island secrets. The archipelago of 10 islands has recently been attracting more and more island hoppers looking for a tropical destination that’s still relatively unknown and secluded. The islands’ blend of Brazilian and West African cultures boosts the excitement level of Cape Verde, and if you’re a watersports fanatic, this is the destination for you. From daytime surfing to nighttime dancing, Cape Verde’s perfect for the adventurous and curious spirit.

The island of Fogo (Portuguese for "fire") is made up almost entirely of an active volcano that last erupted in 1995. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Moises.on

 Here Are the Top 5 Activities in Cape Verde:

1. Local Cuisine: Cape Verde has a rich ethnic culture that blends Portuguese and Senegalese customs and traditions; that blending is happily reflected in the country’s amazing cuisine. Be sure to try canja (a rich chicken soup) and cachupa (a stew of hominy, beans, and either fish or meat), two local dishes you are bound to like. Aguardiente is the local sugarcane rum, and it’s gaining in popularity in the United States; be sure to try it while you’re in Cape Verde.

2. Sal’s Salt Mines: The salt mines of Sal were built inside dormant volcanoes. The caves are truly impressive, and we highly recommend seeing them.

3. Water Sports: Windsurfing, surfing, jet skiing, scuba diving, and waterskiing are all must-do activities in Cape Verde. Organize your itinerary with your hotel before setting out.

4. Island Hopping: The four top islands to visit are Sal, São Vicente, Praia, and Cidade Velha. All the islands offer wonderful natural viewing and plenty of comfortable places to stay.

5. São’s Submarine Tour:It’s rare that tourists can say that they’ve ridden in a real submarine. In that respect, tourists to Cape Verde are truly lucky. Make sure to book a submarine tour of this island to see remarkable oceanic flora and fauna from a 360-degree viewpoint.

Founded in 1615, the town of Praia de Santa Maria was long a favored commercial port for Portuguese trade ships. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Moises.on

When to go

The weather is beautiful all year round, the temperature usually about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Cape Verde’s geographical position, at the northern limit of the tropical rain belt, leaves the country with very little rainfall. Although it’s highly unlikely, if rainfall is to occur, it’s usually between August and September. There is no “perfect” time to visit Cape Verde because the weather is fantastic throughout the year.

The four “Turtle Islands” of Talang-Satang in Malaysia are responsible for 95 percent of all the turtle landings in Sarawak. Photo courtesy of Flickr/enklocek

The Irrawaddy Dolphins of Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, is well regarded as a hot spot for Irrawaddy dolphins (known to locals as pesut). The Irrawaddy dolphins’ unusual features are its blunt, rounded head with a flexible neck, an indistinct and almost non-existent beak, a small triangular dorsal fin with a blunt tip and its long broad flippers. Irrawaddy dolphins usually swim in groups of two to six, but in Santubong and Buntal, larger groups of more than 30 have been sighted.

Since the Irrawaddy dolphin is a protected species in Sarawak, the local government has created dolphin-watching programs to control tourism and limit the number of visitors. Unfortunately, Irrawaddy dolphins are still facing great risk of extinction due to human encroachment. The biggest threat of all is entanglement in fishing nets. Dolphin-watching season runs from April to November, but due to unpredictable weather, sightings are not frequent. It is therefore best to combine a dolphin watching tour with a mangrove cruise that offers the opportunity to see a wide range of rare wildlife such as Borneo’s famed proboscis monkey.

The Marine Turtles of Talang-Satang National Park

Sarawak’s first marine national park, Talang-Satang, comprises four islands on the southeast coast of Sarawak. These four “Turtle Islands” are responsible for 95 percent of all the turtle landings in Sarawak. Talang-Satang National Park covers approximately 48,000 acres, including beautiful shallow reef areas surrounding the four islands. The park also includes a wildlife sanctuary, important nesting sites and fish-breeding areas, as well as rare species of hard and soft corals. Most importantly, though, it provides shelter and resting ground for sea turtles.

Marine turtles are amongst the world’s longest-living creatures with many reaching more than 100 years of age. Marine turtles will only start breeding at between 30 and 50 years of age and the females usually produce eggs only once every four or five years. They also do not lay eggs on just any beach. They will migrate back to their beach of birth, which sometimes can be more than 3,000 kilometres away. Their ability to find their way back to that particular beach, deftly navigating across an ocean world of deadly predators, is considered to be one of the greatest exploits in the animal kingdom.

The peak nesting season for turtles is from April to September. Due to the decline in turtle populations and deliberate poaching of turtles’ eggs, meat and shells, Sarawak Forestry has created a conservation program involving the local communities. As part of the project, turtle eggs are removed from the nests and placed in guarded hatcheries from which young hatchlings are released at night to reduce losses from predators. In addition, some are tagged with radio tracking devices to learn more about their ecology and life cycle. Pulau Satang Besar, the largest of the four Turtle Islands, is open to visitors, but conservation takes top priority over tourism. In fact, parts of the island and surrounding sea are off-limit to visitors.

Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary

Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is situated in Pahang, 160 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur City. To get there, take the Karak Highway toward Lancang. Before reaching the elephant sanctuary, you pass through the Che’ Wong Orang Asli (aborigines) settlement, the last tribe of its kind in Malaysia.

Gandah Elephant Sanctuary was set up in 1989 and is managed by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks Malaysia. Its main objective is to continue locating, subduing and then relocating wild elephants to a bigger and safer jungle reserve when their natural habitat is being encroached upon by human development. It is estimated that only 1,200 wild Asian elephants are left in Malaysia, and Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is the only conservation centre that provides safe sanctuary for these elephants rescued from all over the Malaysian Peninsula.

Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary also looks after orphaned elephants to ensure their continued survival. At present the sanctuary houses a number of elephants brought in from Thailand , India and Myanmar. These elephants are trained and used in the process of translocating wild elephants found in problem areas throughout Malaysia. The sanctuary strives to promote public awareness of the elephants’ plight in Malaysia and to educate the public on the importance of habitat and environmental preservation. Visitors are welcomed to join the elephant activities throughout the year and take part in one-of-a-kind adventures.

Thinking of ecotravel in Malaysia? Plan your trip with Oshin and the local experts at MegaBorneo Tour Planners, a whl.travel local connection in Borneo (Brunei & Sarawak) and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In this week’s Video Spotlight feature, Joerg Daiber makes use of ’tilt shift’ photography to bring a completely unique perspective to what would otherwise be familiar scenes filmed in some of Thailand‘s most popular destinations.

The careful manipulation of scale, blur and time creates an effect that tricks the eye. Scenes take on a miniature quality – buildings look like models and pedestrians become stick figures.

The title – Toy Thailand – is apt, not just because of the feeling of reduced size, but also as a result of the way things move. The sped-up movements resemble clockwork unwinding – a slightly jerky feeling that adds to the overall dream-like effect.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that short films like this that add clever twists show us a new way of looking at the world. It’s fun and entertaining, but it also helps to keep things in perspective – no pun intended.

Still, if you’re new to eco-travel, ecolodges are a great place to start. Frame your trip around an ecolodge that stands out. Look for places that have gained international recognition and awards for the conservation and community work they are doing. Look for places that meet third-party green certification standards. Find your fantasy ecolodge, then make it the centrepiece of your trip.

Here are a few ideas for inspiration.

An eco-chic lodge at Ecohotel, one of the three 'ecohabs' near Santa Marta, Colombia. Photo courtesy of Ecohabs Santa Marta

Ecohabs Santa Marta in Colombia

Think outside the resort box and opt for one of the three ‘ecohabs’ at Ecohabs Santa Marta, a chic addition to one of Colombia’s most prized natural areas, Tayrona National Park, where lush green forests and stunning coast are just waiting for exploration near the popular beach town of Santa Marta.

If you go with Ecohabs Tayrona or Ecohotel, you get a beachfront spot without any high-rise interference. Or venture a little farther inland to Ecohabs Minca, and you’ll be immersed in thick vegetation against a mountain backdrop.

The #1 reasons to stay at Ecohabs Santa Marta: they’re designed to be visually integrated into their surroundings, built primarily with local materials and include ethnic aspects inspired by the huts of Tayrona’s indigenous tribes.

Click here to learn more about Ecohabs Santa Marta.

San Miguel del Bala in Bolivia

When people think Bolivia, they often imagine jagged snowcapped mountains, dizzying altitudes and a vast white plain of salt. But to the northeast of La Paz, Bolivia shares the low-lying Amazon basin with Brazil, Colombia and Peru. Here you can visit Rurrenabaque, Bolivia’s gateway to Madidi National Park in the Amazon jungle, where you’ll find some of the most lauded ecotourism projects in South America.

One great example is San Miguel del Bala, a lodge owned and operated by an indigenous Tacana community. With help from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and a few large nongovernmental organisations, the group of 35 families built the lodge and provided themselves an alternative to traditional extractive trades like logging and hunting.

The #1 reason to stay at San Miguel del Bala: after taking in the incredible biodiversity of Madidi National Park, you can relax with a weaving class with women from the local community.

Click here to learn more about San Miguel del Bala.

The water catchment system on the Chumbe Island bungalows near Zanzibar, Tanzania, demonstrate the green technology that makes it a certified long-run destination. Photo courtesy of Chumbe Island Coral Park Lodge

Chumbe Island Coral Park in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Off the coast of Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania is the hypnotic Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar. Although officially part of Tanzania, the island is very much its own place, with a strong cultural identity and amazing natural assets.

A short boat ride from Zanzibar takes you to Chumbe Island, a coral sanctuary. Here you’ll find the Chumbe Island Coral Park lodge that is using the latest in eco-technology. For example, each eco bungalow has a water catchment system that allows it to capture its own freshwater supply during the rainy season. The water is then filtered and pumped for use.

The #1 reason to stay at Chumbe Island Coral Park: It meets the standards of Global Ecosphere Retreats, which certifies it as a long-run destination.

Click here to learn more about Chumbe Island Coral Park.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge in Borneo, Malaysia

Go wild in Malaysia with a visit to Borneo’s most prestigious ecolodge, the Sukau Rainforest Lodge. Getting there takes some doing – the last leg of the trip involves a short boat ride down the Kinabatangan River and into the depths of the Sukau Rainforest. It’s ideally located as a jungle trekking adventure home base.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge has been turning heads since 1997, when it won its first award: the British Airways Tourism for Tomorrow Award. Since then, it has gained distinction from major players like Trip Advisor, Ecoclub.com and most recently the World Travel Awards.

The #1 reason to stay at Sukau Rainforest Lodge: guests can join its reforestation campaign by taking a moment to plant their own rainforest tree.

Click here to learn more about Sukau Rainforest Lodge.

The walls of Adrère Amellal near Cairo, Egypt, blend seamlessly into the surrounding desert landscape. Photo courtesy of Adrère Amellal

Adrère Amellal in Cairo, Egypt

In the deserts surrounding Cairo, Egypt, a desert ecolodge called Adrère Amellal has the fantastical beauty of a nomad’s weary hallucination. The handcrafted buildings of stone and clay blend into the natural landscape surrounding them, as if they could disappear at any moment. This is an upscale retreat with top-notch culinary options.

The #1 reason to stay at Adrère Amellal: with no electricity, the rooms are softly lit with a dozen beeswax candles and the starry desert sky.

Click here to learn more about Adrère Amellal.

Colourful sea life abounds along the shores of Barbados. There are numerous ways to see it, including diving, snorkelling and underwater submarine tours. Photo courtesy of flickr/ben.ramirez

As much as Barbados exists on land, it has even more to offer in the water surrounding it. In addition to swimming, snorkelling and diving, there are numerous water tours in Barbados that introduce you to the local Caribbean sea life. A submarine tour brings you close to the colourful coral, exotic fish and colonial shipwrecks hiding just beneath the surface. And of course no Caribbean vacation is complete without a few hours to sunbathe on the deck of a boat, jumping in the water every now and then to cool down and swim with the turtles.

In order to keep the translucent waters around Barbados clear and the beaches clean, many local Barbados hotels and tour operators are committed to being environmentally friendly. Almond Beach Casuarina Hotel and Almond Beach Club and Spa, for example, are Green Globe Certified. An international organization that has helped set the standard for sustainable global tourism, Green Globe ensures that businesses meet high standards in a range of interrelated spheres, including sustainable management, social and economic stability, and cultural and environmental preservation.

The Morgan Lewis windmill stands proudly on the east coast of Barbados, overlooking the Scotland District. This former sugar plantation mill was built in the early 1700s and worked until approximately 1945. It was one of the longest-operating and best-preserved mills in the Caribbean. Photo courtesy of Barbados Tourism Authority

Many local Barbados residents – Bajans – trace their roots back to the West African slaves who were transplanted over to work on the sugar plantations. The sugar industry is still one of the primary economic forces underpinning the economy after centuries of colonial influence. Contemporary Bajan culture is rich, warm and friendly, the foundation of the strong infrastructure the island enjoys.

Native Caribbean islander Daniel Anderson of Barefoot Travel & Tours is thrilled to be offering local Bajan insight through www.barbados-hotels.travel, part of the whl.travel network.

The Sunbury Plantation House is a relic of Barbados’ colonial days. It was built around 1660 by one of the first English settlers on the island. His family’s descendants have lived for generations in the Caribbean. Photo courtesy of Barbados Tourism Authority

“I think joining whl.travel is a great opportunity for Barefoot Travel & Tours to stand out from other international tour operators since we are based in the country in which we operate,” commented Anderson. “Our knowledge of our island, culture and people cannot be matched. We know best and will always be on hand to direct and ensure that the visitor gets to enjoy every aspect of our island. They will get the opportunity to mix and mingle with the locals and take part in activities and events on the same level that a Bajan would.”

Anderson is also no stranger to the growing international push for local sustainability; he’s been adopting and cleaning Barbados beaches for years, as well as supporting local cultural events and raising funds for a Barbados Children’s Home.

The east coast of Barbados is well known for its rugged beauty. Here, Atlantic rollers break against large rocks and form beautiful mist and foam, and reefs form in small pools close to shore in the wake of the waves. This is also the location of the 'Soup Bowl,' a popular spot for surfing and the scene of an annual international competition. Photo courtesy of Barbados Tourism Authority

“I choose to join whl.travel because of the emphasis that is put into the care and development of the island and its people,” concluded Anderson. “Lots of other tour operators are not interested in the development or sustainability of the countries in which they operate. I also think whl.travel is a great medium through which Barbados can be noticed by travellers who are conscious about sustainable development.”

Barbados joins a growing list of Caribbean destinations, including Antigua and Barbuda, Nevis, St. Kitts and St. Lucia.

Learn to surf (with dolphins!) at the Coffee Shack Backpackers in South Africa, which aims to have the cheapest and best lessons in the world: just US$5 for two hours with board and wetsuit included.

Surfing Lessons

If you want to be standing on your board in no time, consider for a holiday that includes lessons. Even if you can stand up on your board, there’s a good chance that you have to break a few bad habits. Whilst they may not hamper you in the short term, to develop as a surfer you’ll want dodgy techniques to disappear ASAP.

Also, the sea can be a dangerous place. Over time you learn how to surf safely, but the risks from rip currents, tidal changes and anything else under your board are well worth learning about right from the start. A decent lesson will cover this.

Where Should You Go?

Everyone wants different things from a surf holiday. Advanced surfers might be looking for big waves or long tubes. You may also know whether you prefer a point break, beach break or a reef break (a ‘surf break’ is the sub-sea structure which causes a wave to break). Less-advanced surfers may well be looking for smaller waves, finishing on a pleasant beach somewhere.

There are literally thousands of surf-destination options, though. All you really need is a beach, a wave and somewhere to stay. If you’ve got a bit of cash to spend, the idyllic beaches of the Galapagos, Australia or even the Solomon Islands may be tempting, but don’t forget places closer to home too. In and around the UK, there’s world-class surfing in Ireland, Scotland and Cornwall. You just might need to wrap up a bit warmer.

Waves for Development offers two-week surf voluntourism expeditions in Peru, where you live, surf and serve in the remote community of Lobitos.

What to Take on a Surfing Holiday?

Now that you’ve decided to go on a surf holiday, think about what you want to take with you. If you’ve decided to go where the sea is warm, you’ll probably be alright surfing in your board shorts or bikini (with plenty of sun cream on, of course). if you’re going somewhere slightly more chilly, though, you will want to wear a wetsuit to keep warm. Tailored to a variety of conditions, these come in different thicknesses. It’s also possible to get gloves and booties too to keep the extremities comfy. Needless to say, a tour operator should be able to give you good advice and may also have equipment for hire.

If you want to buy your own kit, look at how it has been made. Being immersed in the sea, you want it to be clean, so keep an eye out for products fabricated with the environment in mind. Have a read of this infographic about the toxicity of surfing.

What to Do When You’re Not Surfing?

You can’t guarantee the waves, so think a bit more about what else will be available where you’re going. If you want nightlife, then there are many places where you can combine city fun with surfing – perhaps Lagos in Portugal or Newquay in Cornwall. You might instead want to chill out, get a tan and read a book. In this case try somewhere a little off the beaten track; Nicaragua has some fantastic surf, for example.

Many surf operators are now also offering other activities on their holidays. Yoga is a great when combined with surfing – relaxing and great for your core muscles. There are many other places offering guests the opportunity to get involved in conservation projects whilst on holiday.

UP2U Surf School in Bali runs introduction-to-surfing family surf lessons good for all ages.

Anything Else to Look Out for?

It goes without saying that the company you holiday with has a massive effect on your experience. The waves could be awesome, but if your accommodation, the local staff or food is poor, you might not have a great time. Conversely, a great company will be able to make sure your holiday is a success even if the waves are flat.

Our top tip? Try holidaying with a locally run company. The owners are going to know everything there is to know about the waves, the area and surfing. They’re going to inspire you with their passion, and it’s their livelihood – you enjoying your holiday is their biggest priority. You’ll also be helping the local community – and quite possibly the environment too – so look out for companies with sustainability policies in place.

Looking for a surf holiday? Check out the Much Better Adventures’ Surf Holidays page.

Often described as one of Africa’s last frontiers, Mozambique, a large country in the southeastern part of the continent, is among the most variegated places in the world. Geographically, it has a rugged, underdeveloped north, a hiker’s paradise, along with an extensive coastline with innumerable opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The population is just as diverse, reflecting the indigenous African tribes who first settled there, the Arab seafarers who traded along the coast for centuries, and, finally, the Portuguese colonists who ruled until 1975. Despite the many setbacks that have plagued the country since then, including civil war, floods and drought, Mozambique is starting to bounce back and is slowly gaining a well-deserved reputation as a country that promises as much adventure as relaxation.

1. Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park: A massive swath of land that comprises national parks in Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe and allows visitors to cross the borders freely within the park, Limpopo is home to nearly 150 kinds of mammals, including elephants, giraffes and buffalo.

2. Gorongosa National Park: This once-legendary park in northern Mozambique was nearly destroyed during the country’s civil war. Now newly refurbished, it’s returning to its former preeminence and is worth a visit to check out impalas, warthogs, unusual birds and more.

3. Local Fare: In Maputo, feast on some of the ultrafresh seafood caught off Mozambique’s 2,500-kilometer-long coastline; the grilled prawns and octopus are especially good.

4. Montes Chimanimani: Along the Zimbabwe border, this mountain range, thick with pine and mahogany trees and scores of medicinal plants, is ideal for rugged, off-the-beaten-path hiking and camping.

5. Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island): This tiny island off Mozambique’s northern coast was once an important Arab trading port; today its historic, colonial-era buildings and diverse population, with strong Islamic and African ties, make it a fascinating place to explore.

The archipelago das Quirimbas is a collection of 32 coral islands off the Coast of Mozambique. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Spacmonster

6. Archipelago das Quirimbas: These 32 islands off the town of Pemba, which can be reached by motorboat, offer white-sand beaches, snorkeling among coral reefs, and sightings of humpback whales.

7. Ponta de Ouro: Just miles from the South African border in southern Mozambique, this quaint town boasts some of the country’s loveliest beaches and opportunities to scuba dive among dolphins.

8. Lago Niassa: A giant, incredibly clear lake that borders Mozambique, Malawi and Tanzania, Niassa (also known as Lake Malawi) is thought to contain a greater number of fish than any other lake in the world.

9. Angoche: A quiet, historic town in the northern part of the country that still bears the influence of precolonial Swahili and Arab traders, Angoche is worth a quick trip for a look back in time.

10. Manica: Once an important gold trading area, this picturesque town in central Mozambique is now known for its thousand-year-old Chinamapere rock paintings, which are considered sacred by local residents.

Maputo is the capital and largest city of Mozambique. Photo courtesy of Andrew Moir

When to Go

The best time to visit Mozambique is between May and October, when it’s pleasantly sunny and dry and temperatures average 66 degrees Fahrenheit (18.3 degrees Celcius.) The country’s rainy season generally lasts from October to April, with temperatures jumping up to the 80s (20s). Overall, the southern part of the country is cooler and drier than the north.

A view looking east toward Munda from the hills of Gizo township in the Solomon Islands. Photo courtesy of Danny Kennedy

In the midst of all the wild beauty, right in the heart of this seaborne country, is Ghizo Island, where a different kind of lifestyle and culture can also be found: one built around surfing.

Quality Breaks

Surfing is a newcomer to the Solomon Islands, but for a handful of locals it has become something more than just a pastime. A few old boards left behind by adventurous surf-trippers have changed the way people on Ghizo look at their waves. The cyclone swells created out in the Coral Sea that have made the east coast of Australia so famous also make their way up to the Solomons – and Ghizo sits right in their path.

The setups in the Solomons are nearly all reef breaks. Ghizo boasts at least two world-class spots, and what they lack in size they make up for in quality. Paelonge on Ghizo island is the most consistent. It regularly offers rights up to a 100 metres long, with two long barrel sections. Titiana is a left and when the swell hits the reef the right way, it’s the best wave on the island.

Solomon Islands top surfer, Sammy, goes high on a wave. A couple of days later the remains of this board were retrieved from tsunami debris. Photo courtesy of Will Darby

The Solomons are relatively unexplored by surfers; different swell directions and sizes often give birth to waves that have never been surfed, so the potential seems enormous. But the greatest thing about surfing here is that you truly feel like you’re experiencing the place firsthand. There is no surf industry to speak of, so if it’s an alternative to Bali you’re looking for, this isn’t it. But you won’t find a crowd either. This is just a bunch of locals, on battered but well-loved boards, who are really focused on getting the best waves. They’re out every chance they get and know every inch of their breaks intimately.

Getting Practical

November to April is the best time to get the cyclone swells, but generally it’s pretty consistent. The quality of the reefs means that what little swell there may be is usually turned into something really fun. When it does get big, it can be seriously powerful and hollow. That’s when the locals have a new excitement and energy that will set you buzzing with excitement on the paddle out. Often the break is dotted with kids body surfing and swimming around the reef, and only a very elite handful of locals will join you when waves reach six feet or more. It’s always best to trust their guidance; these reefs are as much their home as their local spot.

Sammy, a number 1 surfer in the Solomon Islands, is right at home with the waves of Ghizo Island. Photo courtesy of Will Darby

Entering the Solomon Islands is only possible through the capital, Honiara, on Guadalcanal. If you’re a historian, there are some fascinating World War II sites dotted around Honiara, which was a key strategic battleground in the Pacific theatre. A tour of Honiara is a great way to get oriented. Generally speaking, though, Honiara isn’t somewhere to linger too long; while it has a kind of gritty (yet safe) charm, you should get out and explore the country’s true beauty.

Getting around the Solomon Islands is done either by flying on Solomon Airlines or travelling via passenger boat. While the latter is often overcrowded, hot, a little smelly and fantastically slow, there is no better way to see the country and meet locals. After all, the Solomon Islands is a country defined by water, so the best way to get around is by boat. The sea trip from Honiara to Ghizo takes around 30 hours – and there are no cabins – but what you will see on your journey you will never forget. If you’re a surfer, it’s also a good way of looking after your boards, as sometimes the airline baggage handlers don’t quite get the ‘fibreglass’ thing! There are also companies that will hire you a boat and driver, or you can hitch rides with locals.

The laid-back but bustling town of Gizo, on Ghizo Island, is the second most major town of the Solomon Islands after its capital city of Honiara. Photo courtesy of Danny Kennedy

In terms of accommodation in the Solomon Islands, there are plenty of options on or around Ghizo Island. The main town, Gizo (same name as the island, just no ‘h’) has numerous numerous guesthouses and a big hotel, while a nearby island has two resorts if you’re looking for somewhere quieter. Gizo is a really laid-back place, although there’s a vibrant market with fresh fruit, vegetables and fish. There’s also a new hospital, and taxis and trucks run up and down the single street. This is the most major town after Honiara, but don’t expect a metropolis. Still, Gizo is a bustling place, and you’ll feel right at home here in no time, as complete strangers are usually incredibly friendly.

There is not a single surf shop in the Solomons, so remember to bring everything you’re going to need, including a spare board (your usual shortboard size) and especially a decent repair kit. The most important things you can bring however are an open mind, a friendly smile and a healthy respect for this beautiful place and the people who call it home.

First, before we even got to Colombia, we had to digest the government travel advisories. A visit to the country equalled full-time danger: exercise a high degree of caution; be vigilant; avoid travel to rural parts of Colombia and on and on.

Pack horses and donkeys ford their way across a stream in Tayrona National Park, Colombia. Photo courtesy of Norm Rath

Jumping that hurdle mentally, once we had settled in Santa Marta – our base city in Colombia – we noticed our guidebook warned the best option in case of a snake bite in Tayrona was to head for an eco-cabin cluster inside the park for the immediate administration of anti-venom serum; do not take the time to head back to Santa Marta. The popular resort town of Santa Marta, a hot (average mid 30 degrees Celsius), extremely humid and sun-drenched spot of almost 500,000 people, sits on the Caribbean coast like a once-beautiful ageing lady fanning herself with ocean breezes.

Aware of the hazards, we asked our Irish-born inn owner for advice about visiting Tayrona. He was adamant: Go. Here’s how to get there. Here’s what you can expect. We long ago discovered that on-the-ground intelligence is best.

From Santa Marta to Tayrona

Once upon a time, Tayrona was a combat zone for drug trafficking between the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), one of the western hemisphere’s oldest Marxist guerrilla groups, and right-wing paramilitary units. Today, Tayrona proudly displays its true nature as a safe environment for tourists. Since its elevation in status to a national park in 1969, this biodiversity area covering 12,000 hectares of land and 3,000 of sea has been growing in popularity. Within its territory are sandy beaches, dazzling blue/azure ocean waters, tropical dry jungle and a rainforest up to 900 metres in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

A Tayrona National Park camping site on the Caribbean coast at Arrecifes in Colombia. Photo courtesy of Heather Rath

Getting to the Tayrona from Santa Marta took one and a half hours using three types of vehicles: taxi to the bus terminal (US$2.50), people’s bus for an hour (US$2.50 per person) and the park collectivo (US$1.25 per person). The general advice we got for exploring the area we had selected was to follow the trail for an hour and a half to our destination on the coast. That sounded easy, but that’s when the ambiance of Tayrona kicked in.

Under a Jungle Spell

Surrounded by calling birds, colourful butterflies, shrieking monkeys and crawling cutter ants with their loads of leaf pieces, we forgot the cacophony of noise in the city. With tall tropical trees, swaying palms weaving a canopy of interlocking green fingers above, and thick, lush vegetation sprouting on all sides, we fell under the spell of the jungle.

The main trail we followed was up and down: it twists and turns through narrow paths between high and low ridges of rock triggering leaps from above, below and across the uneven, sometimes muddy, ground. A tiring terrain, it offers no relief from the streams of sweat that pour from every pore. Since donkeys and horses also use this trail, an overabundance of manure awaits human feet forced to tread in impassable places.

The uncrowded beaches along the Caribbean in Tayrona National Park, Colombia, are just one of its many faces. Photo courtesy of Heather Rath

Yet every so often there is a reprieve. Shhhhh… see the agouti rustling in the underbrush? Listen… hear the squawks from above? A family of titi monkeys plays in the treetops.

After what seemed like an eternity, we broke out of the jungle at Arrecifes on the Caribbean coast, where authorised campsites dot the shore. After our hot and humid slog, we decided it was all about the journey and not the destination.

For another half hour we hiked along the seaside, fording four streams, meandering through clusters of mangroves, until we reached our Caribbean destination: La Piscina (The Pool), a bay of smooth, safe-to-swim/snorkel waters sheltered by a long stretch of unspoiled barrier reef. (Other beach areas along the coast produce strong and dangerous undertows.) As it turned out, the destination too was worth it (lo valió)!

Plenty of Life

The park, once the land of the indigenous Tayrona people, offers a few archaeological ruins of interest, as well as activities like nautical sports and horseback riding. It is home to more than 100 mammals, among them jaguars, ocelots and monkeys, most nocturnal and many on the endangered list. Other endangered species include reptiles like the loggerhead sea turtle, mixed in with fearsome snakes, at least 300 species of birds such as the rare Andean condor, valuable marine fauna, unspoiled coral formations and endemic vegetation. (Cacti, orchids, bromeliads, mosses and trees, contribute to the richness of, and necessity for, protecting the park’s environment.)

Found in Tayrona National Park, the titi monkey is endemic to Colombia and is an endangered species. Photo courtesy of Heather Rath

Park entry fees are approximately US$18 for foreigners; US$7 for nationals (in April 2012).

For more ideas on where to stay and what to do around Santa Marta, visit www.santamarta-hotels-tours.travel, the whl.travel local connection in Colombia.

Ang Thong National Marine Park, 31 kilometres northwest of Koh Samui in southern Thailand, spans an area of 102 km². This includes 42 lush, mountainous islands harbouring wildlife, emerald lakes, deserted beaches and all sorts of nooks, crannies and caves that can seize the imagination. Famously, Ang Thong was Alex Garland’s inspiration for his novel The Beach (now infamously known as the book that became that movie with Leonardo DiCaprio).

Low tide at Ang Thong unlocks secret passageways and kayaking gives you the freedom to explore them. As water levels drop, entrances into the seemingly impenetrable fortress are revealed. One arch is so low that I have to lie down in my kayak and blindly slip into the darkness, propelled by my hands moving along the rock. Suddenly the space opens up. Sunlight faintly trickles in from a small hole. I blink and let my eyes adjust. I’m in some sort of chamber and above me I spy a narrow tunnel that leads upwards, its terminus not visible.

Where does it go? I wonder, letting the fantasy of a hidden paradise blossom in my mind. I’m content to leave this question unanswered; often times the mystery is more satisfying than the reality.

When I look at this photo I get a taste of what I experienced kayaking in Ang Thong. ‘The sublime’ is to feel our smallness in the natural world, to feel overwhelmed by its power and greatness. In turn, this feeling of wonder and humility grants us a connection to that world.

And through this photo I also relive the joy of kayaking – I remember the childlike excitement of everyone getting out onto the water, the first few nervous strokes and wobbles, how people playfully splashed each other before setting off like a paddling of ducks, the bright bellies of the kayaks gliding through the crest and dip of every wave.

The economic centre, largest city and former capital of Tanzania, Dar Es Salaam, is rich in culture, heritage, history and sightseeing. It is a starting point for many visitors making their way to other large attractions in Tanzania, such as the coastal islands or inland safaris, but there is also a lot to see and do in this town. Dar Es Salaam is a tropical port city that lies along some of the most important and oldest sea routes in history, and its long status as a major East African economic centre has given rise to an interesting and distinctive culture.

The port city of Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, sits alongside the Indian Ocean. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Ali Damji

Here Are the Top 5 Activities in Dar Es Salaam:

1. Coastal Cruises: This is a great way to see the East African coast while sailing on the Indian Ocean. Choose a boat that will stop at an island for a picnic of authentic local foods before heading back to port. This is an especially romantic excursion if you’re traveling with someone special.

2. Dar Es Salaam Fish Market: At this bustling market, fisherman bring in their daily catches while their housewives fry up the freshest fish straight from the ocean. The best time to go is early in the morning.

3. Mandazi Road: This road is lined on both sides with bars and cafes and is a great place to mix and mingle with the locals. The Msasani-Ubungo bus passes about every 15 minutes but you might also consider taking a taxi.

Sailing trips are a popular excursion from Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Paul Shaffner

4. The National Museum and House of Culture: Exhibits at these two sites include the Hall of Man, which traces human history from evolution to the present day; the History Gallery, which focuses on the history of Tanzanians from early society to present day; and the Ethnography Gallery, which allows us to see the rich cultural heritage of the people of Tanzania through the use of ornaments, traditional healings, musical instruments and much more.

5. Beaches: This area of the Indian Ocean is known for its picture-perfect tropical coastline. Dar Es Salaam boasts long sandy white beaches and the water is usually warm. If you are a beach person, don’t pass this paradise by!

The picturesque coastline of Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, boasts beautiful tropical beaches. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Irene2005

When to Go

We recommend visiting Tanzania between January and March. Tanzania has two rainy seasons: from mid-March to the end of May, the masika rains begin after dark and last well into the next afternoon. The second season is known as the vuli season; it occurs intermittently throughout November and parts of December and January. During the vuli season, showers arrive in the morning and are sometimes interrupted with clear weather.

Because of this, Jericoacoara became a famous tourist destination for international travellers. People from all over the world come to enjoy one of the most tranquil and beautiful places on the Brazilian coast, not to mention the long list of outdoor activities. Jericoacoara actually first became famous amongst foreign tourists, but today is also well known to Brazilians.

Not a long time ago, there wasn’t any electricity in the village. It wasn’t until 1998 that underground power cables were added, but only for the houses. There still aren’t any lampposts on the sand streets of Jericoacoara (yes, the streets are ‘made’ of sand where you can walk barefoot) just to keep the small village atmosphere and promote the moonlight.

This photo was taken in January of 2006. Jericoacoara was the final destination of a hitchhiking trip I took in Brazil that lasted two months. It wasn’t easy to get there, crossing miles and miles of giant sand dunes, but it was definitely worth it!

There’s more to tourism in the Peloponnese of Greece than just sightseeing; the funny-shaped peninsula thrusting south into the Mediterranean Sea from the country’s mainland is home to some of the greatest sites of Ancient Greece, each engaging in its own unique ways.

The ancient Greek Theatre of Epidaurus is a feat of engineering even by modern standards. It can seat up to 15,000 people and transmit the sound of a human voice from the stage to the farthest seats without amplification. Photo courtesy of Charles Berthault

For example, in the west of the peninsula is the city of Olympia, location of the first Olympic Games in 776 B.C.E. and still the spot where the Olympic flame is lit every four years. To the east, the Theatre of Epidaurus is a magnificent testament to the birthplace of western theatre. With capacity that dwarfs Broadway’s best, this 4th-century B.C.E., 15,000-seat outdoor auditorium is a feat of architectural and sound engineering. Nearby are the fabled cities of Corinth, where the ruins of the Temple of Apollo can be found, and Nafplio, Greece’s first capital. Of course, not to be missed is the infamous city of Sparta, home of warriors who brought the Peloponnese its ancient and strategic prestige.

While there are plenty of things to see and do in the Peloponnese, the Arcadia region is an ideal starting place. Home to what some believe are the oldest inhabitants of the region, the impressive Arcadian mountain range is peppered with medieval villages that have retained their old-world allure. The region’s towns are, of course, best able to handle tourists, but day trips throughout the peninsula using local Peloponnese transportation are straightforward. You never know what you’ll find, like the French architect who, in 1795, wandered across the Temple of Apollo by accident.

Amplified by the rich history of the region, the Peloponnese is wrapped in astounding natural beauty, some of it off the well-beaten tourist trails. The region’s natural wonders are a must for independent travellers pining for a breath of fresh air, including some of Greece’s largest mountain ranges, the Parnon and Taygetos. Bring your hiking shoes! For travellers who prefer something more structured, plenty of tours of the Peloponnese include day hikes in the mountains with stops at local monasteries and villages. Rafting trips also can be arranged in the summer months.

Much of the south Peloponnese is dotted with footpaths between tiny villages and medieval monuments. It's the perfect place to hike or rent a bike. Photo courtesy of Charles Berthault

Combining history, remoteness and nature is the Mani Peninsula, the middle of the three large promontories in the south Peloponnese. Mani is a land of sleepy villages with beachfront cafes and crafts stalls boasting excellent local shopping. While some of the coastal towns can get busy in summer, others off the main beaches repose in beneficial calm. These towns – rich in traditional olive and honey production – are famous for their contributions to Peloponnese cuisine.

No matter where you go, villages seem to appear out of nowhere, some appearing as if they were cut out of the towering mountains. Independent travellers should confirm that their chosen Peloponnese hotels are open when they plan to go, as many seaside towns close for the winter.

For more information on travel to the Peloponnese, check in at www.peloponnese-hotels-travel.com with the experts at Opta Travel, your local whl.travel connection.

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στα ελληνικά / IN GREEK

Ταξιδευοντας στην Πελοποννησο με την whl.travel

Στην Πελοποννησο θα βρειτε περισσοτερο απο τον απλο τουρισμο, τις ευχαριστες περιοχες που τελειωνουν ξεκινωντας απο την Κεντρικη Ελλαδα, και τελειωνοντας στο Νοτιο, οπου μπορουμε να βρουμε τους πιο ωραιους αρχεολογικους χωρους, το καθε ενα να σας ελκυει διαφορετικα.

On the Peloponnese, the city of Mystras is famous for its Byzantine churches dating back to the 13th century. Many have been well preserved and feature impressive stonework and hand-painted ceilings and walls. Photo courtesy of Charles Berthault

Για παραδειγμα, στην Δυτικη Πελοποννησο βρισκεται η πολη της Ολυμπιας, οπου πραγματοποιηθηκαν οι πρωτοι Ολυμπιακοι Αγωνες το 776 π.χ. και οπου ακομα σημερα αναβουνε καθε 4 χρονια την φλογα. Στη Ανατολη, βρισκεται το θεατρο της Επιδαυρου, οπου αρχισε και διαδοθωκε μεχρι σημερα το θεατρο. Με μια χωριτικοτητα που κανει το Broadway να δειχνει νανο, το θεατρο ειναι ενα αριστουργημα αρχητεκτονικο και ακουστικο, με 15,000 θεσεις που δημιουργηθηκε το 4 αιωνα π.χ. Κοντα, στην αρχαια μυθικη πολη της Κορινθου, οπου υπαρχει ο Ναος του Απολλονα, και το Ναυπλιο, η πρωτη προτευουσα της συχρονης Ελλαδας. Στα Νοτια μην ξεχναμε και την περιφημη Σπαρτη, μια στρατιωτικη πολη με τους καλυτερους πολεμιστες που ανεδειξε με περηφανια την Πελοποννησο.

Υπαρχουν αφθονες περιοχες για επισκεψεις στην Πελοποννησο, και για αρχη μπορουμε να ξεκινησουμε στην Αρκαδια. Θεωρουνται οι πιο αρχαιοι κατοικοι της περιοχης, και τα εντυπωσιακα βουνα της Αρκαδιας με τα μαγευτικα μεσαιωνικα χωριουδακια, που διατηρησανε τον χρονο στο παλιο κοσμο. Οι Πολες ειναι πιο καταλληλες για να διανυκτερευσουν τουριστες αλλα ημερησιες εκδρομες με τα τοπικα μεταφορικα μεσα ειναι απλα. Και αμα εισαι τυχερος, ποτε δεν ξερεις τι θα βρεις οπως τον Γαλλο αρχιτεκτονα που επεσε κατα συμπτωση, το 1795, στον Ναο του Απολλονα.

Η πλουσια ιστορια της Πελοποννησου, εχει παντα διπλα της την απιστευτη ομορφια της, ακομα και στα πιο δημοφιλοι και τουριστικα σημεια. Τα φυσικα θαυματα της περιοχης ελκυουν του ταξιδιωτες που ψαχνουν καθαρο αερα, αναμεσσα στα πιο μεγαλα βουνα της Ελλαδας, Το Παρνον και το Ταυγετο. Μην ξεχασετε τα παπουτσια πεζοποριας. Αμα ψαχνετε για πιο οργανωμενα ταξιδια, υπαρχουν πολλες εκδρομες στην Πελλοποννησο, οπως μονοημερες πεζοποριες στα βουνα με στασεις σε μοναστηρια κα χωρια. Και αλλες δραστηριοτητες μπορουν να οργανωθουν τους ζεστους μηνες οπως το Rafting.

The Temple of Philippeion in Olympia is one of many monuments on the Peloponnese, regarded by many to be a cradle of western civilization. Photo courtesy of Charles Berthault

Συνδυαζοντας την ιστορια, τις μακρυνες και αποσυρμενες περιοχες, και την φυση, βρισκεται η Μανη, στο μεσσαιο δαχτυλο την Νοτιας Πελοποννησου Στην Μανη θα βρειτε πολλα ησυχα χωρια, μπροστα στις παραλιες, οπου καφετεριες, και μαγαζια με ειδικοτητες και χειροτεχνιματα ειναι στην διαθεση σας για τοπικες αγωρες. Μερικες παραθαλασσιες πολες πολιορκουνται απο βαβουρα και θορυβο, αλλες πολες δυπλα σε παραλιες ειναι πιο ησυχες. Αυτες οι περιοχες, πλουσιες σε παραγωγη μελιου και ελιων, ειναι γνωστη για την συμμετοχη της στην Ελληνικη και Πελοποννησιακη κουζινα.

Οπου και να πατε, τα χωρια εμφανιζονται απο το πουθενα, μερικα εμφανιζονται σαν να ειναι κομμενα απο τα ψηλα βουνα. Ανεξαρτητοι ταξιδιωτες θα πρεπει να συγουρευτουν πως τα ξενοδοξεια που διαλεγουν στην Πελοποννησο ειναι ανοικτα, διοτι πολλες περιοχες παραθαλασσιες ειναι κλειστες το χειμονα.

Για περισσοτερες πληροφοριες για ταξιδια στην Πελοποννησο, κοιταξτε at www.peloponnese-hotels-travel.com και ζητηστε συμβουλη στο Opta Travel, ο τοπικος σας πρακτορας με τηνl whl.travel.

The port of Corfu Town, Greece, faces the Albanian coast, visible in the distance. The laid-back off-season is still one of deep blue skies and clear waters. Photo courtesy of Sandra Broedner

More people really should see this side of Corfu. After all, between bouts of heavy rain and thunderstorms, the off-season weather in Corfu is usually still surprisingly sunny and warm, the atmosphere has a mildness to it. It can be warm enough that many Corfiots continue swimming and bathing in the sea in the winter. (You may want to join them by the windmill in Garitsa in Corfu Town.

By January, the mimosas starts blooming, followed soon after by the almond trees. In February, vibrant Carnival festivities take place, with all kinds of costume parties in the streets. Before you know it, spring is here, and that’s something you also really shouldn’t miss. Spring in Corfu has its own set of wonders and charms, including more music to be found everywhere.

In the off-season, even Corfu Town slows down. It becomes easy to find a table along the elegant Liston arcade and no one complains if you decide to spend hours and hours reading your newspaper while slowly sipping a coffee or ouzo. In the narrow alleys of Corfu Town, you can enjoy the small family-run tavernas that have been serving lunch to the locals for generations. They usually cook only a few dishes of Corfu’s traditional cuisine – different each day – so even if you choose to eat regularly at the same place, you’ll have something new to enjoy each time.

Travelling slowly during the off-season in Corfu, Greece, you'll have beaches like Liapades Beach in west Corfu (and the winter sunshine!) almost all to yourself. Photo courtesy of Sandra Broedner

Remarkably, you have the beaches almost to yourself, free of crowds and tacky tourist activities. Off the beaches, Corfu’s lush nature is more enjoyable with less heat. A simple walk in the countryside will easily lift your spirits. Corfu is full of old footpaths and in some places the municipality has put up signs that make them easy to follow. You can also find footpath guidebooks with detailed maps and the Hikers Society of Corfu (phone 26610-39481) is happy to help you with information. Or why not try mountain biking? Corfu’s hilly landscape makes the island a paradise for mountain bikers.

Closer to home, many Corfiots own olive trees and harvest the olives in early winter, the ultimate local activity. If you’ve ever visited Corfu’s countryside, you may have seen the nets tidily folded up in the olive groves. During harvest, the nets are spread out under the olive trees and after the olives fall to the ground they are gathered and taken to be pressed. Ask around in the villages and you will see that you are more than welcome to join in and help out. You may even get a bottle of freshly pressed olive oil for your efforts.

Of course, throughout the off-season, certain high-season attractions are missing. There isn’t as wide a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. Most resorts in Corfu that were full during the summer start closing down by mid October and don’t open again until May. Steer clear of them, especially since you will find you’re too far away from other amenities like supermarkets, banks and coffee shops, where you may want to meet friends on a rainy day.

In the traditional mid-winter olive harvest in Corfu, Greece, large nets are used to capture the falling olives. Extra hands are always needed, so join the fun! Photo courtesy of Flickr/shplendid

What’s left, though, is the local scene! You get to eat in those small taverns and coffee shops that have been around for decades and where you can experience the authentic Corfu. For lodging, look for apartment rentals near Corfu Town, Acharavi in the north, the area around Gouvia or even near a village. If you don’t mind living a bit remotely you may even consider housesitting for a few months. Many of the larger villas on the northeast coast need looking after during the winter. In exchange, you get a place to stay and sometimes even compensation for a bit of maintenance.

Planning to visit Corfu, Greece? Get in contact with the team at Corfu-Hotels.Travel, the whl.travel local connection, for expert advice all year round.