Like the monolithic 'el Fraile' (the Monk) in the Kalasaya Temple in Tiwanaku, some of the statues at Tiwanaku, Bolivia, have withstood the test of time. Other stones used to build the main structures have been looted over the years, but the impressive site is still of great spiritual, historical and cultural significance. Photo courtesy of wikimedia/Fulsen

Tiwanaku, Bolivia

The city of Tiwanaku (alternative spelling Tiahuanaco) is located at 4,000 metres above sea level in the mountains near the southern shore of Bolivia’s famous Lake Titicaca.The area was home to a pre-Incan society that survived from 1600 BC to 1200 AD; it is considered the cradle of Andean civilisation. The Incas that later colonised the region apparently believed that the ancient Tiwanaku was built by the god Viracocha, who rose from the depths of the lake and created the first humans. Hailed as the Stonehenge of the Americas, the monumental remains of this great culture have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and include several temples, a pyramid, symbolic gates, monoliths and mysterious face carvings.

On June 21st each year, around 5000 people congregate in Tiwanaku to celebrate the summer solstice at the Aymara Indians’ New Year, called Machaj Mara. Popular with followers of New Age religions from around the world, the highlight of the festival is sunrise, when the rays of the sun shine through the temple entrance on the eastern side of the complex. Then it’s time to party. Locals in colourful ceremonial clothing and visitors celebrate together by drinking singani (Bolivian grape brandy similar to pisco), chewing coca leaves, sacrificing llamas and dancing until dawn.

The stunning natural setting of Ulpotha is one of its great attractions. The eight-acre site by a small lake at the base of the Galgiriwiya mountains is considered sacred land, associated with Lord Kataragama, an incarnation of the son of Shiva. The area's seven hills feature in ancient spiritual lore.

Ulpotha, Sri Lanka

The traditional working eco-village of Ulpotha is hidden in an exquisite, secluded, wooded dell at the foot of the Galgiriyawa mountains, about a two-hour drive northwest of Kandy in Sri Lanka. The village has been a pilgrimage site for thousands of years and is now a yoga, spa and Ayurveda retreat open to guests for part of the year.

Ulpotha has been nominated for numerous awards over the years and regularly makes it onto lists of the world’s best spas compiled by glossy magazines, television shows and travel websites. Guests can avail themselves of Ayurveda therapies and yoga classes led by practiced experts, although taking part in these activities is by no means compulsory; anyone preferring to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings and delectable vegan cuisine can do just that.

The retreat is run as a non-profit and all proceeds from paying guests go to support the locals who manage the attached self-sustaining organic farm and staff the facility when it is open. Other on-site ventures include a biodiverse organic farm, reforestation of village and surrounding land and a free Ayurvedic clinic open year round to villagers (it treats over 100 patients a week).

The statue of Mary, erected in 2001 in Medjugorje, Bosnia & Herzegovina, to mark the 20th anniversary the vision of the Virgin Mary, is located on Apparition Hill, where the event was first witnessed by six Croation children on June 24, 1981. Thousands of pilgrims climb the hill every year, chanting the rosary as they go. Photo courtesy of wikimedia/Beemwej

Medjugorje, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Launched onto the spiritual travel map in the summer of 1981 when six children saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary, the small town of Medjugorje, Bosnia & Herzegovina, nestled in the hills close to Mostar and the border with Croatia, has become a premier pilgrimage site for Catholics. Once a community of only 400 inhabitants, mostly farmers, the village now caters to visitors from around the world.

Millions have visited the hallowed spot on the mountainside, now called Apparition Hill, keen to worship at the site of the vision. The local church, St James’s, offers Mass in more than 10 languages, including Croatian, Italian, Spanish and English, in addition to a daily prayer service in the evening and there are plenty of tours and accommodation for the faithful.

Medjugorje literally translates as ‘area between two mountains,’ and the location is simply stunning, so even for the non-religious, there is plenty of distraction. The surrounding area is densely forested and boasts picturesque waterfalls, vineyards (the local wine is not to be missed) and plenty of sleepy villages. One word of advice: accommodation often books up quickly, so it is advisable to check ahead with the whl.travel local connection to avoid disappointment.

The Great Mosque of Kairouan, also known as the Mosque of Uqba, was built by the Arab general Uqba ibn Nafi from 670 AD. It covers an area of 9,000 square metres and is considered the oldest place of worship in the western Islamic world, as well as a model for all later mosques in the Maghreb. Photo courtesy of wikimedia/Patrick Giraud

Kairouan, Tunisia

Situated in northern Tunisia, the thousand-year-old city of Kairouan is often regarded as the fourth holiest city in Islam after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. As the oldest Muslim place of worship in Africa, the Great Mosque of Kairouan (first built in 670 AD) has been an important place of pilgrimage for centuries for Muslims, especially those not able to make the long Hajj; it is said that seven trips to Kairouan are equal to one trip to Mecca.

The name Kairouan actually means ‘caravan,’ which is a reference to the city’s beginnings as a stopping place for the desert-trade caravans on the lucrative trans-Sahara trade route. It was turned into an Islamic religious centre in 694 and only Muslims were allowed to enter its walls until relatively recently. As a result it was seen as an outpost of Islam and seat of Muslim scholarship, protecting the faith against the surrounding Jewish and Christian communities.

Although non-Muslims are not allowed inside the mosque, the doors are kept open to allow visitors to see inside and tours to the holy city can be arranged through the whl.travel local connection in Hammamet, an hour’s drive away.

Ahu Tongariki is the largest ahu (stone platform) on Easter Island. Its moai were toppled during the island's civil wars and in the 20th century the ahu was swept inland by a tsunami. It has since been restored with 15 moai, including an 86-tonne monolith that was the heaviest ever erected on the island. All the moai here face sunset during the summer solstice. Photo courtesy of wikimedia/Rivi

Easter Island, Chile

Considered to be the world’s most remote inhabited island, Easter Island (otherwise known as Rapa Nui) in the southeast Pacific may have become a part of Chile in the late 1800s, but it is very much Polynesian at heart. This World Heritage Site is famed for the hundreds of towering volcanic stone statues, known as moai, dotted around the island and positioned on massive stone platforms called ahu.

Easter Island is also one of the most mystical places on earth, as so much of its history is shrouded in mystery: why and how were the moai built (they can weigh up to 75 tonnes and measure up to 10 metres in length) and what decimated the civilisation that built them? Locals believe the monoliths represent deceased ancestors. Because of this visitors can look, but, out of respect, mustn’t touch. Some experts suggest that Easter Island is an important point on a grid of sacred sites spanning the globe and it may have originally been settled purely because of the significance of its location. As with everything else concerning the island’s origins, though, nothing has yet been proven!

Antigua & Barbuda

Head to the islands in the heart of the Caribbean. While most travellers from the northern hemisphere prefer to travel to the Caribbean between November and February, the perennially perfect beach conditions and weather ensure Antigua and Barbuda a place on our list of autumn holiday locales. Antigua alone has 365 white, sandy beaches, but going to the beach is just scratching the surface of things to see and do on the islands. Activities range from sailing and diving at one of Barbuda’s 200 ship wrecks to visiting Barbuda’s Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Antigua and Barbuda have rich music, culture, song and dance, and centuries of traditions. If this isn’t enticing enough, hotel rates are significantly lower at this time of year.

Cartagena, Colombia

Once a favourite looting ground for Caribbean pirates, Cartagena is Colombia’s most popular holiday spot. Located on the country’s Caribbean coast, it is a spirited city with colourful buildings and lively residents. Founded in 1533, the city comprises the Ciudad Amurallada, or old walled city, and the modern Bocagrande. Beautiful Spanish architecture can be seen in the walled city, a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site, especially the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress that was built in the 17th century and the colonial houses. Cartagena’s cultural heritage isn’t its only draw. The beaches of Cartagena, gorgeous scenery and delicious cuisine make it a spectacular choice for a holiday. High season begins in December, so travel here in autumn before the prices go up and ahead of Cartagena becoming South America’s most popular destination!

Lijiang, China

Rich cultural and historical traditions along with the kindness of the local residents have made Lijiang a popular destination for Chinese and foreign tourists alike. Its Old Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and the city’s unique architecture stems from its location at the confluence of Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces. Lijiang is surrounded by dramatic landscapes and snow-capped mountains where hiking and cycling are popular outdoor activities. The majority of the city’s inhabitants are ethnic minorities, particularly the Naxi, Yi and Bai, and there are many ways to experience the local, traditional way of life, particularly on a homestay trek. Autumn brings drier weather, cheaper hotel rates and fewer tourists to Lijiang. Don’t forget your hiking boots!

Vilnius, Lithuania

The bizarre bust of Frank Zappa isn’t the only reason we love Vilnius. Crowned the European Capital of Culture in 2009, this picture-perfect city has one of the largest World Heritage-listed old towns in the world; ; in spite of invasions, it has beautifully preserved Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance structures. Wandering through Vilnius’ labyrinthine streets and spending time in the living museum that is the city’s Old Town transports you back to medieval Lithuania. Vilnius residents are no strangers to occupation, and because of it delight in independence, cultural events and festivals. Even the capital has its eccentricities, like the self-proclaimed independent city called the Republic of Užupis. If you’re more interested in history, travel a short distance to the medieval island castle of Trakai. Fewer tourists travel to Lithuania in autumn as the weather is turning colder, but we think it’s the perfect time to experience Vilnius without the crowds.

The Gulf of Hammamet, Tunisia, as seen from the whitewashed buildings in the ancient medina

Hammamet, Tunisia

Stunning whitewashed buildings aren’t only found in Greece. Though it’s billed as North Africa’s premier beach destination and is better known as the ‘Tunisian St. Tropez,’ Hammamet is a seaside destination with much more to offer those in search of R and R. The city itself is surrounded by the ancient fortification of the Hammamet Kasbah and the narrow back alleys that reach toward the old medina are full of bright, whitewashed buildings with blue trim and intricate architectural designs. Hammamet and the surrounding region of Tunisia have a glorious history and ancient Roman baths famous for healing mineral waters are located within the city’s medina, while the Roman ruins of Pupput are only three kilometres away. The cooler autumn climate and Hammamet’s proximity to the capital, Tunis, make trips to Tunis and Carthage as easy as those to other Roman ruins, like Thuburbu Majus and Dougga. The combination of past and present, the Mediterranean climate and off-season deals pin Hammamet as our pick in Africa.

Travellers to Hammamet are routinely amazed by the sheer beauty of the ‘Tunisian Saint Tropez’. Frequented even during ancient Roman times because of its healing mineral baths and known today for its historic medina and beautiful beaches, Hammamet practically oozes tradition.

Houses in the Medina look out over the tranquil, azure waters of the Gulf of Hammamet

Located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea at the start of trade trails leading deep into the Sahara Desert, Hammamet’s Medina, or Old City, is surrounded by a series of early 16th-century fortifications. Setting foot within is like stepping back in time as you wander past donkeys and street vendors in the city’s narrow lanes or take in the largest Roman necropolis in Africa at the ruins of Pupput.

If your appetite for history has been whetted, head north for a day-trip exploration of the ancient ruins of Carthage, west on a Roman Cities Tour or further afield south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kairouan, Capital of Islamic Culture 2009 and North Africa’s holiest city.

If you’re able to pry yourself away from sunbathing on spotless beaches and want to see more of Hammamet’s gorgeous Mediterranean coast, the city sits on the edge of the Cap Bon Peninsula, which can be is best taken in on a day trip. A tour takes in the area’s outstanding natural beauty as well as local craftsmen at work.

Of course, Hammamet hotels could act as your base of operations for seeing the sights, tastes and sounds of Hammamet as well as the wider area.

whl.travel’s launch of www.travel-hammamet.com, which covers Hammamet and Nabeul, connects travellers with Tarak and the team at Capitol Travel.

The Triumphal Arch of Antoninus marks the entrance to the ruins of the Roman city of Sufetula, very close to modern day Sbeitla

On behalf of the Capitol Travel Team, Tarak Ben Rached says: “We are passionate about the destinations we serve and take great pleasure in being in direct contact with our guests and changing their preconceptions of Tunisia. For us, cultural exchange and the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life are the most rewarding aspects of working in tourism.”

Hammamet is the first whl.travel destination portal to be launched for Tunisia.

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EN FRANÇAIS / IN FRENCH:

Les voyageurs à Hammamet sont régulièrement surpris par la beauté de la ‘Saint Tropez Tunisienne’. Fréquentées, même pendant l’antiquité romaine en raison de ses bains theramaux de guérison et connu aujourd’hui pour son historique médina et de ses belles plages, Hammamet veille a conserver ses traditions.

Situé sur les rives de la mer Méditerranée au départ de sentiers pour le désert et le Sahara, la Médina, ou la vieille ville, est entouré par une série de fortifications du début du 16e siècle. En mettant le pied dedans c’est comme remonter dans le temps ; vous vous promenez dans les ruelles étroites de la ville ou prenez le temps de visiter la plus importante nécropole romaine en Afrique dans les ruines de Pupput.

Customers enjoy a quiet drink in the famous Cafe Bouhdid, just outside Hammamet's ancient walls

Si votre appétit pour l’histoire a été aiguisé, allez au nord pour une journée d’exploration  des ruines antiques de Carthage, à l’ouest sur une tour des villes romaines ou plus loin au sud vers le Site du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO de Kairouan, Capitale de la culture islamique 2009 et ville la plus sainte du Nord de l’Afrique.

Si vous êtes capable de vous grappiller des bains de soleil sur les plages immaculées et que vous souhaitez voir la plus magnifiques côte méditerranéenne de Hammamet, la ville est située sur le bord de la Péninsule du Cap Bon, Qui peut être plutôt des mesures sur un Day Trip. Une visite dure en beauté naturelle exceptionnelle de la région ainsi que des artisans locaux au travail.

Bien sûr, Hammamet hôtels pourrait agir comme base d’opérations pour voir les images, les goûts et les sons de Hammamet Ainsi que la zone en plus large.

whl.travel en lancement de www.travel-hammamet.com, qui couvre Hammamet et Nabeul, relie les voyageurs avec Tarak et l’équipe de Capitol Travel.

Au nom de l’équipe de Capitol Travel, Tarak Ben Rached a écrit: “Nous sommes passionnés par les destinations que nous desservons et de prendre beaucoup de plaisir à être en contact direct avec nos invités et de changer leurs idées préconçues de la  Tunisie. Pour nous, les échanges culturels et la possibilité d’interagir avec des personnes de tous les milieux de vie sont les aspects les plus gratifiants de travailler dans le tourisme. ”

Hammamet est le premier portail de whl.travel qui sera lancé pour la Tunisie.