Travel Explorer Magazine Issue 4

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BLUE PLANET MANIA Written by: Oliver Photograph: Galapagos Sea Lions There is no denying the success of the BBC’s latest wildlife extravaganza Blue Planet II. Attracting the highest television audience in 2017, the nations appetite for Mother Nature is greater than ever before…let’s take a look at some of the hot spots around the Blue Planet waiting for you to explore… 28 | RB COLLECTION | TRAVEL EXPLORER Travel Explorer Magazine Issue 4.indd 28 15/01/2018 12:46
‘... it was time for us to vacate this particular Galapagos Island and return to our vessel for our next adventure.’ Galapagos Islands, by Oliver Fascinated by the remote landscapes, I’d wandered off alone for a moment on Isla de la Plata. As I looked back towards our small group, I noticed a few waving hands in the distance led by our expert naturalist Eduardo…along with the rumble of moans and groans from the plethora of sea lions adorning the white sandy beach, I got the feeling it was time for us to vacate this particular Galapagos Island and return to our vessel for our next adventure. I’d spent the last few hours exploring what can only be described as one of the most beautiful, natural places on Earth. Having travelled extensively for work I’d been seeking a truly back to nature, away from it all experience for a while and the Galapagos Islands certainly provided this. Each island is very different with indigenous species living in their own habitats unchanged since Darwin’s time. A typical day around the islands is similar to that of being on safari (minus the crazy early mornings). After breakfast we’d board the small zodiac boats to take us to shore and each morning a different terrain, landscape and adventure awaited us in the form of an expert-led walking tour for an hour or so. The rest of the morning would include free time on the island or further guided walks, kayaking, snorkelling or simplistic quiet time to soak in your surroundings and totally disconnect from the world. The highlight for me were the blue footed boobies, we were able to get so close and they danced and performed for us with absolutely no hesitation. We swam with turtles, marvelled at the Albatross and stayed very still as the Marine Iguana crossed our path. We posted letters back home in the famous post box and sat mesmerised by the sweeping sunsets that rounded off our stay with pure perfection. Galapagos Islands Fact File Where: The Galapagos Islands lie off the coast of Ecuador. How to get there: Around 12 hours flight to Quito (capital of Ecuador and great for a few nights stop-over) then a 1.5hr flight onwards to the islands. Where to stay: The best way to travel around the islands is by boat and various duration cruises are offered. I cruised for 3 nights but I would recommend around 5. If boats are not your thing, you can stay on one of the main islands and explore from there. Price range: from around £3,499 per person including flights, transfers and 5 nights cruise on full board basis. Other Blue Planet inspirations... Oman, by Nathan Home to a fascinating ship-wreck off the coast near the Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa, if you like diving this is a great place to explore, plus it’s perfect for winter-warmth with a great beach and resort facilities for adults and families (separate hotels for each), but less built up than Dubai for example. The capital Muscat offers traditional souks and you can also experience a desert safari nearby. 5 nights from £1,099 per person. Antarctica One of the ultimate travel explorer destinations with over 14 million square kilometres of snowy expanse; the perfect natural habitat for an array of exciting wildlife. Take in the Falkland Islands and South Georgia on this special oneoff luxury cruise departure featuring special lectures and casual talks led by onboard experts brings to life the history and geology of the region. You’ll follow in the tracks of Ernest Shackleton and Sir Francis Drake, learn valuable tips to help you photograph glaciers, penguin colonies and even the occasional whale, while gaining a deep understanding of scientific efforts to protect this unique habitat. From £14,480 per person. Costa Rica, by Sam My visit to Costa Rica followed that of Thailand where I spent time with the Elephants in a well-respected sanctuary. I was keen to further my knowledge of wildlife destinations and Costa Rica offered this plus beautiful beaches, lush, tropical interiors and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Famous for its turtles, I’d highly recommend it to those who like to explore and learn on holiday, and for families with older children and teenagers - adventure is in the air on Costa Rica so keep it in mind if that appeals to you. 11 nights escorted tour including flights, accommodation and comprehensive tour programme from £1,995 per person. Pacific Islands Many of the stunning shots in the documentary were captured in the South Pacific. The islands lend themselves very well to diving and can be combined well with a visit to New Zealand or Australia. Responsible Tourism It goes without saying it’s important we respect the destinations we visit, and we work closely with The Travel Foundation who promote ethical practises regarding tourism. Learn more at http://www. thetravelfoundation.org.uk. 29 | RB COLLECTION | TRAVEL EXPLORER Travel Explorer Magazine Issue 4.indd 29 15/01/2018 12:46
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Page 5 and 6: OUR TRAVELS: DOWN MEMORY LANE It is
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Page 9 and 10: VOTE & WIN The entries are in and w
Page 11 and 12: 1. Silk Ruffle blouse, £198, DVF 2
Page 13 and 14: THE QUIET EMIRATE... Who: Nathan wi
Page 15 and 16: LISA VISITS THE SEYCHELLES British
Page 17 and 18: MAJORCA’S OTHER SIDE... Palma The
Page 19 and 20: DISCONNECT: CARIBBEAN If like me, y
Page 21 and 22: With so many coffees to choose from
Page 23 and 24: That evening we dined at the Dorfal
Page 25 and 26: READERS OFFER: CHERRY BLOSSOM TOUR
Page 27: Photos from top left: Downtown Colo
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Page 33 and 34: Food in this part of Croatia is ess
Page 35 and 36: TO RUSSIA WITH LOVE Ahead of the Wo
Page 37 and 38: WESTERN CANADA Words: David Wickers
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Page 41 and 42: Who: Nicola Brereton What: Luxury T
Page 43 and 44: SUMMERTIME SUGGESTIONS Looking for
Page 45 and 46: LONG LIVE THE HOLIDAY MEMORY Words
Page 47 and 48: Save £500 per person on 2018 and 2

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