Beaches of Tayrona in Colombia

Beaches in Caribbean, Colombia

Wild and empty beaches and crashing waves are to be found here after some strenuous hiking through the rainforest. Worth the effort to join other adventurous travellers here, though, as the place is teeming with wildlife as well as the odd ruin to explore. No hotels to speak of, but hammocks and a campsite provide laid-back accommodation. Its national park status protects it from development.

Grand Palace, Rattanakosin

Castles & Palaces in Bangkok, Thailand

The Grand Palace is situated in Rattanakosin, where King Rama I built his new capital in the late 18th century. The seat of Governement to this day, this is where most of Bangkok's main sights are found.

A former residence of the King, the Palace is built in European style with a Thai style roof - somewhat incongruous, and next door to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). The reception hall (Chakri Maha Prasat) is a highlight, though the museum can be skipped.

The temple has a rather beautiful but small scale Emerald Buddha in jade, the symbol of the Thai state. Thais pay their respects by lining up and taking offerings - flowers and so on - to the Buddha.

Lake Obabika Fishing Lodge

Fishing in Ontario, Canada

This remote lake north of Toronto hosts exclusive fishing getaways in secluded luxury cabins for no more than 20 guests. As well as gourmet cookery 'from a European chef', they run wine tasting as well as Feng Shui seminars.

Praia das Rodas

Beaches in Vigo, Spain

Praia das Rodas is a pristine beach a half hour boar trip from the mainland (Balona), with few visitors in the secluded national park of Las Islas Cies. Wilder Atlantic coast than the more popular Mediterranean one, since the water is colder and wilder. No hotels, but a campsite for romantic nights.

Anse Source d'Argent

Beaches in Seychelles

One of the most photographed beaches in the world, another soft white sand Seychelles classic, peppered with huge as well as smaller granite boulders, wind, sand and sea eroded into weird and wonderfil shapes - a photographer's paradise. The shallow, warm sea here is sheltered by the reef, so ideal for families. The beach is owned by a private estate so requires payment of an entrance fee.