Where in the world?

Fancy a holiday with a difference? We’ve put together a list of exciting overseas experiences for 2018—and there’s something for everyone! 

The hiker

For over a thousand years, pilgrims have walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Considered one of Europe’s great cultural walks, today’s pilgrims choose between a variety of adventures, from the full 36-day experience to shorter one-week treks.

Trained guides, vans to carry your luggage, or self-guided tours are all options.

Travelling this intriguing route, you’ll discover medieval sites such as churches, monasteries and museums. You’ll stay in villages, experience regional food and get to know the locals as you follow the path taken by thousands of pilgrims before you.

The ancient history buff

Fancy visiting Pompeii? Then you’ll love Ostia Antica. A short suburban train journey from Rome, Italy, takes you to this large and much less crowded archaeological site.

Similar to Pompeii, this city was an important harbour during ancient Roman times. Unlike Pompeii, most of it is fully accessible to the public.

Explore homes, bathhouses, even a gymnasium. Take a picnic and enjoy lunch on the rooftop of an ancient private home, or stroll through the ruins of a once bustling shopping district—it’s all here waiting to be discovered at your leisure in this intriguing ghost town.

Arrive early and be prepared to walk various terrains including cobbled streets and dirt paths. Visit Rome.net for details.

The cruiser

Cruising seems to be very popular at the moment but if you’re looking for something other than a grand ocean liner, perhaps exploring the canals of Britain by narrowboat is more your style.

Narrowboats are kitted out with all mod-cons and some are large enough to accommodate up to 10 people. Cruise through Britain’s most scenic countryside as you navigate your own narrowboat, calling in at villages and sights along the way.

If you’re new to narrowboating, hire companies offer full induction programs and remain on call if you have any questions.

Search online for ‘narrowboat hire’ for further information.

The book lover

When considering the world’s best writers’ festivals, Paris, London or Sydney might spring to mind. But in any given month, you’ll find a literary festival in just about every city in the world.

For example, the Shanghai International Literary Festival hosted over 15 – 28 March, offers English sessions and features winners of prestigious awards such as the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the Man Booker Prize.

The Sarah Lawrence Poetry Festival in New York during April, features craft, book signings, open mics and much more. Better still, entry is free and open to the public.

If you’re in Edinburgh, Scotland in August, pop along to the Edinburgh International Book Festival and enjoy up to 700 different events, including sessions for the kids.

Search online for ‘book festivals 2018’.

The young at heart

Adults and children alike fall in love with Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens. This iconic park first opened in 1843 and is rumoured to have inspired Walt Disney to build Disneyland.

Holiday makers and locals are enchanted by this wonderland, enjoying many attractions such as the food, fairy-lit gardens, rides, music and theatrical performances.

One visit is never enough as the park’s programs change by the season. For example, if you come during winter, the garden transforms into a magical Christmas fairyland of lights and music. Sample delicious festive cakes and treats and sip the Danish version of mulled wine, called glögg, while the children visit Santa.

Visit the Tivoli Gardens’ website for information.