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Our 2026 Wanderings so far

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60th Birthday Grand Tour - 33 days

March 15th - April 16th 2026

Shanghai,China

Our first stop was to China again. Mainly due to the troubles in middle east we took this detour to the far east and that was ok by us. Our deep love for China has always been rooted in its incredible contrast of ancient heritage and futuristic ambition, a dynamic that was vividly on display during our recent visit to Shanghai. Stepping into this mesmerizing metropolis, we found ourselves suspended between two eras—gazing out from the historic, colonial-era architecture of the Bund across the Huangpu River toward the neon-lit, ultra-modern skyline of Pudong. Shanghai seamlessly blends the old with the new, where you can lose yourself in the tranquil, traditional pavilions and classical rockeries of the 16th-century Yu Garden, and just an hour later, be whisked away by the lightning-fast Maglev train or looking down from one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. For us, the trip was a powerful reminder of why we are so drawn to China: it is a place where deep-seated history and relentless innovation coexist beautifully, offering an unmatched energy that stays with you long after you return home.

We have been all over China and we think its one of the best 1st world destinations for historical and cultural immersion in the world. Coupled with being the safest and the least scamiest place to visit. Its also extremely budget friendly. Plus now to visit most passports holders are Visa free.

From Shanghai we landed in Bangkok. Few cities command the senses quite like Bangkok, a hypnotic metropolis where deep-seated spiritual heritage beautifully collides with a hyper-modern luxury lifestyle. Often called the "City of Angels," this vibrant capital allows you to seamlessly transition from tracking the roots of old Siam at the magnificent Grand Palace and the iconic porcelain spires of Wat Arun to gliding down the historic Chao Phraya River on a private, luxury long-tail boat. Just beyond the city’s glowing neon skylines lies an incredible wealth of history; it serves as the perfect gateway to explore both the ancient, majestic ruins of Ayutthaya—a profound UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the deeply moving, historic landscapes of Kanchanaburi, home to the famous Bridge over the River Kwai. It is a destination where centuries-old traditions, poignant historic narratives, and 5-star riverside sanctuaries effortlessly blend, offering an energetic yet deeply enriching escape that captures the very essence of ageless exploration.

Bangkok,Thailand

From Bangkok and a short flight we landed in Laos. Nestled at the sacred confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang serves as the spiritual heart of Laos and one of Southeast Asia's most enchanting UNESCO World Heritage sites. This remarkable town feels suspended in time, where beautifully preserved French colonial villas stand alongside brilliant, gold-roofed Buddhist temples like Wat Xieng Thong. Every morning at dawn, the ancient streets witness the quiet, saffron-robed processions of the morning alms-giving, a deeply moving tradition that reflects the nation's profound spiritual heritage. Beyond the town's peaceful night markets and exquisite local culinary scene, the lush Laotian countryside unfolds into dramatic karst landscapes and hidden natural wonders, such as the tiered, turquoise pools of the Kuang Si Waterfalls. It is a destination defined by its gentle pace, rich history, and untouched natural beauty, perfectly embodying the spirit of an authentic, ageless journey.

Luang Prabang, LAOS

Next up and a short flight from Laos and nestled in the bustling heart of Vietnam, Hanoi—the country’s vibrant, millennium-old capital—serves as a magnificent cultural anchor that seamlessly bridges ancient history with modern life. The city's crown jewel of heritage is the Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to over 1,300 years of political and cultural history across various Vietnamese dynasties.

Hanoi also acts as the ultimate gateway to Northern Vietnam's most legendary wonders, positioned just a few hours away from the breathtaking Hạ Long Bay – Cát Bà Archipelago. This world-famous UNESCO natural site captivates travelers with its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone karsts.

For us looking to explore further along the heritage trail, several other remarkable UNESCO sites sit within easy reach of the capital:

  • Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex: Often called "Hạ Long Bay on land," this mixed cultural and natural site in Ninh Bình features dramatic karst peaks, tranquil winding rivers, and the historic 10th-century Hoa Lư ancient capital.

  • Citadel of the Hồ Dynasty: Located in Thanh Hóa province, this 14th-century fortress showcases an exceptionally preserved, innovative style of massive stone architecture.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hoi An, Vietnam

Next on our itinerary and Steeped in timeless romance, Hội An Ancient Town is a phenomenally preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site that functions as a living museum of Southeast Asian maritime trade from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Its iconic saffron-yellow merchant houses, intricate Chinese assembly halls, and the iconic 16th-century Japanese Covered Bridge create an enchanting backdrop, which truly comes alive at night under the soft glow of thousands of colorful silk lanterns.

Beyond the town's borders, the region boasts incredible historical depth and modern wonder:

  • My Son Sanctuary: Located just an hour away, this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as the spiritual heart of the ancient Champa Kingdom, nestled in a lush valley and featuring a mystical cluster of partially ruined red-brick Hindu temples.

  • The Cham Islands (Cù Lao Chàm): Positioned just off the coast, this pristine cluster of islands is recognized as a UNESCO Global Biosphere Reserve, celebrated for its rich marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, and tranquil, crystal-clear waters.

  • Sun World Ba Na Hills: For a striking contrast to ancient history, a short trip into the mountains outside neighboring Da Nang takes you to this popular hill station. Perched nearly 1,500 meters above sea level, it offers a cooler alpine climate, a surreal French-themed village accessed by world-record-breaking cable cars, and the globally famous Golden Bridge—a stunning architectural marvel that appears to be held aloft by two giant, weathered stone hands emerging from the misty hillsides.

Our next stop is SIem Reap it Serves as the primary gateway to Cambodia’s ancient soul, Siem Reap is a captivating destination where rich cultural traditions meet jaw-dropping archaeological wonders. The undisputed jewel of the region is the Angkor Archaeological Park, a massive UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching over 400 square kilometers. It encompasses the monumental Angkor Wat—the largest religious structure in the world—alongside the enigmatic stone faces of Bayon Temple within Angkor Thom, and the untamed, root-entwined ruins of Ta Prohm. Beyond the immediate park boundaries, travelers like us seeking a deeper dive into the Khmer Empire ventured just over an hour outside the city to explore Koh Ker, a spectacular, newly inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a unique seven-tiered pyramid temple cutting through the surrounding jungle canopy.

A profoundly moving modern experience, a visit to the APOPO Visitor Center introduces us to the incredible "HeroRATs"—specially trained African giant pouched rats that safely sniff out landmines and save lives, showcasing Cambodia's resilient spirit and remarkable progress. Then, as night falls, the town shifts from historical reverence to vibrant energy at Pub Street (Street 08). This bustling, neon-lit hub comes alive in the evening, offering an eclectic mix of lively bars, night markets, and fantastic local restaurants where travelers can unwind with a cold drink and swap stories of the day's discoveries. For a seamless fusion of majestic history, inspiring humanitarian stories, and raw nature, Siem Reap stood out as an unmissable anchor for our curated Southeast Asian journey.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Silhouetted Angkor Wat temple towers at sunrise in Cambodia with tourists on a stone pathway.
Silhouetted Angkor Wat temple towers at sunrise in Cambodia with tourists on a stone pathway.
Crowd of tourists watching the golden sunrise over the ancient Angkor Wat temple towers in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Crowd of tourists watching the golden sunrise over the ancient Angkor Wat temple towers in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
The historic Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia with stone towers and a dirt path under a clear blue sky.
The historic Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia with stone towers and a dirt path under a clear blue sky.
Giant tree roots growing over ancient stone ruins at Ta Prohm temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
Giant tree roots growing over ancient stone ruins at Ta Prohm temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
Massive tetrameles tree roots growing over ancient stone ruins at Ta Prohm temple in Angkor, Cambodia.
Massive tetrameles tree roots growing over ancient stone ruins at Ta Prohm temple in Angkor, Cambodia.
Tourists posing at Ta Prohm temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia, featuring ancient ruins and massive tree roots.
Tourists posing at Ta Prohm temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia, featuring ancient ruins and massive tree roots.
A tourist walks through the ancient stone doorways of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia.
A tourist walks through the ancient stone doorways of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia.
Archaeologists inspecting an ancient stone wall excavation site at a temple complex.
Archaeologists inspecting an ancient stone wall excavation site at a temple complex.
Ancient Baphuon temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, featuring sandstone carvings and scaffolding for restoration.
Ancient Baphuon temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, featuring sandstone carvings and scaffolding for restoration.
Ancient stone towers of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, featuring carved faces and palm trees.
Ancient stone towers of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, featuring carved faces and palm trees.
Ancient Bayon Temple ruins in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, featuring stone towers reflected in a calm pond.
Ancient Bayon Temple ruins in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, featuring stone towers reflected in a calm pond.
A tourist walks through the ancient stone temple corridors at Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia.
A tourist walks through the ancient stone temple corridors at Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia.
A Great Hornbill bird with a large yellow beak perched on a tropical tree branch in the jungle.
A Great Hornbill bird with a large yellow beak perched on a tropical tree branch in the jungle.
Luxury infinity pool surrounded by lush tropical gardens, palm trees, and poolside lounge chairs.
Luxury infinity pool surrounded by lush tropical gardens, palm trees, and poolside lounge chairs.
Ancient stone pathway leading to the Preah Khan temple entrance at Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
Ancient stone pathway leading to the Preah Khan temple entrance at Angkor Wat, Cambodia.
A single pink lotus flower bud rising from a pond with green lily pads and blue water reflections.
A single pink lotus flower bud rising from a pond with green lily pads and blue water reflections.
Ancient stone doorway and intricate carvings at the historic East Mebon temple in Angkor, Cambodia.
Ancient stone doorway and intricate carvings at the historic East Mebon temple in Angkor, Cambodia.
Ancient stone temple ruins at Angkor Wat overgrown with massive tree roots in Cambodia.
Ancient stone temple ruins at Angkor Wat overgrown with massive tree roots in Cambodia.
Koh Ker temple complex in Cambodia featuring the ancient seven-tiered pyramid of Prasat Thom.
Koh Ker temple complex in Cambodia featuring the ancient seven-tiered pyramid of Prasat Thom.
A woman in a pink shirt holds a Gambian pouched rat next to a health and hygiene sign.
A woman in a pink shirt holds a Gambian pouched rat next to a health and hygiene sign.
Crowded Pub Street in Siem Reap at night with neon signs, bars, and tourists in Cambodia.
Crowded Pub Street in Siem Reap at night with neon signs, bars, and tourists in Cambodia.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Our next stop is situated at the scenic confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh, the dynamic capital of Cambodia, its a city stepping confidently into the global spotlight. Recently recognized as one of the world's top travel destinations, this bustling metropolis beautifully juxtaposes its rapid, forward-looking modernization with a deeply rooted architectural heritage. Visitors can stroll along the vibrant, pedestrianized Chaktomuk Walk Street on the riverfront, explore the gilded opulence of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, and admire the striking modernist legacy of pioneering architect Vann Molyvann, whose designs continue to inspire a flourishing wave of local, creative boutiques and eateries.

However to fully appreciate Cambodia's profound resilience, an exploration of its complex history is essential. While the capital boasts remarkable cultural triumphs, its also the gateway to the country's most poignant commemorative landmarks. Under the banner of the Cambodian Memorial Sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, places like the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (the most famous of the Killing Fields) and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) stand as vital sacred spaces. Transformed from former centers of repression into quiet locations of peace, education, and reflection, a visit here provides travelers with a deeply moving, necessary understanding of Cambodia's past and an inspiring appreciation for the enduring spirit of its people. Seeing the Killing Fields and S-21 on the same day is a very difficult experience.

Cambodia is a wonderful country and if this is some place you want to go then let me arrange a perfect 7 day+ trip

Panoramic view of Mekong River in Phnom Penh featuring city skyline and tourist river boats.
Panoramic view of Mekong River in Phnom Penh featuring city skyline and tourist river boats.
A man sits on a traditional red and gold Cambodian tuk-tuk motorcycle taxi parked on a city street.
A man sits on a traditional red and gold Cambodian tuk-tuk motorcycle taxi parked on a city street.
Golden Naga snake statue at Wat Phnom temple in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, with the central white pagoda in the background.
Golden Naga snake statue at Wat Phnom temple in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, with the central white pagoda in the background.
Stone naga sculptures flanking the staircase at Wat Phnom temple in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Stone naga sculptures flanking the staircase at Wat Phnom temple in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Traditional Cambodian Buddhist temple with ornate lion statues and gold architecture in Phnom Penh.
Traditional Cambodian Buddhist temple with ornate lion statues and gold architecture in Phnom Penh.
Ornate grey Khmer temple stupa in Cambodia with naga snake sculptures and stone stairs.
Ornate grey Khmer temple stupa in Cambodia with naga snake sculptures and stone stairs.
The ornate Moonlight Pavilion at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia under a blue sky.
The ornate Moonlight Pavilion at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia under a blue sky.
The Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument in Phnom Penh under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
The Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument in Phnom Penh under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Phnom Penh cityscape featuring traditional Buddhist temples and modern skyscrapers near Independence Monument.
Phnom Penh cityscape featuring traditional Buddhist temples and modern skyscrapers near Independence Monument.
A mass grave site at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields in Cambodia, enclosed by a bamboo fence with memorial bracelets.
A mass grave site at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields in Cambodia, enclosed by a bamboo fence with memorial bracelets.
A tourist listens to an audio guide at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields memorial in Cambodia.
A tourist listens to an audio guide at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields memorial in Cambodia.
The Killing Tree at Choeung Ek Genocidal Center in Cambodia covered in memorial bracelets.
The Killing Tree at Choeung Ek Genocidal Center in Cambodia covered in memorial bracelets.
Human skulls displayed behind a glass memorial at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center killing fields in Cambodia.
Human skulls displayed behind a glass memorial at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center killing fields in Cambodia.
A stone memorial statue at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center in Cambodia honoring victims of the Khmer Rouge.
A stone memorial statue at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center in Cambodia honoring victims of the Khmer Rouge.
The main entrance gate and signage of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
The main entrance gate and signage of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
A tourist walks along the balcony of a historic prison building at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Cambodia.
A tourist walks along the balcony of a historic prison building at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Cambodia.
A somber prison cell at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum featuring a metal bed frame with shackles and a desk.
A somber prison cell at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum featuring a metal bed frame with shackles and a desk.

As India’s most iconic travel circuit, the Golden Triangle offers an incomparable introduction to the country’s grand history, timeless artistry, and vibrant energy. Our journey begins in the bustling metropolis of New Delhi, where the country’s layered past seamlessly collides with modern life. Travelers can explore the monumental Red Fort and the towering, 13th-century brick minaret of Qutub Minar—both magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites—before wandering the fragrant, chaotic spice bazaars of Old Delhi or walking the serene gardens of Humayun’s Tomb, the architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal.

From the capital, our route sweeps travelers south toward the majestic city of Agra, home to the world-renowned Taj Mahal and the formidable, red sandstone walls of Agra Fort. Breaking our journey we went into the royal state of Rajasthan, a southward detour that leads to the untamed wilderness of Ranthambore National Park. Once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas, this spectacular reserve is one of the premier locations in India to spot the majestic Bengal tiger in its raw, natural habitat and we did. Nestled deep within the park's rugged crags and dry deciduous forests sits the formidable 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed under the Hill Forts of Rajasthan that offers panoramic views of the lakes and wildlife below. After an exhilarating safari experience, the final leg of the triangle cuts northwest to reach the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur. Known as the "Pink City," Jaipur enchants with its grid-planned old city, the stellar astronomical instruments of the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, and the breathtaking, hilltop defenses of Amber Fort.

For travelers seeking a seamless blend of monumental architecture, raw wildlife thrills, and royal heritage, this expanded journey stands as a classic, unmissable experience. A leisurely 7 night experience like this can be had for less £1000 ask for details and you might have the same driver/guide we did.

New Delhi, India

The historic Qutub Minar, a towering sandstone victory tower and UNESCO World Heritage site in Delhi, India.
The historic Qutub Minar, a towering sandstone victory tower and UNESCO World Heritage site in Delhi, India.
A stone pathway leads to the ancient Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque at the Qutub Minar complex in Delhi, India.
A stone pathway leads to the ancient Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque at the Qutub Minar complex in Delhi, India.
The white marble Lotus Temple in New Delhi, India, showing its flower-like architecture and surrounding green gardens.
The white marble Lotus Temple in New Delhi, India, showing its flower-like architecture and surrounding green gardens.
Isa Khan Niyazi's Tomb in Delhi, featuring Mughal architecture with blue tiled domes and octagonal structure.
Isa Khan Niyazi's Tomb in Delhi, featuring Mughal architecture with blue tiled domes and octagonal structure.
Tourists walking through the gardens of Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Delhi, India.
Tourists walking through the gardens of Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Delhi, India.
View of Humayun's Tomb in Delhi through a stone archway with tourists visiting the historic Mughal monument.
View of Humayun's Tomb in Delhi through a stone archway with tourists visiting the historic Mughal monument.
The India Gate war memorial in New Delhi featuring the stone archway and sandstone canopy on a clear day.
The India Gate war memorial in New Delhi featuring the stone archway and sandstone canopy on a clear day.
Tourists walk through the red sandstone courtyards of the historic Agra Fort in India under a cloudy sky.
Tourists walk through the red sandstone courtyards of the historic Agra Fort in India under a cloudy sky.
The historic Anguri Bagh garden and white marble Khas Mahal pavilion inside the Agra Fort, India.
The historic Anguri Bagh garden and white marble Khas Mahal pavilion inside the Agra Fort, India.
Red sandstone walls and intricate gate at the historic Agra Fort in India with tourists.
Red sandstone walls and intricate gate at the historic Agra Fort in India with tourists.
Red sandstone palace architecture and the Anup Talao pond at Fatehpur Sikri, India.
Red sandstone palace architecture and the Anup Talao pond at Fatehpur Sikri, India.
Interior view of stone tombs inside a historic Mughal mausoleum with arched lattice windows and stone floors.
Interior view of stone tombs inside a historic Mughal mausoleum with arched lattice windows and stone floors.
Taj Mahal white marble mausoleum at sunrise with its reflection in the garden pool, Agra, India.
Taj Mahal white marble mausoleum at sunrise with its reflection in the garden pool, Agra, India.
Silhouette of an ancient Indian temple dome and arches against a vibrant orange sunset in Agra.
Silhouette of an ancient Indian temple dome and arches against a vibrant orange sunset in Agra.
The ornate pink sandstone facade and courtyard of the Hawa Mahal palace in Jaipur, India.
The ornate pink sandstone facade and courtyard of the Hawa Mahal palace in Jaipur, India.
A Bengal tiger walking through a dry, rocky forest landscape on a wildlife safari.
A Bengal tiger walking through a dry, rocky forest landscape on a wildlife safari.
The Jal Mahal water palace on Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur, India, with the Aravalli hills in the background.
The Jal Mahal water palace on Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur, India, with the Aravalli hills in the background.

From Delhi we fly to Kathmandu. The ultimate journey through Nepal begins in the historic Kathmandu Valley, a treasure trove of spiritual heritage where an astonishing seven distinct groups of monuments are collectively recognized as a single UNESCO World Heritage Site. We immersed ourlseves in the living history of the elegant, brick-carved Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, which showcase centuries of royal Malla artistry. Towering over the valley are the region's most sacred Buddhist monuments—the enigmatic stone eyes of the ancient Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and the massive, atmospheric dome of Boudhanath Stupa—alongside the sprawling, sacred Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath along the banks of the Bagmati River. We even got to see a living goddess from a balcony

Himalayan Horizons and Majestic Safaris

For a seamless transition from deep cultural immersion to raw nature, a short drive to the hilltop ridge of Nagarkot offerd the unparalleled, panoramic overlooks of the snow-capped Central Himalayas, where watching the sunrise over a jagged horizon of peaks is a transcendent experience. In order to get even closer to the sky, we stepped aboard the thrilling Yeti Airlines Everest Express mountain flight from Kathmandu. This early-morning flight provided an absolute window-seat guarantee, sweeping us past the clouds for jaw-dropping, eye-level views of Mount Everest and the surrounding giants. Next we packed our bags and headed into the lush, subtropical lowlands of the Chitwan National Park—Nepal's premier natural UNESCO World Heritage Site—awaits us. Here we had an exhilarating jungle safari which revealed a vibrant ecosystem where travelers can track the majestic Bengal tiger and spot the prehistoric, greater one-horned rhinoceros roaming freely through the tall elephant grass. Sadly no tigers this time but plenty of up close encounters of Rhinos

The final, deeply reflective anchor of this heritage trail lies further west at Lumbini, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha. As a profoundly sacred UNESCO World Heritage Site, this tranquil archaeological park centers around the Mayadevi Temple, marking the exact spot where Siddhartha Gautama was born in 623 B.C. Surrounded by a peaceful monastic zone filled with beautifully designed monasteries built by Buddhist communities from around the globe, Lumbini stands as an enduring monument to world peace and spiritual contemplation, completing a truly diverse and seamless journey through the very soul of Nepal. Then a very long ride back to the captial on some of the worst roads we have encountered on any trip.

A trip like this with an expert driver costs less than you think. So if Nepal is somewhere on your bucket list give me a call or email.

Kathmandu, Nepal

Smoke rises from cremation pyres at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Smoke rises from cremation pyres at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The ornate entrance of Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu Nepal, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site.
The ornate entrance of Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu Nepal, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site.
Crowded street scene leading to the historic Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal with traditional brick buildings.
Crowded street scene leading to the historic Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal with traditional brick buildings.
Crowds visit the historic Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal, under a cloudy sky.
Crowds visit the historic Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal, under a cloudy sky.
A smiling couple taking a selfie on an airport tarmac next to a Buddha Air turboprop plane.
A smiling couple taking a selfie on an airport tarmac next to a Buddha Air turboprop plane.
Panoramic view of the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountain range under a clear blue sky.
Panoramic view of the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountain range under a clear blue sky.
Panoramic view of snow-capped Kanchenjunga mountain range under a clear blue sky in Darjeeling.
Panoramic view of snow-capped Kanchenjunga mountain range under a clear blue sky in Darjeeling.
Tourists walking through Kathmandu Durbar Square featuring historic multi-tiered pagoda temples in Nepal.
Tourists walking through Kathmandu Durbar Square featuring historic multi-tiered pagoda temples in Nepal.
Historic multi-tiered wooden temples and stone architecture at Kathmandu Durbar Square in Nepal.
Historic multi-tiered wooden temples and stone architecture at Kathmandu Durbar Square in Nepal.
Intricately carved black wooden windows on a traditional red brick Nepalese temple building.
Intricately carved black wooden windows on a traditional red brick Nepalese temple building.
The historic Swayambhunath Monkey Temple stupa with prayer flags under a blue sky in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The historic Swayambhunath Monkey Temple stupa with prayer flags under a blue sky in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Ancient pagodas and stone temples at Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, Nepal.
Ancient pagodas and stone temples at Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, Nepal.
Historic Patan Durbar Square with ancient Newari temples and stone architecture in Lalitpur, Nepal.
Historic Patan Durbar Square with ancient Newari temples and stone architecture in Lalitpur, Nepal.
A wild Indian rhinoceros stands behind tall grass in its natural safari habitat.
A wild Indian rhinoceros stands behind tall grass in its natural safari habitat.
The white Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini, Nepal, the historic birthplace of Gautama Buddha.
The white Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini, Nepal, the historic birthplace of Gautama Buddha.

SriLanka & Maldives - 14 days

December 27th 2025 - January 10th 2026

Wow! , Sri Lanka packs an unbelievable amount of wonder into one island, effortlessly bridging millennia of human history with some of the most vibrant wilderness on the planet. Journeying through the cultural heart of the island reveals a staggering collection of all eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, where the ancient past feels entirely alive. From wandering the sprawling, sacred ruins of Anuradhapura and the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa to marveling at the breathtaking engineering of the Sigiriya rock fortress rising abruptly from the jungle floor, the scale of early Sri Lankan civilization is humbling. The journey through time transitions beautifully into the deep spirituality of the Dambulla cave temples and Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, before sweeping down to the coast where the living, breathing colonial history of Galle Fort meets the sea.

Leaving the coastal plains behind, the landscape shifts dramatically as you ascend into the misty, emerald-hued central highlands. Here, the air turns crisp and cool, and the hillsides are blanketed by endless, perfectly manicured tea plantations that look like a vibrant green tapestry draped over the mountains. Winding through historic estates like Nuwara Eliya or Ella, you can watch skilled tea pluckers deftly gathering leaves against a backdrop of cascading waterfalls and dramatic valleys. This misty hill country—itself encompassing a protected UNESCO natural site—serves as the perfect bridge to the island's coastal wilderness. Stepping onto the plains of reserves like Yala or Wilpattu offers a front-row seat to one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, while massive herds of wild elephants navigate the scrub forests nearby. The adventure culminates where the jungle meets the Indian Ocean; heading out into the deep blue waters off the coast reveals the humbling sight of blue whales breaching against the horizon. It is a rare destination where you can stand atop an ancient rock palace in the morning, walk through a cloud-veiled tea estate in the afternoon, and watch the largest creatures on earth from a boat at sunset.

On this trip we had a private driver to take us around and this worked amazingly. If Sri Lanka looks like your cup of tea I can arrange everything for you to have an amazing holiday. I have itineraries for all lengths, ours was 10 full days. Sir Lanka boasts some amazingly good value accommodation.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

The ancient brick Jetavanaramaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, with Buddhist flags and a tuk-tuk.
The ancient brick Jetavanaramaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, with Buddhist flags and a tuk-tuk.
A large dark grey monitor lizard with textured scales crawls through green grass.
A large dark grey monitor lizard with textured scales crawls through green grass.
A large white Ruwanwelisaya stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, with pilgrims walking along the path.
A large white Ruwanwelisaya stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, with pilgrims walking along the path.
Farmers wearing colorful hats and carrying green mesh bags pick tea leaves in a lush plantation.
Farmers wearing colorful hats and carrying green mesh bags pick tea leaves in a lush plantation.
A small brown mongoose stands on a fallen log surrounded by lush green garden foliage.
A small brown mongoose stands on a fallen log surrounded by lush green garden foliage.
A wild leopard walking through tall green grass in a savanna during a safari tour.
A wild leopard walking through tall green grass in a savanna during a safari tour.
Tourists relaxing on sun loungers at a tropical beach resort in Sri Lanka with palm trees and blue ocean waves.
Tourists relaxing on sun loungers at a tropical beach resort in Sri Lanka with palm trees and blue ocean waves.
The historic Galle Fort lighthouse and white mosque along the scenic stone ramparts in Sri Lanka.
The historic Galle Fort lighthouse and white mosque along the scenic stone ramparts in Sri Lanka.

Male, Maldives

A short flight over to the Maldives we embark on a proper four-day getaway to the Maldives from Colombo, Sri Lanka. This extension provides the ultimate tropical contrast, transforming a quick 90-minute flight across the Laccadive Sea into a seamless transition from urban energy to absolute paradise. Upon touching down at Velana International Airport in Malé, we took a scenic seaplane transfer which whisked us away to our All inclusive sanctuary, where time slows down to the rhythm of gently lapping waves. With four days at our disposal, we effortlessly balanced pure relaxation with vibrant ocean adventures—spending our mornings snorkeling alongside sea turtles and manta rays right off a powdery white-sand beach, and our afternoons unwinding in our overwater villa. Our secluded luxury was a private resort atoll, this short but sweet island escape delivered a perfect dose of world-class diving, sun-drenched beach therapy, and unforgettable multi-hued sunsets before our flight back home to a cold rainy winter .Maldives is very much a splurge but every now and again a few day is what the doctor ordered.

Aerial view of a luxury Maldives island resort with overwater villas and turquoise ocean water.
Aerial view of a luxury Maldives island resort with overwater villas and turquoise ocean water.
Luxury Maldives water villas view at sunset over turquoise ocean waters from a private wooden balcony.
Luxury Maldives water villas view at sunset over turquoise ocean waters from a private wooden balcony.
Luxury overwater villa wooden deck with sun loungers and ocean views in a tropical resort.
Luxury overwater villa wooden deck with sun loungers and ocean views in a tropical resort.

Our 2025 Wanderings

Contact

david.almond@fora.travel

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