TravelGeneral

Like a virgin

Make the most of your trip to the unspoiled British Virgin Islands with our guide to what not to miss. Words Karla Zimmerman in Lonely Planet US & British Virgin Islands

To make the most of your time in the British Virgin Islands, split your holiday between mountainous Tortola and prosperous Virgin Gorda, and day trip to smaller islands by public ferry or charter boat.

Road Town makes a fine base for exploring Tortola if you want easy access to sophisticated eateries, pubs and boats. Fan out from there to inspect the island’s beaches, such as Apple Bay, home to a world-famous, ramshackle surfer’s bar, and Cane Garden Bay, the island’s live music spot.

Cuba libre

Times are changing in Cuba, and if you want to capture that magical spirit that makes the island so special, book your trip now, says Luke Waterson in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012

For years people have been saying it, and for years (53 and counting) the Castro brothers have staved off the inevitable – that Cuba has to change. Its socialist credentials are gradually crumbling in the face of international capitalism, as evidenced by dramatic public sector cuts and the relaxation of restrictions on private enterprise. With President Obama’s increasingly tolerant attitude, it could soon be hello to a new, Americanised Cuba, and goodbye to the quirky, quintessentially loveable Cuba.

10 awe-inspring things to do in Australia

alt The Land Down Under is also the land of contrasts. Check out some of the most beautiful sights around the country. Words Chris Moss

1 Surf… Bells Beach and the Surf Coast
Patrick Swayze’s quest for the perfect wave in Point Break ended on Bells Beach on the Surf Coast of Victoria, where the breaks hurl even the best surfers from their boards. The first surfing contest, Rip Curl Pro, was held here and its now an annual event, with a music festival tacked on. Easier breaks and surf schools along the coast also make a good place to learn.

2 Exploration… Akadu National Park, Northern Territory 
Alligator Rivers may not be the first place you’d go for a dip, but the spectacular waterfalls with dark plunge pools and sparkling beaches are crocodile- free and perfect after a long bushwalk or drive. Countless animal, bird and plant species inhabit the forest and canyons, where 50,000-year-old Aboriginal paintings survive. 

Beauty on board

The feel good factor is alive and well aboard the latest cruise ships, which offer a growing array of beauty salons and body-pampering treatments – but the costs can quickly add up. Words Douglas Ward

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As we constantly move in “fast-forward” mode we create stress; muscles become taut and knotted. So, taking time out to pamper ourselves is a good way to combine “me” vacation time with moments of indulgence.

Eco-tourism in South East Asia

Scenic destinations that tread lightly on our planet

Tropical getaways just wouldn’t be the same without bio diversity and Southeast Asia is home to some of the most exotic species on the planet. This has led to a wave of awareness and a demand for eco tourism. Eco tourism sites and operators encourage visitors to minimise the environmental impact of their stay, while promoting and benefitting the local community. Such resorts are will be built in a sustainable manner, for example wood will be sourced from maintained plantations rather than logged from old growth forests. They’ll incorporate alternative energy solutions such as solar power, to minimise the destruction of the surrounds that comes with connecting buildings to main power grids. This manner of operating allows for all the creature comforts that many holiday travellers have come to expect while being sensitive to the beauty of the landscape and fragility of the ecosystem.

For the eco tourist, Southeast Asia offers a number of unique destinations and fantastic escapes that tread lightly on our planet. Care to embark on an elephant safari or hike through some of the most breathtaking forests and spot some exotic species? Or for those just looking for a bit of R&R you can partake in a certified eco health spa for some serious indulgence. Those looking for a great eco destination can start by checking out Green Globe, a recognised third party certifier of eco holiday destinations. Or consider one of these great ideas.