Exploring our glorious planet is a calling for Original Travel’s team of destination specialists. Their mission: to seek out the most authentic, exciting and original experiences from around the world. It’s a tough job, but somebody has to sample the sort of things we plan for our clients, so here’s a snapshot of where our team have travelled so far this year, from Greece and Switzerland to Botswana, Namibia and Australia.
Namibia
Paul, Africa specialist
“I recently got back from a 12-night trip to Namibia. I visited Namibrand Nature Reserve (near Sossusvlei), Swakopmund, the Skeleton Coast, the Hoanib Valley and a private reserve bordering Etosha National Park. I saw incredible wildlife, from desert-adapted lions to white rhinos; got stuck into adventure activities, including quad-biking, sand boarding, hiking in the mountains and a marine safari; and saw some of the world’s darkest and clearest skies in the Namibrand, a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Reserve. My top tip to clients planning a trip to Namibia, would be to visit in March/April. At this time of year, the crowds thin out, the temperatures are more comfortable and it’s less dusty.”
Australia
Meg, Asia specialist
“My trip to Australia was all about seeing the country from land, sea, and the air. I trekked through the Daintree Rainforest; went sailing and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef; and flew over Sydney Harbour in a seaplane. I also ate and drank incredibly well. My favourite lunch was at a restaurant called Old Young’s Kitchen. The restaurant uses ingredients harvested by Dale Tilbrook (an Aboriginal tour guide), so everything is really fresh, and the flavours are truly Australian. For anyone planning a trip to Australia, I’d recommend a stay at Silky Oaks Lodge, in the middle of the Daintree Rainforest, for the ultimate luxury lodge experience. And if you do, make sure to check out the hiking trails that lead from the lodge into the rainforest. You’ll find secret river swimming spots, beautiful views, and some friendly local wildlife.”
Cyclades, Greece
Emily, Europe specialist
“I recently got back from the Cyclades islands, where I mainly explored by hire car. It’s a great value option and without a doubt the best way to explore. The roads are quiet, there is free parking pretty much everywhere, and it allows you to freely explore the best beaches, smaller towns, local tavernas and hidden spots that you wouldn’t otherwise get to. One of the main highlights of the trip was a catamaran cruise in Milos. Half the island is inaccessible by car and so the only way to reach it is by boat. You pass by beautiful coves where you can swim and snorkel and stop for a BBQ in the middle of the sea. Another was driving around the tiny, deserted island of Folegandros. It felt super laidback, and we passed by the occasional goat or donkey on the side of the road – it had a very Greek feel to it!”
Switzerland
Arran, Europe specialist
“We’re big fans of train travel and my trip to Switzerland was all about sampling some of the country’s finest routes and working out which trains to take to maximise the time you have during your trip. Taking the Bernina Express was a definite highlight of my trip. The landscapes were truly jaw dropping and varied hugely in just a few hours as the route winds up to the snow-covered Bernina Pass and then descends into the lush green valleys below. I also got to enjoy a three-course meal on the Glacier Express and visited the incredible spa at Hotel Rigi Kaltbad, which has the biggest indoor/outdoor spa pool I’ve ever seen.”
Botswana
James, Africa specialist
“On my latest trip to Botswana I visited the town of Maun, the spectacular Okavango Delta and the Linyanti Wetlands. While I was there, I witnessed some incredible wildlife moments. I saw around 20 elephants drinking at a water hole in front of Nxai Pan Camp; watched lions hunt buffalo; got some incredible shots of a beautiful young female leopard who posed for us on a long open branch of a tree; and saw hyena pups who came up close to our vehicle to investigate us. My advice to anyone considering a safari adventure here is to bear in mind that wildlife watching can be unpredictable; some days you may see loads and other days you may see a lot less. But that’s part of Botswana’s wild and untamed charm.”
Written by Ella Mawson
Header image © Jérôme Galland