Adventure

Would you like to switch off from the 'hustle and bustle' of everyday life. We have put together six Caribbean islands where you can do just that. Whether you choose to visit one or all, they all offer their distinct take on life in the tropics. From sand, surf and snorkelling to eco-treks into the rainforest, island arts and hot nights on the beach dining on freshly cooked fish, every island has its unique charms, but also a shared appeal to anyone looking for effortless relaxation and more active pursuits when you are ready to get up from that lounger.

What's your definition of 'getting away from it all'? The Turks and Caicos islands of course.  Covering an area of 193 square miles, Turks and Caicos is made up of 40 island and cays, but only eight of them are inhabited.  That's a lot of space for exploring, on land and in the ocean.

This unspoilt treasure reveals so much of authentic island life.  Every quintessential Caribbean pleasure can be found here.  From relaxing in the tropical sunshine to exploring the rainforest, from snorkelling off Cockleshell Beach to shopping in Basseterre, whatever your idea of the perfect holiday is, you can mix and match St Kitts' many diversions to suit you, surfing, mountain biking, golf, water sports and, of course, simply stretching out and feeling that warm glow of great weather.

Spain's resort towns are still a destination when the summer is over and most of the tourist are gone. The winter months offers a different feel to the region, and depending on what you are into and what you would like to do these five cities will offer you just that and more.

The Caribbean is famed for its beaches, but no other island can quite match Tobago.  It has an abundance of largely deserted beaches, ranging from pristine white coral to dark volcanic sand, fringed by the cooling Atlantic.  At Castara Bay's beautiful golden beaches, you can watch the fishermen pull in their nets, stroll along the beach and watch the sun setting over the Caribbean, or search for manta rays while snorkelling in Heavenly Bay's secluded waters.

Explore the four theme parks and two water parks of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, you're only just waving goodbye to you find yourself immersed in another one.  From space Mountain where you're blasted into space to chilling out at Melt-Away Bay at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.  From experience inspired by your favourite Disney movies to thrilling attractions for all ages, with landscaped beaches and dining choices that take you round the world on a plate, and live shows by day and night - Walt Disney World is a unique combination of delights every time you visit.

At stop in Sydney to climb the Harbour Bridge's inner arch for some spectacular views of the harbour; otherwise, you could cruise past the iconic, gleaming white sails of the Sydney Opera House, one of the most distinctive and recognisable buildings in the world, is probably the perfect way to start a tour of Australia before heading for some people-watching as you stroll along the sun-kissed golden sands of Bondi Beach and perhaps a dip in the surf.

Stuck behind a computer and in traffic can feel a long way from adventure.  But Jordan, home to some of mankind's earliest settlements and the world's great civilisations, is straight out of an Indiana Jones film (The Last Crusade to be precise); could this be the most rewarding short-haul travel destination?

They say Buenos Aires is the Paris of South America, so maybe it's not that incongruous a starting point for the race formerly known as the Paris-Dakar Rally.  Founded in 1978, the bone-shaking, engine-rattling ride attracts adventurers on cars, quad bikes and motorbikes, and is one of the most thrilling and dangerous event in sport.

It has been held in South America since security concerns forced it away from its traditional route, which ran from the foot of the Eiffel Tower to the capital of Senegal.

BADWATER 135, CALIFORNIA USA
Traditionally referred to as 'the world's toughest foot race', Badwater was forced to alter its traditional route through Death Valley in 2013.  The Death Valley Park authorities placed a ban on strenuous events taking place during the summer months, when air temperatures (in the shade) reach over 48 degrees.  So organisers came up with an alternative route, one with more than 5,200m of cumulative vertical ascent (compared to 3,962 in the previous route), and 3,900m of cumulative descent (compared to 1,433m).  While temperature might not reach the sizzling heights of Death Valley (ultra-runner Dean Karnazes once reported that between his team car handing him a cheese sandwich and him eating it, said sandwich became a toastie), the world's toughest foot race just got tougher.

Race facts: The race takes place in July; 135miles(217km); Maximum 48 hours, there is an entry fee.