Adventure

The Middle East is known the world over for many things, and at the top of the listt is its abundance of oil and Qatar is no different.  No one expected it to be the host of the 2022 World Cup competition until it was announced back in 2010.  Being host to the competition shed a different light on this side of the Arabian Gulf allowing us to see it as a tourist friendly destination and not just for those flying in and out just for business, but learn about Qatar’s history culture and what it has to offer an adventurer.

Do you ever just close your eyes and imagine escaping your day-to-day surroundings? Wishing you could travel to some far-flung destination? All of us do this at some point and especially of you are a lover of the white stuff when winter comes around. Well, we have a destination for you. With its awe-inspiring mountains, expansive lakes, powdery snow and perfect vistas, the Austrian ski resort of Zell am See-Kaprun can certainly the answer to that dream.

You might have a to squint at a map to spot Slovenia, but for a little country in central Europe it packs an adrenaline-fuelled wallop.  There are the Alps running along the north; pristine lakes, karst caves and forests abound in the middle; plus a snipped of Adriatic coastline to the west.  Combined, they make the perfect playground for adventure-seekers. Here’s our guide to the biggest thrills.

Scotland is known for many things, Irn Bru, rain; it is also a fantastic place for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits.  With a countryside rich in everything from towering mountains to crystal-clear lochs, Scotland’s Highlands boast some of the most impressive scenery in Europe.  With a varied national geography running from the lowlands on the English border to the stunning Highlands.  Up north you’ll find everything from mountain ranges for snow sports, sweeping lochs for watersports, and no shortage of stunning scenery for trekking through, mountain biking across and generally marvelling

Beyond the stereotypes, Ireland and Northern Ireland are as characterful and fascinating as is any of their most colourful depictions. Take the time to explore; away from the city centres lie dramatic scenery perfectly suited to outdoor action and water sports, plus isolated secret spots to rival anywhere in the world.  Whether it's escaping to Kerry's coast or marvelling at the Giant's Causeway, there's a host of unforgettable experiences in store Here's our pick of the highlights.

"The bigger the wave, the bigger the dram," says our skipper, Nicol, dispensing socking great measures of whisky to those of us huddled on the rear deck of his tiny boat. Adrenaline is coursing through my body, but so far my newly acquired sea legs are holding out, no small thanks to the warm smack of the liquor. I'm on a terrifyingly choppy ride through the waters off the Hebridean Isle of Jura, heading straight for Corryvreckan, the third biggest natural whirlpool in the world; this 50-minute journey is a race against time to see the swirl at its most dramatic.

Experience these destinations authentically by getting under the skin of these countries is how we want you to experience these short breaks.  These include spying wildlife in Costa Rica’s national parks to cooking with locals on a little-visited Greek island.

There is only one Sri Lanka. This teardrop island  off the south of the mighty subcontinent really packs a punch. But which of its many marvels should make it on to your must-see list? 

TRAINlOURNEY THROUGH TEA COUNTRY

The train journey between Kandy and Ella is arguably one of the world's most scenic offering spectacular views from grand 19th Century bridges that stitch together verdan hill country and rolling, mist-shrouded tea plantations. Aside from the views it also  offers a great window into Sri Lankan life.

Laying claim to the world's biggest rainforest, driest desert, largest salt pan, along with a string of exceptional archaeological sites and stunning natural wonders, Latin America is not short on enthralling and unusual destinations. Here's a clutch of our favourites.

The mountains and farm-covered countryside of northern Switzerland are prime biking territory. The scene is classically Swiss - green, natural, with gentle clanging from Alpine cow bells sounding across the hills and valleys. On our e-bikes, we ride past lavender fields and classic flower- covered farm chalets, racing down hills and effortlessly climbing to the tops of others. Always in the distance are the serene white peaks of Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.