Hawaii

Look no further, Hawaii is the Pacific paradise to visit.  The technicolor coral reefs and volcanoes beckoning adventurous spirits are highlights not to be missed.  Pretty much everything here feels easy going, low key and casual, bursting with genuine aloha and fun.  Last but certainly not least, Hawaii is proud of its multicultural heritage as well as being the birth place of US President Barack Obama.

Currency is the US Dollar

Language is English and Hawaiian

When to visit Hawaii:

  • High Season: December to April, June to August
  • Shoulder: May, September
  • Low Season: October to November

Guatemala

Guatemala is Central America’s most diverse country offering landscapes and experiences that have been captivating travellers for centuries.  A startling 98% of Guatemala’s land mass is undeveloped and this translates into breathtaking natural vistas and superb verdant scenery throughout the country.  Last but definitely not least, Mayan culture and traditions continue to thrive throughout Guatemala including the always photogenic archeological sites of Tikal and Yaxha.

Currency is Quetzales (Q)

Spanish is the most commonly spoken language in Guatemala.  As well, there are around 20 Mayan indigenous languages.

When to visit Guatemala:

  • High Season: December to April, June to July
  • Shoulder: October to November
  • Low Season: April to September

Greece

If you begin your exploration of Greece in Athens, be sure to visit the world’s most important ancient sites which include the Acropolis and the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater.  Wherever you journey after Athens, be sure to make spectacular Santorini your final destination.  Head to Oia to watch the sun sink into the sea and admire the golden reflections off the cliff faces of the stunning caldera.

Currency is the Euro

Language is Greek

When to visit Greece:

  • High Season: April to August
  • Shoulder: September to October
  • Low Season: November to March

French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a place to take it slow and experience vivid turquoise lagoons, verdant mountainous peaks as well as the not-to-be-missed over water luxury bungalow.  For all these reasons and many more, this island paradise truly is the “Pearl of the Pacific.”

Currency is the Pacific Franc, which is pegged to the Euro

Tahitian and French are the official languages of French Polynesia.  In the tourist industry, French dominates and many workers can speak English.

When to visit French Polynesia:

  • High Season: June to August, December to January
  • Shoulder: February to May, September
  • Low Season: October to November

France

France is Europe’s land of good food and good wine, of landmarks known the world over and hidden landscapes few really know.  In France, the art of living is experienced by eating like there is no tomorrow and drinking red wine by the barrel full.  Start in Paris, where the cultural heritage is gargantuan and inexhaustible; savour the multitude of museums, impressive architecture and precious works of art packed into this global capital on the timeless river Seine.

Currency is the Euro

Language is French

When to visit France:

  • High Season: July and August
  • Shoulder: April to June, September
  • Low Season: October to March

Fiji

Life in Fiji revolves around the church, the village, the rugby field and the garden.  For most, Fiji is every beach lover’s vision of Nirvana.  Alabaster beaches, crystal clear waters, big smiles and towering palms characterize these sunny isles that are so warm they sizzle.  Bula! 

Currency is the Fiji Dollar

Spoken language is Fijian and English

When to visit Fiji:

  • High Season: June to September, December to January
  • Shoulder: May and October
  • Low Season: November, February to April

Egypt

Egypt brings out the explorer in all its travellers.  Visit the Great Pyramids, the temples of Luxor and the majestic Sahara desert.  Not to be missed is the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens on the Western bank of the mighty Nile river.  You’d better believe it, everything you’ve seen on the postcards is true; Egypt will always be a top destination for travel photography.

Currency is the Egyptian Pound.

Language is Arabic and English.

When to visit Egypt:

  • High Season: October to February
  • Shoulder: March to May, September to October
  • Low Season: June to August

Ecuador

Ecuador will amaze you with its lush rainforests, soaring Andean peaks, and the Galapagos Islands.  Take a walk in the steps of Darwin and catch a sight of giant tortoises lumbering over the volcanic landscape.  Last but not least, don’t let its small size deter you; Ecuador packs a punch.

Ecuador’s official currency is the US dollar.

Ecuador’s official language is Spanish, however travellers to the region will encounter indigenous languages and a mix of other European tongues.

When to visit Ecuador:

  • High Season – June to September
  • Shoulder – October to November
  • Low Season – December to May

Travel Health: it is especially important that you visit your travel physician prior to this trip as parts of Ecuador are at altitude.  You may need medication to prevent altitude sickness.

Czechia

Czechia is located in the heart of Europe and is both its physical and emotional centre.  The country offers a plethora of castles, bridges, art and music.  Start in Prague, the golden city, where you can rub elbows with the friendly locals.  Prepare yourself, Czechia is a European traveller’s dream destination.

Language is Czech and English

Currency is Koruny (CZK)

When to visit Czech Republic:

  • High Season: July to August
  • Shoulder: April to June, September to October
  • Low Season: November to March

Cuba

Cuba will take you back in time.  Take in the culture of Havana and check out its crumbling neoclassical grandeur.  Visit the beautiful beaches and soak up the sun.  Prepare yourself quickly, Cuba is a country of indefinable magic on the cusp of change.

Currency is the Pesos for locals or Cuban Convertibles for tourists.

Language is Spanish.  English is very limited.

When to visit Cuba:

  • High Season: November to March, July to August
  • Shoulder: April and October
  • Low Season: May to June, September