India

India is a global microcosm with one foot deeply grounded in time honoured traditions and the other fervently striding into the digital age.  While it is truly a land of astonishing contrast, as sublime as it is squalid, it certainly embraces diversity like no other country on Earth.  From the forts and palaces of maharajahs to fiery festivals and wildlife safaris at dawn, India is a world of imagination writ large.

Currency is the Indian Rupee

India’s linguistic landscape is varied, including 23 languages recognized in the constitution and more than 1600 minor languages spoken.  Many consider Hindi the national language, however many educated Indians speak English as their first language.

When to visit India:

  • High Season: December to March
  • Shoulder: July to November
  • Low Season: April to June

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

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is Asia’s top culinary capital; whether the deliciousness is Cantonese, Shanghainese, Vietnamese, Japanese or European all of your foodie expectations will be exceeded.  Most visitors to Hong Kong begin exploring this vibrant Asian capital by reflecting on the glass and steel typical of this city’s commercial persona.  Hong Kong also boasts a vibrant cultural scene that features the eclectic influences of its Chinese roots, colonial past and a remarkable amount of homegrown talent.

Currency is the Hong Kong Dollar

Languages are Cantonese and English

When to visit Hong Kong:

  • High Season: November to February
  • Shoulder: October, March to April
  • Low Season: May to September (typhoon season)

There is a code of conduct for visiting temples.  It is important to act and dress with respect when visiting religious sites.  Women may accept a gift from a monk but must be careful never to touch him.  Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate.  Hats must be taken off when entering the grounds.   Shoes must be taken off before going into the temples.  When sitting in front of Buddha, sit with feet to the side.  Bow in the presence of elderly monks.  Giving a small monetary donation will be greatly appreciated.  Never point your finger or soles of your feet towards a monk or a Buddha figure.

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.