Borneo is to Malaysia and Indonesia as Hawai‘i is to the USA – a tropical island getaway. And the secret is nearly out: Borneo is one of the last remaining tropical paradises that won’t break the bank.If you’ve spent years dreaming of longboat trips down murky rivers, of jungle trails green in tooth and claw, of smoky longhouses and drunken dances, of strange creatures and hidden caverns, of blowpipes and head-hunters – rest easy: you’ve just found what you’re looking for. Sarawak is ‘classic’ Borneo par excellence, and few other places will reward a little adventurous spirit so grandly.

The beauty of Sarawak is its blend of tribal tradition and unfettered nature: everything from the scattered valley farms of the Kelabit Highlands to the bird’s-nest trading communities of the Niah Caves and the nomadic jungle Penan have their place. Of course, plenty has changed here since the first intrepid explorers started charting the tree-strangled hills, and the grim realities of modern capitalism have put paid to many of Sarawak’s treasures, particularly in the receding rainforest, where relentless logging continues to take its toll.

However, the essential flavour of the region continues to saturate most aspects of life here, and it’s still possible to find untouched corners of wilderness where it feels like the last 100 years never happened. The longhouses may have satellite dishes, the cities may have tower blocks and the jungles may have airstrips, but at the end of the day Sarawak is unlike anywhere else on earth. Whatever your dreams, Sarawak is everything you imagined Borneo would be, and once you’re here all you can do is dive straight in and live out the fantasy. Take me there...

Ladakh is one of the few places on earth which is still virtually untouched and unexplored. It’s one of India’s best kept secrets that we can’t help but let you in on. Enjoy the calm serenity of the fresh mountain air without a care in the world and wander through the ancient hills on a trans-Himalayan voyage of discovery through this majestic land. The phrase, ‘Journey of a Lifetime’, is much quoted but it seldom applies to a journey better than the Trans Himalayan Expedition from Delhi to Srinagar. It is likely the greatest journey that you can undertake on you own. From start to finish there is breathtaking scenery, rich flavours of India, amazing roads and unique experiences. On two occasions the road climbs to more than 5,000 meters (16,404ft) high and for entire days you can be at 4,000 meters (13,123ft). While the air is thin, the effects of altitude are muted by you being in a vehicle and not needing to exert yourself. You drive some of the highest motorable passes in the world and look down onto lush or arid plains and mountains in equal measure. This unusual and beautiful unexpected road trip through Ladakh lets you escape to the unknown valleys and villages of the Indus Valley – the perfect 2013 escape. Take me there...

Croatia - a land of a thousand islands, magical nature and rich heritage, land whose beauties have been celebrated since ancient times. Croatia has so many loveable characteristics and little gems just waiting to be discovered. Whatever route you take, and whichever harbour you head to, you’re guaranteed to have a enchanted visit to these shores. Croatia is an unbeatable holiday destination. Whether you want medieval charm or modern luxury, hidden coves or heaving nightlife, it has it all; throw some top-notch gourmet seafood into the mix (think, eating fresh oysters off the deck of your yacht as you bop on the gleaming Adriatic sea) and you’ve got a sure fire winner.

Soak in a thermal spa at Istarske Toplice in Istria. Hike through pristine forests watered by mountain streams in the west. Let the waterfalls of Plitvice moisten your face

Go for a stroll down the sun-kissed streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admiring its ancient forts, red-tiled roof-tops and ornate churches and monasteries as you go. Sample the fishy delicacies on offer in Hvar, enjoy roasted squid, juicy oysters and sweet scallops fresh from the surrounding Adriatic Sea straight to your plate. After dinner head to the BB Club, Hvar’s hottest bar where you can sip a cold beer while listening to DJ tunes on the spacious terrace. Our hidden gem, the medieval town of Korcula offers many cultural delights, from its many museums to its beautiful architecture; tiny churches and winding alleyways, not to mention its outstanding natural beauty. We would also recommend taking a speed boat out to the scores of tiny surrounding islands for a wander and a picnic on your own secret bay. Take me there...

Iceland is a mountainous island nation in the north Atlantic Ocean, located between Europe and North America. Though not part of the continental mainland, the country is considered European. The name of the country - Iceland - may not be that appropriate: although 10% of Iceland is covered by glaciers, it has a surprisingly mild climate and countless geothermal hot-spots. The native spelling ("Ísland") is appropriate in English as well.

Iceland is a stunningly beautiful place if you enjoy strange and desolate landscapes. Because it is so close to the Arctic Circle, the amount of daylight varies dramatically by season. The sun sets briefly each night in June, but it doesn't get fully dark before it comes back up again. In the March and September equinoxes, days and nights are of about equal length, as elsewhere in the world. If you go in December, it's almost 20 hours of darkness. Summer is definitely the best time to go, and even then the tourist traffic is still mild. The midnight sun is a beautiful sight and one definitely not to be missed. It is easy to lose track of time when the sun is still high in the sky at 11PM. Early or late winter, however, can be surprisingly good times to visit. In late January, daylight is from about 10AM to 5PM, prices are lower than in the high season, and the snow-blanketed landscape is eerily beautiful. (Some sites are, however, inaccessible in the winter). Take me there...

Andaman and Nicobar are a large group of nearly 600 islands in the Bay of Bengal. Though they are a part of India politically, they are closer to Myanmar and Thailand than to the Indian mainland. They are grouped here with Southern India.

1400 km from mainland, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are one of the most remote spots on the planet. The original inhabitants are various aboriginal tribes who exist more-or-less out of the mainstream. There are some tribes who have had no contact whatsoever with the rest of the world. Of nearly 600 islands, only 9 are open to tourists, and all of these are in the Andamans

In the Andamans, the main spoken languages are Tamil and Bengali. Telugu, English and Hindi are widely understood by the inhabitants of the islands that are open to tourism. ....

Beach No. 7 on the western coast, better known as "Radha Nagar" Beach, is one of the most popular beaches on Havelock island and was named "Best Beach in Asia" by Time in 2004. Other notable beaches include Elephant Beach on the northwest coast and Vijaynagar Beach (No. 5), Beach No. 3 and Beach No. 1 on the east coast. Take me there...

Spain (Spanish: España) is a diverse country sharing the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal at the western end of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the country with the second-largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, after Italy, and the largest number of World Heritage Cities.

Spain is considered an exotic country in Europe due to its friendly inhabitants, relaxed lifestyle, its cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous folklore and festivities. Among many places worth visiting are Spain's thriving capital Madrid, the vibrant coastal city of Barcelona, the famous "Running of the Bulls" at Pamplona, major Andalusian cities with Islamic architecture, like Seville, Granada and Córdoba, the Way of St. James and the idyllic Balearic and Canary Islands.

With great beaches, fun nightlife, many cultural regions and historic cities, Spain makes a great destination for any kind of trip. A country of large geographic and cultural diversity, Spain is a surprise to those who only know its reputation for great beach holidays. There is everything from lush meadows and snowy mountains to huge marshes and deserts in the south east. While summer is the peak season because of the beaches, those who wish to avoid the crowds should consider visiting in the winter as attractions such as the Alhambra in Granada and La Gran Mezquita in Cordoba will not be overcrowded. Take me there...

The hill station of Dharamshala sits on a narrow ridgeline along the Dhauladhar range. Dharamshala town is roughly divided into two sections – the lower town with its traditional settlement and market areas and the upper town of McLeodganj, famous for its celebrity resident, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The heights of the two sections vary from 1,250 metres to about 1,770 metres with a steep winding 10 km road linking the two sections. Around a 150 kms from Mandi, this hill resort of Dharamshala in the Kangra Valley of northern Himachal Pradesh is the most important town of the district.

Surrounded by pine forests, the grand Dhauladhar ranges tower like sheets of rock over Dharamshala, making this a great place for the adventure lover. The influx of Tibetan refugees after Chinese occupation in 1959 changed all that. The Dalai Lama set up his temporary residence at McLeodganj, the upper town and has continued to stay here.

Dharamshala gets a steady flow of refugees who cross from Tibet through Nepal. As a result, the large Tibetan settlement and the Tibetan Government in Exile have transformed this sleepy Himachali town. Many western visitors come to Dharamshala in search of spiritual guidance and an audience with the Dalai Lama.

So travel to Dharamshala if you are looking for some adventure as well as spiritual rejuvenation. Take me there...

Surrounded by miles and miles of clear blue Aegean Sea waters, Greece lies along the eastern edge of Europe- a tiny country, jam-packed with everything a tourist destination could boast of. Oodles of history and culture; towering mountains and golden beaches; wooded hills and ancient ruins: not much is missing in Greece.

Athens: The capital city of Greece has a history dating back to more than 3000 years when it was first inhabited on the rock of Acropolis. Athens is a true representation of what Europe was a millennia ago i.e. the birthplace of humanity. From excursion spots such as harbor of Piraeus to National Archeological Museum, and place of Modern civilization, Acropolis, Athens is a must visit destination for the visitors. Idyllic ambience, restaurants, spectacular beaches, cafes, souvenir shops, ethnic cuisines, and all what you desire on your holidays can be found in this city.

Santorini: The City Synonymous With Charisma. Drown in the luxury and experience the serenity of this spectacular city, Santorini that offers scads of options to the visitors to enjoy. Whether you have tied your nuptial knot or are looking to spend some time alone, Santorini is surely the city to halt at. This city encompasses cerulean landscapes, traditional villages, tall cliffs, breathtaking views, and a dream-like setting to the tourists. And, one place that you surely cannot give a pass is Oia, the major destination that is renowned for its stunning sunsets.

Mykonos: Limitless Fun and Frolic. If you are looking for never ending fun and frolic on your visit to Greece, then Mykonos is the most desirable place for you. You can see Cycladic cubist style architecture all over the Mykonos. It is a city packed with beautiful white little houses having blue windows and flowers, pigeon keepers, wonderful cares as well as restaurants, hand painted streets, chimneys, aplenty little churches, and windmills. In nutshell, this serene like city is a must head towards for the travelers who wish to loosen themselves and rest their tired bones. Take me there...

Udaipur, the capital of the former princly state of Mewar, is a beautiful city in Rajasthan, also known as the City of lakes, as it is famous for its lakes and palaces. A current tourist favorite, especially for up-market Westerners, it was a backdrop for numerous movies including the James Bond flick "Octopussy".

Udaipur is referred to as the "Venice of the East", the "Most Romantic City of India" and the "Kashmir of Rajasthan" (a reference to Dal Lake) and not without reason. Tourists flock to this enchanting old & modern town in the heart of the Aravalli Mountains, which offers three interconnected lakes within the town - the Fateh Sagar Lake, the Lake Pichhola and the smaller Swaroop Sagar Lake; along with forts, palaces, temples, gardens, mountains and narrow lanes lines withdrawn with stalls, relives the reminisces of a heroic past, valor and chivalry.

The city of Udaipur was built by King Maharana Udai Singh upon the advice of a sage and has been a capital city for the Mewar rulers till the British took over in the year 1818.

Take a boat ride to Jag Mandir located on the southern island of Lake Pichola at sunset. Spend the evening there and enjoy a great dinner combined with excellent hospitality. The city of Uadaipur reflected in the lake at night in all its splendour will leave you spell bound. An experience you will remember for a long time.

Also check out the vintage car collection. Here you can see the cars used by the ‘Maharajas’ over the decades. A must see for all you car lovers out there!. Take me there...

A country at the bottom of the world, the last place God made and he saved up the best for the last. 2500km away from the closest country, New Zealand lies hidden in misty solitude. Kupe - the first explorer to land on its shores named it ‘Aotearoa’- Land of the Long White Cloud. New Zealand is one of the most awe-inspiring places on earth. New Zealand has everything an exotic holiday destination should have - mist covered volcanoes, clear blue seas teeming with fish, snow capped mountains, geysers, virgin rain forests, glaciers, the indigenous (Maori) culture and lots and lots of adventure sports. Just when you think you've experienced it all, there's more.

New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: jagged mountains, rolling pasture land, steep fiords, pristine trout-filled lakes, raging rivers, scenic beaches, and active volcanic zones. These islands are one of Earth's most unique biozones, inhabited by flightless birds seen nowhere else such as weka and kiwi. Indeed the Kiwi is not only one of the national symbols - the others being the silver fern leaf and koru - but is also the name New Zealanders usually call themselves.

We would of course recommend a month's holiday in New Zealnd, but even if you stay for a day or two, you won't return disappointed, just hungry for more. Just get the hang of their delightful twang, and you'll have the best holiday of your lifetime in New Zealand. Take me there...

Known as the Land of Born Free, Kenya is richly endowed by nature.

A land of contrasts; from snowcapped mountains to palm fringed beaches; lush farmlands and harsh deserts; misty highlands and sun kissed savannah; cosmopolitan cities set amidst the last bastions of great herds of roaming wildlife. Kenya is a must for any wildlife enthusiast, who will revel in its sunny wilderness.

Drunk on the scent of Frangipani; drenched with the rubescent hues of the Masai and overgrown with friendly locales, Kenya is the Dark continent's favorite bedtime story.

It is not for no reason that Kenya is one of the top destinations in Africa — it is jam-packed with beautiful and diverse landscapes, from a tropical coastline dotted with miles of white sand beaches and coral reefs, to spectacular national parks with endless opportunities for safaris.

Kenya also contains one of the most colourful arrays of tribal cultures anywhere in Africa. Kenya’s Rift Valley contains prehistoric fossils and other evidence that have continued to delight archaeologists all over the world, ever since Louis Leakey carried out his famous ‘digs’ in the area. Kenya is also one of the most tourist-friendly countries in Africa, despite the political tensions prevailing there.

Kenya is totally geared for the tourist with extensive tourist infrastructure that make it is wonders accessible, and friendly villagers in the countryside who will make your trip an enjoyable one. Take me there...

Mussoorie with its green hills & varied flora & fauna, is a fascinating hill resort and a fabulous honeymoon spot. Commanding a wonderful view of extensive Himalyan snow ranges to the northeast, & glittering views of the Doon Valley, Roorkee, Saharanpur & Haridwar to the South, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to the tourists. Its history dates back to 1827 when Captain Young, an adventurous military officer, explored the present site & laid the foundation of this holiday resort which now has few rivals. Mussoorie is famous for its scenic beauty and hectic social life.

Perched on a 15 kms long horseshoe shaped ridge with the grand Himalayas as a backdrop is the colonial hill station of Mussoorie. At heights of over 2,000 metres, Mussoorie has superb views of peaks in the western Garhwal hills, including Banderpunch Massif at 6,316 metres and Swargarohini at 6,252 metres. 34 kms from Dehradun, this popular hill resort overlooks the Doon valley to its south. Trekkers begin their journey into the Hari-ki-Dun area with its snowscapes and verdant-forested slopes from Mussoorie.

One of the most easily accessed hill stations in northern India, during the peak tourist season Mussoorie becomes a bustling resort with hordes of holidaymakers ambling down the central Mall. The suburban area of Landour, about 300 metres away from the main town, is quieter and has managed to retain some of its old colonial charm. Surrounded by lush wooded expanses and winding lanes, it offers good opportunities for quiet walks away from the crowds.

At an altitude of over 6000 ft (2000m), Mussoorie is a popular retreat from the heat of the plains. Be prepared for the cold if you come in the Winter (Dec-Feb), when you can expect freezing weather and snow. The monsoon arrives in July and stays through mid-September. Take me there...

Bali, the famed Island of the Gods, with its varied landscape of hills and mountains, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, lush rice terraces and barren volcanic hillsides all providing a picturesque backdrop to its colourful, deeply spiritual and unique culture, stakes a serious claim to be paradise on earth. With world-class surfing and diving, a large number of cultural, historical and archaeological attractions, and an enormous range of accommodations, this is one of the world's most popular island destinations and one which consistently wins travel awards. Bali has something to offer a very broad market of visitors from young back-packers right through to the super-rich.

The word "paradise" is used a lot in Bali and not without reason. The combination of friendly, hospitable people, a magnificently visual culture infused with spirituality and (not least) spectacular beaches with great surfing and diving have made Bali Indonesia's unrivaled number one tourist attraction. Eighty percent of international visitors to Indonesia visit Bali and Bali alone.

Against the backdrop of Bali’s towering volcanoes, rippling streams and green fields, it’s a beauty you might find at times hard to believe. What makes Bali even more attractive is the fact that it’s easy to get to, many people are fluent in English, and the island is very tourist-friendly. Take me there...

Kovalam is a village in the southern state of Kerala in India. It is located about 17 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam is famous for its beaches, among the most pristine in India. Kovalam is extremely popular among westerners due to shallow waters and low tidal waves. It is also one of the oldest tourist enclave in India, which known among tourist circuit right in 1930s. Kovalam shot into limelight in the early seventies with arrivals of the masses of hippies. That started the transformation of a casual fishing village of Kerala into one of the most important tourist destinations in all India- the Kovalam beach.

Kovalam has 3 major beaches in its 17 km coastline. The southernmost, known as the Lighthouse Beach is the most popular of the three. Many hotels, restaurants, lodges and shops are located here. It is frequented by outsiders who stay and enjoy Kovalam.

The Northern most crescent, (with the different names Main Beach/Leela Beach/Samudra Beach) - is crowded on weekends, is very popular with the locals, day-travelers, and passing-by tourist buses. During the week it's quiet. Hawa Beach inbetween is among one of the beaches in India where top-less sunbathing is tolerated and well appreciated by the locals. The tourism department provides a vigilant life guard service on both Lighthouse and Hawa beach.

If sun, sand and sea are all what you are looking for, Kovalam is your idyllic destination. Kovalam is indeed a ‘Paradise of the South’ with renowned beaches and pristine beauty. Ayurvedic salons are of course a topping on the cake!Take me there...