France has changed the rules of its health pass ( pass sanitaire) by removing the testing option for those over 16 and making it a vaccine pass ( pass vaccinal). Many people, including tourists, now need a COVID-19 booster shot to access places in France where the pass is required too under the latest rule changes.

The health pass is compulsory across many places in France and currently indicates the holder is vaccinated against COVID-19, has recently recovered from it, or has tested negative. It is usually presented on smartphones or in paper format. It's required of anyone over the age of 12, including residents and tourists, but in the coming days it will become a vaccine pass for those over the age of 16.

As of January 15, the pass also includes a booster condition and people over the age of 18 who have received their second dose of a primary vaccine course more than seven months ago will no longer have a valid pass. From February 15 that timeframe will be reduced to four months. Teenagers aged 12-17 can continue to use their pass without a booster.

This rule also applies to tourists visiting France. While they don't need a booster to enter the country, they will need one to access venues where the health pass is required. Without it, they can test negative for now. "The expiration of the vaccination certificate concerns all persons aged 18 and over, regardless of nationality and place of vaccination, wishing to go to a place subject to the health pass in [France]," a spokesperson for the Health Ministry told Lonely Planet. "However, this does not apply in the context of health control at the borders. They can also be tested [in France] to obtain a valid negative test certificate as part of the health pass."

If you're traveling to France, here's a guide to understanding what the health pass is, where you need to present it, and how you can apply for it—wherever you're traveling from.

What is the health pass?

The pass sanitaire (health pass) indicates that the holder has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In France, people over the age of 18 must now have a booster shot to keep their pass active. That means they must get their booster no more than seven months after receiving the second dose of an AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or no more than two months after a Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

From February 15, the rules will change again and the seven-month window will be reduced to four months.

Previously people could access the pass with a negative COVID-19 test but that option will be removed for people over the age of 16 in the coming days.

Tourists will need to show proof of a booster shot if they are over the age of 18 to enter venues where the pass is required, or take a lab-produced test in the past 24 hours (though that may change... details are still being worked out). Children and teenagers who are not fully vaccinated with booster shots can access the pass by testing negative in the past 24 hours with either a PCR or antigen test too.

Those vaccinated with Sinopharm or Sinovac can also apply for a French health pass if they have had a single booster dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.

Where do I need to present it?

It came into effect in July, granting the holder access to any leisure or cultural venue across France with a capacity of more than 50 people, including museums, galleries, theaters, cinemas, concert halls, exhibition spaces, nightclubs, discos, zoos, open-air festivals, sporting venues, theme parks, libraries, swimming pools, and tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower.

In August, the health pass was extended to restaurants, cafes and bars (both indoors and outdoors), long-distance trains and coaches, domestic flights, hospitals, nursing homes, and large shopping malls.

French citizens can upload their vaccination or testing status to the ToutsAntiCovid app, or apply for a paper version with a QR code.

Read more: Do you need a visa to go to France?

How can tourists apply for the health pass?

If you're traveling from the EU or any country signed up to the EU digital COVID cert program, you can present your digital COVID-19 certificate or any approved European health certificate that documents your vaccination and booster status. The French embassy in Germany confirms that if the certificate issued to you appears with a European flag, your certificate is compatible and "will be recognised during [checks] in France in the same way as French certificates."

If you're traveling from the UK, the French government confirmed that people vaccinated in the UK can now import their NHS QR code into the TousAntiCovid app. They can also present a digital or paper NHS certificate showing their full vaccine status as it's now recognized by the EU's digital COVID certificate system.

If you're traveling from the US you must apply in person through a dedicated pharmacy in France when you arrive in the country. You'll be required to pay a fee of up to €36 (about US$44) for the service. However, it's important to note that not all pharmacies offer this service. You might find one easily in cities such as Paris, but as you can see from this map there aren't that many participating pharmacies spread out evenly across France.

When applying, you'll be asked to show your passport and official vaccination certificate (CDC card) with your booster shot information. The pharmacist will convert the details from that certificate into the French system and provide you with a QR code that can be scanned at venues where the health pass is required.

In the meantime, a number of tourist sites are accepting the CDC vaccination card from American visitors. The Palace of Versailles confirmed to Lonely Planet that Americans are permitted to show their CDC vaccination certificate for entry, and it has been reported that the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are allowing it too but it is not generally accepted otherwise as a health pass.

If you're traveling from elsewhere, follow the same process that applies to American tourists.

Where can I get tested in France?

Testing is widely available in France in most pharmacies and medical facilities but you'll generally need to make an appointment in advance. Most pharmacies can do antigen tests for about €25, and PCR tests can cost about €45. When using the health pass as an unvaccinated person or without a booster, your testing status is only valid for 24 hours, which means you'll need to be regularly tested to enter venues. You can find testing locations near you through the COVID testing map.

You might also like:
What is a vaccine passport and do I need one to travel?
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PCR tests for travel: everything you need to know

Explained: What do France's new health pass rules mean for tourists?

From a traveler’s perspective, there are two reasonable responses to the prospect of a long, cold winter: embrace the chill and seek out the most spectacular winter destinations, or follow the warmth, wherever you can find it.

If you’ve had your fill of icy sidewalks and overheated buildings, no one will blame you for choosing option two. For US travelers, you don’t even need to leave the country to ditch the scarves and mittens. Whether you’re after a beach escape, a wildlife adventure or a dose of big-city culture, here’s where to find fun in the sun this winter.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs has its own type of cool going on year-round, but it’s rarely the type that shows up on the thermometer. Winter nights can have a bit of the dry cold of the desert, but the average high temperature never dips below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Palm Springs as a winter oasis is hardly a well-kept secret: it’s high season around the Coachella Valley, but the variety of old-school motor court motels and mid-century modern rentals for your private pool parties means there are options. For those craving a bit more activity than poolside lounging, Joshua Tree National Park and the oddball charm of the Salton Sea (with sights like the International Banana Museum) are less than an hour away.

Phoenix, Arizona

There’s a simple reason 15 Major League Baseball teams relocate to the greater Phoenix area for training before the real season starts: the weather is phenomenal. Phoenix gets 299 days of sunshine every year on average. In the middle of summer, when temperatures regularly shoot past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you might wish for a little less sun — but the clear blue mid-70s days of late winter are perfect for outdoor fun. If you’re not there for the baseball, you can at least see why the ballplayers call it the ‘Cactus League’ at the Desert Botanical Gardens, where the succulents and spiny plants of the desert mingle with art exhibitions, or hit the trail and explore the sandstone formations of Papago Park, or South Mountain Park, a favorite among trail riders.

The ultimate guide to a weekend in Phoenix, Arizona

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The Everglades, Florida

Maybe those baseball teams are onto something because while one part of the league is in Arizona, the rest are warming up in Florida. It’s common for Florida to have the warmest temperatures in the US mainland during the winter: the warmest state overall, the warmest city and the warmest beaches. The warmest national park in the system outside of Hawaii is frequently the Everglades. It’s also the dry season there, making it one of the most popular times of year for visitors, and one of the best times of year to spot wildlife. The drying of the marshes makes wildlife congregate in smaller areas, and migratory birds are doing what you’re doing: flying to Florida in search of warmer climes. Drive the Southern Everglades Highway south until you run out of continent at Flamingo, a great place for spotting manatees.

St John, US Virgin Islands

Looking for warm weather and the feeling that you’re a long, long way from home? St John might fit the bill. Virgin Islands National Park covers two-thirds of the island, preserving many miles of shoreline as well as underwater reef habitats. Traveling with kids? Try Maho Bay, known for its shallow, calm waters popular among snorkelers and green sea turtles.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Winters in New Orleans aren’t exactly hot and sunny — January and February average in the mid-60s — but it’s certainly a welcome change from anywhere snowbound, and the crowds are at their lowest before Mardi Gras swings into town. But it’s New Orleans, so there’s always a party going on, even in winter. Bonfires are lit along the levees every Christmas Eve, a tradition that is supposed to help guide the arrival of Papa Noël, the Cajun Santa Claus. The annual Tet Fest thrown by the Mary Queen of Vietnam Church to celebrate the Vietnamese New Year (late January or early February) is an important day for New Orleans’ large Vietnamese population and a festive fair full of delicious eats for all comers. The mild days of winter also make for pleasant exploring of the backstreets on one of the Crescent City’s many bike tours.

Kihei, Maui

The Hawaiian Islands do get more rain in winter, and they do get a bit cooler. But let’s be real: the ‘cooler’ winter in Kihei means an average high of 81 degrees Fahrenheit instead of 87 degrees Fahrenheit. Kihei gets 276 days of sun a year, on average. A parka won’t be necessary. There are a few simple tips for picking a spot in Hawaii over the winter: 1. Stick to the south and west coasts of each island to maximize your chances of sunny days; 2. Winter surf can be stronger, but there are always gentler options, like Kalepolepo Beach Park for kids, or Ulua Beach for top-notch snorkeling; 3. Fares peak over the holidays, but there are always deals in early winter before spring break, particularly to Oahu and Maui where most direct flights arrive.

14 of the best things to do in Maui: soothe your soul with surf, nature and culture

Coastal Georgia

For sun-seekers heading to Georgia, you could do quite well by stopping in Savannah and never leaving. But head just a little further out to the coast to find a world of barrier islands and twisting waterways to explore. Tybee Island and its popular beaches sits just a half-hour drive from Savannah, the start of a string of subtropical islands dangling down the coast of Georgia, all with mild winter weather, but each with its own personality. Sapelo Island is home to a small village of Geechee, descendants of Africans who were enslaved on the plantations on the island until the 19th century. Nature lovers can book wildlife tours of Sapelo’s estuaries through the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve Visitors Center. Historic, multicultural Brunswick serves as the gateway to Georgia’s Golden Isles, including resorty St. Simons, and Jekyll Island, historically a playground for the wealthiest American families.

South Padre Island, Texas

Get to South Padre before spring break and you get Texas’s popular seaside resort town at its quietest. The 50-acre South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center with multiple blinds, a viewing tower, and boardwalks through the dunes, is an ideal spot for watching our feathered friends who overwinter on South Padre, as well as alligators and sea turtles. Isla Blanca County Park ’s beach is the most popular with its access to shops and restaurants, but you can be rewarded with a bit of tranquility by exploring the dunes of Edwin King Atwood County Park or the long stretches of sand of the North End.

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Hawaii reportedly may soon require that travelers have their booster shot, otherwise they will have to self-isolate for five days upon arrival at their own expense.

State governor David Ige told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser via Hawaii News Now that the plan to update the state's entry rules is still in its early stages and plenty of notice would be given to potential travelers ahead of any changes. He also confirmed that people who have already booked trips would not have to meet the booster requirement.

Mr Ige said the government is also considering making it mandatory for people to have their boosters to access certain venues, activities and events. Maui has already made boosters a requirement to enter places such as restaurants, bars and gyms in place of a negative test.

Just weeks ago Hawaii updated its entry rules to make it easier for travelers to visit by reducing its mandatory quarantine period in half in line with recommendations from the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Effective January 1, the quarantine period has been cut from 10 to five days and visitors are no longer required to fill in a questionnaire 24 hours before their flight.

Despite the relaxed rules, Hawaii is dealing with record-breaking case numbers and some measures remain in place to halt the spread of COVID-19, including some capacity limits, social distancing and the requirement for people to wear masks in indoor public spaces.

If you have a trip booked to Hawaii, or are thinking about visiting, here are the latest rules.

Read more: This Hawaiian island plans for fewer visitors as it pushes for sustainable tourism

I'm vaccinated, can I travel to Hawaii?

As of November 8, fully vaccinated international visitors are permitted to travel to Hawaii provided they are fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 no more than one day before traveling. Anyone aged 18 and over will need to register their trip details online through Hawaii's Safe Travels program portal and upload their test results before boarding their flight. The rules could change in the next two weeks and what it means to be fully vaccinated may include having a booster shot if travelers wish to bypass the five-day qurantine requirement.

Americans can visit Hawaii regardless of vaccination status.

Read more: 4 ways Hawaii is coping with a tourist influx as COVID-19 restrictions lift

What if I'm not vaccinated?

Americans can travel to Hawaii regardless of vaccination status. However, international visitors must be fully vaccinated as per the entry rules for the United States. There are some exeptions, including children under the age of 17. Domestic travelers who don't meet the requirements of  the Safe Travels program must quarantine for five days or for the duration of their stay in Hawaii, whichever is shorter.

Are there any additional restrictions?

Anyone arriving at any of the islands' airports may be chosen at random to take a test but this will be free of charge and you won't have to wait long to get your results. And all travelers, regardless of where they're coming from, must register their trip details through the Safe Travels program or quarantine for five days.

Do I need to take a COVID-19 test before leaving Hawaii?

It depends on the entry requirements of your destination. At present, travelers flying domestically within the US to Hawaii are not required the get a test before returning to the mainland US—something required by the CDC when returning from international travel.

What COVID-19 restrictions are in place?

Most venues are open in Hawaii, including hotels, restaurants, museums, bars and cultural attractions though some capacity restrictions apply. Masks are required in indoor public spaces, and social distancing guidelines apply too, though rules may vary slightly across counties.

Beaches and hiking trails are open across the state, and national parks are accepting visitors too, though not all services and facilities are up and running. Check ahead before planning a visit to see the latest rules. According to the tourism board, "National Park Service-managed parks, historic sites and memorials in Hawaii are gradually increasing access and services to their sites and facilities utilizing a phased approach". You can find a list of open and closed sites at the National Park Service’s Hawai‘i webpage.

Health passes in Hawaii

O'ahu introduced the Safe Access O'ahu program in September. The program requires people over the age of 12 to present a vaccination certificate or proof of a negative COVID-19 test before entering venues such as restaurants, bars, museums, theaters, arcades and gyms.

Maui introduced a similar scheme that requires people to show proof of vaccination to dine indoors and to visit gyms. As of January 4, people will need to have received their booster at least six months after receiving either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or two months after a Johnson & Johnson vaccine, or take a negative COVID-19 test 48 hours prior.

If you are planning a trip to Hawaii at any time this year, please monitor the local situation before travel and stay up-to-date on public health guidelines. Further information on Hawaii's entry requirements are available on the tourist board's website.

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Travelers to Hawaii may soon need a booster to skip five-day quarantine

One of the joys of visiting Hawaii is the islands’ pervasive laid-back culture – the lack of pre-planning and freedom from everyday worries is delightful.

Still, you'll have a better visit if you take a few details into consideration before and during your stay. From when to visit and how much to budget to the etiquette surrounding the islands' best beaches and surf breaks, here are some key things to know about traveling to the 50th US state.

Planning your trip to Hawaii

Know when to go

You can visit Hawaii anytime – the weather is agreeable year-round. It may be a bit rainier in winter and a bit hotter in summer, but there are no extremes because cooling trade winds blow throughout the year.

Although winter (mid-December through mid-April) is the busiest tourist season, that has more to do with the climate elsewhere, as many tourists are snowbirds escaping cold weather back home. Crowds of families take summer vacations from June through August, and rooms are scarce and prices can spike around holidays, especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s and spring break/Easter.

For the budget-conscious, the slowest times are mid-September through mid-November and the weeks from just after Easter until Memorial Day at the end of May, and you’re more likely to find good deals then on accommodations and airfare. Surfers will find the largest waves in winter, while optimal windsurfing conditions are during summer. Whale-watching tours usually depart between January and March only.

Know what you need to reserve in advance

Although Hawaii’s hang-loose attitude extends to most facets of life – including making extensive plans in advance –  you might want to book ahead in a couple of instances. For top Honolulu restaurants popular with residents, reserve a table before you arrive in the islands. The free tickets for the boat to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor are scooped up quickly. Reserve online up to 60 days before your visit.

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Etiquette in Hawaii

Respect Hawaiian culture

Evolving from ancient Polynesian traditions, Hawaiian culture was attacked and suppressed in the two centuries after the arrival of British colonizer Captain Cook in 1778. But beginning with the Hawaiian Renaissance in the 1970s, a rebirth of Native Hawaiian cultural and artistic traditions has taken hold.

Across the islands, both Hawaiian culture–focused charter schools  and public schools' Hawaiian-language immersion programs are popular, and traditional arts are experiencing a revival. Ancient heiau (temples) and fishponds are being restored, native forests replanted and endangered birds bred and released back into the wild.

Today Hawaiian culture is about much more than just melodic place names and luau shows. Being Hawaiian is an important part of the identity of the islands, reflected in ways both large and small, from the inclusion of Hawaiian words in everyday speech to the embrace of concepts of respect and inclusion. Although few island residents can agree on what shape the Hawaiian sovereignty movement should take, its grassroots political activism is increasingly part of the local dialog.

Dos and don'ts in Hawaii

Good manners in Hawaii revolve around respect and awareness.

Do use aloha (hello/goodbye and the concept of love and fellowship) and mahalo (thank you). Liberally wave the shaka (Hawaii’s hand greeting sign).
Do try to correctly pronounce Hawaiian place names and words. Even if you fail, the attempt is appreciated. If you aren’t sure how to say it, ask. Even long names aren’t that hard with a little practice.
Don’t refer to Maui, Kauaʻi, Molokaʻi, Lanaʻi and Hawaiʻi (the Big Island) as ʻouter islands’ – it's Oʻahu-centric. They’re called ‘Neighbor Islands.’
Don’t try to speak pidgin – unless you’re really good at it.
Do ask permission before you pick fruit or flowers from trees on private property.
Don’t be pushy. You’ll get what you want (this time), but you’ll get no aloha with it.
Do drive slowly. Residents rarely have far to go, and they drive that way. In fact, do everything slowly.
Don’t freak out at every gecko and cockroach. It’s the tropics. There are critters.
Don’t collect (or even move) stones at sacred sites. If you’re not sure whether something’s sacred, consider that in Hawaiian thinking, everything is sacred, especially in nature.
Don’t stack rocks or wrap them in ti leaves at waterfalls or heiau. This is an adulteration of the Hawaiian practice of leaving hoʻokupu (offerings) at sacred sites – and it’s littering the islands’ fragile environment.
Don’t get naked (or topless) on the beach unless it’s an unofficial clothing-optional beach. As always, follow the lead of residents.

Underdress for success

The casual Hawaii dress code means that T-shirts and flip-flops are ubiquitous, except at Honolulu’s top-tier restaurants and at high-end resorts across the islands. Going fancy means neat, modest attire, which for men usually just means an aloha shirt and slacks.

Know your ʻokina

The ʻokina punctuation mark (ʻ) is the Hawaiian language’s glottal stop, which determines the pronunciation and meaning of words. Increasingly, Hawaiʻi (with the ʻokina) is being used for the island of Hawaiʻi (the Big Island), for references to ancient Hawaiʻi and to the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi pre-statehood. Hawaii (without the ʻokina) refers to the US territory that became a state in 1959, although the spelling with the ʻokina is being used for the state and place name more and more.

Know where to surf

Residents are usually willing to share surf spots that have become popular tourist destinations, but they reserve the right to protect other ‘secret’ surf grounds. As a newbie in the lineup, don’t expect to get every wave that comes your way. There’s a definite pecking order, and frankly, tourists are at the bottom. That being said, usually if you give a wave, you’ll get a wave in return. Be generous in the water, understand your place and surf with a smile. At famous breaks where surfers can be ferociously territorial, such as Oʻahu’s Banzai Pipeline, ask a local for an introduction.

Health and safety in Hawaii

Be aware of floods

No matter how dry a streambed looks or how sunny the sky above might be, a sudden rainstorm miles away can cause a flash flood in minutes, sending down a huge surge of debris-filled water that sweeps away everything in its path. Always check the weather report before setting out on a hike; this is crucial if you’re planning on hiking through any narrow canyons or swimming in waterfalls or natural pools.

Protect your belongings

The islands are notorious for thefts from parked cars, especially rentals (which are obviously tagged with bar-code stickers). Thieves can pop a trunk or pull out a door-lock assembly within seconds. They strike not only at trailheads when you’ve gone for a hike, but also at crowded beach and hotel parking lots where you’d expect safety in numbers.

Do not leave anything valuable in your parked car, ever. If you must do so, then pack all valuables out of sight before arriving at your destination; thieves lurk about to see what you put in the trunk.

Stay aware

Stay attuned to the vibe on any beaches at night, even where police patrol are present (e.g. Waikiki), and in places like campgrounds and roadside county parks, where drug users and gang members sometimes hang out. In rural areas of the islands, there may be pockets of resentment against tourists, so be respectful as you explore off the beaten path.

Avoid scams

The main scams directed toward visitors involve fake activity-operator booths and timeshare booths. Salespeople at the latter will offer you all sorts of deals, from free luaus to sunset cruises, if you’ll just come to hear their ‘no obligation’ pitch. Caveat emptor.

Don’t trespass

Hawaii has strict laws about trespassing on both private land and government land not intended for public use. Trespassing is always illegal, no matter how many other people you see doing it. As a visitor to the islands, it’s important to respect all ‘Kapu’ or ‘No Trespassing’ signs. Always seek explicit permission from the landowner or local officials before venturing onto private or government-owned land that is closed to the public, regardless of whether it is fenced or signposted as such.

Don’t get stung

Stings from box jellyfish and Portuguese man-of-war (aka bluebottles) occur in Hawaii’s tropical waters. Even touching a bluebottle hours after it has washed up onshore can result in burning stings.

Box jellyfish are often seen seven to 10 days after a full moon, when they float into Hawaii’s shallow near-shore waters, such as those at Waikiki. When this happens, some public beaches may be closed for safety. The Waikiki Aquarium has a calendar that predicts the presence of box jellyfish.

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What you need to know before visiting Hawaii

From dynamic Cape Town and the cosmopolitan vibes of Johannesburg to wildlife-filled expanses of wilderness such as the Kalahari and the Drakensberg mountains, South Africa has something for every kind of traveler. The best time to come will depend on where you want to go and what you want to do when you get here.

In general, the climate in South Africa is warmer in the north and cooler in the south. You'll also find different weather on the coasts compared to the elevated plateau that makes up most of the country, where it tends to be drier. The Indian Ocean coast tends to feel more tropical, while the weather on the Atlantic coast is usually milder, though cold fogs and hot desert winds can still roll in.

Cape Town and the Western Cape are unique, weather-wise, having their rainy season in the winter (June to August). In the rest of the country, the rains arrive in the Southern Hemisphere summer (November through March), but the deluges rarely last for long (and there's the chance of a photogenic thunderstorm).

For many visitors, the weather is less of a factor than South Africa's vibrant festivals and the annual migrations and breeding seasons for the country's diverse wildlife populations. Whatever draws you to South Africa, here's a guide to the best times to come.

When to visit South Africa's game reserves

Rain is most likely to interfere with your travels if you’re on safari. Northern game reserves such as Kruger National Park are driest from May to September, during the South African winter. While you might not have the lush backgrounds to your photos that you would in the spring and summer, wildlife is often easier to spot because the vegetation dies back and animals congregate around water holes.

Read more: 8 things to know before you book your first safari

The chilly nights of winter also mean fewer mosquitoes, but you'll need to bring layers to keep you warm during dawn game drives. For safaris in the Western Cape, the summer months are drier but coincide with the busy Christmas period and South Africa’s summer school holidays.

Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox with our weekly newsletter.

When to go whale-watching in South Africa

Though whales and dolphins can be seen year-round off South Africa’s southern and eastern coasts, September and October are the peak cetacean-spotting months. Between June and November, southern right whales and humpbacks migrate to and from Antarctica to breed and have their babies in the warmer waters off Mozambique and Madagascar. May to June also sees a massive run of sardines that attracts whales, dolphins, sharks and sea birds ( Durban is a good base to watch the spectacle).

While you’ll see more from a whale-watching boat, whales often come close enough to the shore to be spotted from land. This is particularly so near the town of Hermanus, celebrated by the World Wildlife Fund as one of the world's top whale-watching destinations, where whales can be seen as early as April. Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on the Eastern Cape is known as the world bottlenose dolphin capital, and pods are frequently seen between January and June.

High Season (November to March) is the top time for festivals

November to March is summertime in South Africa with daytime highs reaching 32°C (90°F), often with quite a lot of humidity. If you’re looking to visit during this peak season, you’ll need to plan ahead. Accommodation in coastal areas and national parks can book up months in advance, and popular vacation spots see accommodation prices rise by 50% or more.

That said, if you have the budget to travel in the high season, you can enjoy a host of festivals and events. AFROPUNK, a massive international multi-day music festival that draws artists from all over the world, kicks off in December. Held annually on January 2, the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (known locally as Kaapse Klopse) is a high-spirited street parade dating from the mid-1800s with important links to overcoming apartheid and South Africa's long history of slavery.

Cape Town’s Pride Festival is held in late February or early March, followed by the Cape Town Cycle Tour which brings in cycling enthusiasts from all over the globe. March also sees the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees, one of South Africa’s largest arts festivals, held at Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape.

Shoulder Season (April, May, September and October) brings lower prices and great wildlife watching

South Africa's shoulder seasons see smaller crowds and several important festivals — including April’s Splashy Fen Music Festival in Durban. The big lure in the fall is wildlife-watching, as the tail end of the dry summer weather brings wildlife out into the open. The spring months of September and October bring the best chances of cetacean encounters. Wildflower season peaks in late August in the north and early September in the south, but blooms can appear from July depending on the rains and continue into October if it’s not too hot.

Low Season (June to August) is the best time for budget travelers

The South African winter from June to August brings lower prices (except for safaris) and smaller crowds. This is the rainy season in Cape Town and the Western Cape (with Cape Town restaurants often offering pocket-friendly winter specials), but there’s still plenty of sunshine around. Elsewhere in the country winters are much drier, and conditions are ideal for a safari (be prepared, though, for chilly nights and cold early morning game drives). Top winter festivals include the National Arts Festival in the Eastern Cape and Knysna’s 10-day Oyster Festival in July.

January

On either side of the New Year celebrations, South Africans descend on tourist areas, including the coast and national parks for the summer school holidays (early December to mid-January). Book accommodations and transport far in advance. The peak season for accommodations is November to March.
Key events: Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse)

February

Summer continues through February, with hot weather, crowds basking happily on the southern beaches and, thanks to its subtropical climate and high elevation, dramatic lightning storms in Jo'burg. For something a little different, there’s the four-day Up the Creek Festival in Swellendam in the Western Cape, where you can float along the Breede River while bands play on the river’s banks.
Key events: Hands-on-Harvest, Up the Creek Festival, Ultra South Africa, Cape Town Pride Week

Read more: 15 best things to do in South Africa

March

The summer rolls toward fall, but days are still sunny in the Cape. The Lowveld (open grassland and woodland areas between 150m and 610m above sea level) is steamy and warm, and the landscapes are lush and green; the Highveld, at higher altitude, is slightly cooler. This time of year is especially good for walking and beach bumming in the Western Cape. Cultural and music festivals happen in Cape Town and Jo'burg.
Key events: Cape Town Cycle Tour, Cape Town International Jazz Festival, Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees

April

There's a two-week school vacation around Easter, generally regarded as the beginning of the short fall season; accommodations need to be booked well in advance. Days are still warm and nights begin to cool. Much of South Africa sees the end of the rainy season, with rivers full and flora lush.

Though you can still lie on the beach, the drier weather makes wildlife-watching in the bushveld a more attractive option. The rutting season for impala — one of South Africa’s most abundant antelopes — begins in April, with displays of dominance (like the clashing of horns) increasing as the days get shorter.
Key events: AfrikaBurn

May

In the first official month of winter, nighttime temperatures drop, and tourism slows. It’s still beach weather in Durban and along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, but snow may fall in the highlands. The end of the rains in most parts of the country means safari conditions start to improve.
Key events: Franschhoek Literary Festival

June

Winter brings cooling temperatures and – especially in Cape Town and the Western Cape – a good chance of rain. June is the coldest month in Johannesburg, with daytime temperatures around 16°C (60°F), falling to about 4°C (40°F) at night. Don't let that put you off: safari conditions are still great in the dry north.
Key events: National Arts Festival

July

Winter brings rain to the Cape and clouds to Table Mountain (there’s even a chance you might get snow), but plenty of days will see some sunshine. Rougher winter seas make boat trips (even to Robben Island, the former political prison just off Cape Town) less pleasant, and trips may be canceled altogether during squalls.

Northern areas experience fresh, sunny days and clear night skies. Early winter mornings can be cold with temperatures close to freezing, but afternoon highs can creep up towards 18°C (65°F). This is the middle of the June to September low season (apart from the mid-June to mid-July school holidays), but winter is a great time for safaris.
Key events: Knysna Oyster Festival, J-Bay Open, Durban International Film Festival

August

Signs of spring are in the air in South Africa in August. Head to the west coast and the north to see wildflowers: mid-August to mid-September is usually the best time. Kruger National Park and the northern reserves remain pleasantly dry, and the soccer, rugby and cricket seasons typically begin in August.
Key events: Namakwa wildflowers

September

In September, the rainy season in the Western Cape eases off, and Jo’burg and the north often see their first big rains. Temperatures in Cape Town and Jo'burg are mild; cherry trees bloom in the south, and wildflowers reach their peak in mid-September. Safari parks remain a top draw with many baby animals born in spring. School holidays run from late September to early October, increasing demand for accommodation. It's also a good time for whale-watching at Hermanus.
Key events: Festival of Motoring Johannesburg, Winelands Chocolate Festival, Hermanus Whale Festival

October

October offers mostly sunny weather but you'll avoid the worst of the summer crowds and peak prices. Book accommodations in advance during the 10-day South African school holiday beginning in late September and stretching into early October. Whale-watching can be excellent at this time of year.
Key events: Macufe African Cultural Festival, Durban Bierfest

November

As spring drifts into summer, it’s the peak time to see grassland wildflowers in the Drakensberg mountains and the end of whale season off the Cape. Free State’s Ficksburg, known as Cherry Town, has a cherry-centered festival during the third week of November.

The rain and humidity start to increase around Kruger and in KwaZulu-Natal. It’s no longer cold but not uncomfortably hot in the semi-arid desert of Karoo National Park, with highs around 27°C (80°F) and lows around 10°C (50℉). November is when the high season begins, so expect higher prices and crowds.
Key events: Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts, Ficksburg Cherry Festival

December

The hot, dry days pick up as the South African summer officially gets cooking in December. Music festival AFROPUNK in Johannesburg is the perfect big-time kickoff to the city’s music festival season, while Durban celebrates its street food scene and craft distilleries with the annual Street Food Festival.
Key events: AFROPUNK, Durban Street Food Festival

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Congratulations! You’ve found ‘the one’. Now you’re keen to seal the deal with a romantic proposal abroad. But where should you pop the question to your soon-to-be travel buddy for life?

Here are some of the world’s best places to get engaged – all you need to do now is get them to say ‘yes’.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Engaged couples often describe feeling like they’re on Cloud Nine – and you can get even closer to it by proposing on a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey. Afraid of heights? Take your pick of fairytale locations: the views from Göreme ’s rooftops are dreamy at dawn, with hundreds of balloons silhouetted against pink skies; while the jagged rocks at Red Valley viewpoint come alive at sunset. Check into one of the region’s luxury cave hotels for an unforgettable end to your first day as fiancés.

Ushuaia, Argentina

You’d go to the ends of the earth for your partner – so why don’t you? Whisk them away on a trip to Argentina ’s southernmost town Ushuaia, where you can hike through Tierra del Fuego National Park, visit the Martillo Island penguin colony or kayak in the Beagle Channel before getting down on one knee. There are a surprising number of restaurants here and Patagonia has a thriving craft beer scene – ideal for toasting a new engagement. Of course, if you have the budget you could save the proposal for an Antarctic Peninsula cruise, a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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New York City, USA

From Love Story to West Side Story, New York City is home to some of the world’s most famous romantic locations – so where better to make your engagement dream a reality? For something quintessentially NYC, pop the question in Central Park after a morning stroll (weather permitting), offer a rock on a ring at the Top of the Rock, or conspire with the staff at Tiffany & Co to surprise your other half as you ‘browse’ the diamond rings. Alternatively, a romantic walk along Brooklyn Heights Promenade as the sun sets behind Manhattan’s skyscrapers could provide the perfect moment.

Classic romantic trips with an adventurous twist

Anglesey, Wales

When it comes to proposals, timing is everything. On pretty Llanddwyn Island, a tiny tidal island off the coast of Anglesey in Wales ’ wild north, this is especially true – as you’re also depending on the tides to allow for safe passing. This remote spot was the home of St Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers and the Welsh equivalent of St Valentine. If February 14 seems too cliche, you could surprise your partner with a proposal on St Dwynwen’s day (January 25) – but a late summer proposal is likely to bring better weather.

The Maldives

Why wait until the honeymoon for an idyllic island getaway? The Maldives is the quintessential romantic destination, making proposal planning a breeze. You could ask your other half for their hand in marriage from the deck of your water bungalow; by candlelight over a private dinner on the beach; or on a luxury catamaran cruise at sunset as you watch spinner dolphins leap from the Indian Ocean around you.

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Garden Route, South Africa

Ready for a road trip to remember? Drive along South Africa’s Garden Route, which stretches from Mossel Bay to Storms River, taking in some of the world’s most beautiful coastline. Propose during a barefoot walk along Noetzie Beach, or pluck up the courage after a wine or two at the vineyards outside Plettenberg Bay. Alternatively, you could ask your loved one to take the leap – literally and figuratively – in the town of Wilderness, where you can paraglide over sweeping beaches or cliff jump on a canyon tour; marriage is an adventure, so why not start as you mean to go on?

Agra, India

Sure, it’s India ’s equivalent of an Eiffel Tower proposal, but sometimes a tried and tested favourite is all you need. And unlike Paris’ icon, the Taj Mahal has a truly romantic backstory. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a memorial for his late wife, he was laid to rest there with her 35 years later. The beautiful white marble monument is one of the new seven wonders of the world and – unsurprisingly – welcomes millions of visitors each year. Come at sunrise for the best light and cooler temperatures, but prepare for the inevitable onlookers.

Byron Bay, Australia

The build-up to a proposal can be stressful, but laid-back Byron Bay will help you forget your jitters and ease into that unforgettable moment. Nature does the heavy lifting when it comes to charming your other half – all you need to do is pack a picnic, perhaps some champagne and lead them to the beach. Between May and November you might even spot whales breaching from the shore – amble to Cape Byron Lighthouse for a bird’s eye view.

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Jökulsárlón, Southeast Iceland

With glistening waterfalls, bubbling geysers, dramatic coastlines and ice caves, Iceland ’s otherworldly landscapes spoil proposal planners with beauty spot after beauty spot. Safe in the knowledge that there’s no shortage of epic scenery, you could choose your moment whenever the timing feels right – but if you need a clearer vision, consider Jökulsárlón. This glacial lagoon’s icebergs look particularly magical beneath the northern lights if you’re lucky enough to spot them. Nearby Diamond Beach, so-called due to the iridescent chunks of ice that wash up on its black sands, could be another worthy spot to offer a sparkling ring.

Vancouver, Canada

If you both feel as comfortable in a fancy restaurant as you do in hiking boots, Vancouver could be your dream trip. The cosmopolitan city’s food scene is second to none, and you’ll deserve a celebratory meal after a day spent exploring Capilano Suspension Bridge Park or cycling the Stanley Park Seawall Bike Trail. Book a table at Hawksworth for high-end Canadian cuisine or Forage for farm-to-table dining. Want something wilder? Head to Vancouver Island, where you can pop the question post-kayak trip, or at the summit of Mount Douglas.

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From young Berliners bargain-hunting secondhand clothes, new residents looking for the right addition for their home, or travelers seeking vintage souvenirs, Berlin’s flea markets are a sure-fire way to find both the expected and the unexpected.

Held in almost every Berlin “Bezirk”, weekend flea markets are known for being messy, busy, colorful and simply fun.

Grab your favorite tote bag and find out what makes Berlin’s flea markets some of the best in the world.  Here are the best flea markets in Berlin.

Boxhagener Platz: best market for unique finds

Known for its charming cafes and hip bars, Boxhagener Platz transforms over the weekend with its popular Sunday flea market. From old paintings, books and antique furniture, to classic vinyl records and homeware, this market in the district of Friedrichshain is perfect for those hunting something different.

The best part: once you finish your bargain hunting, you can enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants surrounding the square.

Hungry for more? Walk just a couple of blocks from Boxhagener Platz and visit the flea market at RAW compound. It’s a perfect place for finding secondhand clothing and jewelry while making your way in-between early morning bargain hunters and hungover party-goers walking home.

Mauerpark flea market: best market for a party

Some call it overrated, way too touristy and overpriced, but Mauerpark remains a staple of Berlin’s culture. It’s a must when you visit Berlin and even though some feel it has lost its charm or it's become a hipster designer market, unique treasures await you, you just may need to dig a bit deeper. Secondhand clothing from different decades, Cold War memorabilia, antique furniture and bric-a-brac are some of the best bargains you can get.

On Sundays however, Mauerpark is way more than just a flea market: it’s multiple parties and a food market with treats from all over the world. Plus you'll see street buskers showcasing their talents, and the largest outdoor karaoke in the world, Bearpit Karaoke.

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Treptow Arena’s indoor flea market: best market for a bargain

No matter if it's raining, snowing or even storming, the flea market in Arena is the ideal place to find a good bargain for something you didn’t know you wanted. With a chaotic atmosphere and labyrinthine routes, this gigantic 32291 sq ft (3000 sq m) hall is one of the largest flea markets in Berlin, and the only place known for offering everything and anything.

Visitors will find antique and new furniture, old electronics, household goods, unwearable shoes, new and secondhand clothing, car tires and even junk, from time to time. You name it, the flea market in Arena has it. Expect to see locals searching for things they need (but can’t find anywhere else) as prices are fair and vendors are also willing to negotiate.

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Nowkoelln flea market: best market for a beer

The hippest district in Berlin deserves the hippest market in town. Located next to the beautiful Maybachufer canal, the Nowkoelln flea market has got a reputation for being a good place to hang out, whether or not you are planning to buy something.

Expect to find a large variety of products as well as great prices with a good chance for bargaining, as young Berliners come here to sell the things they don’t need anymore. Price hunting isn’t the only fun thing to do, it’s normal to grab a beer while wandering around, sit next to the canal to take a rest or simply grab a bite to eat in one of the many food stalls or restaurants around – all of this while listening to some of the street buskers playing their guitars and singing.

Note: this market is open only on the first and third Sunday of the month and only between April and December.

Bodemuseum market: best for books, vinyl and vintage postcards

Situated in the heart of Berlin and surrounded by some of the city’s main attractions, the antique and book market at Bodemuseum has been open every Saturday and Sunday since 1992. It’s one of the oldest, most traditional markets in the city and popular for its large selection of books from all over Europe.

While books and antiques gave the market its name, visitors will also find vinyl records, postcards, pictures, household items, watches, bric-a-brac and from time to time, one or two vendors selling fake Soviet memorabilia.

This market is rarely frequented by locals because it’s located in one of the most touristy areas of Berlin and prices tend to be way above average. Still, its picturesque location and atmosphere make it one of the most beautiful places to stroll around on a weekend.

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Flea market at Rathaus Schöneberg: best for shopping with locals

Primarily known as the place John F. Kennedy once said “Ich bin ein Berliner”, the town hall of Schöneberg hosts what Berliners call “one of the last original flea markets in Berlin”.

This isn’t the place to find hip posters or trendy necklaces. Most of the vendors are locals from the neighborhood looking for a bargain. Expect to see dozens of stalls filled with all kinds of items – providing the perfect opportunity to train your bargain-hunting eye.

Come early if you really want to find treasure among the old furniture, antique photographs and secondhand clothing.

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The Netherlands has begun to ease its COVID-19 restrictions by reopening some of the sectors that were forced to close in December due to  the emergence of the Omicron variant.

As of Saturday, January 15 a number of non-essential businesses have reopened including retail and gyms, while sporting and cultural activities can resume. Hotels remain open but many places are closed until at least the next COVID-19 lockdown review on January 25.

What's open in the Netherlands?

On Saturday, the Dutch government began to roll back some of the lockdown curbs that were introduced in mid-December to slow the spread of COVID-19. Among the places that are now open are non-essential shops, hair salons and gyms, but they are required to close at 5pm. People must wear face masks and the number of customers must be limited.

Hotels are open and guests can check in but some services, such as dining, remain limited. Hotels can serve guests food and drinks in their rooms, but hotel restaurants and bars are shut for dine-in services.

Essential shops like grocery shops and pharmacies are open until 8pm.

What's closed in the Netherlands?

The hospitality sector is pretty much locked down with restaurants, cafes and bars closed except for take-away service. Nightclubs closed until at least January 25. Theaters, cinemas and museums are temporarily closed too. The Van Gogh Museum said it will reopen on January 26, the Rijksmuseum on February 1, while the Anne Frank House is "closed until further notice".

Read more: Should I visit the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam?

What other restrictions are in place?

The Dutch government has tightened restrictions on mask wearing and they are now required in places where physical distancing (1.5 meters) is impossible. "This now also applies at busy outdoor places such as shopping streets," the government said. "People are now advised to wear a disposable face mask. The government advises against wearing fabric masks and homemade masks."

When meeting outdoors, people are advised not to meet in groups of more than four people (aged 13 and over), and are asked to do a self-test before meeting people indoors.

Can I travel to the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has kept its borders open throughout lockdown but rules vary depending on your point of departure. People traveling from a "safe" EU country or region can show proof of vaccination or a negative test result. Currently no countries are on the "safe" list. People traveling from a "high-risk" EU country must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result and take a test upon arrival.

People coming from a country outside the EU that the Netherlands deems "very high risk" such as the UK must show proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test result and quarantine for 10 days. The US is considered "high risk" and travelers may enter if they are fully vaccinated or qualify for one of the EU Entry Ban Exemption Categories. If you qualify and you can’t show proof of vaccination, you must be able to show a negative COVID-19 test result. You can see the full list of entry rules on the government's website.

Why is the Netherlands in lockdown?

Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte said the lockdown measures were "unavoidable" when the Netherlands locked down on December 18. With Omicron spreading rapdily, the Dutch government wanted to accelerate its booster campaign and remove some of the burden from the healthcare system. "The spread of the Omicron variant must be slowed as soon as possible in order to ensure healthcare services remain available to all," Rutte said in a statement in December.

When will lockdown end?

The government plans to review lockdown measures again on Saturday, January 25 and it is expected more restrictions will be lifted by then.

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out Lonely Planet's Health Hub.

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Crisscrossed by cobbled pathways and steep, traffic-ladened lanes, Edinburgh might not seem ideal for cycling. However, despite the undulating topography and web of ancient streets, Scotland's hilly, historic capital is surprisingly well set up for cyclists.

Decommissioned railway lines, Victorian-era canal paths and wide seaside promenades are just of the many routes that can easily be traversed on two wheels. Whether you come with your own bike or rent wheels on arrival, here's how to make the most of cycling in Edinburgh.

Where to rent a bike in Edinburgh

Let's start with the practicalities. Although Edinburgh’s Bike & Go bike share scheme closed in 2021, there are still plenty of local bike shops in the center where you can rent a cycle. Biketrax, a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, rents out road bikes for around £25 (US$35) per day, including a helmet, bike lock and lights; the cost decreases slightly for each additional day. They’re also a brilliant pick for electric bike hire.

Staying a bit longer? You might be better off picking up a second-hand bike. Pedal Forth, Soul Cycles and charity-run The Bike Station are all good options for used cycles (and they may offer daily or weekly rentals as well). You'll find a good range of mountain bikes, too – handy if you plan to tackle routes heading out into the hills.

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Tips for cycling in Edinburgh

Road cycling in Edinburgh is fairly easy, cobbles and topography notwithstanding. Drivers are used to sharing the road with cyclists, but wear a helmet and be wary of passing on the inside of buses, vans and lorries, which may turn left unexpectedly.

There are plenty of reserved bike lanes and cycle paths, and there's a safety box for cyclists ahead of the cars at traffic lights. Use bike lights and wear high-visibility clothing at night. Edinburgh's parks provide some useful cycling cut-throughs, particularly Holyrood Park and The Meadows. Contact Cycling Edinburgh for more tips and local insights.

When it comes to route-finding, the old-fashioned paper Edinburgh Cycle Map from Spokes gives a detailed overview of the city’s cycle network, including gradients and terrain. Purchase it online via the Spokes website, or from any of Edinburgh’s bike shops. Spokes also produces maps of the wider Lothian region if you’re planning a day trip beyond the capital with your bike.

Prefer to go digital? Maps of Edinburgh’s most popular cycle paths are easy to find online, and you can plan a route using the online cycle route planners at CycleStreets and BBBike, which also lets you filter by road surface type and street lighting level.

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Edinburgh has commendable collection of cycle routes, so you can wind through the historic streets of the center or avoid the hustle and bustle altogether with a leisurely ride along the seafront.

Portobello Promenade Loop

5.6 miles (9km) each way; 3 hours; intermediate

The suburb of Portobello is Edinburgh’s most attractive coastal neighborhood and it's home to one of the city's best beaches. The best ride here is a picturesque out and back that takes you right along the Portobello promenade, after a whirlwind tour of some of Edinburgh’s top sites.

Begin your loop at Edinburgh Waverley station and take a mini detour up Calton Hill to see the Athenian-inspired National Monument. You’ll then skirt around the grand Palace of Holyroodhouse and the base of Arthur’s Seat. After a short stretch along relatively quiet backstreets, you'll jump onto the Restalrig Railway Path, running all the way to the coast, where you can pick up the promenade path.

The return journey from Portobello largely follows the same route, apart from the final section where you’ll glide down Leith Walk back to the station. It's a great ride for people arriving in Edinburgh by train with a bike in tow.

Water of Leith Cycle Path

12 miles (19km); 1.5 hours one way; easy

A trip to Leith, one of Edinburgh's best neighborhoods just northeast of the city center, should definitely be on your agenda. Cycling here is a breeze, too, thanks to the Water of Leith Cycle Path, a 12 mile (19km) path reserved for bikes and walkers, cutting across Edinburgh to Balerno, just southwest of the center.

The mostly flat path weaves its way past numerous landmarks, including Dean Village, a slice of bucolic village life on the fringes of the city, and the Collington Tunnel with its huge psychedelic mural. You’ll also glimpse the grand facade of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art; it’s worth popping in to admire the Van Gogh, Dali and Eduardo Paolozzi masterpieces.

The Union Canal Towpath

31 miles (51km); 2.5–3 hours one way; intermediate

The Union Canal, once a vital freight route connecting Edinburgh with Falkirk, celebrates its 200th birthday in 2022. It’s one of the most popular traffic-free cycle routes in and out of the city, stretching for a total of 31 miles (51km).

Begin your ride at Lochrin Basin near Haymarket and dive into a kaleidoscope of Edinburgh scenery. Victorian tenements and industrial sites give way to awesome aqueducts and lush countryside around the picturesque River Almond Gorge. At the end of the canal is the Falkirk Wheel, an epic feat of modern engineering which allows boats to navigate the 110ft (34m) height difference between the Union Canal and the Forth & Clyde Canal.

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A nice halfway point between the wheel and the city is the 15th-century Linlithgow Palace, celebrated as Mary Queen of Scots’ birthplace. Once you’ve reached Falkirk, you can retrace your tracks back to Edinburgh or carry on to Glasgow by following the towpath of the connecting Forth & Clyde Canal.

The Union Canal towpath is barely a meter wide in places, so watch out for walkers and other cyclists. The route is well signposted as it’s part of both Route 75 and Route 754 of the National Cycle Network.

Innocent Railway Path

6 miles (9.5km); 40 minute round trip; easy

If you’re short on time, this scenic 6 mile (9.5km) out and back route is a good pick. The trail, which forms part of National Cycle Route 1, follows a disused railway line running from Newington near the city center to Brunstane just south of Portobello.

The Innocent Railway Tunnel, a slightly elusive landmark along the southwest edge of Holyrood Park, is a sensible starting point. Endure a few cool, damp minutes in this eerie passageway before cruising through the leafy grounds of one of Edinburgh's most popular parks.

The path becomes steeper the further south you get and finishes up close to Brunstane station – handy if you want to cycle one way and catch the train back to town. If you’re not keen on climbs and only want to cycle in one direction, tackle this route from south to north instead.

Mountain biking in Edinburgh

Go beyond the city limits and you’ll discover dozens of trails where you can tear through tricky terrain. The Green Cleugh Valley sits within the Pentland Hills and has several loops suitable for intermediate mountain bikers. A popular option is cutting through the gap between Hare Hill and Black Hill along a mix of rocky paths and smooth tracks.

If you're a more seasoned rider, consider the Capital Trail – an ambitious 124 mile (200km) route that has been mapped out by Bikepacking Scotland, aimed at advanced cyclists. It begins on Portobello Beach and takes you all around the hilly outskirts of Edinburgh. The surfaces and terrain are hugely varied, from steep uphill climbs around Peebles to long, flat sections along the Firth of Forth coast.

Bike repair shops in Edinburgh

Ride halted by a pesky puncture or a broken chain? Worry not – Edinburgh has no shortage of bike repair shops. Most bike rental shops also do repairs, and Halfords Bike Service offers a free assessment to check the overall health of your bike (handy if you’ve recently bought one second-hand). If you find yourself stuck somewhere remote, contact Allbikes-Edinburgh, one of several mobile bike repair services.

If you take your cycling seriously, you can pick up quality bike parts in Edinburgh’s many independent cycle stores. The Edinburgh Bicycle Cooperative is particularly good and stocks items from dozens of popular bike brands.

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