If you have a long way to go, don’t unthinkingly jump on a plane. An overnight train ride is a far more fun, immersive and eco-friendly way to travel – better for you and for the planet.

There’s something enduringly romantic about train travel. The slower pace, the gentle rhythm, the ability to surrender responsibility and just gaze out of the window. It’s true of all – well, most – rail journeys. But it’s especially true of the sleeper train, the hotel-on-wheels aboard which you can bed down in one country and wake up in another. On which you can spend long hours admiring the view, chatting to new compartment-mates, sharing bread/biscuits/tea/vodka, watching sunrises and sunsets as you roll ever on.

Of course, it’s generally quicker to fly. But if you don’t have to, why rush? Train travel is far less damaging to the planet: it releases the least amount of greenhouse gases of all forms of transportation. And it’s a more organic way to go. Roving by rail, covering each inch of land overground, means you’re better able to understand the connections that exist between places, see the segueing of scenery as cities become suburbs, which become farmland, which become foothills or deserts or plains.

Such journeys can be done in style. There are luxe overnighting locos that channel the bygone glamour of the Orient Express or the opulence of a maharaja’s palace, their wood-paneled carriages toting pianos and butlers. But you don’t need such accouterments. The greatest joy is the journey itself; even a frustratingly slow, overcrowded overnighter has its own appeal – and will certainly make memories. Squeezed into a second-class Indian bunk, unfolding your couchette as you bump across Europe or lazing back in a super-fast intercity service in China, you might not get a lot of actual sleep on your sleeper, but you’ll get a dream of a ride.

Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Nicknamed the Reunification Express when it resumed service after the Vietnam War, this 1072-mile (1726km) ride between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City runs the length of the country, providing a perfect Vietnamese diorama: historic towns, bustling suburbs, rice paddies, emerald hills and the glittering South China Sea.

How: Choose from hard seat (cheapest) or soft, hard berth (six-bed compartment), soft berth (four-bed) or VIP cabin (two beds; book in advance). Tickets can be booked online.

Duration: About 35 hours.

Chicago to San Francisco, USA

On its epic 2400-mile (3900km) journey, the California Zephyr tackles sheer gorges, hot desert, snowy mountains and a tonne of tunnels and switchbacks. In 1869, these tracks were the first to cross the Continental Divide, linking the Atlantic and the Pacific.

How: The Zephyr leaves Chicago at 2pm daily. Book early for the lowest fares and best availability; tickets can be booked up almost a year ahead.

Duration: The entire journey to San Francisco takes 52 hours non-stop.

Kapiri Mposhi to Dar es Salaam, Zambia and Tanzania

A sleeper train? Or a rolling two-day safari? The Tazara Railway crosses rivers, gorges and some impressive feats of railway engineering while trundling through the enormous, wildlife-filled expanse of Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania. You might spot elephants, rhinos, lions and more from your window.

How: Tickets can’t be bought online; buy them at stations in Dar es Salaam or Kapiri Mposhi or via a local travel agency.

Duration: About 44 hours.

Brisbane to Longreach, Australia

Most of Australia 's overnight trains are multi-day journeys across the continent, such as the Ghan that runs through Australia's "Red Centre" between Darwin and Adelaide, and the Indian Pacific that links Perth and Sydney. The Spirit of the Outback, however, is just over a day-long jaunt from Brisbane to Longreach. After flirting with the coast the train turns inland to reveal a changing landscape as it heads into the outback.

How: The tickets can be booked online. The train departs Tuesdays at 6:10pm and Saturday at 1:55pm.

Duration: The 1325km journey takes 26 hours.

Rome to Syracuse, Italy

To get from the Italian capital to the historic Sicilian city of Syracuse, this overnight loco has to board a boat. Having traced the Calabrian coast, it’s lifted on to a ferry to cross the Straits of Messina, before being lifted back off to continue on its way.

How: Two sleeper trains leave Rome nightly at around 9.05pm and 11pm. Tickets can be ordered online.

Duration: About 12 hours, including 30 minutes at sea.

Europe's other top sleeper services

Europe is a particular treasure trove when it comes to night trains, with services such as the Caledonian Sleeper, Berlin Night Express and the Red Arrow, so we've compiled a specific list of the continent's other top sleeper trains.

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Originally published on January 14, 2020.

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The most epic overnight train journeys in the world

Ask ten experienced hikers to nominate the best treks in the world and they'll give you ten different answers. Some treks are epic because of the scenery. Some are epic because of the almost superhuman levels of effort and endurance required to reach the end point. For some trekkers, it's all about the destination; for others, it's the journey and the camaraderie along the trail.

But the world's top treks all have one thing in common–a sense of mission that transforms the simple act of walking into a life-affirming expedition. With this in mind, we've compiled our own list of the world's top treks, from jungle trails to breathless tracks through the mountains of Nepal. All require a sturdy pair of lungs and a fit pair of legs, but the experience of trekking is its own reward; we promise you'll still be talking about these hikes decades later!

Top Tips for Trekkers

Before you load up your backpack with trekking socks and Kendal mint cake, give some thought to the infrastructure on the route you plan to conquer. Some treks require total self-sufficiency, sleeping under canvas and purifying water as you go; other routes have refuges or rustic teahouses every step of the way. Here are some of the key considerations:

Travel light: every extra gram will weigh you down on the trails; if it isn't essential, leave it behind.
Respect your feet: boots offer more support, but all-terrain trainers are lighter and dry more quickly after a soaking.
Protect your knees: trekking poles can help control the knee-crushing descents that are a feature of pretty much every trek.
Climb slowly : Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can kill, so ascend slowly and take rest days to acclimatize on any trek above 2,500m in elevation.
Heed the weather: when treks go wrong, it's normally because of the weather, so check the forecasts; if conditions look bad, stop somewhere safe and sit it out, rather than pushing on over the next pass.
Be prepared: don't launch straight from the sofa to the summit–warm up with gentler walks, hikes and runs to get your body used to the exertion.
Plan ahead: many trekking routes require a permit and advance booking for lodges and camp sites; for some routes, you need to book months ahead.

Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Best trek for: would-be mountaineers

Distance: 80 miles (130km) round trip
Duration: 2 weeks
Level: moderate

Climbing to 18,193 feet (5,545m) at its highest point, the 2-week trek to Everest Base Camp is Nepal 's best-loved trek, with 8849m Sagarmatha (Mt Everest) rising ahead like a petrified giant. Tracing winding river valleys and the creaking mass of the Khumbu glacier, this mighty mission visits mountain monasteries, soaring lookouts and precariously balanced Sherpa villages, with gruelling days of altitude gain that will test your muscles and endurance to breaking point.

It's not all hard work though. The trekking infrastructure is unparalleled: porters and guides wait on arrival at Lukla's tiny mountain airstrip, cosy teahouses provide warm beds and nourishing plates of dal bhat (lentils and rice) along the entire route, and side trails open up a mountain playground of summit ascents and high pass crossings for a taste of real mountaineering. Sure, the trails are mobbed in season, but the sense of camaraderie amongst trekkers is hard to beat.

The golden rule, however, is respect the altitude. Acute mountain sickness is a risk if you rush, so take it slow and steady and pause for the recommended rest days to let your body catch up with the elevation.

2. GR20, Corsica, France

Best trek for: people who love challenges
Distance: 104 miles (168km) round trip
Duration: 15 days
Level: difficult

This character-building slog through Corsica is legendary for the diversity of landscapes it traverses, and for the level of grit it requires from trekkers who brave its rugged trails. There are forests, granite moonscapes, windswept craters, glacial lakes, torrents, peat bogs, maquis, snow-capped peaks, plains and névés (stretches of ice formed from snow) to conquer, and the tough terrain weeds out all but the most dedicated hikers.

Created in 1972, the GR20 links the town of Calenzana, in the Balagne, with Conca, north of Porto Vecchio, but the thrills don’t come easy. The path is rocky, uneven and frequently steep, with crossings over rickety bridges and exposed scrambles over slippery rock faces and loose, skittering scree–all part of the fun! You'll be drawing water from springs and sleeping in rustic mountain refuges, but two weeks later, you'll be able to tell the world you conquered Europe's toughest trail.

3. Inca Trail, Peru

Best hike for modern-day explorers

Distance: 20 miles (33km) round trip
Duration: 4-5 days
Level: moderate

The 20-mile (33km) trail to the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu was used for centuries before it was brought to global attention when explorer Hiram Bingham 'discovered' the route in 1911. Today, the secret is definitely out; the trail to Peru 's most famous ruin is packed with backpackers, but with giddying views of high cloud forests and Machu Picchu waiting ahead like a beacon, we suspect you won't mind.

The trail climbs to 7,972 feet (2,430m) from the Sacred Valley, winding its way up, down and around mountains, and crossing three high passes en route. As a consequence of its popularity, the number of hikers permitted each day is restricted to just 200 people to protect Peru's not so lost 'lost city'. The result is a more tranquil experience for those fortunate enough to get permits, but hikers should still take extra care to make sustainable choices when visiting.

4. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Best trek for: snow in the tropics
Distance: 23–56 miles (37-90km)
Duration : 5–9 days
Level: moderate

Okay, it's the favorite trek of fundraisers everywhere, and an almost obligatory trip for visitors to East Africa, but the week-long ascent of Africa's highest mountain is still an epic undertaking. From the moment you first spy its misty prominence rising above the dusty plains, you'll know that Kilimanjaro simply has to be climbed. Lions and elephants may mill around at its base, but the summit is snow-capped and desolate, and lofty enough to bring a risk of altitude sickness at 19,340 feet (5,895m).

There are seven recognized routes to the top, and trekkers can complete the ascent in anything from 5 to 9 days, with longer treks being recommended to reduce the risk of AMS. The final stage usually starts before dawn, reaching the summit as the first light of morning erupts across a vast sweep of African savanna. In practice, nearly two thirds of trekkers opt for the Marangu (6 days) or Machame (7 days) routes on the south side of the mountain.

5. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

Best trek for: sea views
Distance: 11 miles (18km) each way
Duration: 2 days
Level: moderate

When asked to pick the best treks in the US, most reach for hikes along the rim of the Grand Canyon, or the mobbed trails that climb to the summits of El Capitan and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. However, we prefer to choose something a bit more off-piste. Linking Keʻe Beach and the Kalalau Valley on the north shore of Kauaʻi, the beautiful Kalalau trail follows a towering cliff wall dripping with tropical foliage to reach an overnight stop at a splendidly remote Hawaiian beach.

The route along the Nā Pali Coast starts out easy, but gets progressively more challenging on steep dirt paths; the reward comes in the form of elemental views over primordial valleys, thundering waterfalls, secluded beaches and the churning waters of the Pacific Ocean. There's a definite Lost World feel, and a bit of caution is required, as people have fallen from the track or been washed away by sudden flash floods.

6. Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh, India

Best trek for: spontaneous trekkers
Distance :50 miles (80km)
Duration: 6-7 days
Level: moderate

Fewer people trek on the Indian side of the world’s mightiest mountain range, but those that do are rewarded with views to rival anything in Nepal, Tibet or Pakistan. There are spectacular treks all over the Indian Himalaya, from the breathless Goecha La trek in Sikkim to pilgrimage treks to remote mountain temples in Uttarakhand and Kashmir, but for our rupee, the best trekking country of all is in lofty Ladakh, crossing high-altitude deserts in the rain-shadow of the high Himalaya.

The Markha Valley trek strains for a week across a wonderfully desolate moonscape, circling south from Leh through the jagged ridges that flank the south bank of the Indus River before emerging near the famous Buddhist gompa (monastery) at Hemis. Best of all, no complex planning is required; you can reach the trailhead by bus from Leh, crossing the river in a dangling basket and stopping at whitewashed teahouses in timeless Buddhist villages along the trail.

7. Routeburn Track, New Zealand

Best trek for: fans of big landscapes
Distance: 20 miles (32km)
Duration: 3-4 days
Level: moderate

New Zealand ’s South Island is as alpine as you can get without actually being in the Alps, and the 3-day Routeburn Track is one of the best ways to cross this pristine natural wonderland. This is a trail for fans of big vistas and open skies, following glacier-carved fjords, truncated valleys and rugged ridges through the plunging landscapes of two stunning national parks: Fiordland and Mt Aspiring.

The preferred route runs from the Routeburn Shelter (north of Queenstown) to Milford Road, with overnight stops in spectacularly located campgrounds. Highlights include the views from Harris Saddle and Conical Hill, and chilly dips in spring-fed mountain tarns. The main challenge for this popular hike is securing a place among the limited numbers who are allowed at any one time–make bookings well ahead through the NZ Department of Conservation's Great Walks booking site.

8. Gunung Rinjani, Indonesia

Best trek for: early risers
Distance: 15 miles (24km)
Duration: 2 days
Level: moderate

There simply has to be a Southeast Asian volcano hike on the list, and for our money, it's Indonesia's Gunung Rinjani. While Lombok 's blissful beaches simmer at sea level, the island climbs to a breathless height of 12,224 feet (3,726m) at the summit of this enormous lake-capped volcano, which still periodically rumbles into life, most recently in 2016.

Trekking to the summit of Gunung Rinjani is up there with hiking the Himalaya as one of Asia's favorite adventures. To make the best of the views, the final push to the top starts in the dark, in order to gain the crater rim as first light pushes back the gloom, revealing the crater lake and its sinister cinder cones like a lost valley of the dinosaurs.

9. The Haute Route, France-Switzerland

Best trek for: yodellers
Distance: 125 miles (200km)
Duration :14 days
Level: difficult

Leading from Chamonix in France through the southern Valais to Zermatt in Switzerland, the 2-week-long Walkers' Haute Route trek traverses some of the highest and most eye-popping scenery accessible anywhere in the Alps. Hiking here is a summertime endeavour, tracing a different course to the famous winter Haute Route for ski-tourers. Every stage will test your endurance, with ‘pass hopping’ that demands a high level of fitness on many sections of the walk.

So why put your body through all this exertion? The mountain views, obviously! Some days pass through yodel-worthy alpine meadows, while others struggle over glacier-carved outcrops guarded by mountain giants. And with this being northern Europe, the infrastructure along the way is excellent, with hotels, gites d’etape (rest shelters), auberges (inns) and mountain refuges dotted all along the route. You'll appreciate a warm bed and a hot meal as you tackle over 46,000 feet (14,000m) of elevation gain.

10. The Torres del Paine Circuit, Patagonia, Chile

Best trek for :photographers
Distance: 85 miles (136km)
Duration: 9 days
Level: difficult

Many visitors to Chile 's Torres del Paine National Park draw up short when they see the scale of the terrain and opt for the shorter 'W Trek', but we recommend following the full 9-day 'O Trek' circuit, to soak up the sheer variety of landscapes in this magnificent wilderness reserve. As you follow the trail from Las Torres, you'll pass some of the world's most photogenic vistas: crystal-clear rivers, sculpted mountains, open grasslands, old-growth forests, deep and silent lakes and the icy tongue of Grey Glacier.

That's a lot of variety per trekking mile, but you need to plan ahead as only 80 trekkers are permitted on each section of track at any given time, and camping sites and refugios are in heavy demand. Make bookings with the companies operating the lodges and camping areas months in advance if you hope to secure a slot during the busy November to March trekking season.

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This article was first published in November 2010.

Test your endurance on the world's 10 best treks

Few travel lovers have trouble naming the world’s greatest cities; the likes of London, New York and Rio de Janeiro will always draw curious wanderers. But keeping tabs on the local trends that keep city life so exciting is another matter.

We asked our Lonely Planet Locals from around the globe to share their must-see neighborhoods. Some have been steadily developing their street cred for years, others are in the midst of rapid transformation – all are ripe for exploration right now.

Borgo San Frediano, Florence

On the southern side of Florence ’s Arno river, the San Frediano neighborhood is breathing new life into the Oltrarno area, known more for its artisans than hipster appeal. With its narrow streets and tiny sidewalks, all the action is sandwiched between one of the city’s last remaining ancient gates and Borgo San Frediano.

First stop is Gesto, where the salvaged and upcycled vintage interior blends nicely with their tasty, tapas-style bites. Located nearby is possibly the best craft cocktail bar in town: Mad Souls & Spirits. Here, locals flock to try the concoctions dreamed up by cult alchemists Neri Fantechi and Julian Biondi in a tiny space with brick walls and exposed copper piping. Further down Borgo San Frediano, fusion cocktails take centre stage at Japanese hotspot Kawaii, offering the first sake bar experience in Italy.

Georgette Jupe is an American writer based in Florence. Follow her tweets @girlinflorence

Seongsu-dong, Seoul

Stroll through Seongsu-dong during working hours and you’ll probably catch the smell of ink heavy in the air from print presses in full throttle. Labeled the Williamsburg of Seoul, this industrial hub owes its new reputation to its salvaged spaces – abandoned warehouses and factories that have been transformed into cafés, restaurants, galleries and independent shops.

Many credit exhibition space and café Daelim Changgo for having led this revolution back in 2011. Today, a dozen venues have followed suit, populating the neighbourhood with fashion-forward twenty-somethings and their cutting-edge phones. Sip on a cup of single-origin coffee at Cafe Onion, Zagmachi or OR.ER and watch as the old and new combine to create something beautiful.

Hahna Yoon is a bilingual editor and writer based in Seoul. Follow her on Twitter @hahnay

The Triangle, Lisbon

Nestled between Lisbon ’s Bairro Alto and Santos neighbourhoods and parliament, on the route of iconic Tram 28, is a cluster of three streets dubbed ‘The Triangle.’ Lower rents around these parts have attracted a new generation of creatives and entrepreneurs who are repurposing derelict tile-covered buildings on ruas Poço dos Negros, São Bento and Poiais de São Bento and setting up shop alongside dusty antique sellers and family-owned restaurants.

Originality and the near absence of tourist crowds are the main attractions here – spend an afternoon browsing speciality stores like travel bookshop Palavra de Viajante, custom-blend tea vendor Companhia Portugueza do Chá and boutique grocery store Mercearia Poço dos Negros, stopping for refreshments at cafe-by-day, wine-bar-by-night The Mill and Scandinavian-inspired coffee joint Hello, Kristof.

Sandra Henriques Gajjar is a Lisbon-based travel blogger.

Vesterbro, Copenhagen

Thanks to its colorful history and despite its increasing popularity, Copenhagen 's coolest neighbourhood has managed to maintain its edge. Home to some of the city’s best street art, vibrant Vesterbro is packed with cool independent shops, street markets, restaurants and bars.

If you do anything, come hungry. Vesterbro packs a mean brunch at cafés like Mad & Kaffe and Granola, while the old Kødbyen Meatpacking District (a distinctly hip pocket within the Vesterbro area) and Sønder Boulevard, a hip street with bars, restaurants and charming shops. Don't miss Absalon, the welcoming church-turned-community-hub, for a meal and some friendly conversation. Thirsty? Craft beer lovers can sample the goods at local brewers Mikkeller and Fermentoren.

Caroline Hadamitzky is a travel writer and tour guide based in Copenhagen. Follow her tweets @lovelivetravel

Business Bay, Dubai

Ignore the unsexy name – Business Bay is one of Dubai ’s most exciting neighbourhoods. Once a soulless expanse of half-built office towers – a casualty of the 2008 global financial crisis – the area is reinventing itself as a waterfront leisure destination.

Bordered by glitzy Downtown Dubai to the north and intersected by Dubai Canal, there’s a 12km-long promenade for strolling, while ferries cruise south to Dubai Marina and north to the Al Fahidi Historic District. Things will only improve over the next few years as parks, playgrounds, marinas, hotels, cafés and boutiques pop up along the canal. Away from the water, Bay Avenue is the community’s buzzing heart, with casual restaurants, a pleasant park and weekly farmers’ market during the cooler winter months.

Lara Brunt is an Australian travel and lifestyle journalist based in Dubai. Follow her tweets @larabrunt

Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur

Bangsar may be better known, but Damansara Heights has the buzz. One of the richest addresses in Kuala Lumpur, this neighborhood has retained its personality despite its recent revitalisation.

Post-facelift, Jalan Batai has developed into a community-focused street replete with eateries and cosmopolitan conveniences. While the road has yet to draw KL’s cool kids, the offerings – farm-to-table restaurant Sitka, Ben’s Independent Grocer (including a great coffee bar) and the elegant Torii Yakitori & Whiskey Bar – deserve attention. Swing by Plaza Damansara, a beat-up area seeing an uptick of shiny shops and restaurants such as café-bakery Huckleberry, Skullduggery speakeasy and Flour, a North Indian restaurant that peddles a knockout biryani.

Kong Wai Yeng is a Kuala Lumpur-based writer. Follow her tweets @wyeng

Sunset Park, New York City

The success of art and commerce behemoth Industry City has shone a light onto one of Brooklyn ’s most exciting under-the-radar neighborhoods, Sunset Park. Situated below Park Slope, on the south and western borders of Green-Wood Cemetery, Sunset Park hosts a heady mix of cultures and traditions.

On the east side stands Brooklyn’s Chinatown, with its rows of restaurants, bubble tea shops and boutiques. The west is home to a large Latin American community and plenty of friendly bars, not to mention the historic Melody Lanes bowling alley. At the centre of it all is Sunset Park itself. Set on one of the highest hills in Brooklyn, it offers spectacular views of lower Manhattan for the locals and visitors who flock here on summer evenings.

Robert Balkovich is a writer and gin-based cocktail enthusiast. Follow his tweets @robertbalkovich

Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro

Low rents and excellent transport links have helped make Botafogo the hottest neighborhood in Rio. Talented young chefs, entrepreneurs and creatives are the driving force behind an increasingly exciting nightlife. The focus is on originality and collaboration, with established spots like Bukowski and Comuna being joined by funky new concept bars and multipurpose spaces.

Gastro bars like CoLAB and Void House of Food are tapping into a growing interest in international cuisine by hosting regular guest chefs who serve anything from ramen to Trinidadian street food. Other popular spots include WineHouse and South Ferro, respectively serving excellent yet affordable wines by the glass and gourmet pizza by the slice.

Travel and food writer Tom Le Mesurier is the founder of Eat Rio Food Tours. Follow his tweets @eatrio_net

Frelard, Seattle

In the space between two of Seattle ’s most popular neighborhoods, a new community has slowly been taking shape. Embraced by Seattle restaurateur Ethan Stowell, owner of Frelard Pizza Company, the name Frelard reflects those of its neighbors: Fre(mont) and (Bal)lard.

Visitors wandering from the Fremont Troll to the Chittenden Locks can now stop to sample one of the area’s growing restaurant, bar and brewery options. Start with a traditional brown ale or IPA from one of the oldest breweries in Seattle, Hale’s Ales. There are plenty of options for food too, from the aforementioned Frēlard Pizza Company to the protein-rich menu at Giddy Up Burgers. It’s the perfect place to refuel on a day spent exploring beyond Seattle’s main tourist sights.

Valerie Stimac is a Seattle-based travel writer and editor. Follow her tweets @Valerie_Valise

Tooting, London

Tooting in South London has developed into an uber-cool neighborhood in recent years and lost none of its gritty charm in the process. Rubbing shoulders with perfectly pleasant yet slightly square Wimbledon, Earlsfield and Balham, Tooting is a more captivating affair, reveling in multiculturalism and originality. Its high street, which stretches between two Tube stations, is one of the best ‘curry corridors’ in the country, and contains some superb South Asian restaurants, like Dosa n Chutny and Apollo Banana Leaf.

The best shopping can be found inside eclectic Tooting Market, and quirky bars and pubs include The Castle and The Antelope. The Tooting Commons create over 200 acres of green space between them, and are home to Tooting Bec Lido – the largest swimming pool in the United Kingdom.

Will Jones is a London-based writer. Follow his tweets @willjackjones

This article was originally published August 2017. It was updated September 2021.

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The idea of traveling solo can be a daunting one for a first-timer. It raises a number of questions: will I be safe? What route should I follow? Who will take photos of me staring off into the distance atop scenic vantage points?

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether it be a multicountry trip or a city break, some regions are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, reiki, cycling or sightseeing, these spots are certain to ensure your solo travel adventure starts off on the right foot.

South America: best for adventure

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. Don’t let its size daunt you – South America is more conducive to solo travel than you may think. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which encompasses the continent’s most popular destinations along a vertical path, promotes recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and, for those inclined, provides ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes travel relatively simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterwards.

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Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love, there’s no denying it: Bali ’s artistic and spiritual center – where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) – remains a wonderful place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud is a magical place. Solo travel is extremely common here, meaning no more probing glances upon arrival at a morning yoga class or when dining at one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills surrounding the town.

Epic solo travel experience : Indulging in one of the area’s holistic classes, from yoga to reiki. Classes are offered at several establishments, including Taksu Healing Haven.

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Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain, Berlin ’s most famous nightclub, if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor typifies the German capital’s penchant for solo travelers, who are drawn by its deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe. Berlin is one of the best places on the continent to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but the city’s attractions aren’t reserved for the hedonistic holidaymaker. The sense of history surrounds you, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial, while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene offer more leisurely delights. Visit alone or as part of a walking tour.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you.

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East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda, meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania but lack the confidence to tackle East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world. While East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is perfectly achievable, opting for a group tour means you can bundle in a number of big animal-viewing experiences together in multiple countries, without getting hit by lone traveler supplements – not to mention having the transport between them organized for you. Encompassing a number of bucket-list destinations, the tours attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re unlikely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples.

Epic solo travel experience : Cruising past hippos, elephants and crocodiles along the Kazinga Channel in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park.

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Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With a plethora of cultural attractions to explore, a growing offering of hostels and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than finding yourself in Singapore on a sunny afternoon. Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre, gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay or plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, the city feels well-suited to solo travel. And then there’s the food; the city is famed for its hawker stalls, where visitors and locals nudge elbows around rickety tables, bonding over bowls of steaming laksa (spicy noodle soup).

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru.

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Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored, and, though English is not by any means ubiquitous, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million-odd other tourists that visit this cultural hub each year. But don’t spread your itinerary too finely, as Rome rewards relaxation. Mingling with strangers over a glass of vino is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of halls that comprise the Vatican Museums.

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Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's coolest cities, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the intimacy of a small town. This sense of affability reverberates from the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee roasters, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks are poured. But there’s plenty more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a bike-share initiative. While the city is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more social – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at some of the city’s 500 street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District. Time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk.

The best time to visit Portland, Oregon

Vietnam: best for food

Don’t tell Thailand, but if only one Southeast Asian nation can be crowned the crème de la crème for its food, it’s Vietnam. Subtle in its flavors and outstanding in its diversity, Vietnamese cooking is a huge draw for travelers, who’re lured into lingering at cramped tables swapping travel tales over a fifth plate of bánh cuốn (rice batter filled with ground pork, mushroom and shallots).

All over the country, you can mingle with villagers, sample local dishes and sip rice wine in Vietnam’s many regional markets, while a myriad of street food tours and cooking schools foster social environments in major cities. Those seeking respite from the crowds should make for the hill treks around Sapa (fear not, voracious voyagers – a bowl of pho is never far away).

Epic solo travel experience : Learning how to cook a Vietnamese feast; highly recommended is Green Bamboo Cooking School in Hoi An.

A guide to visiting Vietnam for the first time

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a slice of paradise. It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split, the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving over variegated reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp.

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, which teems with turtles and sharks.

8 reasons Belize should be on your travel radar

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It’s difficult to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers plough the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns – seduced, in part, by stories of late-night revelry – that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, whether that be lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or bobbing in the Great Barrier Reef. The most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal towns and windswept villages, or simply the cathartic sight of the single road stretching out ahead of you.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the quaint villages and stunning waterfalls that dot the far north coast hinterland of New South Wales by car.

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10 destinations perfect for solo travel 

Deciding to adopt a sustainable tourism ethos doesn’t mean vowing never to take another flight or to only travel to off-the-radar locales. Instead, invest your wanderlust in places that are rolling out initiatives to minimise the impact of tourism on the environment.

In many ways, travel can be a force for good, so kick-start your eco-friendly escape with one of these dynamic destinations doing their bit for sustainability; from hotels committed to reducing energy consumption, to pioneering tours and activities designed to give back to local communities and help wildlife thrive.

Lake Garda, Italy

While the lavish shores of Lake Como may attract high-profile celebrities like George Clooney, when it comes to A-list environmentally-friendly hotspots, bigger is better! Not only does Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, have a direct rail connection from Milan, allowing visitors to leave their cars at home (or in the rental depot), it is also home to one of the country’s greenest hotels.

The beautiful Lefay Resort and Spa offsets 100 percent of its CO2 emissions, and 60 percent of its energy comes from renewable sources. Hi-tech design materials minimise heat and energy dispersion, and the roof is covered with vegetation to reduce sight pollution and promote local flora and fauna. Feeling guilty about the flight you hopped on to get to Milan? De-stress with a massage at the spa, the first in Italy to be given Ecocert’s Ecological Spa certificate.

Arosa, Switzerland

Arosa is home to Hotel Valsana, Switzerland’s first hotel to be heated by an “ice battery” – an energy recovery system which reuses surplus heat energy that would otherwise have been lost to the surrounding environment. This charming alpine resort village is helping the environment in other ways, too. Several hotels have electric car charging points, and there’s even a charging point in the centre of town that is free to use.

The area has also been given Alpine Pearl status – recognising its “green mobility” and eco-conscious practices – by the tourism association of the same name. This EU-funded organisation was set up to promote and support communities going above and beyond when it comes to sustainable tourism.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

A visit to the remote Galápagos Islands tops many people’s bucket list, but this same isolation, though incredibly attractive to travellers, can also require a motorcade of gas-guzzling transport options to get there. The good news? Several properties – such as the Pikaia Lodge – are going all out to protect this fragile environment and offset the environmental cost of getting there.

Believe it or not, this innovative carbon-neutral hotel is made with steel, chosen due to the ease with which it can be recycled. The walls are covered with lava stone collected from areas approved by the Galápagos National Park Service and the doors and furniture are made from sustainable teak.

First-timer's guide to the Galápagos Islands

The hotel has its own reforestation programme (10,000 endemic trees have been planted so far), and water comes from rooftop rain harvesting systems.

The majority of tour operators here come with environmentally-conscious credentials, but be sure to do your research before booking and, where possible, travel in a small group so as to have as little impact on the wildlife and natural environment as possible.

The Bahamas

A number of Bahamas properties are taking a more proactive approach to protecting the environment. Take Kamalame Cay on Andros island, which encourages guests to dine on lionfish (an invasive species which preys on indigenous fish and disrupts the local ecosystem) or The Other Side hotel, which is entirely solar-powered.

At Tiamo Resort, all products used are carefully vetted to minimise the risk of pollution, with rooftop solar panels used to help heat water. And to ensure continued support of local communities, the Tiamo Resort recruits all of its employees from the Bahamas.

Pangulasian Island, Philippines

Pangulasian Island in the Philippines is a paradisiacal bolthole for those in search of an eco-friendly escape. This private island resort is dedicated to supporting the local people through economic initiative. One such enterprise is teaching local women the traditional art of weaving, the products of which are then bought by and sold at the hotel.

There's also a wide-reaching nature conservation programme which oversees twice-monthly coastal clean-ups, measures to protect against illegal fishing, the installation of Eco Reefs (to help resuscitate damaged marine environments) and mooring buoys (to avoid continued anchor damage on coral reefs) as well as a turtle conservation programme.

The best beaches of the Philippines

Join in the efforts to protect new-born hatchlings as they make their first dash for the ocean and further your knowledge with an expert-led talk on wildlife and conservation.

And to keep this ecosystem in and of itself thriving, the staff here are also encouraged to submit proposals for environmentally-friendly initiatives, which are then trialled by the resort.

Werfenweng, Weissensee, Styria and Vienna, Austria

Werfenweng is a beautiful lakeside town which is changing the face of sustainable tourism. Anyone arriving at the train station (visitors are encouraged to leave their cars at home), can make use of a complimentary pick-up service, and for €10 can purchase a SAMO pass, granting you access to a fleet of green vehicles from e-cars to novelty buggies and bikes.

And Werfenweng isn’t alone. In Weissensee, Hotel Gralhof relies on a green energy wood chip heating system and has a fully organic kitchen, and the Styrian holiday resort of Ramsau operates the Ramsau Bioniere initiative, a selection of hotels, farms and guesthouses that display a commitment to reducing waste and energy consumption and championing organic produce.

Vienna is proof that being a green capital city needn’t involve compromising culture – in 2019, the Mercer Study voted it the world’s most liveable city. There are 2000 parks in the city, and the new Green Taxi scheme saw 370 hybrid and gas-powered taxis rolled out. Vienna also has more organic farmland than any other city (over 800 hectares and three city farms), 120 bike share stations and a network of cycling trails totalling 1300 kilometres.

Catalonia, Spain

Catalonia is the first entire region to obtain the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification, a scheme backed by Unesco and the GTSC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council), in recognition of the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature in this region. And it’s easy for visitors to go green here; look for businesses with an EU Ecolabel, a certificate which spotlights environmentally-friendly, high-quality products and services.

Some of the region's most outstanding attractions include various former coal, lead and salt mines that have been turned into renewed cultural and environmental areas.

Walk in the fossilised footsteps of dinosaurs in the old open-air coal mines of Fígols-Vallcebre Fumanya, now a designated palaeontology site. Another great area is the Cardona Salt Mountain Cultural Park; after the mine closed in the 1990s the park now offers visitors the chance to learn about the region's unique natural geology.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica aims to become the world’s first carbon neutral country, and it’s on track to achieve this by 2021. Almost all of its electricity comes from renewable resources, and the UN was so impressed with conservation efforts that it made the country’s former president, Luis Guillermo Solís, a special ambassador to their World Tourism Organisation.

His next project is an environmentally friendly makeover of the world’s favourite caffeine fix – coffee. It’s Costa Rica’s biggest export, but also the biggest source of CO2 emissions. The Coffee Institute of Costa Rica has joined forces with the Ministry of Agriculture to develop a process which traps gas produced by decomposing coffee waste and uses it to power combustion engines.

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This article was originally published in December 2018 and updated in January 2021.

Into the green: eight destinations for an eco-friendly escape

Not everyone delights in sand and surf. For skiers and snowboarders, the dip in temperatures and the mountaintop thrills are the stuff dreams are made of. So why be tied to the seasons? From Scandinavia to New South Wales, here are our dream destinations to pursue an eternal winter.

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

January – Salt Lake City, USA

Skiers and boarders discuss Utah’s voluminous powder snow in rapt whispers. State license plates have bragged about “the greatest snow on Earth” since 1985. The hype is well-founded: few North American winter sports hubs enjoy as much snowfall – around 550 inches per season – as the four main resorts clustered around Salt Lake City.

Dry and cold weather gives the snow a buoyant quality, ideal for off-piste antics (and a very soft landing). Skiers will revel in the breathtaking views around Alta, while the top pick for snowboarders is vast Snowbird. Meanwhile, wide-open Solitude has a web of challenging black (advanced) runs.

February – Hokkaido, Japan

In Hokkaido, cathedrals of ice and snowy beasts aren’t hallucinations induced by too much sake. Each February, sub-zero sculptures are unveiled at Sapporo Snow Festival. On the mountains, nature crafts its own surreal display: juhyo (snow monsters), formed when trees are blasted with snow and ice, are at their most impressive in February.

Ski past battalions of juhyo at crowd-pleasing resort Sapporo Kokusai, one hour’s drive west of Sapporo city, or thunder across legendary backcountry (if you’re a pro). Still yearning to face-plant in fluffy snow? Continue southwest to powder capital, Niseko.

March – Whistler, Canada

When the dreaded spring melt creeps into resorts across Europe and North America, skiers in British Columbia continue merrily on the mountains. Eight-thousand-acre Whistler-Blackcomb groans under 12m of snowfall each year, so it’s still at its prime in March. More than 200+ well-preened pistes wend across the two mountains, with a mile of skiable vertical that dwarfs other North American resorts. To leave fresh tracks in pristine backcountry snow, grab some avalanche gear and a local guide to explore the lonely snowfields of Garibaldi Provincial Park.

April – Obertauern, Austria

Think quaint chalets and pillowy snow are for wimps? Winter travellers who crave wild, windswept terrain should head to Obertauern, 90km south (56mi) of Salzburg. From its dizziest heights, around 2350m (7701ft), you can survey the towering Austrian Alps as you zoom across 100km (62mi) of pistes – just bring a balaclava to fend off the biting winds. Obertauern was one of the filming locations for Help!, should that inspire you to belt out Beatles tunes from the bubble lift.

May – Riksgränsen, Sweden

Hiding 200km (124mi) above the Arctic Circle is Sweden’s northernmost ski resort, Riksgränsen. The ski area’s vertical drop, at under 400 metres (1312ft), doesn’t compete with other European resorts. But expansive off-piste trails, winding among cloudlike snowdrifts and frost-rimmed forests, more than compensate. Mix it up by snowshoe trekking around Lake Vassijaure or commanding a fleet of sled dogs, and watch professional shredders in Scandinavia’s Big Mountain Championships. At the end of May, when the sun barely touches the horizon, you’ll need steely willpower to hang up your skis and sleep.

June – Cardrona, New Zealand

When Europeans and North Americans mournfully shelve their gear, New Zealanders are busy waxing their skis. Cardrona, whose winter season kicks off in mid-June, is nestled prettily in the Southern Alps. Half of its 345-hectare pisted area suits novice and intermediate levels, while seasoned snowheads can somersault around the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest half-pipe and park facilities. Just 20km south (12.4mi), Cardrona Distillery is the perfect place to stock up on après-ski fuel.

July – Las Leñas, Argentina

Luxury is best served with a sprinkling of powder snow. Premium ski resort Las Leñas gleams out from the Argentinian stretch of the mighty Andes mountain range. Its slopes climb from 2200m (7218) to a vertiginous 3400m (11,155ft), so start slowly to avoid altitude sickness – there’s no more enjoyable way to adjust than in a lavish spa hotel ( Hotel Virgo is the fanciest). Best of all, you’re in Mendoza wine country, where aprѐs-ski involves swishing an inky Malbec around your glass while eyeing a steak menu.

August – Perisher Valley, Australia

Dispel images of foaming surf and fan-shaped opera houses. New South Wales is home to a small but hardy community of skiers, who make an annual pilgrimage to Perisher, the southern hemisphere’s biggest ski resort. A valley carved among Australia’s Snowy Mountains, Perisher’s altitude (and more than 200 snowmaking machines) ensure it’s blanketed in the white stuff each August. Snowboard or ski across its 1200 hectares, or clamp on some snowshoes to roam the scenic Rock Creek track.

September – Corralco, Chile

Compared to busier ski hubs towards Santiago, this friendly resort on the southern slopes of 2865m-high (9400ft) Lonquimay is blissfully low-key. After the stormy first half of the ski season, August and September in Corralco have bluer skies and fewer crowds. Its 1800 hectares of snow-lashed terrain is superb for newbie or intermediate skiers and boarders. Only 10km (6mi) southwest of the resort, the natural hot springs in Malalcahuello beckon to sore limbs.

October – Whakapapa, New Zealand

Fancy snowboarding on an active volcano? Of course you do. Splayed across the northwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu, Whakapapa is superb for groups of mixed ability. There’s a huge area dedicated to learners called Happy Valley, as well as 24 steep “Black Magic” runs for advanced boarders, skiing pros, or show-offs with robust travel insurance. It forms New Zealand’s biggest ski area together with sister resort Turoa (temporarily closed), which boasts the country’s loftiest chairlift, the Highnoon Express – don’t look down.

November – Ruka, Finland

Southern hemisphere resorts shutter their chalets, northern ones wait anxiously for snowfall – November is the cruellest month for skiers. Luckily far northern Ruka, a frosty fell in eastern Finland, has 200 days of snow per year, plus snowmaking machines to keep the hills downy and white. Most thrilling are Ruka’s 500km (311mi) of cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, threading among forests and frozen lakes.

December – Val Thorens, France

Finish with a flurry of snow in Val Thorens, Europe’s highest ski village. Posing from a 2300m (7546ft) perch in the French Alps, this purpose-built winter sports retreat accesses the largest linked ski area on the planet, Les Trois Vallées (Three Valleys). Glide down 600km (373mi) of slopes, schuss more than 300 cross-country trails, and dip into villages like pretty Méribel and low-key Le Praz for hot chocolate. As steam curls from your chocolat chaud, with a panorama of mountains piercing the clouds, you might find yourself dreaming ahead to another year of wintry adventures.

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This article was originally published in April 2016 and updated in January 2021.

Eternal winter: where to ski every month of the year

Let’s be honest, 2020 has been a real struggle. But there’s something about a year of downs that makes the ups even more important somehow, making us truly value good news when it does indeed arrive. That’s why we rounded up 10 positive stories from the past year that have lifted our spirits and kept us inspired. Here’s our top picks.

1. The adorable baby boom for Uganda’s gorilla population

The announcement that Uganda ’s mountain gorilla population has experienced a baby boom this year was certainly a cause for celebration at a time when climate change and habitat loss have badly affected animals around the world. Back in September the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) reported seven baby gorilla births, five of which arrived at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with the country typically recording one or two births a year on average. Increasing numbers saw the status of mountain gorillas changing from Critically Endangered to Endangered back in 2018, with the positive numbers being attributed to conservation efforts and a crackdown on poaching.

2. Restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral reached an important milestone

In April 2019 the world watched on in shock as one of the most iconic structures in history – the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris – burned before their eyes. Once the fire was extinguished, the talk immediately turned to restoration, with experts reporting that it would be a lengthy and expensive mission. Last November, the team charged with renovation announced that the project had taken a positive step forward, thanks to 200 tons of melted scaffolding being removed from the damaged landmark. The scaffolding had been present at the time of the fire and fused with the cathedral, meaning that it had to be carefully removed to secure the site. It is hoped that the renovations will be completed by 2024.

3. Peru is aiming to make Machu Picchu completely carbon neutral

Thankfully, conversations about the importance of sustainable travel have become more frequent over the last few years, with many people realizing that drastic action must be taken in order to secure the future of the planet. This year, Machu Picchu announced its Carbon Neutral initiative, a project that seeks to make it the first tourist destination in Peru and the world to drastically reduce carbon dioxide emissions. It laid out the goal of 45% reduction in emissions by 2030 and 100% by 2050, following the guidelines of the climate agreement of Paris. The country also launched a sustainability brochure that celebrates the unique natural attractions, animals and landscapes that visitors can enjoy in a low-impact way.

4. The Acropolis is becoming more accessible

Travel should be for everyone, so it is always a cause for celebration when a popular attraction makes positive changes in order to make it more accessible to travelers in wheelchairs and those with mobility impairments. And that is just what the Acropolis in Athens recently announced, stating that plans are in place for the installation of a new lift system, while walkways will also be updated. The initiative was unveiled by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to mark the International Day of People with Disabilities. The citadel sits on top of a steep incline, making access a challenge. A new lift will be situated on the north face of the hill, with old concrete walkways from the 1960s being replaced with wider stone paths.

5. The Japanese aquarium that set up video chats for their shy eels

Japan is typically at the forefront of all things quirky and adorable, and this year was no different. With COVID-19 reducing visitor numbers at Sumida Aquarium in Tokyo, the institution’s garden eels were reportedly becoming more shy, burrowing to the bottom of the sand in their habitats to peek out. Garden eels stretch out and show off their long spotted bodies when they feel comfortable, but without crowds passing by frequently, they began to become nervous whenever their caretakers were near the tanks. To remedy this the aquarium set up a “Face-Showing Festival”, asking the public to Facetime the animals in the hopes that they would be re-socialized.

6. The survival of the world’s smallest possum in Australia despite bushfires

Weighing less than ten grams, the little pygmy possum (Cercartetus lepidus) was feared extinct following the terrible bushfires that raged in parts of Australia in early 2020. The blaze wiped out an estimated 88% of the animals and they had not been seen after for some time. However Kangaroo Island Land for Wildlife, a biodiversity conservation program that aims to provide safe havens for plants and animals surveyed 20 fauna sites and captured 20 different wildlife species. Among them was a little pygmy possum, leading to new hopes that the animals have survived. According to experts however, serious work needs to be done to support the at-risk animals now.

7. This dog that was voted the world’s cutest mayor in a Southern California town

Politics are divisive, now more-so than ever. But there’s one thing that we can and should all agree on – dogs are adorable. And so, the non-incorporated and non-partisan town of Idyllwild decided to choose a Golden Retriever known as “Maximus mighty-dog mueller, the second," or just Mayor Max II, as their mayor. Back in 2012 the non-profit Animal Rescue Friends of Idyllwild organized a sponsored election with different pets in the running. Mayor Max I was chosen by an overwhelming majority, but sadly died in his second term. A search was put out across the US and the current mayor was discovered to be of the same blood line, so he was ushered into office immediately. His sister Mitzy serves as his deputy. The mayor had over 50,000 followers in Instagram and his handlers received approximately 15 calls a day requesting he be brought to visit them.

8. A Dutch tulip farm that spread a multicolored message of hope

Bulb farming company Dutch Daffodils and tour company Tulips in The Netherlands joined forces earlier this year to spread a message of positivity to all of the tourists who were unable to visit the country this year. A team created a 145-foot wide message that read, “See you next year”, out of the colorful flowers. It took five hours for the message to be assembled by hand in the traditional way.

9. Emily Harrington becomes first woman to free climb El Capitan's Golden Gate in 24 hours

Incredible feats by individuals have always proved inspirational and uplifting, and this was certainly the case in November, when Emily Harrington became the first woman to free climb the Golden Gate route of El Capitan in under a day. Harrington completed the grade VI 5.13 route in 21 hours and 13 minutes, and also became just the fourth person to free climb the 3000-foot-high route in 24 hours after Tommy Caldwell, Brad Gobright and Alex Honnold. The successful climb comes a little less than a year after her first attempt that left her hospitalized. The route typically takes experienced climbers between four and six days to complete, with over 40 pitches or sections to overcome.

10. Sustainability being recognised and celebrated

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2021 took this year to look ahead to the future in a slightly different way, celebrating sustainability, diversity and community, instead of destinations, trends and experiences as usual. To celebrate some big achievements, we chose 10 inspirational tourism projects that are shining a light on pioneering sustainable practices, and the people behind them. The list was widespread, focusing on places like Palau, Namibia, Greece and Rwanda, and recognised people and places making positive changes for the future.

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Brand new data released by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has shown that an additional 31 animal species have become extinct, with an extremely worrying trend outlined for fresh water dolphins, as well as a number of species of sharks and rays.

There are now 128,918 species on the IUCN Red List, of which 35,765 are threatened with extinction. The new assessments show more than 316 chondrichthyan species – which includes sharks, rays, skates and chimaeras - are now at risk of disappearing. With the tucuxi ( Sotalia fluviatilis) moving from the Data Deficient to the Endangered category, all of the world’s fresh water dolphins are now at severe risk.

The Red List updates include over 420 assessments of shark and ray species, of which 154 species are classified as threatened or at risk of extinction in the wild. Among them are four hammerhead shark species ( Sphyrna family) and four species of angel shark ( Squatina family) that are endangered or critically endangered, making them some of the most threatened shark families, while the giant manta ray ( Mobula birostris) is now facing a very high risk of extinction. Since the last global Red List update for sharks and rays was conducted in 2014, they are fast becoming one of the most threatened groups of vertebrates on the planet.

“These findings are sadly predictable. As IUCN’s Shark Specialist Group continues to pull the curtain back on the state of sharks and rays, the crisis should be triggering alarm bells for anyone who cares about the health of our ocean. Twenty years have passed since the international community recognised the threat of overfishing through the International Plan of Action for Sharks. Yet, obviously, not nearly enough has been done to halt the overfishing that is pushing these animals to the brink of extinction,” said Dr. Andy Cornish, leader of Sharks: Restoring the Balance, WWF’s Global Shark and Ray Conservation Programme.

The lost shark ( Carcharhinus obsoletus), which was only formally described last year, enters the Red List as critically endangered (possibly extinct), with the species last recorded in 1934. Its habitat in the South China Sea has been extensively fished for more than a century and remains one of the most overexploited marine regions in the world. All 17 freshwater fish species endemic to Lake Lanao and its outlet in the Philippines are now extinct or critically endangered (possibly extinct), with the extinctions being caused by predatory introduced species, worsened by overharvesting and destructive fishing methods.

Three Central American frog species have been newly declared extinct also, with an additional 22 frog species across Central and South America being listed as critically endangered (possibly extinct). The main cause of the drastic declines is chytridiomycosis disease. According to IUCN, conservation efforts to protect critical habitats are helping populations of several other amphibian species to recover. Among them is the Oaxaca Treefrog ( Sarcohyla celata), which moved from critically endangered to near threatened thanks to actions by local communities in Mexico.

There is a silver lining however, with the report showing positive developments for some animals (including the European bison [ Bison bonasus ], which has grown from around 1800 in 2003 to over 6200 in 2019, justifying the move from vulnerable to near threatened) thanks to conservation efforts.

“The European bison and twenty-five other species recoveries documented in today’s IUCN Red List update demonstrate the power of conservation,” said Dr Bruno Oberle, IUCN director general. “Yet the growing list of extinct species is a stark reminder that conservation efforts must urgently expand. To tackle global threats such as unsustainable fisheries, land clearing for agriculture, and invasive species, conservation needs to happen around the world and be incorporated into all sectors of the economy.”

The data also revealed that that 45% (637 of 1464 species) of protea plants that grow mainly across the Southern Hemisphere are vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered, while almost one third of oak trees (31%, 113 of 430 species) are threatened with extinction.

More information on is available at the official IUCN Red List website.

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Here’s why Africa tops being a wildlife conservation destination
Researchers in Australia discover these adorable gliders are three separate species

New Red List reveals 31 extinct species - and some conservation successes

Lunchtime yoga class in the local gym, sandwiched between work and a disappointing desk salad, is all but ancient history. After a year of Youtube instructor yoga, you're not alone if your savasana meditation veers into daydreams of performing sun salutations on a beach in Bali or cutting your best mountain pose in the foothills of the Himalayas.

2020 has been the opposite of zen, and we all need to unwind. If you're hoping to restart your practice or break up what's become a seriously well-trod routine, it might be time to start planning a post-pandemic blend of yoga and travel. You can leave your living room behind to lay down your mat amidst some of the world’s most beautiful locales, from Spain to Peru.

Whether your downward-facing dog is rock solid or your warrior pose is a little wobbly, we’ve collated six of the world’s best destinations for a yoga holiday; places you can unwind, hone your skills and enjoy a myriad of restorative activities to get your groove back.

Editor's note: during COVID-19 there are restrictions on travel. Check the latest guidance before departure, and always follow local health advice.

Rishikesh, India

A city nestled within the Himalayan foothills on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, where locals gather at dusk for the nightly river worship ceremony, set to a tinkling soundtrack of temple bells – it’s hard to fathom a place more conducive to spiritual healing. India is the birthplace of yoga, and Rishikesh ’s pedigree in the ancient art is well known, thanks, in part, to a certain Liverpudlian quartet, who visited an ashram here in the 60s.

Ease into this yoga heartland with a class (or lengthier stay) at Parmarth Niketan, one of India’s top yoga centres offering Pranayama and Vedic healing for all abilities. For total rejuvenation, try Phool Chatti ashram. Standing strong after 120 years of practice, this centre draws on Hindu traditions in a programme of yoga and holistic renewal.

Away from the mat: Rishikesh’s most iconic landmark, Shri Trayanbakshwar Temple, is a grand, tiered monument, bedecked in Hindu shrines, that’s well worth a visit, and for a more adrenaline-pumping experience, there’s ample opportunity to try river-rafting in the Ganges, trek to waterfalls, or even go bungee jumping. If their spiritual presence isn’t quite tangible enough, the swinging Cafe Delmar is the perfect place to pay homage to the Beatles (and serves up a mean smoothie too).

Ibiza, Spain

Still proudly sporting its badge of honour as one of the world’s most established party destinations, Ibiza is perhaps an unexpected addition to this list. But, bedazzled with secret coves and sheltered beaches, and dusted with fragrant pine forests, this Balearic island is as much about natural serenity as hazy hedonism.

A swathe of new wellness retreats channeling Ibiza’s liberal soul and natural beauty now provides a salubrious yin to the island’s hard-partying yang. Hidden Yoga is one such centre, which holds classes in isolated outdoor locations, from clifftop Hatha sessions to paddleboard yoga in secluded coves. For a more conventional experience, the YogaRosa retreat offers a tranquil stay in a traditional, whitewashed villa, with daily guided practice and meditation sessions.

Away from the mat: A trip to Ibiza wouldn’t be complete without some dedicated beach time, and the island’s rugged topography offers a wealth of coastal hiking to pair with a refreshing dip in the Med. For the ultimate way to unwind, head to Benirrás Beach of a Sunday evening, where local bongo drummers get together to play in the sunset.

Sacred Valley, Peru

Burrowed into the slopes of the Andean highlands and dotted with Incan citadels, rural weaving villages and airy, colonial towns, the Río Urubamba Valley is better known as ‘Sacred’ for a reason. This is a spiritual place, with the energy of Pachamama (Incan Mother Nature) tangible in every cloud-shrouded mountain peak, rushing waterfall and grazing alpaca, drawing yogis from all corners of the globe.

Whether it’s the spirituality or the scenery that appeals, there’s a miscellany of centres scattered throughout the valley, offering a variety of classes. Nidra Wasi offers daily Andean and Hatha yoga sessions – and longer teacher training courses – in a beautiful studio with floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as an on-site sauna and spa. Elsewhere, Paramatma Holistic Healing centre in the ancient Incan city of Cuzco runs Asthanga Vinyasa yoga and meditation workshops for all abilities.

Away from the mat: The Sacred Valley is home to Peru’s most beguiling ancient sites, not least Machu Picchu and the ruins of Ollantaytambo and Pisac. To take it easy after a day of practice, head to the colonial town of Aguas Calientes and soak tired limbs in its natural hot springs.

Tofo, Mozambique

Perched at the crest of a sweeping, white sand beach, laidback Tofo is a small but charismatic town, both alluring and unassuming in equal measure. Overlooking a coral reef teeming with manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins and migratory humpbacks, this coastal community is a perpetual draw for surfers and divers, and its low-key, boho vibe attracts a steady stream of worldly yogis keen to hone their skills too.

If the idea of downward-facing dog in an oceanfront, gaia-tree yoga shala tickles your fancy, set your sights on Turtle Cove, a yoga and surf retreat that offers classes from beginner to advanced. Alternatively, mix your practice with a spot of scuba diving at Tilak Lodge ’s specially crafted retreat. Well, when in Tofo...

Away from the mat: It’s impossible not to get swept up in the surfing and diving buzz that pervades Tofo – ideal for testing out that newly strengthened core and sharpened balance. It’s also a great place to nourish your stomach as well as your soul, with hearty local cuisine from cassava and coconut milk matapa (a green stew) to piquant peri peri sauce.

Boulder, USA

The sprightly city of Boulder in Colorado is a big draw for lovers of the American countryside. Framed by dramatic mountainscapes, rugged creeks and ponderosa-fringed trails, the city’s population of students, chic urbanites and outdoor athletes match its natural energy – fertile ground indeed for yoga studios and retreats to set up shop.

With the imposing Flatiron mountains as a backdrop to Boulder life, outdoor yoga practice here is particularly rewarding. SUP Yoga offer paddleboard yoga sessions on Boulder Reservoir, focusing on core control and breathing whilst immersed (although hopefully not fully) in the city’s surrounding landscape. For something a touch more traditional, Iyengar Yoga Centre in the heart of the city runs a full programme of therapeutic sessions, as well as Asana and anatomy workshops to boot.

Away from the mat: Boulder, as the name hints, is a hotbed for climbing, with classes for beginners and experts alike tackling faces throughout the Flatirons, which also offers great hiking and biking trails. For something a little different, try tubing on Boulder Creek – something of a local rite of passage – which can be a serene or adrenaline-fuelled experience depending on the river’s water levels. Inner tubes are available from a number of businesses in the town centre, including Whitewater Tube Company.

Note: The Iyengar Yoga Centre is closed temporarily due the COVID-19 pandemic. Call ahead to find out when they will be reopening.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali ’s fertile, volcanic mountains, glittering shoreline and hushed, hillside temples are synonymous with all things wellness, but the divine energy that characterises this island extends far beyond the private retreats and luxury spa resorts that perennially pop up on Instagram. It’s soaked into the reverent, religious ceremonies, streets strewn with flower petal offerings and gentle, almost meditative pace of local life, seemingly unaffected by the ever-present streams of visitors seeking to experience Bali’s unique essence for themselves.

Tucked within the emerald folds of Ubud’s rainforest is Taksu Spa, a serene sanctuary offering a range of Hatha, Flow and traditional Balinese yoga classes. If you’re looking to really master your sun salutation, consider a longer stay at Desa Seni retreat in Canggu, which provides personally tailored yoga workshops for beginners and upwards.

Away from the mat: From blissful beach relaxation in Seminyak to exploring the island’s many tranquil temples, relaxation and restoration are built into Bali’s DNA. Consequently, there’s tons of quality travel experiences on offer here that pair well with a stint in a yoga retreat, from watching traditional craftsmen at work to spotting cheeky macaques in Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest.

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