Antarctica

I had stepped into another world. Or that is what it felt like as I was dazzled by the brightness of the sublime icy landscape which surrounded me.

Botswana

My enthusiastic host was brimming with excitement as I got back from a game drive on my first evening to tell me that a leopard had just walked past my tent and up to the bar for a drink of water.

Cuba

In Vinales Valley the traffic jams are the ox & carts carrying the tobacco leaves dried in the original thatched roof stores that dot the countryside. Farmers labour in the fields ploughing by hand with their trusted ox.

Golden Ring, Russia

As I walked up to the church in Suzdal the snow was at least a foot deep and covered everything with a fresh, white blanket...a sight that will stay with me...it would have made a perfect Christmas card.

Madagascar

There are not many places in the world where within a matter of a couple of steps you can walk straight from primary rainforest with lemurs to glorious white sandy beaches to watch humpback whales?

Sudan

Given my experiences I totally endorse the line in the Bradt guidebook, "Indeed, it's not uncommon for trans-Africa travellers to commend Sudan as their favourite country in the whole continent."

Syria and Jordan

It's like stepping back in time, surrounded by the vibrant colours and smells of spices and perfumes, veiled women, loaded donkeys and the ever-present welcoming smiles of the people.