FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF
Who doesn’t love a palm tree? And the things that usually accompany them. Think aquamarine water, soft sand that squeaks under your feet, drinking out of coconuts and eye-poppingly gorgeous resorts.
Recently, I was in Koh Samui in Thailand, exploring the islands on a boat tour, swimming and snorkelling at each one. There is no doubt that a tropical vacation such as this helps us reboot, relax and re-energise.
Another place that is at the top of most island bucket lists is the Maldives, and we have two great stories that will have you checking how much leave you have and packing your swimwear.
First up we check out the new Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, which is already proving to be popular, both for what the resort itself offers, and for what lies just off its pristine beach. The Coralarium is a wonderful art gallery, its sculpted figures best explored with a snorkel or scuba gear. Also don your favourite sarong for our round-up of other wonderful resorts, all delivering the quintessential Maldives experience.
Not far from the Maldives is Sri Lanka, and we find that its cuisine is just as appealing as its key attractions – especially if you love a good curry. We also dive into the foodie attractions of Spain’s Costa Brava, in the shadows of Barcelona.
In the UK, we head for The Shetland Islands, showcasing a wonderful collection of images of this wild place that is part of Scotland yet has a strong Norse tradition. Did you know that this is where Shetland ponies originated?
In Australia, we head to the Top
End to explore Kakadu in the wet season, a time when the waterfalls are at their most beautiful, and in
New Zealand, we are left almost speechless at a stunning property near Lake Wanaka in the South Island.
In Asia, we have another splash of tropical brilliance in Palawan in the Philippines, and go tea picking in the hills around Chiang Rai.
In this issue we are giving away a wonderful trip to New Orleans. The lucky winner will enjoy five nights in this incredibly vibrant and historic city on the Mississippi River including economy flights with United Airlines. Do not miss this opportunity – enter on page 38 or on our website.
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