Getting the flavour of…
Samba in Rio de Janeiro A uniquely Brazilian fusion of African and European musical styles, samba was born in Rio de Janeiro more than a century ago. You can learn to dance it almost anywhere, says Tom Yarwood in National Geographic Traveller – but there’s nothing like experiencing it in its home city, where it remains the soundtrack of daily life. For an insider’s perspective, try local tour operator Dehouche. They will arrange lessons, take you to dance at hallowed venues (including the “flamboyantly ornamented” art deco Clube dos Democráticos) and arrange behind-thescenes tours of key institutions. The most glamorous is the carnival costume workshop of Sandro Carvalho, bristling with feathers and jewels – but most joyous is dancing at a suburban samba school party with the “jiggling hordes of grannies and toddlers” who keep the tradition’s soul alive. A fivenight tour costs from £2,350pp, incl. flights (0871-284 7770, www.dehouche.com).
Scottish gardens by sea A former car ferry turned luxury cruise ship, The Hebridean Princess is the perfect vessel for a trip around Scotland’s Highlands and islands, says Katie Wood in The Sunday Times. The Queen held her 80th birthday bash aboard, and other guests are treated like royalty too, with just 30 spacious cabins, Molton Brown products in the bathrooms, and all-inclusive prices (prepare to “fill your boots” with champagne). Concentrating on destinations inaccessible to larger boats, it offers various themed trips, including – in May next year – gardens. This takes in both small private gardens, such as the “enchanting” An Cala on the Isle of Seil, and vast estates. Loveliest of all is Attadale, in Wester Ross, with its sculptures framing the views of Skye. The gardens voyage starts 15 May and costs from £4,150pp (01756704704, www.hebridean.co.uk).
A singing holiday in Malta If you have ever fancied joining a choir, chances are you’d enjoy Authentic Adventures’ holidays on the Mediterranean island of Gozo, says Harriet O’brien in The Sunday Telegraph. Participants stay in a small hotel with glorious sea views in the fishing village of Xlendi, and join in singing sessions each day, moving between venues that include a 17th century watchtower and the “palm-filled” Villa Rundle Gardens in Gozo’s baroque capital, Victoria. Tutor Liz Martin believes everyone can sing, and teaches by ear. Making music together in this easy, instinctive way is “euphoric” and “poignantly soulful” by turns, and exploring the island – which lies a ferry hop from Malta – is a delight. A seven-day trip costs from £1,600pp, incl. flights (01453-823328, www.authenticadventures.co.uk).