Spirit of the Belize jungle

 

At the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, a sense of Belize's mystical past remains

Sunlight sparkles through a late morning drizzle as I cross the Mopan River on the tiny hand-crank ferry. I'm heading for Xunantunich, Belize's most accessible Mayan site. The ruins lie a mile from the river outside San Ignacio, a village near the Guatemala border.

Saving Davenport House and Savannah's history

When the Davenport House, considered one of the best remaining examples of Federation architecture, was threatened with demolition in 1955, a group of local women founded the Historic Savannah Foundation to fight its planned destruction. They were successful, and having saved their first historic structure, they went on to save more than a thousand more. Just over a decade later, the 2.5-square-mile area of Savannah built on the city's original 1733 grid was declared a National Historic District.

Visiting historic Sofala in the NSW Central West

Australia's oldest surviving gold town

Tucked away in the picturesque Turon River valley, Sofala is a tiny town with a big history. This former gold rush town, located in the heart of New South Wales, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the state's rich heritage. With its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, fascinating museums, and stunning natural surroundings, Sofala is a treasure trove of history and charm.

Historic Sydney brewery preserved as office and business space

Tooth and Co. was a major brewer in New South Wales, Australia, with a rich history dating back to 1835. The company was founded by John Tooth, who emigrated to Australia in the early 1830s and opened the Kent Brewery on Parramatta Road, Chippendale, in Sydney.

Visiting the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in New Zealand

High above the anonymous mud and squalor of the WW1 trenches flew a relatively few airmen, who faced the challenge of individual battles in machines that were at the cutting edge of technology. Their stories are ones of personal triumph and trailblazing for those who followed. 

The Knights of the Sky exhibition at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre brings this important period in aviation history to life. The display's realism and creativity have received worldwide acclaim. 

Visiting historic Strathalbyn in South Australia

THE plains around the Angas River, at the foot of the eastern side of the South Mt Lofty Ranges, were settled soon after the colony of South Australia was established. Dr John Rankine was the first to take up land there, one of 105 Scottish immigrants who arrived at Holdfast Bay, near Adel-aide, on the Fairfield in May 1839. Within a few months, he went to look for farming and grazing land, and he, his wife, five children, and his brothers William and James settled in the Strathalbyn district.

Post-Breakup Destinations for a Fresh Start

There is something quite restorative about leaving heartache behind and hopping on a plane to reclaim a little magic. With Valentine’s Day on its way, a breakup around this time may present the ideal opportunity to escape from it all. Around one third (28%*) of Hong Kong travellers go on vacation to push themselves out of their comfort zone, so whether it is soaking up the sun in a remote island hideaway, finding peace in a city steeped in history, or indulging in the art of doing absolutely nothing somewhere breathtaking, the world offers endless opportunities to heal and sparkle. This is why Booking.com has pinpointed some destinations perfect for a new beginning. After all, a fresh perspective and a well-stamped passport make the next chapter look infinitely brighter.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Known as the Pearl of the Pacific, this breathtaking island in French Polynesia is hailed as one of the most exquisite spots on earth, making it the ideal place for opulence, indulgence, and relaxation.. Swap those breakup blues for long days lounging on the beach, taking dips in the crystal-clear lagoon, exploring the coral reefs, and soaking up the stunning scenery. As well as endless relaxation and serenity, travellers can find adrenaline-fuelled excitement with this Jet Ski Tour, zipping round the warm waters topped off with a coconut husking demonstration. And don’t forget to try traditional Polynesian food. Inspired by French cuisine, it’s filled with fresh fish, shellfish, aromatic spices and tropical fruit.



Where to stay: Situated within 10 km of Mount Otemanu and overlooking picture-perfect blue waters, Rohotu Fare is a glorious place to relax after a long day exploring Bora Bora. Each room comes fully equipped with all the essentials to help travellers feel at home while lounging on their own balcony or terrace and soaking up the island views.

Paphos, Cyprus

Lying on the sun-kissed southwestern coast of Cyprus, Paphos is ideal for those seeking to heal a broken heart and rediscover their sense of wonder. Known as the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, Paphos offers serene beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic sunsets, inviting travellers to relax and reflect in breathtaking surroundings. Travellers can escape to another time and place, steeped in history, from the ancient ruins like the UNESCO-listed Paphos Archaeological Park to the quaint, centuries-old cobblestone streets lined with charming cafes and local art galleries, or escape to the rugged Akamas Peninsula for a rejuvenating hike. For the travellers looking to get truly immersed in Cyprian culture, this Make You Own Wildcrafted Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the ideal experience for the foodies, and a nice way to meet new people in a group setting!



Where to stay: Only a short walk from the city centre of Paphos, Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel provides guests with luxurious surroundings to help heal a broken heart. With two outdoor swimming pools, a tennis court and spa facilities and a plethora of bars and restaurants to choose from, travellers need not leave their hotel to enjoy their stay in the city.

Kyoto, Japan

Seeking solitude and reflection after a breakup? Kyoto offers a serene yet vibrant escape steeped in tradition. This ancient city feels like a living museum, where centuries-old temples and Zen gardens blend seamlessly with charming alleyways and tea houses. Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, or spend hours in the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched above a sea of maple trees. Another aspect of Kyoto that nourishes the soul is the food: from delicate kaiseki meals - artfully crafted multi-course feasts - to street-side bowls of yudofu, Kyoto’s famed tofu, every dish is a delightful feast for the foodies. Tap into a sense of Zen with this Fu Fu No Yu Onsen Experience, and get to know Japan’s age-old bathing culture. Travellers looking to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural rhythm, can savor a matcha in a quirky tearoom or a stroll through Gion, where glimpses of geishas still enchant. The air here carries a sense of quiet renewal, as though Kyoto itself invites visitors to pause, breathe, and start again.





Where to stay: Travellers can truly switch off at the traditionally styled Momijiya Annex. With temples and hiking trails surrounding the property, along with a beautiful river flowing close by, this is a hideaway retreat perfect to forget all troubles and worries. This Japanese-style property blends in with the four seasons, with open-air baths in every guest room and an in-house restaurant serving up the most delicious and authentic Kyoto cuisine.


METHODOLOGY
*Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,016 from Argentina, 1,002 from Australia, 502 from Austria, 1,003 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1,006 from Canada, 1,007 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 501 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,011 from France, 1,009 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,002 from India, 506 from Ireland, 501 from Israel, 1,014 from Italy, 1008 from Japan, 1,013 from Mexico, 1011 from The Netherlands, 1003 from New Zealand, 504 from Portugal, 508 from Singapore, 1004 from South Korea, 1,008 from Spain, 509 from Sweden, 500 from Switzerland, 507 from Taiwan, 1,009 from Thailand, 503 from the UAE, 1,012 from the UK, 1,006 from the US and 1,016 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.