30 Photos From New Zealand That Will Turn You Into an Outdoor Person

If you’ve ever met me in person, you will know that I am the biggest fan of New Zealand. I can honestly say that my fascination with this country somewhat borders with an obsession. There, I said it. So far I’ve spent over 15 months in New Zealand and I already know that it’s not enough.

Being amongst some of the most beautiful landscapes in this world has opened my eyes and made me finally realise what I want to do with my life. I want to convince people to do the same.

Each time I leave the country, I still feel like there’s so much I haven’t seen, so many more hikes I would love to do and locations I want to photograph.

If you are looking for advice on planning your once in a lifetime trip to New Zealand visit my New Zealand Travel Guide, where you will find custom road trip itineraries, information about photography locations and hiking trails.

ARE YOU READY TO GET INSPIRED BY NEW ZEALAND’S NATURE?

Biking down Mount Bourke near Wanaka, New Zealand

Breathtaking landscapes in Arthur's Pass National Park, New Zealand

Taranaki volcano on the Pouakai circuit on the north island of New Zealand

Redwood Forest, Rotorua, New Zealand — Redwood Forest, Rotorua

An afternoon stroll around lake Hawea, New Zealand

Coromandel Peak, Wanaka, New Zealand — Coromandel Peak, Wanaka

Mountain reflections in lake Hawea, New Zealand

Majestic mountains around lake Hawea, New Zealand

Waterfall in Taranaki/Mt Egmont National Park, New Zealand

Morning hike on Roy's Peak, Wanaka, New Zealand

Isthmus Peak hike, New Zealand — Isthmus Peak near Wanaka

Hiking near Wanaka with Mount Aspiring as the backdrop, New Zealand

Sunrise from Coromandel Peak, lake Wanaka

Lone Willow tree, Wanaka, New Zealand

Mount Robert ridgeline, Nelson Lakes NP, New Zealand

Sunset at the Hooker glacier lake in Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

Hiking in the Hooker valley, New Zealand

Goblin Forest, Mt Egmont NP, New Zealand

Looking towards Walter's Peak in Queenstown, New Zealand

The Future of Travel Increasingly Is Likely To Be Chinese

AUSTRALIA-NATURE-TOURISM-SHARK

If you buy into the popular theory that “Demographics are Destiny” (not everyone does) you probably should begin learning Chinese. Korean would be good to learn, too, especially if you expect to work in the future in the travel or hospitality industries.

That’s because Chinese consumers collectively spent nearly $258 billion on international travel last year. That’s more than twice the combined amount spent on international travel by people from the United States and Germany, the next two biggest-spending nations, combined. And the Chinese are relative newcomers when it comes to venturing beyond their nation’s borders. A smallish percentage of them travel outside of China each year, though given the size of that nation’s population even that small percentage represents well over 100 million Chinese travelers to foreign destinations.

Yet Chinese citizens flew, on average, just 65 miles last year vs. the 227 miles flown on average by U.S. residents, the 285 miles flown on average by Germans, the 271 miles flown on average by those from the United Kingdom, and the whopping 632 miles flown by the average Canadian last year.

That’s according to a recent report issued by GetGoing Travel Insurance.

What China’s high total spending on international travel and its low average number of miles flown on international travel tells us is that while only a relatively small percentage of China’s residents actually do travel outside their homeland, those who do spend a lot of money and don’t tend to go all that far. China is home to approximately 1.4 billion people, making it the most populous nation on Earth. But the low average of miles travel on international trips is the function of two factors:

· A relatively small percentage of Chinese now have the financial ability to travel internationally, though the numbers who do travel outside of China are growing rapidly every year.

· A relatively large percentage of Chinese travelers beyond their nation’s borders stay relatively close to home. In fact, a big share of them go to Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. They go there either to visit friends and relatives who live in those places or to gamble in the casinos and or enjoy the entertainment venues in Macau and Hong Kong. Hong Kong attracted 44.5 million Chinese visitors, Macau 17.2 million and Taiwan 10.7 million.

Those numbers imply strongly that as more and more Chinese attain middle class status and the financial ability to travel internationally, and as Chinese become more and more interested in traveling visiting destinations farther and farther away from home their spending on international travel and the average distances flown will both rise exponentially.

Americans last year collectively spent about $135 billion on foreign travel according to the GetGoing report, for second place on the top 10 list of foreign travel spending. Germany ranked third at $89.1 billion. The rest of the top 10 include: the United Kingdom ($171.4 billion); France ($41.4 billion); Canada ($31.8 billion); South Korea ($30.6 billion); Italy ($27.7 billion); Australia $34.2 billion; and Russia ($31.1 billion).

Like China, South Korean’s average number of miles flown internationally is noticeably low. Right now that’s mostly because South Koreans’ most common foreign destinations are Japan, China, Thailand and the U.S. But as more South Koreans are able to afford international travel – as expected, given the strength of that nation’s economy – and as they become open to venturing further away from home and to less obvious destinations, they too, like the Chinese are likely to see a large increase in combined foreign travel spending and international miles flown.

New Zealand’s Best Beaches Are Too Stunning for Words

Countless amazing beaches line the coasts of New Zealand. The island nation is known for its jaw-dropping stretches of sand, but knowing which ones to put on your itinerary can be tough for even the most choosy of beachgoers.

Whether you’re in search of a secluded gem or a well-known Instagram hotspot, we’ve compiled the best beaches for Kiwis and visitors alike. Here are 11 must-visit beaches

Koekohe Beach, Otago Coast

Moeraki Boulders, New Zealand

The Moeraki Boulders appear to have been plopped on the South Island’s coast, but they’re actually rock formations that have been gradually exposed to Koekohe Beach through erosion. Formed around 60 million years ago, the circular stones are this beach’s hallmark, their presence a welcome interruption on Koekohe’s stretch of sand. In between sunbathing sessions, inspect the boulders’ funky surface patterns — the clumps of sediment form mesmerizing displays.

Rarawa Beach, Far North

Rarawa Beach, New Zealand

Try to picture the whitest sand you’ve ever seen, then kick that up a notch. That’s what stepping onto Rarawa Beach

in New Zealand’s Far North region looks like—so wearing sunglasses to combat the reflection off of its white silica sand comes highly recommended. When you’re not admiring the bright, soft stuff underfoot, cool off with a dip in the ocean or opt for swimming in the lagoon that forms at high tide. The country’s department of conservation offers camping on the beach, too.

Awaroa Beach, Abel Tasman National Park

Awaroa Beach, New Zealand

Awaroa Beach is nothing if not beloved. It’s so well-liked that in 2016, almost 40,000 Kiwis banded together to buy the beach from a private entity for more than $2 million. When the sale went through, the beach was donated to New Zealand’s Department of Conservation and became part of Abel Tasman National Park. To glimpse its (public) shores and aqua-blue waters, plan to take a boat tour from Kaiteriteri or Totaranui, or hike about 4.4 miles from either Onetahuti or Totaranui.

Karekare Beach, Auckland

Karekare Beach, New Zealand

Surf’s up at Karekare beach, just 50 minutes outside of Auckland. Sizable waves and super-soft black sand make it a favorite among athletes and sunbathers alike. The spot, which is part of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, is beloved by filmmakers, too, and has been featured in works like “The Piano” and “Xena: Warrior Princess,” Those in need of some shade after a day in the sand should head inland to Kitekite Falls — a short hike through a coastal forest leads to the dramatic drop and swimming hole.

Ninety Beach Mile

Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand

This seemingly never-ending stretch of sand is also situated on the Far North’s western shores. The beach starts at Ahipara and ends at Scott Point along the country’s Aupouri Peninsula — which doesn’t actually measure 90 miles. Instead, the storied sandy strip is 54 miles. It’s thought the spot was named by horseback riders who took three days to complete their journeys. They estimated their steeds traveled at 30 miles per day, but didn’t account for the horses’ slower pace on sand. These days, travelers flock here for two main reasons: to see jaw-dropping sunsets, and to seek out left-hand surf breaks.

Cathedral Cove, the Coromandel

Cathedral Cove, New Zealand

The entirety of the Coromandel is incredibly scenic, but Cathedral Cove is surely the spot’s crown jewel. Though it’s only a 10-minute jaunt from Hot Water Beach, the cove feels worlds away. That’s partly because it’s only accessible on foot or by boat. Pick up the trail at the northern end of Hahei Beach, wind through sandy paths for about 45 minutes, then watch panoramic views of the cathedral-like arched rock unfold in front of you. The cherry on top? It’s only a two and a half-hour drive from Auckland.

Gillespies Beach, West Coast

Gillespies Point, New Zealand

This beach is known for three things: sunsets, seals, and snow-capped peaks. The West Coast hangout was once the site of a gold-mining settlement — there’s even a miner’s cemetery there — but now is more popular with those seeking out golden sunset views. To the east is a jaw-dropping view of snowy Mount Cook, which lies in the distance beyond the sand. Hike up to nearby Galway Beach to spot a seal colony, where the animals sprawl out to relax beside the Tasman Sea.

Wharariki Beach, Nelson

Wharariki Beach, New Zealand

At the tippity top of the North Island — west of Cape Farewell — lies Wharariki Beach, known for its larger-than-life rock formations, caves, sand dunes, and powerful gusts of wind. You’ll likely recognize its Archway Islands, a trio of huge (and photogenic) rocks shaped like arches. To see the place in all its glory, head down at low tide, when plenty of sand is exposed for you to make tracks in. Just make sure you wear comfortable footwear, as the beach is only accessible via a 20-minute walking track from the end of Wharariki Road.

Mount Maunganui Main Beach, Tauranga

Mount Maunganui, New Zealand

Mount Maunganui Main Beach in a word? Breathtaking. Blue waters, green hills, and sandy stretches make for colorful contrasts. The place also quite popular, which means the busy atmosphere is consistently fun and lively. Cafes, restaurants, gift shops, and ice cream parlors line the street across from the beach, so a scoop of something sweet is never far away.

Hot Water Beach, the Coromandel

Hot Water Beach, New Zealand

Like its name suggests, Hot Water Beach does indeed boast hot water. Within the four-hour window of low tide, beachgoers can luxuriate in the warm waters of an exposed thermal pool, either by digging one or hopping in an already-formed hole. The hot springs can rise to up to 174 degrees Fahrenheit, but when enjoyed safely, can make for a budget-friendly spa day. To balance the hot with the cold, there’s also the option to swim in the waters of Mercury Bay — just beware the surf’s rip currents.

Maitai Bay, Northland

Maitai Bay, New Zealand

This portion of the Karikari peninsula has been compared to the beaches of Fiji, and for good reason. Its crystal-clear waters and shining white sand are nothing short of tropical. Not to mention it’s rimmed by sweet-smelling pohutukawa trees. There’s plenty to do, too, including camping, diving, snorkelling, swimming, birdwatching, and hiking.

Source: Travelandleisure

18 travel books to inspire your next vacation or feed your wanderlust

Source: BusinessInsider

For the outdoor explorer: ‘100 Parks, 5,000 Ideas: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do’ by Joe Yogerst

For the international foodie: ‘Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Eats’ by Lonely Planet Food

For the young traveler thinking about going solo: ‘The Solo Travel Handbook’ by Lonely Planet

For the traveler who only has time to read one book: 'Atlas Obscura: An Explorer's Guide to the World's Hidden Wonders' by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras, and Ella Morton — Don’t let the idea of travelling alone stop you from living out your dreams. Packed with tips and advice for before and during your travels, “The Solo Travel Handbook” gives you the confidence and know-how to explore the world on your own, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or short city break.Developed with Lonely Planet’s expert travel writers, it explains how and why individual travel is such a valuable and rewarding experience. It also ranks the best destinations for road-tripping, food, nightlife, culture, island escapes and more, as well as how to fund your travels while you’re away.

For the traveler who only has time to read one book: ‘Atlas Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders’ by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras, and Ella Morton

Inspiring equal parts wonder and wanderlust, “Atlas Obscura” celebrates over 700 of the strangest and most curious places in the world.Created by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras and Ella Morton, “Atlas Obscura” revels in the weird, the unexpected, the overlooked, the hidden and the mysterious. Every page expands our sense of how strange and marvelous the world really is. And, with its compelling descriptions, hundreds of photographs, surprising charts, maps for every region of the world, it will be as appealing to the armchair traveler as the die-hard adventurer.

For the train traveler: ‘Amazing Train Journeys’ by Lonely Planet

Experience 60 of the world’s greatest and most unforgettable train journeys, from classic long-distance trips like Western Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer and Darwin to Adelaide’s The Ghan, to little-known gems on regular commuting lines.We’ve always had a soft spot for trains. We know the moment a train pulls out of a station bound for somewhere fantastic is when the adventure truly starts. “Amazing Train Journeys” is the culmination of asking more than 200 travel writers for their absolute favorites recommendations. Some are epic international adventures, others short suburban routes along stunning coastline. There are incredible feats of engineering, trains that snake their way through mountain peaks, and even those that have achieved Unesco World Heritage status.

For the domestic traveler: ‘1,000 Places to See in the United States and Canada Before You Die’ by Patricia Schultz

Covering the US and Canada like never before, and for the first time with full-color photographs, here are 1,000 compelling, essential, offbeat, utterly unforgettable places. Pristine beaches and national parks, world-class museums and the Just for Laughs festival, mountain resorts, salmon-rich rivers, scenic byways, the Oyster Bar and the country’s best taco, lush gardens and coastal treks at Point Reyes, rafting the Upper Gauley (if you dare).And, for every entry, it includes what you need to know about how and when to visit.

For the traveler who thinks they’ve seen it all: ‘Secret Marvels of the World: 360 Extraordinary Places You Never Knew Existed and Where to Find Them’ by Lonely Planet

For the geography-obsessed traveler: ‘Atlas of the World’ by Oxford University Press, Keith Lye, and Wil Tirion

For the national park pass holder: ‘Moon USA National Parks: The Complete Guide to All 59 Parks’ by Becky Lomax

For the hungry roadtripper: ‘Roadfood, 10th Edition: An Eater’s Guide to More Than 1,000 of the Best Local Hot Spots and Hidden Gems Across America’ by Jane and Michael Stern

For the curious, experiential traveler: ‘The Bucket List: 1,000 Adventures Big & Small’ by Kath Stathers

For the outdoorsy woman: ‘She Explores: Stories of Life-Changing Adventures on the Road and in the Wild’ by Gale Straub

For the introspective traveler: ‘Destination Earth: A New Philosophy of Travel by a World-Traveler’ by Nicos Hadjicostis

For travelers who let their stomachs lead the way: ‘Great American Eating Experiences: Local Specialties, Favorite Restaurants, Food Festivals, Diners, Roadside Stands, and More’ by National Geographic

For the ambitious road warrior: ‘National Geographic Guide to Scenic Highways and Byways, 5th Edition: The 300 Best Drives in the U.S’ by National Geographic

For lovers of Nat Geo: ‘Journeys of a Lifetime, Second Edition: 500 of the World’s Greatest Trips’ by National Geographic

For anyone looking for a new perspective: ‘Overview: A New Perspective of Earth’ by Benjamin Grant

For anyone who’s considering quitting their day job to travel: ‘Not Afraid of the Fall: 114 Days Through 38 Cities in 15 Countries’ by Kyle James

For world travelers international roaming sim Knowroaming

Punta Cana Resort Delivers Luxury At 114 Swim-up Suites

The Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar in Punta Cana has 114 swim-up suites.

When luxury is part of a hotel name, it’s natural to wonder if the reality can live up to the hype.

With the addition of 114 swim-up suites at the adults-only Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar in the Dominican Republic, the name matches the reality.

The swim-up suites offer luxury indeed with comfort and style inside–king-sized beds, large bathrooms and spacious sitting areas—and a pool just steps outside sliding-glass doors.

The Pinero Group recently celebrated the re-opening of the five-star, 528-room Punta Cana hotel after a $26 million renovation that also included updates to existing restaurants.

“We trust that our strategic approach to restoring our hotels and their amenities will help us surpass guest expectations in a hospitality landscape that is more competitive than ever,” said Encarna Pinero, CEO of Grupo Pinero, which operates 14 hotels in the Dominican Republic. “Today’s travelers look for more than pristine beaches and stunning views.”

For water lovers especially, there’s nothing more luxurious than being able to walk out the door of your suite to take a quick dip after a late night out or an early-morning swim before your day begins. Each suite is connected to a long narrow pool that runs the length of the building. Outside each suite’s door is a small patio and steps down into the pool. The patios are separate, divided for privacy.

33 Best Trips And Tips For Solo Female Travel

Solo female travel is on the rise. Here, Nneya Richards, founder of the blog, âN A Perfect World, explores Paris.

Solo female travel just keeps getting hotter. According to the George Washington University School of Business, nearly two-thirds of today’s travelers are women. The Travel Industry Association reports that an estimated 32 million American women travel alone every year. And travel companies are seeing a big uptick in interest from solo female travelers. Hostelworld, the largest online hostel-booking platform, has seen a growth in female solo bookings of 45% between 2015 and 2017.

So how are women making the most of solo travel and where are they going? I tapped into some accomplished travelers to get their top tips for traveling solo — and the best places to travel as a woman alone. Here’s what they had to say.

Nikki Misurelli, the woman who has ridden a motorcycle around the globe.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NIKKI MISURELLI

Keep an Open Mind: It might be easy to go to the tourist areas where everyone speaks English and can accommodate you, but take the extra challenge to step out of your comfort zone and try the path less traveled . It has its risks, as does anything in life, but it’s a great way to experience a culture or region. It’s fascinating to see how people live their daily lives in a regular non-touristy community. Eat like the locals, sleep like the locals, participate in activities like the locals. A smile (and Google Translate) can go a long way, even if you don’t speak the same language.

Be Adventurous But Prepared: I got really (really) sick while traveling and it was terrifying. When I got home, I looked into a medical transport membership program called Medjet that the guys in my bike shop recommended. It’s super affordable, and when I found out they had a membership that also offered security response, I picked that one — MedjetHorizon. I feel a little more safe while being adventurous knowing they have my back (24/7 crisis response) and it makes my mom and grandma so happy that if something bad happened to me, they’d have someone to call.

Write in a Journal! When we travel, we think we will remember all the details, but in actuality so many new things are happening so quickly every day, and eventually the details will fade away. Even just taking five minutes a day to write down any major events or key memories will help to remind you of so much that you may forget over the years. I personally love going back and reading my travel journals. Photos are also a great way to capture the moments, but we have to be careful not to get completely obsessed over only taking photos and not actually taking in and living in the moment.

Nikki Misurelli in Morocco.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NIKKI MISURELLI

Where to Go: Morocco was one of my favorite places to visit as a solo female traveler. It was a unique and culturally different experience, but I felt extremely safe and welcomed everywhere I went. The people were all very nice and helpful in all situations and everyone made sure I was happy, safe and enjoying my travels. One time I even ran out of gas and got stranded overnight in a small non-touristy town. No one could speak English, there were no hotels for hours, I didn’t have any Moroccan cash, only Euros (which no one could accept) and no gas stations or currency exchange offices were open. I sat down at a small local cafe late at night and paid for a meal with the last of the change in my pocket. Some friendly local residents sat down with me, gave me a free hot tea and we managed to communicate with Google Translate. When they heard of my adventures and struggles, they immediately welcomed me to their family’s home and gave me a warm blanket on the floor (the same way they sleep), more food and a locked place to park my motorcycle. Once I was able to get my currency exchanged, I tried to give this family money and buy them food, but they absolutely would not accept. I was shown the most beautiful compassion and kindness. This family (along with many others) will always hold a special place in my heart and memories.

Kelly Lewis, founder of Go Girl Guides, the Women’s Travel Fest and Damesly.

Who: Kelly Lewis, founder of Go Girl Guides, the Women’s Travel Fest and Damesly. Read her tips on affordable travel: “The 33 Cheapest Places To Travel In 2018.”

Talk! Talk to everyone, everyone, everyone. The more people who are familiar with you and who recognize you, the better. So, I talk to everyone in my hotel, everyone in my hostel, everyone on the bus next to me. For me, it’s about staying safe, and the best way to do that is to connect with other people who are looking out for you.

Don’t Overshare: I’m very aware of what kind of information I’m sharing. On social media, I do share where I am, but I don’t share specifics. So, I don’t do Foursquare, I don’t check in to like specific areas, but I’ll definitely say, “Here I am in Bangkok! If you’re here in Bangkok, let’s meet up.”

Where to Go: My favorite place for solo female travel is New Zealand (probably not surprising!). It’s the first country I ever went to, the first country I lived as an expat and it’s so naturally stunning that I still compare everywhere else in the world to the things I saw there. I’d have to say Argentina and Uruguay are a close second and third.

Nneya Richards, founder of the blog, ‘N A Perfect World.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NNEYA RICHARDS

Who: Nneya Richards, founder of the blog, ‘N A Perfect World, fashion stylist and travel blogger who has written for publications like Vogue and Pop Sugar

Go Shopping: Support women businesses , even if it’s a store. This is a great tip that I learned when I was in Mexico (where I go surfing every winter). I met one of my closest girlfriends in a jewelry store. I was just looking at jewelry and she was working at the store there. Flash forward: We’re really close friends.

Smile: You’d be surprised like how much a smile leads people to you, and people want show you the best of their countries, their cities and if you take their suggestions, they’re really happy to help and to show you around.

Where to Go: As a solo female traveler of color, there’s a lot of navigation through spaces that have seen “tourism” primarily from white men. Comfort and safety are factors that we have to take into account as we explore other locales and cultures. One of the most magical experiences I’ve had as a solo female traveler — and the place that really gave me the confidence to travel solo even more — is Sayulita, Mexico. It is one of my favorite places in the world and I first went there solo when American papers were reporting the dangers of traveling to Mexico due to drug wars. This beach town — the people, sand, surf and sun — welcomed me with open arms and soon my New York apprehensions started to fade away. A big expat community, Sayulita is still a small town with small town vibes. Within days, locals knew who I was and I was welcomed into their community with them looking out for me, opening their hearts and their homes. The Riviera Nayarit is a magical place I’d recommend for any solo female traveler.

Mickela Mallozzi — the producer and star of the travel series, Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi — learns Highland Dance with the Patterson Dancing School in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Who: Mickela Mallozzi, producer and star of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi. Read about her in “How This Unlikely TV Star Created A Simple Idea That Allows Her To Travel The World.”

Dance: I like talking with people, hearing about what is important to them, what type of music they listen to and of course, I love to dance with people. Dancing is what brings me the most joy, but I also use it to get out of my comfort zone because most of the time I don’t know what I’m doing (I’m following someone else’s dance moves). I’ve learned not to care what I look like when I’m learning a new dance, and that has helped me tremendously.

Where to Go: I recently got back from Georgia (the country, not the state), and not only is it filled with breathtaking landscapes, delicious food and exuberant and beautiful music and dance traditions, but the Georgian hospitality is centuries old and embedded in the culture and the people. It’s an incredibly safe, open and forward-thinking country – its people are beyond warm. I was initiated as a “da” or a sister to one of my new, Georgian friends, Mako, when I arrived. Friendship there is sacred, shared over the 8,000 year-old tradition of wine, and those friendships are expected to last a lifetime. From Tbilisi’s hipster scene to Kazbegi’s panoramic mountain views, you will find lifetime friends in the Caucuses.

Alyssa Ramos, founder of mylifesamovie.com, atop Mount Kilimanjaro.

Who: Alyssa Ramos, full-time travel blogger, social media influencer and founder of My Life’s a Movie. Read about her: “How This Woman Went From Broke To Traveling Full-Time (And Making Lots Of Money).”

Have Confidence: My top tip for a woman traveling solo is to always walk around with confidence, research the area before you go, be respectful of the culture and always be aware of your surroundings.

Where to Go: The Riviera Maya of Mexico is especially great for first time solo female travel trips, because it’s not a big jump to another continent (for U.S. citizens), you can use U.S. dollar, people speak English (yes, in Mexico they speak English as well as Spanish), there are tons of expats and visitors and also tons of adventures and sites to see all in one place, including one of the New Seven World Wonders, Chichen Itza. I know Mexico gets a negative stereotype sometimes, but in all honesty, if I were to ever live somewhere, Playa del Carmen or Tulum would be my first picks. That’s how much I love being there.

Shinjuku Crossing in Tokyo.

SHINJUKU CROSSING IN TOKYO

Where to Go: Japan — specifically Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka — tops my list for solo female travel because of how safe and respectful the culture is there. Despite thinking I’d stick out and get stared at with my blonde hair and blue eyes, I found that rarely anyone did, and I was only ever approached when people noticed I looked lost (typical when attempting the rail system there), and they helped me find my way!

Author Lavinia Spalding.

Who: Lavinia Spalding, author of Writing Away: a Creative Guide to Awakening the Journal-Writing Traveler, and the editor of The Best Women’s Travel Writing series. Watch her TED Talk on pursuing a career in travel: “9 TED Talks That Will Inspire You To Quit Your Job And Travel For A Career.”

Give Yourself an Assignment: Solo travel is exciting and illuminating, but it can also get lonely sometimes. My top tip is to give yourself an assignment while traveling. It could be as simple as tracking down the tastiest momos in Nepal or seeing the best flamenco show in Spain. Or it could be a deeper mission, like enrolling in a course or doing meaningful volunteer work. Having a personal mission lends more purpose to your travels and increases your chances of meeting interesting locals and travelers, which helps you feel more connected and fulfilled. And my other top tip—of course—is to journal about it.

Where to Go: As for where to go, the possibilities are endless. But I might suggest Portugal or Sicily — if only because those two places had some of the best gelato I’ve ever eaten, and when you’re traveling solo, gelato can be really important.

Budget travel expert Pauline Frommer, ziplining in Whistler.

Who: Pauline Frommer, co-President of the Frommer’s guidebooks and Frommers.com. Read her budget tips in “10 Smart Ways To Save Money On Your Next Trip.”

Buy Something: The best solo women travel tip I ever heard was from Evelyn Hannon who runs JourneyWoman.com. She said the first thing you do in a new destination is you go into a local store (like a drugstore or market) and you just buy something small so you can have the bag, and that bag marks you as a local.

Tap Into Other Women: There’s an organization called Women Welcome Women, it’s out of Britain but it’s in every country in the world. It’s basically a directory service of women who just love to help and meet other women. It’s a nice way to have a safety net and yet still travel alone.

Where to Go: Paris is my favorite spot for solo female travel. No matter what age you are, when you’re there, you aren’t invisible, as you can become in other destinations.

Marcia DeSanctis overlooking Machu Picchu in Peru.

Who: Marcia DeSanctis, author of The New York Times Best Seller, 100 places in France Every Woman Should Go

Just Do It: My top tip for a woman traveling solo is to travel solo. It is to not be afraid. It is that to understand the best way to make your connection with a place and with a new environment and in a new context is not to have to worry about somebody else. It is to be by yourself. You really notice things better when you’re alone.

Where to Go: Among my favorite places to visit alone is St. Petersburg, Russia, one of the great walking cities in the world. I can race through the Hermitage to have a look at a single painting (maybe Titian’s Danae) or take my sweet time. I’ll wander over bridges, along canals, past the white and gold buildings along the Moika and Neva Rivers. The city is dazzling and its watery beauty makes me feel contemplative, especially a stop in the Summer Garden or St. Isaac’s Square, looking up at the great cathedral’s dome.

Erica Virvo, director of global operations at Nomadic Matt, at Vagabond Temple in Kep, Cambodia.

Who: Erica Virvo, director of global operations at Nomadic Matt and budget travel lover who has been exploring the world for 10 years

Stay in Hostels: My top trip for traveling solo as a woman is stay in hostels. I love staying in hostels as a woman because you get to meet people — and you can meet people that you can then travel with. When you’re traveling with other people, it’s harder to do that.

Where to Go: Vagabond Temple in Kep, Cambodia is worth recommending for solo female travelers. This yoga and meditation retreat is a space of rejuvenation in a region where so many travelers go in search of something. It’s a great place to stop, rest, and collect yourself before you continue to wander through Southeast Asia (even if you’re new to yoga or meditation). It’s not restricted to female travelers, but mostly women come here. It’s one of those places that you book for a few days, and end up staying for a month accidentally. I highly recommend it for anyone making their way down the Banana-Pancake Trail.

Juliana Broste, founder of TravelingJules.com, snowboarding in Colorado.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JULIANA BROSTE

Put Down Your Phone: When you’re eating alone, put that phone away and open your eyes, maybe there’s something exciting to see or someone exciting to meet. I love traveling solo because you have the opportunity to meet people. When you’re with somebody, people won’t approach you. But when you’re alone, say you’re at the bar, people will come up and chat with you, and you have nothing to do but to make a new friend.

Where to Go: My favorite spot for solo female travel is to go to a ski town. Embrace the feeling of freedom as you feel the wind in your hair while skiing or snowboarding down the mountain, and make friends on the chairlift riding back up in the singles line.

Who: Gillian Morris, founder and CEO of Hitlist, an app that helps you travel more for less. Read Morris’s packing tips: “Confessions Of A Packing Expert: 9 Business Travel Hacks.”

Use Tinder: This is a kind of edgy one, but I have a friend at Google who did a study of the top apps that people use while traveling, and surprisingly one of the top ones for meeting locals is Tinder. I’ve gone on Tinder, even when I’m dating someone, and said very clearly in my profile, “I’m just here to meet someone to go out on the town or explore with a local.” And I’ve always been very clear in the communication. It’s a really great way to meet people, and I think if you’re straight-forward, you’re not doing anything wrong and it can be a really wonderful experience.

Where to Go: My favorite spot for solo female travel is Turkey. Muslim hospitality ensures that you will be invited to many homes, and an extensive tourist infrastructure means that it’s easy to get wherever you need to go by bus, plane, train or ride share. The Airbnb hosts in off-the-beaten-track destinations in Turkey are some of the best I’ve ever been lucky enough to stay with and there are so many wonders — from the natural beauty of the coast to the historical riches of Capadoccia — to explore.

Connection enthusiast Tami Fairweather in Wadi Rum.

Who: Tami Fairweather, marketing communicator, consultant, connection enthusiast and event media manager for the Adventure Travel Trade Association

Don’t Sleep In! One of the tips I usually give my friends is: Those days when you really don’t want to get up early because you’re tired, don’t sleep in. Because you don’t remember how tired you were during a trip, you remember what you did. If you were feeling lazy, or even a little under the weather, that’s not what you’re going to remember. You’re going to be thankful that you got up early and saw that church, went on that hike to the waterfall, met those people, had that meal. In the moment, it seems like it’s going to be difficult, but the memories made from a full day are totally worth it.

Where to Go: Some of my favorite solo adventures have been on the road, pondering life while riding U.S. highways and byways destined for national and state parks. Finding a local outfitter that offers group trips is a great way to explore the parks and meet some locals for a more immersive cultural experience. I did something like this last spring in Louisiana’s Acadiana region on an overnight kayak trip in the swamp, and learned more about Cajun culture around the campfire than I could have on one visit to a museum.

Julia Pond, head of editorial content at Skyscanner.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JULIA POND

Who: Julia Pond, head of editorial content at Skyscanner

Put a Ring On It: I’ve been hearing a lot of tips since we launched a “tips” feature for solo female travelers. One of the most interesting ones: Bring a wedding ring, even if you’re not married. Especially if you’re doing more intrepid travel, it can be really helpful to pretend that you’re attached, whether you’re attached or not, whether you’re straight or not.

Understand the Culture: It is so important to understand the customs of the place you’re visiting. See how the locals dress and adapt. If you’re going to France, dress a little more nicely, don’t dress like an American in slumpy shorts and flip-flops. You’ll get treated better if you’re dressed like a French person. In India, wear long flowy trousers and long flowy shirt and you’ll be in a much better situation than if you’re in a Western tank top that just makes you stand out.

Where to Go: Wildlife, surfing, yoga, tea and cinnamon — Sri Lanka is a fragrant, addictive destination for solo women. People are relaxed and super honest, and much of the harassment or bargaining you might encounter in its continental neighbor, India, is off the table. Take surfing lessons with an accomplished native (who probably started when he was 11) or meet up with other travelers (thanks to a healthy backpacking scene) to visit a tea plantation or go on safari in one of three national parks. Finish with freshly grilled fish for dinner. Repeat.

Travel hacks to keep the kids happy this Easter road trip

Will you be able to keep the kids occupied on your Easter journey?

With Easter just around the corner and families beginning to prepare for their long weekend road trips, the old saying ‘it’s about the journey and not the destination’ can be a far cry for even the most patient of parents.

Despite packing extra snacks to organising entertainment, sometimes kids can leave parents feeling frazzled and frustrated before even leaving the house.

To help families get the most out of their Easter road trip and ensure the journey is as smooth as possible, Budget Car Rental Australia has pulled together some top tips and hacks to keep the kids happy in the car.

Plan, plan, plan

Plan your road trip down to the minute. Once you think you’re done planning, plan some more.

Key things to consider before embarking on your road trip, is to time it around the kid’s sleeping patterns, schedule toilet breaks and rest periods for the family to stretch their legs and get some air.

Make packing lists ahead of time to ensure nothing is forgotten and be sure to include an extra set of accessible clothes in case of any accidents during the trip.

Are we there yet?

Hear the end of the pesky “are we there yet?” or “how much longer” questions by creating a fun and visual road-trip countdown.

Get the kids to create cards listing each city or town that you will pass on your route and pin them on a string to be displayed in the car.

Every time you pass a city or town, remove the corresponding card, making it more and more exciting the closer you get to your destination.

Comfort is key

If your road trip is on the longer side, be sure to dress the kids in comfortable clothes.

Leggings, tracksuits, or even pyjamas are perfect for a lengthy car ride.

This way, the children can get more comfortable and even have a nap so they’re well-rested to get out and explore once you arrive at your destination.

Organisation nation

You can never be too organised on a road trip.

Having a tidy, organised car will save a surprising amount of time at pit stops and help you get back on the road faster.

A handy trick is hanging a shoe organiser on the back of the front seats as the pockets act as individual storage compartments for the kids to have access to everything they might need.

If your kids love to draw or colour-in, attach suction shower organisers on car windows to hold their crayons, pencils and markers, making them easy to access and saves them from falling under the seats.

Stock up on snacks

Nobody wants a “hangry” toddler (or partner!), so make sure to stock up on snacks before heading off on the road.

Pre-prepared, individual servings of fruits and veggies are always ideal, but it’s always great to also pack a sweet treat for the children to look forward to as a reward for being on their best behaviour.

Games for everyone

Road trip games are not only great for kids, but for the whole family.

While iPads and car board games are great, why not make your own game from the road trip itself?

Get the kids interested looking out of the windows on a road trip scavenger hunt and see who can see the most roadside sights along the way.

Alternatively, pack each kids’ favourite games in a dedicated backpack and keep it with them in the car. That way they have everything they need at their fingertips.

7 Practical Tips To Make Business Travel More Bearable

Business travel is a tiring ordeal for many people—whether it’s dealing with different time zones, crappy hotels and work. As many hospitality and travel companies within the $1.3 trillion industry are trying to improve the experience—focusing on mobile functions and customization in 2019 according to Jeff Berk, CEO of Tripkicks—travelers have more options to “make business trips suck less.” So what are some simple yet practical ways to get a head start? I reached out to several industry insiders to find out.

This can be part of your next business trip.

COURTESY OF NAYA TRAVELER

Bring a pre-charged phone charger

As someone who often travels for business, I know how important my mobile charger is. Since calls and emails can drain batteries very quickly, my advice for road warriors would be to keep a portable USB charger handy. I prefer something easy to pack like the Anker PowerCore+ mini, which is slightly larger than a regular Chapstick but adds six hours to a phone’s battery life. Another great option is the Mophie Juice Pack—a powerful charger that doubles as a phone case.

—David Bueno, General Manager of The Jefferson in Washington, DC

PowerCore+ Mini ($19.99)

ANKER

Maximize hotel rewards

For business executives who frequent the same cities or the same hotel brands, take advantage of hotel reward cards for significant savings and discounts. For example, the Bettoja Club Card provides a 20% discount on the car park ‘Garage Mediterraneo,’ a welcome drink at Hotel Mediterraneo’s Roof Garden, and a free stay for the second person from Friday to Sunday, among other benefits.

owever, traveling with loved ones can be stressful, so look for family-friendly hotels such as The DAYTONA that have “abundant recreation opportunities and proximity to local attractions.”

—Michael Melendez, General Manager of The DAYTONA in Daytona Beach, Florida

Look out for restaurants with children’s menus when traveling with little ones. (Photo credit: Getty)

GETTY

Stay to the left

Whether it’s the airport, bus terminal or train station, traveling involves constant maneuvering around other people. Because the majority of travelers are right-handed, we tend to favor the right in general. So when confronted with moving walkways, lines or check-in desks, keep to the left and see where it gets you.

—Beth Gibson, Experiential Travel Expert of Avis Car Rental

Walk on the left side (Photo credit: Getty)

GETTY

Talk to HR

Raise issues of archaic policies to your HR team to allow for more choice and humanity in your business travels. A great way to begin the conversation is through the use of benchmarking. Companies want to remain competitive, and if they’re falling too far behind, they need to hear it from their employees. Travel Management professionals have access to The Association for Corporate Travel Executives(ACTE) and the Global Business Travel Association(GBTA), which focus on educating and communicating new trends plus standards across companies. Generally, talk to your fellow business travelers and see what their business trips are like!

—Jeff Berk, CEO of Tripkicks

Make the most of travel resources

There are so many companies and platforms geared for better business travel; use them! For instance, “companies like Freebird take some of the pain out of flight cancellations,” offering a mobile solution for business travelers to quickly book a new ticket after any cancellation, delay or missed connection.

And at Tripkicks, we value business travelers who are willing to make cost-saving choices, so we reward them with part of their savings. To stay up to date with the best travel apps and resources, check out the occasional ‘10 best travel apps’ blog posts, but there’s no substitute for talking to your globetrotting friends!

—Jeff Berk, CEO of Tripkicks

Rewards at Tripkicks

TRIPKICKS

Take excursions

Embrace the bleisure (business and leisure) trend by taking excursions. They come in different forms and lengths, ranging from a two-hour Ayurvedic treatment in India to a full-day relaxation experience in an exclusive property in Morocco. The idea is to disconnect from the stresses of business travel, really switch off and explore a new destination. If you want to immerse into a unique culture and lifestyle, it’s worth investing in a travel planner that can tailor your itinerary around your preferences and time constraints.

—Marta Tucci, Co-Founder of Naya Traveler

BONUS: As a cheaper alternative, Berk suggests checking popular platforms such as Viator, Airbnb and Walks for different authentic, local experiences.

Hammam experience in Marrakesh

COURTESY OF NAYA TRAVELER

Guess Who Tried to Rob You While You Were on Vacation

“Your burglar is on their way.”

The day of your much-anticipated vacation has finally arrived. Your bags are packed. Your mobile boarding pass has been downloaded. There’s only one thing left to do: get yourself to the airport. So you reach for your phone and pull up your rideshare app of choice and request a ride to the airport. Your driver pulls up in front of your home and helps you put your rolling bag in the trunk. And as you hit the road they start up some casual conversation. “Where are you headed?” “How long is the trip?” “Business or leisure?”

To you, it’s idle chit-chat. To someone with nefarious intentions, it’s the keys to the kingdom. Your kingdom, to be exact.

This is the scenario that took place in a San Mateo, California neighborhood on April 4. An Uber driver, after dropping off his passengers at the airport, attempted to burglarize their home but was derailed by an activated security alarm. The driver then moved on to ransacking a neighboring home. Luckily, the owners of the second home had a security camera and once the video was shared via Ring (a community watch platform), other users recognized him as an Uber driver that had been lurking in the neighborhood. The next day the San Mateo Police Department identified and arrested the Uber driver for first degree burglary, and attempted first degree burglary, and obstructing/resisting/delaying peace officer in the performance of their duty

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Michael Haobsh, a San Mateo police spokesman, said that this was the first rideshare burglary case in the city that he was aware of.

Of course, most drivers are just trying to do their jobs. But knowing the exact time frame of when a home is going to be empty makes it ideal for burglarizing. So on the off-chance you’re being driven to the airport on an ill-intentioned fact-finding mission, make sure you and your home are left alone and you can spend your vacation relaxing and not fixating on the flimsy lock on your back gate you’ve been meaning to fix.

04_Uber_Robberiesshutterstock_782758753 — Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

How to Protect Yourself

Have a security system and/or a surveillance camera. In the San Mateo case, the burglar was successfully scared off by the alarm and the footage from the camera lead to the burglar being found after he ransacked the house. Often the simplest solutions are the best!

Get picked up from a third location. Instead of allowing the driver to make a note of your exact address, arrange to be picked up somewhere else. A nearby coffee shop or the closest intersection works fine.

Straight up lie. Make up a relative that’ll be house-sitting while you’re gone. Casually drop a reference to your new (read: non-existent) home security system. Say that you’re actually on your return flight and that you were staying at an Airbnb. Anything that makes your home look like a difficult target will do.

Don’t post on social. Your rideshare driver might not know your Insta handle but it’s a good rule of thumb to keep any references to you being out of town on the down low.

20 of the best campsites in Europe: readers’ tips

From Scandinavia to the Canaries, readers select picturesque sites with exciting activities amid some of Europe’s finest scenery

Walk this way … Renndølsetra campsite is a car-free zone, and a 3.5km walk in.

Winning tip: Car-free in Norway

Thanks to Innerdalen’s preservation status, the campsite at Renndølsetra is a vehicle-free zone, a 3.5km walk from the car park. But it’s worth the effort – rolling hills, rivers, a glacial lake and the pyramid peak of Innerdalstårnet. The site is on a dairy farm, and there are also grass-roofed bunkhouses. The on-site cafe sells its butter and cream, but burning off the calories is easy. The owner, Eystein, pointed out local hikes, and a bracing dip in the lake is a must.
• Tent pitches £6.30pp, innerdalen.com
John K

Readers’ tips competition: send a tip for a chance to win a £200 voucher

Glacier experience, Norway

A couple of years ago we found the most amazing campsite surrounded by glaciers, mountains and huge waterfalls in the Jostedal national park. The campsite, Melkevoll Bretun, included a free sauna, a beautifully designed barn for cooking and eating with huge glass windows offering panoramic mountain views, and a camping experience in a “stone-age” cave. Our children, aged 11 and 9, really enjoyed the natural bouldering course and the trails around the campsite connecting it with the surrounding nature.
• Motorhome, caravan, tent and car: £16 + £3 per person, child (4-12) £1,melkevoll.com
Denisa Francis

Black Sea pitch, Romania

My recommendation is Gura Portitei, a thin sliver of sand separating the Black Sea from the Danube delta. There are tent pitches, and cabins from £6 to £20 a night, alongside a hotel and a restaurant. Reached by ferry or two-hour speedboat journey across the lake, the location is less of a tourist magnet than resorts in the south. The true star here is the delta, a unique and protected natural area offering boat trips, fishing and excellent food.

Maria

Mountain eco, Slovenia

Koren campsite is in a magnificent setting by the Julian Alps and on the banks of the Soča river, with its canyons, gorges and waterfalls. It was one of the first Slovenian campsites to be awarded the Ecolabel for sustainable tourism. There are tent pitches, but we stayed in a beautiful wooden eco-lodge for six. Numerous activities are on offer, many water-based. Kayaking was the highlight for us, while the kids loved the on-site climbing wall. The shop sells local organic produce.
• Adult from €12.50, child (7-12) €6.25, under-7s free, glamping huts (sleeps two) from €40, chalets (sleeps four+two) €200, kamp-koren.si
Rob

Baby-friendly camping, Germany

Camping Bankenhof - Hinterzarten am Titisee, Germany.

Attention to detail made Camping Bankenhof on Lake Titisee so pleasurable – low washbasins, baby bath and family shower cubicles – all spotless. There were even emergency dummies! The year-round site offers activities for all ages, including bikes and go-carts. We took advantage of the Konus card, which gives free access to local buses, trains and trams. We visited Freiburg and the Hasenhorn mountain coaster – one of the longest toboggan runs in Europe and a huge hit with the kids.
• From €26.50 for two adults, 3-5 years €3.50, 6-15s €5.50, camping-bankenhof.de
Sherry

Eiger and more, Switzerland

Camping Eigernordwand Grindelwald, Switzerland.

Alpine lakeside, Switzerland

Mountain lake Lac de Champex with mirroring,

Trudging uphill, carrying overloaded backpacks, sweating in the high summer heat, I was sceptical that whatever lay at the end of this hike would be worth the effort. Then the sparkling light on Lac de Champex came into view. I couldn’t decide if I wanted to drink it or swim in it. A few paces further on is the sweet and simple Camping Les Rocailles, a small campsite with basic but functional amenities whose real draw is the location. Under a glacier on the Tour du Mont Blanc route and with that lovely lake a little further along, it’s the perfect base for adventures on foot or by bike.
• Adult €8, child (5-12) €5, hikers’ package for two or more €15pp, champex-camping.ch
Laura

Europe’s highest, Switzerland

Surrounded by sharp peaks and glaciers, Camping Arolla is the self-styled highest campsite in Europe (1,950 metres), offering immediate access to excellent hiking and climbing from its few grassy terraces. The best pitches are fringed with wildflowers against a backdrop of larch and pine. It’s a very special place to roll out of bed in the morning and breathe the freshest Alpine air. It has modern facilities and a good shop selling camping supplies and local food and drinks (try the apricot wine), plus some tents for hire. There are restaurants down in the village half a mile away.
• Two adults, tent and car from £21.50, camping-arolla.com
Marlow

Free natural highs, Tenerife

Chio recreation area and campsite (Tenerife island)

There is a network of free campsites across the island, but Zona Acampada Chío is our favourite. The facilities are basic – toilets, barbecue area, playground – and it’s at around 1,700 metres, so you need pretty good gear, which you have to carry 400 metres from the car park. But the solitude, peace and views more than make up for it. On a clear day you can watch the sunset over La Gomera before setting off early to climb Teide volcano, the highest point in Spain.

Kat

Fire and brimstone, Iceland

Very green and with lots of space to run around, Reykjavik Campsite has communal barbecue and cooking areas, bike hire and hostel facilities on site. The campsite is next to a de facto spa with a 50-metre outdoor pool, hot pots and steam bath, with affordable (state-subsidised) entrance fees and open till 10pm each day. But when the sulphurous spa water courses from the campsite’s own showers, even washing in the small hours in the mysterious light of the simmer dim (summer twilight) is to be immersed in a unique kind of luxury.
• From £15pp (maximum stay seven nights), reykjavikcampsite.is
Lilian

Cliffs and craic, Ireland

The coast of Kilcar in County Donegal, Ireland Photograph: Marie Carr/Alamy

Near Kilcar in County Donegal, Derrylahan Independent Hostel Campsite is a lovely grassy flat site with spectacular views into Slieve League and a beautiful hidden beach a stone’s throw away. It’s two miles to the villages of Kilcar and Carrick, where there’s a renowned music scene and excellent hospitality. The waymarked path to the highest sea cliffs in Europe runs past your tent. Shaun, your host, is the most knowledgeable local guide imaginable, the whole place is on a working farm with chickens cows and sheep. Oh, and there’s a well-equipped camp kitchen and drying room (sometimes it rains in Donegal).
• From €8pp, derrylahanhostel ie
Brian Lamb

Venice over the water, Italy

Camping Fusina, with Venice across the lagoon

Camp cheaply on the Venetian lagoon at Camping Fusina, with perfect views over to Venice. This indisputably hidden gem, nestled scarily between a cargo boatyard and heavy industry, is nevertheless a wooded paradise with a laid-back hippy vibe and stylish, beautifully shabby 1950s architecture. You can walk five minutes to catch the ferry to Venice, or simply watch the vast cargo ships block out the sky as they chug to the dock next door. Unforgettable.
•€12pp in high season, campingfusina.com
Claire

Fever pitch, Italy

Camping Milano with caravans under trees

Secluded and peaceful Camping Milano, on the western outskirts of the city and just short hop from the San Siro stadium, makes a convenient base from which to explore this high-fashion Italian city at high-street pricing. With an impressive selection of pitches, tents (small tent €6.50, tree tent for two €30), plus cabins and luxury eco-suites (€100 for two) it offers plenty of choice, and an excellent slice of pizza with a cold beer in the campsite bar after a busy day of shopping and sightseeing. Perfect for footy fans, trade show visitors and those seeking a budget weekend break.
• Adult from €9, 3-10s from €7, small tent from €6.50 a night,campingmilano.it
Anna Kennett

On the waterfront, Italy

Pool and mountains, Camping Brione, Lake Garda,

Just metres away from the beautiful but busy shores of Lake Garda, Camping Brione is a gem. It sits on the edge of Riva del Garda, surrounded by majestic mountain massifs. The tent pitches areon terracesdotted with fragrant fruit trees that provide a welcome refuge from the summer sun. The pitches are small but private and really do offer sanctuary from the motorhomes below and the hustling town beyond. Perhaps the real secret to Brione is its evening “pasta party”, an affordable three-course buffet. It’s an insight into Italian communal meal times, which leaves a smile on your face.
• Adult from €7.50, 3-14s from €5, pitch from €7.50, campingbrione.com
Graham Parkes

Bright days, dark skies, France

Car and tent under trees, Domaines de Pradines, France.

Amid pinewoods in the Cévennes, Domaine de Pradines is my all-time favourite campsite, with wild camping, camping close to facilities, cabins or glamping in yurts. Facilities include a pizzeria, shop, playground and pool, but it was the Unesco-listed surroundings and night sky that won me over. The campsite deliberately doesn’t have much artificial light, so you can view the night sky in all its glory. One night we saw three shooting stars.
• Adult from €6.50, 4-15s €4.50, yurt (sleeps two) from €45, domaine-de-pradines.com
Esme

Leisurely Loire, France

There is a campsite near Tours in the Loire Valley called L’Orangérie de Beauregard, which is perfect for visiting chateaux in the region. Opened last year, it is family- and pet-friendly, has a lovely swimming pool and impressive restaurant. Activities include kids’ clubs and wine-tasting sessions. There are also plenty of local vineyards and markets to stroll through.
• From €30 a night for two, orangeriedebeauregard.com
Will

Gorge on France

Chalets at Camping Domaine Chasteuil, Provence,

For fantastic family camping, close to the river and set in a beautiful gorge, I recommend Camping Domaine Chasteuil at the entrance of the Gorges du Verdon. There’s great walks, canyoning, rafting, bird-watching and cycling opportunities (we always take bikes). Children can have fun floating down the river on big air rings. The campsite has large pitches, a swimming pool, and the warm and welcoming staff are happy to put on entertainment for younger children if required. The beautiful town of Castellane sits at the head of the gorge, with great places to eat and wonderful markets.
• Adult from €14.50, under-6s free, chasteuil-provence.com
Kim Gould

Provençal waterside, France

Entrevaux, Provence, France — Entrevaux village, on the Var River. Photograph: Getty Images

Camping du Brec is a campsite on a stunning lakeside in Entrevaux, south-east France. Our kids loved the free kayaking and paddleboarding and the friendly owners, Claire and Eric, organised a day’s climbing for us in the mountains. I took part in the yoga each morning by the ake. The picturesque village of Entrevaux is a short walk away. If you seek a non-commercial atmosphere with plenty for the kids to do, shady pitches and a evening in a lovely lakeside bar amidst the mountains, this is a campsite for you.
• From €26 a night for four, camping-dubrec.com
Lisa Anderson

Olive grove, Provence

Pool and shady loungers at Les Olivettes

Les Olivettes, in Les Mées, north of Aix-en-Provence, is a stunningly calm campsite. There are some areas with pre-pitched safari tents, but we stayed in our own tent in the Olive Grove, and all the sites are well thought-out, spacious and beautifully landscaped with trees providing shade and privacy and mosquito-repelling plants. The pool, kids’ area and kitchen and bathrooms are spotlessly clean and the whole place evokes a luxury that can be difficult to achieve at a campsite. It is is well-placed for exploring both the Luberon and the Verdon.
• Pitch for up to six from €15 a night, campinglesolivettes.com
Sophia

Animal magic, France

La Ferme de Croas Men campsite in Brittany is as close to perfect as you could find for a relaxed family holiday. There are some marked pitches but we chose to camp in the field opposite the farm donkeys where you can choose your spot. The kids loved visiting the animals, the interesting farm buildings and the fresh croissants and homemade apple juice for breakfast. Our two youngest got chickenpox on the first day but we managed to entertain them on the campsite until they weren’t infectious thanks to the lovely (and immune!) neighbouring families. Other plus points are the bathrooms, the indoor spaces with toys, the parks and the donkey rides. A great holiday.