We’ve selected three of our very favourite adventure destinations to share with you today, and we hope that wherever you choose to go, you’ll have an incredible journey.

New Zealand

As New Zealand has gained a lot of press as the destination where the Lord of the Rings movies were filmed, it’s easy to imagine adventure across this beautiful nation’s snow-topped mountains and rolling green hills.

Unsurprisingly, New Zealand is also well known for its extreme sports, with offerings from water-skiing to bungee-jumping to the completely unique zorbing. When you go zorbing, you’ll be strapped inside a large plastic ball and sent tumbling down one of New Zealand’s hills, a surprisingly thrilling and exhilarating trip.

In the winter, naturally, you can also go skiing, and no matter the weather, you can go rambling across New Zealand’s gorgeous landscape, taking incredible photos to share with all.

Kenya
The traditional adventure experience in Kenya is, of course, the safari. There’s still nothing quite like getting in close range to lions, tigers, zebras, and elephants, and it’s an experience that is as intense as it is thrilling.

But Kenya has more to offer than just the safari – climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an adventure for the ages, too. Best done over the course of a week, due to the threat of altitude sickness, the exhilaration you’ll experience once you reach the top is simply unmatched. And you’ll forever remember that holiday where you climbed one of the world’s tallest mountains. After a trip like that, you’ll deserve a following week in a fancy resort!

Cambodia
Cambodia’s adventures aren’t going to provide the same adrenaline-pumping excitement as our other two choices, but they’ll instead fire up your sense of curiosity. Exploring the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat can make you feel like Indiana Jones, never knowing what secrets these ancient monuments hold just around the corner. This is certainly the best choice for those who prefer to be thrilled, but aren’t into the high intensity activities on offer in our other destinations. It’s also incredibly simple to combine Cambodia with a nearby beach destination in Thailand or even Vietnam, making this an even better choice for honeymooners.

Why not choose an adventure for your next holiday? We promise you won’t regret it.

The Turquoise Holiday Company offer tailor-made luxury holidays and honeymoons to a wide selection of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Kauai
Kauai is called “The Land of Discovery” for good reason. Only 10% of it is accessible by road. A lush, archipelago filled with cliffs and waterfalls welcomes the most adventurous visitors. The Napali Coast offers an 11 mile Kalalau hiking trail, offering stunning views of the Northern shore. To witness an amazing sunset, head to the Western shore at Kokee State Park and check out Waimea Canyon, a 3,600 foot deep canyon that spans 14 miles!

Oahu
Oahu is Hawaii’s most developed island. Home to the state capital of Honolulu, history buffs will treasure a visit to Pearl Harbor and the U.S.S. Arizona memorial. Head to the Polynesian Cultural Center to experience a canoe race and luau! After a day of learning, visitors can find some of the best nightlife, live music entertainment, and dining along the world famous Waikiki beachwalk.

Molokai
To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, consider a trip to Molokai. Visit Kalaupapa National Historical Park and witness majestic cliffs as high as 3,900 feet that offer stunning views of the bluest Pacific waters you’ve ever seen. The park is only accessible by mule, hiking, or airplane and is one of the most authentic Hawaiian destinations available. The natives of Molokai have preserved their culture in tiny villages along the Halawa Valley, where you can drive through and spot hawaiian fishponds, hidden religious worship sites, and the Mooula Falls.

Lanai
Lanai is nicknamed Hawaii’s “Most Enticing Island.” Boasting romantic, secluded beaches where it is sometimes rare to find another soul, it is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations. For thrill-seekers, off-roading trails await at Polihua beach. At the award-winning Hulopoe Beach Park, snorkelers and scuba divers can spend the day in awe gazing at the Lanai Cathedrals, enormous underwater structures formed by lava tubes.

Maui
Maui is yet another untouched gem, with white beaches that have repeatedly been rated the best in the world. Go for a drive to the top of Mt. Haleakala. Rent a bicycle and ride the winding road back down as you pass through the clouds. Along the famous Hana Highway, you will see Hawaiian wildlife residing in rainforests which ultimately lead to Hana beach, a unique rocky beach with waves crashing along beautiful black rocks.

Hawaii Island (the “Big Island”)
Head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see lava spewing out of the volcano Kilauea. Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and has been impressing visitors with volcanic views since 1983. The Big Island also offers some of the most impressive golf courses in the world, like the Kona Country Club which offers greens lined with lava and bright white bunkers.

Based within the glorious green landscapes of Ireland, Dublin is a city known for its tranquil and picturesque views and its historic buildings and architecture. However, it is also a modern and cosmopolitan city that offers a range of boutique shops and stylish hotels.

Here in this coastal location, amongst the shops and hotels, friendly pubs sit alongside fine dining restaurants, each offering a blend of unique views, quality menus and professionally trained and helpful staff.

Of course being a coastal city, Dublin is well known for its seafood, with fresh produce available in many of the local restaurants. However, the city caters for all tastes and provides a range of dining options to suit both business visitors and those traveling on weekend breaks with friends and family. For those looking for delectable, delicious and divine dining in Dublin, here is a quick and easy to use guide to some of the top restaurants in the City.

For your traditional Irish dishes, step out and dine in style at Brasserie Sixty6 with high quality food sourced locally, including fresh fish and vegetables bought from local markets. All food, including food from the childrens menu, is cooked to order.

Large parties are well catered for at Brasserie Sixty6 with an option to pre-order a roast suckling pig for larger numbers. With care and attention paid to every meal, it’s hardly surprising that this is a popular choice for those wanting to experience traditional Irish cuisine.

For a twist on traditional Irish food and the chance to experience an award winning restaurant, try One Pico, a restaurant that boasts a Top Table Gold award and the guidance and skills of the “2010 Dublin Chef of The Year”, Eammon O’Reilly.

Located by St Stephen’s Green in Dublin, One Pico is famed for its combination of good service, modern food and elegant style, both in terms of its menu and its classicly designed French surroundings. A place for relaxed meetings as well as intimate and formal dining, you’ll instantly leave behind the rest of the world the minute you step through the door.

This is a restaurant that values both creativity and quality produce, with a menu that changes each month and perfectly selected seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include moked organic salmon with pickled cucumber, celeriac remoulade, herb crème fraîche and wasabi caviar.

Over at L’Ecrivain, Derry and Sally-Anne Clarke provide a winning combination of relaxed social dining, private dining areas and a roof terrace. Fresh from a modern and stylish renovation, L’Ecrivain offers a charming and elegant space with room for music interludes, formal dining and friendly get togethers.

Of course its real pull is the simple yet excellent menu, created with a delicate balance of ingredients that give a subtle sense of French cuisine, yet the warm and welcoming taste of traditional, well loved food.

Seared Scallops, for example, are served with Cauliflower Purée, Crubeen and Pickled Mushrooms. Desert offers Vanilla Pannacotta with Poached Rhubarb and Strawberry Sherbet and all to be finished off with hand-made Petit fours! An award winning restaurant and one that boasts a Michelin Star, L’Ecrivain has rightfully established itself as popular establishment offering high quality food.

For a taste of the Italian, take a trip to Vignardo and an authentic Italian restaurant based in the centre of Dublin. Classic Italian wines are served alongside a combination of specialist Italian ingredients and fresh Irish produce. Situated near to many local attractions including theaters and cinemas, Vignardo offers the perfect dining location before a night out on the town.

Last but by no means least is the Good World Restaurant, located in South Great Georges Street and a restaurant that has been said to serve ‘the best dim-sum in Dublin City’. A centrally located restaurant for those that enjoy beautifully prepared and cooked Chinese food, the Good World Restaurant is popular with local Chinese and Irish people and tourists alike.

Underlying the simply designed and decorated space is an excellent menu and friendly service, with authentic regional dishes such as spicy duck, mixed with more unusual combinations, including the ‘Fish Slices Congee’ and many other exciting options not seen or served elsewhere. Service at the Good World Restaurant is based on respectful Chinese values, with menus prepared by classically trained and highly skilled Chefs.

No matter what and where you choose to eat, you’ll always find something to suit and satisfy your tastes in Dublin. From pub grub to delicately prepared fine dining, this is a city that places quality local ingredients alongside the highest possible service.

Cruises from Southampton sail to all destinations in the world and most of the cruise deals over Christmas will have a party atmosphere. With a wide choice of fabulous Christmas food and glittering entertainment laid on in the evenings, the ultimate destination of any of the super cruise deals now available may be of secondary importance.

Many Christmas cruise deals are themed, ranging from an exotic voyage to the winter wonderland of the frozen Arctic or a river cruise along the Rhine, visiting the traditional German Christmas markets. Cruise deals which are dedicated entirely to a particular interest are always very popular and sell out very quickly, especially over Christmas.

Getting away into the sun over Christmas is always an attractive thought, whether to sit on the deck sipping a cool cocktail while sailing past some of the world’s most spectacular scenery or to have a welcome break on the beach, enjoying some of the superb water sports available in the Mediterranean and Canary Islands, both popular destinations for Christmas cruises.

Cruises are now becoming more popular with younger holidaymakers and the choice of cruises from Southampton continues to grow as cruise deals represent good value and total relaxation, with super cruise deals of every kind to suit every family and group, ranging from a few nights in northern Europe to luxury three week cruises around the Caribbean.

Get Wet!

Take your children to Somerset House for the chance to splash and paddle in the wonderful fountains here, all 55 of them! This building is breathtakingly beautiful and offers something for the whole family, regardless of age. Your children will love this magical day out where they also get to see Mum and Dad acting like children too and having a little jump around in the water on offer here.

Get Dancing!

It is fair to say that the vibrant city of London is just bursting to the seams with amazing music. One such place to visit Disco Dayz where your children will be able to sing and dance as well as listen to music from some of Londons top DJs! This is a truly amazing day out for the family and will allow your children to hopefully burn off some energy before retiring to bed that evening!

Get seeing monsters!

London’s Natural History Museum is a real must see tourist location with young children. Here you will be able to see prehistoric monsters including dinosaurs. During the summer months you will be able to enjoy a picnic here on the lawns and during the Winter months you can even take your children ice skating in the back garden before stocking up on wonderful souvenirs from the gift shop.

Get playing!

If you are looking for a more relaxed day out to just unwind and enjoy the sights that London has to offer then why not visit Regent’s Park? Packed full of playgrounds, entertainers, wildlife and hunting grounds you will be able to see some English roses and allow your children to run free and enjoy the lush green grass on offer here.

Get entranced!

Little Angel Theatre, in Islington, will allow you and your children to become engrossed in some wonderful puppetry that will have you all joining in before you know it. Children, young and old, will be captivated by this wonderful Theatre.

Get active!

Visit London’s skyline in all it’s beauty by taking a high speed catamaran trip along the River Thames. This is a fantastic trip that will have your children almost bolted to their seats with excitement. A game of I-Spy really does come to life with the amazing views and sights that you will see along the way.

Get back in time!

A short ride to Greenwich will see you arriving at the Royal Observatory. You will be able to view and touch a 4.5 billion year old meteorite that is truly amazing. The Maritime museum is another wonderful place to visit here and once you are finished with your time travel escapades you can enjoy the lovely walks that Greenwich has to offer and sample some of the wonderful food on offer here.

Get walking on water!

If you are a little bit scared of heights or water then maybe the Millennium Bridge is not for you, however, it is an amazing sight for children. You will travel over the steel suspension bridge and be able to take in the sights of the River Thames gushing part below. This bridge, while once nicknamed the Wobbly Bridge, is now almost as solid as the day is long, and this bridge will allow you to capture some wonderful tourist hotspots in the background of your photographs, also, your children will have a fantastic time jumping up and down to see if they can make this move just a little!

Get arty!

With the National Portrait Gallery in London you will be able to take your children to visit some of the most amazing paintings in the world with over 150,000 photographs, paintings, sketches and exhibits from everyone from the Prime Minister to pop stars! There is something here to interest almost anyone and keep you captivated for hours.

Get festive!

The South Bank is a fantastic place to visit in London at any time of the year and will really get you in the mood for visiting this glorious city. You will find all sorts of performers located along here and with everything from break dancers to bongo players you can be entertained for hours here and even sample some of the refreshing drinks and lollies on offer here.

Off the mainland there are thousands of isles, of which a couple of hundred are inhabited. The archipelago is separated into a number of groups – including the Ionian Islands, the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Argo-Saronic Islands and the Sporades – and you can travel between many of the clusters by ferry.

Renowned for its pleasant climate, tasty Mediterranean cuisine and rich history, Greece and its surroundings make for the ideal holiday, especially if you make the journey during the summer months when you can enjoy plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures.

You can book accommodation before you travel, or, if you relish the spontaneity of last-minute breaks, you’ll often find locals waiting at the ferry terminal to offer rooms at their guesthouses.

Why not start your Grecian adventure at the largest isle – Crete? Located at the southern edge of the Aegean Sea, Crete boasts wonderfully rugged scenery along with some golden sands, ideal for making the most of the sunshine and working on your tan.

Additionally, the island is home to a palm tree forest, numerous Byzantine churches and fascinating ruins, such as the Minoan Palace of Knossos.

There are three airports in Crete, so you might choose to find accommodation on the island for ease of travelling to and from Greece.

Next, board a flight for Santorini – one of the Cyclades islands. The spot was the site of the massive Minoan eruption from the volcano Thera thousands of years ago and retains its craggy landscape as a result. Here, you can view the volcanic crater or climb up to the capital of Fira, which perches on clifftops and affords amazing views over the water below.

Afterwards, journey to the prehistoric site of Akrotiri to admire the sight of ancient buildings that are remarkably intact, or take a boat ride out to Red Beach or White Beach and spend some time on the sands. Alternatively, stay on the boat and opt for a tour of the volcanic islands.

From Santorini, you can take the ferry to Mykonos, another of the Cyclades islands and arguably the archipelago’s most famous spot. The isle is the place to be if you enjoy a party atmosphere and boasts sophisticated nightlife that attracts thousands of visitors every year. You can enjoy dancing until dawn and recover on one of the many beautiful beaches to be found here, some of which offer water sports facilities if you feel like cooling off.

Take a ferry to Syros next and admire the Venetian and neoclassical buildings before heading on to the Dodecanese island of Patmos. The mountainous region’s impressive monastery is its main landmark and the site is well worth a visit.

A religious island, Patmos has long been a site of pilgrimage as a result of being the place where St John received a vision from Jesus. There are a few UNESCO World Heritage sites to explore here, including the island’s historic centre Chora, as well as the monastery.

Make your way around the bustling port and soak up the sun at Agriolivadi Bay or Cape Yenoupa before you journey on to Leros – a pretty little island that is largely unspoiled and offers some authentic Greek charm.

The isle was once used as a prison for political rebels and also as a naval base by the Italians and Germans, but is now a calm, relaxed spot where you can explore the remains of a Byzantine castle or browse the fresh food on sale at the markets.

Brush up on your local culture with a visit to the archaeological museum or the war museum on the island or call in at the well-preserved old flour mill.

Head to Kos next via the ferry and spend some time relaxing on the beaches here – one of the island’s main draws. It is equally well known for its buzzing nightlife and if you’re in the mood to party you’ll find a wealth of bars and clubs to visit.

From here, you can take a boat to Rhodes, home to a beautiful sandy coastline, inland forests, mountain villages and medieval architecture.

Make your way around the old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through the Valley of the Butterflies before sampling some rustic Greek food at one of the upmarket restaurants to be found here.

These are just some of the many Greek Islands you can visit – for more holiday ideas to Greece and elsewhere visit iWantSun.co.uk.

As more and more people are enjoying “staycations” instead of going abroad on holiday, so are the number of people staying in holiday cottages. With the global economic crisis, most of us are stretching our finances as far as they go by opting for UK holidays which can work out more cost-effective.

Not only that of course, but with air travel being heavily disrupted by the volcanic ash cloud and then heavy snow last year, canny travellers who still want to go away but with as less hassle as possible are staying in the British Isles and taking the train or hiring a car, so at least they can be a bit more in control of their journey.

So, if you are new to the idea of holiday cottages, but want to know more, what do you need to consider? Here are three top tips on choosing a cottage for your next holiday …

Location, location, location
While this seems obvious, we don’t just mean the actual location of the holiday property, but the holiday cottage itself. For example, a holiday cottage on a farm will generally have its own special ‘noises’ – maybe a cockerel who likes to crow at 5am, sheep baa-ing, or tractors.

Similarly, a holiday cottage next door to a pub may be great for pub food and if you fancy a glass of wine or local cider. However, do bear in mind that there may be some noises coming from there whether it is laughter, music or people leaving the establishment.

Research the location of the property thoroughly and if you are unsure, ask!

Pet-friendly cottages
If you have a pet, you may be pleased to learn that there are pet-friendly cottages that will allow you to bring your pet on holiday with you. Of course, you will have to abide by their terms and conditions (such as not letting your pet on the furniture and beds, for example).

Even if there is a charge for you bring your pet (not all holiday cottages who accept pets will charge you – but some may), this may still work out more cost-effective than leaving your dog in a kennel – as well as meaning you can enjoy his or her company too!

What is included in the cost?
Costs of holiday cottages will vary as may what is included in the price. For example, as mentioned above, if you are going to a pet-friendly cottage, there may be a charge for your animal. Some cottages provide bed linen and towels as part of the package while others may charge an extra fee for rental of these items. Finding out exactly what the cost entails before you go may make sense.

4X4 Off Road Action

4X4 off road riding is one of the most enjoyable stag party activities of all times. The husband-to-be and his mates can attempt to master challenging pathways, forest trails, off road terrains and all types of courses designed to test their skills and strength. Each trail option offers various challenges and different levels of difficulty, and tailor-made courses can be reserved to fit any group’s style or preference. There are few sports that can compete with the excitement and stimulation offered by this unique activity.

5-a-side Football

5-a-side football is an excellent choice for those who enjoy sports and spending time in the great outdoors. Not only is this option cost-effective, it also makes an ideal opening ceremony for a wild, boisterous stag weekend. Groups can choose from numerous pitches including outdoor, indoor, AstroTurf or grass depending on the personal preferences of the groom-to-be and his pals. This sport creates the perfect arena in which to show off one’s skills while getting a great physical workout at the same time.

Ribbing

It should not come as a surprise that ribbing is a favorite stag weekend activity in many areas throughout the world. Those who enjoy the water will be eager to take a ride in one of the powerful boats that are used for this type of excursion. Groups can arrange to hire a private boat on which the ride of a lifetime can be experienced. In addition, while ribbing is generally considered a passenger sport, a lucky party member may occasionally be allowed to take the wheel.

Coasteering

Coasteering definitely belongs in the category of “extreme activities,” and it is not a sport for the fainthearted. Although not as widely available as other activities, if one has the opportunity to choose this sport for his stag party it will surely never be forgotten. Although frequently confused with gorge walking, coasteering is a much more adventurous and exhilarating way to explore the coastline. Those who choose this activity will swim in the open sea, climb massive rocks and even cliff jump. For a truly unforgettable experience, anyone who is planning a stag weekend should consider this extreme sport.

Go-Karting

Go-karting is one of the most enjoyable activities for a lively stag party, and whether those in the party choose outdoor or indoor tracks, an adrenaline rush is practically guaranteed when this activity is selected. Tracks are available to suit any lifestyle or budget and groups can choose specific track lengths and engine types. It is a good idea to acquire technical information about several tracks before making a reservation in order to ensure an enjoyable outing is experienced by all members of the party.

Paintball

No stag weekend is complete without a competitive game of paintball. One of the best-loved sports of all times, this activity will guarantee an unforgettable stag weekend for lads of all ages and from all walks of life. In addition, paintball is a sport in which any size group can participate. Providing exceptional value for money and outstanding fun for all involved, no stag party should overlook paintball as a main activity.

White Water Rafting

White water rafting is an amazing sport that turns ordinary stag weekends into fantastic adventures. The white water experience has just about anything an outdoor lover or sports enthusiast could want. Many lads enjoy the element of danger that comes with taking on Mother Nature in her wildest state. A great sport for those who enjoy teamwork and working towards a common goal, few activities can compete with the outstanding experience of white water rafting.

Blake Sanders is a writer at leisure site Redseven. Blake’s specialties cover unforgettable stag weekends abroad as well as bachelor parties for the high-class traveler.

Note: Photo courtesy of jrandallc via FlickR Creative Commons.

Imagine you and your wife sitting comfortably, with champagne in hand aboard the decks of a luxury cruise liner. You could choose from Mediterranean cruises if you are looking to stay close to home, or even venture a little further in both price and distance and take on some Caribbean Cruises instead, with boats leaving from designated points in and around the UK and even North and South America, Europe and all over the world come to think of it, booking yourself and your missus on a cruise couldn’t be easier… Simply point your web browser to the Imagine Cruising website, follow the links to the cruises you are interested in and begin to compile your short list… If you know or think you know where you want to sail from and too and you are also aware of how much you want to spend or the style of cruise you are after, then be sure to check out the cruise deals section of the website as here you can find amazing cruise deals that are not listed in other parts of the imagine website.

Cruising is a fun and exciting way to see the world, not just taking in one location, a cruise offers you the chance to see lots of different places, in the same way that humans have been travelling for years, by sea… a cruise is much more to some people than a holiday, it is a way of life and as once you bite from the cruise apple you are sure to want to take another mouth full. Choose to cruise this summer and you may never consider a traditional beach holiday again…

Iron Bridge
The Iron Bridge Gorge is known as the birthplace of industry and there are 10 museums here set on 80 acres at the Iron Bridge Gorge UNESCO world heritage site. One of the largest museums here is a recreated Victorian town where you can see shops, a forge, ride a tram and try your hand at various crafts. This is an enormously popular place to visit with plenty to interest everyone.

Edinburgh Castle
Stood high on what’s believed to be an extinct volcano the Edinburgh castle dominates the skyline here and is visible from almost everywhere through the city. The Military Tattoo is held here every August and is a colourful pageant of Scottish regiments with tartans, bagpipes, and fireworks. The rest of the year there’s still plenty to see too including the museum which is now based here.

Roman Baths
The city of Bath is named for the Roman Baths which used to be here and grew from a natural hot spring. The complex now includes the 18th century pump room where it was fashionable to ‘take the waters’ and socialise, and if you read novels by authors such as Jane Austen you’ll come across many instances of people hunting for high class husbands here. The natural hot spring is still here, and you can take a drink from it before having lunch in the pump room.

Windsor Castle
The building of Windsor castle (not the grounds, the building!) covers 13 acres and is the largest inhabited castle in the world! It was built by William the conqueror almost 950 years ago and there is lots to see here including the state apartments, the semi state rooms, art treasures from the royal collection, St Georges chapel and Queen Mary’s dolls house. This is a working castle and has many ceremonial events held through the year too.

Xscape Milton Keynes
Xscape in Milton Keynes is one of the best indoor multi activity centres in the UK with a big focus on extreme sports. You can have a go at rock climbing on the climbing wall, skydiving in the Airkix indoor skydiving centre, or try out snow boarding or skiing at the real-snow ski slope here. There’s also a bowling alley, sixteen screen cinema, gym and selection of restaurants and bars as well.

The Eden Project
One of the most exciting modern projects in the UK, the Eden Project is a complex in Cornwall housing 100,000 plants in two giant domes. Each recreates a different global climatic condition. Situated in an old clay pit, it’s a creative and scientific wonder.