In the early 2010s, a "hidden gem" was something you found in the back pages of a dog-eared guidebook or through a chance conversation with a local bartender. Today, a hidden gem is a set of GPS coordinates broadcast to millions in high definition.

Think of a beach that went from local secret to queue for the selfie in about a fortnight. Not because it suddenly got prettier, or because the water changed colour. It was a 12-second video. A drone shot, a snappy song, a caption that implied you’d missed your chance at happiness if you didn’t go this weekend.

Rozhen Monastery lies above the Pirin foothills like a quiet lookout, tucked into the Melnik sand pyramids and a short hike from Bulgaria’s smallest town. It’s easy to come for the view and leave surprised by how much is going on inside; three centuries of frescoes, carved icon screens made with the patience of people who clearly weren’t racing the clock, and a miraculous Virgin Mary icon that draws pilgrims. This article is a guide to visiting Rozhen. It covers where it is, how to get there on foot or by road, what art and craft to look for, and the bits of history that explain why this monastery matters to the region. Come for an hour or build a whole day around it.

Penguins are the poster animals of cold oceans, but they’re also famously one-hemisphere creatures. You won’t find wild penguins at the North Pole. There are no penguins in the Arctic. They live naturally in the Southern Hemisphere, from subantarctic islands up to the coasts of South America, Africa, and New Zealand, and all the way down to Antarctica.

The Arctic and Antarctica sit at opposite ends of the Earth, yet they are often mistakenly viewed as similar destinations. In reality, they offer profoundly different landscapes, wildlife encounters, climates, and travel experiences. Understanding these differences is key when deciding which polar region best aligns with your interests, comfort levels, and sense of adventure.

Morocco’s winter runs from December to March, and it’s a great time to visit. One week you can be sipping mint tea in mild coastal sunshine, the next you’re watching snow settle on the High Atlas, then heading south to crisp, clear desert days and chilly nights. This guide walks you through winter seasonal sports and cultural events, and the places you’ll want to be in when temperatures drop. We’ll also cover the upsides of winter travel in Morocco, from lighter crowds to better availability, so you can plan with realistic expectations and pack for the temperature swings.

Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Sri Lanka’s most famous shrine, is the hinge point between faith, monarchy, and modern life in the hills. Set within the old Royal Palace complex beside Kandy Lake, it houses the country’s most revered Buddhist relic and organises daily rituals from morning to evening.

Arenal rises above Costa Rica’s northern lowlands as a near-perfect cone, usually with a cap of cloud that lifts and drops as the day warms. At 1,633 metres, it’s high enough to shape the weather around it, and close enough to plan a trip around without needing a mountaineering mindset.

Wine tourism means travelling through vineyards, cellar doors, and food regions with tasting as the organising principle. You match grape to place, add meals, walks, and culture, plan safe transport, and book tastings ahead. Done well, it’s slow travel with the best glasses and no regrets.

Camping and glamping tourism means building trips around nights under canvas, from basic expedition camps to luxury tented lodges. It suits travellers who enjoy nature, early starts, and simpler routines. Plan for season, altitude, safety, and comfort level, and choose operators who handle logistics, water, waste, and local regulations well.

Desert tourism means travelling through arid regions like dune seas, salt pans, lava fields, and oases on guided trips built around weather, safety, and culture. Choose the right season, operator, and route, manage heat and hydration, and you get huge skies, quiet nights, and sharp, memorable encounters with people and wildlife.

Self-drive tourism means exploring a region in a hire car on a planned route while you handle the driving. To do it well, match route to season and skills, choose the right vehicle and insurance, keep daily distances realistic, and plan fuel, navigation, and support in advance.

Market tourism means building trips around markets such as food halls, souks, flea markets, and night markets. Plan timing and cash, research stalls, eat where turnover’s high, bargain where appropriate, avoid illegal goods, and buy from makers. Prioritise safety, insurance, and biosecurity for returns to your home country. The result: better meals, smarter buys, richer stories.

Choose islands by purpose, season, and access. Check ferry or charter schedules, park permits, medical access, and insurance. Match comfort to stays, guesthouses, eco-lodges, liveaboards. Budget for transfers and guides. Follow marine rules, minimise waste, and buy local. Forward Travel curates island and archipelago options across Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and the polar regions.

Ranch tourism lets travellers stay on working cattle stations, estancias, or guest ranches to experience rural life, horsemanship, and land-based culture firsthand. Options range from luxury lodges to hands-on mustering stays across regions like Australia, Argentina, and the American West, combining outdoor adventure, cultural exchange, and sustainable local tourism.

In Bhuj’s mirrored palaces, Nirona’s homes, and Ahmedabad’s stepwells, Gujarat’s artisans turn earth, thread, and metal into poetry. Explore Ajrakh block printing, Rogan painting, bell making, Patola weaving, and more on Forward Travel’s Gujarat’s Art & Rann of Kutch tour.

Cycle tourism is reshaping the way travellers see the world: slower, deeper, cleaner. Forward Travel’s Cycle Puglia tour captures the essence of it: eight days through olive groves, Trulli villages, and UNESCO marvels. A celebration of pace, culture, and the quiet joy of earning every view on two wheels.

Solo travel isn’t about escaping. It’s about expanding. From safety to social connection, planning to personal growth, Forward Travel’s definitive guide explores how Australians can go it alone with confidence. Learn practical preparation, mindset shifts, and field-tested strategies to travel smarter, safer, and more freely anywhere in the world.

Between 2021–2025, Australians overwhelmingly travelled to nearby Asian hubs like Indonesia, New Zealand, and Japan, while most of Africa, Central America, and the Caribbean languished in the bottom or zero-visitor categories. Connectivity, marketing, and geopolitical stability determined which destinations flourished and which disappeared from Aussie itineraries.

This 18-day journey through Iraq and Kurdistan explores the ancient civilisations of Sumer, Babylon, and Assyria. Walk the pilgrimage routes of Najaf and Karbala, canoe through the Mesopotamian marshes of the Ma’dan, and visit cities like Mosul and Baghdad, where rebuilding meets history at every turn.

Benin’s final leg reveals the throbbing pulse of Vodun spirituality, the colonial Afro-Brazilian legacy in Ouidah, and the serene waterworld of Ganvie. These last days on the West Africa Grand Expedition connect ancient spiritual systems with historical trauma and ingenious aquatic architecture.

Togo’s leg of the expedition focuses on Lome, a borderland capital shaped by German, British, and French rule. Highlights include the central market dominated by Nana Benz textile traders, Africa’s largest fetish market for Vodun rituals, and colonial-era architecture reflecting the city’s cosmopolitan trade history.

The Ghana leg (Days 49–52) includes St. Antonio Fort at Axim, UNESCO-listed Elmina Castle, Kumasi’s Ashanti Cultural Centre and Kejetia Market, and Accra’s James Town and fantasy coffin workshops. Key themes: Gold Coast forts, slave trade history, Ashanti heritage, and Ga funerary art.

The Ivory Coast leg of the West Africa Grand Expedition covers vine-built liana bridges, Dan and Guere mask dances in Man, rare girls’ juggling rites, cocoa plantations, Yamoussoukro’s Basilica of Peace, Abidjan’s skyline on the Ebrie Lagoon, and Grand Bassam’s preserved colonial town and Costume Museum.

Liberia stands apart in West Africa as the only country never colonised, founded instead by freed African-American slaves in the 19th century. On this short but historically rich leg of the expedition, we travel from Sierra Leone into Liberia’s capital, exploring the Pepper Coast’s maritime legacy, Monrovia’s Masonic and Krio heritage, and the nation’s civil war history before continuing inland to Ganta.

This four-day segment through Sierra Leone combines Krio architecture in Freetown, the coastal forests of the Banana Islands, hands-on diamond field visits, and a rare Bundo mask ceremony led by Mende women

Tunisia is one of North Africa’s most captivating travel destinations, where ancient history meets vibrant modern culture, and the Mediterranean coast gives way to the vast Sahara Desert. Whether you’re planning a Tunisia tour through UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, relaxing on golden beaches, or joining a Sahara Desert adventure, this compact yet diverse country offers experiences to delight history lovers, foodies, and culture seekers alike.

Explore gorilla tracking, rainforest safaris, and one of Africa’s last untouched wilderness areas.

Guinea-Conakry reveals a side of West Africa few travellers see, from the Zebu-herding Fulani of the Fouta Djalon highlands to waterfalls in jungle gorges, village councils, and the sacred Baga Nimba mask dances. Days 33–36 of the West Africa Grand Expedition cover high-altitude traditions, political history, and spiritual ceremony.

Mauritania has a rare combination of off-track desert exploration, ancient manuscript cities like Chinguetti and Ouadane, prehistoric rock art, and lush oases such as Terjit. It's a culturally and historically rich stretch of the West Africa Grand Expedition, ideal for travellers interested in trans-Saharan history, archaeology, and remote landscapes.

The Morocco & Western Sahara leg of the West Africa Grand Expedition offers an immersive overland journey through Berber villages, ancient caravan routes, fossil-rich deserts, and remote Saharan terrain, culminating in Dakhla’s coastal lagoons. It’s a rare chance to explore regions often inaccessible to travellers, guided by local experts and nomads.

You don’t arrive in Guyana with an itinerary so much as a heightened sense of attention. The rainforest doesn’t perform for you. It just is. And if you’re quiet enough, still enough, it might reveal itself. Before you see the blood-coloured woodpecker, you hear it. A sharp tap, two trees away. Before you spot the black caiman’s eyes, you register the ripple in dark water. Guyana’s Rupununi region, one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth, isn’t something you "do." It’s something you tune into. The volume knob on your senses gets turned up. And the rush to be anywhere else goes down.

The Chilam Joshi Festival isn’t something you book like theatre tickets. It emerges in its own time, when the wildflowers start to bloom, when the goats fatten, when the elders nod that yes, it’s time again. It’s a spring rite. An invocation of fertility, sure. But it’s also a call-and-response with the land, with history, with the unseen. For the Kalash, whose animist beliefs predate most modern religions, festivals are the glue that holds cosmology and community together. Every drumbeat carries meaning. Every embroidered robe is a form of remembering.

After an unforgettable day in Hue, I was eager to continue my journey south. We boarded the train to Da Nang, a comfortable ride that snaked through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside. The train tracks hugged the coastline for much of the journey, giving us some incredible views of white sand beaches and the sparkling South China Sea on one side, with lush, forested hills on the other. The changing landscape was truly beautiful, and it was one of those moments where I just let myself sink into the rhythm of the train, watching the world outside unfold at a relaxed pace.

The phrase “sustainable tourism” gets thrown around a lot. It shows up on glossy websites and Instagram captions. Lodges claim to be eco. Tour operators say they “give back.” Some even plant a tree and call it a day. But the truth is, genuine sustainable travel isn’t always neat or photogenic. And it’s not always marketed loudly. Real sustainability is often in the quiet details: the guide who’s from the village, the lodge that powers itself on solar, the tour company that chooses not to go somewhere until the local council says they’re ready. At Forward Travel, we’ve spent over a decade doing the deep work: not just talking the talk but walking it (preferably on a locally guided trail). So, let’s pull back the curtain a bit.

You’re sitting at your computer, planning a trip, and you think: "Why not do something meaningful while I’m there?" Maybe visit an orphanage. Or take a guided tour through a local slum. The brochures call it impactful. Heartfelt. Even life changing. And I get it. That instinct to connect, to give back, it’s a good one. It means you’re thinking beyond yourself. But here’s the hard truth: in many cases, those experiences do more harm than good. I’m not saying you’re wrong for wanting to help. I’m saying the model is broken. And in my 20+ years of working with local communities, I’ve seen firsthand the cost of these well-meaning encounters.

There’s something oddly soothing about waking up on a train. The rhythm of the rails, the muffled chatter from the corridor, the smell of instant coffee being carried through the carraiges. We rolled into Hanoi just after sunrise, hazy golden light spreading across the city as it slowly came to life. Bleary-eyed but content, we disembarked and made our way through the soft chaos of morning Hanoi where we stopped for a quick Banh Mi. There was no time to linger this time, we had another journey ahead: a drive eastward towards one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders; Ha Long Bay.

Well, I didn’t exactly glide into Vietnam in style. After a long-haul flight and an unexpected delay in Saigon, I finally landed in Hanoi feeling a bit like forgotten luggage; crumpled, slightly disoriented, and very ready for a hot shower. The connection through Ho Chi Minh was classic Southeast Asia chaos: snaking queues, unexpected gate changes, and a mad dash through the terminal, all under flickering fluorescent lights and an eye on the clock.

The Maldives, Bangladesh, Colombia, Congo, and Scotland have seen growth in popularity among Australian tourists aged 55+, with rises up to 257%. Meanwhile, traditionally popular destinations like the Cook Islands, China, Switzerland, Czechia, and Hong Kong have declined in appeal, with drops as high as 97%.

The Maldives, Bangladesh, Colombia, Congo, and Scotland have seen growth in popularity among Australian tourists aged 55+, with rises up to 257%. Meanwhile, traditionally popular destinations like the Cook Islands, China, Switzerland, Czechia, and Hong Kong have declined in appeal, with drops as high as 97%.

The Maldives, Bangladesh, Colombia, Congo, and Scotland have seen growth in popularity among Australian tourists aged 55+, with rises up to 257%. Meanwhile, traditionally popular destinations like the Cook Islands, China, Switzerland, Czechia, and Hong Kong have declined in appeal, with drops as high as 97%.

Equatorial Guinea is a small but ecologically rich country located on the west coast of Central Africa. It is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife, particularly primates. The country's tropical rainforests, which are mainly found in the region of Río Muni and on the island of Bioko, offer a haven for various primate species, some of which are critically endangered.

Zambia is home to some of Africa’s most magnificent elephant populations, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to experience these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The country’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the floodplains of the Zambezi River to the dense forests and savannas of national parks, provide ideal environments for elephants to thrive.

Gonarezhou National Park is one of Zimbabwe's largest and most remote national parks, renowned for its rugged wilderness, diverse ecosystems, and significant wildlife populations. The name "Gonarezhou" translates to "Place of Elephants," reflecting the park's substantial elephant population.

The Peruvian Amazon is one of the most extraordinary and diverse regions on Earth, representing a significant portion of the Amazon Rainforest, which spans several South American countries. Covering almost 60% of Peru's land area, this region is not only vast but also one of the most biologically rich areas in the world. The Peruvian Amazon is home to thousands of species of plants, animals, and insects, many of which are found nowhere else on the planet. This biodiversity makes the region a crucial area for global conservation efforts.

Leaving the cool hills of Ella behind, I set off for Yala National Park, eagerly anticipating the safari adventure that lay ahead. The journey took me through varying landscapes, from verdant hills and tea plantations to arid plains and dense forests, each change in scenery adding to the excitement of the trip. The road was lined with local vendors selling fresh fruits and snacks, and I made a few stops along the way to taste some delicious tropical offerings.

After a smooth landing at Bandaranaike International Airport, I made my way to Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. The drive into the city was a feast for the senses, with colourful tuk-tuks weaving through traffic, the scent of spices in the air, and the occasional glimpse of the ocean. I checked into the Galle Face Hotel, a historic colonial gem that dates to 1864. The hotel's grand architecture, combined with its stunning ocean views, immediately transported me to a bygone era of elegance and charm.

Embarking on a journey through Saudi Arabia, a land of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes? In this introductory guide, we'll provide you with information you need to plan your trip and explore the diverse charms of this captivating kingdom.

Saying goodbye to Iraq, we venture into the Kurdish region, the cities of Sulaymaniyah and Erbil emerge as vibrant hubs that not only showcase the natural beauty of this region, but also encapsulate the distinct culture of northern Iraq. This leg of the journey beckons us to delve into the rich tapestry of the Kurdish heritage, offering a unique blend of historical treasures and breathtaking landscapes.

Embarking on a journey through Namibia is not merely an excursion; it's a pilgrimage to the soul-stirring heart of Africa's most captivating landscapes and vibrant cultures. For those seeking an immersive and unforgettable experience, partnering with long standing travel experts like Forward Travel and Ultimate Safaris promises an adventure of a lifetime.

Situated to the north of Baghdad, the city of Samarra emerges as a drawcard destination, boasting not only historical significance but also architectural wonders that define its rich Islamic heritage. A key highlight of Samarra is the remarkable Malwiya Minaret, paired with the awe-inspiring Great Mosque of Samarra, collectively earning the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Embarking on a westward heading, our path leads us to the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, each standing as profound symbols of religious significance and historical resonance. These sacred destinations beckon pilgrims and travellers to delve into the spiritual and cultural tapestry that has woven the fabric of the region for ages past.

From Baghdad's vibrant streets to Babylon's ancient ruins, this blog unveils my journey through Mesopotamia's rich tapestry. Baghdad blends modernity with history, offering a sensory experience of markets and teahouses. In 2023 I was fortunate to have been invited to journey through Iraq with a group of fellow travel ambassadors from around the world. Join me and my group as we explore Babylon's archaeological wonders, such as the Ishtar Gate and Hanging Gardens, witnessing the grandeur of an ancient era.

Embarking on an in-depth journey through Morocco is an enchanting odyssey that intricately intertwines ancient traditions with the pulsating vibrancy of this North African jewel, and Morocco is without a doubt, a jewel. From the dynamic streets of Casablanca to the serene coastal allure of Essaouira and the beckoning golden dunes of the Western Sahara, each destination reveals a distinct and captivating chapter in the rich tapestry that is Morocco.

Why Antarctic Fly - Cruises are a good alternative to the traditional crossing of the Drake Passage.

Kenya, a land of mesmerising beauty and captivating wildlife, is possibly lesser known for, but is equally as rich for its rich cultural diversity. The vibrancy of Kenya's heritage is intricately woven by numerous ethnic groups, each contributing its own uniqueness to the nation's identity. In this blog, let’s embark on a brief journey to delve deeper into the traditions, customs, and lifestyles of some of Kenya's most prominent tribes, exploring the living stories that define the essence of this East African nation.

The vast, untamed landscapes of Botswana offer a unique safari experience. Unique both in its beauty and diversity, Botswana is known for pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and welcoming local culture. A Botswana safari promises an adventure like no other. In this blog, we will delve into the wonders of Botswana and what to expect from a Botswana safari. We’ll explore its captivating landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the unique safari experiences that make this African gem a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Travel is often seen as a means of escaping the routine of daily life, a chance to relax and unwind. While the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human goal, travel offers more than just leisure and enjoyment. Beyond the picturesque landscapes and cultural experiences, travel serves as a powerful tool for education, offering valuable lessons that extend far beyond the boundaries of a classroom. I wanted to write this article to explore why travel is as much about education as it is about happiness.

After a fortuitous encounter at ITB Berlin ( ITB is a global travel mart ) in March 2023, I found myself in the privileged position of being invited by Al-Rafidain, an Iraqi tour company, to partake on a journey alongside a select few, traversing the intriguing terrain of Iraq. Commencing in Basra and concluding in Erbil, Kurdistan, this odyssey was a stark departure from my preconceived notions, largely shaped by decades of news reports. My curiosity was piqued by the prospect of immersing myself in the cradle of ancient civilisations, including the Babylonians, Assyrians, Sumerians, and Akkadians. My journey commenced with an Emirates flight from Sydney to Dubai

Day 11: My final day in Egypt dawned with a mix of excitement and a tinge of nostalgia. It was to be my last day, my last adventure in this captivating and ancient land. Although I had explored the most iconic historical sites Egypt had to offer, there was one destination that beckoned me as a devoted book lover and a fervent history enthusiast – Alexandria.

Embarking on an African safari is a dream for many, a journey that promises encounters with majestic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and a taste of untamed wilderness. However, the prospect of the cost involved often leaves travellers pondering whether the experience justifies the expense. In this exploration, we weigh the value of an African safari against the financial investment.

Day 7: Edfu and Kom Ombo After a peaceful overnight sail down the timeless Nile River, my journey took me to Edfu. Nestled on the west bank of the river Nile, is the exceptionally well-preserved Edfu Temple, dedicated to the mighty falcon god Horus. As I approached the temple, its grandeur and aura of sacredness were overwhelming.

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Himalayas, is Bhutan. Standing as a testament to untouched beauty and a unique cultural identity Bhutan should be a must on any serious travellers list. Journey with Forward Travel as we explore this enchanting kingdom, where happiness is not just a goal but a way of life.

Day 4: Cruising the Nile Today marked the beginning of a captivating journey along the world's longest river, the Nile. While Cairo, with its magnetic allure and endless array of sights, had its own unique charm, I knew that the true odyssey through history would unfold once I stepped aboard a cruise along this legendary river. With a quick flight from Cairo to Luxor, I found myself in a new world of exploration and adventure.

Welcome to my adventure through one of the world’s oldest cultures! Any journey through Egypt promises the traveller to be an incredible experience, filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. I’d read so much and had spoken to so many who had travelled the ancient lands of Egypt, but I was not prepared to be captivated the way I was by what the land of the pharaohs offers. Egypt is a land where ancient mysteries and modern life coexist in harmony. Egypt offers a unique blend of the past and the present, creating an unforgettable travel experience. Come with me as I relive my journey to the land of the Pharaohs. I hope you enjoy, David...

When we think of Africa, safari is probably the first thing that comes to mind. The big 5 - Elephants, Rhino, Lion, Leopard and African buffalo. Gorillas are undoubtedly one of the species that people think of when thinking of Africa.

Namibia, a country located in Southwestern Africa is a land of stark beauty and rugged landscapes. It is a destination it promises to take its visitors on a journey like no other. Beyond its iconic dunes of the Namib Desert and its wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park lies a cultural treasure hidden in the remote northwestern reaches of this African nation. The Himba tribe, with their rich traditions and deep connection to the land, offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Created to protect and promote the rich heritage of Chilean Patagonia, Route of the Parks is an exhilarating journey through 17 of the region’s most spectacular national parks. Think: pristine landscapes, fragile ecosystems, rich history and diverse cultures in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There are so many unique places to visit in Australia that rival similar world famous places overseas. Here are our picks to start your travel planning.

There are so many unique places to visit in Australia that rival similar world famous places overseas. Here are our picks to start your travel planning.

A 4WD Australia adventure is on so many travellers’ bucket lists. And now – with the borders closed – it is the perfect time to travel Australia and see what our beautiful country has to offer.

Antarctic travel is a passion for many… and for good reason. From the untouched wildlife of South Georgia Island, to the historical wonders of the Falkland Islands, Antarctica is an absolute must for travel in 2020.

From its towering mountains to its crystal clear lakes, Chilean Patagonia has always been a number one choice for travellers who are after a true taste of adventure.