It’s hard to go past the appeal of a quiet tropical island, where the water is an impossible shade of blue, and the migratory crab population outnumbers humans by more than ten to one. This week, we’re taking you to two such destinations — the Cook Islands and the Philippines. What Egypt lacks in beaches, it more than makes up for in historic landmarks, which we explore in detail, with the exception of the most obvious.

Back on the island that we're all most familiar with — Australia — we explore what it's like to stay in Melbourne in style, and some of the most picturesque places to visit in Tasmania.

ASIA

Five of the best beaches in the Philippines

An island nation with over 36,000 kilometres of coastline, it’s no secret that the Philippines is one of the top beach destinations in the world. Peppered with rocky shores, shimmering waters, and endless stretches of white sand, the 7,100-island-strong archipelago is a paradise just waiting to be explored.

AUSTRALIA

10 of the most Instagrammable locations in Tasmania

Tasmania is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque places Australia has to offer.

From its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, snow-capped mountains, and lush winding hills, there are endless places to take postcard-perfect Instagram pictures that will be the envy of your followers.

Come with us as we unpack 10 of the best Instagram locations Tasmania is hidingFind

AFRICA

What to do in Egypt, from someone who’s been but didn’t see the pyramids

When thinking about a trip to Egypt, number one on most bucket lists is to see The Great Pyramid of Giza, created in honour of the pharaohs of the fourth dynasty. But this wasn’t the case for me. Unfortunately, discovering one of the world’s wonders wasn’t on my itinerary.

Despite this fact, my trip was still one to write home about. Egypt abounds with unbelievable ancient sites, and I found the following attractions quieter and just as memorable as any pyramid would be.

AUSTRALIA

Stay in style: ten luxury hotels to try in Melbourne

Heralded as Australia’s most liveable city several times over, Melbourne attracts visitors from all over the globe with its unique arts, fashion, and dining scenes. It’s an undeniably stylish city worth setting aside time to discover. And what better way to level up your trip than staying at one of the luxury hotels in Melbourne?

With so many upscale offerings around town, finding the perfect place to rest your head can be challenging. So, we’ve narrowed it down for you with some of our favourites.

ENGLAND

22 of the best things to do in London

A rich history and bucket-list attractions: the best things to do in London

London – where does one even begin?

With a history stretching back to Roman times, the UK capital attracts millions of visitors every year with exquisite art, entertainment, iconic structures, and a long list of must-do experiences.

You’ll probably struggle to squeeze everything into just the one trip, but our pick of the 22 best things to do in London might just help get you started.

Destination of the week

Cook Islands, New Zealand

In the Central South Pacific, halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, Kūki Āirani (The Cook Islands) is a perfect tropical paradise. It’s the kind of paradise where snorkelling crystal-clear lagoons with the resident ray and turtle populations is on the daily agenda, as is weaving your way through palm tree coves and sipping cocktails by nightfall.

But, Kūki Āirani is more than the sum of its beaches and coral reefs. Rarotonga — the largest of the 15 islands and atolls that make up the archipelago — is majority volcanic peaks, ridges, and rainforests. Hike your way across the mountainous interior on the Cross Island Trek, a 6km self-guided trail that leads from north to south. Afterwards, head for the blue sea container of Mooring Fish Café for an appetite-satiating mahi mahi sandwich — they’re widely praised.

Dive further into the regional cuisine and culture on a Saturday morning visit to Punanga Nui Markets, where Māroro (flying fish), mitiore (fermented coconut with onions and seafood), or a simple young coconut are all on the menu. Come night, experience even more of the islands’ known flavours, accompanied by traditional song, dance, and music, at an Island Night Cultural Show.

Photo of the week

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PHOTO BY: @davisgerber