Ethical encounters with endangered Asian elephants - where you observe and possibly interact with them but refrain from riding - can be a highlight of visiting Thailand. Just make sure to do your research when choosing an elephant encounter.

While snorkelling in Arctic waters, Birgit-Cathrin Duval forgets how cold the water is as she sings with the Beluga whales in an undersea duet.

In order to not just see grizzly bears but walk with them, one has to get up early and develop a strong olfactory fortitude, writes Birgit-Cathrin Duval.

A rustic finca on the sun-bleached Spanish island of Majorca offers a retreat for the body as well as the soul, writes Tessa Jol.

Canada’s rail routes lure scenery-loving visitors from around the world. But one lesser-known train combines awesome visuals with some quirky local flavour. Vancouverite John Lee hops aboard the Rupert Rocket - a backcountry charmer.