Top Destinations for Introverts & Extroverts

Whether you’re travelling solo and keeping to yourself or hoping to meet as many new faces as possible, we’ve got the destination for you.

Humans are usually classed as one of two things: introverts or extroverts – two groups of people who rarely share much of the other’s interests. Yet, there is something that these seemingly opposite personality types have in common; something universally shared. A love of travelling, because let’s be honest, who doesn’t? However, both introverts and extroverts seek different experiences and ways of travelling. So, whether you’re looking for the coolest bar packed with new people or an isolated farmhouse in the middle of the countryside, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of destinations to satisfy both types of travellers.

Introverts

As a fellow introvert, I have personal insight into what we look for when travelling. Historic cities with empty streets to explore, small towns with locals who greet you with the tip of a hat and nothing more. If you’re looking for peace and quiet but plenty to keep your mind engaged, these are the destinations for you.

Finland

With a population of just over 5.5 million, Finland is perfect for introverts. It may sound like a lot, but considering New York City alone has a population of nearly 20 million, it’s safe to say you won’t be bumping into people on the sidewalks here. From the cultural capital of Helsinki to ski towns in the Finnish Lapland, introverts will be spoilt for choice.

an aerial view of Helsinki City — Traverse under-the-radar spots across Helsinki.

Helsinki is a city sans skyscrapers; in fact, its tallest building is located on the outskirts of the capital and sits at a mere 134 metres tall. This means fewer overwhelmingly crammed streets that make you feel like you’re all boxed in.

colourful buildings along Helsinki — Pastel-hued structures line up the streets.

Best known for its sea-facing landscape, subculture, architecture and art, Helsinki is a wanderer’s paradise. If you’re in the capital, must-see sites include Suomenlinna Fortress, Siberius Park, Kamppi Chapel of Silence and Helsinki’s Design District.

the Kamppi Chapel of Silence in Finland — Kamppi Chapel is a calm and peaceful refuge.

Not a fan of the city? Me either. Head north to the Finnish Lapland for soul-searching and going solo. Experience outdoor adventure in this vast subarctic wilderness, with natural phenomena such as the midnight sun and Northern Lights sure to inspire wonder. I recommend visiting the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi or learning about the culture of the Indigenous Sámi people in Inari.

the Santa Claus Village in Finland — Visit the official hometown of Santa Claus in Finland.

New Zealand

With more sheep than people (approximately five sheep to every person), you’re more likely to run into a lamb than another human. Welcome to Aotearoa/New Zealand.

New Zealand is made up of stunning landscapes, mountain peaks and deep-dive lakes. Quiet thrill-seekers can dabble in hiking or bungy-jumping, while others can opt to cruise Milford Sound or explore Hobbiton.

a picturesque view of the mountain peaks in Milford Sound — Towering mountain peaks serve as a majestic backdrop of Milford Sound.

Cities such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch offer artistic, cultural and historic experiences. I recommend the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum in Wellington for its awe-inspiring Māori art. Or check out some of the South Island’s best vineyards on a Queenstown Wine Trail.

a tip of a boat sailing across Milford Sound — Stunning natural wonders make up New Zealand.

A visit to Lake Rotomairewhenua in the depths of Nelson Lakes National Park is also a must, holding the title of the world’s clearest lake. Considered sacred to the Māori people, it’s important to remain respectful and follow the rules (no swimming or washing in, touching or taking lake water). Lake Rotomairewhenua can be reached via the Travers-Sabine Circuit.

a scenic view of Lake Rotomairewhenua — Lake Rotomairewhenua is a picturesque lake with the clearest water in the world.

Nepal

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity that is Nepal – a small, landlocked country in Asia. It is the dreamiest place to reset and recharge.

For introverts, Nepal is one of the best places to travel solo as it’s known for being safe and quiet. If you find solace in movement, there are countless treks across the country, from Everest views in the Himalayas to diverse scenery along hiking circuits.

peak of Mt Everest in Nepal — Be sure to include Mt Everest in your bucketlist.

Nepal embodies the philosophy of taking your time and being present. A great way to ground yourself is by visiting any of the ancient and serene temples on offer. Pashupatinath Temple is a no-brainer; listed as an UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, it is considered the oldest temple in Nepal, dating back to at least 1692 CE.

the exterior view of Pashupatinath Temple — Pashupatinath Temple is among the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal.

Whether you choose to meander at your own pace or smash out as many hikes as you can, this beautiful country of colours and contrasts will welcome you with open arms.

an aerial view of the rugged mountains in Nepal — Embark on a mystic journey to the mountainous region of Nepal.

Iceland

What better way to get away from it all than to visit a tiny island nation in the middle of the North Atlantic? If looming skyscrapers and never-ending cities sound a little intimidating, look no further than Iceland.

Iceland is an introvert’s paradise, consecutively ranking first on the Global Peace Index. Its capital city Reykjavík is currently home to under 200,000 people – practically heaven on Earth for introverts who like the city but loathe the crowds.

snow-capped hills in Reykjavík, Iceland — Catch sweeping views of the snow-capped hills behind Reykjavík city.

Facing Faxaflói Bay, the city is backdropped by the peninsula of Akranes and Snæfellsjökull in the distance, promising unreal views all day long. Reykjavík highlights include Hallgrímskirkja Church, Skólavörðustígur, the Perlan Museum and Tjörnin Lake.

sunset view of Hallgrímskirkja Church in Iceland — The towering structure of Hallgrímskirkja Church is an astounding landmark in Iceland.

However, Iceland’s main drawcard is its sweeping and sparse countryside: natural hot springs, ancient ice caves, mountain waterfalls and sprawling meadows dot Iceland’s landscape; epitomising solitude and quiet living.

a small waterfalls in Iceland — Iceland is famed for its scenic landscapes.

Japan

This may seem like an odd inclusion, considering Japan has one of the world’s highest populations. Yet this city seems designed for individuals, which is perfect for us introverts. From restaurants with privacy walls to hostels with bed curtains, this is the place to be if you favour the fast life but on your own terms.

Cities like Tokyo and Osaka are brimming with restaurants designed for going solo. No more sitting at a table for one; sidle up to the counter and watch the chef cook. Don’t worry about awkward eye contact or butting elbows with fellow patrons. Many restaurants in Japan have single-seater booths with walls on either side and a small window the chef can open to deliver your food.

a warm bowl of ramen — Indulge in a warm, comforting bowl of ramen.

Another introvert perk are Japan’s capsule hotels. These small pods are perfect for solo travellers who like their own space but have a small budget. Inside you’ll find a bed, storage and sometimes even a small TV. Note that bathrooms are shared, but female- and male-only capsule hotels exist.

capsule hotel in Japan — Stay overnight in a capsule hotel.

Extroverts

I may not be an extrovert myself, but I’ve travelled with my fair share of them. Life of the party types who are down for anything, with anyone, anywhere. If your next adventure needs the excitement and exhilaration of new faces and spaces, we’ve got the places for you.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong has got it going on. Home to over seven million people across just over 1,000 square kilometres, you’re bound to make new friends. It may be small, but Hong Kong sure packs a punch. The streets are alive with activity 24/7, from street food stalls surrounded by late-night foodies to bars overflowing with club-goers.

A trip to Disneyland Hong Kong is essential; laugh yourself silly on rollercoasters and feast upon Disney-themed treats well into the night. With such a vibrant, synergetic atmosphere, you’ll be making mates in no time.

a wide variety of street food in Hong Kong — Taste your way around its street food laneways.

The district of Lan Kwai Fong is known for its neon-lit streets, laneways, bars and nightlife. Events are often held here, from street performances and music gigs to pub crawl tours and shopping strips. Head here for a night of carousing.

streets in Hong Kong at night — The streets are more alive at night.

Other unmissable experiences include a visit to Tian Tan Buddha, a fun-filled day at Ocean Park and a wander through the Hong Kong Museum of History. Even extroverts will hit the hay feeling spent.

an aerial shot of Tian Tan Bhuddha in Hong Kong — Tian Tan Bhuddha is a representation of man’s relationship with nature.

Spain

From booming cities like Barcelona and Madrid to the vacay islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, Spain attracts extroverts like moths to a flame. Don’t bother writing up an itinerary, you’ll find something new around every corner.

If you’re a lover of architecture, history and distinct cultural experiences, meet your latest lover: Spain. Discover primordial basilicas, loaded museums, gothic quarters and palatial casas – you’re truly spoilt for choice.

the unfinished structure of Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain — Sagrada Família is the largest unfinished Catholic church in Spain.

Mallorca and Ibiza’s reputations definitely precede them in the best way possible. Known locally as hot-to-trot party destinations, you can rise with the sun and party into the night on these islands of endless summer.

a small yacht navigating the turquoise-coloured waters of Mallorca — Sail across the turquoise-coloured waters of Mallorca.

Before the global pandemic hit, Spain saw millions of visitors per year, with numbers increasing again post-pandemic. So, you’re sure to go home with a multitude of new connections, both locals and globetrotters alike.

an array of sun loungers facing the sea at Ibiza Beach Club — Bask in warm sunshine at Ibiza Beach Club.

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Amsterdam

Easy, breezy Amsterdam – the most populous city of the Netherlands. The layout of this city is perfect for extrovert-inspired exploring; flat streets flaunting funky restaurants, hip bars, whimsical bookshops and Dutch gift shops selling groovy souvenirs.

A draw card for extroverts is the number of hostels across the city. Not only are they cheap and packed full of travellers, but they’re also designed to be cool, comfortable and collaborative.

vibrant streets of Amsterdam — Groove your way around the city’s hip boutiques and restaurants.

Take St Christopher’s at The Winston – this hostel has its own on-site nightclub on the ground floor. ClinkNOORD is another brilliant option, with a particularly extroverted design. You’ll find the atmosphere is similar at hostels all over the city, no matter the price point.

a canal tour along the historical waterways of Amsterdam — Cruise along the historical waterways of Amsterdam.

The vibes of Amsterdam vibrate on a gregarious level. From the jumping streets of De Negen Straatjes and Foodhallen to wine- and cheese-themed canal tours and the famous Van Gogh Museum, you’ll be running from one side of the city to the other and meeting amazing Amsterdammers along the way.

the exterior of Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam — Don’t miss out on the dreamy art installations at Van Gogh Museum.

Brazil

You’ll be welcomed with open arms and beautiful, bright smiles upon your arrival in Brazil. Known for its lively culture and tenacious residents – where better to travel as an extrovert?

Rio de Janeiro, the capital of Brazil, is laden with adventures for thrill-seekers and partygoers. You’ll find parties all over the city, from booming beach clubs along the coast to raving nightclubs in the heart of the city.

an aerial view of Rio De Janeiro — Set foot in the bustling seaside city of Rio De Janeiro.

Namely, the district of Lapa is practically jumping every night of the week. The usual bars, pubs and restaurants are all fantastic, however, Lapa’s claim to fame is its hugely popular street parties. Gather with locals and tourists and dance to samba music under the iconic Carioca Aqueduct.

the exterior of Carioca Aqueduct — The Carioca Aqueduct is your gateway to Lapa’s nightlife centre.

Festivals are another Brazilian staple. Whether you want to groove to live music in the sun or celebrate the cultures of the country, there’ll be a festival with your name on it. Either way, you’ll leave Brazil sun-kissed, with funky music well and truly setting up shop in your head. Not to mention a contact list full of new friends.

an aerial shot of Cococabana Beach — Get your sun-kissed glow at Cococabana Beach.

United States

This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning North America. With more metropoles than one can care to count, extroverts will feel right at home in The States.

the bustling strip of Las Vegas — Experience the lively nightlife scene in Las Vegas.

Los Angeles is on the bucket list of thousands; the sheer number of interesting individuals wandering the hip streets of LA is a sure enough reason for any extrovert to visit. You’ll get to know an eclectic and exciting bunch of characters by strolling a beach promenade or stopping for coffee on a street corner.

welcome to las vegas signage — Las Vegas is a renowned entertainment district in the world.

Extroverts can be quite good at stepping out of their comfort zone, and LA has more than enough on offer to help you do just that. Rollerskate The Strand in front of hundreds; brush shoulders with celebrities at Coachella; or discover the dark side at The Museum of Death.

a group of teens rollerskating in LA — Feel your adrenaline pumping on roller skates.

Don’t forget the concrete jungle of New York City; what sounds more appealing to an extrovert than a city that never sleeps? Boogie your way through New Orleans, hit The Strip in Las Vegas or party it up in Atlanta. Trust me, you’ll be all extroverted out.

bustling streetscape in New York — New York is deemed a city that never sleeps for a reason.

From sophisticated new sleeper trains and opulent hotel openings to the exploration of new frontiers, we’re now finding ourselves in our own gilded era of travel. These 21st-century travel experiences are leading the way.

If we were to turn back the clock 100 years, there was a real romance to travel – the dawning of a glamour-filled jet age, refined rail sojourns and first-class cruising where the voyage itself trounced the destination.

We’re feeling a similar excitement in the air about travel in 2026. Think state-of-the-art cruise liners allowing access to destinations formerly off-limits, resort launches where avant-garde architecture takes centre stage, and a return to the days of luxury locomotives. This reoccurrence of the advances, adventure and elegance of a bygone era has not only come full circle; it’s now superior.

How? Travel has become more mindful, intentional and accessible. This includes environmental initiatives by operators determined to leave less impact on the planet and a shift towards a deeper cultural exchange with the local communities we visit. Whether it’s exploring previously hard-to-reach cities such as Uzbekistan’s Khiva, staying with a family to experience village life in Nepal or discovering new frontiers in Antarctica, our round-up of ‘new golden age’ travel experiences is a snapshot of how we are travelling today, as well as into promising new horizons.

Exploring the emerging city of Khiva

The walled inner city of Khiva, Uzbekistan. (Credit: Getty/Mlenny Khiva)

Uzbekistan’s Silk Road city of Khiva used to be off the radar for many travellers, but 2026 has changed all that. You can thank a new bullet train service connecting Khiva to Bukhara and Samarkand, slashing the trip from the capital of Tashkent from 15 hours to under eight. Add renovations to Urgench International Airport, and interest in this fascinating city is rapidly on the rise.

Quick to react has been Golden Eagle Luxury Trains and The Samarkand Express which have added Khiva to their 2026 rail itineraries, while Cox & Kings has included the Central Asian city to its multi-country 2027 ‘Stans’ itinerary.

Check out Khiva’s preserved inner-walled fortress, the first UNESCO site in Uzbekistan, explore ancient minarets and ornate mausoleums, and try traditional fare at Terrassa Cafe & Restaurant. Looking for fancy digs? The Mercure Khiva is due to swing open its doors later in 2026.

Riding the rails on the Eastern & Oriental Express

inside the Eastern & Oriental Express — Onboard the train, rich fabrics are complemented by elm, cherrywood and teak marquetry. (Credit: Ludovic Balay)

Recapture the romance of rail travel through the tropics of Southeast Asia on the refurbished Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia.

The resurgence of train travel reflects how we are travelling today – slower and with a new appreciation for both scenery and cultural exchange. Include a large dollop of old-world glamour, and the three-night Wild Malaysia tour truly delivers. Winding its way deep into the Malay jungle, the journey makes plenty of pit stops for exploration along the way.

Having been resurrected from a 1970s sleeper, the luxury locomotive now comes replete with plush interiors of hand-cut marquetry dressed in oriental silks and embroidery – there’s even a Dior Spa. Watch the world go by from the Observation Car, indulge in fine wining and dining, kick up your heels in the Piano Bar, then snooze it all off in your sumptuous sleeper car.

Embracing Mother Nature in Peru

Travelling to Peru is like stepping into a kaleidoscope of contrasting cultures and landscapes. Whether you’re learning about shamanic natural remedies in the pre-Inca Colca Valley, cruising the wilds of the Amazon on a luxury river ship or discovering firsthand why the contemporary capital of Lima is celebrated for its culinary and artistic scenes, there are myriad reasons why this colourful country is topping wish lists.

One such experience is the Ultimate Peru by River and Rail journey (five days) by Abercrombie & Kent, available in 2026. This incredible river cruise allows you to truly connect with the jungle rhythms of the Amazon via skiff and on foot with in-the-know local guides, and includes nights onboard newly launched luxury riverboat Pure Amazon, an A&K Sanctuary.

Spot exotic creatures such as sloths, macaws, piranhas, and pink dolphins on the daily excursions, before juxtaposing these wild encounters with a return to pure pampering on the boat.

Seeking sustainable community experiences in Nepal

tharu woman — Tharu woman and master weaver Parbati Chaudhary in Bhada Village. (Credit: Bheem Thapa)

While Nepal has traditionally attracted visitors to traverse its majestic mountains – Everest and Annapurna in particular – travel experiences in this beautiful Himalayan nation are expanding.

Home stays, where you reside with Nepali families and take an active part in their daily lives, are a growing attraction. It’s a win:win for local youths – who took their country back after bloody protests in 2025 – wanting to stay in Nepal rather than moving abroad for work, as well as foreigners seeking a deeper cultural experience. Nepali women, Indigenous people and marginalised castes are also benefitting from home stays, upping the feel-good factor even further.

Leading the charge is Community Home Stay Network, which links travellers to local-family hosts. Travel off-the-beaten path to homes in areas including Tharu in the south, learn how to cook Nepali style, and take part in traditions such as making moonshine, dancing and weaving straw handicrafts.

Exploring new frontiers in Antarctica

an ice window at Wilhelmina Bay — A breathtaking ice window captured at Wilhelmina Bay on the Antarctic Peninsula. (Credit: Renato Granieri)

Gone are the days when a trip to Antarctica meant a perilous voyage through the Drake Passage on a vessel holding the mere essentials. Innovative cruise ships now offer a smooth and sophisticated passage to the White Continent, as well as experiences formerly off-limits.

Abercrombie & Kent’s 19-day Antarctica, South Georgia and Falklands: Holiday Voyage captures it all. Spot breaching whales and gracefully gliding albatrosses from the deck, before stepping onto this Narnia-like landscape with daily Zodiac excursions. Observe adorable penguin and fur seal colonies, visit Antarctic communities that were previously too remote, and get so close to colossal icebergs that you’ll feel humbled by their scale.

Silversea‘s Antarctica Fly Cruise voyages will soon include a stay at The Cormorant at 55 South, the southernmost hotel on Earth purpose-built to bring uncompromised comfort to guests travelling to Antarctica.

When it comes to protecting this fragile eco-system, the future is also looking bright: HX Expeditions has partnered with the University of Tasmania to create a world-first educational course allowing cruise guests to dive into Antarctic science and sustainability, while A&K pours funds into conservation efforts and uses energy-efficient hybrid ships – all in trademark luxury, of course.

Indulging in New Zealand’s exceptional dining

Ayrburn, Queenstown — The Ayrburn precinct serves up delicate dishes.

By welcoming the Michelin Guide to sample Aotearoa/New Zealand’s finest gastronomy for the first time, our cousins across the ditch have now become serious players on the world culinary scene.

And there’s never been a better time to experience NZ’s greatest gastronomy with the inaugural guide currently going to press. Sample haute cuisine in Queenstown with a side serving of theatrics by culinary director Paul Froggatt at Essence in the new ROKI Collection hotel, and pull up a chair at Amisfield for its delicious degustation experience under new chef Sung Peng, with the world-renowned restaurant slated to reopen in July.

And it’s not just Queenstown holding all the culinary cards. The Michelin inspectors travelled to rate the best epicurean artistry in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, Te Whanganui a Tara/Wellington and Ōtautahi/Christchurch against the world’s most renowned restaurateurs (bring loose pants).

Bedding down at design-led hotels and farm stays

a woodfired sauna at Azuma Farm Koiwai — A woodfired sauna deepens the meditative state at Azuma Farm Koiwai. (Credit: Azuma Farm Koiwai)

New grand dames on the global hotel stage are receiving a standing ovation for their triumphant 2026 openings.

Return to old-world elegance at the Orient Express Venezia, a reimagined former 15^th-century royal residence set in Venice’s Palazzo Dona Giovannellii. It certainly makes for a regal stay, with grand Neo-Gothic windows and restored Baroque splendour blending seamlessly with modern luxury flourishes. Also bringing the fantasy factor is France’s Zannier Île de Bendor on a petite private island off the Provençal coast. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea – and with three luxe, design-led accommodation concepts to choose from – this resort exudes golden-era glamour.

In a breath of fresh air, we’ve also seen an uptick in farm stays. Trade the urban rush for a rambling rural retreat at Sibbjäns, Sweden’s first boutique farm stay, or opt for horseback riding followed by woodfired saunas on the sprawling eight-hectare Azuma Farm Koiwai in Japan.

Cruising the Danube on a festive Eastern Euro adventure

The magical Pécs Christmas Market in Hungary. (Credit: Emily Murphy)

Dreaming of a white Christmas? While floating past snow-dusted, fairytale cities on a river ship in Eastern Europe makes for an amazing voyage, when you add the magic of Christmas the whole experience becomes, well, more magical.

From twinkling trees and tinsel to red-nosed reindeer and wreath decorations, the festivities greet you the moment you step aboard AmaMagna by AmaWaterways. The ship then spirits you away along the Lower Danube for a seven-night Gems of Southeast Europe adventure from Romania to Hungary.

Explore Bulgaria’s medieval city of Veliko Tarnovo, glide into the dramatic Iron Gates crossing into Serbia; and sip on fine wines at Croatia’s Kast Winery (one variety made famous by Queen Elizabeth II). The highlight? For many it’s wandering the shimmering Christmas markets in Hungary’s Pécs. Peruse stalls selling unique handicrafts, try the traditional treat of kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and warm your cockles with a cup of mulled wine.

Delving into the buzzing city of Beijing

Lama Temple, Beijing — Calm and chaos at Lama Temple in Beijing. (Credit: Natasha Bazika)

Walking the line between its imperial past and a frenetic, futuristic present – Beijing is an exciting city to dive into.

If you want to be centrally located, the palatial Peninsula Beijing is hard to beat. From here, strap in at street level for a stroll among the city’s famed hutongs (ancient alleyways), pausing to taste traditional delicacies such as jianbing (savoury breakfast crepe) and dumpling soup. Then scope out the narrow lanes dotted with siheyuan courtyard homes (there are only 1000 left), and if you love to shop, head to Taikoo Li Sanlitun for a mix of luxury brands and local labels.

And it wouldn’t be a well-rounded trip to this history-rich city without experiencing its highlights reel. Admire golden-topped architecture in the Forbidden City, take a hike on the Great Wall of China and pay a visit to Tiananmen Square for both remembrance and observation on how it operates today.

Embarking on a round-the-world cruise

Can’t decide where to go on a cruise? On a round-the-world voyage you can live out all your dreams at sea.

It’s not a new idea – the first world cruise occurred more than a century ago on Cunard’s RMS Laconia in 1922 – but a reimagining. If you don’t have a spare year up your sleeve, you can now join for specific legs of the journey (unlike the 1922 trip), and ships have been modernised with sustainability measures, contemporary designs and a less formal feel.

Queen Anne, also by Cunard, cruised the world in 2026 with guests joining at handpicked ports, including in Central America for the extraordinary experience of crossing the Panama Canal. If you want the full adventure by circumnavigating the globe, Queen Anne will set sail on another world voyage in 2028.

Discovering the joys of small-group travel in Spain

Intrepid Travel's olive oil and wine tasting at Molino El Vínculo, Grazalema — Sample organic wine and olive oil on a tasting tour in Molino El Vínculo in Grazalema with Intrepid Travel. (Credit: Intrepid Travel/Tim Luck)

Small-group touring is a travel trend currently soaring, with many embracing it as an authentic, intimate and insightful way to visit a country – with VIP benefits to boot.

The small-group format, typically capped at five to 15 guests, is now accounting for around 62 per cent of group travel worldwide. And operators such as Intrepid Travel, APT Luxury Travel and Janesco Travel are among the frontrunners in this space, handling all navigation and insider experiences within an intimate group led by expert guides.

Seeking a Spanish sojourn? Small-group journeys to the vibrant southern Andalusia region are now topping bucket lists. Be mesmerised by flamenco dancers from a professional dance school (rather than touristy versions), learn how to make authentic sangria with a private class, skip queues at the Real Alcázar of Seville royal palace, and score a seat at the best Andalusian restaurants, sans waitlist.

Learning from the past in Japan

inside the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum — The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum presents a sobering dive into the nuclear event. (Credit: Eleanor Edström)

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to experience a war-time atomic bomb, hopefully the closest any of us will ever get is a visit to Nagasaki.

While on a cruise excursion to the Japanese city aboard the Diamond Princess, you can visit the fascinating hypocentre of the Second World War bomb dropped to widespread annihilation in 1945. While there is no doubt this is heavy material to digest on a tour, it comes with a message of hope – that the horror of a nuclear war should never happen again.

There is also much more to this 11-day Japan Explorer Cherry Blossoms with Princess Cruises voyage. Witness the world’s most active volcano in Kagoshima, join a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto and marvel at Mt Fuji in Shimizu. Also don’t miss the onsen experiences onboard the ship or its many mouth-watering local culinary offerings. Next departure is March 2027.

Supporting a typhoon-ravaged community in Vietnam

Zannier Bai San Ho — Time to kick back at Zannier Bãi San Hô. (Credit: Amber Hunter)

When typhoon Typhoon Kalmaegi ripped through Vietnam’s south-central coast in November 2025, it left a devastating trail of destruction.

And Zannier Bãi San Hô, an expansive 98-hectare beachfront resort, took a direct hit. An incredible five-month clean-up and restoration has now seen the Green Globe-certified retreat reopen, thanks in large part to the local community who rallied to help rebuild it. The support goes both ways; the 180-strong resort staff is made up of 177 locals – their livelihoods dependent on it.

You can help by simply booking a stay here. It’s hardly a punish, when you consider the beauty and luxury of this place; picture private pool villas and powder-white beaches. Take to the sapphire waters for water sports, visit local fishing villages and sweat it out at the onsite fitness centre. Or, if relaxing’s more your jam, simply loll by the pool with a good book.

The best destinations for introverts and extroverts revealed