What's not to love about a country that offers mind-blowing scenery and a bit of James Bond?

Catherine Masters travelled Bordeaux by river ship - here she takes a look at some of the destinations and ancient history of the famous wine region.

Michael Burgess has a rather un-Manly introduction to the tricky balancing act known as stand-up paddleboarding.

Halong Bay's famed islands are well explored from a kayak, writes Neda Vanovac.

Bookworms, history buffs and thirsty hikers are all in their element at the Jamaica Inn, writes Steve McKenna.

It's easy to find yourself smiling at a baby saltwater crocodile, discovers Caris Bizzaca, from well behind the fence.

Spooky rock formations make Mark Meredith think of lost souls, doomed to crumble under a harsh Utah sky.

Spectacular shopping and food make Hong Kong a must-see desination, says Megan Singleton.

Hardy men with pick-axes cut through tough terrain a century ago so a snug Grant Bradley could relish views that can only be described as spectacular.

They talk a lot about the light in Tuscany, but Michael Lamb found the darkness just as intriguing in Siena.

A river cruise through the rich dairy country of Normandy has Pamela Wade all at C.

You can still order a minke steak in Norway, a fact that upsets some locals, writes Grant Bradley.

Winston Aldworth rides the rails from Sydney to Perth.

Kristi Eaton finds the language barrier to be no hurdle during a solo trek through Burma.

Niue's slower pace has plenty to offer eco-adventurers, as Sophie Barclay discovers.

Brian Fallow cannot take his eyes from spectacular mountains and canyons as they glide past his train window, from Seattle to Banff.

In a restaurant in Alaska, Paul Rush has a tussle with the King of Crabs - and wins.

The legacy of a former newspaper magnate lives on at San Simeon, writes Shandelle Battersby.

Chris Daniels climbs aboard a bike to explore a different side of Rarotonga.

Pamela Wade finds Peru a country of wonders - from the natural to the man-made, the ancient to the everyday.

Walking through Barcelona, it's easy to forget that great political passions were once played out in its streets, writes Stephen Burgen.

A family holiday in Italy and France avoids the big towns and bright lights and finds the pleasures of rural living and small communities.

Faced with gunning either a Ferrari or a Lamborghini, Dylan Cleaver opts for both.

Vancouver is a gem, especially if you're pushed for time, writes Jim Morton.

Gabrielle Dunlevy cleanses her body, soul and mind in an Indonesian healing resort.

Elisabeth Easther rides the iconic train between Darwin and Adelaide, and finds a wealth of delights, both above and below ground.

Shandelle Battersby finds the jewel of the missions along California's King's Highway.

Pebble beaches, promenades and cobblestone streets filled with quirky shops and pubs make Brighton endearing, finds Greg Bowker.

The brightly coloured fish of the Marquesas would have inspired Doctor Seuss, writes Elisabeth Easther.