3. North Wales, UK
This is where you’ll find Snowdon; Wales’ highest mountain, as well as plenty
of rugged coastline, a beautiful island called Anglesey (also the home of Bear
Grylls) and the now infamous Bounce Below. An activity centre in Penrhyn
Quarry‘s Zip World, Bounce Below is an underground cavern complex housed
in a former slate mine. Featuring a series of giant cave-based trampolines, with
four huge slides (some reaching heights of 18 metres) and six levels of bouncing
fun, it’s just one of many adventure playgrounds sprouting up in North Wales.
For additional thrills, check out The Surf Snowdonia Adventure Park with its
'Crash & Splash Lagoon' - a watery assault course not dissimilar to Total Wipeout.
There's also winter canoeing along Snowdonia's icy blue lakes and White Water
Rafting on the temperamental River Dee.
Anglesey
4. Austin, USA
In Austin, even your coffee comes with a side serving of live music. The city is
often referred to as the 'Live Music Capital of the World’ and for every corner
turned, there’s an impromptu performance, regardless of whether you’re in
a tiny café or a heaving bar. A hub of unwavering old-school funk, the entire
metropolis is a venue for creatives; musicians, artists and playwrights flock here
for the laid-back vibes and cool hippy charm. Aside from good rhythms, inner
city attractions include the world’s largest urban bat colony, which people flood
to see every night, as they take flight from the Congress Avenue Bridge. And for
those who want to step outside of the city, there’s Hamilton Pool. A jade lagoon
which dates back thousands of years. Today the inviting water (complete with
fairy tale waterfall) attracts a colony of its own: sunbathers and water lovers.
5. Adelaide, South Australia
Visually stunning and home to some of the world’s most raved about cuisine. Is
it France? Italy? The Mediterranean? Not at all, we’ve headed across the Tasman
and found Australia. With a culinary scene so profound even the Parisians are
raising an eyebrow, Adelaide and its surrounding regions enjoy an abundance
of fresh produce, from gooey cheese to just-shucked shellfish. The wine vari-
etals are also extensive, with the odd (and oddly wonderful) Sparkling Shiraz
an SA must-try. Aside from pretty vineyards, the formidable terrain is a startling
panorama of torched earth blackened by bush fire. It is a symbol of botanical
glory. In South Australia, nature always springs back with a vengeance. The
result? Soil the colour of saffron, complemented by green regrowth and the
spindly trunks of eucalyptus trees.
Austin
Golden nuggets
from our golden
consultants
THE TIPS YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO IGNORE,
FROM PEOPLE WHO HAVE “BEEN THERE,
DONE THAT.”
1. Aarhus
The Møllestien is arguably the prettiest
street in Aarhus with cobbled streets and
18th century houses.
2. Hanoi
Hit the Old Quarter in Hanoi and climb the
stairs to Cau Go. This rooftop restaurant
boasts elevated lake views.
3. North Wales
The Menai Strait separates the island of
Anglesey from mainland Wales. It’s here
you’ll find The Straits Restaurant. With
home cooked dishes and local produce,
don’t miss the slow cooked Welsh lamb.
4. Austin
Austin City Limits and South by Southwest
are two massive festivals held in Austin.
Music lovers shouldn't miss them.
5. Adelaide
South Australia is best enjoyed from the
Murray River. Hire a luxury houseboat with
Unforgettable Houseboats and set your
own pace.
IF ALL OF THE ABOVE SOUNDS LIKE A GREAT IDEA , POP IN-STORE,
CALL U S ON 0800 7 13 7 15 OR VIS IT WWW.HOT.C O. NZ . W E ’ L L PU T
YOU WHERE YOU WA N T TO B E.
HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E IS S UE 0 1. 20 17 13