Back to basic holidays
If you like the idea of being at one with nature, and want to keep going on holiday simple, these three trips are just the thing
Thailand Combine rainforests and beaches
Khao Sok is one of the most beautiful national parks in Southern Thailand. It is home to some of the oldest rainforests on earth, waterfalls, wildlife and limestone cliffs. And an all-inclusive jungle escape nature tour there is a brilliant way to experience its size and beauty firsthand.
Sleep in the rainforest canopy in a treehouse and on a raft house on Chiew Larn Lake. And there are lots of incredible activities to do, including an elephant trek through the park, visiting a local fishing village, swimming in a bat cave and a night safari.
After an adventure in the jungle you can soak up the sun with a relaxing beach holiday, by getting the ferry to the island of Koh Phangan. There you can stay in the lap of luxury, for less, at the Santhiya Resort & Spa and indulge in a traditional Thai massage. With its own private beach, it is paradise – and the ideal place to get away from it all and recharge your batteries.
Getting there
Expedia have flights from London to Bangkok, from £385* and have internal flights too. They also offer a stay at the five-star Sanythia Resort & Spa in Koh Phangan, (www.santhiya.com) with a saving of almost half price in September/October, with rooms from £28* per person per night. See www.expedia.co.uk. Khao Sok jungle trips start from £135*, www.responsibletravel.com/treetops.
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Gozo Milking sheep in the Med
Malta has been a popular holiday destination for decades. But its quieter sister island, Gozo, a short ferry ride away is less well known. Situated right in the centre of the Mediterranean, Gozo is smaller, greener and more rural than Malta. As well as its little street markets the island boasts the Ggantija Temples, which are 1,000 years older than the pyramids. And its waters are a diver's paradise.
For a great day out go on an excursion through the Ager Foundation, which encourages the locals to welcome tourists into their homes and gardens, to help support their traditional way of life. For instance you can spend the day at the home of sheep farmer and learn how to milk and shear sheep.
Getting there
Flights with Air Malta start from £99* return, including taxes and charges. See www.airmalta.com. Vintage Travel have farm cottages from £650* per week, based on two people sharing, www.vintagetravel.co.uk. Gozo farm days cost £15.75 per adult. For details see www.agerfoundation.com.
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Cornwall Surfing UK
If you've always wanted to try your hand at surfing then the Cornish coast is the perfect place. Surfing Is Therapy organise breaks to Cornwall, which include surfing tuition. Through their local knowledge they take you to the beaches with the best conditions for surfing such as Watergate Bay, Harlyn, Constantine and Mawgan Porth.
Not only is it great exercise for your body it will revitalise your mind too.
Getting there
Three nights' accommodation in a coastal cottage with sea views and two half days of surfing with Surfing is Therapy is from £189* per person. See www.surfingistherapy.com. For info on Cornwall see www.visitcornwall.com.
*Prices correct at time of publication and may be subject to change
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