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Luxury Travel Embark on a luxury expedition of a lifetime: discover the bustling Amazonian rainforest, the fertile Galápagos Islands and the Arctic’s immense polar caps
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or much of history, humans have voyaged to new and wondrous lands. This instinctual urge to experience new things is the driving force for flourishing tourism in the farthest regions of the globe. Now, an influx of luxury operators are promising personalised experiences for upmarket travellers. Tourists can immerse themselves in the world’s most awe-inspiring sights whilst enjoying premium service and facilities.
The North Pole: towering icecaps The Arctic Circle—popularly known as the North Pole—encompasses Greenland, Baffin Island and the northernmost parts of Europe, Russia, Alaska and Canada. Not long ago, it seemed unimaginable that the seventh continent might become a popular tourist destination. Today, scores
Expeditions
of wealthy travellers are choosing this polar voyage as their latest jaunt. This is where nature’s most miraculous spectacles take shape: from the famous ‘midnight sun’ to the jaw-dropping glacier calving. This far-off province is bursting with fascinating wildlife of the sea, land and sky. Six species of seal, four types of whale and hundreds of birds and fish inhabit the area. Those who wish to experience the North Pole in style can do so on one of the luxury icebreaker ships that sail through the Arctic; guests on board are provided with every creature comfort. Cruises to Spitsbergen—only 600 miles from the North Pole—are synonymous with seeing polar bears and walruses. Most operators facilitate daily outdoor activities such as sea kayaking and standup paddleboarding. The most indulgent
passengers can splurge on a chance to photograph the phenomenal views from a tethered hot air balloon. Other popular pastimes for tourists include fishing, glacier trekking, fat biking and polar snorkelling with seals. Depending on the season, some lucky tourists may spot the ethereal flickering of the aurora borealis (the northern lights).
The Galápagos Islands: wondrous wildlife Located 1,000 kilometres off the west coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are a unique site upon which to base a fun-filled trip. These UNESCO Heritage-listed islands are a melting pot of wildlife—especially marine life. The archipelago is positioned at the point where three ocean currents meet— known as the Humboldt Current—attracting
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By Phoebe Ollerearnshaw
62 CollectionS www.artsandcollections.com
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24/09/2018 15:02