Explorer Magazine - Issue 11

The Explorer Magazine Issue 11

Summer 2026

Fall in Love with Colombia Animal Magic in Tanzania ± Secrets of Greece Spotlight on The Baltics ± Tour Leader Awards

Colour me

Colombia

From Bogotá’s golden museums to Medellín’s vibrant streets and the Caribbean coast – Colombia is magical realism made real. Discover a country of breathtaking culture, nature and warmth.

Check out our s C olombia tour

Hello There are certain moments in travel that stay with you forever. The first glimpse of a city skyline at sunset. The sound of wildlife stirring before dawn. A conversation with a stranger that somehow becomes the story you tell for years afterwards.

As I turned the pages of this issue, I was reminded that the best journeys are rarely about ticking off sights. They’re about the feeling a place leaves behind. You’ll find that spirit running throughout these pages – from the vibrant energy and warmth of Colombia to Sarah Bravo’s remarkable encounters with wildlife in Tanzania, and our celebration of destinations that have captivated travellers for decades.

You’ll also meet some of the people whose lives are being changed through our Explore Foundation partnership with The Toy Bank in Delhi, and see the positive impact that travel can have when it’s done thoughtfully and responsibly.

Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply dreaming about one, I hope this issue sparks your curiosity and reminds you why exploring our world remains one of life’s greatest privileges.

Michael Edwards Managing Director, Explore Worldwide 04 Time Travel

16 Our World

29 Spotlight on Greece

10 5 OG tours

18 Toy Story

32 The Baltics

11 Discover Tanzania

20 Colombia

36 Tour Leader of the Year

15 Tour Leader Interview

24 Food & Travel

38 Book Club

explore.co.uk

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Forty-five years on from Explore’s first-ever brochure departure – to Thailand’s Golden Triangle on 7 November 1981 – we’re looking back at the journeys that have stood the test of time, proving that while travel evolves, some places never lose their pull.

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The Explorer

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Classic Destinations

TRAVEL TURKEY Few places sit at the meeting point of worlds quite like Turkey.

Here, Europe and Asia brush shoulders – in grand bazaars scented with saffron and coffee, in coastlines where turquoise waters lap ancient ruins, and in cities shaped by Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman legacies alike. It’s a place of crossings: east and west, old and new, tradition and reinvention. Sit down to a table laden with mezze as the call to prayer drifts across rooftops, and you feel it instantly – Turkey’s timeless gift lies in the way it brings cultures, flavours and stories beautifully together.

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“Some places live in the imagination long before we reach them”

PERU

Some places live in the imagination long before we reach them – and Machu Picchu is one of them. Rising from cloud and mountain like something half-dreamed, it still delivers that rarest of travel moments: genuine wonder. But Peru’s staying power stretches far beyond one iconic view – into high Andean trails, lively markets bright with woven colour, and mountain communities where ancient traditions still shape daily life.

However much the world changes, Peru still offers what great journeys always should: perspective, connection, and a sense of wonder that lingers long after you’ve returned home.

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Above Machu Picchu was inhabited from approximately 1420 until 1530. It was primarily a seasonal retreat for the Inca Emperor Pachacutec

Classic Destinations

EGYPT

There are few places that remind us of time’s vastness quite like Egypt. Standing beneath the towering statues of Abu Simbel, travellers today feel the same awe that has stirred visitors for generations. Yet Egypt’s enduring magic is found as much in the everyday as the extraordinary – feluccas drifting along the Nile, spice-filled souks, mint tea poured with quiet ceremony.

Civilisations may rise and fall, but Egypt’s ability to humble, captivate and utterly transport us remains gloriously unchanged.

Above The Pyramids of Giza consist of three colossal royal tombs: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure, alongside the Great Sphinx. Built over 4,500 years ago, they remain the oldest, and only surviving, original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Left Abu Simbel was designed to intimidate enemies and immortalise Pharaoh Ramesses II and his principal wife, Nefertari

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INDIA

India doesn’t gently introduce itself – it sweeps you up whole. Dawn breaking over the Taj Mahal, markets bright with marigolds and spice, horns sounding, chai steaming, colours everywhere you turn. It’s intense, exhilarating and wonderfully overwhelming – a place that fills every sense, then quietly stays with you forever.

Right India boasts the longest continuous textile tradition on earth, with roots dating back over 5,000 years

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Below It took over 22 years, 20,000+ artisans and 1,000+ elephants to build the Taj Mahal

Summer 2026

Classic Destinations

KAZAKHSTAN

Long before “switching off” became something we sought out, travellers came to Kazakhstan for exactly that. Vast skies, wildflower meadows, horse camps tucked deep in mountain valleys – places where the modern world felt very far away.

There’s a timelessness here that’s increasingly rare: evenings gathered around shared tables, stories swapped under canvas, mornings that begin only with birdsong and fresh mountain air.

In a world that moves ever faster, Kazakhstan still invites you to travel differently – more simply, more slowly, and with the quiet thrill of feeling wonderfully far from everything.

“Landscape, cuisine and culture are never separate pleasures, but beautifully entwined”

FRANCE

In France, pleasure is woven into everyday life.

Lavender fields hum beneath the Provençal sun, vineyard rows ripple across rolling hills, and market stalls brim with peaches, apricots, cheeses and warm-crusted bread still fragrant from the oven. Long lunches stretch into golden afternoons; quiet lanes lead to honey-stone villages seemingly untouched by time. It’s a country best savoured slowly – by bike, on foot, over a glass of local wine – where landscape, cuisine and culture are never separate pleasures, but beautifully entwined. Decades on, France still invites us to linger a little longer.

Above Kazakhstan is the world’s largest landlocked country. It is believed to be where horses were first domesticated around 3,700 BC

Above right An Explore group enjoying the lovely weather in France in the early 90s

explore.co.uk

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Tours That Just Won’t Quit Some tours earn their place as classics – kept alive by the people, the places, and the unique moments they offer. These five have been part of the Explore story for a long time, and we think that says it all.

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CONTRASTS OF MEXICO + YUCATAN PENINSULA

UPGRADED – INDIA: FORTS + PALACES OF RAJASTHAN

Ancient pyramids, jungle ruins, and streets bursting with colour – Mexico is unlike anywhere else on earth.

Wander the chaotic energy of Mexico City, lose yourself in the colonial beauty of Oaxaca, and feel the eerie magic of Palenque’s jungle temples. Then keep going – across the border into Guatemala and Belize.

Eat tacos, drink tequila, and soak it all in. explore.co.uk/MXY

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Some places you visit once and tick off the list. Rajasthan is not one of them. The sheer weight of culture here gets under your skin and keeps drawing you back. This two-week journey traces the old camel caravan routes through India’s most regal region, taking in the icons alongside the hidden gems, and putting you up in heritage palaces along the way. The more you see of Rajasthan, the more you realise you’ve barely scratched the surface. explore.co.uk/RD

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BEST OF TUNISIA

After a few years away, finally returning to Tunisia was a reminder of just how special it really is. Few countries pack in this much history, this much drama, this much variety. Ancient Roman ruins give way to Saharan desert camps, holy mosques to troglodyte cave dwellings – and somehow it all feels completely cohesive. Ending your trip sleeping under a blanket of stars on the edge of the Sahara – this place will stay with you long after you’ve left. explore.co.uk/TN 10

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TOUBKAL CLIMB

This is Morocco beyond the souks and riads – raw, dramatic, and physically demanding in the best possible way. Lace up your boots and head deep into the Atlas Mountains, winding through majestic valleys, and past small Berber villages until you’re standing at the highest peak in the Arab-speaking world. The hospitality up here is as warming as the mint tea.

Then descend back to earth in the intoxicating chaos of Marrakech - the perfect full stop to an unforgettable adventure. explore.co.uk/MJ

Summer 2026

‘The sheer weight of culture here gets under your skin and keeps drawing you back.’

5 BEST OF NORTHERN THAILAND

Thailand was one of our very first destinations, and it still dazzles with its ancient sites, peaceful waterways and bustling cities. No wonder we’ve been coming back here since the 80s! explore.co.uk/OS

Discover Tanzania

ANIMAL MAGIC

Forget the spa break; for the ultimate switch-off, seek out the astonishing wildlife in Tanzania.

This, says Sarah Bravo, is no ordinary safari. explore.co.uk

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“Godwin had bought us to The Garden of Eden. Like a child’s illustrated book about animals of Africa, we couldn’t bear to leave.”

Below Unlike horses that gallop by moving diagonal legs, giraffes run by “pacing.”

They move both right legs together, followed by both left legs together

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part from a few days in Kenya on a budget many moons ago and a self-drive around Longleat with a car full of noisy children, I would class myself as a safari novice.

But here I was flying solo across the globe in search of the Big Five, and a much-needed break from normal life.

I’d booked a Serengeti wildlife experience. Four national parks, five camps, big expectations, but also a few trepidations: would I find the drives too long, would I gel with the group, would I get giraffe-fatigue (spoiler alert: no)?

Think Tanzania, think Serengeti, but as Godwin, our guide, explained on our first evening, there was a lot more to see.

The northern circuit is home to a set of diverse landscapes from wide, open savannahs to volcanic craters, and our route meant we would visit as many as we could. I loved the idea of every day being different.

A Solid Start

Next morning, there was a palpable buzz from our small group, a mix of safari veterans and first-timers. First stop: Lake Manyara National Park. Our flight-weary bodies were grateful for the drive out of Arusha, watching colourful roadside gatherings from our open windows and listening to Godwin’s tales of Masai life. We’d left at a leisurely 8.30am, but by 10am we’d witnessed a baboon family nit-picking, by 11.30am a sleeping lion, and a pictureperfect elephant by midday.

A packed lunch by the giant soda lake that covers almost 75% of the park was a chance to stretch our legs. I asked Godwin which animal he is most cautious of. ‘Elephants,’ he said, ‘you can’t always hear them coming, and you never know what they’re going to do next.’ Back in the jeep we drive on to find dozens of them. One stopped right in front, resting on the bonnet of the car. I held my breath until he ambled on. ‘It was a strange feeling of being at peace and in fear at the same time,’ one woman in the group said. Exactly that.

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Discover Tanzania Left The Ngorongoro Crater is a melting-pot of animal herds and packs coming together

Below Local life in Tanzania revolves around a deep sense of community and a rhythm heavily tied to the sun and agriculture

Fights, Camera, Action!

If I could sum up the next day it would be ‘everything, everywhere all at once’. Heading to the Serengeti National Park, we couldn’t believe our eyes. Wildebeest with their straggly sweep-over hair. Zebras twirling around like hallucinogenic merry-go-rounds. Buffalo like grumpy judges.

Dozens and dozens of them. My new safari buddy, a first-timer, had eyes on stalks. ‘This must be AI, no?’ Once in the park, Godwin headed down to the watering hole, and we didn’t know where to look first. The sheer abundance of mammals, in their own tribes but running, frolicking, leaping over water and each other. It looked like a giddy school prom, when the bar opens. Had this all been choreographed for us? Or had we just got lucky?

“Had this all been choreographed for us?

Or had we just got lucky?

The excitement in our guide’s eyes said it all.”

In the afternoon we came across a vulture scrap over a dead wildebeest. There must have been fifty, some working on the carcass, others dancing on the edges waiting their turn, with two sizeable beasts vying for centre stage, huge wings outstretched. Solemn storks circled the scene, beaks down like robed barristers. Dust was flying, the vultures were screaming, the meat was pulled off the bones with bloody violence. When we drove away, we admitted how excited we’d been by the scene.

It was day two, and most of us had ticked almost everything off our must-see list. Had we peaked too soon?

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We arrived at camp as the light was fading. After a jolly dinner, we were issued with welcome hot water bottles and bedded down in palatial tents. I’d had a brilliant day, but I was still making my to-do lists, thinking of home, and worrying about the WIFI. But not for long.

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Park Life Lake Manyara This lake is nestled at the bottom of the Great Rift Valley. Lush forests, acacia woodlands, grassy floodplains and volcanic peaks are home to prey and predators, as well as over 400 species of birds.

Serengeti National Park Covering 15,000 square kilometres, the Serengeti is Tanzania’s oldest, and arguably, greatest park. From dusty savannahs to long grasses and mud pools, find lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and over 500 species of bird.

Ngorongoro Crater The crater provides a unique wildlife spotting experience and owes its existence to the fracturing of the Rift Valley over 15 million years. A volcano that once occupied this spot became extinct, collapsed, and left the gigantic natural basin.

Tarangire National Park Tarangire has the greatest concentration of wildlife outside of the Serengeti ecosystem. The permanent water sources mean it is home to the largest elephant populations in Tanzania, as well as the oryx and gerenuk antelope.

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Be prepared for four seasons in one day: Rain, storms, mud, intense heat, dust, chilly nights.

Save food waste: Give the camps advice on what you want in your packed lunch the night before.

Take US dollars for drinks and tips: Some camps are cash only.

No plastic bags: You’ll be fined if you enter with more than one regulation Ziplock bag for hand luggage liquids.

The Garden of Eden

Above Tanzania is a global stronghold for lions, it hosts approximately 40-50% of the world’s remaining wild lions

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact caldera, formed when a volcano collapsed in on itself following an enormous eruption 2.5 million years ago.

The description made me think of reading volcano books to my kids, and how they always loved the picture post-eruption, all lush with vegetation, animals and flowers, like Nature’s happy ending.

Right The group heading towards their next wildlife highlight

The Really Wild Show It was the next day that I disconnected myself from the world back home. After a morning of leopard spotting, a show-off cheetah, lazy lions and a pool of stinky hippos, we headed back to camp for lunch. I was loving camp life. Hot water bucket showers, beautiful tents, delicious Tanzanian coffee, even the noises at night (hyenas, monkeys, an occasional lion) while we slept. There was limited WiFi but enough to check in on the kids before bed.

But it was in the jeep where I was 100% present. That afternoon, we stopped for a break on a hill overlooking the plains of the Serengeti. Suddenly everyone got their binoculars out. ‘There’s just been a kill;’ Godwin explained.

We could make out the shape of a lion and the body of a zebra. ‘It’s a double kill’ said another ranger, the excitement in his voice clear. We drove as close as the track would allow us, I felt nervous at what we’d see, half wanting to look, half wanting us to drive on.

Suddenly, Godwin took a sharp right and went off-track towards the scene of the crime. We swooped in a figure of eight, circling the double kill, between two large prides, maybe 20, maybe 30 lions, an overwhelming stench of flesh. I locked eyes with a lioness, her face blood-smeared, her eyes intoxicated. What a thing to have witnessed. ‘You are lucky to have seen this,’ said Godwin.

We drove off in eery silence. Stunned, a little bit shaken, the atmosphere in the jeep was subdued as we passed twittery zebras, huddled together in support. I had a lump in my throat. We were grateful to reach our next camp and enjoy a sublime sunset. Serengeti had surpassed expectations. I didn’t check my emails that night.

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Our trip to the Ngorongoro Crater was my happy ending.

As a member of the group commented, ‘Every day has delivered a highlight bigger, better, more surprising than the last.’ This day certainly did that.

As we descended the steep roads from the rim, dropping 600 metres to the floor, Godwin explained how the 264km square crater boasts the highest density of wildlife on the continent. He’d bought us to the Garden of Eden.

Like a child’s illustrated book, there was an abundance of harmonious life wherever you looked. Herds of pink flamingos, lions lounging in the path of elephants, hyenas striding past nonchalant zebras, elusive black rhinos in the distance. Driving across dusty plains to floral marshland to lush forests, I felt a sense of peace and exclusion from the rest of the world. I felt more connected to nature than I had anywhere.

One guest said, ‘Here you feel hopeful for the natural world. Left to do what it’s always done, it works.’ We couldn’t bear to leave.

Hakuna Matata We camped in Taranguire National Park for our last night.

An early departure the next morning rewarded us with a beautiful sunrise and giraffes, elephants, antelopes and baobab trees lining our route to the airport, a fitting farewell to a breathtaking week.

As safaris go, this was next level. Whether it’s your first or your fifth, go. It’s out of this world.

Would you like to do Sarah’s Tanzania tour?

Visit explore.co.uk/TL

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Good to know

Tour Leader Interview

A good guide can make a magical game drive even more memorable. Meet the real lion kings of Tanzania!

In the Jeep with Godwin and Derek

“I love cheetahs.

The way they hunt.

So calm. So deadly.”

Godwin

– a friendly hello. We are kind, joyful and love to dance. And we are a peaceful people – lots of different tribes but no war.’

What food should you try when you visit?

G: ‘The chapati bread is always delicious. But my favourite dish is Machalari – a green banana and meat stew, served with Ugali, cornmeal balls you use to scoop up the stew with (always eaten with the right hand).’

Our trusty leader Godwin (right), with sidekick Derek (left) and driver Hamza helped paint an even richer picture of the extraordinary landscapes of Tanzania.

What made you decide to become a guide?

G: ‘Wildlife has always been my passion. It teaches you so much. Every day there is more to learn. From the nature and from the people.’

and don’t like the noise of the vehicles. You know when they are angry as their ears go flat and they start to dig in the ground. They will make a noise that says, ‘stay away!’’

D: ‘I’m training to be a guide under Godwin, and I love the energy of the game drives. I’m also learning so much about different people and cultures from all over the world.’

D: ‘Scorpions. If you disturb them, they’ll bite.

And they come from nowhere!’

Which animal do you love the most?

G: ‘I get a thrill from watching the cheetahs.

The way they hunt is so clever. They are so calm and yet so deadly.’

D: ‘It must be the king, the lion. They rule.

They are so brave. They fear nothing.’

Which animal do you fear the most?

G: ‘The elephant because they can surprise you – when they walk you can’t hear them. You don’t want to be changing a tyre and not know they are close by. They are quite unpredictable

Which is your favourite park?

G: ‘The Serengeti because there you will find all animals in abundance. It really is the home of the wild.’

How is Tanzania different?

G: ‘We have A LOT of nature. Everyone thinks you must go to Kenya to see everything – but the volume of wildlife you will see here will surprise you!’

How would you describe the people of Tanzania?

G: ‘Everyone is happy in Tanzania! Everywhere you go you will be greeted with ‘Jambo jambo’

Best time of year to visit?

D: ‘Probably October, it’s when you’ll see the most animals all over. People are always surprised how cold it gets – the weather can be very changeable. It’s harder to predict now with climate change.’

Any tips on safari behaviour?

G: ‘Yes! Stick to the rules and listen to your guides!’

What should we not forget to pack, and what should we bring home?

G: ‘Make sure you’ve packed fly spray, sunscreen, face mask (it can get dusty on the vehicles) and layers for the evenings.’

D: ‘Don’t leave without buying some Tanzanian coffee and our delicious cashews to take home for your family!’

We honour our top leaders each year in the Explore Leader Awards.

Have you had an outstanding tour leader on an Explore tour? Nominate them here explore.co.uk/leader-awards

explore.co.uk

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Let us tell you more about what we’ve been up to in recent months.

Purpose paper

Responsible at heart

Our World

At Explore, sustainability isn’t just a promise – it’s action.

We invest in projects that protect wildlife, support communities, and encourage responsible travel choices. Here’s just some of what we’ve achieved together this year.

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£105,892

25 CHILDREN

donated to 11 initiatives in 10 different countries

supported to access secondary education in Eswatini

500 CHILDREN provided with play-based learning in Delhi, India

416 menstrual kits provided in Cambodia

2KM of beehive fencing built in Tanzania

6 new projects funded Summer 2026

News

And that’s not all:

Recipe

Machalari

£5,000

This traditional Tanzanian dish, specifically from the Chagga community, consists of plantains stewed with beef or goat meat, tomatoes, onions and spices.

raised by Explore staff events

Serves 4

Instructions:

Ingredients:

1. Fry onions and garlic in oil / butter.

2. Add the meat and cook until browned.

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6–10 green plantains (ndizi)

staff completed carbon literacy training

staff volunteer days supporting local causes

2–3 carrots or green peppers

½ kg beef or goat meat, diced 1 large onion 3 garlic cloves, diced 3 tomatoes Cooking oil or butter Salt, black pepper and sometimes cardamom or curry powder

3. Add tomatoes, carrots and spices, cooking until they form a thick stew.

4. Add the peeled green plantains.

5. Add a small amount of water, cover, and boil for about 10 minutes until the plantains are soft.

6. Some variations of this dish, often referred to as ndizi za kiume (coconut plantain), may include coconut cream, cardamom, and sugar for a sweeter version.

NEW PARTNERSHIP with International Rail for flight-free travel We got a wormery!

Want the full picture? See our new Purpose Paper at explore.co.uk/purpose

explore.co.uk

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Meet Ms Vaishali and Ms Pratibha, the teachers

Our training was very hands-on Ms Pratibha: I learned how to use toys to teach concepts from language, numeracy, life skills, and environmental awareness in a way that feels natural and engaging for children. We were encouraged to let children learn through exploration and experience.

Above and right The project’s aim is to establish Safe Playrooms in municipal schools serving children from nearby communities. Each playroom is a secure, child-friendly space equipped with over 100 varieties of age-appropriate toys, board games, and educational aids

It has supported us as teachers Ms Vaishali: Children learn best when they’re free to explore, play, and learn by doing. I realised that the true role of a teacher is to guide, support, and create space for learning, rather than control it.

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Our latest project is all about recycling toys and inspiring joy and hope through play. n Delhi, thousands of children grow up without access to toys, play, or safe spaces to learn and explore. Together with our partner The Toy Bank, we’re helping to change that.

And who better to tell you all about our new project than the people at the heart of it.

Meet Vidyun, the founder

“The Toy Bank was born from a lifelong desire to give every child the joy of play.”

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My journey began in childhood I donated my old toys to a nearby slum while my father was involved in an anti-lottery regulation campaign and saw how a small act of play could bring hope to a child. Years later, I left my job in the corporate world to commit fully to The Toy Bank, believing that a playful childhood is every child’s right. For me, toys are tools for learning, and emotional growth.

I’m proud of how we adapt and grow We’re helping children without access to toys or safe spaces still get the chance to play, learn, and feel valued. We’ve created seven safe playrooms in governmentfunded primary schools in Delhi that now engage nearly 3,000 children every day.

Seeing children develop confidence, creativity, and essential life skills reminds me why this work matters. What makes me most proud is our ability to shape our programmes around the real needs of children to create lasting impact.

Ms Pratibha: The training gave me practical ways to manage the playroom and handle children when they are upset or restless, which made my teaching calmer and more intentional.

This way of teaching has bought us joy too Ms Vaishali: Seeing them grasp new concepts while having fun brings me immense joy and satisfaction. Watching them explore, express themselves, and simply enjoy being in the playroom is what makes my work here so special.

Our approach goes beyond the classroom Ms Vaishali: We support the whole child, not just through academic learning. Our students develop socially, emotionally, and physically through play. They learn how to express their feelings.

Ms Pratibha: I see a big change in children’s emotional growth as they communicate more and work together better. They’re developing life skills that will stay with them forever.

Meet Tabassum, a fourth-grade student My favourite toy is the kitchen I like playing with the kitchen set because it helps me use my imagination. And I also love solving crossword puzzles as that helps me improve my vocabulary.

I learn many new things I learned how to write my name correctly in English, which made me feel confident. When we learn through play, it becomes easy to understand and remember. I really like learning new things in the playroom because it makes everything interesting for me.

Learn more and donate at theexplore.foundation

Explore Foundation

TOY STORY explore.co.uk

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RHYTHM IS INCLUDED Energy-enhancing, spirit-lifting, smile-inducing, what’s not to love about Colombia, says Chris Ellis

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Colombia

Opposite Dancing is a big part of Colombian festival culture Above You can find vibrant colours no matter where you go

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“Colombians have such a vibrancy and a passion for life, they are so outgoing, hospitable and friendly that it makes it just such a brilliant place to explore.”

touched down at 8pm, feeling exhausted after a full day exploring the incredible patchwork of green hills of the coffee region, and then taking an internal flight to the UNESCO-listed walled city of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. I rubbed my tired eyes and had a little stretch as I disembarked the plane, wondering if I’d even have time to grab some dinner before catching up on some well-needed rest.

As our group was transferred by bus through the evening streets, the driver put on some champeta music over the stereo, quietly at first. It’s a type of music specific to this region of Caribbean-Colombia, that blends typical Latin styles with creole and reggaeton. Before long I noticed a few people’s legs were tapping along to the rhythm and my foggy head started to clear.

We approached the incredible, imposing old city walls (the best example of a fortified city in all South America) and passed under the huge stone into the old city, when suddenly my senses came alive.

It turns out we had inadvertently arrived in the middle of the city’s biggest festival – it’s annual Independence festival where Cartagena proudly celebrates being the first province in South America to declare independence from Spain. It’s also a celebration of the fusion of Afro-Caribbean and Latino culture, as with Cartagena’s independence came full legal racial equality for the first time.

The atmosphere was electric - music filled the streets, and the crowds seemed to pulsate like a moving collective being, with firecrackers and spray canons being set off everywhere. The vibe was energetic, sure, but also friendly and inviting, and we knew we had to just get out and explore. After a quick freshen up we hit the streets, grabbed some street food on the go from one of the many street vendors, along with a cerveza of course, and set off in search of the crowd. Before long we happened across a big street party, the whole street closed off from side to side with people dancing, singing, spraying each other with spray foam and just having a good time.

A few brave souls threw themselves into the midst, and the rest of the group soaked up the vibes from the relative comfort of a nearby bar. It was such a great experience, and we really felt like we were a part of it. And what a turnaround of how I felt just a few hours earlier when debating bed!

For me – this experience sums up Colombia.

Colombians have such a vibrancy and a passion for life, they are so outgoing, hospitable and friendly that it makes it just such a brilliant place to explore. And honestly, you don’t need to be in the middle of a festival to feel this – much of Colombia’s streets seem to have music spilling out onto them from somewhere, which is usually followed by dancing – it’s a place where it’s difficult not to find yourself smiling. The perfect tonic from the rat race I’d come from! explore.co.uk

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Discover Colombia

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Contrasts of Colombia Join this 14-day tour through Colombia - from the Caribbean coast and lush coffee region to the modern city of Medellín and traditional Andean villages - and experience the country’s vibrant culture and warm locals firsthand. explore.co.uk/BCO Upgraded - Highlights of Colombia Experience Colombia’s highlights on this one-week trip. Immerse yourself in Colombia’s rich history and colourful culture whilst staying in our hand-picked selection of premium hotels. explore.co.uk/DCO

Another fun experience we had was partaking in Colombia’s rather unique national game of ‘Tejo’. Having explored the stunning coffee region’s giant wax palms and tried enough coffee to keep the entire Colombian football team awake, we rode old Willy’s jeeps through the countryside and back into the town of Salento. Our incredible leader, Andres (the perfect ambassador for Colombia – charming, outgoing, witty, knowledgeable and super caring), took us to the basement of a bar, where we found ourselves amongst just a few other locals. Here laid out in front of us was a rudimentary court of sorts, both ends of which had a clay pit with gunpowder targets stuffed within them. Yes, you read that right, gunpowder. We split into teams and took it in turns to throw a lead weight at the clay target, in the hopes of striking said gunpowder. With a beer in the other hand, naturally. It took a bit of time, but after a while I hit my first target, to the elation (and surprise!) of my fellow travellers – a huge BANG rang out, followed by much jubilation and the clink of beer bottles. TEJO! I’m a people person, and for me on all my travels the thing that lives long in the memories are often not the sights I’ve seen, or paths I’ve hiked, but rather the people I’ve met along the way. For me it’s the people who shape the country more than anything else,

and I just love it when you meet people from completely different backgrounds, different lived experiences, but find commonalities to bond over. And I think there was no other destination I’ve travelled to where the people have made such a lasting impact on me – from waiters in restaurants to our incredible charismatic tour leader, it was just brilliant.

And did I mention fun?

Okay, enough of the jovialities, let’s switch gears and get serious for a second – while there is plenty of fun to be had in Colombia, the country offers such variety that I truly think it has something for everybody. In fact, to back up my claim of variety allow me to share with you an interesting fact – Colombia is, per square kilometer, the most-bio-diverse country in the world. It’s home to some 51,000 different species, which makes up 10% of the planet’s total biodiversity, in less than 1% of the world’s land mass. It holds the highest number of bird species (1,900) and highest number of orchid species (over 4,000) in the world. Sure, Costa Rica has the better marketing department, but it’s Colombia that is more biodiverse.

Pivoting from geography to history it’s also a very important destination in the Americas historically speaking. Cartagena served as the main trading port that the Spanish used to

Left Cartagena is know for it’s great graffiti

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Above Colombia is the global capital of hummingbirds, hosting over 165 different species

Colombia

“There’s no other destination I’ve travelled to where the people have made such a lasting impact on me.”

Colombia Essentials Currency Colombian peso (COP). Cash is king outside big cities — carry small bills. ATMs are widely available in Bogotá, Medellín & Cartagena.

You can choose to either change your money in advance or on arrival at the airport. We recommend you take some emergency cash in USD as the GBP exchange isn’t very favourable.

Your tour leader can also advise you on arrival.

Weather Colombia sits on the equator and therefore doesn’t have traditional seasons, just wet and dry periods. The coast is hot year-round; Bogotá is cool at 2,600m altitude. The main dry season is from December – March followed by a shorter one in July – August. Wet season is in April-May and October-November – the second one being generally the rainiest stretch.

This two-peak pattern is called a bimodal climate, and it’s typical for much of the Andes region including Bogotá, Medellín and Cali.

Geography Colombia has six dramatically different regions: The Andes mountains, Caribbean coast, Pacific rainforest, vast Llanos plains, Amazon jungle, and remote islands - all packed into one country.

It is the only country in South America with coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. A Nation of Festivals Colombia has more public holidays than almost anywhere: 18 a year!

Language Spanish is the main language. Learning a few phrases is a fun and helpful way to connect Colombians hugely appreciate the effort.

Biodiversity Colombia has more bird species than any other country - over 1,900. The orchid is its national flower, and the country has over 4,000 species, more than anywhere on Earth. Look out for them in markets and cloud forests.

Below The Peruvian Amazon is the second-largest expanse of the Amazon after Brazil Below right Don’t miss the capital Lima, right by the sea

ship their plundered treasures back to Spain.

It was of course an instrumental country in the story of Latin America’s independence. And it was where Simon Bolivar spent much of his time, before dying in Santa Marta on Colombia’s coastline. More recently during the 80s and 90s, Colombia has endured a turbulent period with the cartels and specifically Pablo Escobar, but like a flamboyant, charismatic phoenix rising from Pablo’s ashes, Colombia has transformed itself into a country brimming with life and travel opportunities. Sadly, and very unfairly, Pablo’s image endures. As a result, Colombia hasn’t seen the tourism boom experienced by some other Latin American countries. But that means that if you do travel there, you’ll encounter far fewer tourists – making the experience feel even more special.

Above Chris making the most of his Colombia visit

However, it seems the secret is out. Last year, Explore saw a 40% increase in the number of travellers choosing Colombia. So if you’re on the fence about visiting, just do it - there might be no better time than right now.

Would you like to experience Colombia Visit us at explore.co.uk/colombia explore.co.uk

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ARE SNACKS THE NEW SOUVENIRS? Join Clare Finney as she dives into the world of the culinary tourist.

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Food & Travel Opposite Foreign supermarkets are a treasure trove waiting to be discovered

Below If you’re looking for anything fresh and locally produced, it doesn’t get better than a farmers market

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othing speaks more deeply to the soul of a nation than the flavour of its crisps,” declares Itamar Srulovich, with the authority of a man who has eaten many different crisps in many different countries. “You can see all the sights, but nothing will give you a better insight into a country’s culture than its supermarket crisp aisle,” the London-based chef and food writer explains.

Srulovich is exaggerating, but only slightly – for in a globalised world where “everywhere is Starbucks and H&M”, finding any form of distinction between countries and even continents is increasingly difficult.

I’ve been in the cafes of Chiapas in Mexico and wondered if the interior is from Made.com. “But Mexico’s chilli lime crisps? They burn your mouth off, right?” Srulovich laughs, and I wince at my own memory of the infamous Barcel Chips Fuego.

I can see the garish purple packet and recall the excoriating taste as if it were yesterday, rather than 18 months ago outside a supermarket near our apartment in Oaxaca. Do I remember it in more detail than the Monte Albán ruins? Quite possibly, to my embarrassment. But the rise of what’s been dubbed ‘grocery store tourism’ suggests I’m not alone. explore.co.uk

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Visiting a supermarket as a cultural experience is – inevitably – having a moment on TikTok, but you don’t have to be an influencer or even on social media to be familiar with it. Anyone who has ever been on a holiday to France will have memories of the Carrefour (or the Intermarche, or the Superprixe, depending on your family’s preference). “It’s the first thing you do the minute you get to France,” says Gurdeep Loyal, food writer, trends expert and author. “The supermarkets are the gateway to your new world.”

This goes beyond the crisp aisle (though France’s crisp game is second to none). There is, Loyal says, “a real emotional thrill” to foreign supermarkets that for many of us starts with family holidays. “It’s a rite of being on holiday in Europe, even if you’re in a hotel. You pick up a few staples,” says Loyal – and with those come the thrill of “disruption of the everyday and mundane.” Sure, it’s just a packet of crisps, a pat of butter and a few croissants – but the crisps taste of Tartiflette, the butter is hand churned from Normandy and the supermarket croissants are better than you’d find in any artisanal London bakery. “It doesn’t matter what it is; when it comes to expectation, it always

Below Portugal’s tinned fish or conservas, are renowned worldwide for their exceptional quality

Right Nuts and seeds are deeply embedded in traditional Chinese snacking, culinary arts and wellness

overdelivers. You find these things which are so different” – a cherry blossom-flavoured KitKat in Japan, a tub of spreadable bacon cheese in Sweden, a hazelnut chocolate spread which in Greece, is more famous than Nutella – “yet are the same. You find that everyone in the world eats incredibly differently, and in the same way.”

To Srulovich’s point about crisps, “there are countries where certain categories are so much bigger, filling a need we Brits didn’t even know existed. Like, what better expression of American-ness is there than the size and scope of the peanut butter aisle in an American grocery store?” asks Loyal. It’s something like this that provides a level of cultural immersion that goes beyond Instagrammable tourist attractions, just as the surest sign of intimacy is not listing a loved one’s greatest achievements, but knowing their favourite freckle or their approach to hanging out a big wash. “People are travelling with intention – and whilst the intentions for some people are superficial, there are people who seek a genuine connection to the culinary culture. That doesn’t necessarily mean cooking with a grandma,” says Loyal. “It’s thinking, ‘if I lived here, where would I eat or drink, where would I do my weekly shop?’ It’s about full-on integration.”

This approach is more fun and tangible than any TikTok reel – but it’s educational too. As food writer Rosie Birkett points out, the regional variation in some countries is significant. “I do spend more time than is probably considered normal in French and Italian supermarkets, because they are worlds of delight,” she says, and that’s about variety as much as the quality of

“There is a real emotional thrill to foreign supermarkets that for many of us starts with a family holiday.”

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JAPAN Novelty KitKats – Japan boasts over 300 unique, seasonal, and regional KitKat flavours, ranging from classic Matcha to unusual options like Wasabi, Cherry Blossom and Sake.

Kinako – Roasted soy bean powder, often dusted over mochi and other traditional Japanese desserts, or great added to cakes or cookies, dusted over ice cream, fruit salad, smoothies or hojicha latte.

Shichimi Togarashi – Japanese seven spice. Sprinkle on egg sandwiches, fried eggs, rice, miso soup, ramen noodles, meat or fish, steamed greens etc.

ITALY Extra virgin olive oil - A no-brainer, says Davis, “especially if it is the new season oil, which usually gets pressed in November.”

Unusual dried pasta shapes – Busiate, from Sicily, trottole from Campania, Fregola from Sardinia – to name just a few!

produce. Different pasta shapes, styles of bread and even flours will tell you where you are and will reflect its climate, community and landscape.

No trip to Brittany is complete without Birkett stocking up on buckwheat flour for crepes; food writer Emiko Davis never leaves Siena in Italy without the medieval fruit cake panforte. One of the best honeys Birkett has ever tried was in Sardinia, which has “the most amazing biodiversity.

You could see that in the number of butterflies and wildflowers,” she recalls – and you could taste it in their honey. The honey selection in a Northumberland Tesco will be much the same as one in Sussex; but in Italy or France, the honey shelves will be unique to the area. “There’ll be wildflower, thyme, lavender honey, spring honey, summer honey – and they’ll be artisan and unfiltered rather than mass-produced,” she enthuses.

Which is why Birkett likes to bring them back; for, whilst British food culture has come on in leaps and bounds, our supermarkets still pale in comparison to most in Europe.

We have a growing number of farmers markets and independent grocers, of course, but foreign supermarkets and even farmers markets invariably offer better value. “It doesn’t matter how much my suitcase is groaning under its own weight, I will find a spot to bring back some olive oil from Italy,” says Davis. The quality far exceeds that you’ll find in bottles at home and – better still – it evokes the taste of a place months after returning.

“They elongate the holiday feeling, and bring back memories,” says Birkett of the many foods and drinks she hoards: dried cocoa beans from France, interesting pasta shapes from Italy, tins of fish from Portugal and Spain which are so seductively designed, you don’t even have to open them to feel like you’re back there.

FRANCE Strings of violet garlic – Found throughout France, but particularly in Gasconny. “The cloves are not so harsh or astringent,” says Rosie Birkett, “and it looks beautiful.”

Cremant – Sparkling wine produced much like Champagne – with second fermentation – but outside of the Champagne region, so it’s more keenly priced. Well known regions include Alsace, Bordeaux and Burgundy.

Farine de sarrasin – Rich, earthy and dark buckwheat flour, ideal for galettes de sarrasin – buckwheat galettes – and found in Brittany.

SWEDEN Cloudberry jam – Rich in nutrients and with an inimitably sweet, deep taste, these amber-coloured berries are all over Sweden, but more common further north. Savour the jam on waffles, ice cream or toast.

Salty liquorice – Nothing like Barrett’s, this Scandinavian variety of liquorice is flavoured with salmiak salt, which has an astringent, salty taste. Haupt Lakrits, Lakritsfabriken and Narr Konfekty are the most popular brands.

Squeezy cheese – Though it sounds… questionable, Swedish cheese is surprisingly tasty and pairs well with knackebrod (crisp bread) as a snack. Kavli is one of the best known brands, offering flavours like bacon, shrimp or cheddar.

PORTUGAL Tinned fish – Even the cheapest tinned fish looks and tastes better in Portugal, and you’ll find entire shops devoted to them in Lisbon and Porto. High end conservas are canning fish caught the day before, which is why they are so rich in flavour and nutrients.

Extra virgin olive oil – Though not as well known for oil as Spain or Italy, Portugal does a fine line in cold-pressed extra virgin olive oils, particularly from the regions of Trás-os-Montes and Alentejo.

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Below Olive oil – the holy grail of souvenirs when visiting most of the Mediterranean

Right A shopping wildcard adventure: Look what the locals get and go and try it too

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“Dip into a faraway place via its favours.”

“Paired with fennel and white beans, those nice tins of tuna and olive oil make a mean salad,” she says. “For me, it’s stuff which you can integrate into your daily life, but which breaks up the daily routine because it’s a bit unfamiliar – like spreads for toast,” agrees Loyal, citing as an example an almond butter infused with chai tea which he recently purchased in Thailand.

He’s bought macadamia and chia seed spread from Singapore, all manner of peanut butters from the States, and is a sucker for a spice mix or niche hot sauce: “I collect hot sauces from around the world. I’m looking for anything that is a flavour powerhouse,” Loyal laughs. Whilst there, food is the thrill of discovery; back home, it’s the thrill of disruption, as you peel open a tin, pop open a bottle, rip open a packet or unscrew a lid and dip into a faraway place via its flavours.

It won’t sit on your mantelpiece, or stick on your fridge.

It lives in a fridge or cupboard until its contents is devoured. Yet as a time capsule, a culture lens and a brief moment of joy, food is better than any ornamental souvenir. “It’s not instagrammable,” Loyal says. “But it’s an absolute treasure.”

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Rules and regs As a basic rule of thumb, packaged, dry, plant-based foods are almost always fine to bring home, wherever you’re returning from.

Fresh produce and honey depends on the country, and meat and dairy are often banned, especially if outside of Europe.

During foot and mouth and other livestock diseases, meat and dairy is banned within the EU too, so check before you pack. At the time of writing, you cannot bring meat or dairy products from the EU into Britain at all, regardless of processing, packaging or whether it’s homemade. Fish, eggs/egg-based products and honey are still allowed.

Booze lovers can bring in 42 litres of beer, 18 litres of still wine and EITHER four litres of spirits, or 9 litres of other alcoholic drinks. If you go over these, you have to declare and pay tax on everything, not just the excess.

You can bring dried fruit and vegetables (and sauces and pastes) back from South-East Asia, but you can’t legally bring back fresh without paperwork.

Nuts and seeds from beyond the EU are usually fine if they are processed in some way and clearly intended for eating. Nuts and seeds which you could feasibly plant, are far more tightly controlled.

Tea and coffee are fine, so long as you’re not importing industrial quantities.

Likewise olive oil from all over the world is fine, so long as it’s intended for personal use.

Spotlight on Greece

EUROPE’S BLUEPRINT Few countries carry the weight of history as lightly as Greece. From the marble-white ruins of the Parthenon to the Temple of Apollo, this is a place where the past is not preserved behind glass – it lives in the streets, the food, the conversations and the light itself.

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The who is who of Greek Islands

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Feeling overwhelmed by the choice of Greek islands? No worries, we’ve sorted them for you.

Crete Greece’s largest island with its own civilisation, dialect and cuisine.

Corfu Has Venetian, French, and British colonial layers, it’s lush and green.

Evia A hidden gem, rugged, green and untouristy. Known for its nature, thermal spas and authentic local life.

Syros The understated capital of The Cyclades.

It’s a lively destination year-round and is known for its neoclassical, elegant architecture.

Paros Relaxed, pretty and well connected – a great gateway island.

Naxos The largest Cycladic island, it’s known for its mountains, farmland and long sandy beaches.

Mykonos Known for its cosmopolitan, lively vibe and glamorous nightlife.

Santorini A visitor hotspot delivering volcanic drama, caldera views and world-famous sunsets.

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History written in stone Greece is, quite simply, where Western civilisation began. Around 2,500 years ago, Athens gave the world democracy, philosophy, and theatre. Thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the intellectual foundation still taught in universities today. The Parthenon, crowning the Acropolis, has looked out over Athens since 438 BC – battered by time, war and looters, yet still standing.

But Greek history runs deeper still. The Minoans of Crete built Europe’s first great palace civilisation at Knossos around 2000 BC, centuries before the Athenians arrived on the scene. Later came Alexander the Great, who by his early thirties had forged an empire stretching from Greece to India. Then came Romans, followed by the Byzantines, and finally four centuries of Ottoman rule, which ended only in 1821 with Greek independence. This layered past is everywhere. You cannot walk far in Greece without stumbling across astonishing reminders of its living ancient history.

Culture built around togetherness Greek culture orbits the concept of philoxenia – a love of strangers – and it shows. Hospitality is not performative; it is instinctive. Visitors are offered food before questions.

Tables are shared. Conversations last.

Family sits at the centre of Greek life, and the village square (plateia) remains the social heartbeat of communities across the mainland and islands. Greeks are deeply proud of their heritage, their language (one of the oldest still in use), and their Orthodox Christian traditions, which punctuate the calendar with feasts, fasts, and festivals.

Above The dramatic views from Santorini make it the perfect spot for sunset-watching Opposite top Greek is the world’s oldest recorded living language, boasting over 34 centuries of written history Opposite bottom Greek ruins are among the world’s most significant historical sites, showcasing the foundational engineering and artistry of Western civilisation

Spotlight on Greece Music, dance, and storytelling are woven into daily life.

The mournful, soulful tones of rembetika (sometimes called the Greek blues) echo from taverna courtyards well past midnight.

Food: Simple and Seasonal Greek food is an exercise in restraint. Exceptional olive oil (which makes for an excellent edible souvenir – see page 24), sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh fish, and locally-sourced cheese do the heavy lifting. The cuisine varies by region – seafood dominates the islands, lamb and game appear in the mountains – but the philosophy is consistent: let quality ingredients speak.

Classics like moussaka, spanakopita, and souvlaki are well known abroad, but the real revelation is the mezedes culture: a procession of small, shared plates that turns a meal into a leisurely social event. Finish with loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts) or galaktoboureko (a custard pastry) and strong Greek coffee, served thick and slow.

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Greek tours for every type of traveller

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Greece rewards the curious. Come for the ruins, stay for the food, leave wishing you had longer.

No matter if you’re an island-hopper, a keen walker or looking to bring the kids - Greece has got you covered.

Perfect for Walkers Get a step closer to island life on our walking tour of Crete. Discover isolated beaches, secluded coves, and impressive canyons as you walk and hike through the island’s most iconic landscapes. explore.co.uk/CR Perfect for Island-Hoppers Go island hopping on a two-week tour of the Cyclades. From Syros to Paros and Naxos to Santorini, tick off ancient ruins, bustling harbours, and serene beaches on a tour of Greece’s island highlights. explore.co.uk/GW Perfect for Families Grab your kids and join our captain, Thanos, for a week aboard a traditional Greek sailing boat exploring the enchanting coastline of Evia. Drop anchor and dive into brilliantly blue waters, spot sea life while snorkelling, or soak up the sun on deck. explore.co.uk/FGC Perfect for History Buffs Immerse yourself in Greece’s ancient history on this two-week tour of the Peloponnese region.

Get closer to the country’s mighty mythology as you journey through the wild landscapes of the Mani Peninsula, at the tip of mainland Greece. explore.co.uk/GX Perfect for Water Enthusiasts Immerse yourself in island life on this slow-paced tour. Board a historic caique and prepare to eat, drink, and swim your way through the quiet coves and harbours of Evia, one of Greece’s hidden gems. explore.co.uk/GC

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Laurie in Tallinn.

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The Baltics

Explore product manager Laurie Thomas’s first trip to the Baltic States had her hooked from day one. She tells us why these underrated destinations have captured her heart.

‘A HOME AWAY FROM HOME’ T

he Baltic states – Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania – sit along the eastern edge of the Baltic Sea. Compact but layered with history, these three countries share certain cultural elements while keeping distinct personalities.

Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, feels like a medieval painting. But Estonia is also modern: a digital society where cafés double as coworking spaces and forests are never far away. Latvia sits in the middle of the trio, and its capital, Riga, is a celebration of Art Nouveau architecture with a creative edge, and lively music scene. Further south, Lithuania has a more Central European influence and a softer landscape.

Its capital, Vilnius has a maze-like old town full of hidden courtyards and artist enclaves.

But as Laurie explains, ‘to truly understand these places, you need to travel there!’ Which is exactly what she did.

What were your first impressions?

I first visited all three of the Baltic states a year ago.

It was my first time in that part of Europe with hardly any expectations. My parents are from the Caribbean, but I was raised in France. My dad feared for my safety, thinking it might still be dangerous, with remaining elements of the Soviet era, and as a woman of colour I should keep my wits about me. It couldn’t be further from the truth. They were so welcoming! My two-week trip gave me just a glimpse, but my first impression was that Estonia’s arms were open from the minute I arrived. Latvia and Lithuania were a little more reserved – but if you asked, they opened theirs too.

What did you learn about their history?

These are countries who choose to speak English, despite having their own languages. In fact, the kids speak English even better than their own languages!

Each country of the Baltic States has its own separate

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language. However, Lithuanians and Latvians share the same language root, and can more or less understand each other. Estonia feels a little like the quiet sister. I was fascinated when the guide spoke about the three countries regaining their independence in 1991. 1991? I was born already! Their history felt so present, so yesterday – it made me feel a part of that history.

What unites the Baltic states is a shared resilience. Each country endured upheaval throughout the 20th century.

This has given them all a strong sense of identity. You can see it in their language, their food, and their festivals.

What are the similarities between states?

I would describe them as the same, but different! Each are flat with rolling hills, not mountainous. And how green they are, with forests everywhere! The people are certainly all in tune with nature. Walking and hiking are just part of their everyday life, they are always out and about. Our guide told us if we go out early for a walk don’t be afraid if you see people with knives – they are mushroom foraging! He said, ‘In the Baltic States, you can share your bank details with your neighbours, but you never share a mushroom spot!’ I have never felt safer – in all three states, and I would say it’s ‘Japan clean’.

“Their history felt so present, so yesterday – it made me feel a part of that history.”

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How did you enjoy the food?

My mum is a chef, so I’m quite picky when it comes to food – and I was interested to see what they would have to offer. I was impressed! First, the people of the Baltics forage to cook, not to sell – in fact they import very little.

Lots of people own a small garden to grow their own produce. They produce everything themselves – dairy, fruit, veg - whatever you want, they have it. When I was there, I tasted the best rhubarb in my life. Our guide said that as kids, if you wanted something sweet, you didn’t go to the shops and buy candy, your mum would send you out into the garden to grab some rhubarb. He then cut some, washed it, dipped it in sugar and gave it to us as a sweet treat – the best candy ever. Everything they do is about balance and simplicity. There’s always plenty of dairy and meat (a lot of pork especially).

I also tried some rhubarb wine – it was mind blowing! You could taste the tartness of the rhubarb, but it was very fine, like a light champagne – tangy, floral, fruity! When I arrived in Riga, I felt I’d eaten a lot of meat and needed a break. Dinner was on a beautiful rooftop terrace with stunning views. I chose ratatouille – it was not my favourite dish but the only veggie option on the menu.

And guess what? It was delicious. Now I am a huge fan.

Below left In the Baltic states, rhubarb is a deeply cherished springtime ingredient and found in almost every vegetable garden Below There are over a thousand fortresses and manors scattered across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

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Discover Central Europe Eastern Europe hides some of the continent’s most rewarding off-thebeaten-track destinations that are waiting to be discovered by curious travellers.

Highlights of Poland Explore the historical highlights of Poland in the country’s greatest cities - Warsaw, Wroclaw, and Krakow. Visit the impressive Wieliczka Salt Mines with its elaborate salt-carved chambers and there’s the opportunity to learn more about Poland’s troubled past at Auschwitz. explore.co.uk/KWW

Budapest to Prague Adventure Travel from Budapest to Bratislava and Vienna to Prague, discovering historic castles, photogenic riverbanks and atmospheric churches. From the Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest to the Charles Bridge in Prague, this holiday ticks off all of the bucket list sites and then some. explore.co.uk/CZP Upgraded - The Baltic States and Poland Join us on a journey from the charming Estonian capital Tallinn, on the shores of the Baltic Sea, to the Medieval, walled city of Krakow in Poland’s south. Along the way uncover the captivating history of this region and immerse yourself in its vibrant modernday culture. explore.co.uk/DBP

Above The Baltics have a rich variety of local festivals and folk gatherings

If you had to choose a favourite state, which would it be?

Of the three states I spent more time in Estonia, and it was definitely my favourite. I’m someone who trusts their instincts, and my instinct was that this was ‘a home away from home.’ I’ve only ever felt like that in two other places – Japan and Scotland. It fits in with where I am now and what I want. It felt like Estonia understood me.

Are they set up for tourism?

They really are. Remember, they had to modernise very quickly. Tallin is 99% digital – you can do anything online – you can even get married and divorced online. The WiFi is amazing – even in the middle of the forest. It’s a medieval city, a mix of old city walls and modern buildings (you’ll find this less in Riga and Vilnius). Lithuania felt a bit more rural, but they also have the only motorway network in the Baltics. There is a great train system, and a high-speed line is being worked on. The flights between the states are quick and smooth – you just hop on and off and get to avoid security, making it super easy to travel from one to the other.

Must-see highlights for each state?

In Latvia there’s a very pretty resort town on the coast called Jūrmala which is worth a visit. It’s often referred to as ‘the Riviera of the Baltics’ – the houses are out of this world, with a fascinating mix of hotels from the Soviet era and old wooden houses.

In Lithuania, I’d recommend visiting Trakai Island Castle, an iconic 14th-century Gothic fortress. But it’s not just another medieval castle – it’s actually located on an island in Lake Galvė and you have to cross a wooden bridge to get there. I took a hot air balloon trip over the grounds at sunset, and it was magical to see the extraordinary setting of the castle from the air.

In Estonia, the highlight is the immersion into nature. You’ll be surprised how green it is – half of the state is forest.

Within a half hour of anywhere you can drive out to the bogs. I know, you think bogs sounds yucky, but they are organised so well, with boardwalks to walk on. I went ‘bog shoeing’, where you get given special footwear – it’s a bit like snowshoeing, and then you go for a walk around the bog. It’s very physical, but its lovely to stand in the middle of the bog and feel the silence. It’s all so peaceful. It was my first time trying fresh cranberries and lingonberries wonderful. There’s very little pollution. I dropped some cranberries into the bog, and our guide said, just pick them up and eat them, don’t worry! Crazy! It’s a great place for bird watchers, and wildlife lovers too – look out for bears, lynx wolves and flying squirrels.

Would you like to experience the Baltics for yourself?

Visit explore.co.uk/Baltic-states explore.co.uk

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Our annual Tour Leader Awards honour our top-rated leaders, as nominated by our travellers and selected by an expert panel.

Meet this year’s standout stars!

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nyone that’s been on a small group adventure knows the worth of the tour leader – they bring the destination to life, bring the group together and make the whole tour run smoothly. And Explore leaders… well, they really are the cream of the crop. Our annual Tour Leader Awards, as voted for by you, and selected by a panel of experts, recognise the leaders that have really gone the extra mile in the last year to make your adventures the very best they can be.

Our tour leader of the year is...

Ester Galindo!

I spent 20 years working as a translator from English and German into Spanish and Catalan, whilst I was also climbing big mountains, mountain biking and competing in trail running and orienteering races. In a way, I was leading a “2-headed” life. My hobbies and my natural skills merged perfectly as soon as I started both coaching and guiding about 10 years ago: firstly, in trekking and mountaineering and, later, with Explore!

Which Explore tours do you lead?

I lead walking and trekking tours including the Camino de Santiago, Canary Islands Walking, and Walking in Portugal – Remote Coastal Trails.

How long have you worked for Explore?

I’ve worked for Explore since 2022.

What is your favourite local food?

My favourite local food is Spanish Iberian ham, and gazpacho.

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What do you most love sharing with Explore groups?

I love sharing my personal stories, in correlation to my country’s modern history and our Spanish (very diverse) way of life.

What are you most proud of in your country?

I’m most proud of the openness and friendliness that most Spanish people show, as well as their cheerful attitude.

What do travellers find most surprising when they visit?

They are very surprised when they learn about the big differences between the regions that shape the current Kingdom of Spain: their different languages, their music and dances, their traditional dishes, their distinctive landscapes and even their climates.

Awards

NEW Tour Leader Impact Award

Opposite Our Tour Leader of the Year: Ester Galindo

This award recognises leaders who go above and beyond to create positive climate, community and biodiversity impact through their day-to-day actions.

From the left Assan Saine, Carlos Tomas Morales, and Peter Myers

WINNER Spiros Apergis Corfu, Greece

RUNNER UP Assan Saine, Senegal and the Gambia

RUNNER UP Peter Myers, Amalfi and Mont Blanc tours

What I enjoyed sharing most with my clients is culture, traditions, food and the birds and wildlife of the Senegambia region. I am most proud of the peaceful nature of the country and the friendliness of the people, which is where the name ‘smiling coast of Africa’ comes from!

I’m very surprised to have made the final few, and frankly delighted. I lead both in the Alps and in Amalfi for Explore at the moment. I live in the French Pyrenees and travel around Europe leading hiking trips and have been working with Explore for more than a decade now. I am super passionate about sharing my knowledge of nature and geology with my trekking groups, but in Amalfi there’s also a lot of history and local culture to appreciate.

RUNNER UP Carlos Tomas Morales, Central America

Being in nature for most of the time made me feel part of it and responsible for its protection, and I like to share this with my groups. Most of the day we spend talking about our connection and dependence to the natural environment using examples we find during the walks in Corfu’s nature.

This is what I like to share with my groups and in combination with the interesting history of this place people get totally connected with their holiday destination.

I am incredibly proud of the richness of my Maya heritage, as I am a direct descendant of this ancient culture. Sharing my culture and my people is something I truly love, and my aim is for every traveller to experience and live my culture, not just observe it. I have been working with Explore since 2017, leading Central American Explorer tours across the region. explore.co.uk

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Book Club

TRAVEL LIGHT:

SIX GENTLE READS The geopolitical stage feels tense right now – and what’s the role of a good book if not a little armchair escapism?

ENGLAND The Marlow Murder Club, Robert Thoroughgood

“This very English story starts with your delightfully crotchety heroine, nononsense Judith Potts, taking her daily dip in the River Thames, only to find foul play has ruined her swim. Cue a hodge podge of local women banding together to find the killer. It’s funny, it’s friendly, and it goes down as easy as Judith drinking (another) whisky.”

Recommended by Gina

ITALY Still Life, Sarah Winman

“Still Life manages to evoke the very essence of Florence and Italy. The richness and depth of the characters are further enhanced by the description of the city, the art and crucially, the food.

It begins during the second World War, and takes us to Florence in the years following. It is easy to read, with an excellent plot and a satisfying ending.”

Recommended by Tracey

JAPAN

BOTSWANA

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, Satoshi Yagisawa

The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, Alexander McCall Smith

“An ode to books and the power of human connection, this beautifully gentle, slow-paced story is not one for readers who love plot-twists and page turners, but ones who are prepared to take their time and be in the moment.

It’s a tale about the power of healing, the importance of community, and simple joy of reading.”

Recommended by Michelle

FRANCE / SPAIN

“Every time I read one of the many books in the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency series, (and I have read them all) I am transported back to that simply wonderful country of Botswana… I re-live my experience of joy and wonder and awe...I breathe in that African air, I feel the African silence and vibrancy, I see the exploding colours, I hear the rumbles of the bush at night, and I give thanks for the blessing of the Africa that has well and truly got under my skin.”

Recommended by Jane

Two Steps Forward, Graeme Simsion & Anne Buist

“Having walked the Camino Frances, this book brought it all back: the physical and mental challenge, the camaraderie, the beauty of the landscape. It’s probably the most rewarding walk I’ll ever complete and this book will forever rekindle the adventures and experiences I had.”

Recommended by Steve

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The Explorer

Summer 2026

Are you looking for some more reading inspiration or have a recommendation of your own? Check out the Four Corners Book Club. Now also with non-fiction suggestions! explore.co.uk/bookclub

Tiny.

Mighty.

Malta.

Older than the pyramids and proof that the world’s greatest destinations don’t have to be its biggest. Malta’s harbours, sun-drenched shores and incredible culture make it a perfect escape – especially with gentle spring blooms or golden autumn light during the lesser-travelled shoulder seasons.

Don’t just travel, Explore!

NEW brochures are available We love nothing more than at explore.co.uk/brochures talking about holidays!

Discover our latest brochures, packed with inspiration for your next adventure – from Classic Discovery, Walking and Cycling tours to Family Adventures and Polar Voyages.

01252 884 288 customerservice@explore.co.uk explore.co.uk Or contact your preferred travel agent.

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This brochure was printed with a fellow B Corp using a 100% waterless process, in a factory powered by 100% renewable energies which sends zero waste to landfill. Please recycle!

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