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<p>History, modernity, breathtaking landscapes and even water colours converge in Chongqing, one of China’s most dynamic megacities. Replete with rivers, mountains and endless charm, it is nestled along the confluence of the Yangtze and the Jialing, where the yellowy sediment-heavy water of the former and the green hues of the latter meet in a clash dubbed – in a nod to the city’s dinnertime speciality – ‘two-flavour’ hot pot.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image11.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87081" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image11.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image11-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image11-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image11-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image11-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Despite being the country’s largest municipality in terms of population – 32 million people compared to 25 million in Shanghai and Beijing’s 22 million souls – Chongqing’s urban landscape is defined by steep hills, winding roads and towering skyscrapers that rise amid lush greenery. Often referred to as China’s ‘mountain city’, this mesmerising blend of nature and modernity creates a striking contrast, making it one of the nation’s most photogenic destinations. </p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87072" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-2.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-2-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-2-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Untitled-2-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Holiday Highlights</h3>



<p>There are fantastic views to snap wherever you go. Hop on the <strong>Yangtze River Cableway</strong> for stunning aerial glimpses of the city and the water as you glide from bank to bank. For panoramic city views, <strong>Eling Park</strong> in Yuzhong district and <strong>Nanshan</strong> mountain provide breathtaking vantage points to witness an endless sea of high-rises punctuated by bridges and winding roads.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-822x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87083" width="617" height="768" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-822x1024.jpg 822w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-225x280.jpg 225w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-768x957.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-1233x1536.jpg 1233w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-1644x2048.jpg 1644w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-200x249.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image12-800x997.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px" /></figure></div>


<p>The top-floor viewing platform at <strong>Hongya Cave</strong>, an 11-storey complex of retail spaces and hotels built into a cliffside in the main commercial district of Jiefangbei, is a must at night. It is then that the spectacle comes alive, as the traditional-style buildings glow with golden lights and reflect onto the river below. Chongqing’s nightscape, illuminated by dazzling neon lights and the glimmering rivers, is truly a sight to behold.&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image06-822x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87074" width="617" height="768" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image06-822x1024.jpg 822w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image06-225x280.jpg 225w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image06-768x956.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image06-200x249.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image06-800x996.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image06.jpg 962w" sizes="(max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Future Vision&nbsp;</h3>



<p>While Chongqing is rich in natural beauty, it is also an exciting hive of contemporary pleasures. The bustling areas of Jiefangbei and Guanyinqiao are perfect for those looking to shop, dine or experience the city’s nightlife. <strong>Raffles City Chongqing</strong>, a sleek eight-tower development designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, is an engineering masterpiece that showcases the city’s forward-thinking verve.&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image04.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87075" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image04.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image04-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image04-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image04-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image04-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>For an immersive cultural experience, <strong>Chongqing Grand Theatre</strong> hosts world-class performances, blending traditional Chinese arts with modern stage productions. At the other end of the creative spectrum, futuristic attractions such as virtual-reality gaming zones and cutting-edge entertainment hubs lure a new generation of visitors.&nbsp;</p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rural Splendours&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Beyond its urban attractions, Chongqing is surrounded by stunning natural wonders. To the east is the Unesco World Heritage Site of <strong>Wulong Karst</strong>, a dreamlike landscape of towering limestone formations, deep gorges and natural stone bridges. The area has famously featured in films like <em>Transformers: Age of Extinction</em>, drawing travellers eager to witness its surreal beauty.&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-822x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87077" width="617" height="768" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-822x1024.jpg 822w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-225x280.jpg 225w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-768x957.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-1233x1536.jpg 1233w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-1644x2048.jpg 1644w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-200x249.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image09-800x997.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px" /></figure></div>


<p>Also in Wulong County, <strong>Fairy Mountain</strong> provides a peaceful retreat with rolling green hills and crisp mountain air, perfect for leisurely strolls or horseback riding. North of the city, <strong>Jindao</strong> <strong>Canyon</strong> offers adventure seekers the chance to hike along narrow rock pathways, cross suspension bridges, and admire cascading waterfalls.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hongya_Cave_31433-Chongqing_43754875295-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87078" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hongya_Cave_31433-Chongqing_43754875295-1.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hongya_Cave_31433-Chongqing_43754875295-1-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hongya_Cave_31433-Chongqing_43754875295-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hongya_Cave_31433-Chongqing_43754875295-1-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Hongya_Cave_31433-Chongqing_43754875295-1-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">River of Adventure&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Chongqing serves as the starting point for the famed <strong>Yangtze River</strong> cruises, a journey that takes travellers east through the breathtaking <strong>Three Gorges</strong> – the Qutang, Wu and Xiling – culminating in Yichang, Hubei province. These cruises offer a glimpse into China’s stunning landscapes, ancient villages and legendary historical sites. The modern metropolis itself embraces the river culture, with picturesque waterfronts and bustling docks that highlight its vibrant energy.&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image16.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87079" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image16.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image16-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image16-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image16-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image16-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Glimpses of the Past</h3>



<p>The city has played a significant role throughout China’s history. It was the temporary capital of China during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945) and a refuge for millions fleeing the conflict. Today, remnants of this history can be found at the <strong>Chongqing Anti-Japanese War Site Museum</strong> in the scenic Nanshan neighbourhood, where the offices and residences of key figures like Chiang Kai-shek and his wife Soong Mei-ling are preserved. The former home of US General Joseph Stilwell, the Allied Chief of Staff in China during the Second World War, in Yuzhong is now the <strong>Stilwell Museum</strong>.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/front-door-just-200-metres-1-copy.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87082" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/front-door-just-200-metres-1-copy.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/front-door-just-200-metres-1-copy-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/front-door-just-200-metres-1-copy-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/front-door-just-200-metres-1-copy-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/front-door-just-200-metres-1-copy-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Meanwhile, the ancient town of <strong>Ciqikou </strong>on the west bank of the Jialing river offers insights into Chongqing’s Ming and Qing Dynasty past, where traditional wooden houses, tea shops and narrow alleyways transport visitors to another era.&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-8.50.22 PM-copy.png" alt="" class="wp-image-87084" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-8.50.22 PM-copy.png 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-8.50.22 PM-copy-373x280.png 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-8.50.22 PM-copy-768x576.png 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-8.50.22 PM-copy-200x150.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-10-at-8.50.22 PM-copy-800x600.png 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Spice of Life</h3>



<p>You cannot visit Chongqing without indulging in its world-famous cuisine, particularly the fiery hot pot that embodies its bold, energetic spirit. Locals gather around bubbling cauldrons of spicy broth, joyfully dipping in thinly sliced meat, vegetables and tofu to consume when piping hot. Typically packed with mouth-numbing Sichuan peppercorns, Chongqing hot pot is beloved by foodies for its extreme spice levels.&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image19.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87085" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image19.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image19-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image19-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image19-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Travel_July2025_image19-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Beyond hot pot, there’s a plethora of street food delights to savour. Xiaomian, a humble bowl of noodles with plenty of chilli oil to blast the taste buds, is a local staple and has gained national fame for its simple yet addictive flavours. Spicy skewers, grilled fish and kou shui ji – mouth-watering chicken – are among other must-try dishes that showcase the city’s culinary prowess.&nbsp;</p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Feeling China’s Pulse</h3>



<p>Chongqing is a place where every corner offers something unique, whether it’s a bustling hot-pot restaurant, a tranquil riverside park, or a historic alleyway teeming with local stories. It’s a city where tradition meets modernity, where natural landscapes blend seamlessly with skyscrapers, and where visitors can truly feel the pulse of China’s rapid evolution.&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/pexels-sam-zheng-2147574978-29775115-1-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-87087" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/pexels-sam-zheng-2147574978-29775115-1-1.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/pexels-sam-zheng-2147574978-29775115-1-1-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/pexels-sam-zheng-2147574978-29775115-1-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/pexels-sam-zheng-2147574978-29775115-1-1-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/pexels-sam-zheng-2147574978-29775115-1-1-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>From the rich flavours of its cuisine to the stunning riverside scenery, Chongqing is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re an adventurer, a food lover, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveller, this mountain metropolis promises an unforgettable journey – one that is as exhilarating as it is culturally profound.</p>


Mountain Metropolis: Set in a tranquil wonderland, the city of Chongqing rises with ceaseless energy


<p>Alone man sits before the Trevi Fountain with his newspaper, an empty espresso cup on the cool stone by his side, the rush of water almost a roar in the early quiet of the morning. The sky is already turning an almost impossible shade of blue and sunlight slants across Rome’s crowded roofs, sliding noiselessly along the narrow cobbled streets. Hordes of tourists throng the square day and night, throwing coins into the water in the hopes of returning to the Eternal City. But now, at dawn, the scene is peaceful and timeless; the ideal place from which to start your Roman holiday.</p>


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<p>Rome was certainly not built in a day, and strolling through the city is a journey back in time. It was one of the few major European cities to escape the Second World War relatively unscathed, and although thoroughly modern and cosmopolitan, central Rome remains essentially Renaissance and Baroque in character with a good dose of antiquity thrown in. The sheer quantity of ornate buildings, impressive statues and prancing horses that decorate the fountains are a constant reminder of the thousands of years of history crystallised in the city.</p>


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<p>The historic centre, or Centro Storico, is small enough to explore on foot and is listed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. It contains more than 900 churches, countless palazzi, or palaces, some beautiful green spaces, the Italian Parliament, and many of Rome’s most famous monuments including the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum and the Pantheon.</p>



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<p>But the Centro Storico is not just an historic theme park. Aside from its architectural highlights, the area is also the living, pulsing heart of the city. It boasts thousands of workshops, trendy bars and fabulous restaurants and is home to a multitude of animated Romans who laugh with, and sometimes at, the tourists. After an early start at the Trevi Fountain, a stop for breakfast at a people-watching café should be next on your agenda.</p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Grand Piazzas</h3>



<p>No matter how Rome’s streets twist and turn they always finally open onto a piazza grand or quaint. Usually located near an important building or three, these are inevitably gathering places, with outdoor cafés and restaurants ready to meet your needs, whether for a quick pick-me-up, or a lingering meal for two. Italians typically start their day with a sweet <em>cornetto</em> (pastry) and an espresso that is strong enough to blast your eyes wide open.</p>


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<p>An amble westward from the Trevi Fountain will take you down the Via delle Muratte, and this enchanting lane is lined with traditional trattorias that are jam-packed in the evening with red-and-white checkered tables and an amiable crowd. It’s quiet in the morning but at night it bustles with stalls. At the Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina, take a break and order a <em>caffè corto robusto</em>, a strong single espresso, at the charming Ciampini Roma.</p>



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<p>Just around the corner you’ll find the Piazza della Rotonda with its graceful central fountain and the chatter of cafés. Here, standing beneath the massive dome of the Pantheon with sunlight spilling through the hole in the top, you cannot help but marvel at the skill which created something so awe-inspiring that has withstood centuries of change without losing any of its brilliance.</p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Afternoon in the Forum</h3>



<p>The Colosseum, to the southeast through the spectacular Michelangelo-designed Piazza del Campidoglio and the remains of the ancient Roman Forum, is equally breathtaking, although its ruined state brings home its great age with even more impact. As you wander round the Colosseum’s walls, you can almost hear the cheering of bloodthirsty crowds, the roars of enraged beasts, and the harsh cries of fighting gladiators echoing within. Yet a <em>passeggiata</em>, or evening stroll, through the subtly lit Forum reveals a more romantic view of the great structure, glowing from within.</p>


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<p>Sightseeing is thirsty work and by midday you’ll deserve a drink and a fine meal before spending an afternoon at the magnificent Castel Sant’Angelo, or the glorious St Peter’s Square, or perhaps the Catacombs of Priscilla, or even practising the ancient Roman art of pampering at Aquamadre, a traditional Hellenic-Roman hammam. Whatever your afternoon plans you are going to need lunch so find yourself an <em>enoteca</em>, or wine bar, such as Cul de Sac on Piazza di Pasquino and sample some of Italy’s finest wines with a selection of antipasti. Or perhaps a carb-loading session of delectable handmade pasta is more in order if you are considering the Vatican’s inevitable queues.</p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Foodie Forays</h3>



<p>For chic nighttime dining with the city’s <em>più elegante</em>, head for the Piazza del Popolo and one of Rome’s most famous eateries, Dal Bolognese. Alternatively, the streets around the Pantheon and the ineffably grand Piazza Navona in the centre of old Rome are crammed with fantastic bars and <em>enoteche</em>. Get away from the tourist hotspots and you can find some genuine dining gems. Between Piazza Navona and the Tiber river you’ll find narrow alleyways overhung with blooming window boxes, scooters parked nose-to-nose with Fiats, and the restaurants of your dreams. The ivy-clad romancer Il Bacaro should be close to the top of your dinner ‘to do’ list.</p>



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<p>You will not want to miss the pickings at Campo de’ Fiori either. This is Rome’s colourful daily food market, open 7am to 2pm, and over the river is the bohemian neighbourhood of Trastevere, which is possibly the most laidback area for evening dining in Rome. Even the ubiquitous graffiti somehow adds to the area’s charm and arty vibe, and the chances are you will end up party to a wedding at the Basilica of Santa Maria, one of the oldest churches in Rome.</p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Roofs with a View</h3>



<p>Watching the sun set over the city is also a pleasure not to be missed, and the view from the top of the Spanish Steps in Rome’s glitzy shopping district will take your breath away. Bar hop from there to Sky Blu rooftop at the Aleph hotel, to Seen by Olivier at the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi hotel, and to Roof Garden at the Bio Hotel Raphaël, and the view will leave you completely breathless. Or take a pine-scented stroll from Trastevere up to the Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi to enjoy 360-degree views of the city bathed in the glow of day’s last light and build up a good appetite before heading to a rooftop showstopper restaurant such as Gigi Rigolatto Roma at the Orient Express La Minerva hotel.</p>


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<p>Rome’s nightlife is still as Bacchanalian as any in Ancient Rome with venues like Jackie O’ and Hulala serving as a home from home till the early hours. But you’ll probably want to end the night tucked up in your hotel room, especially if you are staying in one of Rome’s finest boutique properties like the Dante-esque Aleph, or for sheer exclusivity and consummate style, you can’t beat a suite at the Ferragamo family-owned Portrait Roma.</p>



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<p>Wherever you are staying, so much of a holiday in Rome is about absorbing its atmosphere, interacting with its people and savouring its cuisine. While certain sights can’t be missed, enjoy a Roman afternoon just contemplating life over a bowl of icy gelato in some quiet corner, or shopping for a pair of leather gloves with Italy’s fashionable finest.</p>


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<p>More than a short stay is required to truly appreciate this city, for Rome is vibrant and real. As the Italians say, <em>“Roma – non basta una vita!”</em> A lifetime is not certainly enough to experience this city’s glories. </p>


Roman Inroads: Crisscross the Eternal City for a legion of ancient wonders and glorious spots to wine and dine


<p>The Peak District is a precious and protected place of moors and peaks, lush-green dales, clear, fast-flowing rivers, sheer cliff faces and idyllic, quintessentially English towns and villages. The first and probably the most popular national park in England, it is anchored by the East Midlands city of Derby and extends north towards Manchester and Sheffield. A wild haven for hikers, it is also dotted with graceful stately homes, and the summer months bring fine cultural events and fun country fairs.</p>


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<p>More than 13 million visitors a year sample the charms of this awe-inspiring region in the heart of England. Designated as the Peak District National Park in 1951, it has two distinct geographical attractions. To the north, west and east lie the windswept hills of the Dark Peak, known for its peat bogs and gritstone cliffs. It was here, in 1932, that the nation’s avid walkers staged a mass trespass on Kinder Scout, crossing fences erected by wealthy landowners and forging a path towards public access to a wondrous natural treasure. This mist-shrouded, heather-clad, inhospitable moorland remains a firm favourite for ramblers.</p>



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<p>The topography of the White Peak to the south is far gentler, with deep forested dales, rolling hills formed from limestone, and stone villages linked by walking trails offering beautiful views of the countryside – a picture-postcard paradise for hikers.</p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Well wishing</h3>



<p>Summer sees a slew of well-dressing ceremonies in scores of towns and villages, an ancient ritual conceived to give thanks for this supply fresh water. Bakewell, a genteel town renowned for its namesake pastry desserts, puts on a decorative display.&nbsp; It is also home to the Bakewell Country Festival, held this year on 13 July, which presents a plethora of displays and activities dedicated to English country life. In late summer, attention switches to the Chatsworth Country Fair nearby. Attractions at the grand Chatsworth estate on 29-31 August 2025 include hot-air balloons, a vintage fun fair, children’s entertainment, and a shopping village selling local produce and artisanal crafts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stately splendour</h3>



<p>Chatsworth House, a stately home of the grandest scale, draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world annually. Handed down by the Dukes of Devonshire through 16 generations, this Baroque palace comes with splendid gardens designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, who included a magnificent maze to get lost in and a sensational tumbling cascade. The property bestows such elegance and opulence that it has featured in numerous film adaptations, including <em>Pride and Prejudice</em>. Jane Austen lodged at The Rutland Arms Hotel in Bakewell in 1811, where she is thought to have revised pages of her best-known novel.</p>


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<p>Rival manors in the region include Kedleston Hall just north of Derby, designed by Georgian architect Robert Adam in the 1760s, and Hardwick Hall, near Chesterfield, a beautiful Elizabethan-era country pile built in the 1590s. Both properties are under the auspices of the National Trust, a charitable body set up to preserve and protect the UK’s historic houses.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Spring town</h3>



<p>Northwest of Bakewell and just outside the boundary of the Peak District, Buxton is an impressive regional base for tourists. Developed as a fashionable spa town by the fifth Duke of Devonshire during the late 1700s, it is blessed with some marvellous architectural features and neo-classical buildings. Lined with handsome stone houses, the historic centre is now benefitting from a major revamp, including the Georgian Crescent, built from 1780 to 1790 as part of a plan to compete with Bath in southwest England and its famous Royal Crescent.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1024x739.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86443" width="768" height="554" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1024x739.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-388x280.jpg 388w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-768x554.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1536x1108.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-2048x1477.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-200x144.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1701_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-800x577.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Indeed, Buxton’s spa history stems from the Romans, who stumbled upon the pure, healing waters of its warm spring, and built baths and a temple to honour the goddess Arnemetia. Today, a fountain opposite the Crescent at St Ann’s Well spouts out free Buxton Water, so have your bottles ready!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural cup overfloweth</h3>



<p>Other notable architectural splendours include the Pavilion Gardens, a string of Victorian buildings noted for their 19th-century wrought-iron work and an impressive glassy dome. Nearby stands the beautifully refurbished Buxton Opera House, an imposing twin-domed Edwardian construction dating from 1903, and the venue for some magnificent musical performances.</p>



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<p>The Buxton International Festival, which takes place from 10-27 July this year, boasts world-class classical music, opera, guest speakers and literary readings. Running concurrently is the Buxton Festival Fringe, which covers music, theatre and film and has a more contemporary vibe. Expect to hear snippets of Shakespeare being performed on the streets, or even at Poole’s Cavern, a vast network of caves dripping with stalactites and stalagmites, where opera and theatre have been performed underground. The eerie darkness of this shadowy cavern complex makes for an unforgettable backdrop to an Elizabethan tragedy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-1024x759.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86440" width="768" height="569" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-1024x759.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-378x280.jpg 378w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-768x569.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-1536x1138.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-2048x1517.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-200x148.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/National_Tramway_Museum_A_Line_up_of_Trams_Crich-4-800x593.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Room at the inn</h3>



<p>Another delightful town just outside the southern periphery of the Peak District is Ashbourne. Some 20 miles south of Buxton, it features a charming cobbled marketplace surrounded by gorgeous Georgian redbrick buildings. The Green Man &amp; Black’s Head Royal Hotel has become a focal point for the town’s economy since reopening in 2018. Its inn sign dating from 1825, which stretches overhead to the other side of the street, has earned a Guinness World Records mention as the longest in the world. Ashbourne is also famous for hosting the annual Royal Shrovetide Football – a raucous, rumbustious ball game with medieval roots.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trail park</h2>



<p>Ashbourne is the starting point of the Tissington Trail and the gateway to the southern fringes of the White Peak, most notably nearby Dovedale, one of the prettiest of the Peak District river valleys. This stunning stretch of the River Dove, a majestic river which winds its way across much of the national park, comprises a two-mile gorge complete with stepping stones, thickly wooded slopes and weather-beaten rocks. A leisurely hike along its banks is a must. The Dove was famously fished by English writer Izaak Walton (1593-1683), who captured the experience in his iconic tome, <em>The Compleat Angler</em>.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1024x675.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86441" width="768" height="506" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1024x675.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-425x280.jpg 425w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-768x506.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1536x1013.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-2048x1350.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-200x132.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1054_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-800x527.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>The 13-mile route along the Tissington Trail to Parsley Hay, where it intersects the High Peak Trail, is another fantastic hike. A shorter alternative takes a circular route starting from the Old Station in Tissington itself, running along a dismantled railway line and following an 18th-century dry-stone wall. Breathtaking vistas await of open farmland dotted with small stands of trees, and limestone cuttings brimming with wild flowers, lizards and butterflies.</p>



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<p>Other famous hikes in the Peak District include the high plateau above Edale, which denotes the start of the 268-mile Pennine Way footpath, snaking north all the way to Kirk Yetholm on the Scottish border. Above Hathersage, there are spectacular views over the moors, an area thought to have inspired scenes in Charlotte Bronte’s <em>Jane Eyre</em>. </p>


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Village appetite</h3>



<p>Among the region’s historic landmarks is Eyam, where villagers heroically self-imposed a quarantine to combat the plague of 1665-6. Cromford Mills is the location of the first-ever water-powered cotton-spinning mill, and the Crich Tramway Village is a reimagined Victorian street replete with trams from all over the world. The road trip from the market town of Matlock through the Derwent Valley gorge to the spa town of Matlock Bath is an unforgettable experience. Once there, head up to the Heights of Abraham by cable car.   </p>



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<p>The sweet of tooth will relish the Peak District’s unique culinary delights. Bakewell cooks fold almond paste and strawberry jam into a pudding (with puff pastry) or a dense tart (shortcrust pastry topped by white fondant icing). Other teatime specials include Derbyshire parkin, made of oatmeal, treacle, almonds and ground ginger; crumbly Buxton pudding, best served with stewed or tinned fruit, jam or sweet sauce; and malt loaf, delicious when sliced and buttered.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86442" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-768x513.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/RS1116_Peak-District-Derbyshire-Derby-and-Nottinghamshire-Tourism-Awards-2025_opt-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Another local favourite is the soft, creamy Dovedale Blue cheese. A savoury treat with a memorable name, Derbyshire fidgety pie traps chopped bacon, apple and onions inside shortcrust pastry.</p>


Peak Viewing: Famed for its stirring scenery, this district in the heart of England offers much besides moor…


<p>An African jewel, Nairobi acts as a magnet for those wishing to find first-class cosmopolitan creature comforts as well as wild beasts in all their marvellous nobility in the city’s national park. Indeed, the Kenyan capital’s attractions have mushroomed over the years to include great restaurants and nightlife, world-class museums and historic buildings, and a fantastic range of things to see and do.</p>



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<p>Serving as an important economic, financial and transportation hub, the fast-growing city is the most populous is East Africa and its 5.5 million souls bring a vibrancy to the local cultural scene. Named by the Maasai as a place of cool waters, its diversity and myriad pleasures leave visitors yearning to return and sample them once more. Weather-wise, it is a congenial destination, with June through to September among the driest months and when Nairobi National Park is at its best.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trees and Towers</h3>



<p>Welcoming settlers from all over Africa, Asia, Europe and North America, Nairobi is a melting pot as befits a major commercial centre. In the central district, a towering skyline rises above a soothing backdrop of trees, beautiful gardens and shaded avenues. Many of trees are not native to Kenya and were planted by city administrators keen to nurture an urban oasis from dusty, humble origins. However, indigenous forest preserved within City Park, just north of downtown, adds to the green splendour. Saved from the bulldozer by Kenyan Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, Uhuru Park is a vast recreational area and popular place to relax from the hustle and bustle of central Nairobi.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-1024x742.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86112" width="768" height="557" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-1024x742.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-386x280.jpg 386w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-768x557.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-200x145.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-800x580.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18.jpg 1380w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Just next to City Square with its imposing statue of the founding father of modern Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta, is the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), perhaps the best-known landmark in the city. A fusion of modern and local styles, KICC’s interior has been distinctly ‘Africanised’ and contains an amphitheatre designed in the shape of a traditional hut. A speedy lift takes eager visitors to the top floor of this 32-storey, saucer-topped tower – formerly the city’s tallest building – for magnificent views of Nairobi’s chaotic glory and the hinterland beyond. On clear days it is possible to spy the rugged summit of Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa.</p>



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<p>The city’s Parliament Buildings are another notable monument, where entry into the National Assembly can be obtained to see African democracy in action, or a tour arranged with the sergeant-at-arms.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">National Treasures</h3>



<p>History buffs will want to explore the Nairobi National Museum, which reflects the story of Kenya. Established in 1910 and set within lush, leafy grounds just outside the city centre, this imposing edifice is one of the oldest museums in East Africa. It is full of amazing artefacts such as ceremonial Siwa horns dating back to 1688, ethnographic paintings of Kenya’s tribes inked by naturalist Joy Adamson of Born Free fame, and a Kalenjin cloak made from the skins of Sykes’ monkeys. Of special note is the life-size replica of the massive elephant known as Ahmed, who was considered to be largest tusker at the time of the country’s independence from Britain in 1963, and was accorded special status by President Jomo Kenyatta.</p>


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<p>An extensive array of stuffed species spans an aardvark, a giant forest hog and an okapi (zebra giraffe). The Hominid Skull Room contains an extraordinary range of early human fossils in perhaps one of the best collections in the world. Another room is dedicated to the history of Kenya in the context of East Africa.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Out of Africa</h3>



<p>The nearby Snake Park is a great place to see animals alive and unfettered. It boasts an impressive range of serpents, most notably the puff adder, black mamba, Egyptian cobra, African rock python and the Gaboon viper, whose four-centimetre-long fangs offer a slightly menacing presence. Other draws here are exotic fish, lizards, turtles and crocodiles.</p>



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<p>Situated some 10 kilometres outside central Nairobi, the Karen Blixen Museum is a must-visit for those who loved the film Out of Africa. The Danish author resided here on a coffee plantation between 1914 and 1931, and the colonial elegance of the property set in charming gardens has been preserved. The building contains memorabilia from Blixen’s time in Africa and the shooting of the film. Guided tours are available that detail her tumultuous life and times.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-1024x602.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86113" width="768" height="452" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-1024x602.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-476x280.jpg 476w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-768x452.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-1536x903.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-2048x1205.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-200x118.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-800x471.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>To absorb some of Africa’s rich indigenous culture, head to Bomas of Kenya, a tourist village also located to the southwest of the city. It consists of clusters of homesteads (bomas) representing various Kenyan tribal groups. Among a repertoire of some 50 traditional dances and songs performed by different ethnic communities expect Embu drumming, an enactment of a Kikuyu circumcision ceremony, spectacular Kalenjin warrior dances and Arabic-influenced Swahili music.</p>



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<p>For a more static taste of local tradition, the African Heritage House overlooking Nairobi National Park showcases African architecture in a range of styles. An overnight stay here is recommended.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Game Show</h3>



<p>The National Park, established in 1946, is by far the most popular tourist destination in the city. Offering an unforgettable chance to view rhinos and lions within sight of Nairobi’s modern skyscrapers, this amazing tract of grassland and acacia savannah is fenced on the city side to protect its domestic population. Nothing like it exists elsewhere in Africa – world-class game viewing in a park straddling the southern outskirts of a national capital.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86101" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Open plains slope gently from west to east while rocky ridges are covered in rich vegetation. Streams run southeast into the Mbagathi river, and even during the dry season the park has a permanent source of water, which enables it to attract big game. Four of the Big Five – buffalo, leopard, lion and rhino – reside in the park, with only elephants absent as the reserve is too small to support them. Rangers keep visitors regularly updated on the movements of lions and hyenas, as well as the resident cheetahs and leopards, which can require more patience to spot. The world’s densest population of black rhinos is found here too. Other animals often spotted in the park are gazelles, warthogs, zebras, giraffes, ostriches and buffaloes.</p>



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<p>Nairobi Safari Walk run by the Kenya Wildlife Service, whose headquarters is located near one of the entrances, offers tourists the chance to see some of the Nairobi’s wilder residents from the safety of a raised boardwalk. Nestled inside the park is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust nursery, where handlers bottle-feed groups of baby elephants. Not far off, in the suburb of Lang’ata, the Giraffe Centre also allows visitors to witness conservation efforts, particularly with regard to the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Feeding Time</h3>



<p>Such are its depth of offerings and breadth of flavours that Nairobi is considered one of the culinary capitals of Africa. There is a plethora of great restaurants and cafes to try, and some have gorgeous garden settings, making eating out even more enjoyable. The Westlands and Karen neighbourhoods are blessed with an array of upmarket dining options. Lord Delamere Terrace is a sophisticated eatery which allows visitors to taste old-style Africa; it also features one of the continent’s classic bars. The Karen Blixen Coffee Garden has a wonderful English country-garden vibe, with dishes ranging from gourmet burgers to Swahili curries. Its Sunday lunch buffet is popular.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86100" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>For a uniquely ‘Out of Africa’ culinary experience, seek out Carnivore, one of the most famous restaurants in the city. Billed as a Beast of a Feast since 1980, its speciality is nyama choma (barbecued meat). Near the entrance is a huge barbecue pit crammed full of Maasai swords laden with beef, pork, lamb, chicken and farmed game meat such as crocodile and ostrich. The all-you-can-eat meat comes with salad, vegetable sides and sauces, plus a soup of the day. Once satiated, diners are encouraged to cease the feeding frenzy and move onto dessert and coffee by lowering a white paper flag.</p>


Kenya Best: From cultural melting pot to wild-animal magic, Nairobi is a welcoming city of cool contrasts 


<p>Fiji is a breathtakingly beautiful collection of 333 islands in the South Pacific exuding such warmth and charm that even a fleeting visit will be a memorable experience. For the outdoors enthusiast, it is paradise on land and sea, from superb hiking to mid-ocean surfing. Some isles offer sumptuous high-end tourism as fabulous resorts spill out into tranquil and dazzling sapphire-blue waters. Here, scuba diving and snorkelling promise the possibility of encounters with sharks, manta rays, colourful fish and diving through magical cave complexes. On the main island of Viti Levu, the capital Suva is a thriving cosmopolitan melting pot of great restaurants, nightlife and cultural attractions.</p>



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<p>About two-thirds of Fiji’s islands are uninhabited, and a population of just over 900,000 primarily comprises indigenous people of Melanesian and Polynesian extraction, Indo-Fijians of Indian origin, Chinese, and those of mixed Fijian-European ancestry. A vast proportion of land remains tribally owned, and there are many communal villages where locals have a subsistence lifestyle. English is an official language and spoken by most Fijians alongside their mother tongue.</p>


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<p>The best time to visit Fiji is undoubtedly during the dry season between May and October, when temperatures hover around 25°C by day and southerly trade winds tame the heat of the months at the turn of the year.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Island resorts</h3>



<p>Fiji is one of the best places in the world to indulge in a pampered getaway. There are a slew of magnificent private islands where it is possible to remove yourself from social contact to the utmost extent and elegant resorts that transport you to a haven of unending luxury concealed behind a veil of natural wonder. These retreats are ideal for honeymooners looking for a romantic escape and couples requiring quality time together, or those simply seeking glorious solitude.</p>



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<p>Guests arriving at upscale property may be welcomed by a group of locals performing a meke – a traditional dance that folds in storytelling through song to make a spectacular show.</p>


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<p>The Mamanuca Islands located off the west coast of Viti Levu boast some of the country’s best hotels and resorts, sublime beaches and tiny coral cays – a plethora of gorgeous gold and green strips of land dabbed onto radiant blue waters by the painter’s brush. Spectacular and vibrant corals glisten in the depths below and brightly coloured fish gleam under an azure sky.</p>



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<p>Conviviality is guaranteed on Malolo and Mana, the two busiest and most popular islands here. To get away from the crowds and enjoy quiet time with your partner, head to Tadrai Island Resort, an adults-only, all-inclusive retreat on the secluded eastern coast of Mana.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-1024x703.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85827" width="768" height="527" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-1024x703.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-408x280.jpg 408w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-768x527.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-200x137.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-800x549.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205.jpg 1749w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Malolo is the biggest island in the Mamanucas and offers a wide variety of accommodation and levels of luxury. Malolo Island Resort invites with a string of exciting experiences such as snorkelling, diving and line fishing, as well as dolphin-watching safaris, hiking trips to the island’s hilltop and Fijian cooking lessons, followed by the chance to relax at the fabulous terrace restaurant with a cool cocktail. Other premium resorts promising supreme exclusivity are Likuliku Lagoon, an enclave of overwater villas in an isolated bay, and the private island Wadigi Lodge, set on a tiny outcrop.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shore leave</h3>



<p>Year-round calm oceans make the Mamanucas the perfect spot for yacht chartering and cruising. An abundance of operators provide a wide array of outings, ranging from sunset dinner cruises with Champagne and lobster to overnight jaunts on a schooner. Fishing tours offer the chance to catch and cook the big ones that didn’t get away – think trevally and tuna found in deep water beyond the reefs.<br>World-class surfing beckons in the far south of these islands. At Cloudbreak, the most iconic site not far from Tavarua, dramatic waves are created by water being pushed up along steep and lengthy shallow reefs. Boat trips offer non-surfers the exhilarating experience of admiring these amazing mid-sea break points from a position of safety.</p>



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<p>Excursions to private islands offer unparalleled opportunities to snorkel in freshwater lagoons, and perhaps sip kava, the national drink for special occasions, during a traditional ceremony. For a different taste of the wild, Cloud 9 is a two-level pontoon on a turquoise lagoon where a thrilling party atmosphere is succoured by Italian wood-fired pizzeria and a well-stocked bar.</p>


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<p>The placid currents and amazing visibility of the waters around the Mamanucas are ideal for water sports. Notable dive sites ideal for beginners include Bird Rock, a resplendent reef dropping down 40 metres featuring caves and spectacular swim-throughs; Fish Market where schools of vibrant marine life circle around coral reefs; Gotham City with its peculiar-looking batfish, and the wreck of the Salamanda, which forms an artificial reef replete with pufferfish.</p>



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<p>Some scuba aficionados hail Beqa Lagoon, located about 12 kilometres south of the Viti Levu town of Pacific Harbour, as the best site on earth for open-water shark diving. This protected area teems with up to eight species of sharks including the reef, silvertip, tawny nurse and sicklefin lemon, and the occasional fearsome bull shark. The gorgeous soft corals of Rainbow Reef off the south coast of Fiji’s other large island, Vanua Levu, set the underwater scene for superb drift diving.</p>


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<p>For visitors with an unbridled sense of adventure, there are also opportunities to paddle around the Fijian islands on sea-kayaking expeditions and stay overnight at remote fishing villages. Away from the coast, explore the mystical Namosi Highlands on Viti Levu and go whitewater river rafting.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Walks on the wild side</h3>



<p>Fiji is blessed with a host of eco-resorts where the joys of nature can be enjoyed at a more leisurely pace. At Como Laucala Island, for instance, a luxurious retreat occupying a private island surrounded by luscious blue Melanesian waters, guided hikes through dense ancient tropical forest can be taken to spy rare exotic birds. Other exclusive treats include horse riding; spending a night in seclusion on an uninhabited island; participating in a water purification ceremony at a sacred temple; and night snorkelling among corals with UV torches to create a stunning light show.</p>



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<p>You don’t have to stay on an elite private island to experience excellent hiking. Some of the best walks can be found on Taveuni, where a national park offers fantastic forest trails. A hike on Ovalau can take the intrepid explorer into the crater of an extinct volcano. Willing walkers can also wend their way through quaint villages in the interior highlands of Viti Levu.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Savouring Suva</h3>



<p>The country’s present-day capital offers a slice of tropical town life in the South Pacific and the chance to view relics of its colonial history. A visit to the Fiji Museum is a must, where the eclectic range of exhibits includes killing stones, cannibal forks and the soles of the shoes of the Reverend Thomas Baker, an English missionary who was devoured by cannibals in 1867. Indeed, Fiji’s cannibal past is a source of deep fascination for many visitors.</p>


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<p>Compared with the old capital, Levuka, which has a much sleepier vibe, Suva not only has the best shopping, it also puts on the best entertainment. The most hyped bars and clubs can be found around MacArthur Street and Victoria Parade, where the sister establishments of Shenanigans Nightclub and O’Reilly’s Bar are popular draws for party animals on the prowl for cool dance beats; they are hotspots for pours of the local brews, particularly Fiji Bitter and Fiji Gold.</p>



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<p>The food found in Fiji is enriched by a preponderance of cultures and influences, resulting in enticing spreads of iTaukei (traditional local fare), Chinese, Indian, Polynesian and European dishes, plus fusions of all these flavours. Fruit and vegetables feature strongly in modern Fijian cuisine, with home-grown papayas, mangoes and avocados particularly popular.</p>


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<p>Kanu, a gastropub helmed by Australian chef Lance Seeto, offers great seafood and meat in Fijian and international preparations enhanced by the inviting ambience of its bungalow setting. Local favourite Eden is a multi-cuisine restaurant serving premium meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Delicious Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian staples entice at Maya Dhaba, another much-loved Suva dining institution.</p>


Heaven & High Water: Blessed with gorgeous lagoons and resplendent reefs, Fiji is a paradise for marine adventurers


<p>Rio de Janeiro instantly conjures up mental imagery of its spectacular setting, framed by a massive mountain-top statue of Christ and an incredible number of beaches that form a majestic sandy ribbon along the southeast coastline of Brazil. The world-famous Carnival and intoxicating samba beat will also immediately spring to mind in this cultural melting pot blessed with stately architecture and culinary delights.</p>



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<p>Such is the assault on the senses that a trip to the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City) leaves a deep visual impression. A panoply of vibrant hues, shifting shadows and plays on light brings unique sensory experiences every day. Many visitors enjoy themselves the most when they let their inhibitions run wild and go with the joyous flow. The local residents (cariocas) live life to the full, and tourists often become so bewitched by the relaxed, carefree spirit that they are loath to leave.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Carnival capers</h3>



<p>The agreeable climate makes Brazil’s second most populous city a fantastic year-round destination, though December often sees heavy rainfall. Undoubtedly the best time to visit, however, is during the Carnival, which falls this year from February 28 to 8 March, a week when Rio rocks with street parties and non-stop private events.</p>


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<p>Steeped in pagan tradition, Brazil hosts many carnivals leading up to Ash Wednesday (5 March 2025) and the start of Lent, but the celebration in Rio is by far the best known and most lavish. The city teems with visitors from around the globe keen to plunge headlong into the mayhem. Streets are jammed with revellers, fuelled by Brazilian beer and caipirinhas, and dancing and swaying to samba songs from morning to night. Many will be dressed as clowns and television personalities, or barely dressed in skimpy bikinis and feathers; cross-dressing is also common.</p>


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<p>The ball at the Copacabana Palace hotel held on Carnival Saturday (1 March) is the hottest ticket in town. Fierce competition for best costume unleashes outrageous outfits from medieval troubadours to Roman Catholic archbishops.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Samba feats</h3>



<p>The chance to win prizes also drives participants at the main samba school parades held on the Sunday and Monday nights. Giant mechanised carnival floats illustrating the motifs of the school, sequinned-and-spangled dancers and huge percussion sections sashay around the Sambodrome arena to be judged by an officially appointed jury.</p>


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<p>Each parade is a visual extravaganza based around a distinctive central theme that will determine its imagery, costumes and choice of music. An Amazonian theme, for instance, may have elaborately costumed parade members appearing as rain-forest animals. The troupe is generally led by a porta bandeira, a female dancer who holds the school flag, and the mestre sala (dance master), with the bateria (drummers) charged with keeping a constant samba rhythm. Parades also feature agile lead dancers known as passistas who perform dazzling routines.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Beach life</h3>



<p>Rio’s mile-upon-mile of gorgeous beaches is another top draw, with the most famous being the iconic crescent-shaped Copacabana. For many cariocas, the beach has become a way of life, and over the years a whole string of sunbathing sanctuaries along the shores has been developed. Aside from Copacabana, upscale sun- and water-worshippers will flock to Ipanema and Leblon. Offering far more seclusion to the southwest of the city are the white sands of Prainha Beach and Barra da Tijuca, a long, vibrant seaside playground.</p>


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<p>Each of Rio’s beaches has its own style – there are sandy getaways for singles, families and sporty types, as well as those simply seeking a quiet spot in the sun. But it is Copacabana, where the beach culture began, which remains the centre of attraction. Once a quiet fishing village, the tourist district is now home to more than 350,000 people packed into 109 streets with a large concentration of hotels, restaurants and promenade cafés. The Rolling Stones famously gave a free concert on the beach here in 2006 to an audience of devoted fans estimated to number as many as two million.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Seaside stars</h3>



<p>A great place to have a cocktail by the pool and an Italian meal with a Brazilian vibe is Cipriani Restaurant in the Copacabana Palace. The legendary hotel was established in the 1920s and refurbished much more recently in a bid to return the establishment to its glory days. Many international celebrities have enjoyed black-tie evenings at this famous watering hole.</p>


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<p>Framed by the towering Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) Mountains, Ipanema is an affluent neighbourhood with a stunning beach, fabulous restaurants and trendy boutiques. With a fringe of palm trees adding intimacy, the black-and-white mosaic promenade is the place for the young and beautiful to strut their stuff. Here, and in adjoining Leblon, you will find outstanding shops selling high-end luxury goods, including leather bags, shoes, clothing and gifts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sugar and spice</h3>



<p>Situated on a peninsula jutting into Guanabara Bay is Sugarloaf Mountain, which offers amazing views of Copacabana and much of Rio. A magnificent ride up to the towering summit in bubble-shaped cable cars offering 360-degree views completes the trip – an exhilarating experience captured in thrilling spy-drama style by the 1979 James Bond film Moonraker.</p>



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<p>Another must-visit spectacle on high is the statue of Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) atop the hulking Corcovado mountain. This 98-foot-high Art Deco statue was sculpted in 1931 by French-Polish artist Paul Landowski and his team; it is visible for miles and watches over the whole city. An incredibly scenic route to Christ’s feet cuts through tropical foliage and affords mesmerising views across Rio and its glorious beaches.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Historic heart</h3>



<p>The historic heart of Rio is located around Praça XV de Novembro, a bustling square surrounded by historic buildings and streets. The Paço Imperial, dating from 1743 and once the palatial home of Brazil’s governors, has been transformed into a cultural centre boasting a theatre, cinema, exhibition spaces and galleries, a library and restaurants. The neighbouring Tiradentes Palace, seat of the Rio de Janeiro state parliament, showcases impressive Belle Epoque-style architecture. The 10-minute stroll from Praça XV up to the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Candelária, an impressive church originating from 1775 with ornate Italian marble interiors, passes along what is considered the cultural corridor of Rio.</p>


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<p>Just off the square through the Arco do Teles, a heritage-listed colonial arch, is a maze of narrow pedestrianised streets flanked by mid-18th-century buildings and shops with high ceilings. Travessa do Comercio is lined with bars and restaurants, while the adjacent Rua do Ouvidor also hosts fine eateries, including Al Khayam, a Middle Eastern restaurant in a historic townhouse with a wide menu – kousa mahshi (zucchini stuffed with rice and meat) is a highlight. The enjoyment of the occasion is sometimes enhanced with a belly-dancing show.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nightly feasts</h3>



<p>The broad choice of restaurants in Rio reflects the city’s multicultural charms. Many hotel restaurants serve the Brazilian national dish of feijoada, a stew of black beans and pork. Churrascarias, which specialise in steak and other grilled meats, are popular, especially those where servers bring a seemingly never-ending supply of juicy rodizio-style skewered meat to the table, ready to slice on demand.</p>


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<p>Rio is also dotted with small neighbourhood bars-cum-eateries called botecos – Garota de Ipanema (named after the famous song) is one to savour. Chopp, a fresh and frosty Brazilian draught beer, and caipirinha cocktails of cachaça (spirit distilled from sugarcane), lime and sugar, are popular pours. A walking tour of the densely populated favelas (shantytowns) is bound to be an eye-opener, especially after a late night in a boteco or partying all night with the Carnival crowds.</p>


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