Ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? From diving in the biggest sinkhole in Belize to exploring the hidden paradise of Raja Ampat, unique experiences around the world offer the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, try something truly one-of-a-kind, and create lasting memories.
Sailing to the remote islands of Raja Ampat, Indonesia
In and out of the water, the dazzling scenery of Indonesia’s Raja Ampat Archipelago cannot be captured in any photograph. Sailing among 1,500 verdant islets, skerries and imposing rock formations in the heart of the Coral Triangle, the isolated island cluster off the north-western tip of New Guinea is world known for the widest variety of seabed reefs with rare marine species found nowhere else in the world. Meanwhile, the lush landscape and the turquoise waters make you wonder if you are really in paradise. Swimming among colourful fish, majestic mantas, playful dolphins, even rockstar sea slugs, this enchanting underwater wonderland will remind you of the hidden treasures of our oceans in one of the world’s premier diving destinations. The out-of-water experience is just as spectacular with dreamy exotic beaches, lush forests that touch the reefs and traditional villages with hospitable residents. The four largest islands in the cluster are Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo and the best time of the year to visit is from October to April to enjoy less rainfall, calm seas and better visibility during diving.
Sleep in an ice hotel, Sweden
Sitting on the banks of the frozen Torne River at 125 miles above the Arctic Circle, in Sweden, the Icehotel – the original and biggest ice hotel in the world – still sets the standard for guest experience and customer service. The hotel is crafted annually from 2500 two-ton blocks of snice (snow and ice) plucked from the river and at the end of the season it simply melts and the water returns to the river. But whilst it’s up, its shimmering catenary arches and individually-designed rooms with snow statues and ice artwork make it a triumph of ingenuity. For a truly unique experience, book an art suite that features ice decor crafted by a commissioned artist. And, speaking of art, the property also has exhibition galleries filled with show-stopping ice sculptures that hotel guests can tour for free.
While Icehotel 33 melted and reunited with Torne River, Luca Roncoroni, Icehotel’s Creative Director, and the jury of Icehotel 34, selected 29 artists who will create the art in this year’s winter hotel. In November, the artists will traditionally gather in Jukkasjärvi, 200 kilometers North of the Arctic Circle, to jointly create the 3,000m2 seasonal hotel. www.icehotel.com
Diving at the Blue Hole, Belize
Diving into the mesmerizing depths of the Blue Hole is a true adventure seeker’s dream come true. This natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a captivating and mysterious sinkhole in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Descending into the azure waters, you’ll witness a dramatic transformation in the underwater landscape. The Blue Hole is a giant underwater cavern, its perfectly circular shape nearly 1,000 feet across and over 400 feet deep. As you plunge deeper, the intense blue hue of the water becomes more pronounced, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The real magic happens as you reach the depths. Massive stalactites hang from the submerged cave’s ceiling, an eerie reminder of the time when this geological formation was above sea level. Schools of sharks, including intimidating but harmless bull sharks, gracefully patrol the depths, adding an adrenaline rush to the experience. Diving in the Blue Hole is not just a dive; it’s a journey into the heart of Earth’s geological history and an encounter with some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures. It’s a bucket-list dive that leaves you in awe of the underwater world’s beauty and mystery, making it a cherished memory for every diver fortunate enough to experience it.
Reflecting at the Salt Flats, Bolivia
A prehistoric salt lake has turned into a traveler’s heaven by offering up the beauty that is South America’s most awe-inspiring landmark. The Uyuni Salt Flats in southwest Bolivia is the world’s largest salt desert, spreading over around 11,000 square kilometers. The salt flats themselves are at 3,600 meters above sea level in the Andes, which makes it seem almost possible to reach up and touch the clouds. The area has long been popular with tourists, particularly those looking for a holiday with a difference. It is an extraordinary experience to cross the lake of salt by car, especially during the winter, because at that time, the sky is completely clear and the bright blue color of the sky contrasts brilliantly with the salt. On a cloudy day there is a “white-out” effect: the horizon seems to blend in with the sky and you can hardly tell where the salt lake actually ends. Amid this shiny white desert, idle polyhedral figures formed by nature seem to emerge from the ground, making the landscape even more astounding.
Gastronomic experience at Sublimotion, Ibiza
A culinary odyssey like no other. Nestled on the vibrant Mediterranean island of Ibiza, Sublimotion is a Michelin-starred restaurant that pushes the boundaries of taste, technology, and artistry to deliver an unforgettable journey for the senses. Upon entering the restaurant, guests are welcomed into a minimalist and futuristic setting, setting the stage for what’s to come. Sublimotion’s dining concept for 12 diners every night revolves around multisensory storytelling. Each dish is not just food; it’s a carefully choreographed performance, an exploration of flavors, textures, and emotions. The restaurant’s acclaimed chef, Paco Roncero, takes diners on a gastronomic adventure that defies convention. A culinary team works in harmony with cutting-edge technology to craft a 20-course tasting menu that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Plates come alive with vibrant colors, unexpected textures, and captivating aromas, creating a symphony of sensations. The dining experience is further elevated by immersive technology that uses virtual reality, projection mapping, and audiovisual elements to transport guests to different culinary and sensory realms. It’s a fusion of food and art that leaves patrons in awe. Sublimotion is more than a meal; it’s a theatrical, emotional, and gastronomic journey that pushes the boundaries of what dining can be. www.sublimotionibiza.com
The underwater experience at the Muraka, Maldives
Nestled amidst the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives, this luxurious underwater suite offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that defies imagination. As you descend into the Muraka, you’ll find yourself in a surreal underwater world. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an uninterrupted view of the vibrant marine life that thrives in the surrounding coral gardens. Schools of colorful fish, graceful manta rays, and even the occasional curious shark glide past your windows, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
The Muraka’s design seamlessly integrates with its marine surroundings. The bedroom features a cozy, king-sized bed positioned perfectly for you to wake up to the sight of parrotfish and butterflyfish darting by. The bathroom, complete with a submerged bathtub, offers an intimate aquatic experience like no other.
When night falls, the Muraka transforms into an underwater observatory. Soft lighting illuminates the nocturnal activities of the underwater world, revealing a different kind of beauty and tranquility. The Muraka is not just an underwater suite; it’s a testament to human innovation and our deep connection with the oceans. It’s a place where dreams come true, where you can sleep beneath the sea and wake up to the wonders of the underwater realm. It’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul, reminding you of the incredible beauty and fragility of our oceans. www.conradmaldives.com
Riding in a Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia
A surreal and enchanting experience that transports you to a world of wonder and awe. Located in central Turkey, Cappadocia’s unique landscape of towering rock formations, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings becomes even more magical when viewed from the sky. As the sun begins to rise, hot air balloons are inflated in the pre-dawn darkness, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The gentle roar of the burners fills the air as the balloons gracefully ascend. Once aloft, you’ll find yourself drifting serenely above this otherworldly terrain. The panoramic views are simply breathtaking. The sun’s first rays cast a warm, golden glow on the landscape, illuminating the dramatic contours of Cappadocia’s rocky outcrops and valleys. You’ll float above valleys dotted with vineyards, orchards, and ancient villages, all surrounded by the ethereal beauty of the region. The sensation of floating in silence, carried only by the wind, is both peaceful and exhilarating. The skilled pilots maneuver the balloons with precision, allowing for close-up views of the surreal rock formations and valleys below. As you soar higher, you’ll gain a new perspective on Cappadocia’s rich history, as many of the rocks hide ancient cave churches and dwellings carved by early Christians. The whole experience feels like a journey back in time and a dreamlike escape.
