Destinations

With more than 200 inhabited islands, the Greek archipelago offers everything from glam beach clubs and chic boutiques to medieval ruins and rocky mountain ranges. Here are 10 of the best islands – and 10 reasons to add them to your next Mediterranean itinerary.

The classic Sydney beachside neighbourhood of Manly has come of age, with new restaurants, cafés and boutiques bringing sophistication to the seaside vibe. Jump a ferry and catch the new wave.

They’re following the sun and chasing the snow, staying close to home and heading farther afield: we asked some of our favourite people from the worlds of art, sport, food, fashion and entertainment where they’re headed this summer. Pack your bags, good times await. Compiled by Emma Ventura & Monique Lane For more great holiday ideas, check out ninemsn Travel's Top 10 summer holiday spots.

Where better to pub crawl than in the streets of Dublin? Paul Daley tours the city’s more famous drinking houses, retracing the steps (and reading from the works) of Beckett, Joyce and Wilde. Make ours a pint.

George Epaminondas sets his GPS for the sweeping boulevards of Los Angeles and uncovers, beyond the Tinseltown hype, a city of first-rate eateries, sensational vintage shopping and cool galleries.

Fashion identity Fleur Wood travels regularly to India to source fabrics and craftwork for her gorgeous garments. On the eve of the Commonwealth Games, she shares her favourite places to shop, eat and chill out in the host city.

In the history-soaked Spanish cities of Toledo, Segovia and Salamanca, all an easy drive from Madrid, Kendall Hill finds storybook perfection in towering fortresses, gothic cathedrals and awe-inspiring castles.

Rob Ingram explores the spare beauty and mystery of Easter Island, known to locals as Rapa Nui, a windblown outcrop perched in the middle of the South Pacific.

Richard Cooke hops a train through Switzerland and, beyond the chocolate and cuckoo clock clichés, discovers contemporary architecture, quirky museums and remote alpine spas.

The Queensland capital’s dining scene has shifted up a gear, it’s popped the top and it’s revving its engine anew. Pat Nourse shares his picks of the new Brisbane eats and drinks.

Erase the images of that volcano with the unpronounceable name from your mind with the much more stunning images from our story on Iceland including web exclusives you’ll only find in our online gallery. PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES FISHER

Shane Mitchell ventures beyond the hard-to-pronounce volcano to the westernmost region of Iceland, a land of stark tundra, quirky country hotels and startled elves.

Touring through Turkey, Leo Schofield loses himself amid an abundance of historical riches, from Istanbul’s opulent Topkapi Palace to the caves of Cappadocia and the memorials of Gallipoli.

Golden Age style meets unspoiled snowfields at Sun Valley, Idaho – the ski resort of choice for the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Clark Gable. Pat Nourse soaks up its attractions both on-piste and off.

Paris’s hottest dining trend is “cave à manger” – wine shops doing double duty as restaurants. Intimate, casual and affordable, these gems are hiding some of the city’s best eating and drinking. Here’s a taste.

Rob Ingram journeys to the heart of Cognac and discovers, among the medieval architecture and postcard-perfect countryside, that there’s more to this bucolic corner of the world than just brandy.

Take a walk on the wild side. Follow Brittany’s windswept coastline west to , a remote region suffused with maritime folklore, sustained by a Celtic heritage and renowned for bountiful produce. Oysters, butter, cider, strawberries and super-sized savoury crêpes – this is one grand land. Launch the gallery below to take a closer look at the region and read Amy Egan's guide to Finistère here. PHOTOGRAPHY FERGUS STOTHART

Take a walk on the wild side. Follow Brittany’s windswept coastline west to a remote region suffused with maritime folklore, sustained by a Celtic heritage and renowned for bountiful produce. Oysters, butter, cider, strawberries and super-sized savoury crêpes – this is one grand land.

London is newly affordable since the Aussie dollar hit the pound for six. Stretch your budget even further with Guy Dimond’s pick of cool, good-value places to eat and sleep.

A cocktail at Harry’s Bar, breakfast at Caffè Florian, masterpieces at the Gallerie dell’Accademia... if you’re only in Venice for a short stay (or you’re a first-timer), it’s all about hitting the city’s famed landmarks, writes Colman Andrews. Here’s the perfect plan.

Read our story on what to do if you only have 24 hours in Venice and click below for a pictorial tour of the famed City of Canals.

Ilaria Venturini Fendi, a refreshingly down-to-earth member of Italian fashion royalty, takes time out from running her farm and eco-conscious accessories label to give GT a personal tour of her favourite experiences in The Eternal City.

Artists and artisans alike have long found sustenance in the food, wine and beauty of Chianti. Pat Nourse travels through Italy’s most famous, and picturesque, region to meet its legendary producers and pay his respects to the mighty bistecca Fiorentina.

Tetsuya Wakuda reveals his favourite Tokyo restaurants and bars.

Who better to guide you through the seemingly impenetrable array of restaurants and bars in the Japanese capital than the world’s top Japanese chef? Here Tetsuya Wakuda offers an exclusive glimpse into the culinary highlights of his favourite city.

It’s already Greece’s most legendary island, and the filming of the new Wog Boy movie will shine the spotlight even more brightly on Mykonos.But there’s more to this famous pleasure-seeking playground than G-strings and beach clubs.

Greece’s rugged and bloody Mani peninsula was once a no-go zone for strangers. Tony Maniaty returns to the land of his forefathers and finds that while they may be seducing more travellers these days, the Maniots have lost none of their famed pride and passion. Click here to read the story.

Greece’s rugged and bloody Mani peninsula was once a no-go zone for strangers. Tony Maniaty returns to the land of his forefathers and finds that while they may be seducing more travellers these days, the Maniots have lost none of their famed pride and passion.

John Mangos reveals his top 10 dining hot spots in Athens, from an upscale restaurant in a five-star hotel to a local souvlaki joint where they fan the coals with hair dryers.

There’s more to the Greek capital than the Acropolis. Join us for this insider’s guide to Athens with hotel heiress Tina Daskalantonakis, the city’s self-proclaimed unofficial ambassador.

High-profile Sydneysiders reveal their favourite hang-outs in the Harbour City.

Beautiful, breezy and blessed with a stunning coastline, Sydney is Australia’s most spectacular city. We’ve pulled together a hit list of our personal faves, from designer boutiques and stellar restaurants to scenic coastal walks and eclectic art galleries. Yes, this is how the GT team hangs out in our home town (and shows it off to jealous visitors).

Kaikoura, the tiny coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island, draws a million visitors a year thanks to its spectacular views and marine life. This is eco-tourism at its best.

It’s always been a popular summer playground for Melburnians, but with striking new properties and an explosion in the region’s food and wine scene, Victoria’s glorious Mornington Peninsula is hotter than ever, writes Michael Harden.

Away from the tourist throngs, Kendall Hill follows in the footsteps of Salvador Dalí and discovers a world where art, culture and Hollywood glamour meet the rugged natural beauty of Spain’s Costa Brava.

Unsung hero
Flashier holiday spots may steal the limelight, but with pristine beaches, old-school Aussie charm and a new restaurant from seafood supremo Rick Stein, the New South Wales South Coast is having its time in the sun. Check out our sunsoaked slideshow below and click here for Pat Nourse's take on the best of the coast. PHOTOGRAPHY ANSON SMART

You won’t find these eating spots in any glossy guide. Most don’t offer menus, and some serve only one (superb) dish. Sue Dyson and Roger McShane follow the locals for an authentic taste of Thailand.

Kendall Hill arrived in Mexico City expecting chaos but left marvelling at the charisma and sophistication of this modern-day metropolis.

From the city's best sandwich bar to its favourite charcuteria, our gourmet guide to Barcelona has it all. WORDS KENDALL HILL PHOTOGRAPHY SHARYN CAIRNS

Madrid is a city of – wait for it – 350,000 bars. Undaunted by the scale of the task, Kendall Hill explores the scene and nominates 10 of the Spanish capital’s most distinctive drinking holes.

From the dry, rocky soils of Priorat, in remote Catalonia, has sprung an ancient winemaking tradition, awe-inspiring monastic architecture and a proud cuisine both frugal and flavoursome.

Pat Nourse ate his way through trolleyloads of chicken feet and tripe to pick Hong Kong’s top yum cha spots.

Dishing up everything from dan dan noodles to grapefruit Danishes, and boasting a wave of Michelin stars, Hong Kong dining has never been hotter. Pat Nourse headed to China’s most vibrant territory in search of gustatory awesomeness.

Cosy bars, world-class wine, historic towns and farm-trail foraging are all part of the landscape in Mudgee. Rob Ingram takes a break in the picturesque NSW region where boundaries blur between heritage and hot new experiences.

It’s no secret that recent times have been tough for Australia’s favourite holiday island. But with a raft of gorgeous new resorts, glam bars and clubs and, above all, the love of a good party, there’s no keeping Bali down. Dive in – the water’s fine. PHOTOGRAPHY JULIAN KINGMA

“Water can rust iron. Imagine what it does to your insides. It’s much better to drink wine.” Such is the catchcry in Burgundy, where locals worship at the altar of the grape. Richard Cooke ventures to the region filled with rich traditions (and lots of wine). PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN LAURIE

“Water can rust iron. Imagine what it does to your insides. It’s much better to drink wine.” Such is the catchcry in Burgundy, where locals worship at the altar of the grape. Richard Cooke ventures to the region filled with rich traditions (and lots of wine).

After diligently taste-testing her way through the macarons, crêpes and soufflés of her home city, Paris correspondent Rosa Jackson has come up with 10 of the best cheap eats in town.

Quick weekend escape? Head over the Tasman to Matakana, Auckland’s version of the Hamptons and a cornucopia of produce from both orchard and ocean.

Looking for a recession-proof international holiday that delivers easy access, affordable luxury, cultural experiences and downright fab food? Welcome to Vietnam.

Rome, Florence, Naples, the Amalfi... the list of our favourite Italian destinations goes on and on and on.

Nestled in Victoria’s gorgeous Ovens, Kiewa and King valleys is an exciting crop of producers and providores. Luxe restaurants and accommodation abound – and The Kilns, a modern homestead built around historic tobacco kilns, just adds to the package. Check in.

Follow in the footsteps of a great explorer and lose yourself in the lunar landscape and teeming waters of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula.

The Harbour City is passing on the pie, stepping away from the schooner and heading to a wine bar instead. We’ll drink to that.

If you fancy a Parisian ‘petite initiation gastronomique’, let the Victoria Palace Hotel guide you through the neighbourhood’s very best food and wine.

It’s known for its spectacular scenery, but the outstanding wineries and fine food outlets are an even better reason to visit Victoria’s Surf Coast, says Max Allen.

For the real romance of the high seas, step aboard a working cargo-passenger ship for a journey through the far-removed and fabled Marquesas Islands.

Richard Cooke searches for the road less travelled in Hawaii, island-hopping from Oahu to the Big Island, Lana’i and Maui, and finds there’s more to this Pacific oasis than grass-skirt clichés and Barack Obama. Just don’t take the rocks.

Like Alice tumbling into Wonderland, ex-Sydney girl Carla Coulson reveals a portrait of Paris and its prized gardens that is both familiar and fantastic.

Marseille may be the oldest city in France, but it’s one of the country’s most vibrant. Diverse ethnic influences have given this port hub a richness and complexity not unlike its most famous dish, bouillabaisse.

From utterly decadent hotels and awe-inspiring art collections to a thriving pub scene and great food, welcome to the Scottish capital.

No longer the poor Spanish cousin, innovative new landmarks and international sporting events are transforming this once-sleepy seaside city into a veritable tourist destination.

The culinary scene in Madrid has never been better, writes Lisa Abend. From modern tapas bars to the best fine diners, here are 10 great eating experiences.

Green Spain, the remote span of sparkling coastline encompassing Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque country, is as lush and beautiful as it is fiercely independent.

In today’s world of experimental gastronomy, where just about anything goes, Spain’s latest crop of culinary stars are carving names for themselves and redrawing the Michelin map.

Hiking the 500-year-old Inca Trail is, quite literally, breathtaking, says Sarah Wilson, who takes up the challenge with an eco-friendly tour operator treading lightly through this magnificent part of the world.

As the spotlight falls on the Olympic city, the renowned Sydney chef shares her favourite haunts in China’s vibrant capital – including where to find the world’s best Peking duck.

Hôtel Costes. Le Café Marly. Georges. These are but a handful of boldface names in the hospitality empire of Paris stylemakers the Costes brothers. From a pretty park to a cosy bar, Gilbert Costes takes us on a local’s tour of the city he loves.

Exhausted after a few days in Paris? How about a trip to a quaint town? Or a plush chateau? Savour these quick escapes less than an hour from the French capital.

Louis Vuitton, Celine, Chanel… save your euros for the trés chic shopping in Paris with our pick of the city’s best boutique hotels for less than $200 a night.

Snow Queen
Val d’Isère is the new jewel in France’s ski-resort crown. Courted by regal Mont Blanc and glitzy Courchevel, this valley favourite reigns supreme après-heures, too.

From boom town to ghost town and back again, Telluride is riding high as one of Colorado’s most exciting ski resorts. Pat Nourse discovers this steep and deep alternative Aspen.

Introducing Australia’s first ‘super-lodge’, a luxury eco-retreat on Kangaroo Island where utter isolation is its biggest drawcard. Step into another world at the exquisite Southern Ocean Lodge.

Rome’s once-sleepy bar scene is enjoying a renaissance and breathing new life into the Italian capital. Our favourite cocktail king, Marco Faraone, uncorks his top picks.

Land of vineyards and olives, shepherds’ huts and monasteries, Abruzzo is a region of rustic charms and age-old traditions – not to mention the best lasagne Kendall Hill has ever tasted. Is this Italy’s best-kept secret?

Need a plan for your next long weekend? Here’s our round-up of the best places to visit within an hour’s drive from the capital cities. Load up the car.

Design queen Ilse Crawford reveals her favourite London haunts, from quirky shops and markets to a brasserie with seats ‘stolen’ from a Sydney train.

In the centre of Kowloon, Mongkok is an exotic blend of rich culture and time-honoured traditions including, of course, good ol’ fashioned haggling.

White talcum-like beaches, friendly locals and an energetic nightlife are just some of the charms of Boracay, a tiny island in the Philippines which is a magnet for funseekers.

Carved out of the desert, Dubai is a man-made urban oasis. But just as the sands are ever-shifting, so too is the city. Hop on as we follow its rise.

Welcome to Hong Kong – where retail therapy is a national pastime. So you have 24 hours in this great city? Here’s our shop-by-shop city guide. Credit cards at the ready…

The Kingdom of Bhutan will make your spirits soar – from the gentle people to the dramatic landscape that’s literally breath-taking.

There’s more to the world’s most famous museum than the Mona Lisa. With some inside knowledge and a well-crafted plan of action, step off the tourist trail and discover this Parisian icon’s hidden masterpieces.

Authentic travel experiences may be thin on the ground but, refreshingly, a trip to China’s Yunnan Province promises a truly sacred landscape where minority cultures rule among its many awesome natural attractions.

Tropical kitsch has had its day. Fiji is back on the luxury list with elegant new boutique resorts and stylish makeovers of some old favourites. The islands’ famed white-sand beaches await.

This Catalan city is so hot right now – edgy street art, bustling markets, eye-popping architecture and the food… Find out why it’s fast becoming Spain’s gastronomic capital.

The international spa scene is booming so lie back, relax, and let your cares float away ... The only thing to concern yourself with is which of the world’s 10 best retreats – from Bali to the Baltic Coast – to visit first.

Underwater spa? Check. Personal butler? Check. Azure vistas, fine dining and absolute privacy? Check. Welcome to Huvafen Fushi in the Maldives. Is this the world’s most exclusive resort?

Beckoning visitors away from the beaches, Kerala’s backwaters unfurl like a scroll revealing an impossibly lush landscape and rich cultural make-up.

Want to avoid the tourist traps and eat like a Fiorentino? We asked Sydney restaurateur Giovanni ‘Johnny’ Paradiso for the inside scoop on where to find the best gelati, panini, aperitivi... Bellissimo!

Bamurru Plains, in the Northern Territory’s Mary River wetlands, is offering a luxury wildlife experience like no other. Just be sure to watch out for the crocs. And the bush pigs, brumbies, buffalo...

From rugged mountainside retreats to cosy country cottages, take a mid-winter break with our favourite weekend escapes.

Forget what you know about capital cities. This New Zealand hub is gaining a reputation as a city of great style, and great fun. Plus, it’s only four hours away. Go on, ‘jump the ditch’ as the locals say.

Head to the heel of the boot and succumb to Puglia’s simple charms, from its dream-like landscape and rustic cuisine to rolling olive groves and distinctive conical trulli.

From its landscape shaped by desert and river, to its rich cultural mix and gourmet appeal, Mildura in far north-west Victoria is a place of contrasts.

They're Italy's best-kept secret. Eight tiny islands scattered off the north-east coast of Sicily; the Aeolians. From party-central Panarea to the therapeutic charms of Vulcano's steaming mud pools.