5

 Fiji
 

Famous for its sundrenched islands, palm fringed white sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, lush rainforests and rugged volcanic peaks, Fiji offers something for everyone. Stay in luxury resorts, indulge in spa treatments or discover a slice of traditional village life. Be assured you’ll always receive a friendly ‘bula’ welcome!

When to Go: Fiji enjoys a tropical climate all year round. Between the months of May and October, the humidity drops and it’s the perfect time for swimming or lazing on white sandy beaches, exploring beneath the waves and discovering the jungle-clad inland. Divers and snorkellers will experience increased visibility around the coral reefs.

From November to April, known as the green season, the temperature and humidity start to climb. This time of the year is often characterised by afternoon showers that bring a welcome respite from the heat. Overall for those wanting a lazy beachside holiday, there is no wrong time to visit Fiji.

Our Tip: In Fiji, raised eyebrows often mean “yes” when responding to a question. The word “set” is commonly used to mean “OK.” And if you hear someone making a kissing sound in public, it’s usually just a way of getting the attention of someone they know—not a catcall.

4

 Croatia
 

Our Tip: If you loved watching the Game of Thrones, then a visit to Dubrovnik’s famous sun-baked cobbled streets is a must!

Cruising the Greek Islands. Image courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Lines.

City of Athens. Image courtesy of Imagine Holidays.

3

 Greece

Winter is generally very quiet with many hotels and attractions closing between December and February. Snow falls, although rare, are not unheard of in Athens.

Our Tip: Take time to visit the island of Skiathos and Skopelos, known as the back drop to the movie Mamma Mia!​​​

2

 Italy
 

Italy is so photogenic; it’s almost as if the entire country was built for wanderlust-inducing travel pictures. Whether this is your first time, or you’ve been before, our Italy holidays offer new angles as you go from remote coastal towns to big cities. From iconic destinations like the Eternal City of Rome (Civitavecchia),  the Amalfi Coast, and Vatican City,  along with seldom-visited jewels to wandering seashell-pink villages stacked precipitously along the Adriatic Sea. Float Venice’s canals while a gondolier sings a lovely serenade. Sip chianti al fresco as the late sun bathes Rome in golden light. Taste classic Naples pizza that was perfected generations ago!

When to Go: The short answer is anytime. Spring and fall are best for sightseeing, touring and seasonal food. It’s warm without being stifling and nature is in full color. But with the glorious blue-sky weather come crowds and high-season prices in the main cities.

Our Tip: In Italy, no one is in a rush: stop for a chat, have a coffee and take a nap - it’s la dolce vita!

1

 Japan
 

Japan is one of the booming areas for Australian travellers and it is not hard to see why. From buzzing metropolises, alpine mountain passes, serene temples and shrines and picture-perfect gardens, discover the diversity that is Japan.

Take time to meet an apprentice geisha, ride Japan's bullet train, stay overnight in a Ryokan, bathe in an onsen pool , take a private cooking lesson and learn to make sushi, or visit the snow monkeys - Japan is yours to discover.

When to Go: The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are bursting into life and autumn (September to November) when the scenery is ablaze with colour.

Our Tip: Tipping in Japan is viewed as unnecessary, and may even be interpreted as rude since good service is considered to be the standard!