Romantic Weekend Breaks Scotland

BY  Sibashree Jul 21, 2025

With Kylie Jenner spending her holidays in Kefalonia and Cristiano Ronaldo raising the mercury with his cruise holidays in the Aegean region, Greece once again shows why it is a favorite luxury destination of celebrities and high-end travelers.  Furthermore, Greece has maintained its position as a premium travel destination despite stiff competition from countries such as Italy and Spain. Additionally, as Italy and Spain struggle with overtourism, Greece is protecting its luxury tourism landscape with a sustainable approach. Corfu, a Greek Island and a jewel in the luxury tourism scene, is setting the standard in how to do it right. Additionally, it highlights why “high-quality development” involves building and enhancing luxury lodging options.  However, luxury lodging options, such as the luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist, have always been important for luxury tourism or premium travel experiences in the country.  These villas attract high-spending visitors with better comfort, privacy, and amenities. Moreover, they are crucial for the continued success of the tourism sector through economic boost and adherence to sustainable practices.  In this Tour and Travel Guide, we will do a case study on the luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist, and find out how they are contributing to premium tourism in the country and why they are unique.  Why Are Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist Unique? Making Your Holidays Unforgettable View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) Like the luxury villas Italy Le Collectionist, and luxury villas Ibiza Le Collectionist, the villas in Greece also offer the signature amenities, such as organizing tailor-made holidays, exceptional services, and an on-site team that ensures everything is in order.  Nevertheless, during your stay at the luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist, you will have the following unique experiences.  1. Luxurious Holiday In Greece: Exploring A Different Side Of The Country The cradle of Western civilization, Greece, has cemented its position among high-net-worth travelers with its cultural richness and matchless scenic beauty.  You can visit Athens, the Pantheon, or the Acropolis. You can also explore the Greek Islands, the hidden gems in the luxury tourism scene of the country.  Whatever your choice is, the luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist will only add to your adventure and experience with exclusive services.  2. Soaking In The Quiet Beauty Of The Greek Islands I have already mentioned Corfu and how it is setting an example of sustainable tourism in Greece. The metamorphosis of Corfu tourism is different as it does not implement restrictions on tourism taxes like many other European countries.  Also, the island administration does not want mass tourism to be the basis of the economy on this island. However, the island wants to offer a sophisticated experience and follow a “quality over quantity” approach for the progress of tourism and economy on the island.  Do you know that Le Collectionist has villas in Corfu?  However, along with the villas in Corfu, other Le Collectionist accommodations in different Greek islands will allow you to spot pelicans in bohemian Mykonos, explore the rugged landscapes of Paros, and listen to the murmurs of the Ionian Sea. 3. The Mediterranean Sea, Sunset, And The Luxury Villas: A Romantic Saga The beautiful Le Collectionist villas in Greece look like an extension of the signature Greek Island homes. Yet, they stand out thanks to their unique architecture and charm. So, relax on the patio of these luxury villas, sip on your favorite cocktail, and watch the Sun go down into the Mediterranean Sea.  How To Reach The Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) Greece has the Athens Airport, and it is connected to other parts of the world by air. However, Greece also has dedicated airports serving popular Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos.  Are you planning to stay in the Le Collectionist luxury villas in the Cyclades islands? You can take a boat from the port of Piraeus to reach these islands.  What Is The Best Time To Stay At The Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) April to Early May is the best time to stay at the luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist. Especially, the Cycladic Islands get bathed in warm sunlight in these months, and the summer crowd is still manageable.  Further, June to September or the summer season is the busiest in the Le Collectionist luxury villas of Greece.  If you are planning a visit in the summer months, you must choose a villa with a private swimming pool for the perfect summer escape.  Moreover, September to October or early Autumn is another ideal season for a trip to Greece and vacationing in the luxury villas. Milder weather conditions and fewer crowds make these months more enjoyable. Best Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist: Choose The One Where You Want To Stay View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) The best Le Collectionist luxury villas in Greece are divided into different categories so that you can choose one based on your preference.  These categories are: 1. Beachfront villas in Greece, 2. A traditional Cycladic house, 3. Greek family holidays and 4. Luxury Greek villas with private pools. 1. Beachfront Villas In Greece These are the top beachfront villas in Greece by Le Collectionist. A. Villa Nausica Tariff for 7 Nights: $70,890 Area: 500 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 7  Suitable for: 14 Guests Check-In: 5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Villa Nausica is located inside the nature reserve of the island of Corfu. It is a perfect choice to enjoy the gorgeous Mediterranean summer.  It promises the best start to your day as you have breakfast under the pergola during a kayak ride.  Villa Nausica Key Features Swimming Pool with Heated Water Proximity to Golf Course and Beach Private Walkway to the Beach Sea View B. Renaya Estate Tariff for 7 Nights: $98,730 Area: 400 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 10 Suitable for: 20 Guests Check-In: 5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Spending days on the hills of Zakynthos! The Renaya Estate helps you to realize this dream of yours. The large glass doors and the sunlight coming through them always maintain a sunny ambiance in the villa.  Further, you can walk to the nearby coves, trails, and a fishing port from this villa.  Also, the afternoon strolls through the local villages and having your dinner under the pergola are the most refreshing experiences here. Enjoy the experience with the scent of lemon trees filling the air.  Renaya Estate Key Features Partial Airconditioning Fireplace Barbecue Nature Reserve C. Villa Dwell Tariff for 7 Nights: $49,715 Area: 450 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 8 Bedrooms and 7 Bathrooms Suitable for: 16 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 12 PM Villa Dwell allows you to slow down and relax. From breakfast by the pool to snorkeling in the water on the edge of the villa’s garden, this villa is an ideal choice for people who want to enjoy a kalí zoí or a good time.  Further, you can take a ride in a kayak or paddleboard in the turquoise water and have your romantic moments at the Belvedere tower. From the top of the tower, you will enjoy a panoramic view. Then, you can end your day with an alfresco dinner under the stars. The smell of the sea, lavender, and wildflowers will rejuvenate your mind.  Moreover, if you want to experience how Greece celebrates the farm-to-table culture, this villa is the ideal choice. It has a chicken coop nearby and its own herbs and vineyard gardens.  Villa Dwell Key Features Partial Air Conditioning Fireplace Wooded Garden Stunning Sea View Private Walkway to the Beach 2. A Traditional Cycladic House Here are our top picks among traditional Cycladic houses in Greece.  A. Villa Adriane Tariff for 7 Nights: $62,145 Area: 450 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 6 Bedrooms and 7 Bathrooms Suitable for: 12 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM In the fields of Elia, Villa Adriane maintains its distinct appearance with its modern architecture. Just beyond the villa, you will find the turquoise water of the Aegean Sea.  Furthermore, the barbecue delicacies and the beautiful sunset are the main attractions at this luxury villa. Villa Adriane Key Features Fitness Room Infinity Swimming Pool Jacuzzi Sea View Air Conditioning B. Villa Jondal Tariff for 7 Nights: $106,040 Area: 1275 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 9 Bedrooms and  17 Bathrooms Suitable for: 18 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Villa Jondal sits pretty on the shoreline of the Fokos beach. Loukas Bobotis, a renowned architect, is responsible for the construction of this villa.  The villa has a movie room, and you will love the coastal surroundings here.  Villa Jondal Key Features Infinity Pool Private Pathway to Beach Partial Air Conditioning Proximity to Beach C. Villa Kenzie Tariff for 7 Nights: $106,855 Area: 910 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 9 Bedrooms and Bathrooms Suitable for: 18 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Close to the Kalo Livadi, Villa Kenzie offers the most stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Further, the villa celebrates the lively atmosphere of Mykonos.  Also, you will love exploring the nearby wild coves.  Villa Kenzie Key Features Fitness Room Panoramic View of the Sea Air Conditioning Outdoor Swimming Pool 3. Greek Family Holidays Are you traveling to Greece with your family? You can choose any of these Le Collectionist luxury villas.  A. Villa Mulberry Tariff for 7 Nights: $24,860 Area: 450 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 6 Bedrooms and 5 Bathrooms Suitable for: 12 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM In the island of Tinos, Villa Mulberry stands out with its sleek architecture. Further, it offers the perfect fusion of sophistication and simplicity.  You can enjoy a 15-minute drive to the Town Center or take a walk for 10 minutes to the beach.  Villa Mulberry Key Features Overflowing Swimming Pool Jacuzzi Barbecue Grill Airconditioning  B. Villa Charis Tariff for 7 Nights: $38,010 Area: 500 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 10 Bedrooms and Bathrooms Suitable for: 20 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Located on the island of Antiparos, Villa Charis has a refined architecture that looks brilliant against a lush green backdrop. The Mediterranean Garden and the terrace are the special attractions in this villa.  Villa Charis Key Features Four Sunbeds Outdoor Shower Infinity Pool C. Villa Clea Tariff for 7 Nights: $17,230 Area: 345 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 5 Bedrooms and Bathrooms Suitable for: 10 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Close to the Paros beaches, Villa Clea welcomes you to the ultimate Cycladic experience. It's ideal for a stay with friends or family.  Villa Clea Key Features Barbecue Fireplace Outdoor Swimming Pool 4. Luxury Greek Villas With Private Pools On the warmest summer days, a luxury villa with private pools will be the ideal choice. Choose any of the following. A. Villa Hestia Tariff for 7 Nights: $15,380 Area: 360 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 6 Bedrooms and 8 Bathrooms Suitable for: 12 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Meant for the ultimate Mykonos experience, Villa Hestia offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Furthermore, it is a peaceful haven close to the serene beaches and the palpable energy of Mykonos Town.  Waking up to the sound of waves is bliss here.  Villa Hestia Key Features Hammam Airconditioning Infinity Pool Mediterranean Garden B. Villa Adonia Tariff for 7 Nights: $39,545 Area: 600 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 5 Bedrooms and Bathrooms Suitable for: 10 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Villa Adonia is another accommodation you can choose if Mykonos is on your mind. The Aegean Sea is a few steps from here.  From here, you can also explore Aghios Sostis and the secret coves.  Villa Adonia Key Features Barbecue Infinity Pool Fireplace Airconditioning Sea View C. Villa Jodie Tariff for 7 Nights: $99,610 Area: 2500 Square Meters Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 17 Bedrooms and 20 Bathrooms Suitable for: 34 Guests Check-In:  5 PM Check-Out: 10 AM Located at the top of Kalo Livadi Bay, Villa Jodie is ideal for a tranquil vacation with the most luxurious amenities.  Unwind under the pergola or watch the stars from the terrace!  Villa Jodie Key Features Jacuzzi Hammam Elevator Fitness Room Helipad How To Book Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist?  You can book any of the luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist, by calling +33173030202. They are available from Monday to Saturday from 1 PM to 10 PM in local time.  Furthermore, online booking facilities are available for many villas, and you can do the same from the official website.  1. First, choose the location and select the kind of villa you want. 2. Then, choose a villa based on your budget and preference, and on the right side, you will find the pricing details. There will also be two options, “Make a Request” and “Reserve.” 3. If you click on the Make a Request Button, you will get a form where you will have to fill in your name, email ID, and phone number so that Le Collectionisy can get back to you.  4. However, when you click on the “Reserve” button, you will be redirected to the booking confirmation page with a mention of the advance amount to be paid.  5. Click on the “Continue” button and log in using your email ID and the OTP sent to your email ID.  6. Finally, fill in your card details and make the payment.  Are Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist Worth It? Hear From People Who Stayed Here View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) Yes, luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist promise to make your Greek holidays magical. Condé Nast Traveler has been awarding Le Collectionist since 2014, and in 2024, it received the B Corp label award for its responsible practices.  Let’s hear it from the people who had a wonderful stay at the Le Collectionist luxury villas in Greece. Angelos P. writes in August 2024,  “Villa Hestia was beautiful. The pictures were not deceiving, and it was even better in real to be there. The place is spacious, well appointed, and located in a very peaceful place in Mykonos.  What a luxury to have your own bathroom in every room. It had been years since I felt so at peace in a holiday. I highly recommend it. We all loved it and we will definitely go back. In fact, we still talk about it and how amazing it was to just be there.” Skye H. calls the Villa Adonia, “Wonderful House.”  Cynthia writes on Trustpilot, “Amazing experience. The villa was exactly how the photo showed & was very well kept. My Le Collectionist advisor was very helpful & responsive. Overall great experience & will work with Le Collectionist again.” Overall, Le Collectionist has a 4.5 rating out of 5 on Trustpilot. Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about luxury villas Greece Le Collectionist.  1. How Can I Pay For My Stay? Once you sign the contract, you will be required to pay a specified amount within three business days. After that, you need to pay the remaining amount at least two months before your rental period starts.  2. Will I Get A Refund If I Cancel The Booking? If you are cancelling your booking at least 60 days before your booking, you will get a 50% refund. However, after that, the full booking amount will be charged as the cancellation fee. Having said that, if you are making online bookings, you are eligible for a 100% refund until the reservation is confirmed.  3. Can I Check In Early Or Check Out Late? For most Le Collectionist properties, the check-in time is 5 PM and the checkout time is 10 AM. The provisions for late check-ins and checkouts depend on the property owners and the availability of rooms. Also, you have to inform the property owner earlier so that proper arrangements can be made.  4. Do I Need To Pay A Security Deposit For A Stay In Luxury Villas Greece Le Collectionist? Yes, you will have to pay a security deposit, as mentioned in your rental contract. However, no amount is withheld unless any damage occurs and without proper inspections.

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 7, 2024

Embarking on a budget-friendly adventure doesn't mean compromising on experiences or settling for less. With strategic planning and savvy choices, you can make the most of your travels without breaking the bank. Here's an in-depth guide on how to travel on a budget, covering essential tips and tricks for securing affordable accommodations, flights, activities, dining, transportation, and more. 1. Strategic Planning for Savings The key to successful budget travel lies in meticulous early preparation. Start your planning well in advance to capitalize on the best deals. Early research and booking of lodgings, flights, and activities is recommended since early bird discounts and promotions are available. By doing so, you not only secure lower prices but also have a more comprehensive range of choices, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. Explore various travel platforms, compare prices, and consider bundling options for additional savings. 2. Timing Matters: Booking on a Budget Understanding the optimal times to book flights and accommodations is crucial for budget-conscious travelers. Airlines and hotels often offer discounted rates during specific periods, such as off-peak seasons or promotional events. Use online tools and platforms to monitor price fluctuations, and aim to make your bookings during periods when prices are typically lower. Flexibility in your trip dates also results in significant savings. Consider scheduling mid-week flights and skipping busy travel days to get better discounts. 3. Avoiding Pricey Guided Tours While guided tours provide convenience, they often come with a hefty price tag. Explore alternative ways to experience your destination without compromising on the richness of your adventure. Utilize local transportation, embark on self-guided walking tours, and research points of interest in advance. Engaging with the local community can uncover hidden gems and unique experiences that might be missed on a standard guided tour. Take advantage of technology, such as travel apps and audio guides, to enhance your self-guided exploration. 4. Embrace Off-Peak Travel Traveling during the off-season offers numerous advantages for budget-conscious explorers. Off-peak periods often translate to lower costs for accommodations, flights, and attractions. Additionally, you'll encounter fewer crowds, allowing for a more immersive and tranquil experience. Research the off-peak seasons for your desired destinations and plan your travels accordingly to maximize savings. Enjoying popular tourist spots without the hustle and bustle not only saves money but also provides a more authentic and serene experience. 5. Smart Accommodation Choices Navigating the world of budget-friendly accommodations requires careful consideration. Beyond traditional hotels, explore options like hostels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Websites and apps dedicated to budget travel can help you discover unique lodging options that cater to your preferences and budget. Don't shy away from unconventional choices – they can enhance your travel experience while keeping costs down. Prioritize accommodations that offer kitchen facilities, enabling you to prepare some of your meals and further reducing expenses. For additional insights into making intelligent accommodation choices, consider exploring resources like the headquarters location. It will help find details for Hotels like Marriott, IHG, Hilton, Holiday Inn Express Corporate Office, Phone number, Business Email etc. Such resources provide valuable information about reputable accommodations. 6. Savoring Affordable Local Cuisine Delve into the world of budget-friendly dining, from street food markets to local eateries. One of the joys of travel is experiencing the local cuisine, and you don't have to break the bank to do so. Explore local markets, food stalls, and smaller restaurants where you can sample authentic dishes at a fraction of the cost of upscale establishments. Engage with locals to discover hidden culinary gems and take advantage of happy hour deals for both food and beverages. 7. Budget-Friendly Transportation Hacks Uncover strategies for cost-effective travel, including budget airlines, public transit, and rideshare services. While it might be tempting to rent a car, consider the affordability and convenience of public transportation in many destinations. Budget airlines often offer significantly lower fares, especially when booked in advance. Rideshare services can be more economical than traditional taxis, particularly for short distances. Research transportation options in your destination and plan your itinerary accordingly to minimize expenses. Related: 5 Things You Can Carry For An Amazing Trip On A Budget 8. Maximizing Free and Low-Cost Activities Learn to make the most of free attractions, parks, and cultural events at your destination. Many cities offer a wealth of free activities, from museums with free entry on certain days to outdoor concerts and festivals. Plan your itinerary around these opportunities to enjoy a rich cultural experience without spending a dime. Explore local parks, historical sites, and architectural landmarks that don't require admission fees. Utilize apps and websites that highlight free events happening in the area during your visit. 9. Packing Light for Savings Master the art of packing efficiently to avoid extra baggage fees and streamline your travel experience. Pack adaptable clothing pieces that can be combined and matched to minimize the need for additional packing. Invest in tiny travel-sized toiletries to comply with airline restrictions while saving room. To save money on your trip, take a reusable water bottle and food. Packing light not only saves money but also enhances your mobility and reduces the stress of lugging around heavy baggage. 10. Leveraging Travel Rewards and Loyalty Programs Discover how loyalty programs and travel incentives may drastically reduce your total travel expenditures. Many airlines, hotels, and credit card firms have reward systems that award points or miles for every purchase. These points can be used for reduced or free airfare, lodging, and other travel-related costs. To optimize discounts, research and join up for reward programs that are relevant to your trip plans. Additionally, consider travel credit cards that offer perks such as waived annual fees, travel insurance, and exclusive access to airport lounges. In conclusion, embarking on a budget-friendly adventure requires a combination of careful planning, intelligent choices, and a willingness to explore alternatives. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy memorable and enriching travel experiences without exceeding your financial limits. Whether you're a seasoned budget traveler or new to the concept, embracing these strategies will not only save you money but also enhance the authenticity of your journey. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and make the most of every budget-friendly moment on the road. FAQs!!! Q1: Can I still find affordable accommodations if I'm planning a last-minute trip? Ans: While planning is ideal, last-minute travelers can still find budget-friendly accommodations. Look for last-minute deals on hotel booking websites, consider alternative lodging options, and be flexible with your location and amenities preferences. Q2: How can I save on transportation costs during my budget-friendly travels? Ans: To save on transportation, consider using budget airlines, public transit, or rideshare services. Booking in advance, being flexible with travel dates, and exploring local transportation options can significantly reduce your overall transportation expenses. Q3: Are loyalty programs and travel rewards worth the effort? Ans: Yes, loyalty programs and travel rewards can be highly beneficial for budget travelers. Accumulating points or miles through credit card purchases or frequent travel can lead to discounted or free flights, accommodations, and other travel-related perks, making it a valuable investment in the long run. Q4: How do I find budget-friendly dining options while traveling? Ans: To find budget-friendly dining options, explore local markets, street food stalls, and smaller restaurants. Engage with locals for recommendations, take advantage of happy hour deals, and consider preparing simple meals if your accommodation provides kitchen facilities. This way, you can savor local cuisine without overspending. Read Also: How Do I Keep My Child Occupied When Traveling? 9 Tips On How To Make The Most Of Your Wildlife Travel Best Restaurants In Honduras To Visit While Traveling

BY  Sibashree Oct 4, 2019

In Afrikaans, a kloof is a narrow mountain river valley or a canyon. And South Africa off-the-beaten-path adventures have followed a course parallel to the antics of European and American canyoneering enthusiasts. Kloofing is following a mountain river from its beginnings down through waterfalls, rapids, whirlpools, hiking, and climbing your way in between swims. It’s a bit like high diving, hiking, and being put through a spin cycle—all at once. If you are still confused, I am referring to Southern Africa and its off-the-beaten-path adventures. Do you want to know about more hidden gems in Southern Africa? Keep reading!  THESE Are the Best Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures Southern Africa, with its eclectic culture, has been attracting tourists to its iconic monuments and natural landscapes. Here are some off-the-beaten-path adventure spots you must add to your itinerary list. 1. Kloofing Near Cape Town  In the mountains behind Betty’s Bay, a short drive from Cape Town, are South Africa’s two best kloofing day trips. Choose between the regular route, where you’ll have to leap 20 feet off a waterfall into the pool below, or Suicide Gorge (heads up: this means a leap of 60 feet). To date, no one has been hurt seriously on a kloofing trip. However, if you’re subject to vertigo and aren’t at least halfway fit, then don’t do it. The company Day Trippers will provide guides, wetsuits, lunch, transport, and moral support.  2. Lesotho on Horseback  The mountain kingdom of Lesotho, in east-central South Africa, serves up stone villages atop remote hillsides. Villagers, called Basotho, live draped in blankets and robes, almost like ancient Greeks. Shepherd boys sit on the slopes, playing flutes. Vultures and eagles cruise overhead. In Lesotho, the horse remains the chariot of choice, and this is how you’ll want to get around as well. Semongkong Lodge, near Maletsunyane, southern Africa’s highest waterfall, offers horseback treks for several days. You’ll stay in timeless Basotho villages and ride some of the subcontinent’s steepest terrain. The Basotho ponies, schooled in a special “tripling” gait, are tough, sure-footed, and afraid of nothing. A tip: Book a trek that coincides with Semonkong’s horse races. They’re wild spectacles involving carefully nurtured thoroughbreds, child jockeys, and epic bouts of drinking.  3. Hike Chimanimani To Make The Most Of Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures  As South Africa fills with travelers, more and more are heading into Zimbabwe, and several areas have been developed for hiking, fishing, riding, and other types of tourism. But the mountainous Eastern Highlands, east of Chimanimani in southern Zim, are hardly developed at all, and that’s their appeal. Besides, this area, part of the Lebombo Mountain range that marks the border between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, provides year-round cool relief from the heat of the plains below.  For the serious hiker, a stiff climb-in is rewarded by an upland paradise of high pastures, waterfalls, forests of flowering protea trees, and caves large enough to sleep in. Because the water up here is pure and drinkable, you can live here for days if you bring enough food with you. The only downside: Don’t cross over to the Mozambique side of the mountains, as old land mines from that country’s now-defunct civil war are still scattered on the range’s eastern slopes. Stick closely to the maps (available in Chimanimani village).  4. Learn Polo-Cross  Hugely popular in Zimbabwe and a growing equestrian sport around the world, polo-cross means falls, body crunches, and glancing blows with the lacrosse stick. But those with a go-smack-em attitude and sufficient riding experience can learn this fast and highly skilled equestrian sport on trained horses at Mopani Lodge, near Kwekwe in the Midlands area.  Relax between sessions by riding out on the ranch (which has a cross-country course if you still need an adrenaline fix) or just by sunning at the pool. And because of the favorable exchange rate, what would be an extremely expensive riding holiday anywhere else in the world has become one of adventure tourism’s best bargains.  5. Hunt with Bushmen  If you’re after Southern Africa off-the-beaten-path adventures, you can’t do any better than traveling with the Ju’Hoansi. Ju’Hoansi is the last Kalahari Bushmen clan to pursue the traditional hunting and gathering lifestyle. They’ve decided to open to small-scale tourism in their remote Namibian locale. You’ll camp near the Ju’Hoansi village of Makuri, go hunting with the men, and gather with the women. This is no theme-park experience: If the hunters stick an animal with an arrow, you may have to track it for up to two days and then carry out your share of the meat. If you love hunting, you can take the best hunting bow with you. You must also carry your own water and food. Don’t just spend a couple of days here: Allow at least a week for the people to become comfortable with you. If you’re lucky, they may also invite you to attend a trance dance, at which miraculous healings often take place.  6. Dune Boarding  The seaside town of Swakopmund, where the Namib desert falls into the sea, has become southern Africa’s dune-boarding capital. You’re driven out to the foot of a mountain-sized sand dune, given a large oblong sheet of hardboard, some furniture polish, a pair of heavy industrial gloves, and some welding goggles, and the next minute you’re flying almost vertically downward. It feels suicidal; even on the easiest descents, the board can pick up speeds of 60 or 70 km (about 43.5 mi)/hr. Steeper ones are much faster. Then you graduate to jumps, finally ending the day with the “Knucklegrinder,” an 800-foot whoosh down to a hard gravel plain.  7. Ride the Namib  It’s easily one of the most spectacular rides in the world: You’re galloping through the Namib Desert, the world’s oldest, surrounded by 2,000-foot-high, blood-red sand dunes. Thousand-year-old plants that resemble exploded cabbages grow on gravel plains that see rain once in a century. Lonely canyons echo the barking shout of baboons and the nighttime cough of leopards. Then, suddenly, green oases spring up, overgrown with camelthorn and tamarisk trees, where herds of desert antelope gather in the shade. Continue to sun-blasted mountain ranges where ice-cold springs bubble straight from the rock.  Trot through this barren wilderness with Reit Safari, which offers 10-day rides on Namibian Hanoverians (German horses) and rehabilitated mustangs, starting on the mountains west of Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, and ending in the ocean of the aptly named Skeleton Coast.  8. Earthwatch Cheetah Project  The lion really can lie down with the lamb—or at least the cheetah can. So, the biologists of this Earthwatch cheetah conservation project believe, anyway. Your job: to assist in live-capturing and radio-tracking cheetahs and other big cats on the wilderness ranches of central Namibia—the last place on earth where cheetahs still exist in reasonable numbers. Local ranchers used to shoot them on sight. However, now many are cooperating with the study, which seeks to prove that cats only rarely hunt livestock if their natural prey is readily available. You, the paying volunteer, have the satisfaction of contributing directly to the conservation of these cats while at the same time experiencing the adventure of chasing after and handling them.  9. Bike the Botswana Pans  Why would anyone want to bike through the Makgadigadi Pans—two vast, shallow expanses of mud? In the scorching Botswana summer, they fill with rain, releasing millions of tiny brine shrimp, which in turn attract breeding flocks of pink flamingos.  In the dry winter, they bake to a hard white crust. A perfect surface across which to go roaring on a quad bike. So wide are the pans that when out in the middle of them, you can’t see the “shore.” And the stars in this part of the Kalahari are unrivaled.  From Jack’s Camp, a luxurious place at the edge of the pans. You take quad bikes out to a table set out in the middle of the emptiness to find dinner laid and ready. By day, you go walking, look at the game, and pick wild foods with a Bushman guide called Cobra.   If you go during the sweltering summer months, you can’t quad bike the pans (too glutinous). However, you do see the flamingos. Further, if you’re lucky, you might see the eastern Kalahari’s summer zebra migration.  10. Deep Kalahari  If you have at least two weeks to explore Southern Africa off-the-beaten-path adventures, hire a 4×4 and blast off into southern Africa’s most remote country. The bigger-than-Switzerland Central Kalahari Game Reserve and the Aha and Tsodilo Hills. This is rugged driving on some of the toughest tracks in Africa; you must know what you’re doing in a 4×4. You must carry all the fuel and supplies. And if you get stuck, well, suffice to say it’s best to go in a convoy of two vehicles. Highlights of this once-in-a-lifetime trip include the desert lions of Deception Pan.  The Bushmen communities at Molapo and Xai-Xai (where you can go out with the hunters). The stalactite-filled caves of Drotsky’s Caverns and the ancient rock paintings of the Tsodilos. When you emerge at Shakawe at the northern edge of the Okavango Delta, you’ll forget what civilization looks like.  Final Words on Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures  With dense vegetation, rugged cliffs, and fascinating wildlife, the Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path adventures promise an unforgettable experience. These trips are also about learning about various fascinating cultures and respecting nature.  So, if you plan to visit Southern Africa soon, you can visit any of the places I have discussed here. Don’t forget to share your experience once you come back! Happy journey!