Absence makes the feet grow fonder!

I want to go on an adventure! I’m definitely not the only one; when we get the chance to go again, let’s not take travel for granted. It will be time to tick off those bucket list items and see something truly amazing. When the world opens up again, where will you go? Here's my top three adventures just to keep you dreaming... Namibia Ranked the safest country in Africa, containing the oldest desert in the world, the highest sand dunes in the world, and the highest cheetah population in the world… Namibia, on the south west coast of Africa claims these bragging rights. There are many compelling reasons for an adventure here, but for an utterly unique experience I would head to the Namib Desert. Also referred to as the Skeleton Coast, because of its harsh unforgiving terrain, it stretches 2000km along the Atlantic Coast. One of the most popular stopping points is Sossusvlei, a salt and clay pan surrounded by iconic red sand dunes which tower up to 400m in height. In the midst of this is Deadvlei, where bare ancient trees still stand in a white clay valley, a stunningly beautiful and equally eerie scene. Another reason to head to Namibia specifically is for the wildlife. It offers ample opportunity to see Africa’s ‘Big Five’ plus some extras. Visit the flagship Etosha National Park to observe large mammals jostling for a place at one of its many seasonal watering holes. For something extraordinary, Damaraland is home to a herd of the elusive Desert Adapted Elephants; only found in Namibia and Mali. If big cats are your thing then Okonjima is a dedicated reserve for the protection of cheetah, leopards and lions. Choose your level of luxury as you visit these wonderful sights; self-drive between safari camps, hire a guide, take a fly safari to private game lodges. Namibia is perfect for a multi-generational family adventure with breath taking scenery and amazing wildlife. Bucket List Highlight: Take to the skies in a hot air balloon to see that clear line where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Namib Desert; for more of a thrill go skydiving! Iceland A week in Iceland spent witnessing the power of Mother Earth can leave you feeling rather insignificant. Awe struck, but insignificant. Nature’s laboratory puts on quite a demonstration in the form of exploding geysers, creeping glaciers, rumbling volcanoes and gushing waterfalls. It’s not always the easiest place to explore; in winter long hours of darkness and harsh weather conditions can impact your travel itineraries so do prepare to draw on your resilience and sense of humour. Summer not only brings improved weather and sunlight but as a result more of the country can be explored; roads are safer, routes open up and self-drive is now a more sensible idea. So why would you even consider going in the winter? Well here’s one very good reason – the Aurora Borealis. Also known as the Northern Lights, this fascinating light phenomenon is best viewed on a clear night where there is little light pollution. Coaches or smaller (and more manoeuvrable) super jeeps provide easy access from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park and Reykjanes Peninsula which means you don’t have to travel far for a front seat view. My preferred option if you are staying in Reykjavik is to take a cruise in Faxafloi Bay. The reflection of swirling lights on the water adds even more magic to the occasion. For a real treat, take a night away from the city to stay in a countryside hotel, preferably with an outdoor hot tub. The hotels often have Northern Lights wake up calls so you can sleep comfortably without fear of missing out. Iceland might be a challenge but that only makes it more satisfying when you meet your goal, whether that be snowmobiling across a glacier or slipping into the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. Activities can be seasonal, so it is worth thinking about what you want to do and see before planning your travel dates and itinerary. Bucket List Highlight: Iceland is the only place in the world where you can swim between two continents. The Silfra fissure is the crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Yes the water is cold but it is gorgeously crystal clear. Japan Japan has so many distinctive adventures to offer that it is difficult to know where to start. Luckily, you don’t have to work too hard to find them; by simply existing in a city such as Kyoto or Tokyo for a few days you will be working your way down the to-do list without even trying! There are some strong natural contenders worth mentioning, however Japan’s individuality has developed through its people, culture and tradition. Mixed with a reputation for modern technology, creative arts and fast paced innovation, Japan is the master of juxtaposition. Pay your respects at an opulent shrine before admiring the view from your 38th floor skyscraper hotel. Slurp up a bowl of ramen with the locals at a street stall or sample a sushi taster menu surrounded by fighting ninjas. Lose yourself in the neon lights of Shinjuku or locate your zen meditating with monks in the mountains. If I was going, there are four iconic experiences that I would build my itinerary around: 1) Take in the National Sport at a sumo-wrestling tournament. Originally an ancient ceremony to appease the gods, a sumo tournament is as much a lesson in religious rituals as it is a sporting battle. 2) Shoot across the country on a Shinkansen (bullet train). This is the way to tour the country. Travel in comfort, style, and certainly on time, at speeds of up to 200mph. 3) The beautiful and mysterious Geisha are hugely respected and highly trained artists. Be mesmorised by a Geisha dance performance in Kyoto, or share tea at a traditional tea house. 4) Step back in time by staying at a ryokan, an old-fashioned Japanese Inn. Savour home-cooked regional dishes, sleep on a futon, and if your ryokan has an onsen (hot spring) soothe any aches away. Bucket List Highlight: Climb that perfectly conical active volcano, otherwise known as Mount Fuji. Hikes usually start in the day, with one night spent in a mountain hut, and then an early morning dash to the top for a stunning sunrise on top of the clouds.