Floreana, Galapagos

Floreana is the least populated Galapagos island and yet home to its most scandalous tales!

Gossip aside, it is home to Post Office Bay, where a post barrel was erected in the late 18th century by English whalers. Passing sailors took the messages onwards – and it still functions today.

The nearby Devil’s Crown is one of Galapagos’ most special snorkels.

A (at times strong) current pushes you past the remains of a submerged volcano with its crater ‘horns’ still exposed, and you’ll see a brilliant array of colourful fish and corals.

Great viewpoints at Asilo de La Paz and Baroness view, too.

Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s capital city, Havana, lies in the north of the island and has a population of 2 million.

It appears you have been whisked back in time as you jostle with the old Chevvies and Cadillacs on your way through the city.

Some of the city’s highlights include the restored colonial architecture, the promenade El Malecon, El Prado avenue and the historic Plaza Vieja with a wide range of bars and restaurants.

There are interesting museums and galleries and many picturesque streets worth wandering through. You’ll find plenty of markets selling crafts, jewellery, clothes and books.

Being Cuba of course there is no shortage of live music and dance venues to cater for all tastes.

Iguaçu Falls, Brazil

The mighty roar and spectacle of the Iguaçu Falls cannot fail to impress the visitor.

This vast network of falls, the largest in the world, straddles the Brazil – Argentina border and is within touching distance of Paraguay.

More than 80% of the Falls are on the Argentina side of the border, but it is from the Brazilian side you get the vast, panoramic view and the wonderful photo opportunities.

There is also a walkway that takes you to the lower base of the Devil’s Throat Falls – not for those that want to stay dry!

Ingapirca Ecuador

Ingapirca (meaning wall of the Inca) is just an hour from Cuenca and is the most important Inca archaeological site in Ecuador.

The site is in good condition and consists of a main elliptical building thought to be a sun temple, with typical Inca features such as trapezoidal doorways and niches.

There are Inca trails leading to and from the site, so you can visit on a day trip or incorporate a visit as part of a trekking itinerary.

You can travel here from Cuenca, or make it part of a trip from Baños to Cuenca.

Isabela, Galapagos

Isabela is the largest and one of the youngest Galapagos islands, and its small human but enormous wildlife population make it perfect for cruises and hotel-based visits.

It also has a mile-long, pristine white-sand beach, with some small and cool bars to hang out in with some sundowners.

Must-do’s include Sierra Negra volcano and its active caldera, head to Los Tuneles to snorkel face-to-face with sharks and turtles and spend some time looking for penguins at Las Tintoreras.

Isabela is great for adventure and families alike.

For cruises only, Punta Vicente Roca is a lovely snorkel, and Urbina Bay is a top spot for wild giant tortoises and colourful land iguanas.