LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAYS

Combining wonderfully wild Zambia with Malawi, ‘the warm heart of Africa’, lining its namesake lake, this special safari is arranged with the prestigious Robin Pope Safaris company, known for its small, luxurious, remote camps, in pristine wilderness areas

The pyramids of Giza are the country’s most photographed monuments, the timeless Nile is its most vital asset. These two icons of Egypt come together on a tour of tombs, temples, and treasures

A journey through the cities and the centuries, via coasts, peaks and plateaus, enjoy a comprehensive circling of significant sights, from Istanbul, at ‘the bridge of continents’, to ancient sites, intriguing culture and ethereal landscapes

A brilliant short break in magical Marrakech, this tour is based within the old medina, staying at the traditional Angsana Riad, where historic character is combined with contemporary comfort, and landmark sites, from souks to palaces, are all within easy reach

From the widest cascade of water on Earth, Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls; to the pools, pans, and plains of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, and mahogany forests of Chobe National Park

From north to south, mountain to shore, this tour charts the history and heritage of ‘Aphrodite’s Island’ via classical temples, Byzantine chapels, Venetian castles, and hidden villages

Explore the Christian and Ottoman heritage of Istanbul (formerly Byzantium and Constantinople) including a Bosphorus cruise and visits to palaces, mosques, churches and bazaars, staying in historic hotels

A great value tour of the Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan including Tashkent, Bukhara and Samarkand, using the high speed railway line to travel between the capital Tashkent and Bukhara

A wonderfully relaxing week, on and around Lake Garda, this beautiful ‘breather’ is a well-balanced blend of unhurried touring and time at leisure. Tranquillity reigns around the lake, and charming towns add culture and character

In a full fortnight of discovery, this is the classic ‘long cruise’ from Cairo to Aswan, with a different perspective, as it sails to the lesser-known landmarks of ancient Egypt, beside the Nile, in Luxor, and on Lake Nasser; and adds an insight of local culture

A fabulous ‘return to Egypt’ for those who have seen its most famous sites, this cruise focuses on the less-visited length of the Nile, between Cairo and Luxor, travelling through tranquil scenery to unsung tombs, temples, and towns, off the tourist track

Explore the scenic splendour and spiritual aura of Nepal, from Himalayan gorges to Hindu temples, and from the birthplace of Buddha to Chitwan’s wildlife and lakeside Pokhara