Sri Lanka & the Maldives

Put aside the idea of Colombo as a pitstop and nothing more, and spend a day or two getting in touch with Sri Lanka's capital city. Hop in a tuk tuk and head off to explore its intricate architecture from the Old Dutch Hospital to the striking Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, delve into the city's artistic side and learn about its history at the National Museum. Get to know the people of Colombo during a cooking lesson with a local chef, wandering through the markets at Pettah or catching a game of cricket.

One of the most otherworldly places in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya has to be seen to be fully comprehended. Surrounded by swathes of deep green jungle, the 200-metre-high rock fortress is already striking from miles away or floating overhead in a hot air balloon. If you'd prefer to see it up-close, begin the journey at dawn, climbing over 1,200 steps until you reach the top. Once there, explore its beautiful terraced gardens, canals and pools, and marvel at the Sky Palace, all of which were built in the 5th century. For a more tourist-free view of the fortress, climb nearby Pidurangala rock. The Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks aren't far away, and if you're visiting between June and September, you could witness the largest annual gathering of Asian elephants.

The southernmost point of the Cultural Triangle and the gateway to Sri Lanka's Hill Country, Kandy is the destination that has it all. Delve into its history on a walkabout or tuk tuk ride through the city, admiring the ornate architecture and stopping at the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth where you can see Buddha's tooth. You can really get under the skin of Kandy with a visit to its markets or a lesson in traditional drumming. Natural beauty abounds and a stroll alongside the lake is a must, its surface reflecting the soaring hills and mountains, or enjoy the cool atmosphere of its once-royal gardens. Set your sights a little further afield for a day of hiking in the Knuckles Mountains or spending time with elephants on their own turf.