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I’VE already had a go with Mark Zuckerberg’s snazzy new smart glasses with a screen built in.

I’m out in California at Meta Connect where the company has unveiled the new Meta Ray-Ban Display smart specs – and I got an early demo with the new gadget.

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If you’re not familiar with Meta Ray-Ban gear, they’re a fairly simple concept.

They’re a pair of eyeglasses with cameras built in (for taking pics), microphones for calling, speakers for listening to music, and an AI assistant to answer your spoken questions. In fact, you can even ask about things you’re looking at – like a statue or a piece of art. Or your own wardrobe, if you want style advice.

Now Meta and Ray-Ban have created a brand new version with a built-in display, and they’ve aptly named it the Meta Ray-Ban Display.

This hi-tech gadget is the company’s first publicly available pair of smart glasses with a screen built in. And honestly, they’re pretty incredible.

Before I get into the features that I found most impressive, here’s what you actually get.

META RAY-BAN DISPLAY EXPLAINED

These glasses have all the features of a regular pair of Meta Ray-Ban specs.

But the main difference is that there’s a new full-colour hi-res display.

It has impressive clarity: I could easily read small text, see enough detail in images, and colour was bright and vibrant.

Obviously it’s nowhere near the screen experience of a smartphone, or a mixed-reality headset like the Meta Quest 3 or Apple Vision Pro.

But for an overlay on a pair of glasses, it’s pretty wild.

More importantly, no one else can see what you’re looking at. There’s no sign to the outside world that you’ve even got display running.

The display will show apps from your phone, like WhatsApp text threads, or Instagram Reels, or a Google Maps navigation window.

And you can also chat to the AI helper and see its responses in plain view – rather than simply relying on an audio reply.

To control what you’re seeing, you don a Meta Neural Band on your wrist.

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This picks up on tiny micro-movements, detects the gestures you make, and translates them as controls on the glasses.

So touching your index finger to your thumb is equivalent to a click or tap on a PC or phone.

You can go back by tapping your index finger to your thumb.

And rolling your thumb on your fist lets you scroll up and down, as well as left and right.

It’s very easy and intuitive.

And because it’s using the wristband and not cameras or sensors, you can have your hand off to the side or even behind you and the controls still work. This is pretty special.

So, what are the special tricks that blew me away?

META RAY-BAN DISPLAY HANDS-ON – MY EXPERIENCE WITH THE SPECS

First up is Live Captions.

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This will caption the words of someone you’re speaking to in real life.

So as you look at their face, you’ll see their words popping up as text in real time.

This is obviously life-changing for anyone with hearing issues.

But even if you’re just struggling to hear someone in a crowded restaurant, it’s pretty useful.

But that’s not all.

The glasses are directional, so they know where you’re looking.

I was chatting to someone from Meta while another person was nearby having their own conversation.

And my live captions focused in on the Meta person and cut out all of the ambient conversation.

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Then when I turned my head to look at the other person next to me, the captions switched to their speech instead.

This all happened in an instant. Incredible.

The next thing I was impressed by isn’t necessarily a life-changing mega-feature.

But it’s pretty neat and I think actually very useful. So it shouldn’t be overlooked.

Recipes.

Yes, you can ask Meta AI how to cook something, and it’ll conjure up the recipe.

Then it’ll hover in front of you in easy steps, and you can swipe along with the thumb gesture.

So you can follow along and cook without having a physical book or laptop there.

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And if you’re baking, you don’t actually have to touch a book or a device while your hands are covered in flour, or pizza dough, or whatever else. Very convenient.

Next is the Google Maps navigation, which is so plainly handy that it hardly needs me to explain why it’s useful.

Your exact directions will appear on the screen, telling you which way to walk.

And yes, it only works with walking. You can’t use this feature while driving. Safety first.

It’s a neat way to find your way around without having to constantly pull out your phone.

And that means it’s also a nice way to avoid falling prey to those pesky phone-snatchers too.

Video-calling is also on my list of incredible features.

Not that video-calling is anything new, of course.

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But dialling on WhatsApp and having the person’s face pop-up right in front of my eyes without blocking the outside world felt very sci-fi.

Except it’s not sci-fi, because I did it and it was seamless. It’s not quite teleporting, but it’s pretty close.

And lastly, I want to highlight how simple the controls are.

These are exceptionally easy to use, even if you have very little tech experience.

The Neural Band is very responsive, and even gives you haptic feedbacks – which feel like tiny nudges – to let you know you’ve successfully completed an interaction.

It takes literally 30 seconds to learn the moves, and then just a few minutes more to fully master them.

I had the specs on for about 20 to 30 minutes, and by the end, I was easily controlling the apps with my hands behind my back.

If that all sounds like great fun, you’ll be glad to know that the glasses go on sale in the US at select stores on September 30.

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They’ll cost you $799 for a pair, and that includes the Meta Neural Band and a case too.

If you want one in the UK, Meta says that you’ll have to wait until early 2026.

It was an experience that will long live with me for a number of reasons, as I broke my Ibiza virginity in style at the iconic Pacha nightclub, writes Jamie Roberts

The brand Pacha is a globally recognised name and rightly so. It is widely known as being the iconic, glamorous, and historic nightclub that helped create the legendary dance culture on Ibiza 52 years ago.

So when the opportunity to party VIP at the height of summer arose, I knew I had to take it. As a White Island virgin at the ripe age of 38, I wondered if my more “chilled” outlook on nights out these days would see me last the distance until the 6am curfew. Let’s face it, in recent years, that time of day for me is more likely to be the start of the working day rather than still sipping tequila alongside thousands of revellers.

But, I knew I had to throw myself into the legend that is Pacha in full force as Dutch DJ Mau P headlined his fantastic Baddest Behaviour residency. Unlike some of the party island veterans, this may well have turned out to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me. And it’s safe to say that from the outset, the labyrinth that is Pacha Ibiza dragged me fully into its core.

READ MORE: Pacha Ibiza’s newest resident Mau P on ‘iconic’ moment with huge DJREAD MORE: Andy Carroll and Lou Teasdale’s romantic ‘make or break’ holiday after split

In the beginning, it was clear that the iconic spot isn’t just resting on its name and hoping legends of the past keep it afloat. In fact, as I was shown around at the start of the night, one passionate worker – who proudly shared he had been with the company for over 40 years – admitted his old office space is now an outdoor toilet as the space continues to evolve with the changes of society.

Explaining how Pacha is determined to keep moving with the times and add to the experience, he revealed that the smoking ban and the Covid pandemic made it a necessity to expand. This left the venue deciding to create further high-end boutique spots for its expectant revellers. But even as it grows, the space still gives off its unique vibes at every turn.

A special shout-out has to go out to the Paradiso rooftop bar. While anyone with a Pacha ticket can enter this area before midnight, it’s a welcome addition for those looking for a secluded pre-drink before hitting the dance floor until the early hours.

From walking through the Pacha Family outside spot, and also the Paradiso bar, it was noticeable that the venue was focusing on enhanced comfort with its open-top forest-like feel.

But once inside the venue, there were twists and turns that opened up new worlds thanks to an electronically tagged wristband. From the exclusive Ricardo’s room, to the special section floating above and behind the DJ booth to party the night away, the freedom to roam offered a lot more space. For those wanting to immerse themselves truly into the Pacha feel, you could also take to the main floor and embrace the busier vibe under the strobe lights and smoke cannons.

It’s clear the club takes pride in creating a buzz with its bolder than ever lighting displays and 360-degree immersive visuals. But despite all of the luxuries of the Pacha club and its impressive VIP, there was one thing throughout that surprised me – the apparent openness of smoking. As a non-smoker, this threw me back to my heavier partying days circa 2005 – just before the smoking ban came into play.

And while the smoking ban has created bougie outdoor elements, it seemed as though there may have been a much more relaxed take in certain private areas.

But is Pacha Ibiza VIP worth it? For this ageing dad-of-one, I’d definitely say yes – and I’m sure after taking it all in, it’s a benefit for those of all ages to fully experience one of the most iconic spots in the dance world.

As for the Ibiza Final Boss, long may he enjoy his newfound fame and VIP treatment. He is lucky enough to be living his best life this summer – something I would also certainly do if anyone was to film this ginger Mr Muscle character-of-old lookalike!

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The hotel can be easily accessed by taking the train from Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen

Ever fancied a quick nap in one of IKEA’s cosy display bedrooms? Turns out, you can do just that. Travel influencer Chelsea Dickenson, known online as the ‘Holiday Expert’, recently visited the furniture store’s world-first hotel and shared her verdict on its facilities.

Aptly named IKEA Hotell, this accommodation is situated in Älmhult, Sweden, but can be accessed easily by taking the train from Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen. It boasts a lounge area, cinema, restaurant and even a museum, which hotel guests can enter for free.

“I went to the world’s only IKEA HOTEL with @thismorning,” Chelsea wrote on Instagram. “…What’s even better is that you can catch a direct 1 hour 45 min train from Copenhagen Airport for just £22.

“Plus, you could stay the night and then catch a direct train to Stockholm in three hours and make it into an epic Scandi train trip!” In general, Chelsea said that staying in a cabin costs £45 per night, while double rooms cost £100 and family spaces are priced at £125.

Various perks come with a stay at the hotel, too, including free laundry facilities, a gym, and a kids’ play area. Breakfast is also included in the price.

However, one aspect in particular blew Chelsea away. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this was the food, with meatballs and even a ‘luxury hotdog range’ available at different spots around the premises.

Chelsea continued: “Meatballs available at the hotel and the museum restaurant – but expect fancier fair at their ‘Grillen’ restaurant, though they have a luxury hotdog range!!”

She later added: “Honestly, I know I was there for work but I BLOODY LOVED IT and thought it was great value for what you got! Plus, I was blown away by the food at Grillen. It was really, really good and not as ££ as I thought it would be for Sweden!”

Chelsea’s review was quickly showered with intrigued comments from viewers. Some even confirmed personally that the IKEA hotel exceeded their expectations, describing it as far nicer than they had imagined.

One person wrote: “We have just returned from a Scandinavian holiday and we stayed here. We made a detour especially. It was so much better than we thought it would be.” Meanwhile, another person said: “I had a reservation there for autumn 2020 (so that never happened!) and it’s still on my bucket list.”

Someone else added: “This sounds like such an incredible adventure!” For those interested in learning more about Chelsea’s stay at the IKEA hotel, you can watch her full review on ITVX here.

Additional information is available at the IKEA Hotell website here.

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Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe in Florida has opened its doors – with five new worlds to explore within – so naturally I went along to sample the magical delights

Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, has changed the face of the landscape and what it means to enjoy a holiday full of thrills and spills.

The £7 billion theme park is an immersive, multisensory experience with storytelling at its core. The resort’s fourth theme park and the first to open in 25 years, it invites guests to “explore vibrant worlds filled with extraordinary adventures that go beyond their wildest imaginations” – and it really is magical.

With 50 awe-inspiring attractions,entertainment, dining and shopping experiences in its new park, the Universal parks make up a 700-acre resort space.

READ MORE: Foodie visits biggest McDonald’s in the world and delivers honest 9-word verdict

But it’s not just the stunning scenery, experiences and rides that blew me away – my entire group were wowed by the culinary experiences inside the park. Forget burgers, hotdogs and popcorn – although readily available if you fancy – I dined on exquisite seafood from scallops to King Oysters at Atlantic and freshly made Dim Sum and Ramen noodles at The Blue Dragon, both in Celestial Park.

I also found the best purple pizza called Pizza Lunare in Pizza Moon, complete with an Ube crust – the chunks of roasted garlic were to die for – and melt-in-the-mouth beef brisket at The Oak & Star Tavern.

Let’s explore the worlds a little closer for when you plan your first visit…

Celestial Park

Step through the Chronos – the impressive first portal tower and entrance to the park that when ‘powered’ will align to open up five magical portals for visitors to explore.

I first enjoyed Celestial Park – the cosmic heart of Epic Universe and so much more than just a starting point. Local ‘Celestians’ who inhabit here tend to the lush, tree-lined walkways and I found myself whisked into a whimsical world of greenery, tropical flowers, fountains and ponds.

Everything here is connected heavily to astrology, from the first sight of Luna, goddess of the moon, who oversees the night’s luminescence by her Neptune Pools, to the far side of the park where Apollo, god of the sun, rests. Even the rides are well themed – I enjoyed a gentle sway on the Constellation Carousel and zipped at 62mph on Stardust Racers, a dual racing rollercoaster across 5,000ft of track, which is the park’s top thrill ride for speed and height.

Celestial Park interweaves the other worlds and acts as a calming decompression from the extremities of themes and music in each world. Grab a cocktail at Bar Zenith, watch the fountain show and marvel in the sheer beauty.

MUST DO Visit North Star Wintry Wonders, an all-year Christmas store where it really snows outside – even under the hot Florida sun.

Dark Universe

The storytelling continues as you move through this spooky portal and into monstrous Darkmoor Village. It makes sense – Universal is the pioneer of horror, after all.

Dr Victoria Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein’s great great-granddaughter, is the proud owner of this world’s central focus – Frankenstein Manor – and she has captured all the monsters but she’s having some trouble with Dracula. Ride Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment as you navigate the catacombs of the manor to “help” Victoria (you won’t help – but you will scream).

The ride’s technology is phenomenal and the animatronics are creative masterpieces. Fear not, it’s suitable for all ages.

Take time to explore the details. Look out for a little girl statue of Maria (a character from the 1931 Frankenstein film, who accidentally drowns), listen to sounds from beneath the vampire well and head to the Blazing Blade Tavern for a fiery sight to behold.

MUST DO Grab a bite to eat at Das Stakehouse. The theming is almost better than the food – and the food is delicious.

Super Nintendo World

Everything moves, spins, jumps and wobbles in Super Nintendo World. It’s a gaming world for everyone – even the big kids who are young at heart.

Providing one of the coolest portals (the walkway into each world), I entered via a Super Mario Warp Pipe and arrived inside Princess Peach’s Castle before exiting into a world of jaw-dropping colour and musical joy. Glistening golden coins, stomping Koombas, sliding 1-Up mushrooms and snapping Piranha Plants were everywhere as I looked across to Bowser’s Castle.

This is where I gave Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge a go and my dismal points were made up for by the fun and laughter I had hurtling turtle shells and banana peels at my friends (virtually, of course – the race car game, where we’re up against all the usual Super Mario bad guys, is played via a headset).

The character meet and greets here are sweet for youngsters – Toad is a rotund delight for toddlers, Mario and Luigi are cool for pre-teens and even the too-cool-for-school teenagers won’t be able to resist Donkey Kong.

Don’t miss the fabulous rollercoaster Minecart Madness – it’s a bumpy ride but the jumps over “missing” sections of the track are thrilling.

MUST DO Buy a $45 Power-Up wristband. It’s vital for playing the in-world mini games, collecting coins and banking some exclusive park stamps and badges, which connects to an app on your mobile phone and creates family friendly competition.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic

This world makes the Wizarding Worlds at Universal Orlando Resort a trio – also made up of Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Islands Of Adventure.

Step inside the magical streets of 1920s Paris, where the likes of Newt Scamander hangs out. Known as Place Cachée, this world is a fan delight, merging the magic of Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them in Paris, with the wonders of Harry Potter.

I hopped on the Métro-Floo to the British Ministry Of Magic for Dolores Umbridge’s trial for her crimes against magic on the mesmerising dark ride, Battle At The Ministry. Expect magical creatures and spells galore – and make time for the show, Le Cirque Arcanus. The puppetry will leave you speechless.

MUST DO Try a Gigglewater in Le Gobelet Noir – a bar owned by Nicolas Flamel, the alchemist who created the Philosopher’s Stone.

How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk

The largest of all the worlds at Epic Universe,the Viking village of Berk is breathtaking. On entry, I was faced with two 40ft carved wooden statues, guarding the village. This world is set after the second film, where there’s peace and harmony between man and dragon.

Look out for The Untrainable Dragon live show, which has the most beautiful score, with singers and actors akin to the talent of a West End show. And be sure to try the mac and cheese cone at Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel – it’s the novelty dish I never knew I needed.

MUST DO Look to the skies. Here you’ll find actual flying dragons – drones to us adults (don’t tell the kids), but they are very realistic.

HOW TO BOOK

Universal Orlando Resort

All Parks tickets are available through British Airways Holidays from £439 per person.

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at Universal Stella Nova Resort from £829 per person, travelling on selected dates in January 2026. Book by 9 June. For reservations visit britishairways.com/en-gb/destinations/orlando/holidays-inorlando

When Laura Hill told people she was going on a vineyard tour in Washington State, they were surprised — that’s because Washingtonians are keeping their exquisite wines a secret.

When most people think of a wine road trip in the US, they think of California. So when I told people I was going on a vineyard tour in Washington State, they were surprised, with many telling me they “didn’t know they made wine that far north”.

Neither did I, so I packed waterproofs and jumpers for my flight to Seattle expecting typical Pacific Northwest Coast rainy weather. I was pleasantly surprised a few days later to find myself sitting on a sunny terrace overlooking acres of vineyards, with temperatures in the high 20s in mid-October.

Far from being “too far north”, much of Washington State’s wine country is on a latitude of 46 degrees north – similar to regions including Burgundy and Bordeaux, boasted my tour guide. And with an extra two hours of sunlight per day than California on average, the region has perfect conditions. So why is Washington wine not better known worldwide? The answer is partly because Washingtonians are keeping it to themselves.

“Around 75% of wine made here is consumed within the state itself,” Adam Acampora of Woodinville Wines explained. That and the fact many wineries are small, with most making 5,000 cases per year or less.

So for the time being, it seems the best way to sample the wines of this well-kept secret region is to travel there and take a road trip.

It would be criminal to head to Washington and skip over Seattle so my first stop was the famous Space Needle. The 1961 monument is still the city’s tallest building. On a clear day it’s possible to see the surrounding lakes and mountain ranges from the viewing platform. After a pit stop at the Pike Place Market – renowned for fish being thrown to customers – it was time to hit the road in search of Washington’s wine.

The first “wine town” I visited was Woodinville itself, just half an hour from downtown Seattle. It is far from the vineyards, but it’s home to 130 wineries in four “wine districts” with various tasting rooms, restaurants and bars.

The map of the area reminded me of a theme-park guide with a “Downtown” and a “Hollywood District” to explore.

Before I hit the tasting rooms, a huge roaring fire and a complimentary glass of red wine was awaiting me as I checked into Willows Lodge, a boutique hotel, which leans into the cosy woodland lodge style with reclaimed wood furniture and fireplaces.

Rooms overlook tree-lined grounds giving the illusion of a countryside escape, but just on the other side of the car park were warehouse-like buildings housing wineries.

Inside one of the nondescript industrial buildings was Sparkman Cellars, a family-run winery where I tried a variety of reds in the modern tasting room. I quickly realised red is the tipple of choice here in Washington and most of the tastings included three reds with just one rose, white or sparkling.

My usual wine order is a dry white, so I was apprehensive. But I’m pleased to report there were plenty of “white-wine drinker’s reds” – aka light and fruity wines on offer –alongside the punchy, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignons the area is best known for. Many of Woodinville’s wineries are within walking distance from each other, so across the road is the oldest winery in Washington, Chateau Ste. Michelle which dates back to 1912. If Woodinville is a wine theme park, this is Cinderella’s Castle with a huge chateau-style building surrounded by gardens.

After a day of tasting the end product, it was time to hit the road (with a designated driver) and head east to the vineyards.

In just a two-hour journey from Seattle, the landscape changed from moody, Twilight-style forests to almost desert-like on the other side of the Cascade mountains. The area had a slight Wild West vibe with fruit stands and quaint clapboard farm shops to stop off at along the route for a true all-American road-trip experience. Despite the Wild West appearances, the vineyards I visited on the first stop, Yakima, were 100% Pacific Northwest in laid-back style. I joined a Harvest tour visiting three – Dineen Vineyards, Two Mountain Winery and VanArnam Vineyards – to see how the wine was made and was soon stomping grapes with my feet and tasting wine straight from the barrel.

“There’s no right or wrong, it’s about people having a good time,” said Branden Seymour, the new owner of VanArmen Vineyards as he clambered to the top of a stack of barrels to allow us to sample last year’s vintage unblended.

A short hike through the scenic Cowiche Canyon freshened me up before a two-hour drive east to Walla Walla, a college town near the Oregon border. The cute Main Street was home to half a dozen wine-tasting rooms, boutique bakeries and upmarket restaurants including the Salted Mill where American classics like mac and cheese and burgers are paired with local wines. I stayed at the historic Marcus Whitman hotel, proclaimed to be ‘‘the grandest hotel for at least 150 miles”. Sticking with the theme park idea, I’ll admit the 1928 13-storey property reminded me slightly of Disney’s Tower of Terror.

But newly-renovated chic interiors put a stop to that. This elegant style continued at the nearby vineyards, which I explored on an e-bike with Kickstand Tours (from £132). I enjoyed the driest white wine of the whole trip in the Ibizan-inspired tasting room at Grosgrain Vineyards, before heading to neighbouring Valdemar Estates. The ultra-modern winery was opened in 2019 by a Spanish family who have had vineyards in Rioja for more than 130 years, giving the region a European stamp of approval. Overall I found this wine tasting road trip more relaxed than any previous tours.

Combining a tipple or two with a city stop and a road trip filled with all-American icons means even people who don’t love wine would have a great time exploring the US’s lesser-known vineyard region.

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On track to create a World Record for the fastest person to visit every country on Earth, Michael Zervos has travelled to over 165 of the 195 countries that exist on Earth — and he’s curated a list of the best ones.

Greek American traveler Michael Zervos is on a mission.

The mission is to create a World Record for the fastest person to visit every country on Earth. And he’s doing incredibly well.

On track to beat the existing record through his ambitious Project Kosmos, Zervos has travelled to over 165 of the 195 countries that exist on Earth — and he’s rapidly closing in on his ultimate goal.

Expecting to complete his mission by May 2025, Zervos has curated a list of the 11 most underrated destinations around the world, which he believes deserve a spot on every traveller’s bucket list.

READ MORE: Ryanair, easyJet and BA – exact amounts you could earn as a flight attendant

Samoa

With a mere 160,000 visitors each year, Samoa is an untouched Pacific paradise that’s maintaining its unspoiled charm. Zervos says: “Many travellers simply don’t realize how accessible and budget-friendly Samoa actually is. The word ‘paradise’ gets thrown around a lot when describing the Pacific, but Samoa truly matches my idea of paradise on Earth.”

Beyond the breathtaking coastline and immaculate white-sand beaches, the island’s inland waterfalls, freshwater pools, and verdant jungle trails make Samoa a dream for explorers.

“The To Sua Ocean Trench is jaw-dropping. This natural sinkhole is filled with crystal-clear water and one of the most unique swimming spots I’ve ever encountered,” adds Zervos.

One reason Samoa remains so beautifully conserved is its deeply ingrained Fa’a Samoa culture (The Samoan Way), which has largely remained unchanged for thousands of years. This traditional lifestyle influences everything from social structures to daily interactions, emphasising community, respect, and hospitality.

Every village takes part in an annual beautification competition, ensuring the entire country is impeccably maintained by its inhabitants. The environment always takes precedence in Samoa.

Kazakhstan

“Overshadowed by its Soviet past, few travellers realize the incredible natural beauty that lies literally just beyond its cities,” Zervos says of Kazakhstan.

With around eight million visitors annually, Kazakhstan boasts easily accessible natural landscapes just a stone’s throw from Almaty, its lively former capital. Within hours of landing, you could be hiking around Big Almaty Lake, skiing at Shymbulak, or admiring the dramatic Charyn Canyon – Kazakhstan’s awe-inspiring equivalent to the Grand Canyon. Wild camping is allowed almost everywhere, letting tourists wake up surrounded by pristine nature.

“Visit Shymbulak Mountain and take the funicular up to the ski resort at the top. It’s unreal,” suggests Zervos. If you’re a fan of the Alps but want fewer crowds and lower costs, Kazakhstan will truly astonish you.

For a completely different experience, space buffs have the unique chance to see a live rocket launch at Baikonur, the world’s first and largest spaceport. Feel the earth tremble, hear the thunderous roar, and witness humanity’s next leap into space as you partake in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Madagascar

With 300,000 visitors each year, Madagascar is a haven of biodiversity, and 90% of its wildlife can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. Describing it as “prehistoric”, Zervos says it’s like “stepping into a lost world”

Lemurs, hyper-energetic, wide-eyed forest gymnasts with tails surpassing their body length, are often the stars of the show in Madagascar.

However, it’s the island’s otherworldly landscapes that really etch themselves into your mind. “The Avenue of the Baobabs looks like something out of a sci-fi film. You’re standing among trees that have been there for centuries – it’s otherworldly,” Zervos shares.

Madagascar is an untamed composition of thick jungles, beaches encircled by coral, striking rock features, and azure diving havens. “If you want nature, wildlife, adventure, and coastline all in one place, this island will leave you speechless,” Zervos adds.

Navigating Madagascar might be challenging due to its unpaved roads, but the Fianarantsoa-Côte Est railway offers a journey unmatched. Worn carriages clatter through dense forests, expansive rice fields, and secluded villages, where eager children greet you at each halt. A quintessential experience of ‘mora, mora’ (slowly, slowly), encapsulating Madagascar’s leisurely rhythm of life.

Malta

A Mediterranean treasure with a history spanning thousands of years, Malta can hold its own against the historical heavyweights, Greece and Italy. “My Greek heritage can’t resist an island. Malta feels like one of the greatest hits of Europe, but with fewer tourists and more surprises. Riding a motorcycle across the island was an unforgettable experience,” shares the pro-traveller.

This sun-kissed jewel in the Mediterranean is a cultural cocktail – you’ll hear a language reminiscent of Arabic, see architecture with an Italian flair, and discover cultural layers moulded by Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and the British. The fortified city of Mdina appears plucked from a medieval fairytale, while the Blue Grotto’s azure waters give Capri a run for its money. Malta welcomes 2.7 million visitors annually.

Zervos says: “History lovers will lose their minds here. Malta’s temples are older than the pyramids. And where else can you visit prehistoric sites, medieval fortresses, and WWII bunkers all in one afternoon?”

Unlike its more ostentatious neighbours, Malta offers affordability, picturesque landscapes, historical richness, and year-round sunshine – even in winter.

Tunisia

According to Zervos, “Morocco gets all the hype, but Tunisia surprised me in the best way. The people were so down-to-earth, warm, and genuinely curious about visitors – without the constant tourist hustle.”

Tunisia marries Mediterranean allure with North African spirit and sees 9 million visitors each year. You’ll stumble upon ancient ruins like Carthage, whitewashed coastal towns like Sidi Bou Said, and expansive desert landscapes straight out of a Star Wars film (literally). But what truly captivated Zervos? The cuisine.

“Tunis has one of the best street food scenes I’ve ever encountered. I did a food tour with my buddy Mehdi, who runs the YouTube channel Tunisian Street Food, and I still dream about the stuff we tried. Fricassés, brik, grilled merguez – it was unforgettable.”

Venture beyond the capital to discover Roman amphitheatres that give Italy’s a run for their money, sip mint tea in labyrinthine medinas, or embark on a camel trek into the Sahara.

“There are so many layers to Tunisia. It’s not just beautiful – it’s complex, creative, and full of contrasts.”

Lesotho

Perched at the highest average altitude globally, Lesotho presents otherworldly landscapes and welcomes around 1.3 million visitors annually. The Sani Pass, a rough and tumble 4×4 trail, offers an adrenaline-pumping ride – often referred to as an ‘African massage’ – before treating adventurers to breathtaking vistas and friendly faces at Africa’s loftiest pub, located at the summit.

“Lesotho is raw, friendly, and ridiculously scenic. Riding on horseback through the mountains here felt like a movie scene. Absolutely breathtaking,” shares Zervos.

Lesotho also prides itself on Afriski, the only ski resort in Africa. Here, you can glide through fresh powder at over 3,000 meters amidst age-old shepherd paths, a unique experience on the continent.

Bhutan

“Bhutan is unlike anywhere else on Earth,” claims Zervos, captivated by the mystical aura of Thimphu’s mist and the gravity-defying Tiger’s Nest Monastery in this secluded Himalayan kingdom. With a mere 60,000 visitors each year, Bhutan beckons as an essential destination for 2025.

“It’s the kind of place that stays with you, haunting your thoughts long after you leave. I think about my time in this beautiful country every week. Walking through Thimphu felt like walking on clouds.”

Bhutan stands out not just for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its unique approach to national well-being, being the only nation that values Gross National Happiness (GNH) above economic metrics.

Its dedication to sustainability ensures tourism is thoughtfully regulated, cultural heritage is fiercely safeguarded, and the natural environment is held sacred. However, times are changing: Bhutan has eased its entry rules and lowered its fees, presenting an opportune moment to explore its wonders before it becomes a tourist magnet.

Pakistan

In contrast to India’s frenetic vibe, Pakistan promises a more tranquil yet equally enriching experience, welcoming around 1 million visitors annually. Zervos adds: “Peshawar, with its bustling bazaars, intricately carved wooden doors, and centuries-old architecture is a dream for photographers and filmmakers – without the overwhelming crowds of Delhi or Mumbai.”

But Pakistan isn’t just a feast for the eyes. It’s a treasure trove of value for travellers, from bespoke clothing crafted in mere hours to delectable dishes that cost almost nothing. And for those eyeing Nepal for mountain escapades, Pakistan boasts even more awe-inspiring summits and pristine paths, with thrilling road trips passing five of the world’s 14 highest mountains.

“The people, the food, the landscapes, and the sheer affordability make Pakistan a must-visit for adventurers and filmmakers like me. I can’t wait to return.”

Eritrea

Dubbed a “sleeper favourite” by Zervos, Eritrea stands as one of Africa’s most distinctive and off-the-beaten-path gems, attracting a modest 150,000 visitors annually. Its capital, Asmara, is a living museum of 1930s Art Deco splendour, meriting its UNESCO World Heritage acclaim.

“Asmara’s architecture is mind-blowing. And the people are so friendly – it’s one of those places that welcomes you without fuss or fanfare,” says the Greek American.

Venturing beyond the urban charm, Eritrea’s Red Sea coastline boasts virgin beaches and the unmarred Dahlak Archipelago, a diver’s haven yet to be overrun by tourism. Culinary delights abound too, with fluffy injera, hearty stews, and arguably the finest macchiatos outside Italy – a nod to its colonial history, now mastered in Asmara’s cafés. Indeed, Eritrea is an intriguing yet highly controlled destination. Travelling responsibly in this country involves patronising small, independent businesses and maintaining flexibility.

Zervos notes: “The safety and the lack of tourists make it feel like a rare and authentic discovery in a world where most places have already been explored.”

Estonia

Estonia is like a fairytale come to life, attracting four million visitors a year, with its capital, Tallinn, being especially enchanting – particularly in winter. Zervos shares, “In December, the old town transforms into a glowing Christmas wonderland. It’s like something out of A Christmas Carol.”

Visiting Estonia during the winter months offers a unique opportunity to witness the Northern Lights without the hordes of tourists or the high costs associated with Norway or Iceland. In serene areas such as Lahemaa or Saaremaa, you can revel in the awe-inspiring Aurora amid pristine landscapes, all without expensive tours and just a short trip from the urban buzz.

And the ideal way to soak in these experiences? Zervos suggests: “If you want that cosy winter feeling but without the crazy crowds of Paris or Vienna, Tallinn is the place to go. A stroll through its cobblestone streets with a cup of mulled wine in hand is pure magic.”

Suriname

A vibrant South American confluence of cultures, unspoiled rainforest excursions, and vivid colonial history welcomes just 300,000 visitors yearly.

Suriname serves as South America’s cultural crucible, with its capital, Paramaribo, showing off well-preserved architecture, bustling markets, and a sizzling food scene blending Javanese, Creole, Dutch, and Indian flavours.

Not to be outdone by its cultural offerings, Suriname boasts part of the Guiana Shield, one of Earth’s last ecological strongholds. With its rainforest canopy covering more than 90% of the country, eco-adventurers can go on multi-day river voyages, spotting creatures like giant otters and howler monkeys.

“Suriname is one of those places where nature reigns. Unlike Brazil or Peru, you won’t be surrounded by crowds, making this Amazon experience feel truly wild and untouched.”