It is difficult to pinpoint a favourite memory from my time in Sri Lanka as every day has so many fantastic moments. One experience that does stand out were the games drives we went on in Wilpattu National Park. We were incredibly lucky to have an amazing leopard sighting, thanks to our passionate and very skilled naturalist and tracker at Leopard Trails- of course not everyone is so fortunate, but the experience is rewarding regardless.

Torres del Paine National park in Chilean Patagonia was a huge contrast- stepping out of the mini-van and being battered by the high winds was my first real experience of Patagonian weather – a revitalising experience! There are excursions for everyone here. You don’t have to head out on a hard-core eight-hour hike to see the bright blue icebergs which have drifted away from the impressive Grey Glacier (which, contrary to its name, is actually contrasting shades of bright blue). Gentle walks, boat trips, horse-riding and bird-watching excursions through the mountainous terrain and forest landscapes are also on the menu. It’s impossible to describe just how incredible this region is, I highly recommend seeing it for yourself!

I stayed in Rawla Narlai, which is rural India at its best. This beautiful heritage property exudes character and after the chaos of the big cities, it is the perfect place to catch your breath. I would highly recommend the dinner by the ancient stepwell, for a delicious selection of curries to the sound of traditional Rajasthani music. I always encourage people to visit this property, it really was a highlight of my trip.