From tumbling waterfalls to dense forests, and rugged peaks to tranquil coves, The Balkan Peninsula is a mosaic of outdoor experiences. While Croatia and Greece are tourist hotspots, other destinations such as Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania remain undiscovered gems. 

The region is widely known for its history of instability but efforts to boost business and tourism sectors have since strengthened international relations. Travelling to the Balkans today means vibrant cultural developments, post-war relics and breathtaking landscapes, scattered with diverse ethnic and religious communities.   

For unique city breaks, visit Belgrade, Ljubljana, Tirana, Mostar or Sarajevo for a confluence of architectural styles, heritage sites and a thriving café society. Over in Blidinje Nature Park, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, outdoor enthusiasts can roam Roman-era trails scattered with wildflowers, while the Dinaric Alps offer plentiful opportunities for nature-lovers, and North Macedonia’s wineries are well worth exploring. 

The coastal town of Herceg Novi, Montenegro, is swiftly becoming an exciting new destination on the Adriatic Riviera, with nearby hiking trails and sights such as the Old Town, Church of St. Elijah, and villa of former Yugoslavian president Josip Broz Tito. The One&Only Portonovi offers an ultra-luxe stay on the waterfront, with breathtaking views and fantastic wellness facilities. 

The Belize Tourism Board recently launched The Garifuna Trail, an initiative supporting the country’s indigenous heritage. Garifuna are descendants of the Afro-indigenous population who came to Honduras, followed by Belize, in the 18th century after being exiled by European colonisers from St Vincent. 

The Garifuna Trail was created to support local sustainable tourism development, providing economic stability for more than 11,000 Garifuna people through increased investment in local businesses and shifting the focus away from over-tourism areas. The two key locations are Dangriga Town, home to the Gulisi Garifuna Museum, Drums of Our Fathers Monument and the Garinagu Crafts and Art Gallery, and the nearby Hopkins Village - a small community considered to be the cultural centre of the Belize Garifuna.

Complete your trip with a stay at Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection, an idyllic property off the coast of northern Belize. This hotel is approximately a 3-4 hour drive from Dangriga and Hopkins, so we suggest embarking on a weekend road trip before heading back to the hotel for some beachside reflection.

Australia’s island state is a hotbed of nature-filled adventures, with spacious national parks and a splattering of island communities. To the north of Tasmania is Cradle Mountain, Trowutta Arch, Edge of the World – which marks the longest stretch of uninterrupted ocean between Argentina and Tasmania – and Tarkine, the largest cool-temperate rainforest in Australia. 

Along the island’s southern peninsula is Mount Wellington, Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay, and Maria Island, a prime setting for the mischievous Tasmanian Devils. The small archipelago sits beside Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart. Here, you’ll find The Tasman, a charming property located in the city centre.

Explore our full portfolio of hotels at ASMALLWORLD Collection, where you can receive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit and more at no extra cost!