Several months of self-isolation have taught people to appreciate what was previously taken for granted. Many people missed the walks, jogging and picnics in the woods and parks. Now is the perfect time to take the opportunity and start making a list of places you would like to travel to. Below are a selection of some of the world's richest destinations to inspire travelers to plan their next Emirates vacation.
Cambodia, Kirirom National Park
“Green, refreshing and calm” are the words most appropriate to describe Kirirom National Park, Cambodia's premier park. The name Kirirom literally means "lucky mountain". It is truly a place that can make anyone happy thanks to its many rivers, waterfalls, fragrant pine forests and refreshing mountain air - all at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level. Visitors can go swimming or kayaking, and hiking and biking trails are available for those travelers looking to stay dry. The park offers accommodation for all tastes and budgets, from tents to luxury villas. Kirirom is located just 2.5 hours from Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, and is popular with locals looking to spend a weekend in nature. And, as you know, locals know the most interesting places best of all.
Vietnam, Hanoi, Mai Chau
The Mai Chau Valley in Vietnam is one of the best places to visit during your fall trips. This hiking paradise is located in the northwest of the country, three hours from Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Mai Chau is a rural valley with hiking and cycling trails, surrounded by karst mountains, rice paddies and authentic villages frozen in time. The best walking route goes through two caves: Mo Luong ("Soldier") and Chiu ("1000 steps"). Travelers can spend the night at Tais' traditional unique pile house in one of the two largest villages, Pum Kung and Lak. Oddly enough, staying here is like a summer vacation in the village with your grandmother in Russia, only in Vietnamese style: morning roosters, homemade food and traditional entertainment.
Thailand, Bangkok, Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai is part of the Dong Fayen Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is great for travelers who prefer walking safaris. The national park is located on an area of 2,168 km² of tropical and evergreen forests, meadows, waterfalls and mountains. It is highly recommended to travel in the park with a guide or with an excursion group, so as not to get lost and do not miss important places. Speaking of them, the 600-meter Haew Narok water cascade is on the list of must-see locations. Travelers wishing to see breathtaking landscapes should go to the Khao Khiau (1,350 meters) or Khao Laem (1,328 meters) observation deck, while swimmers will appreciate the refreshing waters of the Ban Tha Chang natural spring. Khao Kho is about a three-hour drive from Bangkok, and travelers can also get there by bus, train or even plane. For visitors who decide to spend a few days in this national park, there is the opportunity to spend the night in Pak Chong district of the large Nakhon Ratchasima province.
UAE, Dubai, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
DDCR was established by the Emirates Group in 2003, becoming the first reserve in the UAE to receive official government support. The reserve covers 225 km² and is the focal point for conservation programs to protect critical habitats and endangered animal species such as the white oryx, saber-horned and sand antelope. The best way to explore the dunes and their inhabitants is on a safari. Hikers can also ride buggy and camel rides. For a complete immersion in the atmosphere of a desert reserve, visitors have the opportunity to stay at the Al Maha Desert Spa Hotel and spend the night in the desert itself.
Hong Kong, Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park
For water adventures, go to the Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park in Hong Kong, the main thing is not to forget your snorkelling equipment. The park is located in a protected bay and is a protected area that contains about 60 species of stony corals and over 120 species of fish. The clear waters of this marine park provide ideal conditions for swimming and exploring the rich underwater world. Snorkelling equipment and kayaks can be rented from nearby Hoi Ha Village, which also has great deals for boat excursions. The park is surrounded by lush green hills suitable for hiking.
