World Heritage Sites

Most of us could name a few World Heritage sites across the globe, but each year UNESCO adds some lesser known locations to a list of more famous names. Reputation isn’t everything though, so let WTG do the hard work as we pick out the highlights of the 2009 new additions that are vying for your affection.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines

Few diving destinations around the world can offer such a personal underwater experience as Tubbataha Reef. Situated off the coast of the Philippines in the Sulu Sea, the isolated reef was formed thousands of years ago when volcanic islands sunk into the ocean. The attached coral reefs weren't willing to go down without a fight and continued growing upwards towards the surface. Over time this resulted in the creation of a unique 100m (328 ft) underwater coral wall and two coral islands that are home to over 100 species of bird and 500 different types of fish including manta rays, lionfish and clownfish.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal, Wales

One of the major achievements of the Industrial Revolution, the design of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal in north-eastern Wales was used as an inspirational template for similar projects all over the world. The elegance of the structure and the fact that the canal was built without the use of locks is even more impressive given the undulating nature of the landscape that surrounds it. All that engineering innovation, courtesy of pioneering designer Thomas Telford, certainly benefits anyone who visits today. Whether you cross by foot or by boat, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the River Dee valley from 125 ft (38m) in the air.

The Dolomites, Italy

Although the Dolomites are hardly a well kept secret, it's not surprising that the mountain range in north-eastern Italy has been acknowledged as a site of global significance. The mountain range is a series of stunning visual contrasts, with pale faced limestone rock faces towering over a variety of different types of forests and meadows. In the spring and summer, take a walk in the Dolomites; watch the sun bounce off glassy lakes and go home with photos of picture perfect villages or one of the 50 types of orchid found here. In the winter, enjoy some of the most thrilling ski runs on the continent.

The Wadden Sea, Germany/Netherlands

This 400km (248 mi) stretch of coast that covers both Germany and the Netherlands is a nature lover's paradise. As the largest unbroken system of mud and sands flats in the world, it has as unsurprising wealth of bird and marine wildlife. Around 12 million birds, such as the common shelduck and hen harrier, pass through the area throughout the year and the Wadden Sea is a stopping point for migratory journeys from across the globe. These transitory visitors join the more permanent residents, such as harbour and grey seal. Turn inland and vibrant green salt marshes await, or at low tide turn the other way to walk out to one of the nearby islands. Just watch out for the prawns and hermit crabs that are bound to be darting around your feet.

Cidade Velha, Cape Verde Islands

In the south of Santiago Island, the town of Cidade Velha is a testament to Europe's colonial impact on Africa during the slave trade. It was a major stopping point for slaves being transported to the Caribbean and Brazil and those who disobeyed their masters were punished on the white marble whipping post located in the centre of the town. Potential invaders were faced with the daunting sight of Forte Real de São Filipe, built to see off a variety of pirates, as well as the French and English. Cidade Velha has had its fair share of illustrious visitors; Vasco de Gama and Christopher Columbus moored here on different journeys across the globe.

Mount Wutai, China

Peace and tranquillity is guaranteed for anyone who visits the last of our picks from the 2009 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the four sacred Buddhist Mountains in China, Mount Wutai and the 53 sacred monasteries found on its five terraces had a profound affect on the country's palace architecture for 1,000 years. Hundreds of statues line the site, each telling a different story, while the vertical forests that fall away from Mount Wutai spend much of the year topped with a dusting of snow. Designed to show the harmony between man and nature, it's easy to see why pilgrims still visit Mount Wutai today.

Author: Jonathan Moore

On the right track: Scenic rail journeys

From the spectacular fjords of western Norway to the dense forests of Lapland and the myriad lakes of eastern Finland, beautiful scenery awaits at every bend on a train journey in Scandinavia.

Jump aboard to discover the region's most thrilling rail trips.

Bergensbanen, Norway

Celebrating its centenary in 2009, the Bergensbanen (Bergen Line) originally began life as a vital new link between the country's two biggest cities, Bergen in the east and Oslo in the west. Around 15,000 men worked on this huge engineering project, laying tracks round the clock and carving out no fewer than 182 tunnels. It was a daring undertaking that cost the Norwegian state a whopping 50 million kroner, equivalent to the whole state budget at the time.

It's the stretch along the Hardangervidda, Europe's highest mountainous plateau, which boasts the most spectacular scenery, and has made this railway famous the world over. Finse, at 1,222m (4,008ft) above sea level, is the highest point on the line, and a popular destination for nostalgic winter sports enthusiasts, although other ski resorts such as Geilo, Gol and Nesbyen also draw their fair share of visitors.

With rough weather, extreme temperatures and the risk of avalanches ever present, the line remains a challenge to run despite advances in technology, but the railway is open year round. The trip between Oslo and Bergen takes about eight hours.

Rauma Line, Norway

Not as well known, but arguably just as beautiful as the Flåm Railway, is the Rauma Line (Raumabanen), which snakes its way through stunning alpine scenery from Dombås, a mountain village in Dovre, to the town of Åndalsnes, by Romsdalfjord. The 124km (77 miles) track winds over 32 bridges and through four horseshoe-tunnels. Parts of the route featured in the film Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

During the summer (June-August), the focus is on sightseeing; audio commentaries are offered in several languages, including English, and the trains slow in speed enabling visitors to enjoy the scenery. The panoramic windows mean it's easy to take photographs too. Highlights include: Trollveggen, Europe's tallest vertical rock face (watch out for rock-climbers and base-jumpers); Kylling Bridge (particularly impressive when floodlit at night), and the emerald-green Rauma River, which follows the tracks for part of the route.

Flåm Railway, Norway

A side line from the Bergensbanen, the Flåm Railway plunges its way from Myrdal down to the majestic Aurlandfjord some 800m (2,624ft) below. It is one of the world's steepest railway lines, clinging to the mountainside at an angle that will make you forget about reaching for your camera and clench your armrest that little bit harder instead. Indeed, it's such a steep descent that trains are equipped with five braking systems.

Another masterpiece of Norwegian engineering, the 20km stretch passes through 20 tunnels, most of which had to be excavated manually - each metre taking a team of over 100 men a month to dig. From the rugged peaks surrounding Myrdal to the lush valley by the fjord below, the landscape is breathtaking, dotted at every bend with rushing streams, waterfalls, picturesque wooden farms and even mountain goats.

Inlandsbanan, Sweden

No trip to Scandinavia would be complete without a foray into Lapland, and the Inlandsbanan (Inland Railway) between Mora and Gällivare is one of the best ways to discover this untamed wilderness. Travel in summer to experience the midnight sun and make the most of the long, warmer days. Or venture north in the midst of winter and marvel at the white frozen wonderland from the comfort of your (heated) carriage. You may even be lucky and catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Whatever the season, there is plenty to see and do along the way. Discover Sami culture, explore rugged, unique nature (the Laponia Area is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list), try your hand at angling, pick cloudberries, join a reindeer safari or even visit the local mosquito museum in Galliväre (ouch!). Package tours are available, or you can travel independently with the Inlandsbanan Card, enabling you to hop on and off during a two week period.

Helsinki-Savonlinna, Finland

To see the best Finland has to offer, head east from Helsinki to the Finnish Lakeland region, one of the most beautiful areas in the whole of the country. The trip to Savonlinna in the heart of the Lake Saimaa district takes just under five hours, with a change at Parikkala, cutting through dense forests and passing countless lakes.

Savonlinna itself is a picturesque town. It's home to one of northern Europe's most dramatic castles, and hosts a popular opera festival in July. Book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to travel around this time. As with everywhere else in Scandinavia, trains are modern, comfortable and on time, but in Finland they are also very cheap, making this an ideal way to explore the country.

Further info:

Norwegian Railway: www.nsb.no
Flåm Railway: www.flaamsbana.no
Inlandsbanan: www.grandnordic.se
Finnish Railway: www.vr.fi

Author: Marie Peyre

World Cup 2010: England match guide

Follow England on their pursuit to South Africa World Cup 2010 glory and discover more about the match locations, from where to celebrate wins to sightseeing highlights.

Match 1: England Vs USA

Date: 12 June 2010
Kick off time: 2030
Location: Rustenberg, South Africa

Set in the heart of the savannah bushland, Rustenberg is nestled at the foothills of the breathtaking Magaliesburg Mountains. The internationally renowned Sun City resort is on the doorstep. Billed as South Africa's premier holiday resort visitors can marvel at the stunning view over the sprawling savannah and majestic mountains with a hot air balloon ride, cool off at the Valley of Waves water park or explore the resort's very own jungle.

The Rustenburg Nature Reserve lies on the edge of the Magaliesberg Protected Natural Environment and is dominated by the rocky ridges of the Magaliesberg, with sightings of roaming kudu, antelopes, leopards and over 230 species of birds all common.

Where to celebrate: Make like the locals and celebrate a win in true African style at a Lucky's Tavern for traditional music and festivities or head to Castle Corner, Heystek Street, and party with fellow World Cup supporters at the English-style pub.

Explore further afield: Take a short drive to the energetic city of Johannesburg and explore the city's highlights, including vibrant Soweto, Gold Reef City Theme Park and Casino, the Johannesburg Zoo and Military History Museum, the culturally alive Newtown district, and the excellent thought-provoking Apartheid Museum.

Match 2: England Vs Algeria

Date: 18 June 2010
Kick off: 2030
Location: Cape Town, South Africa

With its stunning bay location, surrounded by wild, white-sand beaches and set against the canvas of Table Mountain, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

There is a vast amount to see and do in Cape Town, however, the compact centre is easy to navigate. One of the most iconic attractions is the defining landmark of Table Mountain. The cable car to the summit takes just six minutes and rotates through 360 degrees on the way up ensuring everyone gets to take in the entire view. Once at the top explore the mountain on a walking trail, or marvel at the view from one of the look-out points.

It might be South Africa's winter in June, but with many sunny days it is still perfect for exploring Cape Town's spectacular beaches. The stretch known as Millionaire's Row is the place to celeb spot, and the four beaches in Clifton are some of the city's finest.

Head further out to Cape Point, for amazing views of the city. Have lunch in the Two Oceans Restaurant, sat high above the crashing waves of False Bay.

Where to celebrate: Cape Town is a party town, which attracts frequent visits from international DJs and a lively crowd, so there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from for post-World Cup match revelry. Head to Mama Afrika, 178 Long Street, for great local food and live music in a rowdy atmosphere - you might even get to bang the bongos in celebration.

Explore further afield: Take a drive to the nearby township of Gugulethu and try some authentic South African food at a popular Mzoli braai place (barbecue) and sample some Umngqusho Nenyama (samp and beans with stew). Those with more time on their hands can make the most of the five days until England's third match in Port Elizabeth and take the scenic drive along the Garden Route. Stop off at the quaint town of Knysna and visit the local elephant sanctuary where you can feed the gentle giants and watch them roam free, and explore the many local townships and luring vineyards en route.

Match 3: England Vs Slovenia

Date: 23 June 2010
Kick off: 1600
Location: Nelson Mandela Bay / Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Nelson Mandela Bay / Port Elizabeth is surrounded by immaculate beaches and boasts wonderful Victorian architecture and the city also has the richest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in South Africa - making for a pretty base from which to explore the local 5-star game lodges, the sunshine coast, with its rugged unspoiled beaches and Hogsback, which is rumored to be the inspiration for the Lord of the Rings books.

As the country's second-oldest city, Nelson Mandela Bay / Port Elizabeth has a plethora of historical attractions. Follow the popular Donkin Heritage Walking Trail, which takes in a whopping 47 attractions, including the King George VI art gallery, an open-air theatre, a conservatory, numerous churches and an opera house.

If you want to experience Africa's wildlife, the Kragga Kamma Game Park is only 30 minutes from the city centre and is home to rhinos, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe and zebra - all roaming free in natural surroundings with guided driving tours a must-do.

Where to celebrate: The city has a vibrant nightlife and the popular Gondwana Lounge situated on the beachfront is a popular spot and sets the scene for a joyous evening of World Cup celebration.

Explore further afield: An hour's drive away, Port Alfred offers some breathtaking views and further on East London is a great spot for enjoying lunch at a beachfront restaurant. If you want to see what rural life in Africa is all about then head to Dutywa and listen to the wonderful stories of the locals, or take in the village of Qunu which is home to the Nelson Mandela Museum and just minutes from the hero's home.

Situated about 40km (25 miles) north of the city centre, Ado National Park is home to around 450 elephants and offers an unrivalled opportunity to view the 'big seven' - buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino, plus the Southern Right Whale and Great White Shark.

South Africa World Cup 2010 tickets:

It is still possible to nab a pass to the footy action, with tickets being released in phases during these dates:

5 December 2009 - 22 January 2010
9 February - 7 April 2010
15 April - 11 July 2010

To buy your World Cup 2010 tickets visit www.fifa.com.

Author: Caroline Cullern

Plane-free ski holidays

If spending hours stuck queuing at the airport with two six-foot planks stuck to your back doesn’t sound like the perfect start to your ski holiday, swap the plane for a train for a hassle-free journey.

Whichever European resort you choose to visit, your journey will probably begin with a high-speed connection from Ebbsfleet, Ashford or London St Pancras. Just make sure that when you're watching the European countryside roll by with a glass of bubbly in hand, spare a thought for the unlucky folks eating cardboard food with knees around their head thousands of feet above you.

Culture rich: Innsbruck, Austria

Any ski destination that has hosted the Winter Olympics (as Innsbruck did in 1964 and 1976) obviously has some powdery pedigree, but there's much more to be done in Innsbruck than simply gliding around on a pair of skis. Innsbruck offers miles of ski runs for different levels of ability, and 25 of the surrounding village sites are easily accessible by bus. Aside from the slopes, the city itself is well worth a visit. The Tyrolean capital boasts stunning architecture and wonderful Christmas markets that light up the old town or Marktplatz. Anyone who feels like venturing into the surrounding countryside on foot rather than by ski can enjoy the 96km (60 miles) of hiking trails surrounding the city.

Party time: St Anton, Austria

The perfect destination for people who want to spend as much time in the bar as on the slopes, St Anton has become a prime destination for skiers who want to burn the candle at both ends. There are a huge number of bars and clubs, such as the Krazy Kangeruh and Mooserwirt. You don't even have to wait until the evening to get the party started; things get going here in the mid-afternoon and don't stop until the early hours. If the late nights start to wear you down and you need a little help traversing the slopes in the early morning, a horse drawn sleigh ride into the stunning Ferwall valley may be the perfect tonic (just skip the gin).

Extreme ski: Chamonix, France

Chamonix's reputation as a world class resort is well warranted. The five resorts of Brevent, Flegere, Grands Montets/Argentiere, Les Houches and Le Tour each have their own characteristics, and experienced skiers looking for exciting drops and swooping curves will not be disappointed. Chamonix's lenient ski patrol pretty much allows you to ski anything you can find, so once you have shared the lifts with the crowds, if you're willing and confident to venture forward alone, before long you'll find a thrilling stretch of snow to call your own. Alternatively, if you want the experience without running the risk of being stuck on a mountain top overnight, then off-piste guides can be easily hired in Chamonix.

Ski zen: Bardonecchia, Italy

Italy's Bardonecchia ski resort is perfect for skiers looking for a more laid-back experience. The terrain will generally suit beginner and intermediate skiers, but Bardonecchia is close to a host of different resorts in both Italy and France for the best of both worlds. Hire a car and immerse yourself in the stunning surrounding scenery, knowing that whenever you decide to return, a gentle skiing challenge and a quiet evening of contemplation await. There are rarely queues for lifts during the week, but be warned, the resort attracts many weekenders from Turin.

Snow fun: St Moritz, Switzerland

St Moritz is a resort as much about image as it is about skiing. Glitzy and glamorous, it offers a range of weird and wonderful activities that you won't find at your average ski destination. If the skiing becomes a little routine, test your skills in a relaxing round of winter golf. Or perhaps you've always wanted a game of cricket in the snow, or even a game of polo? Make sure you put on the skis regularly or you might forget why you're here. Even if it does slip you mind, the stunning array of gourmet food and regular music festivals will more than make up for it.

Author: Jonathan Moore

Seven days in Buenos Aires

A cacophony of speeding cars, brimming restaurants and passionate people, Buenos Aires is not a city for the fainthearted. After 12 months of world-class beef and dimly-lit tango halls, Ruth-Ellen Davis gives her insider's guide to a fun-filled first week in the Argentine capital.

Monday

Pretty Palermo is one of Buenos Aires' most tourist-friendly barrios (neighbourhoods). After a morning wandering around the boutiques of Palermo Soho, pick up some empanadas (savoury Latin American pastries) and take the 30-minute stroll to Palermo Park for a picnic in the rose garden.

After some sunny lounging, head for a hot stone massage at chic Home Hotel's spa (book in advance) followed by a freshly made cocktail at their poolside bar.

Finish your first BA day with the bustling and greasy delights of an Argentine parilla (meat restaurant). Palermo's El Trapiche, Paraguay 5599, is a reliable favourite; as well as thick slabs of prime Argentine beef, the more adventurous can try morcilla (blood sausage), chinchulines (intestines) and molleja (sweetbread).

Tuesday

Tick off one of the city's most popular attractions: La Recoleta Cemetery. This veritable village of tombs is found in the exclusive barrio of Recoleta, and marks the resting place of some of the country's most prestigious figures including Argentina's famous first lady, Eva Perón.

Tuck into a hearty steak sandwich at nearby La Biela, Avenida Quintana 600. Skip dessert and head to Un Altra Volta, Avenida Santa Fe 1826, for a double scoop of their mouthwatering dulce de leche flavour ice cream.

After lunch, explore Recoleta's high-end shops amid the grand French architecture. As evening draws in, hop in a cab to Milion, Paraná 1048 - a wonderfully ostentatious bar and restaurant in a converted mansion - and chill out with a frozen basil daiquiri or three.

Wednesday

Spend a relaxed morning in one of the city's many cafés, enjoying a café con leche (coffee with milk) and as many medialunas (Argentinian croissant) as you can muster.

Head to the MALBA (Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires), Avenida Figueroa Alcorta 3415, for a tranquil afternoon taking in exciting works from a variety of Latin American artists and international names; Andy Warhol's Mr America exhibition runs until 9 February 2010.

Thursday

Dive into the hustle and bustle of Florida, Microcentro's pedestrianised shopping precinct, lined with cut-price clothing and cheap leather goods.

Once you've purchased enough five peso T-shirts to last a lifetime, pop into the Richmond Café, Florida 468, once a popular haunt of Buenos Aires' literary and political elite, including the late writer Jorge Luis Borges.

Afterwards, take the short walk to the Casa Rosada, Avenida de Mayo, from whose balcony Eva Perón famously rallied the masses (and 50 years on Madonna sang Don't Cry for Me Argentina in Evita). Every Thursday at 1530, the Madres de Plaza de Mayo - a group of mothers whose children vanished during the military dictatorship of 1976-1983 - walk around the Plaza for 30 minutes, before giving a short speech.

Spend the evening appreciating mouthfuls of Argentina's famously fine wine with an organised wine tasting; Anuva Wines can arrange tastings at restaurants and hotels, as well as in their own cellars.

Friday

Take a tour to La Boca. This colourful barrio has bags of personality, with a continual stream of tourists flocking to see the painted rainbow of houses and arty souvenirs of the pedestrian street Caminito.

La Boca is also home to La Bonbonera - the stadium of BA's most famous team, Boca Juniors. An Argentinian football game is an exhilerating experience, but tourists are targets for pickpockets and crowds can get pretty rowdy. It is wise to book through agencies such as Plan BA who can provide an escort, or larger tour agencies such as Tangol. Whoever you book through, don't leave without picking up a choripan (chorizo sausage in a bread roll) for the authentic experience.

Wind down with an evening's stroll along Puerto Madero's pristine waterfront, and swing by the Faena Hotel and Universe for the city's best tango show, Fridays 2030. After the show, hang out in the fabulous Library Bar; in Argentinian terms, this is a rather pricey place for a drink, but, when surrounded by rich leather, deep red velvet and glittering chandeliers, it seems a pretty justified splash out.

Saturday

After a deservedly lengthy lie in, take a deep green breath at the Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur (Avenida Tristán Achaval Rodríguez 1550). This nature reserve is popular with tourists and locals a like, and boast lakes, tall grasses and picnickers a plenty.

For a buzzing Buenos Aires Saturday night, either opt for a milonga (tango hall) in San Telmo, where couples of all ages dance cheek-to-cheek right through the night, or, for something more up tempo, party til dawn at one of the super clubs down on Costanera Norte. Pacha, with its terrace and views over the river, is one of the most popular. Clubs don't generally get going until about 2am.

Sunday

The Sunday market on San Telmo street Defensa is a colourful and lively affair, with stalls piled high with antiques, clothing, jewellery, traditional Argentine leather products, paintings and a whole jumble of other items. Street musicians add to the convivial atmosphere and cafés spill out onto the pavement, providing many a spot to people watch.

After heading back to the hotel room for a little nap, finish the week in true Argentine style, with a hearty slab of steak and several glasses of red wine at San Telmo parilla Desnivel, Defensa 858.

Insider tip to Buenos Aires: Keep a good pocketful of change as coins are scarce. Smaller shops will give change in sweets or even refuse to serve you if they don't have enough change. Break larger bank notes at supermarkets and restaurants.

Author: Ruth-Ellen Davis

23 November 2009