Laurent Belamich

Since my first trip to South Africa more than 20 years ago, I’ve returned several times, drawn back by its breathtaking natural beauty, extraordinary wildlife, vibrant culture, and exceptional dining found across the country. It is a compelling year-round destination, and the Garden Route in particular offers an inspiring blend of dramatic coastal scenery, nature experiences, and relaxed beach towns—with the added advantage of malaria-free safari reserves just a few hours away.

This itinerary provides a wonderful introduction to safari, especially for families or for those who prefer to avoid malaria areas, while at the same time offering a rich variety of landscapes and experiences that give a true sense of South Africa’s diversity.

Iceland is a truly natural wonder. Its dramatic landscapes range from sprawling glaciers and powerful waterfalls to geysers, geothermal spas, active volcanoes, and a breathtaking coastline—from the towering cliffs of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to the otherworldly black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, famously featured in Game of Thrones. And to top it all off, there is the possibility of witnessing the mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights. After many years of travel, this remains one of my most memorable travel experiences.

Egypt is one of the world’s most iconic destinations—from the majestic pyramids and Great Sphinx of Giza, to the extraordinary temples and tombs lining the Nile, and the beautiful resort coast of the Red Sea. It makes an ideal winter escape thanks to its mild, sunny climate. This itinerary begins with three days in bustling Cairo, followed by a four-day Nile cruise exploring Egypt’s most important ancient sites, and finishes with time to unwind by the Red Sea for those who enjoy a beach escape. Egypt can be traveled independently, but booking through a trusted DMC (Destination Management Company) greatly enhances the experience—offering smoother logistics, expert guides, and deeper historical insight. If traveling independently, I strongly recommend booking guided tours in Cairo in particular. Egypt’s history is incredibly rich, and having expert context makes a meaningful difference.

I’ve always been drawn to Japanese culture and aesthetics. Deeply rooted in tradition, with a strong sense of respect, politeness, and ancient practices—from the tea ceremony and martial arts to traditional theatre and the quiet beauty of wabi-sabi—Japan has also fully embraced modernity. Cutting-edge technology (the high-speed Shinkansen, robotics) coexists with a thriving contemporary art scene (Takashi Murakami, TeamLab, manga, anime). Tokyo perfectly embodies this balance between the ancient and the modern. The city’s beautiful temples and serene gardens stand alongside striking architecture, a vibrant culture scene, and an amazing culinary landscape. It holds the most Michelin stars in the world, yet also offers countless small restaurants serving simple, delicious, and affordable meals. Over the years, I’ve visited Tokyo many times, mainly for work, but recent trips have allowed me to rediscover the city with fresh eyes—more dynamic, open, and diverse than ever, and still one of the safest cities in the world.

A safari is, quite rightly, high on many travelers’ bucket lists. I went on my first one more than 20 years ago and was completely captivated by the experience. Watching wildlife in its natural environment, the thrill of searching for the Big Five, and the sheer beauty of the African landscape were so exhilarating that I’ve been returning to the continent ever since. For first-timers, planning a safari can feel daunting—choosing where and when to go, understanding logistics, and knowing what to expect. Here, I’ve gathered much of what I wish I’d known before my first trip, along with insights from years of experience. And if you’d like more tailored advice, I’m always happy to help.