Twelve Months Travel – Part Two

July:  Our Twelve Months Travel – Part Two begins in Northern Tanzania (fewer tourists up in this corner) to catch the wildebeest and zebra migration as they move through the spectacular Serengeti, before the majority cross the Mara River into Kenya.  The greatest wildlife spectacle on earth, with some two million animals on the move between January and September.  They are, of course, dozens of predators on their tails, taking advantage of the vast number of animals on the move.  Dramatic and amazing – a site you’ll never forget.  Follow it up with a few days relaxing on the coast –  Zanzibar or one of the luxurious nearby islands.  The perfect combo for a mid-year break. www.tanzaniatouristboard.com and www.zanzibartourism.net

August:  It’s full on school holidays and Webster wants somewhere a little less crowded.  The Seychelles beckons, as it’s further away and relatively small, fewer people are there.  It is the perfect place to kick back, relax and do nothing.  If that doesn’t appeal, then take a boat trip, go fishing or snorkelling.  Be sure to see the giant tortoises – they are enormous and how can they be that old, just fascinating!  Or closer to home, there’s always Bonnie Scotland.  It’s festival ago go in August, there’s the Edinburgh Tattoo, the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Fringe – so something for everyone!  There are some great boutique hotels, and a vibrant restaurant scene.  If you’ve had enough culture, the countryside around is lovely, take in a whiskey distillery, or visit the Royal Yacht Britannia to see how Royalty travel.www.seychelles.travel  www.visitscotland.com/maps/edinburgh-lothians  www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

October:  The nights are drawing in again and there’s a definite Autumnal chill in the air.  We’re thinking the Galapagos Islands for a few weeks.  Combine it with a visit to Ecuador.  For the wildlife lover, this is a definite on the bucket list.  One of the world’s most pristine wildlife destinations.  You can get up close and personal with a number of rare species of seals, birds and tortoises, and swim with turtles and see how they effortlessly glide through the water.  Head to Ecuador’s

capital, Quito for some Latin American history and culture, especially in the beautiful old town.  Wander through the bustling narrow streets and take in the beautiful colonial architecture, or escape the hustle of the town and take a tour to the Amazonian Rainforest, and learn about all a very different way of life from the locals. www.galapagos.org/travel/planning-a trip/#time   www.ecuador.travel

November:  Off again, long haul. Tokyo is an amazing city to visit at any time of year – there’s always something to see.  Unless you’re fluent in Japanese – which counts out most of us! – then get a local guide.  It makes life easier and you get to see a different side of Tokyo.  At this time of year, all the maple leaves turn the most extraordinary colours.  They are some amazing examples around Kyoto – a Bullet Train ride from Tokyo – but beware you only have two minutes to board the train, so you need to move fast.  Visit the Eikando Temple to see some beautiful examples of the leaves.  There are plenty of other things to do, with some fantastic sushi restaurants – Sushi Iwa is a favourite and has a great wine selection too!