You’ll be amazed by the distinctive rock-hewn churches around Lalibela, a centre of pilgrimage for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. A true wonder to see.

Let us take you to historical landmarks and to experience Ethiopian music and cuisine in Addis Ababa, located at an altitude of 2355 metres.

Ethiopia has population of 115 million and is a large ecologically-diverse country. Temperatures in the capital, Addis Ababa, remain a pleasant 20-22°C all year round; however, in the Danakil Depression, they can soar to 50°C. Some parts of the country are at high elevations, which might result in altitude sickness. Let Cosa plan the perfect itinerary to take into account these extremes. We can charter a plane to remoter destinations and provide tips on cultural awareness as you travel round this wonderful country.

The cruise that isn’t really a cruise is the best way to experience coastal Norway. Smart Hurtigruten ships sail daily up the coast from Bergen.

Oslo, the Norwegian capital, regularly ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities. Come for Munch and stay for brunch in a relaxed urban setting.

The topography of this long mountainous country makes travelling overland a challenge. There are some wonderfully scenic train rides, such as the famous Flam Railway, but the further north you go, the harder it is to get around. The drive between Oslo and Bergen was considerably shortened with the opening of the world’s longest road tunnel, the 24.5km Lærdal Tunnel. Our favourite way to see the rugged coastline is by boat so ask us for details.

It’s hard to visit Istanbul without paying homage to the Hagia Sophia, even if you’ve been before. This building is the story of the city in a nutshell: built in the sixth century as an Orthodox cathedral before being turned into a secular museum, it’s currently a mosque. The undeniable crowd-pleaser is the massive central dome adorned with glittering gold mosaics.

For a taste of the real Istanbul, we’ll take you to a vibrant neighbourhood not far from the centre. Balat is famous for its brightly-painted wooden houses, traditional cafés and local markets, and for generations it’s been home to Jewish and Greek Orthodox families. A private guided tour of this historic district reveals its distinct atmosphere.

With the Berlin Wall gone, the city has rediscovered its role as the national capital. Berlin is as lively, gritty, fun and captivating as ever.

Germany’s second city has long been a gateway to the world, and a private boat tour of the vast harbour and old warehouse district is fascinating.

German motorways famously have no speed limits but even so we suggest taking your time to explore this varied country. Whether its cities such as Dresden and Munich or regions like the Black Forest or former East Germany, there’s plenty to keep you busy. We love using German trains, which are often an efficient and attractive way to travel, with an extensive network and easy connections. And from the southern mountains to the northern coasts, hiking is always a good option.

A walkable historic city on the banks of the River Liffey where you can tread in the footsteps of writers like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde.

Taking in incredible views, this spectacular road trip begins and ends in Killarney in southwest Ireland. Have your camera ready.

Trains and buses can get you between destinations in Ireland but to get into the heart and soul of the country, you really have to drive (or be driven). Use the back roads to explore the countryside and coastlines but take your time as roads can be twisty and narrow. Don’t underestimate distances here. Ireland sits in the Gulf Stream, bringing warm water to this beautifully lush land but it also means lots of rain, so remember to pack your wet-weather gear.

The aurora borealis is the official scientific name for this natural phenomenon, but you will be lost for words once you see it in all its glory. Ask us about the best time of year and the areas to visit Finland to see this wonderful light display. This is Mother Nature at her most colourful and spectacular.

We can recommend a fabulous lodge offering privacy in a Lapland wilderness area. We also know places to stay where you can stare at the stars lying in bed inside a glass igloo. Wherever you sleep, why not also try a sauna during your visit and learn more about this essential part of Finnish culture?

This elegant part of Buenos Aires contains a cemetery with thousands of mausoleums, including the final resting place of Eva Peron. It’s truly astonishing. Take a private tour with a guide who’ll explain more about the architectural styles of these above-ground graves, the families that built them, and the people they honour.

Pick up artisanal goods or hunt for treasure in the antique stalls of San Telmo’s famous market, set in a characterful old barrio, or neighbourhood, of Buenos Aires. Catch a free tango performance in the street. Visit the public square of nearby Plaza de Mayo and learn about important events in the city’s history.

This giant statue on Corcovado Mountain takes centre stage on Rio’s skyline. Take the tram (Swiss-made railway carriages, of course!) up to the top or let us book you a tour with a guide to beat the queues. Alternatively, enjoy a helicopter ride with aerial views of the statue and the entire pulsating city below.

Away from the beaches, there’s plenty to see in the city itself. Walk up the colourful Selaron steps to the bohemian neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts showcasing Brazil’s greatest artists. Take tea in the Belle Époque café, Confeitaria de Colombo. If you are looking for nightlife, head off to Lapa. Ask us for details.

Iguazu (in Spanish Iguassu or Portuguese Iguaçu) means ‘big water’ in the Guarani and Tupi languages. The falls are very impressive seen from ground level and even more so from high up. We’ll take you up in a helicopter to see the sheer size of this ‘big water’ for a breathtaking panoramic view of it all.

Where better to stay than in a five-star colonial hotel beside the falls themselves? Where the background music to dinner is the sound of the water and you can explore the park when it’s closed to the public. Where you can wake up in a tropical paradise in gorgeous rooms of old-world elegance. Sound good? Ask us for details.

Taking the yellow tram that trundles up Lisbon’s hills is one of the capital’s delights. Indulging in a traditional custard tart is another. Let us indulge you.

You can play golf on an acclaimed course, stay in a spa, walk along the coast or linger over a seafood lunch in Faro. Tempted?

In addition to its splendid coastlines, Portugal is also rich in heritage towns, with Lisbon and Porto the two must-see cities. We suggest also checking out the old university town of Coimbra or the medieval delights of Evora, historic capital of the Alentejo region. Whether you want to cruise gently along the Douro River, take a scenic road trip across the country, or whizz between destinations on the high-speed Alfa Pendular train, ask us for details. Your perfect Portuguese holiday is waiting for you.