Inspirations by Cosa
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Inspirations 2026

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Overview Country

Cuba

An island bursting with life, music and history

To experience Cuba means discovering its rhythms in every corner

The largest Caribbean island’s vibrant rhythms, along with its varied landscapes and colourful towns, make Cuba a fascinating place to visit. As you explore the country and discover its tumultuous history, you can also soak up some sun on its beautiful beaches. However, it’s the distinctive sound of Cuban music heard right across the land that will leave you with lasting memories of this unique island nation. Let us take you on a magical musical tropical journey.

Travel through Cuba to understand the global obsession with the Cuban cigar
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Where it is

Caribbean

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When to go

November to August

Why go there

Why go there

Historic towns
Beautiful beaches
Cuban music

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What to see

Havana
Varadero
Viñales

Havana offers one of the best venues to enjoy and dance Cuban music live

Feel the spirit in Havana

Havana offers one of the best venues to enjoy and dance Cuban music live

Cruise through Havana in a classic car or stroll along the famous seafront to get a glimpse of this lovely city’s faded grandeur.

Trinidad is a beautiful colonial town that you can’t miss on your trip to Cuba

Take a trip to Trinidad

Trinidad is a beautiful colonial town that you can’t miss on your trip to Cuba

On the southern coast lies this pretty town of cobbled streets and brightly-coloured houses. Visit it by day and dance at a live music venue by night.

Discover Varadero, a stunning beach resort destination in Cuba

Chill at Varadero

Discover Varadero, a stunning beach resort destination in Cuba

Here you can take your pick of 20km of white sandy beaches. Let us arrange a sleek skippered catamaran to skim you over the waves.

Visit beautiful Viñales with its iconic mogotes, its verdant tobacco fields and its exuberant vegetation

Visit the hills of Viñales

Visit beautiful Viñales with its iconic mogotes, its verdant tobacco fields and its exuberant vegetation

The distinctive mogote hills are one of the main attractions in Viñales National Park. Hike or cycle in lush landscapes and visit tobacco fields.

Cruising Havana with an oldtimer is a once in a lifetime experience

Travel in Cuba

Cruising Havana with an oldtimer is a once in a lifetime experience

If you simply want a taste of the island and are short on time, then it’s possible to visit Havana to get a feel for the place, enjoy Viñales and finish up on a quiet unspoilt beach to unwind. However, it’s definitely worth spending longer in Cuba to discover more about this unique country that’s more than twice the size of Switzerland. Driving is the easiest way to get around, so if you’re adventurous you can drive yourself, or let us arrange a car and driver for you.

Cuba facts

You see Che Guevara everywhere in Cuba. The iconic revolutionary helped Fidel Castro overthrow the dictator Batista on New Year’s Day in 1959. Today, the country with a population of 11 million is still communist-run, however it’s very much open to foreign tourism. Boutique hotels have appeared in the capital, Havana, and luxury hotels in Varadero. But you won’t find the chain shops and coffee bars seen in most countries across the world. And that all adds to its unique charm.

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Time zone

UTC -4

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Flight time

12 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Cuban peso

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+53

Overview Country

Czech Republic

Where centuries of history come alive

Karlstejn Castle Czech,Republic Stunning Aerial view

As a landlocked land at the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic has changed shape and name with the tides of history. From the old kingdom of Bohemia through the Habsburg Empire to the years as Czechoslovakia, this small state has seen some turbulent times. That sense of history is palpable in medieval centres like Prague or Cesky Krumlov, but also in the rolling hills and sturdy castles of the countryside. Step back in time with Cosa to discover this fascinating nation.

A glass of beer in authentic atmosphere somewhere in Prague in the Czech Republic
Riccardo_Breda
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Where it is

Eastern Europe

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When to go

All year

Why go there

Why go there

Medieval cities
Great castles
Art and history

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What to see

Prague
Cesky Krumlov
Kutna Hora

Sunny spring morning in Prague on the Old Town Square with the Tyn Church, Czech Republic

Practically perfect Prague

Sunny spring morning in Prague on the Old Town Square with the Tyn Church, Czech Republic

The city of spires certainly inspires you to explore every fascinating corner, from the Old Town Square across the Charles Bridge to Prague Castle.
Visit Prague with us

St. Vitus Church and townscape of Cesky Krumlov on a sunny autumn day, Czech Republic.

A mini medieval gem

St. Vitus Church and townscape of Cesky Krumlov on a sunny autumn day, Czech Republic.

Is Cesky Krumlov the most beautiful town in Europe? It’s definitely a contender for that crown with its striking castle and glorious old town.

The Lennon Wall in Prague is covered with graffiti inspired by John Lennon.
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Art of the matter

The Lennon Wall in Prague is covered with graffiti inspired by John Lennon.
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From the renowned National Gallery to modern street works, Prague is one of Europe’s art capitals. How about a private viewing in Lobkowicz Castle?

Srdlec Ossuary, the Bone Church in Kutna Hora, was built from real human skeleton bones.

The bones of Kutna Hora

Srdlec Ossuary, the Bone Church in Kutna Hora, was built from real human skeleton bones.

Silver mines made Kutna Hora rich but this characterful town is today known more for a spooky chapel decorated with the bones from 40,000 people.

Women in handmade traditional costumes during the traditional parade in Moravia, Czech Republic.

Travel in the Czech Republic

Women in handmade traditional costumes during the traditional parade in Moravia, Czech Republic.

The Czech rail network is one of densest in the world (it’s similar to Switzerland levels), so getting around by train is a great way to see the country. The fall of the Iron Curtain led to both the rail and road networks being modernised, with links to neighbouring countries vastly improved. Prague is deservedly popular but with Cosa you can escape to other delights, such as impressive Karlstejn Castle or the spas of Karlovy Vary.

Czech Republic facts

In some ways, the Czech Republic (known informally as Czechia) is one of Europe’s youngest countries: it was created in 1993 after the Velvet Divorce with Slovakia. But this is simply the latest incarnation of Bohemia, which has been around for centuries. This is where good king Wenceslas once ruled over 1000 years ago but also where Vaclav Havel became the new country’s first president. With almost 11 million inhabitants, the Czech Republic is ninth largest member of the EU.

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Time zone

UTC +1

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Flight time

1.5 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Czech koruna

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+420

Overview Destination

Where the Orient meets
the elegant

Marrakech, Morocco

Luminous lamps made of metal in the medina of Marrakech, Morocco

Sit on your roof terrace, look at the stars and listen to the call to prayer. It’s a moment of calm between the daytime bustle of the medina and the hustle of the night market. And you need these moments because Marrakech is a full-on experience. It’s known as the Red City but this riot of sensual delights will colour your memories forever. With its lovely riads and lively souks, Marrakech truly is the best of Morocco.

Smell the different spices in the magical markets of Marrakech

Magical markets of Marrakech

Smell the different spices in the magical markets of Marrakech

The crowded colourful souks of the Marrakech medina will dazzle you so much that you might get lost in the labyrinthine alleyways. With Cosa that never happens because we find you a local guide who’ll take you to the best slipper-makers or spice merchants. It’s a magical experience, so get in touch to find out more.

Indulge in a luxury oasis like the Royal Mansour Marrakech.

Welcome to the Royal Mansour

Indulge in a luxury oasis like the Royal Mansour Marrakech.

Of the many luxury hotels in Marrakech, only one is fit for a king, possibly because it’s owned by the king. Every superlative you can think of applies to the Royal Mansour Hotel, including private pools, personal butlers, manicured gardens and an opulent spa. You won’t regret spending a single second here. Ready to check in?

Make your own delicious dishes from colourful Moroccan tagines

Learn to cook like a local

Make your own delicious dishes from colourful Moroccan tagines

Cumin, paprika, turmeric and garlic: they’re what make Moroccan food so delicious. But it tastes even better when you’ve made it yourself. In Marrakech you can go back to (cooking) school and discover the art of Moroccan cuisine with a local chef. You’ll love making a tagine as much as eating one, and Cosa has the secret ingredient to make it even better. Ask us for more details.

Enjoy deserts views in a luxury tented camp in the Agafay Desert in Morocco

Empty deserts and the High Atlas

Enjoy deserts views in a luxury tented camp in the Agafay Desert in Morocco

Marrakech might be an oasis but it’s surrounded by acres of emptiness waiting for you to explore. Stay overnight in a tented camp with only stars and silence for company. Experience sunrise over the High Atlas mountains in a hot-air balloon or take a camel ride through the Agafay desert. Simply unforgettable.

Experience Moroccan hospitality with a traditional mint tea ceremony with fresh biscuits.

Essential Marrakech

Experience Moroccan hospitality with a traditional mint tea ceremony with fresh biscuits.

Founded in the 11th century, Marrakech still has a walled medina, or old town, packed with narrow alleyways, busy markets and traditional riads (they’re the old houses with courtyards). You can also explore royal tombs and peaceful gardens, or simply relax on the terrace of your riad overlooking the city. The central hub of Marrakech is Jemaa el-Fna Square, which comes alive at dusk with snake charmers and food stands.

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Where it is

North Africa

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When to go

November to May

Why go there

Why go there

Colourful markets
Luxury hotels
Traditional crafts

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What to see

Jemaa el-Fna Square
Medina souks
Desert landscape

Overview Destination

Picture-perfect islands
in the Aegean Sea

Cyclades, Greece

Turn a trip to the Cyclades into a lifetime experience

You could watch the sun set on one island, or party on another until it rises. Or simply embrace slow living in a peaceful corner of Greece. The islands of Cyclades have something for everyone. Let us take you to Santorini, a head turner of a destination and a photographer’s paradise. We’ll show you the glamour spots and beaches of Mykonos or guide you to a serene islet, where you can retreat for a mindfulness escape.

Nestled into the cliff, Santorini cave houses offer a breathtaking experience

Sublime time in Santorini

Nestled into the cliff, Santorini cave houses offer a breathtaking experience

Imagine yourself strolling the streets of this volcanic island and wandering round sun-bleached houses that seem to soar out of the sea. You could climb to a monastery or walk to the picturesque village of Oia with its blue-domed churches. End the day sipping a glass of crisp wine in a traditional Greek taverna and watch a glorious sunset. Tempted?

A mesmerizing yachting experience through the island of Mykonos

Enjoy glamourous Mykonos

A mesmerizing yachting experience through the island of Mykonos

A jeep safari is a good way to explore this lovely island with visits to its hidden coves and wonderful beaches. Discover wild landscapes and swim in clear blue waters. Head off to the island’s clubs and restaurants at night for the famous Mykonos party vibe. Sounds good? Ask us for more details.

Antiparos is the beyond spaces choice for back to basics luxury

Escape to quiet Antiparos

Antiparos is the beyond spaces choice for back to basics luxury

Antiparos (south of Paros) is an islet, a small but beautiful gem, a perfect spot to unwind. We know of special places to stay here, including a chic yet unpretentious Greek hotel, where you can take wellness treatments, rejuvenate in calm surroundings, swim in a pool and look out at breath-taking sea views. Ready to relax?

Visit the island of Naxos with its scores of endless sandy shores

Food and fun in Naxos

Visit the island of Naxos with its scores of endless sandy shores

With its olive groves, lush green interior and dreamy beaches Naxos is truly wonderful. Here you can hike through mountainous villages to reach towering Mount Zeus, the highest point in the Cyclades. Or stay down at sea level and cruise around the island, stopping to snorkel, sunbathe and feast on freshly-caught calamari at a waterside taverna.

Enjoy your authentic greek seafood experience

Essential Cyclades

Enjoy your authentic greek seafood experience

The islands in the Cyclades range from the larger and well-known names of Santorini and Mykonos, to the smaller uninhabited island (and Unesco World Heritage Site) of Delos, reputedly the birthplace of Apollo and home to important archaeological ruins. Each island has its own unique character and island hopping by ferry or private yacht is a perfect way to visit them. Ask us about a customised itinerary to get the very best out your trip to the Cyclades.

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Where it is

Southern Europe

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When to go

March to October

Why go there

Why go there

Beautiful islands
Peace & quiet
Beach time

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What to see

Spectacular views
Stunning sunsets
Boutique hotels

Overview Country

Tanzania

Vast landscapes teeming with wonderful wildlife

Observe a herd of elephants in an expansive habitat

Come with us to the plains of the Serengeti, stay in superb safari parks and then relax on divine beaches. Take an incredible journey to Tanzania. We’ll show you wildlife viewing that is out of this world, such as the great migration of wildebeest. Go birdwatching at dawn, walk under giant baobab trees and learn about the Maasai culture of this ancient land. Let Cosa create the perfect Tanzanian holiday tailored just for you.

Venture into the pristine wilderness of Tanzania
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Where it is

Eastern Africa

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When to go

May to October

Why go there

Why go there

Spectacular safaris
Wildebeest migration
Relaxing beaches

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What to see

Kilimanjaro
Ngorongoro crater
Tarangire

The annual wildebeest migration is an epic journey

See the wildebeest run

The annual wildebeest migration is an epic journey

Serengeti means ‘endless plains’ in the Maasai language. Watching the wildebeest make their journey across these plains is a truly majestic spectacle.

Explore the incredible beaches of Zanzibar

Go barefoot in Zanzibar

Explore the incredible beaches of Zanzibar

Kick off those safari shoes and walk on white sandy beaches. We know a small paradise island in the Spice Islands of the Zanzibar archipelago.

Enjoy a first-class Kilimanjaro climbing experience

Hike up Kilimanjaro

Enjoy a first-class Kilimanjaro climbing experience

At 5895m Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain. Hike through five ecological climate zones, and make an alpine start to reach the summit for sunrise.

A magnificent game drive through a lush highland in the soul of Tanzania

A natural Noah’s Ark

A magnificent game drive through a lush highland in the soul of Tanzania

Go on safari to the huge Ngorongoro crater, home to over 30,000 animals. Pack your binoculars as there are wildlife spotting opportunities everywhere.

Spot a lion cub in the Serengeti National Park

Travel in Tanzania

Spot a lion cub in the Serengeti National Park

Tanzania has many wonderful national parks and offers a variety of ways to experience the wildlife: by jeep, hiking or in a hot-air balloon. Cosa can help you choose when and where to go, and how to see animals and birds close up. If you would like to learn more about Maasai customs or stay near the Mahale Mountains, just ask us. To complement your safari, you could climb up to snow-capped Kilimanjaro or simply relax on sandy beaches.

Tanzania facts

The United Republic of Tanzania was created in 1964 from the merger of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. Tanganyika was shaped by German and British colonial periods, whilst Zanzibar was influenced by Indian, Arab and Portuguese traders. Kiswahili or Swahili is the national language, though there are over 120 languages and at least 120 tribes in Tanzania. The capital is Dodoma. The earliest human skull in the world, dating back 2 million years, was discovered in Tanzania by the archaeologist, Dr Leakey.

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Time zone

UTC +3

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Flight time

16 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Tanzanian shilling

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+255

Overview Country

Mexico

Discover a land bursting with colour and history

A man plays trumpet in a mariachi band typical of Mexico

If you love vibrant architecture, vivid folk art and tasty cuisine, then Mexico is the place for you. Throw in amazing Aztec and mystical Mayan wonders to make this a colourful fascinating holiday. This could also include diving into Cozumel’s deep blue sea, watching the bright and lively ‘Day of the Dead’ celebrations, or visiting the home of artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. End your stay in a gorgeous luxury eco-resort.

Relax in a hammock under palm trees and look at the white beach and the crystal clear sea of Mexico
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Where it is

Central America

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When to go

November to May

Why go there

Why go there

Heritage sites
Colourful towns
Beautiful beaches

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What to see

Chichen Itza
Mexico City
Cozumel

A view of the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza in Mexico at night.

Visit grand Mayan ruins

A view of the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza in Mexico at night.

Clap your hands at Chichen Itza, and you’ll hear the echo of the quetzl bird, testament to the engineering of this ancient Mayan site.
Come with us to the Yucatan Peninsula

A turtle swimming in the breathtaking underwater world around the island of Cozumel

Cool down in Cozumel

A turtle swimming in the breathtaking underwater world around the island of Cozumel

Swaying palm trees, turquoise waters and superb scuba diving. Let us take you to the tropical island of Cozumel, off the Yucatan peninsula. Tempted?

View the Aztecs Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan.

Pyramids of Teotihuacan

View the Aztecs Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan.

The Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan remains an enigma for archaeologists. As you wander around it in awe, maybe you can solve the mystery.

The beautiful building Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City.

Capital museums and murals

The beautiful building Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City.

Watch a folklore show at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, admire the murals of Diego Rivera on the walls, or visit Mexico City’s many world-class museums.

Enjoy salt-rimmed margaritas and tacos when in Mexico.

Travel in Mexico

Enjoy salt-rimmed margaritas and tacos when in Mexico.

Mexico has a population of around 130 million people, plus many deserts, mountains, canyons, jungles and 35 Unesco World Heritage sites. So where should you start your travels? Just ask Cosa. If you’re interested in archaeology, history, culture or cuisine, we know the perfect places. We’ll show you other delights, such as the pretty colonial town of Taxco, famous for its silver jewellery. On the Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta has lovely beaches and is also a bird-lover’s paradise. Multi-coloured of course!

Mexico facts

With vast mineral resources, Mexico is the second largest economy in Latin America and among the 15 largest in the world. Mexican history stretches through the ancient Olmec, Maya and Aztec empires, then three centuries of Spanish rule to independence in 1821. Mexican cuisine is a Unesco ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’, and visitors discover that there’s more to it than tacos and burritos. The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) is a National Holiday, with origins traced back to the Aztecs.

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Time zone

UTC –6

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Flight time

10-12 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Mexican peso

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+52

Overview Country

Iran

Ancient wonders, architectural gems and adventure

Visit one of the masterpieces of Iranian architecture

You’ll find a warm welcome awaits you in Iran, whether you’re taking tea in Tehran, visiting lovely squares and mosques in Isfahan, or palaces in Persepolis. In a land that has shaped civilisations for generations, some amazing architectural gems also await. As the sun rises through the stained-glass windows of the spectacular Pink Mosque in Shiraz, its sheer beauty may inspire you to poetry. This is no coincidence as the tomb of Hafez, one of Iran’s greatest poets lies nearby.

Shop in one of the magnificent bazaars in Iran
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Where it is

Middle East

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When to go

March to May
September to October

Why go there

Why go there

Architectural wonders
Ancient civilisations
Mountains and deserts

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What to see

Isfahan
Persepolis
Shiraz

Spend a day in the historical complex of Isfahan

Isfahan’s vast square

Spend a day in the historical complex of Isfahan

Naqsh-e Jhan is both stunningly beautiful and incredibly large, at almost nine hectares in area. With magnificent mosques and gorgeous gardens, it’s a must-see.

A mixture of architecture and art offers the pink mosque in Shiraz

The sublime mosque of Shiraz

A mixture of architecture and art offers the pink mosque in Shiraz

The Pink Mosque (or Nasir-al-Mulk) is an architectural jewel in Shiraz. Visit at sunrise or sunset to see it in all its multi-coloured glory.

The sweet story of persian desserts and sweets

Take tea in Tehran

The sweet story of persian desserts and sweets

The Iranian capital bustles with a busy café culture. Our tip: try some of the delicate Persian pastries along with a cup of tea.

Persepolis was the capital of the ancient Persian Empire

Royal ruins of Persepolis

Persepolis was the capital of the ancient Persian Empire

The Palace of Persepolis was built in a remote location to keep it a secret. Today it’s open for everyone to admire its grand ruins.

A look at some of the friendliest people on earth

Travel in Iran

A look at some of the friendliest people on earth

Once you arrive in Iran, you’ll encounter friendly people ready to chat, and a country with a rich heritage and history. A reminder that in Iran, women are required to wear a headscarf, whilst men should not wear shorts. Talk to us about the best time of year to visit the main destinations to avoid the searing heat or the winter cold! It’s possible to take a luxury train trip on your Iranian journey, ask us for details.

Iran facts

Iran is home to one of the world’s oldest major civilisations. Dating back over 7,000 years, it has shaped history across a broad region from Greece to Central Asia to Egypt. Today, the Islamic Republic of Iran has a population of over 85 million and the official language is Persian (Farsi). The Iranian weekend is on Thursday and Friday, and the country follows the Jalali calendar. New Year starts on or around the 21 March.

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Time zone

UTC +3.5

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Flight time

8 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Rial

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+98

Overview Country

Jordan

Explore past and present in a royal destination

A stunning view along the Siq on the way to Petra, Jordan

Rich in history and natural beauty, there’s a lot to see in the kingdom of Jordan. Watch the sunset in Wadi Rum, sleep under stars or see Petra by candlelight. Let a Bedouin guide lead you through the desert. We can show you old mosaics in Madaba, a town mentioned in the Old Testament, or by contrast, we’ll take you on a walking tour to see the modern street art in ancient Amman, the capital of Jordan.

A local Bedouin sitting on the floor with an instrument in Petra, Jordan
Ruslan Kalnitsky
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Where it is

Middle East

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When to go

All year

Why go there

Why go there

Ancient sites
Desert landscapes
Bedouin lifestyle

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What to see

Petra
Wadi Rum
Amman

The archaeological site of Petra in Jordan is home to thousand-year-old buildings

Visit the ancient site of Petra

The archaeological site of Petra in Jordan is home to thousand-year-old buildings

Walk through a narrow gorge and you’ll be rewarded with the magnificent sight of Petra. This rock-hewn city was re-discovered in 1812 by a Swiss!

Milky Way over a desert camp in the red desert of Wadi Rum in Jordan

Sleep under the stars

Milky Way over a desert camp in the red desert of Wadi Rum in Jordan

Enjoy a camel ride through Wadi Rum by day; experience a vibrant myriad of colours at sunset, and see the Milky Way by night.

Enjoy traditional local Jordanian cuisine in Amman, Jordan

Take a guided tour of Amman

Enjoy traditional local Jordanian cuisine in Amman, Jordan

See the blend of old and new buildings in the capital, Amman, or maybe learn how to cook authentic Jordanian cuisine in a private class.

See the fascinating mosaic maps of Madaba in Jordan

Amazing maps of Madaba

See the fascinating mosaic maps of Madaba in Jordan

Find your own location on a 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map in Madaba. Mosaics were discovered in many private homes in this city.

A woman floats and relaxes in the Dead Sea in Jordan

Travel in Jordan

A woman floats and relaxes in the Dead Sea in Jordan

This country has a rich heritage, with a modern side. Amman buzzes with contemporary restaurants and boutiques. The country’s size means that the iconic highlights can be combined into a shortish trip; but it’s worth staying longer to discover more. Ask us about taking a trail to the Dana Biosphere Reserve, or a resort on the Dead Sea. Note: trails operate year-round except during Ramadan. Cosa, of course, will advise you on the optimum time to travel.

Jordan facts

Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with a population of 10 million. More than 92% of the population are Sunni Muslims and approximately 6% are Christians. The Dead Sea in the west of the country is the lowest point on Earth. The nutrient-rich minerals of its waters are said to bring health benefits although there are no plants or fish in the sea. By contrast, the Red Sea in the south contains rich marine life offering great snorkelling opportunities.

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Time zone

UTC +2

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Flight time

7 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Jordanian dinar

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+962

Overview Country

Costa Rica

The ultimate ecotourist destination

Colorful Toucan birds live in the rainforest of Costa Rica.

Your rainforest villa has no walls or windows so you wake with the dawn chorus of howler monkeys. Your walk through one of the many national parks is punctuated with spotting sloths and toucans. Your view of the verdant rainforest from the zipline is literally a high-light of the trip. Your stretch of beach is pristine. Welcome to Costa Rica, where ecotourism is the norm thanks to biodiversity like nowhere else on earth.

The still active Arenal volcano with clouds and jungle of Costa Rica.
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Where it is

Central America

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When to go

November to May

Why go there

Why go there

Great beaches
Amazing wildlife
Lush rainforest

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What to see

Arenal
Manuel Antonio
Osa Peninsula

A sloth hanging in the rainforest of Costa Rica.

Relish the exotic wildlife

A sloth hanging in the rainforest of Costa Rica.

The rainforests of Costa Rica are bursting with life from spider monkeys and red-eyed tree frogs to sloths and macaws. Have your camera ready.

Relax in the hot springs near Arenal volcano in Costa Rica.

Chill beside a volcano

Relax in the hot springs near Arenal volcano in Costa Rica.

This could be the most Costa Rican thing you do: lie back in the hot springs and watch smoke puff out the cone of Arenal volcano.

Costa Ricas beaches are perfect for swimming and surfing.

Relax by the ocean

Costa Ricas beaches are perfect for swimming and surfing.

Costa Rica has some divine beaches, like those at Papagayo and Manuel Antonio, whether you want to swim or surf or simply relax.

Lapa Rios in Costa Rica offers luxury and is eco-friendly

Stay in the rainforest

Lapa Rios in Costa Rica offers luxury and is eco-friendly

Luxury villas in the rainforest, surrounded by the Osa Peninsula’s abundant wildlife. Welcome to Lapa Rios, an eco-lodge you’ll fall in love with.
What is an eco-lodge?

Enjoy fresh seafood directly from the market in Costa Rica

Travel in Costa Rica

Enjoy fresh seafood directly from the market in Costa Rica

Although it’s a small country (much the same size as Switzerland), getting around on public transport is challenging. After arriving in the capital, San José, you’ll probably need to take internal flights and/or hire a 4WD as the roads can be terrible. Travel is harder in the wet season (May to November) so we recommend avoiding it if possible. Ecotourism is popular and successful in Costa Rica so ask us about the best eco-lodges, wildlife spotting, rainforest tours and sustainable travel.

Costa Rica facts

Costa Rica is sometimes called ‘the Switzerland of Central America’ but it’s a very loose comparison. Yes, the country is surprisingly mountainous (the highest point is Cerro Chirripo at 3821m) and peaceful – the army was abolished in 1948. But there are also active volcanoes, tropical rainforests and two coastlines: the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Not forgetting that the population is about half that of Switzerland at only 4.5 million.

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Time zone

UTC -6

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Flight time

12 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Costa Rican colon

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+506

Overview Country

Canada

A captivating land where there’s room to breathe

Morning view of Moraine Lake in Canada

This country dazzles with cosmopolitan cities, rugged coastlines, mighty mountains and wealth of wildlife. It’s the perfect destination if you love the great outdoors mixed with cultural diversity and exciting cuisines. Sounds like the USA, doesn’t it? But it’s Canada, the bigger friendlier neighbour to the north. Not forgetting that Canada can give Switzerland a run for its money when it comes to combining mountains with trains. The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the world’s great train trips, winding through grand landscapes on a monumental scale.

A grizzly bear chasing salmon swimming up the stream
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Where it is

USA & Canada

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When to go

All year

Why go there

Why go there

Great cities
Beautiful scenery
Outdoor adventure

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What to see

Rocky Mountains
Toronto
Inside Passage

An elk in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada

Get ready for the Rockies

An elk in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada

The scenery of the Canadian Rocky Mountains is nothing short of spectacular. High peaks, glittering lakes and superb national parks like Banff, Jasper and Yoho.
Hit the Rockies road with us

A swan swimming on Ontario lake with the skyline of Toronto in the back, Canada

The Canadian metropolis

A swan swimming on Ontario lake with the skyline of Toronto in the back, Canada

From the top of the CN Tower, all of Toronto is at your feet. But it’s on foot that you really discover the characterful neighbourhoods and lively lakeshore.

Admire the magnificent ice formations in Glacier Bay during your Inside Passage cruise.

Cruising the Inside Passage

Admire the magnificent ice formations in Glacier Bay during your Inside Passage cruise.

The sensational trip from Vancouver up to Alaska is a cruise like no other, with whale watching, glacier spotting, crab eating and simply relaxing.

Gorgeous skyline of Quebec City in Canada on a beautiful autumn day.

Quebec from above

Gorgeous skyline of Quebec City in Canada on a beautiful autumn day.

See the beautiful French-speaking province of Quebec from the air. Our unique seaplane tour also visits bilingual Montreal and historic Quebec City.

Travel by seaplane and discover new corners of Canada

Travel in Canada

Travel by seaplane and discover new corners of Canada

Once you realise that Canada is over 5,500km from east to west, you understand how challenging domestic travel can be. But vast parts of the country are empty, with 90% of the population living within 160km of the US border, making it possible to see many highlights quite easily. Whether it’s Niagara Falls or Nova Scotia, lovely Vancouver or historic Quebec, we can create the perfect Canadian trip for you. By plane, by train, by car or even by boat, all of Canada is waiting to be discovered.

Canada facts

Simply put, Canada is big. The world’s second largest country spans six time zones and shares the longest international border in the world with the USA (at almost 9,000km). Canada is a constitutional monarchy with the King as head of state, but it’s also a federation made up of ten provinces and three territories. The whole country is officially bilingual, but Quebec is the only province that is French speaking. The iconic national flag with the red maple leaf was created in 1965.

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Time zone

UTC -3:30 to -8

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Flight time

7 to 12 hours from Switzerland

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Local currency

Canadian dollar

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+1