French Polynesia is home to some of the best beaches on the planet but picture-perfect Matira Point is arguably the South Pacific of your dreams.

Teahupo’o has been welcoming surfers from around the world since the 1960s and Cosa can arrange a private surf lesson so that you can learn to ride the waves like a local.

French Polynesia’s 118 islands may be scattered across four million square kilometres of the Pacific – an area that’s roughly the size of Western Europe – but getting around the atolls need not be a headache. Planes, boats and ferries are frequent while on land, let us arrange a private car. Or, for an authentic experience, take ‘Le Truck’ – an open-air truck that has been converted into a bus. However you travel, brush up on your French: it’s the official language although Polynesian is spoken widely.

Lying at 3800m above sea level, shimmering Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America. It’s also steeped in legend: in Incan mythology, the first Inca king was born here.

The epic salt flats in Salar de Uyuni in the southwest corner of Bolivia have to be seen to be believed: an endless sheet of white seemingly stretching to infinity.

Travellers to Bolivia, the highest country in South America, are at risk of altitude sickness. Symptoms typically dissipate within a few days of acclimatisation but you can help minimise them by avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and drinking plenty of water as well as tea de coca (coca leaf tea), an age-old remedy that locals swear by. Bolivia’s topography (think lofty mountains and lush valleys) means that travelling around the country isn’t always easy, but Cosa can help smooth the way.

The port city of Kochi has been attracting traders and explorers for centuries (Vasco da Gama arrived here in 1500), and their influence is reflected in the medley of buildings and architectural styles. On a private tour with Cosa, you’ll see such delights as the famous cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, the spice markets, Jewish synagogue, Portuguese-built Mattancherry Palace.

Bone-white sand beaches are another of this laid-back state’s attractions. Whether you want to watch dolphins, catch some waves or do nothing at all, Kerala’s long coast ensures there are endless beaches to choose from. We recommend Kovalam, a fishing village-turned-sleepy resort, and Varkala whose stretch of golden sand is framed by red laterite cliffs.

While Madagascar is often associated with wildlife, mountain walks are another draw. ​​Andringitra National Park has four named trails, with unforgettable walks led by expert guides.

Luminescent waters, sugary sands and lush palms mean that Nosy Be (pronounced Noosh Beh) is Madagascar’s most popular beach resort, and with good reason.

Madagascar is a massive country – 587,041 km² to be exact – so our top tip is don’t scrimp on time. Despite its vast size, Madagascar’s rail travel options are limited, meaning road is the best way to get around. And Cosa can arrange an expert private driver-guide to show you the very best of the world’s fourth largest island – from its lush rainforests to incredible animals. So let us create an unforgettable Madagascar trip for you.

The sprawling Okavango Delta is an ecological marvel. Glide along the labyrinthine network of channels and lagoons in a canoe to see some of the world’s most endangered animals.
Take a canoe safari

Situated In northern Botswana, Chobe National Park is home to the highest concentration of elephants. And with Cosa, you can see these gentle giants marching through the savannah.

Botswana is arguably one of the easiest and safest (what crime there is tends to revolve around pickpocketing) countries in Africa to visit. Despite Botswana’s vast size – it occupies an area similar to Spain and Portugal together – the best way to get around is by car. Cosa can organise a private car and driver, accompanied by knowledgeable guides, to show you the very best of Botswana. And wherever you travel here, be sure to greet locals with a friendly ‘Dumela’.

Norway is synonymous with its stunning fjords, giant chasms in the landscape that were shaped by glaciers. Choosing a favourite fjord is like asking a parent to pick their favourite child – nigh on impossible – but Hardangerfjord, and the Unesco-listed Naeroyfjord and Geirangerfjord all amaze. And you don’t have to stick to exploring the fjords by boat: hiking, cycling and kayaking are all options with Cosa.

The small town of Voss in the heart of the fjords is known as Norway’s adventure capital, and with good reason. From skydiving to whitewater rafting, adrenaline junkies will find their fix, but for there’s also gentler summer activities like horse riding and salmon fishing. Or visit Voss in winter for skiing, both alpine and cross country.

Fancy a slice of paradise all to yourself? Check-in to Laucala Island, an exclusive retreat that is the ultimate escape from everything. We love it, and so will you.

The Yasawa – which translates as ‘heaven’ in Fijian – islands live up to their name. Expect rugged landscapes and some of the country’s most spectacular beaches.

Travelling between Fiji’s islands can be challenging as they are scattered across a vast area of the South Pacific. But Cosa can charter a boat or light plane so that getting from the capital, Suva, on the main island to anywhere else becomes a pleasure. When visiting rural villages, dress conservatively covering shoulders and knees, maybe by wearing a sulu (Fijian sarong). Lastly, don’t forget that you’re on Fiji time so slow down and relax…

Technically in the Vatican City and not Rome, the Vatican Museums are far more than the famous Sistine Chapel. Navigating the myriad museums, gardens, chapels and, yes, crowds (around 25,000 people visit the Vatican each day) can be overwhelming. We know where and when to go so that you’ll have an unforgettable experience.

When in Rome, you should eat like the locals and we can show you where. Maybe a neighbourhood trattoria that serves up traditional favourites like cacio e pepe. Or an exclusive restaurant that creates the most exquisite art from artichokes. And of course, divine gelato. You certainly won’t go hungry.

Rio Douro roughly translates as ‘river of gold’ and, when the light is right, you’ll soon see why: the water flows like liquid gold. Cosa can arrange a private cruise along the Douro, which doesn’t have the crowds of the Danube or the Rhine. Relax while gliding along the river and drinking in the stunning scenery of steep gorges and small villages.

No visit to the Douro Valley is complete without a winery or two, and this region has plenty on offer. Maybe drop in on one of the lodges where the famous port is aged? Or take a guided hike through terraced vineyards to a handsome quinta? Or even stay overnight in a wine hotel, with tastings included, naturally.

Negril’s Seven Mile Beach (actually four miles of icing-sugar sand) consistently ranks on the world’s best beaches list. Pack your snorkel and mask too as the marine life is fantastic.

Dunn’s River Falls draw the crowds but YS Falls are arguably even more beautiful. Expect a series of seven cascades set amid acres of lush vegetation and limestone cliffs.

As the third largest of the Caribbean islands, travelling around Jamaica takes longer than you think. However, Cosa can arrange a car and private driver to whisk you wherever you want to go – while providing nuggets of information about the island that has hosted everyone from Ian Fleming to Elizabeth Taylor. While English is the official language, many Jamaicans speak Patois, a colourful Creole dialect. Chances are you’ll soon pick up phrases like Wah gwaan (What’s up).