One of the world’s gloomiest capitals under Communism, today Bucharest is abuzz with cosmopolitan bars, trendy restaurants, art nouveau buildings and elegant boulevards.

The vast Danube delta is a wildlife paradise, with over 300 species of birds, from eagles to cormorants. Explore this maze of waterways by boat with a naturalist guide. 

As befits its restful location, centrepiece of this hotel is the sumptuous spa, probably the only one in the world to be in former chapel (though we’re not sure the monks ever had four-hand massages). And their cells were certainly not as swish and comfortable as the bedrooms today. We particularly liked the ones that have a private terrace overlooking the garden. Truly a spot for some me time.

But before setting off, one small thing to note: this isn’t the Orient Express. It is not a super-luxury train, which means there is no restaurant car (and hopefully no murders) – so have dinner in the station and then jump on board. Drinks and snacks are available from the conductor, and breakfast is included in the ticket so no need to take a picnic hamper with you.

After Dresden the line follows the Elbe for quite some time, making it a scenic backdrop for breakfast on the move. Over the border into the Czech Republic and you’re rattling through the heart of Bohemia, past wooded valleys and tiny villages on the way to one of Europe’s great capitals. As the spires of Prague Castle appear on the skyline, you realise this is the best way to arrive in a city, not least because you are directly in the centre.

But rather than walk across Charles Bridge for the umpteenth time, why not sail under its graceful arches instead? Seeing it from the bottom up, you realise what a feat of engineering the bridge was when it opened in 1357. And you learn that before Charles came Judith, an older bridge washed away in floods but with some hidden remains visible only from the water. Layers of history that are revealed to the lucky few who venture behind the scenes.

And of course, the Charles Bridge isn’t the only one in town. There’s also a gracious Art Nouveau affair with grand columns and winged sculptures that seem to have flown in from an imperial capital. Or the quiet canals around Kampa Island, where you can see the last working water wheel in the city or get a glimpse of what it’s like to live right beside the water.

The Rockies’ handsome capital is the gateway to the spellbinding Banff National Park – Canada’s first national park and a place of endless valleys, lofty mountains, thick forests and turquoise lakes, such as the famous Lake Louise and ethereal Moraine Lake. Canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, horse riding or simply relaxing in nature are some of the amazing adventures you can embark on in this outdoor wonderland.

About a quarter the size of Switzerland, Jasper is the largest of Canada’s Rocky Mountain parks. It also has the best wildlife: elks, bears, bald eagles, bighorn sheep and moose all call it home, and Cosa can arrange for a private guided conservation tour. When night falls, gaze up at the stars: the Royal Astronomy Society of Canada designated Jasper a Dark Sky Preserve.

Part of the North American Rocky Mountains, the Canadian Rockies span both British Columbia and Alberta, with charming mountain towns and some of Canada’s most beautiful national parks. From the highest peak of Mount Robson (3954m) to scenic routes such as the Bow Valley Parkway, the region is truly nature’s playground. Whether it’s biking in Banff or hiking in Yoho, how ever you want to experience the Rockies, Cosa can help plan your perfect adventure.

The Vltava is perhaps not as famous as the Seine or the Thames but it offers the same great way of looking at a city landscape from a different angle. Better yet, enjoy this watery excursion in your own private boat with a personal guide. It truly is an amazing way to experience Prague.
Come on board with us

Standing in an old synagogue, its walls inscribed with thousands of names, that’s when you realise the enormity of what happened to Prague’s Jewish community during World War Two. A guided walking tour of Josefov is the best way to understand this tragic past and how it’s an integral part of the city’s history.

For a city of over a million people, Prague is remarkably compact. Its historic core has remained almost intact, giving it a glorious procession of buildings from medieval to modern. The pedestrianised Old Town with its famous Astronomical Clock might attract the crowds but once you go beyond that, you discover the real Prague. This city of a hundred spires has been at the heart of central Europe for centuries, once as the capital of Bohemia and now the capital of the Czech Republic.

Described by the indigenous San people as ‘the land God made in anger,’ the desolate and barren Skeleton Coast is littered with shipwrecks and seal colonies.

Make the most of your time by flying rather than driving between destinations and discover Namibia’s otherworldly landscapes from a magical aerial perspective.

With its cobbled streets, dreamy canals and gothic architecture, it’s little wonder that pocket-sized Bruges has been a World Heritage site since 2000.

Brussels and Bruges may dominate the headlines but relaxed Ghent is also blessed with beautiful medieval buildings that have been transformed into bars and boutiques.

All of Florence’s famous art is accessible with Cosa, from the Uffizi and the Bargello to the Pitti Palace and Accademia. Marvelling at Santa Maria Del Fiore (aka the Duomo cathedral) is another must, but we’ll also factor in plenty of time for the city’s fantastic shopping scene and renowned Fiorentina cuisine. Simply put: Florence is a feast for all of your senses.

Oenophiles will want to head to the medieval hilltop town of Montalcino, birthplace of one of Italy’s most revered wines: Brunello di Montalcino. Cosa can arrange for an expert guide to take you on a private tour of the vineyards that have delivered the world such delight. Expect exclusive tastings and insider knowledge. Cheers!

Perhaps the most famous of Italy’s 20 regions, Tuscany offers a winning combination of culture, food, wine, scenery and spectacular cities. And with Cosa, you’ll get a taste of authentic Tuscany. We work with local guides and experts to ensure that you get the best cultural experiences, unique tours, unforgettable restaurants and perfect hotels. From truffle hunting and wine tasting to a road trip on a Vespa or relaxing on a private estate, everything is possible in Tuscany.