Inspiration
A beautiful region so quiet and pristine, it freaked me out
It’s in one of the world’s most populous nations, on Australia’s doorstep and a former centre of global trade. Yet the Maluku Islands now feel untouched.
- by Julietta Jameson
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They say four days in Tokyo is plenty. I firmly disagree
You could hop from city to city, kids in tow, frantically ticking off Japan’s main sights. But here’s why three weeks of staying put in one city is perfect.
- by Barry Divola
Indonesia’s answer to the Maldives is one of the best-kept island secrets
Belitung Island, with its Maldives vibes, pristine environment, eco-resort offerings and sunken bounty, may be one of the world’s best island secrets.
- by Penny Watson
Japan’s version of curry came from India, but not Indians
Served one of four ways, the dish containing rich gravy is mild in spice but heavy on umami.
- by Ben Groundwater
Singapore is a ‘crazy rich’ city, but here’s how to do it affordably
From laneway street art to lush nature reserves: despite the stereotype, Singapore has plenty of options for the budget-conscious traveller.
- by Rob McFarland
Twenty must-visit bars in the world’s top cities (plus five in Australia)
The best drinking holes encapsulate the essence of a place, each guaranteeing authenticity, individuality and a rollicking good drinks list.
- by Sam Gilani
What the travel brochures omit about ‘the world’s happiest nation’
Bhutan is often sold as a real-life Shangri-La. But what’s life really like beyond the postcard?
- by Nina Karnikowski
Port guide: Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
Cool Britannia’s northern capital has transformed itself from a gritty industrial city into a trendy cultural and gourmet getaway.
- by Brian Johnston
Port guide: Frankfurt-am-Main, Germany
This once dull financial capital is Germany’s most overlooked city but is lively, cultured, and has buzzing neighbourhoods and great dining and shopping scenes.
- by Brian Johnston
Port guide: Townsville, Australia
Australia’s largest tropical city is overshadowed by Cairns when it comes to tourism, but you’ll find plenty of ways to spend an enjoyable day in port.
- by Brian Johnston
Travel quiz: Which country shares borders with Ecuador, Peru and Brazil?
Are you an expert traveller? Test your knowledge with this week’s quiz.
Original URL: https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/