Visiting this formerly daunting part of the world is now easier than ever

We follow the paths carved by some of the greatest and most terrible conquerors, everyone from Alexander the Great to Genghis Khan to Timur.

• by Ute Junker

Amazing and crowd-free: 12 of the world’s most underrated countries

Look beyond the usual destinations and you’ll find outstanding countries that offer something different, and may well be bargain-priced and uncrowded too.

• by Brian Johnston

Late winter escapes: The world’s best places for an August holiday

Keen to escape Australia in August? Here are the countries and cities to visit for their summer, winter or welcoming dry season.

• by Brian Johnston

Confessions of a status junkie

No trip is too outlandish, writes James Schloeffel, if it delivers an unbeatable anecdote.

Traveller's Tale

In freezing Kyrgyzstan, Barbara Bryan has dinner in a yurt and is warmed by hearty soup, vodka and dancing.

Off-duty, off-road

From war zones to playgrounds, rust belts to resorts, the ABC's legion of foreign correspondents has seen it all. But even reporters need a holiday. David Scott asks six to nominate their favourite destinations.