Food and drink holidays

Vietnam is a fascinating country. But did you know any of our top three facts about it?

1. According to official figures, there are around 18 times as many motorbikes in Vietnam as there are cars.

2. Vietnam is the second largest coffee exporter in the world after Brazil, and tops the list of cashew nut exporters globally.

3. There are no less than 54 recognised ethnic minority groups living in Vietnam

If you're looking for something to get you in the mood before you set off on your travels to Argentina, we've gathered a list of our favourite books to inspire you.

'In Patagonia' by Bruce Chatwin

Renowned British travel writer Bruce Chatwin explores seventies Patagonia through a series of short anecdotes and historical insights – a true classic which shot Chatwin to fame. 

'The Tango Singer' by Tomás Eloy Martínez

Written by one of Argentina’s most celebrated journalists and authors, this fictional novel charts the story of a New York student in search of an elusive tango singer. The book is at once a homage to the writer Borges, and a glimpse into Buenos Aires’ scintillating tango scene. 

'Hard Times in Buenos Aires' by Miranda France

A fun and accessible portrait of Buenos Aires in the troubled nineties. Written by a British foreign correspondent it captures life in the city with all its quirks and flaws intact.  
 

There are thousands of fantastic experiences to be had in this historic European gem of a country. Here are just a few of the things that are well known to be the best things to do in France (though our local partners are full of exciting ideas so don't forget to ask them!)

"Paris is always a good idea"

Synonymous with glamour and gastronomy, Paris lives up to its reputation as the most stylish European capital. A heady mix of history, art and engaging street life ensures that your time in Paris is jam packed with culture. Each neighbourhood has its own distinct character, best sampled when you tour the markets, museums and eateries - the inside knowledge of our local experts will ensure you get the most from your Parisian experience.

The Loire: Valley of Kings

The broad and beautiful river Loire threads westwards through central France, passing lively towns, a clutch of elegant chateaux and swathes of fertile land renowned for the production of stone fruit, fine wines and delicious goat's cheese. It's easy to see why medieval royalty chose this region for their leisure pursuits, and thanks to them there is a palpable sense of history and regal grandeur.

Explore the Côte d'Azur 

The famous southern French light so beloved of artists is at its fabulous best when glittering off the surface of the Mediterranean Sea. The glitzy resorts of the French Riviera are home to elegant boutiques, great restaurants and pretty harbours bustling with sleek boats. Inland, feast your senses on the colours and scents of the landscape, the stunning hill villages and the eclectic artistic heritage of this enchanting corner of the Mediterranean.

Indulge in gastronomic delights

No trip to France is complete without delving headlong into its culinary delights. Whichever region you choose for your French adventure, you are sure to find delectable local specialities served with pride and passion. The cuisine of France is fiercely regional and hugely varied, from the rich dishes of the Dordogne, Loire and Alps to the vegetable-rich food of the south and the seafood of the northwest.

Find paradise in Provence

The air in Provence is scented with the unique mix of aromatic plants that thrive here under the warm southern sun. This is largely a rural region with areas of wild upland punctuated by the picturesque towns and villages that Provence is famous for. Historic cities such as Avignon, Arles and Aix captivate visitors with their effortless blend of buzzing squares and historic buildings, some of which date back to Roman times.

Charming Dordogne

Exquisite stone villages huddle above the riverbank like something out of a fairytale, and the rugged landscape creates a stunning backdrop for castles and fortified hill towns. Browse the markets in venerable old towns such as Sarlat, stalls groaning with the abundant local produce. Pull up a chair at a traditional bistro to sample some of the richest cuisine in France, then head for a tour of some of the most photogenic villages in the country or venture underground to see the incredible cave art of Lascaux.