On the West Coast of Africa, Gambia has a mentality of "no problem". The pace of life is relaxed and the locals very friendly. The hotels are generally basic but self-sufficient. Most hotels offer a good choice of international and local cuisine either on site or very close by. An old British colony there is some history in Gambia, some exquisite colonial buildings can be seen. There are plenty of street markets where fantastic locally produced gifts and ornaments can be bargained for unbelievable prices.

The golden sandy beaches of Kotu and Kololo are lined with beach shacks offering snacks and drinks. The capital Banjul is well worth a visit, a typical capital city with a hectic, chaotic pace of life, huge markets selling anything and everything imaginable. Gambia is also home to some great wildlife including a crocodile, monkeys, hippos and exotic birdlife. A simple destination giving insight to real life in an African country opening its doors to holiday makers.

Without a doubt, one of the biggest attractions of Kenya is the vast safari. The world famous Masai Mara is just one of the many national parks which is home to lions, giraffe, elephants, rhino amongst many others. In addition to the spectacular wildlife, Kenya offers some fantastic beach resorts with white sandy beaches and two bustling cities of Nairobi and Mombasa. The resorts of Malindi, Watamu, Kilifi as well as the north and south Mombasa coasts are home to superb snorkelling and diving opportunities or a gentle glass bottom boat trip for the less sporty. Experience best of nature, through a combination of wildlife and scenery.

One of the overwhelming feelings of Morocco is its mystery and romance. Visions of vast markets bartering locally produced goods match the reality once there, fantastic bargains can be had if you are prepared to drive a hard bargain for leather goods. Morocco's history goes back centuries and some fantastic architectural mosques and palaces still stand to be visited. Marakkesh is full of tombs, mosques, monuments and palaces, all mixed in with tiny streets bustling with storytellers, fortune tellers and street performers. A fantastic contrast to the beach resort of Agadir which attracts water sports enthusiasts.

Tunisia has a wealth of history dating back centuries. The Spanish, French and Romans have all contributed over time leaving typical architecture and culture along the way. There are some fantastic temples and other structures still standing and well worth a visit. Well known for bartering, Tunisia offers fantastic markets and bazaars, making it a haven for bargain hunters after a good haggle.

Of course there is the spectacular Sahara desert, a breathtaking scene not to be missed. The resorts of Hammamet, Monastir and Port el Kantaoui are spread along the Mediterranean coastline all offering a good choice of restaurants and cafes. Most entertainment is hotel based but there are some excellent trips to experience the regions outside of the hotels, of course one worth a visit is to the location of Star Wars films.

Culture and history is abundant in Egypt. Of course home to the world famous Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, Cairo is a marvel to visit. The museums are jammed with artefacts and the bazaars are bustling with modern ornaments. The river Nile runs through the centre of Cairo, the town being situated on the west bank and is seen as one of the most magnificent cruise destinations in the world.

Luxor is located on the east bank and is more modern. Even so it is still home to ancient sites of Valley of the Kings and Queens and Tombs of the Noble.

Sharm el Sheikh has become a mecca for sun worshippers and watersport enthusiasts. The fantastically warm waters of the red sea and the white sandy beaches offers a great place for scuba diving and the resort has become one of the top diving destinations in the world. The coral reefs are outstanding and the fish colourfully exotic.

Spread over 700 miles and comprising 1200 islands the Maldives is a unique destination. Each hotel occupies its own island and islands can have different time zones to one another. The islands have been described for years as 'paradise' and it's easy to see why. The white golden sandy beaches, the turquoise clear waters filled with elaborate tropical fish and coral reefs makes for a perfect destination for a totally relaxed holiday.

Not surprisingly the islands attract experienced scuba divers and snorkelling, and the inspires novices to take the plunge and experience the fantastic underwater world just off the beaches including turtles, squirrel fish, barracuda, clown fish and lionfish. Start your holiday by arriving at your hotel in style - by speedboat, seaplane or local dhoni. The capital of Male is a great place to visit the local markets and can be reached by boat from most resorts. It has been said that the Maldives is the most relaxing place in the world to escape from 'real life'.