Most of us have a bucket list, a checklist of experiences that we would like to achieve at least once in our lives – don’t we ?!?
There is an almost endless number of inspiring places to visit all over the world, or even closer to home. Natural wonders, unique encounters or thrilling experiences: we are delighted to illustrate below some options that tick all the boxes for Charly’s Team.
Dance with wolves
A Norwegian sanctuary, perfectly isolated in the wild, that allows you to see the northern lights and play with wolves? Let’s head north to Polar Park, a wildlife centre in the far north of Norway that specialises in Arctic species. This reserve is home to wolves raised by humans who, unlike their wild brothers, do not fear humans. Visitors can, if they so wish, approach and even pet the wolves in their natural environment, in huge enclosures that give animals the space they need to explore, as well as hide. After receiving clear instructions from your guide on where to place your hands, how to walk and behave in general around the wolves, you will be greeted with a lick to the face!
In terms of comfort, the three suites at the Wolf Lodge can accommodate up to 6 people, with an interior design that creates a warm and modern Scandinavian atmosphere. You will have an opportunity to interact with the wolves in the enclosures, with ‘socialised’ animals. Guests are separated from the animals only by the lodge’s wooden walls and large windows.
The experience includes evenings spent sitting by a crackling log fire, sipping hot chocolate as you listen to stories about wolves, while the curios animals watch you from nearby.
One of the highlights will be the possibility of seeing the northern lights. At the top of Narvik Mountain, accessible by cable car, visitors may be able to see nature’s light show from inside a lodge or from an outdoor platform.
Period: you can visit from November to March.
Mythical motu
The height of exclusivity is to offer yourself a holiday on your own private island in Polynesia, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the ocean as your only horizon. One of many shimmering ‘leeward’ islands, this motu can be booked for a private stay with your family or friends. Welcome to Nao Nao, which rises from the waters opposite the island of Raiatea. This earthly paradise, with 25 hectares of lush nature and 2 beaches, one of which is over 800 m long, is home to a hugely diverse ecosystem.
Three villas, which can host up to 6 people, are situated just a few metres from one another and have direct access to the pristine beach. The décor, in an authentic local style, sets the tone, featuring white coral, framework made from ‘Aito’ wood and Burmese teak terraces.
Your Chef will excel at the table, crafting seasonal menus with most of the ingredients coming directly from the motu itself, particularly the fish, organic vegetables and wild herbs. Activities are, of course, inspired by the ocean, and allow you to choose between scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding, kite surfing, bike rides or lagoon boat tours. If you travel to Raiatea, you will discover the traditions of the local communities and the natural marvels of the archipelago.
Here, respect for the environment is a core value. Motu Nao Nao is indeed committed to preserving and protecting our planet for the future, and therefore to minimising its environmental footprint. And what is more, this unique place is devoted to respecting the Polynesian people and their culture.
Whatever your plans for the day, finish on a high with a wonderfully relaxing cocktail, made with fresh flavours from the garden, sipped on your elegant terrace facing the sparkling lagoon.
Tropical climate all year round. Best period = dry season, from April to October.
A different outlook
Moving encounters do not happen only with people from the other side of the world. Even without words, a magic understanding can be reached through a powerful gaze. It is in Rwanda, just below the equator, following a trek of several hours through the forest, that you may find the last mountain gorillas, an encounter that could change your life.
Coming face to face with these great apes is an invaluable experience that almost eclipses the extraordinary landscapes that you traverse to enjoy such unique moments. Thousands of hills, lush banana plantations, high-altitude lakes and dormant volcanoes represent but a few of the natural attractions.
On your way, you may have the chance to cross paths with herbivores such as elephants, buffaloes, duiker, bush pigs and tree hyraxes.
The gorillas benefit from a safeguarding plan, the effects of which are already visible in Rwanda, where the State is supporting measures by volunteers to protect this species. If you would like to contribute to efforts being made to extend their habitat, you can take part in a project to plant trees and restore their habitat by staying at Kwitonda Lodge, owned by the Singita chain, which is synonymous with sustainability.
Located over 72 hectares bordering the volcanoes national park, and two and a half hours’ drive from Kigali, this eco-friendly property offers a sophisticated, very comfortable version of the safari, with easy access to the gorilla spotting treks.
The lodge’s walls, made of volcanic rock, feature large picture windows, revealing views of the summits of the Virunga Mountains. The ten suites and villas are perched over a ridge, providing unobstructed views of the mist descending down the volcano, the mountains and surrounding bucolic landscapes.
An organic vegetable garden on site provides almost all of the produce for the restaurant and bar.
As the Tanzanian Serengeti is only a few kilometres away on the other side of Lake Victoria, it is possible to combine your stay with a “big 5” safari.
Best time to visit: from mid-May to mid-October in the dry season, when conditions are ideal.
We all have our desires, be they virtuous or not. These unique experiences will create unforgettable memories for life. There are so many places to explore, whether you are looking to get away for a few days, or you are seeking extraordinary experiences; we can share infinite ideas with you, and our wish is to help you make your dreams come true.
To be continued in the next episode...