GO TO CUBA BEFORE INVASION

This Latin America country has been in something of a time warp throughout the long reign of Castro but signs are that there may be some thawing of relations between Cuba and the US.

At the Destinations travel show in London this year, the Cuba stand was there to encourage what has been a steadily growing if still small number of British visitors. And anticipating an influx of American influence as the thaw grows, the advice from one quarter was to visit now, before that influence has effect.

A beautiful island in the most westerly part of the Caribbean, Cuba has a rich history and some wonderfully distinctive architecture, as well as the beaches for which the Caribbean is famed. Much of it is unspoiled.
The city of Camaguey, founded in 1515, is one of Cubas's historic cities, with attractive old buildings, churches and pleasant squares, as left.

"Go now, before it changes," one Cuban enthusiast advised.

There are plenty of tour operators covering the destination, from such well known names as Bales, Cox & King, Thomas Cook and Kuoni to other more specialist companies. Go to the Cuban Tourist Board website on www.travel2cuba.co.uk

JAPAN PACKS IN PLENTY OF VARIETY

Japan is another country that is looking to increase the flow of British visitors. The fact that it is not seen as a sun and sea destination, that it is long haul, and quite pricey has so far restricted the numbers of holidaymakers.

But like Britain, it manages to cram a full gamut of attractions into its islands. To help tourists see more of these, Inside Japan Tours is arranging what it calls Self-Guided Adventures in Japan.

Designed for those who wish to travel independently but who would welcome help in touring what can still be quite a difficult country, these tours cover itinery, pre-booked accomodation and transport arrangments, tailored to individual demand.

For garden worshipers , there are suggestions for a tour of Japan's top gardens, for winter sports enthusiasts there are ski resorts coupled with cultural trips. Japan's hot springs are a natural alternative to modern spas, while the Japanese Alps offer plenty of scope for exercise. The Inside Japan Team will work with travellers to draw up their ideal programme.

One that would take visitors around the remote and sparsely populated island of Hokkaido in a fly-drive holiday takes in national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty with plenty of wildlife. The roads are quiet and there are signs in English, they say. Prices for a 17 night trip, including accomodation and dinners, are from around £3,650, excluding international flights. www.insidejapantours.com for other examples.

SERENISSIMA SPRING TREAT

Venice, the Orient Express, the Danieli hotel and the company of Sir Timothy Clifford, noted Venice authority; what more could one ask?

This very special package comes in a short break being organised by Kirker Holidays. Three days and nights will be spent in the Serenissima, staying at the Danieli, with dinners in Venice, three evening lectures by Sir Clifford on this magical city and two walking tours, plus an excursion to the island of Torcello. It is fly out and then back on the Orient Express. To take place from April 25th to 29th, prices start from £3,499. www.kirkerholidays.com