At the bottom of the Earth is a vast white continent pristine and otherworldly. There aren’t many untouched places on our planet left to explore – except for Antarctica. A voyage to the planet’s southernmost landmass is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and not many people can say they’ve been here.

Fancy a steaming pan of paella in an old courtyard fitted with towering ferns? How about seafood tapas and Sangria on the Atlantic Coast? Spain has a gastronomic history as rich and diverse as its quiet pastoral hills of the north and the sunny stretch of Andalusia, the beating heart of the flamenco dance with its vivid movements.

With dreamy seaside villages, enchanting old architecture that includes a sprinkling of fairy-tale castles, and a rich gastronomic tradition comprised of grilled sardines and bacalhau, Portugal is a destination that satiates all senses. Porto, Lisbon, Faro – the major cities are situated on the coast, a testament to Portugal’s long seafaring history.