London, the Olympics, and the Jubilee

Some may say this is a year to avoid London but I say it is THE time to go. The excitement is palpable already. If you really want to live like the Queen, check out the rooms for rent in Buckingham Palace! There are so many special events, they cannot be contained in one list or even one website. For a beginning, try www.visitbritain.com or www.visitlondon.com

Can U C U?

What's HOT for 2012? UCU! Uruguay, Curacao, and Uganda. Curacao is fast becoming "the" undiscovered island of the Caribbean where people sneak away for a glorious week or so. Its position out of the hurricane belt makes it even more attractive. Uruguay and Uganda are both blossoming after years of civil troubles. The rich and famous flock to Punta del Este to sample Uruguay's delicious combination of European and South American flavors. Uganda, now a democracy, is arguably the best place for gorilla trekking on the continent. Beyond that is Murchison Falls National Park, teeming with wildlife but nearly empty of tourists.

Switzerland by Winter, when else?

What better time to see the stunning mountain scenery of Switzerland than in the winter?

Myriad viaducts, tunnels and bridges present the Swiss train traveller with the ultimate Winter show - spectacular mountain scenery and idyllic towns all blanketed in snow! Insight Tours uses a clever combination of both coach and rail means you’ll witness the finest Alpine scenery and historic towns and buildings, without it feeling too rushed. In the traffic-free resort of Zermatt you have most of the day to do as you please.

For rail enthusiasts, there are many Swiss Rail and hotel combinations to suit your taste and catch all the glorious special trains.