Imposing ruins, ancient history, vibrant towns and the brooding Mount Etna - discover all of this and more as you explore Italy's largest island.
Borneo's natural haven beckons as you venture into lush rainforests, discover remarkable flora and fauna, and cherish the moment of your first glimpse of the rare orangutan.
Even back at the hotel, the wildlife never let up, crocodiles and exotic birdlife made for a spectacular backdrop to evenings spent outdoors.
An early riser by nature, Dave found his perfect morning ritual quickly.
"Getting up before breakfast, sitting outside my lodge with a coffee, tuning into the dawn chorus, it was a truly rewarding way to start each day."
At the Tilajari Resort, hummingbirds were regular visitors thanks to nectar feeders on the grounds.
"Their wings beat between 50 and 80 times per second, so I set myself the challenge of capturing a perfect still, shooting at 120 frames per second. Worth every click!"
As part of a group of just 14, Dave found the landscapes every bit as breathtaking as the wildlife.
"I'd strongly recommend adding the Hanging Bridges of Arenal to your trip. Walking across bridges suspended in dense rainforest is surreal and wondrous in equal measure, and with hundreds of bird species around you, I was completely in my element."
The hike through Cahuita National Park and a visit to Puerto Viejo de Limon beach were equally memorable.
"We spotted sea turtles, toucans, iguanas and raccoons in the wild, then had a chance to take a dip in the ocean. The beaches in Costa Rica are absolutely stunning."
"By this point in the trip, friendships had formed naturally. People look out for each other; there's a real warmth to the group. Our guide Mateo and Holiday Director, played a huge part in creating that atmosphere. For an adventurous trip like this, having that combination of professional support and local expertise makes all the difference. You genuinely don't need to worry about a thing."
The tour includes a visit to the indigenous Bribri community, a highlight Dave hadn't anticipated.
"I'll be honest, I'm often sceptical about these kinds of experiences, but I was genuinely moved. Learning first-hand about their history, their heritage and their deep connection to nature, including the use of plants in traditional medicine, was fascinating.
Even eating from a banana leaf as a makeshift plate was a small but meaningful culture shock. The key is to travel with an open mind. That's the real beauty of going solo, it stretches you in the most wonderful ways."
Dave books through his local travel agent, who regularly recommends Just You for solo travellers, particularly first-timers.
"A friend has already booked Real Costa Rica for next November, and I can't wait to share all my tips with her. I'd recommend this tour to absolutely anyone. You're safe, well looked after, and you'll be so glad you said yes. It's a rewarding adventure in every sense.
"I'm now eyeing Kerala. The idea of visiting 'God's own country', with its serene coastlines and lush tea plantations, so different from the bustle of Delhi, really speaks to me."
If you want to discover the real Costa Rica, this is the tour for you. It's packed full of unforgettable experiences and visits the stunning Caribbean coast.
