Live like a millionaire

If you were a squillionaire, you'd buy an island like this, right? If you're not, though, it helps to know someone who already has one. Enter Richard Branson, who just happens to own lovely Necker Island in (coincidentally) the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean.

For a modest sum (ahem, well around US$ 42,500 per night for up to 16 guests) you too can relax in style in one of the six Bali Houses, the Temple House or (Branson's favourite) the Love Temple. This means having the run of the entire island plus use of a luxury catamaran and submarine or hand out with the most recent additions to the Necker animal family - the lemurs.

Of course, all your food and drink (including alcohol), activities and 60 full-time staff are part of the deal, so go for it!

And, just in case you think that billionaires don't have a heart for the less-wealthy, when you book to stay for five nights on Necker Island in January, February and March 2013 they'll throw in a free night!

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Visit one of the world's rarest places

If your dream is to get up close and personal with some of the world's rarer creatures, then book a trip to the Galapagos. But you don't need to rough it.

Ecoventura's three identical superior first-class sister yachts each accommodate 20 guests and feature three decks of spacious staterooms with polished teak interiors trimmed with brass fittings. The 10 double cabins are luxuriously appointed and there's a partially covered upper sun deck ideal for lounging and star gazing.

Two different itineraries offer a range of activities and opportunities to see iconic species of wildlife that make Galapagos famous: giant tortoises, penguins, frigate birds, boobies, flamingos, Darwin Finches, albatross, flightless cormorant, marine and land iguanas, lizards, many varieties of sea birds, whale, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks and sea lions.

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Float in style on an ancient river

Ever wished you could explore the magical River Nile? Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has recently added five new Nile cruisers to its fleet making the Swiss hotel company now the largest international operator on Egypt's River Nile with a total of eight boats.

The SS Misr is undeniably the fleet's flagship and is the only internationally managed steamship in Egypt. Built in the United Kingdom nearly 100 years ago, SS Misr is a 'floating time capsule' from the reign of King Farouk who converted it to his private yacht in 1938 and used it especially for his birthday celebrations.

What's more onboard cuisine features a selection of dishes from King Farouk's favourite menus served by staff dressed in the style of his reign.

Mövenpick's SB Feddya redefines the 'dahabeya', the traditional Egyptian sailing boat, with a fresh and unique concept. Despite being the smallest dahabeya on the Nile, Mövenpick SB Feddya has vastly more space for passengers than a traditional craft.

Four uniquely-designed suites each have a private patio or balcony. The exclusivity is highlighted by chefs who will create whichever dishes passengers desire. SB Feddya is the only Nile sailing boat with 24 hour butler and laundry service for each suite. It is available for charter as well as individual bookings.

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Chill out on a Greek Island

Everything on the small Greek island of Santorini in the Aegean Sea seems to be magic. The majestic caldera, the only inhabited one in the world, has little white houses perched on its steep reddish-grey cliffs and is the most photographed setting on the island.

Then there's the world-famed fiery sunset and the countless churches with their beautiful bell towers. Better still there are hotels on this spectacular island where you can relax at the end of the day and plan your next expedition.

You will discover upscale Santorini hotels in settlements stretching from north down to the western part and eastern coast of the island. If you are planning a romantic getaway, select one of the Santorini hotels located in Fira - the popular capital of the island - Oia and Imerovigli renowned for their peace and majestic sunset views, or the tranquil Akrotiri with unobstructed volcanic and sunset views away from the crowds.

If you prefer coastal places, try the ones in Kamari and Perissa, boasting a wonderful black volcanic beach, convenient access to other nearby beaches, as well as many opportunities for water sports and seaside activities.

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qualia, Hamilton Island's luxury resort situated on the edge of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, has enjoyed a multitude of awards in 2012 including being named the Best in the World and Best Resort in the Oceania region in international readers' choice awards at the 2012 Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards.

qualia is located on Hamilton Island's sun-drenched northern-most tip, set amongst native eucalypts, with breathtaking views of the surrounding Whitsunday Islands and tranquil Coral Sea.

Did anyone mention romance? qualia's 60 luxurious guest pavilions are an indulgent space to unwind in, with either a sundeck or private infinity edge plunge pool.

Oh, and if you are feeling just a little bit energetic you need to know that guests have full access to Hamilton Island's Yacht Club and marina, and the world-class 18-hole championship golf course on neighbouring Dent Island, accessible via private helicopter direct from qualia or short boat ride.