THE sun began to set beyond the horizon and soon I was immersed in its warm glow as I floated in the sea on my kayak, the orange light reflecting around me. It was shortly after 7pm in late summer ...

There are many alternative ways to experience central Japan’s sacred peak without the crowds, from hiking its sister summits ...

Visit pierhousehotel.co.uk. A five-hour beginner's session with Sea Kayak Plockton costs £105 per person, all kit provided. Owner Alison French makes the flapjacks that fuel guests.

Rachel Mumford, KAYAK UK Travel Expert, says: "Brits value quality time with family and friends over the Christmas period, so instead of gifting presents that sometimes aren't quite to taste or ...