Where the mighty Zambezi River plunges 108 metres into a basalt chasm, Victoria Falls — or Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders) — carves one of Earth’s most dramatic spectacles. Spanning 1,708 metres along the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, this UNESCO World Heritage Site reveals its full fury between February and May when floodwaters transform the falls into a thunderous curtain of spray visible from 50 kilometres away. By November, the dry season unveils the geological artistry of the underlying gorges, including the yawning Boiling Pot whirlpool where the river's full force churns violently. On the Zambian side within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, jungle paths lead to the Knife Edge Bridge where visitors brave drenching mist for heart-stopping views of the Eastern Cataract and Rainbow Falls — the highest single drop at 108 metres. The adventurous can descend a steep trail to witness the Zambezi's power at the Boiling Pot, while keeping an eye out for resident baboons and bushbuck. For broader panoramics of the Main Falls and Devil's Cataract, the Zimbabwean side offers unparalleled vistas, especially striking during low water periods from August to January when the falls separate into distinct cascades. A valid passport allows easy border crossing to experience both perspectives. Unique phenomena abound: during full moons, lunar rainbows materialise in the night spray, while Livingstone Island (seasonally accessible) lets visitors peer directly into the precipice where Dr Livingstone first witnessed the falls in 1855. Morning visits provide the clearest views before afternoon spray builds, with waterproof gear essential in wet season. Helicopter flights reveal the falls' full grandeur from above, showcasing how the entire Zambezi funnels through a narrow 110-metre cleft in the basalt plateau — nature's own hydraulic masterpiece. Whether you come for the dry season's geological theatre or the wet season's deafening roar, Victoria Falls remains Africa's most humbling natural wonder, where rainbows dance in perpetual spray and fish eagles soar above gorges carved over millennia. The falls' enduring power continues to captivate, just as they stunned Livingstone, who famously declared: "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight".

Ordsall Hall is Salford's 'hidden gem'. Dating back over 600 years, it is one of the region's finest examples of an Elizabethan black and white half-timbered manor-house. Wander back through time, soaking up the atmosphere of its fully-furnished Great Hall and Star Chamber Bedroom. Get the low-down on Tudor lifestyles; maybe reminisce in its Victorian showcase and kitchen, or unearth the wealth of new discoveries to be made in its exciting and informative family events and exhibitions programme.

Under the shelter of lush rainforest, the archeological site of Kohunlich is an outstanding example of Maya architecture. Palaces, citadels, temples, such as the top attraction Temple of the Masks, and other elaborate structures are scattered over an area of more than 20 acres, with most landmarks dating back to as early as 250 to 600 AD. Chetumal is a common starting point to visit Kohunlich, but tours are available at the Costa Maya Cruise Port as well. If you are in the area, don't miss out on the opportunity to visit Dzibanche, another outstanding Maya landmark around 20 miles away from Kohunlich.