Travel Deals: Get back to nature on these scenic byways

Tour the Florida Everglades, learn how to cook like an Italian, or take a jungle safari in Sri Lanka in this week's holiday round-up.

Miami, United States

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the World Heritage Convention, Mandarin Oriental Miami is offering a three-night "World Heritage" package that includes a half-day guided trip (10am to 1pm) through the wetlands of Everglades National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, as well as the opportunity to select a tree species to be planted in the park. From US$2,200 (Dh8,100), including accommodation, based on two sharing, breakfast, a 90-minute spa treatment for two, a copy of The World's Heritage guide and taxes. Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more details.

Sri Lanka

This family holiday in Sri Lanka has something for everyone, including elephant rides, a catamaran ride across Parakrama Lake in Polonnaruwa, trips to Dambulla Caves, and a couple of days exploring Kandy's ancient citadel, grand botanical gardens and the Udawattakele Sanctuary. Highlights include a jungle safari in Udawalawe National Park, a beach break in Tangalle Bay, a tour of the coastal town of Galle and a visit to a turtle conservation project in Kosgoda. The 16-day trip costs from Dh6,336 per person, including accommodation, some meals, transfers, sightseeing, entrance to sites and parks and taxes. International airfare not included. Book through www.responsibletravel.com.

Thailand

Celebrate Thai New Year in Bangkok with a two-night Songkran package by Amari Boulevard. From 6,699 Thai baht (Dh799) per person, including accommodation, based on two sharing, breakfast, traditional garlands on arrival, a Songkran activity, one set dinner (Thai cuisine), a one-day BTS Skytrain pass and late checkout (6pm). Available from April 9 to April 22. Visit www.amari.cmom to book.

Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort and Spa has a "Riverside Journey" package for two from 4,550 baht (Dh542) per night, including accommodation in a double room with a view of the Chao Phraya River and upgrade (subject to availability), breakfast, late checkout (3pm) and a discount of 25 per cent on food, beverages and spa treatments. The offer is valid until April 30. Visit http://bangkok-riverside.anantara.com or call 00 66 2476 1130 to book.

Italy

Stay in the province of Lazio (seen as the bridge between Italy's north and south), eat traditional Italian food and work off those calories on long walks in the surrounding Sabine Hills on this nine-day, self-guided gastronomic trip organised by On Foot Holidays.

About 64km north of Rome, the Sabine Hills offer green valleys, scenic high pastures, fortified villages and ruined abbeys. The guesthouse you'll stay in has cosy rooms and simple but tasty local cuisine, from tomato-based pasta to ricotta cheese-filled tarts. A short cookery course at Casperia's La Torretta restaurant is an optional add-on. The trip ends with a day in Rome. Available from April until October, this self-guided, seven-night trip costs from £695 (Dh4,050) per person, including accommodation, some meals, transfers and two picnics. International airfare not included. Visit www.onfootholidays.co.uk to book.