Just a bit different!

If you are stuck in a rut of package holidays, maddening crowds, sight-seeing and pool-lounging and you want a holiday that is just a little bit different from the norm, our suggestions will help you consider your next option. How does 'warrior training' sound?

Stargazing in St Austell, Cornwall, England.

Court farm is set in 30 acres of pastureland, and is a cottage and camping facility. They have an on-site astrological expert and a 9.5” newtonion reflector telescope; with little light pollution in the area it makes an idea spot for stargazing. Accommodation is in self-catering cottages or tents. For daytime activities, the world famous Eden project is 6 miles away, the beaches, and surfers paradise of Newquay, is 12 miles away and there is, of course, the beautiful Cornwall countryside and tiny coves to explore. All the details are at http://www.courtfarmcornwall.co.uk/

Warrior Training in Mongolia.

Fancy learning Genghis Khan warrior training? You will be instructed in battle tactics, shooting techniques, archery and horseback riding on the Mongolian steppe wearing full warrior dress and staying in a traditional Mongol camp. See www.highandwild.co.uk for more details.

Jules undersea lodge, Emerald lagoon, Key Largo, Florida.

You need to be a scuba diver for this one, as the lodge is 30ft below the surface! The lodge, (which was an underwater laboratory), has 2 bedrooms and all mod-cons, peace and quiet, fish swimming by and even pizza delivery! http://www.jul.com/ has all the details.

Elephant back safari, Okavango Delta, Botswana.

How great is this! Small groups of guests, based at Abu camp, in the ancient Botswana wilderness, get to travel, on-high, through the African bush with these gentle giants. Apart from game spotting, there is full interaction with these mighty beasts with swimming, grooming and feeding to participate in. A must-do experience. Check out http://www.elephant-back-safaris.com/

Pasvik trail dogsled race, Norway.

Just inside the arctic circle, near the Russian border in late March the annual Pasvik dogsled race take place. Untill recently outsiders were not allowed to enter, now thats changed and it could be you with a team of huskies taking part in the 320km race. Full training is given and a 'musher' will be with you for the race duration. There are only limited spaces available and http://www.highandwild.co.uk/ are fully booked for 2008! Better get in quick for 2009 for this 8 day 'can't be beaten' experience.