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Turn over a new leaf this New Year and make it your resolution to visit these stunning destinations for 2008.

After the excesses of the holiday season, you'll need a bit of purity in your life. And what better way than getting back to nature than the tropical rainforest coast of Costa Rica. This still largely unspoilt country - 99 percent rainforest until relatively recently, is an absolute haven to experience the 'Pura Vida' - the pure life. Although small, Costa Rica spans many ecological and climatic zones. Ride horseback along endless white beaches, climb mountains commanding stunning views, relax in volcanic thermal springs or stroll along walkways over a canopy of rainforest tree tops.

To truly experience the serene harmony between azure waters and lush rainforests, pack your bags for the Pacific-facing Gulf of Papagayo where at the all-inclusive Hilton Papagayo Resort nature and luxury go hand-in-hand. Take your choice between the excitement of white-water rafting, kayaking and jet-skiing or catch your own dinner on a deep-sea fishing expedition. But if that all seems like hard work, just lie back and let the sights and sounds of Mother Nature envelop you. And with temperatures that hover between 75F and 90F, this Central American paradise is an exotic new year's must.

Hop across a couple of continents and another pristine natural haven awaits to recharge your batteries and bring balance back to your life. Welcome to the ecological masterpiece that is the Western Ghats of India. A stunning landscape - rolling hills, refreshing waterfalls and lush ravines are the backdrop to a destination where harmony is key. Leave behind the stresses and strains of everyday life and immerse yourself in a sanctuary of wellbeing. And at the heart of this natural paradise is the Shilim Retreat by Hilton - a lavish eco-resort taking holistic refreshment to new heights. Sooth tension away at this first-class retreat; total rest of mind, body and spirit is very much on the menu. From tailor-made ancient alternative therapy programmes to the ultimate in luxury villa accommodation, just drift away.

If you need to take your detoxing regime even further, try swapping green for pale yellow and hotfoot it to New Mexico and the high desert of the Rio Grande Valley. Truly a wilderness retreat, natural beauty at its rawest. But who doesn't deserve a good dollop of pampering to go with the serenity of the desert; and you’ll find that at the Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder Resort. In keeping with the style of the indigenous culture, the resort offers Pueblo architecture looking out onto the spectacular wilderness. And this being the Wild West, how about playing a few hands in what will be the largest fully-inclusive casino resort in New Mexico. For a break from all that adrenalin, find tranquillity at the resort's holistic spa. Who said deserts couldn't be well-appointed.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a prime river-side destination to melt away your troubles, you can do little better than staying next to the world's longest, the magnificent Nile. At the archaeological treasure-trove that is Luxor (astonishingly, home to two thirds of the world's most important historic monuments), you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring a rich and fascinating past. From the spectacular Valley of the Kings to the Karnak Temples complex, antiquity seeps from the very stones of this once great civilisation. And what more indulgent way to enjoy it all than being pampered like a Pharaoh at the elegant Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa. Replenish body and soul in a resort where luxury is truly fit for a king. Treat yourself to the milk and honey soak on the spa menu to experience pampering fit for a certain Egyptian Queen too.

Ancient civilisations, pristine rainforests, verdant rolling hills or serene deserts; pack your bags, the world is waiting.

Andrew Morris is a UK-based freelance journalist, travel writer and editor who has been published internationally in both newspapers and magazines as well as online.

www.aboutyourworld.com


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