North Korea

One of the most isolated nations in the world, North Korea’s government control tourism with an iron fist – it’s currently only possible to go in on a carefully curated tour, on which any kind of solo exploration is a big no-no. However, it’s partly this mystery which makes it such a fascinating destination, and travel here can give a fascinating insight into the personality cult of this secretive country, and – if you’re lucky – into the more traditional aspects of the Korean peninsula. It’s separated from South Korea by the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), one of the most heavily militarised areas in the world.

Capital Pyongyang is full of monuments, buildings and edifices created to glorify Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-il, and the country’s government, such as the 170-metre-high Tower of the Juche Idea. Tours hone in on these monuments strongly and enthusiastically. Pyongyang Metro is also interesting and designed to double as a nuclear bunker in the event of conflict. The 12th-century Tomb of King Kongmin, a Unesco World Heritage site, is just outside Kaesong and is well worth a visit for its historic importance and ornate decoration. Head to the isolated area around Chilbosan mountain for some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.