Our favourite things: January 2018

Going green

What? Walthamstow Wetlands, London.

When? This watery wonderland opened in October, bringing birders closer to winged wildlife like kingfishers and peregrine falcons.

Tell me more: Europe's largest urban wetland is crossed by 13 miles of foot and cycle tracks, while heritage buildings include the Engine House (now a cafe) and Coppermill Tower, topped with a viewing platform. Stephanie Cavagnaro

Three to try

The Bear Grylls Adventure

The man himself was involved in designing this adventure theme park opening at Birmingham's NEC in 2018.

01 Get prepared Basecamp offers physical, mental, individual and group challenges.

02 Get high iFLY is an indoor skydiving simulator with a safe, endless freefall.

03 Learn the ropes Zip-line from a Chinook helicopter to the highest free-roam high ropes in Europe. Zane Henry

Climate is the word

New words created by Sheena Adams from Arctic Energy Alliance aid Inuit people in Canada's fast-warming Northwest Territories to talk about climate change. The initiative may help revive the dying language.

Suangatit nungulailat = Renewable energy

Annugihiut anugihiuttin = Wind turbine

Siqiniqmin aullan = Solar panels

Tamsin Wressell

Island life

Ever wanted to see a dragon? Well, this is your chance, thanks to the recent launch of direct flights from London to Jakarta. Explore's two-week Indonesia Highlights (one of four new tours) showcases the islands of Flores, Bali, Lombok and Komodo (home to the giant lizard). Maria Pieri

In numbers: Rio Carnival

9-14 February, the Carnival 2018 dates

1723: The year the first recorded festivals took place in the city

2,000,000 people (or more!) in the streets of Rio during Carnival

15 miles: The length of the street parades

$70: (£53) — the cost of a grandstand ticket
Connor McGovern

Our favourite British pubs

The Holly Bush, Hampstead
Best for: Comfort food, an open fire and 18th-century rustic charm — the reward for a good stomp across the Heath. Amelia Duggan

Ye Olde White Harte, Hull
Best for: Intrigue — the Civil War was plotted in the upstairs rooms and there's a human skull on display in the saloon. Glen Mutel

The Black Boy, Winchester
Best for: Named after coalminers and chimney sweeps, the pub is a maze of taxidermy and trinkets. Tamsin Wressell

The Druidstone, Haverfordwest
Best for: Dramatic views of St Bride's Bay over a refreshing pint — ideal after tackling the weathered-beaten Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Stephanie Cavagnaro

Published in the Jan/Feb 2018 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)