Impressions of China | Highlights of Hunan

Impressions of China | Highlights of Hunan

Mighty mountain ranges rising out of the mists, a spicy local cuisine that’s out of this world and smiling faces wherever I turned, a week exploring Hunan province proved a wonderful introduction to China, the land where my father was born.

Austria’s Vulkanland | Chocolate, wine, and thermal waters

Austria’s Vulkanland | Chocolate, wine, and thermal waters

Millions of years ago Vulkanland in Styria, southern Austria was moulded by powerful, volcanic events. Today, it is a tranquil Arcadia where you're more likely to find wine or even chocolate flowing (as opposed to lava) amongst the rolling hillsides and dense forests....

What is a traditional Japanese Breakfast?

What is a traditional Japanese Breakfast?

The first time I visited Japan, one of the many things I was looking forward to was the food. Local cuisine always plays a big part in my travels. I had heard a great many good things about food in Japan so I arrived with high expectations.

Summer in Alpbach, the prettiest village in Austria

Summer in Alpbach, the prettiest village in Austria

As I pass one picturesque wooden chalet after another, each one overflowing with red geraniums, I feel as if I’ve been transported into the pages of a fairy-tale picture book. Alpbach is said to be the prettiest village in Austria but, as I discovered on a recent trip...

How to find the best last minute travel deals

How to find the best last minute travel deals

Whether your planning a staycation or booking a last-minute holiday abroad, here are my money-saving tips for finding the best travel deals from over 30 years in the travel industry.

OUTXE backpack cooler review and giveaway

OUTXE backpack cooler review and giveaway

Are you planning any picnics this summer? I love getting out into the countryside, especially in the South Downs National Park, which is just a 20-minute drive from where I live. I love it so much that I now offer guided walks there. I’ve spent quite a bit of time...

The best bars in Belfast

The best bars in Belfast

Whether you’re looking for great local craft beer, traditional music, the finest Irish whiskey, or the perfect pint of Guinness, here’s my guide to the best bars in Belfast.

Top 20 plus things to do in the Algarve

Top 20 plus things to do in the Algarve

Dramatic coastal walks, never-ending sandy beaches, fabulous food and wine, friendly locals, historic towns and villages, not to mention reasonable prices, it's small wonder that Portugal, and in particular the Algarve, is a favourite holiday destination with us...

The best restaurants in Belfast

The best restaurants in Belfast

From a superb steak house to fabulous vegan dining, here’s my guide to the best restaurants, cafes and coffee shops in Belfast, Northern Ireland.