Packing for Malta is one of those deceptively simple tasks! It is a small Mediterranean island, it is sunny, and it has beaches. Job done, right? Not quite! After several trips to this wonderfully layered country, I have learned that Malta rewards smart packing. One day you are swimming in turquoise coves, the next you […]
22
Jan
Jan
Hiking in Slovakia has a habit of sneaking up on people! It does not shout about itself like the Alps, but quietly delivers dramatic mountain peaks, glacial lakes, well-marked trails and some of the best value mountain infrastructure in Europe. For budget travellers, nature lovers and anyone planning a long weekend packed with fresh air, […]
19
Jan
Jan
Vilnius quietly gets on with being one of Europe’s most rewarding food cities. No hype, no queues that require military-grade patience, just genuinely good eating at reasonable prices. For a first time visit to the Lithuanian capital, food is one of the best things you can prioritise, whether you are here for a long weekend, […]
15
Jan
Jan
Vilnius is one of those European cities that quietly wins you over. It is compact, characterful, and packed with historic buildings, great food, and a surprisingly relaxed vibe for a capital city. For good value travel, one day in Vilnius is a brilliant option because you can see a huge amount without spending a fortune. […]
12
Jan
Jan
Visiting Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, often begins with a simple question. Is it worth visiting, especially if you are travelling on a budget? The answer is a confident yes. Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is one of Europe’s most walkable and affordable capital cities, rewarding travellers who enjoy exploring on foot, discovering history through […]
Europe, UK, Western Europe
9 Best Areas to Stay in London: Local’s Guide to City’s Top Neighbourhoods
08
Jan
Jan
As a middle-aged Brit who has spent years between travels bouncing in and out of London for work, and has now lived in this city full-time for 5 years, I get asked one question constantly… “Where is the best area to stay in London?” The honest answer is that it depends entirely on your trip! […]
05
Jan
Jan
The Orangerie Schönbrunn is one of those places in Vienna that quietly surprises you. Tucked into the wider Schönbrunn Palace estate, it is far less talked about than the palace interiors or the Gloriette, yet it plays an essential role in understanding how this former imperial summer residence functioned, entertained and showed off its power. […]
02
Jan
Jan
We all know that thoughtful travel gifts can make all the difference, and never more than when you’re pregnant, as I well know this festive season! When a friend or loved one is travelling while pregnant, comfort, safety and convenience become priorities. You want gifts that make journeys easier, support wellbeing and help expectant mums […]
01
Jan
Jan
Spend a bit of time chatting to locals in Vienna and you will quickly learn an architectural quirk of the city. Balconies are surprisingly rare, especially in classic Altbau apartments. These elegant early 20th century buildings are famous for high ceilings and grand proportions, but not for outdoor space. Fresh air and far reaching views […]
29
Dec
Dec
If you are planning a trip to Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace is one attraction that genuinely lives up to the hype. Grand, golden and gloriously over the top, this former imperial family summer residence of the Habsburgs is one of the most important cultural sites in Austria and a UNESCO World Heritage Site to boot. I’ve […]