Rome is one of those cities where location really does shape your experience. Stay in the wrong area and you’ll spend half your trip on buses and queues. Pick the right one and suddenly everything feels walkable, cheaper and far more relaxed. In this guide to the best places to stay in Rome, I’ll break […]
Category Archives: Europe
Europe, FRANCE, Western Europe
Beyond Toulouse: Why Haute Garonne is Southwest France’s Best-Kept Secret
09
Jul
Jul
If you’re planning a trip to southwest France, there’s a good chance Toulouse is already on your radar. France’s famous Pink City has plenty going for it – from grand squares and impressive churches to buzzing food markets and lively cafés. But here’s the thing. You don’t actually need to stay in Toulouse to enjoy […]
06
Jul
Jul
Paris might have a reputation for being pricey, but trust me, there are plenty of smart ways to enjoy the French capital without rinsing your bank account. Choosing the right neighbourhood is everything, especially if you want to balance location, cost and vibe. In this guide to the best places to stay in Paris, I’ll […]
02
Jul
Jul
When most people start planning a Loire Valley trip, they naturally gravitate towards Amboise. It makes sense. The town is beautiful, home to a royal château, linked to Leonardo da Vinci, and sits right on the Loire River. If you’ve seen photos of the Loire Valley, chances are you’ve already seen Amboise. But after spending […]
25
Jun
Jun
The Loire Valley is one of France’s most beautiful regions, famous for its elegant châteaux, vineyards, riverside villages and UNESCO-listed landscapes. Many visitors assume you need a car to explore the area properly, but that’s simply not true. In fact, some of the Loire Valley’s most famous castles are surprisingly easy to reach by train […]
22
Jun
Jun
When most people think of a French city break, Paris immediately springs to mind. While the French capital is undeniably beautiful, it can also be expensive, crowded and overwhelming, particularly during peak season. That’s why I think Orléans deserves far more attention. Located just over an hour from Paris by train, this elegant city on […]
18
Jun
Jun
Planning a France road trip with both a baby and a dog might sound ambitious, but honestly, Rouen makes a surprisingly brilliant stop. This beautiful Norman city combines medieval charm, riverside walks, good parking, great food and manageable sightseeing, all without the overwhelming chaos of somewhere like Paris. If you’re travelling from the UK via […]
15
Jun
Jun
If you’ve ever looked at prices in Le Touquet and immediately considered remortgaging your house for a weekend by the sea, then allow me to introduce you to its much more affordable neighbour – Saint-Cécile Plage. Set along France’s gorgeous Opal Coast, Saint-Cécile Plage delivers huge sandy beaches, family-friendly vibes, dog-friendly stays and excellent seafood […]
Europe, FRANCE, Western Europe
Why I Opted for LeShuttle Over the Ferry: Setting Off on a French Road Trip
08
Jun
Jun
My first trip abroad with a newborn felt like a pretty big moment. Not because I was attempting anything especially adventurous. In fact, quite the opposite. What I wanted was the easiest, least stressful, quickest possible route from the UK to France. Minimal faff, minimal unpacking, no airport queues, no waiting around in the heat […]
01
Jun
Jun
Menorca might be the quieter sibling of Mallorca and Ibiza, but when it comes to natural beauty, beaches and relaxed Mediterranean vibes, it absolutely holds its own. And the good news for travellers watching their spending, is that Menorca can also be a surprisingly affordable island too… if you choose the right base! Picking the […]