Category Archives: Western Europe

Why I’d Stay in Tours, Not Amboise, for a Loire Valley Castle Trip

Tours, France

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 […]

How to Visit the Famous Loire Valley Castles by Public Transport

Loire Valley Castles by Public Transport

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 […]

Orléans, France: Paris Without the Price Tag!

Orléans, France Paris Without the Price Tag!

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 […]

Road Tripping France: Visiting Rouen with a Baby and a Dog!

Visiting Rouen, France

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 […]

Skip Le Touquet Prices: Head to Saint-Cécile Plage Instead

Opal Coast, France

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 […]

Why I Opted for LeShuttle Over the Ferry: Setting Off on a French Road Trip

LeShuttle vs Ferry

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 […]

Where to Stay in Menorca on a Budget

Where to Stay in Menorca

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 […]

Best Menorca Beaches for Every Traveller

Menorca Beaches

Menorca is a beach lover’s dream. This Balearic island has more than 100 beaches and coves, ranging from long sandy stretches with restaurants and parking, to hidden turquoise calas reached only by hiking trails. For travellers who value good experiences without unnecessary expense, Menorca is particularly rewarding. Many of the island’s most spectacular beaches are […]

Best Things to Do in Menorca on a Budget

Menorca Things To Do

Menorca might be the quieter Balearic sister to Mallorca and Ibiza, but that is exactly its magic. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is all wild coves, turquoise water, ancient stone monuments and golden light, which honestly makes you question any life decision that does not involve living by the sea! If you are searching for the […]

5 Day Menorca Itinerary for Beaches, Walks & Ciutadella

Menorca Itinerary

Menorca has a habit of sneaking up on people. It rarely shouts as loudly as Mallorca or Ibiza, yet quietly delivers some of the most absurdly beautiful beaches in Spain, wonderfully preserved historic towns, and walking routes that feel like they were designed by someone who truly understands what travellers need on a good holiday!  […]