Why would you want to visit the infamous Komodo dragons when you hate lizards? It’s a question I ponder as I stand on the beach in front of one of these giants. They are truly terrifying—huge prehistoric creatures that exude menace. They are daunting and dangerous, and I am deeply uncomfortable, even though this is …
Komodo Dragons: An Unforgettable Encounter in Flores Read More »
Darwin in the wet season is not for the faint-hearted. The humidity is high, the temperatures soar, sweat becomes a way of life, and air-conditioning is a welcome relief. While it’s not ideal for outdoor activity, if you time it right, there are magical ways to explore. For the adventurous, there’s the incredible Heli Pub …
I’ve been to Ubud a few times in the last 20 years and each time it’s different, but I’ve always been attracted to the artistic, relaxed and somewhat remote vibe it offers. An additional plus is the climate – up in the mountains it’s cooler, greener and not so humid. To get a real feeling …
Being in Bali at this time of the year is an incredible, unexpected experience, marked with many spiritual milestones. It begins with Galungan celebrating the victory of dharma over adharma, the triumph of good over evil, and ancestral spirits visit. The streets are beautifully adorned with penjor, curved and decorated bamboo poles, along with offerings …
The crystal-clear water takes on a deep, dark blue hue, reflecting the shimmering sea ice and offering sweeping panoramic views of the stark, barren landscape that is Antarctica. The beauty of Antarctica is truly breathtaking, the sheer size and scope of the surrounds, the vast expanse and huge icebergs are much bigger and more impressive …
Let’s start with the ship … because it begins and ends with Lindblad’s National Geographic Resolution and the team that takes us to the end of the earth, into Antarctica. The port of Ushuaia is not so much a working port more cruise boat busy… there’s three lining the dock, but they’re not the 10 …
The clouds in Provence are straight out of a Renaissance painting, fluffy but with a vivid intensity… you’d not be surprised if a cherub dropped into sight. The light is soft and gentle, giving off an amber hue, it is truly divine. All this is helped by our location, the impressive Chateau de Berne, set …
Bloomsbury is unknown to me, so I booked The Kimpton Fitzroy with some trepidation. It is in a stunning old building overlooking Russell Square. The entrance is unassuming but once inside it’s a grand old treasure, with marble stairs, high ornate ceilings and decadent chandeliers. It’s been mindfully renovated and beautifully reflects the history of …
The rugby world is gearing up for the 2023 World Cup to kick off in France this September, and the chants of Allez les Bleus can be heard through the packed bars, in winding alleyways, cobblestoned streets and at sporting grounds across the country. I’ve been a part of the World Cup three times before, …
For me there are few cities in the world that hold the intrigue of Berlin. .We’re given the chance to visit, and it was impossible to pass up. While the rest of Germany seems to wish it away, I want to know more. We land and Berlin Brandenburg Airport certainly gives off a Cold War …
We head for the hills, literally, we’re off to Vilafranca del Penedès, 40 minutes out of Barcelona and a centre of cava production, yes that’s right, Spanish champagne! The Penedés region is known for its quality cavas, as well as red and white wines… we’re keen to explore! It’s a public holiday so the town …
My first impression of Barcelona was underwhelming. The drive in is quite frankly gloomy, littered with massive bland apartment blocks, all covered with graffiti. The feeling is weird, people look despondent, the buildings unattractive, a mix of old and new, with additions seemingly thrown on. It’s reputedly a grand old place but I don’t see …
