Our curated list of the most interesting facts about Colombia we learnt during our visit We didn’t plan on staying a month in Colombia. After spending longer than we had planned in the South Pacific, we were wary that we had only six months for an area far larger than what we had seen thus far. Of course, our journey through Cartagena, Santa Marta, Taganga, Medellin, … [Read more...]
The Pros and Cons of Visiting Rome
What are the pros and cons of visiting Rome? Rome, the Eternal City, is one of the most impressive cities in Europe, and all the world. And as with most incredible destinations Rome has its share of problems. For the record, we LOVE Rome and have spent many weeks exploring it, over 4 separate visits. We’ve visited Rome in the winter and the summer, in the spring and in the fall, and have … [Read more...]
Britain’s best long-distance footpaths: 12 epic treks
Britain’s best long-distance footpaths provide excellent access to the outdoors while showcasing the finest scenery our isles have to offer When you think of the best long-distance hiking trails from around the world, little old Britain probably wouldn’t top of your list. Hikers will more likely be drawn to the Triple Crown of the Appalachian, Continental Divide and Pacific Crest trails in … [Read more...]
Which country has the cleanest air in the world?
The countries with the cleanest air in the world have been ranked in a new report. We take a look at the results The Pacific Island nation of French Polynesia has the world’s cleanest air, according to the latest World Air Quality Report from IQAir. The report ranks 134 countries and territories by the level of fine particulate matter present in the air. Air pollution continues to pose … [Read more...]
Best views in Cornwall: 12 Instagrammable spots
From the birthplace of King Arthur to the westernmost point of mainland England, these are the best views in Cornwall It’s easy to see why Cornwall is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations. This historic county has over 300 miles of jaw-dropping coastline with rugged cliffs and golden beaches, quaint fishing villages and bustling ports, while inland it boasts ancient forests and … [Read more...]
12 best hikes in Northumberland National Park
The best hikes in Northumberland National Park reveal an underappreciated but utterly delightful expanse of English countryside Amid the ancient rolling hills between the Scottish border and England’s industrial northeast, you will find Northumberland National Park. England’s most northerly national park is also the least visited in Britain and the least populated in England and Wales with just … [Read more...]
How to pass the PADI Open Water Diver course
A step-by-step guide on how to pass the PADI Open Water Diver course In theory, an expert diver should be writing this post. Logically, he or she could tell you what to expect, give you insider tips and prepare you for the challenge ahead. That said, I have one distinct advantage over the experts: I know exactly how hard it is for nervous first-timers. I know what it’s like to almost … [Read more...]
20 Hidden Gems in Tuscany – Off the Beaten Path
Are you looking to get off the beaten track and explore hidden gems in Tuscany? We’ve got some secret spots to share! If you’ve already explored the best places to visit in North Italy and it’s time to head south, Tuscany is your next port of call. Seeped in history, Tuscany offers Italian culture, art, wine, and food at its finest. Tuscany is the birthplace of the Renaissance and the … [Read more...]
Best things to do in Yucatán State: a 4-day itinerary
From mystical Maya ruins to sun-soaked cenotes, our 4-day itinerary covers the best things to do in Yucatán State We began our month-long trip through Central America in the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It was my first visit to this part of the world and I was keen to visit the ancient Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá – my seventh world wonder – and to explore the region’s famed cenotes (freshwater … [Read more...]
3 Days in Athens Greece Itinerary
If your time in Athens is limited to a few days, careful planning is essential. Three days in Athens, Greece will give you enough time to see the highlights, sample a nice slice of Athenian life, and get a sense of just how much of Western culture comes from this historic city. Ancient history and vibrant contemporary life collide to create a sprawling and bustling city built at the foot of its … [Read more...]
2 Day Amsterdam Itinerary – Amsterdam in a Rush
Visiting Amsterdam for a weekend and looking for a 2 day itinerary? We’re here to help! Amsterdam. Cool, stylish and artsy. Known for its canals and culture, and famed for its red light district and tiny pancakes. So, there is a lot to do and see in this city. But where is it best to go if you have only 2 days in Amsterdam? 2 Day Amsterdam Itinerary This article details the essential … [Read more...]
10 best hikes in Dartmoor National Park
The best hikes in Dartmoor National Park showcase the very finest of England’s wildest landscape I’ve always been fond of Dartmoor. I first visited as a child on a family holiday and I’ve returned regularly ever since to scope out the best Dartmoor hikes. Famous for its wild ponies, open moorland and craggy granite tors (free-standing rocky outcrops that rise abruptly from the surroundings), it … [Read more...]
North Sentinel Island: a timeline of the world’s most isolated tribe
13th February 2024 North Sentinel Island is unlike any other place on Earth. Home to a fiercely independent tribe, it is both ferociously dangerous and worryingly fragile On a map, North Sentinel Island looks like any other idyllic spot in the Indian Ocean. Fringed with beaches and crystal cobalt waters, it lies in the Andaman archipelago of the Bay of Bengal. North Sentinel, however, … [Read more...]
Quiet Places in Singapore to Relax and Chill
Looking for quiet places in Singapore? In a bustling metropolis like Singapore, teeming with life, energy, and chaos it can be daunting to find a quiet oasis to unwind. Did you know Singapore has a nickname? Some people refer to it as the ‘Garden City’ due to the sheer amount of parks nestled away amongst the tree lined streets. A city of sleek skyscrapers, half of its land area is actually … [Read more...]
Things to Do in Destin When it Rains
Looking for things to do in Destin when it rains? Most people head to Destin hoping for a wild and wonderful beach vacation. Sunshine, sand, and surf – what more could you want? But the weather along Florida’s “Pan Handle” coastline can be somewhat unpredictable, so you should be prepared for all scenarios. Having some activities in your back pocket for when it rains is always a good idea. We … [Read more...]
Jaipur Cycle Tour: testing my mettle in the frantic Pink City
The Jaipur Cycle Tour is not for the fainthearted – but is it worth the panic? Kia finds out The legend of Jaipur is that it’s India’s first planned city. Historians will tell you that its founder – scholarly prince Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II – was passionate about astronomy, mathematics and science, that he studied European cities and collected maps from all over the world. They will … [Read more...]
7 Day Sicily Itinerary -Things to Do in Sicily in a Week
Are you planning on spending 7 days in Sicily? Well, lucky you! You’ve made a great choice. We’ve prepared a week-long Sicilian itinerary that’ll help you explore Sicily efficiently. The island of Sicily is home to almost 5 million people and 1 very memorable (and very active) volcano. Sicily is also filled with incredible architecture, tons of old-world charm, rustic villages, sunny … [Read more...]
The most stunning natural phenomena on Earth
From the famous northern lights to the lesser-known sea of stars, we share the world’s most stunning natural phenomena It’s firefall time. Every year, beginning around late February, the setting sun hits Yosemite’s Horsetail Fall at just the right angle to light the cascade in blazing orange and red hues, giving the appearance of flowing fire or lava. To celebrate the spectacle, we’re exploring … [Read more...]
How to Not Be a Jerk When Flying
Warning, rant incoming. This might get a bit heated, so if you’re sensitive to strong language, you might want to skip this post. We’ve taught you how to survive a long-haul flight, and now we’re here to teach you some basic plane etiquette which we assumed would be common sense. Turns out, plenty of people have no idea how to behave on flights in 2024. After our recent experience on a 9-hour … [Read more...]
Essential India: the highs and lows of our two-week tour
From the rush and thrill of New Delhi to the pyres of Varanasi, we share the highs and lows of our Essential India tour “India is not a holiday; it’s an experience,” says our guide in what sounds like a promise but might also be a warning. India, she’s trying to say, is unpredictable – not easily tamed and packaged for the average tourist. I can sense the nervousness in our motley … [Read more...]