Books to read if you’re going to Australia
Isolated and a world away, Australia is a unique country and, truly, a land of adventure. The landscape, wildness and spirit of the place have inspired many a ripper of a yarn (Australian for ‘good story’). Whether you are looking for outback adventure, books set in penal colonies, stories about Australia’s gold rush or are interested in Australia’s more recent history or an Aboriginal perspective, you will have plenty to read. Here, in no particular order, are some of my favourites. Fiction The Secret River / The Lieutenant by Kate Grenville Set during the British colonial period, The Secret River is an atmospheric tale of an English man convicted of…
Where was Emily in Paris filmed?
If ever a television series celebrated the City of Light, it is the Netflix show Emily in Paris. Glorious scenes of beautiful Paris seduce viewers as they follow heroine Emily’s adventures in love, life and marketing. You too can visit these places - read on to discover the Emily in Paris filming locations.
Swimming with Whale sharks in Cancun
Whale sharks are the gentle giants of the oceans. A pelagic species, they tend to migrate where the eating is good (a bit like me!) For them, this means following abundant sources of plankton. There are known spots around the world where they are known to gather seasonally for big feeds. From May to September each year they feast off the coast of Cancun, Mexico and, this year, I was there! I boarded a small 10m boat, with an excited group of seven tourists, north of Cancun and we set off. Lifejackets were insisted upon for all visitors and we soon understood why, it turned out to be an extremely…
Taking the Ferry Boat from Sweden to Finland
Are you planning a trip around Scandinavia? Have you considered going by ferry? Along with rail and road options, there are plenty of boat routes available in the region. Going by sea is a comfortable, affordable and more sustainable way to travel, compared to flying. When you combine all that with the beautiful sea views of the Nordic archipelagos and the Baltic, you’re onto a winner! Booking the ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki Having decided to cruise overnight from Stockholm to Helsinki, I went to the Tallink website (route operator) to book. The website is available in 16 languages and very easy to use, with clear descriptions of the cabins…
What to eat in Denmark
Denmark is the foodie’s dream destination in Scandinavia. From hearty traditional dishes to fresh, seasonal cuisine, the country wholeheartedly celebrates and elevates local produce, and with Copenhagen restaurant Noma having topped the list of the World’s best restaurants more than five times, this small but mighty country has established itself as the centre of the Nordic food scene. Whether you’re looking for fine dining experiences or eating on a budget during your trip, you will eat well in Denmark. Danish pastries Denmark’s delicious pastry offerings go beyond the kanelsnegle (cinnamon rolls) associated with Scandinavia. There is a huge variety featuring beautiful buttery pastry and chocolate, cardamom, marzipan, custard, cream… and…
10 Best Things to do in Tallinn
Hidden away in the far top corner of Europe, Tallin is one of the least well-known cities of Europe, making it a joy to discover! With a fascinating history and a myriad of cultural influences, Tallin certainly has something for everyone. 1. Walk Tallinn’s old town UNESCO World Heritage listed Tallinn old town is packed with sights and activities but compact, so easily explored on foot. The Viru gate and city walls encircle cobbled streets lively squares, Kiek in de Kok medieval Fortifications, and churches such as St Olav’s Church. It’s easy to enjoy an afternoon strolling, taking in the sights, pausing in the cafes for refreshment and browsing souvenirs…
Hotel De La Paiva Brings Versailles to Paris
Have you ever wondered what life in Paris was like during France’s second Republic (1848 – 1852)? Tucked away on the world’s most famous boulevard is a magnificent private house offering visitors an immersive experience of 19th century Paris. But it’s not just any house, Hotel de la Païva was the home of one of Paris’ richest and most famous courtesans, and the story of how she acquired the house, and what she made of it, is quite incredible. Readers of Zola’s ‘Nana’ and ‘Lady of the Camellias’ by Alexandre Dumas Fils, will be familiar with the more commonplace version of the lives of Paris courtesans in the 1800s. During…
The Best Champagne Tours in Reims and Épernay
Planning a trip to the French Champagne Region? Head to the heart of the region – the city of Reims, or the town of Épernay. Many champagne producers offer cave tours, information about production, the factors making each producer unique, and a variety of tastings. You can easily spend a few days exploring the various caves (there are plenty to keep you busy), and indulging in a few delicious tastings… Which champagne producer should I visit? Do you have a favourite champagne? Maybe that’s a good place to start. If not, there are subtle differences between the set-ups and tours offered by champagne producers. Are you a fan of modern…
Which is the Best Galette des Rois in Montmartre?
Do you like delicious buttery pastry and frangipane, and a bit of fun with your decadent French pastries? You’re in the right place, especially if you’re in France in early January! What is a galette des rois? Traditionally eaten around Epiphany, galettes des rois or King cake is a round cake made of puff pastry, and filled with almond frangipane filling. While that is a treat in itself, there is also a fève inside (originally a bean, but these days usually a small ceramic token or toy). When the cake is cut, the youngest member of the party, usually a child, sits under the table and chooses the order…
Imagine the Lives of Artists at the Musée de Montmartre
Aside from being a must-see for fans of Renoir, Utrillo and Valadon, the Montmartre Museum is a true gem of a museum for anyone interested in Montmartre’s rich history, in terms of local history and the culture of the community. The gardens and surrounds also provide a green and tranquil space to enjoy for a few minutes off your feet! The Collection The permanent collection focuses on the local area and contains wonderful old photographs of Montmartre showing many views that are recognisable when compared to the streets today. Historic posters expose Montmartre’s boisterous character, bohemian spirit and zest for life, such as those promoting nightlife and entertainment venues such…
