Whale watching in Vancouver
Having loved whales and dolphins since childhood, whale watching in Canada was a ‘must-do’ for me. There was no way I could pass through Vancouver without going whale watching so, having identified ‘whale season’ (May to October), I planned my trip and started to get excited. As a teenager I used to ‘adopt’ orcas through whale and dolphin charities, and over the years have often supported conservation efforts for whales, sharks and other marine wildlife, with my support for educating people about protecting these creatures only increasing during my years working as a dive instructor. As my trip to Canada approached, seeing these gentle giants up close in their natural…
Seven things you might not know about Nice
Nice has been the jewel in the crown of the French Riviera for centuries. The stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, luxury yachts, amazing fresh food and joie de vivre are just some of the things Nice is celebrated for. Many people think they know Nice on the French Riviera, but how familiar are you with Nice? Here are seven interesting facts about Nice that you might not know. 1. Why is Nice named Nice? Originally known as ‘Nike’ and settled as part of the Greek empire, Nice also spent a period of time under Italian rule and named ‘Nizza’. In fact, Nice only became part of France in 1860 when the…
Granville Island – 7 Reasons to visit Vancouver’s culture magnet
There are not many cities that boast an island in their centre, but Vancouver is one that does. Granville Island is famous for its public market but, with the huge variety of evident artistic talent and many cultural activities also taking place, it is much more than just a market. Nestled in between downtown Vancouver and the southern suburbs, one-time industrial area Granville Island has transformed into a cultural centre of quirky art and delicious food. It’s a not-to-be-missed destination next time you’re in Vancouver. Granville Island Public Market As the main draw card to the island, Granville Island’s Public Market does not disappoint. The daily displays of fresh local…
Shangri La – the hidden gem of Islamic art in Honolulu
One of the most difficult tours to secure a place on in Hawaii, but definitely one of the most worthwhile is the tour of Shangri La, a collection of Islamic art in a private house in Honolulu. Inspired by travels through the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, the collection and programs run at the centre aim to improve understanding of the Islamic world. Having spent time in these regions myself I have a great appreciation for Islamic art, and absolutely recommend a visit to this incredible collection. The Shangri La villa is discretely tucked away at the end of a residential street. It would be easy to pass…
Black Bear watching in Whistler
Great news for anyone wanting to see bears! Porridge and picnics aside, if you go down to the woods around Whistler, it should come as little surprise if you meet a bear. A population of 50 – 70 Black Bears live in the Whistler region and there is also the possibility of running into Grizzly Bears, making Whistler an excellent spot for a little bear watching. Bears are very much locals around this neck of the woods. The town rubbish bins are ‘bear-proof’ requiring users to pull a handle to open the bin. There are also warning signs explaining to conceal food smells, avoid attracting bears, and even how to…
Free Things to do in Honolulu, Oahu
While it’s island paradise location in the middle of the Pacific means getting to Hawaii isn’t always cheap, a surprising amount of free activities are on offer which may balance the thrifty traveller’s budget! From hanging out on the beach with turtles, exploring local arts, and hula shows to firework displays and festivals, there really is something for everyone, and I’m just talking about the free things to do in Honolulu. Don’t let the fact that Honolulu is Hawaii’s largest city put you off visiting. While there are all the usual attractions of a city, there is also so much to do that doesn’t cost a thing. Here are some…
Free things to do in Dubrovnik
UNESCO World Heritage Site Dubrovnik is a fascinating town and has many unique charms. While I would argue you cannot see the best of Dubrovnik without spending anything at all in the old town, where the architecture is both historic and intricately detailed, buildings can be works of art, window displays are a source of pride, and life is colourful. There are certainly still lots of opportunities to enjoy Dubrovnik when your budget is a bit tight. Here are the best free things to do in Dubrovnik. Climb Mount Srd Standing proud behind Dubrovnik’s city walls, 413m tall Mount Srd is a 90 mins climb, and rewards the energetic with…
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and the many gardens
There is much evidence of the decadent lives that have been lived on the French Riviera, but few trump the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. The pink villa set high upon the promontory commands spectacular views over the nine elaborate gardens (yes, nine) and the glittering Mediterranean on both sides. It is a stunning property, and one not to be missed. Visiting Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Baronness Beatrice de Rothschild was an eccentric soul, judging by her south of France home. Built between 1905 and 1912, many of the rooms have been preserved with the same furnishings that were in place while she lived in the…
Snorkelling with sharks in Bora Bora
On learning the Bora Bora snorkelling trip included stops to swim with sharks, it was a no-brainer; I couldn’t sign-up fast enough. Swimming with sharks is amazing, but swimming with them in their natural habitat, in the Bora Bora lagoon, and then in the open ocean? What could beat that? As the boat left our hotel dock it was clear there was an air of nervous anticipation among the passengers. For the lucky folk who have the chance, swimming with sharks is usually a once in a lifetime opportunity. A look at the faces on the boat told me most people were doing it for the first, and possibly only,…
Chasing dingoes, and other fun things to do on Fraser Island
UNESCO World Heritage listed Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world complete with scenic lakes, a wreck, some epic 4WD tracks, and dingoes, and for the last year I’ve lived less than two hours away. With crocodile and dingo warnings aplenty, as well as the very real possibility of getting bogged in fine sand, it could only be an adventure. What had I been waiting for? Here are the ten best things to do on Fraser Island. An island completely made of sand perhaps doesn’t sound that exciting, but Fraser Island’s bold landscape, wild dingoes and varied scenery definitely make for some adventures. 35 Mile Beach Driving…
