Algarve
Warm winter walking on the Algarve’s golden coast
I’m focussing on the coastal areas we explored for one specific reason – Portugal’s south and south west had us as wide-eyed as characters in a Japanese anime movie. […]
The Destination
Algarve
Cliff Richard and an Indian pizza in Albufeira
The Algarve has never been a place to stir the wanderlust in me. I associated it with golf, Clive Dunn, nice beaches and not a lot else. However, my sister chose Albufeira to celebrate her birthday and we were already in Portugal […]
Crete
The past in the present on Crete
For some reason I can’t explain, the past in Crete feels as though it walks besides us more so than in other places. An ancient marble column lying amidst the rocks on a beach is a reminder of a great civilization […]
The Destination
Avoiding the crowds in Europe’s top holiday destinations
Avoiding the crowds in Europe’s top holiday destinations is simple. […]
Europe
The changing route to the river in Porto
The route from uptown Porto via Rua das Flores is a prime example. Last time we were in Porto we felt as though we’d strayed from the path when we stood on its quiet cobbles… […]
Crete
Exploring Chania on Crete in three acts
First sight of the harbour and many memories of good times beside picture postcard Greek harbours are unlocked. Chania’s is particularly spellbinding thanks to the Venetians who built it in the 14th century […]
El Hierro
The colonial charm of the Canary Islands
Quite a few years ago, when we were wearing particularly thick rose-tinted glasses, we had a discussion with a Canarian friend about the beauty of the Canary Islands. Although she loved the islands she took […]
Europe
Portugal, it feels different
In the last year we’ve visited Corsica, Bavaria, various Canary Islands, mainland Spain, Chile and Crete. Yet this trip to Portugal is unlike any of them. […]
Bavaria
Why Germany is a perfect match for British travellers
During four visits to Germany in the last three years we’ve regularly repeated one phrase. “Brits would love this.” […]
La Palma
Seven Wonders of La Palma
In the space of twelve months we visited the Canary Island of La Palma four times. We explored towns and trails and went off the beaten track on an island where everywhere is basically off the beaten track in order to help design two slow travel holidays… […]
Calvi
Off the Tourist Trail in Calvi, Corsica
This evening we’ll join the ranks of visitors strolling the promenade alongside the yachts before choosing a table at one of the restaurants along Rue Clemenceau. But for now, we’re happy to enjoy another side to Calvi, one that most visitors will probably never see… […]
Chile
24 hours in Santiago, Chile
Santiago oozes cosmopolitan. Unmistakably South American but with a distinctly European side, it instantly feels familiar. […]
Chile
Reaching the End of the Road at Caleta Tortel
The simple wooden crosses, barely visible within the dense undergrowth, are now the destination for tourist boat excursions and a morbid reminder of the price paid to establish an outpost in this remote and inhospitable region of southern Chile… […]
Africa
7 nights island hopping and walking in Cape Verde Part 2
Our route starts on the coast beside a pig farm. A large stone bench seems ideal for sorting ourselves out before setting off, until Hetty tells us it’s where coffins are laid before being carried to a church… […]
Africa
7 nights island hopping and walking in Cape Verde Part 1
Seven nights spent exploring three islands with guides and accommodation arranged by Archipelago Choice revealed that many people who visit Cape Verde only ever get to see the purpose-built version. […]