I’ve never thought I will write an blog, but the paths of life guided me to this amazing channel, which I hope you will enjoy it
Be yourself- this is the first rule, than anything can be up to you
RULES FOR TRAVELLING, OF COURSE FOR BEGINNERS
What ought to be the first commandment of travel is something of a paradox, and that is that you should ignore commandments all together. The world is full of preachy people eager to provide the sorts of advice, warnings and instructions likely to put you off travel entirely.
And while guidebooks, apps and travel review websites may be plundered for nuggets of the truth, they too often provide a blinkered, factual vision of a compelling and wonderful world.
Just in case we’re wrong, we asked our travel writers to devise divine instructions on how to achieve the best of travels, just as the original 10 commandments suggest ways to lead a good life. They supplied a happy absence of finger wagging, preferring instead to suggests things you really ought to do, rather than listing things prohibited.
THOU SHALT TRAVEL SLOWLY
Just because the bullet train will get you there one hour and 37 minutes faster is no reason to take it. There may be no speed limit on the autobahn, but driving on the wrong side of the road with Audis and BMWs careering past at 200km/h is stressful. It’s possible to travel through seven countries in a day, though you won’t remember which ones they were.
Think back; the highlights of your trip were the days when not much happened. The best drive was when you turned off the motorway, ignored the bossy voice of the GPS lady (“recalculating, turn back!”) and got stuck in a herd of goats
The offseason is the best time to visit Europe and pretend it is your own private playground. Whilst the famous cities of London and Paris never really lose the crowds, here are a few trade-offs I am sure you will fall in love that are (nearly) free from selfie stick attacks and queues long enough to be a flight time during the offseason.
Exploring Europe is super easy thanks to both how close countries are, and also the Schengen zone making bus travel between cities sometimes the best routes at the most affordable prices. To hunt for timetables make use of the Omio app and website (formerly GoEuro) which allows you to search and book trains, buses and flights in Europe and is a great tool to help you plan, especially given there can be many different bus operators on each route.
Dresden and Saxony, Germany
The capital city of the Saxony region, Dresden was a pleasant surprise. The city is compact enough to aimlessly explore on foot, and the grand Baroque architecture, which was restored (and in some case, is still being repaired) following the extensive damage of the war makes this a worthy European city break to rival some of the other grand cities in central Europe. Although it might not be as large as some of these other cities, the depth of arts, culinary creativity and the emerging street-art scene here make it a great long weekend destination.
While the height of summer and the month bring in the crowds, Dresden doesn’t yet seem as discovered as Munich, Cologne and Berlin which means you can marvel at the architecture, enjoy your winter Gluhwein and get lost in countless galleries and museums without having to face an army of fellow tourists.READ: A LONG WEEKEND IN DRESDEN
Chemnitz Christmas Market
Christmas in Saxony is on a whole other level, as you can watch on my video, with traditions, markets and festivities galore.
Nowhere is that truer than in the Ore Mountains and Seiffen, an old mining town which is full of Christmas shops and has a long tradition of producing wooden toys. Whether you visit the Christmas markets, take part in old miners festive traditions such as feasts, parades or underground concerts in mines, a visit to Saxony in December will give you all the Christmas feels but without the crowds of say, Prague.READ: CHRISTMAS IN DRESDEN AND SAXONY
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is a drop-dead gorgeous city to visit all year round, and with a seemingly never-ending annual calendar of events and concerts to attend, it’s hard to find a wrong time to visit.
That said, thanks to the stunning UNESCO old-town centre, in the summer months it can become jam-packed with day-trippers from river cruises, so head here in the colder months to see beautiful colours with fewer crowds. With amazing Christmas markets too, it makes for a fantastic festive getaway.
While Salzburg is rightly known as the city of music (think Mozart and Sound of Music), there is plenty to enjoy here for those who don’t like classical performances. Walking the little cobbled streets is a joy, the restaurants are both cosy and historical, and the bar scene is kept pumping with gigs and concerts. Away from the iconic sights of the old town, a quick bus ride will bring you to beautiful alpine lakes and the views that Austria is most famous for, all within the Salzburg region that extends beyond the city.READ; A LONG WEEKEND IN SALZBURG
The Algarve, Portugal
If your budget won’t stretch to tropical beaches (where with monsoons to battle with in the likes of Bali you’ll still end up wet) then Portugal’s Algarve Coast is your best bet.
While there is no denying that winter sea swimming is reserved for the fearless, there is still some good surf and sun-kissed days to be had. With over 300 sunny days a year and heavily discounted prices outside summer, the off-season in the Algarve is a good gamble to get your winter Vitamin C.READ: ALGARVE HIDDEN GEMS
Milan, Italy
Milan is a magical city and in the winter, when the crowds die down around the Duomo and the crisp winter air brings snow to the mountain peaks surrounding the city, it becomes even more special. Ignoring the truly special Christmas markets and lights that bring the city to light, the various regions of Milan with their outside heated tables or the old charms and warmth of the Osteria restaurants, tick all the right boxes.
In a city where fashion rules supreme, shopping till you drop isn’t a bad idea in the colder months but thanks to a plethora of museums and galleries, you can easily escape the cold with a dose of culture.
As the city is continually evolving and newer, modern districts such as CityLife pop up to complement the classics of Milan like its famed Gallerie, there are plenty of places to while away a long weekend. Catch an opera at the incredible Teatro Alla Scala, wrap up warm to explore the Castle, dip into the beautiful Brera public library or enjoy the modern art exhibitions at La Triennale. With plenty to keep you entertained inside, and the Milanese food being more heartwarming with its focuses on risottos and beef, it becomes an ideal winter destination.READ: A LONG WEEKEND IN MILAN AND LAKE COMO
South-West England
London is always hectic, it doesn’t really matter what time of year, but if you want a slice of historic architecture, red phone boxes and (chilly) fish and chips on the beach, you can’t go wrong with the South-West of England.
Take in the 150-million years of prehistoric history along the fossil infused Jurassic Coast, explore Exeter Cathedral in all its glory and check out the impressive architecture of the Roman Baths in Bath. Without the crowds to battle with and spending most of the time in cosy, fire-lit pubs and intricate architectural buildings will keep you warm and snug.
A lot of people warned me against travelling to Icleand in winter and although it didn’t go perfectly, the money saved and snowy covered experiences were worth it.
The northern lights hid the whole time sadly for me but seeing the country covered in snow, the incredible New Year celebrations, trekking glaciers, hunting waterfalls and snorkelling between two continents even in the cold are some of the best travel moments you can have. Iceland is the kind of place that looks different each season, so even between Autumn and Winter there is a considerable difference.READ + WATCH: ICELAND IN WINTER
Cinque Terre, Italy
When I headed to Cinque Terre in November I was in luck with clear blue skies and sunny days, although the temperature wasn’t exactly t-shirt weather.
The huge bonus of visiting Cinque Terre in the off-season is the lack of crowds, jumping on the train between the five villages is never crowded and you can get the front row seats at cafes for the best colourful views of the villages. While some of the hiking paths may be closed and the busses far fewer, for me, it’s a no-brainer price to pay to enjoy the Liguria coastline without the crowds.READ: CINQUE TERRE IN PHOTOS
CREDIT LLYOD SMITH / EDINBURGH FESTIVALS
Edinburgh, Scotland
A lot of people think the capital city of the UK is where it is at for New Year Eve… Wrong!
The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is pretty magical over the festive season, with its markets and old world charm over Christmas right through to its very unique festival celebration. Hogmanay, the unique New Years celebration stats on the 30th December and runs through to the 1st January. It’s three days of events, Vikings, fireworks and celebration – found out more information here.
(Ok, this one might not escape the crowds but trust me, the Scottish countryside in winter will be tourist free to explore after the festivities.)READ: EDINBURGH FESTIVALS GUIDE
Ljubljana, Slovenia
If you have a thing for Canals, coffee and quirky capital cities then skip out on Amsterdam this year and head to Ljubljana. Since I visited four years ago Slovenia has garnered a heap of online attention but trust me, Europe’s cutest capital city is the ideal winter escape.
With a growing wine scene, plenty of canal-side dining options, great winter markets and a really eco-conscious vibe throughout the country, it’s the perfect jumping off point to see Lake Bled which looks simply magical against the snowy mountain backdrop.READ: LJUBLJANA, EUROPES CUTEST CAPITAL CITY?
Stockholm, Sweeden
By far my favourite capital-city in Scandinavia, Stockholm is a dream in summer when kayaking or cycling through the city is a great way to explore. But thanks to its characterful old-town, year-round events calendar and slightly lower prices in the off-season, its a great city escape all year round.
The Christmas Markets here are ace but there are also lots of things to discover inside, the Vasa Museum, complete with the famed ship that sunk minutes after setting sail. The subway system in Stockholm is also one of the most decorated in the world, with numerous stations being complete artworks you barely need to venture outside into the cold.READ: STOCKHOLM WEEKEND ITINERARY
Kotor, Montenegro
During summer the old town of Kotor is over-run with tourist, as cruise day-trippers explore this magical city which is set against the spectacular backdrop of the Bay of Kotor, with its towering mountains.
Venture here in the down season though and you can not only bag a great deal at an AirBnB but you can also enjoy the sights with fewer people in your beautiful photos. The hike to the view-point above the old town provides the best views but with the summer sun, it’s a strain, another bonus reason for visiting in late autumn or winter.READ: MONTENEGRO ROAD TRIP PLAN + VIDEO
Warsaw, Poland
One of my favourite winter trips was when I carted my parents off to Warsaw one freezing-cold January day. There are a few reasons I loved visiting Warsaw in winter; it’s cheap, it’s festive and it feels like a fairytale.
As most of the old city was rebuilt in its original style after the war, the colourful buildings look postcard perfect against the Christmas decoration and winter projections on the facades. The snow also makes some of the quite harsh Soviet architecture look a little more inviting. Big mugs of beer, hearty Polish cuisine, great value flights and accommodation all make it an awesome winter city break in Europe.READ: WARSAW WEEKEND UNDER £100
Mont Saint Michel, France
The city of Romance is never known for being quiet no matter what time of year it is, but this Abbey Island enjoys its most peaceful time to visit during the winter months. The former converted Prison in Normandy receives over three million visitors a year so hitting it up outside of the summer means the small narrow streets and little creperies are much easier explored without having to shove your way to the perfect vantage point.READ: DAY TRIPPING MONT ST MICHEL
Luxembourg
I swear Luxembourg does not get the attention it deserves. I used to think of it as a sterile, business, financial haven but the ramparts, vistas and a multi-level split of the old town had me heading back for two February visits.
If they ever need a new location for a Harry Potter shoot then this needs to make the cut. It isn’t the cheapest place to visit in Europe for sure, but heading here before summer kicks in should save you a fair bit of dollar. It’s also a pretty romantic spot to spend Valentines day thanks to the old architecture and chateau-converted restaurants.
Okay, hand up, it can often take quite a lot for me to get excited about a museum, let alone spend a whole day at one and still want to go back again, but Beamish, The Living Museum of The North was perhaps the first time that has happened – and it’s certainly the first time I’ve felt compelled to write a whole post dedicated to a museum!
Located in the Durham region of England, not far from the historic city of Durham or indeed Newcastle, the Beamish Living Museum is home to countless interactive experiences that are well worth travelling for.
If you’re not familiar with the concept of a living museum, it basically works like an ordinary museum, but with interactive elements and actors playing the characters that would be typical of the museum experiences; think museum meets interactive theme park. There are plenty of reasons to visit Beamish Museum, so much so even with a full day there I didn’t get to experience everything, and as an adult, I was utterly entertained – I don’t think you can write this one off as just for the kids.
If you want to get a taste of just how vast Beamish is, take a look at their interactive map to see the full 300-acres site in all its glory, luckily a day ticket is good for return visits within a year, as there is so much to see!
So here the experiences you can have here, that are good enough reason you should also make a bee-line for Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.
Beamish Museum in Durham
Getting around on old school public transport
One of the coolest things about Beamish is the sheer scale of the museum. With so many buildings across the different towns and villages, you can walk between each one, and journey times can be up to 15-minutes such is the size.
For those who don’t fancy walking though, one of the main draws to Beamish is the variety of traditional transport options you can experience here.
While some of the main trams, trains and buses in Beamish are originals, others are replicas of those that would have been on the streets in the 1900s. With conductors, train staff and station crew all in traditional outfits too, it’s a charming way to get around and get an introduction into the different time periods that Beamish displays.
My favourite was the trams, with the 1900 Sunderland 16 tram the coolest IMO, which has been loving restored. Some of the trams are over 100-hundred years old, and there are six different types to try and catch.
There is also a range of traditional buses, although quite a few of these are replicas, there are a couple of originals.
The train station is a full-size and fully working option, while the traditional Steam train complete with coal-smeared drivers, runs up and down a little track regularly.
In addition to all the regular running public transport, you’ll occasionally see other traditional methods of transportation moving around such as old-fashioned bicycles, motorbikes and horse-drawn vehicles.
Living day to day life in the shops of the 1900s town
The best part of Beamish for me was the 1900s town, as I found it the most interactive and fun to experience.
It has been built so well, with no attention to detail spared, so much so that the recent Downtown Abbey Movie filmed quite the chunk here, with the garage likely being the most recognisable spot.
There are so many things to experience here, from the Bakey cooking up loaves of bread in the real oven that you can purchase, the clerk at Barclays bank opening accounts, You can nip into traditional shops like chemists, visit different houses where people are going about their chores, and even go to the Dentist where a bearded man will walk you through all the worrying looking apparatus from days gone by.
Not one to shy away from the chance to dress up, I headed to the Photography Studio where countless outfits ranging from the tame gentleman, through to full-blown gowns were available alongside multiple props to set the scene. Once you are all glamorous and ready for your photo, the studio snaps some pictures from behind a traditional camera, although luckily their processing technology is a bit more modern, and you can walk away with the photos from the session.
If you want to chill out, you can dip into the traditional pub, The Sun Inn, for a pint of bitter, or stock up on old-school sweets from the shop next door, if you are lucky, the chocolatier at the back will have a fresh batch for you to try!
Discover Durham’s mining heritage in the 1900s village
Mining and coal played a considerable part in the North East of England, and in the 1900s village, this is honoured and presented in many ways.
Firstly, for kids, this is likely the highlight, as there is not only a chapel and selection of terraces houses with owners inside to entertain but also Beamish School where you can sit behind tiny little desks in class with a teacher writing up lessons from the times on the blackboards.
In the Collier you can head on a mine tour, and go down underground to see what mining conditions would have been like, complete with lanterns.
As well as a cake and tea hall, there is the fantastic Davys Fish and Chip shop here, but warning, it’s so popular you should get here early to beat the crowds. Serving up beer-battered fish with lashings of vinegar, the shop is the ideal reconstruction, with a real 1900s oven and the right type of oil. Apparently, they taste exactly like they would have and come in newspaper clippings from the time.
A house at Beamish where ‘actors’ tend to the garden
Plenty more experiences to enjoy across different decades
With so much going on at Beamish, honestly you will be hard-pressed to finish it all in one day, but try your best by getting in at the opening time. If not, the day-ticket allows for a return entrance within the year.
In addition to the town and village where I spent most of my time, there is also a 1940s farm which shares an insight into life during the second world war, so important because of the amount of food imported during the war and the fear of not having enough homegrown produce.
In the 1820’s village, you’ll find the steam train I mentioned above, but also old town-halls and houses which you can venture into and be greeted by actors.
With a traditional fairground, a 1950’s town about to open, and likely even more that I didn’t even get to have a peek at, I’m sure you see just how much there is to experience at Beamish!
Other awesome museum experiences in the Durham Region
Bishop Auckland Castle – This newly renovated and reopened castle has been opened as a ‘lived in’ museum – think banquets half-eaten on dining room tables and wardrobes you can rustle around in. A grand building with another interactive element.
The Bowes Museum – Built as a gift for his wife, The Bowes Museum also embraces the experience side, and during my visit, they had lots of lego models of what was on display, and you could get involved. There were also modern collections you could take a part of home, and it’s set in some beautiful grounds.
Locomotion Museum – Discover the history of British Rail, walk around the old cabins, and see trains from years gone by in the Locomotion Museum.
To read more about these excellent museums, and to visit the Durham region of England in more depth, check out my full video guide to Durham. I also have an article about how to spend a long weekend in Durham exploring UNESCO castles and cathedrals, fantastic museums, and epic dales with historic castles.
But whatever you do, be sure to make a beeline for Beamish when you visit!
The Bowes Museum is another of Durham’s many attractions
Need to know: Durham
A few tips and tricks to make planning your visit to Durham even easier.
How to get to Durham? The nearest airport to Durham is Newcastle airport, which has plenty of international flights. From here, you can easily take the metro to Newcastle city, and then a train onto Durham. The total journey should be less than 1-hour door to door.
If you are already in the UK, there are regular train connections to Durham on both high-speed and standard routes. Fastest journey time from London is about 2:45 and from Edinburgh around 2-hours. As always in the UK, booking your train tickets as far in advance will save you money, I personally use www.thetrainline.com.
Getting to Beamish? If you don’t have a car, getting to Beamish Museum from Durham is fairly straight forward. You can take the bus from Durham Centre, Bus 21, to Chester-le-Street and then here change to Stand G, to take bus 28A to Beamish. Total journey time is under an hour, and you can follow the same route on the return.
Accessibility in Beamish? The Beamish Museum website has a dedicated accessibility page, and they also have modified transport to move around the villages.
Find out more: For help planning your trip, and discovering even more awesome places in Durham to visit and their packed out events calendar, check out the official website at www.thisisdurham.com/amazing
With only one short day to rush around Lucknow, how much of the city could I see thanks to overpriced Rickshaws and a general sense of making the most of this flying visit to India?
I was here in Uttar Pradesh for the Kumbh Mela festival, which had turned into a trip of challenges and mistakes, including the 12-hour bus ride that meant we arrived in Lucknow hours after we had intended to. The Kumbh Mela is the largest human gathering on earth, and it had been quite the experience.
Exhausted and suffering a bout of Delhi-belly, Vicky and I soldiered on in exploring the most of Lucknow with just the one day we had in the city, jumping between driver to driver on Rickshaws, and happily paying the over-inflated prices to see the sights quickly. It’s a city known for its food and architecture, and you can see a surprising number of sights in a small amount of time. Let me take you through them.
Islamic architecture in Lucknow, India
How to get to Lucknow?
Lucknow is the capital of the Uttar Pradesh Region, so has regular domestic flights connecting with Delhi and other parts of India. It also accepts a few international flights from the likes of Oman, Dubai and Bangkok, among others. There are buses from Delhi, around 9 hours, or Agra if you are coming from the Taj Mahal – a train station is also in Lucknow.
Do you need a visa?
Important! Don’t forget you do need a visa for India on a UK passport, and although you might hear about a visa on arrival, don’t fall foul like my friend Vicky did when she turned up at Gatwick and got turned away from her flight, luckily managing to join us a day later than she had hoped.
You do need to apply in advance for the e-visa so check for the right type of Indian visa when planning your trip. To be honest, it’s one of the more confusing and difficult visas I’ve applied for. While you can do the process on the official website, I have used an agency in the past which can sometimes help with expediting the process too, so consider using the supported Indian visa application for a few £ more if you want help with the process.
Where to go after Lucknow?
Whatever you do, do not miss the chance to visit Varanasi while you are in Uttar Pradesh, even if you just spend one day in Varanasi, you’ll be amazed by how special this spiritual destination is!
Where to stay in Lucknow?
I stayed in the Hyatt Regency (as this was a work trip) which although a bit pricey it was a beautiful hotel. If you want somewhere more budget-friendly, there are a few hostels in Lucknow, and one of my friends stay at Poshtel Lucknow and said it was perfect for the price.
The Rumi Darwaza Gate as seen from an auto rickshaw
What to see in Lucknow?
Okay, there are plenty more things to see in Lucknow than what we managed to explore, but here are some great starting points, including a few that I haven’t seen featured on a lot of Lucknow things-to-do lists.
Rumi Darwaza
One of the main attractions in Lucknow doesen’t even require you to get out of the Rickshaw to witness it.
The Rumi Darwaza is a grand entrance gate to the city which dates back to 1784, vehicles pass through it as they move around the chaos of the wide roads in the old centre and it’s a much loved and intricate feature in the heart of Lucknow.
Ghanta-Ghar Clock Tower
The clock tower is not far from Rumi Darwaza, and to be honest, a lot of the main attractions in the centre are here. We didn’t really have the time to explore the vast open space where the tower sits, but just flew past it on a rickshaw.
The Bara Imambara main entrance
Bara Imambara
The most beautiful and striking building in Lucknow for me was the Bara Imambara, a vast and sprawling building known for its maze and ornate details. The Mosque is absolutely stunning, and it’s well worth paying the extra fee to use your camera and capture it.
The Residency, Lucknow
The sprawling Residency complex harks back to the colonial times of Britsh forced control in India and was used as a refuge for these citizens during the revolt of 1857.
To be honest, I didn’t actually visit for this part, but more because I wanted to see the beautiful old mosque ad lush green gardens.
An abandoned collection of arches in The Residency park, Lucknow
Chota Imambada
The Chota Imambada was another quick photo stop we made, although I have since heard that inside is very spectacular with lots of chandeliers so it’s well worth trying to visit outside of prayer times if you can.
The outside of the building is pretty for sure, but it certainly wasn’t as beautiful as many of the photos I had seen online made it out to be.
Reflections of the mosque on a smoggy day
Food in Lucknow
Now, I’d heard a lot about the Mughlai food in Lucknow and couldn’t wait to try these dishes which come from the Mughal Empire and combine central and south Asian dishes.
Sadly, because of our delay before we didn’t really have the time, but my friend Janet went on a food tour of the city and said it was fantastic, so take a peek at her Lucknow food video for more.
Jama Masjid in Lucknow, India
Jama Masjid
The number of Mosques in Lucknow is impressive, and each one has it’s own unique design. The Jama Masjid wasn’t open for visitors, but we walked around the outside and admired the ornate design of the architecture.
I’ll admit that before my long-weekend in The Hague I was a bit dubious about whether I could fill three days there. It turned out though, I was sorely mistaken, and this Dutch city which holds some of the most prestigious International Institutions offers every piece of the pie you could want for the perfect Europe city-break.
Chic beach clubs with chilled cocktails and golden sands, check. Dutch brews and an ever-growing dining scene, check. History, culture and interesting museums, check. Laidback vibes perfect for exploring by bike, check. The Dutch essentials: canals and tulips – well, a few!
think it’s fair to say Amsterdam steals most of the international attention and visitors The Netherlands receives, but with crowds and over-tourism becoming a real issue in the Dutch capital, so much so that Amsterdam tourism board is even promoting other destinations such as The Hague itself, consider visiting the royal and political capital of the country instead, The Hague.
Whether you come for a long weekend in The Hague, or just an over-night visit, here is some inspiration for your Hague itinerary that you can draw from and plenty of reason to make Den Haag, as it’s known locally, your next Europe city-break.
A miniature Netherlands can be found at Madurodam
Museums and galleries for all ages
Museums and Galleries in The Hague aren’t all about the Peace and Justice side of the city. Whether you are enjoying your long weekend in The Hague as a couple, solo, or with a family; you’ll find plenty of chances to admire art, learn about history, or get interactive with emotional displays of reality.
There are a couple of museums I visited in The Hague though that really stand out to me, the first being Humanity House. I wrote about this in-depth in my Hague Peace and Justice article, but the premise of the museum is to start to understand the journey of a refugee or migrant.
The interactive experience walks you through just some of the steps that displaced people face on their journey to a new country and that experience, coupled with the emotional stories at the end, make this my number one museum recommendation in The Hague.
Another fantastic spot, and which is certainly not just for kids is Madurodam, the ‘happiest war memorial in the world’. Dedicated to their young son, the parents of George Maduro who died during WWII set up this miniature theme park, which details the whole of The Netherlands in model-size in dedication to his memory.
If you are seeking more classical art, then there are plenty of galleries in The Hague to visit. The most famous is Mauritshuis, a beautifully restored palace which is best known for displaying The Girl With The Pearl Earring. The building itself is just as worth a visit as the collection that adorns its walls. For contemporary art lovers, the modern collection at Galerie Ramakers or the graphic work of Escher in Het Palais might be prefered.Report this ad
If you don’t have time to make it out to the coast of The Hague, then Panorama Mesdeg houses a striking 19th-century panoramic image of the shorefront. Lastly, Museon is an ideal place to start your visit especially with kids, although this museum is known for its easy to understand displays on all kinds of subjects, which makes it ideal for us big-kids to take in the history and political situations in bite-size pieces.
Inside an Indonesian Restaurant in The Hague
Food, drink and a fantastic vegetarian and vegan scene
Foodies in The Hague are going to feel spoilt, with an abundance of fresh food, funky restaurants, and an ever-expanding collection of vegetarian offerings. There is also an opportunity to dine with a conscious here, thanks to some of the outstanding back-stories many of The Hague’s dining options have. For those who prefer chic-beach bar vibes, the golden sands of Scheveningen are only a short ride away.
One of my favourite meals in The Hague was at Love & Peas, a vegetarian restaurant that hit international newspapers when it opened a few years ago. Founded by a Palestinian and an Israeli together, with the goal of great hummus, this spot outside the city-centre is a cosy setting, with renovated furniture and a tempting array of mezze plates. The back-story behind the duo coming together caused a wave as the divide in their homeland is obviously well known. Still, here you’ll be welcomed as old friends and showered with all the incredible dishes I loved during my time in Palestine.
If your love for Indonesian food is as high as mine, there are plenty of options to choose from here, thanks to the large Indonesian population in The Hague. I was reliably informed each one serves up delicious dishes and Restaurant Garoeda, where I dined put on a generous and scrumptious rice table, which will allow you to sample multiple dishes in one sitting.
For those seeking a more indulgent fine dining experience, Tommy’s & Zuurveen is a must-visit. This beautiful venue brings together a delicious menu of high-end treats and offers both a standard menu and an entirely vegetarian option. I had some of the most exquisite food of my trip here, and the delightful setting in a warm palate of blues with charming finishing touches makes it an ideal spot for a romantic meal or a reasonably priced treat while visiting The Hague.
Bringing funky beats and rooftop vibes to The Hague is Bleyenberg, inside a converted hardware store that is named after the old manager. Sitting amongst plenty of other fantastic dining spots on Grote Marktsquare, each room has great decor and occasional DJ sets, but on a sunny day head to the top-floor terrace and enjoy a colossal salad overlooking the tallest buildings of The Hague.
Drink lovers are spoilt too, Traditional ‘borrel’ – the Dutch word for gathering for drinks – is best enjoyed in one of the wood-heavy local bars such as at Café Huppel de Pub, which has an extensive menu of local and international brews. For a fancy cocktail, head to the Gold Bar in the Indigo Hotel, a gold-decorate bar in the old bank vaults.
There are plenty more places for a mindful drink or cool conscious cafe options too in The Hague. De Prael Brewery hires people who have a distance from employment, and are soon to start brewing here as well as their Amsterdam location. At Moaz Vegan, you’ll find a whole host of meat and dairy-free treats while grabbing a coffee at Lola Bikes and Coffee will support various local projects in the community. For a spot of people watching with traditional food head to the happening square of Plein, where the tables of Barlow spill out under the tree-lined square and at lunchtimes come alive.
When the sun is shining though, be sure to head out to the beach at Scheveningen, where a California-vibe is present along the beach. Countless chic-cocktail bars, wooden decked cafes, and fancy restaurants can be found here in the summer season, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy some fresh fish while catching the rays.
I was honestly surprised at how fantastic the food scene was in The Hague, so whether you plump for one of my options, or seek out your own spots, I’m pretty sure you’ll have a great meal.
The Peace Palace at night
Peace, justice, politics and a slice of royalty
The Hague is known as the city of peace and justice, and I actually visited over the weekend celebrating the UNs International day of peace. There are a whole host of activities, events and museums dedicated to The Hague’s peace and justice focus, and I wrote an in-depth guide to Peace and Justice in The Hague which will give you a more detailed insight. But for an overview, here are a few places to enjoy during your long weekend in The Hague.
Start your trip in The Hague at the Inner Court and The Hall of Knights which is home to the Dutch parliament. The courtyard is always open to the public, and it’s quite surreal to be walking around or cycling past all these essential buildings in the evening. The reflection of the prime ministers’ office in the large pond out the front is a beauty, while tours can take you inside The Hall of Knights to see the throne where the Dutch King gives his annual speech. From the Inner Court, it’s just a few minutes walk to the fantastic Humanity House museum I mentioned earlier.
There is plenty of royalty to enjoy throughout the Hague, with a few palaces here, mainly working ones, which you can quickly see from the street or gardens. The Royal Court Quarter is the ideal place to stroll around and soak up this side of The Hague on a long-weekend visit.
When it comes to The Hague’s peace icons though, The Peace Palace reigns supreme. This grand building has a fantastic history, which you can read about in my Hague Peace & Justice guide, but essentially it holds two of the most important national courts; The International Court of Arbitration, and the International Court of Justice. Try and book a tour to visit during your long weekend in The Hague as it’s a spectacular and humbling building, decorated with gifts from countries around the world. The more modern International Criminal Court is also in The Hague and has a visitor centre.
War history is also honoured in The Hague, given the city after remaining neutral was quickly captured in WWII. The Hague became a vital part of the invasions ‘Artik Wall’, and along the coast, you can still find war-bunkers which are now open to the public to visit displaying artefacts.
Perhaps the most harrowing, and therefore important spot in The Hague is the Nationaal Monument Oranjehotel, which has recently been reopened as a museum. During the war, it was here much of the resistance was held before being taken to concentration camps. Some of the cells remain as were, with messages from inmates etched into the wall. It’s an emotional place to be in, but the curators have done a good job of being respectful while putting history on display.
The Boulevard at The Hague’s beach
California beach vibes on The Dutch coastline
The Beach scene in The Hague seems to be the one that surprises visitors the most, I mean, who would have thought it possible to find in The Netherlands. During your long weekend in The Hague, a trip out to Scheveningen is a must if the weather is right, and there are plenty of things to enjoy on the coast.
Heading to the coast in The Hague you’ll pass the West Dune Park, both important for keeping the city from sinking, but also where the war bunkers I mentioned above are.
The main beach is Scheveningen, which is just a short bicycle or tram ride away from the city centre. Here, the year-round pier takes centre stage with its attractions, shops and bars, and all along this stip in the summer months, you’ll find countless beach bars, clubs and restaurants to suit all tastes. I was so surprised by the vibes here, with people on rollerblades and others knocking back Mojitos, I almost forgot I was in Holland!
At the top of the pier is the Kurhaus of Scheveningen, a grand 5-star hotel which although is impressive from the outside and ballrooms, I’ve heard is a little dated inside. A walk along the coast will take you past The Fairytale Statues, a mix of comic-inspired metal creations, and a further walk will take you to the Harbour and Lighthouse, from here you can loop back on foot to the city centre.
A street scene in The Hague city centre
A packed out year-round event calendar
The Hague might not be the biggest city in The Netherlands, but it does offer a year-round events calendar that you might want to plan your long-weekend around. Here are a few of the top events in The Hague to keep in mind.
The most important of these I believe is The Peace Weekend, in September, and if you are planning to spend your long weekend in The Hague around then, be sure to read my Peace Weekend guide.
Other well-known events include Parkpop, a large one-day music festival in June, the Filmhuis Den Haag which is actually open all year round, and Art The Hague, a quirky and contemporary art fair which happens each October.
If I’m candid, when I was first invited to The Falkland Islands to work with the tourism board, I was a bit dubious. My initial reaction was to Google image search the islands to get an idea of whether there would be a diverse enough range of images to capture over two weeks and I must say having thankfully now visited, that pictures simply can’t do these islands justice.
There were adorable closeups of penguins and other birds, cliche images of British flags and red phone boxes, and the dark, depressing images of the 1982 conflict. But what I didn’t see from that image search was just how diverse the landscapes are, how incredible the powder white sand beaches could be, nor just how varied all the islands looked given the Falkland Islands span much further than I realised looking at a map – I’m happy to admit that any doubts I harboured were entirely misconceived..
Of course, the one thing photos can’t capture is how special just being on The Falklands Islands feels. With its lack of people, of internet, and what feels like a lack of time moving, it’s a genuinely different type of trip.
So with these Falkland Islands photos, I wanted to show you all sides of the archipelago I experienced. Perhaps they aren’t my forty favourite photos, as that could have been a little too penguin heavy and I want to highlight a range of different landscapes and places. This is the Falkland Islands through my eyes and the first in a serious of articles about travelling to this remote destination in the South American continent, just shy of the Antarctic continent.
A king penguin colony at Volunteer Point
The stars of the show: five types of Penguin
I’ll start with the stars, that will adorn any search of Falkland Islands photos – the penguins that call these islands home.
With five types of Penguin here; King, Gentoo, Magellanic, Rockhopper and Macaroni, they each have their own look and characters.
These loveable playful creatures are just as adorable and playful in real life as they are on cartoons and with time on your side in The Falkland Islands, you can settle in for hours at a time watching them from a distance and waiting for that perfect photo opportunity.
A gentoo penguin at sunset at The Neck, Saunders Island
King Penguins at sunrise on Saunders Island in-front of a rainbow
A Rockhopper penguin surrounded by hundreds more on Saunders Island
Two Rockhopper penguins calling out towards the sky
A Magellanic penguin pops out from its burrow on Weddell Island
Perhaps the most memorable hair style of all, the Macaroni penguin
A dolphin plays in the shore waves at Bertha’s Beach
An awe-inspiring supporting cast of wildlife
Of course, the penguins aren’t the only wildlife that call The Falkland Islands home and to be honest; it’s not really fair to say they aren’t all stars in their own right.
From killer whales thrashing around the waters of Sea Lion Island, more often in winter, to pods of playful dolphins dancing in the shallows, the waters here are a real treasure trove of activity.
Seals and sea lions bask in sunlight or crash around in waves, occasionally charging for a mid-morning snack of penguin.
Countless birdlife can be admired here, and even if you aren’t a bird spotter, the sight of an albatross gliding past, a black-neck swan swimming by, or a blue-eyed Cormorant giving you a sideways look will still be magical.
Behind the soothing melody floating in the summer heat stood tall townhouses in pinks, yellows and bubble gum blue, setting the stage for the open-fronted piano which was enthralling a small crowd snacking on candy floss.
The man played with smooth strokes, and the sun illuminated the surrounding gold church domes. A little breeze gently forced a rose garden to sway, and the bold pillars of a soviet building stood strong on my peripheral.
The city of Kyiv in front of me was as far removed from the images that flooded across the worlds TV channels in 2014 as it could be.
The protests that took place just moments from here on Independence square, and the subsequent actions which followed are a defining moment for this decade in Ukraine, but don’t let this put you off visiting as a tourist, the capital city is a captivating place, and a fantastic city break.
St Michael’s Cathedral in Kyiv
My trip to Kyiv was only to be 36-hours, and I quickly realised that was a mistake. On this lazy Sunday afternoon, there was no rushed spirit like my usual city breaks, and I joined in the slow-paced strolling vibe of the capital rather than dashing from one tourist spot to the next.
Everyone was lounging around in parks, of which they are many, Kyiv is a surprisingly green city, or chilling out at the beaches where comedy clubs and bars entertained patrons.
Ice creams were everywhere, candy floss was adding colour to the landscape, and music and art finished the picture.
The architecture of Kyiv comes in many styles
Flanked by St Peters Church, a bright green-domed beauty categorising the religious architecture across the city, were rows and rows of artists exhibiting their work.
Hiding in the shade of their own paintings and stretching along the whole boardwalk were countless impressions of people, architecture and the abstract. Kyiv’s creativity was evident throughout the city, broken up by Soviet architecture which provided a stark contrast.
You could easily spend a full day, and then some, exploring the gold-domed churches and cathedrals of Kyiv. A predominantly orthodox nation, there are countless houses of worship scattered across the city.
Long before Ukraine was Ukraine, and the history of this decade we are all mostly familiar with, the long past of this city has defied many other border changes, in fact, the city dates back some 1400-years.
Following the wooden footpath with viewing platforms out to the Dnieper River, I arrived at the glass walking platform which floated high above the highway below. Here, you can see the Friendship Monument, dedicates to friendship with neighbouring nations and currently decorated with a painted crack to signify the current strain in certain relationships.
I walked around in a happy dazy, lost in the laid-back Sunday vibe, and loving it.
Old streets in Ukraine
All was going well until I tried to find traditional cuinse though.
I’d done something wrong, that I could tell; but what, I had no idea. With a scowling look, the salad bowl was snatched out of my hand, a single slice of aubergine was removed, and it landed back on my tray with a clank.
Sampling Ukrainian cuisine at a self-serve style restaurant was already turning into a confusing chore; a far cry from how friendly and helpful everyone else I had met in Kyiv had been, even with the occasional (ok, regular) language struggle.
I pointed at some things, which brought more tutting, and then settled in to chow down on what now was an overflowing tray of different local dishes. Luckily, with one less piece of aubergine to eat, I didn’t have to worry about breaking my Tajikistan hiking training diet.
Most dishes were delicious, one was awful, what anything was I couldn’t tell you – and this is why I’ll never be a food writer.
By far the best meal I had in Kyiv though was Georgian, of which there are multiple restaurants throughout the city catering cuisine from the caucus country.
Criminally this was the first time I was eating Georgian cuisine, and from the pomegranate tea to the cheese breadstuff Kachuliara, it all was a treat.
After a quick coffee and cake stop, of which both seem a popular local past time, I continued on my quest to find more gold domes.
Two of the most famous sights for spotting these sit close by each other; St Sophia’s Cathedral and St Michaels, the latter being free to visit.
Strangely quiet squares in Kyiv in August
In the ground, or territory as it’s referred to, of St Sophia’s, an opera singer was warming up for a concert in the garden that night, while another piano was being played in the courtyard. A somewhat confusing set of ticket prices will define what you can, and can’t enter here, and sadly my choice didn’t include entry into the actual cathedral, but the views from atop the bell tower are fantastic.
Across the vast square, strangely devoid of tourists in the August heat, St Michaels allows entry into its gold-domed, blue painted cathedral. Inside the intricate art reminded me of the cathedrals of St Petersburg, without perhaps the excess showing of wealth.
The road took me back down to Independence Square, past my hotel, Kozatskiy, which had a prime position and views for a bargain price, although the interior felt more soviet office block than check-in and relax.
As the sun was starting to set, bands were playing at the far end of the square under the Independence Monument, and closer to me the music fountains enthralled the crowds.
I took a coffee from a lady behind a tiny window and settled in to watch the show as children giggled under the light spray of the water.
The fountains shot far into the sky, eclipsing the Golden Arches advertising McDonalds and the signs of the proCredit bank.
Dancing in time to the amplified music, the many fountains set the stage for a square of harmony and laughter, with friends and families enjoying the last hours of the weekend.
I thought back to when I had seen this square on TV five years ago, and just how removed my media image of this city was from the current reality.
Outside of St Sophias Cathedral Kyiv
The next morning with just hours to spare before my flight to Kazakhstan, I stepped out to find a dedicated team of street cleaners finishing their work and the square in a pristine state.
Jumping on a metro, something you must do in Kyiv to appreciate individual stations impressive decoration, I headed out to the Motherland Monument, an imposing and towering statue well known in the city.
Residing myself to the fact I wouldn’t see everything I wanted to in Kyiv, and already knowing that was ok as I planned to return, I headed back to my office block hotel, grabbed my bags, and thought I’d treat myself to an Uber to the airport, given the rather friendly prices compared to Portugal.
Goodbye, calm and relaxed Kyiv, hello everything I’ve ever read about driving in Ukraine.
‘I’m not in a rush’ I offered in English, but I think the word rush was the only one not lost in (literally no) translation.
Dutifully we pulled out of our lane, and barrelled down the other side of the road, honking at a parking bus as if it was somehow in the wrong.
‘What’s their safety record like’ my mum had enquired about Air Astana having never heard of them. ‘I’m more likely to die in a car crash’ I laughed, a reply about to become more fact than statistic.
It was time to leave Kyiv, a city that had surprised me at every turn; I just hoped I’d be leaving in one piece.
Hmm, KFC sells hot dogs here I pondered, staring at the billboards rather than the road ahead which although officially four lanes, now seemed to be six. My friendly driver throwing the occasional smile of encouragement to me in the dash mirror.
My mum would want to give him a lecture; I decided he was getting a tip.
The traffic broke, and white tower blocks stood in unison on the side of the motorway, slowly fading into grey and browns the further from the city we got.
I liked Kyiv; I liked it a lot I thought, as a car with its back held together with cellophane somehow overtook us.
We pull up at the airport, both sighed relief, and I can’t tell if the look is pride in getting me there in time or annoyance I’ve made him make the journey. I feign I’m in a rush, dash into the terminal to make all his hard work seem worthwhile, even breaking a little jog, before being first at the still yet to open check-in desk.
My adventure to Central Asia was only just beginning, and I have a feeling it’s going to be one of those trips you never forget.
Until next time Kyiv, of which you can be sure they’ll be one, drive safe!
You don’t just travel to Italy, you get consumed by Italy; the words stumbled out of my mouth as I tried to explain why it was one of my favourite countries. The people, the passion, the food (oh boy, the food), the views, the attitude; there is something about the lifestyle here that transports you, and in this region, it’s all combined. Emilia Romagna offers up a fantastic mix of culinary, architecture and art based treats wrapped up in one.
I spent a week exploring this new to me region, and from the seaside towns to the hills of olive trees, I still don’t feel like I’ve genuinely scratched the surface so I happily booked a second return visit for a few months later. Grab a car, grab some mates and take a road trip through this region of Northern Italy. Or, for now, watch the video before reading all my Emilia Romagna must visits below.
Po Delta Nature Park
The Po Delta Nature Park sits across both Emilia Romagna and Veneto, and I stayed at the Spiaggia Romea Club Village on the Emilia Romagna side. This large resort, with pools, water sports, horse riding and a range of accommodation is set in a beautiful area that has been preserved by the current owners. Earmarked initially to be property development, the land was all brought, and the resort takes up just a fraction, leaving the rest of the area to nature and wildlife to blossom, an electric golf cart can take you on a ‘mini-safari’ through this part of the park.
But the real magic lies in the Lagoons and Saltworks of the park just outside Comacchio town. Whether you opt to cycle, take a boat, or both, the views are made that more special by the Flamingos that can be found on the lake. Although a migration spot, there are now permanent flocks of Flamingos who have set up their home here.
Other options in the Po Delta National Park include heading to the Sacca di Goro by the border of the region to see traditional clam fishing with the ‘rasca’ (although this is quite a detour so, not ideal if you are short on time) or relaxing in one of the spa and wellness facilities.
Bologna
The capital city of Emilia Romagna, Bologna is enjoying a moment on the centre-stage. Often overlooked for the likes of Venice, Rome and Milan, this city is seriously a star.
With the most extensive collection of Porticos in the world (the covered arch walkways), imposing towers littering the city, a hill-top monastery and countless restaurants, bars and markets serving up delicious treats around the clock, this is one epic city break.
The architecture throughout the city is outstanding, the cheap pizza slices from the hole in the wall restaurants delicious and the overall vibe is one of love and excitement. It’s damn romantic here, but it’s also a buzzing university city, the oldest in Europe in fact, and that gives it a real mix of cultural and modern experiences.READ MORE: A WEEKEND GUIDE TO BEAUTIFUL BOLOGNA
The historic streets of Ferrara
Ferrara
I’m gonna be honest, Janet and I spent much of our time in Ferrara drinking wine, Aperol and anything else we could use to ‘rehydrate’. While this large city has plenty going on it also seemed like the perfect place to have a lazy day of sight-seeing and bar-hopping.
Start your day off in the striking centre at the Castello Estense and marvel at the interior artwork before taking in the city from the viewing tower. The Palazzo die Diamanti holds the famous National Picture Gallery while Ferrara Castle, a marble facade 12th-century beauty towers in the central Piazza.
The city is split between medieval and renaissance art, and you can easily hire a bike as part of your Emilia Romagna day trip here to hope between each side and see the contrast of the little streets change as you ride through.
Modena is famous for two things: Fast cars and Modena Balsamic Vinegar. That’s not to say you shouldn’t take a day trip here at least. While the Ferraris and Lamborghini compliment the more classic Opera scene, there are plenty of impressive sights to enjoy.
The Torre della Ghirlandia is perhaps the most famous and imposing, a giant bell tower offers panoramic views of the city and sits in pride of place. The Roman castle nearby also completes the impressive central square.
For those who are into art and sophisticated architecture, this might actually be one of the best day trips in Emilia Romagna. With multiple museums and palaces stretching over a thousand years you can slowly hop between each sight stopping for coffee refills as needed. The Galleria Estense is a notable must visit for its painting collection from the 14th-century onwards.
I think it’s fair to say that for many people exploring their ‘own back-yard’ can usually be put on a back burner as we head off to more exotic, far-flung lands but over the past few years I’ve put in a real effort to explore more of England, my home country. We have such a wealth of history, nature, museums and culture here that I’ve been surprised and in awe of what I have discovered.
From industrial cities such as Manchester elevating their level of cool to coastlines that tell the history of pre-historic mammals, England is a country that can take you on a journey through centuries while also surprising you with its national parks and natural beauty. While I haven’t discovered every nook and cranny of my homeland, these spots are my favourites and are must-visit places to visit in England when you come to explore.
Man O’War beach on the Jurassic Coast
Growing up in Dorset in the south of England I was beyond spoilt but didn’t appreciate it. Last year I ventured on a family road-trip along the Jurrasic Coast, a stretch of rugged rocks, fossil-filled beaches and waters you won’t believe exist in the United Kingdom which stretches from Dorset to Devon.
The Jurrasic Coast is most famous for picturesque Durdle Door, an arch that sits over clear waters and also the never-ending amount of pre-historic fossils that span millions of years and are still being discovered today.
A three to five day trip along either the whole coastline or just a section will take you to beautiful bays, a swannery, ancient castles and is all served up with plenty of cream tea or fish and chips, and for me, it is the best part of the country.
I am Adrian and I’m turning 19 this year. I am from Cluj were I live with my two best friends in our apartment. For a 18 year old boy I am pretty sure that I can say that I have seen quite some things around the world already and made my fair share of trips. Luckily enough I have two parents who both love to travel, so from little on I got to travel the world. Those trips made me the person I am today and also created my passion for traveling. .
In my recent travels I have found that when I return, many people ask me how the trip was and I can’t really choose which aspect of the trip to talk about in this short 5 minutes conversing. A good trip simply is too beautiful and complicated to tell in such a short amount of time. So I just reply “good” and all my experiences can’t be shared. So the main point of starting this blog is, hopefully, to take friends and other curious people through my travels and show them the highlights and beauty of my trips.
“We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls.” — I know I know, quite a cheesy and deep quote at the same time, especially if you think that I am a tourism student. Every time I go somewhere, or I just came back people ask me why I love travelling so much and why I can’t just stay in the country for longer than 2 months. I think that this quote definitely express my thoughts about travelling. You have to get out there to create yourself, to learn and to grow. How can you really know who you are and where you belief in if you have never experiences other cultures, other views from completely different people?
I hope that writing this blog can get you, whoever you are, excited about travelling, or at least open your mind a little bit and give you a bit more information about some beautiful destinations about the world.
Adrian's Blog 