Travel Guides

From festivals in India to white water rafting in New Zealand, we round up some of the best destinations on the planet to visit.

Rajasthan – The Enchanting Land of Kings

The Land of Kings Rajasthan, is surely the most colourful and unique state in Northern India, if not all of India. Its capital, Jaipur, the “Pink City”, derives its name from the reddish-pink stones...

Chasing Rainbows – Holi in Jaipur

Ah, Holi 2024 in Jaipur.  A kaleidoscopic carnival of colours that I've danced through umpteen times! Picture this: me, a seasoned Holi enthusiast, diving headfirst into the riotous sea of hues that wash over...
Praça do Comércio

24 Hours Exploring Lisbon’s Maritime Past and Tram 28

It’s one of the oldest cities in Europe and predates London, Rome and Paris.     Let me share a brief insight into one of my favourite cities.  It’s...

Day 14 – 19 April 2011 – Sleep Deprived

  Updated October 2021 Arrived just after 06:30 this morning from the overnight train from Jaipur and felt a tad groggy.  This perhaps had something to do with trying to sleep on a noisy train in...

Udaipur – Venice of the East, 007 and Saris

India is a vibrant country steeped in tradition, culture and contrasts.  She boasts mountain ranges, sweeping plateaus (deccans) and deserts, and modern sky-scrapers developed next to slums and temples. Udaipur nestles in the south western...

Making a Splash on The Gold Coast

Ah, my shipmates, gather 'round!  I’m about to unravel the salty secrets of Australia’s Gold Coast – that sun-kissed slice of paradise where surfers ride waves like caffeinated dolphins. But hold your seahorses! It’s not...

Maori History, Dolphins & Breath Taking Scenery in Paihia

Updated: November 2018 The Bay of Islands has been a favourite holiday spot for generations of Kiwi families.  At its heart, lies the picturesque seaside village of Paihia, which offers a relaxed pace for locals...
Jaipur’s Cafés - Perfect Hideaways for Relaxation and European Breakfasts

Cafés in Jaipur Serving Breakfast with a European Twist

Jaipur, the Pink City and capital of Rajasthan, is a city of contrasts. Between majestic palaces, bustling bazaars, and chaotic streets, travellers seek moments of calm.  As a result, the cafés in Jaipur provide...

7 Tips To Consider Before Your Next Flight

Long flights leave many of us feeling irritable and bad-tempered. But you don’t need to enrol in the nearest meditation or yoga class as soon as you land after your next trip! Here are seven...
Karni Mata Temple’s ornate marble entrance displays Rajputana architecture

Exploring Karni Mata Rat Temple

Introduction India is well-known for its numerous religions, countless gods and goddesses, rituals, and many myths. Would it surprise you that it has a rat temple? No, I’m not kidding. It has! It’s estimated more than...