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.

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...
Sky Tower, Auckland, New Zealand

10 Of My Favourite Bars and Restaurants With Stunning Views

Updated: September 2021 What could be more elegant than sipping cocktails on a roof-top bar?  Or dining in a restaurant that has the most amazing killer views? Whether you're perched, eagle like, above a neon-lit city;...

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...

Day 18 – 23 April 2011 – Farewell Mumbai

Updated October 2011 What an experience last night at the game.  Mumbai Indians won a close game and the atmosphere at the stadium was excellent.  Certainly the best of the venues we’d been to. But what...

Day 10 – 15 April 2011 – Elephants, Forts and Food!

  Updated October 2021 I freely admit to being a “Jaipurite”.  And it was the perfect place to spend with my son. I’d arranged an early morning rickshaw (we’d given our driver the day off) out to...

Cairns – A haven for peace and tranquility

Balmy…the moment you step off of the plane in Cairns and smell the moist sweet tropical breeze you know you’re in North Queensland. Sure, you can take a boat trip and scuba dive in the...

August Absurdity: A Whirlwind 3-Day Shimla Escapade

Namaste, Shimla. Ever wondered what happens when you mix a dash of India’s August heat, a sprinkle of hill station charm, and a spoonful of peculiar travel instincts? Well, buckle up, fellow adventurers, because I've...

The Algarve – Portugal’s Winter-less Region

Ever considered Portugal’s Algarve for a winter break from Northern Europe’s chilly winters? So what makes The Algarve an ideal winter destination? For a start, temperatures consistently reach the high teens during daylight hours. And...
Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat

Day 1 – 6 April 2011 – Slumdog Millionaire, Rickshaws and Spicy Paneers

  Updated October 2021 After all of the planning and hype and nearly 24 hours flying, Rhys and I were finally in the city that Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire propelled to world fame.  But in the...
The Red Fort or Lal Qila

Day 4 – 9 April 2011 – Sarongs, Sandstone and Cycle Rides

Updated October 2021 After a healthy breakfast of fruit and juices (honestly!) our driver collected us just after 8am to start a full day of sightseeing in Old Delhi.  First stop was the very impressive...