I’ve wanted to visit since the Pinterest days. Rice fields, temples, waterfalls; exactly my kind of place. But you hear more negative reviews now, about how busy and over-run Bali is. So it was good to finally see it for myself.
I was staying in Ubud, a little town that shot to fame after the Eat, Pray, Love book. It’s well known for its yoga focus, and hippy vibes. I felt instantly at home there. Especially in my villa, with its own private pool surrounded by tropical foliage. It was all dark teak and rattan, an outdoor kitchen and sliding doors so you could step straight from bed into your pool.
I’d spend every morning swimming there, listening to the birds. And loved it in the evening too, swimming under the stars. And I loved Ubud itself. The coconut trees and rice fields (even one just outside my villa), and cute places to get coffee or lunch. Riding motorbikes barefoot and looking at fireflies at dusk, over the moonlit paddies. Prayer chants from the temples, the smell of sandalwood and incense everywhere. Frangipani flowers, floating on the pool. It was these moments, that stuck with me the most.
Yes, I did do some touristy stuff. The famous swing, over the rice terraces. A hike to a waterfall, a coffee plantation tour. But I’ll never forget the little girl who sat next to me, looking at my tattoos and letting me play with her lizard, as her mum made me a fresh meal from scratch, the sun setting over the paddies. Or getting a pedicure in someone’s upstairs attic room, under a lone lightbulb, mosquitoes and lizards chirping, as an old timer looked on from his evening tv show.
I don’t know, the place got under my skin. Not to mention you can just spend your days strolling from one rice field to another, stopping for iced coffees in aesthetic cafes, for a quarter of the price of back home. I guess I saw the draw; why some people never leave. I kind of wished I didn’t have to, either.
Practical Information
Getting there- Bali has an international airport reached from most places in Asia and the Middle East.
Where to stay- I loved my Airbnb villa. There’s many like it, especially in Ubud. You can stock up at the mini markets around the island.
What to do- Ubud is made for slow days. Stroll the rice fields, stop at one of the cafes. Definitely do the touristy loop of the waterfalls and temples, you can hire a driver for the day.
Getting around- Grab is the app for cheap rides and motorbikes. You can hire a driver for longer distances.
When to visit- Bali has a tropical climate, so expect humidity and showers all year around. Mostly though, the worst monsoons are in the autumn, I went in April and had hardly any rain.
I couldn’t have asked for a better way to turn 30- a skiing break in the Pyrenees. It had been over ten years since I last strapped on a pair of skis, so I was very excited to be back on the slopes.
The ski resorts of the Pyrenees are only about an hour and a half from Samatan. The one we went to, St Larys Soulan was a good choice- with lots of accommodation close to the slopes, and slopes for all abilities. It was quite busy since we went over a snowy January weekend, but still, it was just so fun to be skiing again, and I was happy to see I hadn’t really forgotten it at all. Like riding a bike.
The cable cars up the mountain had beautiful views and while not as picturesque as Alpine towns, the resort still had a cute Center and a good vibe. And the place we stayed was warm, cosy and a nice place to come back to after a day on the slopes. I just wish we’d had longer than a weekend! Can’t wait to go back next year, hopefully for longer.
St Larys Soulan is about two hours from Toulouse, and easy to do over a long weekend. There are different ski passes available to buy, and lots of shops to rent skis and supplies from. Lessons are also available. January and February tend to be more snow-sure than December, but the resort is high up so generally a safe bet.
Perhaps one of the most special places I’ve ever been. Which is pretty high praise. From the red sand of the Kalahari to the mysterious scrub of Etosha to the cobalt blue Atlantic washing the shore on the Skeleton Coast, a road trip through this peaceful, wild country is something you have to do at least once in your life.
Day 1- Arrive Windhoek
Our flight arrived early afternoon so there was just time to pick up our massive double cabin pickup rental and make our way to the Airbnb we were staying in. There’s not loads going on in the capital, but a good nights rest is important before the long drives ahead, which is exactly what we got.
Day 2- Windhoek to Sesriem
We set off early from Windhoek, driving South, towards the desert. Before long the tarmac roads changed to gravel, and progress slowed. But it didn’t matter, because the views were so epic- red land, blue sky, and then we started spotting animals, like antelopes and the national animal, Kudus running across the empty landscape. It was a long drive, almost six hours but the landscape was so breathtaking we didn’t mind. We got to Sesriem, and our camp, the Desert safari camp.
What an epic place- luxury tents in the middle of the desert, with a pool and surrounded by the vast and empty desert and mountains and rock formations. We spent the rest of the day exploring the camp, and watching the most magical sunset over the rocks. And then, thousands of stars, and jackals coming out to look for food at the campfires!
Day 3- Soussevlei
We woke up early with the sun, ready to head even further into the desert. We drive for about an hour, into the Kalhari, where the ground got even drier and redder, and the famous red sand dunes started to appear. First, Dune 44, a towering red mountain and then, the famous Dune 45. It’s hard to appreciate how giant these dunes are and that they’re all made of sand. We wandered around, sliding on the hot sand, and then parked the truck and got into a jeep to go to Dead Vlei. We walked across the salt flats and saw the burnt out trees, it was such a surreal landscape, like a screen saver. We saw Big Daddy, the biggest dune of all, and I couldn’t believe I was there, somewhere I’d always wanted to go since I first saw this place in a travel magazine.
Day 4- Sesriem to Walvis Bay
None of us wanted to leave the next morning, such a magical place this was. But we had to keep going, so we were back on the road, coast bound. Another long drive, more varied landscape, through twists and turns of a giant gorge, onwards, until suddenly, the sea was insight on the horizon, and surrounded by golden sand dunes. Such a strange contrast! Walvis Bay was the busiest we had seen all week- seemed this was where everyone in Namibia lived. We found our Airbnb right by the beach. It was huge, like a beach house, and the whole area reminded us of Cape Cod or another fancy upmarket beach town. It was nice to catch our breath and have a relaxing afternoon enjoying the beach and the house, and watching dolphins jump just offshore. A good mid trip reset.
Day 5- Walvis Bay to Etosha
No rest for the wicked. We set off early from Walvis, in a thick fog that rolled in off the sea. But once we had got more inland it burned off, under a hot African sun. The landscape changed again too, and got greener, as we passed giant timber haulers and passed through small frontier-like towns as we headed North. A few hours later and we had arrived in the vicinity of Etosha National Park, in the far north of the country. We spotted three giraffes as we approached our camp, a taste of what was to come. We were staying at Etosha wildlife camp, one of the larger camps close to the main gate (Anderson). We checked into our cute bandas and had a walk around. The nice thing with this camp was how big it is; you could go for a long walk on paved roads into the surrounding bush, often spotting herds of antelope and gazelles and even cute little dik-diks. That night we enjoyed a fun atmosphere around the lodge dining area, with traditional signing and dancing and good food.
Day 6- Etosha National Park
We woke up with the sun for an early start, heading into the park proper, in an open top vehicle with a guide. Etosha is really wild, especially in the rainy season as it is so green and overgrown. Which makes it harder to spot animals, and they are especially shy here as there’s been so much poaching and hunting in the past. But when you do spot something, it feels even more special. The hunt is half the fun, anyway, and being out in the bush always feels special. But- we did spot a lot. Herds of wildebeest and gazelles and antelopes. Ostriches, massive herds of zebra, giraffe. And then, a cheeky hyena, loping across the grass. Then two lions in the distance, walking together majestically. But best of all- two rhino! This was new for me, and the final member of the big 5. A mother and child, slowly wandering across our path, and then disappearing quietly back into the bush. A really special moment. Then back at camp we had a chill afternoon, and another fun night at the lodge dinner, especially since it was actually Christmas Day!
Day 7- Etosha National Park
Another early start, back into the park in the jeep, hoping for more epic animal encounters. This time we were really hunting for elephants. It’s funny here how elusive they are. In other parks we’ve been in they’re everywhere. Here, you see signs of them only. In the end we spotted one lone male, but just saw him briefly before he faded back into the bush. It was eerie, how such big animals could hide so well, and you felt their presence, like they were watching you from somewhere close by. We also saw more lions in the distance, giraffe, and lovely zebra. In the afternoon we decided to go for a drive in the park on our own, which is one of the nice things that is allowed here. We were lucky enough to spot a lone male rhino! Three rhinos. Incredible. And then we raced back to camp as the skies turned black and thunder rumbled around us. You could see the massive flashes of lightning streaking across the sky. The rains were coming.
Day 8- Etosha to Windhoek
The last day. And the final long drive, back to Windhoek, back to the airport. The best roads of the trip, no more gravel, tarmac all the way back to the capital, which felt like a luxury after all the bumps of late. We saw a family of warthogs as we left, a final wildlife goodbye. At the airport we reluctantly returned the car, now caked in white dust and red sand, and brown mud. We’d covered more than 2000 km over all kinds of terrain, and that truck had done well.
What a trip. As our plane took off into dark skies, another storm arriving to drench the land, I thought about all we’d seen and experienced. It was an experience I’ll never forget. In one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever visited. Till next time.
Practical Information
Getting here- most flights here will be connecting ones, from hubs like Addis Ababa or Johannesburg. From the airport it’s easy to rent a pickup which you will need, for such a trip.
Getting around- you need a powerful car with 4WD. Also be sure to stock up on water, and fill fuel whenever you can. Within Etosha you can self drive or go with the guides.
Where to stay- We really liked our Airbnbs in Windhoek and Walvis. The Desert Camp and Etosha safari camp were great picks too. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
When to visit- Dry season has the best chance of animal encounters. We visited in the shoulder season and were lucky with the weather, mostly sunny, some rain the evenings or night. Go deep in green season and while cheaper you risk activities rained out and roads flooded.
All in all, be prepared for an incredible adventure! Xx
The dream. Or at least, it always was for me, since I was young. Ever since I poured over travel magazines, with pictures of the islands plastered across the pages- insanely blue water and mystical jungle covered mountains, where whales swim in the deep and coral reefs circle lagoons. And finally, I got to see it all for myself.
It was unsurprisingly, a very long journey. First an 11 hour flight to LA followed by an eight hour one over the Pacific. Somehow though, it was almost the same day when we arrived. 12 hour time difference is wild. We landed in Tahiti, the main island, where the day was getting underway. We got the ferry straight away, to Moorea, the beautiful, wild island just across the water. And already, we were spotting pods of dolphins and the spouts of whales. Moorea loomed ahead; jagged mountains covered with jungle, and bright blue lagoons fringing the shores.
Our Airbnb was adorable. A villa on a hillside with a pool of its own, sea view on one side, the hills on the other. Frangipani everywhere and myna birds singing. We walked around to explore the area. Everyone was friendly; Polynesians are full of life and character, and are often singing and always smiling. We stocked up on supplies (all the same brands as in France, and everyone speaks French. It’s like a little piece of tropical France). And the best place to watch the sun set, we found, was by the pool, as the sky turns orange and paints the sea beneath it the same color.
One of the main reasons I’d come all this way, was because I’d read a long time ago it’s one of the best and few places in the world where you can swim with humpback whales. Each year these majestic animals make the long journey from Antarctica to the warm waters off the coast here, before returning a few months later. And they had just arrived. So I booked a couple of tours with Moorea Moana Tours to hopefully get the chance to experience that. I was picked up early morning, still dark out. We boarded the small boat as dawn was breaking, and puttered out of the lagoon, into the wider ocean as the sun rose. All our eyes were peeled for the whales. Eventually our guide spotted them, their spouts. We observed them for a while, to see if they were going to stick around, and when we decided they were, it was time to get in the water. It was slightly unnerving, out in the middle of the Pacific. Cold, clear blue water, but no whales to be seen. Seemed they were shy and were swimming away. We weren’t going to chase them or bother them, so we got back on the boat. I found out it’s notoriously hard, to actually swim with them, but still felt lucky to have been able to see them so close by from the boat.
The next morning, it was time to try again. This time I brought Maya along too, to stay on the boat but to experience the whales anyway. The waves were large, tossing the little boat. But we persevered, and saw dolphins and a turtle, before the captain spotted the whales. Again, we watched them first, for a while, before entering the water. The waves were even bigger, and it was hard work swimming toward them. But this time, we were rewarded for our efforts. Three of them. Slowly moving through the deep blue, like giant ghosts. A mother, large baby, and a male who had tagged along for company. So graceful, for such giant creatures. The world seemed to slow, for the few moments they were there. Then again, they were gone, swallowed by the endless blue. But you could hear them, their cries to each other. Like nothing else. It was an unforgettable, magical experience, and the crew were amazing- professional yet passionate about the whales, and the ocean in general.
After the whales, there was still much exploring to be done. Like testing all the beaches on the island. Our favorites were Tamae Beach, the largest on the island, with groves of palm trees and the bluest water you’ve ever seen. Then there was Taiahura which was closer to our place. With rocks you could swim to, inhabited by little fish, and places to just chill in the warm water. And if you went a bit further, a secret beach, where we spotted a sting ray and had the clear lagoon almost to ourselves.
We also rented a little car to explore the interior of the island; those moody peaks and mysterious coves, chancing upon wild horses and pineapple plantations. The island was one of the most magical places, and watching it grow smaller from the ferry a week later was definitely harder than I’d expected. Luckily though, we still had a day in Tahiti itself, to explore the main island.
We checked into our new Airbnb, also cute, close to the beach and the hills behind. The roads were busier, but it was interesting to really be part of Polynesian life. The nearby beach was a beauty; long and golden and full of coconut trees. We spent the whole day there, as well as exploring the hills behind our house, complete with little waterfall. That evening we saw a beautiful sunset over the sea, and Moorea, in the distance. And watched as the sky was full of a million stars, and a giant, silver full moon was shining above the hills behind.
Practical Information
Getting here- Tahiti is a bit of a trek to get to, as it is after all in the middle of the Pacific. If coming from Europe, you will most likely have to transfer through Los Angeles. It is quite a journey, but well worth it. From Tahiti, ferries run frequently to Moorea and back again. I booked in advance with Terevau but there are tickets available on the day too.
Where to stay- we really liked both the Airbnbs we stayed in. There are lots of options on the site.
Getting around- a car is recommended to really explore the islands. In Moorea we used Vaiana and they were great. We didn’t rent a car in Tahiti since we were only there a day. Tess’s taxis on Moorea is a friendly local company to use if you don’t have a car.
What to do- the beaches and ocean are the main attraction, of course. If you’re there in season, between mid July and November, make sure to go and look for the whales. Use a reputable company, like Moorea Moana Tours.
When to visit- whale season is mid July to November. This also coincides with the best weather on the islands, but remember these are tropical places so rain can fall at any time. We had a lot of lovely weather when we were there, but be prepared all the same since when it rains, it pours! The Tahiti news website is the best place to look at a detailed weather forecast.
Other tips- French Polynesia is an expensive destination, so keep that in mind. Knowing some French is really helpful! And most of the foods in Europe can be found here too. Also the flights are long so do as we did and take a stopover on the way or way back, in the USA, if you can. You will definitely want to bring a waterproof camera along. I used Diji Osmo and it worked really well!
Thanks to Maya for the photos, company and laughs xx
Perhaps one of the most referenced places in the world. Through movies, songs, popular culture, there’s few other places that can compare in terms of being so famous. And we finally got the chance to see if LA and California in general lived up to the hype.
Out of LAX, into the hot sunshine. Into our rental car, onto the Interstate. It was an experience already; eight lane highways busy with cars and trucks, dry desert hills on either side. There’s something to be said for a place where the sun always seems to shine. The area we were staying in Woodland Hills was like an American version of where we are in Bruinisse, with manicured lawns and flowers, just instead of pine trees there are palms, and the flowers are bougainvillea not tulips. Our Airbnb was super cute, with a little patio to sit out on, and a cool white interior.
We had much to do over the next three days. Starting with a little road trip, along the famous Pacific Coast Highway. Only recently reopened after the devastating fires earlier in the year, it was an epic drive, the Pacific glinting on the side. We started with Malibu walking along to Surfrider beach and nosing around chi chi boutiques. From there we carried on to Santa Monica, where we saw the famous pier and long boulevard. The people watching was first class and it was cool to tick off these must-sees. We especially liked Malibu. Driving back via the Topanga Canyon highway, we even saw two coyotes!
The next day, we set off early, to downtown LA. We met up with Ryan and Holly who had a pack of rescued pups. Brownie, Mojo, Princess and the gang were all so adorable, and we got to walk them in Runyon Canyonwhere we got incredible views from the top of the Hollywood sign, and the surrounding area. And it was such a worthwhile thing to do, giving these sweet doggos a walk and a chance to get lots of hugs and pets, and you get an insight into LA life with a local. Definitely a worthwhile thing to do here.
That afternoon we went to Topanga State Park not far from our place. We decided to walk the Eagle’s rock trail. It was beautiful; hot sun, blue skies, dry earth, greens and browns and khakis. Steep climbs, patches of shade to catch our breath, the calls of eagles above the valleys. One of the wilder places we’ve been. You felt free, light. But also quite hot and sweaty. Still, it was a great experience, and the landscape was amazing.
On our final day, we went to nearby Calabasas to feel like cool kids. Well, since some of the rich and famous have houses around here and in general it’s an upmarket place, with an old town based on an Italian riviera village, all fountains and gelato colored buildings. We got drinks in cute places, sunglasses on, watching the traffic of G-wagons and sports cars. And it was so close to our place, too. It’s a great place for people watching, and a bite to eat or drink in the sun at one of the outdoor cafes.
All too soon, our stay in LA was up. Driving back over the freeways at golden hour felt bittersweet. We’d come to love this place, just as so many before us have. Hopefully, we will be back one day.
Practical information
Getting here- LAX is served by most major airlines. You can get some good deals if you shop around.
Getting around- you have to rent a car. Driving here is an experience in itself and you need one to access most things as no one walks in America. Seriously. We used Alamo and were happy with the service.
Where to stay- we loved our Airbnb! Linking it below.
What to do- Some of the areas and things to do are above. And honestly, use Chat GPT for any help tailoring a road trip to your wants and needs. It can be quite confusing otherwise. You can book the dog walk experience via Airbnb on their LA experiences page.
When to visit- Cali is beautiful all year. That’s one of the joys of a visit here. Be aware of fires, especially in the summer.
Thank you to Maya for the photos, laughs and company xx
Morocco was one of those places that just kept eluding me. I’d planned to go at least twice before, and it never happened. Third time lucky, and I finally made it, along with Maya and dad, to mystical Marrakesh. A little getaway, in the middle of February, a break from European winter. Just a two hour flight from Toulouse, and we had landed in Africa.
We arrived at midnight so didn’t get to see too much. But when we woke up the next morning in our Airbnb, we knew we’d made a good choice. Colorful and bright, with a large rooftop garden festooned with plants and cacti and multi colored cushions, it was a little oasis in the ochre city. The best part was watching the sun rise each morning from up there, over the Atlas Mountains, and watching life on the streets below. You could hear the call to prayer, hear the clip clopping of horse hooves, and the coo of pigeons flying between the pink colored buildings.
The first day, we explored Marrakech Center. We went first to El Baadi Palace, a large complex of orange trees, mosaic lined pools and ruins that reminded us of the Forum in Rome. From there we walked on the bustling streets, past the souk, avoiding carpet and lamp sellers. We stopped by a hidden garden close to the main Kotubia Mosque, and watched as tourists and locals thronged through the parks and boulevards.
After a few hours to relax at our rooftop garden, we set off in a rental car. We drove toward the mountains, their peaks filling the windscreen. The city gave way to dusty roads and miles of desert. Desert, but not of sand. More of dust and gravel and stone. We chanced upon a large lake which actually was a reservoir, at Lala Takerkoust. And then drove back via the Agafay desert, spotting camel trains and quad bikers. It was a good introduction to the wilderness, because the next day, we had planned to see a lot more of it.
And so, the next day we set off in the trusty car, into the hills. It was a glorious day with a sapphire sky, and we were all in good spirits when we got to our first stop, the Jarjeer mule and donkey refuge. We loved this place; a safe haven for equines rescued from their lives as beasts of burden, each with their own sad story, but safe here now to live out their days in the sunshine. We got a tour of the Center, and got to meet 300 sweet equines. They liked cuddles, and the place was glorious with views of the mountains and groves of citrus trees. There were friendly hounds for company too. Definitely a place to visit, when in the area.
We left reluctantly, but had to keep going. On, into the mountains. The roads got smaller and windier, and we found ourselves going up and up. Rocks of granite towered toward the sky, mountain goats frolicked on the steep faces, and Berber shepherds led their flocks along the dusty roads. We drove through villages suspended in time, dusty reminants of days gone by. We stopped for lunch, and Berber kids practiced their English on us. We stopped at view points, to ooh and aah at the views and the impossibly blue sky. And we felt far from home, in a good way, and more connected to Africa and the continent that lay before us.
On our last day, we went first thing to the famous Jardin Marjorelle, which we were staying only a five minute walk away from. This beautiful curated garden was set up by the partner of designer Yves Saint Laurent after his death, since Marrakech was a special place to him. It is truly beautiful; every plant, cacti and palm carefully chosen and planted and looked after. The dark blue paint is synonymous with the region, and you can’t help but take a thousand photos of everything because it really is that photogenic. Then we explored the neighborhood we were staying in by foot. I could honestly have lived there; every house was a shade of pink or coral and each was festooned with flowers. Cats slept in the shade, and orange trees were everywhere. It was the kind of tropical, sleepy, leafy neighborhood that I always seem to imagine I’ll find myself living in, one day. We also got drinks at a cute pavement cafe right there, and enjoyed the sun with the regulars.
All too soon, our little trip was over, and we were on the way home. Banking over the mountains, saying bye to Africa, and to Morocco. A place we were all very pleasantly surprised by, and will definitely be back to explore again, one day.
Practical Information
Getting here- Marrakech has a good international airport and has flights from most European and Middle Eastern destinations. From there it is possible to rent a car, or take a taxi to your accommodation.
Where to stay- I cannot recommend our Airbnb enough (I have linked it below). I really liked the area it was in too, away from the chaos of the medina. But if you’d rather be in the thick of it all, then consider staying in a riad, which looks pretty unique too.
Getting around- You can rent a car and should, to explore the mountains and further afield. Don’t bother driving into the medina though, just take a taxi. And avoid the nasty horse and carriages at all costs!
What to do- In the medina, I would recommend El Baadi Palace, and the souks. Jardin Marjorelle is a must too, make sure you book online in advance and be warned it fills up fast and gets crowded the later in the day you go. Definitely take a drive toward or into the Atlas Mountains. And make sure to visit the darling equines at the mule and donkey sanctuary. Linked all of these below.
When to visit- Morocco and especially Marrakesh has a good climate year round. We visited in February and found it very pleasant to explore. Sunny days and cool nights. The summer can be very hot and less comfortable. Try to avoid the month of Ramadan as many things will be closed.
Dad’s friend
We had a wonderful time in Marrakech, and it was great to have had a trip with dad again after many years! Thanks to Maya for the beautiful photos xx
A new year, a whole 12 months of possibilities. I’ve complied a list of 25 places to visit, probably not all in one year, but maybe some of them will inspire you to make this the year you tick some stuff off your bucket list! I’ve broken them down into different categories, so hopefully you’ll find something that looks good to you.
Epic safaris
A safari in Tanzania. This has to be something everyone does at least once in their life. Tanzania is a good option because the game reserves allow you to see all of the big five, and are easy to access. Plus, you can end your trip with a relaxing stay on the beaches of Zanzibar.
A safari in Zimbabwe. If you’re a bit of a safari veteran, why not skip Tanzania and head to Zimbabwe instead? The parks are wilder and the animals harder to spot, but that adds to the adventure and experience. Chilo Gorge is a fantastic lodge to base yourself at.
Summer adventures
Summer in the French countryside. I mean, you could visit any time of year. But there is something magical about clambering over hay bales, walking through fields of sunflowers and watching the sun set over golden fields here in the summer time. The Loire Valley, the Gers and Normandy are all good options with plenty of cute villages and adorable Gites to stay in.
Learn to surf in Portugal. This is a great place to learn to catch a wave. There are no deadly animals to worry about, and if you wear a wet suit and learn in the summer, the water is not too cold. The instructors are very nice and when you’re not surfing you can explore the beautiful area of Cascais, just an hour from Lisbon.
Visit a Greek island. And which one? I’ll always say Corfu. This mysterious island covered in pine trees and pebbly beaches has so much to see and do, beyond just the beach. Stay at Amalia Complex and enjoy a lovely pool set between the lemon trees.
Step back in time in Rome. Feel history come alive as you explore the Colisseum and Forum and stand in awe in the Pantheon. This beautiful city is easy to explore on foot and is the perfect place to lose yourself in the little roads and alleys on a hot summers evening.
Rent a boat on the Norfolk Broads. The ultimate tranquil summer experience. Renting a boat and spending a week slowly winding your way down the sleepy back waters of Norfolk, stopping each night at a cute village and going for long walks in the countryside is a lovely way to spend the summer.
Paradise islands
Mauritius. Possibly my favourite island ever. If you want to escape to a far flung island with mysterious jungle, crystal clear ocean and lots to do, this is the best place for it. You can swim with wild dolphins, snorkel with rainbow colored fish, and rent a car to explore the banana plantations and windy jungle roads inland.
The Maldives. This one has to be on the list, right? A marine lovers heaven, stay in an over water villa and watch fish and sharks pass beneath you. Go snorkelling over pristine reef, swim with sharks and rays, and soak up the sun while you spot dolphins on a dhoni boat.
The Bahamas. For a laidback holiday, head to tiny Bimini island. Lose your shoes for a week, and spend your time dolphin spotting, and hanging out at little bars and cafes owned by the friendly, chill locals.
City breaks with a difference
Istanbul. The east meets west thing is true, it really is a melting pot of cultures and places. It’s modern but traditional, and full of colorful houses and waterways to explore. Plus, you can take a day trip to the Princes islands, just an hour away by boat, and feel like you’ve been transported to a tiny Greek island.
Monaco. Arrive in style, with a helicopter ride from Nice. Then spend your time strolling around this tiny country, gawking at the super yachts, and having coffee at one of the many waterside cafes in the sun.
Miami. Walk down South Beach, iced drink in hand. Watch the sun rise over the board walk. Rent a bike and pass by boulevards and power yachts. And head off to one of the many malls for cheap things to take back home.
Farflung escapes
Thailand. There’s just so much to do here. Bangkok is where you’ll probably start. Take a river boat, get lost in China Town, spot monitor lizards in Lumpini Park. Head north to Chiang Mai, visit an elephant sanctuary, temple hop, watch the sun rise through the mist. Then head to an island. Phuket for ease and lots to do. Koh Samui for beautiful clear water to snorkel in. Koh Samet for a laidback, no shoes vibe and the whitest beaches.
Japan. Base yourself in Tokyo, and explore Harajuku and the infamous crossing. Then take day trips by bullet train to towns like Kamikura, with the shrines and beach views, and catch glimpses of Mount Fuji, rising above the clouds. Everything is an experience in Japan, it’s a place like no other.
Indian rail trip. For first timers, take the two hour ride from Bangalore to Mysore. Explore the palaces and gardens and enjoy a slower pace of life. For an overnight train experience, take the sleeper from Bangalore to Chennai. Check out the beach and sari shops and haggle for bangles. Then back to Bangalore for glitz and chaos and city life.
Malaysia. Something for everyone here. KL has manicured parks and AC mega malls to explore. Head to Penang and rent a car, drive around the island, exploring the jungles and beaches. Fly to Langkawi for some relaxation on beautiful beaches.
Laos. Head north to Vang Vieng. Hike up one of the steep karsts for epic views. Take a long tail boat along the river, dodging water buffalo. Look at the rice paddies and hot air balloons rising above the mountains at sunrise.
Cambodia. Base yourself in Siem Reap to explore Angkor Wat and all its temples. There are many to see, and each is unique, so go with a driver who can guide you to see all the best bits.
Western Australia. Perth is a chill city of beaches and riverside runs. Go whale watching, take a boat to nearby Rottenest island for pictures perfect beaches, spot kangaroos in the parks. Rent a bike and explore the whole of the riverside.
Winter wonderlands
Finland. The cheats way to get to Lapland. Helsinki is beautiful in winter, with plenty of shops and museums to warm up in. Take a taxi to Espoo, just half an hour away, to walk in a winter wonderland and visit a reindeer sanctuary.
Norway. Tromso, deep in the Arctic circle is your base for a week of winter fun. Feed reindeers, meet huskies, go whale watching and spot the Northern lights dancing in the sky each night.
Skiing in Austria. Seefeld has always been our go to, with a good mix of slopes and a cute town to stroll through. Plus nice accommodation and a friendly vibe.
Desert adventures
Qatar. If you have a stopover here, make full use of it, and head out of the city into the desert. Go with a driver who will take you dune bashing, and try your hand at dune surfing and holding a falcon.
Morocco. Explore beautiful Marrakech, and rent a car to head out into the desert and the Atlas Mountains. Visit the donkey sanctuary, the lake, and explore the surrounding epic foothills of the mountains.
RAK and Dubai. A best of both worlds trip. Stay in RAK and enjoy a beautiful beach and sea, and take a day trip to Dubai to explore the malls and epic architecture of this special Emirate.
And there you have it, twenty five epic ideas for this year and beyond. Hope there’s something there that calls to you. Have a beautiful year of adventure, whatever you choose to do x
Into the Arctic! My first time in the Arctic circle, at winter time. Tromso in Norway is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern lights, and in general to experience the Arctic and Arctic nights in the winter. I was definitely not sure what to expect; would it really be dark all day and very cold? And would we actually get to see those green lights dance across the sky?
We touched down to a snowy evening in Tromso, and made our way to our accommodation, TA Stakkevollevegen, a self catering apartment. It was a bit small, but cosy and clean and easy to get a bus into town. The next morning we were off early, to meet some reindeer. We organized the tour with Tromso Arctic Reindeer and were taken by coach. The ride there was beautiful, just as it started to get light (around 10am), through the Arctic landscape.
It was a lovely day; we got to meet over 200 free roaming reindeer, feed them, and we even went snowshoeing and got to see even more of the beautiful landscape, complete with snowy peaks, rivers and of course those adorable reindeer. It was lovely weather; the three or four hours of light were glorious, kind of like a long sunrise and sunset and twilight all put together. And blue hour, just before the darkness was surreal, especially when we walked among the herd just us.
That evening we set off again, in search of those lights. We couldn’t have picked a better night. Just a short way from the light pollution of Tromso, and we had already found the aurora. Getting out of the bus, the whole sky seemed to come alive in green. It is hard really, to describe. The thousands of galaxies above were bathed in this green light that seemed to grow and spread around, until the whole sky was green and purple and even blue. And then it danced, as if alive. It brought tears to my eyes. We stayed there for ages, barely feeling the bitter cold, mesmerised by nature’s show. But we were lucky, and got to see one more show, almost at midnight, and this time there was red too in the sky. Truly something everyone should see once in their life.
By the time we got back, it was well past midnight. And we only had a few hours to sleep because soon it was time to get going for the next day’s activity. We made our way early to the harbour, and boarded the Brim Explorer, a large boat that was going to take us deep into the fjords in search of whales and orcas. The way there took about four hours, but it passed fast going out on deck to admire the view of the fjords and the little red cabins on the banks, and the moon suspended in a lavender sky. So surreal, so peaceful. By the time we got to the whale grounds, we were super excited. And didn’t have to wait long to see our first pods of orcas. It was like a nature documentary; seeing those long dark dorsal fins, and their white spots as they came up for air near the boat. We saw a few pods, and even got to see a humpback family. And, to top it all off, a lone sperm whale, as the sun set. Magical. Our journey back was quieter, but we did get to see the northern lights from the deck as we neared Tromso. Unforgettable.
Our last full day, and it was for the huskies. We were driven to the husky camp, again through stunning scenery. We got dressed in warm clothes and got our snowshoes, and then finally got to meet the huskies! We had five dogs joining us for our walk. They were all so sweet! We got to take it in turns to walk them. My girl was just desperate to run! She was only young and will make a great lead sled dog one day. Floyd, whom Maya walked, was an older chap who looked after the puppies. They were all so sweet, and it was such fun being out in the snow with them. Back at the camp, we got to meet the whole pack who all wanted hugs. And we got to help train the puppies! They were so cute and we even got to pick them up! And of course, like the other activities, at the end you get to warm up in a Sami hut with a warm drink. It was another amazing day and experience.
We spent the evening enjoying the little shops of the town as Christmas music played, and exploring some of the neighbourhoods full of cute houses and Christmas lights, just as a light snow started up again. Flying home the next day, the view as we left Tromso was like flying through a snow globe. Visiting the Arctic circle had been an incredible experience- we had been super lucky to see so much and have wonderful weather. The lights, the whales, the huskies and reindeer, the scenery… our hearts were full.
Practical Information
Getting here- Tromso airport has connections to many European cities. You can also connect there via Oslo, or Stockholm (like we did).
Where to stay- As I mentioned, we stayed in an apart hotel part of the Total Apartments chain. It had a good location and we could cook our own meals. There also some hotels in the Center of town that looked nice.
Getting around- The number 42 bus is easy to use and runs every half an hour. Most of the tours out of Tromso include transportation by coach. Driving is not recommended because of the wintery conditions.
What to do- Definitely go looking for those lights! You can join a group which will have a better chance of finding the lights. We booked through Get your guide. You can also book the husky experience on there, as well as the reindeers. For whale watching, Brim Explorer is a reputable company to use with real researchers on board. I’ve linked all of these tours and companies at the bottom.
When to visit- Every season has its charms in the Arctic, but to really experience Arctic nights, it has to be between December and January. This is an unforgettable experience, but not total darkness, so there is still time to see things, and lots of time to look for the northern lights! The lights are visible on clear nights between September and March, you just have to get a bit lucky! The summer brings near 24 hour light, which would be another cool experience! If coming in winter, bring warm clothes, like ski clothes, shoes with good grip, and you’ll be fine! It doesn’t get as cold here as other parts of the Arctic.
All in all, this was a trip like no other. I’d do it again in a heartbeat. Thanks to Maya for all the laughs, photos and silly memories x
Finally made it to my fifth continent! As soon as I landed in Perth, I knew I was going to like it. It is like a mix of Europe, America and a little bit of Asia (there are a lot of Asians here who bring their culture with them) and of course, the weather is amazing. When I was there, it was their spring time, and we had pleasant days with sun and not yet too warm, perfect for exploring.
I was staying in the middle of Perth, close to the Swan River. I would go for a run along the boulevard every morning, watching parakeets in the palm tree and boats on the water, along with lots of others out before work. It was a good place to start the day, and also to end it; watching the sun set over the river was an evening ritual, too. On my first day, I already managed to spot kangaroos. Perth is full of parks, and Heirisson Island is actually a kangaroo sanctuary, so as you stroll around, you can spot the Roos lying under the shade of the trees. They don’t really bother you, just kind of look at you curiously. It is very cool to see them hop about!
The next day, I went whale watching. October is right in the middle of the humpback whale migration, when they travel with their babies from Northern Australia to Antarctica. I went with Whale watch Western Australia and found them to be a very professional company. Their boat was nice and spacious, and they knew loads about the whales. So I learned a lot, too. We didn’t even need to go far before we were already getting whale sightings. It was truly incredible to see these massive creatures for real. And watching the baby throw itself out of the water many times, and then swim right up next to the boat with its mum were things I will never forget. You depart from Fremantle, about half an hour from Perth. So since I was there anyway I wandered around, enjoyed the beaches, lighthouses and cafes. And also explored a nearby beach, Coogee beach, which was the stereotypical Australian dream; long white sand, and almost empty.
The day after that I booked a trip to Rottnest Island. This is one of the must dos here, and I went with Rottnest Express who I also found very professional. You depart right from Perth, and the first part of the ride you are along the Swam River, so it is interesting to see the city from that angle, and all the fancy houses by the water. Then you go out into the sea, and it gets choppy! But luckily it is not for too long before you arrive at the island. The best way to get around here is to bike, so I rented one, and set off to explore. It was a hot day, and going up and down the hills was hard work. But the views of hidden beaches with the whitest sand and bluest water around every bend was well worth it. I could stop whenever I wanted to enjoy the views, and to meet quokas, the tiny marsupial that call this island home. They’re adorable! After a few hours of that I was pretty tired, so enjoyed some fries by the sea. And a treat to get home: a sea plane! The same company can organise it. It was incredible flying over the clearest and bluest water, and then landing right on the Swan River was bizarre, but amazing!
Of course, I still hadn’t seen koalas. So I took a trip the next day to Caversham Wildlife Park. Also about half an hour away, the drive here was interesting. I even saw more kangaroos just chilling along the side of the road! The park has lots of native animals, many of them rescued. And their biggest stars are the koalas, who are every bit as adorable as I had imagined. You can stroke them and get close to them, but I also enjoyed just watching them go about their day, which was mainly eating and sleeping. But they really are so cute. There were also kangaroos, other marsupials, penguins… lots to see. And it is set in Whitman Park, a huge reserve. I had a walk through afterwards and spotted more wild kangaroos!
On my final day, I rented a bike to explore more of Perth itself, along the Swan River. You can bike or walk for miles, and enjoy the view of marinas and parks and the river. I stopped at the famous Blue Boat House, and the Matilda Reserve, and enjoyed a picnic lunch on the banks of the river. And wished Australia was not so incredibly far away from everything, because I could see myself living there. Either way, I am sure I’ll be back again, one day…
Practical Information
Getting here- Perth has a large and quiet airport, with most flights arriving from SEAsia. You will most likely have to transfer through there on your way from Europe. I was lucky that I could fly direct from Bangkok.
Where to stay- I stayed at Mont Claire Boutique Apartments, serviced apartments in the city centre. My room was large and well equipped, if a bit dated and tired, but it did the job. You can walk from there to the river, shops and bike rental. The road it is on can be a bit seedy the further up you go, but it is fine around the hotel itself.
Getting around- Uber is easy to use here, and what I mostly did. Otherwise you can rent a car to explore further afield.
What to do- I enjoyed all the stuff I did. I will link the websites of the companies I used, for whale watching and to visit Rottnest, as well as the wildlife park. If you are out on a boat, keep in mind that it gets pretty choppy, even on a nice day, so if you are someone who gets seasick, make sure you are prepared! Also keep some warmer clothes for when you’re at sea. Perth is well built for biking so definitely do rent one both in and around the city and on Rottnest.
When to visit- in the southern hemisphere of course the seasons are the opposite, so it was spring in October when I was there. I found the weather very pleasant; mid 20s, gentle sun, cool evenings, perfect for exploring. Their summer can be very hot, and their winter cool and rainy. Spring or fall would be my recommendation.
I really liked Perth and Australia in general. Would love to come back to explore more of this giant country, but glad I got to see a lot of what Western Australia has to offer!
By chance I came across this place; researching where I could stay for a long weekend. About a two hour drive from Bangkok, Thailand’s biggest and oldest wildlife rescue Center, Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand has recently opened rooms too, so that you can stay right at the park. I didn’t really know what to expect, but this place was simply amazing.
As soon as you arrive, you see the elephants. They live in a huge reserve, and from the dining area and main lodge you have an excellent view of them doing their elephant things. There are also gibbons swinging and calling, especially in the morning, their haunting cries an interesting alarm clock!
My room was set away from the main area, down a jungly path. And I had my very own elephant pair for company. These two girls share a separate large area because they don’t get on well with others (all the Ellies were rescued from horrible situations), and I could see them from my room, bed, balcony… so magical. Especially at dusk when they would walk quietly, like giant grey ghosts, their silhouettes under the moonlight.
So my room was great, besides the elephants outside. Large, clean and the downstairs is open on the sides with lots of comfy chairs and tables. And I had a darling cat for company the whole time, who of course, I called Ellie. She loved sitting with me all day! I also loved spending time at the quiet pool from where you could watch the main elephant herd all day, which was amazing, and it was so peaceful, just surrounded by birdsong.
I also did a tour of the rescue Center. This was an informative experience, at times difficult, hearing the heartbreaking stories of all the animals. There are over 800 animals here, and I got to see gibbons, deer, macaques, bears, tigers, otters and more. It is amazing that this place does so much for them, and they have a safe place now to call home. We also had Sausage the dog keep us company, jumping on the cart to come along on the tour! All the dogs at the Center were really sweet too.
The weekend flew by. I had some unforgettable experiences, and magical moments. I highly recommend visiting this place if you’re in Thailand. Not only will you enjoy it, but all the money goes toward helping more of these sweet animals have a second chance.
Practical Information
Getting here- it is about two hours from Bangkok and they can organise transport to and from the city, as well as from Hua Hin, the largest city in the area. From Pattaya I arranged a private taxi.
Staying- you can do day trips, but I highly recommend staying at least one night to enjoy the magic of the place. The name of their lodge is I love phants and you can book it via their website which I’ll add at the bottom. My room was the best!
What to do- definitely join their full day tour, and you get to end by feeding watermelons to the elephants. Then enjoy the pool, the views and the utter peace. You can also volunteer here, if you have more time.
When to visit- I came in October in rainy season but we didn’t have any rain and the temperatures were pleasant.
The Wildlife Friends foundation Thailand is an amazing NGO and they have lots of things you can support them with even if you can’t visit, including adopting an animal or donating. You can see that all on their website, as well as booking a tour or a stay at the Center.
