An evening wine tasting in the Loire Valley? Yes, please!

What do you think of when you imagine visiting France? If, along with the glorious food and scenery, it’s the splendid wines of the Loire Valley that come to mind, you’re in for a treat. 

Since 2016, Chateau Chenonceau has hosted an evening’s wine tasting each summer in the Chateau and its manicured gardens, and the best news? There are lots of wines to try, and it’s open to all. 

Take a closer look at Dubrovnik - walk Dubrovnik's city walls

The ancient walls surrounding Dubrovnik enclose a labyrinth of magical streets, fascinating architecture and all sorts of gastronomic discoveries, all of which combine to make Dubrovnik a truly unique destination. But the magnificent city walls and the public access to them, is what really makes Dubrovnik different. Here's what I suggest you keep an eye out for while walking Dubrovnik's city walls.

How to have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights

Are you dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights one day? Have you been on a trip where you failed to see them? How disappointing! Well, don’t let it happen again. Here are my tips on how to have the best possible chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

Of all nature’s mysteries, the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) is probably the most magical. Silently appearing and scattering swirls of colour across the night sky, before mysteriously vanishing again, the Northern Lights really put on a show. 

Admire Marc Chagall's stained windows in Tudeley, Kent

Seeing and experiencing something new for the first time is definitely one of the obvious joys of travel. But you don’t always need to go far to make new discoveries. I proved this to myself recently when I visited a small church in Kent that is full of stained glass windows created by artist Marc Chagall. Imagine my surprise when I learned this church is just down the road from my childhood home!

Notting Hill Carnival - Europe's biggest street party!

Do you ever feel like dressing up and dancing in the street? Every August bank holiday weekend the streets of west London come alive with one of the biggest and most colourful celebrations of life imaginable. 

The much-celebrated Notting Hill Carnival has been partying through west London since 1966 and if you think that sounds fun, just wait until you experience it!