February 01, 2013 , Review, Amsterdam
"You must be freezing!" Claire, my host cried, looking in alarm at my mini skirt. "I have lots of thermals, and you're going to need them here. Please do borrow some." I had only just walked through the door and already the utterly charming Claire was offering me extra layers of her own clothing. Now, you don't get that in a hotel.
Read more
January 18, 2013 , Ho Chi Minh City
Known more colloquially as Saigon, its romantically evocative pre-war name, Ho Chi Minh City is one of Asia's most enigmatic metropoleis. Tucked between its colonial remnants and bustling markets, above the ancient pagodas and sizzling streetside woks, Saigon's after-dark scene is really taking off. From rooftop bars to historical hangouts, here's ...
Read more
January 16, 2013 , Stockholm, Travel pictures
With snow falling and the temperature dropping to negative numbers, it’s fair to say that winter has truly arrived. In what can seem bleak and gloomy, photographer
Kalle Sund captures the beauty and magic of a city ensconced in winter. “Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and that’s how I want to show my hometown - no matter the season”, he says
Read more
January 14, 2013 , Top 5, Paris
Paris isn't just hopelessly romantic - dig a little deeper and you’ll find a clandestine world of devious drinking and late nights. On seemingly dormant streets behind darkened doors, the speakeasy scene is flourishing, but if you want ‘in’ the French are going to make you work for it. Here, expert drinker and blogger
BarChick gives you her top tips.
Read more
January 11, 2013 , Round-up travel features, Berlin
Berlin rocks. Its gritty, graffitied streets harbour some of Europe's coolest boutiques, underground restaurants and back-to-front bars turning culture on its head and shaking it all about. Better still, this glut of goodness is easily accessible. This is one of the best cities for affordable accommodation, whether you want a high-design hotel or a...
Read more
January 09, 2013 , Dubai, Top 5
A new crop of cafes have sprung up in Dubai over the last year. Independent and cultured, they're at odds with the prolific chains, turning to Antipodean brewing methods and reaching out to the new breed of creatives in town who want more than super malls and flash hotels. Here, one of the key innovators of the developing coffee culture and our local expert, roast master Matt Wade, brings us his favourite cafes in Dubai
Read more
January 07, 2013 , On the road, Moscow
“Winter in Moscow? Have you gone completely mad?” Tell someone you’re planning a trip to Russia’s icy capital during the cold months and they’ll probably question your sanity. But while Moscow can get very cold, winter can actually be a magical time of year to visit. Pack your thermals and you’ll discover a sparklingly snowy, tourist-free city that knows how to put its best foot forward when the mercury drops below zero
Read more
January 04, 2013 , Round-up travel features, Top 5
New Year detoxing is no longer just about going on a juice fast or stepping up the pace on the treadmill, but putting the wheels in motion for a happier, healthier lifestyle. Wellness holidays are hotter than ever for 2013, and we've uncovered five of the world's most luxurious detox retreats guaranteed to reverse at least some of your silly season...
Read more
January 03, 2013 , Latest hotspots in..., Brussels
If fleeing the winter chill for somewhere hotter isn't quite your thing, then Brussels is one of our favourite cities to explore in the colder European climate. Though some have previously dismissed Brussels as dull and rather unexciting, today the city is a quirky, fascinating hub ready to take you on a gastronomic adventure.
Read more
December 27, 2012 , Round-up travel features
As London signs off from its biggest year in the world spotlight, a new list of diverse international cities are rising to the top of our must-visit lists. From emerging cultural capitals to new safe zones, architectural wonders and the hottest foodie scenes, we've found ten cities to tick off in 2013 - or to at least start dreaming about.
Read more
December 21, 2012 , On the road
I take Budapest by foot. Despite being a large city - or two cities stuck together - there is so much to see it seems a shame not to walk. 'Remember to look up!’ one local tells me, ‘There may be the same shops you recognise at eye-level, but the history is in the skyline.
Read more
December 19, 2012 , Latest hotspots in..., Edinburgh
While most venture to Edinburgh for the new year's eve festivities of fireworks and canons being fired at the stroke of midnight, at GuidePal, we've found other reasons to head to the Scottish capital. From restaurants hidden in gardens, to old-school bars and cosy cafes, we've found our favourite places to enjoy all year round
Read more
December 17, 2012 , Spotlight on ..., London
Once better known for gun crime, riots and housing estates than for fine dining, this south London borough has transformed into an enclave of gastronomic greatness. The area's diverse and unstuffy character, as well as lower rents, have attracted chefs looking to take some risks. Now the 1930s covered arcades of Brixton Market and Brixton Village are packed with artisanal cafes and bohemian restaurants attracting punters from across the city.
Read more
December 14, 2012 , 48 hours in..., Paris
Only two days to explore possibly the world’s most beautiful city? Just 48 hours in Paris may sound daunting, but if you keep your goals modest, it’s perfectly possible to get a taster of why travellers fall in love with the city again and again. Here’s how
Read more
December 12, 2012 , Travel pictures
It’s the perfect time of year to experience the raw beauty of the African wilderness, exploring the vast landscape and extraordinary wildlife.
Christof Schoeman, a wildlife photographer, followed his heart back to South Africa, capturing the stunning majesty of many exotic creatures from leopards to elephants. “Wildlife is the essence of Africa, it’s what brings it to life,” he says
Read more
December 10, 2012
As millions line the shores of Sydney Harbour to watch the fireworks display or huddle in NYC's Times Square waiting for the famous ball drop, oodles more will welcome the New Year in some of the world's more obscure cities. From foodie festivals to quirky end-of-year traditions and bath house raves, we've found five top cities ringing in 2013 with...
Read more
December 07, 2012 , Review, Edinburgh
Luxury is an ever-changing concept. At one point, it was all stark minimalism, intimidating to all but the most rarefied of creatures (people who wear white and get blow dries). But things began to change with the boom in boutique hotels: they lost the snooty attitude, the spacious empty suites were replaced with vintage-chic aesthetic, and us mere mortals could blend in. Which is where Edinburgh’s Rutland Hotel comes in.
Read more
December 04, 2012 , Latest hotspots in..., Bangkok
As winter hits the northern hemisphere, there's no better time to escape and seek refuge in the beauty and culture of Thailand's capital city. A disorientating amalgam of old and new unlike anywhere else in Asia, Bangkok is the place to see out the year's colder months with good food, cool bars and vintage shopping.
Read more
December 03, 2012
You may like spending those long, dark days snuggled up by a fire while it snows outside, or perhaps you would prefer to get as far away from the cold as possible; either way we’ve rounded-up your top options for the coming winter months. While European cities can be even more magical in the crisp cold with twinkling lights and cosy retreats, there’s certainly an allure to hot-footing it south for some sunshine.
Read more
November 30, 2012 , Travel pictures
For centuries, Tokyo has been Japan’s thriving capital. Now, whilst still steeped in heritage, the city is a heaving metropolis that has infused modernisation and pop culture with it’s unique ethnic flavour. Travel photographer Fannie W. beautifully captures the movement of organised chaos in a city where “super-modern architecture can stand side-by-side with ancient temples.”
Read more
November 28, 2012 , What's hot in travel, Sydney, Vancouver
Our monthly round-up of the latest in travel, from the hottest new restaurants to luxe tropical escapes. This December, we've untapped a new travel destination in North Africa, happened upon a lush spa hotel in the Maldives, and dished on one of the best cities in the world to ring in 2013.
Read more
November 26, 2012 , 48 hours in..., Sydney
While Europeans turn up the heating and snuggle under the duvet, Sydneysiders are stripping down to their swimwear for a summer of fun. Hot, crowded and entrenched in party mode, it's the best time of the year to see Australia's quintessential summer city in full swing.
Read more
November 21, 2012 , On the road, Prague
With every corner pretty as a postcard, it’s easy to understand why Prague’s oldest central neighbourhoods are so popular with visitors. But while their gothic churches, baroque mansions, sweeping views and narrow lanes are all delightful, they’re hardly uncharted territory. As GuidePal's city guide editor Feargus O'Sullivan learned on a recent visit to Prague, there’s plenty more of the city beyond this central bubble.
Read more
November 19, 2012 , Latest hotspots in..., Barcelona
There's so much more to Barcelona than La Rambla and Gaudi buildings - beautiful though they are. It's home to a flourishing foodie scene and full of people obsessed with a good night out - and we don't just mean flamenco and paella, neither of which come from the city. We've revamped our Barcelona guide with all our local experts' favourites - here's a snapshot..
Read more
November 16, 2012 , On the road
As the new day lumbers slowly over Morocco's snow-covered Atlas Mountains, the local muezzin's amplified Arabic lilt carries across Marrakesh's Medina (old city) like a beautiful, mournful song. Described by Barack Obama as "one of the prettiest sounds on Earth," the Muslim call to fajr (dawn) prayer certainly beats my mobile alarm tone.
Read more
November 14, 2012 , Travel pictures, Shanghai
Swedish photographer
Hannes Söderlund has long been drawn to China - and no place more so than the exhilarating city of
Shanghai. But it’s not the manic chaos of the city that Hannes captures in his photographs: it’s the unexpected serenity nestled within the hustle and bustle of this ever-changing mega-metropolis
Read more
November 12, 2012
Even a staunch Christmas cynic would find it hard not to be seduced by the warmth and twinkling lights of these Christmas markets. Getting tipsy on hot Gluhwein, while nibbling on some tasty pastries with the wafts of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts all around you, is irresistible - the perfect way to wean yourself into the Christmas season.
Read more
November 09, 2012 , Round-up travel features, Los Angeles
From the vintage shopping heartland of Melrose Avenue to the chilled-out Venice Beach, there's a little bit of LA for everyone - and the perfect sleep to suit. Mixing the opulent with the old school, we've found five hotels - with five very different personalities - to rest your weary head. Now all that's left is to plan your assault on the city.
Read more
November 07, 2012 , London, Top 5
Pop-up shops, bars, restaurants and galleries have been springing up around major cities since the early noughties, and the phenomenon is showing no signs of slowing down. As winter gets its icy claws stuck into London, a new wave of clever temporary entertainment initiatives are set to give locals and visitors alike good reason to brave the elements.
Read more
November 01, 2012 , Latest hotspots in..., Paris
Paris is the latest guide in our repertoire that's undergone a revamp, and we can't seem to get enough of this city. So we've put together a hot list of our Parisian favourites, from a Christian Lacroix designed hotel and pink boutiques to the latest in 70s-inspired Moroccan bars.
Read more
November 01, 2012 , What's hot in travel, New York, Paris, Rome
Our monthly round-up of the latest in travel, from off-beat festivals to new hotel innovations. This November, we've got the juice on Egypt's latest tourist attraction, uncovered a Parisian festival made for chocoholics and given travellers to Rome something to think about when their bellies begin to rumble.
Read more
October 29, 2012 , On the road, Reykjavik
On the 40 minute bus ride from Keflavik airport to the Blue Lagoon there was barely a word from anyone on my packed bus. No one was prepared for the otherworldly landscape of crater-filled, grey and black basalt lava flows that shape the rugged landscape and extend into barren mountain ranges
Read more
October 24, 2012 , Travel pictures
Sid Das, a travel photographer based in Singapore, has travelled extensively to try to capture the essence of places around the globe. “Australia, for example, has so many beautiful sights that just scream to be photographed,” he says, “but I took a more subtle approach in these pictures I snapped while travelling along Australia’s east coast.
Read more
October 22, 2012 , 48 hours in..., Madrid
It may not be Europe’s oldest, grandest capital, but it would be hard to find a city that is livelier, friendlier and more enjoyable than Madrid. Autumn’s a particularly good time to visit the city as summer’s heat and crowds have evaporated, but there are still plenty of clear, sunny afternoons to enjoy before winter’s chill truly kicks in
Read more
October 19, 2012 , Latest hotspots in..., New Orleans
We've been updating our New Orleans guide with more than just Mardi Gras. With bars, galleries and a shopping street that is set to overwhelm even the most dedicated of shopaholics, our list of local favourites will be sure to set New Orleans on a brand new map.
Read more
October 17, 2012 , On the road, Glasgow
Often overlooked as Edinburgh's grubbier little brother, Glasgow doesn't routinely top many European travel itineraries. But we love an underdog. And as the granddaughter of a bonnie Ayrshire lass who left her homeland behind to follow her wartime love to Sydney, GuidePal guide editor Sarah Reid is keen to rediscover her roots - haggis, bagpipes, Nessie and all
Read more
October 15, 2012 , On the road, Buenos Aires
We walked past it everyday. We smelt it before we saw it; tantalising, mouth-watering, lust-inducing. I don’t think I’ve ever wanted something in my mouth so much. It was nothing fancy. Just steak and sausages grilling. But oh, what sweet-smelling meat. The source was a nameless hole-in-the-wall parilla in Buenos Aires’
San Telmo.
Read more
October 12, 2012 , Latest hotspots in..., Berlin
Berlin is acknowledged the world over as a cultural melting pot of creative cool. As a city that is constantly regenerating and reforming, it never loses its edge. Here at GuidePal we've just updated our Berlin guide, bringing you everything from the latest all-night wreck club to the hippest hidden restaurant.
Read more
October 10, 2012 , Travel pictures
Scenery captured in even its simplest form is often more than just a pretty picture. A beautiful photograph can evoke warmth, nostalgia and even a sense of calm. Documentary photographer
Jonathan Nutt, with his 23 years experience, knows that getting an image to move a person is “more complex than just F-stops, shutter speeds, composition and technical details.
Read more
October 08, 2012 , On the road, Dublin
Times may be tough on the Emerald Isle, but that hasn't stopped the party. Tucked in its alleyways and secreted away in the backrooms of its bars, Dublin's dining, arts and entertainment scene is positively booming. GuidePal city guide editor Sarah Reid swung by the capital of the Republic for a long weekend in search of a good craic.
Read more
October 05, 2012 , Review, Spotlight on ..., London
It’s a silly game. Hitting a tiny little ball with a daft little paddle, back and forth, back and forth, which is near impossible to achieve without a good dose of comedy. You would think a game such as this would be forever relegated to the remit of Forest Gump geeks and obscure Olympians. But no. Not in the slightest.
Read more
October 03, 2012 , Travel like a local, Oslo
Introducing Fanny J Waller, GuidePal's local expert, experienced sommelier and seeker of the most inspiring places, enticing foods and one-of-a-kind bars in Oslo. Find out where to get mouthwatering eats, her tips for saving money without missing out, and why few visitors ever make it to the best bar street in the city
Read more
October 01, 2012 , What's hot in travel
Our monthly round-up of the latest in travel, from the quirkiest new dining experiences to the most luxurious new hotels. This October, we've uncovered the hottest place to enjoy a cocktail in the Mediterranean, reported on the city worth its World Heritage status and dished on the dining trend that's got us all in a fluster.
Read more
October 01, 2012 , Round-up travel features, San Francisco, Hong Kong, Dublin
From the west’s Hallowe’en to the east’s Hungry Ghost Festival, every culture around the world has a way of honouring their lost ones and warding off evil spirits. While some are sombre, reflective occasions, others may see you dancing with the dead in a rave beyond the grave.
Read more
September 28, 2012 , Top 5, Istanbul
No wonder they say go for the history, stay for the food. Whether it’s from a street vendor or a high-end fusion restaurant, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul’s eclectic cuisine. A meyhane offers hot and cold meze washed down with raki, while a lokanta is a no-frills affair serving home-style cooking. And now a new generation of chefs are creating their own contemporary take on tradition
Read more
September 27, 2012 , Travel pictures
"Sometimes it's good to leave behind the lights of the big city and walk out into nature", says photographer
Daniel Cohn. At GuidePal, while we obviously love the buzz of the city and its’ bright lights, we can't help but agree. There's something awe-inspiring about nature's majesty and its ability to calm the soul
Read more
September 21, 2012
As monsoon rains ease at the end of September and Mumbai's perennial humidity becomes a smidgen more bearable, the city is ripe for exploring. From its brash, Bollywood lights to its ancient ghats, colonial grandeur and sprawling modern slums, this multifaceted city is a microcosm of India, served raw.
Read more
September 19, 2012 , Travel pictures
"Beautiful, authentic, and emotional" are ways in which many of us see the natural world, but few have the ability to encapsulate it in a photograph. Michelle Walker, a San Francisco-based photographer, looks to capture the pure stillness in raw beauty and not what can be manipulated into something beautiful: “I want the viewer to be able to feel what it was like being there.
Read more
September 17, 2012 , Latest hotspots in..., Los Angeles
En route to LA? Our guide has just been updated with the latest and greatest spots. Here are a few of our tried-and-tested favourites - from markets to bars and a top place to eat in between
Read more
September 14, 2012 , Travel like a local, London
Introducing Tyler Wetherall, one of GuidePal's city guide editors, who dares to share cherished knowledge on the best places to eat breakfast and why you need to drink your way through London
Read more
September 12, 2012 , Chicago, Travel pictures, Hong Kong
Under the cover of darkness, Atlanta photographer Craig Schultz plays with light and exposure to shoot the cities that never sleep in their raw, neon glory. "Shooting at night with a tripod is my favourite time to capture the vibrant lights of the world’s most breathtaking cityscapes," says Shultz, who shares four of his favourite exposures with GuidePal
Read more
September 10, 2012 , On the road, Travel pictures
Uruguay is South America’s secret that the world is slowly discovering. Tucked between its bigger siblings Argentina and Brazil, people seem to skip right past it. But this small country shares the best attributes of both its neighbours with the gaucho culture, tango and great steak of Argentina coupled with the sandy white beaches and carnival parties of Brazil
Read more
September 06, 2012 , Travel pictures
Imagine the soft heat of the mid-afternoon sun on your skin, and the smell of the Ligurian Sea in the air. In the background, the sound of distant chatter and laughter lulls you into a smile of serenity. Has a sunset stroll along the port or a wander through winding cobbled streets ever seemed more appealing than in the village of Porto Venere
Read more
September 01, 2012 , What's hot in travel, Los Angeles
Our monthly round-up of the latest in travel, from the coolest cultural festivals to international dining trends, new hotels and exotic destinations. This September, we've uncovered the hottest new gastropub in downtown Los Angeles, scoped out the best place to sink a stein in Munich and pondered the future of air travel.
Read more
August 30, 2012 , Round-up travel features, San Francisco
San Francisco has always been known as a foodie city, but in recent years it has arguably surpassed New York as the US's gastro center. Young chefs keep upping the ante with exciting and ambitious new restaurants, creating a culinary buzz that champions food trucks as much as fine dining. Here, we select five of our favourite openings of 2012.
Read more
August 29, 2012 , Travel pictures
Martine Franck, a documentary photographer, once said: “My grandfather killed himself falling off the dike in Ostend while photographing my two cousins. This can happen so easily when looking through a lens: for a split second nothing else exists outside the frame…” In places of beauty, we can often find ourselves lost in that moment, with nothing left but to stand and capture; something travel photographer
Tom Robinson encapsulates so well
Read more
August 26, 2012 , What's hot in travel, Miami, Paris, Istanbul, Venice
Tired of predictable chain hotels and beige boutiques? Then doze in a drug baron’s den, bed down in a train station or spend the night in jail – but only if they’ve been transformed into a fabulous hotel. Check in, soak up the history and imagine your room in its previous life. If only walls could talk.
Read more
August 26, 2012 , On the road, Nice
With it's grand, pastel-hued shuttered buildings hugging the ultramarine coastline, they don't call France's most famous seaside city "Nice la Belle" (Nice the Beautiful) for nothing. But with two other countries right on its doorstep, GuidePal city guide editor Sarah Reid couldn't resist hitting the road for a day to explore this idyllic slice of the Mediterranean.
Read more
August 23, 2012 , 48 hours in..., Barcelona
As the temperature starts to cool down, Barcelona’s frenetic streets liven up, making September the perfect time to take in the diversity of Spain’s coolest city. With a thriving art scene, Gothic to Modernist architecture, a cosmopolitan café culture, gastronomic delights galore and a buzzing nightlife, there’ll be no time for a siesta
Read more
August 22, 2012 , Travel pictures, Rio de Janeiro
Ah, Rio, the iconic city, fabled for it's bronzed Cariocas, Carnival, Caipirinhas and Copacabana. It's all of that, and so much more. We've been exploring this tropical city's many colourful layers while creating our new guide. "It's an incredible, truly unique city - cidade maravilhosa!", says our photographer Martin Lazarev. "This is a place of many contrasts, where anything can happen...
Read more
August 17, 2012 , Round-up travel features, Reykjavik, Paris, Austin, Seattle
So you've seen endless Facebook photos of friends frolicking in sunny fields or dancing amidst bouncing crowds, and now you feel left out. Well, it's not too late to get involved with some of the world's most dynamic festivals still to come, many perfect for pairing with a mini-break. Here we outline the best of the rest of the fests
Read more
August 01, 2012 , Travel like a local, Cape Town, Dubai, Sydney, Barcelona, Nice, Havana, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Miami
Torn between a beach or city break? Some of the world’s greatest metropolises have been graced with pristine strips of sand, where you can effortlessly combine historical riches, architectural wonders, cutting-edge cuisine and buzzing nightlife with a spot of seaside relaxation. So slap on the shades and sun block, here’s our pick of the best beach cities
Read more
July 31, 2012 , What's hot in travel, Nice
Our monthly round-up of the latest in travel, from the coolest cultural festivals to international dining trends, new hotels and exotic destinations. This August, we’ve uncovered the most fabulous new luxury lodge in Sub-Saharan Africa, a pocket of Niçoise restaurants worth their sea salt as well as where to catch the world’s largest food fight
Read more
July 27, 2012 , Travel like a local, London
The whole world has descended on London in eager-eyed anticipation of the championships to come. But in a city as vast and mighty as this, with every restaurant, bar and venue hosting Olympiad events, it’s easy to to suffer from Olympic overload. Follow GuidePal’s mini guide of how to get the best out of London this summer.
Read more
July 26, 2012
Parisian coffee has long been derided as sub-standard, more utilitarian than gourmet. But now coffee lovers can celebrate as the capital is starting to get serious about its caffeine: there are cool, quirky cafés from a new wave of international brew masters popping up all over the city. Here’s our pick of the very best.
Read more
July 19, 2012
The Thai capital is a haven for travellers, full of cheap eats, dazzling sights and some of the world’s friendliest people. But the city has its share of quirks, too. We’ve rounded up essential Bangkok info – from unusual customs to common scams – so you can feel at home as soon as you arrive.
Read more
July 12, 2012
Summer signals hiking season in Vancouver. Boasting lush, emerald forests, panoramic alpine views and spectacular wildlife, British Columbia is a true hiker’s paradise. Hundreds of trails accessible from the city cater to all fitness levels; check conditions online before setting out, never hike alone, and remember to keep a respectable distance from resident black bears
Read more
July 05, 2012 , On the road, London
I’m in a candlelit kitchen sipping gin from a teacup trying to hold a conversation while wearing nothing but a silk night slip and suspenders. This could be one of those dreams in which I’ve suddenly found myself in a room full of people with no clothes on, except this is significantly more glamorous
Read more
July 03, 2012 , What's hot in travel, Sydney, Bangkok, New York
Our monthly round-up of the latest in travel, from the hottest new clubs and mouthwatering gastro haunts to up-and-coming destinations. This July, we’ve uncovered the coolest place to quaff a G&T outside the UK, a luxurious retreat amidst the bustle of Bangkok and the best Mediterranean party destination to bust a move at this summer.
Read more
July 02, 2012 , Round-up travel features, Ho Chi Minh City, Mumbai, Reykjavik
The global economy may be on the brink once again, but it’s not all doom and gloom: there are some great opportunities for jet-setters amidst the turmoil. We’ve shortlisted ten emerging destinations whose local currencies have nose-dived in recent months, so you can stretch your holiday cash further while experiencing the must-see cities of tomorrow
Read more
June 20, 2012 , On the road, Spotlight on ...
This week the world’s gaze is on Rio de Janeiro as it hosts the UN +20 climate change summit. We all know about the city’s dazzling beaches, hot bodies and designer bars – but, says our local expert Lucy Bryson, for the authentic heart of Rio and its most bewitching nightlife, visitors should look elsewhere
Read more
June 20, 2012 , 48 hours in..., Berlin
Many people associate Berlin with dark underground clubs and severe architecture; but there is a far more carefree side to the city. With the winter chill over, Berlin comes to life in the summer, as Berliners take to the pavement cafes, leafy parks and riverside bars, reveling in giddy celebration of the heady summer nights.
Read more
June 17, 2012 , Beijing, Top 5
Being the capital of a country with such a complex culinary tradition, and a magnet for people from across the globe, it’s not hard to imagine that Beijing has burgeoning restaurant scene. From home-style hot-pot joints to raucous Muslim restaurants and savory pancake stalls, here’s our pick of the best food experiences in ‘The Jing’.
Read more
June 15, 2012 , On the road, Review, London
‘Is my tail wonky?’ I find myself staring at the behind of a man dressed as a tiger wearing the tail of a fox. I consider this for a moment. ‘Wonky? Well, a little.’ I make a slight adjustment and send the tiger fox on his way
Read more
May 29, 2012 , Round-up travel features, London
With the Jubilee and Olympics fast approaching, the eyes of the world are on London this summer – but the things that make the city really special are often hidden from view. Here, our local experts give their pick of London’s lesser-known gems, from a hip roof-top bar in Peckham to a long-lost Roman amphitheatre.
Read more
May 29, 2012 , 48 hours in..., Stockholm
Although often seen as a winter destination, there’s more to Stockholm than skiing, smoked fish and saunas. In fact, this collection of islands is best explored in the warmer months, when the seemingly endless days fuel the locals in their passion for fine food, nature and revelry. Here, our local experts detail the perfect weekend in the ‘Venice of the North’
Read more
May 29, 2012 , What's hot in travel, Barcelona, Los Angeles, Paris, Chicago
Our monthly column rounds up all the info you need to be a savvy traveller, from the most happening new clubs, on-trend hotels and buzzing restaurants to overlooked destinations and travel news. This June we’ve uncovered the latest underground drinking den, as well as the quirky trend that will see you bunking up summer camp-style.
Read more
May 29, 2012 , Top 5, Chicago
With fertile farmland on its doorstep, a robust immigrant population, and deep-frozen winters that demand extra calories, you’d expect Chicago’s foodie scene to be impressive. But what’s surprising is the sheer range: from world-renowned restaurants to one-of-a-kind fast food, the eats here suit all tastes – and budgets. Our local experts have pick...
Read more
May 21, 2012
I am stood outside a grand medieval door on a winding cobbled lane in Trastevere. It is early morning, and the streets are empty except one old lady who has emerged from her house to yawn and smoke a cigarette. A postman comes past and they stop to chat. In these early hours, before the town wakes up and the tourists arrive, it is possible to believe you’re still in a Rome of yesteryear. I’m looking for Guesthouse Arco de’ Tolomei, but there is no sign on the door or any indication that this might be a bed-and-breakfast. I’m at the right number though, so I ring the bell and the door clicks open
Read more
February 29, 2012 , On the road, Havana
I arrive to the soundtrack of Charlie Parker’s jazz whispering out the taxi stereo punctuated by the syncopated shake, rattle and roll of a beat up old Chevrolet hurtling along beside us. It’s an apt beginning to my time in a city that is in many ways a living, breathing, sweating and heaving flashback to the 50s
Read more
February 10, 2012
I was walking down a dark back street in the depths of London’s
Hackney feeling hungry and a little lost, something not usually recommended especially in high heels. It was not looking promising for dinner, that is until I saw a glint of glitter from the tassels of a girl’s skirt up ahead, as she sashayed up the street arm-in-arm with a gentleman in a top hat and tails, wielding a cane purposefully. This was not the place for such attire
Read more