Long known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, Penang has been an important port and vibrant settlement for centuries. Nowadays this extraordinary island state is a place of fascinating contrasts, where the skyscrapers of George Town rub shoulders with British colonial architecture, traditional Chinese clan halls, and wooden stilt house […]
There is a great deal of attraction in riding an elephant. After all, what could be better than riding on top of the largest mammal on Earth as it slowly meanders through the rice fields and jungle… so appealing in fact that when I travelled through Thailand in 2003 I […]
The beating cultural heart of Bali, Ubud embodies a blend of nature and history, overlaid with a refined sense of beauty and wellbeing. Perched in the hills above Bali’s beach resort areas, this is a serene oasis like no other and the centre of Bali’s art scene. Despite the inroads […]
Bangkok offers a hyperactive blend of traditional and modern, bursting with urban energy and authentic charm. It’s perhaps the ultimate city break holiday with its combination of culture, shopping and nightlife. From the gleaming golden chedi of Wat Saket to the smiling face of a street hawker slicing you a […]
The upmarket resort area of Seminyak is one of the most delightful in Bali, with its many luxury hotels, high end shopping and dining scene, and vibrant nightlife. The broad beach, with waving palm trees and relaxed activities like cycling and horseback riding, perfectly complements the boutique shops and fashionable […]
Australia is rich in iconic road trips and ticking off a few of these should be high on your list of things to do in Australia. Some of these can be done in a few days, some are week-long epics. Some need a 4X4 vehicle, while others are perfectly doable […]
The ‘Island of the Gods’ is known for the beauty of its ancient temples, breathtaking views over rice terraces, white sand beaches, and warm tradition of hospitality. There is something for everyone on Bali beach holidays, from romantic sunsets and lively beachside bars, to family fun and yoga retreats. Part […]
Soaring towers of limestone karst islands break dramatically from the smooth emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. From the deck of your traditional Ha Long Bay cruise boat, the light in the evening sky reflects the dusky red of the sails. The gentle slap of the sea against the […]
Singapore holidays have all the elements of a perfect Asian city break – mouth-watering cuisine, a mix of charming colonial and inspiring modern architecture, exciting shopping opportunities and world class hotels. But for many visitors it is the melting pot of cultures that is the most appealing side of this […]