☀️ 🌋 Lanzarote: A Journey Across Fire and Stone - March 2025
In March 2025, we finally ticked Lanzarote off our travel list — and wow, it absolutely blew us away. Unlike Tenerife’s lush green hills, Lanzarote offers a raw, otherworldly beauty. Think 🌑 jet-black volcanic landscapes, 🏜️ lunar-like terrain, 🏘️ whitewashed villages, and skies so blue they hardly seem real. It felt like walking on another planet.
We stayed at the fantastic Aqua Suites in Puerto del Carmen, and can’t recommend it enough:
• 🛏️ Spacious, stylish, super comfy rooms
• 🍽️ Delicious food and a relaxed, friendly vibe
• 🧘♀️ The perfect balance of peace and convenience — just a short walk to town, but calm and quiet at night
One of the highlights of our trip was an all-day Grand Tour of Lanzarote by coach 🚌 — a full island adventure that left no stone unturned. We explored both the lush green north and the volcanic south, visiting some of Lanzarote’s most iconic sights.
We kicked things off at El Golfo, a dramatic green lagoon wrapped in colourful basalt cliffs 🌈. With its surreal scenery, it’s easy to see why it’s been featured in Hollywood films 🎬.
Next, we ventured underground to the stunning Jameos del Agua — a volcanic cavern turned bar and concert space 🎶, designed by legendary local architect César Manrique. Inside, a shimmering salt lake adds to the otherworldly vibe.
From there, we rolled into La Geria, Lanzarote’s unique wine region 🍇. Here, vines grow in volcanic soil, protected by semi-circular stone walls. We toured a local winery, learned about the island’s one-of-a-kind grape-growing methods, and sampled some truly memorable local wines 🍷. It’s a centuries-old tradition that still supports the local community today.
Then came the star of the show: Timanfaya National Park 🌋. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993, this place is a volcanic wonderland. We followed the famous Lunar Route, driving past endless lava fields, craters, and steaming geysers 💨. We even held hot lava rocks and watched brushwood spontaneously burst into flames — the earth’s power on full display 🔥. Truly unforgettable.
We also took a sunset dolphin cruise 🐬🌅. While we didn’t spot any dolphins this time, it was still a magical evening — calm seas, golden light, and a relaxing vibe as the sun dipped below the horizon. A perfect way to unwind and reflect on the adventure.
Lanzarote is wild, beautiful, and totally unique. If you’re looking for a destination that blends natural drama, volcanic history, and cultural charm — this island should be at the top of your list. ✨
⚓ Sailing the Norwegian Fjords with P&O Iona: A Cruise to Remember – September 2024
If you’re dreaming of dramatic scenery, crisp sea air, and the kind of travel experience that combines comfort with adventure, a Norwegian Fjords cruise aboard P&O’s Iona might just be your perfect escape. Having recently sailed on this incredible journey, we can confidently say it’s one of the most awe-inspiring trips we’ve ever taken.
Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller looking for something different, the Norwegian Fjords deliver a sense of peace and power that’s hard to put into words — but we’ll try.
🛳️ About the Ship: P&O Iona
Let’s start with the ship itself. Iona is one of the largest and most modern ships in P&O’s fleet, purpose-built for contemporary cruising. It’s designed to be light, spacious, and connected to the ocean — perfect for scenic sailings like this one.
Highlights onboard:
- The SkyDome: a glass-roofed space with entertainment, pools, and loungers — ideal even in unpredictable Nordic weather.
- A wide range of dining options, from classic British fare to Indian, Mediterranean, and modern fusion menus.
- Stylish cabins, many with infinite balconies, so you never miss a view.
- The Crow’s Nest bar — the best spot for panoramic views while sipping a cocktail.
Iona feels like a floating boutique hotel — polished, serene, and well-organized without being too formal. Although, all the glitz and glamour comes out on celebration night ! 💃🤵
🗺️ Itinerary Highlights: Norwegian Fjords
Our cruise took us on a round trip from Southampton, with stops at some of Norway’s most spectacular fjord towns. Here’s a quick look at a few standout destinations:
🚢 Stavanger
A charming port city with a rich maritime history and cobbled old town. We took a scenic Fjord cruise to Lysefjord and Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), one of Norway’s most iconic hikes if you're feeling adventurous and a location featured in one of the Mission Impossible movies.
🚢 Olden
Nestled at the end of the Nordfjord, Olden is quiet and simply breath-taking. We highly recommend setting your alarm early and watch the peaceful sail into Olden, you won't be disappointed! We went on the Loen Skylift in the morning and took an excursion to the Briksdal Glacier in the afternoon, walking through waterfalls and alpine landscapes. This was easily a trip highlight!
🚢 Haugesund
Instead of heading ashore in Haugesund, we chose to enjoy the peace and quiet of the ship while most passengers explored the town. It turned into a perfect spa day—complete with relaxing treatments, a leisurely lunch, and refreshing cocktails. We even caught a movie in the ship’s cinema before welcoming our crewmates back on board!
🚢 Kristiansand
Kristiansand surprised us with its relaxed vibe, scenic beauty, and picture-perfect streets. Nestled on Norway’s southern coast, this charming town offered a lovely mix of seaside calm and Nordic cool.
One of the highlights of our visit? 🚲 Exploring the town on Segways! Gliding through the cobbled streets, past colourful wooden houses and along the harbourfront was such a fun and unique way to see the sights. We zipped through the main square, rolled by the cathedral, and even caught glimpses of the marina — all with that fresh sea breeze in the air.
Kristiansand felt like a perfect little coastal gem — clean, peaceful, and full of character. A memorable stop, and the Segway ride made it even more fun!
🧳 Onboard Experience
Life on board Iona is designed to be easy and enjoyable. From daily entertainment (musicals, comedians, live music) to relaxing in the spa or taking in the views from a hot tub, there’s something for everyone.
What we appreciated most was the balance — plenty to do if you're feeling active, but also endless opportunities to just switch off and absorb the scenery.
🥂 Dining at Sea
With over 30 places to eat and drink, Iona offers incredible culinary variety:
- The Keel & Cow: excellent steaks and gastropub-style dining.
- Epicurean: fine dining at its best
- Sindhu: elevated Indian cuisine in a cozy setting.
- The Olive Grove: perfect for Mediterranean lovers.
- Buffets: ideal for casual dining or when you just want to grab something between ports.
📸 Cruising Tips for the Norwegian Fjords
- Bring layers — weather changes quickly, even in summer.
- Book excursions early, especially glacier hikes or railway tours.
- Wake up early for scenic cruising — trust me, you’ll want a coffee and camera in hand for the fjord sail-ins to Olden !
- Choose a balcony cabin if possible — the views are worth every penny.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting — seals, dolphins, and even eagles are possible!
💭 Final Thoughts: A Soul-Stirring Voyage
- The P&O Iona Norwegian Fjords cruise is more than just a holiday — it’s a reminder of the natural beauty still untouched by time. The contrast between the modern comforts of the ship and the raw, ancient landscapes of the fjords creates a truly memorable travel experience.
- Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply in need of fresh air and quiet awe, this cruise should be on your list.
🌏✨ 3 Weeks, 4 Stops: Our Unforgettable Asian Adventure - October 2023
In 2023, we set off on an incredible 3-week journey across Asia — an unforgettable mix of buzzing cities, serene beaches, mouthwatering food, and rich cultural experiences. From skyline views to sandy toes, this trip had it all.
Our itinerary took us to Singapore, Jakarta, Lombok, and Bangkok, each destination offering something totally unique and memorable.
We kicked things off flying ✈️ with the always-excellent Singapore Airlines, and ended the trip in comfort with Thai Airways. For our internal hops between destinations, AirAsia kept things easy, affordable, and efficient.
🛫 Stop 1: Singapore – Skyscrapers, Surprises & Sling Cocktails
We began in Singapore — a sleek, efficient, and surprisingly green city where futuristic architecture meets lush botanical wonders. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Atrium, which gave us easy access to the city and a comfy base to recharge after long days exploring.
Top Highlights in Singapore:
• 🌙 Night Safari – An unforgettable way to see wildlife up close at night — a magical, slightly eerie experience.
• 🦁 Merlion Park – A classic photo spot with amazing views over Marina Bay.
• 🌆 Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – Watching the sunset from the top was something special.
• 🦆 Duck Boat Tour – A fun land-and-water adventure we did on day one. Great for getting your bearings!
• 🌿 Gardens by the Bay – Cloud Forest – A misty, dreamlike wonderland of waterfalls and lush greenery inside a giant glass dome.
• 🌳 Supertree Grove – A spectacular nighttime extravaganza! The light and sound show was absolutely breathtaking and felt like stepping into a sci-fi movie.
• 🖼️ ArtScience Museum – Stunning from the outside, and even more fascinating on the inside.
• 🍹 Raffles Hotel – Home of the famous Singapore Sling, complete with the tradition of tossing peanut shells on the floor.
• 🏝️ Sentosa Island – We explored the island on foot and made it to the southernmost point of continental Asia!
• 🎢 Universal Studios Singapore – All the theme park thrills, Singapore-style.
• 💦 The Jewel at Changi Airport – Yes, an airport made the list! The Rain Vortex is a must-see.
Singapore was clean, modern, and full of unexpected fun — the perfect way to kick off our journey.
🍲 Stop 2: Jakarta – Family, Food & Local Living
Next, we flew to Jakarta — Indonesia’s bustling capital — for a meaningful visit with family. While we didn’t play tourist as much here, this stop was all about connection.
Sometimes the most memorable moments come from simply slowing down and soaking in everyday life. 🧡
🌴 Stop 3: Lombok – Island Bliss at Katamaran Resort
After the buzz of city life, Lombok was pure tropical perfection. We checked into the gorgeous Katamaran Resort, located right on the beach — and it was everything we hoped for.
Our typical day in Lombok looked like this:
• 🌊 Lounging by the pool with a fresh coconut in hand
• 🏖️ Peaceful walks along quiet, golden beaches
• 💆♀️ Indulgent spa sessions with ocean views
• 🚤 A dreamy boat trip to the Gili Islands, where we snorkelled in crystal-clear waters and even spotted turtles 🐢
The sunsets? Absolutely breath-taking. 🌅 The service? Impeccable. We left feeling recharged, refreshed, and a little reluctant to leave.
🕌 Final Stop: Bangkok – Temples, Tuk Tuks & Rooftop Views
We wrapped things up in Bangkok, Thailand’s buzzing, never-sleeps capital. We stayed at Mode Sathorn Hotel, a modern hotel with amazing city views and a super central location.
Bangkok Highlights:
• 👑 The Grand Palace – A jaw-dropping complex of glittering gold and intricate temples
• 🛕 Wat Pho – Home to the famous Reclining Buddha and vibrant murals that tell rich cultural stories
• 🚤 Floating Market Cruise – A lively maze of boats, snacks, and colour — chaotic, delicious fun
• 🚆 Train through the Market – A market literally parting for a train to pass through — an only-in-Thailand moment!
• 🍸 Lebua Sky Bar – Yes, the one from The Hangover II! Cocktails with panoramic views from the 63rd floor were a perfect end to our trip
Bangkok was the ultimate finale — culture, chaos, cuisine, and a buzzing nightlife that kept the energy high right through to the last day.
💬 Final Thoughts
This 3-week Asia adventure delivered everything we could’ve hoped for — from high-energy cities and cultural deep-dives to relaxing beach escapes and meaningful family time.
Every stop added something special to the journey:
✨ Singapore’s futuristic charm
🧡 Jakarta’s heartfelt moments
🌴 Lombok’s peaceful paradise
🌆 Bangkok’s dynamic pulse
If you’re planning a multi-country trip in Asia, this itinerary hits a sweet spot between exploration and relaxation. It’s a trip we’ll never forget — and one we’d happily repeat in a heartbeat.
🧳 Quick Travel Tips
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February–April or September–November for great weather and fewer crowds
• 💵 Currency Tips: Keep small local bills handy — especially for markets and street food
• 📱 Stay Connected: A local SIM or eSIM will save you a lot of hassle across borders
• 🛂 Check Visas: Visa rules vary — check ahead to avoid airport surprises
• 🧥 Smart Packing: It can be humid in the cities and breezy on the islands — pack a mix of lightweight and breathable layers
🌴☀️ Caribbean Escapes: Sun, Sand & a Whole Lot of Soul - 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018
From salsa rhythms in Cuba to luxurious beach days in Mexico and laid-back bliss in the Dominican Republic, the Caribbean continues to be one of my all-time favourite regions to escape, unwind, and soak in the good life. Each destination has its own charm — whether it’s the cultural heartbeat of Havana or the barefoot elegance of a beachfront resort.
Here’s a round-up of some of my most memorable island stays — full of turquoise water, tropical cocktails, warm hospitality, and those unforgettable sunsets.
☀️ Cuba – Sun, Salsa & Serenity at Sol Río de Luna y Mares
Cuba was like stepping into a beautiful, time-warped dream. We stayed at the Sol Río de Luna y Mares Resort in Guardalavaca — a stunning beachside all-inclusive that captured both the tranquil side of Cuba and its vibrant spirit.
Why it stood out:
• 🏖️ Soft white sand and crystal-clear, calm waters — perfect for swimming and snorkelling. By far the best beach I have ever seen !
• 🍹 All-inclusive bars with local rum, tropical cocktails, and strong Cuban coffee
• 🏨 Two resort zones — Luna (quiet and peaceful) and Mares (social and lively)
• 🍽️ A mix of Cuban and international cuisine at buffet and à la carte restaurants
The Vibe:
Cuba’s soul was everywhere — in the music, the vintage cars, the friendly faces.
• 🎺 Live music and salsa dancing under the stars
• 🚗 Classic American cars cruising the roads like time stood still
• 🏛️ Excursions to nearby towns with colonial architecture and rich stories
There’s a nostalgia in Cuba that lingers long after you leave. It’s a place where you truly feel the rhythm of life.
🩴 Dominican Republic – Tropical Elegance at Dreams La Romana (now Hilton La Romana)
Our stay in the Dominican Republic was all about laid-back luxury, and Dreams La Romana (now Hilton La Romana) delivered exactly that. Nestled on a pristine stretch of beach in Bayahibe, this resort gave us Caribbean perfection with a touch of all-inclusive indulgence.
Why we loved it:
• 🌴 Lush grounds and a peaceful beachfront that felt wonderfully private
• 🍹 Swim-up bars, beachside service, and endless tropical drinks
• 🛏️ Spacious, elegant rooms with beautiful views and all the comforts of home
• 🌅 Stunning sunsets every evening — a show we never got tired of watching
Whether lounging poolside or walking hand-in-hand along the beach, it was the kind of escape that resets your soul. Pure Caribbean bliss.
🌊 Mexico – Riviera Maya Luxury & Adventure
We've been lucky enough to visit Mexico twice, and it never disappoints. The Riviera Maya is the perfect blend of luxury, beach life, and rich cultural history. I stayed at two fantastic resorts that each offered something a little different:
🏖️ Bahia Principe Akumal – Elegant & Serene
• 🌊 Direct beachfront access with clear, swimmable water
• 🏝️ Access to multiple pools, restaurants, and areas within the resort complex
• 💆♀️ A peaceful, upscale atmosphere — ideal for couples and relaxation
• 🍽️ Great food, beautiful grounds, and top-notch service
🌴 Grand Palladium – Fun, Family-Friendly & Lively
• 🏖️ Large resort with several beaches and pools to choose from
• 🍹 Swim-up bars and daily activities to keep things exciting
• 🎭 Evening entertainment and live shows every night
• 🧒 Excellent for families and groups, with something for everyone
A Quick Word on Weather ☔
If you’re travelling between June and November, pack for possible rain. Short, heavy showers are common during the wet season, but they rarely last long.
Pro tips:
• Bring a lightweight poncho or waterproof jacket
• Pack mosquito spray
• Book tours early in your trip in case of schedule changes
💬 Final Thoughts
The Caribbean is more than just beautiful beaches — it’s a region full of culture, colour, rhythm, and heart. Each destination brought its own flavour:
✨ Cuba offered vintage charm and unforgettable music
🌅 Dominican Republic gave us pure, peaceful luxury
🌊 Mexico mixed indulgence with adventure, and a touch of the unexpected
Wherever you go in the Caribbean, you’ll find warm welcomes, world-class beaches, and that magical feeling of island time.
So pack your swimwear, grab a mojito, and get ready to fall in love with the Caribbean — one unforgettable destination at a time. 🧳🌴🍹
Greek Getaways: Our Favourite Moments in Corfu, Zante & Crete 🌊🍋🏛️- May 2017, September 2021
There’s something truly timeless and soul-soothing about a Greek island escape — the scent of olive groves 🌿, the sparkle of the sea 🌊, and that warm island charm that makes you feel instantly at ease.
We’ve been lucky enough to explore three unforgettable destinations: Roda Beach in Corfu, Tsilivi in Zante, and Heraklion in Crete. Each one brought something totally unique — and a little piece of our hearts still lives there. ✨🇬🇷
🏖️ Roda Beach, Corfu – Traditional Charm & Relaxed Vibes
On Corfu’s north coast, Roda Beach was everything we wanted from a traditional Greek village by the sea. It had a relaxed, authentic vibe — perfect for slowing down and soaking up island life.
Why we loved it:
• 🌅 Sunsets over the Ionian Sea — the kind that make you pause and breathe it all in
• 🍴 Fresh seafood, souvlaki, and creamy tzatziki from family-run tavernas
• 🛵 Exploring nearby villages and the lush green countryside on scooters
Roda was peaceful, welcoming, and full of heart — a little slice of old-school Greece that we instantly fell in love with. 🌞🍃
🌊 Tsilivi, Zante – Post-Lockdown Calm & Seaside Fun
Our trip to Tsilivi came just after the COVID lockdowns, and the slower pace made it even more special. The town had a relaxed, peaceful vibe — perfect for days by the pool 🏖️ or laid-back afternoons at the beach 🌊.
We stayed at the beautiful Palazetto Suites — an adults-only boutique hotel right by the sea. Stylish and serene, it gave us access to all the facilities of the Tsilivi Beach Hotel just across the road, which meant we had the best of both worlds. 🏨🌴
Why Tsilivi stood out:
• 🧘♀️ Chilled-out atmosphere and fewer crowds — ideal for a stress-free break
• 🐢 Day trips to spot Loggerhead turtles and visit Shipwreck Beach
• 🚂 A charming land train that took us to Zante Town, Laganas, Kalamaki, and Argassi — such a fun and easy way to explore
• 🌅 Evenings with beachside cocktails and Greek dancing under the stars
Tsilivi was friendly, sun-drenched, and had just the right mix of peace and fun — a perfect post-pandemic escape. 🍹☀️🧿
🏛️ Heraklion, Crete – Culture, Ruins & Coastal Charm
Crete’s capital, Heraklion, gave us a taste of both island history and modern Greek life. We stayed at the stylish Atlantica Akti Zeus Hotel — a beachfront resort with a dreamy pool, direct sea views, and all the comforts of a luxury getaway. 🏨🌊
Unmissable highlights:
• 🧀 Tasting Cretan delicacies — dakos, olives, grilled meats, and that delicious local cheese
• 🚌 Catching the local bus to visit Heraklion Harbour and walk the ramparts of the Koules Fortress 🏰
• 🚗 Taking easy day trips to mountain villages and nearby beaches
Heraklion was a wonderful contrast — ancient ruins one moment, beach cocktails the next. Crete gave us both the cultural depth and the coastal beauty we were craving. 📜💙🍷
✨ Final Thoughts: A Love Letter to the Greek Isles 💙🍇🏺
From the peaceful simplicity of Roda, to the post-lockdown serenity and style of Tsilivi, to the historical charm and beachfront luxury of Heraklion, every destination brought unforgettable moments.
Whether it was wandering through ruins 🏺, or watching the sky turn orange over the Aegean 🌅, Greece worked its magic on us — again and again.
And once you've shared a meze platter by the sea or raised a glass of ouzo with the sound of bouzouki playing in the background… you're hooked. 🥂🍽️
We’ll definitely be back — to explore new islands or return to the ones that already feel like home. 🧳✈️💙
🗽 New York: Big Dreams & Bright Lights on a Budget - November 2003
Back in 2003, we took our very first trip to New York City — a whirlwind 3-day adventure that left a lifelong impression. We were young, travelling light on funds but heavy on excitement, ready to soak up every bit of the city’s magic. ✨🧳🍎
We stayed right in the heart of it all at the Edison Hotel, just steps from the neon dazzle of Times Square. It was November, just before Thanksgiving, and New York had that crisp, electric energy that makes you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a movie. 🎥🍂
🏙️ Big City Moments on a Small Budget
Money was tight, but New York doesn’t care — it still shows up in all its glory. We walked everywhere, fuelled by hot dogs 🌭, dollar pizza 🍕, and pure wonder, totally in awe of the towering skyscrapers and the city’s nonstop buzz.
Highlights from our adventure included:
• 🏢 Empire State Building — standing at the top, wind in our hair, the city stretched out in every direction
• 🧸 FAO Schwarz — the iconic toy store (yes, the one from Big) where we let our inner kids loose
• 💎 Tiffany & Co. — just window shopping, of course, but still magical to stand where Audrey Hepburn once did
• ⛸️ Ice skating at Rockefeller Centre — one of the most unforgettable moments of the trip: fairy lights twinkling, holiday music playing, and us laughing as we slipped our way across the rink like extras in a Christmas movie
We may not have had a fancy itinerary or sleek shopping bags, but we had New York — raw, real, and unforgettable. 💙🏙️
🎄 November in NYC: The Start of the Magic
There’s something truly special about visiting NYC in late November. The city is just beginning to transform for the holidays, and there’s a buzz in the air that makes everything feel a little more magical.
• 🎁 Festive window displays starting to light up along Fifth Avenue
• 🥨 Hot pretzels and coffee never tasted better in the crisp autumn chill
• 🎄 The Rockefeller Tree was just about to go up — signalling that the holidays were right around the corner
It was the perfect time to be there — before the crowds, but with all the festive sparkle beginning to shine. ✨❄️🎶
💬 Final Thoughts
That trip to New York wasn’t about luxury — it was about moments. We didn’t need five-star dining or rooftop bars. All we needed was each other and a whole lot of wonder.
Would we go back? In a heartbeat. ❤️ But there’s something extra special about that first trip — wide eyes, frozen fingers, and hearts completely full. 🧤🧣🗽
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