Author: simon611

There’s one U.S. state that’s becoming a hot spot for travelers this summer, and it’s probably not what you’d expect. Wisconsin is currently setting new tourism records, making this summer the perfect time to visit.
Before I went to Wisconsin, I only knew it for its cheese and cold winters. But there’s so much more to this state. It’s actually one of the most underrated gems in the U.S.!
Wisconsin offers a surprising amount of activities. I’ve only been to Green Bay, but after researching, I’m excited to explore more. Here’s why Wisconsin should be on your summer bucket list.
First, let’s talk about Madison, the capital city. It might not be the first place you think of for a vacation, but it’s surprisingly cool. Men’s Journal even named it one of the best unexpected U.S. cities for a summer getaway.
Madison really shines in the summer. It’s surrounded by five lakes, offering scenic waterfront views. Top activities include visiting the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and kayaking or paddleboarding on the lakes. If you’re there on a weekend, don’t miss the Dane County Farmers’ Market, the largest producers-only market in the U.S., where you can buy delicious local food, including Wisconsin’s famous cheeses.
Next, Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, is a must-visit. Just an hour and 15 minutes east of Madison on Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is one of the most-booked summer destinations on Airbnb. The city is perfect for summer activities, like catching a Milwaukee Brewers baseball game and brewery-hopping along the lakefront. Known for its beer, Milwaukee is also famous for its frozen custard, earning it the title of the frozen custard capital of the world.
Lastly, Door County, often called the Cape Cod of the Midwest, is a top summer destination in Wisconsin. This picturesque peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan offers some of the clearest, prettiest waters in the U.S. Door County is also known for its cherries, so don’t miss out on a slice of cherry pie from Bea’s Ho-Made Products or Schartner’s Farm Market.
Wisconsin is full of surprises and definitely worth a visit this summer!

Tokyo is a massive city, epitomizing urban sprawl, so discussing the best places to eat could take some time! In this article, Agness from eTramping shares her favorite restaurants in Tokyo, as well as a few others that came highly recommended but she didn’t get to try.

Finding the best restaurants in Tokyo can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially with around 160,000 top-notch options and the highest number of Michelin stars in one city. The language barrier can also be a challenge. For instance, locating a restaurant called Narutomi Soba, which has a sign only in Japanese, can be tricky.

Despite these challenges, navigating Tokyo’s food scene isn’t too hard. The delicious aromas and long queues will guide you in the right direction. After reviewing our tips on finding quality, quantity, or affordability, you’ll be all set.

Sushi is a must-try in Tokyo. The Tsukiji fish market, the most famous in the world, is open to the public from 9 am to 2 pm, with the well-known tuna auction happening from 5 am to 6 pm. For the best sushi, head to Sushi Dai, though be prepared for a long wait. Other notable sushi spots around the market include Daiwa Sushi and Sushi Zanmai, all located in the outer part of the market. Waiting times can exceed two hours, but if you have the time, it’s worth it. However, there are other excellent sushi restaurants in Tokyo without the long lines.

For example, Sushi no Midori, with branches in Shibuya, Ginza, and Akasaka, offers good quality sushi at affordable prices. Reservations are recommended to avoid waiting in line, particularly on weekends and peak hours. Another great option is Nihonbashi Mantenzushi, where you can enjoy an omakase course with two dozen pieces of sushi. It’s advisable to make reservations, especially at the Nihonbashi outlet.

Tokyo is also famous for its ramen. Ramen Street at Tokyo Station features eight renowned ramen shops, each offering different styles. The most famous is Rokurinsha Tokyo, known for its long queues. Alternatively, you can try Oneshiki Jun for creamy tonkotsu ramen. Other notable ramen chains include Ichiran, offering Hakata-style ramen in individual booths, and Nakamoto, known for its spicy ramen with a spiciness scale from 0 to 10.

For a unique experience, try sumo food around the sumo wrestling area. Chanko Tomoegata offers delicious chanko, a meat and vegetable stew. We recommend the Sumoheyafu Higawari Chanko, which includes chanko, rice, sashimi, salads, and a deep-fried croquette.

Another hidden gem is a restaurant on the 32nd floor of a building, initially established for employees. Here, you can choose from a variety of Japanese dishes, including grilled fish, noodles, katsu, and more, while enjoying a fantastic view of the city.

For an affordable Michelin star experience, visit Nakajima, about a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s south exit. Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially before lunch.

Do you know of other great places to eat in Tokyo? Share your recommendations in the comments below!

If you’re planning a holiday in Canada that involves camping or staying in an RV in one of Canada’s scenic national parks, you might want some tips on what clothing will work best for your trip. When dressing for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and canoeing, it’s important to choose clothes that are comfortable, functional, and stylish.

I recently spent two weeks with my husband Guy touring Ontario and Quebec in Canada, staying mainly at campgrounds and national parks with our cozy RV from Cruise Canada – our home on the road. For the trip, I teamed up with Columbia Sportswear, which specializes in outdoor clothing, to try out some items from their range. Based on my experience, here’s what you need to pack for a camping trip to Canada.

For hiking or evenings around the campfire, I recommend quick-drying walking trousers like Columbia’s women’s Silver Ridge Convertible Trousers. They feel like lightweight cotton but are made from 100% nylon technical fabric that wicks away sweat, protects against UV rays, and dries quickly when you get caught in a downpour.

For outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, avoid jeans or heavier cotton trousers that weigh you down and soak up moisture at the first sign of rain. Look for trousers with a neat leg pocket to tuck in your guidebook, map, or phone. I also like styles with zip-off legs to convert into shorts for maximum versatility. These walking trousers will be useful for future hiking trips.

For outdoor activities, I tried a t-shirt from the Columbia range made of 100% polyester fabric, designed to wick away sweat and keep me cool, like their women’s Zero Rules Short Sleeve shirt. This fabric was silky, comfortable, and not at all sweaty – ideal for hiking and other activities around the Canadian national parks. This t-shirt was easy to wash by hand or machine, quick to dry, and hardly creased at all. I also packed other short sleeve and sleeveless tops in fabrics that were less likely to crease.

While sleeveless vest tops are great for sunny weather to stay cool and get a tan, I like to alternate them with tops that cover my shoulders to avoid sunburn. I’m looking forward to using this t-shirt on future hiking trips and for jogging at home.

In the warm Canadian summer, shorts are worn by all, and Canadians seem to prefer shorter shorts. In bars and restaurants, the waitress uniform often includes very short shorts, and even older ladies seemed to favor them. You can save your longer Bermuda shorts for city sightseeing. My quick-dry walking trousers from Columbia, with a zip-off leg, allowed me to convert long trousers into shorts depending on the weather. The quick-dry fabric made them cool and easily washable, ideal for activities like cycling or hiking. If you love short shorts, don’t forget your sunscreen.

For this trip, I was looking for a hybrid trail shoe, a cross between a trainer and a boot. I wanted a supportive shoe for hiking in Canada’s national parks but wasn’t planning any hardcore hiking for hours and days on end. The women’s Grand Canyon Outdry Hiking Shoes from Columbia were perfect, with a low ankle so they weren’t too hot and a waterproof but breathable construction to keep my feet dry when walking in the wet. These trail shoes are ideal for summer hiking on rough and rocky trails. For serious long-distance hiking, I’ll probably stick to boots with ankle support, but these trail shoes are perfect for a range of outdoor activities.

Although the weather on our July trip to Canada was warm and sunny, we did experience a few showers, so my lightweight waterproof jacket came in handy. For summer wear in Canada, I’d recommend a lightweight jacket that can roll up small to keep in your day sack. If you’re visiting in spring, early summer, or autumn, you might prefer a jacket that’s more substantial or has a removable fleece lining, as mornings and evenings can be cool. I wore my waterproof jacket when canoeing in Algonquin Park as the day was overcast and rain was forecast. The jacket was also ideal for keeping off the midges and flies that hover over the water. Cloudy days can be a bonus in Canada, as our guide told us that wildlife such as moose are more likely to come down to the water’s edge to feed on overcast days.

Sporty three-quarter length trousers are useful for activities like cycling and climbing where you want a bit more protection. My sports leggings made from quick-dry fabric got a lot of use on our Canada trip, and I also wore them for canoeing where they would dry quickly if I got wet. The three-quarter length and close fit were also ideal for cycling if you don’t want sunburnt thighs or trousers that flap around the ankle.

If you are a happy camper, you’ll know to pack a pair of flip-flops or waterproof sandals that are easy to slip on and off. They are handy for early morning trips to the shower block and for hanging out by the lakes that are a feature of most Canadian campgrounds. Choose something made of plastic so you can easily rinse off the sand or pine needles. No harm in having a pedicure and pretty nail polish before your holiday – we like to keep up standards even when camping!

I was pleased that I’d packed a fleece for our Canada trip, as despite the warm sunny days, mornings were often quite cool. For the first hour or so each day, we often needed an extra layer, and then the temperature would warm up, and it would be short sleeves all day and into the evening. It was never really too cold on our July trip, so I’d suggest a mid-weight fleece if you are visiting in the summer, but perhaps something more substantial for spring and autumn.

Due to the limited laundry facilities on the Canadian campgrounds, I’d avoid smarter woolen knitwear in favor of anything that is quick-drying and doesn’t crease unless you have an element of your holiday that requires you to dress more smartly.

Flies and mosquitoes can be persistent in campgrounds or national parks. If you are trying activities like hiking, cycling, or canoeing, a liberal spray of DEET-based insect repellent is recommended. In the evening, it’s best to change into a long-sleeved top and long trousers with socks and shoes to cover your feet. I neglected my own advice on a few occasions and regretted it as I was scratching nasty bites for days afterward.

Most campgrounds we visited had washing machines and dryers, but none seemed to have ironing facilities. I’d recommend packing clothes made of quick-drying technical fabric that are less likely to crumple to look your best, leaving your linen suit at home.

A sunhat is advisable if you’re out on long hikes or canoe trips in the full sun. To fit in with the locals, choose a cotton cap – you can buy them everywhere in Canada.

We often associate the Caribbean with music, and for good reason. My own experience with Caribbean rhythms began even before I discovered legends like Peter Tosh and Bob Marley. In school, I was already creating my own Caribbean beats, especially Calypso and Reggae, even before I knew where the Caribbean was on the map. Though I’m better at reading maps now than music, the message was clear: the Caribbean is synonymous with music.

The Caribbean’s musical powerhouses are undoubtedly Cuba, Jamaica, and Trinidad/Tobago. Cuba introduced us to Mambo and Salsa, Jamaica brought us Ska and Reggae, and Trinidad/Tobago gave us Calypso and Soca. These islands have also influenced many other genres and sub-genres. For instance, in Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia, the music of Trinidad and Tobago has made its way north.

For tourists, the specific origins of a musical style might not matter much. It’s unwise to skip an island just because its local genres aren’t as prominent as those from other islands. Saint Lucia, for example, still feels the influence of Kwadril music and folk forms, especially through instruments like the banjo and cuatro. Saint Lucia holidays offer a fantastic opportunity to hear regional music, particularly at events like the St Lucia Jazz Festival.

The St Lucia Jazz Festival, which started as a marketing event to boost tourism during a slow period, has grown into a versatile festival. It features international megastars alongside quality jazz artists, with a touch of Calypso and Soca. This year, Lionel Richie is the big name, with his Soca-influenced hit “All Night Long.” Ziggy Marley and the Gipsy Kings also add to the diverse lineup.

The main stage is set in the beautiful Pigeon Island National Landmark in the north. If you can, check out the Jazz in the South program at the Coconut Bay Resort and Rudy John Beach Park for a more local experience. The Saint Lucia Jazz Festival is held annually from late April to early May, with the 2024 festival running from April 30th to May 13th.

Carnivals are a major tourist attraction on most Caribbean islands, and the Lucian Carnival is no exception. Held between May and July, the carnival is held together by the island’s popular music, especially Calypso. While the main parades are lively, they aren’t the best place to absorb the music. The wild atmosphere of J’Ouvert and the Parade of the Bands is more about sampling the scene.

The real musical highlight of the carnival is the Calypso Association’s competition, which starts in late June. Artists compete to be crowned the “Monarchs” of Calypso and Soca, judged on their lyrics, music, and performance. The finals are the best place to explore the contemporary music scene, showcasing fantastic showmanship. Power Soca, a fusion of Hip Hop and Soca, is more hectic and contemporary, while Groovy Soca has a more electronic/pop feel.

Thanks to the internet, you can watch past winners on YouTube, but nothing beats experiencing the music live. The Jazz Festival and Lucian Carnival are the main events for exploring Saint Lucian music, but the island has a vibrant music scene year-round. Gros Islet, a youthful town in the north, is home to many great venues.

For casual listening, the Fire Grill and Lounge focuses on Jazz and Blues all year round. The Jungle Cafe offers live music on Thursdays, and the Rodney Bay Marina Boardwalk Bar features live music on Fridays with great margaritas and sea views. For a livelier experience, visit Gros Islet on a Friday for “The Jump-up,” a street party with vendors and revelry. Nightclubs like Taboo, Pulse, and the Loft are also great for letting off steam.

In general, keep an eye out for promising events. There’s always something happening in Saint Lucia!

The Mediterranean might be the hottest spot this summer, both in terms of temperature and popularity. But let’s be honest, who wants to squeeze onto a crowded beach or risk heatstroke with the soaring temperatures? Sure, there are those romantic Vespa rides along the Amalfi coast and the charming towns of the French Riviera, but Europe has so much more to offer beyond its southern shores and tourist-heavy destinations. This year, we’re heading to the lakes instead. They’re calmer, less crowded, have milder temperatures, and the waters are just as clear. Plus, you might find it much more affordable than a Mediterranean getaway. Here are four top-notch European lake destinations you might be overlooking.
**Lake Iseo**
You’ve probably heard of Lake Garda and Lake Como, but Lake Iseo in Northern Italy is a hidden gem. It’s one of the smaller, lesser-known lakes, yet it boasts historic towns and beautiful villas. Despite its charm, it remains largely undiscovered by foreign tourists, though it’s a favorite among Italians in the summer. Following the locals’ lead, you’ll find Iseo to be a delightful escape with its crystal-clear waters, picturesque towns, and lush green mountains. The best part? It’s much cheaper than the more famous Italian lakes. You can find lakeside guesthouses starting at just $66, and enjoy delicious, fresh pizza and pasta for around $10. The main attractions include Iseo Town with its 11th-century castle, the fishing port of Sarnico, and the islet of Montisola, known for its quaint villages and beautifully frescoed churches.
**Lake Balaton**
Hungary might be landlocked, but it doesn’t need coastal access with Lake Balaton, one of Europe’s largest freshwater lakes. This vast body of water is a hub for grand yachts and sailing competitions. It’s the go-to summer spot for Hungarians, especially in July when temperatures can exceed 80 degrees. Beyond its leisure appeal, with bustling beach clubs and waterparks, Lake Balaton is also a wellness destination. It offers charming boutique hotels from $88 per night, complete with lakefront pools and modern spas, providing a serene alternative to the crowded and expensive Budapest baths. The area is dotted with quaint towns like Balatonfüred, known for its promenade, the upscale yachting center of Siófok, and the historic Tihany with its Benedictine Abbey dating back to 1055 AD.
**Lake Ohrid**
Nestled in the Balkans between North Macedonia and Albania, Lake Ohrid is one of Europe’s clearest lakes, with stunning teal waters reminiscent of the Mediterranean. Surprisingly, it’s still relatively undiscovered by tourists. Whether you’re swimming, taking boat tours to Byzantine ruins, or exploring the city of Ohrid with its 365 churches and impressive fortress, there’s plenty to do. Unlike the other lakes, Ohrid has narrow sandy and pebbly beaches leading to its turquoise waters, with some areas like Pestani and Gradiste offering hotels and bars. Visiting Ohrid is incredibly affordable, with villa stays starting at just $44 per night. Even with a modest budget of $50 per day, you can live and eat like royalty.
**Lake Lugano**
Lake Lugano, located near the Italian border in Switzerland, is a lesser-known but equally stunning glacial lake. It feels like an extension of Italy, with its pastel towns, Baroque villas, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The main city, also called Lugano, retains its medieval charm, while nearby towns like Gandria, Morcote, and Paradiso offer picturesque views and historic sites. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lugano is perfect, marking the start of the Swiss Alps with numerous hiking trails to scenic lookouts like Monte Brè, Monte San Salvatore, and the UNESCO-listed Monte San Giorgio. However, Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, so expect to pay at least $181 per night for hotels and around $281 per day for overall expenses. Despite the cost, the breathtaking lake views make it worth every penny.

Rome, often called the Eternal City, is a place where history is alive in every corner. It’s a city where your camera is always busy capturing the beauty and passion that fills the streets. However, despite its charm, Rome can be quite noisy.

When visiting Rome, it’s essential to see the famous sights, but don’t rush through them in a hectic manner. Instead, take some time to explore the quieter, hidden spots of the city. Rome is a spiritual heartland, so it’s worth spending a few peaceful hours in its less crowded areas. Your mind and feet will appreciate the break.

Here are five lesser-known places in Rome that are worth visiting:

1. **Janiculum Hill**: This hill offers a fantastic view of modern Rome and is home to the Syriac Sanctuary, a less-visited site. Historically, it was dedicated to the Goddess Furrina, associated with the Furies. When discovered a century ago, human skulls without teeth or lower jaws were found here. Today, it’s a serene spot with stunning views and the beautiful 17th-century Fontana dell’Acqua Paola fountain.

2. **Livenza Hypogeum**: Hidden behind an ordinary garage on Via Salaria, this underground place of worship is adorned with colorful mosaics and frescoes. Known as the Livenza Hypogeum, it was likely a site for the Baptai, a cult known for its water rituals and debauchery. Now, it offers peace, silence, and a sense of mystery.

3. **Museo Nazionale di Villa Giulia**: Located in a beautiful 16th-century villa built for Pope Julius II, this museum houses a stunning collection of Etruscan art and artifacts. Highlights include delicate jewelry, vases, votive statues, and grand marble statues of Roman gods like Apollo and Hercules. It’s a hidden gem located on the old city walls at Piazzale di Villa Giulia.

4. **Keats-Shelley House**: Situated at the foot of the Spanish Steps, this quiet and airy 18th-century house was once home to British poet John Keats, who died in 1821. The house has been restored to resemble its original state and contains letters and manuscripts from poets like Byron, Shelley, and Browning. It’s a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

5. **Villa Medici Gardens**: These gardens on Pincio Hill offer a tranquil escape with 17 acres of terraces, fountains, rare trees, and formal lawns. Henry James once called them the most delightful gardens in the world, and it’s hard to disagree on a sunny day. They are located at Viale Trinità dei Monti, 1.

Exploring these quieter corners of Rome can provide a refreshing break from the city’s more crowded tourist spots.

There’s something special about the food you enjoy while on holiday in the Mediterranean. Maybe it’s the joy of sharing meals with friends and family, or perhaps it’s the fresh, locally grown ingredients bursting with flavor. You can almost taste the sunshine in every bite.

Flipping through the vibrant photos brought back fond memories of meals I’ve had in Greece and Turkey. I even tried a few recipes for Sunday lunch at home, which you can find below. If your mouth is watering by the end, you can try these recipes yourself for a taste of the Mediterranean.

The Traveller’s Table recipe book was created by Chris and Carolyn Caldicott, a globetrotting couple who ran the World Food Café in Covent Garden. They now share their love of food through cookbooks, writing, and photography. Together with Simpson Travel, which offers luxurious handpicked villas, apartments, and hotels in Corsica, Greece, Mallorca, and Turkey, they have compiled a collection of simple, authentic, and delicious recipes soaked in Mediterranean sunshine. Here are some recipes to enjoy at home and get you in the mood for planning your next holiday.

This refreshing salad of shaved fennel, oranges, and capers is featured in the Corsica section of the book. Although I haven’t been to Corsica, the salad looked so appealing that I had to try it. The fennel and oranges are in season, and their vibrant colors make it feel like summer is already here. This salad is a great starter before lamb or as a side dish with cold meats and cheeses.

**Ingredients:**
– 2 medium fennel bulbs
– 3 clementines (peeled and sliced) or 2 large oranges
– 2 spring onions (thinly sliced)
– 2 tsp capers
– Mint leaves

**Dressing:**
– 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– Juice of half a small lemon
– A few sprigs of thyme (leaves stripped from stalks)
– Salt and freshly ground pepper

**To Make:**
– My tip: Shave the fennel as finely as possible using a mandolin (be careful not to cut your fingers).

This dish is inspired by a Greek classic and reminds me of the lamb kleftiko my sister serves in her restaurant in Greece. The recipe is said to have been created by bandits who would slowly cook lamb in a pit to avoid smoke from the fire. The herbs for the marinade and wild greens served with this dish are easily found on any Greek hillside. Nowadays, the dish is slowly cooked in a closed earthenware pot with a rich tomato sauce and a hint of cinnamon, reflecting Ottoman influence.

Most Greeks have a vegetable patch with tomatoes and greens, although I used fresh spinach leaves, which are more readily available in the UK. The slow-cooked lamb is something I’ve often seen my sister’s Greek mother-in-law prepare, and the Greek version uses plenty of olive oil, often from their own trees.

**Ingredients:**
– 6 thick lamb chops or cutlets (1 or 2 per person)

**For the Marinade:**
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– Juice and zest of 1 lemon
– 3 crushed garlic cloves
– 2 tbsp red wine
– 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
– 1 tsp dried or fresh thyme
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 3 torn bay leaves

**To Make:**
– My tip: Don’t overcook the lamb chops or they will dry out. Keep basting with the marinade to keep them juicy.

This dish pairs perfectly with lamb, using potatoes and courgettes that are staples in every Greek vegetable patch, along with local cheese preserved in olive oil. The crispy cheese topping is irresistible!

**Ingredients:**
– 4 medium waxy potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
– 4 medium courgettes (thinly sliced)
– 150 g ricotta cheese
– 150 g crumbled feta cheese (or mizithra or anthotyros cheese if in Greece)
– 350 ml whole milk
– Dried mint, salt, fresh ground black pepper
– 125 g graviera or gruyere cheese (grated)

**To Make:**

When I was in Turkey on a cruise last summer, we spent a day at a beautiful Turkish country house learning to cook traditional dishes like these stuffed peppers. The memory of eating the lunch we made under a shady pergola, followed by tiny cups of strong Turkish coffee, still makes me smile. So, I decided to cook these baked red peppers stuffed with spiced pilaf rice.

**Ingredients:**
– 1.5 mugs of long-grain rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil plus 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 4 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
– 2 tbsp pine nuts
– 2 tbsp pistachios (chopped)
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– ½ tsp ground pepper
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried mint
– 2 tbsp raisins
– 2 tbsp dried apricots (chopped)

**To Make:**
– The peppers are delicious, with sweet flavors of dried fruit and spices that hark back to Ottoman times. This dish is perfect for serving vegetarian guests with cheese and olives.

This article was brought to you in partnership with Simpson Travel, which offers a unique collection of villas, apartments, and hotels in Corsica, Greece, Mallorca, and Turkey. These destinations were chosen for their rich experiences, from mountain hikes and boat trips around the coast to exploring history and heritage.

Tulum, a popular sunny getaway in America, is famous for its pristine Caribbean beaches that stretch for miles along turquoise waters and its vibrant nightlife. Known as a party hub with the highest concentration of beach clubs in the Mayan Riviera, Tulum has recently been in the spotlight for more than just its bachelor/bachelorette parties and jungle raves. New cultural centers and the restoration of historical sites are adding to its appeal. Here are seven reasons why Tulum is more than just a party destination:
**World-Class Resorts**
Tulum might not be the first place you think of for a relaxing vacation due to its lively nightlife, but it boasts some of the best coastal resorts. According to the latest CN Traveler survey, top-rated hotels in Mexico, like Conrad Tulum and Secrets Tulum Resort, are located here. These luxurious all-inclusive resorts offer a quieter environment for those seeking a stress-free escape, with amenities like spas and romantic beach accommodations.
**Amazing Food**
Tulum is a gastronomic hotspot in the Mexican Caribbean. Whether dining within resort premises or exploring local favorites like Yaax Ik or La Negra Tomasa, you’re in for a culinary treat. Resorts employ award-winning chefs who elevate traditional Mexican dishes, while local eateries offer authentic flavors, from spicy quesadillas to hearty tacos. Recognized by UNESCO, Mexican cuisine is a cultural heritage, and Tulum’s diverse dining options provide a gateway to this rich culinary tradition.
**Vibrant Social Scene**
Once a quaint fishing village, Tulum has transformed into a lively, multicultural town, attracting many foreign expats and earning the title of Digital Nomad Capital of Mexico. Despite some local concerns about gentrification and cultural erosion, Tulum’s internationalization has fostered a more open and liberal atmosphere. Downtown Tulum is always buzzing with activity, making it an exciting place to be.
**Unspoiled Nature**
Tulum is ideally situated for nature enthusiasts, offering access to the Mexican Caribbean’s stunning natural beauty. Activities include ATV jungle expeditions, swimming in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Preserve, and floating tours in the crystal-clear Muyil canals. Tulum provides ample opportunities for those seeking a tranquil escape into nature, away from the beach clubs and parties.
**Crystal-Clear Cenotes**
When sargassum seaweed affects Tulum’s beaches, the area’s cenotes offer a perfect alternative for swimming. These natural inland sinkholes, once considered sacred by the Ancient Mayans, now serve as serene swimming spots. Notable cenotes include Cenote Cristal, Cenote Escondido, and Cenote Dos Ojos, known for their clear waters and stunning underwater caves.
**History Is All Around**
Unlike Cancun, Tulum has a rich historical background as a former Mayan port. It remains a leading cultural destination in the Mexican Caribbean, with well-preserved archaeological sites like the iconic El Castillo. Tulum’s archaeological zone is vast and among the most visited in Mexico, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
**It’s A Stop On The Maya Train Route**
Tulum’s connectivity has improved with the opening of a new international airport and the upcoming launch of a scenic train route. Starting this August, the train will make Tulum a major transport hub, linking it to Cancun, Bacalar, Chetumal, and even Chichén Itzá. This development will make it easier for tourists to explore the Mexican Caribbean and beyond.
In summary, Tulum offers a blend of luxurious resorts, culinary delights, vibrant social life, unspoiled nature, historical significance, and improved connectivity, making it a destination worth visiting for more than just its nightlife.

We arrived in Barcelona and were immediately greeted by warm sunshine, which set the perfect holiday mood. We were there for a week-long Mediterranean cruise with MSC Cruises. After landing, we took the airport bus to Plaça de Catalunya, the bustling center of Barcelona. We found a place to store our luggage and started thinking about what to do next.

Initially, I had plans to visit the Sagrada Familia and Casa Mila, but we were too tired and hungry after our early flight from Bristol. Instead, we found a cozy local café in a side street and enjoyed a large slice of tortilla and some tapas.

Once we regained some energy, we realized there wasn’t enough time for serious sightseeing. So, we strolled down Avinguda Portal de l’Angel, a popular shopping street, and got sidetracked by the shops and street musicians. We barely made it to the cathedral and the Gothic quarter before it was time to head back, collect our luggage, and take a taxi to the port to board the MSC Splendida.

The cruise ship was massive, towering over us as we arrived. We boarded through the elegant central atrium, which featured a sparkling staircase adorned with jewels. The ship was quite glamorous, but in a tasteful way.

Our stateroom was on the 13th floor and had a balcony where Guy relaxed while I unpacked and took some photos. The room was decorated in a modern Italian style with a color scheme of brown, mustard, and black. It included a seating area, a desk by the glass doors, a fridge with a mini bar, and a flat-screen TV. We missed the safety briefing because the announcements outside weren’t audible inside our room.

After settling in, we explored the ship, which was already bustling with guests. Many were families and people in their 30s and 40s, creating a lively atmosphere. As the ship sailed out of Barcelona, we enjoyed the evening sun on the pool deck with a cappuccino before heading back to our room to get ready for dinner.

We attended a cocktail reception for honeymooners and returning guests before having dinner at the Villa Verde restaurant at 9:30 PM. We were seated with a German couple and a Norwegian couple, both of whom spoke English, making for pleasant conversation. The ship had a diverse mix of nationalities, including Spanish, French, Italians, Japanese, and a few Brits. Announcements were made in multiple languages to accommodate everyone.

Our first port of call was Marseille, where we planned to explore the city at our own pace. The rest of the cruise included stops in Genoa, Naples, Messina, and Tunis, with a day at sea before returning to Barcelona. The cruise was hosted by MSC Cruises, and prices for similar trips start at around £700 per person.

Here’s a rephrased version of the article:

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I’m sending a quick virtual postcard from our trip to Texas, where I’m currently with my family. We started our journey in Houston after arriving from London. Thankfully, we stayed at the Park Inn North Houston Hotel, just a 15-minute drive from the airport. After a long flight, it was great to have a convenient, modern, and comfortable place to relax.

This was our first time experiencing the double queen bed setup, which is common in the US but not so much in Europe. It worked perfectly for our family of five, allowing our three kids to share a room comfortably.

After a good night’s sleep, despite waking up early due to jet lag, we decided to visit one of Houston’s top attractions, the Space Center Houston. The tram ride mainly toured the working buildings, and the commentary was fascinating. We even saw an astronaut in training. There were many other interesting exhibits – we learned how astronauts use the bathroom (with suction), experienced a Blast Off, and tried on a few space helmets.

Once we had explored everything at the Space Center, we hit the road for San Antonio. It was interesting to see the endless chain of fast-food outlets and garages give way to green fields. We were determined to find a classic diner for a late lunch.

We saw a sign for Tony’s Family Restaurant and decided to check it out. The building had mirrored glass windows and looked quiet from the outside, but it was bustling inside. The waitress was excited to meet visitors from the UK and loved our accents, comparing them to Harry Potter. I’m still getting used to the Texan greetings like “How y’all doing?” and “Yes Ma’am!”. I had fried catfish with battered okra, while the others tried various Southwestern and Tex-Mex dishes. By the time I noticed the large selection of sweet pies Texas is famous for, I was already full.

Next stop, San Antonio!

PS: Don’t worry – I’ll write more detailed posts about our activities once I get home!