Author: simon611

Montpelier Plantation & Beach is a charming boutique hotel located on the unspoiled island of Nevis, part of the twin-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis. Nestled in the ruins of an old sugar plantation on the slopes of Nevis Peak, this luxury retreat combines historic charm with a sleek, stylish aesthetic, offering an authentic Caribbean experience where time seems to stand still.

Montpelier Plantation has a rich history dating back to the 1680s. By the mid-18th century, Nevis was one of the wealthiest areas in the British Empire due to its profitable sugar plantations, which were unfortunately worked by enslaved Africans. The estate is also known for the romantic story of a young sea captain, Horatio Nelson, who married Fanny Nisbet, a young widow and niece of the plantation’s owner, under a silk cotton tree near the hotel.

As the sugar industry declined and slavery was abolished, the plantation fell into disrepair until it was purchased and restored into a hotel by James Milnes-Gaskell in 1960. The estate’s stone sugar factory was transformed into an elegant bar and restaurant, and cottages were built among the lush gardens. In 2002, the hotel was acquired by the Hoffman family, who infused it with a contemporary style, turning it into a chic boutique retreat with just 19 rooms.

The Hoffmans, including Lincoln and Muffin Hoffman, have been dedicated to maintaining the personal and welcoming atmosphere of the hotel. Although Lincoln passed away, Muffin, along with her son Timothy and daughter-in-law Meredith, continue to run the hotel. The family’s golden Labrador, Cosmo, is a beloved presence at the hotel, often greeting guests.

Montpelier Plantation & Beach offers a variety of accommodations, including Plantation and Premier rooms, the Garden Suite, and the Tamarind Villa. The rooms are situated in contemporary cottages scattered within the lush gardens, each with private verandahs that provide a sense of seclusion. The rooms are designed to catch the natural breezes, reducing the need for continuous air conditioning.

The Garden Suite, recently refurbished with sustainability in mind, offers a spacious and luxurious option for guests, featuring bamboo flooring, wide windows, and a private gazebo. The Tamarind Villa, with its two en suite bedrooms, sun deck, and private plunge pool, is ideal for families seeking more space and privacy.

The hotel’s 60-foot mosaic pool is the focal point for relaxation, surrounded by palm trees and sun loungers. The Indigo poolside restaurant offers casual dining and cocktails in a shaded, breezy setting. Montpelier’s history is highlighted by the marriage of Horatio Nelson and Frances Nisbet, with a commemorative plaque near the hotel.

Dining at Montpelier is a gourmet experience. The hotel’s main restaurant, Restaurant 750, offers exceptional cuisine with Caribbean and international influences. The dining experience starts in the elegant Great Room and moves to a terrace overlooking the gardens. The hotel’s creative Chef de cuisine, Halva Browne, ensures that the menu changes daily, focusing on fresh, local produce.

For a special occasion, the Mill Privée offers an intimate 7-course dining experience in a converted 300-year-old sugar mill. The hotel also features afternoon tea at Indigo, with freshly baked scones and a selection of teas.

Montpelier Plantation & Beach is also known for its secluded beach area, a 15-minute drive from the hotel. The beach offers cabanas, loungers, and a beach bar exclusively for hotel guests. Guests can enjoy a picnic lunch from the hotel and participate in the popular sunset beach BBQ with live music.

The hotel encourages guests to explore Nevis, with activities such as hiking, tennis, yoga, and spa treatments. Sustainability initiatives are a priority at Montpelier, with efforts to reduce plastic use and support local producers.

Montpelier Plantation & Beach is a luxurious boutique hotel perfect for those seeking a relaxing, historic, and sustainable Caribbean getaway. The hotel’s unique blend of charm, elegance, and personal service makes it a standout destination on the beautiful island of Nevis.

The UK has recently experienced a surge in tourism, becoming more popular than ever. While it’s always been a top destination, the current level of interest is unprecedented. However, this increased popularity means that some favorite spots, especially London, are becoming overcrowded. For those seeking a more relaxing and authentic experience, it’s worth considering less obvious destinations.
A recent study by Sykes Cottages, a short-term rental company, surveyed over 2000 Brits about their travel plans for the upcoming season. The results revealed some of the UK’s most underrated destinations that are worth adding to your travel list:
**5. Windermere, Cumbria**
Cumbria is a top destination this summer, with Windermere being a standout spot. Located in the Lake District National Park, this picturesque town offers everything a nature lover could want, from guided cruises and water sports to stunning hiking trails like the Orrest Head Walk. Visitors can also explore historical sites like Wray Castle and Blackwell, and enjoy local delicacies such as Herdwick lamb and fresh fish.
**4. Ambleside, Cumbria**
Just a 12-minute drive from Windermere, Ambleside is another charming town in Cumbria. Here, you can visit historic sites like Rydal Mount and Gardens, admire the Stock Ghyll Force waterfall, explore the Ambleside Fort, and delve into the local literary history at the Armitt Museum and Library. The combination of Windermere’s natural beauty and Ambleside’s cultural attractions makes for an unforgettable experience.
**3. Keswick, Cumbria**
If you have time for another destination, Keswick is just 40 minutes from Windermere and 30 minutes from Ambleside. This bustling market town, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of Skiddaw, offers a more typical summer experience with sunbathing, rowboat rentals, and stunning views from Friar’s Crag. Visitors can also enjoy the Theatre by the Lake, Keswick Museum, and outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, paragliding, and mine touring at the Honister Slate Mine.
**2. Whitby, North Yorkshire**
Whitby is a scenic seaside town that looks like it’s straight out of a book or movie. The iconic Whitby Abbey dominates the skyline, creating a unique and otherworldly atmosphere. While in Whitby, don’t miss the Captain Cook Memorial Museum and the North York Moors National Park, where you can enjoy fish and chips from Magpie Café or Trenchers.
**1. Weymouth, Dorset**
According to Sykes Cottages, Weymouth in Dorset is the top UK destination this summer. This seaside town boasts sandy beaches, colorful buildings, and a variety of attractions, including Jurassic Skyline, Nothe Fort, Sea Life Adventure Park, and the historic town harbor. If possible, try to time your visit to coincide with the Weymouth Carnival or the Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival for an even more memorable experience.

Every place has its own reputation—some good, some bad, and some mixed. As places become more popular, they often need to make changes. For example, Austin banned camping on sidewalks to address the issue of homeless encampments. Amsterdam is trying to rebrand by discouraging certain party-focused tourists. Now, it’s Pattaya’s turn.
When planning a trip to Thailand, cities like Bangkok and islands like Phuket and Koh Samui often come to mind. However, Pattaya is actually the third most visited city in Thailand, according to the Global Destination Cities Index by Mastercard. Known for its affordability and vibrant nightlife, Pattaya is now aiming to appeal to a broader range of travelers.
### Discover Pattaya’s Rich Culture
Just two hours south of Bangkok, Pattaya offers a lot more than its nightlife. While it’s known for its lively bar scene, the city wants to change this image. Pattaya is far from boring and has much to offer beyond its bustling nightlife. Set along the Gulf of Thailand, it can be a relaxing getaway or a place full of exciting activities.
Pattaya boasts some of Thailand’s most stunning temples, rivaling those in Bangkok. Must-visit temples include Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha), Wat Chaimongkon, and The Sanctuary of Truth. Besides temples, Pattaya has beautiful monasteries, floating markets, and some of the best street food for adventurous eaters. For those looking to escape the crowds, nearby towns like Phanat Nikhom, Sri Racha, and Bang Saen offer a more cultural experience. And don’t forget to take a ride on a tuk-tuk!
### Affordable Beach Getaway
Thailand is famous for its beautiful beaches, and Pattaya is no exception. The coastline is lined with lovely beaches perfect for sunny days. Staying in Pattaya is also very affordable. Beach resorts here are budget-friendly, with upscale brands like Intercontinental available for around $100, and local resorts like Garden Cliff Resort & Spa even cheaper. Prices vary, but you can definitely save money while enjoying a beach vacation.
### Island Adventures
Thailand is home to over 1,400 islands, making it a paradise for island-hopping. Pattaya serves as a great starting point for exploring these exotic locations. Koh Lan is the most popular island near Pattaya, offering stunning views, luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches, and even monkeys! While Phuket is often crowded, Pattaya’s nearby islands provide a more peaceful escape. Beyond Koh Lan, islands like Ko Phai offer even more serene and untouched beaches.
In summary, Pattaya is transforming its image to showcase its rich culture, affordable beach resorts, and easy access to beautiful islands. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a budget-friendly beach vacation, or an island adventure, Pattaya has something for everyone.

On the first day of our Tour de Mont Blanc walk, we enjoyed Alpine meadows and charming hamlets. Today, we hoped to venture into wilder terrain and cross the high mountain pass into Italy. Over breakfast at Hotel Col de Fenetre, we chatted with four American ladies on a self-guided tour. They had a pre-arranged holiday package, and we felt proud of organizing our trip independently and saving money.

The hamlet of Ferret was misty, but the hotel owner assured us the weather would clear and remain fine for the week. As we left, we saw a couple saddling their mule to carry their bags. I chatted with them and took a photo with the mule, wishing it could carry my bags too.

I briefly visited a small chapel near the hotel, which had a sign encouraging passersby to say an Ave Maria. We retraced our steps to the river we crossed the previous day, made a few wrong turns, but eventually found the TMB trail again.

We climbed a muddy path, and as promised, the mist cleared, and the sun came out. After an hour of steady walking, we could see the hamlet of Ferret below us. From our vantage point, we had a clear view down the valley, with the river and road snaking along the bottom, ending just beyond Ferret.

The sounds of civilization, like the rushing river and cars, drifted up from the valley. We heard cowbells and saw a herd of cows moving along the road like a line of black ants. Julia remarked that it didn’t seem like we had come very far.

At the concrete hut at Les Creuses, we paused for photos with a fantastic view down the valley. Despite being high above the valley and away from the road, the phone signal was good. Julia took the opportunity to book her hotel in Edinburgh for a business trip.

Next, we reached the Refuge at La Peule, a long low building with a couple of yurts at one end. I initially thought this marked the border into Italy, but it was further along the walk. The terrace in front of the Refuge was decorated with tubs of geraniums and flowers planted in walking boots.

Walkers were sitting under umbrellas, enjoying raclette and other toasted cheese dishes. We unloaded our rucksacks and had a glass of apple juice. After our break, we continued up the path above the Refuge and ate our lunch of bread, cheese, and salami on the hillside, watching a steady stream of walkers pass by.

The scenery became wilder, with scrub dotted with yellow and purple wildflowers. The path took us on a steady climb towards the highest point of our trek, the Grand Col Ferret at 2537M. The mountains on the opposite side of the valley became more jagged, with grey rock faces covered in shale and rivulets of snow lower down.

I had been walking in shorts and a vest in the sunshine, but as we climbed, the temperature dropped, and I put on my fleece and jacket. We passed pockets of snow just below the Col that hadn’t melted through the summer.

The Grand Col Ferret marks the border between Switzerland and Italy. Streams from these slopes feed the River Po, which flows into the Adriatic on the Italian side, and the Rhine on the Swiss side.

At the summit of the Grand Col Ferret, I walked along the ridge, now well wrapped up against the biting wind. Kestrels circled above, and the glaciers of Pre de Bar and Triolot seemed close enough to touch. Below the summit, it was more sheltered, and I found Julia meditating in the sunshine while I took more photos.

Near the trig point, I saw a man taking photos of a large orange inflatable elephant. He explained to a crowd of walkers that it was part of an artistic project where the elephant is photographed at various mountains and beauty spots around Europe. I had my photo taken with the elephant and took a few of the man and his dog for his album.

On the Italian side of the Col, we could see Rifugio Elena in the valley below. Although it looked close, it would take another hour or two to walk down to the refuge. The path down the mountain was braided, with rope mesh placed over muddy tracks to prevent erosion.

In the late afternoon, we reached the terrace of Rifugio Elena and immediately switched our greetings from “Bonjours” to “Buongiornos” and “Mercis” to “Pregos” and “Grazies.” We were shown to our en suite twin room, which felt luxurious after a long walk. We had a beer and sat down to dinner with two Dutch couples who shared their experiences of walking through deep snow on other parts of the Tour de Mont Blanc.

The Italian refuges are known for better food than the French ones. Our meal started with pasta, followed by pork with polenta and ratatouille, and ended with green apples and jam tart.

By 9 pm, we realized it was time for bed when the lady from the refuge started stacking stools on our table. We took the hint and turned in for the evening, ready for an early start the next morning to continue to Refuge Bonnati. Stay tuned for the next installment of my Tour de Mont Blanc diary.

Many people think of Rhodes as a Greek island with long sandy beaches and a lively nightlife. While that’s true, there’s so much more to discover. Rebecca Hall shares her tips on what to do in Rhodes, especially highlighting the Medieval Old Town, a must-visit for culture lovers.

The Medieval City of Rhodes, a World Heritage site since 1988, is the oldest inhabited medieval town in Europe. As you enter through one of the eleven gates, you might get lost in its over 200 winding, cobbled streets and lanes, some without names. But that’s part of the fun. Just remember to bring a torch if you’re exploring at night.

The main street, Sokratous, is the central thoroughfare. If you ask a local for directions, they’ll likely point you here. The town’s design, with its walls and winding streets, was meant to confuse invading pirates, so embrace the adventure.

A must-see in the Medieval Old Town is the Palace of the Grand Masters, built in the 14th century by the Knights of St. John. It originally had 158 rooms, but now only 24 are open to visitors. Inside, you’ll find antique furniture, Oriental vases, multi-colored marbles, sculptures, and carpets. The Grand Reception Hall and Ballroom on the ground floor are particularly impressive.

On a sunny day, take a leisurely walk atop the castle walls. The entry is next to the palace, and the hour-long walk offers a bird’s eye view of the city and the harbor. The walk isn’t circular, so you’ll exit near St. John’s, San Francisco, or Kokkini (Red) Gate, depending on who you ask. The gates often have affectionate local names.

Equally enjoyable is a walk around the moat below the walls. The lush gardens are home to parakeets, birds, wildlife, and butterflies. You’ll also see bastions, artillery posts, and underground passages. The moat is free to explore, open 24/7, and a great place for a jog at sunrise or sunset.

Despite Greece’s economic challenges, boutique hotels have been popping up in the Medieval Old Town. One standout is Kokkini Porta Rossa, located near San Francisco or St. John’s Gate. The hotel, distinguished by its red door, is a restored Turkish mansion with a grand piano in the reception area. The six exclusive suites feature a pillow menu and a tablet with personalized recommendations. A four-course breakfast is prepared each morning using local products, making it a luxurious choice.

Another great option is In Camera Art Boutique Hotel in Sofokleous Square. This traditional Greek house has been restored with a modern twist. The owner, an award-winning photographer, has named each of the seven suites after his exhibitions. The hotel features a selection of art photos and an exposition of various cameras used by the photographer. One suite even has an old hammam bathroom.

Other recommended hotels include Spirit of the Knights Hotel and Zacosta, both within the Old Town walls and close to the Mosque.

Rhodes Old Town is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon or a few days, living like royalty. In the summer, there are good charter flight connections to Rhodes Airport from the UK and other Northern European cities. There are also several daily flights from Athens, thanks to Ryanair and Aegean Airlines.

Rebecca Hall, a travel writer living in Athens, fell in love with Greece after moving there to teach. She writes for Rough Guides, Huffington Post, and other publications, and shares her experiences on her blog, Life Beyond Borders. Her debut novel, “Girl Gone Greek,” is a lighthearted account of her time teaching in a remote Greek village, perfect for a holiday read.

Last September, my friend Julia and I completed a four-day walk on the Tour de Mont Blanc. We had some sore muscles but no major issues. However, our walk the previous year on an earlier part of the route was much more stressful. We only made it to our endpoint by nightfall thanks to the kindness of strangers.

Later, we realized that Julia had been suffering from altitude sickness, also known as Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). Determined to have a better experience this year, Julia researched the condition and sought medical help. This preparation paid off, and she was back to her fit self, even outpacing me on the trail. Here’s Julia’s advice on AMS and how to avoid it.

Looking back, it’s clear why Julia was so affected by AMS last year. We arrived in Chamonix at 1100 meters and took a cable car up to 1875 meters at Flegere the next day. We then walked up to 2100 meters on difficult terrain. The path descended to the valley at Tre-le-champs (1400 meters) but then took us up again over the Aiguillette du Possette at 2200 meters. These large altitude variations, combined with strenuous walking, were tough on Julia.

Julia later learned she was suffering from Ataxia, which causes muscle weakness. She described it as feeling like walking on jelly, with her legs threatening to give way at any moment. This was especially frightening when walking downhill with a rucksack. She also felt extreme fatigue, dizziness, and heaviness. At one point, she feared she might faint before reaching a café at the bottom of the valley. The only common symptom of Ataxia she didn’t experience was a headache. While walking together, I knew Julia was struggling but didn’t realize how bad it was. In hindsight, I should have stayed closer to her or offered to carry some of her baggage.

After our trip last year, Julia researched her symptoms online and was convinced she had AMS, which she had also experienced years before in the Canadian Rockies. She sought medical advice from a travel clinic nurse, who provided information about the drug Dimoxyl, which Julia obtained through a private prescription.

Julia also learned that dehydration is a major factor in AMS. She hadn’t always worn a sunhat and was using only one walking pole instead of two. To stay hydrated, she bought a clear plastic water pouch with a tube, allowing her to take regular sips of water while walking. This helped a lot. She also regulated her breathing by taking deep breaths and exhaling fully to avoid a buildup of carbon dioxide.

Another challenge of walking a mountain trail like the Tour de Mont Blanc is the strain on your legs and knees. For the first two years, I had no issues, but this third year, I had problems with an inflamed knee cartilage. My physiotherapist prescribed anti-inflammatory medication, starting with the strongest over-the-counter Ibuprofen in the UK. When that didn’t help, I got a stronger prescription drug. These medications reduced the inflammation and discomfort, but I was still cautious about straining my knee on mountain terrain.

As a precaution, I continued taking Ibuprofen during the walk to reduce inflammation and wore a neoprene knee support, which helped keep my knee warm and supported. Walking poles are essential on the Tour de Mont Blanc, especially if you have knee problems. They provide tremendous support, helping you maintain balance on slippery, muddy, and steep paths, preventing twists and strains. If you have joint issues, seek medical advice, but I recommend keeping some over-the-counter Ibuprofen in your medical kit as it’s both an anti-inflammatory and a painkiller.

Despite our fitness problems, we traveled with a very small medical kit. Mine was in a clear plastic pencil case borrowed from my son. The Tour de Mont Blanc is a popular trail, and while you can reach remote places, there are usually other walkers around, and you’re never more than a day’s walk from the valley where you can get medical attention if needed.

Our medical kit was designed to handle minor ailments and discomforts that could spoil the trip. We carried antiseptic cream and wipes, plasters for blisters, nasal spray for blocked noses, lip sore cream, antibiotic eye ointment, athlete’s foot cream, a general antibiotic, and diarrhea treatment. Since some mountain refuges are basic, with no showers, and you might need to go behind a bush for a call of nature, we had a good supply of wipes to keep clean.

Although parts of the Tour de Mont Blanc are wild and far from civilization, which is part of its charm, you’re never more than a few hours’ walk from a hut, town, or village in the valley where you can get help in a serious medical emergency. The Tour de Mont Blanc is strenuous in parts but manageable if you’re generally healthy and moderately fit.

Make sure you have health insurance that covers mountain walking and evacuation in case of a serious medical emergency. Check your policy’s small print for any exclusions related to altitude, as you’ll be going over 2500 meters on the Tour de Mont Blanc.

If you’re concerned, follow the most popular clockwise route. We went anti-clockwise, against the flow. The clockwise direction is more popular, so you’ll always have a steady flow of walkers who can help you reach the next refuge if needed.

The Tour de Mont Blanc can be challenging, especially if you do the entire 12-day trek in one go. But with awareness of potential health hazards and reasonable precautions, you should have an enjoyable trek, as we did.

I’m reminiscing about my late summer break in the French Alps, hiking in the mountains above Chamonix. There’s a popular walking route called the Tour de Mont Blanc (TMB) that takes you on a circuit through Switzerland, France, and Italy along high Alpine paths.

The Tour de Mont Blanc is best done in the summer when the snow has melted, and it typically takes up to 10 days to complete, requiring a good level of fitness. Since my friend and I don’t have 10 days to spare, we’re planning a shorter version, covering three days of walking with two overnight stays in mountain refuges. While there’s an annual mountain marathon on this route, we’ll be taking it easy, with plenty of time to enjoy the views of Mont Blanc and Chamonix.

We start our journey by flying from the UK to Geneva, then taking the efficient Swiss train to Chamonix in France. Our walk begins in the small town of Les Houches, where we climb through steep forested slopes to spend the night at Refuge de Bellechat. The mountain refuges along this route offer simple dormitory accommodations and usually an evening meal. Luxury is minimal, but the stunning views of Mont Blanc from the terrace make up for it.

For those who prefer day trips, there are several cable cars that transport skiers in winter and walkers in summer up the mountain, often with a café at the top. We’ll pass the one at Le Brevent before reaching our second refuge at La Flegere, where we’ll stay the night. The next day, we’ll descend back to the valley and head towards Geneva to fly home.

I’m excited about seeing the wild mountain ibex that inhabit these slopes, stretching my legs on long walks, and soaking in the mountain scenery, cairns, and wild places on the high slopes. I’m less enthusiastic about the steeper sections that require climbing metal ladders, but we’ll be traveling light with just small rucksacks and walking poles.

If you’ve hiked in this area or completed the Tour de Mont Blanc, I’d love to hear from you and get more information on what to expect. I’m also looking for recommendations on the best places to stay and eat in Les Houches or Chamonix.

After wrapping up a week of work in Bristol, I quickly head down the motorway to the charming town of Winchester in Hampshire to meet my sister for some shopping, sightseeing, and walking. We arrive from different directions in separate cars and meet at The Winchester Hotel, where we’ll be staying for two nights while we explore the area.

The Winchester Hotel is a modern building with a brick and glass front, offering guest parking at the back and a public car park in front. Although the exterior isn’t particularly appealing, the interior is much more inviting. Upon entering through the glass-fronted sliding doors, you step into a stylish, modern reception area. To the right is the Gershwin bar, featuring dark wood, leather chairs, colorful glass, and a grand piano, which I imagine will be playing during the evening.

The hotel is located on the edge of town but is only a 10-minute walk to Winchester’s historic center and a short walk from the station, with London just an hour away by train. The free car park is a significant advantage in Winchester, where parking is scarce in the town center.

After checking in, we head to our second-floor room, accessible either by lift or stairs. Our twin room, located at the end of the corridor under a sloping roof and facing the car park, is not very large and a bit dark with only one small window. However, it is nicely decorated with ample storage space and all the essentials for our weekend stay.

The bathroom is modern and attractive, featuring clean fittings, a large mirror, and Taylors of London toiletries. The efficient shower above the deep bath is perfect for a long, hot soak after walking part of the South Downs Way. We also appreciate the full-length mirror, spacious wardrobe, ironing board, and hairdryer tucked away in the desk area.

The room includes a kettle for making early morning tea and a fridge for storing snacks and complimentary water bottles. For those who need to work, there’s a safe for laptops and free Wi-Fi. It’s the kind of hotel suitable for both business trips and weekend getaways in Winchester.

After dropping off our bags, we head into town for dinner at The Old Vine, near the Cathedral. This 18th-century inn is full of character, with a restaurant featuring old beams and a touch of designer flair. They pride themselves on using local ingredients. I choose the smoked salmon mousse with salad, followed by a pan-fried confit of duck salad with pomegranate seeds. The atmosphere is convivial, with plenty of real ales to try, and the menu is reasonably priced.

After a good night’s sleep at The Winchester Hotel, we enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the restaurant area beyond the bar. There are two seating areas: one light and airy with glass windows facing the car park, cleverly disguised by lipstick pink blinds and frosted tree motifs, and another cozier area with dark wood, shimmering wallpaper, and cream leather banquettes.

We are promptly offered coffee or tea, and the buffet selection includes cereals with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, pastries, bread, and a range of cooked breakfast dishes. The staff are extremely helpful, providing attentive service.

After breakfast, we explore the pool and spa area, which looks inviting with a small shaped pool and loungers, more suited for relaxation than serious swimming. For exercise, there’s a gym available.

Fortified by our excellent breakfast, we walk into Winchester’s historic center and visit the cathedral, where a farmer’s market is in full swing. We buy chicken pie and lardy cake for a picnic later. The cathedral, one of Winchester’s main attractions, charges an entry fee except during worship times. Inside, there’s much to see, including guided tours every half hour. We opt for an audio guide to explore at our own pace, learning about the cathedral’s history, Jane Austen’s grave, and the flooded crypt with an Antony Gormley sculpture.

We then visit the small Dean Garnier garden, the Medieval city gate, and the house where Jane Austen spent her last weeks. Past Winchester College, we find Wolvesey Castle, the former Bishop’s palace now in ruins and managed by National Heritage. We follow the pretty river walk to Winchester City Mill, run by the National Trust, where we see grain being ground into flour and learn about the otters living under the mill race.

By lunchtime, we’re not yet hungry after our hotel breakfast, so we head back to The Winchester Hotel to pick up our cars and drive to the start of our planned walk on part of the South Downs Way. With two cars, we can park one at each end of the walk, which takes us the rest of the afternoon. We walk along wooded lanes with views of bright yellow rapeseed fields, spotting the occasional hare and startled pheasant.

We end the day with a Shandy and lamb hot-pot at The Flowerpots Inn, which has an attached brewery and has won numerous awards for its real ale. Back at The Winchester Hotel, we enjoy a long soak in the bath to recover from our walk and another comfortable night’s sleep.

On Sunday morning, after another excellent breakfast, we walk back into town to see a couple more sights. We visit The Great Hall with the 13th-century painted King Arthur table and then walk up the hill to the Peninsula Barracks, originally built as a palace for Charles II and later turned into military barracks. Now, these beautiful buildings house several military museums.

Mid-morning, it’s time to check out of The Winchester Hotel. We drive through the Hampshire countryside, stopping first at the National Trust property of Hinton Ampner. This country house, built at the end of the 18th century, features elegant Georgian-style interiors remodeled after a fire in 1960. The gardens are beautiful, with herbaceous borders, wildflowers, and a pretty All Saints church.

After a late lunch in the tea rooms, my sister heads home, but I continue to the village of Chawton to visit the Jane Austen House Museum. This was Jane Austen’s home, where she wrote many of her most popular novels, offering a fascinating insight into her family life.

Staying at The Winchester Hotel and Spa provided a comfortable base for our explorations. I’d recommend it for couples and groups of friends looking for a high-quality, modern hotel well-located for visiting Winchester and the Hampshire countryside.

Italy is one of the most iconic places in the world, and the entire country is worth exploring from top to bottom. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and some of the best food on the planet, you can’t go wrong visiting Italy.

While Rome, Venice, and the stunning Amalfi Coast are the most popular destinations, there’s another vibrant city that’s gaining attention. Milan, often called the “New York of Italy,” is a fast-growing city filled with amazing food, luxurious accommodations, and endless shopping opportunities.

Milan is a city where old meets new. When you think of Italy, you might picture ancient sites, charming villages, or the beautiful coast. But Milan offers a different experience with its cosmopolitan vibe and skyscrapers. Despite its modern appearance, Milan has plenty of cultural sites and traditions, like the must-see Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral).

Milan’s energy is similar to New York’s, with its bright skyline, bustling streets, high-end shopping, and top-notch restaurants. It’s a different pace compared to other Italian destinations like Lake Como, Sicily, or Venice. Milan is perfect for those who love upscale shopping, with brands like Fendi, Prada, and Gucci at your fingertips. After shopping, you can enjoy some of Italy’s best cuisine, including pizza, Minestrone Milanese, and risotto alla Milanese.

For accommodations, Milan offers luxurious hotels with dreamy amenities, such as the Four Seasons and Chateau Monfort. If you want to combine shopping with a luxurious stay, the Bulgari Hotel Milano is an excellent choice.

While Milan might not be the cheapest destination once you arrive, getting there can be surprisingly affordable. It’s one of the cheapest gateways to Europe from many U.S. cities, with roundtrip airfare often in the $300s or low $400s. For budget travelers, there’s plenty to see near Milan, like the scenic Lake Orta, allowing you to enjoy Italy’s countryside without breaking the bank. Plus, major airlines like American Airlines and British Airways offer nonstop flights from JFK, making it convenient and affordable to reach Milan.

If you’re exploring the South West of Germany, you’ll find an array of palaces to choose from, each with its own stunning interiors and beautiful gardens. Here are four must-see palaces that range from opulent splendor to monastic simplicity: Schwetzingen, Weikersheim, Ludwigsburg, and Bebenhausen.

This region is renowned for its castles and palaces, showcasing the wealth and significance of Baden-Württemberg’s rulers. With over 50 castles, palaces, monasteries, and gardens, including some UNESCO World Heritage sites, every visit offers a glimpse into the grandeur and affluence that built them.

**Schwetzingen Palace**
Originally a small castle built in the 14th century, Schwetzingen Palace was significantly expanded in the 17th century by Prince Elector Johann Wilhelm. The formal gardens, commissioned by Prince Elector Carl Theodor, feature geometric parterres and fountains, with avenues of trees stretching into the distance. As a former summer residence, it’s conveniently close to Heidelberg and Mannheim, making it easy to visit all three in a few days.

The extensive gardens include an English-style landscape garden and Turkish gardens with an ornamental mosque, which has never served a religious purpose. Scattered sculptures and small buildings, like the temple of Apollo, add to the charm. Inside, you can admire 18th and early 19th-century furniture and visit the Rococo Theatre, designed for the Elector’s entertainment.

The Bath House, created by Elector Carl Theodor, served as a private retreat and is adorned with classical frescoes. The marble bathtub in the Elector’s bathroom, with warm water piped from the kitchen, epitomizes the luxurious lifestyle of the time.

**Ludwigsburg Residential Palace**
Just a 30-minute drive from Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg Residential Palace was built by the Dukes of Württemberg. It uniquely showcases architectural and decorative styles from Baroque to Rococo to Neoclassical periods. Originally a hunting lodge, it was expanded in 1733 into a magnificent residence.

The palace houses museums, original decor apartments, rare furniture, and paintings. The private apartments of Duke Herzog Carl Eugen of Württemberg, restored in 2004, display sumptuous Rococo style. Other attractions include the Ceramics Museum, Fashion Museum, Baroque Gallery, and the Palace Theatre.

The Marble Hall, remodeled by King Frederick I in 1815, features a frescoed ceiling and opulent yet elegant gold decorations. The Kinderreich interactive museum allows children to experience court life from 300 years ago through hands-on exhibits and costumes.

**Schloss Weikersheim**
Located in the scenic Tauber Valley, Schloss Weikersheim was built in the 16th century by Count Wolfgang of Hohenlohe. This Renaissance-style palace, later developed by Count Carl Ludwig of Hohenlohe, features a garden with statues and an orangery. The Knight’s Hall, dating back to 1600, is famous for its paneled ceiling depicting hunting scenes and exotic wildlife.

One of the palace’s most elaborate rooms is the Mirror Cabinet, created in 1718 for Princess Elisabeth Friederike Sophie. This small room, with walls covered in red silk damask, displays the princess’s collection of East-Asian porcelain and other precious items.

The palace gardens include a balustrade with comical dwarf figures created in 1712 by Johann Jakob Sommer, serving as caricatures of the royal household.

**Bebenhausen Monastery**
Set in the rolling hills of the Schönbuch nature reserve, Bebenhausen Monastery is one of Southern Germany’s best-preserved Cistercian abbeys. Founded in the 12th century, it became one of the wealthiest monasteries in the region. After the Reformation, it was converted into a royal hunting palace.

A guided tour reveals the lives of the monks and schoolboys who lived here. Key features include the Summer Refectory with its late Gothic style and the winter refectory, later used by King Karl I. The royal couple Wilhelm II and Charlotte updated their apartments here, with luxurious features like the queen’s modern bathroom, still stylish by today’s standards.

For more detailed information on visiting these palaces, you can check their respective websites or look for guidebooks like the DK Eyewitness Germany Travel Guide.