Author: simon611

I recently had a frustrating experience with hotel cancellation fees that has made me more cautious about booking hotel stays in the future.

Here’s what happened: A friend from abroad planned to meet me for a long weekend at a nice hotel where we could relax, walk, and visit beautiful gardens. I researched and chose a Country House Hotel with stylish rooms, great food, and lovely grounds. I called to check availability and made the booking, looking forward to our short break.

A week later, unforeseen events meant my friend couldn’t join me, so I called to cancel the reservation. To my surprise, I found out that I was within a 7-day cancellation period, making me liable for the full amount of over £600 if the rooms weren’t rebooked. The hotel pointed out their cancellation policy, which I had received with my confirmation email. It stated that cancellations within 14 days of arrival would be charged 50% of the room rate, and within 7 days, 100%.

These terms are particularly harsh for last-minute bookings. If I had booked six months in advance, I could have canceled just before the 14-day notice period without penalty. But booking close to the date and holding the rooms for only a few days made me liable for the full amount. Fortunately, the hotel managed to rebook one of the two rooms and rescheduled the second room for a later date, which I still hope to use. However, the whole situation was stressful.

To avoid such charges, here are my suggestions:

1. **Check the Cancellation Policy**: When researching hotels, make sure to check their cancellation policy. It should be available on their website, though sometimes you might need to ask directly when calling or emailing to check availability. If more customers made it clear that the cancellation policy affects their booking decision, hotels might be more transparent and customer-friendly.

2. **Book with Flexible Policies**: Many hotels allow cancellations without penalty up to 24 hours before arrival. The policy of charging for cancellations within 14 days is less common. Smaller hotels are more likely to require longer notice periods.

3. **Avoid Last-Minute Bookings**: While booking last minute can be tempting for a quick getaway, it also comes with the highest cancellation charges. Some hotels accept cancellations up to 24 hours before, but others will penalize you even if the room was only reserved for a few days.

4. **Plan Ahead**: If you book well in advance, note the required cancellation period and review your plans before that time. For example, if a hotel requires a 14-day notice, set a reminder three weeks before to confirm your plans and cancel if necessary.

5. **Use Comparison Websites**: When booking, use hotel comparison websites like Booking.com to compare prices and check cancellation policies. Be cautious of banners claiming “Free Cancellation,” as this might only apply if you cancel before the notice period. Always read the small print to ensure there are no additional charges from the booking site.

6. **Communicate with the Hotel**: If you need to cancel, give the hotel as much notice as possible and explain any extenuating circumstances. Request that they try to rebook the room to avoid charging you. Many hotels will rebook the room for a different date without a cancellation fee.

By being aware of hotel cancellation policies, you can enjoy your stay without the stress of unexpected charges.

When planning your next beach getaway, you’re likely considering destinations in Mexico or the Caribbean. One Caribbean country that’s become increasingly popular is the Dominican Republic. Even its cultural cities, like Santiago de los Caballeros and the capital, Santo Domingo, are drawing more visitors. Near these cities, you’ll find some of the most beautiful beach resort towns in the Caribbean.
One such town is La Romana, which is easily accessible and continues to grow in popularity. It boasts luxurious resorts and stunning beaches, making it a top choice for travelers.
### La Romana vs. Punta Cana
Having spent five days at a luxury resort in Punta Cana and also visiting La Romana, I can make a direct comparison. If you’ve planned a vacation along the East Coast or in the Caribbean, you might know about sargassum season. Sargassum is a type of brown algae that can cover coastlines, ruining the picturesque views and making swimming unpleasant.
During my stay, Punta Cana, including the famous Bavaro Beach, was plagued with sargassum. The algae created an eyesore, emitted an unpleasant odor, and made swimming difficult. However, a day trip to La Romana was a game-changer. The beaches there were free of sargassum, offering the idyllic paradise you dream of when booking a Caribbean vacation.
### Ideal Beach Conditions
In La Romana, I didn’t encounter any sargassum while swimming in various spots. A catamaran trip from Bayahibe included stops for swimming and snorkeling in perfect conditions—warm water, clear visibility, and no seaweed or trash. The only concern was avoiding stepping on starfish, which are protected and should not be touched.
The ports of Bayahibe and Isla Saona are not ideal for water activities due to jagged rocks, so wearing flip-flops is recommended.
### Beautiful Tropical Islands
Close to La Romana are two stunning islands: Isla Saona and Isla Catalina. While I didn’t visit Isla Catalina, it has received excellent reviews. Isla Saona, which I did visit, was the highlight of my Dominican vacation. The island welcomes you with towering palm trees and sandy paths leading to secluded beaches with some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen. There was no sargassum, jellyfish, garbage, or stingrays—just perfect blue waters and white sand.
### Luxurious Resorts in La Romana
While Punta Cana is well-known and popular, La Romana offers a fantastic alternative. Similar to how Cancun is famous but Puerto Escondido offers a great experience, La Romana provides a wonderful vacation without the same level of recognition. Visitors can expect an incredible time, possibly even better than in Punta Cana. With high-end all-inclusive resorts like Hilton, Dreams, and Iberostar, La Romana’s beaches remain pristine and free from massive seaweed invasions.

In this article, Kristal shares her experience of volunteering at The Mercy Centre in Bangkok, Thailand, which has given her a deep connection with Thai culture and a chance to experience local festivals and traditions.

For the past year, I’ve been volunteering at the Mercy Centre. Every Tuesday morning, I walk in not knowing what to expect. It’s both daunting and exhilarating. The only certainty is seeing the smiling, laughing faces of three-year-olds. By the end of the day, I might have learned a few new Thai words, discovered something new about Thai culture, taught the children a new word, or had them asking for more.

The Mercy Centre is an NGO located in the Klong Toey slum in Bangkok. It’s deeply connected with the community and has been working to improve lives for almost 40 years. The centre provides a home for 200 orphaned or homeless children, legal aid for children in need, an HIV/AIDS healthcare program, 23 preschools, and a community centre.

I connected with the Mercy Centre through the Muskoka Foundation, a platform for people wanting to volunteer and use their skills meaningfully while traveling. Finding the right organization is one of the hardest parts of wanting to volunteer while you travel. Before I left New Zealand, I knew I’d be in Thailand for an extended period, and the thought of buying into a volunteer opportunity wasn’t appealing or feasible. By partnering with the Muskoka Foundation, I connected with a trusted organization and skipped some of the hard work.

At Mercy, I’ve been teaching preschool children English and assisting with funding research and proposals. My background in social work and working with people who have experienced abuse and trauma has been beneficial for my volunteer role. However, my knowledge of child development and the impact of poverty on children’s lives has expanded through my interactions with the children and staff at Mercy. In many ways, I feel the Mercy Centre has given me more than I can give back.

Before this trip to Thailand, I had traveled for about five months over a few years in Thailand. I felt I had some grasp of Thai culture, enough to know it was a country I loved and wanted to return to. The most rewarding experiences during those months of travel were the times I spent talking and interacting with the locals. Now I see what I was missing! Incorporating volunteering into my travels has provided me with many opportunities to experience Thai culture in-depth, learn some of the language, and have a richer experience.

While at the Mercy Centre, I’ve been able to celebrate festivals in a way no other traveler would. One day in late November, I arrived at the preschool to find most of the children dressed in traditional clothes, some with their hair and makeup done, laughter everywhere, and the chatter of excited children. It wasn’t just an average day – it was Loy Krathong Day! Loy Krathong is a traditional Buddhist festival thanking the water goddess for her blessings, and a key part is releasing small decorated floating offerings known as Krathongs. This festival has been one of my most memorable days in Thailand. It would have been hard to miss for the average traveler, with Krathongs on sale all over the city and crowded waterways. But for me, I experienced Loy Krathong on a deeper level, dancing and singing with the children, parading with them and their Krathongs, and watching as they gently released them into a paddling pool. Watching the children and teachers celebrate at school was like a window into Thai culture.

Volunteering while you travel can be hugely rewarding. I encourage you to find something that fits your skills. Contact the Muskoka Foundation to discuss your options. If you’re going to be in Bangkok, contact the Mercy Centre. They take on many volunteers every year and always need more help. You don’t have to volunteer long-term like I have; you can find shorter-term projects. Every day I volunteer, I learn more, connect more with the children and staff, and give more.

The lights are twinkling in the trees, the baubles are up, and the Bristol Christmas Markets are in full swing. Christmas in Bristol is truly here!

During the holiday season, I love feeling festive in Bristol, exploring all that my hometown has to offer. Here are some top Bristol Christmas events worth experiencing this holiday season.

The Bristol Christmas Market in the Broadmead shopping area is a must-visit. At the center, there’s the Jäger Barn, where shoppers enjoy drinks in bubble igloos and ski gondolas, surrounded by Christmas baubles and wooden figures of giants, elves, and reindeer. New this year is a 15-meter high big wheel offering stunning views over the market. The wooden chalets selling food and gifts stretch up towards the Cabot Circus shopping center, with stalls selling local crafts at the Broadmead end. The market stalls are open from November 3 to December 23, 10am-7pm, and the food stalls from 10am-10pm.

St Nick’s Market is another great spot to find unique gifts from Bristol’s indie traders. The indoor market is open Monday to Saturday, 9:30am-5pm, with additional Sunday openings from November 14 until Christmas Eve. The outdoor markets along Corn Street also take on a festive flavor in the run-up to Christmas. The Christmas outdoor markets on Corn Street run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until December 10, then daily until Christmas Eve. Regular street food markets run on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11am-2:30pm, and the Farmer’s Market runs each Wednesday from 9:30am-2:30pm.

Millennium Square near the harborside transforms into a vintage winter wonderland with carousels and family-friendly fairground rides. The food stalls offer everything from German Bratwurst and Cheesy Krakauer to Vegan street eats and hot Belgian waffles. While the kids enjoy the rides, adults can relax at the ski-themed Après Bar with mulled wine, cider, blankets, and live music on Thursdays and DJs on weekends.

Finzel’s Reach Market is the place to try local street food, with markets on Wednesdays and Fridays offering a huge range of street food over the lunchtime period (11am-2pm). Look out for the 15 ft Elf on the Shelf playing hide and seek on buildings in this neighborhood throughout December. Clues about where to find Elf on the Shelf will be posted on the @RedcliffeandTempleBID social channels.

The Bearpit Festive Market at the bottom of Stokes Croft features 50 stalls, including local producers and makers, with live music. For shoppers working through their Christmas lists, the central Bristol shopping centers of Cabot Circus and Broadmead have most of your needs covered.

Clifton Village offers a charming atmosphere with elegant Georgian townhouses and stylish boutiques, perfect for shopping for party outfits or sparkly heels. The Christmas lights are up, and the 50 ft Christmas tree towers impressively over the Mall Gardens. Clifton is full of bars, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great choice to meet friends for brunch or a festive drink. Among my favorite places to get into the Christmas spirit are The Ivy with their festive set menu, Forest and the Flowers running wreath-making sessions, East Village Vegan Cafe for brunch while you shop, and The Dirty Bird for festive cocktails. The Clifton Observatory is hosting wreath-making workshops, brunch with Santa, and carol singing on the rooftop terrace.

For a more artistic experience, explore the area around the aptly named Christmas Steps, where the Christmas lights have been turned on, and you can get a flavor of medieval Bristol. The Christmas Steps Arts Quarter is full of small independent businesses, and it’s worth continuing up the steps to Perry Road for the art galleries and other creative businesses there. Capture those Dickensian vibes with a photo looking down from the top of the steps, then treat yourself to a gooey cake from Ahh Toots at the bottom.

Park Street offers a mix of upscale high street brands and independents. My favorites are Bristol Guild for arty gifts and Diana Porter for unique, handmade contemporary jewelry. For original gifts that are unique and often made in Bristol, visit one of the many craft markets around the city in the run-up to Christmas.

Bristol Beacon Made in Bristol Gift Fair runs on Saturdays and Sundays, November 25-26 and December 9-10. The Bristol Pop-up Shop in The Galleries is open daily until December 24, featuring gifts from 100 of Bristol’s finest designers and makers. St Nicholas Market is open daily, offering the largest collection of independent retailers in the city. Wiper & True Christmas Markets showcase local makers and food producers, with events at The Tap Room in Old Market on December 17 and The Barrel Store in St Werburghs on December 7. The Prior Shop Sustainable Design Fair features locally made products and artworks on December 9-10. The Estate of the Arts Winter Fair in Bedminster runs on December 9-10, with hot food and live music. The Future Leap Festive Market is a sustainable pop-up Christmas market on December 2-3 and 9-10. The Better Christmas Market at St Mary Redcliffe runs from December 7-10, featuring arts and crafts, carols, workshops, food, and mulled wine.

Enjoy seasonal flavors like gingerbread and gelato cakes at Swoon on College Green, or indulge in a warming hot chocolate at Mrs. Potts on Park Street. Pieminister, with several branches around the city, serves award-winning pies with festive flavors available from mid-November. For a post-shopping drink, head to Dirty Martini on Corn Street for half-price martinis and Christmas cocktails.

No West Country household would be without cider at Christmas. The Bristol Cider Shop offers a cider advent calendar, cider tasting kit, and other gifts for cider lovers. The 6 O’clock Gin pop-up shop in Quaker Friars sells locally produced gin and related gifts.

The Evolution Drone Light Show is a spectacular event with 500 drones lighting up the Bristol sky on December 19-20. Lumosphere at the Leigh Court Estate is an outdoor illumination walk with interactive art installations from December 10-17. Other Christmas light trails within an hour’s drive of central Bristol include Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, Old Down Estate Illumination Trail, Westonbirt Arboretum, Longleat Festival of Light, and Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light.

The SS Great Britain offers Victorian Christmas weekends on December 2-3 and 9-10, with festive activities and characters. Winterland at Propyard returns with an 80s-themed ski lodge, roller disco, and retro games. The aquarium in Millennium Square features the Undersea Grotto from December 16 to January 1, with festive activities for children. M-Shed and We the Curious offer family-friendly activities and exhibits during the Christmas season.

Bristol’s theaters offer a range of Christmas shows, including Arabian Nights at Bristol Old Vic, Oliver Twist at Tobacco Factory Theatre, and Rapunzel at The Redgrave Theatre. St George’s Brandon Hill hosts community choir concerts, and Bristol Beacon offers Christmas-themed performances.

For animal lovers, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm and Bristol Zoo Project offer festive activities and opportunities to see a variety of animals. St Werburgh’s City Farm and Windmill Hill City Farm are also open during the Christmas holidays.

Bristol Cathedral and Christ Church Clifton hold carol services and other Christmas religious services. John Wesley’s New Rooms offer Christmas activities, including lunchtime carols and craft sessions. Most churches in Bristol will have Christmas carol services, so check what’s on at your local church.

Support Bristol’s independent businesses with the Love Bristol Gift Card, which can be spent at over 160 venues around the city. Yuup offers unique local experiences, perfect for gifting. Zara’s chocolates, made in South Bristol, are a must-visit for high-quality, handmade chocolates.

Treat yourself or a loved one to a spa day at The Lido in Clifton Village, or enjoy a balloon flight over Bristol with Bristol Balloons or Bailey Balloons. Bristol Blue Glass offers beautiful ornaments and baubles for your Christmas tree.

Consider making charity donations to support the homeless in Bristol. Local charities include Caring in Bristol, St Mungo’s Bristol, and The Salvation Army.

For a cheeky weekend in Bristol, there are plenty of hotel options. Brooks Guest House, Rodney Hotel, and Beech House offer stylish and affordable accommodation. The Bristol, Clayton Hotel, and Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel are great for groups. For a touch of luxury, consider Artist Residence, Harbour Hotel and Spa, or The Avon Gorge Hotel.

There’s still time to book a weekend in Bristol to get into the Christmas spirit, enjoy great food, and shop for unique gifts. For more information on visiting Bristol, check out the official tourism website of Visit Bristol.

North Devon is a beautiful, wild, and green part of the south-west that perfectly captures the essence of unspoiled rural England. With its narrow lanes, high hedgerows, country walks, and rugged coastline dotted with fishing villages, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing weekend getaway. I headed there with friends to enjoy the fresh air, woodland walks, and sea views.

We stayed at Beech Tree Cottage, available through Premier Cottages, nestled in the leafy grounds of an old Rectory. The estate, known as Penhaven Country Cottages, has six renovated cottages that serve as holiday homes. Our cottage overlooked farmland on one side and gardens on the other. The Rectory itself was once a country house hotel and is now awaiting further renovation.

The small village of Parkham, where our cottage was located, boasts an impressive church, a farm shop open on weekdays, and the 13th-century Bell Inn just a short walk away. The setting was quintessentially rural Devon, with primroses and daffodils outside our bedroom window and plenty of muddy woodland walks starting right from our front door.

We arrived on a Friday night, quickly settling into our well-equipped cottage. The sitting room featured comfy sofas, a brown shaggy rug, and a stone fireplace that begged for a wood-burning stove. The room had a purple theme with a velvet easy chair, purple light shades, an oak coffee table, and a flat-screen TV.

The large kitchen was a highlight, with cream-painted cupboards, cheerful multi-colored tiles, a terracotta tiled floor, and a spacious wooden table perfect for cooking and dining. It had all the conveniences of home, including a dishwasher, microwave, fridge, and freezer.

Upstairs, we claimed the master bedroom with its en suite shower room, decorated in primrose yellow and leaf green, reflecting the spring flowers and woodland outside. Our friends took the second bedroom with twin beds that could be pushed together, while the third single bedroom had a warm red theme. The furniture throughout was solid oak, and the second bathroom featured a jacuzzi and a shower above the bath.

On Saturday morning, we woke to birdsong. While the others enjoyed their coffee, I explored the Rectory gardens, which were in full bloom with camellias and wild rhododendrons. We decided to visit the nearby village of Clovelly, known for its timeless charm. The village, privately owned by the Clovelly Estate, is a tourist attraction where you leave your car at the top of the hill and enter through the visitor center.

Despite the light rain, we carefully walked down the steep, cobbled lane to the harbour, admiring the pretty cottages and flowers. The street is too steep for vehicles, so donkeys and plastic sledges are used for transport. At the harbour, we saw lobster pots and fishing boats, remnants of the village’s thriving fishing past. We sheltered from the rain under the eaves of the Red Lion Inn and explored The Fisherman’s Cottage, a small museum showcasing the village’s history.

We had lunch at the New Inn and then embarked on a cliff walk towards Mouthmill Cove. The path took us through fields and along the cliff edge, offering stunning views. We passed the Angels Wings shelter, built in 1826, and continued through muddy woodland paths covered with bright green lichen. At the lookout point above Mouthmill Cove, we enjoyed the rugged cliffs and wild sea views.

On our return, we visited Clovelly Court and the beautiful old parish church of All Saints, surrounded by daffodils and blooming wild quince. We then drove back to the cottage for tea. That evening, we dined at The Hoops Inn, enjoying an excellent pub meal with friendly service.

On Sunday morning, I explored the woods owned by the Penhaven Estate. The damp air and drizzle made the moss-covered tree trunks and ivy-clad trees even more enchanting. We passed wild rhododendron bushes and bluebell leaves, which would soon create a sea of blue.

For lunch, we stopped at the Merry Harriers Garden Centre for their excellent carvery. Our weekend in North Devon was relaxing but too short to fully explore this wild and unspoiled area. Next time, I plan to visit more coastal beaches, take a boat to Lundy Island, or explore the villages of Lynton and Lynmouth.

For those seeking a relaxing break in the beautiful Devon countryside, with easy access to the coastline and beaches, Penhaven Cottages is an excellent choice. Families and groups of friends can rent cottages close together while still enjoying their own space. However, a car is necessary to get around, as the location is very rural, and the nearest shop is a short drive away. The mobile phone signal is poor, and the Wi-Fi was weak during our stay, though the owner assured us it had been fixed.

Heather and friends stayed at Penhaven Cottages in North Devon through Premier Cottages, which specializes in self-catering luxury holidays and short breaks throughout the UK and Ireland. Premier Cottages offers a collection of independently owned holiday cottages, all awarded 4 or 5-star status, and their quality cottages have won numerous tourism awards for excellence.

Asia is a dream destination for digital nomads, offering ancient pagodas, stunning nature, and affordability. However, not all parts of Asia are welcoming to expats. Some cities lack good expat services, have extreme weather, or impose strict visa requirements. If you’re considering working remotely from Asia, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Not every city is foreigner-friendly, and even if it’s cheap, it might not be worth it if the social scene is dull or cultural offerings are limited.
Here are five Asian destinations that are not only affordable but also great places to live:
**Ubud, Indonesia**
Ubud, a popular spot in Bali, is a relaxed village surrounded by famous rice paddies. Known for its ‘Monkey Street’ filled with restaurants, coworking spaces, and nature reserves, Ubud is perfect for those looking to experience local culture away from the coastal crowds. Despite the growing number of expats, it remains a traditional and charming place. For around $1,860 per month, including accommodation, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of Ubud.
**Hanoi, Vietnam**
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, boasts a mix of native Indochina, French colonial, and socialist architecture. The city is vibrant, with over 5 million residents and a bustling atmosphere day and night. The Old Quarter is always lively with tourists, bars, and food stalls. You could spend weeks exploring Hanoi and still feel like there’s more to see. You can stay in Vietnam for three months as a tourist, and living in Hanoi costs about $1,040 per month.
**Penang, Malaysia**
George Town, the capital of Penang island, is a hidden gem in Malaysia. It features stunning historical buildings, modern high-rises, and a multicultural vibe. The city has British-era forts, Chinese temples, mosques, and beachfront resorts. The weather is warm year-round, and there are always beautiful lookouts and natural sites nearby. The food scene is diverse and exceptional. On average, living in George Town costs $960 per month, with central apartments available for $326 and fully-furnished Airbnbs starting at $20 per night.
**Chiang Mai, Thailand**
Chiang Mai, located in Northern Thailand, is a UNESCO-listed city with over 300 temples in its Old Town. It’s becoming a popular nomad hub due to its unique appeal, welcoming locals, and status as a cultural capital. Unlike the coastal areas, Chiang Mai offers a different experience. It’s also one of the cheapest cities in Thailand, with a monthly cost of $965 covering rent, utilities, groceries, and food.
**Bangkok, Thailand**
Bangkok is the top destination for digital nomads in Asia. It’s a vibrant and exciting city with magnificent Buddhist temples, imperial palaces, and a fantastic food scene. Chinatown is a must-visit for street food lovers. The nightlife in Sukhumvit Soi 11 is lively, with clubs offering cheap beer and friendly locals. Bangkok has plenty of work-friendly cafés and coworking spaces, and getting around is easy with the metro or affordable Grab taxis. Remote workers spend about $1,313 per month in Bangkok, making it one of the most affordable capitals in Asia and a top nomad hub.

Tallinn, Estonia might not be the first place that comes to mind for a European vacation, but this hidden gem should definitely be on your travel list! I first visited Tallinn two years ago on a cruise, and even though we only had a day in this charming Baltic city, I was immediately enchanted by its fairytale-like Old Town. I knew there was so much more to explore, so I was thrilled to return this summer for a longer stay.
### A Gem on the Baltic
Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, located right on the Baltic Sea. Its strategic location has made it an important port city for centuries. Estonia is part of the Baltic region, along with Latvia and Lithuania to the south, and Finland across the Baltic Sea to the north.
### Medieval Charm & Modern Style
Tallinn offers a striking contrast between old and new. The Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, church spires, and medieval fortifications, feels like stepping into a storybook. This area is the main draw for tourists, and it’s easy to see why. On my first visit, I took a free walking tour that provided a great overview of the Old Town.
However, there’s much more to Tallinn than just the Old Town. Even if you’re short on time, I recommend venturing out to see other parts of the city. One of the easiest ways to do this is by visiting Telliskivi Creative City, a revitalized industrial area just a 20-minute walk from the Old Town. Here, you’ll find the Fotografiska photography museum, which offers creative and immersive exhibits, even for those who aren’t typically fans of photography. The area also boasts numerous restaurants, galleries, and boutiques, many of which are located in the Balti Jaama Turg, a cool covered market spread across three levels.
With more time in Tallinn, I also explored the Kobli neighborhood, about 30 minutes by tram from the Old Town. This area offers a more local experience and is home to the delicious Karjase Sai bakery and the cozy Pohjala REaD bookstore.
### Cool Museums & Great Views
During my three days in Tallinn, I used the Tallinn Card to visit as many museums and attractions as possible. This pass provides free access to over 40 different sites, making it a great value if you plan to visit multiple locations. My favorite museums were the Kadriorg Art Museum and the Kumu Art Museum. Both are a short tram ride from the Old Town and offer a blend of old and new: the Kadriorg Art Museum is housed in an 18th-century palace, while the Kumu Art Museum features stunning modern architecture. After visiting these museums, I recommend stopping by Katharinenthal Kohvik for a bite to eat on their lovely terrace.
In the Old Town, St. Nicholas’ Church and Museum was a highlight. This medieval church houses an impressive art museum and offers a skydeck with amazing 360-degree views over the Old Town. Unlike some other viewing platforms, this one has an elevator, so you don’t have to climb hundreds of steps to enjoy the view.
### A Fabulous City Without the Crowds
One of the best things about Tallinn is that it remains relatively under the radar for tourists, especially those from the U.S. Unlike cities like Amsterdam or Venice, Tallinn hasn’t been overwhelmed by overtourism. It’s a great destination for a laid-back city break and is particularly ideal for solo female travelers, ranking among the top five safest cities in Europe.
### Where to Stay in Tallinn
I stayed at the Nordic Hotel Forum for three nights, and it was the perfect place to stay. This four-star hotel is just outside the Old Town, making it easy to walk to many of the city’s top attractions. There’s also a tram stop nearby that takes you directly to the Kadriorg and Kumu Art Museums. The hotel offers great amenities, including an indoor swimming pool and hot tub with city views, and a fantastic free buffet breakfast with a wide variety of options.
### Getting to Tallinn
Tallinn’s growing popularity is partly due to its inclusion on many cruise itineraries and its proximity to Helsinki, Finland, just a two-hour ferry ride away. While these options are convenient, they only allow for a day in Tallinn, which isn’t enough to fully appreciate the city. I recommend spending at least three days here. Although there are no nonstop flights from the U.S. to Tallinn, you can easily connect through major European cities or take the ferry from Helsinki, which has better flight connections.
Tallinn is a city that beautifully blends medieval charm with modern style, offering a unique and enjoyable travel experience without the crowds. Whether you’re exploring the Old Town, visiting cool museums, or discovering local neighborhoods, Tallinn is a destination worth adding to your travel bucket list.

Digital nomads are always on the lookout for the next great place to settle, whether it’s for a month, a few months, or even years. Thailand stands out as a dream destination, offering affordability, exotic charm, rich culture, and a unique experience unlike any other country.
While Bangkok is well-known as a prime spot for digital nomads, Thailand has much more to offer beyond this bustling city. From Bangkok to Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and the stunning islands, digital nomads have a variety of exciting places to explore.
One lesser-known gem is Khon Kaen, a province and city that is quickly gaining popularity among remote workers. According to Thailand’s tourism board, Khon Kaen is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, making it a natural choice for digital nomads. The city itself is the fourth largest in Thailand and offers a lot for those looking to work remotely.
Located six hours from Bangkok and three hours from the Laos border, Khon Kaen is off the beaten path for most travelers, but this is likely to change soon. The region boasts beautiful temples, traditional night markets, and even Thailand’s version of Jurassic Park, making it an exciting place to visit.
Khon Kaen, known as the “Dinosaur City” due to its ancient history, is surprisingly modern and well-equipped for remote work. The city features upgraded co-working spaces with reliable Wi-Fi and trendy cafes. As a college town, it has the infrastructure to support digital nomads, offering affordable long-term accommodations. Apartments in central locations can be found on Airbnb for as low as $277 to around $900, depending on size and amenities.
Thailand has always been a favorite for expats looking to save money without compromising on quality of life. This appeal extends to digital nomads, especially as the country becomes more welcoming to all types of travelers. Recently, it was announced that travelers from over 90 nations, including the U.S., can now stay up to two months instead of just 30 days. Additionally, the new Digital Nomad Visa allows for stays of up to five years, with the requirement to leave and re-enter the country every 180 days.
Khon Kaen is ready to welcome an influx of visitors, thanks to its newly built international terminal, making it more accessible than ever. With its blend of modern amenities and cultural attractions, Khon Kaen is poised to become the next big hotspot for digital nomads.

If you’ve ever vacationed in Europe, chances are you’ve visited the Mediterranean Coast. Stretching from Spain’s southern coast to sunny Cyprus, this coastline includes some of Europe’s most stunning areas. But can you truly appreciate its beauty by visiting just one beach at a time? With its dazzling shoreline roads and cliff-top views, why not explore it by car? Here are some fantastic routes to consider:

One short but sweet drive is just 12 miles long and hugs the southern French Coast. This route takes you between two of the region’s most unspoiled seaside towns, Cassis and La Ciotat, via the high-altitude Route des Crêtes over Cap Canaille. Cap Canaille is one of Europe’s tallest maritime cliffs, offering spectacular views from the top.

Cassis is one of France’s best-kept secrets. It’s charming, quaint, and picture-perfect, maintaining the appeal of a coastal fishing village while embracing the laid-back lifestyle of its Riviera counterparts, minus the crowds. Cassis is full of character, so take a leisurely stroll through its old streets for a quintessentially ‘South of France’ experience.

While it might be tempting to fill your camera with pictures of Cassis, remember to save some space for the drive! Les Route des Crêtes offers panoramic views of some of Provence’s most superb scenery. Though the route is only 12 miles long, the roads are steep and winding, and can be narrow in places. Adopt the laid-back Riviera attitude and take your time. The slower pace will give you more opportunities to enjoy the beautiful views of the coast, mountains, and countryside.

Hiking trails lead off the road at several viewpoints. Why not break up the drive with a short stroll? Stretch your legs and get a closer look at some of the unusual rock formations that make the landscape so striking. Your vantage point high on Cap Canaille also gives you a chance to experience a different perspective of the coastline and the hidden seaside gems of Cassis and La Ciotat. Rather than seeing things from ground level, your bird’s eye view puts this stunning section of coastline into perspective geographically. It’s an opportunity to experience the area as a whole, in all its natural glory.

But the beauty doesn’t stop there! La Ciotat is a truly authentic French town, having so far managed to sidestep the influence of tourism. Home to unique boutiques and a lively market on Sunday mornings, it’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or two to complement your holiday photo album. Like Cassis, the center is made up of winding streets and shady squares dotted with relaxed cafes and delicious restaurants. Finally, enjoy a day on the beach at L’Ile Verte. Take the ferry from the port and make the short 10-minute crossing to this picture-perfect spot. Pack a picnic and admire the breathtaking shoreline from the beach or explore the island and uncover a range of fantastic viewpoints.

The region of Puglia forms the heel of Italy’s boot. The landscape is characterized by rugged hills dotted with whitewashed buildings and crystal-clear waters lapping against the sun-scorched coastline. The drive itself meanders between the seaside towns of Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca along a road dubbed the ‘Little Amalfi Coast’. With its jagged coastline and secret beaches, this stretch of the Puglia region is perfect for exploring by car and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful drives in Europe.

Otranto is a harbor town that is as gorgeous as it is historic. Before you embark on your scenic drive along the coast, be sure to visit its unusual Cathedral. It is well known for the monumental mosaic that covers the entire floor of the Cathedral and dates back to the 12th century. Despite being hundreds of years old, the mosaic has stood the test of time, and the mythical illustrations depicting man’s struggle between good and evil can still be clearly deciphered.

If you get the chance, take an evening stroll around Otranto. The town’s architecture is particularly impressive at night, especially the castle. Locate the turrets and walls open to the public and make your way to the top for breathtaking views of the city. You will likely find yourself struggling to leave this picturesque town. Rest assured, there are even better things to come. The drive runs past mile after mile of spectacular ocean views and is one of the most underrated attractions of the area.

The cliffs, grottos, ancient fishing villages, and hidden beaches along the way are numerous, offering plenty of opportunities to take breaks, hike, picnic, and swim. Don’t miss the ‘Grotta Zinzulusa’, famous for its stalagmites and stalactites. Be sure to take the guided tour of this ocean-side cave and hear the fascinating story of the cave’s discovery as you swim in the warm, clear waters. As the midday heat beats down on the dramatic limestone cliffs of Puglia’s coastline, stop for a picnic beneath the shade of the abundant olive groves.

As you approach Gagliano del Capo, you’ll come across a sea inlet spanned by an impressive bridge. Here you have two choices: descend the stone steps to access the water for a leisurely swim, or join the daring divers as they scale the cliffs and jump from heights of up to 50 feet! Whichever you decide, the inlet is an idyllic place to cool off in the afternoon sun.

Leuca is framed by the Regional National Park of the Costa Otranto. Before you reach the town, stop and enjoy the view of the wildflower and shrub-covered slopes as they cascade down the rocky hillsides. Round off your scenic tour of the Puglian coastline and climb the headland to the lighthouse. Here you will be greeted by a staggering vista where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. As you relax in the Marina with a gelato or sit down to dinner at one of the delicious restaurants in the old town and reflect on the highlights of the drive, you wouldn’t be mistaken for thinking you had found your own piece of paradise.

I can’t help but feel there’s something unique about being in Austin, beside the Colorado River around dusk on a spring evening. Just across the Congress Bridge, corporate America looms large, and this being Texas, I mean LARGE. But here I am, with perhaps a thousand people quietly lining the bridge, sitting in the park, or gently kayaking around the pillars, waiting for thousands and thousands of bats to emerge into the twilight.

Unlike almost everywhere else we’ve been on our Easter vacation in this extraordinary state of Texas, there are no illuminated signs, no lines, and really nothing much to buy. For the record, there’s a hawker half-heartedly trying to sell light sabers, and one guy wanders around offering pecan cookies to the good-natured and quiet crowd. There are also two small boats on the river with paying passengers anxiously scanning the voids under the bridge skyline.

Perhaps it’s because we’re in Austin, where the SoCo (South of Congress) area is known for being very relaxed and typical of the state capital. Austin has a very different feel from the other parts of Texas I’ve visited, which, to be fair, isn’t many, as Texas is bigger than the whole of the UK. But having spent time in San Antonio and Houston, I don’t get the sense that those cities would bother with celebrating bat watching “downtown.”

It gets dark quickly this far south, and as it does, the lights of the skyscrapers twinkle, and the corporate logos flash their brassy statements to a disinterested audience of all ages, crowding the handrails and sitting on the grassy embankment. My teenage sons are, of course, bored and delight in pointing out that bats are black, as is the sky, so how can we see them?

But being gifted and wise as only teenage males can be, they endure their parents’ and middle sister’s curiosity about the hoped-for natural phenomenon. Surely, the magic of the natural world isn’t entirely lost on these two? Actually, it isn’t, and they are aware of the quiet and respectful crowd. The wait is punctuated by their wry humor as the black bats don’t show up despite the red floodlight from the boats playing across the concrete arches.

Perhaps it’s because it’s Easter and I’m reflecting on the promise of a new beginning, but I’m reminded of a Thomas Hardy poem where the poet hopes that the oxen in a winter stable will kneel on Christmas Eve. On reflection, I suspect that waiting for these bats has made me really grateful for the simple but really important things. I’m using the twilight to ruffle the hair of my boys and sneak a cuddle from my girls as I chuckle inwardly at the absolute joy of knowing that there are real riches on this side of the river as well as those promised by the corporate logos “downtown.”

Even if there aren’t many bats tonight, they’ll be there tomorrow and the next day, and I’m certain that there will also be quiet folks of Austin enjoying the prospect of a timeless phenomenon and appreciating the importance of harmony with nature in a world dominated by man.

The Mexican free-tail bats fly out from their nesting sites under South Congress Bridge to feed at sunset (typically after 8 pm) from April to October, with the largest numbers being seen in July and August. Spectators line the bridge or sit on the grassy bank on the southeast side of the bridge, and it’s also popular to hire a kayak or take a riverboat tour to view the bats from the water. There is free public parking near the grassy area on the southeast side of the bridge after 6 pm.

Boat tours are offered by Capital Cruises Boat Tours ($10 adults, $5 children excluding tax) and Lone Star Riverboat ($10 adults, $7 children excluding tax), both of which are located on the south shore to the west of the bridge under the Hyatt-Regency Hotel. The T.G.I. Friday’s restaurant in the Radisson Hotel on the northeast shore has a bat viewing deck. Bat tours by kayak are offered by Live Love Paddle (from $50 per person plus tax).