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Nestled on the slopes of Cadbury Hill, with woodland behind and views over North Somerset fields, Cadbury House Hotel in Congresbury offers a countryside feel while being just 30 minutes from Bristol. Our stay in the glamorous Loft Suite, complete with cocktails and dinner at the Marco Pierre White restaurant, was a delightful experience, ideal for couples, friends, and multi-generational family groups.

Driving up to the hotel, I was struck by the beautifully landscaped gardens that created a country house feel while cleverly concealing ample parking. The modern extension, seamlessly integrated with the older house, complemented its style with matching roof and gables.

Entering through the hotel’s striking modern entrance, featuring large windows and a living wall of foliage, we were warmly greeted and offered the famous Doubletree cookies, which we quickly devoured.

The historic Cadbury House, built in 1790 as a private residence and later used as St David’s boarding school and a Country Club, was converted into the current 4-star hotel in 2003 under the Doubletree by Hilton brand. This transformation included a £26 million renovation of the original house and the addition of a modern hotel building with 132 rooms. The hotel is conveniently located near Bristol Airport, making it an ideal choice for travelers with early flights.

Adjacent to the old Cadbury House is The Club, a leisure center with a pool, gym, and spa, open to both hotel guests and non-residents. There are two large car parks for convenience.

Arriving early, I explored the lovely gardens, featuring terraced lawns, an ornamental lake with a fountain, and various seating areas. The garden also includes a life-size metal cow, a dovecote, and a tin shepherd’s hut converted into a children’s playroom, all beautifully maintained with doves and pheasants roaming the lawns.

Our Loft Suite on the 5th floor offered stunning garden views and a luxurious, glamorous design inspired by 1930s art deco. The suite featured a king-size mirrored four-poster bed, an open-style bathroom with a freestanding tub, walk-in shower, and dual sinks, making it perfect for couples celebrating special occasions. The room also had a seating area, a desk, a flat-screen TV, a velvet sofa, another TV, a fridge, a minibar, and tea/coffee-making facilities.

The bathroom was well-appointed with Crabtree and Evelyn toiletries and a spacious walk-in shower. The room’s large bathtub and garden view from the window added to the luxury.

Curious about other rooms, I learned that all bedrooms are in the modern part of the hotel, with the older house now used for functions. The hotel offers standard and deluxe rooms, with the latter providing garden views, complimentary mineral water, and dressing gowns. Room options include twin or king-size beds, family rooms, and sofa beds.

We explored the hotel’s surroundings, including Cadbury Hill, an Iron Age hill fort site with paths and scenic viewpoints. The hill is a nature reserve, promoting wildflower growth and featuring grazing in spring and autumn.

Before dinner, we enjoyed the hotel’s spa facilities, including the indoor pool, Jacuzzi, and an adults-only relaxation area with a sun terrace. The Marconi cafe and Bardolino pizzeria, both part of the Marco Pierre White group, offer casual dining options, but we dined at the sophisticated Marco Pierre White steakhouse, bar, and grill.

The restaurant’s ambiance, a mix of a gentlemen’s club and a glamorous nightclub, set the stage for a memorable meal. We started with a strawberry daiquiri and Mediterranean fish soup, followed by a delicious Chateaubriand steak for two, accompanied by Bearnaise and peppercorn sauces, a green salad with truffle oil dressing, and triple-cooked chips. For dessert, we enjoyed the Box Tree Mess, a delightful mix of meringue, cream, and summer fruit.

Breakfast in the same restaurant included a variety of pastries, cereals, fruit, cheese, hot dishes, and specialty coffees, setting us up for the day ahead.

Located in Congresbury, just 30 minutes from Bristol and near Bristol Airport, Cadbury House Hotel offers a rural feel despite its excellent transport links. With its convenient location, beautiful setting, and range of amenities, it is an excellent choice for business meetings, conferences, and leisure breaks for couples, families, and groups.

For more information or to book a stay:
Address: Frost Hill, Congresbury, Bristol BS49 5AD
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 01934 834343

Our first day of hiking in the Dolomites was relatively easy, as we tackled the gentler slopes of the Rosengarten range in South Tyrol. However, Day 2 was much more challenging. We scrambled over the Coronnelle pass and carefully navigated down the treacherous scree slopes on the other side. After pushing through a surreal, lunar-like landscape, we finally reached our next mountain hut. There, we enjoyed a well-earned beer on the terrace as the evening sun turned the mountains pink.

Our first night at KolnerHütte was quite enjoyable. We had a hearty supper in a cozy dining room decorated with Tyrolean touches and red-checked tablecloths. The meal included pasta, gammon and potatoes, and tiramisu, all washed down with beer. We retired early to our bunks in an 8-bedroom dorm. It wasn’t the best night’s sleep, as I wasn’t used to sleeping so close to six middle-aged Belgian men who wished each other good night like a chorus from The Waltons.

The next morning, we were up early with our rucksacks packed and poles ready. From the terrace of the Rifugio, I watched the grey silhouettes of mountain ranges, layer upon layer, with the pink glow of sunrise behind them. The air was cold as the sun gradually lit up the valleys below, revealing patches of lighter green and a sprinkling of houses.

I was nervous about the next section of the route. To avoid a two-hour detour around the Rosengarten range, we chose the shorter but steeper route over the Coronnelle Pass. Immediately above the hut was a 20-meter section where we had to climb hand over foot, using metal cables and footholds fixed in the rock. It reminded me of my first Via Ferrata in South Tyrol, but this time we had no helmet, harness, or karabiners to secure us.

After the initial section, the path became slightly more secure, winding upwards through a rocky landscape. Ahead, there seemed to be only a vertical rock face, which I hoped we wouldn’t need to climb. A turn in the path revealed a break through to the top, secured by wooden logs, metal cables, and toe holds. After an hour of climbing, we emerged at the top of the pass, greeted by a panoramic view of valleys and peaks.

We rested for a while, enjoying an eagle’s eye view of our next stop, Rifugio Vaiolet. Although it looked close, it took another hour and a half of navigating narrow paths and slippery shale to reach it. Once there, we settled on the sunny terrace for a cool lemon soda.

From the terrace, we saw what looked like a line of ants—people coming up from the valley, likely dropped off by bus or cable car. As we continued our hike above the refuge, the path broadened, and we walked through a craggy, grey, and barren lunar landscape with only small patches of grass. The rocky peaks around us had a pink hue that would turn even rosier when lit by the setting sun. The name Rosengarten comes from the rose garden owned, according to legend, by King Laurin, the dwarf king who ruled this quartz kingdom.

I wondered which direction we would follow next, as all I could see was a narrow trail high above us leading towards another pass. We saw a flag on the rock above and turned the path to see the refuge of Grasleitenpasse hanging on the side of the mountain. We gratefully shrugged off our rucksacks and settled on the wooden benches for lunch, although the air was cool at this altitude.

Despite the remote location, the food was excellent. I ordered a hearty bowl of vegetable soup, while my friend Julia enjoyed cheesy polenta with ham and rocket salad. A helicopter circled overhead and flew into the next valley, making me wonder if it was sent to rescue someone. Some remote refuges in the Dolomites can only be reached by walking or by helicopter for supplies and emergencies.

From the Rifugio, the path continued downhill into a bowl in the mountains filled with rock and no vegetation. The scree was very slippery, and we had to be careful not to dislodge rocks onto walkers coming up the slope. Down the side of the mountains were rivers of scree left by rockfalls and jagged peaks above the moraine, where a glacier must have passed through millions of years ago.

From the bowl in the mountains, we reached an opening where we could glimpse the green valley ahead. The path wound along the side of the mountain, with a stream rushing between grey rocks colored by patches of sulfur-yellow lichen. Before long, we spotted our next refuge below us, a large yellow building set at the head of the valley with a few cute goats grazing nearby.

We received a friendly welcome at Rifugio Bergamo, which had served as a base for gentleman mountaineers in the last century. The dining room was atmospheric, with wooden paneling and old climbing photographs. We had a cute room of our own with wooden beds and check duvets. Before supper, we sat on the terrace, basking in the last of the evening sun with a beer among boxes of bright red geraniums, and glimpsed the valley where we would head the next day.

In my next article, I’ll write about our walk to the next hut along a grassy plateau and our precipitous descent to the valley for a welcome return to the lovely Hotel Cyprianerhof. If you have any questions about hiking in the Dolomites, please leave them in the comments for me to answer.

What are the most (and least) reliable airlines for American travelers right now? A new report from aviation analytics company Cirium reveals the details!
There’s nothing worse than a delayed flight. Just a couple of weeks ago, I experienced a 4-hour flight delay that would have thrown a major wrench in my travel plans if the flight ended up being canceled. Fortunately, it wasn’t canceled, and it did end up leaving, but it was a tense few hours nonetheless.
So how can you avoid delays? Booking with a more reliable airline is one of the ways you can minimize your risk of flight delays and cancellations. These are the most reliable U.S. airlines right now, based on data from May 2024.
1. Delta Air Lines
Delta remains the most reliable airline in the United States, with an on-time arrival rate of 81.04%. This is actually a pretty big drop compared to the previous month, but there were more delays all around in May which impacted Delta’s on-time arrival rate. Still, Delta is your best choice for arriving on time out of all other U.S. airlines. I used to travel every single week for work several years ago, and I always flew with Delta so I didn’t have to worry about delays.
2. Alaska Airlines
Next up is Alaska Airlines, with an on-time arrival rate of 79.04%. This Seattle-based airline recently launched numerous new routes to warm and sunny destinations like the Bahamas, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas. If you’re looking for an airline that’s a pretty safe bet when it comes to avoiding flight delays, Alaska Airlines is another solid choice.
3. JetBlue
Dropping a few more percentage flights, we have JetBlue. This airline has a 76.58% on-time arrival rate, which is not as good as the previous two but still more reliable than some of the later entries on this list. On the plus side, JetBlue is one of the more affordable U.S. airlines out there, and it was recently ranked the most punctual budget airline. JetBlue is one of several airlines to launch new nonstop flights to Tulum, Mexico this year.
4. United Airlines
In fourth place we have United Airlines, which has an on-time arrival rate of 75.95%. Although United is not the most reliable airline, at least less than a quarter of their flights are delayed. You can fly to some exotic new destinations on United this year, including new nonstop flights to Marrakech, Medellin, and Shanghai.
5. Spirit Airlines
Despite being one of the two most-disliked airlines in the United States, Spirit Airlines surprisingly isn’t the worst offender when it comes to delays. The airline has a middling on-time arrival rate of 73.52%. It’s not the best, but it’s also not the worst, and with the airline’s ultra-low-cost fares, sometimes it’s worth gambling on a chance of being delayed in order to save some serious money!
What About The Least Reliable Airlines?
So now you know the most reliable airlines, but what about the least reliable airlines? These are the three U.S. airlines where you’re likely to experience the most delays:
Southwest Airlines: Only 70.42% of flights on time
American Airlines: Only 69.64% of flights on time
Frontier Airlines: Only 66.47% of flights on time
In addition to being one of the worst airlines for delays, American Airlines is also the airline most likely to lose your luggage — ouch. And with nearly 15 percentage points separating Delta and Frontier, it’s clear that you’re far more likely to experience delays if you fly with Frontier. It’s no surprise that Frontier is one of the other most-disliked airlines in the U.S., along with Spirit!

Certainly! Here’s the rephrased version of your article to improve its logical flow and readability, using everyday conversational language:

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I’ve always found food to be a wonderful gateway to culture. It lets us taste the traditions, landscapes, and history of the places we visit. During my trips to Canada, I’ve savored some truly delicious Canadian dishes.

In Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, I enjoyed fresh lobster and seafood from the cold Atlantic waters. Cities like Halifax and Victoria offer a melting pot of flavors thanks to their diverse immigrant populations. Canada’s varied landscapes also play a significant role in its cuisine. Quebec’s forests give us maple syrup, Ontario’s farmlands supply fresh produce for farmers’ markets, and Vancouver Island’s mild climate supports wineries and cider orchards. Join me on this food-lover’s journey to discover some of the tastiest Canadian dishes that made me fall in love with Canada.

**Prince Edward Island**

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is Canada’s smallest province, known for its unhurried pace and fresh farm produce. The cold Atlantic waters around PEI are rich in seafood, offering fabulous dishes like grilled scallop and bacon kebabs at the Charlottetown Farmers Market. This market is a great spot to buy directly from passionate farmers, selling everything from miniature turnips to homemade jams.

A visit to Green Gables Heritage Place is a must for fans of “Anne of Green Gables.” The rooms are furnished to look as if Anne and her adoptive parents have just stepped out to visit a neighbor, and you can wander through flower gardens and trails inspired by the book.

For the best seafood in PEI, head to Lobster on the Wharf. Their lobster roll, filled with chunks of lobster, mayo, and crisp lettuce, was voted the best in the region. The waterfront view while enjoying your meal makes it even more special. For fresh oysters, visit Claddagh Oyster House in Charlottetown, where you can compare flavors based on where they were farmed.

Drive along PEI’s coast to explore over 60 lighthouses, many of which are open to the public. After a morning of lighthouse spotting, enjoy a bowl of mussels at 21 Breakwater restaurant. This family-run spot offers a cozy, home-like atmosphere with top-notch seafood.

**Nova Scotia**

Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital, is renowned for its seafood. The Five Fishermen restaurant, once a funeral home for Titanic victims, now serves some of the best oysters, scallops, and lobster in town. For a more relaxed experience, try the Little Fish Oyster bar downstairs.

The Halifax Seaport Farmers Market, established in 1750, offers a wide variety of fresh produce and multicultural food vendors. It’s a great place to sample different cuisines and taste local specialties.

A visit to Peggy’s Cove is a must for its picturesque lighthouse and charming fishing village. At Hall’s Harbour, you can choose your lobster, watch it get steamed, and enjoy it with coleslaw and potato salad. The Look Off offers stunning views of the Annapolis Valley, known for its fertile farmland and vineyards.

**Ontario**

Ontario offers a wide range of cuisine, from Toronto’s cosmopolitan flavors to the homely farm shops in rural areas. In Toronto, enjoy pulled pork buns and craft beers at the Amsterdam Brewhouse. For a taste of the Canadian wilderness, visit Algonquin Provincial Park, known for its wild blueberries and black bears.

In Kingston, the farmer’s market is a highlight, offering fresh fruit perfect for a picnic. Ottawa’s ByWard Market is a bustling hub for food lovers, with numerous vendors selling diverse ethnic flavors. Don’t miss trying a BeaverTail, a sweet pastry unique to the city.

**Quebec**

Quebec’s French influence is evident in its hearty dishes like poutine. In Montreal, explore the Jean-Talon Market for fresh produce and specialty products like ice cider. Enjoy warm-from-the-oven bagels at St-Viateur or Fairmount, and taste the famous smoked meat sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli.

**British Columbia**

Vancouver Island offers a fantastic food scene, especially in Victoria. Enjoy farm-to-table dishes at Aura Restaurant with views of the inner harbor. For casual dining, head to Fisherman’s Wharf for fish and chips or ice cream. The Saanich Peninsula is perfect for a wine tour, offering tastings at family-run wineries like De Vine Vineyards and Church and State winery.

In Nanaimo, try the local specialty, the Nanaimo Bar, a sweet treat with layers of biscuit, custard, and chocolate. The Dinghy Dock Pub offers a fun dining experience accessible by kayak or ferry.

The Cowichan Valley is known for its wineries and cider makers. Visit Unsworth Vineyards for a gourmet meal and wine pairings in a relaxed setting.

Canada’s food scene is a delightful blend of tradition and modernity, influenced by its multicultural population and fresh local ingredients. Whether you’re exploring the seafood of the Atlantic provinces, the farm produce of Ontario, or the multicultural flavors of Quebec and British Columbia, there’s always something delicious to discover.

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I hope this rephrased version meets your needs!

Can you imagine if Cancun went dark for 50 years? Well, that’s exactly what happened to a once-popular Mediterranean resort town. Unless you’ve been completely out of touch, you probably know there are some places you just can’t visit easily. North Korea is one, but did you know there’s a former vacation hotspot that’s been off-limits for decades?
In 1974, Varosha in Northern Cyprus was invaded by Turkish military forces, causing locals and tourists to flee. No one could have predicted that this bustling resort town, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts, would be closed off for 50 years. That’s why it’s big news that Varosha is reopening after such a long time.
This isn’t your typical ghost town. While it’s not unusual for popular vacation spots to make a comeback, like Acapulco, sitting idle for 50 years raises a lot of questions. Recently, Cyprus has become a popular destination for travelers, but many might not know that the island has two sides. The main part of Cyprus is open and welcoming, but the northeastern side is recognized by Turkey as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, while the UN considers it a territory under Turkish occupation. This makes the situation complicated, even with the reopening.
Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the last European capital to be divided by walls, highlighting the complexity of the situation. Northern Cyprus is moving forward with the reopening. Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Unal Ustel announced plans to reopen the entire town of Varosha, despite concerns.
Reopening a town that’s been abandoned for 50 years is no small feat. It’s not like flipping a switch. Safety is a major concern, and the city isn’t fully ready for tourists yet. However, there are reports of $10 billion in funds for a massive makeover. The goal is to transform Varosha into the ‘Las Vegas of the Mediterranean,’ but there’s a long way to go. Right now, it might feel more like the ‘Cuba of the Mediterranean,’ with classic 1970s cars still on display.
If you visit now, you’ll see thousands of empty homes, shops, hotels, entertainment venues, theaters, and banks. Varosha is in the early stages of a comeback, but it’s far from the Mediterranean paradise you might imagine. However, if you’re interested in history, abandoned places, and political complexities, Varosha offers a unique experience. Since 2020, over 1.8 million people have visited for tours, which can be booked for $38 from Famagusta.
So, would you visit Varosha now? It’s a tough question. If you’re looking for a traditional beach vacation, it’s not the place for you. But if you’re intrigued by history and the idea of a city frozen in time, slowly coming back to life, Varosha could be a fascinating destination.

A river cruise is an amazing way to experience the rich history and culture of Europe, waking up each day to explore a new city with its unique stories. Our seven-day journey with Titan River Cruises on the MS Serenade 1 started in Amsterdam, where we wandered along the canals, admired street art, and enjoyed trendy cafes in converted warehouses.

Throughout the week, we cruised through the Netherlands and Belgium, creating memories in Dordrecht’s vintage shops, savoring chocolates in Brussels, cycling around Antwerp, exploring Ghent’s canals, and marveling at Rotterdam’s modern architecture. Although it’s challenging to capture all the highlights of this river cruise in one article, I’ll share the essence of our enriching and diverse Amsterdam River Cruise experience.

### Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
We took an early flight from Bristol to Amsterdam, joined our Titan River Cruise, and left our cases with the welcoming team on the MS Serenade 1. With the ship docked near Central Station and not leaving until the next morning, we had the afternoon to explore Amsterdam Noord. We took a free ferry to NDSM Wharf, a former industrial area now a cultural hotspot with street art and transformed warehouses.

One notable sight was the “Let me be myself” mural of Anne Frank by Kobra. We then visited Pllek, a trendy cafe in an old warehouse overlooking the river, recommended by my niece. After a delicious lunch, we returned via ferry and stopped at the Eye Film Museum, a modern building with free entry to its central auditorium and bar/cafe.

### Day 2: Kinderdijk Windmills
We sailed from Amsterdam to the Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The MS Serenade 1 moored close by, allowing us to walk to the site. We took a boat tour along the canals and past the old windmills, learning about their historical role in water management. We explored the Nederwaard Museum Mill, which showcased how millers and their families lived. The museum visit concluded with a walk along the canal back to the visitor center.

### Day 3: Dordrecht
By lunchtime, we arrived in Dordrecht, a city rich from medieval trade. We explored the picturesque Niewe Haven harbor and Wijnstraat, a street lined with charming old houses and vintage shops. Notable stops included the Groothoofdspoort city gate and the Museum Huis van Gijn, the former home of a wealthy businessman, now a museum showcasing antiques and 19th-century life. We also admired the impressive Grote Kerke.

### Day 4: Brussels
Arriving in Brussels by lunchtime, we took a coach into the city center. Our walking tour included tastings at famous Belgian chocolate shops. We visited the Brussels cathedral, walked through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, and marveled at the Grand Place. Coincidentally, we visited during the Tapis de Fleurs, when the square is covered in a colorful flower carpet.

### Day 5: Antwerp
The next morning, we arrived in Antwerp, exploring the city by bike. We visited the Museum aan der Stroom (MAS) for panoramic views, the Reubens House for its art collection, and the Botanical Garden for a peaceful stroll. Lunch was enjoyed near the Cathedral of Our Lady, followed by a visit to the Paniek Bar and the architecturally stunning Port House by Zaha Hadid.

### Day 6: Ghent
In Ghent, we took a walking tour of the historic center, including Graffiti Alley and the medieval Graslei and Korenlei quaysides. A boat tour provided a unique perspective of the city’s beautiful buildings and landmarks like the Gravensteen Castle. We also climbed the Belfry Tower for city views and enjoyed the local cafes.

### Day 7: Rotterdam
Our final stop was Rotterdam, known for its modern architecture. We revisited the Cube Houses, explored the Market Hall, and enjoyed lunch at a seafood stall. The SS Rotterdam provided a taste of cruise ship life, and we ended the day with a coffee on the Lido terrace.

### Final Day: Amsterdam
Returning to Amsterdam, we took a coach and canal boat tour, explored the Jordaan District, and visited the Rembrandt House. Our trip concluded with a visit to the botanic garden before heading to the airport.

This seven-night Delights of the Low Countries cruise provided an unforgettable journey through Europe’s cultural and historical treasures. For more information on similar cruises, visit the Titan Travel website.

When you arrive at Calabash Cove in Saint Lucia, the first thing you’ll notice is the stunning Caribbean view, designed to help you unwind and get into vacation mode. The blue hues of the sea and sky are perfectly framed by the reflective floor tiles, creating a seamless transition from the reception area to the turquoise waters. The reception area, designed by owner-manager Konrad Wagner, is open and airy, cooled by sea breezes and offering a perfect view of the sunset.

Calabash Cove is situated on the northwest coast of Saint Lucia, known for its beautiful beaches with sandy coves and clear, calm waters. The resort offers both all-inclusive and breakfast-only packages and is an adult-only destination, making it ideal for couples seeking a peaceful retreat.

This boutique resort features just 26 spacious suites and cottages, ensuring it never feels crowded. The lush gardens surrounding the cottages and Manor House create a serene atmosphere, leading down to the infinity pool and beach. Popular with couples and honeymooners, Calabash Cove is the perfect place to relax.

Our stay in a Water’s Edge Cottage was luxurious. We had a separate bedroom, living room, outdoor sitting area, and a plunge pool, all overlooking the ocean. The cottage, designed in a Balinese style, felt private despite being attached to another cottage. The outdoor area included day beds, a table and chairs, and a hammock, perfect for lazy afternoons. The bathroom featured a large jacuzzi and an indoor/outdoor rainforest shower, practical for rinsing off after the beach.

The traditional mahogany cottage had Caribbean-style fretwork, allowing breezes to flow through while keeping insects out. The four-poster bed had a mosquito net, and the bedroom had air conditioning, ensuring comfort in the Caribbean heat. The decor was traditional Caribbean, with dark wood furniture and bright tropical accents.

The beach at Bonaire Bay is secluded, accessible mainly by boat, making it a private spot to relax and swim. The hotel provides sunbeds under shady canopies or on the grassy lawn behind the beach. A wooden boardwalk at one end of the beach is perfect for private dining, offering a romantic setting for sunset dinners or drinks. Complimentary kayaks and paddleboards are available for guests to explore nearby coves.

The Sweetwaters pool at Calabash Cove is a beautiful place to relax, with a swim-up bar serving cocktails and an outdoor terrace for poolside snacks. The C-Bar offers comfortable seating and stunning sunset views, with staff ready to mix your favorite cocktails.

Calabash Cove’s all-inclusive package includes top-class dining at the Windsong Restaurant, room service, lunch, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. The package also covers gratuities and airport transfers for stays of seven nights or more. The resort also offers a breakfast-only rate for those who prefer to explore the island.

Breakfast at the Windsong Restaurant includes a variety of options, from continental items to cooked dishes. The Lavazza coffee machine in our cottage was a nice touch, providing excellent coffee.

The Windsong Restaurant is known for its excellent food, with a menu that includes international dishes with Caribbean and Asian influences. Fresh, locally caught fish is a highlight, with dishes like the Saint Lucian seafood pot au feu and Cocoa rubbed yellowfin tuna.

One of the highlights of our stay was a private dinner at the water’s edge to celebrate a birthday. The meal, served by a personal butler, included rum cocktails, bubbly, and a dessert plate with a birthday candle, making it a memorable experience.

Calabash Cove offers various accommodation options, including luxurious suites with ocean views and direct pool access. The Ti Spa provides treatments using fresh local ingredients, and the Cove Gardens are a paradise of tropical plants and native birds.

The service at Calabash Cove is friendly and professional, reflecting the hospitality experience of owner Konrad Wagner. The staff genuinely want guests to have a great time, creating a welcoming but understated atmosphere.

Saint Lucia is known as the “Honeymoon Island,” and Calabash Cove is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. The resort offers honeymoon packages and wedding planning services, ensuring a memorable stay.

Sustainability is a priority at Calabash Cove, with various initiatives to reduce environmental impact. The resort is located on the northwest coast, a beautiful and unspoiled area. The airport is about 1.5 hours away, and the hotel can arrange transfers.

Nearby attractions include Rodney Bay, Gros Islet, Pigeon Island, Rainforest Adventures, and Castries Market. These offer a range of activities, from shopping and dining to exploring historical sites and natural beauty.

Calabash Cove is a romantic boutique resort, perfect for couples looking for a relaxing and intimate stay in Saint Lucia.

Visitor numbers to Mexico are skyrocketing, especially in resort towns like Cancun. But there’s also a significant increase in travelers driving across the U.S.-Mexico border. In April alone, over 1.3 million people entered Mexico from the U.S. by car or on foot, a 19.7% increase from the previous year.
Tijuana, the most popular border destination in Mexico and the most crossed border city in the world, is worth exploring. With 1.2 million residents, Tijuana is one of the largest cities in northwestern Mexico. Despite its gritty reputation and crime rate, tourists are rarely targeted, and the city embraces tourism.
Tijuana offers a rich cultural experience, especially for those living close to the border who want to visit Mexico without flying. Stroll along Avenida Revolucion, the city’s vibrant main street, and visit the Tijuana Cultural Center, which attracts over a million visitors annually with its fascinating exhibits on the region’s history. Playas de Tijuana, the city’s most popular beach, features a lively boardwalk and a culturally significant border wall. For local produce and handicrafts, check out the El Popo Market, Tijuana’s largest and most well-known market.
Tijuana is also famous for its delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine. While the city is known for its lively bars and nightclubs, the food truly stands out. Zona Río, the upscale commercial center along the river, is home to trendy, fashionable eateries. For traditional cuisine, visit Mole Poblano House, where you’ll find fun, colorful decor, live music, and mouth-watering dishes like epic enchiladas.
Accommodation in Tijuana is very affordable. The Grand Hotel Tijuana offers upscale amenities like a spa, rooftop pool, and fine dining, with rooms starting at $110 per night. The Quartz Hotel and Spa features modern, minimalist interiors and an excellent in-house spa, with rooms offering stunning city views starting at $160 per night. For budget travelers, the 3-star Hotel Ceasars provides comfortable accommodations in great locations for as little as $75 per night.
Safety is a common concern for travelers to Mexican destinations. The U.S. government advises its citizens to reconsider travel to Tijuana due to crime and kidnapping risks. If you drive to Tijuana, stick to main highways and avoid remote areas. Stay alert and exercise the same safety precautions you would in any foreign country. If you fly to Tijuana, note that Phoenix is the only U.S. city with a direct connection.
Despite its low safety rating, Tijuana has a robust tourism industry, and tourists are welcomed. Stay in main tourist areas and avoid dangerous neighborhoods like Reforma, Sánchez Taboada, Camino Verde, and Mariano Matamoros for an enjoyable vacation. Additional safety tips include informing someone of your travel plans, registering with the U.S. Department of State’s Traveler Registration Program, being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

Traveling to Asia can be an unforgettable adventure. Some destinations are perfect for first-time international travelers, while others offer a sensory overload with their stunning sights, unique cultural norms, and delicious food. With summer here, it’s the ideal time to use your PTO for a long-haul flight to one of the most captivating continents on Earth. But with so many amazing places to explore in Asia, how do you choose just one?
According to recent statistics, more and more Americans are visiting South Korea, and for good reason. This country boasts a fascinating culture and mouthwatering cuisine, making it a favorite among travelers.
### A Trending Foodie Destination
Next time you’re driving around your hometown, take a look around. Chances are, you’ll spot a Korean restaurant, which wasn’t always the case. Korean Barbecue, Hot Pots, Bibimbap Bowls, and even Korean-style fried chicken are incredibly popular now. It’s not just about classic Chinese takeout or inauthentic sushi anymore. Korean food is so flavorful and savory that it’s no wonder people are traveling across the globe for a foodie adventure.
In major cities like Seoul, dining out is a social event. Kimchi is a staple, but when you go out for barbecue or hot pots, it’s all about gathering with friends and having fun. Whether you’re checking out the latest restaurant trending on TikTok or exploring the bustling streets for cheap eats, South Korea is one of the best places in Asia to enjoy trendy cuisine. And who knows, a little soju and sake might have you singing the latest K-Pop hits at a karaoke bar, one of the most popular social activities in the country.
### One of the Most Fascinating Cultures in Asia
Most travelers to South Korea find themselves in Seoul, the vibrant capital city with nearly 10 million residents. This bustling metropolis is a playground for those who love delicious food, historic sites, and lively markets. While many cities have an ‘Old Town’ area, Seoul stands out as a major metropolis with cutting-edge technology and futuristic amenities. Though you won’t find hotels with robotic dinosaurs like in Tokyo, Seoul’s bright neon lights, high-speed metro system, and plans to go green make it a fascinating place to explore.
Tourists will find a mix of old and new, from traditional markets and Buddhist temples to the latest gadgets at tech shows and eSport matches. Seoul is also great for budget travelers, with many free attractions, including the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Museum of History, War Memorial, and National History Museum.
### South Korea and the Digital Nomad Craze
South Korea is embracing the digital nomad trend, offering nearly 25,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots across the country. The new Digital Nomad Visa, launched earlier this year, is enticing but harder to qualify for compared to other countries like Colombia. While not all American visitors are digital nomads, a trip to South Korea might inspire you to apply for a long-term stay.
Seoul is an amazing place to visit, but don’t miss out on other gems like Busan, a large city with thrills, history, and beautiful beaches. For an exotic escape, Jeju Island, known as the “Hawaii of South Korea,” offers stunning beaches, scenic mountains, and lush forests, perfect for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of Busan and Seoul.

I’m currently on holiday with my family in San Antonio, Texas, and I wanted to share what we’ve been up to.

The main attraction here is the Alamo, which is the remains of one of the Spanish Missions in the area. Although it’s smaller than many expect, it’s hugely significant in Texan history. It’s where 200 Texans made a stand against the Mexican army and were all killed. This defeat inspired the Texans to rally with the cry “Remember the Alamo,” leading to their victory at the Battle of San Jacinto and Texas gaining independence from Mexico.

After spending the morning at the Alamo, we rented bikes from Seg City, located behind the San Antonio Visitor’s Information Center. We cycled along the river path, known as Mission Reach, which is an extension of the River Walk. The ride was mostly along the river, with only a short stretch on busy roads. Unfortunately, we didn’t use suncream and got sunburned.

We reached the San Jose Mission, a beautiful old mission with a stone-fronted church under restoration. Due to time constraints and the kids’ limited interest in old churches, we skipped the other missions and cycled back, stopping at the Blue Star Brewing Company for refreshments.

The next day, we visited Picosa Ranch Resort, the former home of Governor John Connally, now a luxury ranch offering activities like hunting, fly fishing, shooting, horseback riding, and hay bale rides. The guest accommodation was ultra-luxurious Texan style. We learned about the family history from Governor Connally’s grandson, Bubba Ammann, who shared stories about his grandparents being in the car with President John F. Kennedy when he was assassinated. We even saw the stetson hat meant for JFK and the invitation to the ball that evening.

We returned to our lovely Hotel Valencia in San Antonio, located by the Riverwalk. The hotel has a Hacienda feel outside and a modern boutique style inside, with leather and dark wood. Its central location made it easy to walk to most attractions in San Antonio.

I took many photos, videos, and audio recordings, so I’ll provide a more detailed account once I get home. Next, we’re driving north to Austin, Texas, from where I’ll send another update.