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I love the Mezze style of meal because it lets you sample a variety of dishes instead of envying your friend’s order. Sharing food, passing it around, and enjoying a leisurely meal while chatting is something I really enjoy.

There’s the smooth hummus made from chickpeas, garlic, and tahini, the creamy aubergine puree called Moutabal, and the tabbouleh salad with bulgar wheat, parsley, and lemon. Then there are the little spicy sausages, flaky pastry fingers filled with salty cheese, and the Labbneh yogurt dip with lemon and mint. I enjoyed all these during my travels in Lebanon.

However, after a while, the Mezze started to feel a bit repetitive. Let me explain. Eating in a Lebanese home offers a diverse range of dishes and flavors, but in a typical local restaurant, the main offerings are Mezze, followed by various grilled meats, simply cooked fresh fish, and fruit for dessert.

Grilled dishes are nice, and the fish was delicious but often expensive. So, for a light lunch, we usually ended up with Mezze every day. I realized that whether you pay top prices in a city restaurant or go for a budget-friendly backstreet café, the Mezze is almost always good and fresh because it’s such a staple.

Let me share a couple of Mezze memories with you. After visiting Chateau Musar in the hills above Jounieh, the winemaker Tarek recommended a restaurant and even drove us there. It was set on a hill overlooking the sea, with a fantastic view from our table by the window, though slightly marred by a nearby building site. We joked that next time we visited, there would probably be a glitzy apartment block blocking the sea view. After enjoying the usual range of Mezze and some freshly grilled fish, the waiter brought us a huge selection of fresh fruit for dessert, a sort of fruit Mezze, which was wonderful.

My fondest Mezze moment was in the Souk at the coastal town of Sidon. We wandered through narrow streets with old buildings, small shops selling groceries, and street stands with sweet pastries. We spotted a small open café on the corner opposite the mosque, with just a couple of Formica tables. We sat down and pointed to the steaming vat of chickpeas ready to be served. We got our bowl of chickpeas with hummus on top and a drizzle of olive oil and sat down to enjoy our light lunch. Then the owner started bringing us other small dishes to accompany our chickpeas: black olives, fresh green salad, magenta pickled vegetables, and flatbread to scoop it all up. Suddenly, our simple bowl of chickpeas turned into a feast, with a prime view of Lebanese life passing by our table. We saw groups of head-scarfed girls chatting, teenage boys playing with their mobiles, and men streaming out of Friday prayers at the mosque opposite. When the bill came, we paid just a couple of dollars each. I finished off with some cakes from a vendor outside the mosque.

After our mini tour of the country, my friend and I returned to Beirut and headed to the buzzing Downtown area for a meal. By then, we were all Mezze’d out, so we chose a smart Italian restaurant with giant pepper grinders. At the time, I felt I’d had too many Mezzes, but now, after writing this, I’d be quite happy to have just one more Mezze. Wouldn’t you?

While long sightseeing trips might not be everyone’s idea of a perfect summer getaway, some places are just too iconic to miss, even as temperatures rise. Tripadvisor’s latest Travelers Choice Awards reveal that classic European city breaks are still highly sought after. Among the usual popular destinations like Rome, Paris, and London, Florence stands out as an Italian city that deserves more recognition.
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is often known as the cradle of the Renaissance. It’s a treasure trove of history and culture, and experiencing it firsthand is truly awe-inspiring. Let’s explore why this often-overlooked gem should be on your travel bucket list.
**Incredible History with Landmarks to Match**
Florence’s historical charm is unmatched, and its architecture is breathtaking. If you haven’t been to Florence, start with the must-see sights. A visit to the Duomo, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is essential. Designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, this architectural masterpiece offers stunning views of the city and the Tuscan countryside, provided you’re willing to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome.
Other must-visit spots include The Uffizi Gallery, home to The Birth of Venus, the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, where you can see Michelangelo’s David, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Pitti Palace, and Boboli Gardens. While this itinerary is impressive, it can also be exhausting. Fortunately, there are plenty of great places to recharge.
**Amazing Food, Too**
Florence’s food scene is incredible, thanks to its Tuscan influences. The dishes are simple, like steaks, pizzas, soups, and sandwiches, but the freshness of the ingredients and the combination of flavors elevate them to the next level. Try Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a hearty bowl of Ribollita, or a lovingly-made Schiacciata to see for yourself. And don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Chianti and finish with some gelato.
**Affordable Travel**
One of the best things about Florence, and Italy in general, is that your trip can be as budget-friendly or as luxurious as you want. While there are 5-star hotels and fine dining options, you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy Florence’s culture and history. The most expensive major attraction, the Uffizi Gallery, costs just under $30, and many other sights are under $15 or free. Hotels can be found for under $100 a night, and public transportation is efficient and affordable. A monthly pass for unlimited travel costs less than $40.
**Convenient Train Travel**
Italy has one of the best train systems in Europe, and Florence is a great hub for exploring other major Italian cities. You can reach Rome in 1.5 hours, Milan and Venice in 2 hours, and Naples in 3 hours. Check the official Trenitalia website for more information.
In summary, Florence is a city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights, all while being budget-friendly and conveniently located. It’s a must-visit destination that deserves a spot on your travel list.

The Great Ocean Road in Victoria is one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal drives. This Australian National Heritage site attracts visitors from all over, and it’s easy to see why. The road stretches for 243 kilometers, carved into the cliff face, with stunning views of crashing waves and towering rock formations.

Most travelers start their journey in Melbourne, Victoria’s capital. When planning a long trip, comfort is crucial, and cars like the Honda CR-V offer extra legroom. Alternatively, a jeep is a reliable choice, especially if you plan to venture off the main roads.

The Great Ocean Road officially runs between Torquay and Warrnambool. A good route is to start at Warrnambool, the furthest point from Melbourne, and work your way back. On the way to Warrnambool, you can stop at the Grampians National Park for some beautiful mountain hikes.

The road features several rock formations that make perfect stops for taking in the scenery and snapping photos. The Twelve Apostles are the most famous, though only eight remain due to erosion. These limestone stacks are located near Port Campbell National Park, about halfway along the road. You can view them from a platform or take a helicopter ride for a different perspective.

Apollo Bay is a charming seaside town along the route, ideal for a break. Enjoy fish and chips on the beach and explore the local shops. Keep an eye out for wild koalas in the treetops around Apollo Bay and the Great Ocean Road.

From Apollo Bay, you can explore the Otway Ranges, perfect for walking enthusiasts. The area offers fresh air, rainforest treks, and stunning waterfalls just inland from the road. The Otway Fly Tree Top Walk, the longest and tallest walkway in the world, provides beautiful views from the rainforest canopy.

Torquay marks the end of the Great Ocean Road. It’s famous for surfing, with Bells Beach hosting the International Surfing Championships.

On your way back to Melbourne, consider stopping at Phillip Island to see the tiny fairy penguins or visiting the vineyards of the Yarra Valley.

You can drive the Great Ocean Road as quickly or slowly as you like. The highlights can be seen in a day, but if you have more time, there are plenty of peaceful seaside towns to explore and relax in.

I want to share what I packed for my 3-day hike above Chamonix on the Tour de Mont Blanc Path. Packing light but smart is crucial, especially if you’re doing the full 11-day TMB circuit.

Even though we only hiked for 3 days, I wouldn’t pack much more for the full Tour de Mont Blanc. However, there are a few extra items I’d consider if I went again. You need to be prepared for all kinds of weather, from snow on high passes to sunshine and blue skies, and definitely some rain. The key is to pack for every possibility.

During my stay at Refuge Bellachat, I met a French lady who had camped in a snowstorm in July on a previous Tour de Mont Blanc. This stretch of the TMB is popular and accessible via cable cars and chair lifts, but other parts can be more remote. My packing list is based on my 3-day experience, but I recommend consulting guidebooks and other TMB resources for personalized packing needs.

For clothing, I took a set for walking each day and a set for the refuge. After a hot and sweaty day of walking, it’s refreshing to shower and change into clean clothes. Most people wear technical walking clothing, like trousers with plenty of pockets and zip-off legs, and sports t-shirts that dry quickly. I also packed clean underwear and t-shirts for each day, but you could minimize this by washing clothes at the refuges each night.

A good, light waterproof jacket and waterproof leggings are essential for rain, or you might prefer a poncho that covers your rucksack. Alternatively, a rucksack cover works, but I used plastic bags inside my rucksack to keep everything dry. Good hiking socks and comfortable boots are crucial for foot care on long walks. In sunny weather, a sunhat is a must to avoid sunstroke. I also packed a swimsuit for potential lake dips, though I preferred sunbathing over swimming in ice-cold water.

At most refuges, you’ll be asked to remove your walking boots at the door and will be lent slippers. If you’re particular, bring light plastic flip-flops. I brought pajamas but didn’t use them due to communal sleeping arrangements and cold nights, so I slept in my refuge clothes.

For toiletries, bring small, light items and consider multi-purpose products like soap/shampoo or creams. A light technical towel that dries quickly and a sheet sleeping bag are necessary since refuges provide only blankets and a pillow. If you’re cutting down on clothes, wash out t-shirts and underwear upon arrival, choosing items that dry quickly.

I used a 35-liter rucksack, which was the perfect size and encouraged me to pack light. It had plenty of zip compartments and outside pouches for water, maps, and snacks. I packed everything inside plastic bags to keep it dry and had a few spare bags.

Walking poles were indispensable for reducing strain on knees and legs. We rented them locally for €5 per pair per day, which was economical for a short walk. For longer trips, buying a set starting at €35 might be better. I recommend booking the same hotel for the start and finish to leave extra luggage. I traveled with a carry-on case with the empty rucksack inside and left the case at Hotel Slalom in Les Houches.

For safety, I packed a compass, whistle, silver safety blanket, and a pocket map, though I mainly used the Cicerone Tour of Mont Blanc Guide by Kev Reynolds. A mini medical kit with headache and diarrhea pills, plasters, and other minor ailment remedies is also essential. You’ll meet plenty of other walkers on the trail, so help is usually available if needed. Ensure your travel insurance covers mountain rescue in emergencies, as helicopter rescues are expensive.

Refuges on the trail typically charge €40-50 per night, including breakfast and dinner, which is usually home-style cooking. During the day, you might pass cafes or refuges open for skiers in winter and walkers in summer, but don’t count on it. Cafes are expensive due to high altitude logistics, with drinks and snacks costing €3-6. We kept costs down by carrying snacks like cheese slices, dried fruit, nuts, rye bread, and biscuits for picnic lunches. Boiled sweets were great for an energy boost on tough uphill stretches. Carry plenty of water; we had three half-liter bottles each and could easily top up on our popular stretch, but some hikers carry several liters, adding to the pack’s weight.

As a travel blogger, I carried more gear, including my laptop, which I used with the free Wi-Fi at Hotel Slalom and left in their office until our return. I walked with an audio recorder in my pack and kept my camera and video recorder handy for capturing the stunning mountain views. It’s worth taking photos to create a photo diary of your trip.

Keep cameras or video cameras in a case on your belt or sling around your body for easy access. Mobile phone reception was good, and you may need to ring ahead to book the next refuge, often only contactable by phone.

An extra fleece or long-sleeved t-shirt for the evenings would have been useful, as it gets very cold at high altitudes. I didn’t worry about a warm hat or gloves due to the good weather forecast, but they could be necessary for snow on high passes.

We used the Cicerone Tour of Mont Blanc guide by Kev Reynolds, which was excellent for both clockwise and anti-clockwise routes, with detailed route guides, maps, accommodation information, and points of interest.

We stayed at Refuges de Bellachat and la Flegere above Chamonix. Bookings for Refuge de Bellachat can be made by phone (04 50 53 43 23) and cost €40 for dinner, bed, and breakfast. Refuge la Flégère cost €47 per person for dinner, bed, and breakfast, bookable by email ([email protected]) or phone (04 50 55 85 88). To avoid disappointment, book your place in all refuges a day or two in advance or from the previous refuge.

In the Chamonix valley, we stayed at the modern, stylish, budget boutique Hotel Slalom in Les Houches, perfectly placed for summer walking and close to ski lifts for winter skiing. Double rooms in the summer season cost €86-99 plus €10 for breakfast.

We booked our transfer from Geneva airport to Les Houches through Chamexpress, which provided an efficient airport-to-hotel service for €25 + tax per person each way.

The walkingthetmb website offers useful information for planning and preparing for your Tour de Mont Blanc walk, including a packing list and links to other people’s photographs and online diaries for inspiration.

Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province, is known for its sandy beaches, shallow bays, and rolling farmlands. The island’s cold Atlantic waters and rich, red soil provide a bounty of fresh produce and seafood. The food culture here is relaxed and authentic, featuring a mix of lobster suppers, farmers markets, craft beer, and seasonal produce.

PEI is renowned for its high-quality produce from both land and sea, attracting even the most sophisticated foodies. Celebrity chefs like Michael Smith have helped spread the island’s culinary reputation internationally.

During our stay in Charlottetown, the island’s capital, we explored the diverse food scene. PEI is one of Canada’s leading seafood producers, offering the freshest lobsters, mussels, oysters, and clams. The cold Atlantic waters create an ideal environment for seafood, with regulated fishing ensuring sustainability.

Lobster suppers, a tradition originating from church fundraisers, are now a staple in many island restaurants. We enjoyed a lobster roll at Lobster on the Wharf in Charlottetown, where large chunks of lobster are served with crisp lettuce and mayo in a soft roll. The island’s restaurants compete for the title of the best lobster roll, and with a view of the harbor, ours was a strong contender.

Oysters from PEI, particularly the Malpeque variety, are famous for their unique flavors, influenced by their farming locations. The oyster season runs from May to November, and you can enjoy them raw or cooked. We sampled different varieties at Claddagh Oyster House in Charlottetown.

PEI mussels, another local delicacy, are available year-round. They are farmed in mesh socks suspended in shallow bays, allowing the sea water to wash around them. We savored a bowl of mussels at 21 Breakwater in Souris, served with country bread and a creamy sauce.

Clam digging is a popular activity on PEI, and visitors can try it through organized experiences. Fresh clams are available from seafood farms, and a traditional way to enjoy them is a clam bake on the beach.

Moving inland, PEI’s rich soil is perfect for dairy production. COWS Ice Cream, originating from Cavendish, is a beloved local treat with quirky flavor names like Cowconut Cream Pie and Cownadian Maple. The creamery also produces cheese, and you can find other local cheeses like Glasgow Glen Farm Gouda at farmers markets.

The Charlottetown Farmer’s Market is a must-visit for fresh, local produce. Open year-round on Saturdays, it features seasonal vegetables, homemade jellies, jams, and snacks. The market embodies the island’s ethos of “Eat Fresh! Buy Local!”

PEI potatoes, grown in the island’s well-drained, sandy soil, are celebrated and even have their own museum. The Chip Shack in Charlottetown serves delicious hand-cut chips made from local potatoes, double-fried for extra crunch.

Local greens, like kale, are creatively used in salads and dishes across the island. We enjoyed a kale salad with beets, goat cheese, and caramelized pecans at Terre Rouge (now Terra Rossa) in Charlottetown.

For a deeper dive into PEI’s food culture, consider a food tour. We joined Experience PEI’s Taste the Town tour, which included various food and drink stops and insights into the island’s history. The Culinary Institute Boot Camps offer hands-on cooking experiences with local chefs.

Charlottetown’s Victoria Row is a hub for dining, with restaurants spilling out onto the sidewalk in the summer. We dined at Terre Rouge and sampled seafood at Merchant Man Fresh Seafood and Oyster Bar. For a sweet treat, Anne of Green Gables Chocolates offers traditional chocolates and truffles.

Outside Charlottetown, we discovered excellent dining spots like The Dunes Gallery, which features a restaurant overlooking a garden of sculptures, and Dalvay by the Sea, a historic hotel with an upscale dining room.

PEI also has a vibrant craft beer scene. The Gahan House in Charlottetown brews its own beers, and there are many other breweries and cider makers around the island. Wine lovers can visit local wineries for tours and tastings.

The island hosts several food festivals, including the Fall Flavours PEI, PEI Shellfish Festival, Tyne Valley Oyster Festival, Summerside Lobster Carnival, and PEI Festival of Wines. These events celebrate the island’s culinary heritage with various activities and competitions.

We stayed at The Great George Hotel in Charlottetown, a historic boutique hotel with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its central location made it an ideal base for exploring the island.

For more information on planning your trip, visit the Tourism Prince Edward Island website.

I’ve always enjoyed my holidays in Austria, but during my Danube river cruise with Avalon Waterways, I truly fell in love with Vienna. The rich architecture and culture of Austria’s capital, once the heart of the Habsburg empire, captivated me. I spent time in the elegant Viennese coffee shops and explored vibrant markets selling everything from flowers to attic-found antiques.

Our river cruise continued along the Danube, stopping at charming villages like Durnstein and Grein, with its 18th-century theatre and hilltop castle. In Melk, we visited the magnificent baroque abbey before ending our mini-cruise in Linz, Austria’s former European city of culture. The scenery and places we visited were fascinating, but the experience on board the Avalon Visionary was equally enjoyable.

I stayed in a comfortable Panorama Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows that slid back to create an open-air balcony with a private river view. Sometimes, at popular destinations, another boat would be moored side by side, so I had to remember to close the curtains before changing for dinner. I loved the early morning views when the boat traveled overnight, waking up to see the sun burning off the river mist and pretty houses passing by before we moored in time for breakfast. The mattress was super comfortable, and I could lie in bed looking out of the window or sit on the small sofa with a drink, watching the world drift by.

My stateroom was decorated in a burnt orange scheme with dark wood furniture and plenty of mirrors over the desk and inside the wardrobe. Although burnt orange isn’t my favorite color, the overall effect was modern and sophisticated. I loved my bathroom with its mottled brown marble surface and large bottles of my favorite l’Occitane toiletries. The spacious shower enclosure had a powerful shower that was a pleasure to use. Thoughtful touches like different colored towels to avoid mix-ups with my partner and the cheerful housekeeping staff keeping everything clean added to the experience.

One thing I dislike is seeing a menu so international that you wouldn’t know which country you’re in. Not so on an Avalon cruise, where they design menus reflecting the local cuisine, with dishes to suit all tastes. In Austria, we could have Wiener Schnitzel and Spätzle for lunch, and I tried a dessert of Kaiserschmarrn, made of sweet pancakes with a compote of local plums. The wine choices at dinner included local wines, and I enjoyed a delicious white Grüner Veltliner Domäne Wachau from the Wachau Valley we were passing through.

Avalon takes the concept of ‘Eat Local’ further with their Avalon Fresh concept, emphasizing healthy cuisine that reflects and gives back to local communities. They source ingredients from local food suppliers where possible. To develop healthy menu options, Avalon has worked with Austrian chefs Leo and Karl Wrenkh, whose cookery school we visited, to create a choice of vegetarian dishes.

At the cookery school, we had fun cooking a range of simple but delicious dishes with head chef Leo Wrenkh, including fish and meat dishes, although the Wrenkh brothers are known for their inventive vegetarian cuisine. We chopped veggies, sizzled steak, pan-fried fish and lemon slices, sprinkled herbs, stirred risotto tirelessly, and were finally rewarded with a lunch of all the different dishes we had prepared. The food was tasty, and we were all happy to take credit for our efforts, guided by Leo’s expert hand.

Many travelers today want to maintain a healthy lifestyle balance while on holiday, rather than ending their cruise feeling overindulged. On my Danube cruise, I tried some of the new Active Discovery excursions like canoeing and cycling, which were fun and a great way to bond with other guests. Cycling in a group, we took the path by the river through pretty villages and vineyards until the impressive monastery at Melk came into view. After cycling 30km from Durnstein to Melk, I was really looking forward to dinner and felt I deserved every mouthful!

I also tried a canoe excursion from Durnstein, where we were taken upriver and then canoed back to the ship, enjoying beautiful river views of the castle on the cliff and the picturesque village. Any fears of getting wet in an unstable canoe were dispelled as the two canoes were put together with boards to create a stable arrangement for six people, allowing us to chat and have fun together. Our canoe guide accompanied us on a paddleboard and took us to a viewpoint opposite Durnstein to enjoy the views from the opposite bank. There is a small gym on board the ship, but I prefer incorporating exercise into the trip through activities like walking and cycling, which allow me to see more of the places I’m visiting.

One of the joys of river cruising is the opportunity to see new places and discover their stories. Unlike sea cruises, where there is plenty of onboard entertainment, on a river cruise, the entertainment is found in the places you visit. Travel experiences that allow you to meet locals and uncover their customs and traditions are very popular, and Avalon increasingly offers excursions that go beyond the typical walking tour. One of my favorites was a bread-making class where we became bakers for the morning, mixing dough, allowing it to rest (time for a cup of coffee!), then plaiting and pinching it into traditional Viennese rolls sprinkled with poppy and pumpkin seeds. The rolls were baked and we proudly brought them back to the ship, where they were served to fellow guests for lunch. Other guests on my cruise tried their hand at conducting an orchestra and even learned to waltz in the lovely Eschenbach Palace in Vienna, where we later enjoyed a concert with opera, ballet, and the music of Strauss and Mozart.

There was a lovely atmosphere on board, starting with the helpful and good-humored attitude of the staff. Among the guests, there was a happy holiday mood with plenty of opportunities to make new friends and chat about the day’s activities. The dress code was relaxed, and although most guests dressed up a little for dinner, there was no need to pack an evening gown or tuxedo. In the dining room, there was a free seating arrangement, allowing you to sit with whoever you wished at each meal. At different meals, you might sit with your own friends or with other guests who soon became your new best friends. The excursions were also a good way of meeting people, as we bonded over dough kneading in a bread-making class or shared a canoe to paddle down the Danube.

When booking any cruise, it’s important to check what’s included in the price, as extras can add up. With Avalon, you get a lot included in the price, and you could probably get away with paying hardly anything above the holiday price if you wanted to. Here’s what’s included:

– Accommodation in a Panorama Suite
– All meals on board
– Wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
– Daily excursions and sightseeing tours
– Onboard entertainment and activities
– Use of bicycles and fitness equipment

So what extras will you need to budget for? The main extras are:

– Optional excursions
– Drinks outside of meal times
– Gratuities for the crew
– Personal expenses

That’s not a huge amount of extras, and depending on how you like to spend your cruise, you could get away without spending much above the holiday price. The item that would probably add most to your bill is the special excursions, which on my cruise ranged from around €50-60 per person for a half-day or around €70 for a full-day excursion.

As part of the Avalon service, you get picked up from home (within a 100-mile radius) and transported to and from the airport, meaning the holiday starts when you step out of your front door. My return flight from Salzburg arrived in the evening, and it was a real treat to know I would be met at the airport and taken back home, so I could get back the same evening without worrying about public transport or staying somewhere overnight. This meant I could be at my desk the following day as normal and not lose a working day. The service is individual to you, so you won’t have to share with other passengers or be delayed while they are dropped off.

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to recommend an Avalon river cruise, and the Danube cruise is a great choice if you are new to river cruising, as there are so many beautiful places to visit along the river. Most of the guests on my Danube cruise were couples and groups of friends aged 50+, with quite a few around their 70s, and the cruise caters well for the active mature traveler. An Avalon river cruise will appeal to those who want to travel in comfort and luxury, enjoying a rich cultural experience with plenty of opportunities to stay active on their holiday.

My recent trip to Marrakech brought back delicious memories of last year’s family vacation in Morocco, where we stayed in Taghazout, the surf capital of the country. We spent a week in an apartment overlooking the ocean, with the kids trying to surf and me relaxing in the many little cafes along the seafront, enjoying refreshing orange juice or sweet mint tea.

We visited around Easter, a perfect time since Morocco is warm and sunny in spring. With airlines like Monarch offering cheap flights to Agadir, there’s no reason not to go. Here are some of the delightful food experiences from our trip to Taghazout and Agadir:

Due to Morocco’s history as a French protectorate, you can easily find freshly baked baguettes alongside traditional Moroccan flatbread for breakfast. We enjoyed these with Amlou, a dip made from ground almonds, argan oil, and local honey, which was so addictive that we brought a jar home. We even visited an argan oil cooperative to see how the oil is made, used both in cooking and in skin and hair products.

For lunch, we often had Moroccan salad, a common dish in cafes and restaurants, made from garden vegetables like tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, and red onion, tossed in vinaigrette and served with French bread. Alcohol isn’t typically served in Morocco, except in places catering to Europeans, so we drank lots of freshly pressed orange juice. Markets are full of oranges ready to be juiced, and we found juice bars offering interesting combinations like carrot, beetroot, and ginger.

Chickpeas were a staple in many dishes, made into hummus or used in salads with tomatoes, black olives, and goat cheese, or cooked in tagines instead of meat. Couscous, another North African staple, is steamed and served with oven-cooked vegetables and sometimes meat or chickpeas. We had couscous in various forms, from elegant French-style at L’Auberge to a home-cooked version after a hike to Paradise Valley.

Tagine, a slow-cooked dish in a clay pot, was another favorite. It often combines meat with fruit flavors, like lamb with prunes or chicken with preserved lemons and green olives. Each neighborhood has a hammam where you can leave your tagine to cook while you bathe, picking it up later for lunch.

In just a week near Agadir, we only scratched the surface of Moroccan cuisine, likely experiencing tourist favorites. For more variety, I recommend checking out Moroccan food blogs like The View from Fez and Maroc Mama. Enjoy exploring Moroccan recipes!

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, I recommend the Lonely Planet Guide to Morocco.

Today’s article takes us on a scenic drive through the French Riviera, starting with the culinary delights of Nice. We then pass through Eze, known for its perfume industry and winding paths with stunning sea views, and end our journey overlooking the nighttime harbor lights of Monte Carlo.

The south of France is renowned for its sensory overload. If Europe were a brain, Provence and the French Riviera would be its pleasure center, dazzling visitors with its beauty, fragrant lavender breezes, delicious cuisine, and warm terra cotta sun.

A great way to explore this region is by driving along the coastal roads from Nice to Monte Carlo. This area is a playground for the wealthy, and you’ll see impressive villas and yachts along the way.

Nice, the most famous city in the area, offers plenty to do, from beach outings to sampling Niçoise cuisine. The food here is a highlight, with small pastry shops offering delicious treats at reasonable prices. If you visit during Carnival (February 18 – March 8), local food vendors bring their specialties to the streets amidst parades and celebrations.

After enjoying Nice, take the coastal road (motorway D6098) to Monte Carlo. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful village of Villefranche-Sur-Mer and enjoy views of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a peninsula dotted with estates owned by celebrities and royalty, often called the “Crown Jewel” of the Riviera.

One of the best detours is the village of Eze, with its winding walkways that cascade from a scenic overlook down to the coast. Eze is famous for its perfume industry, and you can tour the facilities and sample the fragrances. There are also museums documenting the history of the perfumeries.

Eze is just a 15-minute drive from Monte Carlo, where you can explore the Grimaldi Palace and try your luck at the famous Monte Carlo Casino. People-watching along the harbor in Monaco is a perfect way to end the day, as the lights from the yachts illuminate the harbor at sunset. What a way to spend a day!

We wrapped up the summer with a trip to Dartmoor in Devon, stopping at Okehampton station for lunch. The station, restored to its 1950s charm, features old-fashioned steam locomotives and a tea room reminiscent of the post-war classic, “Brief Encounter.” One of the enjoyable activities on Dartmoor is a weekend day trip on the Dartmoor Railway to Meldon, where you can walk on the viaduct or explore the moor.

The station is a delightful lunch spot, where you can sit among hanging baskets and leather suitcases, enjoying a homemade Victoria Sponge with tea.

We had three teenage boys with us that weekend, seeking more adventure than just a bacon sandwich. So, we booked with Adventure Okehampton, which offers cycle hire and outdoor activities from the Okehampton YHA hostel. My son and his friends met their group at the hostel, got equipped with wetsuits and helmets, and were taken by minibus to the moor. The instructors, John and Amy, laid down some safety rules before the group set off, scrambling down the bank into the river.

Guy and I watched from the bank as the boys waded up the river, jumping and splashing in the pools. It looked like so much fun that I was almost tempted to join, but I prefer warmer waters. After a couple of hours, the boys were exhausted but happy, and we warmed them up with hot drinks and chocolate bars before heading to Woodovis Park near Tavistock for the weekend.

We chose to stay in a mobile home, as I prefer a roof over my head in the unpredictable English summer. The wardens at Woodovis Park gave us a warm welcome and a guided tour of our mobile home, which had all the comforts we needed, including a hot shower, a well-equipped kitchen, and heaters in the bedrooms. The mobile home was surprisingly spacious, with a double bedroom, a second bedroom with twin singles, and a sofa bed in the sitting area.

My husband had visited Woodovis before and had good things to say about it, which prompted me to book it again. The park has a friendly, family feel, with children safely wandering around. There’s a playground, a games room, and an indoor swimming pool with a jacuzzi and an infra-red heat cabin. The park also offers Wi-Fi, though it was a bit slow during our stay.

The holiday park is near the Tamar Valley, where you can explore walking trails and see remnants of the area’s mining heritage. We also visited the Copper Penny Inn, a pub with a history tied to the local mining industry.

On our last day, we planned to try Tree Surfing, but it was closed due to high winds. Instead, we walked on the moor, meeting friends in Peter Tavy. We hiked up the hillside, passing granite tors and encountering a farmer herding sheep and cattle. The walk ended with a pub lunch at the Peter Tavy Inn, which was packed but cozy, with good food and a welcoming atmosphere.

The next day, the weather turned rainy and windy, so we tried various activities, including an indoor climbing barn and a quick scramble up Combestone Tor. We ended the day back at our cozy mobile home, playing a game of Risk.

On our last morning, we stopped at Great Staple Tor for a final walk before heading back to Bristol. We even found a “letter box” hidden on the moor, adding a fun element to our adventure. Our weekend at Woodovis Park was a wonderful base for exploring Dartmoor, and we highly recommend it for a family-friendly, rural getaway.

Kensington Palace in London has been a residence for the Royal family since 1689 when King William III and Queen Mary II bought it for the King’s health, seeking cleaner air. More recently, it was home to Queen Victoria and Princess Diana. I met an old friend, and we decided to explore Kensington Palace, located just off Kensington High Street and on the edge of Kensington Gardens.

Although I grew up in London, I now find that there are many wonderful places I never noticed while living there, and Kensington Palace is one of them. I enjoy playing tourist in my hometown and recommend Kensington Palace for its beautiful State apartments, which are manageable in size and brought to life by various exhibitions. Despite the freezing weather, the Palace and its surrounding park had a peaceful atmosphere, away from the busy shopping area nearby.

If you love clothes and fashion, you’ll enjoy the first room, which features a cabinet with several dresses that Princess Diana wore on state occasions. Many of these dresses are instantly recognizable from press photos. The dresses were simply displayed, and I wished they had shown photos of the Princess wearing them instead of having to look at books in the gift shop. Although the dresses were beautiful, we realized that it was Princess Diana’s natural sparkle and personality that brought them to life.

Normally, the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection is on display, but it was closed during our visit, as was the small exhibition about The Last Debutantes. We walked around the state rooms, beautifully painted and decorated in the 17th-century style when the Palace was home to King William and Queen Anne. Many rooms were small and cozy, set up as if ready for a game of cards or a quiet read by the fire, offering privacy from the bustle of court.

We later passed through the apartments used by Queen Victoria during her childhood with her mother, the Duchess of Kent. This included her bedroom, where she was awoken on June 20, 1837, to be told that her uncle, King William IV, had died and she was now Queen.

As we continued through the apartments, we encountered a lady in costume by the window. She was waiting to tell us about the Palace, and we found out she was portraying Sarah, Countess of Marlborough. She explained that her mistress Mary was the sister of the Queen, and they were best friends, waiting for King William III to die so her mistress could become Queen. Sarah married John Churchill for love, and partly due to her influence, he was given the title Duke of Marlborough after his success at the Battle of Blenheim. However, in 1710, she and Queen Mary had a terrible quarrel at Kensington Palace and never met again.

In reality, we were talking to Annie, a re-enactor who had just completed her PhD studying the food and society of this period. She also sometimes works at Hampton Court and was so enthusiastic about the history of the Palace and the period that it really brought it to life for us, more than reading a guidebook could do. Annie even explained the intricacies of the clothes she was wearing and the differences between the corsets of that era and the more curvy ones worn by the Victorians. As a mother with a little girl approached, we stepped aside, thinking the daughter would learn more about this interesting character in costume. But all she asked was where the bathrooms were – what a missed opportunity! Annie later told us that the most common questions she gets are ‘Where are the bathrooms?’ and ‘Are you hot/cold in that costume?’

We couldn’t leave Kensington Palace without having tea in the nearby Orangery, built in the 18th century and now serving breakfast, lunch, and tea in elegant surroundings. It’s very popular in summer, and you may have to queue, but we had both lunch and tea there and enjoyed it immensely. The staff were very pleasant and welcoming, although my Debutante’s afternoon tea was a bit disappointing as it consisted of tiny sandwiches and snacks, leaving me feeling I could have eaten it all again in a few mouthfuls. My friend observed that perhaps those Debutantes had to watch what they ate to keep their figure. Everyone else around us was having the Signature Orange Tea, which looked much nicer with a large scone with cream and jam, two cakes, and some sandwiches presented on a small cake stand. That’s what I’d recommend you try.

I’ll definitely be back to take my daughter around Kensington Palace, especially since we both love fashion. I’m hoping the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection will be open when we visit.