Lake Tahoe is one of my favourite places on the planet. And I’m not alone. Mark Twain author of Huckleberry Finn – wrote this about that view: “…at last the Lake burst upon us—a noble sheet of blue water lifted six thousand three hundred feet above the level of the sea… As it lay there […]
California, home to the stars and to some of the best natural wonders, food and wine in the world as well. You can think of Hollywood, Yosemite National Park, the Redwoods and the wineries. But how best to see and better still experience these glories. Here are some of my favourite ways to spend a […]
Travel sees a plethora of trends which come and go, but one that’s firmly here to stay is sustainable tourism. More than ever before, travellers are seeking hotels that are fully conscious of their impact on their surroundings. From guest experiences that protect local wildlife and celebrate indigenous culture, to ‘green’ operations or fostering ties […]
California, my personal favourite destination in the USA, possibly offers the widest diversity of anywhere on the planet, let alone any other US State, both in terms of its geographical make up and its man-made attractions. Where else can you find warm beaches, stunning sunsets, huge mountain ranges, visit iconic cities, harvest great wines and […]
The Napa Valley is an absolutely stunning area – and it is food and wine heaven! I have been obsessed with California Chardonnays since leaving there – and before I went, I thought that I didn’t like Californian wine! These days Napa Valley food receives as much attention as their amazing wineries. A few tips […]
What better way to explore the open roads of the US and Canada than on a motor bike? Imagine the curves in the Rocky Mountains, the long straight sections of Route 66, or biking the Big Sur on the Californian Coast. There are three ways to organise this. You can rent a motorcycle and head off […]
I was absolutely delighted when I heard that the Napa Valley had its very own wine train and that it utilized classic Pullman carriages! What a fabulous way to spend a day in the stunning Napa Valley! The wine train offers a range of different journeys from evening to day, themed to unthemed, with and […]
There are few things in life as simultaneously relaxing, exhilarating and life-affirming as watching a magnificent sunset. That small period of time when day turns into night provides so many special travelling moments. But these sunsets rise above the rest. They’re bona fide bucket-list material. How many have you been to? Would you recommend any […]
Few destinations summon as many daydreams as California, the breathtakingly gorgeous West Coast state with its impressive blend of landscapes… from beaches and vineyards to mountains and deserts. Birthplace of the road trip, the rewards as you explore this Golden State are abundant and immediate, with swathes of sandy beaches along the Pacific Coast; the […]
Springtime in England means blossom on our trees and flowers in our gardens; it also turns our minds to holidays and for the gardeners among us, perhaps the need for inspiration from gardens around the world. Here are some ideas of gardens to visit in North America. The Butchart Gardens in Victoria BC are for […]
Hard Rock owns countless hotels, casinos and cafes which are sprinkled through 74 countries. 174 cafes have popped up in major cities all over the world. While they serve your typical American fare, like cheeseburgers, ribs and steak, Hard Rock Café is perhaps more famous for its massive rock memorabilia display. In fact, they boast […]
Remember the sheer joy of hiding out in a treehouse as a child, surrounded by leafy branches and sky? You can share that wonderful feeling with your significant other or your family, yet with the convenience of creature comforts and even a jacuzzi or pool, at these luxury hotels with treehouses. Since these are unique […]
After the excesses of Christmas, it’s usually time to hide away the chocolates, refrain from that double helping of Beef Wellington and avert your eyes when a glass of wine is offered. It’s all too tempting…but I like the idea of spending this time thinking where we can retox! As you get over your ‘dry’ January […]
San Diego is “Cali-Baja” culture, a blend of Mexico and California. From experiences to restaurants, San Diego gives you a chance to try this historical mix in a region rich with both old and new cultural direction. Yes, San Diego is water, whales, golf and history. Under it all is this different cultural melt that […]
Time to think of travel plans for 2017. Where to take the family for a luxurious and memorable holiday? The USA and Canada has many of the answers. With wide open spaces, lots of variety, there is plenty to do to keep the whole family entertained. Take the grandparents, take the children, there is fun […]
“Lights, camera, action…!” And you should definitely have your camera ready for these amazing breath taking film locations. So many times I have watched some fabulous films and been inspired by the backdrop, wishing I could be transported there or indeed know where they are in order to get my itinerary arranged and tickets booked […]
