Travel Inspiration

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Get Some Travel Inspiration and Start Planning Your Next Adventure

Looking For Some Travel Inspiration?

Well, you will find plenty here!

Whether you are looking for a city break, or just some holiday ideas. I’ve written some travel guides to the places and destinations I have visited.

I’ve also shared some of my favourite travel quotes, and some of the places where I get my inspiration and travel ideas from too.

Travel is such a privilege. There is nothing like taking a trip to somewhere new and experiencing a fantastic holiday packed full of memories to last a lifetime.

Whatever sort of trip you are planning hopefully will find some ideas here.

If you are looking for travel tips you will find those on my Travel More and Spend Less page.

I hope you have a great time planning your next adventure.

Spain Travel Inspiration

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  Is Seville Worth Visiting? Yes – It’s a Very Beautiful City
  Thinking about where to visit in Spain? Have you been thinking about visiting Seville? Well in my view Seville is a must seen in Spain. Read on for what I loved about Seville and why you should add it to your list. Is Seville Worth Visiting? Seville was somewhere I had wanted to go for a very long time. Finally, I got a tour that visited the Southern part of Spain and Morocco. As part of this tour we ended up staying for 3 nights in beautiful Seville. We stayed a little on the outskirts of the city centre, nearer… Read More »Is Seville Worth Visiting? Yes – It’s a Very Beautiful City
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  Is Alicante Worth Visiting? – Absolutely – It’s a Great Spot
  Are you thinking of visiting Alicante? If you are then check out my post which gives you a quick overview of what it’s like. Find out how it compares to other places in Spain and see if it’s your next holiday destination. Is Alicante Worth Visiting? Is Alicante Worth Visiting? What is Alicante Like? Alicante is a coastal and port town located on the South Coast of Spain. It is in the Costa Blanca area, which refers to the coastline and it’s a popular tourist destination. Alicante has a population of around 350,000 people so it’s quite a busy place.… Read More »Is Alicante Worth Visiting? – Absolutely – It’s a Great Spot
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  How to Get to Valencia from the UK – by Plane, Bus or Train
  Wondering how to get to Valencia from the UK? Find all the information you need to start planning your journey to this lovely city, which is well worth visiting. Recommended Reading How to Get to Valencia from the UK There are several options for getting to Valencia from the UK. The quickest is flying of course. You can also take the train, travelling via the Eurotunnel from London. There is also a Flix Bus network that you can take from most places in the UK over to France and then to Spain. Which UK Airport Fly Direct to Valencia? There… Read More »How to Get to Valencia from the UK – by Plane, Bus or Train
• Where to Stay in Valencia? Check Out My Top Picks
  Planning on visiting Valencia? Looking for somewhere great to stay? Here are my top picks plus a review of the cute apartment in the old town that I stayed in during my trip to this lovely Spanish city. Recommended Reading Where to Stay in Valencia If you are wondering which is the best area to stay in Valencia you need to decide if you want to stay in the old town, Cuitat Vella, or the beach area. It’s easy to travel between the two areas, a metro or tram ride will take around 20 minutes maximum. Why not stay a… Read More »Where to Stay in Valencia? Check Out My Top Picks
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  Is Valencia Expensive? It’s Great Value for Money
  Are you wondering whether Valencia is expensive to visit? Check out my guide to costs in Valencia, based on my stay along with some comparisons to other places in Spain. Read on to find out all you need to know. Is Valencia Expensive to Visit? In my experience, Valencia was great value for money. Everything from getting there to getting around, things to do, accommodation and eating and drinking was reasonably priced. This may be because Valencia is popular with Spanish visitors which may mean prices are geared more towards local visitors. Valencia also receives 10 million fewer visitors than… Read More »Is Valencia Expensive? It’s Great Value for Money
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  Is Valencia Safe? My Solo Female Experience
  Wondering ‘is Valencia safe?’ – well in my experience, as a solo female traveller, it is. Read on to find out about my experience of staying there as a solo female traveller. Recommended Reading Is Valencia Safe? I visited Valencia on my first proper solo female trip in 2019. I chose it because I wanted to be somewhere in Europe so I could find my feet as a solo traveller. I particularly chose Valencia because it’s less visited than Barcelona, which I had been to previously. I wanted to experience something a little more authentic. I stayed in an apartment… Read More »Is Valencia Safe? My Solo Female Experience

Portugal Travel Inspiration

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  Riviera Douro Cruise Review – All You Need to Know
  Are you considering a Riveria Travel cruise on the Duoro river? This review of the Riviera Douro cruise is based on a close look at the itinerary and the river cruise ships. It includes: If you want to find out if a Riviera Douro river cruise is right for you, this will help. Take a look at this introduction video from Riviera Riviera Douro Cruise Review Just before we start I wanted to highlight a couple of things; Now let’s look at what is included Riviera Cruise Headlines The following excursions are included: Let’s have a look at the prices.… Read More »Riviera Douro Cruise Review – All You Need to Know
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  What To Do in Vilamoura – Get Some Great Ideas Here
  Wondering what to do in Vilamoura? There are plenty of things to do, including lovely boat trips, water-based activities and tours. There is also a lovely marina to enjoy, beautiful beaches and a Roman villa for a bit of history. Read on to get some ideas for your trip. Recommended Reading What to Do in Vilamoura Vilamoura is blessed with beautiful beaches. They are located on either side of the marina area and have cafes, bars and restaurants dotted along them. Praia De Vilamoura, the beach to the East of the marina, is smaller, but you can walk around to… Read More »What To Do in Vilamoura – Get Some Great Ideas Here
• Where to Stay in Vilamoura – Check Out These Fab Stays
  Wondering where to stay in Vilamoura? I’ve been lucky enough to stay in two great hotels in Vilamoura. Here are my reviews plus some details of alternatives that you might like in the area. Read on to get the details. Recommended Reading Where to Stay in Vilamoura? I stayed for 3 wonderful nights in the Pestana Vila Sol review. It’s one of the places that I often think back to when I am craving a nice relaxing stay. The accommodation was cute little bungalow-style rooms with a terrace. I loved the green areas around the bungalows that featured ponds, trees… Read More »Where to Stay in Vilamoura – Check Out These Fab Stays
• How to Get to Vilamoura – All the Details You Need
  Wondering how to get to Vilamoura in Portugal? Check out all the details you need so you can start planning your visit to this lovely spot in the Algarve. Recommended Reading How to Get to Vilamoura The main way that visitors reach Vilamoura is by flying into Faro airport in Portugal. This is the main airport for the Algarve region of Portugal. The airport is located just outside the town of Faro itself. There are lots of low cost flights available to Faro from the United Kingdom. There are direct flights from the following UK airports to Faro; Flights generally… Read More »How to Get to Vilamoura – All the Details You Need
• Is Vilamoura Expensive? Find Out (Based on My Trip)
  Planning on visiting Vilamoura and wondering ‘Is Vilamoura expensive?’ Read on to find out based on my experience of visiting this lovely spot in the Algarve and details about costs. Recommended Reading Is Vilamoura Expensive? The Algarve is a popular tourist area and that can often increase prices, compared to areas where there are more locals. Monte Gordo for example is a holiday area that attracts a lot of Portuguese folk, and the prices seemed lower than other Algarve resorts I’ve visited. Vilamoura is a popular tourist spot in the Algarve, but it still has plenty of locals – around… Read More »Is Vilamoura Expensive? Find Out (Based on My Trip)

Riga Travel Inspiration

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  Is Riga Expensive? Here’s All You Need to Know
  If you have been thinking of visiting Riga but wondering if it’s expensive then read on to check out my experience and costs when visiting. (The short answer is I found it good value!) Is Riga Expensive to Visit? Having visited Riga 3 times in the space of around 10 years now I can say that I found Riga to be good value each time. One of my stays was with a tour group but the other two stays were for personal trips. Here is an overview of the costs. Is Riga Expensive? One Night Stay in Riga as a… Read More »Is Riga Expensive? Here’s All You Need to Know
• How to Get to Riga from the UK – By Air, Train or Bus
  Are you thinking of going to Riga? Wondering how to get to Riga from the UK? Here are the details of how to get there from the UK either by flying, going by train or by bus. Recommended Reading How to Get to Riga from the UK – Direct Flights It is easy to reach Riga from the UK thanks to a number of direct flights being available. The flight time is around 2.5 hours depending which airport you fly from. There are direct flights from; Costs are generally reasonable. At the time of writing there are flights from London… Read More »How to Get to Riga from the UK – By Air, Train or Bus
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  Is Riga Safe? Find The Details Here
  Thinking of visiting Riga and wondering if it’s safe. Well check out all you need to know, plus my experience of visiting with a group and as a solo female traveller, and on a trip myself. Recommended Reading Is Riga Safe? – Riga and London Compared Riga overall is a safe city to visit, particularly in the main areas that visitors are likely to go. When compared with London all the metrics are low or moderate, except bribery and corruption. People report feeling very comfortable walking alone during the daytime and moderately comfortable walking alone at night. (Bear in mind… Read More »Is Riga Safe? Find The Details Here
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  My Review of the Radisson Blu Riga Inc What’s Nearby
  Riga, Latvia Radisson Blu Riga – What I Loved Wonderful views over the park. Great location in the city centre. Public transport on the doorstep. Lots of places to eat all around. Great food in the hotel. Spa looked amazing. Radisson Blu Riga Professional Traveller Review I stayed at this hotel when on a group tour. It was easy to walk everywhere from this hotel. The rooms were well equipped, the food was amazing with a great buffet breakfast. Request park view rooms if want the best views. Recommended Reading Radisson Blu Latvija Riga Radisson Blu Riga As I was… Read More »My Review of the Radisson Blu Riga Inc What’s Nearby
• Bellvue Park Hotel Riga – Review of My Stay
  Riga, Latvia What I Loved About This Hotel Being on the edge of a park was great. The tram and bus connections meant we could easily travel into the old town, or walk if we preferred. Bellvue Park Hotel Riga Professional Traveller Review This hotel was great value for our visit in March. ?75 for 3 nights for 2 people in a front facing room with buffet breakfast included every day. It was nice to be a little bit outside of the city centre, but we could easily travel in on the tram or by foot. Recommended Reading Bellevue Park… Read More »Bellvue Park Hotel Riga – Review of My Stay
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  Is Riga Worth Visiting? – Yes Absolutely and Here’s Why
  I’m lucky enough to have visited Riga a couple of times. The first time I visited I was taking a group on a tour through the Baltic States. We stayed for 2 nights in Riga. I was able to explore the city and knew it wouldn’t be too long before I was back. I went back for a short trip on my own and in January 2023 took my nephew for his first overseas trip there. If you wondering ‘Is Riga Worth Visiting?’ this post should help you answer that question. Is Riga Worth Visiting? My Experience of Visiting Riga… Read More »Is Riga Worth Visiting? – Yes Absolutely and Here’s Why

Azerbaijan Travel Inspiration

• What To Do in Baku: Here’s My Top Recommendations
  Looking for ideas of what to do in Baku? There’s plenty to do in this vibrant city. I stayed for 3 nights and focussed my activities on the city centre. Read on for some ideas of things to do during your visit. What To Do in Baku Baku is very easy to explore on foot. A lovely area to explore is the promenade which is filled with things to enjoy such as lovely gardens, fountains, sculptures, cafes and a few attractions including; The Baku Eye, which is a large observation wheel sitting beside the Caspian Sea. It wasn’t actually finished… Read More »What To Do in Baku: Here’s My Top Recommendations
• Where To Stay in Baku: My Top Recommendations
  Wondering where to stay in Baku? Read on for my top picks including a couple of top end options, a couple of great value but lovely alternative hotels and two amazing apartments. Check them out now! Where To Stay in Baku I chose to stay outside of the main city centre, downtown area of Baku. I did this partly because of price and partly because I wanted to stay in a self catering apartment. There were some challenges with staying where I did – this mainly involved finding my way there and back. However, these challenges were pretty minor and… Read More »Where To Stay in Baku: My Top Recommendations
• How to Get to Baku From the UK
  If you are wondering how to get to Baku from the UK then read on to find your options for flights. Land connections are not so easy due to the war in Ukraine and the war on the Western side of Azerbaijan. Please check the Foreign Office travel advice before travelling to Azerbaijan How to Get to Baku The easiest way to reach Baku is to fly. There are direct flights from London which will cost around 300 pounds for a return flight, depending on the date that you want to travel. The flight time is 5.5 hours from the… Read More »How to Get to Baku From the UK
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  Is Baku Expensive? It Can Be Great Value Once You Are There
  Wondering ‘Is Baku Expensive?’ Check out my experience of getting to Baku and the costs of staying there and activities. Baku can be great value once you are there. Is Baku Expensive To Visit? One of the biggest costs of getting to Baku is likely to be getting there. If you take direct flights from the UK then the airfare is likely to be several hundred pounds each way. However, there are ways to get there for much less. When I decided to visit Baku I did a reverse flight search and discovered there were flights from Istanbul for 30… Read More »Is Baku Expensive? It Can Be Great Value Once You Are There
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  Is Baku Safe? Here’s My Solo Female Travel Experience
  Wondering if it is safe to travel to Baku? Here are my tips based on my visit as a solo female traveller. Is Baku Safe? I have traveled to Baku as a solo female traveler, and I felt safe all the time I was there. I stayed outside the city center in a residential area. Getting Lost I got lost walking back and ended up in a housing area. It was a bit ramshackle, with dogs running about everywhere. I was okay, just a little nervous because I had gotten lost. Public Transport I used the public transport system and… Read More »Is Baku Safe? Here’s My Solo Female Travel Experience
• Is Baku Worth Visiting? Absolutely and Here’s Why
  I was lucky enough to visit Baku at the end of 2019. I did it as a solo female traveller trip and as a two-destination trip with Istanbul. Here’s why I think Baku is worth visiting and why. (Please check the Foreign Office advice for visiting Azerbaijan before booking your visit) Is Baku Worth Visiting? – Here’s Why I Went The reasons that I decided to visit Baku weren’t very fancy or complicated. I watched an episode of The Grand Tour (the car show featuring Jeremy Clarkson and friends). Baku looked like a bit of a bonkers place and I… Read More »Is Baku Worth Visiting? Absolutely and Here’s Why

Istanbul Travel Inspiration

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  Suitel Bosphorus Taksim Review – Helpful Things to Know
  Looking to stay in Istanbul? Check out my review of the Suitel Bosphorus Taksim. I booked a stay at the Suitel Bosphorus Taksim for 4 nights in late October 2019/early November 2019. It was my first visit to Istanbul, a city I had wanted to visit for a long time. The pictures on the internet looked nice and the location looked handy for the things I wanted to visit, as well as for public transport connections from Taksim Square. Suitel Bosphorus Taksim Arriving Suitel Bosphorus Taksim I arrived later in the evening due to my flight time and getting from… Read More »Suitel Bosphorus Taksim Review – Helpful Things to Know
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  Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel Review – Helpful Things to Know
  Are you looking to stay beside Sabiha Gokcen airport? Check out my review of the ISG Sabiha Gokcen Airport hotel – it’s a lovely hotel, with great rooms and just a short shuttle (free) ride to the airport. The Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel is an onsite hotel called the  ISG Airport Hotel. I stayed for one night in early November 2019 as I was flying out the next day from Sabiha Gokcen to Baku. Airport Hotel Sabiha Gokcen Getting to the Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel I arrived on one of the transfer buses from Taksim Square which drops passengers at… Read More »Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel Review – Helpful Things to Know
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  Istanbul Holiday – Everything You Need to Know
  Istanbul is a diverse city, located beside the Bosphorus. It’s a melting pot of cultures, packed with history, as well as people. It’s a vibrant city that can also be challenging to navigate. Read on for my review of an Istanbul Holiday, which I took as a solo female traveller. It’s based on my 3-night stay at Taksim Square. Istanbul Holiday 1 = Poor, 5 = Excellent Comments Personal Safety 2 Felt unsafe walking at night, men approaching and shouting out during the daytime Cleanliness 2 Dirty streets Scenery 3 Some iconic buildings, difficult to appreciate the views when limited… Read More »Istanbul Holiday – Everything You Need to Know

Scotland Travel Inspiration

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  My Shetland Recommended Local Contacts
  Having been lucky enough to visit Shetland nearly 30 times over the last 4 years I have got to know lots of great people and businesses. Here’s my list of Shetland recommended local contacts. These are all people and places I know very well. Sumburgh Head Lighthouse Hoswick Visitor Centre Shetland Museum Speldiburn Cafe Da Haaf Restaurant Scalloway Kergord Hatchery Bookshop Frankies Fish and Chips Mareel Arts Venue and Cinema Busta House Hotel Garths Croft Bressay Shetland News Bookshop Braewick Cafe Shetland With Laurie Jamiesons Carols Shetland Ponies Breckenlea Croft The Original Cake Fridge Jarlshof You Might Also Like Selected… Read More »My Shetland Recommended Local Contacts
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  Edinburgh Airport Fast Park – All You Need to Know
  Thinking of using Edinburgh Airport Fast Park? It’s fab and makes the airport experience quick and easy. Check out my review of this service, including all you need to use it yourself. Quick Links to Save Money on Parking Edinburgh Airport Fast Park – Quick Overview Cost £38.99 Number of Days 5 Days Location Right beside the airport terminal Ease of Check In 4 out of 5 Ease of Return 4 out of 5 Would I Use Again? Absolutely Edinburgh Airport Fast Park – What Is It? Edinburgh Airport Fast Park is a hybrid parking service – it’s a self… Read More »Edinburgh Airport Fast Park – All You Need to Know
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  Is Shetland Expensive? It Depends What It Is!
  I am lucky enough to have been to Shetland over 25 times now. Every time I go I fall in love with the place a little bit more. If you have been wondering, “Is Shetland expensive?” then read on to find my experience. Here are some key points to consider: Shetland has much to offer, so read on for more insights from me. Is Shetland Expensive? Getting to Shetland Getting to Shetland can be expensive, depending on how you travel. There are two main ways to reach Shetland: The ferry is the cheapest way to get to Shetland. Is Shetland… Read More »Is Shetland Expensive? It Depends What It Is!
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  Is Shetland Safe?- After 26 Visits I Say It Is
  If you are thinking of visiting Shetland and wondering if it’s safe then let me tell you straight away, Shetland is very safe. Is Shetland Safe? Crime Statistics The most recent crime figures are for 2022. They show a total 809 crimes for the year, for the whole population of Shetland which is 23,000 people. Ref: Datamap Scotland Here is how the crime data looks from 2018 – 2022. Apparently, there was a change in the way crimes were recorded in 2022 which explains the increase in figures. Year Lerwick North Isles Shetland North Shetland West Shetland South 2018 55… Read More »Is Shetland Safe?- After 26 Visits I Say It Is
• Why I Nearly Said No To Visiting Shetland (Omg!)
  I’m not a great traveller which is why I nearly said no to visiting Shetland when I was first offered the chance to take tours there. It may be a surprise to read that despite being a Tour Manager, and therefore paid to travel I am not a great traveller. I get travel sick, on boats, on coaches and in cars. I am also an anxious flyer, which was previously so bad that I stopped flying for many years. Here’s Why I Nearly Said No To Visiting Shetland I didn’t think I could cope with the flying, given that Loganair… Read More »Why I Nearly Said No To Visiting Shetland (Omg!)
• Is Shetland Worth Visiting? Yes It’s Amazing and Here’s Why
  Wondering ‘Is Shetland worth visiting’? Shetland is a place that gets under your skin. You will find yourself dreaming of this magical place when you leave. My guests tell me that once they get home. I can’t wait to get back and see the huge skies and seas, and marvel at the wildlife which is incredible and I’ve been 15 times, more than anywhere else I’ve ever been. Check out why I think it’s well worth a visit plus some of the important things you need to know before visiting. Is Shetland Worth Visiting? Getting to Shetland Getting to Shetland… Read More »Is Shetland Worth Visiting? Yes It’s Amazing and Here’s Why
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  Sweet Chestnut Dunfermline – Video Room Tour & Guest Review
  Are you thinking of visiting Dunfermline or looking for a hotel that is close to the M90 motorway? Located just off J3 of the M90 the Sweet Chestnut Dunfermline is perfectly located if you want a convenient hotel North of the bridges before heading into Edinburgh. It’s also located in the leisure park so there is plenty around including a cinema, bingo hall, garden centre and choice of places to eat. Read on for my review of the Sweet Chestnut Dunfermline based on a 1 night stay in November 2023. We stayed in a family room which cost £88 not… Read More »Sweet Chestnut Dunfermline – Video Room Tour & Guest Review
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  Pitlochry Hydro Hotel – Video Room Review and Helpful Tips
  Are you thinking of visiting Pitlochry? Looking for somewhere to stay that has free parking but is within easy reach of the High Street? Looking for somewhere with a pool and spa facilities, restaurant and lift? The Pitlochry Hydro has all of those things, alongwith a bar and a pool room and a couple of lounges. Booking.com scores the Pitlochry Hydro as 6.6 with a score of 8.00 for staff. Read on for my review of the Pitlochry Hydro Hotel based on a 1-night stay in November 2023. Check below to find the best prices available online for your travel… Read More »Pitlochry Hydro Hotel – Video Room Review and Helpful Tips
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  Enchanted Forest – First Time Visit Review & Helpful Tips
  Are you planning a visit to the Enchanted Forest? The Daily Record described the Enchanted Forest as a “mesmerizing underwater voyage of discovery” After our visit, I would say that’s a very accurate description. Read on to learn everything you need to know to plan your trip in 2024. Links You Might Find Helpful:Pitlochry Hydro Hotel ReviewSweet Chestnut Hotel Dunfermline ReviewScottish Highlands Page Enchanted Forest – Summary of Visit 1 = Poor, 5 = Excellent Comments Personal Safety 5 Cleanliness 5 Scenery 5 Amazing light shows Friendly People 5 Stewards and staff great Weather 4 Extremely wet Getting There 5… Read More »Enchanted Forest – First Time Visit Review & Helpful Tips
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  Days Inn Lockerbie Review and Helpful Tips for Your Stay
  Looking for a hotel on the M74 near Lockerbie? This is a great dog-friendly option that is good value too. The Days Inn Lockerbie is at Junction 16 of the M74.There is free parking at the front of the hotel and a lovely duck pond and green area to the rear. The hotel is right beside the service area which has a restaurant, McDonalds, breakfast takeaway and shop selling food items as well. There is also a service station on site. Days Inn also offers dog friendly rooms as well making this a great stop for four legged friends. There… Read More »Days Inn Lockerbie Review and Helpful Tips for Your Stay
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  Cairn Hotel Bathgate Review and Helpful Things to Know
  Planning on staying at Bathgate? You might have seen the Cairn Hotel Bathgate? Check out this review based on a one night stay to decide if it’s the right hotel for you! 1. Cairn Hotel Bathgate Address The address of the hotel is; Blackburn Road, Bathgate, EH48 2EL Cairn Hotel Bathgate 2. Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 01506 633366 Cairn Hotel Bathgate 3. Getting to the Cairn Hotel Getting to the hotel can seem a little tricky. If coming along the A7066 from Livingston you will pass the Pyramids Business Park on the left-hand side. You… Read More »Cairn Hotel Bathgate Review and Helpful Things to Know
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  Travelodge Central Edinburgh Review & Helpful Things to Know
  Looking for a budget hotel in a great location in Edinburgh? The Travelodge Central Edinburgh is just off the Royal Mile. It’s within easy walking distance of the Haymarket railway station. It really is a fab location. Check out this review of a 1 night stay at the Travelodge Central Edinburgh for all you need to know before you book. If you want to check deals in Edinburgh now just scroll around on the map below 1. Travelodge Central Edinburgh Address The address of the hotel is; 33 St Marys Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TA Travelodge Edinburgh Central 2. Phone Number… Read More »Travelodge Central Edinburgh Review & Helpful Things to Know
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  Holyrood Hotel Video Review and Helpful Things to Know
  Looking for a hotel beside the Royal Mile? The Holyrood Hotel is located close to Holyrood Palace, Dynamic Earth, and the Scottish Parliament. It’s a quieter area of the Edinburgh city centre that also gives easy access to some lovely green areas including Arthurs Seat. The Holyrood Hotel rooms are bigger than you might expect for a city hotel. There is a convenience store nearby and several restaurants. There Royal Mile is the adjacent street to the one the hotel is located on. Read on for all you need to know about the Holyrood Hotel before you book. You can… Read More »Holyrood Hotel Video Review and Helpful Things to Know
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  Lerwick Hotel Video Review & Helpful Things to Know
  Looking for a hotel in Lerwick? Well, the Lerwick Hotel is a good option. It’s located on the coast looking out across to Bressay. There is a restaurant and bar in the hotel, with a nice coastal walk also. Read on to get all the info you need to decide if this is the right hotel for you. You can also check prices right now using the map search below. Why not check prices using your preferred booking site? 1. Lerwick Hotel Address The address of the Lerwick Hotel is; 15 South Road, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 0PX Lerwick Hotel 2.… Read More »Lerwick Hotel Video Review & Helpful Things to Know
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  Planning to Visit Shetland? Here’s All You Need to Know
  Shetland is an amazing place to visit. It is very different from the rest of Scotland. In fact, every time I take a group there, I welcome them to Shetland which I describe as “not like Scotland.” What Makes Shetland Unique? Shetland has its own very distinct: Things to See and Enjoy There is a great deal to see and enjoy when visiting Shetland. Check out this guide to help you plan your visit to Shetland, including: Planning to Visit Shetland? Visit Shetland Flying to Shetland There are direct flights to Shetland from the following cities: Note: From May 2023,… Read More »Planning to Visit Shetland? Here’s All You Need to Know

England Travel Inspiration

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  Yotelair Gatwick Review – Great for Layovers
  Gatwick Airport YotelAir Gatwick – What I Loved Super convenient as right in the terminal building. Ideal for layovers. Beds super comfy and showers great too. YotelAirGatwick Professional Traveller Review ???? I’ve used YotelAir for long layovers a number of times. Being able to sleep and shower after a long haul flight really helped with jet lag. I’ve only ever used the Premium cabins which I thought were good value. Yotelair London Gatwick Airport YotelAir Gatwick This hotel is right in the South Terminal building. Infact it’s under the floor of the arrivals hall! The accommodation is based on a… Read More »Yotelair Gatwick Review – Great for Layovers
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  Bloc Hotel Gatwick Review – It’s In the Airport Terminal!
  Gatwick Airport Bloc Hotel Gatwick – What I Loved Amazing to be able to lay in bed and see the runway. We also loved being able to step out of the hotel and be in the airport. Bloc Hotel Gatwick Professional Traveller Review ???? This hotel is super handy being right in the Gatwick Airport South terminal next to departures. You’ve got all the airport facilities on your doorstep. It’s handy for long layovers and they also do day-use options for daytime layovers too. Block Hotel Gatwick Bloc Hotel Gatwick Room Hotel Dining Bloc Hotel Gatwick What’s Nearby There are… Read More »Bloc Hotel Gatwick Review – It’s In the Airport Terminal!
• Sandman Signature London Gatwick Hotel Review
  Horley, Surrey Sandman Signature – What I Liked The room size and facilities were good. It was nice to have a restaurant on site, with a good breakfast. Sandman Signature London Gatwick Hotel Professional Traveller Review This hotel is nice with a good restaurant, swimming pool and gym. The rooms are well equipped and the microwave and fridge are handy if you want to eat in your room. There are also family rooms available. Sandman Signature Gatwick Sandman Signature London Gatwick Hotel Room Hotel Dining Sandman Signature London Gatwick What’s Nearby There is not much within walking distance of the… Read More »Sandman Signature London Gatwick Hotel Review
• Point A Hotel Shoreditch Video Review & Things to Know
  Looking for a hotel in the Shoreditch area of London? The Point A Hotel Shoreditch is in a great location. It’s handy for the attractions and walking distance to the wonderful Spitalfields food market. Check out this review, including a video room tour of a cosy double room for everything you need to plan your stay. Cost of Stay – 2 Nights in January 2023 for 2 people – £198. That does not include breakfast. You can check prices right now using the map below. Point A Shoreditch Point A Hotel Shoreditch Location The Point A Hotel Shoreditch is located… Read More »Point A Hotel Shoreditch Video Review & Things to Know
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  The Bank House Uttoxeter Review – Helpful Things to Know
  Are you looking for a hotel in Uttoxeter? Check out this review including a video tour of the Bank House Uttoxeter. It’s definitely a bit quirky! Click below to find the best prices available online; 1. The Bank House Uttoxeter: Address and Telephone Number The Bank House Uttoxeter Address; Church St, Uttoxeter ST14 8AG The Bank House Uttoxeter Telephone Number; 01889 566922 Bank House Hotel Uttoxeter 2. The Bank House Uttoxeter: Directions If you approach the hotel from the Dove roundabout take a right turn in Silver Street and you will come to a car park. Enter the car park… Read More »The Bank House Uttoxeter Review – Helpful Things to Know
• Holiday Inn Luton Airport Video Review & Must-Know Tips
  The Holiday Inn Luton Airport is a fantastic hotel option for travelers seeking convenience and affordability. With its proximity to the airport and competitively priced rooms, this hotel offers a great stay experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to book your stay – check availability now! Holiday Inn Luton Address The address of the Holiday Inn Luton is; London Luton Airport, Airport Way, Luton LU2 9LF Luton Airport Hotel Holiday Inn Luton Contact Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 01582 218111 Hotels Near Luton Airport Getting from the Airport to Holiday Inn Luton (And Back) There is… Read More »Holiday Inn Luton Airport Video Review & Must-Know Tips
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  Lonsdale House Bowness – A Fab Self Catering Property
  Are you looking for somewhere to stay in Bowness on Windemere? If so check out this review of Lonsdale House Bowness, a great hotel located just at the top of the main street in Bowness, within easy reach of all the attractions. 2023 Update Lonsdale House is now a holiday let. They have kept all the features from the hotel. There are 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms and they have three 4 poster beds. They have reconfigured the accommodation a little but kept it pretty much as it was when it was a hotel. Genius! See all the details on… Read More »Lonsdale House Bowness – A Fab Self Catering Property
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  Village Hotel Solihull Review – Helpful Tips & Inside Look
  Are you looking to stay in Solihull, near Birmingham airport? Check out the Village Hotel Solihull. It’s a resort-based hotel with a pool, gym, coffee shop, and restaurant. Read on for all you need to know or check the price right now using the map below. The Village Hotel Solihull It’s in a great location for Birmingham airport and has a restaurant, coffee shop, gym, and spa as well. Check out this review of a 3-night stay. The Village Solihull Village Hotel Solihull Parking I chose to stay at the Village Hotel Solihull for 3 nights because I was on… Read More »Village Hotel Solihull Review – Helpful Tips & Inside Look
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  Ibis Birmingham New Street Review & Helpful Things to Know
  Looking to stay at the Ibis Birmingham New Street? This hotel is close to the station, directly across from the Chinese Quarter, the markets and the city centre attractions. Check out this review including a video room tour. Ibis Birmingham New Street – A Great City Centre Hotel Are you looking for a hotel within easy access of Birmingham New Street station? Check out my review of a one-night stay in March 2019. Find the best prices available on the internet easily. 1. Getting to the Ibis Birmingham New Street Station It’s around a 10 minute walk from Birmingham New… Read More »Ibis Birmingham New Street Review & Helpful Things to Know
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  Ibis Birmingham Airport Review – Helpful Things To Know
  Are you looking for a good budget priced hotel at Birmingham Airport? This Ibis Birmingham Airport is located just across from the terminal. It’s just a short walk away and has great prices available. Check out my review of a one night stay and find a great price online. Ibis Birmingham What is the Ibis Birmingham Airport Like? Getting to the Ibis Birmingham Airport It was very easy to the Ibis Birmingham Airport as it is just a short walk across the car park from Birmingham International Airport. You have to navigate a bit through the parking areas but you… Read More »Ibis Birmingham Airport Review – Helpful Things To Know
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  Sofitel Gatwick Review: Essential Tips for a Memorable Stay
  Are you looking for a handily located Gatwick hotel? The Sofitel Gatwick is linked by a walkway to the North Terminal. It’s super convenient and great for an overnight stay. It’s also great for layovers or even to relax in the lounge area. Check out this Sofitel Gatwick review or just jump right in and check rates now. Sofitel Gatwick Location The Sofitel Hotel Gatwick is located at the North Terminal of London Gatwick Airport. It is actually connected via walkway. Just follow the signs from the terminal area. You head out towards the car parks and then through a… Read More »Sofitel Gatwick Review: Essential Tips for a Memorable Stay
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  Here Are The Gatwick Airport Facilities For Passengers
  Flying through Gatwick Airport? Overnighting? Got a long layover? Check out my handy guide to Gatwick Airport facilities so you know what’s available for your visit. Gatwick Airport Facilities Gatwick Airport Services Gatwick Airport Facilities – Onsite Hotels Nothing makes catching a flight that requires an overnight stay easier than staying at the airport itself. I always prefer to stay as close to the airport as possible when a flight needs an overnight stay. Gatwick Airport has 5 hotels either in or connected to the terminals; Read More: Gatwick Airport Hotels – Find Your Best Option Gatwick Airport Facilities Airport… Read More »Here Are The Gatwick Airport Facilities For Passengers
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  Birmingham City Break – Check Out This Surprising City
  Are you planning on visiting Birmingham? Why not consider a Birmingham city break? It’s a surprising city with some interesting attractions – not least the oldest cinema in the UK. Birmingham City Break Check out this review of a weekend trip to Birmingham with details of things to do and places to visit. Birmingham City Break Getting to Birmingham I flew from Inverness to Birmingham. There used to be a regular service operated by Flybe. There is a service between Inverness and Birmingham which is now operated by Loganair. You can find flights to Birmingham on Kayak Birmingham City Break Travelling… Read More »Birmingham City Break – Check Out This Surprising City
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  Grasmere Lake District – All You Need to Plan Your Visit
  Check out my guide to Grasmere Lake District – it’s a beautiful little spot right in the heart of the Lake District. It’s based on a number of visits with tour groups. Check out all you need to know and get planning your visit today. Grasmere Lake District – Things to See & Do Grasmere is somewhere I am lucky enough to have visited several times, with groups and on a training course. It’s very pretty and lovely to spend a day or so exploring. If you prefer somewhere a little quieter than perhaps Bowness on Windemere then Grasmere could… Read More »Grasmere Lake District – All You Need to Plan Your Visit
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  London Gatwick Hotels – Which One is Better?
  Looking for London Gatwick hotels? I’ve compiled a list of the hotels closest to Gatwick Airport, alongwith reviews of all the ones I have stayed in. Find your favourite quickly and easily. London Gatwick Hotels Quick Gatwick Airport Hotels Finder Hotel Terminal Parking Best For? Check Rates Sofitel North Yes Right next to DeparturesRunway suite and viewsNo tea & coffee in the rooms but cafe opposite hotel Check YotelAir South No In the South Terminal buildingLuxury pods are best for overnight stays Check Bloc Hotel South No Right next to DeparturesRunway suite and viewsNo tea & coffee in the rooms… Read More »London Gatwick Hotels – Which One is Better?

Travel Inspiration Quotes

You can go some place you’ve never been before much more often than once a year and it’s one of my favourite things to do!

Whether it is exploring a road we haven’t driven along before, or just picking a place we haven’t visited locally has really been great at keeping travel inspiration going when travel has been restricted.

Travel does make you modest in some senses because you really do see how big the world is. Travel also helps you to see that no matter where you go people are fundamentally people and that we have much more in common than we think. Travel also shows you that a smile is universal and you can find kindness everywhere. People all over the world are generally speaking nice.

This really is one of my favourite travel quotes. As someone who finds going to the same place more than once quite difficult (apart from Venice!) or even going to the same place for work more than once a week.

Having said that as a Tour Manager I often wished I could keep visiting the same place regularly as it would save the huge amount of work I had to put in learning about new places all the time. However, that work was also part of the enjoyment and I knew that if I kept going to the same place I would get bored and that would affect my guests.

Travel Inspiration on the TV

Joanna Lumley

Joanna Lumley has done some great travel programs. She has such a warm and friendly style and it gives you a sense of travelling with a friend. Her sense of humour really comes across.

I also really liked her guide to Japan, Russia and the Silk Road.

Here is a great video clip from the Silk Road featuring Persepolis.

James May in Japan

We watched this series as a family and really felt we got an inside view of Japan. James May went off the beaten track. I particularly liked the tiny little bars where people were seated so close together they had to talk to each other.

Simon Reeve

Another TV presenter with a really engaging style. Simon Reeve also talks about some of the issues in the places he is visiting which gives a good all-round sense of destinations. He has done so many great series. Here is a little clip from his series about Turkey which I thought gave a really good insight into this huge and varied country.

Race Across the World

As someone who likes to travel cheaply, I was really interested in this programme. It featured people competing about who could get to various points across the globe cheaply and quickly.

Jane Macdonald

If you like down-to-earth TV presenting then this is the travel programme for you. Jane Macdonald, made famous through a documentary about cruise ships, does a range of programmes. Some are about cruising, but more recent programmes have included a Cuba tour too.

Travel Inspiration Podcasts

Rick Steeves

Rick Steeves does a great series of travel podcasts. Some of them are country-specific, some are general travel podcasts. There is always lots of great content.

He also does audio tours which are great to listen to and follow along to in a destination too.

They are all free as well!

Atlas Obscura

I adore Atlas Obscura. It’s a guide to lesser-known places all over the world. They have a fab website, a great book and a podcast. They also have online lessons and so much more.

It really is a totally fascinating site to visit and guaranteed to give you some travel inspiration!

YouTube Travel Inspiration

Check out a few of my favourite YouTube channels for travel inspiration.

I love Joolz and his guides to London. He always has something new to learn and discover and he delivers in such an easy-to-understand way too. There are so many great videos! Here is his video about the attractions.

I really love Bald and Bankrupt. He visits lots of really interesting countries and has some quite unique experiences. There are so many videos – this once covers the BAM train line.

Venice is one of my favourite places. I Love Venice often does live guided walks which are really great.

All My Travel Inspiration Posts

My Recommended Essential Travel Gear List

Find all the items I use on every trip all in one handy Amazon list

My Social Media Links

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More Resources

• Independent Travel Agent – a huge timesaver. I specialise in touring holidays & river cruises
• Travel Inspiration – trip reports, reviews, and more to inspire your next trip
• Touring Holidays – everything you need to know about this great value way to travel
• Time Saving Travel Tools – all the things I use to research and plan my trips
• Airport Lounges – Everything you need to know including lots about Priority Pass
• Invergordon Cruise Port – all you need to know to help your plan your visit
• About Melanie – background and travel experience
• About the Professional Traveller – what this website is all about
• Work with Me – details of the services I provide