13 things to know before you go to Sydney

Be prepared to chat a lot when you’re in Sydney. Don’t be surprised if the waitstaff ask more than just “Did you enjoy your meal?” or if your tour guide invites everyone to kick on at the pub later. Sydneysiders, like most Australians, are genuinely friendly people. They just want visitors to have a good…

Continue Reading13 things to know before you go to Sydney

Postcard from Tanzania: A private island vacation off the coast of Zanzibar

Like most people, I had never set foot on a private island — outside of my daydreams. Then earlier this year, I got to visit andBeyond Mnemba Island — a private coral-fringed, white-sand island off the Zanzibar archipelago in Tanzania — and it felt like something I’d conjured in my imagination. A ‘pinch me’ vacation that was…

Continue ReadingPostcard from Tanzania: A private island vacation off the coast of Zanzibar

What to do and where to go in Portugal with kids

Portugal is one of the most family friendly countries in Europe. Children are an integral part of daily life, and they're happily welcomed anywhere, from museums and restaurants to town squares and theaters. Cities are rife with parks, playgrounds, while the rest of the country is a perfectly preserved natural paradise.  With 300 days of…

Continue ReadingWhat to do and where to go in Portugal with kids

Best neighborhoods in USA for Pride celebrations 2023

For LGBTIQ+ travelers, most trips begin by seeking out the local “gayborhood.” The sight of rainbow flags and same-sex couples can feel like a liberating breath of fresh air. For many, these destinations are welcoming, safe havens; friendly places where the collective community spirit dwells. There’s often a rich gay history embedded, too, inviting visitors…

Continue ReadingBest neighborhoods in USA for Pride celebrations 2023

Madrid through the year: the best times to visit

Visitors coming to Madrid for a bit of winter sun often get a surprisingly chilly reception.  This is because Madrid, perched at 657m (2155ft) above sea level, is Europe’s highest capital city after Andorra. This elevated position means that while it’s invariably sunny, in winter, temperatures are not much warmer than those in northern Europe.…

Continue ReadingMadrid through the year: the best times to visit

The best times to visit Porto for sunshine and festival fun

The cultural dynamo that is Porto has a packed calendar of festivals, concerts, markets and countless other events throughout the year. There’s always something going on in the city, so weather and visitor numbers should be the prime considerations for planning your trip. Whether you’re seeking warm sunny days and open-air celebrations or budget deals…

Continue ReadingThe best times to visit Porto for sunshine and festival fun

As I traveled through a remote Canadian national park, Inuit stewards led the way

Our landing gear touches down with a gushing wake in Goose Bay, Labrador – “Goose” in local parlance. The thundering downpours that surround us are the reason why we arrive a day early. Getting weather-bound is a common occurrence while waiting for the final leg to the ancestral lands of the Northern Labrador Inuit, over…

Continue ReadingAs I traveled through a remote Canadian national park, Inuit stewards led the way

11 things to know before going to Madrid

So you’re thinking about visiting Madrid? You’ve made an excellent choice. Spain’s capital is an extremely friendly destination that happily accommodates tourists while still retaining its unique identity. Duck down any side street, away from the souvenir stalls selling magnets and flammable flamenco frocks, and you’ll discover pretty little squares, dusty 100-year-old artisanal shops and…

Continue Reading11 things to know before going to Madrid