Car or public transport? How best to get around in Ireland

Despite the cost and lack of eco credentials, car hire has traditionally been the preferred mode of transport for the independent traveler to Ireland. However, with soaring car rental rates, tolls, parking fees and a fuel supply crisis, visitors are opting for alternative ways to explore the country’s magnificent coastlines, lush countryside and ancient historical…

Continue ReadingCar or public transport? How best to get around in Ireland

7 of the best Valentine’s Day destinations for every kind of couple

Chocolates, petal-strewn suites, sandy beaches – yawn. Your love is unique, so dodge the cliches with a Valentine's Day break that caters to the quirks of your coupledom. From obvious romantic destinations littered with proposals to those spots that you might not have considered for spending time with your beloved, be inspired by these top places…

Continue Reading7 of the best Valentine’s Day destinations for every kind of couple

The 7 best road trips in Vietnam weave past mountains, jungles and beaches

Long and sinuous, like the mythical naga serpent, Vietnam curves around the eastern shores of mainland Southeast Asia, stretching all the way from China in the north to Cambodia and the Mekong Delta in the south. Its twin megacities – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City – are divided by 1137km (707 miles) of mountains,…

Continue ReadingThe 7 best road trips in Vietnam weave past mountains, jungles and beaches

22 unmissable experiences in Japan

Japan darts into the future while keeping a quiet hold of its traditions. Dazzling towers of light and luxury goods sit alongside timeless temples and traditional inns with old-world manners, and Japanese dishes that continue to delight the tastebuds. Quirky cafes brim with youthful glee, while sleek bullet trains zip you to turquoise beaches, ice…

Continue Reading22 unmissable experiences in Japan

The 15 best things to do in Dubrovnik

Croatia’s top destination, Dubrovnik’s diminutive old town lies within sturdy medieval fortifications, overlooking the deep blue Adriatic. Here we introduce historical attractions in the old town, including noble Baroque buildings, museums and galleries. Beyond the walls, we take you along the coast to discover the best beaches and nearby islands. Along the way, we also…

Continue ReadingThe 15 best things to do in Dubrovnik

When is the best time to visit Portugal?

Portugal has a packed calendar of traditional celebrations, decadent food festivals, outdoor concerts and many other events. Summer is the time to catch the biggest array, but in truth, there’s always something happening here.  Festivals aside, it’s not easy to pin down the best month to visit Portugal. That really depends on what you’re after:…

Continue ReadingWhen is the best time to visit Portugal?

Vancouver Island: my trip in photos

Vancouver-based travel journalist Amber Gibson recently returned from bucolic Vancouver Island, whose spectacular winter storms make for a surprisingly romantic getaway. Here’s what she recommends for this unexpected destination. You should go storm watching on Vancouver Island because… The huge storms that roll in from the Pacific Ocean are simply spectacular. There’s nothing between Vancouver…

Continue ReadingVancouver Island: my trip in photos