Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China, came into the spotlight when it hosted the Olympic Games in 2008. Although the city has seen a lot of development with glass skyscrapers, five-star hotels and massive shopping malls, Beijing is the political, cultural and educational centre of a country that remains under communist [...]
Velvet moments: travel photo of the week – Brunei
The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, is the country’s most famous landmark. Designed by an Italian architect, the mosque combines Moghul and Italian influences. Its main dome is covered in pure gold. Read the accompanying post: “Experiencing Brunei“. Search hotels in Brunei. See other Velvet Moments: The [...]
Driving the Cape Winelands
South Africa’s Cape Winelands is located in a stunning corner of the Western Cape province, a short drive away from Cape Town. The historic towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl dominate the tourism scene but, to me, the splendid wine estates and restaurants located in and around these towns really steal the show. If you [...]
O for Ontario
Ontario’s Overwhelming geography and Opulent culture are Only a few of its charms. Choose this Original destination to get in touch with nature, to explore One of the many faces of Canada and witness sceneries you will never forget. On your way back home your eyes will see only two colours: the dark green of [...]
Celebrating Italy’s 150th Birthday in Lucca
Italy celebrated its 150th birthday on March 17, 2011. I was really lucky to get the opportunity to experience the celebrations in the town of Lucca during my recent blogtrip to Tuscany. It was a cold and rainy day but the colourful parades and bands more than made up for the miserable weather. The red-white-green [...]
Ten things to do in New Zealand
New Zealand is arguably one of the most beautiful countries in the world. From the tropical forests, sandy beaches and gentle rolling hills in the north to the daunting peaks, mysterious fjords and massive glaciers in the south, New Zealand offers visitors a wide array of natural highlights as well as excellent cuisine and local [...]
Antigua: more than just beaches
Holidays don’t come much more heavenly than they do on the island of Antigua. Located in the West Indies, Antigua is a tropical island which, in recent years, has become synonymous with luxury holidays. Indeed, the island is so popular with holidaymakers that much of their economy rests on the tourism industry. This is good [...]
Culinary Journey: gelato in Pisa
What: Gelato (ice-cream) Where: Gelateria De’ Coltelli, Lungarno Pacinotti 23, Pisa, Italy Notes: Most visitors stop in Pisa for a brief visit to its world-famous Leaning Tower and the adjacent Duomo. That’s a pity because Pisa is a fascinating city with many historical and culinary gems. The highlight of my recent trip to Pisa was [...]
A treasure trove in the forest
It all began with a course in art appreciation. In the late-19th century, the Kröller-Müller family was one of the wealthiest in Holland. Anton Kröller was chairman of Wm. H. Müller & Co., a conglomerate with large interests in shipping, the American grain trade and iron ore mining in Africa. One day, his wife, Helene [...]
Experiencing Tuscany like a local
Thinking of Tuscany never fails to make me smile. It conjures unforgettable memories of gorgeous scenery, divine food and wines, deeply passionate people and historic grandeur. Whether I’m wandering the streets of ancient towns like Siena, tasting local delicacies at a trattoria, experiencing colourful festivals, standing on a hilltop and taking in the beautiful scenery, [...]








