I’m sometimes asked why I visit Germany so often, and the reason is simple: I just love Germany! Contrary to a common perception of…
Velvet Escape travel blog
Catamaran cruise in Barbados
One of the highlights of my trip to Barbados was a catamaran cruise along the west coast. There are various operators to choose from…
Self-drive day trips in Lanzarote
Lanzarote is an extraordinary island off the coast of Morocco. One of the Canary Islands archipelago that is part of Spain, Lanzarote covers approximately…
The wonders of water
Water soothes the soul. Be it the sensation of gentle waves rushing over my feet on a beach, listening to the splashing sounds of…
Twelve things to do in Barbados
Barbados (map) is a gorgeous island nation located at the eastern edge of the Caribbean. Known for its stunning beaches, azure waters and as…
Plane views: Montpellier
Montpellier is the seventh-largest city in France and one of the fastest growing cities in the country. Located in southern France in the region…
Winter fun in Amsterdam
In the past decade or so, winters in Amsterdam have been relatively mild. Whereas in the past, temperatures of -20 degrees Celsius and lots…
Impressions of Mauritius
Not more than a little speck in the vast Indian Ocean, Mauritius (map) is a tropical island that’s perhaps most famous as an upscale…
The enchanting Hunte’s Gardens
Hunte’s Gardens is a tropical garden in the heart of Barbados (map). This lush garden, roughly 3 acres in size, is packed to the…