Feature Articles (Print)

By Foot: Hiking the Rheinsteig, Germany

An article for Unforgettable Journeys Europe: A DK Eyewitness Book, March 2023

"Explore some of Germany’s most appealing landscapes on this epic hike. The north-to-south trail leads through forest-blanketed hills, sun-soaked vineyards and chocolate-box villages..."

By Rail: Luxembourg City to Troisvierges

An article for Unforgettable Journeys Europe: A DK Eyewitness Book, March 2023

"The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg may fit into France over 200 times, but it packs in an awful lot. Take a (free) train from its pretty capital to explore its forest-covered hills and rich history..."

By Bike: The Moselle, Luxembourg-Germany

An article for Unforgettable Journeys Europe: A DK Eyewitness Book, March 2023

"This cycling trail begins in Schengen, a little-known border village with a world-famous name. Head north on the riverside path - and through charming villages backed by lush vineyards..."

By Road: The Hanseatic League Cities, Germany

An article for Unforgettable Journeys Europe: A DK Eyewitness Book, March 2023

"Long before the EU, there was the Hanseatic League. This medieval alliance of trading guilds began with a handful of north German market towns. This driving tour links the best of them..."

Riga, Latvia: An Alternative to Prague

An article for Go Here Instead: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2022

"What’s remarkable about this capital isn't just its collection of medieval, Gothic and Baroque buildings, but its turn-of-the-20th-century ones - Riga is a hub of Art Nouveau architecture..."

Montenegro’s Islands

An article for Go Here Instead: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2022

"From lushly forested islets fringed by gorgeous sweeps of sand to a human-made mound of rock topped with a 17th century church, each Montenegrin island offers something different..."

Church of St Sava in Belgrade, Serbia

An article for Go Here Instead: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2022

"With its enormous size, cross-shaped floorplan and commanding dome, Belgrade's Church of Saint Sava was clearly modelled on Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia. But there is so much more to it..."

The Walls of Ston, Croatia

An article for Go Here Instead: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2022

"Tying up the northeastern edge of Croatia’s Peljesac peninsula like an unbreakable bow, the stunning Walls of Ston ('Europe’s Great Wall') is the world's second-longest defensive barrier..."

What to See and Do in Dusseldorf, Germany

An article for Silverkris (Singapore Airlines in-flight magazine), October 2021

"Dusseldorf may not be as well known as Berlin or Munich, but this German city on the banks of the Rhine River packs a genuine punch when it comes to art, fashion, culture and sports..."

Europe by Foot: Carpathian Mountains

An article for Unforgettable Journeys: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2020

"Emerald forests, medieval castles and wildflower-dusted mountains - explore the continent’s last great wilderness on a four-day hike through Romania’s incredible Carpathian Mountains..."

Europe by Water: Island Hopping in Croatia

An article for Unforgettable Journeys: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2020

"Scattered all around Croatia’s sun-drenched coastline are more than 1,000 idyllic islands and islets. Take to the water on this laid-back voyage to explore five of the prettiest by sail boat..."

Europe by Foot: Julian Alps Peak Walk

An article for Unforgettable Journeys: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2020

"This alpine amble through Slovenia's spectacular Triglav National Park guarantees sweeping mountain scenery, ancient fir-tree forests, glistening glacial pools and enchanting waterfalls..."

Europe by Bike: Transylvania

An article for Unforgettable Journeys: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2020

"Transylvania isn’t all about Dracula; this in-the-saddle adventure bypasses the mythology and explores the reality of this remarkable Romanian region and its beautiful, time-worn villages..."

Europe by Foot: Tatra Mountains

An article for Unforgettable Journeys: A DK Eyewitness Book, October 2020

"Skirting the mountainous border between Poland and Slovakia, this circular hike to and from Kuznice takes in the park's most spectacular scenery, from its craggy cliffs to its thick forests..."

Hamburg, Germany in 24 Hours

An article for Fraser Cachet Magazine, January 2020

"Known as the Gateway to the World, Hamburg offers everything from awe-inspiring art to never-ending nightlife. This maritime city wakes up early, so start your day with caffeine..."

Chimp-Spotting on the River Gambia

An article for Lonely Planet, October 2019

"Alpha males confidently chomp on their bananas, fretful mothers clasp their young as they scoop water into their mouths, and hyperactive adolescents swing between the branches.."

Perth, Australia in 24 Hours

An article for Fraser Cachet Magazine, August 2019

"Effortlessly laid-back, charmingly cosmopolitan and with a whole host of natural, cultural and culinary hits, Perth is a perfect place to spend a day. And no day here starts without coffee..."

What’s Hot in Prague for 2018

An article for The Sunday Times Travel Magazine, February 2018

"Field has redefined the boundaries of Bohemian fare. The decor is minimalism incarnate - all beige walls and unadorned tables - but look up to see street art projected onto the ceiling...."

Bohemian Krakow: Poland’s Capital of Cool

An article for Silverkris (Singapore Airlines in-flight magazine), January 2018

"For many, a visit to Krakow is a step back in time. But dig a little deeper and you’ll soon find a more contemporary edge through a host of hip hotels, chic restaurants and boutique shops..."

Northern Beauty: Scotland’s Secluded Islands

An article for Flight Time (Flybe in-flight magazine), March 2017

"Head beyond the Scottish Borders, bypass the capital, traverse the Highlands and cross the North Sea. Only then will you reach Scotland's outer limits - its remote, remarkable, islands..."

Wonders of the World: Epic Building Projects

An article for The Johnnie Walker House Edit, February 2017

"Since the dawn of time, mankind has been engaged in building immense structures. From a two-week skyscraper to a two-millennia wall, here are history's most epic building projects..."

Five Must-Dos in Dusseldorf, Germany

An article for Silverkris (Singapore Airlines in-flight magazine), November 2016

"Architecture fans will relish grand medieval masterpieces such as Schlossturm, Renaissance delights including Neanderkirche and contemporary icons like Frank Gehry’s Neuer Zollhof..."

Scotland’s Gin Trail Serves Up Tourism Tonic

An article for The Guardian, September 2016

"British gin is synonymous with London. However, in recent years, more than two-thirds of the UK’s total gin production has moved outside the capital, and outside of England altogether..."

Scottish Gin: Get Into the Spirit of Things

An article for The Independent, March 2016

"Scotland may be better known for its whisky, but it is also responsible for producing 70 per cent of the UK’s gin. And it's the huge growth of craft gin that has really raised local spirits..."

How London Became a Great Culinary Capital

An article for 36 Hours (The New York Times), January 2016

"Traditionally, London does not have a sterling reputation for food. Yet, over the last 30 years, the city has experienced a culinary revolution, and is now cited as the world's foodie capital..."

Adler Mountain Lodge: All-In Dolomites Luxury

An article for Private Air Magazine, January 2016

"The incredible beauty, drama and otherworldliness of the Dolomites make it one of the most spectacular and rewarding natural landscapes in the world. And it isn’t overrun with tourists..."

Journey to Nowhere: Barefoot Luxury Travel

An article for The Johnnie Walker House Edit, July 2015

"Kicking off your shoes, stepping onto bone-white sand and feeling the wind caress your hair, all without the sniff of a smartphone email alert - welcome to the universe of barefoot luxury..."

Spotlight On Plzen

An article for Jumeirah Magazine, June 2015

"There are 50 principal cultural events scheduled in 2015 that aim to make the most of Plzen's appealing architecture, from the beautiful Baroque square to the gigantic Gothic synagogue..."

Bohemian Bliss: Pampered in Prague

An article for Asia Spa Magazine, May 2015

"Prague is a spa paradise at the heart of Europe. So whether you fancy an elaborate hotel spa or an intimate wellness haven, step back from city sightseeing and prepare to be pampered..."

Feasting in Havana, Cuba

An article for Jumeirah Magazine, February 2015

"Since 2010, this new generation of paladares has been winning back the hearts, minds and stomachs of international visitors. Slowly but surely, fine dining is being revived in Havana..."

Back to the Future: A History of Wearable Tech

An article for The Johnnie Walker House Edit, November 2014

"Strange as it appears, this hat with a built-in battery-powered radio was the first example of mass-marketed wearable technology, making it a key creative and scientific breakthrough..."

Like a Phoenix: Baku’s Flame Towers

An article for Private Air Magazine, October 2014

"The spirit of newness in Baku, Azerbaijan, is best seen in the capital’s landmark architectural achievement, the Flame Towers; three giant flame-shaped columns that loom over the city..."

Out to Brunch: The All-Week Brunch Trend

An article for SO/HO Magazine, October 2014

"This late-morning meal now rivals lunch and dinner as the most creative cuisine of the day - throughout the week. So how has this dining phenomenon taken off all around the world...?"

Century Spires: Thriller in Manila

An article for Private Air Magazine, September 2014

"The eighth tower in the shimmering glass high-rise development that is 'Century City', this is the first building in the Philippines to be designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind..."

London’s Gastronomic Revolution

An article for Destinations of the World News, September 2014

"In the 1980s, a gourmet restaurant may serve you a three-course menu of a prawn cocktail, a kidney-crammed pie and a worryingly wobbly dessert. 30 years on, things are very different..."

Celebrity Hotels: Where the Stars Stay and Play

An article for The Johnnie Walker House Edit, August 2014

"Perhaps the most famous celebrity hotel on earth, Chateau Marmont, which opened in 1929, drips with Hollywood history. It's been a favourite check-in of film stars throughout history..."

Night & Day: 24 Hours in Baku, Azerbaijan

An article for Destinations of the World News, June 2014

"Land at the airport and flag a taxi to Fairmont Baku. Located in one of the three Flame Towers - fire-shaped columns that rise high above the city - the hotel boasts the best views in Baku..."

Discover Baku, Azerbaijan… in 48 Hours

An article for Life Refined Magazine, June 2014

"Baku is a fast-changing city. Since 2000, crumbling Soviet-era apartments have given way to shimmering steel skyscrapers and dented Ladas have been overtaken by gleaming BMWs..."

Stay for Free: Sleeping with Strangers

An article for National Geographic Traveller, May 2014

"I am folded in half. My knees are tucked up to my chin - my chin tucked into my chest. I can’t even feel my feet. In fact, my only sensation is the sharp jabbing below my shoulder blade..."

The Boutique Boom

An article for SO/HO Magazine, March 2014

"A good hotel stay is no longer only about high thread count linen and 24-hour room service; guests today are looking for stylish, independent properties that offer unique experiences..."

The Quest for Quieter Cabins

An article for Private Air Magazine, March 2014

"Private jets have long been adorned with luxurious features, from king-sized beds to crystal chandeliers. Yet for all these fancy features, one consistent irritant is sky-high noise levels..."

The Purple Passport: A Guide to the High Life

An article for Private Air Magazine, January 2014

"Founded in 2010 by two intrepid New Yorkers, TPP provides bright and smart online guides – and occasional e-books – to the crème de la crème of decadent global city destinations..."

Chef Collaborations and Exchanges

An article for SO/HO Magazine, December 2013

"It is a regular evening. You turn up at your regular restaurant and are shown to your regular table. Then you are handed your menu, which bears zero resemblance to the regular one..."

Life & Soul: Assessing Zurich’s ‘Visitability’

An article for Silverkris (Singapore Airlines in-flight magazine), December 2013

"This Swiss city is frequently caricatured as squeaky clean and somewhat clinical, populated with pin-striped bankers and greyfaced financiers. But Zurich has so much to offer visitors..."

St Moritz: Switzerland’s Winter Wonderland

An article for Private Air Magazine, November 2013

"It all began with a wager. In September 1864, the St Moritz hotelier Johannes Badrutt bet four guests that if they returned to the town in winter, they'd enjoy it even more than in summer..."

Securing a Second Home in the Finger Lakes

An article for Private Air Magazine, November 2013

"The Finger Lakes has always been popular with New Yorkers, as a relaxing respite from the busy city. But in recent years, affluent city folk have begun committing to longer residencies..."

How to Design a Boutique Bakery

An article for SO/HO Magazine, September 2013

"At boutique artisan bakeries that have seen a boom in the past two years, design and decor are as vital as the dough. From Singapore to London, here are the finest bakery boutiques..."

SPLENDOR AT SEA: A CRUISE ON MS EUROPA 2

An article for Private Air Magazine, September 2013

"The stunning suite around me is remarkably roomy, with a generous floor space of 28 square meters split between a large bedroom-slash-living room and a rather substantial bathroom..."

Fine Design at The Augustine in Prague

An article for Private Air Magazine, September 2013

"The moment the door swings open, guests are reassured they are in for a treat. Beyond the threshold lies a luxurious living room, with an iron staircase spiraling up through the ceiling..."

Experiencing Exclusive Resorts in Costa Rica

An article for Private Air Magazine, July 2013

"I hear a rustling overhead. Tentatively, I look up into the shadowy tree canopy overhanging the cliff edge, to discover a wrinkled pink face staring right back at me, A Capuchin monkey..."

Blending In: Thailand’s Luxury Hotel Designs

An article for Private Air Magazine, May 2013

"The sun skirts the ocean's edge. The lingering light dances upon the water's surface, from infinite sea to infinity pool, until it eventually sinks, exhausted, beyond the crystal horizon..."

PRIVATE AIR AT THE BADA FAIR

An article for Private Air Magazine, May 2013

“The award was given to a rare Queen Anne gilt gesso dressing table, shown by Mackinnon Fine Furniture and described by the judges as 'an object of spectacular fragility and rarity'..."

Morocco sans Marrakech

An article for Overland Magazine, May 2013

"Despite a recent influx of tourists, there remain many attraction-filled Moroccan destinations tucked off-the-beaten-path. During a 10-day trip, I discovered five of the best hidden gems..."

The Flight to Everest Base Camp

An article for National Geographic Traveller, May 2013

“I heard the plane before I saw it. Sitting mutely in a pallid departure lounge, the dirty put-put-put of the engine trickled its way into my subconscious. It's a peeling, patched-up biplane…”

At the Crossroads

An article for Voyeur (Virgin Airlines in-flight magazine), April 2013

“Slouching off the effects of jet-lag on a riverside bench, I watch as a group of elderly women, draped in flowing, bright white gowns, perform a languid dance with crimson fans held aloft..."

The World’s Best Airport Architecture

An article for Private Air Magazine, March 2013

"For the majority of the 20th century, airport terminals were built for function; safe, efficient and uninspiring buildings made to deliver people from road to runway. But that's changed..."

LONDON’S MOST EXPENSIVE RESIDENCES

An article for Private Air Magazine, March 2013

“Ask any Londoner and they’ll tell you the city has always been a pricy place to purchase a home. But in the last few years, property prices have soared to truly astronomical levels…”

Eating China: A Culinary Tour

An article for Overland Magazine, February 2013

"There are few culinary cultures as familiar, and yet as unknown, as China’s. In any world city you'll find 'Chinese' restaurants; yet the concept of a single Chinese cuisine is misguided..."

The Circle: A New Form of Airport Architecture

An article for Private Air Magazine, January 2013

"Architect Riken Yamamoto believes airports should not merely be transport hubs, but multi-purpose centers for the world to share. And he's showing the way with The Circle in Zurich..."

Albania: The Foreign Investment of the Decade?

An article for Private Air Magazine, January 2013

"Sunlight creeps into the cracks between the wooden stalls, and the Old Bazaar stirs into life. Shutters are slid open, shelves are straightened and scarves are suspended from ceilings..."

Waking Up in Sitka, Alaska

A brochure introduction for Sitka Convention & Visitors Bureau, January 2013

"It's early morning and the sea is silent. Rolling fog wraps itself round the distant white-tipped volcanic peak; bald eagles swoop down on early-rising anglers in search of the first catch..."

The Call of the Cayman Islands

An article for Private Air Magazine, November 2012

"The Cayman Islands may be best known as an off-shore tax haven, but regular visitors will attest that this charming corner of the Caribbean has far more to offer than fat cat financiers..."

Shenzhen: A Better Investment Than Hong Kong?

An article for Private Air Magazine, November 2012

"For more than half a century, Hong Kong has been a great economic powerhouse. Yet today it has a significant threat to its established global position - and it's coming from next door..."

Heart of Seoul: Five Grand Palaces in Two Days

An article for Serendib (Sri Lankan Airways in-flight magazine), November 2012

“It's 10 in the morning when the drumbeat starts. A heavy thud-thud-thud of anticipation. The Changing of the Guard is a rare celebration of the past in a capital obsessed with the future…”

UKRAINE AGAIN: IS REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT BACK?

An article for Private Air Magazine, November 2012

“In October, the Ukrainian government passed a law that allows non-citizens to become land owners when buying real estate. But is Ukrainian property a good investment for foreigners…”

Amman: A Modern Arab City

An article for Serendib (Sri Lankan Airways in-flight magazine), May 2012

“Amman is a capital with many memorable millennia behind it and more to come; where time-worn temples and mosques jostle for space with high skyscrapers and picket-fenced villas..."

Off Everest’s Beaten Path

An article for Shoestring Magazine, February 2012

"I feel like throwing up. My head is spinning, my stomach churning, my joints throbbing. I suck in a lungful of icy air but there isn't enough oxygen. Yet still I ignore the thought to turn back…”

The Search for Ischia’s Seaside Spa

An article for The Telegraph (Travel Supplement), February 2012

""Have you got the eels?” I ask, teeth chattering, as my girlfriend steps off the yacht and onto the jetty. She nods. “And the mullet? And the calamari?” She holds the bag of seafood aloft..."

Killing Time in Europe’s Best Cemeteries

An article for StalkingElk Magazine, November 2011

“An inexorable fixture in every childhood - whether burying your gran, losing your virginity or dabbling in the occult - cemeteries are also great for killing time prior to your own demise..."

Top Marx: When Socialism Meets Tourism

An article for StalkingElk Magazine, July 2011

“China now has more KFC outlets than giant pandas. A mere two decades after some vexed Germans shouted at a wall, the country's about as socialist as Joseph McCarthy in a kaftan..."

Weird Beards and other Bohemian Oddities

An article for StalkingElk Magazine, April 2011

“In the heartlands of Bohemia, Christian institutions offer much more than just war-mongering scripture, cheap magic tricks and kiddy-fiddling clergymen. They offer bizarre trinkets too..."

Ischia’s Wild Winter Warmers

An article for Shoestring Magazine, February 2011

“It was one of those bitterly cold December days in southern Italy, when the chill wraps itself around your bones and draws you into winter, and I was freezing to the seat of my scooter..."

Transnistria: Europe’s Last Kid on the Bloc

An article for Shoestring Magazine, October 2010

“As the 1990s rolled in, and the world watched Poland and co. march forwards to a bright new dawn, no-one seemed to notice that one corner of the Eastern Bloc had been left behind…”

The Greatest (and Most Secret) Show on Earth?

An article for Reader's Digest, August 2010

“North Korea is acquiring a reputation for something altogether different from its newsworthy nuclear programme and alleged torpedo attacks. And it involves schoolchildren in leotards..."

In Freiburg’s City, It’s Clean and Pretty

An article for Greenprint Magazine, October 2009

“In recent years, Freiburg - aka "The Jewel of the Black Forest" - has secured an international reputation as a role model for sustainable construction. It is the world’s first true ‘eco-city’…”

Cutting It At The Edinburgh Fringe

An article for Scriptwriter Magazine, January 2008

“On the city's pretty Royal Mile, actors, singers, dancers, jugglers, stuntpeople, wrestlers and inexplicably semi-naked hypnotists all indiscriminately thrust their pamphlets at passers-by…”