My year of exploring Australia
As the year ends, I always like to look back on the places I’ve visited as a travel writer and I found that this year had…
A Gold Coast sunrise
Artists and writers often talk about the quality of light in Australia. It’s different to anywhere else in the world; but subtle is not always a…
Swell Sculpture Festival 2014
As if sand and sea are not enough to restore the soul at any time, each year I love to head to the Gold Coast for…
Riding ‘The G’ to Outrigger Surfers Paradise
Arriving at my Gold Coast hotel last weekend, I was thrilled to see that right outside the door was the seaside city’s new tram line. I…
My travel year…in pictures
Happy New Year to all my readers! I’ve had a wonderful year, including travel to some places new to me and those which are familiar and…
A sweet, suite treat of a weekend
An upgrade’s always welcome when you’re travelling. I mean, there’s something lovely about an unexpected surprise that makes you more comfortable, whether it’s more legroom on…
Sunset and seafood at Surfers Paradise
A gondola glides past our table overlooking the river. It’s a slightly surreal moment, given that we’re not in Venice (or Vegas), but at Surfer’s Paradise…
Kicking up at Cabaret de Paris
Many years ago, on a best-forgotten bus tour of Europe, I fell in love with Paris. In the years since then, I’ve been back a few…
My year in pictures
I don’t make New Year’s resolutions, but it’s good to reflect on the year that’s past and at the places life has taken me over 2012,…
Swell sculpture
Sand between my toes, a soft-serve ice-cream covered in sprinkles in my hand, and a feast of seashore, surf and some stunning sculpture before me. That’s how I…
A Glass Half Full 