What a difference a decade makes
As we begin the 2020s, I’ve seen discussion about whether this is the start of the decade, or the end. Does the decade start, for example,…
My 2018 travel highlights
I was already travelling when 2018 kicked off, mid-way through a 10-week trip to Europe. There were times this year when I wished life would slow…
Fifty years of The Sound of Music
When Maria von Trapp led her Captain and seven children across the mountains – or, more accurately, her nine children out the garden gate to the…
My 2015 in pictures
As 2015 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on all the wonderful places I’ve been during the year. Many of my travels weren’t too…
Blogging on
Phew! It’s been a huge year in the blogosphere. For me, at least. I’ve really loved sharing my travels and my personal view of the world…
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,…
Dirndl to go (or stay)
Claudia casts a critical eye over my cleavage. Or lack of it. Clearly, I’m wearing the wrong kind of bra. Compared to her décolletage – and…
Beyond the grave
In the rocky mountainside cemetery in the pretty Austrian village of Hallstatt, space is at a premium. It’s been that way since the early 1700s, and…
Into the salt mines
In 1734, the “Man in the Salt” was uncovered deep in the mountains above the Austrian village of Hallstatt. With a history dating back more than 7000…
Is this the prettiest village in Europe?
Some people think so. Others have described it as the most beautiful lake-side town in the world. Welcome to Hallstatt, in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria,…
A Glass Half Full 