Travel is in my veins. From as early as I could, I escaped my island home to travel the world. As a writer and journalist, I live a wandering life. Born and raised in Tasmania, living between Australia and France, and landing in the US as often as possible to see family. What I love most about travel all comes down to nature and culture. The landscapes you encounter – and the people you do. Both make your mind and outlook grow as you look on in awe at the world outside. Beyond your usual experiences, beliefs, and home comfort zone. And learn about other customs, languages, and environments. Put simply, travel transforms.
I don’t try to travel to every place. I need to feel an attraction – a connection – before I set off. It’s a feeling – based on a whole lot of impressions about a people and a country’s landscapes. I don’t want to travel to places where there’s political oppression or misery. Contrasts between rich and poor, sure. But not downright misery. Unless, that is, I can do something about it. Also, I want to connect with people on my travels – not observe them from the outside as though watching a TV show.
It would be selfish of me to not share some of the wonders of being on the road with you. That’s why I write stories and a blog. The challenge is to try to capture the intensity of the experience in words.
Travel is the most transformational thing. It’s shaped who I am, and I hope, will continue to. My mind has been re-dimensioned as I learn languages and get an insider’s view into other cultures. So pack your bags, get ready for a cultural adventure. And leave your preconceived notions at home.
Tis the season for French Christmas transport strikes. French transport unions have a habit of throwing a spanner in the works of people’s Christmas travel plans. The risk is real. Be prepared. Here’s what you need to know about travels in France over coming weeks leading up to Christmas.
This dazzling Italian port-city is the birthplace of one of the world’s greatest explorers, Christopher Columbus. There’s an irony to that, given that the Ligurian capital remains relatively undiscovered.
About 40 kilometres from Sandakan in the Malaysian Borneo state of Sabah, Pulau Libaran may look like another idyllic island in the turquoise Sulu Sea. But its nickname, “Turtle Island”, comes from the sanctuary it has turned into for one of the world’s most adored yet threatened sea creatures.
Travel Sweden’s High Coast: The far-flung Höga Kusten is a wild and wonderful place. Almost as far north as you…
On a breezy, sweltering Sunday of July, Joseph and I are whirling along the Alsace wine route – the route du vin. Only this time, we are doing it from south to north, on our way back to Strasbourg. The Route du Vin sweeps through over 100 Hansel & Gretel pretty villages in the foothills of the Vosges mountains. Each has its own typical tastes and “messti” – festivals.
Sweden and Canada top the list of the top 5 safest countries for LGBTQ+ holidays and living, a study finds. Following on their heels are the Netherlands, Norway and Malta in the top 5 countries for safety for the LGBTQ+ community. Spain, Portugal, Denmark and Belgium follow.
