Travel advice, ideas & expert tips

Why do Tuscany hot air balloon flights leave so early in the morning?

Hot-air balloon rides from Siena typically launch at 5:30–7:30 am, depending on the season. While the thought of waking up before dawn may seem extreme, it’s the only reliable way to enjoy a safe and serene balloon flight over Tuscany’s hills, including views of olive groves,…

Dunedin Railway Station in Dunedin, New Zealand.

Visiting Dunedin Railway Station in New Zealand

Dunedin Railway Station is one of New Zealand’s best-known landmarks, famous for its ornate architecture and historic charm. Opened in 1906, the station quickly became a symbol of the city’s prosperity during the gold rush era. Today, it remains a popular attraction for visitors to…

The view of New York City from the Top of the Rock observation deck.

Plan your visit to the Top of the Rock observation deck: Opening hours, ticket prices and parking

For first‑time visitors to New York City, this detailed guide explains how to reach the Top of the Rock observation deck, what the ticket prices and opening hours are, how to park or use public transport and how to combine the visit with nearby attractions. History and overview of the…

How to find the best chocolates in Brussels

Brussels’ reputation as the home of fine chocolate is well deserved. From small family-run workshops to internationally known names, the Belgian chocolate shops are filled with tempting window displays. But with so many shops to choose from, working out where to go – and which…

Kirby Hall: Practical guide to visiting Northamptonshire’s Elizabethan ruin

Kirby Hall in Northamptonshire is one of England’s greatest Elizabethan houses, a spectacular example of Renaissance architecture and ambition. However, unlike many stately homes, Kirby Hall is partially preserved as an intentional ruin. This unusual status allows visitors to experience the magnificent scale of the…

Why Karekare Beach is Auckland’s best beach

Karekare Beach is one of the most dramatic and atmospheric stretches of coastline on New Zealand's North Island. Located on Auckland’s rugged west coast, it is part of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park and lies just 35 kilometres from the city centre. With its black…

Siena travel guide for first time visitors

Arguably the most beautiful city in Tuscany, Siena has sensational food and one of the world’s most eccentric festivals. What is Siena all about? It’s hard to rein in the giddiness walking through Siena’s winding hilltop streets. The walls climb high, the decoration leaps out…

View over the rooftops in Trieste, Italy.

Trieste travel guide for first time visitors: Attractions, restaurants & shopping

The Italian city of Trieste doesn’t feel all that Italian – and that’s a major part of the charm. What is Trieste all about? Clear days in Trieste are pretty magical. The water of the Adriatic Sea looks so, so blue, and the mountains rise…

The photo frame outside the Arataki Visitor Centre in the Waitakere Ranges.

Getting the best out of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park

The Waitākere Ranges Regional Park is one of Auckland’s most impressive natural escapes. Just 30 minutes from the city centre, this vast area of North Island forest, coastline, and waterfalls offers a complete contrast to the urban buzz. With over 16,000 hectares to explore, it’s…

Visitor guide to Piha Beach: Auckland’s black sand wonder

Piha Beach, one of New Zealand’s most famous surf spots, is located around 45 minutes west of Auckland CBD on the North Island. Known for its volcanic black sand and dramatic coastal scenery, Piha is a favourite with surfers, walkers and day trippers looking to…