The Frank Lloyd-Wright Home and Studio in Chicago.

The best places in Chicago for Frank Lloyd-Wright architecture

For lovers of Frank Lloyd-Wright’s architecture, the best places in Chicago to visit are his Oak Park studio and Frederick C Robie House. Chicago’s most famous architect For a city so famous for its skyscrapers, it’s perhaps ironic that the single most celebrated Chicago architect…
The Mekong River in Luang Prabang.

Discovering Laos, from Luang Prabang to Pakse

From the monasteries of Luang Prabang to the treks and Mekong River islands of Champasak Province, Laos proves to be frequently, alluringly unusual. Waiting for the monks of Luang Prabang As the sky begins to sieve through enough light for the mole-like eyes of the…
Avoid Long Queues at Alton Towers: Rainy Day Secrets

Avoid Long Queues at Alton Towers: Rainy Day Secrets

The secret to avoiding the crowds at Alton Towers during peak season is to look closely at the weather forecast. The worst time to visit Alton Towers Everyone knows the worst time to visit Alton Towers – or, indeed, any theme park. The school holidays,…
Milford Sound.

Why Te Anau is the Best Base for Milford Sound

Milford Sound – or Piopiotahi, to give it the Maori name – is arguably New Zealand’s most prized attraction. The steep-walled fjord, lined with waterfalls, is a natural wonder on the west coast of the South Island. It’s also pretty remote, and most people use…
Michelangelo's frescoes from the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.

Why I hated the Sistine Chapel

Despite its reputation as a must-see in Rome, I found the Sistine Chapel disappointing due to the crowds, strict rules, and rushed experience. This article was updated and expanded in January 2026. The Conclave Fantasy If I was a cardinal, I would drag the Conclave…