Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear

13 iconic Edinburgh sights that are even better during the festivals

Edinburgh is a stunning city at any time of year. Whether you’re blown away by the view over the city from Arthur’s Seat, or simply enjoying the gorgeous architecture in the Old Town, there’s something to please everyone here. But it’s during the festivals that Edinburgh really comes into its own, and those iconic attractions…

12 extraordinary experiences to enjoy in Edinburgh, the Festival City

Most of us have heard of the Edinburgh Fringe, the Military Tattoo and the International Festival. But did you know there are 11 different festivals throughout the year in Scotland’s capital? It’s the ultimate festival city, with everything from science experiments to storytelling evenings happening year-round. Here are 12 things not to miss in Edinburgh,…

August in Edinburgh: How to Spend 48 hours in the Festival City

August in Edinburgh is simply thrilling. The Festival City’s busiest period, you won’t be left wanting for things to do. In fact, it might all seem a bit overwhelming, what with five festivals taking place throughout this one month and literally thousands of events, from plays to parades, to attend. There’s the world-famous Fringe, the…

Go beyond gorillas: why golden monkeys are Uganda’s wildlife highlight

Uphill has never been my favourite direction to walk. But on the this particular trek, as Otis Clay sang, the only way is up, baby. I’m on a relentlessly steep, well-trodden path in the wilds of Mgahinga National Park, the Ugandan side of a huge forest that also stretches beyond the borders of the Democratic…

Vietnam or Thailand – which one should you visit first?

Whether you’re backpacking around Southeast Asia or you’re planning a holiday to the region, Vietnam and Thailand are likely to feature on your hit list. Both destinations offer variety of pleasures, from fabulous coastlines with idyllic islands to mountainous regions and breathtaking natural wonders. But when it comes to exploring Vietnam or Thailand, which one…

Climb Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Exploring the heights of Africa's tallest mountain is one of the top 50 things to do before you die. See the full list here.

Why India is the ideal honeymoon destination

Whether you want a fly and flop romantic beach break, or more of an active adventure, India is the honeymoon destination that truly has it all. There’s no better place to fall in love all over again than on the laidback beaches of Kerala, among the chaos of Rajasthan’s colourful towns and cities, or at…

In pictures: the little-visited treasures of South India

After a week-long whistle-stop tour of central India‘s least-visited attractions, travel writer and photographer Lottie Gross shares her favourite photos. India is undoubtedly a beautiful country. It presents such an array of interesting scenes and stunning landscapes, taking pictures is irresistible. But this vast country also poses great challenges for photographers: there are so many…