Author: Sarah Gilbert

Chile’s wine regions: landscape and vino, a perfect blend

Chile first began making wine back in the mid-16th century, when Spanish conquistadors and Jesuit missionaries planted the first vines. But it wasn’t until the 1980s that local winemakers began to employ modern viticulture methods and state-of-the-art technology. Today, Chile’s wine regions are considered major players in the global wine industry. The country’s diverse landscapes,…

6 Beaches in Chile that should be on your radar

When it comes to beach destinations, Chile might not instantly spring to mind. But this long, skinny country has a coastline that stretches for more than 4,270 kilometres. And along this impressive length of Pacific Ocean shore, there’s no end of visit-worthy stretches of sand. Read on for our pick of the best beaches in Chile. 1.…

The spirit of fado in Lisbon

An intrinsic element of musical tradition in Portugal – fado is a form of melancholic song that characterises the heart of Portuguese culture. Sarah Gilbert visits the streets of Lisbon‘s Alfama neighbourhood in search of the spirit of fado. Museu do Fado “Fadista Ana Moura once said she had saudade over not having saudade,” Dalila…

10 Sri Lankan foods you need to try

The tear-shaped Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka is a true culinary treat. Through years of colonisation and trade, many cultures have influenced its cuisine, creating a spice-filled fusion of Dutch, Portuguese, English, Malay, Indian and indigenous flavours to tantalise the taste buds. If you’re not familiar with Sri Lankan food, you’re in for a…

The ultimate foodie’s guide to Mexico

Banish thoughts of boring burritos and tasteless Tex Mex; it’s not just chillies that are making Mexican food hot right now. The country’s diverse cuisine is so good, it’s been granted UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status (French is the only other gastronomy), and there’s everything from tasty tacos to fine-dining fusion. Here are some of…

Miami’s makeover: shaking things up in the Sunshine State

Banish thoughts of Miami Vice or ‘God’s waiting room’. The Sunshine State’s most flamboyant city is rapidly changing and there’s more to discover than golden sand and neon nightclubs. Down-at-heel neighbourhoods are being revitalised, the art scene is spreading and with its variety of cultural influences from Latin to Caribbean, Miami has grown into a…

Nicaragua’s tourism revolution: this is the year to visit

Nicaragua is fast becoming the must-visit Central American nation. Sarah Gilbert tells us why you need to explore this fascinating country before the crowds and canals move in. The land of lakes and volcanoes is also the land of lively colonial cities, wildlife-rich forests and deserted beaches. It’s a nature lover’s paradise: Costa Rica without…

Cities with sand: the world’s best urban beaches

Can’t decide between a city or beach break? Some of the world’s most magnificent metropolises have been blessed with pristine stretches of sand, so you can effortlessly combine architectural riches, cutting-edge cuisine and vibrant nightlife with a spot of seaside relaxation. So slap on the sun block and the shades, here’s our pick of the…