A pitstop in Abu Dhabi and Dubai The sparkling lights from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa dominates the view from my hotel window. I’m perched on the sofa in my 15th-floor room in the Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai waiting for my large bath to fill. It’s been a hectic couple of days since my early morning arrival in Dubai … [Read more...]
Edinburgh culture, history and a shiny nosed dog
Edinburgh what's not to love? As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh commands attention. But apart from being the country’s epi centre, Edinburgh exudes a distinctive charm that is difficult to resist. The compact layout of the city means it’s easy to get around and explore, even for someone like me with a hopeless sense of direction! I'd come … [Read more...]
She’ll be right mate!
The beginnings of an unlikely friendship Our friendship began on social media. The common link, we’re both writing colleagues in an Australian writer’s group and we met via a closed Facebook group. This link has resulted in an alliance across the oceans which will culminate in two strangers traveling together for the very first time! And I’m … [Read more...]
Day Spa in Hoi An
Relaxation and pamper in Hoi An Another favourite activity in Vietnam was the spa visits for massage, facials, pedicures, and manicures. Thanks to Rachel in our tour group, who did the research and initial test (after which she gave the thumbs up,) a number of us made appointments at *Palmarosa spa, located conveniently around the corner from our … [Read more...]
Naked communion – a divine onsen experience
My first onsen experience Walking carefully along the snow-covered village street, I’m unable to look up and take in my new surroundings. The snow on the ground is thick and crunches underfoot. I'm aware discreet patches of ice wait for the unwary. I’m doing my best not to slip and fall. Usually a curious observer, today I’m cautiously following … [Read more...]
Sydney reveals its wow factor during Vivid
How to impress a teenager Teenagers these days are pretty hard to impress. With easy access to instant on-line entertainment and their inherent immediate gratification attitude, it’s difficult to know what (if anything) will “wow” them. How about Sydney during the Vivid Festival? Sydney’s 2017 Vivid festival is from May 26 – June 17. Last … [Read more...]
When travelling Japan with teenagers be prepared for anything
Expect the unexpected when travelling with teenagers The Japanese Shinkansen is fast. They traverse across the Japanese countryside at lightning speed! One of my boys clocked it at 220km/hour using an app on his phone. And they run to a clockwork tight schedule. They pull up at the station, passengers alight and the Shinkansens move off with … [Read more...]
Maui we’ll be back
Mum, her three kids and their Maui Adventure! "You should try this Mum," came the challenging call from one of my kids. On Ka'anapali Beach near one of Maui's ritzy resort areas, my three kids had hooked up with some friends (also from Australia) for the popular activity known as "jumping off Black Rock". Pu’u Keka’a (Black Rock) is a rocky … [Read more...]
Hawaii is active boy’s heaven
In Hawaii, friends, loved ones, or strangers are greeted with "Aloha" – which means with love. The legendary leader of Hawaiian people, Duke Kahanamoku, is famous for preaching and spreading that special Hawaiian hospitality known as Aloha. At Maui Paintball, the Hawaiian locals, unfortunately for my kids, seemed to have forgotten their Aloha … [Read more...]
Fiji’s little circle of Paradise
To share or not to share, that is the question. A few years ago, searching through the many spectacular internet sites showcasing Fijian Island getaways, I discovered a tiny jewel in the Mamanuca group of Islands. Following my third visit to this idyllic Fijian tropical isle, I considered NOT writing about my experience. I thought keeping my … [Read more...]