Diverse Traveller

Manchester Rules OK!

Believe me, there's more to Manchester than the Trafford centre and Manchester United. Join me on my insiders guide to some great Manchester venues.

A Tale of Two Cities

Cut off by temporary barriers and police guards, I gave the officers an irritated look. What on earth was going on?

It's All Greek To Me!

“Boil the milk first before adding it to your white sauce, and add two eggs quickly at the end. It will make it smoother and the colour much nicer,” one of Stavros’ most useful tips.

Pondering the 'loo' situation

There are many things to worry about when you meet a new man - but is 'what's his loo like' really one of them?

Surviving the 'beach' holiday

I do adore idling the hours away in the sun with a good book in one hand and a large drink in the other…. but to do this for seven days seemed extreme to me.

An Olympic Experience

Thousands of miles from my place of birth, I find a sense of belonging in the Olympic city of Athens.

Bargain London

They say that trying to find a bargain in London, recently named as the second most expensive city in the world, can be like looking for a needle in a haystack – unless you know where to look, that is.

One night in Paris

Clubbing in Paris… Paris for the night… Why go clubbing in London when you can go to Paris instead?

Essentials for a Short Break in Madrid

Insider knowledge of Madrid, one of the most exciting cities in the world, will make your trip much more interesting and, hopefully save you money too.

Beware of Travelling With a `Good' Friend

Would travelling to Spain with Maddalena turn out to be holiday heaven or hell?

Venice the Hard Way

Taking a group of teenagers including one in a wheelchair to Venice - all arranged the independant traveller way - was bound to be a challenge, so why was I doing it?

Something in the Ikaria Water?

Jacky Storey explores the Greek island of Ikaria, with worries of water and the roadson her mind.

Relaxing Algarve

I had a dream... white sands, blues seas, gorgeous weather, wonderful food... and not having to travel too far from the UK. Is there such a place?

UK: Romantic Hideaways with Style

The British country house hotel used to be a very particular thing. However, things are changing and these days Georgian manor houses hide cool modern design and imposing stately homes offer a refreshingly informal welcome.

The Knowledge!

A trip to the British Library is just the place for a researcher who wants to get away from it all.

All Aboard for Fast Food French and a Pinch of Italian

A tongue-in-cheek look at travelling by train through France and Italy.

Oslo - My Sweetest Holiday

Eliza's memories of Oslo will always be of caramel brownies and glass elevators - one of the sweetest and giddiest holidays she has ever had.

Last Minute Sail Away

Would seven days aboard the Tall ship Prince William prove to be Eliza's fantastic voyage?

HOTEL REVIEW: Luxury Weekend in Cheltenham and Cirencester

Eliza recommends an old-fashioned city break, and you don't have to go too far from London.

Meat Market

Lorna Clansey discovers an alternative to early morning restlessness on a visit to Smithfield.

WOMAN'S WORLD: Travel Company Owner - Jane Stanbury

Leaving London to set up a new life and business in Spain, may on reflection be mad or brave. Read Jane's story and judge for yourself.

Destination of the Month: Greece

Greece is a great country to relax and spend lazy days sunbathing, but it also has much more to offer than just sea and sand!

TRAVEL KITCHEN: Raise a Glass to English Wines

You may know your Rioja from your Rhône and your Bordeaux from your Beaujolais, but how clued up are you on English wines?

CITY BREAKS: The Great Spanish Salsa Riot

Looking for a short break with a difference, why not go for one with a food theme? The small, usually insignificant Spanish town of Bunol could be just the e-ticket for you.

Searching for Christmas Spirit in Salzburg

In search of lost Christmas spirit, I dragged my dad on a cheapskate jaunt to the chilly, yet delightful city of Salzburg.

NewcastleGateshead: Lively Home of the ‘Geordies’

NewcastleGateshead (think Buda Pest) is regularly voted one of the favourite city break destinations by us Brits.

Wish You Were Here, Love Santa!

You and your family can take an incredible journey to see Santa in his very own house.

Christmas Markets

If you're tired of commercialism taking over the festive season you might consider heading to the continent, where gifts are not mass-produced but are craftwork of real quality.

Turkish Tobacco, Korean Pop Music and French Slang: A Turkish Global Experience.

Have you ever considered volunteering abroad but been put off by the high costs of volunteer programmes? Then perhaps a volunteer work camp is just what you’re looking for.

BOOK REVIEW: Vroom with a View by Peter Moore

Vroom with a View is as much a romance as a travel adventure. For not only does Peter win the woman of his dreams, he falls for a side of Italy others rarely see. Along with Sophia, of course…

Celebrating Norwich Heritage in Traditional Pubs

Join Lucy Jane and visit Norwich to raise a glass to 'old fashioned' pubs.

The ‘art’ to being English abroad

A week in Spain brings out Carla’s ‘English’ Spirit.

Latvia - Land of Contrast. Part One

Anita elbows past beer-swilling tourists to discover the ‘real’ Riga.

Spain’s Alternative Accommodation

Spain has the usual selection of modern hotels and hostels, but if you travel off the beaten track you can easily discover many alternative kinds of tourist accommodation.

Getting Up to Date in Ibiza – Part 1

With no-one to trawl homeware stores, visit potential wedding venues or have romantic weekends away with, my paltry 20 days of annual leave were proving very hard to fill.

Getting Up to Date in Ibiza – Part 2

With no hope of rounding up my smug married friends for the spontaneous shopping trips to Paris, or girls-only villa holidays of days gone by, I bit the bullet and booked myself onto a four-night speed dating trip to Ibiza.

Serbia - Entering the World of Exit

Sophie wonders whether a little known music festival will help Serbia shift its unfortunate image as a war zone, and make it a destination for tourists.

Healthy Eating in Leeds

Genetically Modified food, and mad cow disease - is it any wonder many of us want healthier food options? But where are can you find the healthier food options in Leeds?

Blissful Breaks at Britain's Boutique Hotels

In Britain, city-based holidays have taken on a whole new look and feel in recent years, since the conversion of Regency and Edwardian townhouses into delightful boutique hotels.

DESTINATION of the MONTH: Haunted York

York claims to be Europe’s most haunted city, and sometimes it seems as though a ghostly figure with a score to settle is in residence.

A Little Language Goes a Long Way

Just buy a good phrase book, smile a lot and apologise for your own stupidity for not being able to speak their language.

Five Top Italian City Breaks

From the gothic and medieval sights of Siena to Milan, the modern fashion capitals of Europe, there are so many interesting cities to explore throughout Italy.

Outdoor Activities in Perthshire

The Scottish winters are dark, cold and wet but the scenery is breathtaking. A visit to Perthshire makes a convenient base to explore the rest of Scotland.

WOMAN'S WORLD: Wendy Shand, Director of Tots to France

Welcome to our regular interviews with women who are making their own impact on the world of travel and leisure.

TRAVEL KITCHEN: St Patrick's Day Stew

Although food is often a second thought on Paddy’s Day, there are many traditional dishes that celebrate the occasion.

Spanish Healing

Channel your Chi at a foriegn spa. Or why the British woman of today deserves to treat herself to a 'relaxing; break away - on the cheap!

Nottingham: The International Culinary Capital of Britain

Lucy eats her way around Nottingham's international restaurants.

FAMILY TRAVEL: Bottle of bubble mixture. Essential!

Wendy Shand of TotstoFrance provides some helpful tips to help you and your toddlers have a great holiday in France.

TRAVEL KITCHEN: Easter Food Feasts, Without Chocolate Eggs

In other cultures, Easter celebrations revolve around breakfast feasts rather than chocolate eggs.

A Perfect Scottish Weekend

Scotland has more to offer than Edinburgh, a visit further afield to Cowal, an unspoilt peninsula across the river Clyde from Glasgow, is well worth a visit.

Istanbul - City of Cats and Turkish baths

Not for Sarah, Istanbul's famous Hagia Sofia, Bosphorus or Topkapi Palace, it was the cities simpler treasures that left a lasting impression.

HOTEL REVIEW: Tea at the Waldorf

Ellie, takes a well deserved time-out at one of London's famous hotels.

Hallelujah for Stockholm

On accepting an invitation to sing African gospel in Stockholm, Ellie and the rest of the On Board Gospel Choir wondered how they would be received.

The Royal and Noble Ghosts of the Tower

The Tower of London is still home to many residents – although none of them are actually alive.

Bath - "A City for Pleasures”

Bath has been described as a “city for pleasures” and as you pull into its quaint Georgian station, it’s easy to see why.

Enjoying a Traditional Pint in Norwich

Share a drink with Lucy Jane in one of the many old fashioned pubs still pulling pints in Norwich.

Andalucía’s Festivals Part One: Jerez de la Frontera

Sherry, Flamenco, and Bullfighting, Jenny indulges in a few Spanish Passions.

Andalucía’s Festivals Part Two: Cordoba’s Festival of the Patios

Peering into Cordoba’s private houses, Jenny takes a journey into Spain’s past.

Language-Related Injuries

Nine-months learning Spanish in Spain, left Ellie battered and bruised

The Joy of Returning to West Norfolk

For Ellie, nothing beats a traditional British holiday.

Latvia: Land of Contrast -Part Two

Anita continues on her trip to discover the 'real' Lativa.

Summer Time in Paris

Keava found summer was the ideal time to hop on the Eurostar to Paris, for a weekend with old friends and a little French culture.

Super Terra-Novas

Keava discovers life-saving dogs on a trip to Lake Molveno, Italy.

Bristol – Old and New

Ashley explores the city of Bristol, both old and new, and poses the question of where to begin.

France, Families and Food!

For Wendy and her family, France is not only about the countryside, the culture and the people but also about the food!

Mushrooming In Bohemia

To the Czechs mushrooming is an art, a science, almost a religion. But it isn't quite as easy as you might think...

UK: Shopping City Breaks

Jetting off to New York for a shopping trip may be the dream for many, but not everyone can afford to. To maximise your spending power, you would be wise to look a little closer to home for a city shopping break.

U.K.: Enjoy Scandinavia... in Suffolk

Spend the week or weekend in a Scandinavian log cabin surrounded by beautiful woodlands, lakes and open countryside..without leaving the U.K.

Monaco on My Mind

Ronke discovers the delights of Monaco in a mere 48 hours.

On The Street Where I Live

Jennifer discovers the life and soul of Istanbul on Istiklal Caddesi

Musings on a Scallop Shell

Anita takes a secular pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

FAMILY TRAVEL: Baby-Friendly UK Breaks

Having a baby or young toddler puts a spanner in the works when it comes to romantic or pampering breaks, but it doesn't have to be this way. Read on to find out more.

My 'Chalet Experience'

Viv gambles on a skiing holiday found whilst browsing on-line. After a follow-up phone call she decided to make a booking, but will the Chalet owners take the 'Piste'.

Travelling to an Icy Russian Paradise

While studying in Russia, Rachel gets squashed in a hovercraft, gets drunk on vodka, and crossed icy terrain to sample the beauty of Lake Baikal.

UK: Pottering and Other Storybook Breaks

If you or your children are potty about Beatrix Potter, Harry Potter or Tarka the Otter, England boasts many places that have inspired some of the world’s most beloved children’s books.

Fulfilling a Travel a Dream

Ellie's desire to get more out of her travels was fulfiled when she took up a post teaching English in Austria.

UK: England’s Summer chill-out zones

Britain may not be geared up for hot weather, but there are some pretty cool places in our towns and cities to find a welcome haven from the summer sun.

DESTINATION of the MONTH: Athens: An Ancient City in a Modern World

With its magnificent architecture, legendary cultural attractions and unparalleled place in history, the Greek capital continues to captivate. The city blends the classical and the contemporary and boasts some of the world’s oldest landmarks.

TRAVEL KITCHEN: PIMMS Please!

What better drink to serve on a super sunny day than a long, cool Pimm’s?

BOOK REVIEW: A Year in the Merde

Paul West, a young Englishman, arrives in Paris to start a new job – and finds out what the French are really like.

Travel the World with English

Teaching English can be your passport to travel and work around the world. Jennifer, an experienced English as a foriegn language teacher shares her first hand advice and experiences from teaching in Italy, Turkey and Spain.

Sailing Holiday in the Greek Islands

Time seemed to stand still, life became sweeter and, as the sun glistened on the water, I struggled to find words to express the beauty.

UK: Romance on Britain's Railways

For an alternative St Valentine's celebration what can be more romantic than a trip on Britain’s railways. The heady romance may have gone from everyday rail travel, but it still lives on in the Orient-Express.

DESTINATION of the MONTH: Belgium’s Diamond City

The harbour city of Antwerp is Belgium’s most under-valued diamond. The city was one of Europe’s most important commercial centres during the 16th century, which has left a legacy of grandeur.

Make a habit of day-tripping

It’s hard to hop in the car and see where you end up when you have little people asking lots of questions onboard. It can feel like mobilising an army in order to get out of the house for a day trip, but you can take the stress away by ditching strict itineraries and epic car journeys.

TRAVEL @ HOME: A Tuscan Retreat at Home

If you dream of having your own Tuscan retreat without having to up sticks to Italy, we show you how you can introduce the warmth of the Mediterranean through interior design.

FAMILY TRAVEL: Summer road trip tips with children

Take some time to enjoy the great British countryside or plan an exciting day with the children.

UK - Britain’s Best Beach Resorts

For a short break, Britain’s best beach resorts should be an obvious choice, but, sadly, they are often overlooked. Holiday Which? magazine, for one,

DESTINATION of the MONTH: Turkey - Turkish Delights!

Whether it’s a funky tour, photo excursions or staying in a hotel set in a cave that tickles your fancy, then read on for some great Instanbul holidays ideas.

Self-catering for your family holiday

Eating away from home is a major turn-off for some families with picky eaters, especially if you travel abroad. But you can design your holiday so that you control the food and the budget.

UK: Ghosts of Old London Town

As London is steeped in rich history, it is not surprising that some of the most famous ghosts reside at its heart.

Be a tourist ... start in your own city

You don't have to get on a plane to be a tourist, you can be a tourist in your own backyard.

Kayaking Venice with a disability

Surprised and excited, Karen accepted the invitation to be the first ‘Point 65’ sponsored paddler. “Can I be a sponsored paddler if I can’t roll a kayak?” she asked. Read on to find out what happened next.

Dash to Dublin

If you are looking for a city break with a rich blend of tradition, architectural beauty and culture, then Dublin could provide the perfect short break for you.

DESTINATION of the MONTH: Get Arty in Aarhus

Denmark’s second largest city Aarhus, offers a vibrant art and cultural scene making it an excellent choice for an “art-house” weekend away.

UK: Budget British Breaks

The credit crunch might have you tightening your purse strings this summer but that doesn’t mean you have to go without a holiday.

UK: Paris, Rome, Madrid and…Birmingham?

Let’s be honest, with glamorous places such as Paris, Rome and Madrid on offer, it is probably fair to say that Birmingham doesn’t feature at the top of many people’s list of great cities to visit.

Glasto-phobe

Spending five days camping in mud and 'port-a-looing' whilst listening to weird music, was not KL's idea of a fun-filled long weekend. However, her deisre to help out a worthy cause soon led to a change of heart.

Erzurum Pre-Winter Olympics 2011

Whilst teaching English in Erzurm, Turkey, Ellie learned that the town will host the Winter Olympics in 2011. Having seen the effect of the Olympics on Beijing, Ellie treasures the current delightful contradictions of present-day Erzum.

UK TRAVEL - MONEY SAVING TRIPS

Here are just a few of the ways to make the most of your money and cut costs when travelling around the UK.

An expensive trip to Croatia

Music, sun, sea and history a trip to Pula in Croatia proves more expensive than planned.

DESTINATION of the MONTH: Say Salut to Bordeaux

Set in the southwest region of France, the port city of Bordeaux is famed for its vineyards and wineries.

Ice Cream, Coffee And Photos: A Week In Rome

Mikaela travels to Rome for a week of ice cream, cappuccinos and wonderful photo opportunities.

DESTINATION of the MONTH: YORK

A short video showcasing the delights of one of the UK's historic cities - York.

DESTINATION of the MONTH:Istria, Croatia

I have chosen Istria in Croatia as my destination of the month for two reasons

TRAVEL KITCHEN: Croatian Skampi Buzaru

A big mess to eat, but Skampi Buzaru (Scampi Buzara or buzzara) is the best way to experience tasty Adriatic prawns.

Photos from Istria

Being bed-ridden gave me time to sort through my photos of Istria

Exhausted in Paris!

Emma and her sister booked a cheap trip to France, but would they cope with the cold, queues and crowds of New Year in the city of light?

Gastronomic Istria April 2009

When I think about Eastern European food, images of heavy stews, boiled potatoes and slabs of flavourless meats come to mind.

WOMAN'S WORLD: Feeling Blu - a taste of Istria

This month, I am in Istria, north-west Croatia, talking* with Lidia Fabris owner of Blu the restaurant with a sea view. Lidia's wish is to satisfy her guests beyond her own ambitious goals.

FAMILY TRAVEL: Celebrate the end of exams

It’s hardly surprising that most kids feel stressed, tired and anxious around this time of year. Many parents would gladly take this stress and worry away from their children, if only they could. Well, now we’ve got some ideas that might just do the trick.

WELLBEING: 10 of the best walks in Britain

Walking is one of the best forms of exercise for all the family. If your budget doesn’t stretch to a holiday abroad this summer, how about staying a little closer to home?

Pompeii - many steps back in time

Emma and family visit Pompeii, and find more to see than they expected or could experience in the intense July heat.

Latitude Festival 2009

Last weekend I braved the wind and torrential rains (in a tent!) to attend my first ever Latitude festival. Despite the weather, I can’t wait to book my tickets for next year.

DESTINATION UK: Escape to te New Forest

The summer might be over and your wallet might have taken a bit of a battering in recent months, but that doesnft mean you canft afford to get away before the winter weather kicks in.

A Liberating Weekend in Guernsey

Ellie's island weekend turns in to a unique mix of French and British cultures with a salute to the end of World War Two

To Amsterdam and back - the 'joy' of coach travel

Emma and her friend Riina took a student coach trip to Holland that turned into a slow travel nightmare. But would the extended travel time and discomfort be worth it in the end?

It's Pleasant 'Up North'!

A trip up the M1 to Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, had more in store for Louise, than tiaras, confetti and new in-laws. But it also offer her a taste for a very different life.

Travel Buy the Book: Sarah Riches author of London Almanac 2010

This month we are joined by author Sarah Riches who shares with us her journey from idea to publication of her new book, London Almanac 2010.

Travel Buy the Book: Marsha Moore author of 24 Hour London.

This month we are joined by author Marsha Moore. Marsha shares with us her journey from idea to publication of her new book, 24 Hour London.

The Spirt of the River Thames

The River Thames, ancient and rotten shimmering in sunlight, moonlight and starlight engages the poet in Dawn.

Book Review: On Black Sisters’ Street by Chika Uniqwe

Why would you want to read a book about human trafficking? Tricia explains even though it seems such a campaigning subject, not really one for literary fiction, it is well worth reading.

Insider's Guide to ...Rochester, Kent, UK

Only a local knows the best places to visit, relax and enjoy. In this the first of our new feature, freelance journalist and blogger, Ronke, introduces us to 'her' Rochester.

Marianne North: An Inspirational & Talented Traveller

A trip to Kew Gardens, led to Rachel learning about the inspiring traveller and botanist - Marianne North

Insider's Guide to ... Oxford

Diverse Traveller member, Clare Fisher, an aspiring travel writer and photographer, shares her insider insight to Oxford, where she has lived for a year.

Book Review: 'I heart Paris'

Ronke reviews 'I heart Paris', the third in the 'I Heart' series. Find out if Ronke thinks it's worth following our heroine, Angela, on her journey to the city of love.