Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia

There are many remarkable monuments in Istanbul, yet few possess the gravity, beauty and layered history of Hagia Sophia – known variously as Aya Sofya, Sancta Sophia and the Church of the Divine Wisdom. Commissioned by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, transformed into a mosque by Mehmed II in 1453, and later secularised into a museum by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1935, it stands today as one of the most significant and symbolically rich buildings in the world.… Read the rest

Belgrade Fortress By Night

Belgrade Fortress By Night

There’s something magnetic about Belgrade in the summer and the Belgrade Fortress by night might just capture that magic in a moment. As the heat softens by late afternoon, the air turns honey-warm, and the city slowly drifts into a golden reverie.… Read the rest

The Roast Easter Brunch

The Roast Easter Brunch

Easter in Dubai is a time for reflection, renewal and most importantly, celebration. What better way to embrace Easter than by gathering with friends at one of the city’s most renowned brunch destinations? The Roast by Bubbalicious at Mina’s Kitchen, offers an unforgettable Easter brunch experience that combines delectable cuisine, lively entertainment and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.… Read the rest

Oman for Eid

Oman for Eid

We have been to Oman for Eid previously. Our last experience, in 2017, was a vastly different one to our more recent experience of Oman for Eid – a perfect long weekend of camping at the beach.

Campsite views

With the Eid holidays offering the perfect excuse for a short getaway, Jason, our boys Jasper (14) and Harley (11) and I team up with another family.… Read the rest

Motorbikes & Mayhem

Motorbikes & Mayhem

It’s our last day on the farm and it’s filled with motorbikes and mayhem. Over the weekend we celebrated our Family Reunion after 40 years, Aunty Carol’s 80th birthday and Uncle James’ 70th for good measure. So this morning is a little more low key for the adults.… Read the rest

Family Reunion

Family Reunion 1984

It’s hard to believe that it’s 40 years since the last one. But here we are in New Zealand, reliving the moment with a new generation joining the family reunion.

We have traveled to New Zealand for the occasion.… Read the rest

Tokatoka Peak

Tokatoka Peak

If you ever find yourself meandering through the scenic roads of Northland, New Zealand, keep your eyes peeled for a jagged green tooth rising from the landscape like a sentinel of time. That’s Tokatoka Peak, a striking volcanic plug that practically begs to be climbed.… Read the rest

The Hole In The Rock

The Hole In The Rock

The Hole in the Rock, otherwise known as Motukokako or Piercy Island, is New Zealand’s Bay of Islands poster child. Our family take an Island Getaway half day tour to the hole in the rock in the Bay of Islands in New Zealand.… Read the rest

Winter in Dubai

Winter in Dubai

Winter in Dubai is that wonderful season. Where the weather is cool enough for walking, swimming and sitting outside. The boats are out and the beaches are busy. Where an evening aperitif in the garden is not only possible but enjoyable and the night might even be cool enough to consider a mulled wine.… Read the rest