Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar

Chaotic, colorful and endlessly fascinating, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, a sprawling maze of covered streets, has been the beating commercial heart of Istanbul for more than five centuries.

Step inside and you’re immediately immersed in a sensory overload: the shimmer of gold in jewellers’ windows, the rich scent of leather and spices, the rhythmic calls of shopkeepers, and the soft clink of tea glasses being served.… Read the rest

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

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

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

Diving the Musandam

Diving the Musandam

As we set off for diving the Musandam Peninsula, it feels like the most ordinary of days and yet seems to be the start of something extraordinary. Our family of four—my husband, our two boys (aged 14 and 11), and myself, embark on what promises to be the perfect weekend getaway.… Read the rest

Iles de Lérin

Iles de Lérin

Destination Iles de Lérin. This stunning duo of islands consisting of Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat are located just off the coast of Cannes and accessible from almost anywhere on the Côte d’Azur.

We hire a boat out of Antibes and set sail for the day, picnic packed and snorkels at the ready.… Read the rest