‘Everything different and yet the same’. This is how Brits often describe their experience of New Zealand. When it comes to the English language, I’d put it the other way round – everything the same, and yet different. We speak the same language, but with different accents, intonations, expressions and vocabulary. These differences have led me to make various bloopers…
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New Zealand English – my hilarious learning journey
Barnard Castle – worth a 260-mile drive from London
This attractive market town in north east England is a sight for sore eyes. It’s situated in the lush green countryside of Teesdale, County Durham, just north of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Barnard Castle town has soft grey stone buildings which add to its charm – weavers’ cottages, farmhouses, shops and former wool and carpet mills. The clear waters…
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Ericeira – a hidden gem on the Silver Coast, Portugal
Ericeira is a pretty fishing town with whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. It’s easy to miss if you’re taking the fast lane from Lisbon to Porto. But it’s well worth a detour because it gives you an authentic, un-touristy experience of Portugal. Still very much a working town, Ericeira is a little rough at the edges but full of charm….
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Steam railways of England – 7 of my favourites
England’s preserved steam railways offer a fabulous day out for families and train buffs. Staffed mostly by passionate volunteers, these railways are run by private companies or charitable trusts. Not only do they help to preserve an important part of England’s history, but they also maintain links and provide tourist income for the towns and villages that they serve. There…
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Breathtaking travel moments that made me glad to be alive
Have you ever experienced a sudden rush of emotion when you see something awe-inspiring on your travels, or reach a personal milestone? You feel privileged to be there, in that moment, and you know you’ll always remember it. You’re filled with gratitude and a love of life. I mentioned this as one of the benefits of travel in my post…
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