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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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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My daily lock-down walks have revealed a previously unappreciated artistic side of my neighbourhood. I’ve discovered how much street art we have in eastern Wellington – something I’ve never noticed or appreciated before. Most of it depicts local flora, fauna, scenery and wildlife. Some of it is by professional artists, and some of it is simply vernacular – home owners…
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Vanuatu is one of the four happiest nations on the planet, and financial wealth has nothing to do with it. In 2006, this chain of more than 80 tropical islands in the Pacific Ocean made the headlines when it topped the Happy Planet Index. The most recent version of the index, published in 2016, placed Vanuatu fourth. Clearly this modest…
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Every idea, every plan, every achievement, begins as a thought. So all it takes is a little thinking and a few tools, and you could be on your way to your next adventure right now! Even if you can’t travel because of a pandemic, an injury or some other circumstance that’s keeping you grounded. First, you need to be in…
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The conversion of England to Christianity began in this wild, rugged border county. There are many wonderful places to visit here. Northumberland has impressive castles (more than in any other county in the UK), rolling hills, pretty villages with houses of soft grey stone, and unspoilt beaches with fine white sand. Many artists head to this area, attracted by the…
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