Have you ever wondered where the ‘quiche Lorraine’ got its name from? It is so named because it originates in the north eastern region of France called Lorraine. The region shares a border with three other European countries, namely Belgium, Germany and Luxembourg. Not surprisingly then Lorraine has often been at the centre of Europe’s [...]

Eating at restaurants in Sweden can be expensive.  Very expensive.  Too many times I have looked at the bill only to start converting in my head to find I paid two or three times what I would have in the US.  It’s a horrible habit and one that I have to break.  At the same [...]

If like me, you don’t live in the south east of England and either have a morning Eurostar departure from London St Pancras or a late arrival into St Pancras on your return, you’ll probably need to find a hotel near St Pancras for the night.  I did some research on St Pancras hotels based [...]

Border towns fascinate me, places where the political ravages of wars and time have meant that a once united town now spreads over two countries, so when I heard about Komarno in south-western Slovakia I immediately planned a day trip from Bratislava to check it out. Komarno, along with its sister-town Komarom across the border [...]

Exhausted after a full day’s sightseeing in Rotterdam? Looking for a place to relax while observing the cultural characteristics of the city? Then head to Het Kralingsche bos (the Kralingen park) – the largest green area in Rotterdam. Located in the township of Kralingen, to the east of the city center, the park surrounds an [...]

After you’ve explored Dubrovnik’s old town, it’s time to explore the surrounding regions. Dubrovnik is within close proximity of a number of beautiful islands and towns, where you can enjoy natural beauty, history and culture, and the best local food and wine. Here are my tips for Dubrovnik day trips. The Peljesac Peninsula – The first day [...]

Flamenco dancing has a long history and tradition in Seville.  Heavily influenced by the Moors, Flamenco has its roots in Roma (Gypsy) culture as well.  Raspy singers in an arabic style and language mix with guitars, clapping, and dancing to captivate the mind and body in a spirit of movement. While much of Flamenco dancing [...]

I visited Malaga at the end of September 2010. Here are my tips for some of the best things to do in Malaga. The fountain in Constitution Square, Malaga Visit the Alcazaba The Alcazaba is a Moorish fort which has great views over the city. It was my favourite Malaga attraction. View from Alcazaba toward [...]

I recently decided to try one of the Groupon’s My City Deals to check out how it works.  I bought a voucher for Kilau Cafe in Aberdeen, as I knew I’d be visiting Aberdeen during my Summer 2010 Scotland Blog Tour.  I paid £8 for a voucher which could be exchanged for lunch for two [...]

Of all the places that I visited in Tallinn on my recent trip to Estonia, Chocolaterie Pierre (just off Vene), has stolen my heart and it’ll probably remain with them until I can make hot chocolate as perfect as it was here. I would WALK across Europe for another one. Actually, I’d rather they gave [...]