San Marino is a fascinating stopover in the centre of Italy. I took a train from Florence, and then jumped on a connecting bus that gradually wound up to the summit of a hill where the tiny fortified republic lies. This tiny country swarms with … …

All roads lead to Rome, the lovely reader. So I’m walking along a road … in Rome yeah, and suddenly found myself heading towards another city. Now I’ve done my share of boning up on ancient history, so how could this be happening? Oh, hang … …

African travel is a humbling experience. I’ve arrived in the beautiful country of Malawi, as my second visit to the dark continent draws to a close. Malawi is often described as the warm heart of Africa, and travellers are sure to receive a special welcome … …

Kruger national park is a world famous game reserve, dear reader, and this impressively run park is north east of Jo’Burg. It features a huge variety of wildlife, often at very close quarters. Game spotting is one of the most enjoyable experiences in life, and … …

The kingdom of Swaziland is a little jewel in the crown of southern Africa. This small country has a long tradition of kings ruling the country from the Ezulwini valley, and gained independence from Britain in 1968. The original constitution was largely modeled on the … …

Mozambique has had a tough time of it lately, dear reader, in spite of the enormous strides made by her people towards a peaceful society since the conclusion of the civil war fifteen years ago. Leaving aside the serious floods in the year 2000; the … …

There is something magical about Africa and her people, and after a week back in the mighty continent the people of Mozambique have rekindled the magic. It comes from the easy laughter of the locals who are always joking and laughing whatever the occasion; whether … …

Well, er … not really to be fair, constant reader. People like Muhammad Ali whom I quote are born to greatness, others have greatness thrust upon them, and then there are the rest of us who just aren’t so great! There has been, however, a … …

The vast stretch of land linking Finland and Russia forms the largest border in Europe. The border between the two countries was only fifty kilometres from St Petersburg in 1940, and this is believed to be a major reason for the Red Army attacking and … …

I arrived in Helsinki on the ferry from Tallinn with a brand new Lonely Planet in hand, and ahead of schedule. It’s not often a traveller has the opportunity for further exploration, and I was keen to make every post a winner. I’d intended to … …