I thought I should ask the pretty girl for permission before taking her picture, as she was working at a medieval cart in the heart of Tallinn’s old town. “Yes” she replied without hesitation, “if you have your paper and brushes you may begin.” I … …

This ancient pearl of wisdom from Seneca echoes down through the ages, as I continue my travels through the beautiful Baltics, and get the chance to delve into the recent history of Latvia. After arriving in the capital Riga one feels like this is the … …

Lithuania has burst forth from under the yoke of several decades of Soviet oppression, to become a hot travel destination on the Eastern European backpacker trail. Formerly one of the three Baltic states in the Soviet Union, Lithuania joined the European Union in 2004 leading … …

Poland is an extremely rewarding and fascinating tourist destination. The geographic location of the country in the heart of Europe has led to a turbulent past, including several occupations by foreign invaders, yet the country has embraced it’s future in the European Union with alacrity … …

The Czech Republic is a landlocked country, and shares common borders with four other countries in the heart of Europe. Although it is nominally considered part of Eastern Europe, technically the Czech Republic is in Central Europe. Everyone visits Prague and the old town is … …

A brief stopover in Bratislava has been just the ticket as an introduction to Slovakia. The capital is noticeable for the slower pace of life and laid back attitude of the locals compared to neighbouring countries. Although it seems the Slovakians are reserved I recommend … …

The demise of the Soviet Union has led to extraordinary changes within the former Eastern Bloc in the last twenty years or so. Following on from an effortless bus commute out of Vienna, a cursory glance at my passport was all it took before being … …

The first port of call for my European holiday is wonderful Germany, and the flight from Sydney arrived smack bang in the middle of the world famous Oktoberfest. I touched down in the commercial hub of Frankfurt, and then boarded a Deutsche Bahn down to … …

The change of seasons is dramatic in North America, constant reader. Spring is upon us and there is a tangible bounce in the step of the locals, who must feel like bears emerging from hibernation in spite of the substantial snow covering still on the … …

I feel privileged to be posting this journal from Canada, dear reader, while enjoying my first visit to this wonderful country. While on the road Canadians have always held a special place in my heart, and they share with Australians a spirit of fun and … …