Portfolio
Walter's war
Each November, a smaller and smaller number of men and women who fought in the Second World War are there at the Cenotaph, marching in remembrance of their fallen comrades. There is no one left at all from those who fought in World War... read more »
An Umbrian adventure
I must admit, when I was asked if I’d like to go on a trip to Umbria to review a luxury adventure holiday, my first thought was: “Sure, I love luxury; I love adventure and I love the Lake District.” A closer read revealed... read more »
In Bloom Orlando is back
Orlando Bloom is noticeably affable and open throughout our chat today. In a simple dark T-shirt and jeans, his sallow warm complexion gives the impression of a Hollywood hunk half his 40 years. And his disarming, grounded nature belies his movie star credentials. Until... read more »
Top 5 movie locations
Ever watched a film and thought, that looks like a cool place to visit? Why don’t you? We took a look at five famous movie locations, and what makes them great holiday destinations: London London has been host to a wide variety of movies and TV... read more »
Nailed to the door
On the desk in front of me is a Playmobil® figure of Martin Luther. I don’t think it’s an exact replica, I mean, apart from anything else, he hasn’t got a nose. Anyway, the figure was released to mark ‘500 years of Reformation’. Now, it’s... read more »
Across the Finnmarksvidda
We spend the night on the frozen expanse of Lake Lesjavri. The Northern Lights build up in an arch above our tent and we watch for several hours how they magnify into rippling curtains on either side of the lake and finally flow in... read more »
Dancing with dragons
Dragons’ Den, car-crash TV for the more discerning BBC2 audience I must have watched dozens of episodes of the popular BBC television series Dragons’ Den. I’m sure you have too, but just in case you have missed this visual feast, let me outline the premise. Budding... read more »
Care for the Family
Strength for today... bright hope for tomorrow It’s 7.28 p.m. on a Wednesday evening; just two minutes to go until it starts. A few last minute browsers hurry from the bookshop to the main auditorium to join the crowd pushing through the doors to find... read more »
Impossible is a dare
Five years is a long time. It was for William. That’s at least as long as he was locked into a cycle of exploitation, moved from city to city across the UK. Every day, ordinary people passed by the house where he was painting and... read more »
Beach body ready
Your holiday is booked and the countdown is on for your time away in the sun and on the beach. You’re imagining yourself as James Bond walking out of the sea in Casino Royale showing his six-pack. Unfortunately, you’re not quite there yet, but now... read more »