Phillip Island is tucked into the second crevice entering Melbourne. It’s beyond French Island but thanks to its location, has unique wildlife present on it’s soil. Discover the rolling waves of Phillip Island, the Australian Adventure The rolling waves should give you an idea to what the main attraction to the island is for many …
Why you need a long weekend in London
London is one of the most visited cities in the world. With attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the London Eye and the hope of catching a glimpse of the Royal family, it is a tourist’s paradise, and there is plenty to do during a weekend in London. Why you need a …
Why you should visit San Antonio, Texas
Texas is classed as the second largest state in the USA, but yet, it is probably still under the radar when it comes to booking holidays and visiting some of the amazing cities and locations within it, so here are my reasons why you should visit San Antonio Texas. Of course, if you think of …
What to do in Sorrento – the gateway to the Amalfi Coast
Sorrento is often the starting point for a trip to the beautiful Amalfi Coast, as from here you can easily visit Pompeii, Capri, Ischia, Naples, Positano, Amalfi and more destinations by ferry/ hydrofoil and in some cases by bus or private transfers. Read on for what to do in Sorrento, suggested day trips and where to …
Capri in a day : La dolce vita
The beautiful island of Capri is often associated with ‘la dolce vita’ (even though the original film was set in Rome), and a visit to Capri makes the perfect day trip from the Amalfi coast (with ferries and hydrofoils from Naples, Ischia, Procida, Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi). My initial experience on arrival, however, did not quite …
Chantilly Revisited – the gardens and the flower exhibition
This post is taken in the same place as my previous post, and specifically in the grounds of the castle of Chantilly. If you remember, I recently spent a day visiting the town of Chantilly, which is about 40 kms north of Paris (half an hour outside Paris by train), and I promised to share …
Ruffles and Chantilly
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this post about Ruffles and Chantilly. I recently spent a day visiting the town of Chantilly, which is about 40 kms north of Paris (half an hour outside Paris by train). The town itself is very pretty but the jewel in it’s crown is without doubt the impressive …
A day out in Bergues
The fortified town of Bergues is perhaps most famous for the filming of ‘Bienvenue chez les Ch’tis’ (or ‘Welcome to the sticks’), a 2008 French comedy film directed, co-written by, and starring Dany Boon. Much of the shooting took place in Bergues and you can follow a guided tour to visit some of the sites, such …
The Algarve revisited
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this post about The Algarve Revisited. I visited the Algarve this time last year and fell in love with it, so much so, that I went back this year. The coastline is spectacular, the beaches are breathtaking, the weather is beautiful and there’s plenty to see and do. What’s …
Botanical gardens in Dusseldorf
I recently spent a weekend in Dusseldorf and discovered the botanical gardens out towards the University campus. It really is a beautiful setting and the perfect place to indulge my obsession with everything floral, including floral prints! Botanical Gardens in Dusseldorf I recently spent a weekend in Dusseldorf, which is a great place to spend …
Paris in August
The good weather has finally come to Paris and the city is even more beautiful than usual! Read on for more photos and to find out what I love (and don’t like) about Paris in August. Dress – French Connection last season Paris in August The best thing about Paris in August is the fact that the …
Where to eat and drink in Los Angeles
Today’s post is all about Where to eat and drink in Los Angeles, but don’t hesitate to also check out my post on “What to see and do in Los Angeles” here, Where to eat and drink in Los Angeles I have been meaning to write this post for a couple of months now, as I was …
New Caledonia : a guest post by Nicole Noel
by Nicole Noel If you are dreaming of spending some time at sun-kissed beaches in picturesque settings, enjoying some water activities and having the time of your life, visit the hidden gem of the Pacific Ocean – New Caledonia. You will be hard-pressed to find a place with friendlier locals. Kanaky, as the locals call …
French Polynesia
by Nicole Noel* French Polynesia has 118 islands. It seems like a lot, and it seems that – if you see one tropical island, you have seen them all. However, that is not the case with the gorgeous French Polynesia. Some of these islands stand out with their beauty, cultural or natural wonders. For sure, all …
Madrid City Break
by Jess Signet * Read on for some ideas of what to do on a Madrid City break, including sightseeing and shopping on the Gran Via, relaxing in ‘El Retiro’ Park , soaking up some culture at the ‘Prado National Museum’, visiting the ‘Santiago Bernabéu Stadium’ (home to Real Madrid) and eating and drinking in the Plaza …
Guest post : Queensland, Australia
Queensland is one of the most beautiful places in Australia, and I am delighted to share this guest post by Nicole Noel* with some ideas of what to do in Queensland, including visiting Brisbane, the rain forests and national parks, the Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef and Hervey Bay. How to Spend Unforgettable Time in …
New Year in London
So, it’s nearly 2016 and here are a few ideas for what to do to celebrate New Year in London. Go shopping Some of the sales in the UK start before Christmas, but all start by Boxing Day (26th December), so if you have a few hours (or more) to spare then I can …
Christmas shopping in Paris
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas – except for the distinct lack of presents under the Christmas tree! In order to rectify this I rushed off for a 24 hour Christmas shopping in Paris expedition. For my guide to the best places to shop (valid all year) and the best window displays (Christmas …
Four days in Barcelona
FOUR DAYS IN BARCELONA. Barcelona is a magical city and there is something for everyone – beaches, great shopping, museums, parks, historical landmarks, tapas and generally lots of sunshine! Although the city seems very big and spread out, it is perfectly feasible to discover on foot, particularly if you group your activities by neighbourhood, so …
Ten things to do in the Algarve
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this article about ten things to do in the Algarve. Ten things to do in the Algarve Visit Silves Visit the old Moorish capital of the Algarve, Silves, with its 13th century cathedral (Largo da Sé) and beautiful red sandstone castle (Castelo de Silves), as well as the …
Where to shop, eat and drink in Los Angeles
Los Angeles’s shopping areas, restaurants and bars are as varied as its neighbourhoods and also spread out over a large area. In this guide to where to shop, eat and drink in Los Angeles I have grouped the shops and eating places by area to make it easier to plan your day. Shopping, eating and drinking …
What to do and what to see in Los Angeles
Welcome to The Velvet Runway, and this feature on what to do and what to see in Los Angeles, California. I have been several times and my daughter lived here for 18 months, so I’m excited to share my recommendations with you, and I hope you find them helpful. What to do and What to …