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What to pack for the Camino de Santiago (and what to send ahead)
Most regulars on the Francés know the rough guidelines of a backpack not exceeding 10% of body weight, meaning a 70kg walker should aim for 7kg, as to protect their knees and back. There is a problem, though. These guidelines are often aimed at beginners (those in the army regularly carry over 25% of their bodyweight on long marches). Of course, beginners tend to overpack, while it’s the regulars, who are to some extent conditioned for heavier loads, who know how to pack light. This can only mean one thing: spending a lot of thought counting every gram and looking for ways to reduce what you’re taking. But, for those…
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Trading Palm Trees for Twinkle Lights: Finding Winter Paradise in Europe’s Festive Old Towns
There’s nothing wrong with spending December under a palm tree. But if you’ve ever looked at a photo of a centuries-old European square glowing with Christmas lights and thought, “I want to be there,” it might be time to swap the flip-flops for a winter coat. The old towns across Europe take on a different personality during the holiday season. The streets are filled with stalls, buildings are warm and cozy, and even heading out for a drink feels festive. The only tricky part is deciding where to go. Where Christmas Feels Straight Out of a Storybook If you’re going all the way to Europe in search of a magical…
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Hidden Alpine Destinations That Deserve More Attention
If you’re planning a break in the Alps, then a number of resorts might stand out as worthwhile. Chamonix, Zermatt, and St. Moritz might spring immediately to mind. But these are established, and perhaps obvious, tourist draws. It’s worth looking a little further from the beaten path, in search of those more obscure destinations that perhaps offer greater value for money (and thinner crowds). Val di Funes, Italy The Dolomites are home to some amazingly pretty valleys. But Val di Funes is arguably the best of them, thanks to a combination of stunning mountain views, traditional farming practices, and a seemingly endless network of walking routes. For travelers in search of…
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Destinations That Feel Like Summer All Year Round
The UK has enjoyed (or endured, depending on your perspective) one of the hottest summers in living memory. But that summer is now finally waning, and giving way to a dank and drizzly autumn. Within a few short weeks, the clocks will be changing again, and, for many, this is a cause for some glumness. But don’t despair. We’re fortunate enough to live in the age of modern air travel, which means that you’re never more than a few hours away from a sunny destination, even when the weather at home is frightful. Let’s consider a few parts of the world that might appeal to sun-seekers at this time of…
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How to Enjoy Local Food Adventures Without Overlooking Food Safety
Traveling through a new town, visiting a farmers market, or trying a family-run restaurant can turn an ordinary day into a memorable food adventure. Local foods reveal culture, history, and personality in ways guidebooks rarely can. Whether you are sampling street tacos, buying fresh berries, or ordering the catch of the day, the goal is to enjoy every bite while staying mindful of basic safety habits. Food safety should travel with your sense of adventure. News about events such as the Taylor Farms salad kits recall reminds diners that even familiar foods can carry risks when handling, storage, or supply chains break down. That does not mean you should…
