Travel Lightbulb

The clocks have gone back, the weather is getting colder, and I'm sitting here dreaming of far flung places with endless sunshine and a bit of heat! The Maldives has been in the news a lot recently - partly because the country has kept corona virus rates low throughout the pandemic having made the decision to close its borders early.  Of course, it helps that many of the 1,200 islands are isolated, and that's probably why the country has now made it onto the UK Foreign Office's safe list. That means travellers from the UK can now visit without invalidating their travel insurance.  I went to this stunning country about ten years ago, and always promised I'd return. It was the perfect place to relax and get away from it all. The resort I stayed in, Veligandu, had a "no news, no shoes" policy, and I can assure you that wearing no shoes for two weeks helps with the relaxing experience! The only thing you need as a visitor is to have a negative Covid-19 test before

It feels like the Covid-19 pandemic has changed our lives forever, but I have finally managed to find one small positive to come out of it. When the tough restrictions came in earlier in the year, we all suddenly became obsessed with getting our permitted hour of exercise in each day. While travel was restricted I don't think I'm alone in saying many of us discovered wonderful walks right on our doorsteps.  I have friends who live in big cities who discovered beautiful winding lanes, and canal walks which were much more enjoyable without the crazy crowds that would normally occupy those parts of the UK. I'm lucky enough to live on the outskirts of a city, within close reach of the countryside, and I unearthed some wonderful walks and the best bit was there were hardly any other people around.  It has been difficult to stay positive with everything that we're experiencing in the world just now but keep your chin up; get out in the open air whatever the weather and discov

I get the feeling that 'stay-cations' are something we're all going to be doing for many months to come, so if you need some inspiration for a UK trip, then how about this for an idea - luxury boutique accommodation in Wales.  Ffynnon (which means spring or well in Welsh) is a chic guest-house located in Dolgellau in the Snowdonia National Park. Converted from a Gothic Victorian rectory, there are six individually designed rooms that are in keeping with the property, while also managing to be contemporary.  The rooms are all different styles, shapes and sizes. I stayed in a beautiful, spacious oriental style room called Annis. It had a beautiful high ceiling; all the mod-cons that you'd expect, and beautiful views. The bedding is of fabulous quality, and the best bit was the peace and quiet - I slept so well here! The bathrooms have big windows, luxurious bath products and come with waffle bathrobes.  Breakfast is served in a lovely dining room - and they don't hold