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Argentina - an eco tourism destination

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Argentina is the most visited country in South America, and one I'm desperate to travel to! Last year nearly seven million tourists visited Argentina and to further its appeal; the country is increasing flight connectivity, and turning its sights to promoting eco-tourism. There is so much to discover in Argentina. While it's well known for its gastronomy and huge passion for both football and tango, it also boasts 46 national protected areas - four of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.  Now the tourism authorities are hoping to promote another side of the country - including the hillsides of Cordoba; glamping in Patagonia, and glacier trekking in El Chalten. I've looked into both areas, and I think they sound amazing. It just goes to show Argentina has something to offer everyone....including some wonderful vineyards that I will discover....one day! 

The rise of dark tourism

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With Halloween on the horizon, I thought I'd feature something a little bit different this week rather than the usual spooky, haunted house ideas! For those who don't know what dark tourism is, it's visiting destinations usually associated with death and suffering.  It's a trend that is on the rise with British holiday-makers, and data released by Kiwi.com has revealed the top destinations visited by Brits in recent years. Considered the most disastrous nuclear power plant accident in history, Chernobyl has become an unlikely tourist destination in recent years, as travellers risk being exposed to lethal levels  of radiation in a bid to get a glimpse of the derelict town which has been left untouched since 1986. Another destination that draws many is Auschwitz, the concentration camp operated by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland during World War II. Having been truly horrified after my own visit to a concentration camp in Germany, I think it's import...

Travel Lightbulb: Somewhere under the rainbow

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I'm sure that readers of my blog from all over the world will recognise Eilean Donan Castle. The stunning castle was first inhabited around the 6th century, and the first fortified castle was built in the mid 13th century. Since then, after being partially destroyed in a Jacobite uprising, at least four different versions of the castle have been built and re-built.  Sometimes as a photographer, you just get lucky....and that's what happened to me on a recent trip to the Scottish Highlands. I stopped to visit the castle, and before going in and starting my visit, the rain cleared, and a stunning rainbow emerged perfectly over the iconic landmark. Some say it's the most beautiful castle in Scotland, I say it looks even better with a rainbow over it! 

Amazing road trips

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Road trips are a great way to see the sights at your own pace, and discover new places that are totally off the beaten track. If you've never travelled this way, then I'd highly recommend it!  I regularly post my travel pics on social media and TravelSupermarket recently analysed some of the most picturesque pit stops and driving routes that get shutters clicking whilst on a road trip. The most Instagram-worthy road trip in the world, and the most popular over the summer months is....Route 66. Incredibly, the 2,448 mile long American hot spot was papped 1,198,035 times - no surprise given its stunning views! Second on the list is the stunning Great Ocean Road in Australia. It winds alongside the wild and windswept Southern Ocean, home to the world-class surf at Bells Beach and the craggy limestone spires of the 12 Apostles.   Closer to home, the UK has also made the top 25, with Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland making it the 20th most ...

A taste of luxury on a super-yacht

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If you're into extravagant holidays and want something that is totally out of this world, then I'm sure you'll be interested in the world's most luxurious new yacht. While this is definitely for special occasions, it could be the perfect honeymoon idea, or could even be chartered for a wedding. Launched in September, super-yacht Prana by Atzaro, is a stunning handbuilt boat and is the biggest of its kind in the world. At just over 55 metres in length, it has been crafted in the style of a traditional Indonesian Phinisi - a sail boat with two masts, and is build entirely of ironwood and teak, according to traditional methods. The yacht has been designed with the utmost luxury, offering guests space and comfort in nine elegant suites, each with their own private ensuite bathrooms. It has all the mod cons of a lavish five star hotel, and the 18-man crew are on hand to ensure all your needs are met. Moored in Indonesia, a voyage on Prana is a once in a lifeti...

A fairytale garden in the Caribbean

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Sometimes you visit a place that leaves you speechless, and Hunte's Gardens in Barbados does just that to me - and those who know me well know I'm not often left lost for words!I think you may feel the same when you see my first photo of today's location. This tropical paradise is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. Located in the lush hills of St. Joseph's, it's accessible from anywhere in Barbados, and is probably one of the best signposted places on the island! The gardens were created by a legendary horticulturist, Anthony Hunte, and even if you're not green fingered, I guarantee you'll be blown away by what he and his team have created. The gardens are in a sink-hole like gully; and there is an easy path to take you round, as you pass the exotic plants and incredibly vibrant colours. If you're lucky, you may meet Anthony at his extraordinary house (which was converted from an old stable) which is signposted ...

Avoiding the crowds

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I've visited many busy tourist destinations in my years of travelling, from the crazy crowds at Machu Picchu, to the madness of Tokyo. I loved every minute of those trips, but there's also something wonderful about discovering places that are almost devoid of tourists. The last time I went to Rome, my main aim was to find places where the locals hang out, and avoid the tourist traps. I proved it was possible, and even came home with money....from Rome....amazing! A survey by Travel Supermarket has revealed the fastest growing tourist destinations across the globe, and the places we should be visiting before the get oversaturated with fellow travellers. Top of the list is Jakarta in Indonesia, with visitors numbers predicted to double by 2025.  India has the highest number of destinations set to grow the fastest in the next seven years, with Jaipur likely to see an 88% increase in tourism.  The research shows that if you want to be the first to go som...

Flashback Friday: A heavenly spa in Scotland

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I've yet to meet someone that doesn't enjoy getting away from it all, and having a little spa break. Whether you love being pampered with a facial, or just reading your book in peace and quiet it's a great chance to have a bit of "me time"! National Spa Week runs from the 10-17th of September, with the intention to encourage more people into spas, more often.  To mark the occasion, I thought I'd point you in the direction of my personal favourite spa - Stobo Castle. It's in the heart of the Scottish countryside, but just 20 miles from Edinburgh city centre. I've yet to find a spa I love more, so why not discover it for yourself! Click  here  to read more about the delights of Stobo Castle.