Some cities get all the glory, proudly showing off a famous skyline or boasting popular landmarks constantly crawling with visitors. Then there are the quiet achievers. Destinations where the lack of celebrity lets the city’s soul seep under your skin, making them ever more endearing. Paris may be unrivalled for…
Bec
pussy cat, pussy cat, where have we been?
/ 16/07/2017One of my cherished childhood possessions was a wooden ruler with the English monarchy listed since William the Conqueror. While it was useless for taking precise measurements, it was perfect for sparking a lifelong interest in history and imagining how the other half lived during their reigns. It was probably…
back where it all began – Bodiam, Battle and Hastings
/ 25/06/2017The legend goes like this: Richard La Fort saved William the Conqueror from an arrow with his shield at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Newly crowned King William then endowed lands, a knighthood and a new name on Sir Richard: ‘Fortescue’, meaning ‘strong shield’. How could I – someone…
Bohemian rhapsody
/ 14/06/2017Charming and full of character, Prague has weathered many rulers and ages to maintain a firm spot as one of those must-see cities on everyone’s list…including mine. History leaps out at you as stroll the old town alleyways, the eclectic architecture displaying constant contrasts between beautiful and brutal. Visiting in…
the f-word
/ 26/03/2017I’ve lived over here long enough to know when I can get away with calling it soccer. One of those times was not on the day we took the stadium and club tour of Etihad Stadium – the home of Manchester City Football Club – I definitely had to call it…