Travel Lowdown

15/03/2024

If you’re ever in Funchal and fancy Italian cuisine, you’ll find no better restaurant than Mamma Mia. Owned by the Vidamar Resort Hotel - without question, one of the best (if not the best) hotels on the island - this contemporary designed restaurant edges the main road, just in front the hotel. I’ve had the good fortune to dine there on several occasions and always return for more - in fact, I haven’t been disappointed once....

If you’re ever in Funchal and fancy Italian cuisine, you’ll find no better restaurant than Mamma Mia. Owned by the Vidamar Resort Hotel – without question, one of the best (if not the best) h…

10/01/2024

One of the guarantees about visiting Madeira is that you’ll never be short of things to see and do. In fact, chances are a return will probably be on the cards to experience some of the attractions missed first time around. Here at Travellowdown, we recently enjoyed a five-day break on this beautiful sunny island. Its bright colours, abundance of greenery, pleasant people, spectacular mountain ranges and myriad other reasons make it an ideal destination for everyone....

One of the guarantees about visiting Madeira is that you’ll never be short of things to see and do. In fact, chances are a return will probably be on the cards to experience some of the attractions…

10/01/2024

There are some great walking books around at the moment and one of my favourites is Great Scottish Walks by Helen & Paul Webster. As mentioned on the front cover, this guide spotlights the country’s best long-distance trails. In total, 26 walks are detailed within the 170-plus glossy pages. For me, this tome has everything. Each walk is beautifully illustrated with dramatic photos and a detailed account of the trail....

There are some great walking books around at the moment and one of my favourites is Great Scottish Walks by Helen & Paul Webster. As mentioned on the front cover, this guide spotlights the coun…

01/12/2023

Over the years, working as a travel journalist and editor has meant I’ve been lucky enough to experience some fine hotels. Just two, however, have stolen my heart: one is situated on the island of Jersey while the other is the sublime VidaMar Resort Hotel in Madeira. I’ve stayed several times at the VidaMar and, whenever possible, it’s my go-to accommodation upon visiting Maderia, which lies 400 miles off the African coast; in fact, such is the affection I hold for the hotel that I never want to leave!...

Over the years, working as a travel journalist and editor has meant I’ve been lucky enough to experience some fine hotels. Just two, however, have stolen my heart: one is situated on the island of …

24/11/2023

Here at Travellowdown, we’ve recently returned from one of our best family holidays. Our destination was sunny Madeira, a beautiful island I’ve got to know so well over the years. Its bright colours, abundance of greenery, pleasant people, spectacular mountain ranges and myriad other delights make it an ideal destination for all ages. When it comes to finding places to eat or drink in Funchal – the island’s capital and our base during a five-night break – there are countless cafés and restaurants; even vegans, like me and my daughter, will find suitable eateries....

Here at Travellowdown, we’ve recently returned from one of our best family holidays. Our destination was sunny Madeira, a beautiful island I’ve got to know so well over the years. Its bright colour…

31/10/2023

Despite measuring just nine miles by five, Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands as well as the archipelago’s southernmost isle. A self-governing dependency of the UK, it has much to offer visitors this autumn, whether you’re a daytripper or planning a week-long break. Known for, among others, its splendid beaches, rugged coastline, myriad walking trails, inland valleys and military history, the island can easily be reached via a short flight from over 20 UK airports....

Despite measuring just nine miles by five, Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands as well as the archipelago’s southernmost isle. A self-governing dependency of the UK, it has much to offer v…

31/10/2023

The largest of the Channel Islands offers visitors myriad eateries, everything from shacks on the beach to top-end restaurants where deep pockets are recommended! Having just returned from yet another visit, here are some suggestions for anyone looking for somewhere to eat or drink… OCEAN RESTAURANT The Atlantic Hotel is, by far, my favourite hotel on the island and nothing can beat it – well, I haven’t found anywhere yet....

The largest of the Channel Islands offers visitors myriad eateries, everything from shacks on the beach to top-end restaurants where deep pockets are recommended! Having just returned from yet anot…

30/10/2023

It was my last morning at the Atlantic Hotel, my favourite place to stay on Jersey, and a couple walked past as I headed to the restaurant. Pulling a hefty suitcase, the wife turned to her husband, saying: “Oh dear, I guess all good things come to an end!” Sadly they do, as I discovered an hour later when I checked out and waved goodbye to this wonderful hotel which is, quite simply, pure luxury....

It was my last morning at the Atlantic Hotel, my favourite place to stay on Jersey, and a couple walked past as I headed to the restaurant. Pulling a hefty suitcase, the wife turned to her husband,…

22/09/2023

My first experience of staying with the Inn Collection dates back some five years or so when the Travellowdown team explored Northumberland. Back then, the company comprised of inns largely in the northeast. But soon after, an expansion programme saw them venture west to the Lake District where they quickly added a handful of inns to their portfolio. Fast-forward a few years and today The Inn Collection Group is a major player in Lakeland....

My first experience of staying with the Inn Collection dates back some five years or so when the Travellowdown team explored Northumberland. Back then, the company comprised of inns largely in the …

22/09/2023

Spotting throngs of excited tourists jostling for position at the quayside, we half-expected to see an A-list celebrity pulling up in their million-pound yacht. But the cameras were primed to catch sight of a more important visitor in this part of the world – George, the loggerhead turtle. Kefalonia, the fourth largest Greek island, is one of the Med’s breeding grounds for this protected species and George, who’s become a local star, regularly follows fishing boats into shore at Argostoli, the island’s capital, hoping for a few scraps....

Spotting throngs of excited tourists jostling for position at the quayside, we half-expected to see an A-list celebrity pulling up in their million-pound yacht. But the cameras were primed to catch…

22/09/2023

I’ve always enjoyed reading Christopher Somerville’s numerous travel articles, usually about walking, in various national papers. Now, of course, he’s The Times’ walking correspondent. So when I heard about his latest book, I was keen to grab a copy. Walking the Bones of Britain is, as the cover details, a three billion-year journey from the Outer Hebrides to the Thames Estuary, telling the story of how the land beneath our feet has shaped our past, present and future....

I’ve always enjoyed reading Christopher Somerville’s numerous travel articles, usually about walking, in various national papers. Now, of course, he’s The Times’ walking correspondent. So when I he…

22/09/2023

Quorn’s aim is to tempt more people into eating vegetarian and vegan meals. To help achieve this, the Yorkshire-based company - founded in 1985 - has created an extensive range of delicious, healthy meat-free products. Taste, health and sustainability are at the heart of the company’s philosophy and here at Travellowdown we became converts years ago. Therefore, when we’re stocking up at the beginning of a self-catering break, Quorn is our go-to product....

Quorn’s aim is to tempt more people into eating vegetarian and vegan meals. To help achieve this, the Yorkshire-based company – founded in 1985 – has created an extensive range of delic…

02/08/2023

Cobblestones, bridges, palaces, parks and countless attractions, Prague will delight those seeking a city break immersed in old-fashioned charm. With its uniquely preserved historical centre - a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992 - this rich city oozes impressive architecture, breathtaking views and plenty of fabulous monuments waiting to be explored; and with flying time just under two hours, it’s no wonder Prague is a booming tourist destination with over seven million annual visitors....

Cobblestones, bridges, palaces, parks and countless attractions, Prague will delight those seeking a city break immersed in old-fashioned charm. With its uniquely preserved historical centre & #8211…

02/08/2023

Whether we’re at home or self-catering somewhere in the UK, we at Travellowdown are always keen to try different forms of plant-based food. So when the chance to sample some products from THIS came along, we grabbed the opportunity. The company’s range of products is quite extensive, including THIS Isn’t Chicken Tenders, THIS Isn’t Chicken Pieces and THIS Isn’t Pork Sausages....

Whether we’re at home or self-catering somewhere in the UK, we at Travellowdown are always keen to try different forms of plant-based food. So when the chance to sample some products from THIS came…

02/08/2023

Any time of year is perfect for enjoying L.A Brewery’s many drinks but sipping the company’s Sparkling English Blush in the garden on a gentle summer’s evening is pure heaven. I should know, I’ve tried it! L.A Brewery offers sustainably brewed non-alcoholic drinks made using a natural fermentation process with innovative blends of tea, plants and flowers. All drinks contain 100% natural ingredients and sold in 100% recycled packaging....

Any time of year is perfect for enjoying L.A Brewery’s many drinks but sipping the company’s Sparkling English Blush in the garden on a gentle summer’s evening is pure heaven. I should know, I’ve t…

02/08/2023

Moderate Becoming Good Later - Sea Kayaking the Shipping Forecast by Toby & Katie Carr is an exhilarating and deeply moving story of one man’s attempt to sea kayak the areas of the Shipping Forecast, which has charmed millions of listeners and helped generations of seafarers for decades. The book is full of so many emotions, including an intense sadness (more of that later) and proof of what can be achieved if one has the drive, determination and ambition to succeed against the odds; and the odds were certainly stacked against Toby, a trained architect!...

Moderate Becoming Good Later – Sea Kayaking the Shipping Forecast by Toby & Katie Carr is an exhilarating and deeply moving story of one man’s attempt to sea kayak the areas of the Shippi…

06/07/2023

Overlooking the Bristol Channel near the coastal village of Porlock Weir is a delightful three and a half-acre garden brimming with beautiful flowers, rare plants and where you’ll always receive a warm welcome from the affable hosts. Greencombe, situated along the sheltered wooded slopes of Exmoor, is a north-facing garden surrounding a 1940s house built for Horace Stroud, a local businessman who owned a department store in Minehead, the primary town in this neck of the woods....

Overlooking the Bristol Channel near the coastal village of Porlock Weir is a delightful three and a half-acre garden brimming with beautiful flowers, rare plants and where you’ll always receive a …

06/07/2023

With summer upon us, relaxing with a refreshing white wine is, for many, the perfect way to end a busy day. For anyone who follows a plant-based diet, such as me, it’s even better to know the wine is suitable for vegans. I’m always keen to try different varieties so was intrigued when I heard that Amazon was launching its first collection of wines – reds as well as whites – from some of the finest vineyards across the world, including South Africa, Chile, France and Australia....

With summer upon us, relaxing with a refreshing white wine is, for many, the perfect way to end a busy day. For anyone who follows a plant-based diet, such as me, it’s even better to know the wine …

13/06/2023

I have a predilection for books about the Lake District so was intrigued when I heard about Tom Chesshyre’s new publication. I’ve enjoyed several of his previous titles so had high expectations of this offering, in which he charts his 379-mile trek around the Lakes, England’s largest national park and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Having visited the region numerous times myself – usually to walk the fells – I found that Chesshyre’s colourful writing afforded me the chance to be following in his footsteps in my mind; whether that was heading up Crinkle Crags or strolling around the edge of wonderful Crummock Water, I was there!...

I have a predilection for books about the Lake District so was intrigued when I heard about Tom Chesshyre’s new publication. I’ve enjoyed several of his previous titles so had high expectations of …

23/05/2023

If you're ever in Funchal, make sure you eat at .foodconcept.funchal - great food, friendly staff and Jorge/Dawid, the lovely hosts. Oh, some wonderful vegan options, too.

15/02/2023

Take a break at the tranquil Maesmawr Farm Resort in mid-Wales and scenery like this is right on the doorstep. Highly recommended,

29/01/2023

Back in April 2022, we were fortunate to try the ZENB gluten-free pasta range consisting of 100% yellow peas. And, wow, we’re pleased we did. We were, therefore, excited to hear that a new product had been added to the company’s range: the Agile Bowl. The company’s promotional message of “ditch the sandwich” is very apt in this case because ZENB have created something which is not only plant-based and gluten-free but convenient and quick to prepare to suit lunches on the go....

Back in April 2022, we were fortunate to try the ZENB gluten-free pasta range consisting of 100% yellow peas. And, wow, we’re pleased we did. We were, therefore, excited to hear that a new product …

18/12/2022

Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting the luxurious Dylan Coastal resort in Camarthenshire. During our visit, I enjoyed a men’s facial at the on-site spa. For all the treatments available at Dylan, Ishga products are exclusively used. Impressed by the overall experience and feeling invigorated after the facial, I wanted to promote the products on Travellowdown because the company’s extensive products are ideal companions for anyone heading off on their travels....

Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting the luxurious Dylan Coastal resort in Camarthenshire. During our visit, I enjoyed a men’s facial at the on-site spa. For all the treatments av…

18/12/2022

In these straitened times, it's reassuring to know that you can still visit a fab destination, such as the Isle of Wight, without needing extremely deep pockets when it comes to visiting attractions, taking the kids out for the afternoon and so on. Recently, we spent a long weekend on the isle and searched out some places to recommend... QUARR ABBEY…...

In these straitened times, it’s reassuring to know that you can still visit a fab destination, such as the Isle of Wight, without needing extremely deep pockets when it comes to visiting attr…

06/10/2022

Packing for holidays, even if it’s just a long weekend away, can be tiresome, especially when it comes to choosing which toiletries to take. Flying, of course, brings the added headache of ensuring that any liquids or creams are kept in containers not exceeding 100ml. Well, RINGANA, a highly-respected Austrian company specialising in vegan skincare and supplement products, has addressed this issue head-on and, as a result, has produced four vegan-friendly travel sets, all of which come in a handy, transparent travel bag which can easily squeeze into your hand luggage....

Packing for holidays, even if it’s just a long weekend away, can be tiresome, especially when it comes to choosing which toiletries to take. Flying, of course, brings the added headache of ensuring…

23/09/2022

Luxury Lodges – the name says it all. Superb, attractive, self-catering properties located in such delectable locations as Cornwall, the Lake District and Carmarthenshire. And it’s not all lodges, either. I was fortunate enough to sample a Troutbeck Cottage, one of many on offer at Whitbarrow Village. Nestled in the northeastern corner of the Lake District just ten miles from Keswick, this holiday village contains myriad cottages and is located just minutes from the A66....

Luxury Lodges – the name says it all. Superb, attractive, self-catering properties located in such delectable locations as Cornwall, the Lake District and Carmarthenshire. And it’s not all lodges, …

20/09/2022

It's time to be honest now. When we're thinking of organising a holiday, we wouldn't automatically consider Leicestershire - well, that was the case before we visited the county during the summer. That short break opened our eyes to how interesting and beautiful the county is. Not only do you have the city itself, but the region boasts some beautiful, quiet countryside, myriad family attractions and much, much more....

It’s time to be honest now. When we’re thinking of organising a holiday, we wouldn’t automatically consider Leicestershire – well, that was the case before we visited the co…