 |
| View from our hotel, La Residence |
Friday 26 November 2010
Sunday 21 November 2010
Through the lens - Tiptoe Traveller in the Jura region, France
What is the best view you have ever enjoyed from a hotel room? This is mine.
 |
| A stunning view from a hotel in the Jura region, South of France |
Thursday 18 November 2010
Through the lens - Tiptoe Traveller in the South of France
 |
| Gorgeous pottery from Valensole, South of France - and a fab breakfast! |
Monday 15 November 2010
5 reasons to go green on holiday
 |
| Photo from ohsingapore.com |
Most people go on holiday to relax, breathe some fresh air, forget about work and catch up with the family. Spending a few days in the countryside will give you a chance to clear your mind and enjoy the small things in life.
2. Connect with nature (without computers)
People are leading such busy lives that they forget what it's like to go for a walk in the park. For some, spending time in the countryside might seem a little bit alien and perhaps even a touch scary. Choose a destination which has a few things to do to start with. As you get used to enjoying nature, you will want to come back again and again.
3. Try something new
Have you ever tried rock climbing, caving, coasteering or zip lining? The BBC has just launched a new website called ThrillSeeker. All you need to do is visit the site, enter your postcode and you will find activities near you. Trying new activities is very rewarding. It can help you build confidence and it is so much fun!
4. Save some cash
Holidays close to home are usually cheaper than foreign holidays. You don't need to go very far to find a nice accommodation close to nature. Caravanning and camping are both great alternatives to hotels.
5. Feel good about yourself
Taking the time to think about what impact your holiday could have on the environment, is one step closer to being an ecotourist. So whether you are green for a day, a week or a lifetime, it all helps preserving our precious planet.
Personally, I grew up on a farm. I now live in London but I love going back to my home village to be surrounded by mountains. How about you? I would love to hear if you have recently discovered the pleasure nature has to offer or if you have loved nature since your childhood. Please share your stories, your favourite outdoor activities and your recommended nature spots.
Sunday 14 November 2010
Through the lens - Tiptoe Traveller in Hanoi, Vietnam
 |
| Hanoi, Vietnam - Can you spot that poor man at the top of the ladder? |
Sunday 7 November 2010
Expats: what's in your suitcase?
From childhood treats to favourite local produce: a little taste of home
I have been living in England for 16 years. All these years ago, I left my country to start a new life (although I didn't know it at the time) and found a new home: London. What an amazing city! I could not go back. Everything I had always wanted was there on my door step.
But even though you can find pretty much anything here, there are a few things I do miss from my native country. These little things we grow up with. They put a smile on our faces and make you feel all warm inside. Do you know what I mean?
I was born in the South East of France, famous for so many specialities: Côtes du Rhône wine, Nougat, chocolates, olives from Nyons, charcuteries, cheeses and much more. Unfortunately, I can't bring back all of these things so here are my favourites:
No 1 on my list: Olives from Nyons - With herbs, garlic or spicy - They are so tasty!
No 2 on my list: Nougat - made from honey and almonds - simply delicious - lovely treat for Christmas
No 3 on my list: Picodon: a regional goat cheese (only if I travel straight home as it can be a bit smelly)
No 4 on my list: Crème de marrons de l'Ardèche (chestnut jam) - It's delicious with pancakes.
 |
| Photo: my kitchen diaries |
No 5 on my list: Lavender (when in season) for its relaxing properties
I would love to know what you miss most when you are away from home.
