Travel and Vacations

Our Caribbean Odyssey

After resisting the idea of a cruise for decades, our recent Caribbean Odyssey was the 2nd time we embarked on the beautiful Explora 1.

My fear that all cruise ships are crowded and hectic was laid to rest, Explora 1 is elegant, offers ocean-front suites throughout and carries only around 650 guests! 

Smart Packing Strategy

Whatever kind of vacation you're planning, some smart packing strategies will ensure that your preparation is stress-free!     

For mature travellers, comfort and practicality is more important than it used to be and we're sensible enough to realize that we don't actually need 14 different outfits to look effortlessly stylish!   

Pack like a Pro for city! 

Pack like a Pro for a city break whether you're dreaming of a European escapade or a Stateside adventure?

But before you hop on that plane (or train!), let's talk packing – because who wants to wrestle with an overstuffed suitcase or, more especially, commit a fashion faux pas?

Vacation To-Do List

A vacation to-do list is one of the most important factors when you're planning a vacation.

I'm sure we're not the only ones looking forward to a Winter trip away so I thought it opportune to share our absolutely fail-proof checklist with you.      

Come and share my travels to find some Mauritius magic! 

This multi-cultural tropical idyll sits in the Indian Ocean. It's a melting pot of race, culture, faiths and religion and, in spite of that, manages to be the happiest and most peaceful country in the African area. 

Spectacular beaches, volcanic landscapes, luxurious hotels BUT always time for fun! 

Not forgetting the DOLPHINS! 

Kilworth House and Theatre is only 30 minutes from home and yet we'd never visited. It proved the perfect choice to celebrate our wedding anniversary.

I loved the graceful country house hotel, our accommodation and being 'waited on', but I was completely entranced by the open air theatre in the 38 acres of parkland.

First a musical and, on our second visit, a blast from the past! 

Queen's favorite cake

In honor of the Queen's passing, I'm privileged to share with you a recipe for her favorite cake.

She enjoyed this frequently with her English Afternoon Tea as told by the former Royal Chef.  

It's an easy no-bake version with only 5 ingredients.  

English Afternoon Tea

When my daughter started to discuss wedding plans, a Paris Wedding in Las Vegas was not the scenario that came to mind! 

Neither Vicki nor Marcus wanted a traditional wedding and they love to travel so something different certainly appealed.

My initial fear was was that she'd be disappointed with a quicky stereo-type ceremony and, dare I say, it might be a bit cheesy! How wrong could I be?

My Mother of the Bride outfit for Vicki's Las Vegas wedding had to be something special.

I knew I wanted a dress that stood out from the crowd! Certainly not traditional, this was Las Vegas not the Village Church!

And let's be honest Las Vegas doesn't do subtle!

On Remembrance Day, 11th November, people in the UK wear a red poppy and come to a halt at 11 am to observe a 2 minute silence in respect and gratitude to those who gave their lives to protect our freedom.

Allow me to share photos of my own village with you!