Ale, located in Västra Götaland County, Sweden, is a picturesque municipality known for its rich history, vibrant community, and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled along the Göta River, Ale combines the charm of rural Sweden with the convenience of proximity to Gothenburg, one of Sweden’s major cities.

Kungälv, located in Västra Götaland County in Sweden, is a charming town steeped in history and surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Just a short distance from Gothenburg, this town offers a rich blend of historical sites, including the impressive Bohus Fortress and the medieval ruins of Ragnhildsholmen.

Trollhättan, located in southwestern Sweden, is a charming town known for its rich industrial history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled along the Göta River, Trollhättan offers a blend of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often dubbed "Iceland in Miniature," is a place where the island's diverse landscapes and rich history converge into a single, captivating region.

Nestled on the southern coast of Iceland, Vík í Mýrdal, commonly referred to as Vík, is a picturesque village surrounded by some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes.

Höfn, a charming town on Iceland's southeastern coast, is often referred to as the gateway to Vatnajökull National Park. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, abundant marine life, and rich cultural history.

Bakagerði, a quaint village nestled in the fjords of East Iceland, is often referred to as the "capital of the elves" due to its rich folklore and mystical landscapes. Surrounded by enchanting natural beauty, Bakagerði offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy areas.

Akureyri, often referred to as the "Capital of North Iceland," is a vibrant town that combines urban sophistication with stunning natural beauty. Nestled at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord, Akureyri is known for its picturesque setting, charming streets, and a wealth of cultural and recreational activities.

London, a city where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly, offers an endless array of attractions and experiences. From its iconic landmarks and world-renowned museums to its lush parks and vibrant culinary scene, London has something for everyone.

Sarajevo is a fulcrum of history, twice in the past century events in this city have shaped the world, and both times it has been tragedy and darkness. Once in 1914, the Great War started with the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and then in 1992, with the violent, gradual collapse of Yugoslavia, Bosnia and Herzegovina went through a civil war and a genocide.

Jablanica, a quaint village in Bosnia, is home to a bridge that tells tales of a WWII battle. The bridge, now broken, stands as a testament to the past, a silent witness to the tumultuous history that unfolded here. As you tread the dirt path leading to the remains of the bridge, the air is filled with the sweet scent of flowers, a stark contrast to the sombre remnants of war. The preserved train nearby adds another layer to the historical narrative of the place.

Nestled in the heart of Herzegovina, Konjic is a regular stop on many tours. It's a place where the climate takes a turn for the Mediterranean, consistently basking in temperatures that are a delightful 5 degrees warmer than its northern counterparts. This is the start of Tomato Bosnia, my friends, not Potato Bosnia. It's a place where the sun seems to shine a little brighter, the days feel a little longer, and life just seems to move at a more leisurely pace.

Mostar is a captivating city that seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant modern spirit. Through the city, you are drawn to the harmonious fusion of architectural styles, ranging from Ottoman masterpieces to Austro-Hungarian elegance. With the emerald waters of the Neretva River flowing through its core, Mostar is beautiful.

Perched on a hillside along the Neretva River, this hidden gem is a testament to the region's rich history and architectural beauty. As we climbed the narrow, cobbled streets, I couldn't help but feel captivated by the blend of medieval and Ottoman influences that have shaped this charming settlement over the centuries.

A bathing point just past the bridge is a regular stopping point for locals offering some lovely views.

Journeying through the breathtaking Neretva river canyon, we found ourselves in Studenci, a place that feels like it's been plucked straight from a postcard. The highlight here is undoubtedly the Kravica waterfall, a spectacular tufa cascade on the Trebizat River that's a sight to behold. It's a place where nature's power and beauty converge, creating a spectacle that's both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Nestled at the base of a dramatic cliff along the tranquil Buna River, Blagaj is a picturesque village in Bosnia that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The village's serene atmosphere and welcoming locals make it an ideal destination for those seeking to explore the hidden gems of Bosnia while immersing themselves in the region's fascinating past.

Gothenburg is Sweden's second city, with a suburban population creeping above one million, it crams a lot into a small space. Also known as lilla London, due to its climate, and historic connection to London it is the home of Volvo, a hub for music and a city edged on one side by the water and islands of the archipelago and on the other by the forests of Bohus.

Andover is a charming town nestled in the heart of the picturesque Hampshire countryside, surrounded by lush green fields and rolling hills. With a rich history that dates back to the Saxon era, Andover is home to a number of fascinating historic sites and landmarks.

Ballymoney is passed through as part of the Giant’s Causeway tour with its main attraction being The Dark Hedges.

Sat in County Antrim. Carrickfergus sits on the north shore of Belfast Lough.

Passing through Ballymena as part of the combined Game of Thrones and Giant’s Causeway tour, there were two stops, one to see the Caves of the Shadow Creature below Dragonstone and one to see where Arya was stabbed in Braavos.

Bushmills is a small village who’s main attraction is the Old Bushmills Distillery. it is however a popular stop for visitors to the nearby Giant’s Causeway.

Perhaps the most troubled city in the United Kingdom, the history of Belfast is written in conflict between the Protestant Unionists and the Catholic Republicans. The Europa hotel holds the distinction of being the most bombed hotel in the world, and the city is still divided in two be the Peace Line, though there is a commitment to remove the majority by 2023, little progress has been made.

Stretching out from Alum bay, where the famous multi-coloured sand cliffs can be seen, the Needles are a rock formation stretching out into the ocean with a lighthouse at their head.

Sat at the end of the River Medina, Newport is the central hub for transport on the Isle of Wight, most busses pass through and the terminal here is large and busy. The town has a lot of typical shops and a range of restaurants. Nearby Carisbrooke Castle can be found.

Cowes and the smaller town of East Cowes face each other over the River Medina (which can be crossed by the Floating Bridge) Cowes is a quaint tourist town with the Red Jet high speed catamaran back to the mainland whilst East Cowes has the slower Red Funnel Car Ferry.

A city that's a treasure trove of history, culture, and maritime marvels. Nestled on England's south coast, it's a place where the old and the new intertwine in a delightful dance. The city's rich history is etched into every corner, from the ancient city walls that whisper tales of the past, to the bustling port that has welcomed ships for centuries.

Lymington is a port town on the west bank of the Lymington River on the Solent, in the New Forest district of Hampshire, England.

A former mining town and gateway to the Arctic, this was the northernmost coal mine until 1929 and is the northernmost town in the world.

The town of Longyearbyen was originally on the opposite side of the bay; it was moved and ultimately renamed to Longyearbyen after John Munro Longyear, who’s Arctic Coal Company ran the town before it was taken over by the Norwegian company in 1916 and then the Norwegian Government 1st January 1993.

Salisbury is a medieval cathedral city in the southern English county of Wiltshire.

Known for generations for its leather, Malung is still the place to go for leatherwork in the middle of Sweden. More stores are a little outside of the town, but it's easy to find them, just follow the main road north.

Winchester's location, nestled at the western end of the South Downs National Park and along the course of the River Itchen, offers a blend of city life and natural beauty. It's a city that invites exploration, whether you're wandering its historic streets, enjoying a riverside walk, or venturing into the surrounding countryside.

With just over a half-million inhabitants, Lisbon is Portugals largest city and its capital. Devastated in 1755 by a unique earthquake, the city is a mix of history and modernity. Divided, as many capitals are, by a river, Lisbon is a more touristy destination than Porto, more chic to Porto's hipster vibes.

Known as Portugal's Venice, Averio's canals were the lifeblood of the city, being used by the seaweed fishermen and bringing the valuable salt to the salt flats. Now more dependent on tourism than fishing, the city has a range of things to see and do.

If Lisbon is Portugals Stockholm, Porto is Gothenburg. A bit cooler, a bit more boho, a bit more of a music and art vibe. A small metropolitan centre of just 232,000 people, another 1.4 million live in the wider area. Settlement in Porto has started as early as the 6-8th century, and Port wine has been exported from the area for centuries.

This charming spot, home to a close-knit community of around 727 inhabitants, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Don't let its size fool you, though. Glanshammar may be small, but it's brimming with a unique character that's sure to leave a lasting impression. As you wander through the locality, you'll be captivated by the serene atmosphere and the friendly locals who call this place home.

It's a place where the past and present coexist, where the legacy of the arms manufacturer Bofors still resonates, and where the spirit of Alfred Nobel lives on in the Björkborn Manor.

Known as the "Sun City" of Sweden, Karlstad is a place where the sun seems to shine a little brighter, and the smiles seem a little warmer. The city is situated on the delta where the Klarälven river meets Lake Vänern, the largest lake in Sweden, providing a picturesque backdrop for your adventures.

The seventh-largest city in Sweden and the seat of Örebro Municipality. The city is beautifully situated on the banks of the Svartån River, offering picturesque views and a tranquil environment. The city's most iconic landmark is the Örebro Castle, a medieval fortification that has stood guard over the city for over 800 years.

Sat on the southern tip of Vattern, Sweden's second-largest lake, the city of Jönköping has a population just shy of 100,000 people. The common suffix in Swedish towns of Köping means a trading centre, and Jön is from a nearby creek. For over a hundred years, Jönköping was known for its matchstick industry, producing the first safety matches as early as 1845, and the legacy lives on in its museum and craftwork area.

With under 20,000 people, it is surprising how far Ystad goes back. Founded in the 11th century as a herring fishing village it remains a popular tourist spot and a busy ferry port, as well as the site of Kurt Mankell's books about Kurt Wallander.

On the coast, facing the bridge across to Copenhagen, Skanör is a popular destination for tourists in good weather, offering white sand beaches, reasonable waves and nice weather. The area has a history that stretches back to the Middle Ages. It was home to herring fishing in the local area markets which caused Skanör to become a thriving trading place during the 13th century.

Lund was founded around the year 990 by a Danish king, probably Sven Tveskägg.

The second-largest Ski resort in Sweden, beaten only by Åre in the north. Sälen has four separate areas, all included in the same ski-pass. The area around Sälen does have one or two other privately run ski resorts, so it's worth double checking any bookings you make for accommodation or rental that they are near one of the four Ski Star Sälen locations.

Not really a town so much as a shopping mall with a collection of accommodation and ski options, Hemavan sits on Bluvågen and acts as either the start or end of the trail.

Ammarnäs, a village tucked away in Sweden's Västerbotten County, is a gateway to the wild. It's a place where the Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve, one of Europe's largest protected areas, is just a stone's throw away.

Adolfström is a small village, but one focused on fishing and hiking and has a few options for staying overnight and a small store.

A small village in the middle of the King's Trail, Jäkkvik has a supermarket, a hostel, a Chapel, and a few modern new build homes and in winter access to a small ski slope.

On the King's Trail, a silver mining town, Kvikkjokk is your first contact with civilization since starting the trail in Abisko. A Mountain Station, Church and a few homes are all Kvikkkokk offers other than its setting's beauty.

Abisko Östra is a small village located in the northern part of Sweden, approximately 100 km west of the city of Kiruna. The village is situated in the midst of the stunning Abisko National Park, which is known for its dramatic landscape, including soaring mountains, deep valleys, and pristine lakes.

Öland has been inhabited since 8,000 BCE by Palaeolithic hunter-gatherers, who crossed the ice that sometimes forms on the Kalmar Straight. As a result, it feels old but tamed in a way much of Sweden does not. Its smaller landmass and heavily farmed spaces make it feel a little like the English countryside. Still, then occasionally you travel past standing stones in a farmers field, giving you a brief glimpse into its uniquely Scandinavian history.

Kalmar gets its name from the word "kalm", a collection of stones, something found in large quantities on both the land and waters around Kalmar. It is first mentioned in writings from the beginning of the 13th century. However, archaeological evidence of a city wall, monastery, Church and courthouse from the 12th Century show it was a thriving community.

A small island, a short distance off the southern tip of Karlskrona, Aspö is part of the archipelago and home to under five hundred, though this population swells in the summer months. With an hourly car ferry from the mainland, Aspö is well served. A single ICA sits on the island offering basic necessities year-round with a few cafes, a restaurant in the Fortress and many artist's galleries opening in the summer months.

Hidden in a field behind a shopping outlet, Lyckå Slottsruin is a small but impressive reminder of a Danish border castle. The ruin was renovated in 2014 to prevent further decay, although the renovations are somewhat obnoxiously modern.

Karlskrona is the seat of Karlskrona Municipality, Blekinge County, Sweden with 66,675 inhabitants in 2018. It is also the capital of Blekinge County. Karlskrona is known as Sweden's only baroque city and is host to Sweden's remaining naval base and the headquarters of the Swedish Coast Guard.

Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is a city that effortlessly combines the ancient and the modern in a uniquely Scottish atmosphere. Watched over by the imposing castle, the symbol of the city, Edinburgh combines medieval relics, Georgian grandeur and a powerful layer of modern life with contemporary avant-garde. In Edinburgh, medieval palaces rub shoulders with the best of modern architecture, Gothic churches with amazing museums and galleries.

Norrköping is industrial. It's a city built around industry and that still shows, the river runs through the center and was clearly for canal transport, factory buildings still dot the skyline. Even so, many places are closed for weekend so it can, in certain areas, feel quite lifeless.

A small city reasonably close to Stockholm and twinned with Norrkopping a short 20 minute train ride away, Lindköping is a surprisingly English spot. There are several English style pubs as well as a traditional chippy.

A large village in the new forest, heavily aimed at tourists and offering various crafts, knick-knacks and speciality foods and drinks. Cafes and cosy pubs are easy to find, and numerous stores for unique (for a certain value of unique) gifts line the streets.

Sitting between Uppsala and Umea, Gävle is an old port city. It is the oldest city in historical Norrland, receiving its charter in 1446 from Christopher of Bavaria. With approximately 100,000 residents its one of Sweden's larger cities and is primary known for Gävlebocken, the Gävle Christmas Goat.

Trakai was previously the capital of Lithuania, and the Grand Duke used the heavily fortified castle as his base of operations. After the capital moved to Vilnius, the castle fell to ruins and was renovated, though not unobviously.

Vãsterås is Sweden's sixth largest city, sitting on the banks of a lake, filled with small islands Vãsterås comes alive during the summer months when boats and ferries run regularly out to the islands and water-sports are common. During the colder months, the town goes into hibernation. Many restaurants are closed on Sundays and the streets are empty during the morning.

During the summer Gotland comes alive as vacationing swedes come for their summer holidays on this small island off the coast of Stockholm. During the first week of August, the city is taken over by the Medieval Week, as events, demonstrations and tourists all pack the city, dressed in medieval garb and eating like their ancestors.

Once a refuge for outlaws during the Middle Ages, Tiveden National Park is now a sanctuary for nature lovers. Whether you're drawn to the towering 15-metre boulder known as the Junker Jägare's stone or the serene forest trails, Tiveden offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

The town seems much larger than it is when you first start looking around, partly because it is so tourist focused and so there are a lot of bars, restaurants and cafes squeezed into a few blocks by the ferry terminal, and partly because everything in the town is centred around the ferry.

Helsingør, also known as Elsinore, is a port city in eastern Denmark. Overlooking the Øresund strait, the 15th-century Kronborg Castle provided the setting for Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” On the pier is “Han,” a polished steel sculpture of a man.

Tucked away in the bay of Skälderviken, in the north-western corner of Scania, Sweden, you'll find the quaint locality of Arild. With a population of just over 500, Arild is a gem of a place that's steeped in history and natural beauty. The village is nestled on the mountainous shoreline of the Kullen peninsula, offering breathtaking views and a unique coastal charm. The heart of Arild beats around its small harbour and the Arilds Chapel, both of which date back centuries. The village is also a haven for artists, with its picturesque landscapes serving as the perfect muse.

The Höga Kusten guide book describes Ullånger thus: "The section ends in Ullånger where you can find a wide selection of services. There is a grocery store, café, specialist shops and handicrafts." This is technically true, but highly misleading.

Örnsköldsvik, often shortened to just Övik, is a charming locality in Västernorrland County, Sweden. Known for its natural harbour and archipelago in the Gulf of Bothnia, it's a place where nature and industry coexist. The city is renowned as an exporter of pulp and paper products and heavy machinery goods, but also for its strong environmental record. It's a place where you can feel the pulse of industry, yet also find tranquillity in the surrounding nature. The city's history is rich, with traces of human activity dating back to the Nordic Bronze Age.

I stopped in Katrineholms for a few hours in between connections to Gothenburg. I'd originally planned to only have thirty minutes there, but once I'd finished at the Parken Zoo in Eskilstuna, there wasn't much keeping me there, so I thought I'd see a bit more of Katrineholms.

Tuna is a tiny place outside of Eskilstuna (which was itself originally called just Tuna) and is a retail park, the Zoo and amusement park and an ancient castle. Tuna itself has a population of under three hundred people.

Not the famous Mora of Sweden where the knives are made, this tiny town in Södermanland has an ancient rune stone.

There is iron everywhere in Eskilstuna. In the soul of the city. Full of swords and steel. Nicknamed Stålstaden, there are traces of the dying smelting and manufacturing everywhere. The city guideposts for tourists are constructed of curved steel, the curbs in the Munktel factory area are all metal beams riveted to the street. Everywhere you look, there are subtle and not-so-subtle signs of the cities pride in its smelting history.

Älmhult is a peculiar place. As the birthplace of IKEA, it has slowly been subsumed but the company it created. The town is not very big any more, but the Ikea campus on the other side of the train tracks (and the huge Stena factory) dominate the landscape.

Stopping in Ryd town is likely a matter of necessity rather than desire for a traveller. It is a tiny village with a population of under 1,500. Despite this, it has three distinct pizza restaurants, an ICA and two Godis shops. There appear to be no other restaurants, cafes or bars nearby.

Växjö gives the impression of being larger than it actually is. With a population of under 70,000 people, it is smaller than Halmstad, but the combination of the large lake in the town center, the sports arena and a sizeable shopping district gives it the impression of being a much larger location.

Umeå is a university town. As such, it has a good number of decent bars and restaurants for its size. Overall it is a small town of about 120,000 people. Most shops can be found within a few blocks of each other, but there are several large shopping malls in that space, no doubt because of the heavy snow that falls for half of the year, making indoor shopping a preference.

Old Uppsala is a trove of Viking history, featuring a museum, and a series of long walks to see the Thing, old churches and other history. A short bus ride from Uppsala itself, it is a vital thing to visit

Uppsala is a fair sized, fairly generic Swedish town, down the center a canal runs, dividing the city quite neatly and making picturesque what could have been quite generic a city.

Halmstad is a noticeably larger town than Varberg, though not so large as Gothenburg. Like Gothenburg it is divided by a river, but separating the city into the east and west with teh west being the old town with the old buildings and the east being newer.

Varberg is a fairly small town, and much of its shopping closes at 4pm, not really a surprise when Gothenburg is under 30 minutes away by train. Most of the shops are within a street or two of the shopping mall, and it is largely chain stores you will see elsewhere in Sweden.

Stockholm County is a county or län on the Baltic Sea coast of Sweden. It borders Uppsala County and Södermanland County. It also borders Mälaren and the Baltic Sea. The city of Stockholm is the capital of Sweden. Stockholm County is divided by the historic provinces of Uppland and Södermanland.

Reykjavik is a surprisingly busy city on the west coast of Iceland. Surrounded by black volcanic stone and yellow grass the city is striking. Arctic winds blow in from the coast, and Iceland is the third windiest place in the world. Houses are generally low with sloped roofs to avoid the ever-present wind.

Six of our headed out on Saturday morning for Brännö island, off the coast of Gothenburg. Part of the Archipelago that is easily accessible by the many ferries.

The city has a strange character. Deeply religious with a number of well attended churches, old and incredible architecture vies with a a number of bland modern options and scattered throughout are futurist brutalist structures of incredible strangeness.

Belgrade, as it is not served by any low cost airlines, is spared the stag dos and hen dos that fill other eastern European cities. As such, it's tourism is lower volume and less crass. The city is served by a good network of Trams, which are surprisingly thiner than the average tram in other cities.

We had the fun of navigating through Munich’s fairly awful one way systems, and as it is a German city is was full of BMW and Mercedes drivers.

It was about a ten minute walk to the start of Burg zu Burghausen, which is a kilometre long, on the hill above the old town of Burghausen.

We walked around a fair bit in old town and saw Mozarts Geburtshaus, his birthplace, though we didn’t go in as the crowds were thick outside the building.

We saw quite a few castles on our drive, but it was only on the same exit as for our hotel that we saw the signs for the ice caves and the castle that had encouraged us to come out to Werfen.

We had decided the evening before that we would go straight to the Alpen Zoo in Innsbruck, which is slightly out of town and had its own parking.

There is no ceremony when you enter the Principality of Lichtenstein; there is a flag and that is about it. It is only later if you explore Lichtenstein you learn the importance of their flag.

Whilst eating, i happened to stumble on the fact that the Cabaret Voltaire was 2 minutes walk away, the home of Dadaism, and should be open and serving including Absinthe.

We could tell just from walking to the hotel that Fribourg was even more hilly than Lausanne had been and we’d be getting a lot of cardio on our explorations.

We attempted to take the more scenic route, despite the torrential rain, but the sat nav seemed to bring us along with a more indirect course, away from the water's edge that we had intended to follow around the coast.

A two week driving tour of the Alps, touring different cities, towns and villages. The trip started in Nice and ended in Munich.Our original plan was do do a sunset cruise on the lake.

The bottom end of Switzerland is very narrow, and it was only fifteen minutes from the south border with Italy to the northernmost border with France and the small village of Meyrin, CERN’s location.

A two-week driving tour of the Alps, touring different cities, towns and villages. The trip started in Nice and ended in Munich.

A two week driving tour of the Alps, touring different cities, towns and villages. The trip started in Nice and ended in Munich.

Aosta feels nestled in the mountains, and the peaks rise above it in a very prominent way. At dinner, I watched the moon move sideways across the peaks before disappearing behind the buildings. Being here, you can understand in some way why the Romans were so progressive in their approach. The mountains reach the stars, and you can climb a mountain.

A two week driving tour of the Alps, touring different cities, towns and villages. The trip started in Nice and ended in Munich.The road was actually a highway all the way up to Fenis but it cut through beautiful landscapes.

A two week driving tour of the Alps, touring different cities, towns and villages. The trip started in Nice and ended in Munich. In a relatively small town like Turin many places are still shut on Sundays.

A two week driving tour of the Alps, touring different cities, towns and villages. The trip started in Nice and ended in Munich. Whilst we had a drink in Monaco, we figured out our next stop, we wanted to be in Turin the following evening and didn’t want a long drive that afternoon.

A two-week driving tour of the Alps, touring different cities, towns and villages. The trip started in Nice and ended in Munich.. Monaco is only 9 kilometres from Nice, but they are a windy, slow kind of kilometre. They run along the coast road and give some great views of the incredibly wealthy,.

The next morning, we got up early to check-out and collected the car; an Alfa-Romeo Giulia. We’d confirmed we could leave it in the parking garage for a few hours while we explored a bit of Nice.

Tiny winding streets with old buildings, hugely driven by city break tourism rather than the more sedate options are part of the character of Split. The small tight streets in the old town have lead to the adoption of motorised cards, like you may see in a warehouse for moving goods around.

Days are identified by Roman numerals. The city has a strong resonance with Rom, the history of repeated attempts to align with the Hapsbergs and the Pope have given Vilnius an affinity from Italy as well as this there is a stronger Russian influence than I have seen in the other Baltic states, they have a soviet influence, but less of the historic Russian.

Friends of mine were in Copenhagen and suggested we meet for the day in Malmö. Having never been to the city and having not seen them for quite a while I was keen.  The first stop was an outside bar whilst i waited for them, as their bus was delayed due to a person thinking their VISA card was enough ID to pass the Danish/Swedish border.

On Swedish National Day, I decided to dust off my bike, which had sat unused through the winter and spring to cycle down to Lerkil, about 70-75km south of Gothenburg. I loaded up my panniers with my camera, a rain jacket, two liters of water, a phone charger, batteries, Pringles, a mini camping stove with packaged chilli con carne and a few other non-essentials and set off.

A beautiful city with some stunning architecture, sprawling does not do this city justice, it is in fact two cities, Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube, facing each other over the river.

“Quaint” it is both quite small and very old, storybook streets of cobblestones and brightly painted houses. Tall towers of stone topped with red tiles. The old town is a lot like the outdoor museum in Oslo, a place of history. Toompea is this even more distilled.

Sprawling across islands, inlets, it is a big place. Architecture has a lot in common with Sweden. Moomins are everywhere, they are a prized cultural thing here. There is a level of indifference to the snow and Ice that Gothenburg cannot match.

Branäs is a picturesque ski resort located in the heart of Sweden's snowy wonderland, offering an unforgettable winter sports experience for both beginners and advanced skiers.

Architecture is varied, but there is not much of the extremely modern glass around. Brickwork dominates and it feels that even new buildings are trying to fit in. The main exception is the area around the Rhine Towner, a needle standing tall and alone on the riverside and the various modernist buildings nearby.

There is a huge amount of new building work complete, or ongoing in Oslo, so the city is losing some of its charm and certain areas like the ferry terminal are very ‘Canary Wharf’ in the impression.

Rome has the strong distinction of being home to two of the world’s most dominant religions/cultures; the Ancient Romans and the Catholics. Much of its beauty comes from the fact that for once the Christians repurposed rather than destroyed the architecture of the ‘pagans’.

Gaudi’s influence can be felt throughout the city, even though there are in truth only a small number of his buildings in a large sprawling city the influence of colour and shape make Barcelona an interesting city. Whilst it has many of the dull square buildings that infest major cities, it also has old churches in immaculate repair and colourful shapes and sculptures scattered through the city.

I was recenetly in Amersfoort for a long weekend and a wedding.

Åre is Swedens most famous ski resort. Not as far north as you might expect it is still a long way from Stockholm or Gothenburg. Travel there can be done by flying to the nearby airport and taking the bus or the more enjoyable Night Train, sleeping in a cabin and waking up at 8am on arrival in Åre ready to ski.

To the north of Åre is the town of Duved, much smaller, and with its own small slopes, though most people will head to Åre for their skiing. Accommodation is easier to find here and is cheaper, but you will find that what you save, gets spent on taxis to and from Åre unless you are very organised to take the infrequent bus service.

A few images from my snowboarding holiday in Les Arc 2000

Par is a quaint village and fishing port that's steeped in history and charm. Known for its harbour, Par is a hub of activity, with its roots firmly planted in the industrial past. Once a bustling centre for copper and china clay mining, the village has evolved over the years, with the harbour now serving as a distinctive feature of its industrial heritage.

he city's rich history is evident in its Roman walls and the stunning Exeter Cathedral, which dates back to the Norman era. But Exeter isn't just about the past. It's a vibrant, thriving city with a lively arts scene, fantastic restaurants, and a calendar full of festivals and events. And let's not forget its location. Situated on the River Exe and just a stone's throw from the coast, Exeter is a gateway to some of the UK's most beautiful countryside and beaches.

This charming town, perched on the northern edge of Dartmoor, is a treasure trove of historical gems, from its 15th-century chapel of St. James to the imposing ruins of Okehampton Castle, established by the Norman Sheriff of Devon, Baldwin FitzGilbert.

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I went to Copenhagen for a long weekend with a friend, we got there Friday evening late, and after checking in, we walked past a strip club, sex shop and a series of prostitutes to get to an all night kebab joint for a very late dinner.

I recently went to Riga for work, and got the chance to see some of the city.

I spent a long weekend in Riga for work, and spent time exploring the old town.

Having moved to Sweden, I’m trying to do a bit more outdoors, with the ocean, lakes, forests and trails so easily accessible from the centre of town, it is a waste to not make the most of them.

Getting to Marstrand was less easy than it should have been, there is a train which connects to a bus in Ytterby. Unfortunately due to technical problems, the train was cancelled and the next one was two hours later. When we queried this and if my tickets would still be valid, we were told due to the delay we could take a taxi and Vastraffik would refund me. 1000 SEK journey later we were in Marstrand.

It was finally time to head to the southern archipelago of Gothenburg. A straight tram from the Iron Square took me to Salthomen where I caught the Ferry south. The ferries have a number of stops, so I chose one at random: Donsö.

I went snowboarding in Peisey-Vallandry.

Nestled in the heart of Gwynedd, Wales, Bala is a charming town that exudes a sense of tranquillity and timelessness. It's a place where the Welsh language thrives, with over 70% of the population speaking it fluently.

Norwich, a historic city in Norfolk, England, is renowned for its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.

A had a friend over and took them out to the Archipelago. We went to Styrsö and Vrångö. Styrsö is one of the largest islands, with several places to eat and one of the highest points of the islands. Vrångö is one of the smallest inhabited islands, but has a nice cafe bar right by the ferry station.

A had a friend over and took them out to the Archipelago. We went to Styrsö and Vrångö. Styrsö is one of the largest islands, with several places to eat and one of the highest points of the islands. Vrångö is one of the smallest inhabited islands, but has a nice cafe bar right by the ferry station.

WIth friends, I headed to Morzine snowboarding.

Watford, nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, England, is a town that effortlessly blends the hustle and bustle of urban life with the charm of the English countryside. Just a brief journey from London, Watford offers a rich history that stretches back to Roman times, making it a treasure trove of fascinating tales and architectural wonders. From the tranquillity of Cassiobury Park to the lively shopping scene at the Intu Watford Shopping Centre, Watford is a town full of surprises.

Richmond, a charming town nestled in the southwest of London, is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. It's a place where the hustle and bustle of city life meets the tranquility of nature. The town is perched on a meander of the River Thames, offering picturesque views and an abundance of parks and open spaces, including the renowned Richmond Park. This town is steeped in history, with its roots tracing back to the 16th century when King Henry VII built Richmond Palace. The palace and the town became closely associated with Queen Elizabeth I, who spent her last days there. The Georgian terraces that were built around Richmond Green and on Richmond Hill are a testament to the town's historical significance.

What struck me about Woburn Safari Park was its commitment to conservation and education. While there, I attended an informative talk on endangered species, which highlighted the importance of preserving habitats and protecting biodiversity. This experience left me with a deeper appreciation for the ongoing efforts to safeguard our planet's wildlife.

I spent a long weekend in Bratislava with some friends for a stag-do, we explored the town, toured some bars and went white water rafting.

We then went down to the Blue Grotto, not a place that really appealed to me to stop and visit, but I was able to get a few nice images from the bus as we passed by.

These ancient temples predate the pyramids of Egypt. Stonehenge or any other megalith.

From Tarxien, I jumped back (after a fair wait) onto the bus and went through the three cities and down to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk for lunch and to see the colourful fishing boats.

Unfortunately, the magnificent Hypergien was fulled booked until mid-November, but I was able to see the Tarxien Temples. An excavated temple surrounded by houses and one graveyard.

Following the Cathedral, I left the Silent City and went to Rabat, the neighbouring “real” town of the area.

The Mdina is known as the Silent City. It is an ancient walled town, still inhabited. I wandered through the streets for a while before finding Ciapette for some lunch

Having seen much of Gozo, a few of us, ditched the big boat and took a small speedboat to Comino run by a bronzed man and his little dog.

After everyone had boarded we set off on the crystal blue ocean, the first sight we saw, the Statue of St. Paul overlooking the island where he came to write much of his religious work.

From the hotel, I jumped on one of the Arriva buses and headed to Valletta. I got off at the main terminal, a locale dominated by the Triton fountain.

The feel of the place is Greek, but not. Sandstone and beige buildings dominate. The sea is a dark rich blue and the clouds fade to haze on the horizon.

Silema is one of the wealthier areas in Malta, with upmarket shops and restaurants.

The final day, we woke up, ate breakfast and loaded onto the tour bus to Sophia. A brief stop again at a service station showed me a huge Communist style statue.

From there, I left Finance to go up the mountain with my DSLR and get some pictures. I was thwarted in the gondola as others joined me at the first stop and their equipment blocked my view.

Coventry, located in the heart of England, is a city with a rich tapestry of history, resilience, and modern transformation. Known for its significant role during the Industrial Revolution and the heavy bombing it endured during World War II, Coventry has continually reinvented itself while honouring its storied past.

I went along to ZSL Whipsnade near Luton with some friends

I went for lunch in Windsor with a friend on mine, and naturally brought my camera. In between sampling some excellent food and Summer Lightning ale at the George Inn and a well deserve ice cream at Ben & Jerry's I indulged in a little HDR of the landscapes.

Kos is a jewel of an island in the Mediterranean.

For my 30th birthday, a few of us headed to Prague to see the sites. We only had a single day to explore, so we made the most of it, looking at the Charles Bridge and the incredible architecture.

Sandsfoot Castle, located in Weymouth, Dorset, is a historic artillery fort built by Henry VIII in 1539-1540 as part of his coastal defence strategy against potential invasions from France and Spain. The castle, perched on a cliff overlooking Portland Harbour, was strategically positioned to defend the southern coastline and the important naval base at Portland.

Abbotsbury

Winterbourne Abbas is a small village located in Dorset, England, known for its charming rural setting and proximity to significant prehistoric sites. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the South West, this village offers a peaceful retreat with a deep sense of history.

Portland Bill is a rugged and picturesque headland located on the Isle of Portland, Dorset, on the southern coast of England. Known for its striking cliffs and dramatic coastal scenery, it is a beloved destination for both tourists and locals seeking natural beauty and maritime history.

Stanton Drew, a small village in Somerset, England, is home to one of the most significant and lesser-known prehistoric sites in the UK: the Stanton Drew Stone Circles. Visiting Stanton Drew offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past, surrounded by the serene English countryside.

Glastonbury, a town steeped in myth and legend, is a captivating destination in Somerset, England. Its most famous landmark, Glastonbury Abbey, is a site rich with history and spiritual significance. Visiting the abbey as a child left a lasting impression on me, filled with wonder and curiosity about its storied past.

Greenwich, a historic district in London, is renowned for its maritime heritage and architectural splendour. Nestled along the River Thames, it offers a rich tapestry of sights and experiences, from the iconic Prime Meridian to the meticulously restored Cutty Sark.

Woolwich, located in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, is an area rich in history and undergoing significant regeneration.

Conwy Castle in Wales was built in the 13th century, and spent hundreds of years as a vital strategic and defensive location.

Warwick, a historic market town in the heart of England, is renowned for its stunning medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Dominating the town is the majestic Warwick Castle, a well-preserved fortress with over a thousand years of history, where you can explore grand interiors, manicured gardens, and thrilling medieval re-enactments.

During my visit to Ludlow, I had the opportunity to explore the historic Ludlow Castle. Situated on a hill overlooking the River Teme in Shropshire, this medieval fortress has a rich history dating back to the 11th century.

Ellesmere Port, situated in Cheshire along the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal, is a town with a rich industrial heritage and a variety of attractions. Historically, the town grew around its strategic position as a key port, linking the canal network to the River Mersey and facilitating the movement of goods during the Industrial Revolution.

Newcastle-under-Lyme, a historic market town in Staffordshire, England, is rich in both heritage and modern amenities. Nestled near the city of Stoke-on-Trent, it offers a charming blend of old and new.

A group holiday to Crete let us explore a great deal of the island. Based in a hotel near the beach on the western end of the island by Chania, we rented a car and drove the east-west road a few times seeing a number of locations.

I went snowboarding in Poiana Braşov, in Romania, its a good venue, with some nice slopes.

Galway is, like much of Ireland is emerald green. Out in the bay, easily accessible are the Isles of Aran, small islands with even smaller houses on them.

Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of the Bard himself, is a place that I've had the pleasure of visiting twice in my life. The first time was as a 17-year-old on a school trip, and the second time was in my mid-twenties with a girlfriend. Both visits were centred around the works of Shakespeare, but there was also plenty of general sightseeing to be done.

Antwerp, a vibrant port city in Belgium's Flanders region, is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and dynamic arts scene. As one of the world's major seaports, Antwerp has long been a hub of international trade and commerce, contributing to its cosmopolitan atmosphere and architectural grandeur.

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, was a destination I visited as a teenager, part of an ECIS Speech and Debate tournament.

Only renamed St. Petersburg from Leningrad six years before our school trip to Russia, the secondl largest city is impressive and an incredible blend of styles. Originally founded by Swedes in 1611 and called Nyenskans, it was captured by Peter the Great and became one of Russia’s most vital sea ports.

Russia’s largest city with a history traced back to 1147, Moscow is the northernmost and coldest megacity in the world.

For more than five years, I lived in a town called Voorschoten, in between Leiden and Den Haag. It was the home of the British School and surrounded by fields and canals. We lived in three houses during the time we were there.

France’s premier island castle