Life on the Road, Travel Writing

3 Surprising Reasons Your Ambitious Travel Plans Are Failing 

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Reasons Your Ambitious Travel Plans Are Failing 

It is easy to claim “I love to travel” but tricky to act on your claims. Many of us remain restricted to armchair travelling, perusing exotic destinations only on Instagram reels. 

You might put it down to general business – financial planning, kids’ schools, etc. You may resolve to go on that anticipated trip next year or the year after. But have you assessed if other reasons could be behind your travel plans getting shelved?

Here are three reasons you may not have perceived as active deterrents to travel.

#1 You’re Conditioned to Spend Money on Essentials

Travelling can involve considerable expense. You need money for flight tickets, hotel rooms, food, and sightseeing. Travelling with your family can involve further expenditure. Booking a toddler-friendly flight may be much more expensive than a late-night one. Paying these expenses becomes a hold-up when you view travel as “non-essential.”

It doesn’t help that the global economic market isn’t exactly reassuring. PwC’s latest “Voice of the Consumer” survey finds that most Australian consumers find inflation an overwhelming risk. Almost 48% of the respondents report actively looking for value for money. Justifying an ambitious travel plan can be difficult with this mindset.

However, it is time to acknowledge the far-reaching benefits of travel, from managing stress to understanding new cultures. How can spending on a trip that boosts your mental wellness be non-essential? 

Besides mental health, travel may also reap another stunning benefit. A Journal of Travel Research paper found that travel can slow down aging. It seems that favourable travel experiences help our bodies keep a low-entropy state. Travel encourages movement, learning and connections, all of which keep us young.

Moreover, budget travel has become much more accessible, even for grand trips. You can consider homestays instead of hotels, book well in advance to get cheaper flights and commit to eating the local cuisine.

#2 You’re Unable to Address Lingering Health Issues

A lower back pain that comes and goes, a migraine that starts randomly, or a skin condition that embarrasses you. We have a lot going on health-wise that we may not pay attention to or even view as restricting. But these concerns can keep you from executing the travel plans you have been toying with. 

What’s worse, you may not realise just how these niggling health problems are interfering with your life. For example, for someone suffering from chronic dental problems, the thought of unfamiliar food and people judging them for bad oral health is awful.

In 2023, the Journal of Transport & Health published a fascinating report. It seems that people who perceive travel constraints outside their local area perceive their health to be poorer. Being unable to travel limits their social interactions, which adds loneliness to the equation.

Once you acknowledge that health is holding you back, consider dipping into your savings to find a solution. Tackling challenges like skin or dental problems is tricky as many insurance providers don’t cover them. 

Consider pursuing legal action if your problems stem from medical or manufacturer negligence. For example, many people have suffered caries and tooth loss due to long-term Suboxone use, an anti-addiction medication. Filing a Suboxone lawsuit can help you claim damages and get the required dental help.

On that note, a dentist who recommends multiple root canals, crowns, and fillings can be the very picture of dread. But things become manageable when you have financial help. TorHoerman Law notes that proactive action can help anyone who suffers because the relevant pharmaceutical companies didn’t warn them of the side effects.

You can also pursue this route if you have faced side effects from skin products that didn’t disclose their ingredients. Discriminatory treatment, like a doctor shrugging off chronic pain in women, also deserves putting down.

Taking charge of health problems, chronic or not, becomes imperative when they keep you from exploring the bounties of the natural world. 

a woman in a bikini does yoga on the beach
I mean, I don’t think I’d look quite as good doing this pose, but I’ve done my share of yoga on the road.

#3 You’re Stuck in an Organization With Poor Work-Life Balance

Your boss promised you could take annual leave in December. But when the month arrived, they claimed a last-minute emergency had struck, requiring everyone to step up. While you can understand such a situation happening once or twice, you should look deeper if it has become a pattern.

Some workplaces in Australia and beyond have a problem of poor work-life balance. Applying for leave and being allowed to enjoy it uninterrupted by phone calls and e-mails is a mammoth task. You will find it hard to materialise your travel plans in such a setting.

Consider talking to your supervisors about how your holidays are frequently cancelled. Is there a way to build a more employee-friendly leave policy? Annual leave in Australia went up to four weeks in 1974 but hasn’t grown since. Some unions like the SDA have been working on getting more paid days off. So, good news may be coming. 

Also, ask your manager if you can send an out-of-office response for communication during the trip and address emails upon return. It might be worthwhile looking for another job if the culture is not amenable to a balanced life. You could also explore hybrid work schedules to get more time to travel and work in far-flung places. Ta-da!

Seeing the world is the best way to widen your horizons and understand other cultures. It lets you gain a broader perspective on personal problems. Ambitious travel plans can be hard to finalise and execute, but the first step is to rule out subconscious roadblocks.

When you gaze awestruck at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or watch the Northern Lights illuminate the Finnish sky, you will realise everything was worth it.

Australia and the Pacific, Europe, North & Central America, Travel Tips, United States

Golfing on a Budget: Affordable Golf Destinations for the Traveling Golfer

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A sport that needs no introduction, golf is highly popular, capturing the hearts of some 35-40 million people. It’s also one of those sports which are known to be ‘classy’ of sorts, rather than being rugged like football.

Perhaps part of the charm here is that players get to connect with nature, explore different fields, and compete in friendly matches with peers. More and more turn to it, with influence reaching younger audiences as well. This can be attributed to instances of celebs playing it or TV serials and movies showing golf.

What’s interesting is that golf’s appeal is more nuanced than simply partaking in the activity. It also has a travel culture associated with it. Since golf games are a beloved pastime of many, they enjoy their company when traveling, whether for leisure or business.

Many tend to search for suitable destinations to fuel their golfing desires, however, the issue of budget often causes a pitfall for some. Despite being termed classy, one does not have to spend a fortune necessarily to enjoy this sport. In this article, we’ll discuss the best affordable golf locations in detail so that you can enjoy yourself as much as you like without it being heavy on your pocket.

Teeing Off in Southeast Asia: Affordable and Scenic Getaways

There are plenty of opportunities for golfing should you happen to take a tour of Southeast Asia.  Besides the budget-friendly places, you’ll be greeted by scenic views you can admire while striking birdies.

For starters, Southeast Asia holds countries like Thailand, which attracts not only tourists but also people who enjoy a nomadic lifestyle, having a landscape mix of mountains and coasts. A popular choice here is the village of Hua Hin where dry weather is found during the low season which runs from June to September, making it ideal for golf. Another country in Asia, Vietnam has an attractive coastline and bright city life, and places like the Central Coast here boast notable courses.

The weather varies throughout the year as the high season sees lower temperatures, while the low season may offer better savings but also has chances for rain that can affect the golf game. In Thailand, you’ll get by in around $300 which would cover pretty much your whole golf tour while Vietnam runs cheaper as a round may cost between $50 to $100.

Australia’s Hidden Golf Gems: Stunning Landscapes for Every Budget

The ‘Land Down Under’ hosts hidden gems for golf fans, complete with stunning backdrops that fit well in any traveler’s budget. Since Australia has a varied geography and spans a huge size, you’ll be treated to many backgrounds like coastal courses with views of the ocean. These are located in New South Wales and Victoria to name a few, and feature holes that play alongside cliffs and sandy pits.

There are also opportunities for inland and desert courses depending on your preferences which are amid green forests and arid vegetation. These offer unique perspectives and a challenging game as well.

Golfing in Australia is surprisingly affordable, with it being possible to enjoy a quality game with less than $50 in fees. Factoring in the whole trip may mean a budget of 100 to 200 dollars per person but that would include the golf fees, transportation, and meals in between. A good advice to maximize savings is to play on weekdays rather than the weekends.

A North American Adventure: Affordable Fairways Across the US and Canada

North America is no less than a treasure chest for golf enthusiasts, waiting for travelers to stumble upon it. The climates and regions are varied according to personal choices as well, with California having sunny coasts while lush forests are to be enjoyed on the Northeast side where states including New York are particularly enjoyable in the fall season.

The Midwest region has expansive farmland regions with natural terrain that are thoroughly maintained. These prove to be affordable and generally fall away from the public eye meaning you get to enjoy without crowds.

The weather needs to be taken into consideration as in the Southeast side during the spring or fall mild temperatures would be your best bet to golf. In comparison, northern states have short summers but perfect conditions for the game all the way from spring to fall. Note that this is considered the peak season and prices may get higher.

Green fees for public courses fall around $30 to $70, but if playing during off-peak hours, this can fall a further 20%. For travelers, accommodation needs to be factored in and this can range. For example, in remote areas, this would be cheaper but in tourist cities, it’s often high.

European Charm: Budget-Friendly Golf in Portugal and Spain

A golfing enthusiast on a budget in Europe? Portugal and Spain offer the perfect experience, combining affordability with the classic charm of Golf.

Algarve in Portugal offers stunning views of the ocean, thanks to coastal courses like Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo. Known as a golfer’s dream, this place offers deals with a 3-night stay and 2 rounds of golf starting from £149 only.

Moreover, places like Costa del Sol in Spain are suitable for golf all year round due to the mild winters. The Andalusian courses such as Valderrama and La Manga offer historical value and suitable playing conditions.

With Europe’s delicious food and heartwarming hospitality as a bonus, one can enjoy a memorable golfing getaway.

Conclusion

While golf is usually associated with money, this proves to be a false narrative. The game can be enjoyed all over the world on a budget, from Asia to America. By picking lesser-known locations on your golf trip, you would get the most bang for your buck.

Additionally, there are also seasonal rates and group discounts to take advantage of. Pack your clubs and embrace the adventure as you venture off to your next round.

Travel Tips

Packing for Long-Term Travel: A Guide for Manly Men

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Packing for Long-Term Travel

Packing for an extended trip abroad can be stressful, especially when you are visiting multiple destinations with different climates.

It would be perfect if there were some kind of ‘ultimate packing list’ that applied to every destination and variable, but that’s not the case.

Instead, I thought I would share the ‘wisdom’ I have amassed over the last ten years on the road.

And, as I set off for three months in Tanzania, three months in Vietnam, three months in Australia, and three months in the US – I’ve been putting all of this into practice.

So, here it is, the ultimate guide to packing for long-term travel!

1 – Choosing the Right Luggage

Before you start packing for your big trip, it’s probably a good idea to have something to pack into. Airports tend to frown on you simply tossing an armload of clothing onto the baggage scale.

Ideally, you’re going to want a large suitcase or backpack for your belongings plus a smaller day-pack for when you don’t fancy lugging your entire wardrobe on your back. So, what kind of luggage do you need?

Travel Backpack vs. Roller Luggage

The debate that has been destroying relationships and ruining Christmas dinners since time immemorial: are you a backpack person or a roller bag person?

As a general rule, I prefer to use a backpack for a few reasons:

  • More lightweight than a roller bag;
  • Roller bags struggle to roll on beaches and uneven terrain;
  • You look more like you know what you’re doing;
  • Free shoulders and back work out!

While it might look like you can fit more into your roller bag, it’s worth remembering that a roller bag typically adds 2 – 5 kgs to your total. So, while you might have extra space to pack your stuff into, you’re going to run into problems when it comes time to weigh in.

With that being said, I’m currently traveling with a roller bag while I’m in the market for a new backpack. I can’t even follow my own advice!

What Size Do I Need?

This is all a matter of personal preference + understanding how long you’re going to be traveling.

  • For a serial over-packer like me, having my large Osprey 70L travel backpack might give me ample room, but it’s also going to encourage me to pack more than I need. I’ll also be more inclined to pick up random shit that I don’t need along the way – but for longer trips this bag has been amazing to use!
  • If you’re wanting to avoid paying for checked baggage, consider getting something smaller like a 40-55 travel backpack. Anything larger is unlikely to qualify as carry-on.

Backpack for Long-Term Travel

The All-Important Day Pack

It might seem counter-intuitive to bring along a second bag, but a day pack is essential when you’re traveling for an extended period of time.

Few and far between are the days where you’ll want all of your belongings with you, but there will be plenty of days where you’ll want to be able to bring along a change of clothes and a few other essentials. That’s where a good daypack comes in.

When I travel long-term I wear my larger backpack on my back, and then my day bag/carry-on essentials on the front. It’s the classic backpacker style, and works like a charm!

I’ve been using the fantastic Berghaus 30L Day Pack for a few years and it’s been perfect. Large enough to hold my 17″ Acer Predator laptop and all of my other electronics, it’s also water resistant enough that I could use it while hiking the Kumano Kodo, going orangutan trekking, and trekking for gorillas.

2 – Packing Cubes For Long Term Travel

For the longest time, I resisted the urge to be one of ‘those’ people who use packing cubes. I’m a man, dammit! I don’t need little cubes to help me organize my suitcase.

Except, I do need that. I really do.

My girlfriend, Adventures Around Asia, is obsessed with packing cubes and finally brought me into the fold when she brought me an Eagle Creek starter pack for Christmas.

With one cube for button-down shirts, one for t-shirts, and one for underpants, my luggage has never been more organized!

Packing Cubs for Long Term Travel

3 – Packing the right amount of clothing

This is where I’ve always had my biggest weakness. How do you pack for a trip of undetermined length and without knowing exactly what destinations you’re headed to?

First things first, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself:

  • What climates are you going to be in?
  • Do you need any specialised attire for formal occasions, scuba diving, hiking etc?
  • How often are you going to be able to do laundry?

Obviously, all of these questions are going to help you figure out what you need and how much of it you need.

For my recent trip to the United States, I knew I’d need to attend a wedding, so my suit had to have its place in my bag. I also knew I’d be doing some hiking, so hiking boots and gear had to make the cut.

Thankfully, my travels are keeping me away from colder climates, so bulky jackets and cold weather attire have been limited to a hoodie and a spray jacket.

What Do I Need to Pack For Long Term Travel?

When I pack for an extended trip, I try to limit myself to the following:

  • 6 t-shirts
  • 2 button-up shirts for more formal occasions
  • 2-3 pairs of shorts
  • 1 pair of jeans
  • 1 pair of khakis or trousers
  • 1 hoodie or jacket
  • 7 pairs of socks
  • 10 pairs of underpants
  • 1 pair of board shorts or other swimming attire
  • 1 pair of sneakers or comfortable shoes
  • 1 pair of semi-formal shoes or boots
  • 1 pair of sandals, thongs, or flip-flops

This is in addition to any specialized attire you might need. As I said, my packing list also includes a nice leather jacket and a pair of hiking boots. Thankfully, I’ve been able to leave my suit with my in-laws.

4 – Accessories

In addition to the all-important clothing, you’re also going to want to pack a few additional accessories. I never leave home without the below:

Travel Jacket

Boring Essentials

Then there are the other essentials that don’t necessarily need day to day use, but might be handy to have in a pinch. I never travel with a first aid kit, but probably should given my track record with broken arms and giardia…

With these tucked away in your suitcase, you’re covered for all but the most grisly of eventualities.

When it comes to medical stuff, it’s always best to chat with your doctor about what vaccinations you might need for the year to come.

5 – Condensing your toiletries

As a guy, I tend to travel with considerably fewer toiletries than my fiancee, but that doesn’t mean I’m traveling light.

Once you factor in the toiletry essentials such as toothpaste, deodorant, toothbrush, floss, mouthwash, sunscreen, a razor, and some cologne, my toiletry kit is already a hefty addition to my luggage.

  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Floss
  • Mouthwash
  • Deodorant
  • Razor
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Nail clippers
  • Razor
  • Cologne
  • Travel soap/shaving cream
  • Insect repellent (DEET 40% if you’re headed to the tropics)

Being a beardy git who shaves his head, I also have to bring along the various accouterments that help to make me the handsome creature that I am.

I also travel with a lightweight electric razor, as I need to shave my head every week or so to hide the fact I’m bald (by making myself balder).

6 – Travel Electronics

I’ve written before about how I’m an unabashed addict when it comes to travel gadgets. My day pack doubles as a veritable high tech lab when it comes to the number of cameras, computers, and various other electronics I cram into it.

For this upcoming trip, I’ve even got needless extras like a laptop cooling pad, Razer Naga, and vintage Nintendo 64 packed. A boy has got to stay entertained while living on a farm in Tanzania, guys!

For more practical purposes, I try to limit my travel electronics to the following:

As you can see, it’s a pretty extensive list, but I’m a content creator and somebody who can’t stand to be bored.

If you aren’t necessarily creating content for a blog or needing to be permanently connected, you could quite easily cut this list back to a few essentials such as the smartphone, universal adaptor, and a camera.

Drone for Travel - Photo

7 – Travel apps and guidebooks

In days gone by, it wasn’t uncommon to leave home with a Lonely Planet guidebook or ten crammed into your carry on.

Thankfully, with the advent of smartphones and pocket-sized eReaders, it’s never been easier to have all of the information you need right at your fingertips.

Loading a few relevant travel guidebooks on to your Kindle is always handy, as you might not have WiFi or 4G to access Google from your phone.

In addition, I always download a few travel apps ahead of a big trip such as:

That’s in addition to the obvious ones like Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat etc.

If you’re looking to edit your photos on the run, I can’t speak highly enough of Enlight. I also use Swarm to keep track of everywhere I go while I’m on the road. You never know when you’re going to want to remember the name of that Thai place you ate at in Queenstown.

8 – Travel Documents

These probably go without saying, but you probably shouldn’t leave home without:

  • Your passport
  • Copy of your travel insurance policy
  • A printed copy of your itinerary
  • Any vaccination cards you might need
  • Passport photos
  • Proof of onward travel 

Another huge travel tip I have for long-term travelers is maximizing credit card rewards! When I see people use debit cards while I traveling I sigh and immediately think to myself, wow you’re really missing out! Being an Australian I regularly check CreditCardCompare.com.au for different sign-up bonuses for travel credit cards.

For my American based readers, I’d recommend looking into The Points Guy & View From The Wing for more information. Travel Hacking is so fun once you learn how to do it properly! Never spend a dime without earning points! 

ALSO – look out for a card that offers a membership to Priority Pass – this is an AMAZING airport lounge membership that I’ve gotten a lot of use out in the past few years.

Cape Town Drone Photo

9 – Travel insurance

Take it from me: you’d be an idiot to travel without insurance.

Before you head out, it makes sense to do your research and choose the right travel insurance for you.

If you’re looking to rent a car through a site like Holiday Autos, make sure that your insurance is going to cover your rental car.

I personally use World Nomads whenever I am traveling, and have recently started paying a little extra to insure my higher value items such as my Canon SX60 and my Acer Predator.

10 – Travel Esim

One of the most important aspects of traveling in the modern era is staying connected to the internet, and thankfully due to the advances in Esim technology it has never been easier. I’ve become a huge fan of Truely Travel eSIM as they have coverage plans all over the world for extremely affordable prices.

It’s very easy to install and you can be connected the minute you land in your destination! 

Additional Travel Accessories

Once you’ve packed all of your essentials: your clothes, medications, and electronics, you’ll have a better idea of whether or not you have room for a few fun extras.

For me, that’s usually a lightweight card game like Fluxx or Superfight or a big boy toy like a Nintendo Switch, but you know what you like better than I do.

Other fun little travel additions could include:

As I say, you know your tastes better than I do, so you’ll know best what little extras will make your trip a more enjoyable one.

Your Say

What are your expert travel tips?

What can’t you leave home without?

Have I missed anything or made a glaring rookie error that needs to be remedied?

Don’t hesitate to leave your questions and feedback below! I’m always checking my comments, so you’ll hear back from me!

Australia, Destinations

Top Wine Varieties You Didn’t Expect To Try In Australia (And Where To Find Them)

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Ever found yourself standing in front of the wine aisle like a rabbit in the headlights wondering which bottle you might actually enjoy? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. But listen up, because it’s time to start exploring the world of wine beyond the usual suspects. Australia – home of the iconic Shiraz and blockbuster Chardonnay – has been fermenting a revolution in its vineyards.

In this article, we’re taking a look at 6 wines you didn’t expect to try in Australia. From exotic grape varieties to new blends, these wines are breaking the rules and giving Australian winemaking a fresh new face. So, whether you’re an old hand at wine tasting or simply looking to expand your palate, get ready to uncover the unexpected wine varieties Australia has to offer, and exactly where to find them.

1. Tempranillo

Attention wine enthusiasts with a love for the Spanish touch! Get ready to raise your glasses in a toast because an exciting development on Australia’s wine scene awaits. In the sun-blazed vineyards of Australia, tempranillo, the ripe red wine grape of Spain, has made a new home in areas such as the Barossa Valley or Heathcote.

Tempranillo, with its bold cherry and leather notes, takes lovers of red down a sensory path. Its vigorous character and unique flavour will appeal to those relaxing at home, or getting together with friends. A few bottles of tempranillo wine are certain to leave a lasting impression. It’s like taking an instant trip to sunny Spain, without having to wait in airport lines or spending thousands on accommodation.

2. Sangiovese

Now let’s delve into Sangiovese, a grape variety whose place of origin lies among Italy’s sun-kissed vineyards, but has found a happy refuge in all nine of Australia’s wine-producing regions. With its juicy acidity and interesting complexity of flavours, this red just breathes Mediterranean style. Australian winemakers from the warm McLaren Vale to cool Heathcote, have taken up this grape wholeheartedly. They are now producing fine examples that both reflect its origin as Italian sangiovese whilst being distinctly Australian in character.

Moreover, its lively acidity and gentle tannins make it suitable for pairing with many types of food, particularly dishes of Italian or South European origin. As a result, enjoyed with a traditional Italian feast or as an after-work tipple, an Australian sangiovese offers a heady blend of the ’old world’ charm with a ‘new world’ twist. 

3. Vermentino

Vermentino, an Italian grape variety, has now landed on Australian shores and is developing a cult following amongst those who love its acidity and crisp citrus notes. In Australia’s sunny climate, this white grape variety thrives in Margaret River and McLaren Vale. 

Here the warm days and cool nights provide vermentino grapes with just the right balance to reach optimal ripeness, as well as retain their natural acidity. Australian vermentino wines often feature hints of lemon zest, green apple, and even ripe stone fruits — all of which makes for happy drinking if you’re looking to take home a refreshing lively white wine.

In recent times, Australian winemakers have also been experimenting with various methods to best bring out the special characteristics of vermentino. From stainless steel fermentation to extended skin contact, each approach brings different facets of the variety to the forefront, giving wine lovers a wide range of vermentino styles to explore. Whether you like a light, fragrant vermentino or something more textured and complex, there’s a bottle of wine that will please every palate.

Top Wine Varieties You Didn't Expect To Try In Australia

4. Albariño

Hailing from Spain’s Galicia region, albariño is the crisp, aromatic white wine that no one can get enough of. Thriving in the cooler climate regions including the Adelaide Hills and Great Southern, this Spanish grape variety offers a refreshing new way to enjoy white wine. With its distinctive acidity that persists even in the heat, albariño is the white you want to be sipping on those extra hot summer days, with a multi-dimensional aromatic profile ensuring every sip is as tantalising as the next.

Showcasing captivating notes of citrus, stone fruit and minerality, this vibrant white is as fresh on the palate as it is on the nose. With its bright fruit characters and acidity to match, it’s a marriage made in heaven for everything from succulent, fresh seafood to lighter summer salads.

5. Nero d’Avola

While it may be Sicily’s flagship red, nero d’avola has found a welcoming new home in the sun-drenched vineyards of South Australia. In warm-climate regions – like McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley – the grapes are able to ripen fully in the intense sunlight and dry conditions. This results in wines that are deeply coloured and full of ripe fruit flavours. It’s often laden with notes of dark cherry and plum, with vague spice playing in the background. 

Winemakers have experimented with varying ways to craft their Nero d’Avola. Some age the wine in oak to give it extra structure; others bottle it to capture the fruit at the height of its powers. This has resulted in incredibly diverse styles that make for excellent tasting — from big, bold reds to those that are more elegant. Whether enjoyed on its own, or matched with meals like roasted lamb, or a plate of spaghetti and meatballs, Australian nero d’avola is a taste of Sicily with an Aussie twist.

6. Montepulciano

Last but not least, hailing from Italy’s Abruzzo region, montepulciano red is gaining traction in Australia for its juicy dark berry flavours and soft tannins. This red grape variety is finding its feet in diverse regions, with vineyards in the Granite Belt, King Valley and further afield producing wines that are vibrant, expressive and unique to their sense of place. The combination of temperate climate and well-drained soils enables the vines to produce long, slow-ripening fruit with vibrant, savoury tannins and a deep underlying earthiness.

A key feature of Australia’s winemaking landscape is the freedom to produce a range of styles, and this is being embraced with montepulciano. You’ll find a variety of different expressions through blending or fermenting methods — oak versus no oak, extended skin contact versus no skin contact, or minimal intervention versus a fuller-bodied style.

There you have it! A tantalising glimpse into the vibrant world of Australian wine. Here, it’s not about who has the best grapes but what each grape variety can achieve. From sun-drenched vineyards of South Australia to the cool-climate regions in Victoria, regional winemakers are pushing their varieties into completely unexpected expressions of their geography.

So, whether the bold nero d’avola catches you by surprise or the crisp albariño stops and makes you think, don’t be afraid to venture into the unknown. Here’s to discovery and all those exciting possibilities waiting at every unexpected sip.

Europe, Travel Writing
France: The Gothic Majesty and Pilgrimage Paths

Legacy of Faith: Southern Europe’s Historic Churches and Cathedrals

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Embarking on a pilgrimage through Southern Europe to explore its historic churches and cathedrals is a journey that transcends mere sightseeing; it’s an odyssey through time, art, and devotion. This voyage unveils the architectural grandeur and spiritual significance of some of the most awe-inspiring religious edifices, from the heart of Italy to the sun-drenched coasts of Portugal. Traveling through these regions by rail links not only cities but epochs, guiding travelers through landscapes imbued with history and faith.

Italy: A Tapestry of Christian Heritage

The journey begins in Italy, a country where the legacy of Christianity is as pervasive as its history is ancient. The Rome to Florence train whisks travelers from the eternal city of Rome, with its Vatican City and the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Rome’s St. Peter’s Basilica stands as a testament to faith and artistry, home to Michelangelo’s Pietà and the awe-inspiring dome that dominates the city’s skyline.

Florence, meanwhile, offers the ethereal beauty of the Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo. Its iconic red dome, engineered by Brunelleschi, and Giotto’s campanile highlight the city’s rich artistic and religious history.

Italy- A Tapestry of Christian Heritage

Portugal: Coastal Sanctuaries and Sacred Art

The journey then transitions to Portugal, where the Lisbon to Faro train offers a path to explore the country’s devout heritage along its scenic coast. Lisbon, the luminous capital, is home to the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture that houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama.

This monument not only serves as a place of worship but also as a celebration of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Continuing southward, Faro, the gateway to the Algarve, reveals lesser-known treasures like the Sé Cathedral. Nestled within the city’s ancient walls, the cathedral provides a serene space of contemplation, its façade a blend of Gothic and Baroque styles, mirroring the diverse influences that have shaped the region.

Portugal- Coastal Sanctuaries and Sacred Art

Spain: Gothic Spires and Mudejar Marvels

Crossing into Spain, the exploration delves into the country’s rich tapestry of religious architecture, marked by the coexistence and synthesis of Christian and Islamic influences. The Gothic grandeur of Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia, designed by Antoni Gaudí, presents a modern take on cathedral construction, its spires reaching heavenward as if in direct communion with the divine. Further south, the Seville Cathedral stands as the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, its Giralda tower an emblem of the city’s skyline, originally a minaret from the Almohad Mosque, showcasing the intricate blend of cultural heritages.

Greece: Byzantine Echoes and Orthodox Traditions

Venturing further east to Greece, the legacy of Eastern Orthodoxy is palpable in the Byzantine churches of Athens and Thessaloniki. These structures, modest yet majestic, are adorned with intricate mosaics and icons, each telling a story of faith and perseverance.

The Church of the Holy Apostles in Athens and the Rotunda of Galerius in Thessaloniki serve as gateways to understanding the spiritual and artistic depth of Byzantine Christianity, their preserved beauty a bridge to a time when faith deeply influenced art and society.

The Journey Continues

This pilgrimage through Southern Europe’s historic churches and cathedrals, facilitated by rail journeys across the picturesque landscapes of Italy and Portugal, offers a unique lens through which to experience the region’s spiritual heritage and architectural magnificence.

Each stop on this journey not only provides a glimpse into the past but also offers a moment of reflection on the enduring power of faith and its ability to inspire awe through the ages. As travellers venture from one city to the next, they are invited to immerse themselves in the stories of devotion, artistry, and community that these sacred spaces embody, connecting with a legacy of faith that continues to shape the heart and soul of Southern Europe.

France: The Gothic Majesty and Pilgrimage Paths

Crossing the borders into France adds another layer to this spiritual journey, revealing the Gothic majesty of cathedrals such as Notre-Dame de Paris and Chartres Cathedral. Notre-Dame stands as a symbol of French heritage and Gothic architecture, its flying buttresses and rose windows encapsulating the zenith of medieval craftsmanship. Meanwhile, Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned not only for its architectural beauty but also for its labyrinth and the Sancta Camisa, believed to be the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary at Christ’s birth. These sites, along with the famed pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela starting from various points in France, weave a narrative of faith that has drawn pilgrims and admirers for centuries.

France: The Gothic Majesty and Pilgrimage Paths

Albania: Skirting the Edges of European Christendom

Albania is one of the few countries in Europe which does not have a Christian majority. Nearly 60% of Albanians follow Islam. 

Yet, Albania has some of the oldest and best preserved churches in Europe. This is in large part due to Albania’s culture being secular and syncretic, and there being a great deal of mutual respect and tolerance among adherents of different religions in the country. 

One of the oldest churches in Albania is St. Nicholas Church in Perondi. Dating back to the 11th century AD, it is recognized as a Cultural Monument of Albania.

Yet another church from the same era is the Church of the Holy Trinity in Berat. Dating back to the 13th century, it shows distinctive Byzantine influences in its design and layout. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other monuments in Berat and Gjirokaster.

Albania is a small, yet beautiful country which is sprinkled with many such medieval churches. For those who have the legs for it, one of the best ways to explore Albania’s Christian heritage would be to pick up a bicycle and do a circuit of all the major churches. In fact, there are several operators that conduct guided bike tours in Albania centered around its several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, many of which happen to Christian monuments.” 

Albania

In conclusion, the exploration of Southern Europe’s historic churches and cathedrals is a profound journey through the heart of the continent’s spiritual and architectural legacy. From the Gothic spires of France to the Byzantine echoes of Greece, the majestic cathedrals of Italy, the sacred sites of Portugal, and the Venetian-influenced churches of Croatia, each destination offers a unique window into the rich tapestry of faith that has shaped these lands. These travels, bridging historic sites across vast landscapes, knit together narratives of devotion, artistry, and cultural synthesis that have evolved over centuries. This odyssey through Southern Europe’s religious heritage is not merely a reflection on the past; it serves as an invitation to contemplate the timeless beauty and the enduring power of faith that continues to inspire and bind people together across borders and through generations.