Combining a career with travel is entirely realistic, provided you resolve practical issues around visas, the 90-day Schengen limit, and daily working boundaries before setting off. Here is a practical look at the roles that pack light, key European digital nomad permits, and how to maintain a steady routine on the road.

After a long travel day from the UK, Martin Hesp heads straight out onto the tranquil waters of Lake Brienz near Interlaken for supper aboard a wooden raft—settling in with warm blankets, crisp Swiss wine, and a bubbling pot of traditional cheese fondue under the alpine twilight.

A journey across Lake Biel from the sun-drenched vineyards of Ligerz and Twann to the bilingual watchmaking city of Biel/Bienne, exploring its unspoilt medieval Old Town and seasonal dining at Restaurant Écluse.

How good can public transport really be? Martin Hesp spends five days putting Switzerland’s famously integrated travel system to the test with the Swiss Travel Pass - taking in panoramic Alpine railways, Lake Biel vineyards, and steamer cruises on Lake Lucerne.

There’s more to exploring Europe than ticking famous landmarks off a sightseeing list. From the wave-powered music of Zadar's Sea Organ to wooden boat crossings on Lake Bled and mountain hikes in the Lofoten Islands, here are five rewarding ways to slow down, travel deeper, and experience the continent differently.

Martin Hesp tests the all-conquering Swiss Travel Pass on a whirlwind five-day journey across the Bernese Oberland and Lake Lucerne by rail, boat, and cable car. Watch the exclusive 12-minute travel film.

Beyond the package resorts lies an island of mountain trains, rustic livestock markets, and quiet coves. Travel writer Martin Hesp looks back over four decades on Majorca.

Travel writer Chris Pages explores the spectacular Vaud region of Switzerland, from Glacier 3000 and Rougemont to mountain railways, historic castles, cheese, wine and Alpine dining.

Discover the luxury of exploring Capri and the Amalfi Coast by private boat from Sorrento, with secluded swimming spots, spectacular coastal views and the freedom to create your own itinerary.

Chablis, the Morvan and Vézelay make a wonderful road-trip combination in rural Burgundy. Martin Hesp goes in search of quiet roads, great wine, forests, lakes, ancient villages and the France he loves.

Switzerland is far more than high-priced ski resorts and glossy brochures. From the 12-yearly Unspunnen festival and 40-cow alpine dairies to historic mountain railways and lakeside Christmas markets, discover the authentic heart and living traditions of the Swiss cantons with travel writer Martin Hesp.

scape Mediterranean heatwaves with this comprehensive guide to the ultimate Scandinavian ‘coolcation’. From car-free islands like Tunø and Alrø to Skagen’s luminous artist colony, Viking strongholds, and world-class Copenhagen cuisine, travel writer Martin Hesp brings together his complete collection of dispatches exploring Denmark’s coastal light, feel-good hygge, and rich culinary culture.

From Santorini’s wind-sheltered basket vines to the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, the Mediterranean’s ancient wine heritage is uniquely tied to its coastlines. Exploring these historic islands and shores by sea reveals centuries of viticulture shaped by salt air, sun, and stone.

Think the Algarve is all overcrowded resorts and concrete development? Think again. Travel journalist Martin Hesp uncovers the wild, unspoilt southwest corner of Portugal—where empty winter beaches, harbour-side seafood feasts, and the tranquil boutique haven of Quinta Bonita await.

High in the Italian Alps lies an eminently convenient stop-over that is Paradise by name and nature. From wild ibex grazing above the tree line to dramatic glacial valleys and historic mountain huts, Gran Paradiso National Park remains the most breathtaking of mainland Europe's protected wildernesses.

Hidden high in Madeira's misty mountain valleys, ancient apple orchards are enjoying an extraordinary revival. Martin Hesp discovers how entrepreneur Márcio Nóbrega has transformed the island's traditional "poor man's drink" into internationally acclaimed sparkling cider while rescuing thousands of heritage apple trees from abandonment.

Looking for a coolcation destination away from the heat of southern Europe? Martin Hesp explores Lithuania's Amber Coast, discovering elegant seaside resorts, outstanding food, shifting sand dunes, fascinating history and one of the most remarkable landscapes in the Baltic region.

Finding these quiet, untamed corners of the island brought back a flood of memories from a trip I took to Cyprus nearly 35 years ago. It was February half-term, and back in the UK, it was cold, grey, and raining. Desperate for a bit of sun and warmth, we booked a last-minute deal to Paphos. But Cyprus has a way of surprising you. On one of our day trips, we found ourselves waist-deep in snow.

What makes halloumi different from every other cheese? A chance encounter in rural Cyprus reveals the secret behind its famous squeak and resistance to melting, leading into an unforgettable journey through mountain villages, wineries, artisan food producers and authentic Cypriot culture.

Parkland, Porcelain History, and a Vanished World For those arriving by air, La Chapelle Saint Martin serves as a sublime pastoral gateway to southwest France. Located just minutes from Limoges airport, this elegant 19th-century manor house was originally built as the country retreat for a wealthy porcelain manufacturer. Today, it offers a completely different flavour of rural charm, trade-marking the expansive, rolling parklands of the Haute-Vienne. The house sits within a f