A scattering of sun-drenched French islets anchored south of Guadeloupe, Îles des Saintes possesses an elusive, forgotten-world charm. With roaming iguanas, overwater verandas, and barely a car in sight, Terre-de-Haut is Caribbean island life at its most civilised.

A budget-friendly guide for UK travellers uncovering Madeira’s rich culinary culture, dramatic landscapes, and authentic island experiences without overspending.

Looking for a sun destination untouched by Northern European crowds? Martin Hesp explores Porto Santo, a quiet Atlantic paradise of golden sands, sleepy squares, and authentic island life just a short flight from the UK.

For a bloke who has spent 50 years chasing stories and good suppers, Funchal’s dining scene is a revelation. At Three House and Akua, the ultimate experience means bagging a seat right at the bar. Perched at these informal chef’s tables, the barrier evaporates. It is pure theatre. You can watch the team work and chat with the chefs as they serve up spectacular local flavours, from crunch-perfect scabbard fish to daring sardine and passion fruit pairings.

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.

Madeira’s annual wine festival provides a wonderful time to visit the beautiful Atlantic island

A stay at the classic Cobbler’s Cove resort in Barbados could be one of the most relaxing and satisfying things you could do in the Caribbean

Our little island plane dropped off two local passengers at Carriacou before heading north across the dreamy isles to arrive at the green, green jewel of Bequia. Here, life moves at a deliberate ten miles per hour, mostly from the back of the island's ubiquitous pick-up truck taxis. From the sublime luxury of the Bequia Beach Hotel to the chewy excellence of a conch salad in Port Elizabeth, this is a Caribbean escape that feels like a discovery.

You could take a beating on the cricket pitch every day of the year on this wondrous isle and still never feel defeated. From the towering volcanic peaks of The Pitons to the rhythmic chaos of a Gros Islet 'Jump-up', Martin Hesp explores why St Lucia remains the ultimate Caribbean emerald—an island so beautiful it makes your eyes ache and your heart soar.

A guide to the joys of visiting Gran Canaria in Europe's winter time

A wander through Ortigia, the historic island at the heart of Syracuse in Sicily, discovering ancient Greek history, Baroque streets, seafood and the pleasures of getting slightly lost.

Discover why Denmark is one of the world's happiest countries and why Aarhus deserves its nickname, the City of Smiles. From hygge and great food to museums, waterfront walks and lively streets, this is my guide to one of Denmark's most enjoyable cities.

Discover what it's really like to sail aboard the magnificent Sea Cloud Spirit on an eight-day luxury voyage from Naples to Valletta. From glamorous Capri and historic Palermo to beautiful Taormina, Syracuse and Malta, this first-hand review explores elegant sailing, outstanding cuisine, fascinating excursions and one of the Mediterranean's finest small-ship cruise experiences.

Dramatic volcanic peaks, lush pine cloud forests, and quiet colonial streets—discover why the untamed island of La Palma remains the Canary Islands' best-kept secret for walkers, explorers, and anyone seeking a peaceful alternative to mass tourism.

Leave the beaches behind and discover the real Lanzarote on foot. From dramatic volcanic landscapes and lava fields to secluded coves, traditional villages and spectacular coastal paths, this walking holiday reveals a side of the Canary Islands that most visitors never see. Perfect inspiration for hikers, nature lovers and adventurous travellers.

Most visitors head to Tenerife for sunshine and beaches, but this remarkable Canary Island offers far more. From dramatic volcanic landscapes and spectacular walking trails to traditional villages, outstanding food and breathtaking mountain scenery, here's why Tenerife deserves to be explored well beyond its famous resorts.

A Nostalgic Dream Come True A great many of us grew up dreaming of tropical islands, often inspired by books like "Robinson Crusoe" or perhaps the glamorous travels of James Bond. As a kid in the 1960s or 70s, visiting a sun-drenched island fringed with white sandy beaches and azure waters seemed like the stuff of fantasy—unless you were Princess Margaret. Fast forward to today, and those dreams can become reality in the form of a luxurious adventure to the small, private Car

Madeira combines spectacular mountain scenery, a wonderfully temperate climate, superb food and one of Europe’s most charming capitals. Travel writer Martin Hesp explores Funchal, walks the island’s famous levadas and royal paths, samples Madeiran cuisine and discovers why this Atlantic island remains one of his favourite destinations.

The Bagni Di Pisa Palace and Thermal Spa is a very impressive indeed. The place is reminiscent of the sort of place Agatha Christie might have visited - if Poirot ever went anywhere to “take the waters” this would be the place. Actually, someone who did write something famous in this very hotel was Mary Shelley - who finished penning her story Frankenstein here after being partly inspired to write it back at home in Somerset’s Quantock Hills. I attended a wine class in the

Discover how to plan the perfect 3 to 4-day short break in Madeira. Explore Funchal highlights, scenic walks, local seafood spots, and top places to stay.