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Nothing Normal About Norman Island
<p class="">Discover the enchanting Normal Island in the British Virgin Islands, a Caribbean paradise. Experience its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. Ideal for adventure and relaxation, the island offers water sports, hiking, and great local cuisine. Accessible from Tortola, it's a perfect tropical getaway , emphasising sustainable tourism. Explore Normal Island for a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and serene luxury in the heart of the
Martin Hesp
Mar 1, 20242 min read


The Bitter End - a Tale of Resilience and Determination
<p class="">The Bitter End Yacht Club in the British Virgin Islands, renowned for sailing and a rustic charm, was devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017 - which is when we visited for this website. Post-hurricane, it has been reborn with a focus on sustainability and resilience. </p>
Martin Hesp
Mar 1, 20242 min read


Riding the Railways of the Isle of Man
<p class="">The Isle of Man boasts three historic railways: the Steam Railway, the Manx Electric Railway, and the Snaefell Mountain Railway. Tnhis article relfects rides on the Manx Electric Railway, one of the world's oldest electric railways, established in 1893. Journey 17 miles along the east coast, from Douglas to Laxey and Ramsey, enjoying breathtaking coastal and countryside views. We also travel on the historic Castletown narrow gauge railway, featuring picturesque la
Martin Hesp
Feb 29, 20243 min read


Ultimate Inland Cruise Across Scotland
<p class="">Discover the elegance of luxury barge cruising with "Spirit of Scotland" by European Waterways. Experience the grandeur of Britain's Great Glen, traversing the Caledonian Canal and scenic lochs. Enjoy sumptuous on-board dining, comfortable cabins, and enriching excursions to historic sites like Cawdor Castle and Glen Ord whisky distillery. Ideal for families and groups, this six-night cruise offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. Book your journey through Eur
Martin Hesp
Feb 28, 20244 min read


It's Back! Wild Garlic is growing profusely in the West Country hills
<p class="">About the delights of foraging wild garlic, a flavourful herb thriving in England's South West. This short article explores its culinary uses, from homemade pesto to sauces, highlighting renowned chef Mark Hix's insights. You must distinguish safe wild garlic from toxic lookalikes like Lilly of the Valley, ensuring a safe foraging experience. </p>
Martin Hesp
Feb 28, 20244 min read


Laxey Wheel, Isle of Man
<p class="">Discover the Laxey Wheel, Isle of Man's engineering marvel from the Victorian era. Preserved by the Isle of Man National Heritage Trust, this iconic waterwheel symbolizes the island's rich mining heritage. Explore historical landmarks and learn about 19th-century technology at this educational and cultural heritage site.</p>
Martin Hesp
Feb 15, 20242 min read


British Guild of Travel Writers Visits The Isle of Man
<p class="">In February the British Guild of Travel Writers held their annual meeting on the Isle of Man, exploring its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique culinary scene. The trip highlighted the island's year-round appeal, Viking heritage, and warm local interactions, showcasing it as a captivating destination for travellers</p>
Martin Hesp
Feb 15, 20242 min read


The Zytglogge Clock Tower and Einstein's Apartment, both in Berne's Old Town
<p class=""><strong><em>The astronomical clock in the Zytglogge Clock Tower of Bern, Switzerland, was designed by master clockmaker Kaspar Brunner. It was installed in the tower in the year 1530. This intricate and historically significant clock has been captivating visitors and locals alike for centuries with its mechanical and astronomical features. Kaspar Brunner's work on the Zytglogge Clock is a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of his time and remains an endurin
Martin Hesp
Dec 30, 20234 min read


A Traditional West Country Kind Of Christmas
<p class=""><strong><em>This article nostalgically contrasts traditional West Country Christmas customs with modern celebrations. It reminisces about unique practices like ashen faggot burning, where participants drink and toast to banish spirits; the Mummers’ Play, featuring characters like Father Christmas; and 'guise-dancing' in St Ives, where people wore disguises and danced. It also mentions the belief of master bullocks kneeling at midnight on Christmas Eve and tradesme
Martin Hesp
Dec 30, 20235 min read


Emmental Cheese - Learning About its History and How to Make it
<p class=""><strong><em>This article explores Emmental cheese's history and the Emmentaler Visitor Centre in Switzerland. Originating in the 13th century, Emmental is famous for its large holes and nutty flavor. Made from raw cow's milk, its quality is marked by the holes' size, created during fermentation. The Visitor Centre offers an immersive look into its production and cultural significance, showcasing traditional and modern cheesemaking methods, attracting cheese lovers
Martin Hesp
Dec 17, 20232 min read


Engineless Foot Ferries Cross the Rhone in Basel
<p class=""><strong><em>The article describes Basel's engineless foot ferries, known as "Fähri," which cross the Rhine River using the river's current instead of engines. Connected to a steel cable, these eco-friendly ferries offer a serene journey with panoramic views of Basel. Four distinct ferries operate at different river points, serving pedestrians and cyclists while preserving the city's riverine heritage.</em></strong></p>
Martin Hesp
Dec 17, 20232 min read


Switzerland Christmas 2023 - Basel Christmas Market
<p class=""><strong><em>The Basel Christmas Market in Switzerland is celebrated as one of Europe's most enchanting holiday destinations, drawing nearly a million visitors annually. Set in Basel's medieval city centre, it blends historical charm with modern festivity from late November to Christmas Eve. The market features over 180 stalls offering traditional Swiss crafts and gastronomic delights</em></strong></p>
Martin Hesp
Dec 16, 20232 min read


The Deer Park - A Modern Fairytale
<p class="">Martin Hesp has been taking a look at his Christmas fairytale, The Deer Park, and imagining some new images.</p>
Martin Hesp
Dec 1, 20232 min read


Bob Bell: Remembering a Move to the Countryside
<p class="">Bob Bell recalls moving to the deep West Somerset countryside many many years ago</p>
Martin Hesp
Dec 1, 20237 min read


Bob Bell reviews new book on the history of Island Records
<p class="">Bob Bell has read a new book which is all about the record company where he worked for so many years - and he gives ‘The Island Book Of Records 1959-1968’ top marks</p>
Martin Hesp
Nov 17, 20234 min read


Exmoor Walks: The Chains and Pinkery Pond
<p class="">Winter walk to Pinkery Pond on Exmoor</p>
Martin Hesp
Nov 16, 20236 min read


Exmoor Walks: West Lyn River
<p class="">A walk up the West Lyn River on Exmoor</p>
Martin Hesp
Nov 16, 20234 min read


Exmoor Walks: Withypool Common
<p class="">Here’s a superb Exmoor walk for winter</p>
Martin Hesp
Nov 16, 20234 min read


Sri Lanka - a Magical Mystery Island Tour
<p class=""><strong><em>Embark on a transformative journey with Hayes & Jarvis to Sri Lanka, a tailor-made adventure blending thrilling experiences like climbing Lion Rock with luxurious relaxation. This trip, perfect for all ages, offers a deep cultural immersion, from Kandy's sacred sites to tea plantations and bustling markets. Guided by experts, it's a safe, mesmerizing exploration of Sri Lanka's rich landscapes and vibrant culture, concluding in the coastal town of B
Martin Hesp
Nov 13, 20232 min read


Another excerpt from The Lemon Tree Forest
<p class=""><strong><em>Embark on a literary journey with "The Lemon Tree Forest," an evocative novel intertwining Greek culture, mystical experiences, and personal memories. Partly set in the heart of rural Greece, the soon-to-be-published book offers a vivid portrayal of 1980s life in a landscape steeped in history. The author draws from personal experiences, crafting a narrative that's as refreshing as the lemon-tangerine hybrid juice featured in the story. From thrilling
Martin Hesp
Nov 3, 20234 min read
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