The Forest of Dean had somehow escaped me for nearly 70 years. A few days exploring its ancient woodland, panoramic viewpoints, superb cycling trails and outstanding food at the Tudor Farmhouse Hotel proved just how wrong I'd been.

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.

Join the last of the River Exe salmon netters as a thousand-year-old West Country tradition comes to an end. A fascinating story of heritage, conservation, exceptional seafood and the people determined to preserve one of Britain's oldest fishing customs.

Some hotels are simply somewhere to sleep. Others become the destination itself. Perched dramatically above Porthminster Beach, the Pedn Olva Hotel enjoys one of the finest locations in Cornwall. During a wild Atlantic storm I discovered why this St Ives favourite offers far more than comfortable rooms. From breathtaking sea views and excellent food to friendly staff and an unbeatable position overlooking the harbour, here's why the Pedn Olva remains one of my favourite place

Wander the perfectly preserved medieval streets of Monpazier in the Dordogne, enjoy a traditional French lunch and discover why this is one of France's most beautiful bastide villages.

It is as tasty as it is healthy, as exotic as it is diverse." Join Martin Hesp as he explores the vibrant flavours of Sri Lanka—from the coconut-infused curries of the south to the sun-dried wild prawns of the northern lagoons.

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.

Looking across Penzance harbour, Chapel House is one of those rare places where historic character and modern luxury sit comfortably together. This beautifully restored Georgian townhouse combines stylish rooms, exceptional breakfasts and warm Cornish hospitality with an enviable location close to the seafront, galleries and St Michael's Mount. Here's why I think it's one of the most memorable boutique hotels in West Cornwall.

Madeira is a paradise for food lovers, with superb seafood, tropical fruits and distinctive traditional dishes. Travel writer Martin Hesp explores the island’s food culture, from black scabbardfish, espetada and bolo do caco to grilled limpets, poncha and the extraordinary produce of Funchal’s famous market.

Lundy is far more than a remote island in the Bristol Channel. Join me for a memorable adventure combining freshly cooked seafood, dramatic Atlantic scenery, abundant wildlife and the unique atmosphere of one of Britain's most extraordinary island escapes.