Nikedun Blog

If you're planning to visit Vietnam then one place that should be on your list is Halong Bay, which translates as 'where the dragon descends into the sea'. If you've never heard of it then I'm sure you'll have seen pictures of it, because it's one of the most visited and photographed places in the north of Vietnam - and you can see why below. There are almost two thousand towering limestone pillars and small islets in the bay, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. It's spectacularly beautiful and is a must if you're in Vietnam. Halong City itself is full of high-rises, so give it a miss - the best way to see the bay is to do a tour - some tours include sleeping on board within the bay. Halong Bay attracts visitors all year round, with peak season between late May and early August, but to avoid the crowds many people visit in November. Others skip the main bay and head for Cat Ba Island where you can take a trip to Lan Ha B

For some people Halloween is just as exciting a holiday as Christmas. I have many friends who put just as much effort into their scary costumes in October as they do when they're putting their tree up in December! There are various well known events around the world, such as the famous parade in New York, but I decided to have a look at some of the coolest (or creepiest!) places to celebrate this spooky holiday. How about travelling to Transylvania? The country of Romania not only has stunning Gothic architecture but the impressive Bran Castle was said to be home of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. The castle is open to the public, and they do special Halloween tours! Long beach California may not strike you as the most spooky place, but the cruise liner Queen Mary that docks here is. This is one of the most unique places to celebrate on Halloween. So-called 'Dark Harbor' starts on October the 1st and runs for a month, offeri

This photo is of the Bolivia Salt Flats, or Salar de Uyuni, and might be one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Travellers flock to South America to see them, and it's no surprise - they're a real natural wonder. They were part of a prehistoric salt lake, and the awe-inspiring vast salt desert that's left if simply stunning.  Due to the lack of perspective caused by the flatness and whiteness you can take great photos - just do an internet search for Bolivia salt flats and you'll see what I mean! 

One of the things I love about travelling is feeling like I'm escaping the day to day stresses of life. For me, part of that is putting my phone in a drawer and forgetting about the outside world. For others, it's about constantly putting photos on social media, and showing all your friends and family the fabulous places you're visiting. A recent survey commissioned by WorldSIM has revealed that 31% of travellers still don't use their phone when they travel abroad - perhaps because they're worried about returning home to a monster mobile phone bill because of international roaming charges. That means that a whopping 69% of people do use their phone while travelling. These days it's very rare to see people without a phone in their hand - but when you're on your hols, I find it a bit sad. I do upload the odd photo, and also use my phone to research places when I'm on my travels. However there's a big wide world out there - when you'

Many people talk about holiday destinations being 'heaven on earth', and for me - that description is just perfect for the Maldives. These wonderful coral islands are completely idyllic, and somewhere that I would love to return to. From the moment I stepped onto the sea plane to get to my resort, I knew I was going to have the time of my life.  There are so many islands to choose from and I took a long time to decide which one was right for me. Veligandu Island Resort was the one for me - great food; fabulous accommodation, picture perfect beaches, and wonderful staff. Why not revisit my original post to read more on one of the best places to honeymoon -  Perfection in the Maldives .

If you're looking for something different to do outdoors, then the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is well worth a try. In a world where days out can be so expensive, especially for families, this is also free! It's an open-air gallery in West Yorkshire, showing work by both British and international artists. It was opened in 1977, and was the UK's first sculpture park.  It has a changing exhibition programme, rather than a permanent display so you can go time and time again and see different works of art.  If you're going to spend the whole day here, then you're going to need to eat! Picnics are allowed in the park, but there is also a restaurant, with great views, and a cafe. Both have indoor and outdoor seating so no matter what the weather, you're catered for.  It's a great day out, and just a little bit different. Top tip: If you can, visit on a weekday - it's lovely to wander around without crowds and enjoy the peace and q

Sometimes you just want to get away from it all - and where better to do that than at a place called the "Chillout Hotel"! Their website calls it 'an oasis of peace and relaxation', and it's certainly that. It's situated just 8km from the town of Tarifa towards Cadiz, on Costa de la Luz on the southern coast of Spain. The area is known as one of the world's most popular destinations for wind sports, because of the unique wind conditions in this area.  The hotel is set in beautiful gardens, and is only a five minute walk from Casas de Porro beach. There are plenty of places you can relax and enjoy the surroundings, but my favourite is the beautiful Balinese-style terrace.  The hotel prices are very competitive for what you get, and breakfast is included in the price. While the rooms are functional they have everything you need including air conditioning. The kafe and restaurant are both good value, and a top tip for you...the mojitos are

Travelling can be pretty stressful at times, especially if you have to negotiate your way through a busy airport. So how about an idea that takes the stress out of it all? Well for the 18th consecutive year, the covered space between the terminals at Munich Airport has been transformed into a winter wonderland. There are more than 40 stands, situated amid 450 real Christmas trees, offering seasonal treats and local handicrafts.  The highlight of the market is the huge ice rink - skating is free of charge, and rental skates are available for a small fee. There are also a variety of acts to keep visitors entertained every day from 11am until 9pm including live musical acts helping to create a festive atmosphere. I think it's a fantastic idea, and something that should be replicated around the world to help everyone get in the mood for fun! The Christmas and Winter Market will close on December the 30th. For the full programme of this year's market click here .

Yes, yes.....I know it's not until January, but if you want to be part of one of the biggest Burns Night celebrations, then you might want to grab some tickets to the pekan raya I'm featuring today! The Big Burns Supper, The world's biggest Burns Night celebration is a 10 day pekan raya which runs in Dumfries from the 20-29th January 2017.  This is where Scotland's infamous poet, Robert Burns, spent his selesai years, and is the sixth year of Scotland's landmark Burns Night event. It features cabaret, comedy, music and entertainment as the town of Dumfries goes bonkers for nine days of winter magic!  One of the most popular parts of the proceedings, The Carnival, will make a return on Sunday 22nd of January. Thousands of people will line the streets of Dumfries, and The Festival has been working with volunteers from across Dumfries, to get people involved in creating floats, masks, and lanterns. If you'd like more information, then head t

It's that time of year everyone.....Christmas is upon us, and I'm sure many of you are getting ready to finish up at work - if you haven't already! I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas when it comes. Take time to relax and chill out, and if you're travelling over the festive period - ENJOY IT! To all of you who dip in and read my blog - thank you for your support.  HAPPY CHRISTMAS!x

I always think that the end of the year is quite an emotional time. It's a poignant moment to look back at the last 12 months and remember all the good times. I've had some wonderful travel adventures during 2016 and am already planning my trips for the new year. To all of you who are avid travellers like me - happy new year, and happy new travels when they come! Let's hope 2017 is a happy and healthy one for us all xx

I took a long time to decide where to feature for my first post of 2017. A new year, a new start....so how about a new destination for a city break, and one that's perfect for those who love their food and their culture. For some reason, Porto is still a bit under the radar when it comes to European destinations, which surprises me because it's both affordable and fun. It's Portugal's second-largest city behind Lisbon, known for it's beautiful bridges and the production of port wine, which is still stored in vast cellars that stretch along the Douro river.  The medieval Ribeira district is the oldest district of the city - a beautiful warren of narrow cobbled streets and plenty of wonderful family owned restaurants and bars. Top tip: If you're looking for a belly busting dish to try, the francesinha sandwich is a Porto institution.  It's a huge doorstep layered with pork, bacon, smoked sausage, beefsteak all topped off with a fried e

Venice is a city with a reputation for being beautiful but expensive, so I'm going to give you a few tips to make it a bit more affordable. Some of the city's most stunning sights don't cost anything. Entry to the Basilica di San Marco is free of charge, and there are also free guided tours between April and October.  Wandering around the city costs nothing of course, and you can easily spend a lot of time wandering around the winding lanes lined with antique dealers and glass merchants - just make sure you take a map, it's easy to get lost!  Venice's bustling Rialto Market is where people have been shopping since 1097, and there's no better show in town! The produce is unloaded from barges which start arriving at dawn, and by 8am the vendors are bargaining with customers! It's best to arrive early, and you can buy wonderful ingredients here for a cheap and healthy picnic - another way to save money. A visit to Venice wouldn't be c

Crane beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados. It is so called because it was a small commercial port in the mid-18th century, and they raised and lowered cargo by crane. It has been rated as one of the ten best beaches in the world - and I have to agree with that tag! It's not just the wild waves; wonderful sea breeze, or the beautifully warm turquoise water but also the incredible pink sand....yes pink!  My first step on the sand on this beach always has to be done barefoot, because it's the most powdery sand I have ever walked on. The pink colour comes from pink coral that has been pulverized and washed up over time. This beach is on the south east side of the island, but is well worth a trip from the west coast if that's where you're staying. Top tip: Park at the Crane Beach hotel and enjoy the view while having lunch or a drink in the kafe before heading down to the sea.

Rosslyn Chapel was built in 1446, and is one of Scotland's most remarkable buildings. It's just seven miles south of Edinburgh's city centre, and is still used as a place of worship. It's always been a popular visitor destination, but it's profile increased when it was mentioned in Dan Brown's novel, The Da Vinci Code in 2003.  Almost every surface of Rosslyn Chapel is carved featured incredible carvings - there are hundreds of figures and scenes carved in the Chapel, and the Apprentice Pillar is the most elaborately decorated with an incredible story behind it. Read more about it in my original post on Rosslyn  here .

The coastal town of Kotor is situated along one of the world's most beautiful bays on the Montenegro coast. It's an old Mediterranean port and with huge limestone cliffs, the town and its surrounding area form an impressive and very picturesque landscape. Kotor is a very atmospheric place. The town is a maze of museums; churches, and cafe filled squares and is a great place for people watching!  The daily market is well worth a visit. Locals come to stock up on fish, fresh vegetables ad local cheeses. It runs along the city walls, and is open every morning. The prosciutto and smoked cheese are worth buying.  Top tip: The bay of Kotor looks incredible from sea level, but is even more impressive from above. For the best view, head to the medieval citadel (the main entrance is near the river gate) to get your entrance ticket, and begin the ascent up the stone staircase. It takes you all the way up to the old walls to the Castle of St John, a fort dating bac

I am a big romantic, but sometimes find the idea of going out on Valentine's day a bit cheesy! So I've come up with a few ideas for things to do in London on the big day, which are more about getting out and enjoying the company of your loved one, rather than spending a fortune on a meal where you might feel forced to have a good time! Why not head to Kew Gardens? From the 4th of February - 5th March, their Orchids Festival returns. It's inspired by the vibrant colours of India, and this year's pekan raya will feature giant floral displays created using exotic orchids, rickshaws and Indian sounds. If you're an old romantic, then there's always Keat's House, said to be the most romantic house in London. This is where John Keats fell in love with Fanny Brawne, the lady who inspired his most passionate poetry. They're holding an evening viewing, where you can listen to Keats's romantic poems and love-letters, and enjoy live jazz at a po

When I think of Rome, it conjures up images of sightseeing on warm sunny days, and sitting at cafes watching the world go by. I have decided to visit the city in the winter time, to see it without the huge crowds and long queues at the main sights. The reason for my trip? Well pop back to my blog next week and you'll find out! Arrivederci!

Travel is my passion, and one of the main reasons I work so hard is to be able to go on amazing trips to all sorts of places around the world.  I'm very excited about 2017, because this year I'll be marking a milestone birthday and I plan to do it in style!  I'm planning various trips throughout the year to all sorts of places, and can't wait to tell you all about them! I'm hoping to discover lots of things to feature on , so watch this space! Some people are terrified of milestones, but I'll never understand why - as someone once said to me "it's better than the alternative"! It's time to embrace a new decade, and I plan to do it with passion...bring it on!

The stunning aurora borealis, or northern lights, have always fascinated me. It's a naturally occurring phenomenon making it notoriously difficult to predict any further in advance than about two hours before it happens.  So you can see why people feel blessed when they are lucky enough to witness the lights. Auroras occur throughout the year, but they're invisible to the eye during the light summer months, so if you want to plan a trip to try to see them, then doing that in the winter is your best bet.  With long dark nights, January to March are the three most popular months for Aurora hunting. I decided to feature the lights in March, as the daylight hours start to stretch out by them, and it can be a very rewarding time of year. As the Aurora is so unpredictable, you stand as much chance of seeing them in Norway as you do in Finland, so it's a real gamble, but if it pays off, you're in for a once in a lifetime experience. Isn't Mother Nature wond

I'm flashing back to one of the most memorable trips I've ever been on today - a trek through the Sahara desert. I did this a few years ago for charity, and not only did it prove to be very worthwhile in raising crucial funds for several charities...it was a real life changing experience. Watching the sun set after a long day of trekking, and spending a night sleeping under the stars were just two of the highlights of this wonderful experience. I can't recommend it highly enough. If you want to view my original post on my incredible trek through the Sahara, then click  here.

I'm just back from an absolutely wonderful trip to the Eternal City of Rome. Why is it called that? Well the ancient Romans believed that no matter what happened to the world, Rome would go on forever. I like to think that's true because it's one of my favourite places in the world! I have so much to share with you from my trip - places to visit; top tips, and wonderful restaurants to try out. Watch this space over the coming weeks and months as I share them with you!

Hellow World

Debrecen is Hungary's second-largest city, and in the heart of the country. Budget airlines now connect it to several countries, making it a great option for international visitors looking for something different.  Debrecen is full of wonderful markets. The flower market certainly awakens the senses, and the annual flower carnival which takes place in mid-August brightens up the city with incredible floral compositions.  The food market is also a wonderful place to wander round. Stallholders start at 6am, and ply their trade until early afternoon. Try the peppers stuffed with cabbage, ground meat and spices.  Top tip: A hot spring was discovered on the outskirts of the city in the late 1820s, and since then spa culture has been a hugely important part of life in Debrecen. Head north of the town centre to a complex of adventure baths. There are waterfalls; grottoes, and both indoor and outdoor pools with water flowing at steamy 34-38 degrees. 

Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most iconic images of Scotland. It's situated on an island where three sea lochs meet, and is surrounded my some majestic scenery. It's one of the most visited attractions in the Scottish highlands.    I found an incredible hotel which is just an hour from the Castle, and a great place to base yourself to explore the wonders that the highlands have to offer. To go to my original post, and read more about the hotel, just click  here.