Since graduating in Film & Media in 1991, Andrew has worked in Marketing Communications & PR. He is an established writer and blogger, specialising in travel, lifestyle and hotels.
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Travel
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Motorway tolls To enjoy a road trip in Portugal, the first thing you have to do is register to use the Portuguese toll motorways, as car number plates are captured by overhead cameras and sensors. Simply register online or pu
Travel
Six Senses Spa Marbella A relaxing sea-view oasis with hydrotherapy pool, cold plunge pool, herbal steam room, sauna, hammam and nurturing, private treatment rooms. Relax aching muscles and calm your mind with the new CBD oil therapies available
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As our elegant boat passed through the narrow canal, the wake lapped at the edges of ancient facades of crumbling plaster and exposed brickwork of walls rising directly out of the water, each with a time-worn patina of terracotta, ochre, pink, with t
Travel
STAY: Palazzo Cristo Luxury Apartments If you're looking for a private, chic Venetian hideaway for a romantic escape, then Palazzo Cristo should probably top the list. This collection of four gorgeous serviced apartments are found in a 16th-cen
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Bold, energetic, uncompromising: Berlin is one of Europe's most captivating capitals. It is uncontrived, a refreshing destination that delivers an authentic, and often raw urban experience. As many cities embrace generic architecture, ubiquitous inte
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It's no mystery that I'm passionate about Andalucía. I sometimes I feel like an unofficial ambassador to be honest, such is my enthusiasm for southern Spain, its nature, cuisine, history, and people. So, when I was invited to contribute to the SUR in
Travel
STAY SANA Berlin Hotel Found in a tranquil, leafy neighbourhood in the centre of the western part of Berlin, close to metro stations, is the 4-star SANA Berlin. It's a contemporary property, about 10 minutes' walk to the iconic Kaiser Wilhelm m
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As my breathing slowed, and became deeper, my body sank further into the floor, cushioned by a yoga mat, soft wool blankets and feather-filled bolster cushions. The meditative tones of singing bowls filled the yoga shala, an intimate, light filled sp
Travel
Wellbeing travel looks set to become more popular than ever; and you don't need to go far for a relaxing, nurturing, and even enlightening break as Andalucía is home to a wealth of retreat centres, wellness hotels and yoga teachers. Retreats Sur
Travel
This summer, take a fresh look at southern Spain, taking the road less travelled, discovering fascinating, uncrowded destinations. Osuna - Seville province The Petra of Andalucía About 90 kilometres south-east of Seville city, just off the mo
Travel
Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, wrote in 1789 that "...in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes". Well, I think you'll agree, we could all add a few other certainties to that list, a
Travel
Well, as you might imagine, in a time of national lockdowns, countrywide state of emergencies, 'indefinite' international travel bans, and social distancing, writing an upbeat holiday and tourism column might seem a challenge! Yet just as we are in
Travel
Your guide to boutique Andalusian accommodation and travel planners. Flamenco Campers This family firm, which offers a modern fleet of motorhomes and campervans ideal for couples and families, is run by founder Gonzalo Ros. Flamenco Campers inspi
Travel
With many countries in some form of a state of emergency, citizens under 'lockdown' and borders closed, this doesn't seem to be the time to think about travel. The unrelenting news coverage of the tragic impact upon health and livelihoods of Covid-19
Travel
Heading north-west up the Cadiz coast, from the wild beauty of Valdevaqueros, on the N-340 highway is a joyful drive. One passes fields of sunflowers, each tracking the brilliant light of the Costa de la Luz; and the ubiquitous wind turbines, their g
Travel
No doubt you've seen the mantra 'Please Postpone; Don't Cancel Your Trip - Save Tourism' already posted on social media. This is the heartfelt request from travel professionals and those in the hospitality sector. It's certainly sound advice in th
Travel
Why not while away the time granted by the coronavirus lockdown, planning a future break to one of the most beautiful spots of Andalucía? EAT El Jardín del Califa This 'secret garden' style restaurant has stood the test of time, remaining a
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It has one of the world's most extraordinary skylines; unsurprisingly, I suppose, since Chicago has been at the nexus of urban architectural innovation since the 1880s with the construction of the world's first skyscraper. However, the Home Insurance
Travel
Stay: LondonHouse Chicago From people-watching in the light-filled second floor glass lobby bar, to enjoying an artisan cocktail accompanied with stunning river and skyline views from the stylish 22rd floor roof terrace, LondonHouse Chicago
Travel
The New Year is upon us - a nostalgic time when we are also full of ideas, hopes and wishes for what's ahead. Probably you've decided you want to travel more in 2020; so here's a little inspiration for planning that trip you've always promised yourse
Sport
It wasn't a typical venue for a press meeting. I arrived at the Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella and made my way to the first floor where I was asked to wait outside room 101. Inside, a nurse and spinal specialist spoke with their patient, and my interv
Travel
Southern Spain is blessed with some of the country's best hotels. Chic, boutique and full of character, here are eight not to be missed. Almeria La Joya de Cabo de Gata Andalucía's eastern most province offers a semi-arid landscape (it's home
Travel
When it comes to travel, as with all other aspects of life for British foreign residents in Spain, Brexit will inevitably have an impact. However, the most important fact to remember is that the UK is leaving the EU with a transitional deal. INFORM
Travel
As the planet becomes ever more crowded, and increasingly affected by a changing climate, the concept of sustainability needs to evolve from being a buzz word into a way of life. Many sectors of the world's economy are changing the way they do busine
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Ikos Andalusia - SPAIN Opening in May 2020 on Playa de Guadalmansa, west of Marbella, Ikos Andalusia is a new, luxury all-inclusive resort, and the first Ikos property outside of Greece. Built across 21 acres with views of the Med, the hotel has
Travel
Travel and tourism is undoubtedly one of the world's important drivers of wealth and job creation. Yet the continual growth in travel means we all need to think about our impact on the environment. "Take only pictures, leave only footprints," is a
Travel
The chorus of voices, a powerful harmony of hope and joy, filled the courtyard of the grand house. The mixed choir, dressed in white robes and colourful woven sashes, sang heartfelt lyrics with an energy that was uplifting. Gorée island - historica
Local
The sparklingly new ocean liner Sky Princess commenced its inaugural cruise around the Iberian peninsula this week. On Tuesday it docked at the Levante quayside of Malaga's cruise liner port and was welcomed by city and regional tourism officials.
Travel
STAY: Residencia Santa Clara Authentic 'casa particular' close to Havana's harbour and within walking distance of the sights of Old Havana. Talented carpenter Alexis and his sister Marisol have created a stylish, family-run guesthouse with grou
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Powder blue, bright pink, vivid green; these were just some of the exaggerated, vibrant, 'candy colours' of the vintage cars lined up outside my Havana hotel. They conveyed an optimistic, although somewhat 'theme-park', tone to this crumbling Caribbe
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Cáceres STAY: Hotel NH Collection Cáceres Palacio de Oquendo This modern hotel retains features of the 16th-century Palacio de Oquendo, including the original façade, historic internal patio courtyard and vaulted ceilings, complemented with sim
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Saint Petersburg is repeatedly recognised as one of the world's leading cultural city destinations, yet there remains an obstacle for many leisure and business travels - the need for a visa in order to legally enter the Russian Federation. Although t
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Before travelling to Russia's 'northern Venice' I have to admit that I was concerned about my trip. Media reports of aggressive nationalism, racism and anti-LGBT incidents in Saint Petersburg and across the Russian Federation in the recent years had
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STAY: Nevsky Forum Nevsky Forum is a good option for those looking for a simple place to stay. Its location, on the Nevsky Prospect, the most central thoroughfare in this huge city, is excellent. From here everything is accessible either by f
Travel
MALLORCA: OD Port Portals OD Hotels is renowned for its comprehensive calendar of cultural, culinary and social events for guests and locals alike - and OD Port Portals certainly shares that commitment to help guests connect with their destinat
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This archipelago of islands off the east coast of Spain is a perennial favourite for Spaniards and international visitors alike. Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera are diverse islands offering distinct experiences for visitors, yet still remain
Travel
Using both hands, our host broke open the large, elongated pod, revealing the white flesh of the fruit inside. From the sticky pulp, he pulled out oval seeds a few centimetres in length and held them in the lined and callused palm of his hand. The hu
Travel
Costa Mujeres (Mexico) TRS Coral Hotel Costa Mujeres is a few hours south east of the bohemian coastal enclave of Holbox, and about 30 minutes drive north from Cancún on Mexico's Caribbean coast. It's a more tranquil alternative to Cancún's Hotel
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At this time of year, the light in the central highlands of Mexico is clear and intense. It's reminiscent of the seductive spectrum of Tarifa or Tangier, yet instead of bouncing off Atlantic blues, here it illuminates a warm palate of earthy tones an
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This Unesco World Heritage city, in Mexico's central highlands, is the American Capital of Culture for 2019. STAY: Hotel Matilda Hotel Matilda is a boutique property that fuses the colonial colour of San Miguel's past with the contemporary c
Travel
The classic Pacific Coast Highway road trip is best enjoyed southbound, so it makes sense to fly into San Francisco, and fly home from Los Angeles. This way (since you'll be driving on the right) you'll be hugging the coast most of the way, enjoying
Travel
The forest felt enchanted. Looking up, the bright Californian sunlight was penetrating the forest canopy, tens of metres above, creating filtered shards of light that pooled on the ground. The towering coastal redwoods, among the tallest trees in the
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Home to wild mountains, enchanting redwoods and a magnificent coastline, Big Sur is the essential stop on California State Route 1, the Pacific Coast Highway. STAY: Tickle Pink Inn This 35-room property, set among Monterey pines on the craggy c
Travel
December is already knocking at the door, promising not only festive fun but also the shorter days of winter. One way to beat the winter blues is to plan a travel escapade. To whet your appetite, I've pulled together ten ideas from home and away.
Travel
ANDALUCÍA: El Lodge - Sierra Nevada, Granada This time of year means the beginning of the winter sports season. Opening today for the 2018/19 season, El Lodge is the chic place to stay in the Europe's southernmost ski resort. Expect cool design,
Travel
STAY: Duke of Richmond - Guernsey Ideal base for 'film tourists' and 'set-jetters' visiting the island to see the places and scenery that inspired The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society novel and film. This award-winning hotel is in charmi
Travel
Chefs often endeavour to tell a story through their menus, and dinner at Guernsey's best hotel was no exception. The dishes were inspired by the novel The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society; each a creative reminder of a remarkable piece o
Travel
With some effort I slide open the heavy floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and I step out onto the terrace which was still damp from the light rain earlier in the day. The sky had cleared and before me was one of the most impressive urban landscapes in Sc
Travel
STAY: Nira Caledonia Experience the splendour of Edinburgh's 18th-century New Town, at the elegant four-star Nira Caledonia. This boutique property is found within two adjacent neo-classical Georgian townhouse mansions in Stockbridge. Guest rooms
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The former capital of the Kingdom of Morocco, and one of the oldest Muslim imperial cities in the world, Fès (as it is known in French) makes for a compelling destination. Its old town, the UNESCO World Heritage medieval medina, is spellbinding. ST
Travel
Driving down into the valley I was confronted by the rich texture of the city spreading out before me. Surrounded by fields, and framed by the Middle Atlas mountains beyond, the urban cityscape was a mass of clustered buildings of warm sandstone, wit
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Ferdinand Bol called this place home. It's on Keizersgracht, the Emperor's Canal, in the centre of Amsterdam's historic district. A pupil and prodigy of Rembrandt, this 17th-century artist had made so much money selling his art to the Dutch ultra-ric
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STAY: Mr. Jordaan Hotel - Amsterdam Cosy, friendly and stylish hotel in Amsterdam's Unesco World Heritage canal district. This renovated 17th-century canal house offers on-trend accommodation with some rooms in the loft, others with canal views.
Travel
The rough-hewn table, crafted from thick cedar, was laden with food; a generous breakfast meze so colourful and appealing that it could have enticed even the sleepiest of night owls to embrace the morning. Baskets of Bazlama flat bread were set out,
Travel
Also known as the Turquoise Coast, this enchanting stretch of shoreline from Antalya in the south, up to Çesme in the northwest is the Mediterranean of blue voyage cruises; unspoilt nature; remarkable ancient ruins; picturesque villages; sparkling re
Travel
My host for the morning, Antonio of 'Cómete Menorca' sees me take a break, as I plant myself in a bright red director's chair on one of the café terraces outside Ciutadella's 19th-century fish market. It was the ideal place to take a short breather f
Travel
STAY: Torralbenc Hotel & Vineyards Forget manic sightseeing and instead immerse yourself in Menorcan island life at this traditional 19th-century farmstead, now reimagined as a characterful rural hotel with gourmet restaurant, spa, and now a bo
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They fluttered and swayed in the warm Mediterranean breeze like giant feathers; movement that flowed across the hillside in an almost otherworldly way; as if the trees were dancing. This fairy-tale sight greeted me as I passed through the renowned Ce
Travel
STAY: Elysium Hotel Striking Byzantine-inspired landmark hotel, adjacent to the Tombs of Kings, and a short walk from the harbour of Paphos. Recently completely remodelled, the Elysium is now an exceptional family resort hotel. Guest rooms all
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Who could have thought back in the dark days of the recent financial crisis that Portugal would emerge with such vibrancy and become one of the hottest destinations in Europe? Portugal's renaissance appears to be touching all corners of the country
Travel
As I walk out of the private lift, my eyes take a moment to adjust to the bright light. The polished marble floors and immaculate white walls seem to intensify the brilliant Miami sunshine that floods in through the three-and-half-metre-high floor-to
Travel
STAY: The Meridian Hotel Close to the buzz of the iconic Ocean Drive, South Beach, yet within the authentic, quieter residential district of 'SoFi', this new budget hotel offers a cool Miami vibe with its brilliant white, mid-century architectura
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Copenhagen is set to be one of the hottest European city destinations this year, so cosy up in the Danish capital this winter with our city guide. STAY: Sanders Found just steps away from the Royal Danish Theatre, this period style hotel, wit
Travel
I ran the last few metres towards the restaurant, as gusts of snow flurried around me. My refuge from the winter elements was a simple wooden building on the water's edge, with panoramic windows that afforded views out across Copenhagen's harbour.
Travel
The room sparkled with refracted light, creating colourful reflections from the elegant crystal perfume bottles that filled the antique cabinets and covered the polished mahogany tables. Beside me the shelves of an alcove were laden with cobalt blue
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Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory, is an Atlantic archipelago of sub-tropical islands famous for beaches of fine, coral-pink sand and clear azure waters - and plenty of British colonial charm. STAY: Rosedon Hotel This quintessentially Ber
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Home to the National Opera & Ballet Theatre and world-class museums, the Armenian capital is rich in culture. Yet this, the largest city in the country also has a small town, laid-back ambiance of casual street café restaurants making it a relaxed ci
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The nine 'desert cities' of Greater Palm Springs, southwestern United States, offer a remarkably diverse travel experience: from the vintage Rat Pack glamour of Palm Springs and the golf and spa resorts of Palm Desert; to the awe-inspiring nature of
Travel
The excitement of fulfilling a long-held dream was beginning to dissipate, with nervousness taking hold. The guide told us, "In addition to the two gallons of water per person, you need to make sure you have salty snacks and energy bars. It wasn't th
LifeStyle
The nine 'desert cities' of Greater Palm Springs, southwestern United States, offer a remarkably diverse travel experience: from the vintage Rat Pack glamour of Palm Springs and the golf and spa resorts of Palm Desert; to the awe-inspiring nature of
Travel
Milan may not be chockful of Renaissance architecture that one so often associates with Italy; yet what this industrial, commercial city lacks in old-world charm it more than makes up with thanks to urban style. At this time of year, the suffocatin
Travel
It's no secret that I like to travel, to live a slightly nomadic lifestyle. Yet each time I board an aircraft to return home, it's always with a feeling of excitement to be coming back to Andalucía. Even after countless trips, each time the plane des
Travel
The summer may be drawing to a close for many, yet for residents of southern Spain, the Mediterranean sun continues to shine, making it the perfect time to enjoy all the pleasures of the coast, yet without the high-season crowds. Here's some inspirat
Travel
Running from Summerland to Goleta, with the historic, postcard-perfect towns of Santa Barbara and Montecito at its heart, this privileged south-facing stretch of the Pacific ocean coast is the place to stay in Central California Stay: Belmond El
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California has always been synonymous with the notion of the American Dream, and it consistently makes for a compelling holiday destination. The glitz, glamour and urban energy of Los Angeles in the south; together with the renowned openness of San F
Travel
Once one of the wealthiest Mediterranean maritime republics, this lagoon city remains a visitor favourite thanks to its romantic gothic architecture, charming canals, and seductive Italian flair. STAY: The Gritti Palace The quintessential Ven
Travel
Despite the early hour, the morning fish market stalls were almost fully set-up by the time I'd walked down to the 'Mercato del pesce', one of the Rialto city markets beside Venice's Grand Canal. Outside, in the modest Campo Beccarie square, a founta
Travel
As the Spanish would say, I'm 'inquieto'. I have a restless spirit that means that I just love to explore; and when it comes to visiting a new place, it's rewarding to discover the hidden aspects of a destination. Fuerteventura The Insider
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A holiday-maker's favourite and a surfer's paradise; Fuerteventura boasts some of the archipelago's finest beaches but also an interesting interior landscape and history. STAY: Gran Hotel Atlantis Bahía Real - Corralejo To the north east of Fue
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Boarding an underground train is rarely memorable, but if it is, it's almost certainly for all the wrong reasons; a feeling of claustrophobia, chaotic pushing, a sensation of stress. Yet my first time on the Tokyo network felt like an almost poetical
Travel
There's a Spanish adage that says. 'Madrid, nueve meses de invierno y tres de infierno'. Roughly translated it says that the city's weather is little more than nine months of winter and three months of hellish heat! Yet, contrary to perceived wisd
Travel
The Spanish capital has embraced 2017 with new hip hotels, cool bars, top restaurants and world-class arts exhibitions. It's time you booked your ticket to Madrid. STAY: Only You Atocha Madrid's hotel scene has never been so dynamic, and the
Travel
Despite my best intentions, I had committed a faux pas. The inn's hostess had become slightly agitated, her warm smile had dissolved into a look of surprise - or was it shock? Japan is said to be a nation of traditions, unspoken social rules and stri
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The birthplace of Japan's industrialisation; setting for the opera Madame Butterfly; and inspiration for Martin Scorsese's 2017 movie 'Silence' - Nagasaki, the international gateway to Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan's main islands. STAY: Garde
Travel
Once embraced by the deep, soft fireside sofa I begin to give into to that 'good tired' feeling one experiences after time on the slopes. 70TH ANNIVERSARY This is one of the most magical times to visit Courchevel, as throughout the season the re
Travel
The 2016/17 season sees Courchevel celebrating its 70th anniversary. From its humble beginnings in the 1940s, Courchevel is now one of the most chic ski resorts within 'Les Trois Vallées', said to be the world's largest lift-connected ski area, with
Travel
A grey sandstone building half-way up Edinburgh's Lothian Road, opposite the city's imposing Usher Hall, has for more than 30 years offered escapism into different worlds, through visual story-telling of intrigue, romance and fantasy. Here at Edinbur
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STAY: Old Town Chambers For a luxury home-from-home in Scotland's capital, then take a look at the 5-star accommodation at the Old Town Chambers. Found in the city's Old Town, these upscale apartments include historical features from the 15th cen
Travel
As the hours passed whilst walking the mountain trails, the peace and tranquillity became almost tangible. Without aircraft jetting overhead, and with no roads filled with cars or motorbikes, one is truly embraced by nature. Here the sound of silence
Travel
Carved through the Andes by the Urubamba River, Peru's remarkable Sacred Valley was at the heart of the Inca Empire. This fertile region lies between the city of Cusco, and the country's most iconic attraction, the imperial Inca city of Machu Picchu.
Travel
Worn smooth through years of use, the immense table in the centre of the room had a softness to it that belied its obvious weight and size. Hewn from huge pieces of rock, it was once used to crush the local harvested olives before pressing, but now s
Travel
Morocco is seductively exotic yet increasingly accessible. The modest airport at Marrakech is finally being expanded and low-cost routes easily connect this bohemian, cultural, and historic city with Europe and beyond. After a few days exploring th