Portugal Paradise

Off the beaten track and on the edge of the perfectly quaint village of Budens, sits Parque Da Floresta, a magical retreat nestled in the hills of the Costa Vincentina National Park. Stunningly designed mediterranean villas with cool stone floors and spacious lounges are connected by swimming pools and curious cobbled lanes.

Head north to the magnificent beaches of the west coast or east to the buzzing town of Lagos.

www.vigia-resorts.com

Portugal Paradise

On arrival at Faro Airport (gateway to the Algarve), turn your hire car away from the dazzling strip of Albuferia and Villa Moura and head towards the magnificent, untouched coastline of the west. Pass through colourful Lagos with its cobbled streets and marina, stop for lunch at the beautiful cove of Burgau and be sure to check out the quaint coastal village of Salema but continue driving until the road turns north.

Your first stop will be the awe-inspiring beaches of Amando and Arrifana, a mecca for surfers across the world, but untouched by tourism in every way. Bring your tent and camp at one of the little sites or stay over in the surfer town of Aljezur - a real escapist retreat.

London's Calling

Nestled beneath the maze of bridges which connect to London Bridge Station, you will find a tangle of market stalls selling a huge range of delicious treats and home-made gifts. Borough Market is the hottest place to go to buy from some of England's fabulous farmers. From artisan cheese to French sorced saussicon, English Oysters to bread, right from the oven; go to experiences the smells and sounds of a real live market and to purchase plenty of treats for friends at home.

www.boroughmarket.org.uk

London's Calling

The Cut is a narrow tunnel, with snakes underneath Waterloo Station and is rapidly gaining a reputation in the city for being THE place to witness the latest in street art. With Banksy leading the way, there are a considerable number of talented artists who adorn London's walls and alleyways and The Cut has been established to provide a space to show their latest offerings.

Head out of Waterloo Station and towards the London Eye. Turn left and follow the street down in the direction of Vauxhall and you will see The Cut and the tunnel on your left handside.

London's Calling

A trip to London is never complete without a lazy lunch at the Portobello Gold in Notting Hill. Super seafood and the muscles in Thai sauce are to-die-for. Intriguing selection of raw oyster options including Japanese (my favourite; with wasabi and soy sauce), American (horseradish, Parmesan, Tabasco & lime) or French (shallot vinaigrette & lemon). They also have rooms upstairs if you are too content to head home!

www.portobellogold.com

Introduction

30 countries in six continents in 26 years - not bad going for a country girl from rural England....

In an attempt to write my traveling memoirs, I will endeavour to post my hottest tips and fondest memories from locations across the globe.