New Place was Shakespeare's family home from 1597 to 1616. It was apparently a large and pleasant house as you'd expect from Stratford Upon Avon's most successful son. Sadly some philistine decided to knock it down in 1759 in the days before listed buildings and planning permission. So we can't see Shakespeare's house at all. It is a shame that it's not there anymore, but the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust have been very imaginative about bringing the place to life. The entrance to New Place ... continue reading...
Millwater B&B Axminster Review
Millwater B&B is located on the outskirts of Axminster. You can walk from the station and it will take about 15 minutes. I found the walk easy enough, but I didn't have heavy luggage. Tucked away up its own drive, you can imagine that you are somewhere very rural. A stream runs alongside the drive and presumably this was the watercourse that drove the original mill. There's no sign of the mill now, but it does make for a peaceful setting. There are dedicated parking spaces and there is ... continue reading...
Museum of Islamic Art, Doha
The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha is a great place to visit. It's a stunning building both inside and out with it's sleek white lines. It was designed by Pritzer prize winning architect, I M Pei, who famously created the design for the Louvre Pyramid. There are great sight lines on the approaches with avenues of palm trees and from the building itself there are great views of the bay. Inside the museum there are four main levels with the lower floor being taken up with amenities like the ... continue reading...
5 Things To Do In Doha With The Kids
We recently visited Doha as a couple, but I had my parenting eye out while we were there to see what would appeal to children, if we were looking to return as a family. I've picked out my best 5 things to do in Doha with the kids to share with you. The Doha Bus The Doha Bus is a great way to get to know the city. If you sit in the air conditioned section, you can escape the heat too, plus free bottled water is provided. Kids will enjoy using the headphones and listening to the commentary ... continue reading...
Packing Tips: Toiletries
Packing toiletries can be one of the most difficult things when you go away. They can add a lot of bulk and you often need as much of them for one night as 3 or more. Here are my hints and tips that I have honed over the years: Collect sample sizes. These can be just one use size for a overnight trip when traveling light is important. Collect samples from magazines or that shops give away - a lot of mine have come from free gifts given when you buy a product or two during a promotion. ... continue reading...