Europe

It’s that time of year when all the lofty travel publications put out their Top Picks for 2013, so here are mine based on all the places I’ve visited this year and 5 I can recommend you visit…

I had 2 hours in Rome to kill before my flight and a dreadful dilemma…

This Small Luxury Hotel is a peaceful haven in the Beyoglu district, away from the tourists crawling over Sultanahmet, and with gorgeous views and hidden gems just outside the door…

When in London it’s only right to go for a curry and a pint! Dishoom is a buzzing Indian restaurant

This boutique luxury hotel in South Kensington is close to the Tube, the V&A and Hyde Park – and its decor is girly and gorgeous

Think of your Monopoly board and note where Mayfair is… yep, that’s where I’m staying at this very posh hotel

I had my first experience of an authentic Turkish hamam. Here’s what you can expect!

In 8 days from Istanbul to Nice, I saw ogled ancient sites in Greece, walked cobbled streets in Sicily and Italy, ate gorgeous food onboard, drank more than I shoulda (well wine was included with our meals!) and I have miraculously condensed the whole shebang into 5 clever minutes.

I have just spent 3 days in Istanbul and here are 5 must-see highlights of this timeless city…

If you’re ever visiting Istanbul and want a friend to show you around, meet Idris.

The Spice Market is one of Istanbul’s iconic markets and is a must-see for photographers and foodies alike. Here’s what you’ll see…

Tin Tin fans have more reason to visit Brussels than super-strength beer and velvet smooth chocolate, for the little ginga reporter is immortalised on buildings all over town. The trick is seeing how many you can spot.