The Glass House - Six Visits The Glass House isn't merely a restaurant; it's a testament to the harmonious blend of architecture and nature. Its unique design, featuring expansive glass walls, offers an unobstructed view of the azure waters, allowing diners to bask in the breathtaking beauty of Pattaya's coastline. Whether seated for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, the restaurant transforms dining into an immersive experience—where the vibrancy of nature's palette and the sophistication of minimalist design converge. This architectural marvel ensures that the ambience remains unparalleled regardless of the time of day. On a hot day, the interior, blessed with air conditioning, becomes a calm haven without sacrificing the stunning views that make The Glass House a coveted destination. The Glass House distinguishes itself not just through its architectural ingenuity but also through its culinary offerings. The consistency in the quality of both food and cocktails is commendable, perfectly complementing the magical sunsets that serve as a backdrop to every meal. It's a place where the visual feast outside the glass walls competes only with the gastronomical delights presented on your plate. Perfect for lunch and dinner, the menu showcases a love for finesse and innovation, inviting guests to partake in a journey of flavours as memorable as the panoramic views. The restaurant's ability to live up to the expectations set by its enchanting surroundings, visit after visit, underscores why it has become a beloved gem in Pattaya.

Surf & Turf Beach Club - Six Visits What makes Surf & Turf Beach Club stand out is its unwavering reliability. Open for breakfast; its doors welcome early birds looking to start their day right with various sumptuous morning feasts. The club thoughtfully offers indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating guests regardless of the weather. The air-conditioned comfort is a haven from the tropical heat, making it an ideal spot for leisurely morning or midday meals. However, it's the outdoor seating that truly captivates. Positioned perfectly to embrace Pattaya's picturesque sunsets, the club offers an ambient setting that elevates any dining experience. This blend of comfort, choice, and setting sets Surf & Turf Beach Club apart as a prime destination in Pattaya, not just for dining and drinks but for soaking in the beauty that Thailand has to offer. With each visit to the Surf & Turf Beach Club, I've been impressed by not just the quality of food and service but also the consistency of excellence. Finding a place that continually lives up to expectations is a rarity, making it a reliable choice for locals and tourists alike.

Seaside Finolhu - Ten Nights Nothing prepares you for the Maldives, but this little piece of paradise completely exceeded all expectations. We stayed in an ocean-view villa, and it was spectacular. We loved spending time in the villa pool, gazing over the ocean. The ocean is as straightforward as you think. All the sea life was regularly visited, including dolphins, turtles, stingrays, sharks, octopuses and various colourful fish. Ten days on the island weren’t long enough, and it was a great way to begin our travels to Europe and relax in the sun. The food options were plentiful, and we were very impressed with all the dining options; the main dining was a new-style buffet with everything freshly cooked in front of you. We were big fans of Baa Haa Grill (North African), where you could order clean grilled meats and fish. The view was exceptional again. You can venture to the bar each night for unique entertainment by the gorgeous performers! You also become familiar with all the guests and special friendships formed that will continue after your stay; where would we be without social media? The Finolhu crew was a pleasure to deal with and spend time with. We became close to some fabulous teams and can’t wait to see them again. Becks , Marc, Amr, Dila, DJ Jaffa, Vicki , Shelley , and Jona—this list continues! You all made our trip so much more memorable.

The Pacific Sutera Hotel - One Week We enjoyed seven nights at Sutera and enjoyed it. Expectations exceeded; we didn't expect to have the most fantastic sunset view each night from the hotel bar; it's a must! The rooms were spotless and well-sized; they were not modern but huge and were a great place to relax. There are also lots of dining options and pools for all. I loved the Olympic swimming pool, which was never too busy and great for laps. I travelled with my husband, and it was a family resort with many children, so be aware that the main pool is quite busy. The Italian restaurant also had fantastic quality food. The waterfront in Kota Kinabalu is also lovely and a nice walk from the hotel to experience all the locals and the night market was great too. Book in for the sunset or dinner cruise; it was awesome. The boat was fabulous, and I had never seen a voyage decked out to this standard. It was perfect, and there were lots of tables for two. The food was buffet-style but included lots of delicious local cuisine options.

North Borneo Cruises Discover the majestic charm of Kota Kinabalu from an exceptional vantage point – aboard the North Borneo Cruises. Offering an unforgettable sunset and dinner experience, this cruise stands out as a jewel in Borneo's crown, blending luxury with the captivating beauty of the region. From the moment we stepped aboard, it was evident that the North Borneo Cruise wasn't just any ordinary boat ride; it was a journey into luxury and scenic wonder. The vessel boasted a sophistication that I had yet to encounter on similar voyages. It was designed impeccably, with spacious decks that featured numerous intimate tables for two, perfect for those looking to soak in the sunset. As the evening sky painted with colours, we were treated to a buffet that was nothing short of a gastronomical adventure. The spread included an array of local cuisine, each transporting us deeper into the heart of Malaysian flavours. From succulent meats to rich, aromatic side dishes, the culinary offerings were a testament to the region's diverse food heritage. To complement our meal, we selected a bottle of premium Italian wine, which was surprisingly affordable and added a touch of sophistication to our dining experience. The musical selection was a perfect backdrop to the evening's festivities, with great hits that had us singing along. A special nod went out to the token two Aussies onboard (my husband and I), including Men at Work, making the experience uniquely tailored and memorable. As the cruise drew to a close and the coastline of Kota Kinabalu lit up the night, it was clear that our evening with North Borneo Cruises was not just about the places we sailed past; it was about embracing an ambience that couldn't be found anywhere else.

When celebrating another trip around the sun, there's no place quite as unique and vibrant as George Town, the capital city of Penang, Malaysia. With a mélange of cultures, history, and modern comforts, George Town provided an unmatched backdrop for my special day. George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to Malaysia's multicultural tapestry. Its streets are an open-air museum showcasing the harmony of Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, and British influences. As I wandered these living galleries, the colonial architecture blended seamlessly with the colourful facades of Chinese shophouses and the grandeur of Indian temples and mosques, all narrating the city's historical significance as a trading hub in the Straits of Malacca. The charm of George Town extends well beyond its historic old town. The city encompasses streets lined with heritage and a contrasting modern cityscape featuring skyscrapers stretching towards the heavens and shopping malls pulsating with life. As the sun set on my birthday, I was entranced by the city's ability to support such contrasts effortlessly. No birthday is complete without the indulgence of good food, and in George Town, every meal is a celebration. The aroma of spices and sizzle of works from the hawker stalls filled the air, promising an adventure for the tastebuds with local delights like Char Kway Teow, Penang Laksa, and Nasi Kandar.

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur, the radiant capital of Malaysia, emerges as a stunning backdrop for romance. Its skyline, punctuated by the awe-inspiring Petronas Twin Towers, tells the story of a city where modernity meets tradition in a beautiful tangle. At 451 meters tall, the Petronas Twin Towers, sheathed in glass and steel and adorned with Islamic motifs, are not just an architectural wonder but a symbol of the city's soaring spirit. The towers, connected by a public sky bridge, provide a vantage point to view the city's sprawl and an intimate nook for couples to share memorable moments against the setting sun. The observation deck further up offers panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur, making it the perfect spot to whisper sweet nothings into your partner's ear. Kuala Lumpur's rich tapestry includes its futuristic skyline and the grandeur of British colonial-era landmarks. With its fairytale-like facade, the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is a testament to the city's storied past and an ideal backdrop for couples seeking a dash of historical charm. The Sultan Abdul Samad Building, another colonial marvel, adds to the setting with its striking clock tower and unique brickwork, echoing tales of a bygone era. Valentine's Day in Kuala Lumpur isn't just about visiting landmarks; it's about immersing yourself in a vibrant cultural scene, enjoying the culinary delights, and exploring lush green spaces that offer a tranquil reprieve from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you prefer a romantic dinner with the city lights glistening below or a stroll through historical paths, Kuala Lumpur provides the perfect canvas to paint your love story.

Sahara Atlas Tours While staying at Auberge Chez Pierre , we walked up the winding road of Gole Di Dadès. Our adventure commenced with a walk up the serpentine road of Gole Di Dadès. This road isn't just a path; it's a narrative of nature's relentless force and beauty. The Dades Gorges, carved over eons by the Dadès River, reveal a scenic drama that unfolds from the High Atlas mountains to the edges of the Sahara. Covering around 350 kilometres, the river's journey mirrors our own - starting from lofty heights and descending into the vastness of the desert. The hike itself is a revelation. The ease of the trail means that anyone, regardless of their hiking prowess, can embark on this journey. The winding path challenges the body and rewards the spirit with panoramic vistas that stretch beyond the horizon. Here, among the rugged Wadi gorges, the accurate scale of nature's craftsmanship becomes apparent. Our ascent was punctuated by moments of awe. Each bend in the road brought new wonders – from towering cliff faces that seemed to pierce the sky to the gentle murmur of the river below, crafting the gorge with its persistent flow. A serene river flows at the heart of the Dades Gorges—the architect of the surrounding splendour. This small yet mighty river has sculpted a landscape that has captivated and inspired over millennia. Walking up the road, with the gorge stretching out in all its grandeur, was the ultimate way to appreciate this natural masterpiece. It's a reminder of the persistent, gentle, yet overwhelmingly powerful force of water shaping the very bedrock of Morocco. Our journey through the Dades Gorges was more than a hike; it was a pilgrimage into the heart of Morocco's natural wonders. In every rock and every turn of the river lies a story waiting to be discovered. With their majestic beauty, the Dades Gorges represent not just a geographic wonder but a hiking experience that feeds the soul, offering lessons in resilience, beauty, and the joy of discovery.

A city where ancient history and the modern age converge in a vibrant cultural tapestry, New Delhi is not just the political epicentre of India; it's an experience to immerse yourself in, a place where every street, structure, and sunset tells a story. As you step into this bustling metropolis, a crucial segment of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, you're greeted by a symphony of sounds, a kaleidoscope of colours, and a fusion of past and present. The city is also a culinary paradise, where food is not just sustenance but a joyous celebration of flavours. From bustling street markets serving spicy chaats and mouth-watering kebabs to upscale restaurants offering gourmet international and traditional Indian fare, New Delhi caters to all palates. A week in New Delhi is an invitation to witness the heartbeat of India in all its multifaceted glory. As you navigate through its broad avenues and narrow lanes, engage with its historical riches, and experience the warmth and hospitality of its people, you realize that New Delhi is more than a city—it's an ongoing story where the past and future continually dance in harmony. Every corner offers a discovery, and every moment is a brushstroke on the canvas of the cultural marvel that is India. So, come and spend a week in New Delhi, and take home tales of an unforgettable adventure in the heart of this captivating capital.

Agra's heartbeat is unmistakably synchronized with the rhythm of the waves lapping against the shores of the Yamuna River, echoing through the marbled corridors of the iconic Taj Mahal. Recognized worldwide and celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983, the Taj Mahal isn't just an elaborate mausoleum; it’s a symbol of devotion and admiration, standing as a testament to timeless love and impeccable craftsmanship. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century, the Taj Mahal was designed as an enduring homage to his favourite wife, Mumtāz Mahal. Its symmetrical beauty and intricate carvings in pristine white marble make it often cited as the quintessential example of Mughal architecture, blending elements of Islamic, Persian, and Indian styles in perfect harmony. Though the Taj Mahal anchors Agra's fame, the city itself offers a broader canvas illustrating the grandiosity of the Mughal era. It calls on explorers to traverse its historic paths, unveiling the legacy of Mughal magnificence that extends far beyond a single monument. Ensure you arrive at 5.45 am to get these images with no visitors. Visiting Agra provides a glimpse into the architectural and cultural fabric of the Mughal Empire and an intimate encounter with one of the most poignant tales of love ever told through stone.