Three days walking across the Hampshire landscape by following The Monarch’s Way proved a great time to catch up with ‘old’ friends. It was reminder of how easy it is, with just a little effort, to still find tranquility and interest in Southern England, along with meeting the unexpected! It was also a reminder of the need to value and preserve our access to Britain’s dense footpath network.
It’s often easy to undervalue the riches of the natural world that lie short distances from our homes. The chalk downland of Stockbridge Down, near Winchester in Hampshire, is one such jewel which also has some ancient history as a bonus. After the easing of lockdown this summer, visits to witness the varieties of wildflowers and butterflies present, certainly lifted the spirits. The Down is a superb place to wander at any time of year.
A fascination with the Arctic has been part of me since childhood. Trips to Norway and Greenland finally allowed me to cross the Arctic Circle and experience some of its wonders. Now climate change is rapidly changing both the polar environment and related planetary life support systems. Is it now appropriate to return and travel in the region? If Arctic tourism can be supported, how can this be undertaken in a benign and sustainable way?
In the face of the issues raised by the climate emergency and the COVID-19 pandemic (outlined in part one), potential solutions exist at different levels ranging from global and national policy, urban design to individual actions. The travel industry will have to play its part and make extensive adaptations as it seeks to recover from the impacts of the pandemic lockdowns. Together, these examples point to hopeful ‘directions of travel’ for creating a better future for all.
The impact of climate change has become increasingly stark and poses the biggest existential threat to humanity. However, we may have become distracted from tackling it by the outbreak of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. Fears and anxieties surround both crises. Yet the roots of both crises generally lie in the consequences of destructive human activities. Ways of addressing both crises could come to have dual benefits.
Europe is a highly fragmented continent, its rich diversity testament to the legacies of past eras which make it a strong attraction to travellers. Some parts are well known, others perhaps less so or significant. The current iteration of Europe’s mosaic contains within it the seeds of further change including, for instance, regional claims for greater autonomy. How such dynamics play out will impact on future travellers, as will the uncertain longer term impact of COVID-19, that in this context, has already damaged the transport, tourism and leisure sectors.
Although the COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis has forced us all to change our daily lives, the lockdown has provided opportunities to experience and get to know our local areas more fully. An hour’s daily exercise has brought these additional rewards as well as helping to keep us physically and mentally healthy.
Santo Antao provides some exceptional walking opportunities. Many walks focus on the steep valleys, but this day’s walk along part of the dramatic coastline was just as rewarding. Other ideas and tips are also provided.
A long-planned celebration trip to the Maldives gradually took on an extra dimension. While enjoying the beach, snorkelling and seafood, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic was accelerating around the world, creating something of a disconnect. Despite trying to make sense of it all, Colin & Jackie returned home to find much of daily life changed!
Since achieving independence in 1975, Cape Verde has made great progress. However social and economic disparities continue to be visible to travellers to the islands. Tourism has been a key part of the country’s economic development strategy, but it is likely to remain at the mercy of the wider global challenges that will affect future visitor numbers.
The COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has and will continue to have a profound affect on travellers, the travel industry and all those whose livelihoods depend on it. Acts of solidarity with those we have come to know on our travels can be a positive whilst we contemplate what future travel plans might be like.
Cape Verde (or Cabo Verde) remains largely under appreciated but its reliable, warm sunshine make it an attractive option, especially for winter sun seekers. Away from the beach and sun resorts, the islands offer a friendly welcome catering for a variety of interests and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
At a time when the world faces both a climate and nature emergency, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife trust (HIWWT) has launched its ambitious Wilder Strategy for the coming decade to confront the challenges faced in the county. It aims to increase both the numbers of people getting active in supporting nature’s recovery and the amount of land and water environments where nature is given priority.
The Neolithic remains on Orkney Mainland are not only a designated UNESCO Heritage site, but also force the visitor to think more carefully about the complexity and sophistication of the culture and social organisation of the peoples of that time.
The Shetland and Orkney Islands offer a wealth of birdwatching opportunities from birds of prey, to sea birds, waders and migrants. With very significant breeding populations for a number of the species, the chance to get up close with many of them is a major draw.
The Shetland and Orkney Islands have much to offer the visitor despite their relatively remote location. Whether one’s interest is history, wildlife, arts and crafts, or just the general land- and seascapes, choosing which islands to visit can be a tricky choice.
A remarkable wildlife encounter occurred during a walk around the twin lakes of the Sete Cidades crater on Sao Miguel in the Azores
A brilliant day out to the Isle of Wight with friends was a reminder of how much variety the island has to offer for a day trip or short break to cater for all sorts of interests and activities.
When we come face to face with wildlife in unexpected places or circumstances, our emotional responses can vary from one of fear, to wonderment, uncertainty, or even privilege. Bears, penguins, arctic foxes and whales have all provided moments that have stayed long and vividly in my mind.
The recently created Watercress Way not only provides a new walking or cycling route but gives a new identity to the old disused rail routes north and east of Winchester, thanks in large measure to the efforts of a group of enthusiasts and volunteers.
