Travel Masterpiece

26/03/2026

Qantas will increase capacity on flights between Australia and Europe after Easter, which experts say may see the "kangaroo route" evolve.

17/03/2026

To be sure to be sure, there must be an Irish joke today.

A Welshman, Scotsman and Irishman meet for the first time. The Welshman is asked his name and says "I was born on St David's day so my parents called me David."
The Scotsman was most surprised. "Well that is truly amazing. I was born on St Andrews day so they called me Andrew."
The Irishman replied that he was truly staggered that all three in the one one room were called after the day they were born on.
"So you're called Patrick then" commented the Welshman.
"No," replied the Irishman, "its Pancake"
Happy St. Patricks Day one and all. Keep yourselves tidy.

28/02/2026

Winter is closing in on us and with that realisation also comes the reminder that there is only about 9 months to go for anyone who wants to be be in snow-covered mountains and pretty winter towns anywhere from December through to March.
It could be skiing, snowshoeing, Xmas and New Year or just sipping Gluhwein by a fire in a German spa town that takes your fancy. Perhaps even a trip to Yellowstone.
Yellowstone is the worlds oldest national park. Founded as the worlds first national park on March 1 in 1872.
Winter in Yellowstone is beautiful . It's devoid of crowds and you may get to see Wolves who are difficult to see in other seasons. There are many other animals to see as well. Snow covered Bison, Elk, Pronghorn Deer, Moose, Mountain Goats, Coyotes, Big Horn Sheep and Bald Eagles.
Here are some photos to enjoy from my recent Yellowstone trip.

20/02/2026

We have such cute Aussie wildlife.
They look like little Joeys 😍
The island is pretty nice as well .

02/02/2026

Türkiye is the worlds 5th most visited county. The city of Istanbul positively heaves in summer.
If you can avoid travel then, you will amplify your enjoyment of the culture and cuisine for sure.
October through to April or even early May is a great time to go.
In October plus April/May, it will still be busy enough for modest queues at places like the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi but nothing unmanageable.
There are so many wonderous sites it Türkiye, it is hard to pick a favourite and for me there are 3,
At number 1 is Ephesus. It simply amazes and so many other sites pale in comparison.
Next is a sunrise balloon ride over the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, that is a sight to behold with between 100 and 200 balloons up at the same time.
The surprise and coming in at number 3 is the Yeni Cami Mosque in Istanbul. Yeni Cami is stunning and also called the new Mosque. It sits right by the Bosphorus waterfront, near the Galata Bridge. Head there in the evening, you can also eat at one of the fishers below the bridge and take a ride on the river and see the lights of Istanbul . The Mosque is stunning in the evening and the Muezzins (callers) and the Adhan (prayer), are particularly hypnotic in the cool evening lights.

25/01/2026

AI overview of Australian cultural characteristics.

Australian culture shares traits like multiculturalism (Canada, US, UK), informality, egalitarianism, mateship, and a love for sports (UK, NZ, US), stemming from British roots but uniquely adapted with diverse global influences, valuing mateship, supporting the underdog, and enjoying outdoor life, alongside core values of individual freedom and common sense, similar to other Western democracies.

Sounds good to me! Happy Australia Day everyone and enjoy the holiday.

20/01/2026

I arrived at the Royce Hotel yesterday.
I am staying for 2 nights as a guest of Regent Seven Sea Cruises. There is a group of about 9 or 10. All top achievers with Regent. We went to Pt Leo winery for lunch yesterday and today are Aus Open bound. This hotel is something else
I might come down for a weekend every year. It’s stunning , comfortable, the service is sublime. Honestly, I think it is one of the best I have stayed in. It used to be the the Rolls Royce showrooms . Hence the name. I don’t think I can go to another here and I wish I could pack it up and take it everywhere.

https://roycehotel.com.au/

https://www.rssc.com/

04/01/2026

Back at the desk. One big coffee down. Another 2 needed today I think.

25/12/2025

Merry Christmas to all our clients and travel partners. We hope you had a wonderful day celebrating with loved ones. Peace on Earth on good will to all men. May the spirit of Christmas reach Ukraine and Palestine. That is my hope for 2026 .

18/12/2025

I have been enjoying a Winter Wolf experience in Yellowstone. Heading out at 630 each morning in a small group of 11 with an amazing wolf and wildlife guide . Back about 4 each day. The snow has been disappointing so wolves elusive until last day! It’s a magnificent park but my tip is don’t come in summer. Too busy . Enjoy pics and Merry Christmas!

07/12/2025

Welcome to Oceania’s brand new ship Allura.
I must say, the ship is stunning .
Take a quick peek.

24/06/2025

A retired senior Qantas A380 pilot gives you the lowdown on flight diverts .

Flight trackers show airlines are avoiding airspace over Iran, Iraq and Israel, while some have cancelled services to areas on the southern side of the Gulf.