Martin Hesp
All in Travel
The article describes Basel's engineless foot ferries, known as "Fähri," which cross the Rhine River using the river's current instead of engines. Connected to a steel cable, these eco-friendly ferries offer a serene journey with panoramic views of Basel. Four distinct ferries operate at different river points, serving pedestrians and cyclists while preserving the city's riverine heritage.
The Basel Christmas Market in Switzerland is celebrated as one of Europe's most enchanting holiday destinations, drawing nearly a million visitors annually. Set in Basel's medieval city centre, it blends historical charm with modern festivity from late November to Christmas Eve. The market features over 180 stalls offering traditional Swiss crafts and gastronomic delights
Embark on a transformative journey with Hayes & Jarvis to Sri Lanka, a tailor-made adventure blending thrilling experiences like climbing Lion Rock with luxurious relaxation. This trip, perfect for all ages, offers a deep cultural immersion, from Kandy's sacred sites to tea plantations and bustling markets. Guided by experts, it's a safe, mesmerizing exploration of Sri Lanka's rich landscapes and vibrant culture, concluding in the coastal town of Bentota. A truly unforgettable, life-changing holiday experience.
Embark on a literary journey with "The Lemon Tree Forest," an evocative novel intertwining Greek culture, mystical experiences, and personal memories. Partly set in the heart of rural Greece, the soon-to-be-published book offers a vivid portrayal of 1980s life in a landscape steeped in history. The author draws from personal experiences, crafting a narrative that's as refreshing as the lemon-tangerine hybrid juice featured in the story. From thrilling encounters with local wildlife to the delicate balance of respecting village customs, this novel promises an escape to a world where the past and present merge, and every sense is engaged. As you wait for the unveiling of the cover, savor this snippet and prepare for an adventure laced with the aromatic scents of mountain thyme, rosemary, and, of course, lemons.
Discover the authentic flavours of Kandy at Hela Bojun Hala, a vibrant hub for traditional Sri Lankan cuisine that empowers local women. This culinary gem offers a sustainable dining experience with organic, locally-sourced ingredients. Relish in organic street food, from spicy curries to sweet treats like Watalappan, all while supporting community-based tourism. Dive into the heart of Sri Lanka’s food culture and savour eco-friendly meals at this cooperative, which showcases the island's rich culinary heritage and promotes economic empowerment in Kandy. Visit Hela Bojun Hala for an unforgettable gastronomic journey that nourishes both body and soul.
This is an article I wrote about Watchet in the year 2000. Watchet, a town boasting a history as rich as its sea-shanty heritage. Perched on Somerset's cliffs, it seems like a northern town displaced to the West Country coast. Known for its eccentricities, from its official swine-herd to the ancient Court Leet that convenes over rum punch, Watchet is a community of paradoxes. Home to Yankee Jack, a mariner who enriched maritime culture with iconic shanties, and a museum housing an extensive collection of flat-bottomed boats, the town's character is irrefutable. Historical influences, from Welsh miners to a significant paper mill, leave their indelible marks, contributing to Watchet's identity—a town that beckons visitors to explore its unique oddities and lingering mysteries.
Ain Razat, located behind Salalah in southern Oman, is a lush area fed by fresh springs. Once a primary water source for Salalah, it's now a public park. The main spring and its smaller contributories flow into a pool, with the water travelling through a falaj (watercourse) to Al-Mamurah Palace and Razat Farm. The highest flow occurs during the Khareef season. While signs caution against swimming due to Bilharzia risks, some visitors seem unbothered. The author recounts an unpleasant experience at the park's restroom, where he discovered the use of a knobbled stick in place of conventional toilet paper, marking a less enjoyable moment in his travels.
