The famous doors of Zanzibar open to a world of history and culture

Zanzibar's doors are a real treasure trove of history and culture. Let's dive in and explore why they're so significant.

First off, the doors themselves are stunning pieces of craftsmanship. Intricately carved with geometric patterns, floral motifs, and Arabic calligraphy, each door is a unique work of art. You can almost see the skilled hands of the craftsmen who spent hours perfecting every detail.

If John Steinbeck visited the ancient city of Luxor

Travels in Dust and Time: A Journey to Luxor

The road from Cairo unrolled like a dry ribbon, a tether pulling us toward something older than cities, older perhaps than memory. Luxor, they called it now, though once it bore the name Thebes, a place of gods and pharaohs, of temples so large a man could lose his own smallness in their shadow. I came not as a scholar, nor as a pilgrim, but with the kind of hunger that comes from hearing whispers in stone.

We arrived in the amber light of afternoon. The sun here doesn’t set so much as surrender, quietly and with reverence. And the Nile, eternal in its purpose, glinted like a mirror made for gods. The air held the perfume of heat and dust, and beneath it all, something deeper—sand, sweat, and the breath of time.

The bazaar thronged with energy, aroma and vigour

Luxor is a city built on layers. On one side of the river lies the living city, the bazaars, the motorbikes, the children with wide eyes and wider grins who run beside you, palms outstretched, laughing. On the other side—the west bank—the dead sleep. Not peacefully, for the tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the queens are not quiet places. They hum. They hum with the weight of stories that never found their ending. In those winding tunnels painted in ochre and lapis, Ramses still speaks. He speaks not to you, but through you. And if you listen too long, you’ll find a part of yourself sealed in there, left behind among the jackal-headed gods and golden promises.

We hired a small felucca and drifted across the Nile. The boatman, an old man with eyes as sharp as river reeds, said nothing, as if words might disturb the balance. The oar dipped and rose, dipped and rose, a rhythm older than language. I watched the sun melt into the hills behind the temple of Hatshepsut, and I thought of time—not as an enemy, but as a sculptor. It carves us all in its own image, eventually.

The Temple of Luxor: Columns as thick as tree trunks reached for the sky

Karnak was less a temple than a memory you could walk through. Columns thick as tree trunks reached for the sky, which seemed too pale to contain such ambition. I touched one, half expecting it to pulse beneath my hand, like the heartbeat of some slumbering god. The guide, a thin man with a cigarette clinging to his lip, rattled off names and dates. I heard none of it. I was busy watching light filter through the cracks, illuminating hieroglyphs like a sacred script written by the sun itself.

And so we left Luxor, though not really. You don’t leave a place like that—you carry it. It tucks itself in the folds of your coat, in the callouses on your hands, in the dream you’ll have weeks later of standing before a statue whose eyes follow you.

There are cities you visit and forget. Luxor is not one of them. It waits. And someday, like all the others before you, you return—if not in body, then in reverie.

If you'd like to visit Luxor for yourself

Intrepid Travel Small Group Tours

Boryeong Mud Festival: A Messy Delight in South Korea

Every July, the sleepy coastal town of Boryeong in South Korea transforms into a muddy playground, attracting thousands of thrill-seekers and fun-lovers from around the world. The Boryeong Mud Festival, also known as the Daecheon Mud Festival, is a messy extravaganza that promises an unforgettable experience.

Done Isle of Pines? Try Lifou: Discover lesser-known New Caledonia

Travellers who have had the opportunity to visit New Caledonia are likely familiar with areas such as Upi Bay in the Isle of Pines, Anse Vata Beach in Nouméa, or the lighthouse at Amédée Island. While these spots are well-deserving of another visit, there’s a hidden world of untold beauty waiting to be explored outside of the go-to spots. From secluded beaches and sparsely populated regions, these lesser-known treasures offer travellers an authentic, peaceful experience where they can truly uncover the heart of the destination. 

Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Temple of Abu Simbel in Egypt

The Temple of Abu Simbel is a majestic rock-cut temple complex in southern Egypt, built by Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BC. The complex consists of two temples: the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Temple of Hathor and Nefertari.

Sofitel suggests seven other places to go for a mid-year break

Swap bigger cities for the lesser-known destinations that deliver just as much beauty, culture, and charm - if not more

Destinations to visit in Australia's Northern Territory

The Northern Territory (NT) in Australia is a must-visit destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. The region boasts unparalleled landscapes, including Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, home to the iconic monolith Uluru (Ayers Rock). Visitors can experience the rich Aboriginal culture by learning about the history and traditions of the indigenous people, viewing Aboriginal art, and attending cultural events.

Canada: Ignite your wanderlust in the Yukon

With endless daylight stretching deep into the night, Canada's Yukon Territory is a summer playground like no other. Beneath the glow of the midnight sun, this northern wonderland offers an unparalleled canvas for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're hiking through untouched wilderness, paddling historic rivers, or spotting wildlife under a never-fading sky, the Yukon's extra hours of sunshine ensure you'll pack more thrills into every unforgettable day. Read on for some of the best ways to soak up the sun.

Stays with bite: Australia’s food and wine hidden gems

  

It's no secret that today’s travellers pack their appetites along with their suitcases when heading off on holiday. With this in mind, Choice Hotels has tapped into its on-the-ground intel across Australia to identify some of the best spots beyond the capital cities for discovering a sublime food and wine experience that only locals know about…until now.

India's House of Glass

With its unique creations and focus on targeting the fashion-conscious set, Ame De Verre is on its way to becoming India's leading home art boutique.

Imagine your home adorned with the finest stained-glass decorative items—from lampshades to window and door panels—or abstract artworks that not only add value to your living area but also do it in style.

Visiting The Great Sphinx of Giza

Carved directly out of the bedrock during the 4th Dynasty (c. 2613-2494 BC), the Great Sphinx is the oldest of Egypt's colossal statues and, with a length of around 72 m and a height of approximately 20 m, the largest. Ancient Egyptian sphinxes represented the king with the body of a lion, a clear demonstration of his power.

Enjoying the Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha's Hamad International Airport

The Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge at Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha is one of the most luxurious airport lounges in the world, and it is reserved for Qatar Airways and oneworld business class passengers. Here’s how to make the most of your experience.

A vintage visitors' guide to Egypt's Temple of Karnak

Welcome to the Glorious Temple of Karnak

Perched along the east bank of the eternal Nile, in the splendid city of Luxor—ancient Thebes—stands one of the most awe-inspiring architectural feats of antiquity: the Temple of Karnak. Here, beneath the ever-watchful Egyptian sun, echoes of the grandest pharaohs linger in stone, whispering tales of gods, kings, and divine power.

Visiting the Royal Thai Airforce Museum in Bangkok

The Royal Thai Air Force Museum is a treasure trove of aviation history, showcasing a vast collection of aircraft, equipment, and uniforms. As you step inside, you'll be taken on a journey through the history of Thai aviation, from the early 1900s to the present day.

Silos, Towers and Walls, Giant murals bring sleepy Australian towns back to life

Once bleak and blank structures, now giant works of contemporary art, Australia's silos are just the start of this ambitious revitalisation project.

Photos Roderick Eime

Most will tell you it all started with Victoria's Silo Art Trail is a unique and breathtaking outdoor art gallery that stretches across rural Victoria, showcasing vibrant and large-scale murals painted on grain silos. The trail, which spans over 200 kilometers, features works by some of Australia's most renowned street artists, including Guido van Helten, Julia Volchkova, and Matt Adnate.

The Silo Art Trail was born out of a desire to revitalize and celebrate the rural communities of Victoria. In 2015, the town of Brim, in the Wimmera Mallee region, commissioned Guido van Helten to paint a mural on the town's grain silo. The project was a huge success, attracting tourists and putting Brim on the map.

Since then, the Silo Art Trail has expanded to include silos in the towns of Lascelles, Rosebery, and Patchewollock, among others. Each silo features a unique and thought-provoking design, often reflecting the local culture, history, and environment.

The murals are visually stunning and tell stories about the people and places they represent. For example, the silo in Patchewollock features a portrait of local farmer, Nick "Noodle" Hulland, while the silo in Lascelles depicts a group of children playing in a wheat field.

The Silo Art Trail has had a profound impact on the local communities, injecting new life and energy into the rural towns. The trail has also become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over Australia and the world.

In addition to the silos, the trail also features a range of supporting infrastructure, including interpretive signage, walking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can also explore the local towns, which offer a range of accommodation options, cafes, and restaurants.

The Silo Art Trail is a testament to the power of art to transform and revitalize communities. It is a unique and unforgettable experience showcasing rural Australia's beauty and creativity. Whether you're an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique adventure, the Silo Art Trail is a must-visit destination.

Not all Silo Art is in Victoria

Rural Australia is home to a plethora of stunning silo art, beyond Victoria. Here are some notable mentions:

New South Wales Silo Art Trail

- Barraba: Features a poignant theme of drought.

- Dunedoo: Showcases multiple silos, including one with legendary racehorse Winx.

- Grenfell: Boasts a spectacular representation of the local shire.

- Gunnedah: Includes an image of Dorothea Mackellar and an extract from her famous poem, "My Country" .

- Merriwa: Highlights the importance of the merino-sheep industry.

- Murrumburrah: Illustrates scenes of great significance to the area.

- Portland: Honors former Portland Cement workers.

- Weethalle: Portrays the region's deep agricultural heritage.

Western Australia Silo Art Trail

- Albany: Pays tribute to the region's unique culture.

- Northam: Features a silo that started the Australian Silo Art Trail movement in 2015.

RELATED STORY: Western Australia's Silo Art Trail

Queensland Silo Art Trail

- Yelarbon: Showcases a unique shape and vibrant colors.

- Cunnamulla: Features a water tower with an endearing design.

- Windorah: Boasts a water tank with scenes of Outback mustering life.

South Australia Silo Art Trail

- Quorn: Features a silo with light projections of moving stories.

- Kimba: Showcases an enchanting piece of silo art with a young girl overlooking a purple sunset.

- Cowell: Boasts a three-silo piece featuring a local celebrity, Lionel Deer.

- Farrell Flat: features a colourful sunset with a train – a nod to the town’s history.

- Owen: depicts two scenes and is an ode to the town's agricultural and military history.

Not all art is on a Silo

Besides silo art, Australia's rural townships are home to a diverse range of street art forms, including:

Water tower at Yerong Creek NSW

1. Water Tower Art: Many rural towns have transformed their water towers into vibrant works, showcasing local themes and characters.

2. Mural Trails: Several rural towns have developed mural trails featuring a series of murals painted on buildings, walls, and other structures.

3. Street Art Festivals: Events like the annual Street Art Festival in Benalla, Victoria, bring together local and international artists to create large-scale murals and street art installations.

4. Aboriginal Street Art: Many rural towns are home to vibrant Aboriginal street art, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Indigenous Australians.

5. Rustic Sculpture Trails: Some rural towns feature sculpture trails, where local artists have created intricate and often humorous sculptures from recycled materials like metal, wood, and stone.

6. Pub Art: Many rural pubs have become canvases for local artists, featuring murals, paintings, and other forms of street art that reflect the pub's history and character.

7. Silent Streets: This project, launched in the town of Yarram, Victoria, features a series of murals and street art installations that celebrate the town's history and culture.

8. Utility Box Art: Many rural towns have transformed utility boxes into miniature works featuring local themes and designs.

These forms of street art not only add vibrancy and character to rural townships but also provide a platform for local artists to showcase their talents and tell their stories.

MORE PHOTOS BELOW 

Kangaroo Creek Reservoir in Adelaide, South Australia

The widened spillway and new embankment completed in 2019 (Supplied: SA Water)

Construction commenced in 1966, a pivotal moment for South Australia’s water infrastructure. The dam, built by damming the River Torrens west of Cudlee Creek near its junction with Kangaroo Creek, was completed in 1969. 

Visiting Lyndoch in South Australia's Barossa Valley

Lyndoch. Source: Expedia

 The town’s history is deeply rooted in its Indigenous heritage, with the Peramangk people originally inhabiting the area. Their lifestyle, based on local flora and fauna, was disrupted by European settlement following the arrival of colonists in July 1836. By December 1837, Colonel William Light, a key figure in South Australia’s early exploration, named the valley Lyndoch after his esteemed friend Thomas Graham, Lord Lynedoch, commemorating their shared military history at the Battle of Barrosa in 1811. This naming, potentially a misspelling, reflects the town’s historical ties to British military figures.

The Birthplace of the Barossa Valley

Land sales began in 1839, and by the early 1840s, figures like Edward Rowan took up land, leading to the establishment of nearby Rowland Flat. Lyndoch is often credited as one of the first areas in the Barossa Valley to grow grapes, with plantings by 1847 at Pewsey Vale by Mr. Gilbert and at Jacob’s Creek by Johann Gramp, who produced wine by 1850. This early viticultural activity set the stage for Lyndoch’s enduring association with wine production.

Further historical notes include its connection to the Barossa Valley railway, with a station operational from 1911 to 1968 for passengers and fully closed in 2014, also used for goods and timber transport. The town’s historical significance is also marked by its sister city relationship with Georgetown, Texas, established in 1986 during sesquicentennial celebrations, highlighting international ties.

Geographically, Lyndoch is positioned 58 km northeast of Adelaide, along the Barossa Valley Highway, between Gawler and Tanunda. Its elevation stands at 175 meters, with an average annual rainfall of 560.5 mm, contributing to its suitability for viticulture and lavender farming. The town’s location, an hour’s drive from Adelaide with multiple access routes, enhances its appeal as a getaway destination, with options like the eastern approach through ranges or via Gomersal Road.

Attractions and Activities

Historic pub, the Lyndoch Hotel (Expedia)

Lyndoch's attractions cater to both tourists and locals. The Lyndoch Lavender Farm, located at 407 Tweedies Gully Road, is South Australia’s largest, offering tours, a cafe open from 10 am to 4 pm (weekends January to August, daily September to December, excluding public holidays), and an online store for lavender products (Lyndoch Lavender Farm). It’s a multi-award-winning site, family-owned for over 30 years, providing a unique rural experience.

Historical sites include the Hoffnungstahl memorial, 3 km southeast of Lyndoch. This memorial commemorates a German pioneer settlement founded in 1847 that was abandoned after flooding in 1853 despite warnings from local Peramangk people. This site, detailed at Monument Australia, adds a layer of historical intrigue.

Lyndoch Lavender Farm (Tourism SA)

Wine enthusiasts can explore numerous cellars, such as God’s Hill Wines and 1837 Barossa, with tasting rooms offering premium wines and scenic views. The town also features the Lyndoch Hotel, a family-owned pub in Gilbert Street, known for its bistro, gaming, and accommodation, with midweek lunch specials and seafood days (Lyndoch Hotel). 

Feature Accommodation:

Lyndoch Grand is the new name for the former hotel and inn built in 1855 and now features seven tastefully restored bedrooms and ample open spaces for relaxation and enjoyment.

MORE: www.lyndochgrandaccommodation.com.au

MORE: Lyndoch at Aussie Towns

Super March events for Hong Kong

Experience the excitement of Hong Kong Super March, where Asia’s event capital comes alive with world-class sports, entertainment, and culture. All month long, the city buzzes with unmissable events, promising something for every visitor. Whether you're into sports, arts, entertainment, or just a great party, Hong Kong delivers a month of unforgettable experiences. Here’s your guide to 10 must-see events this March.

Tramspotting: Light Rail Around The World

I travel a lot, and while doing so, I try to keep my carbon footprint to a minimum. One small way to do this is to ride paublic transport wherever I can. If I have a few hours to kill in a major city, I don't mind taking a tram ride as a cheap excursion.

Here is a collection of photos of mine taken while touring around the world.

How many of these trams have you travelled on?

The Story of Green Hill Fort on Thursday Island

Green Hill Fort is a historic military installation on Thursday Island, part of the Torres Strait Islands, Australia. Built in the late 19th century, the fort played a crucial role in defending Australia’s northern waters. Though it never saw combat, it remains a significant piece of military history and a popular heritage site today.

The Story of HMS Pegasus: The British Warship Sunk at Mombasa in 1914

 

HMS Pegasus was a British warship, a light cruiser of the Pelorus-class, that met a tragic fate during World War I. Her sinking on September 20, 1914, off the coast of Mombasa, British East Africa (now Kenya), was one of the earliest naval losses for Britain in the war. The attack by the German cruiser SMS Königsberg turned the waters near Mombasa into a battlefield, marking a significant moment in the naval conflicts of World War I.

HMS Pegasus: The Warship and Her Mission

HMS Pegasus was built in the late 1890s and was part of Britain's Royal Navy. She was a Pelorus-class protected cruiser, a type of small cruiser designed for colonial service. By the time World War I broke out in August 1914, Pegasus was already an outdated vessel, not suited for modern naval warfare.

At the start of the war, Pegasus was stationed in the Indian Ocean as part of Britain’s efforts to secure its territories and shipping lanes from German threats. Her primary mission was to track and counter German naval forces, particularly the SMS Königsberg, a powerful German cruiser that had been disrupting British trade routes along the East African coast.

The Threat of SMS Königsberg

The German cruiser SMS Königsberg was a formidable warship, faster and more heavily armed than Pegasus. In early September 1914, Königsberg was hiding in the Rufiji River delta (modern-day Tanzania) to make repairs. The British forces were aware of her presence and were trying to locate and neutralize her.

Meanwhile, Pegasus had suffered from engine problems and was forced to dock at Zanzibar for much-needed repairs. This made her vulnerable, as she was unable to maneuver or defend herself properly.

The Attack on HMS Pegasus

At dawn on September 20, 1914, SMS Königsberg launched a surprise attack on the defenseless Pegasus. The German cruiser approached the harbor of Zanzibar, catching the British ship completely off guard.

At around 5:30 AM, Königsberg opened fire from a distance of about 9,000 yards (8,200 meters). HMS Pegasus, unable to move due to engine repairs, returned fire, but her outdated 4-inch guns were no match for the 4.1-inch (10.5 cm) guns of the German warship.

Within just 20 minutes, the attack devastated Pegasus. The British cruiser was hit multiple times, causing severe damage to her hull and superstructure. The gunfire destroyed her main armaments, killed many crew members, and set the ship ablaze.

The Sinking of HMS Pegasus

After being severely damaged, Pegasus began to list and eventually sank later that day in the shallow waters of Zanzibar harbor. Though many crew members survived, 38 sailors lost their lives, and many others were seriously wounded.

The wreck of Pegasus remained visible in the harbor for some time before eventually being scrapped. The ship’s sinking was a serious blow to British naval power in the region and highlighted the threat posed by German raiders in the Indian Ocean.

Aftermath and Legacy

The loss of HMS Pegasus forced the British to take stronger action against Königsberg. Over the next few months, British forces, including warships and aircraft, launched operations to locate and destroy the German cruiser. Eventually, in July 1915, SMS Königsberg was trapped and sunk in the Rufiji Delta by British warships.

Despite her tragic fate, Pegasus and her crew are remembered as part of Britain’s naval history in World War I. The battle off Mombasa in 1914 was one of the first naval engagements of the war and demonstrated the vulnerability of older ships against more modern warships.

Conclusion

The story of HMS Pegasus is one of bravery, tragedy, and the dangers of naval warfare during World War I. Though she was outmatched by SMS Königsberg, her crew fought courageously despite being at a disadvantage. Today, the sinking of HMS Pegasus remains a significant event in the history of the Royal Navy’s early war efforts in Africa.