Everyone dreams of Mont Saint-Michel, the iconic abbey rising majestically from the sea. But most visitors will be swept up in the midday tides of tourism. The real treasure lies in mastering its rhythms. THE FIND The true magic of Mont Saint-Michel is revealed by visiting during specific tidal cycles and times of day. It’s about seeing the island fully surrounded by water, or conversely, walking across the vast sands at low tide, and experiencing it without the overwhelming crowds. This wisely informed decision transforms the tourist trap into a next-level, personal experience. You get to witness the dramatic power of the tides that shape its legend and enjoy the…
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Purple reign in Provence: step into the postcard
Oh la la! To chase lavender perfection, to truly step into that postcard! this is another quintessential escape reserved for the happy few: lavender season in Provence. As ever, true immersion simply can’t be rushed; you really must take a week for the discovery; anything less would be, quite frankly, a compromise. Consider this as your personal itinerary for a laissez-faire exploration of the finest lavender fields. However, do keep in mind that true revelation comes not to the avid seeker, but to the dreamer. Chasing these fields should always be about magnetic loops and romantic detours, never merely about the pins on a map. Intel: Day One: The Heart…
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Istanbul survival guide: some snobbish advice
Istanbul: one word for it? Spectacular. Another two words? Grand Bazaar – that’s a brilliant synonym, really. Istanbul is very much a “love it or… well, love it anyway” kind of story, and a must-see, regardless. You can never truly hate it, no matter how utterly chaotic it may seem at times. But you’ll find there’s a very thin line between absolutely adoring it and simply ticking it off your list. While most people are thoroughly addicted to Istanbul, I suspect the happy few will need this rather snobbish advice to truly feel the poetry. Some quick survival pointers: the good, the bad and the warnings The Best Bits The…
