For the last few years, I've tried to travel to new countries in addition to my favourite spots. However, the process of travelling itself is something that is pretty consistent and over time, there are a few travel hacks that have really come in handy for me.

"But what are you going to do there all alone?" my Mum asked perplexed. Five days in Barcelona surely warranted company, but I didn't want any. Travelling solo had become a bit of an escape for me.

I looked at the dainty rope tied to wooden poles separating myself and the edge of Kerið, a volcanic crater lake in Iceland. Common sense would have you stay well back, but the nosey in me wanted an unobstructed view.

Whenever I think of the West Coast, I normally picture beaches, Hollywood and the Kardashians. California is of course, so much more than that.

Throughout all my travels I've realised that I've always had company. So during this sabbatical, a solo trip to New Orleans was the perfect way to experience traveling alone.

I've been sitting on this news for so long but I can finally speak on it - I'm taking a sabbatical from work! It's something I've been contemplating for a while and I'm excited to be taking the plunge and taking some much needed time out.

Bruges for the weekend is as good as it sounds. Not only is it a mere three hours away by train, but the promise of Belgian chocolate, fries and waffles is also too good to resist.

New York is like London in many ways in that it continues to run like clockwork in the face of adversity. It's one of many things that makes the concrete jungle almost magnetic and keeps bringing me back for more.

The UK is full of gems outside of London. Just 2.5hrs away is Bath; a city full of history, scenic views and enough tourist attractions making this an ideal weekend escape.

Recharging your batteries needn't take you across the world when you have unspoken wonders on your doorstep. Holidaying with friends from university was the perfect opportunity to catch up and reconnect.

This trip to Canada wasn’t to explore and wander around on my own. It was very much a family affair. However, seeing glimmers of Toronto definitely made me think that there’s more to explore than meets the eye.