Guess where this photo was taken…

By Kathryn Burrington

Some wonderful travel photography has caught my eye this last month from an energetic, multi-coloured Holi festival to a stunning sunrise over snow-covered mountains. I’ve also enjoyed reading about lovely but fairly familiar locations, in particular, Kyoto and Tuscany as well as places that have been completely off my radar as a potential travel destination, in this case Albania.

Nate Robert’s descriptive stories from travelling around the Balkans paint a mixed picture of natural beauty, neglected towns and of colourful local characters. “It was the first time tears had come to his eyes today, but it wouldn’t be the last … if I didn’t know him, my mind would have passed him off as an Albanian gangster. Under-stated dress, expensive watch, dark shades, superb beard. Not a high roller, but a class act all round. It took about twenty minutes of being with Petrit, to realise he’s a model citizen not only for his small village home of Tushemisht, Albania, but for the entire world.”

Find out more by reading Nate’s post Pogradec and Tushemisht, Albania: Forget the Dead Dog, This is Better. Follow Nate on Twitter @yomadic

HDR (high dynamic range) photography is not to everyone’s taste, partly because it is often over used and the results extreme. Like Marmite, people seem to love it or hate it. Travel photographer, Valerii Tkachenko, however, uses it to great effect with both colour and black and white images. Two fine examples posted in April are his Sunrise over La Clusaz, France and his Sunset over Rovinji, Croatia. Follow Valerii on Twitter @Valerii9116

More colourful images, this time of a Hindu festival (above) in James’ post Celebrating Holi Festival of Colours also grabbed my attention, however, it was the location of this event that is really surprising, the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, in Spanish Fork, Utah, USA. James’ photography captures all the fun and enthusiasm of what looks like an amazing day. Follow James on Twitter @EscapingAbroad

When Debra’s post Sunday lunch at a Tuscan vineyard, began, “When most people think of Italy I’m sure one of the first things that comes to mind is a long table groaning with food under an ancient olive tree, or in a beautiful vineyard, with happy people eating and drinking into the late afternoon. This is just what we did on Sunday…and it was good,” I knew I was going to enjoy reading more.

Debra was visiting the vineyard Fattoria del Teso in Montecarlo, near Lucca, where some excellent wines are produced and the setting looks perfect from a traditional Italian feast. “The entire wall of the building is covered in wisteria. As you can imagine, the smell was divine … We had antipasti, ribs with olives grown on the property, sausages with white beans special to the area, new potatoes and porchetta.”

Laura and Cipri’s have recently spent three weeks exploring Japan and have had a string of good luck, frequently discovering the unexpected. As their time in Japan was running out they still hadn’t seen a bamboo forest so a last minute visit was a must. They explain “Just as we entered the bamboo forest in Arashiyama, we stumbled upon this intriguing festival. We especially liked the little girls dressed in kimonos.

“Their wigs both made them look extremely cute and reminded us of certain Japanese horror movies at the same time … And though after taking a zillion photos of the festivities we strolled under the tall bamboo trees holding hands for a while, it didn’t last long, as we felt an irresistible urge to go back and see more of the festival.” Visit Arashiyama’s Famous Bamboo Forest Reveals A Colorful Festival to see their beautiful photographs. Follow Laura and Cipri on Twitter @TraveloCafe

I’ll be on the look-out for more interesting or unusual travel blog posts throughout May. If you spot any captivating stories or stunning photographs from independent travel bloggers please do let me know by leaving a comment below or you can send me a tweet @travelwithkat

By Laura Porter

London has so much going on you really need to get a recommendation from a local and that’s what makes these London blogs so great. Whether you’re looking for a spontaneous idea for today, want the insider news of the latest pop-ups or an honest restaurant review these blogs are full of advice and inspiration.

1. Londonist

What it is: A multi-author blog covering literally anything to do with London.

Why we like it: Londonist produces 10+ blog posts a day from the early morning ‘things to do today’ to the daily London news round-up at teatime. The London-obsessed writers all have an opinion making the reviews honest and all London news is dissected with a critical eye. They share the most interesting things to do in town each week and mix in some well-researched London history pieces along the way.

Read Londonist. Follow @Londonist on Twitter.

2. IanVisits

What it is: Ian Mansfield shares where he has visited in and around London.

Why we like it: I doubt you’ll often find Ian at a major tourist attraction unless the temporary exhibition is exceptional. He likes the unusual things to do in town and will always take lots of photos to give you a real insight. Ian has that eye for detail that only the best geeks enthusiasts have and he gets invited to visit places the rest of us may never see without his blog. Trains feature quite regularly and the Events Calendar is full of quirky things to do.

Read IanVisits. Follow @IanVisits.on Twitter.

3. London On The Inside

What it is: Jules and Ben, and a team of contributors, bring us the latest cool things to know in town from recommended bands, the next pop-up and insider news on sales and eating out.

Why we like it: If there’s somewhere new opening and it’s going to be trendy then this is the place to read about it. The writers all have industry contacts (or are actually the industry contact themselves) so they really do hear about things before everyone else. There are also interviews, hotel tips and reviews, plus fashion news.

Read London On The Inside. Follow @LondONtheinside on Twitter.

4. Cheese and Biscuits

What it is: Chris Pople writes frank and entertaining London restaurant reviews.

Why we like it: If you want to know what a restaurant is really like check here first. Chris goes out to try as many as possible every week, mostly in London. He is a well-respected food blogger and steers clear of chain restaurants.

Read Cheese and Biscuits. Follow @ChrisPople on Twitter.

5. The Cocktail Lovers

What it is: Ms S and Mr G love cocktails and love London (and each other – they’re married).

Why we like it: They visit London bars and offer reviews and recommendations to help you plan a night out. They know the industry insiders and include plenty of recipes plus bartender interviews and product reviews.

Read The Cocktail Lovers. Follow @CocktailLovers on Twitter.

6. Going Underground

What it is: A look at life travelling on the London Underground. Expect an informed comment about tube strikes too.

Why we like it: There’s a daily post about something related to the tube, often with an amusing take. The author likes to snap photos of celebs on the Underground and the information on how to turn your Oyster card into a wand has been one of my favourites. With the London Underground celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2013 this blog won’t be short on ideas to entertain and inform.

Read Going Underground. Follow @AnnieMole on Twitter.

7. Spitalfields Life

What it is: A detailed daily post featuring something or someone in this East End neighbourhood.

Why we like it: The Gentle Author seeks out the people who make this area so special. A book has already come from his interviews to date and he intends to write 10,000 posts, and is confident he won’t run out of people to talk to here. He takes the time to get to know the locals – especially those with a long family history in the area so the posts are accompanied by lots of black and white photographs and mesmerising tales.

Read Spitalfields Life. Follow @thegentleauthor on Twitter

8. Tired of London, Tired of Life

What it is: Tom Jones started writing the blog when he was felt he was becoming tired of London and he soon found he could offer a daily tip to give inspiration to others.

Why we like it: Yet another blog that has spawned a book deal, but the one suggestion a day idea is a great way to encourage Londoners out of the drudgery of the work commute and to see something new in this wonderful city. The blog posts are short but are usually suited to the day they appear, so it’s worth checking regularly.

Read Tired of London, Tired of Life. Follow @tiredoflondon on Twitter.

9. The Londonphile

What it is: London’s museums, heritage, architecture and culture.

Why we like it: The author clearly loves London and finds the quirky and interesting places to visit. There are always great photos and plenty of research and you’re bound to find somewhere nobody else has heard of, which will most likely be obscure but also wonderfully enlightening.

Read The Londonphile. Follow @Londonphile on Twitter.

10. Bollards of London

What it is: A blog dedicated to unusual bollards – those street furniture posts generally used to control traffic.

Why we like it: This is my wild card but it is one of my favourites. A London cabby had a bet with a friend that he could make bollards interesting and we’ll say he’s won the bet as the blog has a regular following and receives #guestbollards photos from around the world.

Read Bollards of London. Follow @BollardofLondon on Twitter.

About our writer

Laura Porter writes the About.com London Travel site and fits in further freelance writing about London and UK travel while sustaining an afternoon tea addiction to rival the Queen’s. She is @AboutLondon on Twitter.

By Kathryn Burrington

It has been another great month in the travel blogging world that’s enabled me, virtually at least, to walk beneath Austria’s Hintertux Glacier, float above the wreck of the Titanic, enjoy the beauty of Washington’s State Parks and to visit a hospital in Malawi. Here are just a few of my favourite posts published in March.

Simon Falvo, in her article Nature’s Ice Palace: Discovering Wonderland Underneath the Hintertux Glacier  takes us on a literally breathtaking tour (due to the high altitude) to see… “Ice rooms, crystal chambers, stalactites, ice crystals and a glacial lake, the further we went along the walkway and up and down ladders, the greater was the awe … It was like adventuring in wonderland, through a magic landscape I thought existed only in dreams and fairy tales … I tried to imagine the sense of marvel felt by the ski guide Roman Erler when in 2007, by mere chance, he discovered  the crevasse and the ice masterpieces created by nature that had been hidden for centuries. ” Follow Simon on Twitter @1step2theleft

Jaillan Yehia’s Top Ten Things To Do In Belfast, has some great ideas to fill your time in this largely under-rated city. In particular, The Titanic Belfast Visitor Experience sounds fascinating. “You can virtually ascend the ship using the same 3D technology seen in Avatar, float on top of the wreck as it sits on the seabed, and take an internal cable car ride through the ship building process with which the city of Belfast is so proud to be associated … and we learn that tragically, staff on iceberg watch were too busy sending telegrams to earn money from rich passengers to listen to the 80 incoming iceberg warnings.” Follow Jaillan on Twitter @SavoirThere

Greg Vaughn’s blog, Wanders & Wonders, is about travel and photography, with ideas of places to visit and information to help you take better photographs while you are there. In his post, Washington State Parks Anniversary, he shares some really beautiful images from around these lovely parks. Follow Greg on Twitter @thatGregVaughn

Øystein and Otto are photojournalists, who are enjoying blogging the stories that, from experience,  they know won’t sell, but which are often the most interesting such as the moving story of Loida from Malawi. “The country girl is recovering from fistula, the most devastating and serious of all childbirth injuries. She was 16 when it happened. Her mother didn’t want her to deliver in hospital, but rather use the traditional birth attendant in the village. Loida’s body was small and the baby was big; far too big for the girl to be able to deliver it.” Read Otto’s post A Question of Dignity to find out how Loida’s life was initially devastated, then turned around and how she is now helping others to do the same. Follow Øystein and Otto on Twitter @verdensglimt

I’ll be looking out for more interesting or unusual travel blog posts throughout April. If you spot any captivating stories or stunning photographs from independent travel bloggers please do let me know by leaving a comment below or you can send me a tweet @travelwithkat

* Photo of Dry Falls Lake, Washington, by Greg Vaughn

 By Kathryn Burrington

From a women’s co-operative in Jordan to a couple making a tandem bungy jump on Valentine’s Day, it has been an interesting and exciting month for the travel blogging community. Here are a few of the stories that caught my eye over the past four weeks.

In The Giving Lens Gives Back in Jordan Jenny Freedman describes her visit to a women’s co-operative group in Jordan. “Fifty women were originally chosen to learn the skills of weaving, paper work and pottery … In 2001, they became the Iraq Al-Amir Women’s Co-Operative Society with the purpose of keeping their culture alive, protecting the environment and supporting the ladies from the village.” Her post is illustrated with some lovely photographs, especially of the village children. More photographs can be seen in a later post The Children of Jordan’s Al-Amir Village. Sadly, due to the drop in tourism to the area this fascinating and much needed co-operative is struggling to survive. Follow Jenny on Twitter @atasteoftravel

Andi Perullo recently posted a colourful description, with some interesting photographs, of Palermo Soho, one of her favourite neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. Andi comments “In the 1980s, the area’s combination of cobblestone tree-lined streets and bohemian vibe was recognized and thus it was renamed after the entertainment district of SoHo in New York City … Palermo Soho is best described as creative, chic and cool. It is quite easy to lose several hours of your day simply people watching and window shopping in this barrio.” Follow Andi on Twitter @AndiPerullo

“Here’s the surprising thing about bungy: it’s not anything like we expected. It’s a rush. We expected that. It’s terrifying. We expected that. But the bounce (it’s not a snap, by the way) at the bottom is soft and elastic and actually a lot of fun, particularly when you pop up and down a few times and realize that you’ve in fact survived and can enjoy an upside-down view of turquoise water and stunning ravine below.” See Daniel and Audrey’s full account of leaping from Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown, New Zealand, in their post A tandem bungy jump on Valentine’s Day. Follow Daniel and Audrey on Twitter @umarket

Following a number of recent tragic events, women’s solo travel has been a hot topic this month. Mariellen Ward’s post Ode to the lady traveller addresses some of the issues raised and promotes a new movement in support of women’s solo travel. “Women have been travelling and exploring the world alone for generations, maybe longer. Alexandra David-Néel walked into Lhasa, Tibet, disguised as a man in 1924, when it was closed to foreigners, and lived in a cave in Sikkim… In this day and age there are thousands, perhaps millions, of women travelling the globe solo, and many of them are travel bloggers like myself. We are the new ‘lady travellers’. But the recent tragic death of a young American woman in Turkey, and a vicious and much-publicized gang rape in Delhi, has some people wondering if women should be travelling alone. To this, we say WeGoSolo!” Read Mariellen’s post to find out more about this new movement, “and how it is supporting and encouraging women to travel safely. And why travel, and travelling solo, is not the problem.” Follow Mariellen on Twitter @BreatheDreamGo and the hashtag #WeGoSolo.

* I’ll be looking out for more interesting or unusual travel blog posts throughout March. If you spot any captivating stories or stunning photographs from independent travel bloggers please do let me know by leaving a comment below or you can send me a tweet @travelwithkat

* Photo credits: Jenny Freedman, AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand

 By Kathryn Burrington

From close encounters with wildlife on freezing Arctic ice floes or the heat and dust of Africa to some of the most unusual traditions and places we ever heard of, there has been a wonderful variety of interesting and quirky travel posts this month.

In her post An Arctic Encounter with a Polar Bear, Ruth Clifford describes her magical and surprisingly intimate encounter with a polar bear. “Slipping back into the water, it swims closer and closer, until it clambers out onto a large ice floe directly below the ship. I lean over the side and there it is. We stare at each other, this magnificent creature and I. Its black nose sniffs suspiciously and its long tongue flicks out to taste our scent on the frozen air. Every strand of its sea-slicked fur shines luminescent in the sunlight.” Be sure to visit Ruth’s post to see more of her lovely photographs. Follow Ruth on Twitter @ruthc88

If you were to tell your friends and family that you were going to visit the Indian/Pakistan border they’d probably tell you not to go. That was precisely why blogging duo Captain and Clark didn’t tell anyone before they went to do just that. As it turns out, the closing ceremony at the border is a fascinating, if somewhat bemusing, event to witness.

“It seemed like we were gearing up for an NFL football game, not an intense showdown between the two countries … Once we were seated, a line of flamboyantly dressed border guards appeared. Looking as stoic as ever, one approached the microphone … He took one deep, long breath … He screamed into the microphone for what seemed like ages … They were having a glorified scream off. If that wasn’t bizarre enough, the immense showcase of bravado that followed was almost unbelievable.” To find out just how bizarre the closing ceremony got, check out their video of an extreme showdown at the Pakistan Border. Follow Chris and Tawny on Twitter @CaptainandClark

Theodora, from London, has been travelling with her young son for the last three years or so. She recently wrote an interesting and honest post about how she found herself having a tricky conversion with her guide, on the trek back from Everest base camp. “We are on the last-but-one night of our trek … so, if I’m going to ask Nir any personal questions, I’m going to ask them now. ‘How old were you when you got married? ‘ Nir giggles. ‘Fifteen’ he says. ‘Oh,’ I say. ‘And your wife?’ ‘Oh,’ he says. ‘She was little! Eleven or twelve.’

Child marriage is an emotive subject and a very difficult conversational topic for two people from such opposing cultural backgrounds. You can find out how Theodora and Zac, who is just 12 years old himself, handled the situation by reading Theodora’s open and thought-provoking post, On Thin Ice. Follow Theodora on Twitter @EscapeArtistes.

It’s great to see that Zac is also blogging in his own right as the Kidventurer.

During a long, dusty and extremely bumpy motorbike ride, adventurer Brendan wonders whether his final destination will be worth the strain on his body and his bike, as recounted in his evocative post about Mole National Park. “Unlike the roads through rural Burkina Faso which were filled with holes and sections of sand, this dirt road is hard packed but lined with unrelenting waves of bumps. It’s the type of road that makes you long for potholes and mud. The vibration of the path has worn on my mood, my body and even on Anne Murray who has caught a serious cold, and is now surging along sporadically as if she is gasping for air or fuel.”

Brendan continues: “The gates of Mole National Park stand tall with paintings of elephants, warthogs and baboons … I immediately realize that this is somewhere special.” Find out why the ride was more than worthwhile in his post Poolside Elephants at Mole National Park. Follow Brendan on Twitter @brendanvanson

If you are a fan of the unusual or the macabre check out Hayley’s post, which is illustrated by some surreal photographs, about The Bone Church near Prague. “The church is extensively decorated with bones … it’s almost a morbid Christmas grotto; with chains of bones drooped across the walls like tinsel. The key feature is the impressive chandelier in the centre of the church, creatively made with every bone in the human body.” Well worth visiting if you are in the area. Follow Hayley on Twitter @xXFlutterbyXx

I’ll be looking out for more interesting or unusual travel blog posts throughout February. If you spot any captivating stories or stunning photographs from independent travel bloggers please do let me know by leaving a comment below or you can send me a tweet @travelwithkat

* Editor’s note: Kathryn is far too modest to mention her own blog, but check out her gallery of photos on the theme of Serendipity. Which is your favourite?

* Polar bear photo by Ruth Clifford via Bald Hiker

 By Kathryn Burrington

From picturesque walks in the Turkish countryside to death-defying white-water rafting (without a raft) in Finland, we’ve discovered a wonderful collection of travel posts published in December.

On Travel Unpacked, Gordon Lethbridge tells how he joined a bunch of adventurous locals in what I can only describe as utter madness. “On previous visits to Finland in winter I had seen the craziness of the Finns. They carve a swimming pool out of ice and then have races in it wearing a woolly ensemble of hat, gloves and socks with their Speedos. They plunge naked into freezing lakes or roll about in the snow in the buff after a sauna. Now I was joining a bunch of Finnish crazies who were about to voluntarily jump into a river fully clothed in the middle of a Nordic winter.” Did he survive in one piece. Read My Finnish Madness to find out. Follow Gordon on Twitter @Lethers

Anita MacKinnon had a different kind of adventure beneath the waves of the Caribbean Sea. The most memorable day of her recent visit to Barbados was when she had the opportunity to swim with turtles. “They are magnificent. Slowly, first one, then another … big prehistoric looking turtles started swimming our way …  At one stage, I felt like I was surfing a turtle as he swam right under me and started to rise towards the surface.” If you are thinking of making this experience your own, Anita covers all the practicalities in a separate post about swimming with turtles in Barbados. Follow Anita on Twitter @wheretogoAM

For more great underwater photography, check out photography student Suzy Walker’s stunning images on her post Best Photos 2012, a collection of her images taken at numerous locations around the world. If I had to pick a favourite it would be her shot of a clown fish, which Suzy titled Operatic Nemo. “This little guy looked like he was singing an aria for me (in deep baritone),” she writes. Follow Suzy on Twitter @scuba_suzy

Back on dry land, Walking into December, on the blog Back to Bodrum, gives a fleeting glimpse of life in the Turkish countryside as it changes with the seasons along the author’s favourite local walk. “The route never gets monotonous. Last month, the fields were still brown and frazzled, last week they were busy with tractors ploughing and bee hives being unloaded and this week, everyone is out picking olives.” This is a fascinating portrait of a Bodrum that will be unfamiliar to the thousands of tourists that descend on the resort each summer.

There have been some great posts about Christmas celebrations around the world. I particularly enjoyed Jeff Titelius’ In Search of Christmas: Celebrating Italian Christmas Traditions. As well as outlining the main traditions of the season including the tale of La Befana, the good Christmas witch, he also covers where to find the loveliest presepi (Nativity scenes) and the best Christmas markets. Follow Jeff on Twitter @EuroTravelogue

I’m sure 2013 will see many more travellers set off on their own journeys of discovery, blogging as they go. If you spot any captivating stories or stunning photographs from independent travel bloggers, please share them by commenting below or by sending me a tweet @travelwithkat using the hashtag #greattravelposts.

By Kathryn Burrington

Thousands of new travel blogs are launched every year, as adventurers set off to explore the world and – perhaps – to build a group of online followers. While we love travel blogs, the sheer volume of words and images uploaded every day makes it almost impossible to keep up. So, in order to sort the wheat from the chaff, we’ve selected 15 of the best recently-launched blogs – and a couple more established ones – that we feel you should be following in 2013.

1. Time Travel Turtle

What it is: Michael Turtle, a former broadcast journalist from Australia, marries great writing with evocative photography.

Why we like it: Michael covers a huge range of topics including light-hearted posts from how to make the perfect gin and tonic in Spain to what it’s like to drive a Lamborghini around the Imola race track. Then there are more serious, eye-opening articles covering the realities of life in Rio’s slums and the ethics of orangutan tourism. His years of experience as a journalist shine through as he delves deep to the heart of the story.

Read the blog: Time Travel Turtle. Follow Michael on Twitter @MichaelTurtle

2. Notes of Nomads

What it is: Jessica and her photographer husband, Hai, both from Australia, have lived and travelled in numerous countries and continents and now blog from their base in Tokyo.

Why we like it: From the colourful celebrations of the Nebuta Festival or swimming with pink dolphins in the Amazon to spur-of-the-moment hiking in the Himalayas, Jessica and Hai share a wonderful collection of travel adventures. For the last three years, following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, they have been based in Japan and have become quite involved with the rebuilding of Tohoku, both volunteering and raising funds.

Read the blog: Notes of Nomads. Follow Jessica on Twitter @NotesofNomads

3. Globe Trotter Girls

What it is: Another great combination of a writer travelling with a photographer, Jessica and Dani have been house-sitting, blogging and travelling as they go for more than two years, successfully combining full-time work with full-time travel.

Why we like it: Their blog is full of fascinating and sometimes moving stories, such as watching the arribada in Costa Rica, when hordes of turtles crawl out of the sea to lay their eggs, and a visit to the spectacularly strange White Temple of Chiang Rai in Thailand. They also cover issues affecting gay and lesbian travellers, and their series of On a Shoestring posts has some useful tips, even if you don’t consider yourself a budget traveller.

Read the blog: Globe Trotter Girls. Follow Jessica and Dani on Twitter @GlbetrotterGrls

4. Mrs O Around the World

What it is: If luxury travel is more your style then head over to the blog of Ana Silva O’Reilly, which is bursting with sassy tips and opinion.

Why we like it: Here you’ll discover where to find great cocktails with a stunning roof-top view in Barcelona or the perfect hotel in Rio de Janeiro. This likeable blog is bursting with great tips on the best places to stay, eat and shop whether in Sao Paulo, Dublin or Cape Town.

Read the blog: Mrs O Around the World. Follow Ana on Twitter @mrsoaroundworld

5. Accidental Epicurean

What it is: Born in North Carolina, Joanna now lives in Shanghai and writes about the finer things in life, whether intentionally sought-out or stumbled upon by chance.

Why we like it: Joanna uncovers such exotica as Belgian beers with mussels and frites in Singapore, the best restaurants in Tokyo, the luxurious spas of Shanghai and how to shop like a local in Bangkok. She points you in the direction of the best in high-class living, avoiding unnecessary pretence and with a keen eye on value.

Read the blog: Accidental Epicurean. Follow Joanna on Twitter @accepicurean

6. Bare Feet

What it is: Mickela Mallozzi is a dancer and traveller experiencing the world one dance at a time.

Why we like it: Mickela shares her joy of dance and her passion for exploring local customs and traditions. Whether learning La Bomba in Puerto Rico or trying out clogging in Virginia her energy and enthusiasm are beautifully captured in her videos, which clearly demonstrate how dance is a crucial aspect of so many cultures throughout the world.

Read the blog: Bare Feet. Follow on Twitter @TravelBareFeet.

7. Destination Unknown

What it is: Kellie Netherwood left her job, family and friends in London for 15 months of travel, adventure and blogging. She has now returned to work but still travels when she can and is planning a second career break.

From eating spiders’ legs in Cambodia to volunteering in Bolivia, Kellie has written many eye-opening stories, supported by strong photography. At the end of this year she is off on another adventure in which she’ll be taking part in the polar plunge, that is to say, jumping into the sub-zero waters of the Antarctica for charity. In 2013 she is planning to quit work again for a photography workshop in Tasmania and a visit to the Arctic.

Read the blog: Destination Unknown. Follow Kellie on Twitter @DestnUnknown

8. Leah Travels

What it is: Tales by a girl from Texas with a severe case of wanderlust, sharing her thoughts about the people she meets and the places she visits.

Why we like it: Leah Walker’s blog has an eye-catching design which shows off her colourful photographs a treat. She has a friendly, approachable style that can be sometimes moving, often witty and always easy to read, as she demonstrates in her post Travel Through the Eyes of a First-Time Flyer.

She’s currently coming to the end of a whirlwind tour of Europe and her plans for early next year include Switzerland and Colorado. From there … who knows!

Read the blog: Leah Travels. Follow Leah on Twitter @L_e_a_h

9. I’m Not Home

What it is: Maddy and Steve from Tasmania travel the globe, guitar in hand, looking to discover the bizarre and the unusual.

Why we like it: With travel misadventures such as how not to eat laksa in Kuala Lumpar and images that will make you fall in love with Canada, this blog is a wonderful collection of useful travel tips and interesting personal accounts. Particular highlights for us included walking through an ancient rainforest and a sitar lesson in India.

Read the blog: I’m Not Home. Follow Maddy and Steve on Twitter @ImNotHome1

10. Chasing the Unexpected

What it is: Travel writer Angela Corrias blogs about her native Sardinia as well as many other wonderful places around the world.

Why we like it: Intriguing stories of giants and fairies and stones that make music bring to life Sardinia’s rich heritage, which is steeped in mystery and folklore in Angela’s beautiful blog. Her journey doesn’t end there, as she regularly travels throughout Europe and further afield. Whether studying Mandarin in Shanghai or revelling in the natural wonders of Brazil she is always chasing the unexpected.

Read the blog: Chasing the Unexpected. Follow Angela on Twitter @angelacorrias

11. Finding the Universe

What it is: Incredible photographs and quirky tales from passionate, long-term traveller and writer Laurence Norah.

Why we like it: Laurence’s blog revolves around his stunning photographs from all over the world, including a one year exploration of New Zealand describing scenic drives, and hobbit hunting in the land of Mordor. He also gives out excellent tips on photography, blogging and technology. Laurence will soon be heading off to Thailand and at some point in 2013 returning to travel around more of Europe.

Read the blog: Finding the Universe. Follow Laurence on Twitter @Lozula

12. Wild About Travel

What it is: Solo travel addict, Simon Falvo, shares her experiences, emotions and travel inspiration.

Why we like it: An attractive site with great photos, it’s a pleasure to read and easy to find your way around. Simon enjoys everything from adventure travel to art and culture and is equally at home in the wilderness or off the beaten path in Pesche, an enchanting hamlet in Molise, as she is on a wild photo tour of ancient Rome. She will soon be setting off on a new journey travelling across New Zealand until the end of February.

Read the blog: Wild About Travel. Follow Simon on Twitter @1steptotheleft

13. Green Global Travel

What it is: News, tips, stories and advice on all matters related to conservation and eco-tourism.

Why we like it: Bret and Mary describe themselves as two adventurers with a passion for eco-tourism, conservation and culture, saving the planet one story at a time. With posts such as an interview with Jean-Michel Cousteau on his father’s legacy and the future of marine conservation we learn how each of us can help to protect our planet’s precious habitats and the wonderful creatures within them.

Read the blog: Green Global Travel. Follow Bret and Mary on Twitter @GreenGlobalTrvl

14. Monkeys and Mountains

What it is: Laurel Robbins, is a Canadian now living and blogging from Germany, sharing her thirst for new experiences.

Why we like it: Laurel is as happy pretending to be a princess in a German castle as she on an adrenalin-fuelled adventure jumping off mountains and diving with sharks. Her passion for life clearly shows in her writing.

Laurel has many exciting plans for next year including diving with the world’s fastest shark (Mako) in the Azores, observing endangered primates in their natural habitat in Africa and hiking the Zugpspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain.

Read the blog: Monkeys and Mountains. Follow Laurel on Twitter @Laurel_Robbins

15. Eating Asia

What it is: A food and travel blog by freelance writer Robyn Eckhardt and photographer David Hagerman, based in Penang, Malaysia.

Why we like it: The colourful food photography is superb, as is the writing, and I challenge you not to feel hungry if you check out where to find great street food in Siem Reap or the kitchens of Chengdu. With posts on fascinating culinary traditions, unusual food finds and some exquisite recipes, this blog should come with a warning, as reading this will seriously taunt your taste buds.

Next year Robyn and David will be road tripping in Turkey as well as visiting Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Cambodia, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Read the blog: Eating Asia. Follow Robyn on Twitter @EatingAsia

About our writer

Kathryn Burrington has worked in the travel industry for more than 16 years as a designer, photographer and writer. Her photographs are regularly published in the national press and have been exhibited at the Royal Photographic Society in Bath. As well as her own blog, Travel With Kat, Kathryn writes a monthly Best Travel Posts column for 101 Holidays.

By Kathryn Burrington

From jet packs in Mexico to Hobbit tours of New Zealand, my travel blog reading in November took me on new and exciting journeys.

A story I found both fascinating and moving was Alice Jackman’s post about teaching children in Cambodia. Alice leads us on an emotional journey starting from her first, somewhat naive steps taking the initial decision to volunteer. When she hears that the school where she will be teaching is attached to the Cambodia Landmine Museum she starts to realise the enormity of the challenge she has taken on.

Her inspirational article gives us a glimpse of life as a volunteer. It also highlights the obstacles Cambodia’s most vulnerable children face and the great work that projects like this are doing to ensure that the children get the help they need to overcome these challenges.

In his post, 5 Quirky Things to Do in Cancun, Raymond Walsh shares some unusual reasons to visit the area, including snorkelling over the city’s Underwater Museum. There you can discover more than 450 statues on the seabed, in what must be a surreal experience. Cancun also offers adventurous travellers the chance to strap on a jet pack and learn to fly, perform somersaults and land, apparently in just a few minutes. Follow Raymond on Twitter @manonthelam1

Bride’s Pool: a tragic tale by James Louie is a wonderful narrative about a hike with his father to find a waterfall in Hong Kong. James’s expressive writing accompanied by some atmospheric photography brings the experience to life beautifully. I particularly like his image ‘A jungle stream’ (pictured above left) which draws me in and makes me want to scramble across the rocks to discover the next beautiful scene that may be around the corner. Follow James on Twitter @james_ultra

Have you ever imagined yourself as Laurence of Arabia riding a fine Arabian horse through the desert? Erin McNeaney, from the blog Never Ending Voyage, did just that and shares it in her post Wadi Rum on Horseback. Her vivid description of this thrilling experience (above right) makes me really quite envious. Follow Never Ending Voyage on Twitter @NevEndingVoyage.

My favourite post published in November, however, was Laurence Norah’s photographic tour of Hobbiton near the town of Matamata in New Zealand. With some beautiful images of the famous party tree, the mill, the Green Dragon Pub and, of course, Bilbo Baggins’ home, Bag End, this is a fascinating insight into some of the work and loving attention to detail that goes into the making of films such as the Lord of the Rings. I’m sure this will be a popular tour for those visiting the area. Follow Laurence on Twitter @Lozula.

* Don’t forget to let me know if you come across any great posts from independent travel bloggers next month. I’d love to hear from you so please either leave a comment here or tweet me @travelwithkat using the hashtag #besttravelposts

By Esme Fox

Famed for its food and its hedonistic lifestyle, Bangkok is a city of contradictions, where you can hide out with Buddhist monks in a secluded temple or shop for the latest designer products in some of the world’s most luxurious malls. Our pick of the 10 best Bangkok blogs showcases every aspect of this diverse city, from its legendary nightlife to its unique culture and excellent shopping. And – inevitably – focussing heavily on the Thai capital’s mouth-watering cuisine.

Thai Travel Blogs

What it is: An all encompassing Bangkok and Thailand travel blog by full-time travel blogger and expat Richard Barrow.

Why we like it: Richard is the king of Thai travel blogs, having set up a number of blogs covering everything from Bangkok news and events to food and Thai culture. Both informative and helpful for expats and travellers, Richard’s blogs are engaging and well written. His other blogs include Enjoy Thai Food and Bangkok Daytrips.

If you want to know what’s going on in Bangkok, then Richard is definitely the man to ask.

Read Thai Travel Blogs. Follow Richard on Twitter @RichardBarrow

Eating Out Loud

What it is: Sirin brings her talent and skills as a freelance writer and author to her blog about eating out in Bangkok.

Why we like it: Stylishly designed and well-crafted, with delectable food images and even better descriptions, Eating Out Loud takes you on a journey around some of Bangkok’s best restaurants. Sirin would definitely be the person you’d want with you when looking for a place to eat in the city.

Read Eating Out Loud. Follow Sirin on Twitter @OhSirin

Krungthep 101

What it is: French expat Willy Thuan, who has lived in Thailand since 1994, and Bangkok-born Faa share their recommendations on places to go in the city.

Why we like it: Combining Willy’s love of photography with restaurant and bar reviews, places to shop, travel tips and Bangkok attractions, this classic looking blog is a great Bangkok resource. The section on rooftop bars, showcasing some great fish-eye images of Bangkok’s swanky rooftop scene is especially good.

Read Krungthep 101. Follow Willy on Twitter @willythuan

Bangkok Glutton

What it is: The ultimate Bangkok street food blog by Thai-American journalist and author of Bangkok’s Top 50 Street Food Stalls, Chawadee Nualkhair.

Why we like it: Almost entirely dedicated to Bangkok’s street food scene, Chawadee has a talent for humorous storytelling, likening one Thai street vendor to an Asian Jack Sparrow. Having eaten at more than 150 of Bangkok’s food stalls, she really does know where to get the best cheap eats in the city. Her top tip is that the oldest food stalls are invariably the best ones, though it’s worth investing in her book if you want to find them all.

Read Bangkok Glutton. Follow Chawadee on Twitter @Bangkok Glutton

Bangkok Girl

What it is: Relatively new on the Bangkok blog scene, expat Anna details her life in the Big Mango.

Why we like it: Both personal and informative, Anna’s blog was named one of the Top Expat Blogs on Bangkok by InterNations, despite having only started it this year. Anna takes us on a journey as we see the city through her eyes for the first time, to local markets, restaurants, nightspots and temples.

Read Bangkok Girl. Follow Anna on Twitter @BangkokgirlBlog

Eating Thai Food

What it is: An amalgamation of images and descriptions of Bangkok’s renowned street food stalls, by American expats and self-confessed foodies Mark Wiens and Dwight Turner.

Why we like it: Offering restaurant reviews, food tips and recipes, these guys certainly know their stuff when it comes to Bangkok’s street food scene, and even offer foodie tours around the city. The blog’s array of excellent food images will have your mouth watering within seconds.

Read Eating Thai Food. Follow Mark and Dwight on Twitter @eatingthaifood

Austin Bush Photography

What it is: Another great Thai food blog from photographer and writer Austin Bush.

Why we like it: Having lived in Thailand since 1999 and authored the Lonely Planet Bangkok Encounter guidebook, Austin really knows Bangkok. His blog showcases his food photography skills, combined with well thought-out blog posts. But rather than posting restaurant or street food reviews, Austin’s blog focuses on the dishes themselves and how the locals make them. Particularly good is his recent post on the making of khanom tup tap – a type of Thai peanut brittle, accompanied by some excellent images.

Read Austin Bush Photography. Follow Austin on Twitter @austinbushphoto

Bangkok Beyond

What it is: A group effort by Bangkok based tour operator, Bangkok Beyond, which aims to offer travellers alternative experiences to lying on the beach.

Why we like it: It has vibrant colourful photography and engaging posts on a variety of topics including local attractions, things to do with kids and – yes, everyone’s favourite Bangkok topic – food. As the name suggests, the blog also has an array of posts on attractions beyond the city.

Read Bangkok Beyond. Follow Bangkok Beyond on Twitter @bangkokbeyond

1 Stop Bangkok

What it is: A group blog written by locals detailing Bangkok’s ever-changing nightlife scene.

Why we like it: You can’t have a list of Bangkok’s best blogs without one that mentions the thing that Bangkok is so infamous for. As the authors say, they “tell it like it is, the good, the bad and the sleazy”. The blog may be lacking in imagery, but it certainly makes up for it in informative, well-written posts that will not only tell you where to go on a night out, but also about local temples, museums and culture.

Read 1 Stop Bangkok

Riya’s Kitchen

What it is: A Bangkok food and restaurant blog by self-taught Thai cook Riya, blogging her way through a feast of her own recipes.

Why we like it: If, after your trip to Bangkok, you get a hankering for egg noodles with five-spice roast pork, then Riya’s blog is the place to come, where you can learn how to make it yourself. Riya’s step-by-step recipes have been handed down through the generations or concocted in her own kitchen. She also posts well-written restaurant and street food reviews.

Read Riya’s Kitchen

About our writer

Esme Fox grew up in the Philippines and Uganda and spent many family holidays in Thailand. She has travelled extensively throughout Southeast Asia and has found Thailand to be one of her favourite countries. When in Bangkok she can be found sampling some of the city’s best street food and exploring the backwaters of the Chao Phraya River to find hidden temples.

Esme has written for a number of travel magazines and websites and has also written part of a Time Out guidebook to Argentina and Uruguay. Visit her website and follow her on Twitter @EsmeFox

By Rooksana Hossenally

It’s easy to fall in love with Barcelona. The Catalan capital is so rich in culture, cuisine, shopping, nightlife and natural beauty that visitors can soon find themselves seduced by the tapas bars, the nightclubs, the beachfront xiringitos and the maze of streets in the Ciudad Vella.

However, to find the authentic beating heart of this magical, beguiling city, we have turned to some of the people that know it best – the city’s bloggers. Here’s our pick of the 10 best.

Best of Barcelona

What it is: different angles on how to explore the city written by a local and possibly Barcelona’s biggest fan, Javier Castillo

Why we like it: Javier provides the inside track on Barcelona’s foodie scene, whether you want to sample the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants or sip on an Estrella while watching a football match. He also writes about art and culture, sharing his impressions of the latest exhibitions and explaining key festivals such as San Jordi Day.

Read Best of Barcelona

Barcelona Sights

What it is: a great little secret to be kept up your sleeve when heading for Barcelona, written since 2008 by David Brydon

Why we like it: never losing stamina, David is inexhaustible on his suggestions of things to do and see. The blog is especially good for frequent Barcelona visitors looking to explore outside of their usual comfort zone, whether it’s for nuggets of information like where to find the latest Mango outlet, or below the radar places to visit, such as the city’s Greek amphitheatre.

Read Barcelona Sights. David’s also on Twitter: @BCN_Dave

Forever Barcelona

What it is: Marta, a Barcelona tour guide, shares her favourite places to eat and things to see

Why we like it: whether you’re looking for somewhere special to eat on a Sunday evening, want advice on the best place to stay on one of Barcelona most expensive streets, the Passeig de Gracia, the best apps to download before you head off, local autumn traditions to follow, or the best day trips to take from Barcelona, Marta reveals top quality insider knowledge.

Read Forever Barcelona and follow the writers on Twitter.

Barcelona street scraps

What it is: a blog about Barcelona’s street art written by Brian, an expat who has been living in the city for eight years.

Why we like it: street art is a fundamental part of a city’s psyche, and documenting it on a blog provides visitors with another way to get under the skin of Barcelona. Brian’s captions include the location of each piece of street art, which gives the reader another way to explore the city’s lesser-visited neighbourhoods.

Read Barcelona street scraps

Fleas and dogs in Barcelona

What it is: A fun and witty blog written by Indian-born Prithika, who reveals things that don’t make it into the mainstream travel press.

Why we like it: the author’s quirky approach to the city is summarised in its tagline, “If you want the dog, accept the fleas”. Prithika’s passion for the offbeat aspects of Barelona shines through and she writes about anything from the locals’ bizarre bathroom habits to emblematic conversations she has overheard.

Read Fleas and dogs in Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona

What it is: written by blogger, Harriet Freeman, this is a one-stop shop about partying and foodie treats.

Why we like it: Harriet shares tips on where to stay, what to do, where to go out in the evenings, where to eat and how to stay healthy. Slightly off the beaten track, she tells us all kinds of interesting facts like where good wine comes from in the city, how All Saints’ Day is celebrated, and where to find authentic Catalan tapas in a city that has, like most, adapted to a wider European taste in the most touristy areas of the city centre.

Read Things to do in Barcelona

From Barcelona

What it is: Jeremy Holland shares his experience of the city after having spent an extended period of time living in Barcelona.

Why we like it: while this blog won’t give you the entire breakdown of what to see and do in the city, it will give you a taste for the expat life and show you what to look out for culturally and sociologically. One of the guest posts on the blog is by an expat who no longer lives in the city, and shares the things he misses most about the city, which is a neat introduction to Barcelona’s key attractions.

Read From Barcelona and follow Jeremy on Twitter.

Oh Barcelona

What it is: an all-round travel guide about Barcelona’s more conventional must-see sights

Why we like it: although the blog might not have as much soul as the others on our list, it’s got information about every possible thing to visit in the city, from the Sagrada Familia to where to stay and the latest news, like Barcelona’s new tourism tax. A must for any first-time visitor who likes to plan ahead.

Read Oh Barcelona and follow the writers on Twitter.

The Spain Scoop

What it is: a blog focussing on everything from food, where to stay and everything else in between written by American traveller, Nancy, and a team of contributors.

Why we like it: the blog’s focus is on Spain, but it has an elaborate section on Barcelona, where you can know more about where to stay in the city, where to eat, what to see and various events. While the blog’s content is fairly mainstream, it is a great place to come for the Barcelona virgin who is a little cautious about jumping in at the deep end.

Read The Spain Scoop and follow the writers on Twitter.

La Tortuga Viajera

What it is: A fun blog about top foodie experiences written by Erin, a huge travel enthusiast.

Why we like it: Erin shares all her favourite places to eat and drink well in various destinations throughout Spain and the Barcelona section offers a good balance of local below the radar experiences and more touristy things to try that will be in most trusty guidebooks. We like the fact that not only does she give us insight into the places she has visited but she also tells us a little bit about their background and history.

Read La Tortuga Viajera and follow Erin on Twitter.

About our writer

 Rooksana Hossenally (aka @rooksanah) has lived in Barcelona and regularly toys with the idea of returning to the city to live happily ever after. Being a complete travel addict she is hard to track down, but when she isn’t halfway across the world, she can be found in Paris, where she currently lives and works. Deputy editor and writer at Easyvoyage.co.uk, she has collaborated with various other publications including The New York Times, the International Herald Tribune and Dazed Digital.

By Sarah Caddy

With more than 4.6 million people living in Sydney, you’d expect a fair few blogging enthusiasts. Our pick of the city’s 10 best bloggers are the Sydneysiders that regularly provide the greatest insight – whether you’re an expat looking for hidden local nooks, a foodie in search of the best places to eat, or a family in the hunt for a great day out.

1. The All-Seeing Eye

What it is: Julie, now retired, has been blogging since 2007 and combines her twin loves of education and her native city in Sydney Eye.

Why we like it: They say a picture can paint a thousand words and this blogger keeps her text tight and her images and videos clear and well chosen. If you’re looking to find those treasure troves that other visitors might not see, this is the blog for you. Check out Wurrungwuri for a good example of how Julie adds context to the sculpture at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Good for impressing your friends with your knowledge (if they’re not too busy watching the bat-ridden trees).

Read Sydney Eye

2. ChocolateSuze and Noodlies

What it is: a two-for-one foodie heaven.

Why we like it: Technically separate blogs, but you feel instantly part of the family with Susan and Thang. Not only do they love food so much they’re willing to trash their wedding outfits in a cake-off, but when read together, their blogs build the perfect (and entertaining) picture of where to head for the tastiest Sydney nights out (Grain Bar at the Four Seasons had us salivating). And they take the credibility of their blogs seriously – here’s Thang on Weekend Sunrise talking about a blogger’s code of ethics.

Read ChocolateSuze and Noodlies. Follow them on Twitter: @chocolatesuze and @thangngo

3. Walk Sydney’s Streets

What it is: Australia’s ‘Forrest Gump’ walked every street in Sydney’s suburbs – and here’s the blog to prove it.

Why we like it: It may not be the swishest of sites, or have real-time information, but this is one blog that really tugs on the heart strings. Although avid walker Alan Waddell died in 2008 aged 94, the Sydney streets that he loved still maintain their intrigue – why does one of Abbotsford’s streets have two names? You can find out here – and literally follow in Alan’s footsteps.

Read Walk Sydney’s Streets

4. Sydney Street Style

What it is: Luke Rallings, aka Sydney Street Style

Why we like it: Keen to pass as a Sydneysider? This sartorial blog tells you all you need to know about fitting in with the style for the season in which you’re travelling. Posting images of the fashion that catches his eye, Sydney Street Style keeps it simple, yet effective. And he’s on Tumblr too: http://sydstreetstyle.tumblr.com/

Read Sydney Street Style. Follow Luke on Twitter: @SydStreetStyle

5. Sydney, Kids, Food and Travel

What it is: Scotland-born Seana shares her family-friendly Sydney places.

Why we like it: Seana’s down-to-earth writing has earned her plenty of book deals (including Sydney’s Best Beaches: For Kids). Her blog is full of practical insights for a family day out (including opening times and web links) and includes a handy menu bar for Museums, Beaches, Walks with Kids and Accommodation to help you plan ahead of your trip to the city. Mini Mariners day at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour is a top recommendation.

Read Sydney, Kids, Food and Travel. Follow Seana on Twitter: @Seana_Smith

6. Sydneysiderblog.com

What it is: A no-holds-barred take on what it means to be a Sydney native

Why we like it: Sydneysider Harry Renwick has character. Whether he’s filling you in on the city’s festivals, bars, or religion, he is always an entertaining (if not wholly reverential) read. Follow him to taste the sharp end of a Sydneysider’s wit. It’ll give you something to talk about over the barbie at least.

Read Sydneysiderblog.com

7. The New Edge

What it is: An expat’s take on life in Sydney

Why we like it: Have moved from Kuala Lumpur to Sydney in 2010, this anonymous blogger shares her insights and comparisons with a level of description that is helpful to those visiting the city for the first time. This entry on the Kalkari Discovery Centre at Bobbin Head – best known for kangaroo spotting – is a favourite and includes tips on an easy bushwalk and where to take your picnic in the sunshine.

Read The New Edge

8. Things Aussies Like

What it is: A helpful guide to all things Aussie

Why we like it: Offering less traditional insight than your average guidebook, Things Aussies Like is a blog based on the real experience of an American, Amy, who arrived in Sydney almost a decade ago and wanted to fit in. Don’t want to be a ‘blow in’ either? Then check out the guide to Sydney slang and get down with the Bikies.

Read Things Aussies Like

 9. 52Suburbs

What it is: Louise Hawson’s artistic insight into every Sydney suburb

Why we like it: While the artistic vision to photograph every Sydney suburb was eventually turned into a book, we think this blog provides a great first taste of the area you’ve chosen to visit. Use it as a supplementary source to picking your hotel, or for picking a picturesque day out. Go and visit the Darlinghurst Library as our top pick.

Read 52Suburbs. Follow Louise on Twitter @52suburbs

10. Food, Booze and Shoes

What it is: Eager eater Tina reviews the restaurants, events and festivals that shape her Sydney life

Why we like it: You can never have too many restaurant and bar recommendations. Self-confessed boozehound and festival fiend Tina takes you right to the heart of the action with well-developed blog posts and thorough reviews on not only the experience of eating out, but on the gossip behind the Sydney restaurant chains. Reading her mouth-watering rendition of the Sydney International Food Festival gives you a real taste for being there.

Read Food, Booze and Shoes. Follow Tina on Twitter: @foodboozeshoes

About our writer

 Sarah Caddy (aka @caddster) has travelled extensively in Australia and beyond. When in Sydney, she can mostly be found sipping a cocktail (or two) at the retro Victoria Room in Darlinghurst. A keen writer, she provides guest blogs on theatre reviews as well as on African private equity.

By Kathryn Burrington

Is it my imagination or was there a glut of food-orientated travel blog posts this month? Not that I’m complaining. I love them (and write many myself) but I sometimes feel I’m putting on weight just reading them.

Many years ago I spent a wonderful week with my sister on the Amalfi coast. When I saw that Suzanne Courtney, who blogs as The Travel Bunny, was going there I knew that I would soon relive some happy memories through her posts. She didn’t disappoint and I now have an even deeper longing to return, in particular to visit the wonderful restaurant in Positano that Suzanne vividly describes. The combination of stunning coastal views, great food and a warm welcome from Peppi and mama sounds perfect. Follow Suzanne on Twitter @thetravelbunny

The second foodie post I’d like to share comes from Michael Turtle on his blog, Time Travel Turtle. Handle the heat or get out of the kitchen is a fascinating peep behind the scenes of the making of nasi gudeg in an Indonesian restaurant. His atmospheric photographs (above) illustrate his writing so very beautifully. Follow Michael on Twitter @michaelturtle.

Two great articles, about two families, running two very different traditional restaurants and both look wonderful.

After all that glorious food I think a little exercise is in order so why not follow me to the blog site of Nic Freeman and plunge over the edge of a canyon and into the icy waters of Grmecica, Slovenia. Nic’s post is another great tale of not letting your fears get the better of you; something I really admire. Watch the accompanying video for a glimpse of what you would be letting yourself in for if you were to follow in Nic’s footsteps on this adventure. Follow Nic on Twitter @NicFreeman

Other blogs caught my eye this month through their beautiful photographs. Firstly, Michael Housewright’s stunning and dramatic pictures of one of the USA’s many national parks in his post Yosemite The California Move. Follow Michael on Twitter @BlissAdventure.

Secondly, some wonderful portraits by Russ Taylor in Himachal Pradesh – Men at Work (and Play) showing men from various villages of the area, both working and relaxing with friends. A wonderful glimpse of everyday life. Follow Russ on Twitter @nomadruss.

Yet more striking images can be found on Michael (there seems to be a glut of Michaels too) and Larissa’s post A glimpse behind the security wall in Israel; these photographs of murals form a collection of powerful scenes that speak for themselves. Follow Changes in Longitude on Twitter @Changes_Long.

* Don’t forget to let me know if you come across any great posts from independent travel bloggers next month. I’d love to hear from you so please either leave a comment here or tweet me @travelwithkat using the hashtag #besttravelposts

By Mike Gerrard

Paris is the city that’s got everything – including a blogger on every boulevard. Many Paris bloggers are expats and – in most cases – they retain an enthusiasm for this very special city, which locals can sometimes get blasé about. With its reputation for great food and fashion, gorgeous architecture, romance and style, Paris provides inspiration on a daily basis.

Here we select the 10 Best Paris Bloggers. These are the writers that know the city best and continue to find new things to say in entertaining ways, whether their subject be fashion, food, shopping or the city itself.

Check out our tips for other holiday destinations in France.

1. Invisible Paris

What it is: Adam, who keeps himself partly invisible too while loving to uncover the real secrets of the city.

Why we like it: It’s a refreshing back-to-basics blog, with one column, a sidebar, and a focus. The focus is to show the city’s hidden side, which can sometimes be a cliché, but not here. Adam leads guided tours as well as writing his blog, and he has a sharp eye and a curiosity, both of which lead him to come up with surprising stories like the strange case of the poisonous shoes, or accidental art. Other stories like the mysterious man on a tall ladder come from his site visitors setting him a challenge to solve a mystery, while Adam’s enjoyment of walking in the city at night produce some well-written musings.

Read Invisible Paris.

 2. Secrets of Paris

What it is: American Heather Stimmler-Hall has been blogging about Paris since before blogs were invented.

Why we like it: Heather’s blog-cum-newsletter has been packing in information about Paris since it began in 2001, and it’s aimed at English-speaking Parisians as well as visitors. This means that the visitors get the benefit of practical tips and up-to-the-minute news that have to be 100% accurate. Heather’s fun style can be inferred from the title of the book she wrote in 2008, Naughty Paris: A Lady’s Guide to the Sex City.

Read Secrets of Paris. Follow Heather on Twitter.

3. Eye Prefer Paris

What it is: Ex-New Yorker Richard Nahem shows why he lives in the Marais and not Manhattan.

Why we like it: As a tour guide too, Richard has an eye for detail and a healthy number of entertaining guest bloggers writing for him as well. Quirky but fascinating regulars like Door of the Month and Parisian Dessert of the Month make the blog that bit different, as do the fun stories on things Richard spots around the city, like the latest Métro posters.

Read Eye Prefer Paris.

4. Entrée to Black Paris

What it is: Monique Y. Wells covers a fascinating niche subject – black history, culture and contemporary life in Paris.

Why we like it: Specialist passions make for some of the best blogs, and the relationship of Paris with its black population (for better or worse) provides some stimulating reading. Monique doesn’t just cover the well-documented ground of black writers, musicians and other artists in Paris’s past, like Chester Himes and Josephine Baker, but keeps it current by interviewing black chefs, lawyers and other prominent figures.

Read Entrée to Black Paris

 5. Unlock Paris

What it is: Ex-Londoner Kim Laidlaw Adrey still enjoys Paris after nine years of living there and three years blogging about it.

Why we like it: Not the most prolific of bloggers, Kim only blogs when she has something to say but what she does cover she covers thoroughly like this review of a new restaurant. Mostly she provides news of gallery openings, festivals, food and drink news, shopping, and even new hairdressers, but always written with both flair and attention to detail, which is why Kim also writes for the BBC and Condé Nast.

Read Unlock Paris. Follow Kim Laidlaw Adrey on Twitter.

 6. David Lebovitz

What it is: David Lebovitz is the blogger’s blogger, the writer who is named whenever Paris bloggers are asked to choose the best Paris blog.

Why we like it: David was a professional chef in the USA for many years, and a published author long before he started his blog. He therefore knows what he’s writing about, and knows how to write it. His descriptions are as mouth-watering as the photographs he uses, and his blog includes recipes, cookbook reviews, and essays on everything from fig chutney to pickled turnips.

Read David Lebovitz. Follow David on Twitter.

7. Chocolate and Zucchini

What it is: Clotilde Dusoulier is one of the best foodie bloggers, her posts exuding enthusiasm for her favourite subject.

Why we like it: Clotilde’s personality is stamped all over her writing, and she comes across as the kind of person you’d love to show you around the markets and bars of Paris. She’s a Parisian herself, living in Montmartre, and also a keen cook. Despite having been blogging here since 2003, her posts remain as fresh as ever and range from sinful chocolate indulgences to healthy vegetarian and vegan eating. Clotilde reviews books and kitchen gadgets, explains French food-related expressions, interviews experts, and generally sounds like she’s having a ball.

Read Chocolate and Zucchini. Follow Clotilde on Twitter.

8. The Paris Blog

What it is: Laurie Pike brings her magazine-editing skills to produce a multi-author blog that delivers on its promise: Life in Paris, Posted Daily.

Why we like it: It’s a challenge to post something every day, even about Paris, but with an experienced editor and author at the helm (and Laurie has also written for magazines like Vanity Fair, Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire) The Paris Blog does it. The range of voices and topics make sure the blog boredom factor never sets in, with varied topics like the Montmartre grape harvest, the Parish fashion shows, how to cycle from London to Paris and the best baguettes in the city.

Read the Paris Blog.

9. Paris by Mouth

What it is: A kind of food writers’ co-operative blog-cum-website-cum-newsletter, and a great food resource.

Why we like it: No excuses for recommending several food blogs, as Paris of course does them so well. This collaborative effort by a number of food writers, including Clotilde Dusoulier and the highly-respected Patricia Wells, delivers quality writing and despite its short-lived nature has built up a wealth of good in-depth material. Even if you don’t follow the blog, use the website to research your Paris restaurants, wine bars, patisseries and other food and drink stores.

Read Paris by Mouth. Follow Paris by Mouth on Twitter.

10. HiP Paris Blog

What it is: Erica Berman is yet another American in Paris who loves to let visitors in on the HiP side of the City of Light from her own haven… in Montmartre.

Why we like it: Another team effort but founded and edited by Erica Berman, who aims her blog squarely at the visitor to Paris. She’s carved out her niche – everything that’s hip – and sticks to it with good coverage of seasonal events, stylish homes (if you want to buy or rent one), fashion (natch), shopping, arts and design. Its own look reflects its subject, with a very visual emphasis, like this post about the fact that Paris has at last discovered craft brewing.

Read the HiP Paris Blog. Follow HiP on Twitter.

About our writer

 Mike Gerrard has written several guidebooks to Paris including, with his wife Donna Dailey, the Top Ten Paris Guide for Dorling Kindersley. They also write and publish the Beyond London Travel website, which includes a section on how to plan a trip to Paris from London.

By Kathryn Burrington

As September draws to a close, and summer is a fading memory, reading my fellow travel bloggers’ posts has once again filled my days with adventures. In this virtual world I’ve ridden the rapids in Montana and hurtled along rickety railway tracks in Cambodia on a bamboo train. At a more sedate pace I’ve marvelled at the beauty of Petra by candlelight and even explored the sewers under Paris in one of the most bizarre tours I’ve ever heard of.

In The GypsyNester’s post, Fear Conquering and Whitewater Rafting, I shared in Veronica’s trepidation as she takes us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions that left me dearly wanting to experience this thrill for myself despite my own fears of being dashed against the rocks. Follow The GypsyNester on Twitter @gypsynester

Noah Lederman, of Somewhere or Bust, also took me on a hair-raising ride but this time on solid ground in his post Bumpers, Butts and Bamboo Trains. Noah tells us how his wife nearly lost her head, not once but twice, in a sometimes tongue-in-cheek description of their nail-biting experience of the bamboo train in Cambodia. Follow Noah on Twitter @SomewhereOrBust

When I read Giulia’s post on her site, Travel Reportage, about her first sight of Petra by Night my interest initially merely simmered. As I read on, however, she really captured my imagination as she describes a truly magical moment. In the darkness, dozens of candles light up Petra’s most famous landmark, the Treasury, with thousands of stars shining above and the mesmerising sound of a Bedouin flute. How wonderful! Follow Giulia on Twitter @Giuliaccia

I’ve followed Lucy Dodsworth’s blog, On the Luce, for a while now and always enjoy her posts which cover a wide variety of places and events plus she always includes good practical advice. I was surprised, however, when I saw the title of her post The Underbelly of Paris: Touring the Sewers. It certainly is a different side of Paris that I have not come across before and I can’t help wondering what they sell in the gift shop! Follow Lucy on Twitter @LucyDodsworth.

Lastly, I’d like to share something a little different from most travel blogs. I recently came across the wonderful site ‘A Traveler’s Library’ where you’ll find reviews of books and films to enrich your travels. This month’s selection includes Harmattan, a novel that takes you to Africa, by Gavin Weston. Reviewed by travel writer Vera Marie Badertscher, this promises to be a fascinating read offering an insight into a young girl’s life in Niger and I’ve just ordered my copy.

I have visited Africa many times but only seen a small part of this vast majestic continent. I’m looking forward to discovering Niger through the words of Gavin Weston. Harmattan will celebrate it’s official UK launch to coincide with the first ever UN International Day of The Girl on 11 October. Follow A Traveler’s Library on Twitter @Pen4Hire and follow Gavin @WestonOfTinTown.

And do remember, I’d really love to hear from you, so if you come across any great posts throughout October from independent travel bloggers, please do let me know by commenting here or tweeting me @TravelWithKat using the hashtag #BestTravelPosts

Happy and safe travelling to you all, whether in reality or from the comfort of your armchair!

* Photos by Giulia Cimarosti and Noah Lederman

By Kathryn Burrington

Welcome to my new column on 101 Holidays. Each month I’ll be sharing with you some of my favourite posts from the previous few weeks.

I’m Kathryn, from Travel with Kat. As well as writing my own travel blog, I really enjoy reading about other people’s adventures. Through their stories and photographs I can re-live happy memories of places I’ve visited in the past or venture somewhere new, in my mind at least, as my fellow travel bloggers whisk me away on exciting journeys of discovery.

In August I’ve enjoyed many such vicarious adventures. Through their words and pictures I’ve taken a stroll with big cats, explored the streets of Barcelona admiring Gaudi’s magnificent architecture, danced like a fool in Tokyo at the Bon Odori festival and fallen head-over-heels in love all over again with India.

Kellie’s post on her blog Destination Unknown describes the joy she felt while walking with young lions in Zambia and then a month later, cheetahs in South Africa. Kellie’s vivid descriptions of her thoughts and emotions enabled me to share in her excitement and enthusiasm for these experiences and the important work that such rehabilitation and release centres are doing. As well as a great story teller, Kellie is also a wonderful photographer. Follow Kellie on Twitter @DestnUnknown.

In Understanding Gaudi Marisol and Keith share some beautiful photographs and interesting insights into the enchanting and seemingly whimsical architectural masterpieces that have made Barcelona famous. Follow Travelling Solemates on Twitter @tsolemates.

Jessica’s description and her husband’s images of Tokyo’s Bon Odori Festival really made me smile. This Japanese Buddhist custom honours the spirits of one’s ancestors with a dance performed to welcome the spirits of the dead. Tokyo’s modern take on this ancient tradition looks great fun and I’m sure I’d really love Dancing Like a Fool. The saying goes “You’re a fool if you dance, and a fool if you just look on. If you’re going to be a fool anyway, you might as well dance!”  Follow Jessica on Twitter @JessicaKorteman.

I’m already in love with India but I fell in love all over again reading Dany’s post on Globetrotter Girls about Hampi in Southern India. Her photography illustrates her narrative beautifully as she meets pilgrims who have travelled from across the country to worship at the spectacular Virupaksha Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, explores the village itself and chills out on the rooftop of a local restaurant. Follow the Globetrotter Girls on Twitter @GlbetrotterGrls

The Lebanon is not a country often covered by travel blogs and I’ve really enjoyed following the adventures of two Oregonians who are currently staying near Beirut. In Change is Brewing in the Middle East: 961 Beer Bethany recounts their visit to the only micro-brewery in the Lebanon and the fascinating story behind it. I’m told 961 beer will be available soon in the UK. Follow Ted and Bethany on Twitter @twoOregonians.

All these travel blogs really captured my imagination and made me eager to make these experiences my own. Thanks to everyone who put forward suggestions and if you come across any great posts throughout September from independent travel bloggers, please do let me know by commenting here or tweeting me @TravelWithKat using the hashtag #BestTravelPosts

Photo credits: Destination Unknown, Jessicakorteman.com, Travelingsolemates.com