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The deadliest destinations for Australian travellers

The deadliest destinations for Australian travellers

"Travel insurance is as important as a passport”. Do you agree? The government advice is unambiguous about overseas travel insurance, and for once, I agree with every jot: if you can't afford insurance, you can't afford to travel. "Travel insurance is as important as a passport. Without it, you or your family could suffer financially if things go wrong. No matter who you are, where you'... read more>
Hello from FNQ (that’s Far North Queensland)

Hello from FNQ (that’s Far North Queensland)

It should be the most redundant advice to 'take and enjoy your holidays', but some of us don't use up our leave entitlements. In Ireland, this piece in The Conversation says 1 in 5 people don't use up their holidays, and in the UK, it says 2 in 5 have taken fewer breaks due to COVID. I hope that's not the case here. The reasons may vary, and I'd love to hear yours because if I've been gui... read more>
Pre-existing condition? No worries!

Pre-existing condition? No worries!

It’s hardly a badge of honour, but at long last, after an occasionally indulgent life, I have acquired what travel insurers call a pre-existing condition. You may not regard it as much of a condition. It has come and gone, perhaps never to return, but so far as insurance is concerned, it can be akin to a Mark of Cain. However, as I’ve just learned, the news is not all bad. If you are stra... read more>
My secret weapon when travelling

My secret weapon when travelling

Whenever I go anywhere, the first thing I try to get hold of is a map. Not some poor definition tiny-screened digital version but the full fold-out paper version. And it’s getting harder and harder to find one. Agencies are keen that you download the directions and don’t you dare bother them with anything they have to print. Sadly, the excellent Cartoscope series of tourist maps (see pic)... read more>
What’s on your Travel Bucket List?

What’s on your Travel Bucket List?

Aeroplanes have hardly been fuller. Airfares have rarely been higher. It only makes sense because we are swapping the chains of the COVID bug for the delights of the travel bug. The dreaded masks are no longer required, but the relentless queues, delays, lost luggage and sometimes frankly lousy customer service continues. So why do we do it? Of all the economists’ jargon, the term ‘pent-u... read more>