Retirement Adventures: A Letter from George, our Director

Travelnet Marketing Team • 13 April 2023

Being retired doesn’t mean that I’m not still interested in travel... I’ve got the bug and reckon I’ll never shake it… nor do I wish to! A couple of weeks ago, a few friends and I spent 4 nights in the Pisa area of Italy. We spent 2 days in Lucca , a wonderful walled city about 30 minutes train ride from Pisa. Really worth a visit perfect for a short break.

Retirement Adventures Lucca City in Italy, Tuscany Region - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

Lucca has a very long history and the buildings to prove it. The city walls are so wide that you can walk or cycle around the full 2.5km. There are a great selection of restaurants and some really trendy shops and upscale boutiques. We stayed in Hotel La Luna, this is a standard 3 star place in the centre of the city. Nothing flashy but perfect for a few nights and they also had a good breakfast selection in the morning.

Retirement Adventures Monterosso al Mare Town in La Spezia, Liguria, Italy - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

 

The other 2 nights we spent in Monterosso al Mare. This is one of the 5 towns that make up the Cinque Terre. These towns are about 1.5 hours by train from Pisa, and very interesting to visit. Originally, they were cut off from the world with access only possible by sea. For walkers or hikers they are a must, where one can walk between all three and a railway service to get you back to base.

 

 

Monterosso is in two parts with a promenade and a short walk into the old town through a tunnel. Being one of the bigger of the 5 villages – and more accessible – it attracts a lot of visitors, many of whom are on day trips from Pisa, and Florence. We stayed in the Roca Du Ma Pasu , which is 5 newly built studios on the promenade facing the sea with a little patio outside each one. These smart studios have a double bed and walk in shower with tea and coffee machines. Again, great for a short break and particularly enticing for walkers. I reckon it could be difficult to reserve in the high season but for the shoulder periods, these are a great find!

 

Retirement Adventures Cinque Terre, Italian Riviera coastline, Liguria, Italy - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

 

Warning … The Cinque Terre is tough walking and people need to be aware. The walks can also be blocked from time to time due to landslides… that said, it really is quite special.

 

Regards to all,

George

The Best Hikes Around the world: Unforgettable trails for adventure travellers

by Kelly Collins • 10 February 2026
Hiking is one of the most immersive ways to experience the world's natural beauty, offering travellers the chance to slow down, breathe deeply and connect with landscapes that feel untouched by time. From dramatic mountain passes to lush tropical coastlines, the best hikes around the world provide not only physical challenge but also cultural discovery and breathtaking scenery. For Travel Enthusiasts seeking their next great adventure, these iconic trails represent some of the most rewarding journeys on the planet. 

The Adventure Seeker’s Guide to Greece’s Lesser-Known Islands"

by Kelly Collins • 4 February 2026
Now that summer is creeping up, many of us are starting to think about which holidays and destinations to tick off our bucket lists. To make that decision a little easier, today I’m going to guide you through some of the Greek islands that are perfect for adventure, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. While many dream of sun-soaked beaches and romantic sunsets, there is another side of Greece that is perfect for travellers who want more than just a postcard view. For those who crave hiking, swimming and discovering landscapes that feel untouched, there are many Greek islands that are built perfectly for that adventure! 

The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Festivals: Water, Lanterns, and Culture

by Kelly Collins • 14 January 2026
Thailand has become one of the world's most popular travel destinations, and it's easy to see why. Stunning beaches, vibrant cities, rich culture and unbeatable street food make it a must-visit country for any traveller. But one thing that makes Thailand really stand out is its festivals. From the splash-filled streets of Songkran to the glowing skies of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, Thailand's festivals are an immersive experience of culture, fun and adventure. Whether you're a Gen Z traveller seeking Instagram-worthy pics or an older traveller looking to soak in tradition and local customs, there is something for everyone. This ultimate guide will show the top festivals in Thailand, including when to visit, what to expect and tips for experiencing them like a local. 

Paris: A city full of Sights, Stories and Food

by Kelly Collins • 5 January 2026
Paris is a city that you think you’ve seen before you arrive. The Effial tower, The Louvre, Pastries and cafes all line your imagination before you leave for your trip. But when you start walking the streets, Paris uncovers many years of history and culture that go beyond a postcard or seeing through a screen.

How Do Different European Countries Celebrate Christmas?

by Martin Gill • 8 December 2025
Discover Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Traditions & Festive Secrets While we cherish our familiar traditions, the continent is brimming with ancient rituals, mythical gift-givers, and culinary delights that capture the true wonder of the season. From the snowy peaks of the Alps to the candlelit processions of the North, we’ve handpicked 10 unique ways our European neighbours celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Get ready to explore a world where witches bring candy, gnomes guard the home, and the magic of Christmas takes on a whole new meaning.

15 Fairytale Destinations in Europe You Must Visit!

by Martin Gill • 31 October 2025
Discover Europe’s Dreamiest Towns, Castles & Villages Looking for places where history meets magic, colours glow in every season, and every street feels like a storybook scene? Europe is full of destinations that capture the imagination – from romantic towns and charming villages to mystical forests and dreamlike castles. We’ve handpicked the most enchanting spots that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

Festive Escapes: Discover Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Markets

by Elizabeth Leonard • 16 October 2025
✨ The Most Magical Christmas Markets You Have to Visit This Festive Season ✨ As the nights draw in and the scent of mulled wine fills the air, Europe begins to twinkle with festive magic. Christmas markets have long been the heart of winter celebrations — where fairy lights glow against historic buildings, choirs sing carols, and cosy stalls brim with handcrafted gifts and local treats.  If you’re dreaming of a festive getaway this year, here are some of the most enchanting Christmas markets you simply have to visit.

Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas: New Features Revealed

by Elizabeth Leonard • 8 October 2025
Legend of the Seas Since our last update on Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, there’s even more to get excited about. Families planning their summer 2026 getaway now have even more reasons to look forward to this incredible ship, from brand-new accommodation options to extra playful touches designed for kids of all ages. 

Island Hopping with Norwegian Cruise Line in the Caribbean

by Luis Braya • 30 September 2025
Discover the best beaches, snorkeling spots, and authentic Caribbean food while island hopping with Norwegian Cruise Line. Your ultimate guide to the Caribbean’s must-see highlights.
night sky with trees &stars

Noctotourism: The Magic of Travelling After Twilight

by Martin Gill • 16 September 2025
Travel doesn’t have to end when the sun sets – in fact, it can just be beginning. Noctotourism , the practice of exploring destinations at night, is a growing trend that opens the door to unforgettable experiences. From night safaris and polar light chases to stargazing and nocturnal dives, the night offers a magical perspective that daytime simply cannot. Exploring the world in darkness lets you see nature, wildlife, and urban landscapes in a completely different light, creating memories that are often more intimate, mysterious, and unforgettable. Nighttime travelling offers many advantages: Peace and privacy – fewer crowds mean you can enjoy scenery and natural sites at ease. Unique natural phenomena – many wildlife activities, polar lights, and starry skies can only be fully experienced at night. Otherworldly atmosphere – familiar locations take on a new, magical character when illuminated by moonlight or are they swallowed by darkness Adventure and romance – from night safaris to nocturnal dives, noctotourism blends thrill with peace.