Like everyone else who was waiting for Australia to open up after three years of lockdown, when it finally happened - in Autumn 2022 - I quickly booked a flight there. My plan was to spend long overdue time with my daughter in Melbourne, revisit some favourite places… and check out of the real world for a week in the artists’ and surfers’ paradise, Byron Bay.

Cruise the scenic Seine and explore the world of the Impressionist artists

So, for the first time in a very long time, TimOnTheTrain is off on an International adventure.

Many of us have had our travel plans affected this year, so as we eagerly look ahead to satisfying our wanderlust again and welcoming you back on board, our team of experts have compiled their top 10 cultural European rail tours for 2021.

From grand châteaus to cobbled, homely streets, the waterways of France are bursting with sights of interest, and you can experience them the most relaxing way possible, on a barge cruise.

When it comes to our holiday plans, so often we overlook the incredible destinations on our doorstep. But with so many stunning landscapes, from the Lake District to the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, the UK and Ireland offers a whole host of great staycation options.

The art of slow travel is about savoring the moment, soaking up every experience during your journey, even before you reach your destination.

A staple of dinner parties in the 70s, Black Forest Gateau has lost none of its retro charm and is an indulgent bake that combines the timeless flavours of cherries and chocolate. You can spice this recipe up with the addition of some kirsch liqueur or keep it alcohol-free.

It’s unsurprising that a river over five million years old should have a somewhat colourful history, and the Rhine doesn’t disappoint. A nation already famous for its dark yet irresistible fairytales, compiled by the Brothers Grimm, Germany’s dense forests and snaking valleys provide the perfect backdrop to a cornucopia of myths and legends that visitors still thrill to hear about today.

As winter snows thaw, welcome spring at one of France or Italy's largest street parties - Venice and Nice carnival - or soak up the colours of a million freshly opened tulips at the Keukenhof Gardens

There’s a reason why summer travel is historically so popular and that’s the weather. As an island nation with no guarantee of sun, it’s fantastic we have so many destinations to choose from that ensure we get our fill of vitamin D.

Discover the world in winter and step into a snow-globe world of seasonal beauty.