Sensational ski resort in Austria

Skiing is fun. We know this now because we went all the way to snowy Austria to learn. We were exceptionally fortunate to end up at Niederau. It's a little town, centred around the slopes, ideal for beginner and intermediate skiiers and snowboarders.

We went in March and were treated to a foot of fresh snow every second day. Lovely lovely.

If you need lessons (as we did) then Floyd is your dude.

Swell Swellendam

We are used to heading to the coast whenever we are in need of a holiday. Last January, we ended up in Swellendam, Western Cape instead. We stayed at a beautiful retreat type thing called Bloom Estate. It's run by a young Dutch couple who make their guests feel really at home.

There are only 7 suites - each massive and decorated in a crisp, clean, conteporary style. Options for relaxing abound. There's an outdoor jacuzzi under a gazebo alongside a pond. Or you could go for a stroll in the cirtus orchard or lavender garden. If you want to be even more active, theres a swimming pool on site and some magnificent mountains to walk in nearby. As it's billed as a retreat, you can experience all sorts of wellness therapy type things (Sue had a Swedish massage in our bedroom whislt I read a book outside in the hammock under a big tree).

If you're looking for a romantic treat near Cape Town, this can't be beaten. For those that don't know the Western Cape, South Africa, Swellendam is about 2 to 3 hours drive north east of Cape Town. And if you're peckish along the way, you can find "The best chicken pies in the World" in De Ou Meul Bakkery, Riviersonderend.

Kommetjie - fit for a honeymoon

An incredible position and a cosy beach house feel, makes this place the choice of champions when it comes to honeymoons. Rumour has it that The Duxburys and Mr and Mrs James Cullis weren't the only ones to choose this exquisite venue. The Beckhams spent their first night together here, as did Joost van der Westhuizen and Amore Vittone.

There are 4 rooms to choose from. The Family room has a sensational view across dunes and sea towards Chapman's Peak. The food was delicious too - cooked by an in-house chef.

Have a look at www.sunsetbeach.co.za for all the details. The website is rubbish, but is no reflection on the place itself. View Sunset Beach on Google Maps.

Happy honeymooning!

Come to Newbury!

If you ever find yourselves in the royal county of Berkshire, UK, then do pop in to visit the Duke and Duchess of Newbury. This is our little spot down by the Avon and Kennet Canal. We have a guest wing, and should that be full, a very camp-able garden.

Come to Newbury - we do a good breakfast too (well, Starbucks is 50 metres up the road).