I have recently had the wonderful experience of travelling to one of the most unique cities in the world aboard the worlds most famous train. Images of the many famous and sometimes infamous guests who had travelled the same route before me constantly appearing in my mind. And how can such incredible meals be created in the confined and stiflingly hot space that is the galley? An excellent way of celebrating a milestone birthday or a special anniversary.

And then you arrive in Venice, a place that we should all experience at least once in our lifetime. So many varied and historical hotels to choose from but I was lucky enough to be staying at the Cipriani on Giudecca Island - just a five minute private launch journey away from St Marks Square.

If you have a special date approaching why not ask about the many Venice options that we have to offer.

Sometimes you just need to escape from the greyness of our winter in search of a bit of warmth and sunshine. So, this was my excuse for spending a few nights at the recently opened Abama Hotel. The Abama sits surrounded by banana plantations in a remote and isolated position on the west coast of Tenerife. Its terracotta coloured buildings are scattered across acres of grounds and gardens and an 18 hole golf-course completes the picture. With a good variety of restaurants and bars, an excellent spa, numerous swimming pools and all weather tennis courts, there really is no reason to ever leave this place. A complimentary shuttle service operates throughout the resort but if staying in certain room types you are supplied with your own golf cart which proved both useful and great fun!