Asia Archives - Page 2 of 24 - Jim Murty’s TravelTravelTravel

Wendy Wu’s Race Across the World

3rd May 2025 funtime65

Now as we all peak through our fingers at the gutsy adventurers trekking through India and China we opt instead for Wendy Wu’s Race Across the World.

We are, of course taking Wendy’s word for it and the Daughterie who is living vicariously through the travels and travels of Ying and Gaz.

Who we’re reliably informed helped the locals serve noodles in the ancient stilts town of Fenghuang.

Which Wendy helpfully informs us is front and centre of their Natural Treasures of China tour.

While Letitia and Elizabeth soak up China’s rural splendour with a bullet train journey through the karst limestone peaks of Guilin.

And again Wendy has that covered too on her China by Rail excursion.

Always helpful she adds that if you were as equally as mesmerised.

by the scenic Longji Rice Terraces, you have the option to hike through these landscapes on China: The Big One.

Out of this world

Of course if you’ve been hiding under a stone you won’t know what the RATW contestants’ challenge involves.

Well teams of two are required to dash across Asia.

From the Great Wall of China to the southern tip of India with no phones, limited funds, and zero comfort.

And the winners scoop up 20 big ones at the end.

Well, Race Across the World aren’t the only ones with a big giveaway.

With Wendy offering a partner fly free deal on China and India tours for this year and next.

And 50% off the price of your flights if you’re travelling solo.

And a saving of up to £350 per person.

Virtual reality

Wall, this is what it’s good for: The Great Wall of China

And if you’re feeling withdrawal symptoms between episodes then Wendy has a side dish which will keep you sated until your next fill.

Wendy Wu experts will be on hand on Wednesday 11th June at 3pm.

For a virtual journey following in the footsteps of this year’s racers, from the Great Wall of China to southern India!

Where they’ll tell you all you need to know about visiting these bucket list destinations.

And how you can experience it all at a leisurely pace with everything taken care of for you on our fully inclusive escorted tours.

Plus, you’ll be joined by some very special guests and previous winners to get all the behind the scenes gossip from Race Across the World!

Asia, Countries

Find your own Love Island in the Maldives this Valentine’s Day

17th January 202517th January 2025 funtime65

Looking for lapping waves for romantic rendezvous then you’ve come to the right place… we’ll help you find your own Love Island in the Maldives this Valentine’s Day.

With a little help from our friends and no we don’t mean Maya Jama and the rogues gallery that is that reality TV show.

But our long-haul friends in the Maldives.

Now, we’ve all of us got our favourite islands, whether they be our own Britain and Ireland and the rocks around its mainlands.

Or those we adopt around our continents or further afield.

Islands in the sun

And it was on an island, Malta, that I made Herself the happiest woman in the world when I popped the question and pride of the Aegean Corfu that we honeymooned.

Of course, horizons have been naturally broadened in the intervening years, although regrettably I’ve been a single Pringle on some of those work trips.

Among the loved-up ones, in Barbados and the Maldives.

Now with lovers’ day coming up I’m just putting it out there knowing that among my Bandanini and Bandanettes there is someone here at home tugging at my hem.

Loving touch

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is set on its own private island, the Dhaalu Atoll.

And you can choose from ultra-luxurious overwater or beachside villas providing unrestricted ocean views.

And utilising the Marriott resort’s discreet St. Regis Butler service.

Now because few things make you feel more relaxed and receptive the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s Iridium Spa is offering indulgent couples treatments.

That includes the ‘Divine Duo’ where pairs can massage one another’s skin with natural pure rose oil alongside private Indian Ocean views, sparkling champagne and fresh berries.

The ‘Champagne Toast couple’s spa treatment’ is an equally rejuvenating experience, allowing duos to sip on champagne while basking in a foot soak.

Followed by a soothing massage and refreshing grapeseed oil scrub.

The treatment ends with a suitably romantic rose-petal bath.

Wine and dine

Atoll well that ends well: Water lot of fun

St Regis offers six dining options – five of them boasting breathtaking ocean views.

Whale Bar is a highlight, sat overwater, serving delectable tapas and the resort’s signature drink.

The St. Regis Bloody Mary – the quintessential red-coloured beverage for marking Valentine’s Day with the colour of love.

Now whichever atoll you drift in on on your seaplane will be heart stopping.

Find your own Love Island in the Maldives this Valentine’s Day. But here’s one for starters.

A Garden Villa with Pool, 1 Bedroom Villa, 1 King on a full board package.

With breakfast, lunch and dinner daily and 250 USD resort credit per stay. For $2,500 avg/night.

So we’ll do the math… for four days that’s $13,678. And ain’t that worth it that you’ve been saving up.

Asia, Countries

Celebration of the Sun God in India

12th January 2025 funtime65

And who can blame us for casting our gaze eastwards in our bleak midwinter.. in celebration of the Sun God in India?

Because we love the sun and a festival and both are in fine supply at Makar Sankranti harvest time.

Indians, and lovers of the subcontinent, celebrate the Sun God on Tuesday, January 14 in the multi-varied ways its peoples do.

Our pals at India & You are happy to share that the Sun God festival carries different names and forms across the country.

With a vast variety of regional delicacies.

Typically Tropical

Now before we get started the science bit.

Tuesday is the day the sun travels from the southern to the northern hemisphere, uttarayana.

And the sun’s transition from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn.

Kashmir fashion

It’ll be the the Hindu solar deity, Surya, you’ll celebrate, or the Big Yella Ball in the Sky as he’s known in Scotland and Ireland.

Activities such as kite flying, making rangolis, holy dips in the Yamuna and Ganga rivers, and acts of charity are common.

That begins at home during Shishur Saenkraat as it’s called in the northern Kashmir Valley.

The Kashmiri Pandits are known for their generosity and like to donate rice and Kangri, a portable coal-fired heater.

To help others in the cold and as offerings in memory of departed souls.

Punjabi party

The Punjabis get things started the day before with Lohri, a bonfire night.

When the newly married and new parents are made a fuss of, and aren’t they always?

Now if you’re partial to a sarson ka saag, mustard greens with spices or makki ki rotior cornmeal flatbreads, Lohri is for you.

Uttar fun

Uttar Pradesh and its Khichdi Parv fest is all about the kite-flying.

While at Allahabad, devotees take holy baths at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.

And gorge on rice and lentil Khichdi.

While there is a three-day festival, Khichidi Mela in Gorakhpur.

Tamil cattle class

Of course, in the land where the cow is revered cattle are at the heart of the four-day Pongal party in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.

Day 1 known as Bhogi Pongal, the locals burn old items to mark new beginnings and cut paddy.

Day 2 or Surya Pongal, the thing to do if you want to blend in is cheer ‘Pongalo Pongal’ over the festive food.

The cattle have their day on Day 3 or Maatu Pongal, where cattle are washed, decorated and worshipped.

And a popular bull-taming sport, Jallikattu, is also organised.

We’d leave it at that but there’s Day 4, or Kannum Pongal.

When women prepare colourful rice dishes and offer them to crows in symbolic honouring of their ancestors.

Before the obligatory traditional folk dances, including Mayilattam and Kolattam.

So whatever you call it, and in my native Glasgow it’s called Taps Aff (ask a Glaswegian).

It’ll be nothing compared to the celebration of the Sun God in India.

Asia, Countries, Europe, UK

Queen Victoria the Twelfth Night killjoy

6th January 20256th January 2025 funtime65

And wherever you are in the world enjoy your Epiphany while Britain in its exceptionalism sits it out because of Queen Victoria the Twelfth Night killjoy.

Most Britons have already cocked a snook at superstition by taking their Christmas Tree down before the Twelfth Night.

That very same tree wasn’t around before Vic’s hubbie Prince Albert, of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha introduced it.

But public partying and the decorations we’re supposed to keep up into January were much to Vic’s chagrin.’

Of course as is the way of it that was only after Her Royalness had had her fun with it.

No Saxe please, we’re prudish

The Saxe-Coburg-Gothas were well into Twelfth Night would regularly attend the theatre on that eve.

Perhaps even to watch Shakespeare’s titular play.

And even had a Twelfth Cake made especially for the occasion.

But then come the 1870s, she banned the festivities because the plebs were making it too rowdy… God bless her!

Of course, today the rest of the world will unite in a common holiday while Britain sneers, just the way they like it.

Making a splash

On the Jordan side: Where Jesus was baptised

Taking a dip in chilly waters is customary on the day The Magi are said to have made their pilgrimage to the Baby Jesus.

Quite why we don’t know although there is some suggestion that John the Baptist blessed Jesus on this day.

Of course, in some places such as Ireland going for a dip in the seas or rivers or loughs is just every day of the year.

In the River Jordan Eastern Orthodox Christians take the opportunity of the Epiphany.

To draw extra blessings with purification in the holy waters in Israel.

Although, we’d advise you to resist the temptation to join in.

Particularly if you’re standing on the opposite bank in Jordan.

As an eagle eye will spot gun-wielding Israeli soldiers among them looking for people swimming across the matter of metres to their side.

No such risks for those who jump in the River Vlatva which runs through Prague.

And there’s probably something more prosaic about their intentions.

The Czechs being the biggest beer drinkers per head of the population in the world and this being the culmination of Christmastime festivities.

Guide us to thy perfect light

One allowance Britons do make around the Feast of Epiphany is the singing of the specific Magi carol We Three Kings of Orient Are.

Written by the Pennsylvania pastor Reverend John Henry Hopkins Jnr, who showcased the hymn.

In his holiday pageant for the General Theological Seminary in New York in 1857.

Now whether you believe you’re entitled to continue your Christmas carousing on Epiphany or are more pious about the partying like Vic.

Let’s hope someone visits with gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Regardless of what Queen Victoria the Twelfth Night killjoy thought about it all.

Africa, Asia, Central America, Countries, Europe, Pilgrimage

Celebrating Jesus and a Happy Hanukkha

29th December 2024 funtime65

As Christmas and the Festival of Lights coincide only four times a century this year we’re celebrating Jesus and a Happy Hanukkah.

If the prophecies were right then it was on Kislev 25, 3757, or 5BC, that the Light of the World emerged.

Six hundred years after the Maccabi recovered Jerusalem and the Second Temple was rededicated.

Jesus being a Jew he would naturally have celebrated Hanukkah with Mary, Joseph and his siblngs.

And the Gospel of St John cites Jesus in the temple telling Jews: ‘I and the Father are one.’

Hanukkah holidays

All of which Sabbath lesson for the day brings us round to Hanukkah holidays.

Now the good news is that they last eight days, roughly the same time frame as your average family holiday.

Jewish families, and friends, have been gathering to light one additional candle in the menorah multibranched candelabra.

To replicate the actions of the Maccabi in entering the temple way back then when they made a little oil go a long, long way.

Diaspora around world

Now the Jewish diaspora has led to slight variations on the agreed customs.

So look out in your part of the world, and bear in mind that just like the Irish and the Scots Jews have enriched the whole planet.

We are grateful here to our friends at Reform Judaism for sharing some of the differences from near and far.

Which we will give you a tchotchke, or trinket of, to impress your Jewish pals.

Aleppo to Africa

Now Syrians of all shades and faiths don’t have their troubles to seek but Syrian Jews have long been resilient to the challenges.

The Jews of Aleppo descend from Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain in 1492.

They light an additional shamash (helper candle) on Hanukkah as a sign of thanks.

And in solidarity with refugees who have fled their homes in search of shelter and peace.

And for Kurds they have a take on the giving of Hanukkah gelt, but with a twist.

A week before the holiday, children lock the doors to their rooms and their parents must give them coins to get in!

More is always more in exotic Morocco and they have a ninth day where children collect leftover candles.

They then throw them on a bonfire where the grown-ups jump over them and wish for a partner or to get pregnant.

Vin and games

It’s not surprising to find French Jews blend in the country’s vintage into their customs.

With the celebrants of Avignon ending the Shabbat that falls during Hanukkah by opening a new bottle or cask of wine.

After Havdalah, the end of Shanbat, Jews travel the neighborhood to various homes, tasting the wines and toasting the holiday.

Similarly Mexicans blend in local mores to their celebrations, in their games.

And often break a dreidel-shaped piñata filled with Hanukkah trinkets and treats.

In the Promised Land

Of course, every Jew would want to be in The Promised Land for Hanukkah.

Cantor Evan Kent eulogises about Hanukkah as every pleasure is multiplied as opposed to the sacrifice of other holy days.

And particularly ‘the sufganiyot which help the atmosphere as it’s impossible to be in a bad mood while eating a jelly donut.’

And who’s to say a certain Nazarene carpenter 2,000 years ago didn’t do the same with his family.

Worth thinking about as we join in celebrating Jesus and a Happy Hanukkah.

Asia, Countries, Sport

Winging it with John Barnes in the Maldives

19th December 202419th December 2024 funtime65

I was at a disadvantage chasing a Sri Lankan on our Kuramathi football field so I’d not hold out much hope of winging it with John Barnes in the Maldives.

But I’d give it a try seeing that he looks to be partial to a mince pie these days.

‘Digger’ as he’s known to his football pals after the Dynasty character Cliff ‘Digger’ Barnes is the star attraction along with Stuart Pearce and Harry Redknapp for their Campioni Soccer Academy.

Come on ye reds: In Kuramathi with my team-mates

The programme is for kids but our friends at Simply Maldives leave nobody out and have an added midweek parents game.

Now growing up playing on muddy Scottish pitches Kuramathi’s astroturf is a culture shock.

And the big yellow ball in the sky rarely makes an appearance in Jockoland never mind palm trees.

This sporting life

You’ll get coached by legends though here with Simply Maldives.

With Liverpool great Digger running the school from July 28 and August 1.

And Harry and ‘Pscycho’ Pearce on from August 4 and 8, and parents will be hanging off their every anecdote too.

Seeing you’re all visitors together you won’t be disadvantaged by playing with the locals who are more used to the temperatures.

Which I was handicapped by when I asked the staff at our resort if I could join in their kickabout.

And they were gracious to allow me to make up the numbers.

And also join in their cricket match where I ran up a lofty total of three before getting myself run out.

The Maldives, of course, is all about R&R, the most idyllic spot.

Endless culinary and cocktails, watersports, infinity pools and karaoke yes.

With our Irish group belting out Living Next Door to Alice with our own ribald adages.

What’s included

The week starts on Sunday night with a welcome drinks reception.

Where each child is presented with a kit, cap, water bottle and bag while meeting the legends.

Daily development football training starts on the Monday at 3:30-5:30pm.

A midweek parents game.

An end of week medal presentation.

All Campioni families have the opportunity to socialise with the sporting celebs.

The daily football training sessions focus on the children.

And improving their technical skills, game and approach, using the FA’s 4 Corner Model.

Where to stay

2 Bedroom Duplex Beach House ( Sleeps up to 6 people ): adults from €3645 each, under-12s from €2465, teenager 12-16 yrs from €3215.

Pool Villa(sleeps max 3): adults from €4715 each, under-12s from €2945.

Superior Beach Villa (sleeps max 3): adults from €3549 each, under-12s from €2355

Supplement for Basic All Inclusive (buffet dining + all drinks ) = €88 per adult per day & €44 per child per day (up to 16s).

Supplement for select all inclusive (9 a la carte restaurants included = €148 per adult per day & €74 per child per day (up to 16s).

5-day Soccer Academy additional €900 per child.

Prices include return flights from Dublin in Economy Class, Return Speedboat Transfers, 7 Nights accommodation on Full Board Basis (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

Plus complimentary Kids Club.

And the chance to be winging it with John Barnes in the Maldives.

Asia, Countries

Holidos and Don’ts staying safe manual

22nd November 202423rd November 2024 funtime65

We’re at our best but most vulnerable on vacation as evidenced by the tragic events in Laos so it’s timely to present our Holidays and Don’ts staying safe manual.

Unless you’re very lucky or prepared, or both, you’ll have taken a wrong turning which thankfully you’ve lived to regret.

Mines was a ‘false guide’ in Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakech who brought me to a Turkish barber and between them tried to rob me.

All of which triggered a spiral of events with snakes (reptiles and human), berbers, camels and sickness in the Sahara.

Guide to your safety

Friendly locals: And Laos people are hospitable

Your holiday nightmares will be your own but there are some common themes running through our odysseys.

It helps, of course, to have the advice of those who have gone before.

Which is what we try to do here with the help of the travel providers with whom we have shared our journeys.

And so we turned to our friends at World Nomads travel insurers who put this handy guide together for us.

Keep your wits about you

Culture vultures: And join in the partying

Drink and food safety: Methanol poisoning is a serious risk in places like Laos.

Stick to sealed bottles from reputable vendors and avoid unregulated or homemade alcohol.

Motorbike safety: Motorbiking is a popular way to explore Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, but accidents are common.

Always wear a helmet, check your travel insurance for motorbike coverage, and ensure you have the correct license.

Renting legally reduces the risk of fines or disputes.

Also important to note that you can’t be insured for an illegal activity – which includes driving a motorcycle without a licence.

Stranger danger

Calming: Laos waterfalls. Photo: Michelle Zammit/Cheeky Passports

Scams to watch for: In Cambodia, beware of ATM card skimming, fake orphanages, and overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help.

In Vietnam, avoid offers to smoke tobacco pipes or purchase antiques, which can lead to fines or legal trouble.

Petty crime prevention: Bag snatching and pickpocketing are prevalent, especially in crowded markets and on public transport.

Keep valuables close and avoid leaving them in hotel rooms unattended.

Nightlife safety: Drink spiking is a growing concern in areas like Laos and Thailand.

Never leave your drink unattended and be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers.

Jonathan Frankham, General Manager for World Nomads in the UK and Europe, said: ‘We were deeply saddened to hear about the tragic death of Simone White in Laos.

‘Southeast Asia is a stunning destination, offering diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities.

‘It’s a favourite among young and adventurous travellers. However, visitors should be aware of potential risks and take proactive steps to stay safe.’

And we couldn’t say it better so follow these Holidos and Don’ts staying safe manual.

Asia, Countries, Deals

Wish Wu were here our Giant Pandas

13th November 202413th November 2024 funtime65

It’s been nearly a year since Yang Guang and Tian Tian waved Edinburgh Zoo goodbye. And how we wish Wu were here our Giant Pandas.

Alas our big pals weren’t able to conceive their very own Scottish wean in their 12 years here.

And let’s hope they have better luck now they’re back in the more familiar surroundings of the Chengdu Panda Research Base.

Where there will be among 80 other big bears.

And where the park is set up to resemble the mountain and forest regions in north Sichuan.

With extensive bamboo trees and large green spaces, mirroring the pandas’ natural habitat.

China in your hands

Pandering to the bears: At Edinburgh Zoo

Not that we’d able to see them, you’d think, now they are thousands of miles away in Northern China.

That though is where our old pal Wendy Wu comes in as she knows everyone in the Far East!

And she has set us up with a nine-day In Pursuit of Pandas tour from €2,840pp.

With return flights, all hotels, all meals, expert guide, all sightseeing and entrance fees and all transport in destination.

Lazing on a Scottish afternoon: Our bear pals

You will journey from the imperial treasures of Beijing through atmospheric Xian, the Great Wall and the enigmatic legions of Terracotta Warriors.

To reach the charming city of Chengdu, where you will meet its most famous residents – the captivating Giant Pandas.

Love is in the air

Now, obviously the pandas and their love lives have precedence in Chengdu.

But not exclusively and the city is also noted for its Matchmaker’s Corner where parents search for worthy suitors for their children.

All of which you’ll get to see for yourself, children or no children, and we have one here we’re especially keen to get fixed up.

But back to our old pals, say hi to Yang Guang and Tian Tian from us and tell them…

Wish Wu were here our Giant Pandas.

Asia, Countries

Atoll tale of British empire and Mauritius

6th October 20246th October 2024 funtime65

Admit it you never knew where Chagos was neither and why should you… this is atoll tale of British empire and Mauritius.

And how Britain has now meekly surrendered sovereign territory it has held since 1814.

To a group of islands in hock to the land-grabbing Chinese.

Of course that is only half, or less, of the story.

Whose atoll is it anyway?

Ya dancer: Mauritius have got the Chagos back

With the UN and international law, which awkwardly does apply to Britain, saying they should give it back.

And China only guilty of expanding its trade routes as it has done across the Indian Ocean.

Leaving aside which of the colonial powers, the Arabs, the Portuguese, the Dutch, the French or the British has rightful claim.

And the answer must surely be none.

The transferral of the uninhabited but strategically important atoll to Mauritius shines a light on that holiday destination.

Although, alas, not like other atolls in the Indian Ocean like the Maldives Chagos has yet to be turned into a holiday hotspot… although, here’s hoping.

Mauritians are coming

Veranda standard: And lounge back and think of Mauritius

And how better to immerse yourself in Mauritian culture than signing up for the weekly ‘Mauritian Day’ at Veranda Point aux Biches.

Veranda Point is a family friendly boutique hotel on the north west coast with a barefoot eco chic vibe.

The weekly ‘Mauritian Day’ is where guests can take a Creole lesson, paint with a local artisan, learn how to dance sega (and no, that’s not an old video game) and play a traditional Mauritian musical instrument.

Located between two charming fishing villages, the hotel has three spectacular restaurants and two bars in addition to three pools.

While the Seven Colours Wellness Lounge provides a unique setting in Mauritius with spa cabins right on the beach and overlooking the lagoon.

From €2,412 for seven nights. £875 with British Airways from London Gatwick.

Maurice in wonderland

And the derivation of Mauritius… well, it’s named after a former Dutch royal, Maurice, the Prince of Orange.

So it’s Atoll tale of British empire and Mauritius but it transpires that it was Maurice’s island all along.

Just saying for all those Mo’s and Maurices out there.

Asia, Caribbean, Countries, Deals, Europe

Are the world’s best hotels the world’s best for you?

19th September 202419th September 2024 funtime65

Congrats Capella Bangkok, voted best place to stay, which triggers a question are the world’s best hotels the world’s best for you?

Now, I’m usually content with a three-rolls bed, a power shower and a hearty breakfast.

But I can be won over by bells and whistles too and a killer view.

Ah, Capella

All of which Thailand’s jewel, the Capella, has in spades in its 101 suites and villas.

Described as an award-winning new-age sanctuary perched along the meandering bends of the Chao Phraya River.

With a two-night reservation at the Best Available Rate in any room category to receive a complimentary third night.

So what other special features separates the Capella Bangkok from the rest?

The Capella helpfully offers daily breakfast for two guests, a bottle of house Champagne and daily sunrise yoga by the river.

Daily complimentary non-alcoholic mini-bar.

And here’s the real kicker… complimentary pressing of up to five pieces of clothing per stay!

All for TBH 75,300, or 1,712 of your Earth pounds.

Sandals in the swim

Now no vista can be replicated but those special features can and we’ve enjoyed them around the world at other hotels.

And dare we say… better.

So, let’s start with sunrise in Sandals Barbados.

Where you can be greeted with your very own Bim bird who will perch on your hot tub as you soak.

With glass of Champagne in hand from your complimentary daily bottle.

Other drinks are available obviously from your complimentary alcohol maxi-bar.

Now should you struggle to get through that bottle by yourself you can always share with your pals down in the pool.

Or have cocktails in the island pool bar before swimming up to your room.

And if you’ve forgotten anything your personal butler will have seen to it for you.

Your inner Robinson Crusoe

Thumbs-up: Porridge and Janelle at Castara Retreats in Tobago

Now should you think someone of your standing shouldn’t be asked to share your pool then Kuramathi in the Maldives obliges.

With your own secluded pool outside your bedroom with views of the Indian Ocean obviously.

While if you’re looking for something even more exotic and authentic why not go for what we’ll call the Robinson Crusoe upgrade.

Sleep in your very own hammock on the balcony at ‘Porridge’ and Janelle’s Castara Retreats in Tobago.

And for a morning stretch allow your yoga specialist to lead you through some gentle moves.

Porridge in the morning: With Janelle and ‘Porridge’

All of which goes to show that luxury can be just around the corner which is, in fact, the Tobagonian pledge,

Your hotel, your stay

And if it looks like they don’t have a hotel near you on the World’s 50 Best Hotels here.

There could well be an alternative, just as good, or better, on your doorstep or a quick flight away.

Which is why we would never dream of staying anywhere else than George and Amal’s favourite stop-off, the Dylan in Amsterdam.

Yes, we can have passed down a list but are the world’s best hotels the world’s best for you?

And so as we see that the Gleneagles in Perthshire, Scotland makes the list.

We prefer to recommend Andy Murray’s more intimate and welcoming pad, the time capsule Cromlix House, near by, in Stirlingshire.

Game, set and match to us.