Brian Johnston

Brian Johnston
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Brian Johnston seemed destined to become a travel writer and author: he is an Irishman born in Nigeria and raised in Switzerland, who has lived in Britain and China.

Vatican City is one of the smallest countries in the world according to size and population.

The world's 10 smallest countries

They may be tiny, but these countries have a lot to offer adventurous travellers.

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The whitewashed village of Alfarnatejo is adorned with tubs of roses.

The good oil in the folds of Spain's rugged hinterland

Sometimes it's the seemingly insignificant moments you enjoy the most while travelling.

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You can ride a London Black cab without taking off your top hat.

The 10 cities with the world's coolest taxis

From Mercedes in Munich to Cadillacs in Cuba, here are the places where a taxi ride is a travel experience in itself.

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Collette to offer 11-day tours of Croatia's Adriatic coastline in 2020

The Shipping News Saturday December 7

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A monkey sitting on top of the rock above Gibraltar.

The one good reason to visit this weird British territory

I wouldn't have missed it, but I won't be hurrying back.

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The young Portuguese winemakers making port cool again

Port's doing a fantastic job of staying relevant.

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Silversea's newest flagship vessel, Silver Muse, arrives in Australia

We may well be seeing more of Silversea's luxury vessels in Australian waters over the next few years, with the company expanding rapidly.

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The astonishing island that was nearly torn apart by a volcano

Lava flows like a multitude of bonfires nearly engulfed this astonishing Arctic destination.

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Viking's newest cruise offerings

Viking has combined some of its existing itineraries to offer six new ocean cruises for 2021.

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Absorb endless French beauty (and wine) on this magical cruise

Sometimes, you just want all the best cliches, from French onion soup to duck confit, chateaux to grand cru wines.

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Exploring Greece's largest island

Olive groves, tinkling goat bells and mountain scenery make this shore excursion a gem.

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The museum for people who think art is boring

Art by a 20th century genius sculptor that clinks, clangs and whooshes is housed in a Basel landmark. If you think art is boring, or have kids, or just want to find out more about one of the 20th century's most eccentric artists – and Switzerland's most celebrated, after Alberto Giacometti – then don't miss a visit.