I knew I’d spend my birthday in Metz, the capital of Lorraine, when I organized my press trip. I knew I would be away from family and friends with only Twitter and Facebook to keep me company. I knew that Metz would join the dubious company of Athens, London, San Francisco, Paris,Vienna, Zurich, St Ives, […]
Photo Essay: Art Nouveau in Nancy
What is remarkable about Nancy is that its architectural heritage spans many centuries. I could easily have created a photo essay about its mediaeval town or its rococo square, Place Stanislas. But it is the art nouveau that somehow catches everyone by surprise. After the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71 when Alsace and part of Lorraine […]
In praise of hostels
There is a certain weariness about hostels that comes with age. By 30 you outgrow dorms. By 35 you outgrow dirt-cheap accommodation, By 40 you want a bit of comfort. By 50 you want a quiet room overlooking the golf course. And by 60 you aspire to stay at the Ritz, though you may not […]