A New Dawn For Adventure -Because You're Not 17 Anymore

Inspiration, information and entertainment for the post-backpacking generation

Welcome to Grown-up Travel Guide!

Are you longing for the adventure and the thrill of new discoveries you remember from your backpacking days?

Do you find yourself free to travel again now that the kids can fend for themselves and you no longer have to spend two weeks at a family resort each year? Or perhaps you want to explore together but go somewhere interesting?

Or maybe you skipped the whole kids thing anyway, but now have a bit more money and time to devote to seeing the world?

So what’s the answer? What I like to call Grown-up Travel.

It’s time to rediscover your spirit of adventure.

This is where Grown-up Travel Guide can help. My mission is to inspire and inform to help you get the most out of your adventures, and I’ve been doing that with this blog since 2012.

With a focus on amazing experiences with a decent level of comfort, I share my tips on hidden gems and different ways to explore well-known places, amazing places to stay, food to eat, drinks to drink and more.

I’m Andy, by the way. Stick with me, it´s going to be a fun ride.

Me with elephant behind Kutali Zambia

You can read more about the Grown-up Travel concept elsewhere on the website, and read about me and my crazy story in the, er, My Story section.

The short version is: I am a Brit but have been living in Norway for over 25 years and travelling in Africa for even longer. That’s why you’ll find a lot of articles about these two destinations. I am passionate about food and drink as well as sharing things I have learned from decades on the road. 

You can start by checking out my main topics below, scroll down to find the latest and most popular articles or just pick a place you are interested in from the menu at the top of the page.

Happy travels!

Norway

Norway

I’ve been living in this great country since 1999 so I think I know what I’m talking about. My mission is to share my knowledge with you so that you can discover the majesty of Norway. I’ll tell you all about the natural splendour, rich cultural tapestry, and unique experiences that await. From the serene to the spectacular, Norway offers a journey of discovery and awe at every turn. Explore with me!

Africa

As someone who has been travelling Africa since 1992, I think I know what I’m talking about when it comes to the world’s most exciting continent too. I am happy to admit that I’m an Africa addict, having visited more than 30 countries and counting. I also work as a travel designer for The Grown-up Travel Company, where I create life-changing adventures for real travellers. My Africa articles cover safaris, city guides, beach breaks, packing advice and much, much more…

african christmas celebrations

Cultural Immersion & Discovery

Discover the world through its people, traditions, and customs in my Cultural Immersion & Discovery section. We’ll uncover the authentic experiences that define each destination. Learn about local crafts, traditional ceremonies, and the global tapestry of cultures that makes our world wonderfully diverse. I’ll show you where you can enjoy genuine interactions, not fake shows for tourists.

Nature & Wildlife Encounters

Nature & Wildlife Encounters is about connecting with the natural world. Experience breathtaking landscapes and encounter wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether it’s trekking through national parks, going on a safari, or whale watching, you’ll read how to responsibly enjoy Earth’s wonders. From the serenity of nature to the thrill of wildlife sightings, it’s all here.

Culinary Adventures

If you ask me, trying the local cuisine is an absolute highlight of travelling. I’m on a never-ending gastronomic journey and my articles will tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to the world’s cuisines. I am serious about great beer and wine too… Learn about the best local dishes, street food secrets, and gourmet experiences in the destinations I visit. 

Hidden Gems

Uncover the secrets within the familiar with our “Hidden Gems” collection, where well-known destinations reveal their lesser-seen wonders. Step off the tourist trail and into a world of hidden alleyways, untouched natural beauty, and cultural treasures waiting just around the corner. Dive into the heart of exploration and discover the unseen marvels of the world’s most beloved places.

Active & Adventure Travel - zipline

Active & Adventure Travel

For those who seek to combine exploration with exhilaration, our Active & Adventure Travel theme is your gateway to the world’s most thrilling experiences. Scale mountains, dive into the depths of the oceans, or cycle through scenic landscapes. We offer insights on preparing for your adventures, staying safe, and finding activities that challenge and inspire, regardless of your age.

travel tips - planning

Travel Planning & Tips

The foundation of any great travel experience is thoughtful planning, and I’m here to help. My Travel Planning & Tips section equips you with all the necessary tools, advice, and checklists to ensure your journeys are seamless and enjoyable. From budgeting and packing to navigating new cultures and staying safe, I’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Latest Articles

Road Tripping in South Africa: Part 1 – The Escarpment

I love it when a lack of a plan comes together You may remember that in April I used frequent flyer...

Best Places to Visit in the UK in October

Our Top 3 UK Destinations in October A time of vibrant change, October is when the UK adorns itself...

Discover the Best Places to Visit in the UK in November

November is a magical time to visit the UK, with the transition from autumn to winter creating a...

How to Travel the World on a Budget Without Sacrificing Comfort or Adventure (Even if You’re Over 40)

Budget Travel for Grown-Ups: A Comprehensive Guide Category Tactics Mindset Embrace spontaneity, be...

Bloodline Filming Locations: A Scene-by-Scene Florida Keys Guide

Introduction Right, let’s get this monster of a post started – with my carefully...

The Ultimate Guide to Travel in Argentina

Introduction Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to Travel in Argentina, your comprehensive resource for...

Been there, haven’t done that – 5 things you shouldn’t miss in Berlin

In our mission to inspire and inform Grown-up Travellers we continue our series of articles...

Hotel Review: Blue Beach Tower, Dubai, UAE

Image (c) JA Oasis Beach Tower You might remember my post about preparing to go from one...

Oh lordy, yet another 13 reasons why…you need to visit Africa

So, here we go again then? Yup. As you’ll recall, we kicked off with 13 reasons why to visit...

Most Popular Articles Since 2012

Hotel Review: art’otel berlin kudamm, Germany

At the beginning of March I was back in Berlin for the annual craziness that is ITB – the...

First impressions – an English Lady on the Costa Brava

Here’s the third article in our new (or rather re-booted) series after the first article on an...

Hotel Review: Sheraton Hotel & Spa, Porto, Portugal

Image (c) Sheraton Porto First a little background and a disclosure. I stayed at the Sheraton Porto...

Been there, haven’t done that – 5 things you shouldn’t miss in Venice

Continuing our mission to inspire and inform Grown-up Travellers we present the latest in our series...

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Introduction The whole Harry Potter phenomenon kind of passed us by. I saw the first film and the...

Photo essay: Seven days in Malawi in fourteen pictures

Fishermen on Lake Malawi I travelled to Malawi for the first time in April this year, spending a...

Been there, haven’t done that – 5 things you shouldn’t miss in Rome

Continuing our mission to inspire and inform Grown-up Travellers we present the latest in our series...

Long-haul flights in First and Business Class for less than the Economy fare – Part 2

Remember how I teased you last week by showing you how little I paid to secure a ticket in Lufthansa...

Hotel Review: Adina Apartment Hotel, Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish capital has plenty to draw the Grown-up Traveller. Whether you want to follow in the...