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

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...

13 reasons why…you owe it to yourself to visit Africa

Only 13? Given your complete and never-ending addiction to the continent, I would have expected...

6 of the best…places to take the kids in Copenhagen

The Danish capital has something for everyone – especially the smaller ones. Starting with the...

Hotel Review: Sopot Marriott Resort & Spa, Poland

If you came here from my article describing the fun I had in Sopot, you will already be aware that I...

6 of the best…breakfast joints in London

London is bursting at the seams with places to see and things to do, but you still have to eat...

Planning your Grown-up Travel – the 12 step programme

Use this handy guide to plan your trip Image obtained from Flickr.com under Creative Commons (c)...

A week in Malawi – truly the warm heart of Africa

Introduction Earlier this year I organized what could be described as the “working trip of a...

Spot the difference: Photos show how Berlin has changed since 1990

What a difference 22 years makes… I had the pleasure of living and working in Berlin from...

Why Chicago should be the next city you visit in the USA – even if it was also the last

Before we get into this, Noo Yoikers, I do understand. You find it hard to believe how anyone...

Most Popular Articles Since 2012

So which frequent flyer programme should I join?

Part Two in the series “How to travel the world in luxury at budget rates using loyalty schemes”...

Top 3 Car Rental Companies in South Africa

Photo credit: Harshil.Shah South Africa – Cape Town – Camps Bay via photopin (license)...

Hotel Review: Clarion Hotel & Congress Trondheim, Norway

Image (c) Clarion Hotel & Congress Trondheim, Norway We figured it was about time we covered...

Exploring Montenegro

Montenegro, in the southern part of the Adriatic, is a unique country in several ways, packing a...

Gifts for the Grown-up Traveller: A stylish suitcase cover and an end to excess baggage surprises

Need ideas for the perfect gift for a Grown-up Traveller? You’ve come to the right place. Look...

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...

Hotel Review: Radisson Blu Seaside, Helsinki, Finland

Image (c) Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel In the middle of January I returned to Finland – this was...

Year-round sun and fun in the Canary Islands

As you may know if you’ve followed Grown-up Travel Guide for a while, we don’t rule out...

Hotel Review: La Rectoria de Sant Miquel de Pineda, La Garrotxa, Spain

It’s probably best to start this article by making it clear that this is not going to be...