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

Craft Beer in South Africa: A Beer Lover’s Guide

You know I love Africa. And you know I love beer. And you probably can guess that I jump at the...

The Best 5-day Barcelona Itinerary for 2024

Hey, who doesn’t love Barcelona? It’s easily one of Europe’s great cities and an...

7 Fabulous Hidden Gems in Vienna

Vienna, a city known for its majestic imperial palaces, captivating music, and rich art history...

The Best Breakfast Places in Dubai

Dubai’s cosmopolitan culture brings a world of flavours to the breakfast table. From...

On the Spice Trail – A Culinary Journey Through India

Indian cuisine is amongst the most diverse and flavourful in the world. With a vast array of...

Exploring the Enigmatic Beauty of Norway’s Stave Churches

What are Stave Churches? Stepping into a Norwegian stave church is akin to traversing the corridors...

The Hidden Gems of Morocco: A Journey Off the Beaten Path

Morocco unfolds as an intricate mosaic of history, culture, and landscapes, inviting the intrepid...

Fun facts about Finland

In the picturesque lands of Finland, nestled between the arms of Scandinavia, lies a treasure trove...

Winter Wonders: A Guide to Scandinavian Winter Festivals

Scandinavia, a region synonymous with stark beauty and frosty winters, undergoes a magical...

Most Popular Articles Since 2012

Old Florida – Cedar Key

This article is part seventeen of the series “Trip diary: Three weeks on the road in...

First impressions: an Englishman in New York

After a lame attempt to kick this series off in June last year we’re going to do it properly...

Hotel review: St. George Inn, St. Augustine, USA

Hotel review: St. George Inn, St. Augustine, USA This article is part twelve of the series...

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

This is a guest post by Andy Downing with additional material by Andy Higgs Continuing our mission...

Hotel review: Cedar Key Bed & Breakfast, Florida, USA

This article is part sixteen of the series “Trip diary: Three weeks on the road in...

6 of the best…day trips from Porto

Portugal‘s second city Porto is one beautiful place and there’s plenty to see and do to...

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

This is a guest post by Alex Winter with additional material by Andy Higgs Continuing our mission to...

My five best Grown-up Travel experiences (so far)

1. Taking our (then) eight-year old daughter to her first rock concert June 2010. Muse live in...

Not to be missed – what to see and do in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

In response to numerous appeals from first-time visitors to various destinations we’ve caved...