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

Winter Wonders: A Guide to Scandinavian Winter Festivals

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

Planning an Epic Norwegian Road Trip: The Complete Guide

Norway is a BIG country, and if you are going to see a lot of it in a relatively short time, you...

The 21 Most Beautiful Places in Norway

Introduction Norway is a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich...

The Road Trip of Your Dreams: Cruising Along the French Riviera

The allure of a road trip along the French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is undeniable. With its...

11 Must-Visit Travel Destinations for Sports Enthusiasts

Sport is a universal language, transcending economic, political, and linguistic barriers. It offers...

The Best Foodie Cities in Europe in 2024

In 2024, the continent’s food landscape is as diverse and rich as ever, with cities...

The Sweden Solar System – the largest model of our planetary system in the world

As an avid traveller with a passion for science and astronomy, I’m always on the lookout for...

A Latvia Road Trip Part Two: Jurkalne, Kuldiga, Edole Castle and Kuksi Manor

This article is part two of the series “A Latvia Road Trip” A Latvia Road Trip: Part One –...

So what’s really better – cross-country skiing or downhill skiing?

Greetings from snowy Norway! As a British transplant who’s fallen in love with Norwegian...

Most Popular Articles Since 2012

6 of the best…places to eat in Chicago

Chicago is giving New York some serious competition in terms of food these days, as the locals will...

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...

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...

Hotel Review: The Peech Hotel, Johannesburg, South Africa

Earlier this year I booked flights using airline miles to get me to Johannesburg where I would meet...

An unforgettable Botswana safari Part 2 – Moremi Game Reserve

You’ll find the first part of this article, along with a full introduction to the company I...

Here for the beer (and the food): Copenhagen, Denmark

Here for the beer (and the food): Copenhagen, Denmark Okay, look – I give you a word, you give...

Making the most of an afternoon in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Since I am currently in Botswana and off the grid for a few days (no wi-fi, no mobile phone signal...

Four of Portugal’s hotspots for your travel itinerary

This is a guest post by Masha Silko with additional material from Andy Higgs Having just returned...

Following the trail of Scandinavian crime fiction – Sarah Lund, Copenhagen

Holiday season is upon us, and as if that’s not enough other work duties are taking all of my time...