The drive to Bruichladdich on the isle of Islay is nothing short of beautiful. Twisty roads, stunning coastal views, and if you are lucky, fine weather. But I don’t recommend you drive, opt for a taxi instead from the town of Bowmore and enjoy what this exciting distillery has to offer - incredible whisky.
Honda’s CB1000R is possibly the best-looking naked bike on the road. That single-sided swingarm is gorgeous, the short seat and machined engine casings make it look industrial and the aggressive stance gives it a mischievous and reckless attitude.
Adventure beckons the moment you arrive at The Cary Arms in the positively tropical Babbacombe Bay. A gentle cruise along the cliff-top coast road in the new Bentley GTC brought us to a small single-lane track. So steep that you wonder if the car will make it. Of course, it's a Bentley so it's a breeze. Though anything without four-wheel drive will struggle.
You can’t pass up the privilege of being cooked for by a veteran Michelin-starred Masterchef and being served by a waitress whose father is China’s top international football goal scorer, scoring 41 times in 107 games. And coming on once as a substitute for Sheffield United in the FA Cup match against Colchester United. It is a unique and wonderful gourmet experience.
I make no bones about the fact I’m a big fan of Suzuki’s GSX-S1000. It's a simple, brutish, modern muscle bike. The recipe is so simple; great chassis, fabulous engine, cool looks and great build quality. Put all that together and you get a 150 bhp, 999 cc 4 cylinder, fun machine.
Helena is a freelance presenter and reporter for ITV and ITN, as well as specialising in travel presenting. She can often be found speaking at prestigious events or appearing on panels across the country. She has represented the UK media industry in the House of Commons alongside Michael Sheen, has hosted press nights, product launches and conferences.
These yachts bestow a unique blend of luxury and wellness, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate while also staying active and healthy on your travels. Yachts provide a private and luxurious setting for fitness and wellness activities, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being without distractions. Many offer a range of wellness amenities, such as fitness centres, pools, spas, and yoga studios. Yachts furnish ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling.
1300 years ago the Maldives was called "Dvipa Laksham" or a hundred thousand islands. It was later referred to as Treasure Island by Arab and Persian traders who came for the pearls, agate, spices, fish and coconuts. For me, these names conjure up visions of islands drifting in such clear water that they appear to float in the sky. Start with that image in your mind's eye to visualise this paradise.
Persuasion is not something that was needed when I suggest to Yves we should visit Speyside. My plan was to drive the McLaren 720s to one of my favourite distilleries on the Eastern edge of Speyside, near Aberlour. It would mean a detour, on our way from The Torridon to Murrayshill Hotel, but I knew the roads would be a perfect opportunity to further explore the amazing capabilities of this car. Aberlour is a small town, with most of the amenities you need and an excellent base for exploring the region.
Recently, I was invited to a media day by Kymco where we were offered the chance to spend the day riding some of their scooters.
You probably haven’t heard of Kymco, who are they?
Founded in 1964, KYMCO became one of Honda’s overseas manufacturing facilities. In the UK Kymco has been little more than an afterthought. For years, the petrol product (ATV & 2 wheeled) was looked after by Masco. In 2017 Masco closed its doors, leaving Kymco with a bit of an issue.
