"Even though it’s very Off West End, I still have the common London experience of going to the theatre and realising I’ve seen some of the actors on the telly or at the cinema. Outside on the wet streets, people are bustling through the rain toward Kilburn Tube station, or stepping into the welcoming pub opposite. There’s something both very British but very international about the scene."

Stepping outside London's theatrical mainstream to go 'Off West End'.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

[Read the full article here]

"'Roman Polanski used to sit right there between classes.' Professor Andrzej Bednarek points to a stairwell within Poland’s National Film School. We gaze at the stairs together, he in fond reflection and I in moderate reverence. It’s not everyday you encounter a renowned director’s favourite spot for a smoko. And as Lodz is pronounced 'woodge' in Polish, there’s been no end of puns about 'Hollywoodge'."

"Then a miracle happens. The dense cloud starts to dissipate under the sunlight's morning warmth, splitting apart to reveal a stark rocky peak way above us. Set within it is the cable car station, an improbable construction wedged into the rock, like the lair of a James Bond villain. As we reach it, I suddenly remember that there's nothing beneath our feet for a very long way, and then we gently ease into place, 2634m above sea level."

Ascending the mighty High Tatra mountains in Slovakia.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Solidarity? John Paul II? That communist general with the creepy dark sunglasses who declared martial law? It may be 20 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, but to many Australians, Poland is still a jumble of images from the turbulent 1980s.However, things have come a long way since General Jaruzelski (the sunglasses guy) was removed from power in 1990."

A week's itinerary through the Polish cities of Kraków, Wrocław, Warsaw, Toruń and Gdańsk.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"A mention of the Cold War will more likely prompt thoughts of Californian indie band Cold War Kids than the dark days of the Berlin Wall. However, all is not lost. The Wall fell 20 years ago, but Central and Eastern Europe are littered with remnants from the strange, increasingly distant era of the Iron Curtain. That’s the beauty of this part of Europe..."

Detailing ten memorable communist-era relics in Central and Eastern Europe.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

[Read the full article here]

"Warsaw may not be the prettiest of Poland's cities, but this bustling business centre is home to a dazzling array of dining and nightlife options. It's true, however, that the city can be hard work, its traffic-choked streets lined with uninspiring massive concrete buildings.
However, look at Warsaw with a historic perspective - as a city that's survived everything fate could throw at it - and you'll see the capital in an entirely new light."

A guide to these Central European nations aimed at the budget traveller, including attractions, accommodation, dining, nightlife, history and culture.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

"I don’t think I’m staying in Adolf Hitler’s old room. At least, I hope not. The 20th century’s most infamous dictator is not someone you’d want to be associated with, even at seven decades’ remove. But while it’s had its share of dodgy guests, the Hotel Monopol in the Polish city of Wroclaw has also welcomed plenty of the right sorts through its doors, including Pablo Picasso and Marlene Dietrich."

Exploring three attractive cities in Poland's west: Wrocław, Poznań and Toruń.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Where else but Hungary can you laze about in an open-air thermal spa in midwinter, while snow patches glisten around you? Following that, it's de rigueur to head to a local bar where a Romani band yelps while a crazed crowd whacks its boot heels, as commanded by Hungarian tradition. Or to go clubbing in an ancient bathhouse, where all dance waist-deep in the healing waters."

Outlines the cultural and natural attractions of these nations, along with details of accommodation, entertainment and dining options.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

"If they were handing out prizes for 'most eventful history', Poland would be sure to get a gong. The nation has spent centuries at the pointy end of history, grappling with war, invasion and foreign occupation. Nothing, however, has succeeded in suppressing the Poles' strong sense of nationhood and cultural identity, as exemplified by the ancient royal capital of Kraków, with its breathtaking castle."

A comprehensive guide to these Central European nations, covering attractions, accommodation, dining, nightlife, history and culture.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

"Start your visit to Poland’s second-largest city by strolling along the main drag, Ulica Piotrkowska. The Industrial Revolution transformed Łódź into a mighty player in textile manufacturing, and Piotrkowska became lined with graceful art nouveau buildings. Statues of famous locals line the street, among them the pianist Arthur Rubenstein, seated at a piano bearing a giant outstretched wing."

A whirlwind three day tour of Poland's second-biggest city and film hub.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Shad Thames is a curious laneway running parallel with the Thames, between a set of large brick warehouses. Above the street a series of walkways runs back and forth between the buildings. It’s an atmospheric sight; and it’s also, I remember, where Daleks were seen to roam when it was a dilapidated, rain-drenched strip in the 1980s. Which just goes to show - even metallic alien invaders can’t stop gentrification."

Taking three walking tours based on fictional characters in London.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Given this tumultuous history, it comes as a surprise to discover how well the city's historic centre has survived the passing of empires. Its narrow, winding cobblestone streets, tiled roofs and baroque churches are a stereotype of visitors' expectations of a small European city.Vilnius is a shining example of what Michael Palin has called 'New Europe' ."

How to get the most out of a day in the capital of Lithuania.
Available for republication (print only).
Images available.

[Read the full article here]

"I’m on my way into a pub when I’m stopped by a dangerous revolutionary. With one fist raised in protest and the other support a flying banner, he looks up at me with clear disdain. But perhaps I’m overstating my peril. For a start, he’s looking up at me because he’s only 50 centimetres high. And he’s made of stone. And he’s a gnome."

An investigation of the quirky gnome statues of Wrocław, Poland.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"People often respond to hearing about my Lonely Planet gigs by saying 'That must be fun.' To which I say 'That’s the wrong adjective.' Stimulating, yes, fascinating, yes, memorable, yes, but not fun. But the pay off lies in the moments when I’m able to take my focus off the job in hand, just for a moment, and feel the full impact of the glorious place I’m standing in."

I reveal the less glamorous aspects of researching a travel guide in Poland.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"There's an odd mood of exhilaration in the air; I think, like me, everyone is thinking how improbable this all is, that human beings shouldn't be this high up from the earth, and certainly not sipping alcoholic beverages while doing so. We’re all braced by the strange mix of material comforts and an underlying sense of danger. I want at the same time to shout out 'Aren't we clever?' and 'Aren't we crazy?'"

Scaling the peaks and spas of the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"The result is an intriguing blend, a core of beautifully restored classical buildings against the backdrop of overwhelming concrete structures from the communist years. As the nation’s business hub, Warsaw has a wide array of dining and entertainment options, from medieval cellar restaurants to cutting-edge nightclubs."

Spending a day exploring the attractions of Poland's capital city.
Available for republication (print only).
Images available.

"The Republic of Uzupis has an honorary president, no standing armed forces, and a commitment only to art. When you learn its national day is April 1, you can appreciate why the Lithuanian government casts an indulgently amused eye over Uzupis, seeing its 'independence' as a great tourist attraction."

Exploring the eccentric Užupis district of Vilnius, Lithuania.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Vinyl records sit stacked in a box, a guide to East Germany lies on a lace-covered table, and various plastic appliances decorate the tiny kitchen bench. On the wall, an image of Jesus speaks of religious convictions. This is one of the highlights of the tour, allowing a feel for how people lived in the communist years."

Investigating the communist-era attractions of Kraków, Poland.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"A stay at one of London’s great hotels, such as the Savoy, will set you back a mere $1000 a night. But cheaper lodgings are available..."

I investigate relatively inexpensive accommodation in London, as part of a survey of budget options around the world.
Available for republication (print and Web).

"The power, the power! I’m standing at a computer console in London, selecting missions undertaken by a well-known secret agent. As I touch each icon, an impressive digital globe rotates on the giant screen above me, indicating the locations in James Bond’s adventures. Yes, I am a Bond villain and I hold the fate of Agent 007 in my very hands. Nyah-ha-ha!"

On the London trail of James Bond 007, and his creator Ian Fleming.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"To describe Warsaw’s history as ‘eventful’ is a major understatement. As Poland’s capital since the 16th century, the city has been at the heart of the nation’s glory days, producing geniuses such as Marie Curie and Frederic Chopin. But its darkest hour came in 1944, with the event known as the Warsaw Rising."

A profile of the historic attractions of Poland's capital city.
Not available for republication.

"Though it’s been almost 20 years since Poland’s Solidarity trade union toppled the country’s communist regime, this lively drinking hole is festooned with memorabilia from Poland’s years on the wrong side of the Iron Curtain. But it’s not packed with crusty old blokes sporting Karl Marx beards, plotting the return of the 'good old days'. So what’s going on?"

An investigation of the 'communist nostalgia' phenomenon in Poland.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Dodging part of a fast-moving actor’s costume is not one of the usual rituals of going to the theatre. But I’m at the Globe Theatre, and here the rules are quite different. There’s no real danger of losing an eye, of course - the actors know exactly where they’re treading - but there’s a great sense of energy and excitement when they wheel in your direction to spout Shakespeare’s famous lines."

Taking in the entertainment at London's more stimulating theatrical venues.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

A profile of Poland, detailing the nation's history, people, icons, cuisine and myths, along with interesting random facts. Accompanied by impressive photography.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

A comprehensive guide to these Polish regions, covering sights, hotels, restaurants, entertainment, history and culture.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

To read the reviews, visit
Lonely Planet: Hotels & Hostels
(opens in new window),
and select Poland, then the relevant city.

Reviews of a selection of lodgings, covering all budgets, in these Polish cities.
Not available for republication.

"The young woman is standing heroically, dressed in a long plain dress with the arms rolled up, her eyes staring off into the future. Oh yes, and she’s holding a large fish. But this is Poland, and context is everything. The woman is on a large poster on the wall of PRL, a pub in the southwestern city of Wroclaw, and it’s a parody of a propaganda poster from Poland’s communist era."

An exploration of communist memorabilia and relics across the Central European nation.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Western Poland is dripping with historic significance, having changed hands frequently between Polish and German rulers over the centuries. However, its tumultuous past doesn't mean that the region has a depressing, war torn air - far from it. Its beautiful architecture and lively culture is best exemplified by three major cities: Wroclaw, Poznan and Torun."

A journey through western Poland, exploring its historic beauty.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Then something fascinating happened: Kazimierz was rediscovered. As the medieval centre of Krakow became dominated by tourists, young residents directed their attention to Kazimierz’s narrow, atmospheric streets, and its character-filled shops packed tightly together. Even the distressed look of the facades became an asset, adding a certain ‘alternative’ appeal."

Describes the reborn attraction of the former Jewish district of Kraków, Poland. 

This article was an instalment of the syndicated Travels With Lonely Planet column, and also appeared in:

• The Houston Chronicle
• The Times Union, Albany NY

Not available for republication.

"Founded as a working class counterweight to Krakow’s intellectual and religious traditions, Nowa Huta was a test of the communist regime’s vision of the future. Nowadays, though its massive steelworks have been scaled back, it’s just another suburb of the ancient city. But everywhere you go, its creators’ monumental design is like a message from the past."

Exploring Nowa Huta, the 1950s "workers' paradise" suburb of Kraków, Poland.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

"Many Polish-Australians have returned to their mother country, to start businesses and take part in Poland’s new commercial life within the EU. One of these is Beata Zielinska, a Gdynia businesswoman who lived in Australia for over 20 years. As a nod to her adoptive country, she chose to manufacture a very Australian product: the humble meat pie."

Profiles a businesswoman making Aussie meat pies for sale to Polish schoolchildren.
Available for republication (print and Web).
Images available.

A guide to the Central European nation aimed at the budget traveller, including attractions, accommodation, dining, nightlife, history and culture.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

"You can only really understand this city through the filter of its history. Warsaw is a study in light and dark, and the extremes are far apart: the ‘light’ of art, culture, achievement; the ‘dark’ of destruction and genocide. The city’s story of struggle and survival is almost overwhelming for someone brought up in sheltered Australia, but without absorbing it, you’re only getting part of the story."

The cultural highlights and tragic history of Poland's capital city.
Available for republication (print only).
Images available.

Outlines the cultural and natural attractions of Poland, along with details of accommodation, entertainment and dining options.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

A comprehensive guide to the European nation, covering attractions, accommodation, dining, nightlife, history and culture.

This book can be purchased online from Amazon.com.

Not available for republication.

To read the reviews, visit
Lonely Planet: Hotels & Hostels
(opens in new window),
and select Poland/Warsaw.

Reviews of a selection of lodgings, covering all budgets, in the Polish capital.
Not available for republication.

"'We have here the homicide.' These aren’t words you want to hear while you’re travelling overseas. Nor do you want to glance over the shoulder of the man who’s just spoken them, to see a pile of bloody surgical gloves and the body of your dead landlord in the living room. Your absolutely stark naked dead landlord..."

A sticky personal tale of murder in the beautiful Polish city.
Available for republication (print and Web).

"There’s more than one way to skin a cat. Or indeed, to visit Britain. The Romans came to conquer the place, the Vikings to plunder, and most modern visitors have images of castles, pomp and pageantry whirling in their heads. But some of the best English language TV and film has come out of the UK, and an increasing number of tourists make a different kind of pilgrimage – to the location of their favourite Brit flick."

Guide to travelling through the UK in search of TV and film locations.
Available for republication (print and Web).

"The sound grew louder as we trudged along the path. It was a crisp spring day and the green fields glinted occasionally with the last of the winter snow. It was a serene country scene, the type you imagine must have been painted by an artist at one time or another. Except for the noise, of course. It grew louder, a motorised drone… then suddenly, a tractor appeared over the rise and headed straight for us."

Destination piece about Poland's historic attractions.
Available for republication (print and Web).

I also have a selection of high-quality digital images available, depicting a variety of international locations. 
See examples of my travel photography.

If you'd like to republish one of these pieces, or would like a new piece written about the same location, please get in touch via the contacts below:

email:
tim@iwriter.com.au

phone:
0411-242327
(international +61-411-242327)

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