Travel Pocket Guide - Autumn/Winter 2018

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018

JENNIFER STEPHENSON HARRY VAN GESTEL

COPENHAGEN LAPLAND AMERICA AUSTRALIA’S DEEPEST CAVE GHOST TOURS & MORE

Travelling to a malaria risk area?

A full travel health consultation with your pharmacist is required. For maximum protection against malaria, take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes as well as taking your antimalarial medicine. Maloff Protect is for adults aged 18 and over only.

*

References: 1. Imported malaria cases and deaths in the UK: 2017. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/imported-malaria-in-the-uk-statistics [Last accessed August 2018].

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Human Factors and Malaria. https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/about/biology/human_factors.html [Last accessed July 2018].

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E D I T O R ’ S

L E T T E R

Hello, and welcome to the latest issue of Travel Pocket Guide. We hope you've had a wonderful summer and as we enter into autumn/winter, we have some brilliant content for you to enjoy, and get you thinking about booking that much deserved getaway.

Discover the history, architecture, and culture of Denmark's capital; Copenhagen. Read about our top 5 cities to visit in the American Midwest. Do something different and visit Lapland, the home of Santa, saunas, and sledding, or take advantage of our own soil and explore parts of the UK you might have never visited before: read our Alternative London feature and step into haunted territory with our UK ghost tour guide.

We caught up with Louis Cole, who's own a plane around the world, has 2 million+ subscribers and is most passionate about inspiring others to be the best versions of themselves and live adventurously. Take advantage of a rare opportunity to hear from Harry Van Gestel, a world famous artist (who doesn't own a computer and hand wrote his answers to us), and sharing through his work. Read our l sending a global message of love interview with Producer Fraser Johnston who risked his life with his team, 400 metres underground, in the search for Australia's deepest cave, and Jennifer Stephenson, who's one of six female soldiers to cross Antarctica coast-to-coast using muscle power alone.

We've had fun putting together this issue of TPG, and hope you enjoy it.

Let us know what you think - perhaps you'd like to join the team as a contributor? Get your work published, with a chance to feature as contributor of the month on our website, and join us on socials for regular travel news, reviews, interviews, tips, and offers. Happy travels.

Ben Farrin Founder and Group MD

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LOUIS COLE

COPENHAGEN

HARRY VAN GESTEL

MILWAUKEE

FRASER JOHNSTON

SAVE THE PLANET

JENNIFER STEPHENSON

NORTHERN LIGHTS

All Rights Reserved © Pocket Media Group Ltd 2018. The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any of the views or opinions expressed in this guide, errors or omissions which may have occurred, or accept liability for any services or facilities featured. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that all information is correct, changes may and can occur.

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By Joseph Rogers

For some, Scandinavia can seem the opposite of what constitutes an ideal holiday destination. With cold weather and hard-to-grasp languages, it certainly differs from a sunny Mediterranean beach holiday. However, Copenhagen (Denmark’s capital) proves that there’s actually lots to enjoy in Europe’s northern reaches.

The less than two hour flight time from Luton Airport makes Copenhagen ideal for a short, three day trip across the North Sea - and even more so with the price of some of Easyjet’s early morning flights. Descending into the city, it’s easy to determine the capital’s location on the border with Sweden, as aircrafts pass by the Øresund Bridge, famous for the setting of the 2011 TV series The Bridge, and for being the only physical link between the two nations. On arrival, the airport’s Metro connection with the rest of the city provides easy access to accommodation. In this instance, the Adina Apartment Hotel is only a five minute walk from Østerport Station. Here, a sense of Copenhagen’s maritime importance can be appreciated, with ferry terminals offering travel to Oslo, cargo ports in motion at Nordhavn and HDMS Peder Skram, a retired Danish Naval Vessel sat across the short body of water to the east.

As with in any other location, the apart-hotel setup allows for a self catering twist in what is essentially a four-star hotel. Adina hosts a full bar, restaurant, gym, swimming pool, and bike hire in a quiet, newly redeveloped area of docklands, and can cater for those looking for mod-con luxury as well as for travellers wishing to satisfy themselves on a budget.

From here, the majority of Copenhagen’s attractions can seem some distance away. Certainly for those wanting to take in Nyhavn, the postcard picture of the city, or the historical monuments of Rundetaarn (The Round Tower), and Rådhus (City Hall), the Metro can be the better option especially if weather is inclement. Unlike some European cities, the spread of Copenhagen and indeed its Metro make for more of a reliance on public transport and increasingly on bicycles too. All three of these tourist draws are worth the journey, and the Rundetaarn is particularly worth the seldom-seen step-less climb to the top, resulting in breath-taking views across the city. At only DKK 25 for adult admission, the Rundetaarn is also one of Copenhagen’s cheaper attractions.

Even further afield southwest of the city lies the hugely entertaining Carlsberg ‘ExBeerience’, home to one of Denmark’s most famous exports. Entry gains access to a flood of historical and cultural insight behind the lager as well as the Danish people and local industry. In addition, the tasting sessions offer a unique way of experiencing how today’s Carlsberg stemmed from the original Jacobsen Dark Lager, first made in 1854. Finally, the tour ends with a complimentary pint on the top-floor bar as well as lunch - if so desired - at an extra cost. The whole process is probably best enjoyed as a group, can take a number of hours and can be fun for first-time beer tasters and ale aficionados.

Shopping, eating, and generally taking in the Danish vibe can be done near Højbro Plads in the centre of the city. The old streets and buildings see cafés and restaurants line the canal side, offering everything from continental breakfasts, to indulgent cake and coffee. It is near here also that those looking for childhood nostalgia can see what the native LEGO Store offers in the 21st Century, with the flagship brand shop open 10am – 6pm.

The famous Little Mermaid Statue “Den lille Havfrue” is located back toward the Adina Hotel to the north and is ideally situated only a few minutes’ walk from there. Here it is common to see coaches of tourists at the pull-in point, waiting their turn for the perfect photograph. But, again, bad weather can also see the area relatively deserted. Rosenberg Castle, lying nearby off of the main thoroughfare Øster Voldgade, is also worth a visit to learn much about Denmark’s Royal history.

The beauty of Europe’s variety of cities lies in their ability to offer a different setting in everyday urban environments. Understanding the culture, hearing the locals and absorbing the vibes are what places like Copenhagen allow for best, and to do so through such insightful attractions makes the cold, wet weather and incomprehensible tongue all the less important. Copenhagen can be a perfect introduction to Scandinavia and one which only makes you curious as to what lies even further north.

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Whether you find yourself en route to the Great Lakes or to the Hoosier State, the Midwest has more to offer than grasslands.

America’s heartland houses some of the country’s most robust metropolitan areas with the bonus of midwestern friendliness and charm. Make sure to include these five cities on your list when planning a visit to the Midwest.

Affectionately nicknamed the Brew City, Milwaukee is a beer-happy city home to mega breweries such as Miller Brewery and Pabst Brewing Company. Located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee offers lakeside views and activities attracting visitors from coast to coast. Lake Michigan offers a variety of maritime excursions including fishing, jet skiing, and sailing. For those seeking green escapes, Milwaukee is home to the award-winning Lake Park and The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory. The conservatory or “The Domes,” showcases three enclosed biomes housing three distinct climates, meaning that a day outdoors in this city could offer a trip to a tropical jungle, a desert oasis, and a floral garden all in one afternoon. For culture enthusiasts, Milwaukee holds the largest collection of works by Wisconsin native Georgia O’Keefe in the Milwaukee Art Museum, and is one of the largest museums in the United States, with nearly 25,000 displayed works within its collection. When in town, catch a show at the historic Pabst Theater.

Known colloquially as “The Pabst,” this historic theater hosts nearly 100 events each year.

One of two major Minnesota cities which form the famous “Twin Cities”, moniker, Minneapolis offers the urban experience of America’s coastal cities with the addition of a laidback, midwestern attitude. Minneapolis was home to megastar Prince and has become known for its bustling music scene. There are plenty of hotspots and things to do across the city. First Avenue, Paisley Park, and the Guthrie Theater are all points of interest for music lovers and entertainment seekers alike. If you’re looking for a deep-dive into Minneapolis’ art scene, take a trip to the Minneapolis Institute of Art and to the Walker Art Gallery. Both museums have been recognized for their expansive collection of works and held as acclaimed cultural centres and defining attractions within the city. On a warm day, a trip to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden offers sights of beautiful greenery and contemporary art. Minneapolis is a fairly walkable city, making trips from place to place brisk and easy.

The best of what Missouri has to offer can arguably be pinpointed in Kansas City. This city celebrates local history, sports, art, and music with a vibrant nightlife, dynamic foodie culture, and a space for sports and beer fanatics alike. As the largest city in Missouri, rivaling St. Louis, Kansas City offers a broad range of activities, making it an easy place to explore and enjoy.

It’s particularly kid and family-friendly, welcoming people of all ages.

If you are looking to combine sports and history, take a trip to The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum located in the historic 18th and Vine district.

The museum offers interactive exhibits and an extensive collection of photographs illustrating the contributions and legacy of the league.

While you’re in the district, head over to the American Jazz Museum, home to the famous nightclub, The Blue Room, as well as collections of famous musicians and American cultural icons among the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie. If you’re in town for football season, catch a game at Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Kansas City Chiefs. Or if you’re more interested in America’s favorite pastime, visit the Kauffman Stadium to watch a Royals game.

All roads lead to Indianapolis. Literally. Indianapolis is situated at the intersection of six major interstates making a stop in the city even more convenient. The capitol of Indiana hosts an abundance of entertainment options all within a walkable and easy-to-navigate city located in the centre of the state. First and foremost, Indianapolis is a sports city, home to the Indianapolis 500 or the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” and to the Indianapolis Colts. In strong companionship with sports, Indianapolis totes an impressive craft brews culture. If you can’t secure a ticket in Lucas Oil Stadium, your next best option would be to catch the game at a local brewery. In midwestern tradition, Indianapolis is a family-friendly city home to the world’s largest children’s museum and the Indianapolis Zoo. For visitors of all ages, visit Conner Prairie for a 350-foot helium balloon ride at the interactive history park.

A visit to the Windy City means a trip to one of America’s most culturally influential cities, boasting the birthplace of the nation’s first skyscraper and an extensive list of iconic musicians ranging from Sam Cooke to Chance the Rapper. A cultural hub in the heart of the country, Chicago brings visitors from across the globe to enjoy its rich nightlife and soaring sights. When in Chicago, visit Millennial Park. Any first-time tourist needs to visit Cloud Gate, better known as “The Bean.” While you’re there, take a stroll through the Boeing Galleries or Lurie Garden. Be sure to make a pitstop by Pritzker Pavilion for an outdoor concert. Watch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field or head to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for the best view of the city skyline. Book a show at the Chicago Theatre after a trip to a sunset visit to Buckingham Fountain. In between it all be sure to check out Chicago’s best eats. For roughly $200 per person, you can book a table at world-renowned restaurant Alinea, but be sure to book fast since tables sell out quickly.

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Hi! My name is Louis Cole and I am an online creator who is passionate about documenting and sharing my curiosity, excitement, and exploration of the world. I am passionate to learn about new cultures and communities, and sharing these adventures online with over two million subscribers. I started on YouTube a few years ago when I created a channel called Food For Louis. It was very sensational and got a lot of attention online, but I realised quickly that this was an identity I didn’t want to be recognised as. I wanted to communicate something which I actually cared about, and this is how my channel, Fun For Louis, started. My aim is to use my influence to have a positive impact on the world around me.

I would define myself as an ambassador for dreaming big, living beyond the mundane, and, of course, adventure.

When I started I had no idea that I could even make an income from YouTube, or that it would change the direction of my entire life. It continues to be an incredible journey for me every day.

I have always been interested in adventure! When I was 14 I went to Malaysia with my family, and that really sparked a desire to learn more about different cultures and explore more of the world.

About two and a half years ago I met JP Sholtz in New Zealand and he pitched the idea which he was planning as a young pilot. It got me really excited about the prospect and so I immediately agreed and we started planning together.

I don’t have anything to that scale planned in the foreseeable future. I am taking some time now to get the documentary completed, and then I will start dreaming of my next big challenge.

I would still be travelling, but doing more location based community projects, where I would spend more one on one time with people rather than trying to influence a platform. I am most passionate about inspiring people to be the best versions of themselves and to live adventurously, which looks different to different people.

It might not always be travel related, but rather taking steps in their own lives to face their fears, and building confidence to be ambitious in reaching their dreams.

So if I weren’t on YouTube I would still want to have a positive influence on the lives of people.

People often think you need more money than you do to travel and that there is only one way of travelling.

Start by getting a part-time or temporary job and put money aside each month. Often the most expensive part of the trip is the flight, and once you are at your destination you can save money by eating simply and couch surfing. I often travelled very cheaply in my twenties by getting a group of friends together and road tripping.

We spent hardly any money as we slept in the car and ate tinned beans; it was a real adventure and I still remember it today.

Yeah, I think I would always make some sort of content, I really love the creative process of filming and editing and then putting that out to a platform.

I love showing a window and capturing beauty in places for people, and hopefully by doing so, inspiring them to go see the world and travel.

Sitting in the hot tub, looking at the stars and listening to jazz.

My best places are a tie between Cape Town and Rio. I really love Rio de Janerio because it has so much diversity, from the beautiful surrounding jungles to the city which has a lot to offer culturally and musically.

I love the Brazillian music as well as the beach vibes.

I never really focus on negative things, so it’s tough to name my worst place.

Every place has something unique to offer and I always appreciate the environments I am in and what they have to offer and experience - even the more challenging ones.

I don’t imagine myself settling permanently somewhere, but I do imagine one day travelling at a slower pace and having multiple bases globally which I return to for a number of months at a time. I like the idea of having different places to return to with different communities of friends.

I will be attending a few more conventions until the end of the year; we have Buffer festival in Toronto in a few days time and it will be great to hang out with friends again and see what everyone has been up to over the last few months.

I am also looking forward to spending some time setting up our home in Los Angeles with Raya and exploring more of the west coast!

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Hello Fraser, thank you ever so much for taking the time to answer my questions. Maybe we can start by you giving us a snap-shot overview of your production company Crow’s Nest Media?

Crow’s Nest is an independent digital media production company based in Hobart Tasmania, we specialise in science and natural history.

I understand you’re currently producing a new tense documentary called Tartarus, about finding Australia’s deepest cave - sounds fascinating! How’s the film coming along?

We’ve been working on Tartarus for the last year and a half, and sometimes I feel like it’s never going to end! When myself and Andrew Terhell started the film, we didn’t really know much about caving. I’d worked on Attenborough’s Life that Glows, where we filmed glow worms in a different cave system, and felt comfortable filming in the low light and damp conditions of the cave environment, so we thought “let’s do a film about Australia’s deepest cave!” But nothing could prepare us for the reality of vertical caving; it’s pretty intense.

Photo Credit: Fraser Johnston

>>>

Photo Credit: Fraser Johnston

It must be extremely dangerous venturing deep into huge, pitch-black caves. What goes through your mind when you and your team enter the unknown?

I’ve heard stories of cave divers Normally we are pretty focused on losing their line in there, flooding trying to film, or moving forward. their dry suits and nearly running It’s generally around 8 degrees C in out of air, or people getting the Junee Florentine regardless of the trapped when flood waters rise temperature outside - it’s important unexpectedly, and microwave to keep moving so you don’t get sized boulders rolling down slopes hypothermia. You try not to think at people. Over the years there about floods and things like that, have been lots of close calls, but although it’s hard not to, especially thankfully never any serious when you see high water marks far injuries or fatalities. Being injured up on the cave walls. Generally the underground would be a caving team is pretty relaxed though, nightmare, even relatively minor which helps us feel better. injuries can be life threatening if you can’t get yourself out.

What’s the scariest thing which There are plenty of old animal has happened in the caves? bones in the bottom of many of the caves which are evidence Rock and pack falls are always scary to this fact. in vertical caves. I had a brick sized rock dislodged about 20m above me How do you prepare and train for while I was on an 80m pitch, such extreme expeditions?

I heard the warning shouted by the guys above me in time and managed We had to train in single rope to pull myself in close to the rock face technique before we could start before it got down to me. filming, but the best training for I heard it whooshing past close by in caving, is caving. The guys who do the darkness and had some gravel it a lot are super fit, it’s ridiculous, hit my helmet, that was scary. after a big trip your whole body is One guy had a rock which his rope wrecked. The same goes for filming was bolted into come loose from the in places like that: the best practice wall while he was attached to it; it is to do it often. was huge, and the guy ended up on one end of the rope, with the rock still attached to the other end but now loose and swinging around above him. >>>

What’s the longest amount of time you’ve spent in the dark caves in one trip?

I’ve spent two days underground and Andy has spent three. It’s pretty weird having no sense of night or day. I’ve heard of plenty of people staying underground far longer, but our camera batteries need to get recharged and our gear tends to get covered in mud which isn’t great, so we prefer to do shorter trips when we can get away with it. Dive trips in hard to access caves sometimes require overnight stays.

How far beneath ground level do these caves go?

The deepest is nearly 400m.

It has a single free hanging pitch called “the Black Super Giant” which is 185m top to bottom, there is some hope that the cave can be pushed deeper.

What’s been the most breathtaking moment so far during this production?

It’s hard to say, there are a few squeezes which certainly make it hard to breathe! The moment you return to the surface is always a relief. One night we exited Porcupine Cave at midnight after a long day; I was the first out, and when I turned my head torch off to wait for the rest of the team, I realised that the whole rim of the dolene (the funnel shaped entrance to the cave) was covered in glow worms, thousands of them.

That was pretty special. I’d used my camera batteries up though so that experience is just for the people who were there.

>>>

Junee Florentine is a remote area in How do you think, or how would Tasmania. Do you get any time to you like the film to end? explore the island above ground You’ll have to watch it when it comes when you’re not filming? out to find out! But I’d like it to have a The Junee Florentine is stunning happy ending, many films in the both above and below ground; adventure genre seem to focus on the area is covered in ancient tragedy, and you can understand rainforest which contains some why; it grips people, but I don’t want of the tallest trees in the world. to go through that.

It’s worth a visit on it’s own.

How will the documentary Tasmania is a really special place, be aired? next to Australia on a map it looks quite small and people think you We’re aiming for TV or a festival run, can drive around it in a day, but we haven’t decided on a final but it’s actually about the size of output for it yet.

Ireland. With nearly 1,584,000 I really can’t wait to see the finished hectares of wilderness which film and wish you the best of luck comprise the Tasmanian finishing it.

Wilderness World Heritage area, as well as many other national Thanks, I can’t wait to see it either! parks and wild places which don’t have any roads or man-made infrastructure. We’re right in between the Tasman Sea and the Southern Ocean, with great surf and fantastic seafood and diving; it’s a paradise if you like the outdoors. I try and get out and see as much of it as I can.

Photo Credit: Fraser Johnston

Last year, Kenya announced a strict ban on the production, selling, and use of plastic bags. Officials have plans to target sellers and manufacturers first.

The ban is so fierce, that if Kenyans are caught breaching it, they could face up to four years in prison or a $40,000 fine. It’s the toughest law which has ever been created to assist in reducing plastic pollution. Kenya joined more than 40 other countries which have also restricted the use and production of plastic bags including Italy, France, and China.

Whilst there are a number of places where plastic bags can be recycled, figures have recently shown that only 1% of the bags produced are actually recycled. As a result, plastic bags have had devastating effects on the environment. Many drift into the oceans where they strangle marine life, particularly sea turtles who mistake the floating plastic for jellyfish – their main source of food. Others fill the stomachs of dolphins and whales, clogging their digestive systems until they inevitably starve to death.

But it’s not just the sea life which is suffering at the hands of plastic bag production. On land, plastic bags often end up in the ground where toxic chemicals are released. It makes the ground unsuitable for growing crops and many animals consume the chemicals whilst grazing. Plastic bags take between 100 and 500 years to break down, meaning by 2050, there will be more plastic bags filling our oceans than fish. Whilst the effect of plastic bag production and dumping seems to have little effect on our day-to-day lives, these plastic bags are beginning to find their way into the human food chain.

In some developing countries, slaughterhouses have to remove plastic bags from the stomachs of their livestock, particularly cows.

Every year we are wasting approximately one trillion plastic bags. There is currently so much discarded plastic on the planet that there would be enough to entirely coat earth in a sheet of cling film.

So what can we do as individuals to avert the crisis our planet is headed for?

Most supermarkets currently offer ‘bags for life’ – they are usually around 10p to purchase and are reusable, meaning you won’t need to keep purchasing 5p plastic carrier bags which inevitably end up in a tip, polluting the earth. There are also recycle bins all over the country which will take plastic bags and make great and environmentally friendly use of them.

HARRY VAN GESTEL I N T E R V I E W

B Y

B E N

F A R R I N

I remember it well. Whilst in Amsterdam, I was wandering through the lanes mid-afternoon when I noticed a window amongst the shops with its lights o, and people sat inside on the oor. Out of curiosity, I peered through to see what was happening, and a man - who I now know to be Harry Van Gestel - ran towards the window from the inside, making noises and waving hands at me. I stood bemused as my brother and his his h friends looked back to see what was happening. Harry opened the door to what I now realise was his art gallery, and said to me "you haven't run away; I like you. Come in".

One of my life's most random experiences was to unfold over the next 30 minutes as I walked out of Harry's gallery with not one, but two hand signed oil paintings which he gave me for free, because he "felt my energy" and took a liking to me. Both were original paintings, hand signed to me and my mum, who he said was a very special person.

Utterly shocked and not knowing much about Harry at the time, I decided to research him when I returned home. He is a Dutch artist and painter, who has had his work exhibited across the globe including Japan, Brazil, Taiwan, America, Colombia, Ta Bahamas, France, Germany, and Switzerland!

I wanted to know more about the man who has very kindly gifted me and my mum not only with his amazing work - which still hangs on our walls at home - but with a truly fascinating memory which will stay with me forever.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for such an amazing gii and memory; a story I will forever tell. Why did you give me the paintings?

Because there is nothing more intense than sharing. I have built my oeuvre and career around the concept of sharing, and have always shared my art for free with charities or to support causes which I believe in, which always concerns the well being of others. I always use my gallery as a safe zone to share creativity with people from all over the world.

What is the inspiration speciically behind the art you gave me?

The answer is always love.

What inspires you to paint?

Painting is portraying emotions, and this is what inspires me.

Are you trying to spread a message via your work, and if so, what is it?

Yes. The message is always about love and sharing.

What's the longest amount of time you have spent on any particular piece?

I don’t do know the exact time, but the longest one took me many years. I paint my artworks in many layers and sometimes continue work months after the rst layer. Just like the old masters, I tend to paint over my older work and some pieces may therefore have multiple dated signatures. da Which piece are you most proud of?

There is not one artwork. Every piece has its own quality.

In your own words, please can you describe your art style?

Freedom.

When we met, you said you could feel my energy and we spoke about extra terrestrial beings. What is your belief about E.T? They are everywhere, only we are too blind to see them.

Do you believe humans have already communicated with aliens?

Of course.

What message would you try to incorporate into an art piece if you had the chance to give it to an alien?

Love and peace.

Finally, what one piece of advice would you give to all the artists around the world who dream of owning their own gallery?

Don’t be afraid to share.

Thank you, Harry. It's been a pleasure.

I hope all is well with you.

Thanks for asking all these questions. Love and Light, Harry.

w w w . h a r r y v a n g e s t e l . c o m

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By Kelly Regan-Mears

The hustle and bustle of London can become tedious and exhausting.

So instead of exploring the capital through the underground system, why not stay above the surface and take some alternative routes?

There really is something for everyone in the UK’s greatest city!

If you’re an avid Hogwarts fan, then London offers a host of locations for you to visit and fulfil your fantasy needs. You can either tackle it by yourself or be led site by site with a tour guide. Along the way you’ll see numerous iconic Harry Potter locations such as Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross station, Gringotts Bank, and the famous Millennium Bridge which we see destroyed in ‘Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince’.

For lovers of history and brutal violence – you can embark on a tour where you’ll learn everything about the notorious serial killer, Jack The Ripper and the brutal and stomach churning murders of his victims. You’ll visit Metre Square, where one of his victims was discovered and you’ll even have a drink in the Ten Bells pub close to Spitafields where he supposedly stalked his female victims.

Take a stroll through the streets of London on which some of your favourite scenes from the hit show Sherlock were filmed. You’ll stop off at Baker Street and take a look around the Sherlock Holmes museum. You can even grab a quick bite to eat in Speedy’s Cafe in London’s hotspot, Camden. And let’s not forget a visit to where Sherlock and Watson first met in the show at St Bart’s Hospital.

Take in the excitement of Soho and re-create Oasis’‘What’s The Story Morning Glory’ album cover. Or simply browse the streets which are in abundance of record and music shops. You can also stop off at Paul McCartney’s old house, or take in the hub of activity which surrounds the BBC offices. This walk is perfect for those who carry music in their hearts.

The thought of paranormal activity is enough to send some of us running, but for others, the unknown is something especially intriguing.

Why not embark on a spooktackular tour around some of the UK’s most creepy locations, and discover the history behind what supposedly makes them so profoundly haunted?

By Chloe Gascoigne

Durham Ghost Walk is set in an unsettling World Heritage Site where unmarked burial pits are lined with hundreds of dead bodies.

This isn’t any ordinary tour though; on this walk you’ll have the opportunity to use professional ghost hunting equipment as seen on your favourite ghost hunting shows! You’ll also be taught to use your own mobile phone to indentify paranormal activity as well as going orb hunting. You could even discover your own psychic abilities you didn’t know you had! The tour costs £5 per head, or you can go for free on the first Sunday of every month.

Chester is supposedly one of the most haunted cities in Britain; it’s rich in history (2000 years of it) and has had hundreds of paranormal sightings. Chester’s ghost tour guides will take you on a darkened journey around the eerie streets of the city to explore its unsettling and mysterious past, where you’ll hear grisly tales of all the ghosts and ghouls residing in Chester. They offer tours to suit all ages which are led by experienced and qualified professionals.

They last around 90 minutes and prices are £10 per adult.

John Hippisley, an award-winning writer and ghost hunter, has been offering ghost tours to the public since 1991 in the city of Canterbury.

He published his own guide (Haunted Canterbury) to the supernatural occurrences in the city which is famous for the murdered Archbishop, Thomas Becket. The tour lasts around 75 minutes and is a combination of humour, history, and scares around the older parts of the city.

It happens all year round, regardless of weather, every Friday and Saturday at 8pm starting at Alberrys in Canterbury.

The public are invited to embark on this unique tour of Robin Hood Bay’s alleyways and streets as you are told tales of the strange and supernatural goings-on. The past is filled with shipwrecks, smugglers, spirits, and unsettling folklore and legends. Regardless of your age, this tour will be sure to amuse and entertain. The tour begins outside the visitor centre on the slipway in the dock, and there is also a board which shows tour times. Don’t worry about booking, just show up!

Named in the Guinness Book of World Records ‘the most haunted village in England’, the seemingly peaceful village of Puckley has at least 12 reported spirits, and television shows such as Most Haunted have visited the area in the hopes to witness some of its renowned paranormal activity. Ghosts include the highway man, the hanging school master, and the horse and carriage. It’s also famous for its screaming woods, where people have supposedly disappeared... Ghost Hunt Events runs the Puckley Woods Ghost Hunt, which is an overnight occasion where participants can attempt to interact with the spirits... It lasts around three hours and is £15 per adult.

Lapland is Finland’s northernmost region, also incorporating parts of Norway and Sweden.

The people of Lapland are known as the Sami, and have possessed the area for thousands of years.

Here we take a look at five things to do and see in Lapland...

Santa Claus is real! And yes, he lives in Rovaniemi in Lapland.

The atmosphere of the Santa Claus Village is warm, comfortable, and incredibly festive, with enchanting lighting throughout the night. You can have a chat and a photo with Santa Claus himself in the Santa Claus Office. On the off chance that you need to send some exceptional presents next Christmas, you can leave your address in their Santa Claus Main Post Office.

Pooch sledding is a custom all the way from North America and Alaska.

Conditions in Lapland are perfect for the dogs with them running best on dry snow. Sledding has become incredibly popular in Lapland over the last few decades with most tourists wanting to try it out for themselves whilst visiting this icy paradise.

If you’re familiar with Huskies and their temperaments, then you’ll know how lively they can be. As a sledding team, the dogs can run for hours on end without feeling tired. In fact, the dogs thrive on adventure and teamwork. Sledding is an unexpectedly relaxing must-try activity in Lapland.

Using the Sauna Gondolas is a Finnish tradition. Being suspended above the ski slopes in a little wooden box which also happens to be a luxurious sauna is a very popular tourist activity. With the weather being a chilly -10 degrees Celsius outside, the sweaty detoxifying heat of the sauna is welcoming.

At the ski resort in Ylläs, you can rent a sauna gondola before sipping a lager and going in the jacuzzi outside the cabins. It typically costs around ₏100 each, but it is entirely worth it.

Visiting Lapland doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get to witness the spectacular Northern Lights, but Finnish Lapland is one of the primary locations where individuals go for the best chance of seeing them.

If the weather is on your side, you will most certainly stand a chance.

There are many tours and excursions which take tourists to the best spots, where you can watch perhaps the most magical lightshow of your life. If you take a good camera, you could come home with some incredible shots of your experience.

The general population who live in Lapland used to utilise Reindeer as a primary method of transport. These beautiful animals gave, and still do give, a great deal to the people of Lapland including food, warm garments, and even tools from the antlers, which they lose every year and then re-grow. What’s truly wonderful is that they are ‘semi-wild’ – they venture off into the wilderness each spring to breed before returning to their stables in the winter, knowing they can find comfort and food there. You can take part in the Lappish lifestyle and get your very own reindeers and sleigh from a local reindeer farm before taking a magical journey through Lapland’s countryside. These safari excursions will cost you around €150 for an adult - but it’s worth every single penny.

EXPLORE ICELAND IN THE MOST EXCITING WAYS

Activity Iceland offers a variety of Super Jeep and activity tours in Iceland. We focus on private tours and small groups with a personal experience.

Whether you want to go on a helicopter tour, ride a buggy or a snowmobile, explore an ice cave, hike on a glacier or hunt for the Northern Lights, we’ve got you covered.

YOUR ADVENTURE AWAITS www.activityiceland.is

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Interview By Ben Farrin

Hello Jennifer. Firstly, thank you for taking the time to talk with us. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the adventure you embarked on?

I’m Jen, I’m 29, and a serving British Army Officer. My day job is a Battery Ops Officer in the Royal Regiment of Artillery, which essentially means I’m responsible for the successful deployment and recovery of any soldiers or officers in my Battery (approximately 100 men and women). I was in the selection for ICE MAIDEN since September 2015, and I made the final team which became the first all-female team to cross Antarctica coast-to-coast using muscle power alone. We deployed on the 25th of October 2017, and the crossing took 62 days.

Congratulations! You travelled up to 43km a day. What kind of training was involved for such an epic journey?

We trained for just over two years, paying real attention to both physical and mental development, and strength. We trained in the Arctic Circle with the Royal Marines and went skiing in Hardangervidda, a >

national park in Norway. Back home, our daily training programme ranged from tyre dragging, running, walking with weight complimented by a weights programme, and yoga.

With the assistance of the Army Psychology Services, we developed coping mechanisms and conflict resolution so we were as prepared mentally as we were physically.

You covered 1,700km using muscle power alone, and battled through temperatures of -50°C

and wind speeds of over 60mph, during a 3 month journey across Antarctica. I imagine you needed to be mentally prepared as well as physically? How can you best prepare mentally for such an enormous challenge?

Team dynamics are incredibly important to us, and we’re in the position where we know each other inside out. This paid dividends on the ice where it’s crucial to know when someone isn’t on their ‘A game’, and how to respond to that. The bottom line is that we didn’t know in advance how each individual was going to respond to the isolation and mental fatigue - which is why we learnt different ways to deal with it.

You left for the 3 month journey in November, meaning you were somewhere between Leverett

Glacier and Hercules Inlet, quite possibly actually being in the South Pole for Christmas! Did you share a toast?

There were a few occasions like Christmas and birthdays which we marked whilst we were away.

Padre Catherine Gillham, one of the Military Chaplain’s who supported us, wrote an order of service for Remembrance Day so that we were able to commemorate it properly. We had passed the South Pole by Christmas Day, but we each carried a small - and most importantly - lightweight gift for the team to open. Other than that, it was onwards!

You carried your supplies needed to survive up to 600km at a time. According to Google, Polar Bears do not live in Antarctica, so in terms of wildlife, I guess you possibly saw penguins, seals and whales. What were the biggest risks of the trip?

Thankfully we didn’t have to worry about the Polar Bears! Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see any penguins or seals either, as the ice shelf and our starting point was too far from the coast. The biggest risks were the crevasse fields which we had to ski through. We’d been learning and practicing crevasse rescue for over a year prior to the trip and visited Saas Fee, Switzerland, where we practiced rescuing each other from a real crevasse! That was probably one of the coolest and scariest things I’ve done.

How did you communicate with your fellow Ice Maidens whilst up against extreme weather conditions?

Our daily routine meant we skied for an hour and rested for five minutes. During the hour, communications were fairly limited; we just had a few hand signals for the important bits.

>

In the five minute rest, we had a chance to check each other, grab some food and water, make any changes to kit, and check the navigation, before we were off again for another hour. We used the evening hours to catch up properly from the relative safety of the tents.

Did each of you have different roles within the team, and if so, what was yours?

We all have our own strengths and weaknesses and I think we’re a particularly good team, because we all bring something different.

I’ve been called the ‘packhorse’ before because I’m quite strong!

Other than that, I kept an eye on everyone and can usually tell if someone isn’t feeling quite right.

What did you eat and drink to keep your energy levels up?

Our team nutritionist, Rin Cobb, was with us throughout selection, guiding and advising us on the specifics of polar nutrition. We ate close to 6,000 calories a day, so were fortunate that we were able to cherry pick the food and drinks we wanted! All of our meals

were de-hydrated rations which you just added water to. We had breakfast and our evening meals in the tents, and had snack bags for during the day. The snack bags were my favourite part, because I got to eat things like chorizo, cheese, and crackers in the savoury bag, and then flapjack, chocolate bars, and sweets.

What are the three most important items you took with you?

Aside from the safety equipment and daily kit, we’d been given a small weight allowance for luxury items. My iPod was number one.

I downloaded podcasts and a variety of music to keep me distracted and smiling. My grandfather passed away very suddenly at Christmas the year before last, and I was given the hat he used to take skiing. I took that with me for a photo at the South Pole. The third item was a bookmark my boyfriend made me, with all my favourite flowers pressed inside.

Whilst on the trip, what went through your mind in such extreme scenarios?

I ended up doing a lot of maths in

>

my head, working out how far into the hour we were, how far we’d travelled, and what was left to go.

It’s amusing, as I’m not particularly good at maths…

On the Antarctica Ice Maiden website, it says one of the aims is to inspire a new era of female

expeditionary spirit, encouraging women and girls of all ages to take up a challenge and get active.

What is the main reason you put yourself forward for this?

Part of the reason I joined the Army was for opportunities like this. I wanted to see what an ordinary girl from an ordinary back-

ground could do, and ICE MAIDEN was the perfect test. I can already see a change in myself and my confidence, and that’s exactly what I needed. However, the expedition was about so much more than just me; I really hope we encourage people - particularly girls - to go and find their own Antarctica.

What was the first thing you did when you got back?

I didn’t have a shower for the duration of the expedition, so I took a long hot shower!

Thanks for your time Jennifer.

You’re a true inspiration.

Thank you!

With winter not too far around the corner, you might already be looking into booking yourself a Christmas or New Year getaway. If you’ve never planned a trip this time of year, it’s worth knowing it can be a particularly expensive time of year to travel abroad. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a few travel tips to help stretch your budget that little bit further...

Alternative Travel

If you really want to be financially savv then you should consider alternative y about your travels, getaway. Unfortunately, around Chri transport for your winter flight prices sky rocket and can mak stmas and New Year, trip away incredibly expensive. If youe a seemingly affordable and are in no rush to reach your dest have time to spare yourself onto a coach or train - they ination, try booking are considerably more affordable and you can see much mor e from the ground than you can from those tiny aeroplane windows with the clouds obstructing your view.

Smal er Airports

If flying is your only option, then look smaller, quieter airports to fly to and into flights from from.

Your standard flight from Gatwick airp financially unbearable over the wint ort can become er period due to its popularity, so opt for somewhere quie ter where the prices are more friendly to your wallet.

Watch out for deals!

This goes for all holidays, but more so during the winter season. It pays (literally) to shop arou far might seem like a good price, but nd - what you found so is always something cheaper out theryou can bet that there the deals, you might miss out on savine. If you don’t look for of financial stress. Many companies g yourself from a lot introduce winter deals on specific locations and holiday bun out for those too. Tip: remember to dles, so be sure to look computer. When websites see that delete cookies from your holiday, they are rumoured to raise you are looking to book a their prices.

Pick thmode atriiognht accom

l industry g else in the trave Just like everythin prices on rooms and during winter, the nd to rise. Many of you might accommodation te stels are your only option of be thinking that hoer holiday cheap. But before you keeping your wintose, look into other options. start looking at th ays will benefit more from renting Large group holidtment - between you, it is typically out a villa or apar comfortable for you all than cheaper and morel. Again, look out for any winter g staying in a hoste and B&Bs might be offering durin ls te ho ich wh als de the winter period.

Be savvy with luggage

to grab a cheap fortunate enough Even if you’ve beener holiday destination, adding the ticket to your wintoption will undoubtedly boost up checked luggage ld try to avoid purchasing luggage the price. You shou t on hand luggage, which can and try to rely jus u’re only planning a short trip easily be done if yo y. Just be sure to have your mini toiletries or weekend getawa perfected and your ue niq ch te rposes. ing pu ck y rit pa astic bag for secu stored in a clear pl

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Global

New Year Traditions

In the UK, one of the biggest New Year’s traditions is to make a New Year’s resolution. Around the world, different cultures have different traditions to bring in the New Year. Some are weird; some are wonderful. Read on to see for yourself...

Eating For 7 Christmas and the New Year are normally times of overindulgence, and the Estonians have really taken this on board. Their New Year celebration is to eat 7, 9, or 12 meals on New Year’s Day! If you can manage this, it means you will have lots of food for the following year.

Make sure you don’t eat the whole lot though; you’re supposed to leave some for the spirits of your loved ones who have passed away.

Eating 12 Grapes This is a Spanish tradition where on New Year’s Eve you have twelve grapes at the ready. When the clock hits 12 midnight, you have to stuff a grape in your mouth with each chime! By the time the clock has finished chiming you are supposed to have finished all your grapes, but we don’t think this ever quite happens.

Suitcase Running Hoping for a big trip away in the New Year? Then grab your suitcase and follow the Colombian tradition of running around the block with an empty suitcase! It is meant to guarantee that you will be able to travel in the coming year. Passports at the ready...

Animal Whispering It is a New Year’s ritual for Romanian farmers to try to turn themselves into Dr. Dolittle by talking to their animals. If the animals understand the farmer then some consider it good luck, although others consider it bad luck, so no one is really sure. It’s not clear where the tradition originates from, but it is also practiced in Belgium.

Underwater Tree Planting Diving into below freezing waters on New Year’s Eve is not the most appealing thing in the world. In Siberia it is traditional to plant your ‘New Year Tree’ under the surface of the freezing Lake Baikal. Only professional divers take part in this though, as it’s quite dangerous.

Early Spring Clean If you are in South Africa for New Year’s, watch out: they have a tradition of having an early spring clean. It is customary to throw out old furniture and belongings (some people just get rid of old toasters), but it has been known to see old sofas lining the streets. The idea is to throw out the old and to bring in the New Year with a fresh start.

Milk Jug Cannons Hoping to ward off bad spirits in the New Year?

Then take note from Dutch farmers: they fill up their old milk churns with explosives and light them! The tradition originates from the World War when there were lots of explosives left in The Netherlands, and there wasn’t anything to do

Illustrations by Charli Vince

Wearing Polka Dots Circles are a sign of prosperity in The Philippines, and this is why on New Year’s you will find people wearing polka dots. It’s also traditional to fill your pockets and wallets with coins,meaning they will not be empty for the coming year.

Editor in Chief: Ben Farrin Feature Editor: Lucy Rix, Kelly Regan-Mears Digital Marketing & Subscriptions: Elliot Norman Graphic Design: Make North Contributors: Charli Vince, Haley Kieser, Heather Drinkwater, Jack Viant, Jack Shannon, James Benn, Joe Rogers, Lucy Drinkwater, Sage Fitzpatrick

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