Want to know where to shop, eat, drink and stay at the world’s top travel destinations? Let Kevin Flanagan bring you his twenty years of experience as travel editor and writer for publications such as The Sunday Independent and the Sunday Times. Kevin’s done the research so you know exactly where to go and what to do so you can have an unforgettable experience on your holiday or city break. Remember to check out www.TheTopTravelDestinations.com website too!
The Top Travel Destinations - Kevin Flanagan
Philly is known for many things, but for Kevin, its art and incredible art museums rival anything Europe has to offer. Here, he takes you on a guided tour. You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
One of the most beautiful segments along the Via Francigena. The trail departs in San Gimignano and, after several hills, reaches Molino d'Aiano, a rest stop along the Sigerico Trail.The path continues onward towards Badia a Coneo, Gracciano, and then to Strove, where hikers can visit a small Romanesque church. Then the trail passes the wonderful architectural structure of Abbadia in Isola before reaching Monteriggioni, one of the few old medieval towns in Italy to still have all its intact city walls and towers. Water and hotels are available only in urban areas.You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
The Via Francigena is a medieval pilgrimage route stretching from Canterbury, England, to Rome, crossing France, Switzerland, and Italy. According to Kevin, it is one of the best alternatives to the Camino. It's quieter, more varied, and has deeper medieval roots. If you want something meaningful without the crowds, it's a standout.You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Australia is a place renowned for its wildlife and Kevin recounts how twice he had encounters with its deadly indigenous animal population that could have ended his trip to Oz before it had properly started!You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
“Oz is a long way away,” says Kevin, reflecting on his trip there, “and I am very glad to have visited it and seen some of its wonders. Would I go again?” To find Kevin's answer listen to this illuminating episode.You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
This week's episode is about connection — and finding home in another country. Kevin visits his Polish in-laws, Babcia (BAHB-cha) and Dziadek (JAH-deck), with his grandchildren Kuba and Maya, and Daughter-in-law Maria. And discovering what it's like to belong to two families and two cultures. From the quiet kindness of Polish hospitality to the joyful chaos of life - this is a tender reflection on love that crosses borders. It's not just about travel — it's about belonging.You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Poland is booming — confident, creative, and full of surprises. In this episode, Kevin travels to Szczecin (pronounced SHCHEH-cheen), a city near Berlin that's rich in history and alive with new energy. From its riverside walks and Gothic spires to its modern cafés and vibrant waterfront, Szczecin shows a side of Poland few Irish travelers have seen. Kevin also reflects on the warmth of Polish hospitality, the city's fascinating past, and why it's the perfect short-break destination for curious visitors from Ireland.You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
When Kevin first visited St Petersburg in 1993, St. Petersburg was caught between the ruins of the Soviet system and the chaos of a new capitalism. Perestroika had opened the door to freedom—but also to lawlessness and gunfire after dark was not unusual. For a visitor, the city felt raw and unpredictable—magnificent by day, dangerous by night—a place where beauty and decay walked arm in arm through the snow. And it is here that Kevin went to visit his friend from Yevgenny Neff, a principal with the legendary Maryinski Ballet. “It was dangerous and intoxicating both at the same time. A unique opportunity to see history in the making and reacquaint with friends from the ballet.”You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin looks back at a time when we could all visit this incredible city - one of the true gems of world travel - without the shadow of war making journeys there impossible. And Kevin hopes to see that time come back soon. And when peace does return, people can again enjoy the wonder of the ballet, the White Nights, the music, the palaces and the museums. “I visited St Petersburg several times in the 1990's and 2000's.” says Kevin, “and took groups of ballet fans from Ireland and the UK. It is a place that is filled with every form of art and culture. A true top wonder.” You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
“Sharm El Sheikh is famous for one thing above all else: diving. At Ras Mohammed National Park, Kevin, his son Ciaran and friends John and Len found ‘The Abyss' — a sheer wall that drops hundreds of meters straight down into blue nothingness. It was breathtaking — beautiful and something more . . . You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Sharm El Sheikh is one of those places that stays with you. I remember looking up at the desert sky, a million stars overhead, and then sitting with the Bedouin, seeing a way of life that feels timeless. By day, it was dune buggies across the sand, diving into the depths of the Red Sea, and snorkeling straight from a beautiful hotel beach. The evenings? Markets buzzing with life, nightlife that kept Ciarán and his friends laughing till late, and the kind of energy that makes you feel wide awake no matter your age. That's Sharm El Sheikh — an incredible mix of desert, sea, and pure adventure.You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin spends three dizzy days enjoying the unique buzz of a Spanish end-of-season festival. As he says, “there is nothing quite like it in the world.” Join him as he celebrates life abroad!You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Some hotels actually do feel like home, and Kevin found the MiM Hotel in Sitges just such a place. What is it about some hotels that really do understand what a hotel guest really needs MIM Hotel Sitges Av. Sofía, 12, 08870 Sitges, Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 934 92 22 44 | +34 938 11 35 00 Email: reservas@hotelmimsitges.com www.mimhotels.com Eco-friendly boutique hotel owned by Lionel Messi, steps from the beach, with a rooftop bar and spa overlooking the Mediterranean.The Salil Hotel Riverside, Bangkok 2052/7-9 Charoenkrung 72/1 Alley, Wat Phrayakrai, Bang Kholaem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand Phone: +66 (0) 2 844 8787 | +66 63 883 0551 | +66 65 936 4900 Email: reservations@thesalilriverside.com www.thesalilriverside.com Stylish riverside retreat with infinity pool and chic Thai design, combining riverside calm with easy access to Bangkok's vibrant energy.You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin decided to treat his son, Ciaran, and take him to see Arsenal play in the Final at the Stade de France in Paris. There was just one problem - they went without tickets! Join them on an adventure to find tickets in time to see the biggest match in the world!You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin takes you by the hand and guides you around Paris, giving you a place to shop, eat, drink, sightsee and stay all in one day!Stay: Hotel Molière (boutique) 21 Rue Molière, 75001 Paris Phone: +33 1 42 96 22 01 www.hotel-moliere.frEat: Le Grand Véfour (classic Parisian restaurant) 17 Rue de Beaujolais, 75001 Paris Phone: +33 1 42 96 56 27 www.grand-vefour.comShop: Carrousel du Louvre (underground shopping mall) 99 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris Phone: +33 1 43 16 47 47 Carrousel du LouvreDrink: Club RaYé (cocktail & piano/jazz bar) 26 Rue Dussoubs, 75002 Paris Phone: +33 1 40 13 72 87You can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
If you talk to the younger generation (anyone under 30 years of age) and mention The Troubles, they usually shrug their shoulders and look at you funny! But it was certainly no joke being in Ireland during that bloody, fractious period, as Kevin relates Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Join Kevin as he takes you on a tour of this historic city. He'll show you where to eat, drink, sightsee, shop and stay all in a day! (links to each below)Eat: The Muddlers Club – 1 Warehouse Lane, Belfast BT1 2DX. Tasting menu £80–120
Join Kevin as he takes you on a fascinating tour of this historic city. He'll show you where to eat, drink, sightsee, shop and stay all in a day! (links to each below)Eat: Petersham Nurseries La Goccia – 27 King Street, Covent Garden, London. Mains £25–35
THE FONTEYN & NUREYEV YEARS from both inside and outside of the theatreKevin discovered a career in ballet very late in life (he was 19 years old - relatively late for a budding ballet dancer), but this led to some outstanding moments and memories. Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Venice has played a big part in Kevin's life, and here he shares a few key moments of the magic this unique city can weave! Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
VENICE IN A DAY! 5 THINGS TO DO Join Kevin as he takes you on a fascinating tour of this unique city. He'll show you where to eat, drink, sightsee, shop and stay all in a day! (links to each below)Eat: Al Mercà – Campo Bella Vienna, Rialto Market area, Venice. Cicchetti €2–3
Kevin and his school pal Spencer visited the catalan capital when both were 16 years old schoolboys with only one thing on their minds. And what did they get? Listen to this tragic tale of young love (or lust) gone unanswered!Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Join Kevin as he takes you on a fascinating tour of this Catalan city. He'll show you where to eat, drink, sightsee, shop and stay all in a day! (links to each below)Eat: Disfrutar – Villarroel 163, 08036 Barcelona. Avg €200–250 pp
Sitges may be the LGBTQ capital of the world, but it also has some of the best cultural events that you could wish for. In this episode, Kevin takes you by the hand and gives you a taste of a normal cultural night in Sitges that will live long in the memory.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
It is known worldwide as a gay capital par excellence, but as Kevin found out, it is that and more. “Really, one of the most diverse and friendly cities I have ever visited. Join Kevin as he takes you on a tour of this Catalan gem.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinations
Join Kevin as he is blown away by what he describes as “the most beautiful and mystical space I have ever walked in outside nature!” Yes, we are visiting Antoni Gaudí's (1852–1926) visionary Basílica de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona. “Don't die before you walk into this building, as it will give you a taste of heaven!” Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
The city that has it all, and what better way to see it than from the top of a bus! Join Kevin as he takes a trip around the magnificent city that is the capital of the fiercely independent region of Spain.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
What is it about the friendliness of the Irish that makes every traveller feel welcome? When Kevin first arrived from London many years ago, he had a hard time understanding the Irish—until one night in a pub in Sandymount changed everything.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin takes you on a tour of one of his favourite cities and shares a full day's itinerary—including somewhere to visit, a popular tourist tour, a restaurant to eat in, a place to shop, and finally, a bar for a celebratory drink!Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
We've all seen the TV shows about renovating an old house or villa abroad. But what is it really like? Kevin quizzes his friend Bimbi, who has not only moved part-time to Italy but also taken on the challenge of restoring an architectural gem in the heart of town. What are the benefits, the challenges, and the rewards?Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
We all dream of buying a holiday home and spending part of the year somewhere with sunshine and great food. Well, Kevin's friend Spencer Power has done just that, and he shares his tips with Kevin on how to select, buy, and settle down in a different part of the world.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
While in Iceland, Kevin is bowled over to meet one of the most controversial and tragic figures in modern pop culture. Not only the wife of John Lennon, but the person single-handedly charged with ending The BeatlesDo visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin goes to the top of the world for an experience like no other and including fire, ice, music chess and a bit of fermented shark. Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
According to the latest data, the Titanic Museum in Belfast is near the top of the “Most boring places to visit” list. Kevin goes on a visit to find the truth behind a museum that has broken all recordsDo visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin looks at the latest research, which lists the world's most boring attractions as voted for by the public. Find out who is on the list and why!Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
There are things you never want to see again on your travels and things you never want to forget. A visit to The Killing Fields, followed by a visit to the temple of Angkor Wat, provides such a confusing but unforgettable travel experience.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, surprised me more than any other city. From a raw and violent history to unexpected charm, here's why Cambodia's capital still haunts and delights me.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin and his grandson Kuba, sit down to discuss what makes the perfect travel companion, as they journey around Lake Garda.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
In this on-location podcast recorded live in the Alpino restaurant in Malcesine, Lake Garda. Kevin interviews Malcom Stocks, who works for Topflight, one of Ireland's leading tour operators. Malcolm spends the summer working in the paradise that is Lake Garda and the winter in the snow-covered Alps, organising and participating in skiing. Kevin sits down for lunch with Malcom and asks him: Is this the best job in the world?Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Limone is a picture-perfect town on the shores of Lake Garda, and it hosts a really special hotel. Kevin shares stories of his trips there with Kuba and MayaVisit Topflight.ie Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
It has everything: the all-year-round weather, breathtaking views, and so much more. Kevin visits this iconic resort to report.Thanks to Topflight.ie Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin goes back to Floral Street in the heart of London's Covent Garden to revisit a place that lives long in his memory. A place that changed his life and his destiny. And he asks the question: What is your favourite street? Is there one that has special significance in your life? Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin explores the reasons some cities are truly great, and he lists his favourite. What is your favourite city?Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
“Growing up, I was amazed at the way poor Vietnamese peasants, often armed only with an AK-47, could kick the mighty American army out of their country. And it was only after having visited the tunnels used by the North Vietnamese army in Saigon that I understood.” Join Kevin as he goes underground and discovers the true sacrifice that was needed to defeat the overwhelming power of the USA army.”Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Saigon is the Asian city that has the most in common with the USA and Europe. A vibe that Kevin describes as “Truly of the swinging sixties. Saigon became one of the main inspirations for music and films of the late 1960s and early 1970s. I would live there in a heartbeat.”Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
What is it about Champagne that makes it so memorable? Kevin visits the famous Champagne region and looks at its illustrious history. He also asks the BIG question: is Champagne worth the money and the hype?Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Kevin leaves Laurent-Perrier with a priceless gift, but at Charles de Gaulle Airport, something terrible happens! Listen to find out Kevin's tale of woe and bliss on a three day visit to one of the world's great Champagne houses.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
“You know something is wrong when just about every person you meet is on his or her mobile phone!” says Kevin, as he visits one of the most popular new spa brands in the world, the QC Terme Dolomiti, in Val di Fassa, in the shadows of the mountains of Trentino. “I was amazed how instead of savouring the moment, the majority of visitors just recorded it.” Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
“I love mountains from the Dolomites to the Alps to the Himalayan giants like Everest,” says Kevin, “and every winter I go and enjoy the snow and the icy conditions.” But what about the summer months when the snow has melted and the slopes are covered in grass meadows and alpine flowers? Join Kevin as he dives into the summer wonderland that mountain ranges provide for the enthusiastic explorer.Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Glasnevin Cemetery has become one of Ireland's most visited tourist attractions, and Kevin asks the question: what have the dead to offer? The answer may surprise you!Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
Next to Glasnevin Cemetery lies one of Dublin's natural wonders, with plants and trees from the four corners of the world. “And the best thing about it,” says Kevin, “Is that it is entirely free! I'm just amazed more people don't visit this paradise on earth.” Do visit our website at www.TheTopTravelDestinations.comYou can also follow The Top Travel Destinations on social media for updates: Instagram: @thetoptraveldestinationsX: @becreativkev
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