Craig Charley

Brighton & Hove is a compact city so I cycle almost everywhere - including to and from work every day come rain or shine. I'm not a regular cycle tourer but I always try to hire or borrow a bike when I'm abroad as it's such an easy way to get around.

I was so lucky when I cycled Florence to Rome in October 2022 - we had nothing but sunny skies and warm temperatures all week. I never grew tired of the stunning hilltop towns and, while it was the longest cycle trip I've done and there were some tricky ascents, the cycling was a pure delight. Even better, you start and finish in two fascinating cities full of art and history!

Hopefully Croatia in 2023. It's somewhere I've always wanted to visit and I hear nothing but good things about the tours.

Unexpectedly coming face to face with a whale shark while snorkelling in Egypt. Although a baby, it was still around 8ft long and took me completely by surprise. The 'Jaws' theme started playing in my head before I realised it was a harmless giant. One day I'd love to snorkel with adult whale sharks which can grow up to 40ft!

Staying in a jungle hostel in Tulum, Mexico where I was joined by the local coatis every morning for breakfast.

Get on your bike! Even if you aren't on a cycling holiday, I always recommend hiring or borrowing a bike - it's the best way to explore a new place. It's easy to miss things when cocooned in a car or on public transport and walking limits the amount you can cover in a day.

I'm a keen amateur photographer so I try and head to less touristy destinations which make for far more interesting photographs (and a better experience!).