Simon Calder’s Travel email

The article provides a comprehensive travel guide to Liverpool, highlighting its transformation through regeneration and its rich cultural heritage, including football and music. It suggests various activities, such as the Magical Mystery Tour for Beatles fans, visiting Tate Liverpool for art enthusiasts, and exploring the International Slavery Museum for historical insights. The Williamson Tunnels offer a unique underground experience. Accommodation options range from the Beatles-themed Hard Days Night Hotel to the historic Titanic Hotel. Dining recommendations cover brunch at LEAF, Middle Eastern dishes at Maray, and fine dining at The Art School. For drinks, secret bars like 81 Ltd and the historic Philharmonic Dining Rooms are mentioned. Shopping destinations include Liverpool One for major brands and Utility for unique souvenirs. The article also points out architectural highlights like the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral and offers tips on public transport and the best views of the city.

Why go now

The article is a travel guide to Leeds, highlighting the city's cultural attractions, historical sites, and dining options. It mentions Leeds being the only UK city on Lonely Planet's Top 10 European Travel Destinations of 2017, and describes various activities and places to visit, such as Leeds Town Hall, Leeds Art Gallery, and The Henry Moore Institute. The guide includes recommendations for dining, like Pizza Fella and Brassiere 44, and shopping at Victoria Quarter. It also suggests staying at hotels like Dakota Deluxe and DoubleTree by Hilton. The article provides practical information on transportation within the city, including water taxis and buses, and suggests a day trip to Harrogate for its Turkish Baths & Spa and Bettys Tea Room.

B2B feature on Green Man Lawn Care's innovative and stress-free new franchise package for Making Money magazine.

A review of Mark Ovenden's Two Types documentary on BBC4 for my Paper and Screen blog.

California: Designing Freedom @ The Design Museum  - The State Of The Arts

The article discusses the 'Designing California' exhibition at the Design Museum in Kensington, which showcases over 200 objects representing California's influence on design, culture, and technology. The exhibition explores themes of freedom, rebellion, individualism, and self-expression, highlighting California's role in shaping modern society. It features items like the original Rainbow Flag, Captain America's chopper from Easy Rider, and technology from Silicon Valley giants such as Apple, Google, and Facebook. The article reflects on the state's attitude towards innovation and freedom, as well as the darker side of technology, such as the normalization of surveillance. It concludes by suggesting that the Californian attitude is accessible to anyone with a garage, an internet connection, and a rebellious spirit.