Following a six-million-pound refurbishment programme and with new owners, the Albion in Freshwater Bay, on the lovely Isle of Wight, provides a much-needed stylish, dog-friendly seaside hotel to the South coast of the Isle of Wight.

The highlight is the location of their restaurant the Rock which can’t be beaten. With floor-to-ceiling windows on a promontory jetting out onto the bay, the sea appears to be just a few feet away.

Who for

A family hotel with staff that go out of their way to make you feel welcome. Stylish enough for couples looking for a romantic hotel, and for anyone with a dog. Steeped in history, the Victoria Suite is also their bridal suite.

Accommodation

Albion hotel bedroom where poppy has her own bed.

There are 40 bedrooms with eight different room types, decorated in shades of the sea – aquamarine blue, and grey. All are air-conditioned with king-size beds and a choice of pillows. 36 have sea views, and seven are dog-friendly. Mine had a small balcony with two chairs overlooking a grassed area and a sandy beach. Floor-to-ceiling windows double as doors which can be opened. The two-storey building has rooms facing the ocean which have spacious balconies kitted out with comfortable loungers.

Poppy, my dog, had her own bed provided with a fluffy throw, a dog bowl, a roll of poo bags, and an Albion packet of gravy dog biscuits which she ate immediately.

Elemis products are provided in all the bathrooms. Some of the suites have free-standing baths as well as a walk-in shower. Beach towels are provided in the rooms.

As well as terrestrial television, the choice of programmes includes Netflix and Amazon Prime.

The Queen Victoria Suite has the Royal Coat of Arms over its front door as Queen Victoria is said to have stayed at the Albion when her residence on the island, Osborne House was being built.

Food & Drink

The restaurant, the Rock has a menu which uses local produce and includes ‘the catch of the day’. Mussels and lobster are highlights. The spacious righthand side of the dining room is devoted to guests and their dogs. Rather than being hidden away, some of the best tables, facing onto the sea, are dog-friendly. With the tide in, all I could see was the sea lapping below as I ate my meal – magical.

The Rock is used in the mornings for breakfast where there is a self-service display of cereals, fruit, yogurts, cheese and more. An additional menu of cooked dishes are ordered at the table. Although not on the menu, the kitchen was able, on request, to obligingly cook me porridge.

The Cabin Bar which serves drinks and bar snacks throughout the day, has a spacious terrace overlooking the green and beach which is a draw for visitors to the area.

Facilities

A handy dog basket in reception has dog towels and treats, with an outdoor area for washing dirty paws. A residents-only library/lounge, and next to it the music Room which can be hired for private events.

The hotel is boarded on two sides by beaches, with the bonus that the one on the right is dog-friendly, even in the summer months.

A free private mini-bus to transport guests to anywhere they wish within a 10-mile radius. This includes ferrying them to nearby local restaurants, and collecting them from nearby Yarmouth if arriving from the mainland by Wightlink ferries. wightlink.co.uk

If you are driving, there is free car parking you can use.

How much

Prices vary depending on the time of year. From £200 – £400 for two including bed and breakfast. Dinner is not included as owners Mark and Gayle Craven want their guests to have the opportunity of exploring some of the many nearby eateries. A charge of £25 is added for the first night of a dog’s stay, with an additional £5 a night for subsequent nights.

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What’s Nearby 

The Isle of Wight is set in the heart of Freshwater Bay and the scene begs to be explored. There’s a lovely coastal path up to Tennyson’s Monument and along to the Needles.

Isle of Wight

Close by is Dimbola Museum and Galleries, home of celebrated Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, which is dedicated to her life and work.  There’s also Farringford, the home of Alfred Lord Tennyson, Queen Victoria’s Poet Laureate which is worth visiting.

Recommended restaurants –

• The Hut at Cowell Bay, for an Ibiza style restaurant located on the water front with music.
  The George in Yarmouth.

For general information on the Isle of Wight visitisleofwight.co.uk

VERDICT

A magical place to chill out, explore the island or just relax with the added bonus of being dog-friendly, and with staff that went out of their way to make my stay unforgettable.

The post The Albion Hotel in Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight appeared first on The Travel Magazine.

In recent years, solo travel has gained immense popularity, particularly among women seeking adventure, self-discovery, and empowerment. The world is full of breathtaking destinations that cater to the unique needs and interests of solo female travellers. The options are endless, from vibrant cities rich in culture to serene landscapes that offer tranquillity.

This article explores some of the best destinations for solo female travellers, highlighting not only their safety and accessibility but also the enriching experiences they offer. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or embark on your first solo journey, these destinations promise unforgettable memories and the chance to connect with yourself and others.

New Zealand

New Zealand

The two islands of New Zealand are a paradise for nature lovers, with all kinds of landmarks one could dream of: majestic fjords, serene beaches, epic mountains, gorgeous glaciers, and dreamy meadows. Plentiful extreme recreational options attract adrenaline junkies from all over the world. Scenic destinations await around every corner of this ethereal land, making you feel like an actress on a filming site. Another important thing is that New Zealand is safe and nice for both adventures and road trips.

Japan

Japan

Japan is a land of constant changes and incredible advancements; one stays the same — it has always amazed people coming to visit and will undoubtedly continue to do so. Delve into bustling cities to explore the newest trends or roam in the peaceful countryside to touch the indigenous Japanese culture — anyway, you will find something good for your soul. This culture promotes respect and courtesy, and so, people in general are very orderly and are unlikely to perform any acts of violence. Thus, Japan is fairly one of the safest countries in the world. Come to take advantage of infinite attraction opportunities, from themed cafes catered for all kinds of fans to unique high-tech museums blowing your head off with futuristic showpieces. Sole female travellers will be happy to find single-sex transport, restaurants, and even hotels; being alone in general is completely okay here.

Canada

Canada

Canada is famous for its incredible nature and friendly locals, the combination of which is in itself an invitation to visit. Cities are excellent starting points, but don't limit yourself to staying there; explore the great wilderness spread around. Majestic canyons, breathtaking waterfalls, snowy mountains, age-old forests, and picture-perfect river valleys await. The Great White North, as Canada is sometimes called, is a prime spot to catch a glimpse of Polar lights. The diverse backgrounds mentioned above are filled with exciting activities, ranging from plane trips to caving or rafting. The second-largest country in the world is sure to captivate you and make you wish to return.

Germany

Germany

Germany, especially its capital, Berlin, is home to many expats, and this promotes the sense of freedom that enables you and everyone around to act however you/they like. This means you will see and experience something unusual, quirky, and out-of-a-box while simply walking down the street. Out of cities, Germany is a treasure trove both for history buffs and nature lovers, offering fairy-tale-like castles, spectacular mountains, and great forests. German culture promotes respect and tolerance, so you are unlikely to encounter rude behaviour or acts, which is essential while travelling alone.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is often considered a nice alternative to overly touristy Bali. Numerous surf camps and yoga retreats welcome people of all ages, genders, and nations. In spite of its size, this island is rich with cultural sites and other attractions. Still, petty crime is not uncommon; therefore, keep your belongings in a safe place.

Australia

Australia

Independent travellers are drawn to Australia because of the visa process' simplicity, scenic routes, and marvellous nature, including the one-of-a-kind Great Barrier Reef and a great number of smaller uninhabited islands lying off the shores, waiting to be discovered. Almost incessant sunshine, friendly, relaxed people, and unique wildlife are other draws to Down Under.

Thailand

Thailand

You won’t feel odd or bored in Thailand, as it offers many routes for backpackers. Cheap attractions are popular, so on your way, you will inevitably meet like-minded travellers. When you don’t feel like hiking, explore magnificent temples, try mouthwatering Thai dishes, get your portion of sun on one of the stunning beaches, or walk along chaotic street markets. Thailand is a pleasant place to get lost.

Portugal

Portugal

Today, Portugal is home to many digital nomads, which makes it a great solo travel destination. Co-working spots are opening among the city’s baroque palaces and cobbled streets. The inviting and colourful city of Lisbon is drenched in history, and the Algarve in the south is an excellent spot both for whale-watching and water recreation. The countryside is also rewarding: hiking trails, vast beaches facing the Atlantic Ocean, and numerous vineyards ensure you'll never get bored. The Portuguese are said to be the most friendly and welcoming people.

United States

Golden Gate Bridge

The USA offers endless travel possibilities with such a vast territory stretching from deserts to evergreen forests and from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. Road trips are definitely the most popular way to go through the country; however, you can also opt for a train journey. Each of the fifty states offers unique cultural and natural landmarks that will make you remember them for a long time. No need to mention the world-famous cities of New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. If you want an island getaway, head straight to Hawaii, a paradise for water sports and beach recreation. Wherever you go in the US, you will feel entertained and won't feel alone.

Iceland

Iceland – Jorsardalur Haifoss-Waterfall

According to the survey conducted by Vision of Humanity, Iceland is the world's safest country. Gender equality is also taken care of; Iceland has continuously been named the top country in terms of that issue. This destination is a growing trend due to outworldly landscapes perfect for road trips (during warmer seasons). If you travel solo to feel isolated or free, Iceland is an ideal place to embrace these feelings. If you go solo to make some new friends, here you go — hundreds of solo backpackers come there, too.

Chile

Chile

Compared to other South American countries, Chile is really peaceful and off-the-beaten-path. Whether you head north to the Atacama Desert or south to the subantarctic land of Patagonia, you will be awed by the striking scenery you encounter. Off Chile's coast lies the enigmatic Easter Island, an unforgettable destination at the edge of the world. Take time to visit Torres del Paine, an exceptional national park famous for its hikes passing jaw-dropping views and uniting hikers from all over the world.

Conclusion

Travelling solo as a woman can be a transformative experience, offering opportunities for personal growth, adventure, and connection. The destinations highlighted in this article provide a perfect blend of safety, culture, and community, making them ideal for solo female travellers. As you plan your next adventure, remember that plenty of welcoming places are just waiting to be explored. Embrace the freedom of solo travel, step out of your comfort zone, and create your own unique journey. With the right mindset and preparation, you can discover not only the beauty of the world around you but also the strength and resilience within yourself.

While looking for accommodation you will stay in during your trip, pay attention to hotelin.com, a new hotel price aggregator that is an excellent helper in finding the stay just for you. Happy travels!

The post Best Destinations for Solo Female Travellers appeared first on The Travel Magazine.

Beginning Lightroom and Photoshop users tend to become so enamored with all the transformative tools that they often go overboard with post-processing effects, which is a sure way to ruin an otherwise nice shot. As you’ll see in this tutorial from instructor Johny Spencer, there are six warning signs that your edits are overcooked.

Spencer is a professional nature and landscape photographer working for Australia’s National Park Service, and he readily admits that he took a very heavy-handed approach when first starting out. This is a common beginner mistake, and it’s time you embraced subtlety like he did if you want to enhance photos while retaining a pleasing and realistic look.

This 12-minute episode covers everything from unnatural colors to over-the-top sharpening so you’ll be able to edit like a pro by dialing things back and avoiding garish and unrealistic effects. Spencer begins with a common mistake made when attempting to open up shadows in dark areas of a scene to enhance detail and definition.

This faux pas often occurs when taking an HDR approach that involves shooting multiple frames of a scene, each at a different exposure, and merging them in the hopes of achieving one perfect shot with correctly balanced tones. When doing so you may end up with a very flat result, and a quick glance at the histogram provides the telltale sign of this error.

Spencer demonstrates a quick fix as he does with the other glaring mistakes discussed, and the next one involves the other end of the tonal scale when you mess up the highlights of a shot by attempting to repair the blown-out appearance of a bright, sunny sky. By pulling down the brightness values too far “you’ll get a weird halo around the sun, the ethereal glow is lost, and the image will look really bad.”

Other problems and solutions include clumsy White Balance adjustments, overcooked contrast, amping up saturation beyond reasonable levels, over-sharpening, and introducing too much texture and clarity. You’ll quickly learn how to spot these mistakes, learn how to properly evaluate an image, and edit photos with thoughtfulness and intent.

After watching the video head over to Spencer’s instructional YouTube channel where you’ll find many more pro tips and techniques for elevating your skills

We also suggest watching an earlier tutorial we featured with another post-processing expert who demonstrates how to transform boring landscape photographs into spectacular shots with a beautiful, natural-looking, glowing sunset effect.