Learn a language for Travel blog

Why learn a language in 2026?

13/1/2026

Because the world is closer—and more complex—than ever.

In 2026, AI can translate words instantly, but it still can’t replace human connection. Speaking another language builds trust, nuance, and cultural understanding in ways tools can’t automate. It helps you read between the lines, catch humor, and show respect.

Learning a language also expands opportunity. Global teams, remote work, travel, and international markets reward people who can communicate naturally across cultures. Even basic skills can set you apart.

There’s also a personal reason: languages change how you think. They sharpen memory, increase adaptability, and let you experience ideas that don’t translate cleanly into your first language.

In 2026, learning a language isn’t about keeping up with machines—it’s about becoming more human.
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The 5 Best Travel Books to Read

5/1/2026

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There is nothing like a travel book to get you in the mood to set sail and see the world. There are hundreds, if not thousands of travel books in a variety of genres from the conventional travel guides to those a little more niche, (or is that weird?) to tempt you. Here are just 5 travel books you may wish to read, but remember this is my choice and you may have other tastes.

The Innocents Abroad by Mark Twain. Is this a travel book or a hugely satirical novel? In my opinion, despite its age, this is one of the classic travel books. This book started out a series of articles Twain wrote for a San Francisco Newspaper in 1910/1911. The book covers a wonderful journey through Europe and the Middle East with some wonderful satirical observances of people, culture and countries.

Epic Drives of the World, Lonely Planet. A list of travel books would not be complete without something from Lonely Planet and Epic Drives of the World is a must read. Filled with amazing photographs from real travellers this book takes you on a number of road trips around the world with everything from Australia to Zambia covered. This is truly a book that will set your heart pounding to get behind the wheel and just drive and enjoy.

Ascent, by Chris Bonington. For the more adventurous Ascent, by Chris Bonington is a fascinating must read travel book. It more than just a superb travel guide, if you want to call it that, of mountains and places to climb. The book tells the epic tales of Chris Bonington’s many climbs many adventures from near death to amazing people and places discovered. Climbing and travelling since the 1950s this a book that is not just inspiring but a wonderful read.

Australia: The Ultimate Australia Travel Guide By A Traveller For A Traveller. This is one of the best and most accurate Australian travel books you will find. With some amazing photographs, plenty of detail and nice touch that explains some of the history of the country. For anyone planning a trip to Australia this book will help plan the perfect vacation. Australia: The Ultimate Australia Travel Guide By A Traveller For A Traveller just also happens to be a really nice read.

A Walk in the Woods, Bill Bryson. Of course this list has to have something from Bill Bryson and A Walk in the Woods just happens to be one of the best. For anyone who has walked or intends to walk Appalachian Trail this book is a must read. In typical Bryson style it tells the story of his unsuccessful walk through some of the best natural places on the planet. If you are a nature lover and you only ever own one travel book this is the one for you.

These are just 5 travel books that are among the best. Yes they may seem a little quirky and not your average travel book, but travel itself should be fun and of course a little quirky. It is the quirks of your journey that make your adventure what it is and these books may just inspire you.
Matt Newnham

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How to save money to travel...

2/1/2026

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Now that travel is possible again, many individual's New Years resolution has included planning to travel. For most people, when planning a trip, the biggest consideration is the money! How much is in the bank account? How much will I need to spend on the basics?

If you want to travel, you need to either be rich, win the lottery, or save money which requires discipline. Here are a few tips to help you save enough for your next holiday so that you can keep your travel bug alive.

Reduce the amount of petrol you spend by choosing to either walk or bike ride to as many places as you can. You will be amazed how this can add up.
The biggest expenditure most households have is food. Change the way you eat – don’t eat take out and try to plan your meals for the week so that you only purchase food according to your meal plan – no extras.
Reduce the number of nights you go out on the town. Try inviting friends to your place and ask everyone to bring a plate of food or snacks to share. These evenings can be much more intimate and rather than everyone getting sloshed and not remembering what they have done you may actually have an evening to remember.
Sell some unwanted items, be it clothing, the surplus electrical can opener you got for Christmas from Aunt Marg. Gumtree and eBay make selling on the net quite simple and all these little items can add up to increase your nest egg.

Instead of buying expensive Christmas and birthday presents, why don’t you suggest to your family and friends that you create a “homemade” Christmas and give gifts of jam or relish?
Open a bank account from which you cannot withdraw money easily or on a whim. Some Christmas saving accounts or an online bank may be the way to go.
On the other end of the scale, plan your holiday economically. Book flights well in advance and keep your eye out for last minute hotel deals. Maybe try and house swap with someone from another country, a bit like in the movie “The Holiday”.

Whatever you do, enjoy the journey. That includes the journey and anticipation before you travel.

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Why learn a language in 2026?

The 5 Best Travel Books to Read

How to save money to travel...

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