Author

Irina Golubeva

About me

I still remember my first trip. It was to London. I fell in love with this city the moment I saw it. Just - "click", and my heartbeat quickened. I was chosen by it. Red and funny double-decker buses, serious black cabs, the gorgeous Buckingham palace... That's it! I am your admirer forever!
From that moment I have visited many places and have been to many countries. Traveling became my passion. My long lasting love, which I hope will never end.

I’ve explored Europe, then - Asia. This year I was very lucky to make a 800 km long US tour along the ocean driving an American dream - a Mustang. This was an unforgettable experience! Now my dream is to visit South America (Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela and Chile)! I know - one day I will. I’m not rushing. Waiting for the next trip is also very sweet for me.

And I’m still thankful to my first love - London - for opening a wonderful world of traveling for me.

1. What is your favourite place on Earth?

For me it’s always about PEOPLE, not PLACES. I liked a small island in Scotland – the Isle of Skye. But going there again 10 years later with my husband made my stay even more special. A combination of picturesque landscapes and great emotions shared with someone you love makes the best places on Earth. By the way, the Isle of Skye was recently voted the 4th best island in the world by National Geographic Magazine.

2. Which hotel are you most happy to wake up in in the morning?

I love small and cosy boutique hotels or villas, where you don’t have to share your breakfast with crowds of tourists. Recently, the best place I have been to was Loch Ness Lodge, with just seven rooms on the shore of the legendary lake and amazing views. I had the best bed I have ever slept in, the best breakfast with fresh homemade bread, and the unique atmosphere of mystique and relaxation to enjoy.

3. What has been your best travel experience?

One of my most vivid memories is of a trip to America, and our helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon. I was exploring this natural wonder from a bird’s eye view. We were very “lucky” and arrived at exactly the time the US government shut down. All of the national parks were closed as well. And the only option to see the Grand Canyon was a helicopter flight. But we didn’t regret it - it was a simply unforgettable experience!

4. What are the top 3 things on your travel bucket list?

For many years, it was my dream to visit the Grand Canyon. Now that my dream has come true, I have a few new ideas: to visit Australia, Machu Picchu in Peru, and to go back to the Maldives. This time I want to stay at Per Aquum Niyama hotel and to have dinner at the underwater Subsix restaurant.

5. What is always in your travel bag?

A map of the place I am going to. I have realised that technical progress is not everywhere and that sometimes without a paper map you can’t find the road or the place you need. A swimming suit. I am an optimist, so I always have it with me, even if I go to a cold country.