Phoebe Smith

As direct flights launch to the land of Mardi Gras, Phoebe Smith shimmies her way to Louisiana, cocktail in hand, to discover what’s on offer in the city that never sleeps...

Travel underwear is often overlooked, but a bad pair can ruin your adventures - here's how to pick the best pants!

When heading to colder climes you need a jacket that will block wind, keep off rain or snow and stop you getting sweaty when active. Here's how to choose the best winter waterproofs...

Phoebe Smith shares the 5 biggest mistakes people make when doing their first wild camp…

Building a campfire can be difficult and dangerous – so read this 5-step guide before you start striking matches

Across Scotland – and parts of England and Wales – there is a network of old buildings with incredible views and access to wild places that you can stay in, for free…

Phoebe Smith catches up with Alastair Lee to find out how he got into adventure film-making, shooting Autana and why he has the best job in the world…

As Sir Ranulph Fiennes heads off to attempt the first winter crossing of Antarctica, he talks to Phoebe Smith about the challenges ahead

In an extended version of an interview with editor Phoebe Smith, Ray Mears gives a frank account of his life with grubs, itches and bushcraft

Wanderlust editor Phoebe Smith talks to Alastair Lee about his photos of climbing the summit of Ulvetanna in Antarctica, which featured in the Dec 2013/Jan 2014 issue of Wanderlust

Wanderlust editor Phoebe Smith grills Karl Pilkington about his views on travel, sheep testicles and Ricky Gervais's inability to eat cold fishcakes

As revered British nature and travel writer Robert Macfarlane releases his latest book Landmarks, we caught up with him to talk about 'rewilding' our language

From earthworm wrangler to driving David Attenborough across Spain, TV wildlife expert Nigel Marven talks early jobs and why it’s never wise to linger when surrounded by bull sharks...

The well-travelled, freewheeling funnyman Ross Noble talks about Twitter travel, his plans for a new travel film, motorbike racing in Romania and surviving on a diet of rice pudding

Rock star, author, disc jockey and newly minted Visit Wales ambassador Cerys Matthews explains the Year of Legend, what she loves best about her home country and where in Wales you should be heading to next

Come rain or shine, city stroll or hefty hike, convertible trousers will see you right. Here's what savvy buyers need to look out for - and six pairs that make the cut

Sometimes a straightforward suitcase just won’t do. So we help you pick the perfect travel bag, for when you need more versatility from your luggage

With more ankle support than a shoe but less bulk than a full-on boot, mids can be a great, versatile choice for both hiking on trails or sightseeing in cities

For a shorter trip or a walking break, a 40-50L rucksack is the ideal choice: big enough for your stuff but not too cumbersome. Here’s how to pick a good one...

You need a base layer that will keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot – forget the old cotton tee and try one of these for size

Gilets (light sleeveless padded jackets, or bodywarmers) keep your core toasty without restricting movement, great for active travel in colder climes. Wanderlust's editor Phoebe Smith tests a selection and recommends the ones worth buying

When temperatures begin to plummet, you need a good baselayer underneath to keep you warm. Here’s what to look for in these body-hugging technical tops…

From strolling up mountain peaks to shimmying into village pubs, a good pair of trousers will take your from tours to trails in supreme comfort. Here are 8 of the best, including our Best in Test, and Best Value pair

When you only need to carry the barest of travel essentials or pack a few items for a short walk, you can’t beat a daypack for squeezing everything into 30 litres or less. Here are our pick of the best

Fancy a change from the usual tent set-up? Want something a little more quirky as a ‘just in case’ option? Check out these shelters for your next kip, from tarps to hammocks

As the weather warms, walking boots become all about comfort and getting good protection at a lighter weight. Here are six of the best available for £120 or less

If you want a breathable and wind-resistant layer to wear over your T-shirt (or base layer) when you’re confident it won’t rain, then consider a softshell for your outdoor adventures…

Phoebe Smith proves you don't need to be a mountaineer to make it to Everest Base Camp in the new issue of Wanderlust. Here she offers a few tips you need to make it... comfortably

Taking the right kit can make the difference between a good and a great trip so pack wisely! Here’s what Wanderlust editor Phoebe Smith took with her…

A footsore Phoebe Smith gives her Camino top tips

400 years ago ten people from this Lancashire borough were executed for witchcraft. Spellbound, Wanderlust editor Phoebe Smith headed north to find out more…

Star-filled skies, fresh air, no other people – there’s nothing quite like a night spent out in the wilds. Unconvinced? Phoebe Smith explains why you need to bed down in the great outdoors

With its dramatic coast, crumbling castles, remote roads and liberal stance on wild camping, Scotland is best seen by campervan, says Phoebe Smith

80 years ago, Derbyshire’s hills were a battleground for walkers’ access rights. Phoebe Smith relishes her right to roam

Navigate the timeless temples and labyrinthine streets of Nepal’s alluring capital – then hit the rivers and trails of the Kathmandu Valley, advises Phoebe Smith

You don't need to be a hardened mountaineer to experience a little bit of Everest's magic, says Phoebe Smith

In the summer it oozes classic British seaside charm but, come winter, the north Norfolk coast takes on a very different character…

Just off the coast of southernmost Burma lies a collection of 800 islands – the Myeik (Mergui) Archipelago – most of which are uninhabited. Intrigued, Wanderlust editor Phoebe Smith set sail…

Blood feuds once gave the Albanian Alps a fierce reputation, but now hikers are enjoying a warm welcome and untamed views

Dazzling pagodas, mouth-watering food, tantalising market stalls – life in Burma’s fascinating former capital truly feels golden, says Phoebe Smith

This winter saw the peak of the solar maximum period – and there are few better places to see the dazzling northern lights than Norway’s pristine Arctic extremes

Forget Mandalay, never mind Bagan – for a real Burmese adventure, head south to meet the ‘sea gypsies’ of the wild, undiscovered Myeik Archipelago

With its electric cars, bike-friendly buses, boats, trains and trails, the Lake District is also one of the best places for a great green adventure

There's never enough time to see all of Scotland, but take the sleeper train to enjoy a prime slice of mountains, forests and lochs in a long weekend

With its rosy sands, flaming cliffs, ruby-roofed lighthouses and red-headed girl, Prince Edward Island is the hot spot Canadians want to keep to themselves

Mechanical elephants, outlandish art, leafy cycles, 2,000-year-old salt marshes – this is the place to let your imagination truly run wild

Look beyond the negative headlines – the Haitian capital is an intoxicating blend of Latin and African culture tinged with French influences

Inuit culture, curious craters and wild caribou, musk-ox and polar bears: welcome to Nunavik – Québec’s secret Arctic wonderland

Nowhere delivers the thrill of the open road quite like the USA – but where to start? And where to find the routes less-travelled? Here's how to plan an awesome American road trip – Mustang essential, of course...

Want an alternative start to your Japanese adventure? Then try Nagoya, which is packed with temples, castles and quirky youth culture

Haiti is like nowhere else in the Caribbean, fashioned by revolutionary slaves, vodou worship and artistic flair. Recent times have been tough, but – five years on from the devastating earthquake – the nation is rising from the rubble

Want to tackle your first night out in the wild under canvas? Phoebe Smith – Wanderlust editor and author of new book Wilderness Weekends – offers some hard-won advice…

Imagine not only walking in the Alps but staying in the mountains too, with a comfy bed, a hot meal and warming schnaps – for around €20 a night. Just keep your fingers crossed for good weather...

It’s where most Antarctic expeditions start, but should you linger any longer than a day?

Denver is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and a state filled with rivers, canyons and deserts, but is it worth lingering in the city?

Nowhere mixes the old and new quite like Japan – use modern trains to discover pilgrim paths, timeless peaks and glimpses into the past...

This is the most classic adventure you can have in Japan. Here's how best to climb this elusive peak and snaffle the most precious views

Want to experience the Appalachian Trail but don’t have time to hike it all? Forget the backpack and blisters – grab a car, turn on the cruise control and check out the best bits in just two weeks...

Think it’s more fly-and-flop than city break? Head to the Balearic island’s capital in search of good food and the perfect winter escape

Norway’s quirky trio of rock formations have become social media sensations – and are now linked by shuttle bus to make it easier to finish a trekking trilogy (complete with obligatory selfie) in four days

Voted ‘Top UK Destination’ by you – it may have been hit by floods but, thanks to community spirit, the Lakes is very much open for business, says Phoebe Smith

With a rich maritime history and great walking on its doorstep, Phoebe Smith discovers the gateway to the fjords is a place worth visiting in its own right…

Think ‘road trip’ and the USA springs to mind, but the first ever long-distance car journey happened in Germany. Inspired, we hit the tarmac to discover castles, eccentric kings and a little touch of magic…

To celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the longest train journey in the world, Phoebe Smith undertakes the classic Trans-Mongolian railroad, but with a twist: switching direction to travel east to west…

Already visited Gullfoss Falls, the hilltop church and Blue Lagoon? Phoebe Smith befriends a local to find an alternative way to enjoy a short stopover in the capital…

Lifeblood to the Native Americans, battleground for the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement, birthplace of blues and inspiration to Mark Twain, a journey up the Mississippi tells a multitude of stories

Many travellers dismiss Madagascar’s far north as one big beach resort, but look a little closer and you’ll find lemurs, geckos and limestone tsingy. Phoebe Smith takes in the sights and sounds of this magical island, meeting some enchanting locals along the way

75 years on from its construction, Phoebe Smith embarks on an epic Alaska Highway adventure from Canada’s remote Yukon to Alaskan wilderness, with lakes, brown bears and mountains along the way...

From mangrove forests to exploding volcanoes – an expedition cruise around the Bay of Bengal yields a wealth of surprises. Phoebe Smith travels from Sri Lanka to Bangladesh, viewing towering stupas and Ganges river dolphins along the way

The Grand Tour takes you through Switzerland's best bits, soaking up alpine passes and pristine lakes along the way. Phoebe Smith spends a night in a hay barn, explores pond-filled caves and journeys along dramatic mountain roads on this sun-dappled Swiss adventure

As the zoologist and BBC presenter’s new book comes out, Phoebe Smith chats to Mark Carwardine about whales, good guides and the current state of wildlife conservation...

Ray Mears is famous for bushcraft and exploring the world’s wild places. As he prepares to tour the UK, he talks to us about wilderness, travelling solo and going eye-to-eye with a wolf...

Wanderlust editor Phoebe Smith's new book reveals England's best pint-sized peaks. From mystical mounds in Dartmoor to craggy outcrops in Yorkshire, getting to the top has never been easier

While Texas might not strike you as the heart of liberal, laid-back America, Austin is busy keeping it hip and weird for the rest of the state

Search south of the Himalayas and discover the magnificent wildlife home to Nepal. Watch as one-horned rhinos roam free, or walk alongside elephants in the conservation haven of Chitwan National Park.

Known as ‘The Old Way’, the Great British Pilgrimage from Southampton to Canterbury is making a comeback. Phoebe Smith reveals how to enjoy the best bits of the UK's Camino in just three days

We talk tribes and Tawai with explorer Bruce Parry after his latest film project across India, Borneo and the Amazon. Find out the importance of indigenous people and how merging solutions can help society

From soft duck feathers to water-resistant outings, choose your body armour to stay warm this winter as Phoebe Smith tests out the latest and greatest gilets...

Comedian and hillwalker Ed Byrne has been walking Spain's Santiago de Compostela for the BBC show The Pilgrimage. Phoebe Smith catches up with him to talk travel, religion and the perfect walking trail…

A wealth of wildlife lies on the doorstep of Sweden's capital, with wolf-howling trips and a stay in the 'planet's most primitive hotel' revealing a hidden natural world...

Ever wanted to travel, write and be paid for it? Travel writer Phoebe Smith shares some tips on how you can make it happen…

Your monthly dose of notes from the road by Wanderlust’s editor-at-large Phoebe Smith, as she faces her fears and finally learns to dive

Which would you prefer: exploring Europe in the lap of luxury, or adventure on a shoestring? We tried both, and came up with a surprising conclusion...

Though known for its Little Mermaid statue and hygge charms, the Danish capital's latest lure for curious travellers is its gentrified red light district, discovers Phoebe Smith

When it comes to travel photography, most people opt for either a DSLR camera or their mobile phone. However, there are plenty of other options to get unique shots…

Wanderlust’s editor-at-large heads to New Zealand’s soon-to-be Dark Sky Sanctuary, in search of flightless birds, elusive aurora, and a whole lot of stars…

For centuries, people lived on Britain's remotest isle of St Kilda. Now the chance to battle the elements and sail there on a wooden ketch reveals just how unique their lives were...

Forget simply stepping into a watercourse for a bit of front crawl. Instead, opt for a wild water adventure with an up close encounter with wildlife. Discover more as Phoebe Smith dives Down Under...

Beyond the shopping malls and high-rises that most experience, we discover the UAE’s wilder side…

Wanderlust Editor-at-Large Phoebe Smith takes to Colorado’s cliff faces to attempt a portaledge camp out, as part of her training for the UK Extreme Sleeps challenge...

From warming you up on the plane to warding off insect attacks, the hoodie can be a useful piece of travel kit. Find out which was judged best in test...

Known as one of the most authentic countries on the Arabian Peninsula, Oman has an even wilder side still – head south to Salalah for wonderful wadis, beautiful birds and baobab forests...

Scuppered by bad timing on a trip to see some of Britain's biggest and most thrilling wildlife specimens, Wanderlust's Phoebe Smith goes on a 'micro-safari' to find the joy in the little things...

Intrigued by Oman’s version of the Grand Canyon Wanderlust’s editor-at-large Phoebe Smith considers what’s in a name…

Epic and awe-inspiring, canyons have long fascinated explorers and travellers alike. Wanderlust editor-at-large Phoebe Smith lists the eight that have impressed her most

A community on New Zealand's West Coast hopes to leave its mining past behind and move forward with a new Great Walk to appeal to trekkers and tourists. Take a look at the trail in progress...

From smooching with a cod to drinking copious amounts of rum, Wanderlust’s editor-at-large Phoebe Smith checks out some of Canada’s strangest drinking rituals…

It's adored by artists, loved by literary greats and filled with crowds in summer – but Phoebe Smith finds a way to meander through the lavender in peace...

In the run-up to Halloween, Wanderlust editor-at-large Phoebe Smith braves a stay in the hotel where master of horror Stephen King was inspired to write his bestseller…

To see the Kimberley region in Western Australia usually involves five-star cruising and a five-figure price tag – we decided to see if we could experience this wilderness on a small budget…

Dazzled by her umpteenth sighting of the northern lights, Wanderlust’s editor-at-large, Phoebe Smith, reflects on why natural spectacles are so mesmerising…

Sick of being at the receiving end of bad travel manners, Wanderlust’s editor-at-large Phoebe Smith draws up a charter to make travellers behave a bit nicer to each other in 2019…

No matter where you go, there’s almost always a chance of rain. But pack a good, lightweight waterproof jacket in your bag and you can enjoy your travels, whatever the weather…

Struggling to pack all the essentials into your suitcase? Learn how to effectively pack for your next adventure with these five tips, including the best travel products to help you out...

Portland is a funky, friendly city made for exploring by bike, says Phoebe Smith – with lashings of artisan coffee, craft beer and organic bites to fuel your adventure…

Indigenous Australian culture, the laid-back attitude of Indonesia, South-East Asian cuisine, European sensibilities – Darwin is an intoxicating mix...

While exploring the secrets of the moai on Chile’s Easter Island, Phoebe Smith ponders a greater mystery – why haven’t we all heard of archaeologist Katherine Routledge?

Beautiful New Brunswick in East Canada offers many delightful surprises including historical houses, quaint towns, stunning scenery, and, if you're lucky, a chance to spot whales...

Canada’s Bay of Fundy is the best place in the world to glimpse the endangered North Atlantic right whale. We set sail, hot on its trail…

Whether you're after a breathable sock for hiking or comfort for long-haul journeys, these durable travel socks have been put to the test. Find out which pair were voted best.

For most travellers, Patagonia’s Torres del Paine is all about the hiking. But as efforts to preserve its native puma bear fruit, you can now join altogether toothier companions in the wild…

Whether you're into pumas and wild horses, or smaller, cuter penguins - these are the best, most diverse wildlife watching experiences in Chile's Patagonia, plus the best tour guides to help find them...

For tasty food and scenery, you can't beat the south-west corner of the Emerald Isle for a hearty slice of the country's best bits in miniature. Find out for yourself with a weekend break away...

Head to the East Devon and Dorset coast and you can discover 185 million years of the earth’s history. Welcome to Britain’s slice of Jurassic Park...

It might be famed for its Christmas markets, but the Tirolean capital actually makes a perfect weekend break destination all year round...

If you want to tackle Camino de Santiago but only have a week to spare, try hiking the last 100km, skipping the albergues. This will ensure eternal forgiveness in unsaintly luxury...

From aiding stability to saving your knees; from clearing branches to doubling as a make-shift tripod, if you're heading into the wild make sure you pack a pair of poles…

Headed to the mountains for a hike or taking a breezy stroll through the woods this winter? Keep those feet dry and comfortable with these boots that were made for walking...

Ice caves, reindeer, snowmobiles and the shed that might save the future of humanity. Wanderlust's Editor Phoebe Smith explores Longyearbyen in Svalbard, Norway: the town at the top of the world...

100 years after Shackleton set off on his ill-fated mission to cross Antarctica, we follow in his footsteps – through iceberg-littered seas and over treacherous landscapes...

Antarctica booking season is upon us. If you're planning a cruise to the Great White Continent, this Antarctica advice, which probably isn't included in your trip notes, is essential...

Gear expert Phoebe Smith reveals the seven most important things to look out for when you're buying a suitcase with wheels, including the size, material and the so-called 'extras'...

As news of the Great Barrier Reef’s demise seems to dominate the headlines, Wander Woman Phoebe Smith heads Down Under to meet the man who’s helping to bring it back…

Flung out in the Indian Ocean, it wasn’t until it hit the headlines in 2015 that this mysterious isle started to pique travellers’ curiosity. From deserts and waterfalls to volcanic landscapes, there's ple

The Maldives is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear seas, but go when the water gets a little bit murky and you can swim with some very special residents…

With the islands of the Aegean having dropped off travellers' radars, head to Lesvos and Chios to soak up their food, culture and history in crowd-free bliss...

You may be worried about visiting the Great Barrier Reef, wondering if it's damaging the environment. Fortunately, a trip (and a few small gestures) can help rather than hinder, says Phoebe Smith...

Welcome to the real Magic Kingdom. Never mind Mickey Mouse, Florida's true celebrity critters are found in the depths of the Crystal River...

Longing to see grizzlies up close and personal, Phoebe Smith sets sail for Canada’s little-known Khutzeymateen Provincial Park to watch them (safely) by boat…

You can see bears - brown, black, grizzly and polar - in a number of different, and slightly unusual, ways. All are equally thrilling. Phoebe Smith shares the best ways to try bear watching for yourself...

Away from the polar bears and ice cap is a little-known hiking trail that traces the line of the Arctic Circle. Intrigued, Phoebe Smith packed her sense of adventure and headed north...

When a new mindfulness tour offered to show Phoebe Smith around an Italian town AND take her on a journey within, she put away the map, set aside the guidebook, and went in search of some Street Wisdom…

Phoebe Smith picks out some of the best places and ways to take things slowly, so we can all be a little more mindful on our travels…

Friendly neighbourhoods, outstanding natural beauty on the doorstep and the most iconic tower in the USA – Seattle's got it all...

Art deco, Miami Vice, white-sand beaches – but is there more to Florida’s Spring Break favourite? You betcha...

From annoying midges to malaria-carrying mosquitos, if you're headed somewhere where insects are biting, you need the right clothes, accessories and essentials to protect you from potential bites...

With its abundance of wildlife, laid-back attitude and distinctive neighbourhoods, it’s no wonder this California city has been going strong for 250 years, says Phoebe Smith...

It's time to consider investing in kit that won’t (quite literally) cost the earth. Here are some of the latest eco-friendly options, including clothing, luggage and essential accessories...

From eco-friendly drinking bottles and ingenious travel wallets to ultra cool Christmas themed jackets, Contributing editor Phoebe Smith, our resident gear guru, has made her list and checked it twice...

Boats aren't the only way to enjoy the wildlife and landscapes of Mexico's Baja California Sur. Grab a car and follow Route One for a fast track to whales, cave paintings and friendly locals...

South Africa’s iconic Blue Train has just changed from a one to two-night experience. Wander Woman Phoebe Smith reviews the luxury locomotive and indulges in some seriously mellow travel...

We test 12 of the top water bottles on the market - all reusable in an effort to combat overuse of single use plastic - starting from £11...

From exploring the Arctic’s icy tundra to watching whales and photographing penguins in Antarctica, dressing right for an adventurous water-based trip is key...

Heading north to gaze at the aurora? South for an Antarctic expedition cruise? No matter how cold it gets, these cosy thermals will keep you toasty and warm...

With hold luggage often chargeable and weights for hand luggage shrinking, every gram counts, so here are the best pieces to consider for your (increasingly small) bag...

When Wanderlust began, our founder travelled around South America with just a single piece of hand luggage – choose the right one these days and you too can go cabin-approved only…

If you need a new sleeping bag for your travels, or for your next camping trip - we've tested 6 of the best, ranging in price from £50 - £300...

From annoying midges to malaria-carrying mosquitos, if you're travelling where there are biting insects, repellent is a must-pack item. Find out which one you'll need for your next trip...

Cases on wheels are specifically designed to make your travels easier – but only if you choose the right one. Here's the expert Wanderlust guide to buying the best wheeled suitcase for you...

We test the best sleeping mats on the market, searching for the the most comfortable, lightweight and compactable camping pads on offer. We've tested five of the best, ranging in price from £30 to £105...