Perfect pancakes from around the world

Fancy adding a little something extra to your pancakes tonight? We’ve found three pancake recipes from France, Germany and the USA which will ensure your battered treats have a little more bite. Now’s the time to take inspiration from travel and ditch the same old recipe you’ve been using for years - the American pancakes are our favourite, but we recommend having them for dinner alone, as they’re too filling as a dessert! French crepes These are best served with a dash of sugar and a squeeze of lemon, although, if you fancy something a bit more decadent, whipped cream and Nutella should su... Read more

What Alan Partridge has taught us about hotel etiquette

As fans of the much-loved BBC comedy show will be well aware, mishap-ridden radio DJ and Skirmish presenter Alan Partridge stayed in the Linton Travel Tavern after divorcing his wife and accepting the graveyard shift on Radio Norwich. While he was there, he learned the ins and outs of hotel etiquet... Read more

Strangest wine bars around the world

Wine drinkers are like no other kind of enthusiasts, as they embrace every aspect of the process which makes their beloved vino. They are familiar with the grape, where it is grown, the quality of the vineyards and the best vintages. Wine tourism is massive right now, and true aficionados have take... Read more

Book your break now as snow and gales are predicted for Easter

Perhaps predictably, the weather over Easter is set to worsen - so we'd advise you to book your getaway ASAP. The Met Office has issued weather warnings for the beginning of the Easter holidays, and gales, rain and snow are forecast. Temperatures in most parts of the UK are likely to be around or ... Read more

Passports myths debunked: Do I need to renew my passport?

Dear Columbus Direct, My parents live in Spain, and have invited my two grown-up children (18 and 19) and I out to join them in the middle of April, returning at the end of April. My children's passports expire in early May. I think I may have left it a bit late to renew them on their behalf, but d... Read more

The FCA proposes to ban opt-out selling

In a move that will delight consumers and watchdogs alike, the Financial Conduct Authority is set to ban opt-out selling in financial services markets. Last year, the general insurance market was reviewed, and add-ons were put under the microscope. This is thought to be the reason for the regulator... Read more

French Alps air tragedy: What if I want to cancel my trip?

Germanwings flight 4U9525 crashed in the French Alps while flying between Barcelona and Düsseldorf. It is expected that all 150 passengers on board the Airbus A320 have been killed by the accident. While this is little comfort to those travelling, many travel insurance policies, and also credit car... Read more

Surfers flock to the Severn for tidal bore fun

Surfers have been flocking to The Severn to take advantage of unique conditions that allow them to ride the 'super' tidal bore which happens a few times every year. The Severn Bore is a large surge wave that can be seen in the estuary of the river, where the tidal range can reach 50 feet (approx. 1... Read more

Six travel mistakes that could cost you your holiday

Everyone occasionally makes the odd mistake - but this lot take the biscuit. Travelling is the best time to let your hair down and experience a certain degree of freedom; but it doesn't mean that you're above the law the minute you leave the country.. It's still important to respect your surroundin... Read more