Author: Tim

Tim has been hooked on travel since his first backpacking trip at 19 and has visited over 50 countries since. Along the way, he's called Vietnam, Syria, and Chile home (plus the UK, where he's originally from!).He loves getting off the beaten path and experiencing the real culture of a place beyond the tourist hotspots. He squeezes in as much travel as he can around his 9-to-5 job.He started Travels off the Cuff to make trip planning less of a headache (he hates planning holidays!) and to share the tips he's picked up along the way.
The white stone pantheon rises up behind an ornate stone waterfall, with some tourists in between them

When is the best time to visit Italy? Your questions answered (2025 guide)

Planning a trip to Italy involves more than just choosing destinations – timing can significantly affect your experience. Whether you’re hoping to dodge the intense summer heat, avoid tourist-packed cities, or catch authentic festivals, knowing when to visit can make all the difference. We’ve curated the most frequently asked questions from fellow travellers on the…

Scenic view of ancient stone architecture in Matera, Apulia, Italy, under a vibrant sky.
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When is the best time to fly to Italy: save without compromising your trip

When it comes to planning a holiday to Italy, timing isn’t just about when to go – it’s about when to book. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping wine in Tuscany, exploring the alleyways of Venice, or relaxing on the Amalfi Coast, booking your flights at the right moment can save you hundreds of pounds –…

A white church is flanked by colonnades, opening up round a white marble square.

Is Italy expensive to visit? A realistic guide to planning your budget

Italy is one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations – it will lure you in with its Renaissance cities, stunning coastlines, world-class cuisine, and old-world charm. But when planning your dream trip, you might find yourself wondering: Is Italy expensive to visit? The short answer: it can be, but it doesn’t have to break…

The green Alto river stretches by surrounded by tall, pastel coloured buildings. There is an umbrella on the top left from the roof top bar where this is taken from. There is a blue, slightly cloudy sky.

10-day Italy itinerary: Rome, Florence and Venice (with an optional add-on)

Looking for the perfect 10-day Italy itinerary? Whether it’s your first time in Italy or you’re going back to your favourite cities, this classic route takes you from Rome’s historic streets to the art-filled beauty of Florence, and then to the romantic canals of Venice – all easily travelled by train. If you’ve got a…

A bird's eye view of two coffees and two orange juices on a brightly lit table.
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Faster, more comfortable and (often) cheaper: why you should take the Eurostar on your next trip to Europe

Ditch the plane and take the train! We love the Eurostar – we’ve started taking it whenever we can, and much prefer it to flying. And it seems like a few people agree with us! For those travelling between London and Paris, 2 million people flew last year compared to 8 million taking the Eurostar….

A stunning cityscape view of Porto, Portugal, showcases the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge gracefully arching over the Douro River. Historic buildings with red-tiled roofs fill the foreground, while modern structures rise in the background beneath a cloudy sky, capturing Porto's unique blend of old and new.

What are the travel requirements to visit Portugal?

The travel requirements to visit Portugal have changed significantly over recent years. While they remain pretty simple, don’t get caught out. Planning your Portuguese adventure? Here’s exactly what you need to know before packing your bags. Quick summary: Portugal entry requirements in 2025 Now let’s break down the travel requirements for Portugal, so you can…

A stunning aerial view of Lisbon's cityscape with a festive Christmas tree in Praça do Comércio at sunset.

When is the best time to visit Lisbon? Your complete seasonal guide

The best time to visit Lisbon depends on what you’re looking for – sun-soaked beaches, fewer tourists, or budget-friendly prices. After spending countless days wandering those charming cobblestone streets, I’ve got the inside scoop on when to book your tickets. Here’s the short answer: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the perfect balance of pleasant…