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Brian Johnston

Brian Johnston

Travel writer

Brian Johnston seemed destined to become a travel writer: he is an Irishman born in Nigeria and raised in Switzerland, who has lived in Britain and China and now calls Australia home.

An artist’s impression of the pool area on Oceania Allura, set to launch later this year.

The exciting new crop of cruise ships coming in 2025

A varied flotilla of new cruise ships has launched in the past couple of years, so 2025 will produce a more modest assortment of choices.

  • Brian Johnston
Colourful homes dominate the barren landscape of the capital city of the windblown islands in the South Atlantic Ocean.

A mini Britain (but more interesting), this island’s a bucket-list spot

Stanley, one of the world’s most isolated settlements, is perfect for those drawn to odd and wonderfully obscure places.

  • Brian Johnston
Matt Moran… at sea.

Meet the new wave of world-class chefs boarding cruise ships

Move over cruise buffets. Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is leading the cruise dining renaissance with a voyage packed with Aussie culinary talent.

  • Brian Johnston
Tauranga is a splendid sail-in, past Mount Maunganui.

Port guide: Tauranga, New Zealand

One of New Zealand’s most popular cruise ports offers a splendid arrival, breezy beauty and plenty of interesting shore-excursion choices.

  • Brian Johnston
Vietjet’s Skyboss premium seats are identical in width and recline to economy.

Ten Asian budget airlines you need to know about

Want to save money travelling Asia? Jetstar Asia and AirAsia are well known, but here are 10 other low-cost carriers that should be on your radar.

  • Brian Johnston
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Cruise passengers contributed $8.43 billion to the Australian economy in 2023-24.

Cruise passengers spent more than ever in Australia last year

The industry is on the up, but growth is limited by high costs, regulatory complexities and a lack of maintenance facilities.

  • Brian Johnston
Oceania’s Regatta – see the world on a cruise.

The ultimate in cruising experiences is also the best value

A world cruise might be the most economical way to visit multiple destinations – and all without travel hassles.

  • Brian Johnston
Newcastle’s Merewether Baths and Beach.

Port guide: Newcastle, Australia

This once-declining NSW industrial town has undergone a transformation, with a newfound buzz, a great food scene and interesting attractions.

  • Brian Johnston
Boom town – Phnom Penh’s Central Market.

Port Guide: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh has overcome its horrible history and is enjoying an economic boom. Buckle up for an exciting and confronting exploration of a rapidly changing city.

  • Brian Johnston
The Vatican gardens, seen from St Peter’s Basilica.

The world’s smallest nation has some astonishing sights

An outsized history as the seat of the Catholic Church brings with it an incredible collection of art and architecture.

  • Brian Johnston

Original URL: https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/traveller/by/brian-johnston-hvf4e