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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.

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
In New York, legislation against diesel-powered cruise ships is under consideration following complaints from locals about the pollution from the 200 cruise ships that dock in the harbour annually.

More cities crack down on cruise ships, but don’t believe the ‘bans’

The media often erroneously reports cruise ship “bans” which are anything but.

  • Brian Johnston
Shanghai is a raucous trade city noted for its art deco Bund or river promenade.

Cheap flights and no visas required: Why we’re flocking back to China

Yes, relations have been fraught, but now this spectacular destination is putting out the welcome mat again.

  • Brian Johnston
Relax by the private pool.

Up to $147,000 a night: Inside the world’s most expensive hotel rooms

A glimpse inside 10 of the most extravagant suites around the world, from London, Paris and New York to Monaco and Marrakesh.

  • Brian Johnston
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The Southern Fuegian Railway, more aptly called the End of the World Train.

The cute little train at the end of the world with a brutal history

Tourists are curious creatures, ever ready to make an entertainment out of the most terrible tales of the past.

  • Brian Johnston
The Mediterranean glimmers beyond the arched windows at La Passagere.

The food is superb, but it’s not why I fork out for French fine dining

What price a cultural experience? People spend more on a Taylor Swift concert or a soccer final.

  • Brian Johnston
Valparaiso, Chile.

This ramshackle city has no urban planning but you’ll love it

The unconventional Chilean city Valparaiso has no big sights and no pretensions, but it does have what counts: plenty of character.

  • Brian Johnston
Don’t be sheepish, visit the Big Merino.

The 18 things (not necessarily big) that made Australia what it is today

From a giant ram to Ned Kelly’s armour, these key treasures encapsulate our pop culture, history and achievements as a nation.

  • Brian Johnston
Even Zeus has a six-pack.

Ten things we’ll never understand about Greece

Are all those ancient sculptors conning us? No amount of philosophy explains some of Greece’s more peculiar customs.

  • Brian Johnston

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