top of page

NightingTales: Our stories from around the world


NightingTales: The Rising Sun of Japanese Travel
In 2018, Japan had 6 million travellers visit the country. In 2025, it had 43 million visitors. In all of my time in travel, I have never known a destination to reach such elevated and continued popularity. Furthermore, I do not know a single person who has visited Japan and not fallen in love with the country, the people and the culture. I was lucky enough to head East in June, after long wanting to visit “The Land of the Rising Sun”.... and oh my, it did not disappoint. In

Nightingale Luxury Travel
4 days ago5 min read


Beyond the Ordinary: Nightingale's Top 10 Bucket-List Travel Experiences
For those of us who seek more than the usual...

Nightingale Luxury Travel
Jun 294 min read


NightingTales: Hugo's Journey Through South Africa (Cape Town, Franschhoek and Sabi Sands)
In March 2026, my wife Amanda and I travelled to South Africa for what turned out to be one of the most memorable trips we have ever taken together. From the dramatic coastline and incredible food scene of Cape Town, to the rolling vineyards of Franschhoek and finally the wild beauty of the Sabi Sands & Kruger National Park. It was a journey packed with unforgettable moments, amazing hospitality and some of the most spectacular scenery we have experienced anywhere in the worl

Nightingale Luxury Travel
May 126 min read


NightingTales: Praias, Pastéis & Palácios
Southern Portugal: Lisbon, Comporta and Algarve In May 2025, I travelled to Portugal with my wife, Amanda. We experienced the narrow and winding streets of Lisbon, the expansive beaches of Comporta and the beautiful far-reaching countryside views of The Algarve. This was a holiday we have very fond memories from and hopefully it will not be the last time we visit this lovely part of Europe. As this was our first time visiting Lisbon we feel like we only scratched the surface

Nightingale Luxury Travel
Mar 175 min read


NightingTales: Exploring Borneo
Exploring Borneo - Blog by Matt In 2025, I was lucky enough to be invited to a wedding in Australia and suddenly realised the opportunity to visit somewhere en route which has long been on my bucket list - the island of Borneo. Known primarily for its healthy and sustainable Orangutan population, Borneo is a must see wildlife destination which houses some of the world’s oldest rainforests, vast rivers, amazing people, and sublime fauna and flora. After a quick night in a conv

Nightingale Luxury Travel
Feb 244 min read


NightingTales: Our Top 10 Safari Lodges & Camps in Africa
Hotel lists are subjective, varied, and every publication and organisation has different “favourites”, often for differing reasons and biases. This list does not merely list the most expensive or exclusive properties in Africa, but contains our genuine favourites. We have visited all of these lodges in Africa, and have a personal connection to all of them! Garonga Safari Camp, South Africa A hidden gem, unbelievably good value for money for the quality, and an amazing atmosph

Nightingale Luxury Travel
Jan 73 min read


NightingTales: Our Favourite Destinations Around the World
South Africa Where it all started for Matt - his love of Africa, wildlife and travel began in this amazingly diverse and rich country. South Africa has amazing wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and some of the best food and wine that the world has to offer. You can create the most amazing holiday itinerary taking in the animal-rich bushveld of the Greater Kruger, heading to one of Earth’s most vibrant cities in Cape Town, exploring the Battlefields and culture-rich KwaZulu Nata

Nightingale Luxury Travel
Jan 73 min read


NightingTales: Get To Know The Founders - Matt Shock
What first got you into travel? I’ve always had a fascination with the natural world, with history, with people and a desire to learn more. My parents instilled in me from a young age that the quest for knowledge and to learn new things is a brilliant and virtuous thing. I fundamentally believe that travelling the world achieves that and opens one’s eyes beyond our immediate perspective. What is your favourite adventure you’ve ever been on? I was lucky enough to go on a resea

Nightingale Luxury Travel
Jan 72 min read


NightingTales: Get to Know The Founders - Hugo Snell
Hugo, What first got you into travel? My father was posted abroad in the British Army and I was born in the beautiful Victoria, Australia. From a young age I was travelling the world and living in various overseas countries. Some of my earliest childhood memories stem from family camping trips and long days on the beach in Cyprus where we lived for a few years in the 1990’s. What is your favourite adventure you’ve ever been on? I’ve been lucky enough to travel South America

Nightingale Luxury Travel
Dec 31, 20252 min read
