Welcome to Helen on her Holidays
Hello, I’m Helen. I’m a travel blogger near Manchester, UK with a full-time job and a mission to make the most of my annual leave.
Read more about me
Latest posts
14 tips for visiting Pompeii (plus how to climb Vesuvius)
Pompeii is on a lot of people’s travel bucket lists but can seem daunting to visit. Here’s some of the advice I found most useful, along with some tips from my visit.

The best short bullet train ride from Tokyo
Desperate to travel on a high speed Shinkansen train in Japan but short on time? Read about the best short bullet train ride from Tokyo with tips for your trip.
10 unmissable things to do in Tirana
Tirana, the capital of Albania, makes a perfect weekend break, with fascinating things to do, amazing food and drink and a fun, walkable city centre.
Visiting Hakone: Day trip or stay overnight?
Should you visit Hakone as a day trip from Tokyo or stay overnight? This complete guide weighs up the options to help you plan your Japan itinerary.
Travel advice
Hakone loop: complete guide with tips and clockwise itinerary
Scenic trains, views of Mount Fuji, hot springs, an active volcano and a pirate ship – visiting Hakone is a must for your trip to Japan!
KLM Premium Comfort class review: is it worth it for a long flight?
I tried KLM Premium Comfort on two 13 hour flights. Here’s my full review of KLM’s premium economy, covering the seat, service, food and more.
11 fun things to do in Ischia (plus 5 amazing day trips)
Ischia’s an idyllic island off the coast of southern Italy. It’s only around six miles wide, but manages to pack in an amazing number of attractions. Here are the very best things to do in Ischia,
Where to stay for the Bernina Express
The best places to stay for a trip on the Bernina Express or Bernina line railway, with hotel recommendations for Chur and Tirano and ideas for places to stay along the line.
Travelling the Bernina line from Switzerland to Italy – Bernina Express vs local train
Compare the Bernina Express vs regional trains on the Albula and Bernina rail line. Get useful tips to make the most of your trip between Switzerland and Italy.
Visiting Madeira: 13 top tips for your trip
Visiting Madeira for the first time? There are a few dos and don’ts that it’s good to know about before you go. Read on for 13 essential tips for your trip.