Hungary: Europe's odd man out

Budapest card sent by mum in 2006

In many ways, Hungary is an odd one out in Europe. Its Uralic language has more in common with the languages of Finland and Estonia than its European neighbours. The capital, Budapest, was severely damaged in WWII and remnants of the battle are still evident in secluded pockets of the city.

Italy, Rome and The Vatican

 When you think of Italy and postcards, you're bound to come across Roman ruins and the Colosseum, surely one of the most postcarded sites ever.

Italy and Rome's history spans over 2,500 years. Ancient Rome was founded in 753 BC, growing into a republic (509-27 BC) and then an empire (27 BC-476 AD) that dominated the Mediterranean. 

Adelaide: Postcards from my home town

Everyone has to be born somewhere, and it was here in the leafy 'middle class' Eastern suburbs of Adelaide that became my first home. I grew up in the sheltered, predominantly white, Anglo-Saxon environment of Burnside, attending local schools before deciding that the bright lights of Sydney were more attractive than early 1980s Adelaide. 

Historic Bulgaria

Bulgaria probably doesn't feature on many Bucket Lists, but it's a fascinating window into what life was like before the fall of the Soviet Bloc. Bulgaria's population has fallen by around 30 per cent since then, and many buildings are derelict. However if you're a castle chaser, Bulgaria has plenty.

Postcard shop right in the heart of Helsinki

I've always wondered why the Finns were keen on postcards.

They are overrepresented on the postcard exchange site, postcrossing.com and take pride in their choice of cards 

Incredibe India

I've made several trips to India over the years and, as they say in the brochures, it is truly amazing for all sorts of reasons. Numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites make it a 'must-see' destination for true world travellers. I've sent and received numerous colourful cards from India.

Some of my India stories are here

Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

Micronesia is not somewhere you go every day, but for my globetrotting pal, Ros, it's all part of her plan for world domination.

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is a Pacific island nation comprising four states: Yap, Chuuk, Kosrae, and Pohnpei. With a population of around 113,000, it's known for its diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. The FSM features stunning marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and diverse marine life. The country has a tropical climate and relies heavily on fishing and agriculture. Its capital is Palikir, located on Pohnpei Island. Rich in history, the FSM was a UN Trust Territory administered by the US before gaining independence in 1986. Its scenic beauty and heritage attract tourists worldwide.

Jordan - UNESCO

Jordan, located in the heart of the Middle East, is a country rich in history and culture. Home to ancient sites like Petra and the Dead Sea, it offers diverse landscapes from deserts to fertile valleys.

I visited Jordan in 2013 and wrote this story:
Jordan's Holy Grail 

Tunisia: City of 100 Mosques

Kairouan, Tunisia, is a historic city renowned for its Islamic heritage. Known as the "City of 100 Mosques," it boasts stunning architecture, including the Great Mosque of Kairouan. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a hub for religious pilgrimage, rich in culture, history, and traditional craftsmanship.

Sent to me by my globetrotting pal, Belinda "Belle" Jackson

Egypt - UNESCO overload

Finding postcards in Egypt was not the most difficult part. They, along with all manner of trinkets and bumph were thrust at you at all the temples and sites. Finding stamps and then somewhere to post the cards was next to impossible especially if you were on a tight tour schedule, as I was. The vendors who had stamps were only to happy to inflate the prices by 50-100%. Post boxes were eventually found at the airports.

STORY: Raise a Sail on the Nile

Luxembourg – Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

One of the world's tiny countries, I've never been to Luxembourg but some of my well-travelled friends have and I thank them for these cards.

Qatar, Doha

My first visit to this intriguing country. Tracking down stamps and postcards was quite the task. Coincidently the only post box and vendor I could find was right near the flag you see in this postcard of the Souq Waqif

UAE: Abu Dhabi

I've only made a couple of visits to Abu Dhabi, but my time ashore from a Celestyal cruise last December was a decent full-day tour of this amazing city. A true jewel in the desert. STORY:

Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Union des Comores

Last year, I took a tour with Intrepid Travel to the islands of Comoros. The dozen travellers in my group were all inveterate world travellers who had accumulated well over 100 countries each. Postcards are such a great way to document your hard-to-get-to destinations.

Socialist Republic of Vietnam

 Vietnam may be a tricky country to get in and out of, but they can sure do lovely postcards and stamps. 

If you're ever visiting Vietnam and flying into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), you would be advised to allow a full hour for immigration and customs formalities. 

Belgrade, Serbia

This Balkan state has endured its fair share of troubles over the past 100 years and more. Still, it is a fascinating city to visit. I was there in May 2015 and again in 2025.