What makes a great pub?

Does live music do it for you when you’re choosing a pub?

In common with many, many others, I like a drink. But, these days at least, I don’t drink at home alone. To me, drinking is wound up with socialising and discovery.

I know some people prefer the familiar comforts of their “local” — and I admit that I have a few favourites myself — but part of the appeal of travel and life in general is exploration, be it of your own backyard or the big wide world.

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A serendipitous day in Taipei

I really should pay attention to landmarks. I spent far too long walking the wrong way today, all because I confused Metro exit 5 and 8.

National Palace Museum exhibit ok

But I also visited the National Palace Museum during the day and I’m writing this from a very nice bar I spotted while I was walking the wrong way.

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Sober on the high seas

A Twitter follower recently posed me an interesting question that went a little like this: “I am a non-drinker, and I have always shied away from cruises because everybody on board seems to be drinking all the time.

One of many cruise-ship bars. Where to go if you don’t drink?

“Is there anything to do on a cruise if you don’t drink?”

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