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Shaney Hudson

Shaney Hudson

Shaney Hudson is an award-winning freelance travel writer based in Sydney. Specialising in family travel, she likes to go where the wild things are.

Evening light at Alhambra.

World’s first influencer: How an American writer put Spanish castle on the map

I’m standing in the hallway of one of Spain’s most visited attractions, curious as to why there’s a plaque dedicated to an American.

  • Shaney Hudson

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The courtyard in the hotel.

This hotel is why three-star stays rule in Europe’s top cities

I have a dirty little travel secret: I really don’t like staying in five-star, branded chain hotels. Sure, they deliver on luxury, but they often leave me feeling cold.

  • Shaney Hudson
Carnival Adventure is one of the rebranded P&O ships after Carnival closed the brand.

Former P&O ship has a new name, but needs a proper makeover

The ship is older and some areas remind you of visiting your parents’ place: everything is neat, clean, and in good condition, but it’s also increasingly dated.

  • Shaney Hudson
A Renfe AVE fast train underway.

This two-in-one rail journey is a fabulous way to see Spain

Despite delays, I enjoy both the shiny, fast-train experience and the slower, more worn-in regional train.

  • Shaney Hudson
An uninterrupted nap? Parental bliss.

Long-haul economy is hell. Except for this mum

Travelling with children has set the bar so low for me that this simple block of time is like some sort of gift from a merciful god.

  • Shaney Hudson
The interior is calming, if a bit light on distractions.

Europe’s second-largest airport needs a facelift (and you’ll need a book)

Madrid Airport has fewer passengers, more space and less clutter than most, but there are few entertainment options.

  • Shaney Hudson
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My phone was safe at Doha Airport. Unfortunately I had no way of getting it.

I left my phone at the airport during transit. Things got worse from there

Locked out of my email, social media and bank account, with a panicking family at home, I learnt a harsh lesson about our reliance on phones when travelling.

  • Shaney Hudson
Carnival Adventure.

I thought big ships were loud and rowdy. I discovered something different

I’d avoided cruising for decades. On board the former P&O ship, now converted to a Carnival vessel, I realised I’d been missing out on the fun.

  • Shaney Hudson
The Star Grand Brisbane.

Verdict on hotel at the centre of Queensland’s most contentious site

Beyond the headlines and billion-dollar budget blowouts, The Star Grand Brisbane brims with potential. Can it come back from the brink and shine bright?

  • Shaney Hudson
Extra time in paradise … Sofitel Denarau let’s travellers check-in at the hotel.

This is the most ridiculously easy international flight you can take

Fiji Airways partners with local hotels for a “resort check-in” program, so I only have to arrive at the airport an hour before my flight.

  • Shaney Hudson