James Wong on gardensGardening adviceThey’re notoriously difficult to pollinate but this unusual houseplant rewards you with its quirky looks and easygoing nature
For houseplant obsessives like me, offerings in garden centres can be a bit samey. In the face of two decades of declining sales, retailers are sticking to an ever-shrinking palette of safe options. But every so often you come across a great find, like the Vulcan Palm, Brighamia insignis. Read More...
The ObserverTerry Gilliam This article is more than 1 year oldIt’s not that people are more sensitive these days. Some things just aren’t funny any moreThis article is more than 1 year oldMartha GillPython star Terry Gilliam says today’s students can’t handle the truth. That’s an ex-debateThe idea that young people are exceptionally coddled and go to great lengths to protect themselves against the realities of life – to the detriment of the rest of us – has long settled in the brains of the nation, where, in some cases, it seems to have hardened into an immovable plaque. Read More...
Thailand holidaysThailand’s eastern islands offer the beauty, unspoilt beaches and a personal touch missing from more touristy areas and, with accommodation from £18 a night, they’re affordable, too
The island of Koh Chang and its satellites – which include Koh Mak and Koh Kood – are the eastern-most islands in Thailand and, while they can’t really be referred to as undiscovered, they do lack the brand-name recognition of Phuket. The contrast with their better-known cousin is obvious: outside the built-up beaches on the west coast of Koh Chang, hotels and guest houses are mostly small and family-run. Read More...