Sue King

Freelance Travel Writer

United Kingdom

Welcome to my portfolio!

I'm a freelance travel writer and am passionate about travel and adventure. I have lived or travelled in over fifty countries. I backpack and housesit, but also stay in Airbnb's, enjoy camping and even splash out on the occasional luxury hotel. I love to explore, whether I am hiking in remote landscapes or checking out city street art.

My mission is to inspire people to hit the road and take adventures of their own. I produce informative and inspiring travel articles, reviews, listicles, guides and essays based on a combination of personal experience and meticulous, accurate research.

My articles have been published in Trivago Weekend Magazine, World of Cruising, Huffington Post, LA Travel Magazine, Passion Passport, Localiiz, International Living, Wanderful, In the Know Traveler, Travel and Talk. MisAdventures Magazine, My Itchy Travel Feet, GirlsGetaway, Travioor, Chasing la Bella Vita, TravelSignPosts, Writer's Weekly, GomadNomad, Campsites.co.uk, Dollar Stretcher, Inspired Senior Living, ThingsToDoEverywhere, WanderGoGo, Price of Travel, Travel-Wise, Eat your World, Offbeat Travel, Freedom with Writing, Epicure and Culture, Thrifty Nomads, Insider, The Discoverer. TravelHopper, Vacationer, LovetoVisit.com, EuropeBackPacker, Greatest Britons and Great Escape Publishing.

I have also written multiple articles for Matador Travel, Go Overseas, TravelPride and seventy guides for Trip by Skyscanner,

In 2016 I was featured in the bestselling book 'Grand Adventures' by adventurer, Alastair Humphreys.

Recent trips include Portugal, Prague and Mexico. Upcoming trips include Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Romania. My areas of expertise are Mexico, India and the UK, but I write about destinations throughout the world.

When not on the road, I am based in Brighton, UK. In 2019 I completed a 13,000-word, picture-led Brighton city guide for Touch Screen Travels.

Testimonials:

"Sue - great work! I love your strong voice and good content. Thanks for making this easy to edit" (Elaina Giolando, Go Overseas)

"Just wanted to say I had a look at your new guides and they look great. Thanks for the good work again" (Stephen Bugno, Skyscanner)

"Your past content provided for LovetoVisit has been fantastic!" (Jordan, LovetoVisit)

If you require travel-related content of any type or have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch at [email protected] - I look forward to hearing from you!

Portfolio
Travelhoppers
01/18/2024
Highlights of a Road Trip on New Zealand's South Island

A road trip around the South Island of New Zealand with my partner was a fun-packed adventure. From breathtaking scenery to amazing wildlife, not to mention the friendly (and occasionally quirky!) locals, our road trip provided us with an abundance of incredible memories. Here is my pick of ten hig

Travelhoppers
02/28/2024
Norwich - A Modern Medieval City

The medieval market city of Norwich is situated on the River Wensom in the beautiful county of Norfolk in England. Located around 100 miles north-east of London, Norwich is known as 'The Fine City', a phrase coined by 19th century local writer, George Borrow. With over 1,500 medieval buildings and

Travelhoppers
12/21/2023
Surprising San Jose, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is, of course, a paradise for nature lovers. It, therefore, makes sense that many people only wish to spend a minimal amount of time, if any, in the gritty capital of San Jose before heading to the beaches and tropical rainforests.

Travelhoppers
10/01/2023
Nine Highlights of Exotic Rajasthan

The exotic land of Rajasthan is a showcase for India at its finest. From palaces and forts to tigers and temples, it bursts with color, history and incredible landscapes. It's easy to understand why it's one of the most visited states in country.

Travelhoppers
06/16/2023
Mystics and Legends of Glastonbury

Although the name Glastonbury is synonymous with one of the world's most famous music festivals, there is more to the tiny Somerset town than the annual gathering of peace and love at nearby Worthy Farm. With a population of approximately 9,000, Glastonbury brims with myths and legends. It's a meeti

Matador Network
The best LGBTQ pubs and bars in London

London has an LGBTQ scene steeped in history, with queer pubs dating back as far as the 17th century. From glitzy cocktail lounges to dingy drag dens, London's scene is one of the most vibrant and hedonistic on the planet. Beyond the world of cocktails, there are countless reasons why LGBTQ travelers are drawn to England's capital.

Travelhoppers
06/18/2023
A Guide to Oaxaca City: A Treasure Trove of Mexican Culture

It's easy to be seduced by Oaxaca City's abundant charms. From mouth-watering local cuisine to the streets awash with colorful colonial buildings and cacti, there's a unique laidback vibe here, rarely found in large cities. Rich in indigenous culture, the area is famous for its folk art, particularl

Travelhoppers
02/18/2023
Introducing Porto - City of Old World Charm and Cutting Edge Cool

Portugal's enchanting second city, Porto, has gained much attention over the last few years, and it's easy to understand why. From hip bars to ancient cobbled alleyways, Porto has finally hit the travel headlines and become one of Europe's hottest destinations. The architecture is diverse and eye-ca

Lake District National Park
Dog Friendly Campsites in the Lake District by Campsites.co.uk

The Lake District National Park is the largest national park in the UK and the first to be awarded with world heritage status. A natural landscape of 885 square miles, the scenery comprises of stunning mountains, deep valleys and scenic lakes.

Matador Network
Colombia is the next hot destination for LGBTQ travelers

Although Colombia has been making great strides in tourism over the last few years, many people don't realize that it is now one of the hottest LGBTQ destinations in South America. As a result of recent legislation introduced by the government, LGBTQ rights are equal to those of Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay.

Matador Network
The Ultimate LGBTQ Guide To Brighton, England's Queer Capital

The first Gay Pride parade took place in 1973, consisting of a small contingent of marchers, very much in contrast to the 200,000 revelers who converge on the city these days for one of the largest Pride festivals in the country. Since 2013, Trans Pride has also hit the streets of Brighton.

Matador Network
7 underrated places to go coastal camping

There is nothing quite like unzipping your tent in the morning to see the sun coming up over the ocean. Whether it's a classic white sand beach on a tropical island or a wild and remote shore scattered with driftwood, wherever you are headed in the world, you can usually find a beach to call home for a night or more.

Travelhoppers
03/12/2023
Sintra - A Portuguese Fairytale

One of the perks of visiting Lisbon is that it's a short jaunt from both the beautiful Portuguese coastline and, intriguingly, a mountainous whimsical wonderland. Just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train, the town of Sintra is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Portugal's capital city.

Travelhoppers
08/05/2022
Discovering Mexico's Most Enchanting Magic Towns

Most visitors to Mexico head straight to the country's stunning beaches, and there's certainly nothing wrong with that. However, there is an abundance of delights in store for those who venture beyond the beaches to Mexico's beguiling magic towns. The Mexican tourist board has selected 132 pueblos t

Europe Backpacker
11/14/2022
Backpacking Porto, Portugal - Budget Travel Guide

Portugal's second city, Porto, has experienced a tourism boom in recent years. Having recently made tracks to the city myself, I can understand why it's become one of Europe's hottest destinations. From eye-catching architecture and ancient cobbled streets to hip bars and cafes, the city is fascinating to explore.

Localiiz
02/04/2020
House-sit your way around the world

It is always key to establish exactly what is expected from both parties. Some house-sits are paid, others are not. Occasionally, especially on longer sits, the property owner will request that the sitter contributes to bills. It is up to those involved to negotiate.

Trivago
Places to eat in Brighton: 7 of the hottest new restaurants you must try

I have lived in Brighton, one of England's most colourful and free-spirited seaside cities, for over 20 years. One of the greatest perks of living here is the abundant food scene. From cutting edge cuisine to global street food to experimental vegan fare, there are an endless supply of tempting places to eat in Brighton.

Passion Passport
01/03/2022
Escape the Chill: Warm Winter Destinations | Passion Passport

After almost two years of lockdowns and travel uncertainty, the idea of escaping to a warmer climate in the dead of winter is more alluring than ever. As travel restrictions continue to be lifted worldwide, it's a perfect time to plan an escape to a warm winter travel destination.

Great Escape Publishing
10/13/2019
5 Reasons Housesitting is Great for Travel Writers

I've been a travel writer for nearly three years. I explore the globe and write guides, articles, and essays about my adventures and the destinations that I visit. I'm having the time of my life and only wish I had started writing a long time ago.

Asmallworld
Visiting Mexico during Dia de Los Muertos

Dia de Los Muertos is Mexico's most captivating festival and is celebrated each year between the 31st October and the 2nd November. The event honours those who have passed to the spirit world and is a compelling blend of reflection and exuberance, rooted in a combination of pre-Hispanic beliefs and Catholicism.

Matador Network
The 7 most beautiful places to go kayaking in New Zealand

New Zealand has some of the most pristine scenery in the world. Snow-capped mountains, wild beaches, fjords, and excellent opportunities to spot wildlife make the country a great destination for those who love spending time in nature. Kayaking is an ideal way to explore the coastline, lakes, and waterways of the country.

Matador Network
It took a murder and Justin Bieber to legalize Bogotá's street art scene

Colombia has emerged from its darkest days of gang warfare and violent crime to become a compelling destination for travelers. And Bogotá 's street art scene is one of the major crowd drivers to the nation. The Colombian civil war began to de-escalate at the beginning of this century and in 2016, a complete ceasefire was announced.

GoMad Nomad
06/29/2017
Six Spiritual Destinations in India to Visit on Your Next Trip

With its many ashrams, colorful temples, and mysterious sacred rituals, India has always been a magnet for spiritual seekers. Here are a few of the most venerated destinations in the country, all of them captivating in their own unique way. Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, ancient Varanasi is the most sacred city in all of India.

GoMad Nomad
04/30/2020
7 Reasons to Visit Valladolid - Mexico's Lesser-known Magic Town - GoMad Nomad

Last winter, I spent far longer in Mexico than intended. Initially, my plan had been to head down to Central America after whizzing around Mexico. However, I discovered that Mexico was too beautiful (and large!) to hurry. Valladolid in Yucatan state was one of the many lovely colonial cities I found myself lingering.

Localiiz
06/16/2020
Your ultimate 48-hour guide to Delhi, India

Header image courtesy of Arif Imran (Pexels) For many travellers, Delhi is their first experience of the vast nation of India. The chaos, heat, traffic-clogged streets, poverty, and general madness can be a huge culture shock. Beyond the madness lies magnificent historical buildings, wide boulevards, world-class museums, superb restaurants, and fantastic shopping opportunities.

Matador Network
7 epic caves you can hike through in the US

Exploring the subterranean underworld has always had an allure for intrepid adventurers. Hiking above ground is one thing, but scrambling, climbing, and crawling through mysterious caverns provide an adrenaline rush unlike any you'll get where the sun shines. Whether you're a caver or spelunker, the US has a huge amount of cave systems for exploring.

Matador Network
Rugged, remote Lanai is perfect for exploring by jeep

While the masses head to the beaches of Oahu and the other more celebrated Hawaiian Islands, Lanai is often overlooked due to its diminutive size and lack of tourist infrastructure. Many people who visit Hawaii regularly haven't even heard of Lanai. However, for those who prefer dirt roads and wild, empty beaches, Lanai can't be beaten.

Matador Network
At this Costa Rica hideaway, the real luxury is seeing abundant and rare wildlife

Cahuita is a small, unassuming town on Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast. It may not be for everyone, but it's perfect for those who choose wildlife over nightlife and prefer a basic cabana on an untamed stretch of sand to a luxury resort. In Cahuita the jungle-backed beach is left as nature intended and is devoid of sun-lounging tourists.

Eatyourworld
02/08/2018
Brighton, UK: What to Eat | Eat Your World Blog

Seafood platter at the Salt Room (courtesy of the Salt Room) A mere 47-minute train ride from London, Brighton, on the south coast of England, combines traditional seaside fun with an artistic, free-thinking vibe.

Touchscreentravels
Brighton's Best, by Sue King

BRIGHTON'S BEST is an ideal travel guide to England's quirky and bohemian seaside city. It uses 141 images and 13,000 words to to explore key NEIGHBOURHOODS; detail SIGHTS & ACTIVITIES; outline ITINERARIES; and suggest great places to EAT and DRINK. All content is original and independent.

Thingstodoeverywhere
8 best things to do in Brighton | visit Brighton attractions

Alternative, cool, quirky and sitting snugly between the rolling hills of the Sussex Downs, Brighton is a one-hour journey by train from London. The city receives a constant flow of day trippers from the capital at any time of the year, but especially during the summer months.

Thingstodoeverywhere
8 best things to do in Cancun, Mexico | visit Cancun attractions

An UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most impressive of Mexico's Mayan ruins The Mayan civilization, best known for its art, architecture, written language and astronomy, was powerful between about 2000 BC and 1500 AD, with Chichen Itza being built around 800 AD.

Matador Network
Why Brighton is worth so much more than just a day trip from London

Brighton is sometimes referred to as "Little London by the Sea." Situated on the south coast of Sussex, Brighton is a mere 50 minutes from London by train, which means tourists usually just go for a day trip - if they bother going at all. But you should consider basing yourself in Brighton instead.

Thrifty Nomads
04/23/2020
20 Best Travel Books to Spark Your Wanderlust

As a passionate traveller, much of my wanderlust has been inspired by books. Reading about the exploits of others has fuelled my desire to hit the road and have adventures of my own. At a time when many of us are in lockdown, staying motivated and keeping our travel dreams alive is more important than ever.

lovetovisit.com
Discover The Past And Present In Shoreditch

If you're planning an action-packed day trip to London, it's essential to stop at tourist hotspots such as Buckingham Palace and The Tower of London. But don't forget to check out the many colourful neighbourhoods of the metropolis. Shoreditch, in London's East End, is one of these fascinating neighbourhoods.

lovetovisit.com
A Stroll On London's Regent's Canal From Little Venice To Limehouse

Opened in 1816, Regent's Canal was designed by architect, John Nash, and was named after flamboyant Prince Regent, later King George IV. Until the 1960s, the canal was used to transport goods in and out of the city. These days, it's used by narrowboats and is home to communities of colourful houseboats, which you'll see as you stroll along the waterway.

Things To Do In London
11/28/2018
22 Things To Do & See In Wimbledon (That Serve Up A Real Treat)

Having grown up in South West London, Wimbledon holds a special place in my heart. I have returned to my old stomping ground many times over the years, not only to watch tennis, but also to make the most of Wimbledon's other attractions.

My Itchy Travel Feet
07/16/2020
Norfolk Coastal Path Walk: Active Travel for Boomers in the UK

The Norfolk Coastal Path walk is a fun active travel adventure for boomers traveling in the UK. The trail, a 3-hour drive from London, hugs the coastline along the North Sea. Sue King from , shares her experience and tips for this beautiful walk.

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A Two-Day Hike Along Norfolk's Coastal Path from Cromer to Holkham

The entire path runs from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea and covers eighty-four miles. If you are short on time, this two-day hike covers twenty-four miles of diverse scenery from the seaside town of Cromer to the sweeping sand dunes of Holkham. Put on your hiking boots and head for two days of freedom and spectacular scenery on Norfolk's scenic coastal trail.

Localiiz
05/07/2021
The unexpected delights of India's lesser-known cities-Part 1 | Localiiz

It goes without saying that Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata are India's heavyweights-the cities that the majority of travellers arrive in when they visit the colourful and compelling sub-continent. There are, however, many overlooked cities which are equally deserving of as much attention as 'The Big Three'.

Localiiz
05/07/2021
The unexpected delights of India's lesser-known cities-Part 2 | Localiiz

This unique city is situated on the banks of the River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh and is the most sacred place in India for Hindus. Pilgrims come to pray and take a dip in the river, holy men covered in ash offer spiritual advice, and cows wander through the narrow alleyways.

In the Know Traveler
09/01/2017
Exploring Cappadocia: A Magical Landscape - In the Know Traveler

Having fallen in love with the awe-inspiring deserts and incredible rock formations of the American South West many years previously, I never believed that there would be anywhere else on earth to rival the sheer beauty and spirituality of those captivating landscapes - until I discovered Cappadocia.

GoMad Nomad
01/04/2018
How to visit Antigua Guatemala on a Budget - GoMad Nomad

Antigua Guatemala is easily the most beautiful city in Central America. Situated in the Central Highlands, less than an hour's drive from Guatemala City, it is a popular destination for well-heeled tourists and backpackers alike. It's easy to understand why. The cobbled streets are dotted with crumbling ruins and picturesque plazas.

England Travel
01/06/2016
Brighton - The Coolest City in the UK | England Travel

In addition to being the coolest city in the UK, Brighton was recently voted the happiest city in England. No wonder the city receives a constant flow of day-trippers and weekenders from London. On the Sussex Coast Basking on the Sussex coast, Brighton is less than an hour away from the capital by train.

The Volunteer Journal
02/20/2019
How To Escape The Rat Race And Live Abroad As A Digital Nomad

Travel and adventure have been my passion for as far back as I can remember. I grew up on the south coast of England and I spent much of my time poring over maps and planning my great escape. I wanted to escape the rat-race.

Travel-Wise
12/19/2017
Copenhagen Christmas: Your Holiday Guide for Copenhagen

Although Copenhagen is delightful at any time of the year, it is at its glorious best in December. The twisted cobbled streets, soaring spires, turreted buildings, blend of gothic buildings and cute multi-hued houses are a winning combination. Add a sprinkling of Christmas and you feel as if you are in a scene from one of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales.

Thingstodoeverywhere
9 best things to do in Portsmouth | visit Portsmouth attractions

Portsmouth in the county of Hampshire is known for its seafaring past and today is Britain's premier Royal Navy Base. The dockyard is home to several historical ships including King Henry VII's Mary Rose and Nelson's flagship, HMS Victory.

Matador Network
7 epic long walks in the UK you can plan yourself

If you want to enjoy the natural scenery of the United Kingdom the way the locals do, go for a walk... a really long walk. From Cornwall to Scotland, you can trek from a week to two months across rolling hills, along coastal tracks, through urban sprawls, or in shaded woodlands.

Matador Network
The 7 most beautiful beaches you didn't know existed in the UK

Everyone has heard of the popular beaches of Brighton and Blackpool, but with 7,760 miles of coastline, the United Kingdom has an abundance of gorgeous beaches that most of the world has no idea exists. From wild and rustic shores to glorious bays overlooked by castles, there is no shortage of breathtaking beaches to explore in the UK.

My Itchy Travel Feet
10/24/2017
Day Cycling Through the Temples of Bagan

We love exotic travel tales that include active adventures , especially when it involves biking through off-the-beaten paths. Today's guest contributor, Sue King, did just that as she cycled her way through dusty backwoods to see the incredible temples of Bagan, Myanmar.

HuffPost
09/28/2017
Expect the Unexpected - Top Tips for the Freelance Travel Writer

I've been a passionate traveler for over 20 years, and an on-the-road freelance travel writer for around 18 months. Since I started out, I've had close to 50 articles published, and I learned a few lessons along the way. As a rookie travel writer, success is largely down to forming the right habits and consistently putting them into practice.

Travel-Wise
07/24/2018
Sussex Travel Guide: Visit Meghan & Harry's Royal Domain

When Harry and Meghan got hitched in May, the Queen bestowed them with the titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The landscape of their new domain, Sussex, is quintessentially that of Southeast England. Situated on the coast, it's a 1,500 square mile county of castles, rolling hills, white chalk cliffs, winding lanes and traditional seaside towns.

Travel and Talk Travel
12/18/2017
Hampi - India's Hidden Gem - Travel and Talk Travel

As a traveller, every now and again you come across a place that steals your heart a little. For me, Hampi, in the Indian state of Karnataka was one of those places. Magical and bewitching, Hampi is an ancient temple town surrounded by 16th century ruins.

Go Overseas
01/02/2019
What You Need to Know about Becoming an Au Pair in Mexico

Sue is a passionate traveler and has been exploring the planet full-time since 2012, backpacking, housesitting and volunteering. Au pairing is perfect for those who love both travel and the company of children.

Go Overseas
Volunteer in Belize

Want to volunteer in Belize? Learn about volunteer programs in Belize, read tips on finding a volunteer placement in Belize, and explore reviews from past volunteers.

Epicure & Culture
07/18/2018
Vegetarian Restaurant In Brighton | 10 Eateries Serving Plant-Based Menus

By Sue King, Epicure & Culture Contributor Love eating meat-free? You can easily find a tasty vegetarian restaurant in Brighton, England to satiate your palate. But, that's not the only reason to love this United Kingdom travel destination. The seaside city of Brighton is nestled between the rolling hills of the South Downs, just a one-hour drive from London.

Go Overseas
Learn Chinese in Singapore

Want to learn Chinese in an off-beat destination? Consider Singapore! This island nation offers plenty of opportunities to learn Chinese through language schools and immersion. Learn more and read program reviews.

Great Escape Publishing
09/24/2020
5 Ways to Stay Inspired While Writing from Home

These are challenging times for travel writers. Being confined to home, rather than having the freedom to roam the world at will, is not an easy adjustment to make. Motivation can be difficult to maintain. Here are five tips and tricks to prepare yourself for life post-coronavirus and ensure that you keep your travel writing dreams alive.

Go Overseas
Teach English in Nicaragua

Want to teach in Nicaragua? Learn about teaching jobs in Nicaragua, read a guide to teaching English in Nicaragua, and read reviews from past teachers.

Twitter
Nomadic Ku #travel (@kuking1) | Twitter

The latest Tweets from Nomadic Ku #travel (@kuking1). #TravelWriter, #Backpacker, #HouseSitter, Free Spirit - pursuing a life of #adventure and exploration. Living out of a very small(!) backpack since 2012. Brighton, England

Greatestbritons
Virginia Wade | Biography

Winner of three singles titles and four doubles titles in grand slams, she was ranked in the world's top ten for thirteen consecutive years. Her highest world ranking was number 2 which she reached in November 1975. Wade's most famous victory was winning the Wimbledon singles title in 1977 after sixteen attempts.