From grotty to glorious

Technology and telecoms consultant Stefan Zehle, who runs London-based Coleago Consulting, swapped safe, suburban Bavaria for edgy Notting Hill in the 1970s. “London was very different back then, very drab. But it was also hugely exciting for an ambitious 19-year-old,” he says.

Read my full Financial Times article here

Your slice of the Tuscan sun

If you can’t afford a villa, buy a share instead. David Cameron had to head home early from his £9,700-a-week villa holiday in Tuscany. It’s tough at the top – but the Prime Minister is sure to return to so-called Chiantishire.

Read my full Daily Mail article here

Peaky blinders

Wish-lists for Alpine hideaways aren’t just for ski-in ski-out homes. Make way for the salt-cave steam bath, humidified wine cellar and strobe-lit party room.

Read my full Abode2 article here

Island magic

New Zealand’s twin isles are a good deal more than simply a location for Lord of the Rings. It’s property is as magical as the sacred ring.

Read my full Abode2 article here