This Month's Guide
Updated every month, we handpick one of our most-read guides and place it at the forefront of the site for all our readers to enjoy.
Discovering Ragusa Ibla: Stairways, Squares and Hidden Corners
Ragusa Ibla is best explored on foot, where stairways, quiet squares and hidden lanes reveal a historic town that’s designed to be discovered slowly rather than rushed through. 🪜 How the Walk Through Ragusa Ibla Actually Works Ragusa Ibla is a town that naturally encourages you to slow down. Rather than following a single obvious route, its streets twist around the limestone ridge, connecting stairways, churches and small piazzas in a way that rewards curiosity more than careful planning. The journey quickly becomes part of the attraction. The Stairways Connect
Explore Guides by Region
Discover some of Ian’s favourite regions, with plenty of insider knowledge, practical advice and travel inspiration.
Discover the best of Spain, from lively cities and historic landmarks to beautiful beaches, traditional towns and authentic Spanish culture.
Discover Portugal through practical travel guides covering vibrant cities, coastal escapes, local food and some of the country’s best places to visit.
Explore Greece travel guides, from historic cities and beautiful islands to traditional villages, beaches and unforgettable places to visit.
Explore France with travel guides covering iconic cities, charming towns, beautiful countryside, coastal destinations and memorable local experiences.
Soft Footprints
So, what are you waiting for? Join me on this incredible journey, and let's discover the world together, one Soft Footprint at a time.
Ian's Most Recent Travel Guides
Explore six of Ian’s latest travel guides in one place. These feature destinations he has recently visited, along with newly updated guides from previous trips.
Azenhas do Mar: Morning or Afternoon?
The village of Azenhas do Mar does not change, but the experience does. The light, parking, atmosphere and number of visitors can feel noticeably different depending on when you arrive.
Lefkada Beaches: Understanding the Island’s Coastline
Lefkada beaches are shaped by one simple fact: the island has two completely different coastlines. The dramatic west is famous for towering cliffs and turquoise water, while the sheltered east
Why Monte Sant’Angelo Feels Different
Monte Sant’Angelo transforms a Gargano holiday by replacing beaches, coastal roads and sea views with cooler mountain air, historic streets and a slower pace. 🏛️ Visiting Monte Sant’Angelo Changes the
How Many Days in Bohol?
If you’re wondering how many days in Bohol you really need, four days is the ideal choice for most first-time visitors. It gives you enough time to experience the island’s
What Is The Best Time To Visit Paxos?
The best time to visit Paxos is usually late May, June or September, when the island combines warm weather, swimmable seas and a lively atmosphere without the full pressure of
Why Gargano Puglia Beach Days Get Repetitive
Gargano Puglia beach hopping feels exciting at first, but mixing beaches with inland trips and boat days creates a more varied and rewarding holiday. 🏖️ Gargano Puglia Beach Hopping Starts
Unsure Where to Next? Start With a Series
Deciding where to visit next? Explore the destinations Ian has written about most extensively, with guides covering almost every aspect of your trip.
Series 1: Everything you need to know about Paxos
Series 2: The full guide of Comporta
Series 3: Discover the hidden gems in Korcula
The Person Behind the Path
All Guides Are Written by Ian Howes
Ian Howes is a travel writer and the founder of Soft Footprints, a publication focused on lesser-known destinations, local culture, and experiences that most travelers overlook. His approach centers on slow, intentional travel and first-hand research, shaped by time spent exploring regions beyond mainstream tourism routes.
Ian’s interest in meaningful travel began after a formative stay on a small Greek island, which reshaped how he engages with destinations and local communities. Since then, he has built extensive on-the-ground experience across diverse regions, with a focus on local traditions, overlooked landscapes, and sustainable travel practices.
Through Soft Footprints, Ian provides practical, experience-based guidance for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-tourist-path journeys. His work emphasizes accuracy, cultural respect, and responsible exploration, helping readers develop a deeper understanding of the places they visit.
Leave nothing but soft footprints
