The potential for above average returns has always made private equity an attractive subsector of financial markets with investors gaining access to specialised managers who build portfolios of private companies. In Ireland, investors’ principal way of gaining exposure to private equity has been through international private equity funds distributed by local stockbrokers, which tend to have significant minimum investment amounts and long-term lock-in periods, making access difficult for re...

The Defensive Global Consumer Franchise Stocks Theme offers a balanced alternative between the higher risks associated with general equity investing and the safety of risk-free government bonds. Companies in the theme own many iconic brands, such as Coca-Cola, Colgate, Listerine, Cadbury, Gillette, Head & Shoulders, Guinness, Heineken, Nescafé, Dove, Vaseline, and Ben & Jerry’s. Their sales and profits tend to be defensive during recessions, because they are essential items, or affordable ...

One man's real-life experience of motorcycling solo around the globe - no back-up teams, no spare bikes, no film crews - just him and his Yamaha Tenere XT660, travelling 42,000 miles through 6 continents and 35 countries, seeing amazing things; meeting fascinating people; experiencing different cultures, and coping with extremely challenging conditions. This book is not only proof that anyone can do it, but also a practical guide to motorcycling round the world: what to do first; what to ...

Michael Palin's terrific account of his journey through 18 countries bordering the Pacific Ocean, published by Phoenix for the first time.For almost a year, Michael Palin travelled through 18 countries on the perimeter of the world's largest ocean, in a spectacular journey of contrasts, drama and beauty.From head-hunters in Borneo to a meal of maggots in Mexico, his route takes him to some of the most politically volatile and physically demanding places on ...

In 2008, Mark Beaumont smashed the world record for cycling around the world, by an astonishing 81 days. His race against the clock took him through the toughest terrain and the most demanding of conditions. In 2009, Mark set out on his second ultra-endurance challenge. And this one would involve some very big mountains.The Man Who Cycled the Americas tells the story of a 15,000 mile expedition that once again broke the barriers of human achievement. To pedal the longest m...

Buckle up for the next installment in our 'Epic' series and the follow-up to Epic Bike Rides of the World. Epic Drives of the World, abeautiful hardback, showcases 50 of the greatest road trips on Earth, from classic routes in America, Australia and Europe, to incredible adventures in Asia and Africa.Organised by continent, each route features a first-hand account, awe-inspiring photographs, illustrated maps and practical advice o...

Featuring communist bunkers, burning gas craters and at least one sponge-rock fluorescent grotto built by Polish monks, this book reveals weird and wonderful sights the crowds don't reach.We've all heard of India's Taj Mahal, but what about Karna Mata Temple? It's a building teeming with rats so revered they enjoy A-list treatment with daily offerings of milk and fruit.It's no secret that visitors to Berlin can see parts of its infamous Wall still stand...

Our illustrated travel guide will take you to Roatán.Roatán is one of the Honduras Bay Islands in the Caribbean Sea. The island is located near the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean Sea (the second largest worldwide after Australia's Great Barrier Reef). It has become an important cruise ship and scuba diving destination.For many years the island was a hidden gem, with some of the most beautiful white beaches and the best snorkel and diving spots in the Caribbean, but i...

Based on the classic Best Dives of the Caribbean, this publication focuses on the Mexican Riviera Maya, Cozumel and Akumal alone. Includes the latest and best dive and snorkel sites, each rated for visual excellence and marine life. The author's knowledge of the sites is unparalleled. From sunken planes and snorkel trails to blue holes, the best destinations beneath the waves are covered. Also covered are the best places to stay & eat, activities, sightseeing and all practical details need...

Our illustrated travel guide will take you to Aruba, the Caribbean island 15 miles north of Venezuela and an autonomous dependency of the Netherlands.This flat, riverless island is renowned for its white sand beaches. Its tropical climate is moderated by constant trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean. The temperature is almost constant at about 27°C (81°F). The yearly rainfall usually does not exceed 20 inches. Aruba is outside of the Caribbean hurricane belt.The southwest ha...

Leonie Katekar left behind her past and confronted her fears by immersing herself in a foreign world and embarking on a 12,000km solo bike-packing expedition through South America.When We're Not Afraid is told with an insight that enthrals and inspires how to confront fears that many of us have. It is a story for anyone disillusioned with their life and wanting to be brave enough to face the question - What would I do if I was not afraid?

Our illustrated travel guide will take you to Boracay the tropical island about an hour's flight from Manila in the Philippines.Boracay’s long white sand beaches rival the best beaches of more popular vacation destinations in nearby Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.Facilities are plentiful for water sports such as sailing, wind surfing, snorkeling, diving and jet skiing and the fun in Boracay doesn't end when the sun sets. Boracay nightlife is pulsating with many bars and r...