The Sanderson, standing proud on Berners Street in the heart of Fitzrovia, is one of the city's modern icons. Its playful, avant-garde interiors, dreamed up by the world-renowned architect and designer Philippe Starck back in the early '00s, offered a new take on luxury, providing an alternative to the classic opulence of London's heritage hotels.

Instead of the hallmarks of ornate sculptures, parquet floors, plush velvet, and lots of marble, Sanderson London offers something much more imaginative, inviting guests into a whimsical wonderland where obscurity rules. Fantastical touches, consisting of sheer drapes, eclectic artwork, and the odd optical illusion, soften the modernist architecture in which they are housed and give the hotel's spaces a slightly surreal feel. Arts and culture fans will note plenty of pop culture references dotted around, too; there's a Salvador Dalí-inspired couch, and nods to Lewis Carol's Alice in Wonderland throughout (the Mad Hatter's Tea Party is a delight, with 'drink me' potions and vintage crockery).

London has no shortage of design hotels, with some of the stand-outs being the charming literary-inspired retreat The Bloomsbury, the art-deco-inspired The Savoy, and Blakes, which was widely considered the world's first luxury boutique hotel when it launched in 1978 (Morgans in New York was another notable contender). But Sanderson London, housed in a grand 1950s building originally home to Arthur Sanderson & Sons wallpaper and textile company, brought something new to London's hotel scene with its fantastical design and social atmosphere - the hotel's 'Long Bar', an 80-foot glowing onyx bar surrounded by Philippe Starck's signature 'eye' stools, was the place to be seen in the early noughties.

The whole place is brimming with nostalgia, from the old-school iPod docks in the bedrooms to its minimalist styling and silver-and-white colour palette with accents of chrome, glass, and sheer textiles, typical of early '00s design. Sanderson London may not reflect what a modern London hotel looks like; instead, it takes guests back to the era in which it was designed.

THE ROOMS

Initially designed by Philippe Starck, the rooms at The Sanderson were updated by Tim Andreas of Banjo, a protégé of the world-famous designer, who sensitively updated the hotel's 150 rooms and suites while maintaining their original character. The simple colour palette of silver and white filters through to the rooms, the minimalist look softened with sheer drapes and peaceful landscapes hung on the wall. Texture plays a big role in the design, with semi-sheer drapes continuing the '00s theme from the lobby.

The entry-level rooms have comfy Queen-sized beds, but the Deluxe Kings and above feature an impressive silver-leaf sleigh bed as the central focus. All beds are dressed in soft 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and fluffy pillows.

Bathrooms are suitably luxurious, with the Deluxe Kings, Loft Kings, and Penthouse suites offering freestanding baths. The Penthouse suite is a truly spectacular place to stay in London, with its own private lift, a living room, kitchenette, two bedrooms, three bathrooms and sweeping views of the London Eye.

FOOD & DRINKS

Sanderson London excels in originality when it comes to food and drink. Its menus are designed to spark imagination, from the whimsical Mad Hatter's afternoon tea to the creative cocktail list served alongside light bites enjoyed while basking in the late-night glow of the Long Bar. On weekends, the hotel's atmosphere becomes more lively, with guest DJs on Fridays and Saturdays.

The Restaurant serves refined Italian food with a few surprises, with an eclectic menu curated by Chef Daniele Zaffora; the homemade tagliatelle is a highlight. Meanwhile, the Mad Hatter's Afternoon Tea, served in the atmospheric Courtyard Garden, serves savoury dishes such as The Cheshire Cat (king prawn tart, horseradish, lettuce, lime & potato puffs), and the hotel's signature dessert, The Queen of Hearts pastry (pistachio & ricotta cheesecake, wild berry curd). Even if you're not sampling Sanderson London's afternoon tea, the Courtyard is a lush space to relax in and escape the chaos of central London, offering calming water features and a tropical feel.

THE ACTIVITIES

Aside from the extensive dining and drinking options, there’s a gym and a billiards room that doubles up as an event space. There's also the option to book in-room massages when there's availability. Pets are welcome at the hotel for an additional £100 non-refundable deposit (service animals are exempt from the fee).

But one of the most appealing parts of this hotel is its location. While the hotel is technically in Fitzrovia, it's within easy reach of Oxford Street and the vibrancy of Soho's many bars and restaurants, as well as the bustling areas of Bloomsbury to the east and Marylebone to the west.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at Sanderson London start at £256, and you can book through the hotel's website or by phone at 020 7836 4343.

Address: 50 Berners St, London W1T 3NG

Charlotte Street has a vibrant history. The Bohemian hub has long attracted a colourful crowd of artists, intellectuals and restaurateurs, with the famous Fitzroy Tavern a meeting point for literary greats like George Orwell and Dylan Tavern. Today, it remains one of London's prettiest and most eclectic streets, peppered with buzzy restaurants and independent businesses that manage to foster a sense of community in the hectic metropolis.

Standing proud in the centre of Charlotte Street, the Charlotte Street Hotel is dressed in sage green, with signature striped awnings and elegant seating. Its entrance is framed by two pastel-coloured lamp posts, which add an inviting glow after dark. One of London's best hotels for design fans, the boutique bolthole could be straight out of a Wes Anderson film, inviting passers-by to stop and admire its dreamy facade.

And stepping inside feels appropriately surreal, with Oscar Bar and Restaurant on the ground floor transporting guests back to a bygone era of white gloves and elegant glassware. On the walls you'll see colourful artwork inspired by the Bloomsbury Set, a group of creatives including Virginia Woolf, that congregated in the area in the early 20th Century, with a large mural of London life by British artist Alexander Hollweg dominating the space. Kit Kemp, the hotel's interior designer, is clearly a fan of dopamine decor.

It's this slightly fantastical experience that makes The Charlotte Street Hotel one of the most beloved hotels in London. The classic hotel opened in Fitzrovia in 2000 and is the third property from the now hugely successful Firmdale Hotels group. Since its '00s launch, the Charlotte Street Hotel has retained a steady stream of visitors, whether that's Londoners looking for a stylish place to drink and dine, colleagues who favour a more relaxed location for a business meeting, or out-of-towners seeking a luxurious base to explore the capital.

ROOMS

Rooms at The Charlotte Street hotel may be slightly pricier than your typical London hotel—but with good reason. Each of the hotel's 52 rooms is individually designed by Kit Kemp, the mastermind behind the rest of the hotel's playful spaces, and features bright, bold colours and patterned textiles that feel like artwork rather than interior design. The actual artwork on the walls is of high calibre, featuring artists associated with the early Bloomsbury movement such as Vanessa Bell, Roger Fry and Alexander Hollweg. This eclectic mix of modern art, textures, patterns, and colours gives rooms at The Charlotte Street Hotel a lived-in luxury; an antidote to the more generic hotel rooms guests sometimes encounter in five-star hotels.

Beds are plush and comfy, dressed in high-quality linens with bold, patterned headboards, while bathrooms are clad in granite, mahogany, and glass and feature luxe toiletries from RIKRAK by Kit Kemp. For a real treat, the split-level Loft Suites are spectacular, offering a free-standing tub, walk-in shower and views over London's rooftops.

FOOD & DRINKS

Oscar Bar and Restaurant pays tribute to a nearby private cinema that screens Academy-worthy films. The front section is the bar area, serving unique cocktails and an extensive wine list. It's the ideal place to enjoy a festive glass of champagne, or you could retreat to one of the armchairs in the hotel's cosy library, complete with a roaring open fire. The warmer months invite guests to live out a Parisian daydream, sipping fizz on the pastel-hued front terrace and watching the world go by.

The bistro restaurant, situated at the back of the hotel, offers more formal dining with talented Head Chef Ben Porter at the helm. The restaurant serves modern European classics such as pancetta-wrapped monkfish, roast rack of lamb with fondant potato, black cabbage, and bagna càuda, or sticky black cod. Oscar always looks busy, with a reputation for fine dining and a lively atmosphere, bringing in crowds every day of the week who are looking to experience a little Parisienne café culture in Fitzrovia.

In the bar, you'll find a cocktail menu as creative as the surroundings. Perch on a humbug-striped stool at the hotel's glitzy bar and sip on a Salome's Whisper (basil vodka, Benedictine, lemon, sugar syrup, and aquafaba), Lady Windermere (Tokaji Late Harvest, Tanqueray, Saint-Germain, lime, and fresh mint), or the signature Lady Charlotte (gin, maraschino, apricot, lemon, sugar, egg white).

ACTIVITIES

At the Charlotte Street Hotel, you're right in the heartland of London's restaurant scene. The many bustling bars and glamorous restaurants of Soho and Mayfair are a short walk away, but if you want something closer to the hotel, the options are still strong. Hakkasan, a Michelin-starred uber-glamorous Chinese restaurant, is a short stroll away on Hanway Place, while Charlotte Street itself boasts Roka, a modern Japanese restaurant, and The Ninth, a buzzing contemporary French and Mediterranean bistro.

Oscar also serves an ‘Afternoon Tea with a Twist’. The 'Indulge menu' allows guests to add three miniature cocktails to their tea, with non-alcoholic options available too. Guests can enjoy their scones and finer sandwiches in the drawing room or the hotel's restaurant.

At the hotel, you'll find a fitness centre and a sauna available to guests. There's no official spa, but guests can opt for a treatment in their room, whether that's a facial, massage, reflexology or a touch of grooming, organised through Soholistic. There's also a private screening room where guests can enjoy recent releases, classic cinema and Christmassy films during the festive period.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at the Charlotte Street Hotel start at £390 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: 15-17 Charlotte St., London W1T 1RJ

I flew to Rio expecting to report on Shakira's record-breaking concert. Instead, I found myself inside a fully immersive brand world that made me question whether holidays themselves have fundamentally changed.

Increasingly, it seems we're travelling not just to see places, but to become part of a moment—and brands have noticed.

By the time I arrived at Copacabana Beach for Todo Mundo No Rio, the free open-air festival where an estimated two million people would gather to watch Shakira perform—and, crucially, the reason for my visit—I owned a Corona sarong, a Corona T-shirt, a Corona cap embroidered with "Copacabana" in the brand's signature font, a raffia beach bag, badges and enough merchandise to convincingly pass as a member of staff.

I had spent the previous evening drinking shimmering Corona beers brewed to mirror Rio's golden-hour glow at a sundowner DJ set atop Sugarloaf Mountain. On the day of the much-anticipated festival, artists hand-painted silk scarves featuring illustrations of Sugarloaf, Copacabana, and, of course, the Corona logo. There were customisation stations where we queued to make our merch bespoke.

It seemed that I hadn't just travelled to Rio; I'd stepped inside the Corona universe. I've been lucky enough to go on my fair share of press trips over the years. They usually revolve around a beautiful hotel, a launch dinner or a carefully curated itinerary. This, though, was different. Not so for my travelling companion, who had previously flown to Corona Island, the beer brand's own tropical enclave off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia.

At first, it felt like very slick marketing backed by a very big budget. But between those customisation stations, sunset parties and Shakira performing to millions on the beach, I realised Corona wasn't simply sponsoring a festival—it was offering something increasingly valuable: the feeling of belonging to a moment. Being a Brit, my mind drifted to the silky-smooth M&S ads of yore… "This is not just a brand activation… this is a Corona brand event."

Or, to use the brand's own parlance: "This Is Living." That fittingly apt brand slogan neatly sums up something we're all craving—something that should be a given—but feels increasingly elusive in our digital-first world: living.

We're No Longer Just Travelling to See Places

Was Rio an anomaly—or a glimpse of where travel is heading? We often talk about experience-led travel as though it's another passing holiday trend, lumping it alongside sleep tourism, wellness retreats and solo travel. But I wonder if something more fundamental is happening. Increasingly, we're not content to travel simply to see places; we're travelling to step inside worlds.

Just look at the holidays dominating our wish lists. People don't just go to Edinburgh; they go because Taylor Swift is in town. They don't simply book Silverstone; they travel for Formula One. Sicily isn't just Sicily anymore—it's The White Lotus, Euro Summer and Dua Lipa's wedding destination. Thousands of people fly across continents to run marathons, attend immersive wellness retreats or spend weekends at festivals where the destination is almost secondary to the event. Yes, the place still matters. But more often than not, it's the moment that gets us on the plane.

The data suggests this isn't simply anecdotal. Mastercard's latest travel report argues that people's motivations are becoming one of the biggest forces shaping how—and where—they travel. Researchers identified two growing groups: those seeking immersion in local culture and those travelling for a specific experience, whether that's a sporting event, nightlife, shopping or a festival. "Today's tourists are looking for travel experiences that leave a lasting impression, helping them to create memories," explains Natalia Lechmanova, Mastercard's Chief Economist for Europe.

Of course, people have always travelled in search of memorable experiences. Safaris, pilgrimages and even the humble package holiday all promised some form of escape or enrichment. What's changed is the expectation. Today's holidays increasingly claim transformation. They're sold not as a chance to switch off, but as an opportunity to become someone else, however briefly.

Rio made that very clear. On paper, I'd travelled there to report on a music festival. In reality, I'd entered something closer to an immersive universe. Every touchpoint, from the Fairmont hotel takeover to the personalised merch, reinforced the sense that I was part of something designed to feel bigger than a holiday or even a festival.

Perhaps that's why the trusty old travel brochure feels so outdated. For decades, holiday marketing asked a nostalgically simple question: Where do you want to go? Today's savviest brands seem to be asking something altogether different: Who do you want to become while you're there?

The New Luxury Is Access

It's easy to dismiss Todo Mundo No Rio as a one-off. After all, not every brand has the budget to take over one of the world's most famous beaches or sponsor a concert for millions of people.

Then I found myself at Silverstone. This time, I was there as a guest of Revolut. Officially, I'd been invited to the British Grand Prix. In reality, I'd been invited into Formula One itself: hospitality suites, behind-the-scenes access, choreographed moments, including a Q&A with driver Gabriela Boroleto, and a front-row seat to one of the biggest weekends in British sport.

Despite the frighteningly hot weather (climate change, people!), it looked very different from Rio, but there were similarities. Both weekends were designed to make guests feel less like spectators than participants. Again, the event wasn't something just to watch; it was something to inhabit.

Neither brand was selling the event; they were selling proximity. Proximity to culture and exclusivity—a moment millions of other people wanted to be part of. Brands used to sell products. Then they sold lifestyles. Increasingly, I think they're selling memories—or perhaps more accurately, the opportunity to create them.

It's easy—and tempting—to dismiss this as clever marketing, but I don't think that's the whole story. If brands are investing millions in immersive experiences, it's because they've recognised something about the way we now travel. We no longer want to be passive observers. We want to belong.

Perhaps that's because modern life increasingly fragments us. We work remotely. We consume entertainment alone. Algorithms personalise everything we see. Even the internet, once imagined as a shared public square, increasingly serves each of us a different version of reality. Travel—and music festivals, which so often go hand in hand—have become one of the few places where we can still experience collective joy.

Standing on Copacabana Beach, surrounded by, quite literally, millions of people, I kept returning to a thought: I am part of this. That desire—to participate rather than just bear witness—helps explain why so many of today's biggest travel trends revolve around events, communities and transformation rather than destinations alone.

Of course, that doesn't mean we should surrender ourselves unquestioningly to branded worlds. There's a fascinating conversation to be had about commercialisation, authenticity and whether our experiences are becoming increasingly mediated by corporations. But dismissing experiences like Todo Mundo No Rio as simply marketing misses something important because they reveal how profoundly our relationship with travel has changed.

For my part, I went to Rio expecting to write about a beer brand throwing an extravagant festival. Instead, I came home wondering whether holidays themselves have fundamentally evolved, and thinking about why, increasingly, we're chasing moments that make us feel part of something bigger than ourselves.

Ultimately, I think we travel to step inside worlds—to belong to a moment, if only for a weekend, and return home feeling as though, however briefly, we were part of something bigger than ourselves.

Le Meurice is a dream for art lovers, its prestige unmatched worldwide. The luxury Paris hotel, situated on the historic Rue de Rivoli since 1835, is considered Paris' first 'Palace Hotel' and has a storied past. Le Meurice famously hosted the lavish wedding banquet of Picasso and Olga Khokhlova, bringing together Parisian high society in the hotel's Versailles-inspired Salon Pompadour. Le Meurice also charmed Salvador Dalí, who was so captivated by the hotel that he booked the Royal Suite Alphonse XIII for a month, every year for over three decades.

It was Dalí's part-time residence that inspired the father-and-daughter designer duo, the legendary Philippe Starck (the mind behind Sanderson London) and Ara Starck, when they refreshed the Dorchester Collection hotel in 2016, leaning into surrealism within the décor. Most notably, the Dalí restaurant features a stunning ceiling mural by French artist Ara, where dancers glide beneath the restaurant’s glass dome.

Stepping into the lobby, there's a lot to take in; Le Meurice's unique style blends traditional elegance with modern flair and a firm focus on art, both classical and contemporary. Leather seats are surprisingly embossed with portraits of 18th-century figures, mixed with Dalí-inspired furnishings. A painting by Baron François Girard, showing the hand of the 19th-century Parisian socialite Madame Regnaud, hung above the reception and is an instant talking point. Eero Saarinen's Tulip chairs offset the grand decor of Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse, which was initially inspired by the Salon de la Paix at the Château de Versailles. There are plenty of playful touches, from Philippe Starck's interactive frosted mirror to Zoulikha Bouabdellah's modern art sculpture, 'The Kiss', in the lobby. Le Meurice is a seriously impressive hotel, but part of its charm is that it doesn't take itself too seriously.

Le Meurice is one of Paris' 12 Palace Hotels - along with the likes of the grand Le Bristol (rumoured to be the Kardashian's hotel of choice in Paris) and Le Hôtel Plaza Athénée, an accolade that celebrates hotels that transcend usual standards of luxury and veer into the exceptional, often housed in grand, historic buildings - basically the crème de la crème of French hospitality.

The hotel first opened its doors in 1835 and was named after its original owner, Charles-Augustin Meurice. Over the years, it's undergone multiple renovations from creatives and designers who've put their own stamp on the interiors. Yet, the hotel has retained its original spirit as a place for creatives and thinkers in the heart of Paris, with a vibrant, lively atmosphere, particularly at Le Dalí restaurant and the dimly lit Bar 228, which plays live jazz every night of the week until 1 am.

ROOMS

Each of the 160 rooms and suites (121 rooms and 39 suites) is designed in the same style, 'modern Versailles' style, by design studio Lally & Berger, who fuse classic Louis XVI styling with contemporary touches. Try and book a park-view room if you can - there are just 40 in the hotel, complete with classic iron balconies and romantic French windows, so these book up quickly. The plush bathrooms are crafted from marble, with fluffy robes and towels, and all feature a free-standing tub and a separate, large walk-in shower with luxury toiletries from Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Complementary water, fruits, and artisan chocolates are replenished at the end of each day.

The suites are suitably jaw-dropping, with huge bathrooms, a walk-in wardrobe and classic Parisian dressing rooms. And let's not forget the views. For those lucky enough to stay in the Belle Étoile Penthouse, meticulously designed by Lally & Berger, the private rooftop offers spectacular panoramic views of the Tuileries Gardens and landmark sites like the Louvre, the Eifle Tower, and Notre Dame in the distance.

FOOD & DRINKS

The food at Le Meurice is one of its biggest draws, with the two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Le Meurice Alain Ducasse among the premier dining spots in Paris, housed in a beautiful space overlooking the Tuileries. For a fine dining experience, this luxurious restaurant offers a journey through French flavours.

The more relaxed Restaurant Le Dalí offers a lively setting to enjoy French classics, with a strong focus on local and seasonal ingredients. You'll find nods to the surrealist painter throughout the restaurant, including the hand-painted canvas by artist Ara Starck, depicting a series of dancers in bold shades, adding a little bit of theatrics to the surroundings.

For an aperitif or nightcap, the sumptuous Bar 228 is a luxurious den with dark wood pannelling and deep leather armchairs to sink into after a long day's exploring. Guests can also pop in for a high-brow pastry at La Pâtisserie du Meurice par Cedric Grolet, a charming pastry boutique dedicated to the hotel’s own pastry chef.

ACTIVITIES

At Le Meurice, the sights of central Paris are quite literally on your doorstep, and if you want to venture further afield, the Tuileries Metro stop (Line 1) is a short stroll away. For those exploring on foot, the Tuileries Gardens, offering a lush green oasis in the heart of the city, are a good place to start. As a bonus, the Eurostar is just 15 minutes away, so getting to the hotel is a complete breeze.

Back at the hotel, there's a small spa with four treatment rooms (two for couples and two for individuals), as well as saunas and steam rooms. Treatments are suitably luxurious, including Valmont facials and a wide range of massages, from hot stone to Swedish.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at Le Meurice start at £1,277 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: 228, Rue de Rivoli, Paris, 75001, France

We're spoilt for choice when it comes to hotel spas in the capital, with some of the most prestigious wellness spaces in the world residing in London's landmark hotels. The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre, housed in the Belgravia hotel, is a welcome addition—a subterranean oasis that instils a sense of calm with its nature-inspired interiors.

Dreamed up by world-famous architect and interior designer Peter Marino, it's a haven of tranquillity inspired by the surrounding nature found in Hyde Park, Green Park, and Buckingham Palace Gardens, with beautiful mosaic tiling creating abstract motifs inspired by local landscapes.

As with the rest of the hotel, which is known for its high-tech amenities (including 'spa mode' lighting in the bathrooms and wireless charging points), technology plays a significant role, with light panels that mimic natural light in the basement space and twinkly underwater music.

The Peninsula London first opened its doors in September 2023, with the spa opening following in December of the same year. This hotel is the first from the Peninsula brand in the UK, following properties in Hong Kong, New York, and Paris. It has quickly established itself as one of the most prestigious hotels in the area—a notable achievement, considering that historical icons The Berkeley and The Goring are its Belgravia neighbours.

This is everything you need to know about booking a luxury spa day at The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre, including the treatments to look out for and the most luxurious packages for a day of indulgence (or a lavish UK staycation).

THE SPA

Celebrated architect and interior designer Peter Marino designed the space, in collaboration with Hopkins Architects, taking into consideration the nearby green spaces. Lighting is considered, with overhead panels that stimulate natural light. Cleverly, the lights dim to an ambient glow as night falls. The spa is situated in the basement of the hotel, which is a commonplace for big London hotels. But rather than opt for the dark, cocoon-like atmosphere of, say, The Corinthia, which leans into its underground location with black marble and fire pits, the spa creates an illusion of space and light to complement its natural theme.

At the centre of the spa is a tranquil 25-meter heated pool, surrounded by intricate mosaic-tiled walls in shades of green and blue depicting abstract landscapes. Like the rest of the hotel, the spa is spacious, with the facilities spanning two floors. There are four thermal cabins with varying degrees of heat, as well as a sauna and steam room, located in the changing rooms.

The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre is available to guests staying at the hotel, but Londoners and tourists can also book a spa day or treatments to experience this serene bolthole in one of London's most desirable areas. For those staying at the hotel, there's an in-room Wellness Portal where guests can take yoga classes or try a meditation session from the comfort of their own rooms.

THE TREATMENTS

There are seven, cocoon-like treatment rooms, including a couple's room. The treatment menu is broad, with some lovely add-on treatments to tailor each experience, with beauty brand partners of Subtle Energies and Margy's Monte Carlo, as well as hair royalty Errol Douglas, who heads up the hotel's salon, The Atelier.

The holistic facials are a highlight, using products from Ayurvedic aromatherapy brand Subtle Energies. Visitors to the spa can add a guided meditation or Shirodhara, an Ayurdevic treatment that involves pouring warm liquid over the forehead for relaxation. The spa is the first in the UK to partner with the Swiss brand Margy’s Monte Carlo, offering the Ultimate InSkin Elixir Facial. This high-tech facial begins with a personal diagnosis, allowing the facialist to select an elixir and mask tailored to the individual's skin type.

There are also some sumptuous body treatments available, including chakra-balancing massages, detox body wraps and an exfoliating body polish that utilises mineral-rich Himalayan crystals. Guests can also opt for traditional Chinese medicine treatments, such as acupuncture, performed by one of the specialist practitioners-in-residence.

COLLABORATIONS

The Penisuala Spa introduced two new wellness packages this summer to further enhance their wellness offering—and they're worth getting excited about.

Cult LA-brand Ricari Studios brings its one-of-a-kind ‘Ricari Method’ to the hotel, which uses a combination of technology and human touch to sculpt and tone the body. 'Ricari' loosely means 'to re-charge' in Italian and works on the concept that we can rejuvenate the body through stimulating blood flow and boosting lymphatic drainage—a philosophy rooted in ancient wellness that's also very on trend right now. Devised by Anna Zahn in Los Angeles, this partnership marks the first time the method has come to the UK.

ONE: Personal Training, founded by former professional athlete Henry Barratt, offers personalised one-on-one sessions including strength and resistance training, functional movement, boxing, and Pilates.

PACKAGES

The Indulgent Relaxation package (£560)

• Personalised Holistic Massage (1 hour)
• Anti-Pollution Facial (1 hour)
• Body Wrap (45 minutes)
• Two hours of spa facility access, including our indoor 25m swimming pool, vitality pool and sauna

Holistic Escape (£450)

• Personalised Holistic Massage (1 hour)
• Holistic Age-Defying Facial (1 hour)
• Two hours of spa facility access, including our indoor 25m swimming pool, vitality pool and sauna

Time for tea (£535)

• Personalised Holistic Massage (1 hour)
• Holistic Age‑Defying Facial (1 hour)
• Afternoon Tea in The Lobby
• 2 hours facility access (pool, vitality pool, sauna)

NEED TO KNOWS

Spa days at The Peninsula London start at £250 for use of the facilities for three hours, and you can book through the spa's website. Alternatively, you can use the facilities free of charge if you book a 90-minute treatment.

You can view the full treatment menu and prices here.

Address: 8/F, The Peninsula, 1 Grosvenor Place, London SW1X 7HJ

Phone: 020 3959 2888

On safari, you spend a surprising amount of time waiting. It started the moment I stepped off the plane, waiting for my luggage.

After three increasingly desperate circuits of the baggage carousel, it became clear that while I'd made it to Kilimanjaro Airport, my suitcase had not. Around me, a gaggle of befuddled travellers formed. Rumours spread, predictions were made (the winning guess being that yes, our luggage wouldn't arrive for at least another 72 hours). As more disgruntled passengers joined our little union, I became something of an authority on the situation. I knew nothing, but why let a lack of knowledge get in the way of a leadership position?

At the time, losing my luggage—or rather, KLM losing my luggage—felt irritating, but in hindsight it seems like an appropriate introduction to safari, which, I'd learn, involves an astonishing amount of waiting. There's waiting for luggage, waiting for weather, waiting for movement, waiting for animals; waiting for something to happen.

I didn't know it yet, but I arrived in Tanzania needing exactly that lesson.

I wanted Tanzania to change my outlook on life, broaden my horizons. Ultimately, I wanted it to make me happier. That's an enormous burden to place on a holiday, but perhaps a distinctly modern one. Increasingly, we don't simply want experiences to entertain us; we want them to transform us. We want our holidays to return us to our lives as better versions of ourselves.

At Gran Meliá Arusha, each morning began with the aroma of coffee harvested on the estate, poured into mottled glass coffee cups handblown by artisans from Sanaa—a pioneering on-site social enterprise that teaches traditional crafts to disabled locals. On the rooftop, we’d gorge on fresh pastries, tropical fruit, eggs cooked to order, and uji, a warm millet porridge lightly spiced with cardamom and cinnamon as Mount Meru hovered in and out of the misty view. It was the last place where my usual pace made sense. I was in Tanzania, but mentally still in London, refreshing emails, thinking about deadlines and wondering what I was going to do with all these experiences—how I might turn them into something.

Even on the drive from Gran Meliá Arusha to Ngorongoro, I found myself caught between observation and expectation. Outside the window were flooded roads, livestock, motorbikes and Maasai children shepherding cattle through impossibly vivid landscapes. I was in awe, but overwhelmed by the desire to capture everything.

Our next stop was Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact volcanic caldera and a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to around 25,000 animals, including the Big Five. Perched on the edge of the ancient crater, Ngorongoro Lodge Meliá Collection reopened in 2023 following an extensive renovation that has integrated the sprawling, open-plan property with both the landscape and Maasai culture. Inspired by local traditions, the lodge blends earthy textures, traditional patterns and artwork from Sanaa with expansive windows that pull your attention to the caldera below.

Built in 1969, Ngorongoro Lodge was the first permanent lodge on the crater rim. More than half a century later, it remains one of only a handful in the conservation area, its unrivalled position making even its design-led interiors feel secondary.

The crater itself changes by the minute as light shifts across the floor and clouds roll in and out. On our first evening, we watched local Maasai leaders stop mid-performance and simultaneously crane their necks towards the caldera.

"Wildebeest," they whispered. "How on earth do they know?" we wondered. A fellow guest pulled out a pair of binoculars and... nothing. The binoculars were passed around to no avail until one of the Maasai men, playfully despairing of us, directed our eyes towards a clearing beside the softly shimmering water far, far below. Even with binoculars, we could barely make out the animals, yet every Maasai man had heard them.

Later, back in my room, staring out over the crater, I found myself unexpectedly teary. Sure, the cynic in me could've put it down to the generous pours of South African red I'd enjoyed over a long dinner built around local ingredients—smoked fish, grilled meats and dishes that fused African flavours with Mediterranean influences—served against a backdrop of crater views. But beyond the jubilations of the staff greeting us in song and the awesomeness of the landscape before me, I suspected something else was at play.

The world seemed both thrown into sharp perspective and a million miles from what I thought I knew it to be. I had the sudden feeling that life here is what it should be—not so much living in a luxury hotel, but living in symbiosis with nature and the other animals we share this planet with. I couldn't shake the feeling that I'd been getting everything so far wrong.

And yet even as I stood in front of one of the most extraordinary landscapes on earth, part of me remained tethered to the life I'd left behind. Perhaps that was the first clue that this trip wasn't just going to teach me how to slow down; it was going to show me how difficult I found it.

The following morning, we descended into the crater itself. What struck me first wasn't just the wildlife, which I'd spent months anticipating, but the scale. Looking down from the rim the night before, the crater had seemed almost abstract, too vast to properly take in. On the ground, however, it was alive with the weight of 2.5 million years of history.

Lions lounged in the grass, post-coital. Our guide explained that during mating season, they'll—to quote Bloodhound Gang—"do it like they do on the Discovery Channel" every 15 to 20 minutes, 24 hours a day. We stayed for a few performances, but once the claim had been confirmed, we began to feel oddly predatory. It’s an uneasy contradiction when an apex predator seems to occupy the moral high ground, so on we drove.

Elsewhere in the crater, hippos surfaced briefly before disappearing beneath the water again like shiny boulders we'd easily have missed were it not for our eagle-eyed guide, Alex. Herds moved slowly across the landscape, and even the migration we were so fortunate to witness didn't seem hurried. Nothing seemed concerned with efficiency; the animals weren't performing for us, and the landscape was indifferent to our presence.

The wild operated entirely independently of our expectations; there was no app to track a leopard sighting, no shortcuts. Back home, waiting is something to be eliminated. Here, it was the experience.

The lesson seemed baked into life at Ngorongoro Lodge itself. Having finally been reunited with our luggage, we were due to head for dinner when a member of staff suggested we delay it. The weather forecast had predicted clouds, but there was a chance the sunset might be worth sticking around for. So we waited.

When we returned to the rooftop, a crescent moon of chairs had been laid out facing the crater. Apricot gave way to orange; orange deepened into a moody shade of pink. Then, just when it seemed the sunset was over, the clouds cracked open like a hard-boiled egg, hairline fractures spreading across the horizon as lightning flickered through the distance. Not for the first time, as a storm rolled across the crater, I found myself thinking how Lion King-like it all felt.

The feeling followed me into the Serengeti. Built into the naturally terraced slopes of the Nyamuma Hills, Meliá Serengeti Lodge seems to follow the contours of the landscape; rooms spill out towards sweeping views of the savannah, while neutral colours, natural materials and Maasai-inspired details (again, by Sanaa) ensure attention remains firmly fixed on the plains beyond.

I’d wake before sunrise with every intention of sorting through yesterday’s photos, driven by a familiar urge to document and distil the experience before it had even finished unfolding, only to find myself distracted by the view instead. From the balcony, the Serengeti looked different every morning as light shifted across the grasslands. The landscape was never static, yet nothing about it felt rushed.

The lodge seemed to operate according to the same rhythm. Time was measured not by meetings or notifications but by game drives, meals (oh, how there were meals) and whatever wildlife happened to wander into view. Local Maasai guides patrol the grounds and escort guests back to their rooms each night.

It was on one of these walks that I learnt that a few nights ago, a leopard was headed for reception when Mompati intercepted it. "They see this red," he said, pointing to the traditional shuka he wore. "They run." I was glad to have Mompati’s company, his spear never far from his side. After dark, the lodge sounded different. Hyenas whooped somewhere beyond the floodlit paths while insects provided a relentless soundtrack.

On our first game drive, the landscape at first glance appeared empty. We'd drive through vast grasslands beneath enormous skies while Alex scanned the horizon with almost supernatural focus. Then someone would point towards what appeared to be absolutely nothing. We'd squint, pull out the ever-ready binoculars and still see nothing. Until slowly, a tuft of grass would move just so and, impossibly, an entire cheetah would emerge from the landscape.

The Serengeti is never empty; I simply hadn't learned how to see it yet.

If modern life rewards scanning, then safari life rewards attention—and patience. The more time I spent looking, the more I noticed. Birds circling overhead, vultures gathering in the distance, grimly devouring a fallen wildebeest. Tiny movements in long grass; clues that something was about to happen. The wild refused to perform on demand, and in an age of instant gratification, that's what made it feel all the more precious.

Even conversations had slowed. Tucking into grilled lobster, served family-style beneath a smattering of stars in the bush after an especially memorable walking safari, entire discussions were dedicated to what we'd spotted that day and which animal each of us had found most enchanting.

It was hard to choose just one. That, too, forced us to slow down, to revisit days organised around game drives and meals rather than emails and deadlines. Lunch one day was served in the crater, where the hotel's head chef barbecued giant prawns and great hunks of meat while an elephant looked on, totally nonplussed.

The rhythm of Tanzania seeped into everything. On our penultimate day, long before dawn, we climbed into a hot-air balloon and rose surprisingly peacefully above the plains.

Below us, elephants moved through the grassland, buffalo gathered in vast herds looking like a colony of ants from our vantage point, and that famous horizon stretched endlessly in every direction. And yet even then, a tension emerged: I didn't want to miss anything, but I also didn't want to forget anything.

Throughout the trip, I'd found myself caught between experiencing and recording. I photographed animals, filmed the sky as it splintered with lightning, and filled pages of notebooks each morning before sunrise to the sound of cicadas and the smell of African sage.

I wanted to preserve every detail, but I also kept returning to the same question: would the experience be richer without a camera between me and the moment? I still don't know.

Today, I am grateful to have the photos and videos, but they pale in comparison to how it felt to be there, turning a corner to see a pride of lionesses, one lazily flopping into the shade cast by our jeep, offering a closeness I hadn't dared imagine was possible.

One afternoon, we watched a lone buffalo wallowing in a muddy pool while a warthog repeatedly attempted—and failed—to approach. The buffalo clearly wasn't in a rush. Why should he be?

The warthog would have to wait—it's simply part of life in the wild.

How to Book

I travelled with Meliá Collection on the Once Upon a Life in Tanzania itinerary. Packages start from US$3,000 (approximately £2,265) per person, depending on travel dates, destination split and park entry fees.

What to Pack

While practical and convenient, it's rare that self-catering accommodation can be romanticised in the same way as a luxury hotel. Le Jardin de Verre, a new project from Locke Living, dispels this myth, bringing its signature hybrid of spacious apartments rather than (let's face it, it's Paris) somewhat cramped hotel rooms and boutique amenities. Not to mention a showstopper restaurant that draws in diners from all over the city.

While there may be the option to dine in with a fully-equipped kitchen in each apartment, Bibie at Le Jardin de Verre, helmed by renowned chef Loïc Julliand, is well worth the visit, drawing nightly crowds thanks to its unique setting and dedicated cocktail bar. Wellness fans can enjoy the 24-hour gym and a dedicated yoga studio. Then there's the lively courtyard decked out in fairy lights and plush furnishings, with plenty of comfy spaces to curl up in with a book. Or your laptop, if you're living that digital nomad life.

Housed in what was once a set of French Baroque mansions and a 20th-century industrial factory, Le Jardin de Verre is Locke Living's first outpost in Paris, marking the group’s 17th property to date. This feels like a natural fit for a city so focused on creativity, considering Locke's design-led aparthotel concept. Le Jardin de Verre brings something new to the City of Lights with its unique blend of traditional Haussmann-style touches, bold colour schemes and industrial elements that pay homage to its heritage.

Locke Living is known for its creative collaborations, and Los Angeles-based architecture and design studio Fettle dreamed up its Paris outpost, inspired by the hotel's connection to nature. The reception area offers a calming space adorned in stone, terracotta and timber. Locke's trademark playful styling can also be seen throughout the aparthotel, with patterned lampshades, vibrant artworks and comfy-looking soft furnishings at every turn, designed and made by textile artists Sinéad and Mark Hanlon of Studio Knot.

Paris is known for being très expensive, and an aparthotel would suit those who want to mix dining in and eating out, or anyone staying for a longer period who would like the option to do their own laundry. The courtyard and coffee bar double as a welcoming co-working space during the day, so this is an excellent location for digital nomads to settle into the city. The beauty of Le Jardin de Verre is that, despite all these conveniences, it still feels like a design hotel.

ROOMS

Don't let the unassuming entrance fool you; Le Jardin de Verre is a sprawling property with 135 rooms across 11 categories. The categories range from the compact 'City Studios' to impressively large suites; the most impressive being the grand split-level Begonia Suite and the Roseraie Suite. The hotel's greenery inspires the Begonia Suite, a two-story duplex apartment with a serene green palette. The Roseraie Suite is the hotel's penthouse suite and features a showstopping glass ceiling inspired by the hotel's atrium. The Roseraie Suite is designed for entertaining, with an eight-seater dining table that sits beneath a grand chandelier and a corner sofa for a comfortable end to the evening. Parisian dinner party, anybody?

All rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen with a stove and fridge, as well as dining space ideal for longer stays. Again, nudging more towards hotel than aparthotel, luxurious Kinsey Apothecary products are available in the bathrooms, as are plush towels.

FOOD & DRINK

Since opening in summer 2025, Bibie has received a positive reception from diners and established itself in the Latin Quarter's bustling restaurant scene (no mean feat in a dining scene as competitive as Paris). Diners can enjoy French classics, often with a contemporary take, served in a serene, plant-filled atrium (Le Jardin de Verre means 'the glass garden'). Think moules-frites or steak au poivre, with other European influences woven into the changing menu. There's also an impressive 200 wines on offer, with a focus on natural wines.

The restaurant doubles up as a coffee shop in the morning, where guests and visitors can enjoy fresh coffee and pastries at Bibi Cafe, taking in the morning light under the atrium's glass ceiling. The evening calls for sipping classics like a Kir Royal or a French 75 in the snug-like cocktail bar.

ACTIVITIES

Le Jardin de Verre sits on Rue de Lacépède in Paris’ historic Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissement, surrounded by quaint cafes and cosy bookshops. It's quieter here than the more touristy parts of central Paris and the kind of streets you can stroll around without the crowds, window shopping or making a pitstop for morning pastries.

The aparthotel is also a short stroll from some of Paris' most beautiful gardens, the Jardin des Plantes and the Jardin du Luxembourg, as well as cultural landmarks including the Panthéon. Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a lively central neighbourhood, is also within easy reach. Browse the art galleries along the Rue de Seine and enjoy Parisian cafe culture at the atmospheric La Palette.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at Le Jardin de Verre start at €275 per night for a City Studio with a balcony, and you can book through the Locke Living website.

Address: Le Jardin de Verre by Locke, 7 Rue Lacépède, 75005 Paris, France

Walk into the vast, marble-floored lobby at the Boston InterContinental, and you know pretty quickly that you're going to be well looked after. A fire roars in the fireplace, modern monochrome artwork adorns the walls, and travellers sink into plush, low-slung sofas everywhere you look.

While a lot of Boston's hotels sit in the very heart of the city and right in the centre of the hustle and bustle, the InterContinental - a five-star property from IHG Hotels & Resorts - is tucked away in a quieter part and on the harbour front. The hotel occupies a prime position between the Financial District and the Seaport. All of Boston's must-try attractions are walkable, and everything is within your reach.

The location in and of itself is beautiful. On the warmer days of our trip, we spent our mornings strolling along the harbour walk, and our evenings enjoying a drink on the terrace overlooking the famous Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, a series of replica ships that commemorate the city's history and one of its most significant sites.

But this InterContinental has far more on offer than just its location and views. Despite pretty sizeable conference facilities and a reputation for being a business base, it strikes a rare balance: polished enough for business travellers, yet characterful enough to appeal to leisure guests.

For more on the Boston InterContinental's facilities - a unique waterfront location, spa facilities, and modern interiors despite a historical setting - plus why I'd recommend it for your next Stateside stay, keep scrolling.

Boston InterContinental: "Tranquil, modern charm on the historic waterfront"

The vibes

Despite my preconceptions of the chain as a hotel exclusively designed for those on business trips or conferences, the InterContinental is friendly, welcoming and unpretentious - a far cry from the corporate vibes of other chain hotels.

Attentive, welcoming staff and a warm, relaxed ambience set the tone - you feel instantly at ease and at home in the light-dappled lobby. With floor-to-ceiling windows, marble, and polished stone covering the floors and ceilings, the interiors are contemporary without feeling cold. Centred on calming, neutral tones, the colour palette centres on soft creams, warm woods and brushed metallic accents, making the space feel considered and modern.

At certain angles, you can see right through to the rippling water which runs alongside you, reminding you that you're in Boston. Top tip, too: do make sure to try the river taxis, which drop you right outside the hotel and offer a more adventurous way to explore the city.

The rooms

The hotel has 424 rooms in total, with many offering floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views, especially as the sun sets in the evening.

Our room is notably spacious - ours had two double beds, a lounge area, a desk, and a bathroom with a bathtub, two sinks, and a shower. Plush bathrobes, marble interiors, and BYREDO bath amenities in my favourite “Bal d’Afrique” scent add to the luxe, elevated feel.

If you're a member of Club InterContinental, there's a spacious lounge on the twelfth floor which has private dining, workspaces and drinks options - we enjoyed light bites, coffees and a few glasses of wine here over the course of our stay.

The food

There are three different restaurants on site, meaning you're really spoilt for choice and have plenty to choose from every day. We mainly eat at Matria, a Northern Italian-inspired restaurant which has a waterfront terrace and fresh, seasonal menus. As we were in Boston during the Boston Marathon weekend, they put on a specific "Runners Menu" on the Sunday evening, which included plenty of fresh salads, tomato pasta iterations, protein sources, and garlic breads.

The food ticks all of the right boxes - dinners are fresh and flavourful, and the breakfast buffet is extensive but expertly cooked. I enjoy porridge with Greek yoghurt and fresh berries one day, and scrambled eggs and sourdough the next. You can also order from the à la carte menu and enjoy American staples, the waffles being a standout highlight (when in the US, right?).

Perhaps surprisingly, the bar, Bar Fellini, is buzzing every night, which I'm sure was aided by the fact that we stayed over the marathon weekend. An Italian aperitivo-style cocktail bar that sits in the heart of the hotel radiates a more intimate, evening-vibe - we enjoyed a glass of champagne here after the race.

There's also a speakeasy-style cocktail bar, the Loyall Counting Room, inspired by Boston’s colonial history. My top tip? I'd highly recommend getting breakfast room service, if you can - it was one of the highlights of our trip. Think eggs over easy, crispy-as-anything Turkey bacon and thick, fluffy pancakes.

The amenities

There are ample amenities on site - a spa, sauna, swimming pool, and spacious, well-equipped gym with all the equipment you could need for a good workout. There's also a full-service spa and treatment options, if you'd like to book in some dedicated downtime. Wellness isn't an afterthought here; it's baked into your trip.

Of course, there are also the conference and event facilities throughout the hotel, should you be travelling for business, not pleasure - but the staff do an excellent job of maintaining the hotel feels elevated and friendly, rather than overly corporate.

As with most high-end hotels, a concierge is on hand with recommendations for during your stay, so do check in if you're unsure on an itinerary for your trip.

One of my favourite amenities was the simplest, though; the direct access to the Boston Harborwalk for morning runs and waterfront strolls.

The need to knows

Stay at the Boston Intercontinental from around £250 a night, depending on the season. 510 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210, United States, ihg.com.

Towering palm trees dot the coastline, their fronds gently undulating in the breeze, and the jade green sea laps at coves of powdery white sand: Pangkor Laut Resort offers an unforgettable taste of Malaysian island life.

Here, beaches curl between dramatic rock faces and overlook still, glassy waters, offering sun-soaked days so peaceful and still that it feels like a private paradise. Wildlife roams freely, oriental pied hornbills casually join breakfast tables, and giant fruit bats hang happily in the sea almond trees, as the rolling rainforest becomes a verdant backdrop to the opulent overwater villas, stilts rising from the emerald and turquoise sea. Set on a private island, the 5* Pangkor Laut Resort is, undeniably, luxurious; but, infused in its culinary excellence and first-class hospitality, is a commitment to Malaysian tradition, culture and warmth.

The Vibe

Malaysia is rapidly asserting itself as an affordable alternative to Thailand and Indonesia, offering swathes of untouched beaches and unparalleled snorkelling spots. Approaching Pangkor Laut Resort by speedboat is nothing short of breathtaking; the dense and majestic greenery, sprawling across 80% of the island, is interrupted only by slivers of golden sand and a sprinkle of pitched wooden roofs. Traditional Malay design elements are laced throughout the resort; the open-air pavilions are dotted with rattan furniture, sleek marble floors and deep-set balconies, every area brought to life with natural materials and local art. Beyond the reception, villas are found on both land and sea; The Estates are exclusive hubs comprising apartments, pools and private hot spas tucked away for unrivalled privacy, while the sea villas sit on stilts atop the silky green ocean, with balconies perfectly positioned to watch a mellow, coral sun rise over the neighbouring islands.

On the west coast, the ethereal Emerald Bay offers a secluded beach that’s so picture-perfect it’s likely no other will ever compare; think sand that’s bright and soft, water that’s exceptionally clear and astoundingly still, and sun loungers shaded under the trees’ blooming branches. Best enjoyed with a continuous supply of refreshing coconuts.

But, despite the sprinkling of infinity pools and private beaches, it’s the Spa Village that will really make your stay at Pangkor Laut truly unforgettable.

The Spa

If you think you’ve experienced all a spa can offer, think again. The Spa Village is not just an additional experience during your stay at Pangkor Laut – it is one of the experiences that will define your entire trip. While that sounds like a bold claim, it’s not award-winning for nothing. The entire offering is its own holistic retreat within the resort: a maze of treatment cabins and indulgent ritual spots for personalised experiences that give massage a whole new meaning.

Long before your treatment begins, you’ll enjoy 45 minutes at the Bath House. Enjoy the Spa Village’s signature foot pounding, inspired by Chinese tradition, before heading to a series of outdoor pools embracing various healing practices. The first large pool, inspired by Indian purification rituals, is tucked below the trees and sits under large vases of streaming water. Let it wash over you before heading to the Ayurvedic steam pots, inhaling the various scents. From there, you’ll be guided to a washroom – much like those at Japanese onsen – before heading to the outdoor rock pool to sit and meditate under the blue sky.

Treatments can last up to four hours, and they’re worth every deliciously relaxing minute. The incredible Royal Secrets of Puteri Lindungan Bulan is a wonderful invitation to unwind, and includes a flower petal milk bath, body scrub, full body massage and nourishing hair mask, while the personalised experience with a Chinese specialist is a tailored to whatever your body and mind needs. Don’t skip a visit: it’s a truly unique experience, and one you’ll think about long after you’ve returned home.

The Rooms

Across the 300 acres, you’ll find several different offerings. There are 140 villas in total - a mix of hillside, garden, beach and sea – and 8 Estates. Opt for a sea villa in the Spa Village – it includes access to a private pool, and you’re just minutes away from the best resort treatment you’ve ever had.

The sea villas hover over the water on stilts and include a king bed, veranda and panoramic landscape views. In the bathroom, there’s a deep, marble bath flanked by a trio of windows that open out to the ocean – turning every soak into a tropical dream. You’ll want to get up early and throw all the shutters open to watch the sun inking the sky as you float in the tub. Unreal. The balcony is where you’ll find peace at first and last light; in the morning, perch on the bench with a coffee in hand, or head out to listen to the water lapping below as you wind down for bed.

Food & Drink

Uncle Lim’s Kitchen is where you’ll find mouth-watering Chinese dishes using locally sourced produce that blend Nyonya and Hock Chew-style home cooking elements. Known for its deep fried calamansi chicken, juicy Kung Po calamari and tender butter prawns, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to seafood. And, within the open-plan restaurant, you’ll get a gentle breeze and views of the moonlight sparkling on sea.

For buffet-style dining, head to Feast Village. At breakfast, order a freshly squeezed juice and fill up on brightly coloured fruits, from tangy pineapple chunks to pink slices of watermelon. There’s an array of hot dishes for each and every diner – otak-otak steamed dumplings and red bean buns, flaky rotis and rich dahl, creamy scrambled eggs and roasted tomatoes. Finish with Malaysian kuih-muih, traditional sweets and desserts.

Make time to visit Fisherman’s Cove, an adults-only restaurant specialising in elevated seafood dishes. The views are sublime, but when it comes to the menu the crispy soft-shell crab is not to be missed, and the dancing prawns – delicately tossed with citrus aioli – are a standout. For mains, order the flaky pan-fried Manong River Jade perch or grilled barramundi with tomato salsa. End with the rich, citron chocolate mousse with lemon curd. Divine.

Additional Information

Direct flights operate daily between London Heathrow and Kuala Lumpur International Airport, but opting for a short layover offers more flight flexibility. Transit through Istanbul Airport and enjoy the comforts of the Turkish Airlines lounge on your outbound and inbound journeys.

Global-All-Inclusive packages can also be booked directly, and will unlock complimentary speedboat transfers from Pangkor Laut to the mainland. The all-inclusive getaway includes curated dining, logistics with return land and sea transfers for Pangkor Laut, and a programme of immersive activities such as jungle treks and turtle education as well as wellness offerings including yoga and meditation.

How To Book

For more information, visit YTL Hotels. To book directly, reservations can be made via the Pangkor Laut Resort website.

What to Pack

Nestled between Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, The Peninsula London is an elegant sanctuary with a timeless quality; a relative newcomer on London's luxury hotel scene that can rival the Capital's most iconic establishments.

The Peninsula is one of those grand hotels that feels as if it has been stationed in Belgravia, near the likes of The Connaught and The Dorchester, for decades. Yet, the hotel actually opened in 2023, marking the brand's debut in the UK, following hotels in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, Paris, and New York, among others. Rather than inhabiting one of the 19th-century buildings like its neighbours, the hotel was built from scratch—and rumour has it that Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels spent 30 years finding the ideal spot.

What cements The Peninsula's success amid such fierce competition is its distinctiveness; there's no hotel like it in the city. Rather than attempting to be hyper-modern (which can, let's face it, often feel a little sterile), it exudes the elegance and warmth of a bygone era, along with genuine, old-fashioned hospitality. Luggage is whisked away instantly upon arrival. Staff are warm, attentive, and discreet. And the uniforms, designed by London fashion royalty Jenny Packham, are impeccable. A masterclass in understated sophistication before you've even left the lobby.

The Peninsula is owned and operated through HSH, Asia's oldest hotel company still in operation, and its heritage is gracefully woven throughout the hotel's design, from the hand-carved guardian lions at the hotel's entrance (a Peninsula tradition) to the artful displays of fine Chinese porcelain. Tea time at The Peninsula is treated as a ritual to be taken slowly and thoughtfully. In the tranquil courtyard, designed by celebrated designer Enzo Enea, you'll find 120-year-old Japanese maple trees and the sweet scent of jasmine.

The Peninsula London's story didn't begin in Belgravia, but in the heart of 1920s Hong Kong. Dubbed the 'Grande Dame of the Far East', The Peninsula was one of Hong Kong's first luxury hotels, quickly becoming a benchmark for high-end hospitality, known for its fleet of Rolls-Royces and opulent lobby. The lobby is the heart of the hotel at Peninsula properties; a place to dine, sip cocktails, relax, or people-watch.

The Peninsula's refined character is well-suited to London's refined and historic Belgravia. After all, London has always been a pioneer of top-tier, white-glove service, particularly in the most prestigious neighbourhoods of Belgravia, Mayfair, and Knightsbridge—it's safe to say The Peninsula fits right in.

Here's everything you need to know about The Peninsula London, including what to expect from its £1,300 a night rooms, its incredible restaurants, in particular Brooklands by Claude Bosi and Canton Blue, and the hotel's vast wellness offering, including a new partnership with cult LA brand, Ricari Studios.

THE ROOMS

The rooms at The Peninsula are refreshingly large for a city centre hotel, starting at 50 square meters. Esteemed interior designer Peter Marino, who was at the helm for the entire design process of the hotel, creates a 'home away from home' feel with bespoke furnishings, a mix of textures and original artworks that add character and eclecticism to the rooms and suites. The colour palette is gentle and refined, featuring rich creams, off-whites, and soft blue accents that contrast with deep mahogany wood. Rooms also feature a mahogany-pannelled dressing room, or walk-in wardrobe in some instances.

Amenities are impressive and position The Peninsula as forward-thinking, despite its classic design elements. There are wireless chargers, 'spa mode' lighting in the bathrooms and even a nail dryer to eliminate smudges — a genius addition.

The hotel features a total of 190 rooms and suites, each boasting a spacious layout. The uniformity of rooms in terms of size is possible due to the hotel being a new build, constructed from the ground up as part of a £1 billion project. Before The Peninsula London, the Bulgari was the city's last new-build five-star hotel, built in 2012. In a city known for its sometimes cramped rooms, considering their high price points, this space is a welcome addition.

THE FOOD AND DRINK

There are seven places to eat and drink at The Peninsula London, including The Peninsula Boutique & Cafe and The Lobby, where breakfast and afternoon tea are served. Notably, Canton Blue is an opulent, multi-level restaurant, inspired by the design of the Keying Junk, a trade ship that sailed between Europe and Asia. Canton Blue serves Cantonese Chinese with a fine dining twist.

Situated on the ground floor, the atmosphere is seductive, with soft lighting, intimate booths, and striking design features—the handiwork of esteemed Hong Kong-based interior designer Henry Leung. Dining here has a certain magic; the magnificent ceiling has a vast backlit panel depicting a celestial map inspired by Keying Junk's journey from East to West. Little Blue is the cocktail bar next door, serving inventive concoctions and late-night noodles.

Brooklands is situated at the top of the building, offering a distinguished rooftop spot helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Director Claude Bosi. The hotel is currently hosting the 'Claude & Co at Brooklands' dinner series; special one-night collaborations between Bosi and world-famous chefs.

ACTIVITIES

With one of London's most famous parks, Hyde Park, just a stone's throw away, there's the opportunity to team a city break with some time in nature. Part of London's appeal is its vast green spaces, which feel a world away from the hectic metropolis. Polished Belgravia is also worth exploring, with the charming Elizabeth Street and Motcomb Street lined with artisan shops, luxury fashion stores, buzzy restaurants and florists. Eccleston Yards is also within easy reach, home to the stylish wine bar and studio Amie, the beautiful Wild By Tart restaurant, and Re:Mind studio, which offers restorative meditation, healing, and breathwork sessions.

Back at the hotel, guests can unwind in The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre, which includes a 25-meter heated pool, thermal rooms, an ice fountain and a relaxation room with heated loungers. There's also an on‑site beauty salon called the Atelier. Peter Marino also designed the spa, drawing inspiration from the serenity of nearby Hyde Park and Green Park, using earthy tones and natural materials to enhance the space.

The Peninsula has also recently announced some exciting partnerships, including a collaboration with Cult LA brand Ricari Studios, who offer their one-of-a-kind ‘Ricari Method’, a blend of hands-on and machine-led massage to stimulate blood flow and air lymphatic drainage. Meanwhile, ONE: Personal Training offers guests personalised one-on-one training sessions in the high-tech gym.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at The Peninsula London start at £1,300 per night, and you can book through the hotel's website.

Address: 8/F, The Peninsula, 1 Grosvenor Place, London SW1X 7HJ

Phone: 020 3959 2888

It’s not every day you get to stay in one of the leading hotels of the world.

It’s even harder to find a truly unique and unforgettable hotel in New York. Sure, the city that never sleeps has plenty to offer, but many face the same pitfalls: a focus on style over substance, tiny yet expensive box rooms, and generic, inauthentic luxury.

Head to the northwest corner of Fifth Avenue and 28th Street, though, and nestled unnassumingly between the Flatiron District, Chelsea and Midtown, you’ll find The Fifth Avenue Hotel - which, despite only opening in October 2023, has received near-instant critical acclaim.

Stepping into the lobby on a sweltering hot day in April, it’s easy to see why. While the outside of the hotel appears modest and unassuming, don’t be fooled by the facade. Because inside - well, they’ve brought together some of the most creative minds in design, art, gastronomy and hospitality to create a truly unique and unforgettable location.

Built around a Gilded Age mansion owned by banker and socialite Charlotte Goodridge in the mid-1800s, the hotel combines a restored Beaux-Arts building with a modern glass tower, creating a striking merge of old and new in the heart of Manhattan.

No two rooms are exactly alike, but each is a riotous nod to maximalism, the complete opposite of the minimalist luxury that’s dominated for the last few years. Expect loud wallpaper, velvet furnishings, Murano glass chandeliers, antique cabinets, and hundreds of curated art pieces throughout the 24-storey hotel.

It’s near faultless; original, effortlessly stylish, and unpretentiously luxurious. Plus, for any travellers, the location is hard to beat: quiet enough to get some quality shut eye but within walking distance of all of the major attractions (including the Sky Line, Grand Central and Times Square). It’s situated in the buzzing heart of the city; a perfect balance of creative energy, history, and central location.

Keen to read my full review and stay at New York’s most exciting new opening yourself? Keep scrolling, because spoiler: I’m already plotting my next trip.

The Fifth Avenue Hotel Review: “Faultless, iconic New York charm”

The vibes

Instantly welcoming, polished, and warm, wander into The Fifth Avenue Hotel lobby and you’re met with floor-to-ceiling antique mirrors, polished marble floors and plush velvet sofas to sink into. You could while away hours flicking through the coffee table books on offer or perusing their “cabinets of curiosities” - two towering vintage oak cases packed to the brim with crystals.

The first thing we notice, though, is how good it smells - a delicious mix of polished wood, antique books, and floral citrus. I’m still yet to find out what the signature scent is, but I can still smell it - intimate, opulent, and quietly theatrical, which tells me everything I need to know about the hotel before we’ve even been shown to our room.

Walls are an eclectic mix of coral, buttercup yellow, and green, making whichever area of the hotel you’re in mood-boosting, joyous, and unique (the elevator lobbies are even wrapped in ruched rose-coloured silk, pleated by Parisian craftsmen). Priceless paintings sit alongside treasures from flea markets and far-flung travels; it’s whimsy made elevated, all seen through interior designer Martin Brudnizki’s lens and perfectly curated to never once feel gaudy or kitsch.

As founder Alex Ohebshalom says, “The Fifth is the realisation of many years of dreaming and discovery. We are creating a one-of-a-kind experience; it’s a whimsical, transformational escape in the heart of Manhattan. Our creative spirit will allow us to elevate the guest experience, introducing a new level of service designed to inspire and delight.”

The rooms

There are 149 guestrooms and suites to choose from, all of which are unique in design and interior. Brudnizki’s passion for individuality results in a thoughtfully curated, deeply residential atmosphere that blurs the line between hotel and home - I felt more like I was staying in a wealthy collector's private residence than a hotel.

We stayed in a Mansion Suite, and our room is decadently spacious - the biggest hotel room I’ve ever stayed at in New York before. Our double room has a well-sized lounge area, complete with sofa, mini bar, pantry and dining table, bathroom with bathtub, bathroom, and shower room, and bedroom area, complete with king-sized bed, plush Egyptian cotton bedding, and twinkling star-shaped ceiling lights. As with everything in the hotel, the attention to detail is second to none and the guest experience, unrivalled: nightly notes from the turn-down staff, sweet treats from the kitchen staff, and daily pantry restocks of high-end snacks, low-sugar soda options, and sparkling water.

If you’re looking for something more special, they’ve also recently launched a collection of new suites that feature stone terraces and breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and Manhattan skyline.

The food

You know you’re in for a treat when the bar and restaurant are renowned in their own right, with both packed during our stay. Café Carmellini, the hotel’s main restaurant, is the brainchild of acclaimed and award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini and seems to attract locals as much as tourists. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the interiors are breathtaking: two sculptural trees dominate the space, with mood-lit, cosy booths setting the tone for the evening. We’re sat right next to the open-plan kitchen, so happily while away our evening with a glass of champagne, watching the chefs at work.

With a menu packed full of Italian, French and classic New York dishes, our standout highlights include the Crab Mille-Feuille, Duck Duck Tortellini, and Scallops Cardoz. As a carb-lover, the pre-entrée bread course is also spectacular: think sky-high, crisp grissini breadsticks, warm, freshly baked breads, cultured butter, olives, and the best quality olive oil.

We can’t resist dessert, and I’m so glad we didn’t - the olive oil & Sorrento lemon coppa is one of the best I’ve ever eaten: a bright, light, and delicate lemon-soaked sponge layered with silky vanilla cream, lemon sauce and chopped pistachios.

Come breakfast, you can order from the à la carte menu, which offers an array of elevated classics, from eggs to yoghurt parfait. If you’re feeling indulgent, don’t miss the fluffy-as-anything buttermilk pancakes with a mouthwateringly sharp lemon-berry compote or the croissant trolley, stacked with made-in-house daily specials.

For a nightcap, don’t skip a dirty martini at The Portrait Bar, an intimate, firelit space offering signature classics and playful classics from Bar Director Darryl Chan.

The facilities

While the facilities at The Fifth are fairly minimal - there’s a small 24-hour gym, and no sauna or spa on site - I wouldn’t expect anything else for such a central NY location. Make the most of cardio machines and weights at their in-house fitness space, or if you’d rather enjoy a specific class, ask for a complimentary day pass to Life Time Fitness, located at 23rd Street and 6th Avenue. There you can enjoy several floors of fitness equipment, saltwater lap pools, and eucalyptus steam rooms.

The team ensure you’re well looked after, with a dedicated porter and concierge on hand to help you with route plans and reservations. They also offer complimentary dry cleaning, pressing of up to three items per guest, and overnight shoeshine.

Up to two dogs per room can stay for an additional cost of $250.

The need to knows

Stay at The Fifth Avenue Hotel from around £350 a night, depending on the season and room type. 1 West 28th Street, New York, NY 10001, thefifthavenuehotel.com.

This summer will see a rise in staycations thanks to the jet fuel crisis, which is leading to cancelled flights and soaring costs. The BBC has reported that booking platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com are already seeing a spike in UK travel plans, with many deciding to swap flights for a Land Rover Discovery-worthy road trip instead. If the pandemic taught us anything when it comes to travel, it’s that you don’t need to go far for a memorable holiday. Whether you are looking to explore untouched beaches, reach an all-time high daily step count or simply have some time away from your emails, below is a guide to some of the best places to stay and explore this summer.

Farm Stays

While Soho Farmhouse has had city types donning wellies and taking a turn through stables for several years, a more authentic agritourism concept is currently flourishing. “There’s something about being properly surrounded by nature that feels increasingly precious,” says Aimee Hodgkin, curation and hotels director at Mr and Mrs Smith, highlighting Louma in Dorset as a key property. “What makes it special is how immersive it feels. Life here unfolds around the practical realities of the farm—animals moving through the day, fires tended, meals prepared and shared—with time shaped by the land rather than a timetable.”

Fowlescombe in Devon opened in May 2025 and is the blueprint for how luxury farm stays should look—it is a working farm where guests are encouraged to learn about the land, whether that’s picking vegetables, feeding livestock or a guided tour of the mechanisms of this sustainable farm. Influencer Lucy Williams, who has impeccable taste when it comes to hotels, hosted a stay here for the launch of her With Nothing Underneath collection, where guests collected eggs and enjoyed the farm-to-table offering. As a working farm, this is much more than a gimmick for TikTok, as everything is a genuine celebration of local biodiversity—even the mattresses are made using wool from Fowlescombe sheep.

The Restairies at Paradise Farm in Suffolk is another leader in this category, as Gem Boner (formerly of Soho House) and her husband Thom, opened a five-bed retreat in a 16th-century farm. “Farm stays are special because they reconnect you to all the things modern life quietly steals from you—space, nature, slow mornings, proper food, muddy boots, fresh eggs, fires, stars, and conversations that aren’t interrupted by inboxes,” says Boner. “We wanted to create more than a beautiful place to stay. We wanted to build an off switch. Also, frankly, life is better when there are alpacas involved.” We can’t argue with that.

For something more intimate, the cottage Homestead in the North York Moors is a family-run business with an attached restaurant where the menu is based around the flourishing kitchen garden.

What to Pack:

Surf and Turf

Cornwall is hardly a groundbreaking staycation idea; however, there’s been a wave of London influencers and editors moving here for the surf-filled lifestyle. Think coastal walks, seafood platters and salty hair. “Cornwall is super special all year round,” says Lindsey Holland, a fashion influencer who runs a surf retreat company, Marnie Rays. “The best waves tend to be in the winter, but spring and summer are also putting on a show at the moment! I love surfing at Godrevy and Gwithain—the beach cafe at Godrevy is amazing and there’s also an incredible coastal path walk that starts there too.” While she adds if you’re heading to the north coast, you need to visit Gorse Bakery for a bacon butty. If you don’t want to do any organising, the Marnie Rays retreats are ideal for those learning to surf.

“Obviously Newquay is Cornwall’s surfing hotspot, with great surf schools and some of the best beaches for all levels, from Watergate Bay to Fistral beach,” says Emily Dawes, a fashion editor who lives in Cornwall. “But if you want to experience surf culture like a local, it’s worth heading (way) out west to the wild and beautiful Sennen Cove (next door to Land’s End), which has a legendary surf school, miles of white sand and clear blue Caribbean-like seas. For post-surf fuel, the Sennen Surf Lodge is a chic beach bar with barefoot vibes, a killer sunset and delicious food and drinks. Don’t miss their Pizza Roja pop-up for the best pizza in Cornwall (or maybe even the UK).” For days when you want to avoid the crowd, she recommends going to Gwynver Beach which is an “off-the-beaten-track surfer’s paradise.” For heading West, Dawes recommends you stay at Farraway House in Sennen or at Pembrooke Lodge or Little Pembrooke, the Cornish house which was thoughtfully renovated by fashion PR Bianca Fincham and is far more elevated than your typical rental.

What to Pack:

Saltburn Cosplay

Stately homes and grand estates will always be an indulgent option for a UK staycation, whether you’re pretending you’re the lady of a manor house or reign over a castle in the Highlands. Emerald Fennell, eat your heart out. “There are certain houses that come into their own in summer, and Cowley Manor is very much one of them,” notes Hodgkin. “Set deep within the Cotswolds, it has the quiet confidence of a grand estate that knows its place in the landscape—elegant without being imposing, and best enjoyed slowly. What draws me back, time and again, is the sense of space and ease. The gardens—originally laid out by Capability Brown—unfold with a natural rhythm, dense woodland giving way to open lawns, water moving gently through the grounds.” British heritage brand Barbour just hosted a trip at Aldourie Castle in Loch Ness, which is an exclusive-use house for those wanting to have something truly luxurious. Send your group chat a photograph of the formal dining room as your sales pitch.

What to Pack:

A Londoner's London

If you’ve done the Tower of London and don’t want to go anywhere near the M&M store, why not Lime bike your way around the city like a Londoner, sticking to neighbourhood haunts only. No Pret allowed. “There are London hotels made for sightseeing — and then there are those that feel entirely of the city,” says Hodgkin. “The Broadwick sits squarely in the latter camp. Set on a quietly storied street in Soho, it has the relaxed confidence of a place designed for people who already understand London’s rhythms. From here, the capital is best explored instinctively: hopping on a Lime bike, slipping down side streets, cutting between favourite restaurants, record shops and late‑night haunts rather than following a map.” Plus this summer, El Fenn has a rooftop residency at the hotel. Add onto your itinerary lunch at Cafe Cecilia (where Jonathan Saunders recently hosted industry friends to celebrate his creative directorship for & Other Stories) and a stroll of Broadway Market (Rites is excellent for second-hand designer finds on this street) and a visit to the recently opened V&A East, which has an exhibition ‘Music Is Black’ and quite possibly the best museum eatery in the city, Café Jikoni.

Right now, Marie Claire has some exclusive discounts on hotel booking sites such as 8% on select hotels at Hotels.com and Expedia.com—well worth checking out for more options in the UK and beyond.

What to Pack:

Coastal Path

When visiting the coast this year, why not branch out beyond Margate. Hannah Almassi, MD of Marie Claire and Who What Wear, has seen first-hand the rise in visitors to the South Downs. "When I moved to Eastbourne four years ago, it felt like a little untouched pocket of calm, palm trees and retirement properties. Lately, there's been a noticeable increase in people hiking across the South Downs and the town and walking paths have become full of well-dressed Gen Z groups—and I’m not mad about it! It feels like it’s experiencing a renaissance many years after its original Victorian seaside town boom.” As for what to do when you get there, Almassi recommends you visit the Towner Gallery, stay at the Port Hotel and book a table at Foundry for brunch and have a romantic dinner at Skylark. And because what is a UK staycation without a walk to a pub, she recommends you take a small hike via Butts Brow to the Eight Bells in Jevington. If you’re driving, it’s always worth detouring via Charleston House, the magical home of Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant.

There is also a rise in properties that combine the coast with countryside, such as Fowlescombe in Devon. Updown Farmhouse near Deal is another hotel that masters this concept, with a charming main country house, quaint cottages on site and a serene terrace restaurant, where you can eat breakfast in the cottage-style garden. It’s one of the most relaxing hotel breakfasts I’ve ever had and is the perfect place to unwind after a day navigating crowds at the beach.

What to Pack:

A Great British Menu

Dining in the countryside can have a reputation for mediocre pub grub, however one of the most exciting restaurants in the UK is nestled in a seemingly sleepy corner of Somerset. Bruton might be a small village, but people plan holidays around a dinner reservation at Osip, where chef Merlin Labron-Johnson puts an artistic spin on seasonal local produce and was awarded a Michelin star in 2021. There are four rooms for those who want the full Osip experience, while The Newt is just down the road and is without a doubt the best place I’ve ever stayed in the UK. Opened by Babylonstoren, everything about the property is magical, from the Alice in Wonderland-style gardens to the hearty breakfasts to the outdoor hot tub. The restaurants are a celebration of British produce, with cider made from apple trees on site and vegetables plucked from the sprawling estate. Holm is another new addition to the Somerset line-up, and Hodgkin notes that here “the excitement comes from immediacy—open‑fire cooking, exceptional ingredients and a closeness to the land that makes each meal feel elemental, tactile and completely absorbing.”

The Lake District is also a foodie destination and hub for fine dining: 13 Cumbrian restaurants featured in the 2026 Michelin guide. The gothic country house Forest Side has one of the most in-demand restaurants, with an eight-course tasting menu that uses lots of ingredients from the expansive kitchen garden and local Cumbrian farmers.

If you are in the mood for a very fancy pub experience, then head to The Three Horsehoes in Batcombe, Somerset. With the menu crafted by chef, caterer and writer Margot Henderson OBE and Head Chef Nye Smith, this is the perfect, low-key destination for delicious food with friends or family and to take in the charming sights at nearby Petworth.

What to Pack:

We want more from our summer plans than just a bit of sun and sea (although they’re nice to have in the mix). We crave holidays built not around a destination but around a premise: the ancient train journey that takes four days to cross a continent; a lake so still it looks painted; the off-grid cabin with no Wi-Fi and a wood-fired sauna. “People want more than just a fly-and-flop holiday,” agrees Tom Barber, co-founder of the luxury travel operator, Original Travel. “They want time to pursue a hobby, learn a new language, learn to cook, dive, or even explore regional dances - and there is real kudos in discovering somewhere new before everyone else does.”

To help you plan your summer break, we’ve rounded up the best trips that will fill you with wonder and reignite the joy of travelling, not just being on holiday.

Swap the Sea for a Lake

It feels natural to book a summer break by the sea. But at some of Europe’s busiest beaches, you can be hard pushed to find enough space to lay a towel. So if you’re craving a break by water, try a lake destination instead.

Lac d'Annecy is well-known in France, but barely on the British radar. Annecy itself is a beautifully preserved medieval town, with smaller villages dotted around the entire lake, all connected by cycling paths (with bike rental services) and a very regular bus service. Talloires is a great place to stay: it has a sheltered swimming area with a swimming platform and water slide that is popular with kids and adults alike, and a big cafe/ bar on the lake front that serves beers, wines and pizzas to a laid back crowd. There are plenty of Airbnbs, or for a treat stay, check into L'Auberge du Père Bise (from €440 perebise.com).

Slovenia's Lake Bled is no longer a secret, but Lake Bohinj in Slovenia is in the same Triglav National Park as Bled but almost entirely overlooked by visitors. It is wilder, more mountainous, swimmable, but almost no commercial development. Hotel Bohinj is a stylish base near the lake with rooms (from €180 per night, hotelbohinj.si).

For an even further under-the-radar option, head to Lake Prespa on the North Macedonia-Albania-Greece border—one of the oldest lakes in the world, where you’ll see extraordinary pelican colonies and 11th-century Byzantine frescoes painted directly onto the rocks. Stay in Villa Prespa, a rural B&B in the village of Dolno Dupeni (from £110 for a double room, villaprespa.com).

Try an Unusual Road Trip

The road trip has been the basis for some of the best movies. Much like train travel, it’s not solely about the destination: you need to put thought into plotting an interesting route.

The North Coast 500—Scotland's 516-mile loop from Inverness around the far north of the country—takes in the dramatic sea stacks of Assynt, to the white sand beaches of Durness. Jump into your Land Rover Discovery and stop at charming hotels along the way, or hire a campervan from Goboony, the Airbnb-style camper van rental platform (from £50, goboony.co.uk).

Further afield, Albania’s Riviera, running south from Vlorë toward the Greek border, offers beautiful views of a dramatic coastline as you take in the towns of Himara, Borsh, and Dhërmi and thousands of concrete bunkers, relics of the former Communist president Enver Halil Hoxha’s era, that dot the landscape. Fly to Tirana, where you can stay at the chic Faces Places (from €60 facesandplaces.al).

While everyone’s visiting Lisbon, take an unhurried trip through the interior of Portugal, threading through the Alentejo's cork-oak plains, olive groves, and fortified hilltop villages, including the small walled town of Monsaraz, and the medieval village of Marvão. Stay in Santiago Hotel (from £105.71, mrandmrssmith.com).

PS. If you want to live life on the edge and book as you ride, check out the LastMinute.com exclusive discount codes Marie Claire is running at the moment.

Go for Off-Grid Luxury

Off-grid luxury is now one of the fastest-growing segments in high-end travel, although of course, you can choose just how “off grid” you want to be.

In Norway's Lofoten Islands, Eliassen Rorbuer has converted 12 traditional fishermen's cabins into wonderfully atmospheric cabins with wood-burning stoves. Eliassen Rorbuer (from £240/night, lofoten-rorbuer.no).

The highlands of Scotland still feel like vastly under-explored territory. Glen Dye cottages are in the middle of a 15,000 acre estate surrounded by wilderness and forests that you can walk through and swim in the river. (Prices from £195, glendyecabinsandcottages.com)

If you really want to switch off—but don’t want to travel too far—check into one of Unplugged’s 52 cabins in England and Wales, where you lock your phone away on arrival and immerse yourself in nature. (Three nights start from £390, unplugged.rest).

Take a Train

Watching the world thrum past your window is one of the best ways to travel. Original Travel reports enquiries are up 125% for rail trips, with bookings up by a 1/3 since 2023. How quickly you get there is not the point: it’s about savouring the journey.

For a spectacular rail route that takes you overnight from London to Fort William, then over the 21 arched Glenfinnan viaduct to Mallaig—the iconic route to Hogwarts from the Harry Potter films. (Book a cabin from £719 per person, trip.byway.travel).

For continental travel—that’s not the Orient Express—the sleeper networks of Scandinavia and central Europe are worth checking out. The Nightjet network, operated by Austrian Federal Railways, now connects Vienna, Zurich, Amsterdam, and Rome on routes where waking up in a new city after a civilised night in a couchette feels like a minor act of magic. (Nightjet passes available direct from ÖBB from €124 in sleeping car with private toilet and shower, oebb.at).

For a spectacular train ride on The Glacier Express, combined with walks across mountain routes surrounding Zermatt’s mountain, book a guided tour. (From £2,451pp inntravel.co.uk).

Visit a Lesser-Known City

Leave Paris and Barcelona alone during the summer months (come back in winter), and explore a city that is less crowded.

In Tbilisi, the Georgian capital, the old city's wooden balconied houses lean over narrow streets in various states of picturesque dishevelment and the Persian-influenced bathhouse district in Abanotubani offers a genuinely ancient urban spa tradition. Stay in the boutique hotel Communal Hotel Plekhanovi (from £53; mrandmrssmith.com).

Valletta in Malta is Europe's smallest capital, featuring densely Baroque that has had years of careful restoration. The Grand Harbour at dusk, approached through the Upper Barrakka Gardens, is one of the great theatrical views of the Mediterranean. Try the charming Valletta Boutique (from €140, vallettaboutique.com).

Once the great seaport of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Trieste is often overlooked in favour of Venice or Rome, but it has beautiful grand architecture, extraordinary food and a beautiful, painterly light. L'Albero Nascosto is a charming boutique hotel (from £130, alberonascosto.it).

I’ve always loved long-haul flights. As someone who struggles to relax, the forced idle time to do little else but stare out the window, wondering who in my life would be most devastated were the plane to go down, is a vanishingly rare opportunity for rest and reflection, and no opportunity to “better” spend my time.

That changed on a recent flight when I felt the all-too-familiar tug to be productive. Instead of flicking through the in-flight entertainment like any sensible person, I found myself hunched over my phone, sorting through holiday photos to post.

There were sunsets and street scenes. A heaving plate of garlicky prawns. A beach I’d snapped from every conceivable angle. Hundreds of photos that should stir wistful nostalgia for a trip I’d spent months anticipating and days promising myself I’d stay present for. Instead, scouring a gallery of images no one forced me to take, I felt overwhelmed. A flight that should have been an extension of the trip became the site of a small social media centre.

All of this feels—and is—ridiculous, because I’m not an influencer. I don’t make money from Instagram. Brands aren’t waiting for my content. Nobody is demanding a holiday recap. In fact, when I do post these holiday dumps, I often add an apologetic disclaimer of sorts: “You might want to mute me now, ha ha!” to signal I’m not completely mad and self-involved, that I do have some sense of humility.

And yet, every time I’m away, I find myself facing the same peculiar conundrum: do I post in real time and feel less present, or wait until I’m home when suddenly my memories become admin? Neither feels particularly satisfying. The obvious third option (to not post at all) doesn’t feel like an option at all.

There are photos to sort through, stories to catch up on, carousels to curate. An entirely self-imposed pressure to post before the moment somehow becomes stale. I’ve started thinking of it as the psychological admin of documenting joy.

All of this, and for a few thousand followers. If people like me, who don’t make a living online, feel obligated to narrativise their holidays, what does that say about how normalised this performance has become?

“Ourselves become shaped by public performance,” Sherry Turkle tells me. If anyone can explain why a holiday can feel unfinished until it’s posted online, it’s Turkle. For more than three decades, the MIT sociologist and author has explored how technology subtly alters our relationship with attention, memory and the self.

When I asked Turkle why so many of us feel compelled to document meaningful moments immediately, rather than trusting the experience itself to be enough, the response was hauntingly familiar: “We don’t feel we’ve had the experience until we share it.”

It tallies with writer Jia Tolentino’s observations. In “The I in the Internet”, one of the essays in Trick Mirror, she writes that as more people began to register their existence digitally, “a pastime turned into an imperative: you had to register yourself digitally to exist.”

Why do we feel pressure to post holiday photos?

I thought back to all of the moments that should have affirmed to me the majesty of the natural world—seeing an orca erupt from the ocean as the sun slipped into the Tofino harbour, say—but instead raced to pull out my phone, practically salivating over how well I expected this to ‘perform’ on social media.

Now, my memory of that night is inextricably bound to the 10-second reel I posted. In my mind, Rainy (that was the whale’s name) dove back into the deep sea just as quickly as he’d emerged, but when I recently backed up my phone and watched the unedited video, I realised he’d actually put on quite the performance, charting across the length of Vancouver Island harbour until the spray from his blowhole was all that was visible in the distance.

How social media shapes our memories

“There’s growing evidence that what we share on social media ends up being what we remember best,” explains Kathryn Jezer-Morton, author of The Story of Your Life: How Social Media Shapes the Way We Experience Everything. “This makes sense if you think about how we might revisit an image to see what people are commenting on it, or who’s liking it.” A single image, she says, can end up standing in for an entire evening in our minds.

Jezer-Morton argues that the more time we spend immersed in the visual language of social media, the more we search for opportunities to reproduce it in our own lives. We learn what an aspirational holiday or a beautiful moment looks like. “When an experience succeeds in this way, we think of it as fun,” she says. “But really, the ‘fun’ isn’t the experience itself … but rather the feeling of having stage-managed a momentary scene that will appeal to other people.”

Hearing this, my mind scanned through my own camera roll—and Instagram grid. Pet nat in glasses branded with the cool font of a local wine bar. Ballet flats posed on a cobbled street. Endless aesthetically pleasing details that say nary a thing about me as a person and aren’t, if I’m being honest, especially interesting to me save for the fact that I’m living out my own For You page. Truthfully, I’m not sure if I’m documenting my own life or just emulating the visuals I’ve absorbed from thousands of other people online.

The supposed satisfaction, Jezer-Morton argues, “has nothing to do with you, or even with the people you’re hanging out with. It has to do with people who aren’t present in the room.” The result, she says, is “fundamentally alienating.”

Are we turning our holidays into content?

And yet even when I know this to be true, the compulsion remains. “If I don’t post it now, I never will, and it’ll drive me mad,” one traveller told me on a recent press trip as she pulled out her phone to capture (and then quickly ignore) the verdant vista sprawling out in front of us.

And it’s not just those of us with content creator-adjacent jobs either. “I can’t explain it, I just need to get it posted,” one friend, with 331 followers, stressed to me. Another told me how she feels “guilty” about wasting good photos. This struck a noisy chord with me.

You don't have to be an influencer to feel this pressure

I wasn’t always cynical about this. In fact, I remember downloading Instagram for the first time with genuine excitement.

My uni flatmate had shown me a selection of photos on a new app I thought was the height of cool: a cupcake with a perfect swirl of frosting, a syrupy cocktail from a long-since shuttered Camden bar, and a new style of self-portraiture we didn’t yet have a name for. I’ve loved taking photographs for as long as I’ve lacked the technical skill to be particularly good at it, and I was instantly drawn to these ready-made filters with fun names like Valencia and X-Pro II.

I decided I needed Instagram for my upcoming holiday. By New Year’s Eve, I was posting from my then-boyfriend’s family home in Switzerland. I remember one especially “arty” image—snow-tipped fir trees flanking an icy clearing as though leading to Narnia—attracting a fistful of likes and feeling a new creative medium unfurling in front of me.

Armed with my new iPhone 5, I went off in search of Instagrammable moments with the zeal of Lee Miller documenting war-torn Europe. The aim wasn’t to make my meagre following jealous, or—heaven forbid—to build a brand. I simply enjoyed experimenting with a new creative outlet at a time when I was desperately trying to find my own creativity.

Early Instagram felt more playful than performative. It’s hard to imagine now, but it felt democratising. Suddenly, anyone could turn an ordinary photograph into something atmospheric, and it was fun finding things worth documenting. It made me seek out new experiences and, at that time, actually experience them rather than simply document.

But somewhere between the rise of influencers, creator culture and the relentless pressure to be visible online, holidays (and everything else) became content opportunities, and photos became inventory waiting to be processed.

According to Brooke Erin Duffy, an associate professor in the Department of Communication at Cornell University, the behaviours once associated primarily with influencers have seeped into the rest of us.

“Like social media personalities, ordinary users may feel compelled to mine their lives for content,” she tells me, describing a culture in which people stage photographs, tag products and project themselves as personal brands. Platforms themselves encourage this behaviour, continually prompting us to “put ourselves out there.”

Duffy explains that many of us have also been socialised to see self-presentation through the lens of work. What we post online might get us fired, but it could also get us hired. The highly curated posts that dominate social media, she suggests, reflect wider economic uncertainty, while platforms and brands continue to encourage what she calls “aspirational labour”: the idea that freely sharing content and growing an audience might one day pay off.

It’s an observation that helps explain why people like me, with a few thousand followers rather than a management team, can feel oddly burdened by documenting our downtime.

The result is a strange contradiction. We talk more than ever about being present. Wellness culture encourages mindfulness. Travel writers (I, too, have been guilty of this) extol the virtues of slowing down. Yet many of us move through our holidays with one eye on an imaginary future audience who might eventually consume them.

On a recent trip, I spent half my time trying to stay present, and the other half mentally scheduling future Instagram posts complete with captions about being present.

The experience and its documentation become inseparable.

Can we enjoy a holiday without posting it?

The annoying part is that I genuinely enjoy sharing my travels. I like photography. I like storytelling. I like seeing what friends have been up to. The problem isn’t posting; it’s the sense that a holiday isn’t over until it’s been posted, and the feeling that there’s the holiday, and then there’s the documented second version of the holiday that has to be curated later. Sometimes the two are wildly different.

A few years ago, I tacked on a few days at my boyfriend’s aunt’s house after a group trip to Spain. We stayed on the sofa of her one-bedroom apartment in the middle of a golf resort up the coast from Alicante, packed to the rafters with sunburnt Brits, but you wouldn’t know it from the pictures I posted.

Ironically, the dearth of content opportunities made that stay one of the most relaxing, and in turn, memorable trips of recent years. Now, when I look at those photos, of which there are few, I don’t feel overwhelmed wondering what to do with them so long after the trip. I look at them to remember. After all, isn’t that what photos are for?

It’s 5.45 am, and I’m Boston-bound, lugging a carry-on packed with carbon plate trainers, gels, kit and electrolytes through Heathrow Terminal 5. I’ve got 45 minutes until boarding, so I grab my usual—a Pret porridge, protein pot and cappuccino—and settle down with my book near the departures board.

If you saw me, you’d probably assume I was off on an early summer holiday or sightseeing trip. But rather than heading Stateside purely to explore the historical Harvard campus, grab far too many Dunkin’ iced coffees and catch some games at Fenway Park, I’ll be lacing up to run the infamous Boston Marathon.

The first time I travelled abroad for a race was in 2019, when a group of friends and I headed to Lisbon for the half-marathon. Post-pandemic, I travelled to Chicago to complete my first marathon abroad. And since then, I’ve kind of lost count, travelling all across the UK and abroad for races and fitness events. I’ve completed the Berlin, Valencia, and Boston Marathons, a four-day wellness retreat in Spain, and even ticked off a marathon walk along the Northumberland coast with my family.

Using my annual leave to tick off bucket list events that also boost my mood and fitness isn’t a question anymore; it’s just how I enjoy spending my spare time.

While holidaymakers have long prioritised “fly and flop” vacations, opting for all-inclusive resorts in sunny destinations decked out with pool, restaurant and bar, our appetite has shifted dramatically over the last decade, with travellers increasingly seeking out holidays centred around wellness, fitness, and active experiences.

While once seen as niche and reserved mainly for serious athletes and wellness enthusiasts, I’m now far from alone in choosing to use my annual leave in a more active way. While retreats have long been popular, travelling for fitness events like Hyrox competitions, international marathons, or dedicated hikes is only growing in popularity, becoming both a social and status-driven experience. Fitness and sports tourism is a half-trillion-dollar-plus industry that accounts for roughly 10% of global tourism spending. And data shows that wellness tourism is actually growing faster than traditional tourism and leisure travel segments, projected to grow at around 14 to 17% annually over the next five years.

More people than ever are planning their holidays around movement, whether that’s a marathon, half marathon, fitness competition like Hyrox, or yoga or Pilates-focused retreat. So what does the rise of “fitness tourism” say about how we’re choosing to travel and how we want to switch off? Is it about community, achievement, or a deeper shift in how we define rest and reward?

Don’t get me wrong—poolside holidays will always have their place. But alongside them, a surprising underdog has emerged in the form of fitness tourism. Below, I chat with some of the experts at the forefront of the movement to get their take.

How Fitness Tourism Is Redefining the Way We Travel

If you’d told fourteen-year-old Ally that she’d use a large chunk of her annual leave each year to run races abroad, she’d probably have laughed at you. I wasn’t a sporty kid —far from it—and I loathed exercise with a passion. But in my early 20s, I found running, and it’s no exaggeration to say it’s shaped my life, travel, and worldview ever since.

Many of my friends are the same; one person I spoke to for this piece has run several races around the UK and abroad, combining her love of running with travel. “I do it for the adventure,” she shares. “It’s such a great way and reason to see new places.” Many others I asked echoed the same sentiment, that travelling for fitness boosts adventure, opportunity, and discovery. “It’s an amazing way to explore new places and chase personal bests.”

For some, it’s about seeing destinations through a new lens—“I enjoy seeing areas of a city that aren’t on the typical tourist trail when running marathons”—while for others, it’s about seeing the best of the locals, too: “Nothing brings humans together more than cheering complete strangers taking on sporting events in their hometown. I love meeting people in other countries and sharing life experiences.”

One friend put it well, when I asked what the appeal was: “Someone said the NYC Marathon was the best day of their life. I entered the ballot there and then.” And this I really resonate with. Marathons are such a monumental achievement; completing one somewhere new offers a deeply tangible sense of purpose, adventure and connection.

There’s also an element of emotional escapism. Destination fitness events masterfully merge your athletic achievements with travel, culture and identity. Travelling to a new city to meet new, but like-minded, people can help you to realise a version of yourself outside of your everyday routine and boost your self-confidence tenfold.

One friend that I spoke to for this piece spends her weekends travelling to different Parkruns with her husband. She’s done 226 so far, eighteen overseas, and has no plans to stop any time soon. “Parkrunning is more than just a 5K for me. It’s quality time with my favourite people and getting outdoors. And then there’s all the places it takes me to, whether that’s a random park in a part of the UK I’d never have visited otherwise, or an underrated racecourse or the grounds of an epic country house."

Ultimately, everyone’s “whys” have a connecting thread: we’re actively seeking experiences for our annual leave that boost our body, mind, and mood. Holidays need to be restorative, but what we now view as restorative has undoubtedly evolved. “Building some element of wellness into a holiday is the only way I actually manage to switch off,” shares Marie Claire's Social Media Editor Dionne Brighton. “It’s become the main thing I look for when booking.”

Movement-Packed Holidays > Fly and Flop

Across the industry, experts are noticing the same: people are shifting from seeking out passive to experiential travel. As Alex Rowe from Motiv Sports UK, the organiser of HOKA Hackney Moves, puts it, “People want trips that feel earned, purposeful and shareable. In this digital world, holidays are no longer just about relaxation; they’re about storytelling and achievement.”

Take Hackney Half Marathon, as an example: runners took to the streets this year from 33 different nations, with people flying all the way from Hong Kong, Singapore and New Zealand.

Jeff Adams, President of Marathon Tours & Travel, agrees. They’ve long been leading the charge on the active holiday front, combining world-class marathon experiences with expertly curated packages for runners, turning race day into a seamless travel adventure. They’ve seen enormous growth over the past ten years, and he believes that many are replacing “standard” holidays with more fitness-focused fun. “Today's travellers are turning the most remote corners of the planet into a collective celebration of community, culture, and healthy living."

Restorative Time Off As the New Non-Negotiable

There are many reasons this may be happening, including the fast pace of modern life and a shift in our understanding of how fundamentally integral wellbeing is. As Louise Day, Fitness & Wellbeing Director at Champneys Wellness Spas, one of the UK’s most established wellness destinations, says, “Wellness travel has shifted from indulgence to essential maintenance for mind, body and soul. It’s no longer just about relaxation; it’s about expert-led programmes that deliver physical and mental benefits.”

Lewis Moses from RunThrough, a leading organiser of mass participation running events, reckons that COVID played its part in encouraging people to live healthier lifestyles. “Having [freedom of movement, travelling and fitness events] taken away during COVID made many put a value on exercising and making the most of the time you have off. People want to come back from holiday feeling good as opposed to feeling wiped.”

Community, Culture, Identity

Of course, fitness tourism also offers something that your standard holidays may not—it brings you together with like-minded people who you otherwise wouldn’t have met. “Not only do you get a chance to see a global city, but you get a chance to interact with people and communities,” Moses adds. “You’re not just ticking off life goals in terms of travel; you’re also ticking off big goals in terms of personal development.”

It’d be remiss to overlook the wider cultural shift towards wellness as an identity. People no longer work out purely for aesthetic reasons; millions around the globe move to boost their mental health, improve self-development, and be part of a wider community. As Moritz Fürste, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer at HYROX, puts it when we catch up, “It says something quite profound about how our relationship with both health and success has shifted. People's priorities have changed.”

More than 111,000 athletes have now travelled to compete in HYROX races across two or more regions worldwide, with nearly 30,000 athletes competing in three or more regions (for context, there were just 50 travelling competitors in 2018 compared to more than 111,000 in 2026). He reckons this is because generationally, our attitudes have seismically shifted: we now crave identity, community, and performance in an increasingly isolating world. “HYROX represents the desire to perform. It's not just about feeling well, it's about testing yourself, competing and coming home with a result after training so hard. That pursuit of personal excellence, regardless of age or background, feels very much like the defining attitude of this current generation.”

In an era of burnout and digital overload, fitness tourism offers an experience people can’t get elsewhere: structure, connection and an unrivalled sense of accomplishment, all while exploring somewhere new.

Redefining Luxury

At the same time, how we view luxury has quietly shifted: now, it’s not enough to book a five-star hotel with an all-inclusive food and drinks package. Travellers expect a fully fledged wellness offering—Pilates, yoga, saunas, guided hikes, state-of-the-art gym facilities, nutrient-dense menu options, and non-alcoholic, low-sugar drinks, too. Oh, and don’t forget the sound baths.

As Adams reflects, “Fitness tourism consistently shows that our ideas of luxury, achievement, and self-care are expanding and intersecting. True luxury is about feeling alive, pushing your limits, and treating your mind and body right.” He also shares that a growing number of their clients are willing to spend more on more high-end fitness experiences—take the recently launched Marathon Tours and Travel “Prestige Packages" for example, which sold out almost immediately.

The more I dive deep into this topic, the more apparent it becomes to me that fitness tourism is multifaceted and likely highly individual. Hyrox fans may combine a holiday with a competition for a sense of personal accomplishment and to ensure they stick to a training plan; marathon runners may tick off 26.2’s around the globe to tap into the wider running community and to meet like-minded people; low-impact enthusiasts heading to retreats may be looking for new ways to unwind and return home feeling their best selves.

But they all have one thing in common: that people are viewing wellness as part of their identity. For some, true luxury now lies in how we feel, both physically and mentally, day to day—it's not about designer bags or luxe brands, but rather the quality of life.

Dr Melanie agrees that the meaning of status has changed. “It’s less about visible luxury and more about access to time, expertise, prevention and highly personalised care. Being able to invest in one’s health has become a new form of privilege. However, the most meaningful part of wellness travel is not symbolic, but practical. Its value lies in whether it helps people live with more energy, clarity and long-term health.”

Fürste adds: “People no longer prioritise materialism; rather, access to experiences, and that's exactly what we're building with HYROX Experiences. Our first-ever HYROX Cruise in October will host a never-before-seen training concept built around our four core pillars ‘Foundation, Engine, Power and Complete’, combined with exclusive access to world champions and internationally renowned coaches sharing insights into their training, nutrition and performance strategies. That kind of access was previously reserved for elite athletes. Now it's available to anyone willing to show up and put in the work.”

For so long, travel was a pretty “one size fits all,” with data showing that while many wanted to explore new places, the majority just wanted to switch off somewhere hot and with good food and drink options. Now, the face of travel as we know it has evolved: people are actively seeking more, and that “more” is movement.

No longer a niche, but a fast-growing sector reshaping how we holiday, wellness shouldn’t be an afterthought, extra cost, or add-on; it should be integrated, so that more people get to experience the life-changing benefits that good sleep, regular movement and nutrient-dense food can bring.

All I have to say? Well, that you heard it here first.

If you’re chasing that elusive Parisian sweet spot—somewhere intimate yet polished, central yet calm—Padam Hôtel is for you. Tucked on a discreet street in the 16th arrondissement, just minutes from the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées, this boutique hotel is a quietly chic Paris bolthole perfect for a quick city break, or, in my case, a base during Paris Fashion Week. With early starts and late returns, finding a hotel that is both stylish and well located is always essential. For my full review of the hotel, plus tips if you do decide to stay, keep scrolling…

The Vibe

Small enough to feel like a well-kept secret, Padam trades grand-hotel theatrics for something softer and more contemporary. Housed in a beautiful Haussmann-style red-brick building—a classic example of traditional Parisian architecture—it sits with quiet elegance on the street. If you’re a fan of Soho House interiors, the mid-century wood finishes, bouclé sofas, and earthy marble bathrooms will be pleasing to the eye. Most importantly, it feels instantly calming after a day navigating the city’s intensity.

The Rooms

Padam Hôtel’s rooms blend contemporary Parisian style with understated elegance. Neutral tones, subtle pops of colour, and sculptural lighting create a calm, refined feel. Though compact, they’re thoughtfully designed, with plenty of natural light and sleek marble bathrooms. The result is a quiet, comfortable retreat that feels polished, intimate, and distinctly boutique. I stayed in a Junior Suite, complete with a desk area for late-night editing and ample wardrobe space—a must during Paris Fashion Week.

The Location

This is where Padam really shines. Set in a polished yet relatively peaceful pocket of the 16th arrondissement, it’s within walking distance of major landmarks, with metro stations like George V close by—making it easy to dip in and out of the city while still enjoying a quieter, more residential feel. This is by far the reason why I would book this hotel again.

The Facilities

For a boutique hotel, the offering is surprisingly well-rounded. There’s a small fitness space and a hammam—ideal for unwinding post-sightseeing or, in my case, after a busy day of back-to-back fashion shows—as well as a cosy restaurant serving classic French cuisine, perfect for early morning breakfasts or a quiet meal at the end of the day. On evenings when I returned to the hotel later, there’s also a great Italian restaurant just a two-minute walk away.

The Verdict

Padam Hôtel is a quietly confident addition to Paris’s boutique scene: stylish without being showy, central without being chaotic. It won’t suit those craving sprawling suites or palatial grandeur, but for design-conscious travellers who value location, comfort and a sense of calm, I would recommend it without a doubt.

Marie Claire verdict: A polished, intimate base for a chic Paris city break—best booked with a room upgrade for that extra breathing space.

Le Mas de Chabran sits quietly in the Alpilles, a sun-warmed corner of Provence that feels removed from the pace of everyday life. From the moment you step through the gates, the beauty of it all immediately slows you down. It’s often booked for weddings, birthdays and anniversaries, and after a few hours here, I can see why. The gardens are immaculately kept, and there’s a romantic, almost storybook stillness to the estate that makes everyday life feel very far away.

The magic of Le Mas de Chabran is cumulative: beautifully tended gardens, artworks placed with intention, and design choices that feel considered with a consistent sense of care running through the house, all contribute to an atmosphere that feels personal, relaxing, and built for a beautiful time.

The Vibe

There's a quiet rhythm to life at Le Mas de Chabran that’s hard to come by elsewhere. Mornings are slow and unstructured, often beginning with breakfast outside, accompanied only by the sound of the central fountain. Time stretches easily here, with no real distinction between morning and afternoon, as breakfast drifts into a stroll, a dip in the pool, and then getting ready for a long, leisurely lunch.

There’s a kitchen garden to wander through, and, tucked into the greenery, a striking pool surrounded by art rather than neat rows of loungers. Apart from the occasional splash, there’s very little to interrupt the calm. Slowing down the Provençal way quickly becomes second nature, with long lunches, golden evenings, unhurried dinners, and plenty of wine.

The Story

The mas dates back to the 18th century and was originally built to produce olive oil, a purpose that still shapes the property today. Parts of the original structure remain intact, including architectural elements and installations once used in the oil-making process, giving the house a tangible sense of history rather than a purely decorative one (although it is decorated to perfection).

In 2017, the estate entered a new chapter when it was carefully restored and reimagined, opening to guests in 2019. The result is a rare balance: a house that honours its past without feeling stuck in it, made modern through art, light and thoughtful design, and a room you never want to leave.

The Rooms

The interior is just as impressive as the exterior. The house is filled with curated pieces of art, many by local artists, and it’s the kind of place where you keep noticing small details you missed earlier in the day.

There are eight bedrooms in total, all beautifully finished, each with its own bathroom and views across the grounds. Waking up to see the estate’s horses quietly grazing nearby became one of my favourite parts of the stay. At the very top of the house, a converted loft houses a small gym and sauna. Service throughout feels effortless. The house is immaculate at all times, but never in a way that feels intrusive or over-managed. Everything simply happens when it needs to, leaving you to enjoy the space without ever thinking about logistics.

Food and the surrounding area

Food quickly becomes a focal point here. Guests can choose to book a private chef for their stay, either full-time or for select evenings, and it’s well worth doing so. During my visit, dinners prepared by resident chef Quentin Laidet were consistently memorable, thoughtful, and deeply rooted in Provençal flavours. It’s the kind of cooking you find yourself thinking about weeks later.

Beyond the estate, the surrounding area lends itself to slow exploration. Think vineyards, long lunches and time spent outdoors. Horse riding through the wider landscape, including nearby wetlands, offers a completely different perspective on Provence, while the local villages provide just enough bustle before you’re happy to retreat back “home”.

How To Book

Le Mas de Chabran is exceptional. Between the beauty of the setting, the depth of its history, the art-filled interiors and the quiet care behind every detail, it’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

The estate is available for private hire and sleeps up to 16 guests across eight bedrooms, with the option to add a private chef and tailor your stay depending on how you want to experience it.

To find out more, visit the official website, call +33 (0)6 51 52 09 99, or email reservations@domainesdechabran.com.

Quietly arched between Thailand and Indonesia, Malaysia is often overlooked by the throng of beach-seeking travellers heading to the familiar sandy shores of Bali and Koh Samui. But they’re missing something quite extraordinary by skipping over this diverse and vibrant destination: islands with lush, sprawling rainforests and stretches of unspoilt beaches, luxury sea villas bobbing over sparkling emerald waters, and a feeling that there's far more to explore than its traditionally popular neighbours.

Why Go

While it feels significantly less populated by tourists, this year Malaysia beat Thailand to become Southeast Asia’s most visited country. It’s gaining momentum as an affordable alternative that doesn’t compromise on luxury, with a number of five star resorts offering guests a taste of untouched paradise. At Tanjong Jara Resort in Terengganu, a snorkelling trip to Tenggol Island means you’re the only small boat in the water. Further west, Pangkor Laut Resort boasts one of the most surreal and dreamlike private beaches, Emerald Bay, where just a handful of guests can be found lounging under the palm trees on any given day. So, if there’s ever a time to visit Malaysia - it’s now.

Where to Stay

Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur

Fly into KL and check into the Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur for five star inner-city luxury in the covetable Golden Triangle business district. Spend a couple of days exploring Malaysia’s bustling and busy capital city, and don't miss the mouthwatering food scene; book a table at the hotel’s award-winning dim sum and Chinese restaurant, Li Yen, or head out to explore Jalan Alor’s famous street food market in Bukit Bintang. Brimming with Malaysian, Chinese and Thai dishes, it satiates both locals and tourists.

From the hotel, take a leisurely twenty minute stroll to The Petronas Towers - lit up and glistening by dusk, these unmissable beacons stretch 1,500 ft into the night sky. Head to China Town for a night cap at one of the area’s hidden speakeasies - you’ll even find a secret underground bar within the old Oriental Bank vaults, underneath the Moxy Kuala Lumpur Chinatown hotel. For panoramic views of KL, Heli Lounge Bar sits on the 36th floor of Menara KH and transforms from a functioning helipad by day to a thriving rooftop bar by night.

Tanjong Jara Resort

When you’re ready to leave the busy city behind, head north east towards Terengganu and check into Tanjong Jara Resort for laid back coastal charm with a luxury lilt. The journey will take around four hours by private transfer, and the region offers unparalleled diving opportunities. Book a boat trip to Tenggol Island, an unbelievably quiet and largely untouched spot where you can snorkel in glassy waters spotting turtles, reef sharks and eagle rays, then head to the cove’s pristine white sand for a sun snooze.

Back at the resort, you'll find an unbelievably quiet stretch of beach punctuated by canopy day beds. Make sure you set an alarm to catch the sunrise from here; the sky streaks red, coral and lavender as the day breaks, and it's a truly spectacular way to start your day. Don't miss the Taste of Terengganu Signature Experience, which takes place every Saturday and offers guests the opportunity to sample local delicacies. From May to August, you can also visit the turtle hatchery and witness the hatchlings being safely guided to the sea by in-house conservationists.

Pangkor Laut Resort

From Kuala Lumpur you can also head north west towards Pangkor Laut Resort - similarly, a four hour drive by private transfer - and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this private island. Here, you can really slow down; the only place you need to be is by the pool, or by the sea. Book an overwater bungalow and marvel at the deep-set marble bath that overlooks the softly lapping water below. It's impossible to feel anything but peace here. During the days, gently hike through the sprawling rainforest, sip fresh coconuts alongside the resident hornbills, or spend lazy afternoons at the majestic Emerald Bay beach.

Before you leave, book a treatment at the Spa Village. The experience is incredibly unique: to start, you'll visit the secluded and leafy bath house which takes you on an invigorating journey of Asian wellbeing practices, from Indian purifying ablutions to a traditional Japanese onsen. The 3-hour Dandan Puteri Tujuh treatment, featuring massages, scrubs and a rose petal milk bath, will leave you feeling like royalty.

How to get there

Direct flights operate daily between London Heathrow and Kuala Lumpur International Airport, although you’ll find more flight flexibility if you opt for a layover. Transit through Istanbul Airport and enjoy the comforts of the Turkish Airlines lounge on your outbound and inbound journeys.

How to book

For more information, visit YTL Hotels. To book directly, reservations can be made via Pangkor Laut Resort, the Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur and Tanjong Jara Resort.

Global-All-Inclusive packages can also be booked directly via the resorts websites (for Pangkor Laut and Tanjong Jara Resort) and will unlock complimentary speedboat transfers from Pangkor Laut to the mainland. The all-inclusive getaway includes curated dining, logistics with return land and sea transfers for Pangkor Laut, and a programme of immersive activities such as jungle treks and turtle education as well as wellness offerings including yoga and meditation.

Why Go

When you're in need of a weekend reset, the easier it is to reach the better. And for those looking to unwind here in the UK rather than booking a trip overseas, the De Vere Cotswold Water Park is a serene and peaceful bolthole in the heart of the Cotswolds. It may be located in south-west England, but the lush landscape feels as expansive as the Lake District. While conveniently located just 20 minutes off the M4 and M5, you'll feel as though you've been transported miles away; as a large, tranquil nature park surrounded by 180 lakes in the region, it's incredibly peaceful.

There’s also lots to do, whether you want to wander around the hotel’s sprawling grounds or leisurely explore the nearby country parks and inland beaches. For thrill seekers, there's plenty of opportunity for adventure with a variety of water sports, horse-riding and even archery. A highlight is, undeniably, the nearby Cotswold Country Park and Beach. It’s the UK’s largest inland beach with plenty to keep the whole family happy, from boat hire to little karts for kids. And, importantly, lots of space to relax.

The Hotel

The hotel comprises 328 rooms and apartments in total, and is modern, spacious and great for families. An intimate nature retreat encased by lakes, wetlands and grassy areas, the hotel is by Lake Six and has stunning views of the water and wildlife: think natural materials like wood, stone and glass, all designed to make the most of natural surroundings. On arrival, you'll receive a handy map of the site and lake, as well as a guide to all the activities around the area. You have the option to stay in rooms, or to select self-catering pet-friendly studios. If you're travelling with little ones, the one or two-bed, apartments come with a kitchenette and lounge area, private balcony or garden, making it a spacious and well-equipped home away from home.

Food and Drink

There are two main restaurants on site - The Brasserie, where you'll find a delicious breakfast, quaint afternoon tea and a laid-back, family-friendly dinner. On the menu, there are charcuterie boards to share, juicy steaks, towering burgers and an excellently rich banoffee cheesecake. Make sure you leave time to visit The Old Boathouse, too. Set by the lake with breathtaking views of the surroundings, it’s an Italian-inspired restaurant with an elevated dining atmosphere (especially if you go around sunset). Here, you'll find crispy calamari, oozing burrata, creamy wild mushroom and truffle ravioli, and a silky Panna cotta.

Things to Do

Spa6 is the hotel’s large wellness facility, and a great spot for afternoon relaxation by the pool. Boasting massage jets, a hydrotherapy pool and a relaxing sensory shower, there's also a large gym and various treatment rooms offering massages and beauty therapies. Try the Japanese Head Spa treatment - it's totally invigorating, and you'll feel utterly renewed. For those with children, the little ones will love the on-site playground, with plenty of space to run around freely.

Beyond the hotel, the Cotswolds is famous for its ornate towns and villages which are dotted with cosy cafes and fine dining restaurants. It's also close to Cirencester, an historic town thriving with markets, museums, cafes and an open-air swimming pool. Spend time at the Cotswold Sculpture Park and Cotswold Country Park and Beach, with its large inland beach, SUPs, boat and kayak-hire.

Relaxed, well-located, and enough to keep even the most active in your group occupied, this is an easy win for chilled breaks and activity-filled weekends alike.

Booking information

Rooms from £119 a night. Visit devere.co.uk, or call 0333 344 9200

Curled along the Grand Gaube coast on the northern tip of Mauritius, Veranda Paul et Virginie Hotel and Spa is cushioned by a sprawling verdant landscape and minty green shores. The adults-only resort, which underwent extensive renovations in 2023, offers guests the opportunity to slow down in style - whether that means reading on the sandy coves peppered with thatched parasols, or devouring succulent seafood enveloped by the sparkling stretches of the Indian ocean.

Why Go

Mauritius draws in over 100,000 UK tourists each year, and it’s easy to see why this lush and idyllic island has, for decades, remained a popular destination for Brits seeking sun and serenity. Sandy coastlines are hugged by ombré waters, shifting seamlessly from deep turquoise to steel blue, and temperatures remain pleasant throughout the year making it an excellent sun-soaked spot for winter getaways. The island also stands proud of its rich Creole heritage, the beating heart of Mauritius’ culinary and cultural identity, and promises a vibrant immersion for all those who visit. On the quiet shores of Grand Gaube, Paul et Virginie is the four-star hotel and spa that effortlessly blends laid-back island living with indulgent resort comforts.

The Vibe

Fusing rustic touches with contemporary charm, the resort is a love letter to traditional Creole design elements; airy, open spaces and tall ceilings meet exposed stone and stacked wooden beams. Outside, paths weave between unfurling palm trees and sun beds are expertly positioned to catch the swirling strawberry sunsets. But the endlessly unfolding infinity pool is, undeniably, the jewel in the resort’s crown. Here, guests swim under the sun and alongside the horizon, taking in the panoramic views of the pristine bay beyond. By nightfall, it’s awash with low-lighting and the quiet buzz of diners.

The vibe is unmistakably romantic, yes, with gorgeous peaceful pockets and venust views that guarantee glassy eyes - but you'll find a mix of couples, friends and solo travellers. A hub for rest and relaxation with delicious beachfront beauty, it caters not just to loved-up honeymooners but acts as a soothing sanctuary for those seeking stillness and self-care, too.

The Food and Drink

Paul et Virginie has a small but robust culinary offering, with two main restaurants and two bars spanning casual beach bites to more elevated dining. Isle de France, the resort’s main restaurant, curves around a glassy drop-pool and places diners under a traditional Mauritian thatch while directly in front of the peachy evening sky. By morning, the restaurant hosts a breakfast buffet boasting both continental and cooked options. Alongside succulent chunks of pineapple and mouthwatering papaya, you’ll find flaky pain au chocolats, creamy yoghurts and a variety of meats and cheeses.

But if you’re looking for something really special, head to Le Saint Géran. With tables lining a sandy pier, listen to the waves lapping gently at the shore as you dig in to a seafood feast. Try the juicy prawn skewers followed by a buttery soft steak, and leave room for a smoky and sweet banana flambé.

Throughout the day, there are sweet treats in abundance - the pancake station is a delicious sugar-fix in the late afternoon - and the resort also hosts lobster nights on the beach. Evenings focus on a community feel, featuring live music and light bites to draw guests together and share both food and stories.

The Rooms

With 81 sea-view rooms, the sparkling ocean and towering palms offer a picturesque backdrop to your downtime. Opt for a Superior Room, which includes a balcony overlooking the northern islands - a deliciously calming spot for a morning coffee as the sun rises. Inside, a grounding palette of earthy tones compliments the natural materials: think wicker chairs, rattan lampshades and flowing, cotton curtains. Comprising the usual comforts - king bed, wifi, AC - you'll also be privy to a pillow menu if you upgrade to a slightly larger Privilege Room.

Things to Do

Book the Seven Colours Signature Ritual massage at the onsite spa, a 90 minute holistic and chakra-informed treatment focusing on physical and spiritual relaxation. Throughout the week, the resort hosts a range of activities for guests, ranging from water volley, dominos at the boathouse or Creole language lessons. It’s also well placed for boat trips to snorkelling hotspots, and guests can enjoy free use of kayaks, paddle boards and pedal boats.

Beyond the resort, take a free shuttle to the nearby town of Grand Baie - just twenty minutes away - where you’ll find plenty of markets and a thriving nightlife. Here, you’ll also find the family-friendly Veranda Grand Baie; an all-inclusive waterfront hotel that feels intimate and warm.

To learn more about the island’s history, a trip to L'Aventure du Sucre is a must. While primarily a museum focused on the evolution of sugar production in Mauritius, it also offers visitors an in-depth overview of the island’s colonial, political and economic history.

Additional information

Air Mauritius and British Airways offer direct flights from London to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU). For connecting flights, Emirates offer several daily services via Dubai. On arrival, take a 90 minute taxi to the north of the island to the village of Grand Gaube, where Veranda Paul et Virginie is located directly on the coastline. Private transfers are bookable through the reservations team. The hotel offers free parking and can facilitate taxis, car rentals and excursions. The facilities also include a full spa, gym, and an onsite boat house for water sports (including free kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing).

How to book

For more information about booking a stay at Paul et Virginie Hotel Hotel & Spa, visit Veranda Resorts. For general enquiries, events and corporate bookings, you can contact the team by phone (+230 260 5101) or via email (resa@vlh.mu).

Boasting a coastline that stretches almost 13,000 km along the Indian Ocean, Western Australia draws in adventure-seekers and beach dwellers with an abundance of rugged landscapes and white sand.

Why Go

Those with a penchant for outdoor thrills and extraordinary road trips will head north to swim with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef or hike spectacular trails in the Kimberly, while the south proposes unmissable experiences for laid-back and epicurean travellers; the Margaret River region, a culinary pocket poised to satiate foodies and wine aficianados, is populated with world-class vineyards and immaculate beach houses. Given it’s sizeable chunk of the land mass (accounting for a third of the country, no less), WA offers a diverse flavour of Australia - whether you’re into island hopping, diving, wildlife or wineries.

The Vibe

Perth, the state’s capital, is fast becoming a cultural touch point for tourists. It was, famously, Coldplay’s only Australian stop during their 2023 world tour, and most recently the city hosted the first test during the 2025-26 Ashes series. Luxury hotels line the CBD skyline while some of the country’s most spectacular beaches buffer the shore, offering a rather magical front-row seat to peachy sunsets and midnight blue waters. Despite being a relatively small city compared to its east coast counterparts, the suburbs have distinct personalities; Northbridge is dominated by lively wine bars, Cottesloe boasts fine dining and even finer sand, and Fremantle is the embodiment of easy-going Aussie coffee culture.

The city also acts as a convenient launchpad to explore the epic beauty of the northern bays and beaches. The journey to Broome is punctuated by sea turtles in Monkey Mia, coral reef in Exmouth, and red gorges in Karijini National Park. Drive south from Perth to Esperance and you’ll be met with cooler temperatures, surf spots and leading gastronomy.

What to Do

From Perth, head to Fremantle and catch the indoor market every weekend - you’ll find everything from handmade trinkets to mouth-watering gozleme. A leisurely twenty minute walk will take you to South Beach, a popular spot for calm, clear water and squeaky-clean sand, and a thirty minute ferry will transport you to Rottnest Island. Yes, that is the home of the exceptionally cute quokkas. There, rent a bike and cycle to secluded coves and cyan lagoons before checking into the luxe Discovery Resort tents for an overnight stay. It’s a comfortable choice for glampers with an in-built kitchenette, wooden flooring, power shower and king size bed.

Back in the city enjoy a rooftop climb at Optus Stadium to watch the sun set from the brim of the iconic venue, and leave time for a walking tour with Oh Hey WA - it’s a fun way to explore Perth’s street art, history and architecture. If you’re keen for more beach hopping, add Cottesloe, Scarborough and Coogee to your list. Rockingham is where you’ll find a glassy shallow shore, and it’s also the pick-up point for Perth Wildlife Encounters, an eco-tourism award-winning operator and one of the only ethically recognised wildlife tours in the country.

For a trip within a trip, drive down to Busselton and enjoy light bites and a pint at Shelter, an airy and vibrant brewery overlooking the jetty. Pop to Little Otto’s Big Choc Shop for some incredibly moreish chocolate-covered crisps before heading to the heart of Margaret River for a robust taste of Western Australia’s culinary region. With a drier Mediterranean climate, it’s home to more than 200 sprawling vineyards, a smattering of revered cheesemakers and chocolatiers, and a handful of olive farms. Book a day tour with Forage Safaris to explore the very best of the local produce, from wine tasting at Voyager Estate to a paddock-to-plate experience at Glenarty Road farm.

Nearby, you’ll also find a unique opportunity to learn about the land and its history. The Koomal Dreaming Ngilgi Cave cultural tour is a truly special guided exploration of local indigenous culture from Wadandi custodian, Josh ‘Koomal’ Whiteland. After a bushwalk identifying indigenous plants and delving into the six Noongar seasons, descend 39 metres into the belly of this historic and fascinating karst cave.

Where to Eat and Drink

Perth

Wildflower - set on the fourth floor of COMO The Treasury, this fine-dining restaurant focuses on a rotation of ingredients and dishes that compliment the six distinct seasons of the indigenous Noongar calendar

Gibneys - this award-winning Cottesloe hotspot is one for the foodies. The menu is bursting with exceptional seafood: pillowy oysters, succulent ceviche, decadent pastas tossed with lobster - and there's even world-class Glacier 51 Toothfish

Shadow Bar & Kitchen - with low lighting, small plates and a carefully curated wine selection, enjoy delicious light bites and apertifs in this chic and trendy Northbridge nook

Margaret River

Lamont's Smiths Beach - Laid-back dining that doesn't compromise on flavour, enjoy fat tiger prawns dripping in harissa and honey and half shell scallops topped with tobiko and nori butter. Leave room for the deliciously rich dark chocolate cheesecake with espresso mascarpone

Glenarty Road farm - Perfect for foodies and wine-lovers alike, sample premium produce in the rustic farmhouse kitchen. After some mouth-watering charcuterie with a flight of five wines, take a tour of the working farm

Busselton

Shelter - a relaxed beachfront brewery on the jetty serving a range of locally brewed beers and pale ales alongside wood-fired pizzas, crisp salads and juicy burgers

Where to Stay

In Perth, The Westin offers sprawling suites with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It also boasts an exceptional spa and peaceful rooftop pool - impressively quiet considering its inner city location. If you're looking for inescapable dazzle, across the Swan River sits The Crown Perth: a thriving, golden mini-city comprising almost 1,200 rooms across three hotels, plus a smattering of high-end dining options, designer boutiques, water parks and a buzzy casino.

Further south in the Margaret River region, spend a few nights at Smiths Beach Resort for unrivalled coastal opulence - think large, light and airy waterfront homes peppered between along the sandy Cape to Cape track, overlooking the glittering Indian Ocean. Bliss.

For more information and to plan your trip, visit www.westernaustralia.com.

It's rare in life that you find a hotel that's really, truly hard to fault. So many miss a crucial element - the foods isn't the best quality, the rooms a touch on the small side, or the wellness offering a small, box room with no air conditioning and minimal equipment. But not the newly opened The Newman hotel in Fitzrovia, which I was lucky enough to stay at last month and have been raving about ever since.

It's hard to know where to begin - from a full-floor wellness centre, to independent and thoughtful mini bar options, to the effortlessly welcoming and sophisticated Scandi design, every touch has been thought through and does exactly what it says on the tin: making you feel instantly at home. If your home had been curated by award-winning interior designers, of course.

Situated in the very heart of London, between Marylebone, Mayfair and Soho, the art-deco hotel from Kinsfolk & Co has been highly anticipated - and for good reason. The British hospitality newcomers don't do things by halves: with design from Lind + Almond and nods throughout to Fitzrovia's literary past, it's boutique but design-led; friendly, while always offering five-star service.

With CEO and founder Paul Brackley at the helm, you can see why. His CV spans the Shangri-La Group to The Shard, and he's clearly brought his magic to this new opening, too.

For my full review of the hotel, plus tips for if you do decide to stay, keep scrolling.

Honestly? I can't recommend The Newman in Fitzrovia highly enough

The vibes

The interiors have been carefully curated, combining calming, wooden tones with modern stainless steel.

Artwork from Christopher Brown, Marcel Garbi and Sandhills Studios runs throughout the hotel, with black and white photos of the local area from Rory Langdon-Down.

The staff are instantly welcoming without being overbearing - attentive while letting you enjoy your stay.

The rooms

The Newman offers 81 rooms and suites, with a cohesive design throughout. Warm, natural hues and curved furniture edges sit alongside stone bathroom walls and textured artwork.

The view of the BT Tower from our room instantly reminds you that you're nestled in the very heart of London. Pillows are plush, and the mini bar offering is extensive, with a variety of independently owned snack brands, drinks, and even wellness amenities on offer (I'm talking CBD drops, mood-boosting supplements, and more).

The bathrooms are particularly beautiful - they feel nostalgic yet perfectly modern, and are kitted out with Anatome amenities, a brand I've long loved for their essential oil-rich products and sustainable business credentials.

If you're feeling really boujie, do check out The Penthouse, a spacious, decadent room with a private terrace, sauna, and cold plunge.

The food

Head to the ground floor and you'll find Brasserie Angelica, a light, bright space offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. On the menu, a variety of modern European food - think steak tartare, grilled prawns, and a Swedish west coast salad packed with prawns, mussels, crab and mushrooms. I enjoyed the pickled gravadlax (the mustard sauce is particularly special) and the buttermilk fried Haddock with celeriac remoulade, and couldn't fault it.

Just behind the restaurant, you'll find Gambit, an atmospheric bar with regular live music. Every single cocktail on the menu can include alcohol or no alcohol, a detail I found particularly impressive and inclusive.

Come breakfast, you can enjoy an à la carte menu downstairs or opt for room service instead. They offer all your usual favourites - smoked salmon, eggs Florentine, and a hearty porridge. But don't sleep on the artichoke on sourdough - a stroke of culinary genius.

The facilities

Now this is where, in my opinion, The Newman truly comes into its own. There are plenty of UK hotels doing boutique stylishly and well, with pretty unparalleled attention to detail and customer service. But if you're on the fence about staying at TN, know this: the amenities on offer are truly unrivalled.

As a Health Editor, you best believe I headed almost instantly to their floor-wide Wellness Centre, a catch-all term that many other hotels use to refer to a boxy, unairconditioned room with a few kettlebells. At The Newman, the gym is spacious, light, and bright, decked to the nines with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, Peloton bikes and Hyperice recovery tools. There's room temperature and chilled tap water, towels, and even a dedicated yoga and Pilates studio, where some of my favourite teachers, including Ashlea McKee and Eva Syti, offer complimentary classes.

Just around the corner, you have the wet room, which includes a sauna, steam room, experience shower, hydrotherapy pool, and ice and salt room, marking a first for any London hotel. I've tested a fair few wellness-focused hotels in my time, and this is up there with the best: wellness, winding down, and taking time to centre yourself woven into the very fabric of your stay, a simple inclusion rather than an add-on or an afterthought.

The space is calming, grounded, and welcoming - it's hard not to feel instantly at ease. If you'd like to book a treatment, they offer facials and massages on offer in the spa.

To book your stay at 50 Newman Street, W1T 3EB, head to The Newman website or call 020 3989 8100. Double rooms with breakfast included start from £695 in low season and from £765 in high.

Spring has officially sprung. The sun is intermittently popping through the clouds, the long weekend is stretching out before us and there's a buzz in the air now that we have extra hours of light. So, what's new when it comes to things to do in the UK this April?

This month, I've found one of the chicest café openings in London which is destined to be a new city hotspot thanks to its signature pastry, the Sloane Pain au Suisse (expect to see it all over TikTok soon). Elsewhere in the capital, you'll find a date-worthy Dim Sum masterclass overlooking the river, a free art exhibition exploring vulnerability and resilience, and a cute book festival at Alexandra Palace. Beyond the M25, there's Easter magic to be enjoyed with little ones at Leeds Castle, and an incredible opportunity to hike the gorgeous Isles of Scilly as part of the archipelago's annual walking festival.

So whether you're planning on spending April in the great outdoors or tucked away in a cosy romantic bar corner, here are the things not to miss across the UK this month.

Things to do this April

Art and Culture

Explore vulnerability and mental health through art at Two Temple Place, London

The Weight of Being exhibition at Two Temple Place in Westminster is an exploration of vulnerability and resilience through art. Curated by Angela Thomas, it's a collection of deeply personal and collective experiences from artists who have channelled mental health struggles into stories of truth, identity, and hope.

WHEN AND WHERE: now until 19th April 2026 at Two Temple Place, Westminster. Free entry. More info here.

Enjoy the vibrant North London Book Festival at Alexandra Palace, London

A vibrant celebration of literature in one of the capitals most culturally important venues, the North London Book Fest at Alexandra Palace comprises of four days of author talks, Q&As and panel discussions. Plus, there are lots of fun workshop opportunities for little writers to nurture their inner authors, too.

WHEN AND WHERE: 23 to 26 2026 at Alexandra Palace, London. More info and ticket availability here.

Food

Discover new flavours at The General Tarleton, North Yorkshire

Once an 18th-century coaching inn and now The General Tarleton, this thriving North Yorkshire pub is co-owned by Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks with the kitchen headed by Exec Chef Aled Williams. This month, they're launching a programme of one-off collaborative dinners with esteemed chefs from across the UK, inviting culinary rockstars to join The Guest Chef Series. Guest cooks include Lisa Goodwin-Allen of Great British Menu and Chef Patron-Director of Michelin-starred Northcote.

WHEN AND WHERE: From 28th April 2026 at The General Tarleton, North Yorkshire. Bookings and more info here.

Pop in to Chelsea's chicest new pastry spot, Cafe 1922

The Sloane Club's first ever public-facing space, Café 1922 opens this April - and it's an exciting new venture. By day, it's a café and bakery with a focus on handmade pastries and delicious coffee. By night, it's transformed into a chic Chelsea wine bar. Most notably, they'll be serving their signature 'Sloane Pain au Suisse' - a savoury, laminated pastry inspired by The Sloane Club’s legendary Croque Monsieur. And, with a limited number baked daily, when they’re gone, they’re gone.

WHEN AND WHERE: opens on 7 April 2026. Café 1922, Lower Sloane Street, London. More info here.

Drinks

Celebrate Chateau Denmark's 4th birthday at Thirteen LDN, Soho

To celebrate their 4th birthday, Chateau Denmark is throwing an extravagant party at Thirteen LDN in collaboration with Wolfie’s Whisky. Their 'Hellraising' bash will have DJ Amazonica on the decks, plus a performance from singer-songwriter Alexa Dark. They're also offering special rates for rooms as an extra birthday bonus.

WHEN AND WHERE: 4 April 2026, 8pm to late at Thirteen LDN, Soho. More info here.

Date Spot

Indulge in foodie-themed flirting at this Dim Sum masterclass, London

If your love language is food, grab your partner/date/crush by the hand and guide them to Chino Latino Riverbank for a delicious dim sum masterclass. Hosted by Park Plaza, the two hour lesson is guided by Head Chef Ederson who will show you how to make classic dim sum, including Har Gau prawn dumplings and Siu Mai dumplings. For the competitive among you, there's also a prize awarded for the best creation.

WHEN AND WHERE: every Saturday from 3 – 5pm, now until 30th May at Chino Latino Riverbank, London. Tickets from £55pp. More info here.

Unique Experiences

Time travel to 19th-century Paris for Le Chat Noir cabaret, London

Roll up, roll up: you're heading back to 1890, where Le Chat Noir cabaret club in the heady Parisian district of Montmartre is pulsing with music, dancing and classic French food. Think 19th–century haute cuisine and absinthe fountains while you watch magicians, mimes and dancers. Blurring the lines between stage and reality, it's bold, punchy, immersive - and not to be missed.

WHEN AND WHERE: now until 28th June 2026 at The Lost Estate, London. Tickets and more info here.

Family Fun

Enjoy an enchanted Easter at Leeds Castle, Kent

Perfect for families who want some bank holiday-themed fun, the Enchanted Easter: The Crystal of Lost Spring at Leeds Castle offers interactive challenges, live performances and whimsical storytelling at the beautiful sprawling grounds in Kent.

WHEN AND WHERE: From 3 - 19th April 2026 Leeds Castle, Kent. More info here.

Outdoors

Hike iconic coastal paths and idyllic islands during the Walk Scilly Festival, Cornwall

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Walk Scilly Festival brings visitors to the stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall. Hike along the breathtaking coastal paths, visit ancient sites and explore the unique and diverse ecosystems on each of the five islands. Activities also include sea safaris, seaweed workshops and beehive tours and tastings.

WHEN AND WHERE: 10 - 19 April at Isles of Scilly. More info here.

“Something you hope to never experience: your baggage gets lost.” So reads the copy on [redacted airline]’s ‘help’ page. The tone, that of a smug, knowing elder, does little to assuage my burning fury.

Though to my surprise—for I am not a woman known to take things in her stride—I’m not all that fussed about my lost luggage. I realise quickly that I am a sheep, and as soon as I discover half the airport has lost their luggage too, a great wave of camaraderie sweeps over me.

“We’re all in this together,” loops around my head like the empty luggage carousel in front of me. I start bandying around the phrase “it’s all grist for the mill!” before explaining to my fellow luggage-less passengers that “I’m a writer, see. In fact, I’m actually on a press trip.”

By the time the rest of my group—held up at border control—join me, I’ve become something of a character in the growing band of travellers who’ve flown in from such exotic locales as Manchester, Dublin, and, to our excitement—as it proves what we’ve long suspected, that this is an airline issue and not the sole reserve of the UK and Ireland—Paris.

Our Parisian traveller is in the country to film Big Fish (an artist I instantly Google—and by Google, I mean Instagram—and discover has 9.5 million followers), who is set to perform at the next day’s marathon. The aquatically named artist is forced to wait for his cameraman, his own luggage stacked neatly beside him: Louis Vuitton, by the look of it. Big fish, indeed.

“It’s all colour for the story!” I proclaim to our ashen-faced PR. By the time she joins, I am already at the 28th stage of grief: group delusion.

Below is (almost) every thought I have before and after.

1. Wait, where’s my suitcase?
2. In fact, where is everyone’s suitcase?
3. No, that’s definitely not the right amount of luggage for a Boeing 787-9.
4. How big is a Boeing 787-9?
5. Did I miss the last snack on the flight?
6. I really need one of those eye masks that say, “Wake me up for food and drink.”
7. At least I have my silk eye mask and anti-malarials. *Frantically checks hand luggage to confirm*.
8. Come on, focus.
9. This must be the most understaffed airport I’ve ever encountered.
10. Why do airlines always make me feel personally responsible for their organisational failure?
11. I wish I had a more recognisable suitcase.
12. I’m taking this really well. Am I a cool girl after all?
13. How long can I feasibly get away wearing this fleece-lined grey jogger set?
14. Do I look like I’m on day release?
15. Is that smell… me?
16. Did I just see someone else’s identical suitcase?
17. Who designs luggage tags that tear off at the exact moment you need them?
18. Is this what it feels like to be in a low-budget spy movie?
19. Should I be concerned that I’m already mentally planning my “lost luggage” Instagram story?
20. If I tag the airline, will they give me preferential treatment?
21. What did I even pack?
22. Of course I lost my luggage in an airport with not a single shop.
23. Wait, where am I going to buy new clothes? And pants? And socks? And a toothbrush?
24. Do I have anything at all in this carry-on?
25. Why did I bring three cameras with three different chargers instead of anything vaguely useful?
26. I wonder what that mob of sweat-slicked Brits is kicking off about. *Joins mob*.
27. These are my people.
28. £400 allowance per day, you say? Maybe this will be the making of me.
29. Oh, so that’s totally unconfirmed?
30. Has anyone actually spoken to anyone from the airline?
31. How do I even speak to someone from the airline?
32. This queue is a hotbed of misinformation.
33. But if there’s one thing Brits do well, it’s queue.
34. Why is that French man pushing to the front? Somebody stop him!
35. What a bunch of lily-livered cowards.
36. We’re never getting our luggage back.
37. I can’t remember a time in my life before this airport.
38. I feel like Tom Hanks in The Terminal.
39. I wonder if my luggage is in a better airport than this one.
40. So this is why people buy AirTags.
41. I just knew this would happen.
42. Is my suitcase going to hit “40 countries before 40” before I do?
43. So my packing style is “emotional,” I always wondered.
44. Will this finally teach me the virtues of minimalism?
45. I’m going to invest in a capsule wardrobe courtesy of KLM.
46. Why is my hotel suddenly less appealing without my holiday outfits?
47. Philosophical questioning of life choices.
48. I think I’ll check the baggage carousel one last time.
49. This airline attendant says she’s here to help, but her face says otherwise.
50. Oh, she works for the airport, not the airline.
51. Does anyone work for the airline? Clearly not the baggage handlers.
52. Phew. The bags will be on the next flight.
53. The next flight is in three days?!
54. I can’t believe I stood in this queue for over an hour only to be directed to an online form.
55. *Phone pings*. Thank you, KLM, for letting me know my luggage missed its connection—10 hours ago.
56. I still can’t believe there isn’t so much as a duty-free shop.
57. I’ve been thinking about this all wrong. I get to shop on someone else’s dime. This is basically Supermarket Sweep.
58. I’ll be the judge of what counts as an “essential item.”
59. Get in, Loser, we’re going shopping.

Shop The Travel Essentials I Wish I’d Bought

I ended 2025 exactly the way I began it: legs trembling, hurtling (albeit not very fast) down the side of a mountain—all in the name of fun, ha! I’m neither a skier (nor a sadist), but after finding myself in yet another ski family, and a few years into what is now a decade-long relationship with my avid skier partner, I realised resistance was futile. My snow-plough hasn’t improved much in the years since, but happily my après outfits have. Ditto my winter holiday planning. I struck gold (or whatever the skiing equivalent might be) when I landed on Magic Megève Bois, a charming ski-in chalet in France’s exclusive Megève.

Megève is known as one of the French Alps’ plusher ski resorts, famous for its wide, tree-lined slopes and reliably good snow. Unlike purpose-built resorts, Megève has a traditional village feel, with cobbled streets, a central square, and horse-drawn carriages carrying heavily furred tourists across the piste.

What really sealed things for me though was that research (and by research, I mean Instagram) told me that it was as much about the lifestyle as the skiing: I was told to expect a strong food scene and designer boutiques alongside the resort’s well-maintained runs with views stretching towards Mont Blanc.

The Vibe

Tucked into the folds of Megève, Magic Megève Bois feels a world away from the gloss of the village below. The chalet sits peacefully among the trees, its wooden façade and carved balconies dusted with snow. Inside, though, it’s all warmth and considered comfort: soft lighting, thick wool throws, and a deliberately “home away from home” feel. This manifests in a strict no-shoes rule, which means you’ll find moneyed Europeans padding around in terry-towelling slippers, on the phone trying to arrange heli-skiing between Courchevel and Mont Blanc—something I know thanks to my friend Google Translate.

The usual chalet touches appear in the pale timber and a warm palette of evergreen, scarlet, and cream. An air of easy relaxation is encouraged through low-slung sofas in bouclé and linen, soft lighting, and the occasional contemporary artwork breaking up the traditional chintz. Despite the chalet catering to outdoor types more adventurous than myself, mornings at Magic Megève Bois begin quietly. There’s no rush, but by 8am a full continental spread is laid out with generosity: fresh bread and flaky pastries, bowls of fruit, yoghurt, cheeses, and cured meats, all arranged in an unfussy, help-yourself way.

Eggs come however you like them—softly scrambled, poached, or fried—and guests drift in at their own pace before heading out to the piste. The hotel offers a shuttle to the two nearest lifts, the closest of which is an easy downhill walk that, in full snow gear, takes just over five minutes.

The Rooms

The 12 rooms at Magic Megève Bois follow the same fuss-free traditionalism as the rest of the chalet. Each one is slightly different, but all toe the line between classic Alpine aesthetics and a more contemporary, design-led sensibility. Exposed beams, pale wood and sloped ceilings are softened by tactile rugs and low lighting—almost to a fault if you find yourself, as I did, scrabbling around for a lost ski pass. If pressed to sum it up neatly, I’d opt for something like “thoughtful farmhouse” over full chalet cliché.

There’s also a noticeable artistic thread running through the spaces: a sculptural chair here, exhibition-style prints on the walls, and my personal favourite—the vintage Ralph Lauren wallpaper.

Layouts vary, but many rooms open out onto balconies or terraces. Some are split over mezzanines. Things feel a little more rustic when it comes to the facilities: while some rooms have baths, ours was fitted with a shower missing a holder. I was told this was typically French, though it did mean hovering the shower head overhead to wash, which I had less enthusiasm for after a full day battling the slopes.

The rooms are generous enough to spend time in comfortably. I found myself lingering over a morning coffee by the window as the sun turned candyfloss pink, and later, enjoying a cold rosé on the balcony.

The Food & Drink

At the heart of the dining experience at Magic Megève Bois is a wine collection that’s become something of a legend. Curated over decades by the chalet’s patriarch, the cellar stretches far beyond what you’d expect from a ski retreat, bringing together rare and expressive vintages from classic regions like Burgundy, Bordeaux, the Rhône, and even California. On the evening I dined with the family, bottles were hauled up from the cellar below, and our host animatedly shared the backstory of each selection.

Dinner is intimate, seasonal, and comfort-driven, with dishes that showcase French Alpine classics alongside lighter, modern touches. Local cheeses, charcuterie, and hearty mains sit comfortably alongside fresh fish and seasonal veggies. There’s a cosy, relaxed rhythm to the meals, perfectly mirrored by the crackling fire from the nearby hearth.

The Facilities

What better way to unwind after a day risking life and limb mountainside than in the hammam or soaking in the jacuzzi, which offers views of the snow-dusted trees outside? There’s also a salt inhalation room, and a cinema room equipped with Netflix, as well as a small library of art books for quieter, more contemplative downtime.

For those seeking more advanced wellness experiences, a short drive away at the chalet’s new luxury annex, cutting-edge therapies are available, including cryotherapy and the Alpine hay immersion ritual, alongside traditional treatments like massages and facials. Adventurous only when it comes to wellness, I opted for the Alpine hay immersion ritual and was promptly enveloped in a sack of freshly harvested, aromatic mountain hay. The hay was warmed in a bath-like setup I couldn’t entirely understand, but found pleasantly soothing—especially when paired with a half-body massage afterward.

How to Book

Magic Megève Bois packages typically bundle chalet-style accommodation, daily breakfast, and shuttles to ski lifts, with starting prices from around €250 per night depending on season and room type. For more information visit the Magic Megève Bois website.

What to Pack

Standing outside the Gunung Kai Sebatu Temple, on the outskirts of Ubud, I’m struck by the beauty of its towering stone walls and lush, forest-green foliage. Hawkers hover behind me, offering up patterned pareos and their hand-woven wares, the rising heat of midday pricking at my skin. I quickly learn that I’ll be unable to immerse myself in the purifying turquoise pools that shimmer inside though: tradition states that women who are menstruating (or breastfeeding) aren’t allowed within the inner sanctum of Bali’s sacred shrines. It’s a disappointing curveball.

Yet, like many unexpected travel experiences, one that delivers a truly authentic introduction to the local culture and customs. Because beyond Bali’s honey-hued beaches, hip hotels and poolside bars lies an island that is still largely governed by not only religion and the guiding principles of gratitude and respect, but also some questionable attitudes to gender equality and animal rights (cockfighting is common here and still routinely used in sacrificial ceremonies).

Despite feeling a bit bruised by the rebuffal, it also feels oddly refreshing. Here is a culture unlike my own; a locals’ custom that refuses to bend its knee. After all, isn’t venturing off the beaten tourist track to explore alternative perspectives and panoramas what travelling is really all about? Perhaps that’s a tad optimistic and fanciful, but clawing at the notion of authenticity is a theme that thankfully continues throughout my week-long tour.

A hidden paradise

I’m travelling with Intrepid – a company renowned for its sustainable, small-group, adventure-focused trips – and the stereotypical bar hops and beach flops have been replaced with experiences that capture the cultural heart and heritage of this beautiful Indonesian island.

After initially taking in the kaleidoscopic buzz of Ubud – a busy town studded with Hindu temples and famed for its traditional crafts and Legong dance performances, we head to Mount Batur in Kintamani – a two-hour, boulder-strewn hike that starts at an ungodly 3am and ends at sunrise, 5,500ft above sea level.

Delivering amber-streaked vistas that stretch across the Lombok Strait and out to the majestic peaks of Mount Rinjani, it’s a soul-lifting climb that’s made all the sweeter with a summit-rewarding massage back at base. I book myself in for a full body reset at Inka – a heavenly, Aesop-like spa situated near Ubud Village Hotel – and let the lavender-infused oils restore my aching calves. Authentically Balinese? Not so much. But it proves utterly blissful nonetheless.

The heritage-filled homestay

Arguably the most restorative experience is yet to come though: my homestay in Karangasem’s Sibetan Village, near the foothills of Mount Agung. Nestled in 30 miles from the hustle and bustle of Ubud, deep in the island’s rice terraces and banyan-rich forests, lies Bali’s largest salak plantation – a 10km-square fruit farm and village that delivers a slice of traditional Balinese life. Having opened up its doors to tourists five years ago, paying guests are now invited into villager’s homes to experience their customs, culture and cuisine; to discover a simpler, rural existence couldn’t be further from the tourist-ridden beaches of Kuta and Canggu.

My host for the stay is a petite mum of three called Armini – or ‘Mini’, who, it turns out has a passion for looking after a big brood. I’m soon introduced to her dogs Momo, Terri and Moco; cats Mimi, Mini and Minu; a coterie of clucking chickens, roosters and caged birds; and finally her husband Komang Ada and their beautiful 15-year-old daughter, Komang Ayi, who still resides in the family home and speaks an impressive amount of English.

The welcome here is warm; the double bedroom clean and simple; the strong cups of coffee and plates of fresh snake fruit, rice and mango welcome. Initially it’s awkward: ‘Mini’ doesn’t speak English; I don’t speak Balinese, but, with the help of Komang Ayi, we soon find some middle ground. We pet the cats, marvel at the beauty of the birds and swiftly move onto what motivates Mini to keep welcoming strangers into her home. “Guests become family to me,” she says warmly as a wedge of warm midday sun hits the centre of her beautifully arranged courtyard. “I love meeting new people and… honestly? I actually love showing my house off,” she laughs.

Later, we round the evening off with a hearty salak soup, sunset views over the surrounding forests and a melodic rindik performance – a traditional Balinese instrument featuring bamboo tubes suspended in a wooden frame. It’s all very rustic and homely and tribal, and I wonder if this is a nightly routine? Their sole source of entertainment? “Oh no,” Adit – our enthusiastic village tour guide for the day – laughs. “We love karaoke – we’re always lining up Alan Walker songs.”

And there it is again: a refreshing dose of authenticity. Because no matter how many bike rides through scenic rice fields you book (check out Dewa Bikes for the best routes around Ubud) or traditional village homestays you hit, Bali is an island suspended between its past and present – and I’m just glad I got beyond the tourist-trap beaches to meet both.

Intrepid Travel offers 11 trips to Bali ranging from family to adventure. This trip combined experiences from Beautiful Bali (9 days, from £660pp) and Premium Bali and Java (11 days, from £2,575pp). Prices include accommodation, ground transport, selected meals, and activities. International flights are extra. Book at intrepidtravel.com; 0808 274 5111.

On the sun-drenched shores of Lake Como, quietly nestled behind the verdant landscaping of famed botanist Patrick Blanc, sits the now iconic Il Sereno – a contemporary design hotel with almost more architectural accolades (hello, #1 Resort in Italy, #1 Resort in Europe and #1 Hotel in Italy in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards) than suites (40; all lakefront-facing, naturally).

The vibe

If you’re coveting an bellissimo base from which to explore the area’s storied villas and quaint, cobbled towns, it really doesn’t get more ‘quiet luxury’ than Il Sereno.

What’s more, the hotel has a chic new addition: The Darsena Listening Suite – an immersive, personal offering from owner and audiophile, Luis Contreras. Created in collaboration with lauded designer Patricia Urquiola, this stylish, innovative space offers a sanctuary of sound for guests seeking a nostalgic, cultural experience on the emerald waterline of Italy’s most glamorous lake.

The Rooms

With just 40 rooms spread out across the sprawling lakefront property, a spacious, light-filled space is guaranteed. Views out across the water (and, in my case, also the pool and bobbing Riva boats) are also par for the course. No broom cupboards. No dark corners. No roadside vistas, thank you very much.

For truly elevated views head for The Penthouse – a swanky, 100 percent shoppable suite (yes, even the designer furniture can be snapped up and shipped off for the right price) that boasts hefty slabs of carrara marble for walls, a walnut-wrapped dressing room, luxurious lounge and outdoor areas ideal for entertaining, plus an amber-hued bathroom, replete with Urquiola’s signature tactile materials and natural flair for mastering modern elegance.

Vinyl devotees – or, indeed, those seeking the ultimate Mad Men aesthetic – should look to the ground-level, though, where the hotel’s newest, sleekest suite reigns.

Launched last summer, the Darsena Listening Suite delivers 200 square-metres of nostalgic beauty and is the brainchild of Il Sereno’s music-mad owner, Luis Contreras. Positioned at lake level, Darsena is the only room to feature a charming stone staircase that leads straight into Lake Como itself; it’s also the only suite with a private garden.

Yet the true pull for guests is the immersive sound sanctuary that resides inside: a stylish sweep of state-of-the-art audio equipment, including Klipsch La Scala II speakers, a glowing McIntosh MC275 amplifier, a MacIntosh C22 Preamp, a Thorens 1601 turntable with Sumiko Amethyst cartridge and the same restored Revox deck that sparked Contreras vision shortly after lockdown – a period of time in which he found himself transfixed by the warm, analogue hum of a vintage Revox B77 reel-to-reel tape deck.

Indeed, the suite features a library of 500 vinyl records thoughtfully curated by Contreras and pulled from his own personal collection. From Deutsche Grammophon box sets to original Bowies, guests can lose themselves in the music while a private Michelin-starred meal is served at the 10-seat circular dining table, or request their own favourite tracks are sought out and added to the edit before lounging on their private sun-dapped lawn.

Food & Drink

The property’s timeless lake-facing restaurant, Il Sereno Al Lago, is a Michelin-starred oasis overseen by Executive Chef Raffaele Lenzi. Renowned for combining innovative flair and an honest approach to ingredients, his menus are unpretentious, bursting with flavour and crafted with typical Italian passion.

With a toddler in tow (the hotel’s minimalistic aesthetic may appear child-averse, but the warmth of staff and well-considered family services ensured our stay was seamless and stress-free), we opted against ordering leisurely tasting menus, choosing sumptuous dishes of porchetta, figs and walnuts; spaghetti, griffon hazelnut ‘butter’ and capers; and seared Italian endive, celeriac, bergamot and Asetra caviar from the à la carte instead.

If you’re lucky enough to have time on your hands, plump for the ‘Modo Mio’ menu, comprising gastronomic delights such as curry chicken dosa; savoy cabbage tempura; lentil plin ravioli; and spaghetti, bergamot and mullet bottarga. There’s also the ‘Omaggio alla Tradizione’ offering, which boasts broad beans, pecorino cheese and chicory; sautéed wild mushrooms, hazelnut miso and parsley broth; lamb chops, egg sauce and black cabbage; and pear and cinnamon strudel.

As a seafood fan, I loved the monkfish, cacciucco sauce, sea lard and turnip greens dish, which was devoured shortly after arriving, plus the all-day comfort-food menu designed for in-room diners. The luxury of being served succulent roast chicken, olive-oil mash, beef sirloin and crispy roast potatoes while drinking in dazzling lake views at dusk shouldn’t be passed up.

Wine pairings courtesy of the property’s expert sommelier are, of course, also part of the dining DNA (Cantine Angelinetta La Moglie Del Re is a rated local wine served), while chic cocktails made using fresh, seasonal herbs from the hotel’s chef and botanical gardens are perfect for taking in golden hour on the terrace. Oscillate between Monsoon (a Mezcal, grapefruit soda and saffron fusion) and Ennergo (gin, wild berries and kombucha) for the chicest take.

Activities

The hotel is perfectly positioned as a base for visiting the nearby quintessentially Italian towns of Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio. But if you’re only staying for a few days, I’d strongly advise hiring a car, as driving to these cobbled hilltops from Il Sereno is often quicker than exploring by boat. We booked a sleek Mini Countryman through Sixt at Milan Bergamo Airport, providing a seamless, stylish 1.5-hour transfer from Milan to Lombardy, plus the freedom to explore the region at our leisure. Having a car at our disposal meant we could nip into nearby Como for dinner; plan our days around our toddler’s needs rather than ferry times, and have a comfortable ride to rely on if the waters looked choppy.

That said, the ultimate thrill here is undoubtedly taking a spin round the lake on a stylish Italian Riva boat, of which Il Sereno owns a stunning fleet of three, plus the Vaporise del Lago water limousine – a beautifully designed wooden vessel featuring interiors by Urquiola.

Confident zipping around on your own? Ask the hotel if you can hop into one of its self-driven Jetto boats or forgo an engine entirely and take a picturesque paddle along the azure shoreline on Il Sereno’s Inglesina row boat, commissioned and built on Lake Como specifically for English tourists in the 1930s.

The Spa

Once you’re finished exploring, take a (fabulously heated) dip in the hotel’s freshwater infinity pool for what is surely one of the chicest swims in Italy, then head to the property’s five-star spa for a heavenly Harmony massage. Housed in the property’s former boathouse, this intimate, yet lavishly-appointed spa also offers up a sauna, steam room and lake-facing outdoor Jacuzzi charmingly nestled into what was once its grand slipway.

Need to know

Rooms at Il Sereno start at approx £825 per night; book through ilsereno.com, email info@serenohotels.com or call +39 031 547 7800. Car hire with Sixt at Milan Bergamo Airport starts from approximately £104 per day; book via sixt.co.uk

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, may be less than an hour away from the vibrant energy of Miami, but feels like you're worlds away thanks to the enormous network of winding canals. With a beach that stretches for an impressive 24 miles, and no less than 300 miles of navigable waterways, it’s a city that's bursting with waterside bars and restaurants, boutique shopping, luxury hotels and a thriving arts and culture scene. But, best of all, getting around in Fort Lauderdale means hopping onto a water taxi - which, no matter your age, never fails to be fun.

The Vibe

Known for its huge coastline boasting beaches, art, culture and canals, Fort Lauderdale draws in a real mix of tourists - whether it's yacht enthusiasts, activity-seeking families or couples looking for a luxury beach break. The city is famous for its beachfront promenade, with many soaking up the sun at the laid-back cafés lining the Riverwalk, and the white wave wall and paved path are dotted with five star hotels and endless boutiques on the 'style mile', Las Olas Boulevard. It's an undeniable pocket of opulence, with residents living in mega mansions and lounging on super yachts.

Where to Stay

You won't be short of options when it comes to accommodation in Fort Lauderdale, with a huge selection of five star hotels as well as smaller, but equally luxurious, boutique stays. I checked in to Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, which is a 374-bed resort on North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard.

The oceanfront penthouse, a three-bed suite with 360-degree sea views, is perfect for those who want elevated comfort. With a fully functioning kitchen and three and a half bathrooms, it's your very own ultra-luxe home away from home. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer guests an unparalleled view of the ocean, with the endless sea and sky making mornings - and sunsets - feel extra magical.

As for the facilities, the resort has a spa, fitness centre and oceanfront pool terrace for guests to enjoy during their stay. The pool, with its panoramic views and beach club vibe, quickly becomes my favourite spot, the perfect sun spot for lounging between dips. The location, sitting directly on North Beach, makes it easy to walk to the ocean and nearby beach bars. And as for the food? There are multiple eateries around the hotel, with options for every palate. But my favourite spot for a bite to eat quickly becomes Ilios, a rooftop restaurant with a wide selection of drinks and plenty of fresh, flavourful Mediterranean-style dishes.

Dining

From seafood restaurants to ramen bars, French bakeries to ice-cream parlours, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone. Personal highlights include the uber-fun Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show, a South Seas experience which has been entertaining visitors since 1956, with tiki décor, waterfalls, and mouth-watering food. The cocktails were divine and the show was unforgettable.

Don't miss the beachfront dining at S3 during your trip; set right on the beach with stunning views of the ocean, the sushi is utterly delicious. The menu is packed with fresh seafood and juicy steaks, and the atmosphere is relaxed - the perfect place to unwind after a day by the pool.

Activities

Catching a water taxi is now my all-time favourite thing to do. Cruising along the waterways offers a front-row seat to the city’s glamorous super yachts and enormous waterfront mansions. Palm trees line the canals, and the water taxis are hop-on, hop-off - so you can explore at your own pace.

Fort Lauderdale is also the gateway to the Everglades National Park, but if you want more city-based activities my top picks include the 1920 Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, which is a little slice of calm in the busy city. The Museum of Discovery & Science, which is full of STEM activities, simulators, immersive eco-discovery zones and animal encounters, is great for families; my toddler daughter loved playing there.

How to Book

You can find out what's on in Fort Lauderdale by visiting visitlauderdale.com. For more information about Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, visit hiltonbeachhouse.com.

Memorable holidays are the ones that exceed your expectations, and during a recent trip to Miami I was left very surprised - in the best possible way. While I arrived looking forward to Miami's traditional draws - an endless helping of sunshine, with 5* resorts cushioned on a glittering sea - what I actually discovered was a global art capital within the culturally-rich and vibrant city.

The sun-soaked nook in Florida has been quietly transforming into a world-class centre of contemporary art, and you can feel it everywhere - from the unmissable and colourful street art, to the throngs of galleries and museums lining the streets, and there's also the beautifully-designed public spaces. It’s far from just another beach escape: it's a city packed with luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and, of course, the renowned and buzzy bars, but it also feeds your curiosity for culture and creativity.

The Vibe

Miami is known for being a vibrant city with world-famous nightlife. Along the main beach strip, as expected, you'll find endless bars, restaurants and art deco blocks, punctuated by high-rise hotels. But what you might not expect is the undercurrent of cool that pulses through the city. Take Wynwood Walls street art museum, for instance. An outdoor gallery, it offers the chance to see the most bright and breathtaking art on the the city streets. Whether it's wandering through these creative neighbourhoods, stumbling into small galleries, or observing the subtle design details in the various hotels and restaurants, the constant nod to expression and creativity makes Miami a culturally thrilling place to be.

Where to stay

There’s no shortage of places to stay here here but I checked in to The Palms Hotel & Spa in Mid-Beach, an ocean-front hotel which remains one of the only family-owned and operated luxury resorts in Miami Beach. With a leafy garden entrance, it feels more like a tropical sanctuary than a Miami mega-hotel and everything about this serene space is intentionally connected to nature - the soft, earthy colour palette, natural textures and lush landscaping.

Tanja Morariu, Head of Sustainability, explains how The Palms’ philosophy is built around its “Inspired by Nature” program, which includes eliminating single-use plastics and installing energy-efficient systems, composting, recycling and sourcing local, sustainable products. Hearing her speak passionately about community beach clean-ups and long-term conservation efforts is encouraging – staying here doesn’t feel like a compromise between sustainability and comfort.

The hotel has a large pool in its tropical gardens as well as its very own Zen Garden. For those who want to focus on wellness and relaxation, you can take yoga classes or enjoy the full spa and fitness rooms. Or, simply grab your holiday book and head down to the cabanas on the private beach.

When it comes to the dining options, the restaurant is also aligned with the hotel’s strong focus on sustainability. Essensia Restaurant, which overlooks the verdant gardens, uses mindfully-sourced ingredients to blend Mediterranean and Asian culinary influences. The dishes are beautifully presented, and you can feast on this fusion of flavours while listening to the palms rustling in the breeze. Even the cocktail menu reflects the hotel’s philosophy, featuring wines and cocktails made with organic or artisanal spirits.

Dining

And, when you're ready to venture further afield for dinner, one of the most exciting things Miami has to offer is a unique culinary scene. From Cuban to sushi, pizza to Michelin-starred restaurants, there are options for all travellers and budgets. One neighbourhood Italian gem is Otto & Pepe in Wynwood, a warm, relaxed and cosy dining room with a lively pasta bar, leafy garden patio and its very own wine shop right inside the restaurant. Visit for dinner, settle in with a Negroni, or simply stop in to grab a bottle. Either way, watching fresh pasta being made at the bar is an experience in itself and the award-winning wine-pairing is a treat.

Activities

I like a holiday that combines both culture and cocktails, and that’s where Miami really comes into its own. The Miami Design District is an unmissable upmarket area north of Wynwood, packed with high-end stores, galleries, public art and bustling restaurants.

Miami Art Week takes place in December, and includes its famous Art Basel. There’s the incredible Superblue Miami immersive art experience, with 50,000 square feet of boundary-pushing creativity which makes for a great family day out. For something a little more contemporary, check out Perez Art Museum or The Bass.

Before you leave, make sure you visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a 1916 waterfront estate-turned-museum, where you can wander the grounds exploring the art, gardens and mangroves. It’s a local favourite with changing installations. Just as popular is the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, an enormous museum, planetarium and aquarium, full of science, technology, engineering and maths with interactive exhibitions and unique shows. A terrific day out for families.

How to Book

For more information about Miami and how to curate your perfect art-inspired getaway, visit visitmiami.com. For reservations at The Palms Hotel, visit thepalmshotel.com.

As any new parent knows, travelling changes considerably once your family expands. Gone are the days of zipping around airports seamlessly; now, there are car seats, buggies and a surplus of emergency snacks. But, as proved when I visited The Palm Beaches on Florida's south-east coast, family trips can still include touches of luxury - even with a two year old. From the clear waters of Jupiter to the sandy beaches at Boca Raton, you'll find luxe accommodation that will keep the whole family happy.

The Vibe

The Palm Beaches sit on Florida’s south coast, situated one hour north of Miami and two hours south of Orlando. This beautiful beachy stretch comprises of a number of thriving towns, including the infamous Palm Beach, as well as Boca Raton, Juno and Jupiter Beach. Holidaymakers come for the white sand and sparkling ocean, but there's a lot more to it than sun-dwelling; it's a great spot for sporting activities, nature, shopping and mouth-watering cuisine. While many families head straight to the theme parks in Orlando, The Palm Beaches are a more laid-back choice for those seeking a reset.

Where To Stay

For families looking to base themselves in this sun-soaked playground, Boca Raton offers five star resorts and easy access to the wider region. I stayed at one of the five decadent hotels within the enormous The Boca Raton resort - one of Florida’s most iconic destinations. Unfolding over an astounding 200 acres, you'll find seven swimming pools, a private beach, a full spa, an 18-hole golf course and a picturesque marina, as well as an impressive 14 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts.

I checked into The Beach Club Hotel, the resort's beachfront offering designed around the stretches of crystal clear water. With over 200 rooms and suites available, many of them feature floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean and boast a calming colour palette - think corals, neutral tones and touches of velvet.

Here, it's about unequivocal luxury. This year, the Boca Raton was awarded a quadruple five-star status from the Forbes Travel Guide, making history as the only resort in The Americas to hold the prestigious honour. Personally, I loved the special details that really cater for families – the inclusion of beach toys, a balcony tepee, supplies of baby toiletries and snacks, and a carefully stocked mini-bar made travelling with a toddler as stress-free as it could possibly be. The spa also offered sanctuary for some much-needed mummy-time, and the family pool at the Harbourside Pool Club included themed 'Kiddie Cabanas' - a collection of poolside play spots for children, individually decorated for little princesses, pirates and mermaids. My daughter adored the mini-chef themed cabana.

Dining

The Boca Raton resort boasts eighteen restaurants, from classic Italian to contemporary Japanese, but dining ocean-side at their Mediterranean restaurant Marisol is not to be missed. Make sure you book a table at the resort's classic chophouse, The Flamingo Grill, too.

Beyond the resort, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to The Palm Beaches as the region is brimming with restaurants and bars that blend gourmet plates with child-friendly dining. That’s what makes it so accessible to those with little ones – the easy-going outdoor dining vibe is a hit with the whole family, and there are so many cuisines on offer - from burgers, tacos and pizza, to fine-dining, rooftop bars, speakeasies and live-music lounges. We visited Sixty Vines in Boca Raton, a winemaker restaurant with an impressive 60 wines on tap. I loved pairing glasses from around the world alongside sharing plates of albondigas, burrata and mussels.

Before you leave, book a table at Max’s Grille. This restaurant has a lively outdoor patio and serves a selection of steaks, chops, meatloaf and burgers. It’s a Boca Raton institution, and the atmosphere is perfectly balanced between relaxed and vibrant.

Activities

There’s no shortage of things to do around The Palm Beaches, from stand-up paddle-boarding to airboat tours and scuba-diving. And as for families, you can easily combine activities to keep the little ones happy and the adults entertained. From animal encounters to outdoor adventures, beach days to museums, everything is well-located so that you can create meaningful memories, not just tick off attractions.

Top of our list was a visit to Lion Country Safari, which became one of my daughter's favourite experiences. She was mesmerised as we took a four-mile self-drive through the safari park, spotting lions, zebras, giraffes and antelopes. In the Adventure Park, you can enjoy animal encounters - feeding giraffes was a highlight, and seeing my daughter's amazement is a moment I’ll never forget. She also loved the rides, splash park and water slides - so prepare to end up staying here a little longer than planned. This thoughtful family day out is a great example of why The Palm Beaches works so well for families.

Other great days out include Manatee Lagoon, Palm Beach Zoo, the Gumbo Limbo coastal nature reserve, Rapids Water Park and impressive shopping at Town Center, Boca Raton, which is one for the parents; it includes boutiques such as Cartier, Gucci, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Tiffany’s and Louis Vuitton.

If you're looking for a family holiday that doesn't compromise on luxury, this region certainly delivers.

How To Book

For more information about booking a trip to The Palm Beaches, visit thepalmbeaches.com. For general enquiries reservations at The Boca Raton, you can contact the team via email (experience@thebocaraton.com).

A trip to Florida isn't complete without a visit to one of the region's most iconic destinations – The Boca Raton. The world-famous resort, located on The Palm Beaches coastline, celebrates its 100th birthday this year. It began as The Cloister Inn in 1926, with architect Addison Mizner envisioning creating a 'dream city' that would bring Mediterranean glamour to Florida. Now, 100 years later, the original 100-room Ritz Carlton hotel has been transformed into a sprawling 200-acre resort, with more than 1,000 beds between five individual hotels: the Cloister, Tower, Yacht Club, Bungalows and, finally, the Beach Club, where I check in.

This ultra-luxe world of hospitality is divided into two main areas, the Harbourside and Beachside, with amenities including a picturesque private beach, serene spa, seven swimming pools, and a scenic marina. For the sports-minded, there's also an 18-hole golf course, 14 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts. You also move between the areas via a water taxi, which only adds to the glamorous A-list experience.

The Vibe

The Boca Raton’s newly relaunched Beach Club Hotel has been designed with the coastal proximity in mind, making the sea an unmissable focal point for all guests - which is especially evident in the rooms that feature sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows with beautiful ocean views. In the rooms, you can expect natural textiles and neutral tones, and it truly feels like stepping into another world; as I open the door to my room, I'm greeted by a soaring, light-filled living room that immediately draws my eye to the ocean. Everything feels calm, elegant and effortless.

As for the resort itself, the vibe is both luxurious and laid-back. Families, couples, locals and guests all come together and there’s a real sense of community here. This is five-star resort-living at its best, and it's easy to see why The Boca Raton recently became the only resort in The Americas (and just one of seven resorts worldwide) to hold quadruple Five-Star status from the Forbes Travel Guide. All guests have access to the amenities, no matter which hotel you’re in, and I particularly liked that the Beach Club felt separate on the Beachside, offering privacy without feeling isolated.

The Rooms

The Beach Club has 210 guest rooms and suites, many of which include large outdoor terraces. My balcony quickly becomes my favourite spot as each morning starts here, coffee in hand, watching the sun rise over the ocean. The bathroom deserves a special mention, too, with its deep tub, separate shower, generous counter space and full-sized Acqua di Parma toiletries. Small details, but they really elevate the stay.

What truly makes this experience unforgettable, though, is how thoughtfully the hotel caters to my two-year-old daughter. Travelling with a toddler is not easy, but here, it is made to feel as stress-free as possible. From beach toys to a tepee on the balcony, baby toiletries and snacks, every detail is anticipated and nothing is overlooked.

Food and Drink

Taking breakfast at Marisol, just steps away from the ocean, quickly becomes a ritual. From perfectly-cooked eggs to fluffy pancakes, portions are generous and the Greek omelette and challah French toast are definite standouts. Dinner here also offers the same elevated dining, with a Mediterranean menu that has a strong focus on seafood. The paella, grilled zucchini and mouth-watering mezze are not to be missed. It also feels special to spend the evenings dining outdoors with a perfectly-made cocktail in the balmy air.

The Living Room is my go-to spot in the evenings. By day, it’s more of a café but at night it transforms into a lively, intimate lounge serving tapas. You'll still be thinking about the fish tacos, lobster and hamachi crispy roll long after you've returned home. There’s also a poolside market for those in-between moments, offering soft-serve ice-cream and nachos.

One of the things that makes staying at The Boca Raton truly special is the choice of dining options across the resort. There are a staggering 18 restaurants and eateries which offer everything you could want - whether you prefer low-fuss burgers or elevated fine-dining. I tried the lakeside Harbour House, with coastal cuisine highlights including a spicy ‘Angry Tuna’, artichoke hearts, and wood-fired pizza. The Flamingo Grill, with its old Hollywood vibes, also offers excellent service and a classic steakhouse menu.

The Spa

One of the centrepieces of the resort is its wellness offering, Spa Palmera – a 50,000 square-foot spa inspired by Spain’s famous Alhambra. It has 44 (count them!) treatment rooms and is a heady medley of mosaics, arches and waterfall whirlpools. It’s stunning and, without question, one of the highlights.

But it’s not just the facilities that make it exceptional, it’s the people. I'm guided through the signature bathing ritual by Angela, who has worked at the resort for more than 20 years, with warmth and intuition. It’s easy to see why this spa has won so many awards; the staff are the soul of the experience. Immersed in an oversized tub infused with coconut milk, honey, and pink Himalayan salt, surrounded by petals and soft lighting, the experience is pure bliss. Afterwards, I enjoy a gentle honey scrub and The Artisan Massage, a customised treatment which leaves me feeling lighter, calmer, and completely reset. I make sure to spend time at the spa’s private pool and café, too. It feels like a hidden sanctuary within the resort, and one where I could happily stay all day.

Activities

You are never short of things to do here: the Beach Club has three pools and a private beach, but you also have full use of the amenities across The Boca Raton resort. The Harbourside Pool Club has an additional three pools as well as a a lazy river, several water slides, a thriving kids’ club and luxury cabanas with butler service. There are also special 'Kiddie Cabanas' which are specially themed for little ones who want to imagine themselves as pirates, mermaids and princesses. My daughter, however, was most impressed by the mini-chef cabana, which is decorated like a tiny bistro complete with play food, macaron pillows, and tiny table.

Despite its scale, The Boca Raton doesn’t feel overwhelming. Instead, it's an immersive hub of lively restaurants and buzzy bars, elegant lounges and boutiques, and between the museum, theatre, games room, tennis courts and golf course, you will always find something to do. Plus, there's even an Assouline bookshop - Mizner’s 'dream city' brought to life.

How To Book

For more information about booking a stay at The Boca Raton, visit thebocaraton.com. For general enquiries, prices and reservations, you can contact the team via email (experience@thebocaraton.com).

You'd be forgiven for thinking you'd clicked on a review of any old guesthouse on Brighton's seafront, given GuestHouse's name. But no - the independent, design-led chain is far from your average guesthouse.

No. 124 by GuestHouse, Brighton, is one of their four UK locations and sits on the King's Road, facing the pebbled beach and vast coast. By morning, a seafront walk, run, or dip, if you dare, calls your name; come evening, you're spoiled with gorgeous sunsets.

But back to the hotel. Many a hotel describes itself as boutique, but far fewer get it genuinely spot on. GuestHouse is one of those. I'm lucky enough to have stayed at both the York and Brighton outposts now, and both do what so many hotels before them couldn't: cosy charm, elevated style, and effortless customer service that makes every second of your stay truly tranquil.

I'd read rave reviews and had many a friend recommend the hotels personally, but it wasn't until last November that I managed to find the time to visit the Brighton location myself. My honest review? The hotel is hard to fault, really, and one of those stays that'll have you researching their other locations with your next staycation in mind.

For more on No. 124's warm, elevated, and charismatic charm, keep scrolling.

No. 124 by GuestHouse, Brighton review: Charismatic, charming and quintessentially British

The vibes

There are several hotel chains doing what GuestHouse do - renovating townhouses in prime UK locations and pairing elevated design elements with memorable food and attentive staff. But none do it quite as well as GuestHouse.

Step inside their Brighton location from the seafront, and you're immediately greeted with a chic interior that pairs heritage with a heartfelt touch. To your left lies a bar; down a flight of stairs, their mood-lit, basement restaurant, The Pearly Cow.

Modern tapestries and concrete coffee tables are juxtaposed with traditional, cosy-looking armchairs and bookcases. You know what to expect, but there are also surprising touches everywhere you look: the bookcase jammed full of 80's vinyls, disco balls and modern artwork.

The brainchild of brothers Tristan, James and Tom Guest and the sibling of their Bath, York and Margate locations, the Brighton iteration lives up to expectation. It's instantly welcoming, warm, and inviting, with the staff creating a perfectly balanced, relaxed yet attentive atmosphere.

The rooms

Each room at GuestHouse is unique, but most at the Brighton location offer breathtaking sea views. Ours luckily does, and we while away the mornings taking in the view with peppermint tea, soaking in the morning light and people and bird watching with the kitsch yet remarkably fun-to-use vintage binoculars.

Expect plush, cushioned bedding, comfy reading nooks, and books to flick through; paintings from local artists, the most stylish blackout curtains I've ever seen, and a Crosley record player with vinyls, to boot. The room is stocked with organic teas and coffee, the bathroom with B-Corp certified Wildsmith toiletries and butter-soft towels.

I particularly enjoyed the GuestHouse newspaper and handy guides to the local area - every element of the hotel has been produced or placed with flair and originality, each element thought through.

Rumour has it they have a special "Hideout Suite" for extra special occasions, which boasts its own hot tub and secret entrance.

The food

No hotel is complete without good food and drink, and GuestHouse really excels in this regard. Pearly Cow Brighton, their food offering, specialises in local, seasonal and organic produce, and it's all fresh as you like.

Naturally, the menu at their Brighton arm focuses on seafood - we kick off our evening with Whitstable oysters and a glass of sparkling English wine. Choose between small plates to share or your own mains. Must tries include the 45-day salt-aged ribeye and the salt cod tacos.

The cocktails are also noteworthy, and an excellent way to round off your evening. If you're still hungry post-dinner, or at any time during your stay, they have a well-stocked pantry on the first floor, with an excellent range of treats and more nutritious snacks. When we visited, we enjoyed pick and mix, fresh fruit, crisps and daily freshly baked cakes, alongside my favourite electrolyte-enhanced sparkling waters.

Come the morning, breakfast is simple but satiating - you can choose from a wide range of breakfast staples, including a full English, avocado on toast, pastries and chia seed puddings.

The facilities

It's a testament to the hotel's desire for you to fully switch off that every GuestHouse location has a spa on site - a decadent, relaxing cove of a space designed to help you unwind. At the Field Trip Spa Brighton, you can choose from facials, massages, or a soak in the jacuzzi - there's something for everyone.

Staff couldn't be friendlier and truly go above and beyond without being invasive - their hospitality feels effortless, which is no mean feat. They have a number of amenities in place to ensure you have a comfortable stay. A porter will meet you at the station to cycle your bags to the hotel for you; beach bags can be provided, at your request. You're also in a prime position to cheer any runners along the seafront, as we discovered when a 10km race took over the seafront on the grey Sunday morning we stayed.

Plus, fun fact: dogs are welcome at a charge of £25 per dog, per night. Staff have dog-friendly pantry treats, blankets and beds on hand to ensure your pets are well catered for.

Stay at No.124 GuestHouse, Brighton, from £190 a night. 124 Kings Road Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2FY. guesthousehotels.co.uk

It's almost time: "Wuthering Heights", Emerald Fennell's adaptation of Emily Brontë's classic, is finally making its way to audiences this weekend. While some couples' Valentine's Day plans will include cocktail bars and immersive light shows, others are heading to their nearest cinema to watch Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi's take on the infamous Cathy and Heathcliff.

Fans of the book are eagerly waiting to find out just how faithful the film is when compared to the original text. But, for those who are already enjoying the first look photos from Fennell's set, there's a very unique experience coming. Airbnb has recreated Cathy's bedroom at Thrushcross Grange, nestled in the heart of Brontë Country, and couples can apply for an overnight stay at the intricately designed accommodation. And the best part? It's all completely free.

Inspired by the film adaptation, the "Wuthering Heights" Airbnb includes Cathy's iconic bright pink bedroom complete with fleshy walls and a hair-woven table, while guests will also be invited to enjoy an indulgent candle-lit dinner in the Thrushcross Grange dining room.

Dana Nussbaum, Co-Head, Global Motion Pictures Marketing, Warner Bros. Pictures, said: “The “Wuthering Heights” that Emerald Fennell has brought to the screen was born of her vivid imaginings of not just Cathy and Heathcliff’s passionate romance, but of the wild world of the moors that surrounded them in Emily Brontë’s Yorkshire."

What can you do at the Wuthering Heights Airbnb?

According to the press release, guests will experience 'a curated itinerary' which is inspired by the film. They list the following as potential activities for guests:

Horseback Ride Across the Moorlands: Explore the windswept landscapes that inspired Brontë’s timeless tale.

Yorkshire Afternoon Tea: A traditional taste of the region.

An Evening Inspired by Thrushcross Grange: An intimate, candlelit dinner reflecting the elegance and atmosphere of the film’s portrayal of Thrushcross Grange.

Intimate Listening Listing Experience of Charli xcx’s “Wuthering Heights”: Enjoy your own private listening party of the recordings written for the film.

Overnight in Cathy’s Bedroom: Immerse yourself in Fennell’s cinematic interpretation.

Eggs and Soldiers Breakfast: A cheeky breakfast moment and an Easter egg from the film - gentle on the outside, smouldering on the inside.

Visit to the Brontë Parsonage: Step inside the home of the Brontë sisters and their literary legacy.

Luke Impett, Partnerships and External Affairs for Northern Europe at Airbnb, said: "The film, "Wuthering Heights" has put West Yorkshire on the map for couples seeking something atmospheric and deeply romantic... This is the first time Airbnb has created an experience of this kind in West Yorkshire, by opening Cathy’s Bedroom, we’re giving guests a chance to experience the story."

How to book the "Wuthering Heights" Airbnb

Bookings for this unique stay will open on Friday 20th February at 12pm GMT. Head to the Airbnb website here to request a booking, and the lucky visitors will experience a one-night stay for free between 27th February and 4th March. Three couples will be selected to attend across the listed timeframe, and it also includes breakfast, lunch and dinner - though travel to and from the accommodation is not included.

Good luck!

"Wuthering Heights" will be in UK cinemas from Friday 13th February 2026.

Set along one of the Caribbean’s most iconic stretches of sand, the sprawling Beaches Turks and Caicos resort combines classic tropical backdrops with laid-back living. Palm trees frame the 12 miles of white beach, and sunsets here are some of the best in the tropics.

THE VIBE

The main draw here, though, is the sheer breadth of activities on offer and the round-the-clock entertainment. It really is impressive if you like your holidays with plenty to do. A state-of-the-art spa, 16 pools, scuba diving, a water sports centre offering sailing, plus pickleball, tennis and basketball. Guests can also opt to try horse riding via Island Routes. Plus, there's nightly entertainment, including live shows featuring DJs and musicians. It even has its own water park.

This is a resort which leans into its boundless variety, one where active couples and families will never run out of things to do. The best bit is that, since it's all-inclusive with food, drink, and most activities included, you can rest assured that once you arrive, there will be no hidden extras.

THE ROOMS

Rooms are spacious with beachfront villas and suites designed to accommodate families and larger groups. They range from spacious garden or pool views to sprawling villas with balconies and walk-out patios, plus fridges stocked daily with a range of drinks.

There’s also a butler service, and they will make reservations at any restaurant, book your spot on the beach, and plan excursions to a nearby nature reserve. They'll even come and check you have enough drinks as you recline on your sun lounger! All rooms at Treasure Beach Village will be in the fClub and Butler level categories.

WHAT'S NEW?

The resort is entering an exciting new era. It recently underwent a $150 million expansion, adding a new villa complex set to elevate the resort into a mini town. The stunning new suites at Treasure Beach Village feature minimalist suites with sea views, as well as two-, three-, and four-bedroom luxury rooms overlooking Grace Bay.

Looking for somewhere to host a party? The three-storey Crystal Sky 4-Bedroom Reserve Villas accommodate up to 10 guests with a private pool and rooftop deck. There’s also a pristine new 15,000-square-foot pool, uniquely designed with a natural gradient that mimics the beach, and it overlooks the sea. Oh, and a mini cinema minutes from the beach to keep the kids occupied. Beaches also offers a complimentary daily Kids Camp programme from 9 am - 9 pm, available for infants through to kids aged 17, run by child-care experts

If you’re thinking about getting married, the resort offers a brand new eco-conscious wedding inspiration, while Beaches and its sister company Sandals have been named the 'Official All-Inclusive Resorts' for pickleball by USA Pickleball, one of the UK’s fastest-growing paddle sports, and a favourite of celebs such as Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez.

FOOD AND DRINKS

The culinary canvas here is broad. From beach-front grills to French bistros, Japanese teppanyaki to Italian Pizzeras, the breadth of choice here is impressive. Stand out restaurants are the Caribbean restaurant on the beach front - a casual setting where you can dine overlooking the ocean, and the steakhouse with an open kitchen where we watched the chefs prepare our dinner.

We also loved the Barefoot By The Sea cafe on the beach and the traditional Italian pizzeria. Service was nothing short of excellent at all of them.

DON'T MISS!

The excursions. Ask the concierge for a list of organised trips outside the resort. We particularly enjoyed a visit to Little Water Cay, otherwise known as Iguana Island, a protected nature reserve home to 3,000 endangered Turks and Caicos Iguanas.

Accessible only by Kayak or boat, we made our way there through mangroves, which was magical. Seeing lizards in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience, and we even stopped on the way back to see turtles. Truly incredible.

NEED TO KNOWS

A five-night stay for two adults and two children (age 2-11) at Beaches Turks & Caicos, in a French Village Luxury Double room, starts at £1,889 per adult and from £175 per child. To book, visit beaches.co.uk.

The package includes all-inclusive accommodation, unlimited dining, drinks, land and water sports, including scuba diving for those who are certified, entertainment, and airport transfers

You've read about the 2026 travel trend predictions, you know all the best money-saving travel hacks and you've used this handy trick to double your annual leave this year. But what new experiences are you adding to your bucket list? Whether it's a skiing holiday in Japan or fine dining in Corfu, there are so many beautiful places to explore - and now, we know exactly which destinations make up Brits ultimate travel wish lists.

In order to gauge where UK travellers are hoping to holiday this year, experts at Titan Travel analysed data from both Google search trends and UK Reddit threads to determine which places people are researching and talking about. Their data found that the most popular trend among Brits is the need for a trip that is both culture and experience-rich.

Thailand was the most searched for destination, while Japan appears to be the country on most British travellers' bucket lists according to Reddit, with Bangkok, Toyko and Kyoto accounting for a third of mentions on the analysed forums. The research also found that 58% of travellers prefer experience-led holidays over traditional getaways.

Trending Travel Destinations for Brits in 2026

To accurately analyse the data from Reddit, Titan Travels identified UK-focused threads where users discussed bucket list and dream trips, noting specific countries and cities mentioned. Here's what the analysis found:

As for search data, the results are only slightly different. As per Google travel searches between November 2024 and October 2025, Thailand takes the top spot, followed by Croatia and Turkey.

Cassie Strickland, Product Manager at Titan Travel, says: "In 2026, many British travellers are looking to discover far-flung reaches of the world, to tick off sites and places on their travel bucket list. Reddit user posts and Google searches indicate that countries in East Asia, such as Japan and Thailand, are among the most popular."

She added: "The research also indicates that cultural exploration is an activity most travellers want to experience, which is particularly applicable to the countries above due to the significant historical, religious, and social sites surrounding them. Japan has many sites and views that are on many people’s bucket lists, such as the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, modern infrastructure, and museums, as well as events like the Gion Matsuri festival that allow tourists to delve into the history and culture. Similarly, in Thailand, there are many cultural events that British travellers will love, such as visiting a celebration like the Thai New Year and learning about traditional Thai fishing on islands off the coast."

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It’s a bright, blustery spring day; a cornflower sky blazes above me as I turn another tendril of emerald sugar kelp over in my hand, a warm wash of Baltic Sea lapping at the craggy Swedish shoreline below.

The air is laced with a pungent perfume of sea salt, my hands now cold from the wet and slime. It all feels quite meditative, spiritual, even, I realise, as I run my fingers between two moss-sheathed rocks and listen intently to Karolina Martinson—Gothenburg’s ‘queen of kelp’—enthuse about the health properties of algae.

Stylishly clad in fisherman knits and a utilitarian apron, Vrångö island’s expert forager has become something of a suitably-weathered poster woman for kelp-harvesting in Sweden. Poised, knowledgeable and bursting with passion for “wild, edible treasures”, it’s easy to see how a “girl who just loved being out in nature, whether it was picking for mushrooms or swimming in the sea” is quietly spearheading a campaign to farm seaweed at (a sustainable) scale.

It all, she insists, starts with education though—which translates to teaching locals, students at Gothenburg University, and tourists like me to value, harvest, cook and consume the bounty of kelp that thrives in our oceans.

“I moved to Styrsö [a neighbouring] isle about 25 years ago,” Martinson tells me while gently fanning out thick, silky strands of purple dulse. “Back then seaweed was not very valued. People thought it was disgusting; it was considered a problem for the boats. But I have always been interested in different things—I have been an artist and I have studied the environment and sustainability and health, even alternative energy, in many different ways.

"I’ve worked with social enterprises to help women in jail and people with mental illnesses. So, the connecting thread of my life has been looking at what gets thrown away: it can be food, it can be things, sadly, it can be people. And I want to lift them up; avenge them,” she smiles, a wind-whipped strip of hair serving to punctuate her point.

Seaweed safari

“I spent my childhood out in nature. The sea’s pantry is always open to me.”

Now, Martinson is inviting more into her coastal kitchen, neatly packaging up her enthusiasm and expertise into bite-sized ‘seaweed safaris’ that champion kelp foraging and immersive cooking, before culminating in a beautiful beachside feast.

It’s adventurous and soul-lifting, and I feel a rush of contentment wash over me as I help to toast freshly-made flat breads over an open fire.

“It’s like meditation for me too; like I have a connection to nature and a relation to its food,” Martinson says, noting my deep exhales and dropped shoulders. “That’s what made me look at seaweed when I came to Styrsö. At that time, Sweden had no living food culture about seaweed, but I thought of it as a new kind of vegetable: what could I make if I boiled it? Fried it? Made it into different salts?”

Staring at our trestle table, now draped in golden-hour light and groaning under the weight of hand-foraged food, it turns out the answer is rather a lot.

Candied strips of glass-like sea lettuce are paired with creamy dulce de leche and sea campion; crispy strings of bladderwrack and shredded sugar kelp fuse with vegetable noodles and coriander; still-hot-from-the-fire hunks of salty flatbread are dipped in zesty tzatziki and washed down with glasses of crisp, seaweed-infused wine.

It’s a very chic, Scandi-appropriate introduction to the Southern Gothenburg Archipelago—a collection of 800 isles that sit around 45 minutes from Sweden’s second largest city. I’m here for a two-night stay at the harbourside Kajkanten Vrångo—a charming, family-run hotel headed up by the characterful Håkan Karlsten, who is also the brainchild behind the hotel’s partnership with Martinson—and a fun host if you fancy a spin round the bay in one of Kajkanten’s signature kayaks.

With around 400 inhabitants, Vrångo is small (and car-less). There’s an honesty box at the only supermarket; supplies are delivered once a week by boat from the city; people either get about by fishing vessel or bicycle. Honest food, soulful hikes and peaceful paddles out into the sapphire bay reign here, and when you’re not foraging and feasting with Martinson you can delight in classic Swedish seafare at Hamnkrogen Lotsen—a stylish waterside restaurant that serves up crayfish, mussels, smoked shrimp and luxuriously zingy dips with freshly baked sourdough.

Owners Andreas and Jennie Wijk form a formidable team, with Andreas (a former fisherman) leading on the gastronomy and Jennie styling the venue in acres of white linen, eclectic vintage accessories and small stem vases filled with fresh blooms.

Learning the Old Ways

Keen to see more of the wild archipelago through the eyes of a local, I hop aboard Karlsten’s small motor boat the next day to explore the abandoned lighthouse and flower-strewn meadows of Valö—an uninhabited speck of an isle 20 minutes away. It has been passed down to Vrångo residents through the generations, and now serves as a protected nature reserve that’s open to guests at the hotel.

The Nordic winds howl here. Karlsten joyfully regales me with ancient tales of harbour pilots who once protected these waters from pirates. We walk through dense, unspoilt woodlands, listening to the late-spring chorus of oystercatchers before circling back to the boat. It’s heavenly.

“The old ways are still alive here,” Karlsten says proudly, nodding to the glittering waves out at sea. “I feel lucky to call this home; to have the joys of being in a close-knit community; to wake up to this view and be able to walk among the birds and the flowers. This is what people need more of: to reconnect with nature; to feel part of it again.”

I think back to this conversation later that evening while taking a deliciously steamy dip in the hotel’s sea-facing Jacuzzi. The sun is setting, the sky shot with ribbons of cobalt and amber. I put my flute of champagne down, pad out to the diving platform and plunge straight into the glass-like water.

Sweden’s Vrångo Island may be a world away from the slick restaurants of Gothenburg and swanky boutiques of Stockholm, but it’s the epicentre of Sweden’s lagom spirit. Here, you’re encouraged to slow down, reconnect with the wilderness and feel truly ‘part of’ something meaningful again.

Nicola Moyne travelled to Vrångo with Intrepid, as part of a wider tour. You can visit Sweden on Intrepid Travel's Taste of Scandinavia (from £1,850pp) or Scandinavia Explorer (from £3,651pp), which includes accommodation, some meals and activities, services of a local guide and ground transport while on the tour. International flights are extra. Book at intrepidtravel.com or call 0808 274 5111.

February is upon us, which means two things: the days are slowly lengthening and the long winter nights are almost a thing of the past, and Valentine's Day is coming. Whether you're partnered, single, casually dating, or simply want to celebrate Galentine's instead, there are so many things happening across the country this month. And, I've found things that can work for both love and friendship - whether you want to flirt with your other half or romance your pals. There are chic bars and raucous discos happening in London, a sophisticated book event unfolding in Surrey, and you can even get your Legally Blonde on in Leicester.

So this February, make Valentine's - or Galentine's - your own. Book a dirty disco with your significant other, or stare longingly into your besties beautiful face over your favourite lit fic. Whatever you decide, here are the 7 bits not to miss this month.

Things to do this February

Art

Enjoy free music, nightlife and art after dark, London

Art After Dark is a free week-long celebration of culture and creativity in the capital. Think late night gallery openings, art tours, live performances and an after hours DJ set at the National Gallery. Stroll through the city and see where you end up - it might be a nightclub, it might be marvelling at 7 metre tower of disco lightboxes.

WHEN AND WHERE: 3 - 10 February 2026 across venues and landmarks in the West End, London. More info here.

Food and drink

Boogie hard (with pizza) at a spectacular '70s disco, London

If you're looking for somewhere to have fun with friends or flirt outrageously with a date, Detour Disco hosts pop-up parties across the globe that you definitely won't forget. This month, there's an intimate 70s-themed disco 'with an Italian flavour' ahead of their annual mirrorball mayhem in Matera later this year. It'll be pizza, performances, and people who really want to dance. But, spaces are very limited - so you'll have to register to try and get a coveted spot.

WHEN AND WHERE: 12 February 2026 at Aethos Hotel, Shoreditch. More info here.

Date Spot

Try a sensory drinks menu at Revery Bar, London

Sample a drinks menu with a twist at Revery Bar Park Lane. The sensory Valentine's experience is a fun way to enjoy opulent cocktails, encouraging guests to refocus their senses by wearing a blindfold and pick drinks based on touch, sound and smell instead. The Seeing Isn’t Believing menu is also paired with canapes.

WHEN AND WHERE: 13 - 15 February 2026 at London Hilton Park Lane. More info here.

Shopping

Shop the biggest beauty brands for 70% off at Bicester Village

Beauty lovers rejoice, Bicester Village's Beauty Stars Event is returning this February. This month, you can shop some of the biggest names in beauty with up to 70 per cent off the original retail price. Must-haves include make-up, skincare and fragrance from the likes of Byredo, Aesop, Guerlain, Acqua di Parma, The White Company, CREED, Charlotte Tilbury, and Jo Malone London.

WHEN AND WHERE: Friday 6th - Sunday 8th February at Bicester Village. More info here.

Unique Experiences

Settle in for cosmic light experiences and crucial conversations, London

This February, St Martin-In-The-Fields explores the magic of earth and space with an immersive installation. Following sell-out success in 2023, Space by Luxmuralis includes mesmerising projections in the Crypt as well as an atmospheric soundscape within the iconic church.

If creative discussions about everything from books to social justice are more your thing, they're also hosting weekly sessions with key speakers every Tuesday as part of the 2026 Conversation Spring Series.

WHEN AND WHERE: Space by Luxmuralis : 17 - 21 February 2026 at St Martin-In-The-Fields, London. More info here.

Conversation Spring Series: now until 2 June 2026 at St Martin-In-The-Fields, London. More info here.

Join an immersive book club, Surrey

One for book lovers, Between the Covers Live! is returning to Pennyhill Park to bring the BBC Two book club to life once again. With a literary and entertainment line-up including Alan Davies, Jojo Moyes, Alex Jones and Abi Daré, this one day event includes a Waterstones pop-up shop, book signings and Q&A sessions.

WHEN AND WHERE: Friday 6 February 2026 at Pennyill Park, Surrey. More info here.

Theatre and Live Shows

Stomp your last season Prada shoes at Legally Blonde The Musical, Leicester

Where better to celebrate Galentine's Day than at Legally Blonde The Musical. The West End and Broadway show will tour all over the UK this year, kicking things off in Leicester ahead of Valentine's weekend.

WHEN AND WHERE: 7 - 21 February 2026 at Curve Theatre, Leicester. More info here.

The dream of luxuriating under the Tuscan sun has endured for decades—from vineyard-lined hills to hilltop hamlets and rolling olive groves, Tuscany remains an icon of northern Italian charm. There is perhaps no better place to indulge in three of life's greatest pleasures: art, nature and of course, pasta.

While I'm well acquainted with the region's famous cities (Florence and Siena continue to surprise and delight each time I visit), I've never roamed the countryside that flanks them. Long immortalised in literature and film—most notably by Under the Tuscan Sun, starring Diane Lane, which sparked a wave of global interest—if you want Italy at its most authentic, with lashings of soul and extra helpings of food, then you will find it in droves in Tuscany.

Ahead, the best hotels to explore the region from top to bottom.

Hilltop luxury: Borgo Pignano, Volterra

The vibe

Boasting perhaps the most charming (and photographed) pool in the whole region, this biodynamic, country estate is jaw-droppingly exquisite. Perched above the ancient Etruscan town of Volterra, Borgo Pignano's preserved stone walls and 750 acres of biodynamic farmland—from olive groves to rolling vineyards—evoke the timeless charm of rural Tuscany.

What stands out immediately is the layout of the estate: an outdoor bar and seating area is perfectly positioned for knocking back Negronis, while you watch the tumbling plains shift from lush green to umber and ochre at sunset.

The service is impeccable—this is luxury at its most unfussy, with a generous helping of heart. The estate is overseen by Gigi, longtime Head of Guest Relations, who was born just over the hill. He's a true character, picking up guests in his caddy to tour them around the expansive grounds, where he will then invite them to feed the livestock and pluck ripe tomatoes straight from the vine.

The rooms

There are 14 rooms and suites in the main villa, as well as 10 authentically restored maisonettes and six private villas, including a farmhouse, which sleeps 20, and a former medieval priest's house, which houses two. The team takes bookings strategically to ensure that the estate never feels crowded, but if you're keen for more privacy, consider the private villas, which are nestled by the woods, vineyards, and lakes.

The interiors are unique to each room, and are a masterclass in olde worlde Tuscan design. I was so taken with the pale, duck-egg blue of my room that I had to ask for the exact paint shade (it's long out of production, sadly)—but the view of Volterra laid out in all its glory, from my perch in the tower, more than made up for it. All the rooms are expansive, and many come with original frescoes and four-poster beds.

Food and drink

Dining is split between two main restaurants, though you can have light bites poolside. Al Fresco offers relaxed fare, like wood-fired pizza and hearty pasta dishes, in the estate's garden, replete with a gelato truck, which dishes out free scoops all day long.

On the other end of the spectrum, their Michelin-starred Villa Pignano elevates traditional Tuscan staples. The views are breathtaking; guests can watch the sunset disappear between the hills as they feast on inventive dishes, conjured up by Chef Stefano Cavallini. Highlights include a deceptively simple fusilli pasta, cooked in fish stew extraction, and elevated through "onion air" and "seaweed bread crumble", as well as their highly decadent signature dish: papardella filled with a umami-rich rabbit ragu.

If you want something more laid back, book in for the bi-monthly barbecue that the staff puts on in the estate's vineyard—it's a great chance to connect with other guests in a relaxed setting, if that's your thing.

All produce hails from the estate—those tomatoes I sampled with Gigi? Very likely on my plate by nightfall. The team rear free range pigs, hens and bees, and cultivates overflowing herb and vegetable gardens. They also mill their own flour at their on-site bakery.

Industrious guests can blend their own organic lavender soaps and skincare tinctures, though if you're less creative, you can buy them and their excellent olive oil to take away.

Activities and Amenities

As for amenities, the infinity pool is a thing of beauty, carved directly into the hillside and complete with its own dedicated bar and staff. The spa is equally considered. Guests can book private slots in the spacious hammam to enjoy saunas, steam baths, and cold plunges, followed by locally harvested loose-leaf teas. Don't skip the treatments, too: my full-body massage was so good I drifted off.

There are a plethora of activities for the adventurous, ranging from apiary tours, forest bathing, horse riding, truffle hunting, and artisanal workshops—I personally went for the pasta making class with head chef Stefano Cavallini.

Borgo Pignano offers rooms from €350 per night based on two adults staying in the Villa, on a B&B basis. borgopignano.com

Costal calm: L'Andana Resort, Castiglione della Pescaia

The vibe

A couple of hours downstream, and you'll arrive in the seaside town of Castiglione della Pescaia in Maremma—one of southern Italy's most discreet coastlines. It's ancient fortress overlooks the pale twinkling shores of the Tyrrhenian sea, an expanse bordered by miles of sandy beaches and pine groves.

La Andana is the former hunting lodge of the last grand duke of Tuscany, Grand Duke Leopold II, and certainly the first impression of the estate—a half-mile driveway lined with cypress trees—is befitting of royalty.

The resort is sprawling and excellently turned out; the design marries Medici excess with French influences. But the layout is decidedly unfussy, and guests are allowed to roam as they please, ideally with a spritz in hand, or off into the countryside on one of their baby blue e-bikes.

The rooms

L'Andana has 50 rooms and suites in the main villa and farmhouse building. It also has a private villa, La Scuderia—the former stable of the Grand Duke's hunting reserve—which sleeps four, and has its own private pool.

Rooms are spacious, with ample space for clothing and absolutely gigantic bathrooms, finished with tubs and waterfall showers, big enough for two. The interiors here are elevated—it's not exactly the rustic Tuscan design that you may expect; instead, Ettore Mochetti, the chief editor of Architectural Digest Italy, designed the interiors, opting for more of an opulent feel.

Food and drink

The food at L'Andana was some of the best I had in the region. Don't skip out on La Villa, the more relaxed, all-day restaurant—sit outside on the veranda if you can; the light her, is jaw-dropping. Breakfast is excellent, but dinner—in that glimmering, pink-red light before sunset—is a must. Go for the taglioni with prawns, lemon and buratta. It's so good I had it three nights in a row.

If you're celebrating something special, ensure you book a table in advance at the resort's Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant, La Trattoria Enrico Bartolini, which fuses regional dishes with Mediterranean zest. While you can order à la carte, the tasting menu and accompanying wine pairing are beautifully crafted and worth the resulting heaviness.

There's also the option to order a picnic and dine amongst the vineyards—or if you fancy a trip to the nearby beach, staff can prepare a takeaway lunch. Wine and olive oil are produced on site—you can sample some of the former at the resort's Tenuta La Badiola Wine Shop, where you have a tour of the vineyard or partake in a tasting.

Activities and amenities

Ensure you pack a good book to read by the pool, which is nestled near a throng of shady pine trees. Inside, you'll find top-tier spa facilities, including a Turkish hamaam, and ESPA face and body treatments.

Feeling active? Begin your mornings with yoga or pilates underneath swaying pines, and then follow it with a few rounds of tennis, golf, or horseback riding. There's also biking, hiking, and Nordic walking trails through the sun-dappled hills, as well as cooking classes with the resort's chefs. Ensure you take the daily shuttle to the beaches of Castiglione della Pescaia, or if you fancy a city break, Maremma is just a stone's throw from the likes of Siena or Pitigliano.

L’Andana, Tuscany, offers double rooms from €440 per night based on two sharing, including breakfast. www.andana.it

If you're looking for five-star transfers throughout Tuscany, check out Hoppa, a trusted airport transfer and shuttle provider offering private cars, shared shuttles, and taxis to suit every traveller. With over 20 years’ experience, Hoppa connects airports to hotels, villas, resorts, and city centres.

Marie Claire approved travel essentials

The active pursuit of a longer, healthier lifespan has become a new benchmark in luxury and, with it, an exclusive breed of wellness tourism is emerging. From high-altitude detox centres to “future-self” clinics, these longevity-focussed breaks typically deliver a blend of cutting-edge, science-backed assessments with guided meditation, personalised nutrition plans and advanced training methods. Skin looking a bit lacklustre? Expect hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a pressurised chamber rather than a relaxing facial. Feeling bloated? Cue biomarker testing, IV infusions and cryotherapy to address causes and reduce inflammation. Some of the world’s leading programmes are set in stunning surroundings, too. From the majestic Austrian Alps to the golden sands of St Barts, here are six of the best longevity retreats reshaping luxury travel one prognostic at a time.

1. Longevity Reset Retreat – Minos Palace Resort, Crete

BEST FOR Science-led interventions. Working in conjunction with the hotel’s world-class Nao longevity hub, this six-day, hyper-personalised programme opens with prognostic and biometric assessments, before swiftly moving into a bespoke treatment plan guided by Nao’s scientific board – a global team of doctors and professors in endocrinology, biochemistry, clinical medicine, genetics and nutrigenetics. Guests can partake in Group Brain Gym Sessions and Fermentation Classes as well as cell-boosting photobiomodulation and stress-busting vibroacoustic therapies.

HOW TO BOOK Longevity Reset dates will be released in 2026. Priced from £3,110 per person for five nights, the retreat includes seven prognostic and biometric tests, 14 advanced treatments, four expert lectures and discussions led by the Nao scientific board and six workshops, plus personalised meals. Alternatively, book a seven-day Nao Self-Master programme, from £4,010, or the 14-day ‘Longevity Pro’ programme, from £7,280. See minospalace.com

2. Mayr Med Diagnostic and Longevity – Original Mayr Medical Resort, Austria

BEST FOR Gut restoration. For almost 50 years, the Original Mayr Medical Resort at Lake Wörthersee in Austria has been a pioneer in the holistic healthcare sphere. Now, its latest offering is leaning into longevity, with Mayr lab diagnostics and metabolic and urine tests delivered alongside wellbeing coaching, meditation and cryotherapy sessions. Whether you opt for the seven- or 10-day retreat, expect high-altitude training in the Austrian Alps, inhalation and nasal reflexology, and, of course, the Mayr’s signature attention to detail when it comes to gut health and nutrition.

HOW TO BOOK The seven-day Mayr Med Diagnostic and Longevity programme, which includes medical examinations, dietary consultations, cryotherapy, altitude and personal training, wellbeing and spa sessions, plus expert lectures and reflexology, is priced at £3,300, excluding accommodation; 10 days is priced at £4,400. See original-mayr.com

3. Ultimate Longevity—Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, St Barts

BEST FOR Long-term medical support. Designed in partnership with Dr Franck Baudino, a recognised pioneer in integrative health and telemedicine, this seven- or 14-day retreat is the hotel’s flagship longevity offering and promises to deliver a complete biological reset via advanced biomarker analysis, cardiovascular imaging, regenerative therapies (including LED photobiomodulation, cryostimulation and cellular drainage) – plus, post-stay medical guidance for up to six months. Nordic baths, yoga, light therapy, sound healing and beachfront mindfulness are all listed in the literature, but make no mistake about it: the focus here is on microbiome health, systemic regeneration and neuro-restoration.

HOW TO BOOK Longevity retreats at Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa range from £3,995 to a whopping £43,120, depending on the length and scope of your stay and treatments. To find out more, see lebarthelemyhotel.com

4. Ayurvedic Swaad—Soukya, India

BEST FOR Stress regulation. Founded by the world-renowned holistic physician Dr Issac Mathai, Soukya is a clinical-grade sanctuary that promises to treat the “root of physical, mental and emotional imbalances”. Now, this secluded resort set on the lush outskirts of Bangalore is offering a seven-day longevity programme that incorporates panchakarma – the gold standard of Ayurvedic cleansing; burnout recovery methods, including energy healing and breathwork; chronic-illness prevention, supported by an integrated clinical team; plus holistic weight-loss and skin-health plans. Guests can expect deep cellular wellness treatments rather than cutting-edge tech here, but an in-depth medical consultation and personalised daily plan curated and delivered by highly trained doctors and therapists are par for the course.

HOW TO BOOK Soukya’s seven-day Ayurvedic Swaad programme starts from £2,670, including accommodation, group yoga and activities. See soukya.com

5. Longevity Retreat—Champneys Tring, Hertfordshire

BEST FOR A UK-based reboot. Set in Champneys’ flagship spa hotel, this newly-launched four-day longevity retreat includes all the usual suspects: a wellness check-up covering VO2 max, strength, body composition, cognition, balance and mobility; medical consultations and assessments with an in-house doctor; personalised training and nutrition plans; plus a plethora of fitness classes and restorative treatments. Its USP, however, lies in its focus on long-term vitality and core longevity principles, which include educational talks in physical, nutritional and emotional wellness, as well as cognitive stimulation and, crucially, the importance of social wellbeing. As a result, outdoor activities form a key part of the programme, with a personalised Longevity Report offering actionable recommendations for lasting lifestyle changes that will boost your healthspan.

HOW TO BOOK The next retreat takes place at Champneys Tring from 8 December, priced at £1,600 per person, including accommodation and meals. Book at champneys.com/retreats

6. Better-Aging Clinic—BodyHoliday, St Lucia

BEST FOR Integrative health. Combining advanced Western technology and physiological analysis with a more holistic, Eastern slant on longevity, this offering from the world’s leading wellness resort is designed to help your body, mind and soul age more gracefully. Ayurvedic principles sit at the heart of therapy plans, while non-invasive diagnostics allow doctors to assess your nutrition gaps, hormone and stress levels, plus heart health and circulation. Guests will be prescribed a personalised course of nutritional supplements (governed by your biochemical test results), a tailored exercise routine, detoxification and body treatments, plus mediation and yoga.

HOW TO BOOK Rooms start from £320 per night on an all-inclusive basis, including daily spa treatment, meals, water sports, classes and activities. Better-Aging Clinic treatments start from £1000. Book at bodyholiday.com

Blooming over the Perth skyline and situated in the CBD, The Westin Perth expertly blends city stay luxury with five-star serenity. Enveloped by a bustling shopping district and thriving culinary scene, it’s well-placed for those seeking city centre convenience and curated opulence. But the real feat is the hotel's ability to harness a sense of calm and tranquility from within the city’s beating heart.

Why Go

Western Australia is known for its unbelievably dramatic landscapes and striking coastline, from the rugged red-rock gorges in The Kimberly to the crystal clear waters at Ningaloo Reef. The gateway to these epic scenic wonders is Perth, WA’s rapidly expanding capital which is fast-becoming a cultural hub to rival those on the east coast. Here, you’ll find fine dining, buzzy nightlife and the country’s celebrated coffee culture side-by-side, with postcard-perfect beaches less than thirty minutes away from the CBD. Located a short walk from the affluent Elizabeth Quay which sits on the banks of the Swan River, The Westin Perth creates its own magnificently serene nook in the city.

The Vibe

The grand lobby is instantly expansive, with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light filling the open space. The walls are adorned with artwork while sculptures balloon from marble blocks, and just beyond the onsite bar, Haven Lounge, lies Hibernian Place central plaza - a sun trap for al fresco drinks. On balmy evenings, the outdoor oasis also hosts diners from Garum, which offers an authentic taste of Italy with both its menu and its decor - think cacio e pepe and porchetta under cascading foliage and exposed wooden beams.

Guests can unwind at BOHDI spa, a wellness sanctuary peppered with flowing voile curtains and a calming indoor fountain. Opt for an invigorating lymphatic drainage massage or a brightening facial, then head out to the secluded sun deck. Striped parasols line a gently rippling infinity pool, a peaceful retreat overlooking the rooftops. Here, with the city painting the backdrop to your stay, you’re encouraged to rest and relax while the world moves around you.

Offering first-class hospitality, a commitment to wellness, and culinary experiences that you won’t forget, The Westin Perth curates a truly unforgettable stay.

The Food and Drink

The hotel’s key offering is the award-winning Italian restaurant, Garum, a collaboration between The Westin Perth and esteemed Australian chef, Guy Grossi. As the sun fades and hungry diners filter through, the Osteria retains an ambient calm with a mix of soft lighting, Roman arches and olive trees laced above the booths. The menu showcases traditional Italian cuisine - and you’ll be spellbound by the enormity of the cavernous open-plan kitchen alone, which proudly sits centre stage and allows guests to marvel at their food in the making. The dishes themselves are impressive, elevating popular classics; start with buttery Abrolhos Island scallops doused in a delicate herb and almond crust, followed by the duck and porcini tortellini in ‘sugo’, an endlessly rich Italian gravy. Bookmark your meal with a decadent and creamy Tiramisu, and wash it down with something from Garum’s incredibly extensive wine menu. Categorised by colour and grape variety in tandem with ancient Roman culture, you’ll find Italian and Australian options aplenty, while non-drinkers can choose from a selection of tasty mocktails.

By breakfast, Garum is flooded with natural light. Settle down with a flat white (Australian coffee is something to behold) and choose from the boundless buffet populated by yoghurts, fruit and grains, cured meats, and cheeses. The hot station is where you’ll find scrambled eggs, pancakes, crispy salted potatoes and pillowy focaccia. If you prefer to start your day à la carte, don’t miss the smashed avocado and ricotta on sourdough with poached eggs and a side of salmon. An unbeatable Aussie breakfast.

Haven Lounge, set just beyond the lobby, is full of cosy pockets to catch up over coffee or cocktails. It’s also where you’ll find an exquisite high tea - and, for those who like theirs with a seasonal sprinkle, the menu will more than satisfy; think ham hock sandwiches, bûche de Noël and candy cane Negroni sours at Christmas, or roasted beef and truffle aioli baguettes with smoked salmon blinis during the autumn.

The Rooms

Unfurling twenty eight floors into the sky, The Westin Perth offers 368 rooms and suites. Options range from deluxe kings with spacious seating areas to family rooms with city views - but the real showstopper is the Club Suite. At 105sqm, it’s awash with dark wood panelling, veined marble, and scattered gold accents, and includes a separate lounge, kitchen area and very comfortable bedroom. And while the space is undoubtedly majestic, it’s the endless window walls that add pure magic.

By day, sunlight pours in from every angle and you’re gifted with unparalleled panoramic views of Perth. By night, you’re gently wrapped in the velvety blue sky overlooking the twinkling city - a sight which can be infinitely appreciated from the comfort of the deep-set bathtub. Leave the bedroom blinds open to ensure you catch at least one sunrise - watching the sky swirl from navy to coral from the comfort of the plush king sized bed is quite unforgettable.

Additional Information

Fly to Perth Airport; there is one daily direct flight operating from London, but multiple indirect flights available from the UK with stopovers at Dubai, Qatar, Singapore and Hong Kong. Upon arrival, take a 20 minute taxi to Perth CBD; The Westin Perth is centrally located on Hay Street. Private transfers are bookable through the reservations team. The hotel offers onsite parking, valet and 24/7 concierge and room service. The facilities also include a private sundeck pool, full spa and gym.

How to Book

For more information about booking a stay at The Westin Perth, visit www.marriot.com. For general enquiries, events and corporate bookings, you can contact the team by phone (+61 8-65591888) or via email (westin.perth@westin.com).

Ten years ago, I sat in my mother’s kitchen, clutching her last jar of bitter, chunky homemade marmalade as a grey fog descended. My parents had both died within a month of each other, and nothing had prepared me for this sudden expulsion from childhood. Who was I now, without a mother or father? Where did I go from here?

As chance — or fate — would have it, this existential crisis came at a liminal moment. My younger son had finished school; my older one, his degree. Our family was hovering between past and future, a rare window where our lives had loosened. A space we could fill with adventure.

The Camino de Santiago — a thirty-day pilgrimage across northern Spain — was my choice. I knew people who had done it, and it seemed practical. We like to walk, and it’s cheap, was my reasoning. My family concurred. Deal done. The simplicity of it was calming: you walk, you eat, you sleep, and then you do it again. We just had to get ourselves there. And so, we four set forth — my husband, our two sons, and me — unprepared, not questioning what we were doing or why.

I wasn’t looking for a story, but for a writer, the Camino was like leaping into a bubbling cauldron of ideas. The path felt dense with history. We were walking a route pilgrims had taken for centuries, searching for meaning, yearning for a different life. I’m not religious, but something stirred. Why were we walking? What were we trying to find, or to leave behind? Each step on the trail became emotional as well as physical progress. At night, falling asleep on my bunk to the rustle of sleeping bags, I felt emptied out and, gradually, restored.

I arrived home convinced that the walk-eat-sleep rhythm of the pilgrimage had returned me to my upbeat self. My old life didn’t fit anymore. So, I briskly quit my long-term job and enrolled in a creative writing PhD. At the time, romantic comedy was my genre — it was all I had published, and my favourite comfort reading. I completed the PhD with a sweet, redemptive novel about an older man turning his life around on the Camino. It was gentle. It was hopeful. But it was a false victory.

Because — plot twist — it was now 2020.

The world shut down. Life became complicated, uncertain, and darker. Among eerie footage of empty cities, my Camino novel suddenly felt wrong. Too trite, too jaunty, too… 2019. Almost overnight, my reading taste lurched in a new direction. Quirky “meet-cutes” no longer held my attention. I didn’t recognise myself in these stories anymore. Instead, I began devouring psychological thrillers. Dark, ambiguous tales with morally grey characters who would never have passed an audition for my earlier fiction. Now, though, I loved those psychopathic scheming wives and alcoholic train wrecks with a passion. They made sense to me in a way lightness no longer did.

At the same time, my older son had moved to London, which — from locked-down Australia — might as well have been Mars. We communicated through screens, pixels standing in for presence. My longing for him morphed into a fixation on his surroundings. But I didn’t picture a Notting Hill rom-com London. Instead, I imagined crumbling castles, ancient forests, and old universities warped by tradition. A dark Anglophilic dreamscape. A setting began to take shape — haunting and gothic, filled with secrets and quiet menace. It didn’t belong in my sweet, hopeful novel. So, I did the only thing that felt honest: I scrapped the entire Camino novel and started over.

I wrote the kind of story I now wanted to read — atmospheric, morally layered, psychologically complex. A gothic mystery about dark academia and literary obsession. I was startled to find my sweet rom-com about grief and renewal had morphed into a psychological thriller. But the story showed what I now knew — transformation doesn’t always come gently. Sometimes it drags us through shadows we’d rather avoid. The stories we tell ourselves about who we are can be treacherous as well as healing. And even when we walk to leave something behind, we bring more with us than we know.

The grief, the pilgrimage, and the pandemic’s loneliness ultimately changed me. It also found its way into my story. My parents’ absence became a quiet undercurrent. The Camino’s steady rhythm provided the story’s pacing. And my fantasised English setting transcended the claustrophobia of lockdown.

The Camino taught me how to walk within grief’s grey fog until it lifts. But I now understand that moving forward doesn’t hinge on a single grand choice. Renewal isn’t easy. Sometimes it looks like abandoning a book I once loved because it no longer holds my truth. It means accepting that the person I was before the loss has gone. But mostly, it’s a series of small, stubborn steps, putting one foot in front of another until the path is clear again.

The Pact by Lisa Walker will be out on January 29th with HQ, HarperCollins.

Beloved London heritage hotel The Dorchester has undergone quite the transformation, with a 21st-century take on its original ‘30s glamour. This saw the hotel’s promenade transformed by acclaimed French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon into a brighter, light-filled space and a new James Bond-esque Vesper Bar, as well as an extensive refurb of the vast majority of its 241 rooms and suites and a reimaging of the hotel’s famous spa.

The latest stage of The Dorchester’s ongoing evolution sees the return of The Grill, with former Claridge’s executive chef Martyn Nail at the helm, as well as an exciting new wellness programme showcasing London’s leading experts, and a detailed restoration of the historic Oliver Messel Suite.

When you think of The Dorchester, grand chandeliers and martini trolleys probably come to mind. Or perhaps its grand ballroom, lined with crystal and polished wood, or the world-famous Dorchester afternoon tea served in ornate surroundings. But The Dorchester’s new wellness programme, with a focus on holistic health, repositions the landmark hotel as one of London’s top wellness destinations for 2026.

THE SPA

The Dorchester has long been a staple of the luxury spa circuit, with its Art Deco-inspired interiors creating a subterranean sanctuary on London’s Park Lane and always attracting a glamorous crowd. Relaxation begins from the moment you reach the basement and step out into the spa’s serene spaces, which are filled with gentle colours, plush fabrics and fresh flowers.

The spa itself reopened in April 2023, with a focus on high-spec treatment rooms and a refresh of the charming ‘Spatisserie’, an aesthetically pleasing lounge and cafe area in muted pink tones where guests can enjoy afternoon tea, light bites, cocktails and champagne. Top-notch techniques and therapists have always been part of the allure of a Dorchester Spa, but the new collaboration will see some exciting new treatments on the menu that you can’t get anywhere else.

Heritage London hotels and ultra-modern wellness clinics typically have very different offerings. But as the demand for wellness travel grows (the global wellness market is projected to reach $2,100 billion by 2030, according to Grand View Research), guests are seeking results-driven treatments as part of stays that balance wellness and indulgence. The new spa experience at The Dorchester sits somewhere between old-school luxury and modern innovation, with resident experts who blend cutting-edge tech with a holistic approach.

ROOMS

Rooms at The Dorchester are elegant, with nods to its rich cultural heritage, featuring hand-painted headboards and English floral fabrics from Colefax and Fowler, dressed in an English country-garden colour palette. You’re almost guaranteed a good view, too, with around half of the rooms offering views of Hyde Park, while others look over Mayfair.

Most notably, The Dorchester reopened its decadent Oliver Messel Suite earlier this month, complete with silk-lined walls, gilded mouldings, chinoiserie mirrors and a show-stopping bed canopied in imperial yellow Ottoman silk. The suite was first unveiled in 1953, named after and created by stage designer Oliver Messel, known for his inventive work across ballet, opera and theatre.

THE RESTAURANT

The Grill at The Dorchester, a staple at the Park Lane hotel since it first opened in 1931, has entered a new era, with Culinary Director Martyn Nail taking the reins from former head chef Tom Booton. The former Claridges Executive Chef has teamed up with rising star Jacob Keen-Downs, formerly of Gold, Notting Hill, to offer a contemporary take on The Dorchester’s classic grill room.

The Grill is a London institution, balancing heritage glamour with modern culinary takes, characterised by its Bentley leather banquette seating and a buzzy open kitchen that relaxes the mood. Technique is everything here; chefs will often personally finish dishes at the table.

China Tang offers an atmospheric alternative to The Grill, with opulent interiors inspired by 1930s Shanghai, the walls adorned with contemporary artwork. China Tang offers authentic Cantonese food with a contemporary twist. Finish off your meal with a nightcap at the plush Vespers Bar, continuing the 1930s theme with a James Bond theme, the interiors designed by Martin Brudnizki.

THE AFTERNOON TEA

There are few places in the world that offer a more atmospheric afternoon tea experience than London’s heritage hotels, and The Dorchester has one of the best. Their renowned afternoon tea is served on The Promenade, a light, airy space with an opulent feel that complements the elegant experience.

​​Executive pastry chef Michael Kwan presents guests with perfectly formed cakes, with exceptional attention to detail, drawing inspiration from the hotel’s heritage. Cakes range from seasonal treats and classic fruit tarts to mousse-based creations. Finger sandwiches and scones are served in a traditional style, with plain and raisin scones available.

THE NEW WELLNESS PROGRAMME

Natasha Clancy of Kichi Skin will be performing two specialist treatments developed specifically for her residency at The Dorchester: the KICHI Exo Ice Lift and theKICHI Exo Ice infusion. Both treatments incorporate 5 billion E50 exosomes, designed to lift and sculpt, delivering instantly visible rejuvenation. Treatments start at £750.

Marzena Zawadzka brings something new to The Dorchester with her restorative reflexology practice, which harmonises clients' physical, emotional and spiritual balance. Marzena's expertise lies in A.R.T., nerve, spinal and pregnancy reflexology and treatments start at £250. Joining the line-up is leading acupuncturist and physiotherapist Renata Nunes, known for her highly personalised, integrative approach to wellbeing. Her principal offering, Bespoke Therapy, is an integrated treatment combining acupuncture, cupping, and therapeutic massage to release tension, restore energy flow, and activate the body’s natural healing processes.

Renata has been making waves in the industry with her signature GlowYIN facial acupuncture treatments, which combine facial and systemic acupuncture with advanced LED light therapy to stimulate collagen production, reduce fine lines, enhance skin tone, and create a natural glow. Treatments start at £310 for a 75-minute session, with follow-up treatments from £250 for 60 minutes.

NEED TO KNOWS

KICHI Skin by Natasha Clancy will be in residence at The Dorchester Spa every Thursday and Friday from 9am. Marzena Zawadzka will be in residence at The Dorchester Spa every Tuesday, 10am – 4pm. Acupuncturist & Physiotherapist Renata Nunes will be in residence at The Dorchester Spa every Friday, 10am – 7pm.

For further information, please visit The Dorchester Spa website.

Rooms at The Dorchester start at £1,000 per night, and you can book through the hotel’s website.

Address: 53 Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K 1QA

Under a vibrant and cloudless blue sky, steeped between rolling hills peppered with mediterranean shrubs and ornate villas, you’ll find METT Marbella. Comfortably positioned on the 'New Golden Mile', the Spanish city’s affluent hub of luxury hotels and unparalleled promenades, the five-star resort is quickly becoming an exciting go-to destination for travellers seeking winter sun, elevated dining or that familiar beach club buzz.

Why go

Marbella draws in close to a million visitors every year, and it’s easy to see why tourists are drawn to this wealthy pocket of the Costa del Sol; the Puerto Banús port is dotted with yachts, key restaurants boast Michellin stars, and the nightlife is famously opulent and indulgent. But there’s more to Marbella than extravagance; in fact, there’s a soft side to this thriving spot on the south coast. Set between the bustling Spanish city and its neighbouring town, Estepona, METT Marbella offers a midpoint for those who want both coastal charm and unabashed luxury. The first-class hospitality, fine dining, holistic treatments and serene beachfront vibe will ensure you’re utterly nourished - mentally, physically and spiritually.

The vibe

Just beyond the lobby, where the balconies are draped with vines and the lunette windows illuminate an imposing eight-metre olive tree, you’ll find the beating heart of the resort. A fifty metre infinity pool lined with towering palm trees and day beds under cascading striped parasols, it’s where you’ll find most guests coiled beneath the sun. A stone’s throw away you’ll find quieter clusters of holidaymakers, devouring fresh ceviche with a gentle sea breeze at Azure beach. Inside, Andalusian tradition meets modern indulgences when it comes to the aesthetic; white hallways are punctuated by beautiful blue shutters and the daylight drops softly onto sea green marble tiles, while the walls are lined with rustic thatched mirrors and tapestries.

The vibe is, in both an understated and unmissable way, cool. There’s an endless list of treatments to enjoy at the onsite spa, and the beachfront suites with private pools and sea views are superb (but more on those later). And, while it’s undeniably buoyed by a moneyed undercurrent, there’s a real sense of peace and poise here too, which ultimately sets it apart.

The rooms

METT Marbella boasts 249 rooms and suites, with options ranging from sea-facing doubles to sprawling suites with private pools - but if you want a bit of both, book a sea-view suite with its own swim-up. Bright, spacious and on the cusp of the Mediterranean Sea, these suites fuse elegant design with modern comforts; neutral tones, cream furnishings, and blue and gold accents colour the space, while the separate living area, large sun sofas, flowing voile curtains and gold rainfall shower add contemporary touches. The quiet private terrace is a serene spot for your morning coffee, too; grab your book and listen to the waves lapping on the shore as the sun streaks the sky a muted orange and soft yellow. Beachfront calm with private pool luxury? Yes please.

The food and drink

The hotel offers a real mix of elevated dining and beachfront bites. Azure Marbella is modelled on the popular Dubai resort at Rixos Hotel and offers guests a relaxed lunch spot which extends onto the beach, where you can keep your toes in the sand with your eyes on the sea. Relish the gentle breeze as you tuck into a tangy goat cheese salad and delicately plated sushi stacks, or juicy prawn tacos and succulent chicken skewers.

For dinner, Isola promises traditional Italian flavours with a modern twist and it doesn’t disappoint. The service is second to none, and the plates really pack a punch; start with the indulgently creamy (and impressively large) 300g burrata, perfect for sharing with the table alongside ample servings of freshly baked bread. For mains, try the grilled octopus - paired with plump olives, celeriac cream and basil oil, it’s a real showstopper for the tastebuds. More traditional pasta enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice between porcini mushroom risotto, light clam spaghetti or rich ricotta and spinach ravioli. Oh, and it goes without saying: leave room for the fluffy and rich tiramisu. Utterly divine.

Before you check out, make at least one reservation at Ammos. The beachfront Greek restaurant serves low-fuss food with a laid back energy, and you are guaranteed to leave satiated. Feast on crispy anchovies, mezze trays and seafood platters topped with oysters, prawns and sweet scallops as the sky gently turns from blue to pink with the setting sun. Try the orzo with slow cooked beef cheeks or the marinated lamb chops, too - tender, drenched in flavour and sizeably portioned, you won’t be disappointed.

Additional information

Fly to Malaga Airport and take a 45 minute taxi to Estepona along the south coast. Private transfers are bookable through the reservations team. The hotel offers guests free Wi-Fi, room service and a 24/7 concierge service, as well as direct beachfront access and pet-friendly rooms. Staff will also facilitate taxi bookings and private transfers, as well as restaurant reservations.

How to book

For more information about booking a stay at METT Hotel and Beach Resort Marbella, visit the website here. For general enquiries, events and corporate bookings, you can contact the team by phone (+34 689 18 21 30) or via email (sales.marbella@mettsocialliving.com).

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Enthusiastic travellers already organised their annual leave to ensure they double their holiday allowance in 2026 - but whether your travel plans for this year include long-haul trips to Sri Lanka's best beaches or Japan's epic slopes, or you'd prefer to spend a sunny summer fine dining in Corfu, there are some key travel hacks to make sure you get the best deals - and really make your 2026 travel plans count.

According to DiscoverCars.com, there's one key thing to consider when planning your holidays this year; it's all in the timing. Whether you're booking in advance or hoping for a last minute deal, these tips and tricks could save you some money when it comes to your getaways next year.

Best travel hacks for 2026

The key things to remember when you're booking your 2026 trips, according to the website, are advance bookings, Black Friday sales, and monitoring peak dates. The advice is to lock in your trips in good time as this can improve both availability and lower prices, particularly if your proposed travel dates fall in the school holidays. It's prudent to consider peak travel dates throughout the year - regardless of whether or not you're travelling with young children, prices will change with term dates, and travelling just outside of bank holidays can really reduce costs. Plus, while the 2026 Black Friday sales currently feel like a lifetime away, it's worth remembering just how much money you could save on last minute winter trips for next year.

Outside of these simple travel hacks, there are things you can do depending on how much time you're giving yourself to organise a trip. Take a look at the key things to remember, whether your booking window is a year in advance or you prefer last-minute planning.

When to get the best travel deals in 2026

Travel booking window: 6 to 12 months in advance

"This is the ideal window for securing peak-season dates such as Easter, summer and popular winter-sun getaways. Airlines and hotels typically release prices at the start of the year, often with early-bird discounts. Booking 6–12 months ahead gives the best choice of flight times, hotels and villas, especially for those tied to school holidays or seeking specific accommodation."

Booking window: 8 to 12 months in advance

"Long-distance routes - including Asia, the Caribbean and classic winter-sun spots - tend to fluctuate significantly in price and can fill quickly. Securing flights 8-12 months ahead reduces the risk of premium fares later on and ensures access to the most convenient travel times."

Booking window: 3 to 6 months in advance

"For short-haul trips within Europe or domestic breaks, prices often stabilise during this period. By the spring, initial release rates have usually dropped, and availability remains good before peak demand kicks in. For early-summer and mid-year holidays in 2026, booking between January and March offers the strongest balance of value and choice."

Booking window: 2 to 4 months in advance

"Last-minute deals can still provide strong savings, but only for those willing to be flexible on destination and dates. Airlines and tour operators may lower prices to fill unsold seats and rooms, but this approach is best suited to people with open schedules or those booking outside school holiday periods."

Head of Growth, Aleksandrs Buraks, explains: "Planning ahead for 2026 is one of the simplest ways to secure better prices and enjoy a smoother travel experience. Booking early not only gives access to more flight and hotel options - it also ensures you can choose the right rental car for your trip, whether you’re heading on a short European break or a long-haul adventure. Early planning reduces stress, maximises flexibility and makes it easier to avoid peak-season price spikes, giving you more freedom to enjoy your holiday exactly how you want."

Happy holidays!

I’ll admit it: Ireland has never sat particularly high on my wanderlust list. Rightfully or not, it’s always been the far-flung locales that captured my imagination — Alaska’s towering forests, Balinese jungle boltholes, the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. That changed during a Zoom call in which my birth chart was dissected and an astrocartography reading followed.

For the uninitiated, astrocartography is, as my astrologer (sadly, I will orchestrate any excuse to write/say/sing from the rooftops my astrologer) puts it, “Tinder for places, a way of mapping where in the world you might thrive, and where you might not”. I’ve written before about how astrocartography has changed how I travel, but for context: southern Ireland, I was told, had a sun line coursing straight through it.

This, my astrologer (sorry, last time) told me, meant I’d find Ireland charming; a place of peace and serenity. She was Irish herself and so I was wary of biases, but when a press invite to Cork’s The Montenotte Hotel appeared in my inbox mere moments after our call, it felt remiss—unwise, even—to ignore the universe.

The Vibe

Adding to the metaphysical serendipity, I was also celebrating my 35th birthday in Ireland — an apparently auspicious day this year. Unfortunately, it also meant catching the first flight out of London Stansted just hours after my birthday dinner party. Good planning, it seemed, would not be among the skills I’d be acquiring.

I slept the entire flight and soon found myself weaving past Ireland’s emerald fields on the short drive from the airport to the Montenotte Hotel, perched atop Lee View Hill with sweeping views of the city below. I arrived at 9am to much fanfare: a black-and-white–striped caddy, as if borrowed from My Fair Lady, whisked away our luggage before we were guided to the main Panorama restaurant, where I promptly ordered an Irish coffee, hangover obliging.

The restaurant hummed with breakfast chatter and the scrape of cutlery as guests and locals fuelled up for the day ahead. I, less robust, sank into a plush velvet sofa as my drink grew cold in my hand.

Relief came at The Clubhouse, where I was staying in one of the expertly designed Woodland Suites scattered along the forest floor surrounding the main estate. This meant that — should we choose — breakfast could be taken away from the hoi polloi of the main hotel, in a glass-walled retreat overlooking the River Lee.

The suite itself was even better. A plump white bed sprawled before me, its pristine bedding immediately persuasive. The call of champagne cooling in a bucket on the mantel proved stronger, and I passed the rolltop bath and out onto the semi wrap-around balcony where, save for distant glimpses of other treehouse suites, I might have been entirely alone.

The Rooms

My area of the estate, as it’ll henceforth be known, comprises five Woodland Suites nestled among the trees and four River Suites cantilevered into the landscape. Each is outfitted with a king or super-king bed with a solid American oak timber frame and elegantly hidden Smart TV, private terrace or balcony, Dyson hairdryer and clothes steamer, and an in-suite honesty bar stocked with options you actually want. Designed to blur the boundary between architecture and the surrounding Irish woodland, they feel more like modern treehouses than conventional hotel rooms — albeit with all the comforts of a five-star stay.

Raised among the trees on stilts, the suites take on a distinctive octagonal form that wouldn’t look out of place on Grand Designs, their elevation maximising immersive views of nature. Inside, Scandinavian minimalism meets Japanese influences in spaces that are clean, calm, and functional. Natural light and warm material, such as Italian travertine, oak timber, bronze mirrored panels create a cosy, uplifting atmosphere that a hangover is no match for.

The Food & Drink

Seated for dinner in front of the Panorama restaurant’s sprawling glass windows framing the twinkling city below, the hangover that had stalked me all day — prompting me to question not only my decision to host a raucous dinner for 25 the night before, but my very existence — finally came into sharp relief. It also bestowed a champion’s appetite, and I made full use of the three-course comped meal: Pan-seared West Cork scallops, Roast chicken breast with crispy potato terrine and wild mushrooms, rounded off with a Pumpkin-spiced (this was October) crème brûlée with orange cinnamon shortbread

Afterwards, we waddled back to our room (we could’ve requested a buggy, but my partner was keen to prove we weren’t complete heathens) to flop in front of the giant TV that rises from a hidden compartment between the king-size bed and the sofa, and watch Titanic.

Breakfast, I would like to say, leaned towards the virtuous offerings at The Clubhouse, but I was still operating under the same “when in Rome” mentality that had seen me order an Irish coffee at 9am. My eyes fell instead on a plate heaving with juicy pork sausages, white bread slathered in Kerrygold, crispy bacon, and all the other trappings of a full Irish.

Steaming cups of every style of coffee imaginable arrived at our table with the same frequency and zeal as the wine the night before. Guests staying in either suite can also enjoy a complimentary sundowner from 5–6pm — cocktails change nightly, but I can enthusiastically vouch for the two I quaffed — served alongside a pleasingly generous spread of appetisers.

The Facilities

Relaxation is really the name of the game here—or at least it would be if I were capable of rest. In hindsight, I should have fully embraced the reasons I rarely saw anyone else leave their suite: the deep bath with views over the city and surrounding woods, and, if you swivel the screen, the TV. I imagine other couples, cloaked in white robes, padding over to the crystal-cut decanter for a tumbler of complimentary local whiskey.

But to my boyfriend’s chagrin, we were not that couple. Instead, we alternated between the pool, sauna, and steam room until I hit my activity goals on my Coros watch. The pool and gym are open to all guests, and over the weekend, they were well enjoyed. The spa, located in a separate wing of the main hotel, was blissfully quiet during my full-body massage, and regretfully I never made it to the Cameo’s cinema’s nightly screening as I was too busy necking Beamish (Don’t make the mistake of ordering Dublin’s Guinness in Cork, which locals of every ilk enthusiastically told me is the real capital of Ireland) at the Sin é’s infamous trad night.

How to Book

Starting room rates for The Woodland Suite Experience are from €610 per night, including breakfast, Nights-for-Nature tree planting, and access to all The Montenotte’s facilities and amenities including Panorama restaurant, Glasshouse rooftop bar, Cameo Cinema (over 18s only), Bellevue Spa, Salt Room, and The Motion Health Club. For more information visit The Montenotte Hotel website.

What to Pack

Some places soften your shoulders the moment you arrive, and South Lodge Hotel is one of them. Set across acres of Sussex countryside, it’s a property built around deep rest, connection and genuine joy. I explored the hotel, its celebrated spa, its dining offering and its newest addition, The Reeds: a collection of waterside lodges designed for total tranquillity. I left feeling clearer, calmer and genuinely reset. I'm already planning my return.

Why Go?

If your idea of the perfect escape blends nature, great food, fantastic wine and a genuine sense of calm, South Lodge should sit high on your list. The drive into the grounds sets the tone: open fields, sweeping views and a main house that feels inviting. It’s the ideal backdrop for quality time, whether that’s a romantic weekend, a long-overdue catch-up with friends or a solo retreat designed to help you switch off properly.

Food is a central part of the experience, from divine dinners to bright, plant-based plates in the spa, and evenings naturally stretch late when paired with a glass of with glasses of Sussex sparkling wine made from the hotel’s own vines in partnership with Ridgeview. Combine that with a world-class spa and the privacy of The Reeds, and you have an escape that feels considered in every way.

The Vibe

The vibe across the estate is immaculate. Warm lighting, beautiful interiors and a team who seem genuinely invested in your stay. Everyone I met had been part of the South Lodge family for years, and that consistency brings a rare ease to the experience.

Guests staying in The Reeds have the added touch of a dedicated WhatsApp concierge, who makes check-in a breeze and responds to requests instantly. It’s thoughtful without ever feeling intrusive, and it makes the stay feel truly tailored to you.

There’s a quiet integrity to the place, too, recognised with our Marie Claire Sustainability Award. The hotel’s gentle approach to luxury extends to the environment—from the way the grounds are cared for to the considered, low-impact choices woven throughout your stay.

The Rooms

The Reeds are one of the most spectacular places I’ve ever stayed in. Suspended over still water, each lodge feels like its own contemporary sanctuary. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the view, and the interiors lean towards soft, calming neutrals. It’s the kind of space you immediately exhale into.

It's the subtle signs of luxury that really sold it for me. A chilled bottle of sparkling wine greeted me on arrival, alongside a fridge stocked with snacks that were replenished almost magically. Bath salts were placed beside a deep tub, and the Pelegrims x South Lodge shampoo and conditioner were a standout—beautifully scented and so effective (my hair hasn’t been this soft all year) that I stopped by the spa on my way out to take some home. A Dyson hairdryer, plush robes and curtains that glide open at the touch of a button added to the feeling of effortless comfort.

The balcony quickly became my favourite spot. Overlooking peaceful, glassy water, it features an outdoor bathtub that makes sunrise feel cinematic. It’s a space designed for slowing down and one that’s surprisingly difficult to leave—the only things that could lure me away were the pull of the spa and, of course, dinner.

Food & Drink

Dining at South Lodge elevates the stay even further. At The Pass, Head Chef Ben Wilkinson delivers a beautifully balanced tasting menu rooted in local and seasonal flavours.

Standout dishes included fried sourdough with beef tartare, a scallop-and-squash pairing that was delicate, and a silky celeriac and mushroom broth poured tableside by Ben himself. The day-boat turbot from Newhaven, cooked at 50 degrees until impossibly tender and served with an English sparkling wine sauce, was a highlight.

Over at Camellia, the menu is classic and crowd-pleasing, with beautifully executed meat and fish dishes, excellent service and generous portions. In the spa, the plant-based restaurant offers bright, fresh plates that feel exactly right between swims and saunas.

Wherever you dine, the hotel’s own wine from its Sussex vineyard is the standout—light, crisp and the perfect companion to a slow evening.

The Spa

South Lodge’s spa balances luxury with an authentic, grounding sense of calm. Outside, a heated vitality pool overlooks the countryside, while a wild-water plunge offers a refreshing jolt. The panoramic sauna has sweeping views, and the aromatic steam room wraps you in warmth and scent.

I spent hours here doing slow laps between the sauna, aromatic steam room and cold plunge. But the unexpected highlight was wild water swimming in the natural lake beside The Reeds. I’d heard of the benefits of cold-water immersion, and when asked on arrival if I wanted to book a supervised swim, I hesitated; then I noticed a copy of How to Wild Swim by Ella Foote left in my room. After reading a few pages, something shifted—I decided to take the plunge.

At 2 pm, I headed down to the water, joined by a husband and wife who swim there every day, which instantly made the whole thing feel more approachable. With the help of our lifeguard, I eased in, taking a float with me, and swam around the lake, seeing The Reeds from an entirely new angle. The shock of cold was exhilarating; the afterglow was even better. A hot chocolate afterwards, followed by a warm-up in the sauna, cemented it as one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

The spa also offers a smaller natural cold-water pool for plunging between sauna sessions—less intense than the lake, but just as refreshing, and it became a popular rotation for guests jumping between cold plunge and sauna throughout the day.

What I loved most was the spaciousness. Even during busier moments, the spa never felt crowded. Time stretches naturally here—it’s surprisingly easy to lose an entire afternoon without thinking twice.

The Treatment

The treatment I booked—the Fresh Leaf Fusion Face & Body Treatment—is inspired by the hotel’s vineyard and created in partnership with Pelegrims, a British skincare brand known for using grapevine extracts in its formulas. It already felt special before it began.

After a calming consultation and scent selection—I chose ginger, one of four essential-oil blends—I lay back on a heated bed that shifted through soft, therapeutic colours. I almost never fall asleep during treatments, but this one transported me. The techniques were soothing yet incredibly restorative, and the back facial left my skin clearer and smoother for days. It's genuinely the clearest my back has ever looked.

What elevates the experience is the way South Lodge and Pelegrims bring the vineyard quite literally into the treatment. The mask used across my back was made with hand-harvested vine leaves, and the therapist handed me a sachet of those same leaves to take home, to infuse in my bath over the next three days. It felt like carrying a small piece of the spa home with me—a continuation of the ritual rather than an ending.

When I got home, everyone commented on how glowy and relaxed I looked—the kind of visible softness that only comes from a treatment that truly works.

How to Book

A stay at The Reeds starts from £1000 per night, with two-bedroom lodges available for couples, families or small groups. Spa access — including supervised wild water swimming — is included in your stay. For the full experience, reserve a table for the tasting menu at The Pass. More details and seasonal packages are available on the South Lodge Hotel website, or by calling 01403 891711.