DESTINATION GUIDES

Review: CitizenM Rome Isola Tiberina
Italy, Hotel Reviews, Europe, City Breaks, Weekend Getaways, Rome Sophie Alexander-Osman Italy, Hotel Reviews, Europe, City Breaks, Weekend Getaways, Rome Sophie Alexander-Osman

Review: CitizenM Rome Isola Tiberina

Walking out onto the cobbled streets of Rome one September morning, it felt like everything was within reach. The river’s gentle hum, historic façades dripping with stories, and the promise of gelato round the corner set the scene perfectly. For the ideal base, I stayed at the citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina, part of the wider citizenM family now under Marriott Bonvoy. The hotel retains its distinctive for the people ethos while offering the reliability, reach, and loyalty benefits of one of the world’s largest hotel networks.

Read More
Positano, Italy: Complete Travel Guide to the Amalfi Coast’s Most Iconic Town

Positano, Italy: Complete Travel Guide to the Amalfi Coast’s Most Iconic Town

I have travelled to so many countries over the last few years, but when booking this trip to the Amalfi Coast it turned out to be the most confusing trip to plan and took far longer to understand the logistics than any other trip I have done. I visited Italy ten years ago and have explored many parts of the country, but this was my first time on the Amalfi Coast. I read so many articles warning me not to hire Vespas because they are dangerous, not to drive because the roads are too tight and there is nowhere to park, that buses are always delayed, and that ferries are the best option but sometimes do not run due to bad weather. I mean, talk about scaremongering.

Read More
How to Spend 2 Days in Dubai: An Insider’s Itinerary
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Middle East, City Guide, City Breaks, Foodies Sophie Alexander-Osman Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Middle East, City Guide, City Breaks, Foodies Sophie Alexander-Osman

How to Spend 2 Days in Dubai: An Insider’s Itinerary

If you only have two days in Dubai, planning your time carefully is essential to make the most of your short stay. The city is packed with towering modern landmarks, historic neighbourhoods, traditional souks, world-class dining, and desert adventures, meaning it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choice. This insider’s itinerary is designed to highlight the experiences and attractions that can realistically fit into 48 hours, combining the city’s most iconic sights with local favourites that give a true sense of Dubai’s character.

Read More
Top Things to See and Do in Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, City Breaks, City Guide, Middle East Sophie Alexander-Osman Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, City Breaks, City Guide, Middle East Sophie Alexander-Osman

Top Things to See and Do in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, sits on an island along the Arabian Gulf and offers a different pace from the energy of Dubai. It is a modern city that has grown rapidly since the discovery of oil in the 20th century, transforming from a small fishing village into a hub of culture, business, and leisure. Despite its modern skyline, Abu Dhabi feels quieter, more relaxed, and family-oriented compared to Dubai’s buzz. Every time I visit, it feels like an escape from the city rush, with wide roads, green spaces, and calm beaches.

Read More
Is This the Best Airbnb in Montenegro? Full Review
Montenegro, Hotel Reviews, Airbnb, Europe, Kotor, City Breaks Sophie Alexander-Osman Montenegro, Hotel Reviews, Airbnb, Europe, Kotor, City Breaks Sophie Alexander-Osman

Is This the Best Airbnb in Montenegro? Full Review

If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro and want a stay that combines modern comfort with incredible views, Olga’s Piece of Paradise in Dobrota is worth considering. Just 15 minutes from Kotor Old Town, this brand-new three-bedroom apartment spans 130 m² and accommodates up to six adults. It’s tastefully designed with modern colours, designer lighting and high-quality finishes, making it an ideal base for couples, families or friends who want both comfort and functionality on their Montenegro holiday.

Read More
Review: Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa

Review: Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa

Perched 2,000 metres above sea level on Oman’s Green Mountain, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa is the ultimate summer escape from the desert heat. Often called the Grand Canyon of the Middle East, this rugged plateau offers a completely different world just a few hours from Dubai. We left 42-degree heat behind and arrived to crisp 28-degree temperatures in August, with refreshing rain showers and cool breezes we hadn’t felt in months. Being able to sit outdoors comfortably, surrounded by dramatic canyons and terraced villages, felt incredible. The hotel sits right on the edge of the mountain, offering uninterrupted views across deep gorges and rocky peaks that stretch for miles.

Read More
Review: City Staycation at Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai

Review: City Staycation at Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai

The Renaissance Business Bay Hotel is a five star Marriott property set right on the Dubai Water Canal in Business Bay. The hotel was rebranded in 2024 from the former Grand Millennium, bringing a refreshed design and updated facilities to the area. Its location is ideal for exploring the city, just a five-minute drive from Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall, with the canal promenade running directly outside for walks or cycling.

Read More
A Weekend of Diving in Musandam, Oman

A Weekend of Diving in Musandam, Oman

Just a two-hour drive from Dubai, Musandam in Oman feels like a completely different world. Jagged limestone cliffs rise straight out of the sea, forming deep inlets and quiet coves often called the fjords of Arabia. The landscape is wild and untouched, with no buildings or roads in sight once you’re on the water. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the Gulf and also one of the best places to dive in the region. The calm waters, varied topography, and rich marine life make it ideal for both beginners and experienced divers looking for a quick weekend underwater.

Read More
Two Weeks in England Road Trip Itinerary
England, Wales, United Kingdom, Roadtrips, Europe, Activity Holidays, Full Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman England, Wales, United Kingdom, Roadtrips, Europe, Activity Holidays, Full Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman

Two Weeks in England Road Trip Itinerary

If you want to see England beyond its big cities, this two‑week road trip takes you on a complete circular route starting and ending in London. Travelling by car gives you the freedom to reach places that trains don’t always serve directly, from the university charm of Cambridge and the quiet coast of Skegness to the rolling hills of the Peak District and the dramatic landscapes of Snowdonia National Park. The route continues through the historic streets of Bath, down to the south coast at Bournemouth with a stop at Stonehenge, before following the shoreline to Brighton and back to London. It’s a varied journey that shows you England’s countryside, coast and culture in one trip.

Read More
Review: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Review: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

The Ritz‑Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is a five‑star resort set in the North Malé Atoll, around 50 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. Part of Marriott International and designed by Kerry Hill, it sits within the Fari Islands, a new luxury development that brings together three resorts — The Ritz‑Carlton, Patina Maldives and the upcoming Capella Maldives — as well as the Fari Marina Village. This village is home to the Fari Beach Club, boutiques and a collection of shared dining and cultural spaces. While guests are free to explore these wider facilities, The Ritz‑Carlton itself feels self‑contained, offering overwater and beachfront villas, a full‑service spa, multiple restaurants and bars, a dive centre and a wide range of recreational and wellness activities.

Read More
Review: The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

Review: The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is a five-star property located in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. Part of Marriott International, the resort follows Westin’s global wellness philosophy built around six pillars: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. This ethos is reflected throughout the island — from the brand’s signature Heavenly Beds and daily yoga sessions to nourishing dining options and a focus on rest and renewal.

The resort features spacious overwater and beachfront villas, a dedicated spa, and a range of wellness and fitness programmes. Its location also offers seasonal access to Hanifaru Bay, one of the world’s top sites for snorkelling with manta rays. Designed with sustainability and comfort in mind, The Westin caters to travellers looking for a quieter, more balanced Maldives experience.

Read More
Luxury vs Ultra-Luxury in the Maldives: What’s the Real Difference?

Luxury vs Ultra-Luxury in the Maldives: What’s the Real Difference?

I’ve just returned from a week in the Maldives, spending three nights at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort and two at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Both resorts were incredible — everything you expect from the Maldives: crystal-clear waters, top-level service, delicious food, and excellent amenities. However, these resorts belong to different tiers. While nearly every resort in the Maldives is considered as luxury, a select few are truly ultra-luxury. In this post, I’ll explore the difference between the two. At first glance, there may be little to separate them, but it’s the small, thoughtful touches — and the noticeable jump in price — that elevate some properties to that next level of luxury.

Read More
Top Cities to Visit in Japan That Aren’t Tokyo
Japan, Asia, City Breaks, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman Japan, Asia, City Breaks, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman

Top Cities to Visit in Japan That Aren’t Tokyo

Over four months sailing around southern Japan on a cruise ship, I had the chance to visit these cities multiple times and truly get to know what makes each one special. From the powerful history preserved in Hiroshima to the vibrant street food culture of Osaka, and from the peaceful beaches of Okinawa to the volcanic landscapes of Kagoshima, these cities offer a wide range of experiences that show Japan’s rich diversity. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, local cuisine, or unique cultural traditions, you’ll find plenty to explore here. This list highlights the top cities to visit in Japan that reveal the country’s character beyond the usual tourist routes.

Read More
Top Things to See and Do in London
London, City Guide, City Breaks, England, United Kingdom, Europe Sophie Alexander-Osman London, City Guide, City Breaks, England, United Kingdom, Europe Sophie Alexander-Osman

Top Things to See and Do in London

London is packed with iconic sights, world-class museums, and diverse neighbourhoods — but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. This guide covers 20 top things to see and do across the city, from historic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to modern favourites like the Shard and Sky Garden. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re back for more, these highlights will help you get the most out of your time in the capital.

Read More
Best National Parks to Visit in the USA This Summer

Best National Parks to Visit in the USA This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of America's national parks. Whether you're drawn to towering mountains, desert canyons, lush forests, or coastal trails, the USA offers something for every kind of traveller. This guide highlights the best national parks to visit in the summer months — places where the weather is ideal, the scenery is spectacular, and the adventure is nonstop.

Read More