DESTINATION GUIDES
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Ultimate Aswan Bucket List: Top Places to Visit and Explore
Aswan is a small city in southern Egypt, known for its temples, islands, and links to Nubian culture. It’s a common stop on Nile cruises and an easy base for visiting major sites like Philae Temple and Abu Simbel. The city is walkable, affordable, and less chaotic than Cairo or Alexandria, making it a good place to slow down while still seeing key parts of ancient Egypt. I wasn’t expecting Aswan to be so naturally beautiful—the Nile is wide and calm here, with rocky islands and desert landscapes on either side. The Nubian people are incredibly welcoming, and the food is fantastic. Life here feels simple, with small boats being the main way to get around.
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting AlUla, Saudi Arabia
AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s most remarkable destinations, located in the northwest of the country within the Medina region. Known for its dramatic desert landscapes and archaeological significance, it is home to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as ancient rock tombs, historic dwellings, and striking sandstone formations. In recent years, AlUla has opened up to international tourism with new infrastructure, seasonal events, and luxury accommodations, making it an ideal destination for travellers interested in history, culture, and nature.
Review: Staying at Marriott Mena House, Cairo
This isn't the result of a viral post making the rounds on social media - Marriott Mena House in Cairo has been captivating visitors for over a century. Nestled just down the road from the Great Pyramids of Giza, this iconic hotel is the pinnacle of ancient history and luxury, offering guests a front-row seat to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. If the Great Pyramids are on your bucket list - as they are for so many - then Mena House is the perfect place to stay, while you give this extraordinary wonder, one big tick.
Maldives Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go
Planning a trip to the Maldives? This Indian Ocean paradise is every bit as beautiful as the photos suggest — turquoise lagoons, powder-soft sand, and the kind of serenity you only find when you’re miles from anywhere. But behind the dreamy scenes are a few practical things worth knowing before you go. From how seaplane transfers really work to what to pack (and what not to), local customs, tipping etiquette, and choosing the right island — this guide covers everything you need to help you plan the trip properly and make the most of your time in the Maldives.
Best Places to Visit in Europe for Summer 2025
Over the last few years, it’s felt like everyone’s been heading to Europe for their summer holiday — and the FOMO is real. The reason? Guaranteed sunshine, great vibes, golden beaches, tan lines, and a seriously good time. Missing out on a Euro summer is like missing out on summer all together. Whether you're after a party-filled city break or a quiet hideaway in the mountains, summer in Europe is always a good idea. From the best beach destinations in Europe to iconic cities and underrated gems, here’s where to go for your perfect Euro summer 2025 - where will you be heading this year?
Exploring Luxor: The World's Greatest Open-Air Museum
Nestled on the banks of the mighty Nile River, Luxor is often described as the world’s greatest open-air museum — and it’s easy to see why. This ancient city is a treasure trove of history, where every corner reveals stories carved in stone and echoes of a civilisation that shaped the course of human history. From the towering columns of Karnak Temple to the mysterious tombs hidden deep within the Valley of the Kings, Luxor offers an unforgettable journey through time.
15 Best Things to do in Dubai - Summer 2025
Dubai doesn’t slow down for summer — it simply moves indoors, underwater, and after dark. While the temperatures soar, so do the experiences, from world-class spas and immersive museums to rooftop pools and desert safaris designed with the heat in mind. Whether you're chasing thrills, culture, or just somewhere beautifully air-conditioned, here are 15 of the best things to do in Dubai this summer.
Ginger Moon Review: New Californian Cuisine at W Dubai - Mina Seyahi
Set above the shoreline at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Ginger Moon offers something new to the city: a beach club experience without the beach. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Harbour, with the towers of Dubai Marina rising behind, it’s a relaxed space designed for long afternoons and evenings.
At its centre, a large olive tree grows up from the valet area two floors below and stretches through the heart of the restaurant, forming the bar canopy with seating all around. The kitchen is open, so you can see the chefs at work, and there’s a choice between indoor tables or breezy outdoor seating. We visited for dinner (kindly gifted) and stayed well into the night.