DESTINATION GUIDES

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Sorrento, Italy
Italy, Sorrento, Europe, City Breaks, City Guide, Foodies Sophie Alexander-Osman Italy, Sorrento, Europe, City Breaks, City Guide, Foodies Sophie Alexander-Osman

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Sorrento, Italy

Sorrento sits on the edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula with views across the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius and the islands offshore. It has long been one of the most convenient bases for exploring the Amalfi Coast thanks to its transport links, central location and easy access to ferries, trains and buses. The town itself is known for its historic centre, lemon groves, waterfront marinas, and busy Corso Italia, which stays lively from morning to late evening. You get a mix of coastal scenery, good food and day trips without the steep prices or limited access you find in the smaller cliffside towns.

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Bussola Celebrates 20 Years in Dubai
Dubai, Foodies, United Arab Emirates, Middle East, Hotel Reviews, City Breaks Sophie Alexander-Osman Dubai, Foodies, United Arab Emirates, Middle East, Hotel Reviews, City Breaks Sophie Alexander-Osman

Bussola Celebrates 20 Years in Dubai

Bussola marked its 20th anniversary last weekend, an impressive milestone for any Dubai restaurant, especially in a city that moves as fast as this one. When Bussola first opened, it stood alone on the beachfront long before the current marina skyline or the new Dubai Harbour existed. Today it sits within The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, yet it has kept the same consistency and familiarity that long-term residents will recognise instantly. If you have lived in Dubai for a while, you will know it is one of the few places that never disappoints, and it is somewhere people naturally return to.

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Iliana: Dubai’s Hottest New Restaurant, Pool Club & Rooftop at Marsa Al Arab
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, City Breaks, Foodies, Hotel Reviews, Middle East Sophie Alexander-Osman Dubai, United Arab Emirates, City Breaks, Foodies, Hotel Reviews, Middle East Sophie Alexander-Osman

Iliana: Dubai’s Hottest New Restaurant, Pool Club & Rooftop at Marsa Al Arab

Dubai's luxury scene just got a significant upgrade with the arrival of Iliana, the glamorous new Greek-Mediterranean destination nestled within the breathtaking Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Inspired by the simple elegance and vibrant flavours of the Cycladic islands, Iliana first opened its doors earlier this year, quickly establishing itself as a sophisticated, three-part venue. From its chic restaurant offering authentic coastal cuisine and its luxurious pool club perfect for day-long relaxation, Iliana is already a must-visit. Yet, the final, and perhaps most anticipated, element of this concept has just been unveiled: the stunning Iliana rooftop.

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How to Spend a Day in Capri – Ferry Tips, Beaches, Kayaking & Where to Eat
Capri, Italy, Europe, Activity Holidays, Roadtrips Sophie Alexander-Osman Capri, Italy, Europe, Activity Holidays, Roadtrips Sophie Alexander-Osman

How to Spend a Day in Capri – Ferry Tips, Beaches, Kayaking & Where to Eat

Rising from the Tyrrhenian Sea just off Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, Capri is a small island of cliffs, coves, and impossibly blue water. Though only 10 square kilometres, its steep terrain makes it feel much larger — from sea level to the top of Monte Solaro, the island climbs nearly 600 metres. Roads curve along terraces of lemon trees and whitewashed villas, leading to hidden beaches and panoramic viewpoints over the Bay of Naples. It’s the kind of place that feels effortlessly glamorous yet still connected to nature, and perfect for a day trip from Sorrento when planned right.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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