DESTINATION GUIDES

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.

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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.

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The Ultimate Aswan Bucket List: Top Places to Visit and Explore
Aswan, Egypt, Africa, Once In A Lifetime, City Guide, Activity Holidays Sophie Alexander-Osman Aswan, Egypt, Africa, Once In A Lifetime, City Guide, Activity Holidays Sophie Alexander-Osman

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.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, Middle East, Once In A Lifetime, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, Middle East, Once In A Lifetime, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman

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.

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Best Places to Visit in Europe for Summer 2025

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?

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Exploring Luxor: The World's Greatest Open-Air Museum

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.

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Best Places to Visit in Doha: Top Attractions and Landmarks
Doha, Qatar, City Breaks, City Guide, Middle East Sophie Alexander-Osman Doha, Qatar, City Breaks, City Guide, Middle East Sophie Alexander-Osman

Best Places to Visit in Doha: Top Attractions and Landmarks

Doha is a city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Set on the Arabian Gulf and often overlooked for its flashier neighbours, it boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to its museums, bustling markets, or waterfront views, Doha has something for every kind of traveller looking to experience the best the country has to offer. These are the places that you should visit to truly discover the heart of Qatar.

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The Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide: Best Places to Stay, Eat and Explore
Egypt, Cairo, Foodies, City Breaks, City Guide, Wonders Of The World, Africa Sophie Alexander-Osman Egypt, Cairo, Foodies, City Breaks, City Guide, Wonders Of The World, Africa Sophie Alexander-Osman

The Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide: Best Places to Stay, Eat and Explore

Cairo is exactly what you expect — and yet, it still manages to surprise you. Loud, hot, completely alive. The kind of city that doesn’t ease you in gently, it just sweeps you up in its chaos and colour. One minute you’re weaving through traffic that somehow works without rules, the next you’re standing still beneath the Pyramids, barely believing they’re real. It’s gritty and grand all at once, with layers of history, street noise, spice and smoke. And somehow, it all just works. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, Cairo always gives you something unexpected.

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The Ultimate London Foodie Guide
Foodies, London, England, United Kingdom, City Breaks, Europe, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman Foodies, London, England, United Kingdom, City Breaks, Europe, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman

The Ultimate London Foodie Guide

London’s food scene is endlessly exciting—diverse, ever-evolving, and full of character. From hidden coffee shops to rooftop restaurants with panoramic views, the city delivers memorable dining moments at every turn. Whether you’re in the mood for a slow brunch, a quick bite between galleries, or an unforgettable dinner above the skyline, this guide highlights the best places to eat and drink across the capital. Here’s where to go when you’re hungry and after something a little more special than the usual chain.

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A Guide to Punting in Cambridge, UK

A Guide to Punting in Cambridge, UK

Never heard of punting? Well, stop right there, and let me give you all the information you need for this wonderful experience! Punting in Cambridge has to be one of my all-time favourite things to do in England. Venice vibes… but a bit colder.

Cambridge is a city in the East of England, only 50 miles north of London. The city is famously known for it’s university, gorgeous architecture, and of course punting along the River Cam.

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The Ultimate Dubai Travel Guide

The Ultimate Dubai Travel Guide

Whether you have a trip booked or you’re planning to travel to Dubai, this ultimate guide will provide you with all the information you need. Dubai is the busiest and most exciting city in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE is conservative, however, it’s not as strict as most Middle Eastern countries.

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10 Best Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
City Breaks, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Europe, Bosnia and Herzegovina, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman City Breaks, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Europe, Bosnia and Herzegovina, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman

10 Best Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Dubrovnik is one of my favourite places on the planet. The combination of the dramatic coastline, turquoise waters, orange-roofed buildings, the mountainous backdrop and the European summer feels, are the best. Dubrovnik has become quite the hotspot in recent years due to the accessibility of surrounding countries and, of course, Game of Thrones fans. Walking around the Old Town, swimming in the Adriatic sea and the view from Mount Srd are all my highlights.

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A Day Trip to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A Day Trip to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

This was a totally spontaneous trip that turned into one of my all-time favourites. My sister and I were enjoying an all-inclusive holiday in Croatia when we decided we wanted more than just the beach, pool and cocktails. We had already discussed a day trip to the Krka National Park and knew we needed a car to get there. So, we arranged a hire car from the hotel, for two days and thought why not travel to another country? As you do. This is when Europe has its perks.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Rome, Italy
City Breaks, Europe, Italy, Rome, Weekend Getaways, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman City Breaks, Europe, Italy, Rome, Weekend Getaways, City Guide Sophie Alexander-Osman

10 Best Places to Visit in Rome, Italy

Rome is one of Europe’s oldest and most popular cities. Rich in history, iconic landmarks and architecture. Not to forget that it’s THE place to immerse yourself in Italian cuisine. No guilt required when trying all of the pizzas, pastas and gelato. Washed down with glass of red wine. Honestly, no other delicacies matter here.

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12 Famous Photo Locations in New York City
North America, New York City, City Breaks, USA, City Guide, Photo Inspiration Sophie Alexander-Osman North America, New York City, City Breaks, USA, City Guide, Photo Inspiration Sophie Alexander-Osman

12 Famous Photo Locations in New York City

I must have spent at least 20 days in New York City over the years, which has given me plenty of time to explore beyond just the main attractions. I’ve done all the big sights—Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty—and while they’re impressive, what really stands out to me are the smaller moments: walking through West Village on a quiet morning, catching golden hour on the Brooklyn Bridge, or finding a cosy coffee shop in SoHo to escape the noise.

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