DESTINATION GUIDES
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.
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.
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.
Best Beaches in the UK
The UK’s coastline is full of variety—windswept bays, lively promenades, quiet estuaries and golden stretches that rival anything abroad. From the tidal sands of Devon to the peaceful dunes of Wales and the pebble shores of the south coast, these beaches each offer something different. Whether you’re after a bracing sea swim, a family-friendly spot with a pier, or a quiet walk with uninterrupted views, here are some of the best beaches across the country worth visiting.
Review: Caravan AlUla by Our Habitas
There’s something cinematic about arriving in AlUla for the first time. Set deep within the Ashar Valley, this design-led retreat brings a new kind of luxury to the desert: 45 gleaming Airstream caravans, each thoughtfully placed to blend into the Mars-like surroundings. The site itself is more than a place to sleep—it’s a communal experience. Food trucks serve up regional flavours, gathering spaces encourage connection, and activities draw on local Bedouin traditions. For those chasing something different, Caravan AlUla captures the wild beauty of the desert without compromising on comfort.
Review: art'otel London Battersea Power Station
Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic buildings, art'otel London Battersea Power Station brings a new kind of cool to the capital. Located within the vibrant Battersea Power Station development, the hotel is part of a bold transformation that’s turned this once-industrial landmark into a buzzing cultural and lifestyle hub. With shops, restaurants, art spaces and riverside walks, Battersea is quickly becoming one of London’s most exciting areas—and art'otel fits right in. We stayed last September and loved how effortlessly it blended modern design with creative energy. For anyone looking to experience a different side of London, this hotel delivers.
50 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Musandam, Oman
If you’re based in the UAE, Oman - or heading this way on your travels, you must visit Musandam. Ever since I got my PADI license, people told me, ‘You have to scuba dive in Oman.’ They weren’t wrong, as I was completely blown away. From the marine life, rugged mountains, calm waters and close proximity to Dubai, Musandam is no doubt the best dive spot in the region.
A Guide to Visiting Glencoe, Scotland
Glencoe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on the planet. With towering mountains, calm lochs, clean air, cascading waterfalls and scenic routes that take your breath away at every angle. Glencoe is just a 30-minute drive away from Ben Nevis and the town of Fort William, in the Scottish Highlands.
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.
Review: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa in Dubai
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa sits in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, about 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai. Originally opened in 2004, the resort underwent a full renovation and reopened in 2023 with a fresh new look and upgraded facilities. The redesign kept the resort’s desert‑fort aesthetic while adding new restaurants, updated rooms and villas, and refreshed facilities. There are 115 rooms and suites in total, three swimming pools, and seven dining and lounge venues. The resort is surrounded only by sand dunes and wildlife like oryx and gazelles, which makes it feel far removed from the city despite the short drive. After nearly seven years of living in the UAE, this is still, without a doubt, my favourite resort in the country.
A Weekend of Adventure in Wales
Wales is famously known for its rolling hills, beautiful beaches, adventure holidays… rain and sheep!
Growing up, we had numerous family summer holidays in the Brecon Beacons, Barmouth, Tywyn and Snowdonia. Which are some of the most beautiful places in the UK.
A Christmassy Weekend in London
London is a hotspot at Christmas time, with endless markets, pantomimes, shopping and of course, Winter Wonderland. There is nothing better than walking down Carnaby Street with a hot coffee warming your hands. Going into the shops, hearing the Christmas music and seeing the lights turn on. If you’re lucky, you may even see some snow!
Best Staycations in the UAE
Staycations have become the new go-to—and honestly, I’m not complaining. There’s something special about switching off without needing a passport or a flight. The UAE makes it easy, with so many incredible spots just a short drive away. Whether it’s a desert escape under the stars, a beachfront hotel that feels like a mini honeymoon, or a sleek city stay with skyline views and spa days—there’s something for every kind of weekend.
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.
10 Best Places to see in Paris
There are so many reasons why The City of Love is on everyone’s bucket list and is always the most visited city in the world, year after year. The combination of the romantic streets, traditional architecture, famous museums, delicious cuisine and of course the language, draws tourists in all year long. Paris oozes culture, charm and history from every street corner. Whether it’s the al fresco dining, seeing the Mona Lisa at The Louvre or having a picnic under the Eiffel Tower, you will fall in love with it all. I know I did!