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Christmas markets in the UK
Hand-crafted, luxury experiences curated by our team—speak to our concierge to learn more
Now that the Christmas season is officially underway, we have curated a list of the best Christmas markets in the country.
As the temperature drops and the festive spirit fills the air, winter markets across the UK come alive with twinkling lights, artisanal goods, and the warm aroma of seasonal treats. These charming markets offer a delightful escape from the cold, inviting visitors to explore handcrafted gifts, indulge in festive food and drink, and soak up the enchanting atmosphere. All of our choices have a few things in...
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Why ZEL Mallorca Is A Sunchasers Paradise
Mallorca is one of those destinations which is popular year-round. Boasting around 300 days of sunshine per year, there is little wonder people choose to holiday here. Palma is the capital of the Balearic Islands and is known for its combination of city and seaside life. The city is vibrant and busy, with many different attractions and neighbourhoods. Due to its popularity, accommodation options are endless, but there should be just one at the top of your list. Say hello to ZEL, the high-energy hotel oozing Mediterranean charm.
The Best Places to See the Northern Lights in 2025
And with 2025 promising to be an excellent year for aurora hunters, now’s the time to start planning your trip. Whether you are looking for a quick getaway or an epic adventure, this natural light show is worth the effort. But, sometimes, picking the best spot to see them can feel like a shot in the dark. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top locations for 2025 where you’ll have the best chance to catch this stunning display. Denali National Park is a premier destination for viewing the Northern Lights in 2025.
Tors Park: The Crowning Jewel Of Devon’s Coast
Devon, an area known for its beautiful beaches and spectacular coastline, is a popular holiday destination year-round. The Exmoor town of Lynmouth is nationally known as Little Switzerland on account of its alpine-esque aesthetic. A walk through the picturesque village shows off its quaint charm, rushing river, dramatic hills and woodland hallmarks. It feels worlds away from modern stresses and offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. From the town centre, it's easy to spot an architecturally impressive building nestled up in the trees… say hello to Tors Park.
Discovering San Sebastián's Villa Favorita
With its prime location and impeccable service, Villa Favorita offers an unforgettable stay while immersing guests in the vibrant culture and natural beauty of San Sebastián. With its elegant accommodations, excellent location, and personalised service, it’s the perfect choice for discerning travellers seeking both comfort and a taste of local charm. Whether you’re savouring Basque cuisine, soaking up the sun on the beaches, or discovering the city’s rich cultural heritage, your stay at Villa Favorita will undoubtedly be a memorable one.
How Sopwell House Is Redefining The UK Staycation
As the train approaches St Albans station, the window view becomes noticeably greener. A far cry from the hustle and bustle of central London, the air feels fresher out here and possesses an almost tangible stillness. Sopwell House, the luxury hotel set amongst 12 acres of Hertfordshire countryside, allows its guests to get lost in more ways than one. With its sprawling grounds and onsite amenities, it has quickly become a popular destination for those seeking an escape from the city.
The Store Hotel: Bringing A Piece Of Oxford's History...
Nestled within the heart of England lies Oxford, a city steeped in history and renowned for its prestigious university and captivating architecture. For 282 years, it was also home to Boswell & Co, a family-owned department store until it closed in 2020. Now this former department store has been transformed into a contemporary and luxurious hotel with a rooftop bar overlooking the stunning city. Within walking distance of all the major shops and historical landmarks on the Oxford, The Store which only opened in May 2024, strives to honour Boswell’s history. When we arrived at The Store, the first thing that I noticed was the bar, which I have since found out is the longest bar in Oxford, made from a detailed black and white marble. As we admired the chilled atmosphere, we were greeted by a friendly member of staff who checked us in and showed us to our room. Having only been open for ten weeks, the hotel smelt new. Fresh beige carpets led us down the long corridors, while the dark blue painted walls and contemporary panelling gave the hotel a modern yet stylish vibe.
Escape To Cape Of Senses, The Adults-Only Spa Hotel On...
Propped above the stunning Lake Garda, Cape of Senses brings a new dimension to the commonly recognised ‘active holiday’ destination, offering a luxurious adults-only spa retreat in the hills. This is a must-visit if you’re looking to unplug from your routine.
A Kenyan Adventure With Great Plains
The time difference between the UK and Kenya is just two hours, so after a quick one night stop over close to Nairobi airport we were ready to depart to the bush and start our safari adventure. It is also at this point that Great Plains begin their superior service. A dedicated and very knowledgeable driver was sent to our hotel to help us navigate our way through the city of Nairobi and to the Safarilink plane. With just seven of us on board we departed for the Maasai Mara, both children were transfixed as the city turned into the African plains and they spotted their first wild animals. On landing at the Olkiombo Airstrip, essentially a dirt track in the Mara, our Great Plains experience continued. We were met by our game driver, who I had no idea at this point would become such an important part of our trip. Unprepared, I gathered we would be travelling to our camp to unpack, but what transpired was a near two hour game drive in which we saw giraffe, warthog, baboon, ostrich, antelope and three male lions enjoying the sun under a shady bush. There was no shortage of animals, and Zachary even got to inspect the remains of some hippopotamus bones when Clifford stopped the jeep and told him to jump out. Already intoxicated by the sheer amount to learn about this vast wilderness and by Africa - both children were in agreement that this was about to be the holiday of a lifetime.
Passalacqua: The Precious Jewel Of Lake Como
Mass appeal can be as much of a curse as it is a blessing. With widespread popularity comes high expectations and the need to nail every fine detail. Passalacqua is one of those rare places which over delivers in every category. The property’s success was almost instant. Receiving the title of ‘World’s Best Hotel’ just one year after opening, the estate’s ‘it factor’ was unanimously agreed on. For anyone fortunate enough to visit, spending any length of time here feels like a privilege. Within mere minutes of being on the property, there was no question as to why it had received such an accolade. Simply put, it's magical.
15 Best Boutique Hotels in London for a Unique Stay
Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or a bit of both, staying in a boutique hotel offers a unique, personalized experience that large chain hotels can't match. From converted Georgian townhouses to contemporary design marvels, London's boutique hotels cater to a variety of tastes and styles. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best boutique hotels in London, each offering a distinct character, exceptional service, and prime locations. Get ready to discover your perfect home away from home in the heart of this vibrant city.
How To Pack Like A Pro, According To These Insiders
Whether you're headed on a quick weekend getaway or a journey lasting several weeks, packing can incite the same amount of stress. From choosing the right luggage to organising all your items, there are a lot of factors to consider. Below, we speak to Kirsty Glenne of Antler and Elizabeth Scarlett Petrides of Elizabeth Scarlett, to get their expert insight on nailing the basics. From luggage tags to packing cubes and organisation pouches, your next packing session will be running with the efficiency of a well-oiled machine.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo Lake Como, An Art Nouveau Icon
As one of the oldest luxury hotels on the lake, Grand Hotel Tremezzo is an ode to the area’s history. Within its majestic confines, staff members bustle around contendly and you are greeted with a warm welcome by everyone you come into contact with. This even extends to the guests, who happily engage in conversation while waiting for an elevator or moving around the lobby. There is a real sense that everyone is happy to be here, and why wouldn’t they be? They're fortunate enough to be stood inside one of Lake Como’s most treasured time capsules.