Inspiration

The Blog

Introducing two new icons of luxury on Istanbul's Golden Horn

Introducing two new icons of luxury on Istanbul's Golden Horn

27 October 2025

A waterway that has witnessed centuries of history, Istanbul's legendary Golden Horn is entering a new era. The former Ottoman shipyards, a site of immense cultural and industrial heritage, are being transformed into Tersane Istanbul, a modern lifestyle destination. At the heart of this revival are two exceptional new hotels: Rixos Tersane Istanbul and Aliée Istanbul. Each offers a distinct vision of luxury, blending the area's rich past with contemporary sophistication, providing two unique ways to experience this magnetic city.

The ultimate wellness escape in Costa Rica

The ultimate wellness escape in Costa Rica

27 October 2025

As we increasingly look for holidays that do more than just entertain, Costa Rica emerges as a leading destination for true restoration. This Central American paradise offers an experience that rejuvenates the body, mind, and soul, all built around its famous philosophy of pura vida - the simple life. With its incredible landscapes and ancient healing traditions, it provides a holistic escape that feels a world away from the everyday.

Top 5 ultimate wildcard short breaks

Top 5 ultimate wildcard short breaks

27 October 2025

When you think of a short break, you might picture a familiar European city or a quiet country escape. But what if you could pack a real expedition into just a few days? For those who want to swap sightseeing for something more memorable, we’ve gathered five ultimate wildcard short breaks. These trips prove that with clever planning from your Travel Counsellor, you can fit a once-in-a-lifetime experience into a long weekend.

An unforgettable trip through Vietnam with Travel Counsellors

An unforgettable trip through Vietnam with Travel Counsellors

23 October 2025

This September, a group of Travel Counsellors got the opportunity to explore the variety of Vietnam, exploring the energy of Hanoi and the scenic beauty of Ninh Binh. With the support of Wide Eyed Tours, the group discovered Vietnam through its food, history, and people, with every detail carefully organised to create a smooth and memorable trip from start to finish.

Five unforgettable wildlife encounters in Costa Rica

Five unforgettable wildlife encounters in Costa Rica

21 October 2025

If you’re dreaming of a journey that blends adventure, nature, and authenticity, Costa Rica deserves a spot at the top of your list. With its rainforests, striking volcanoes, and pristine coastline, this Central American gem perfectly captures the relaxed pura vida way of life. What truly sets it apart, though, is the extraordinary range of wildlife that calls it home. From sleepy sloths to migrating whales, Costa Rica offers some of the most remarkable animal encounters on Earth. Here are five you won’t want to miss…

Five dream destinations you should be booking now

Five dream destinations you should be booking now

21 October 2025

Some experiences are too good to leave to chance. The sort of trips where the timing has to be right, the seasons align, and the best places fill up long before most people even think about packing a bag. Planning early isn’t just about being organised, it’s about giving your Travel Counsellor the time to secure the view, the table, the cabin, or the front-row seat that turns a holiday into a story you’ll replay for years. Here are five destinations that almost insist on being booked over a year in advance to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Where to stay in Boston: three great hotels for every kind of trip

Where to stay in Boston: three great hotels for every kind of trip

21 October 2025

Boston is a city where history and modern life sit side by side. You can walk past landmarks from the American Revolution, then grab a coffee at a busy corner café or head to a Red Sox game that evening. It’s compact, easy to get around, and has plenty to see, whether you’re there for a weekend or a longer stay. The city’s hotels reflect that same mix; some have long, storied pasts, while others focus on space and comfort with a more modern feel. Here are three great options that show off the different sides of Boston.

Our top must-visit spots in Sri Lanka

Our top must-visit spots in Sri Lanka

21 October 2025

There’s a reason Sri Lanka is called the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. This jewel of an island is full of ancient history, beautiful landscapes, golden coastlines, and a rhythm of life that will stay with you forever. From mystical rock fortresses and emerald tea hills to wild safaris and colonial coastal towns, every corner reveals a new facet of beauty. Here are our top five must-visit destinations when visiting Sri Lanka, as chosen by our Travel Counsellors.

Why Chicago is the USA's greatest city break

Why Chicago is the USA's greatest city break

20 October 2025

It's official: Chicago is a city that just keeps getting better. For an incredible ninth year in a row, readers of Condé Nast Traveller have named it the ‘Best Big City in the U.S’. As if that wasn't enough, it also scooped the 2025 Travel Noire Award for ‘Best Stateside Vacation’. These accolades confirm what savvy travellers have known for years: Chicago offers a city break experience that’s hard to beat, blending iconic sights with a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere. It’s a city of soaring skyscrapers, world-class museums, and a food scene that constantly innovates, making it a perfect destination for any time of year.

Find your personal Travel Counsellor

With more than 2,000 independent Travel Counsellors worldwide, let one of our professional and passionate experts tailor your perfect trip and look after you at every stage of your journey.

Find your personal Travel Counsellor