One of the best things about late November and December is getting into the festive spirit, and we can’t think of a better way to embrace the season than shopping for unique Christmas gifts on a European city break, somewhere with a fabulous festive market. We’ve chosen our must-visit Europe Christmas markets for 2023, with some continuing into early January if you want to keep the festive feels going.
Finnish Lapland in winter offers something that’s hard to find elsewhere: long stretches of snow, quiet surroundings, and a pace of life that encourages people to slow down. It’s a place where the days can feel calm and steady, even when temperatures drop well below freezing. It’s a place where winter isn’t just a backdrop but part of everyday life, and here’s what you can expect when you experience it for yourself.
Choosing the right accommodation can transform a great holiday into an unforgettable one. In Barbados, finding that perfect home-away-from-home is made simple with Blue Sky Luxury. With an impressive portfolio of over 200 of the island's finest villas, holiday homes, and apartments, they offer a tailored approach to Caribbean living. Whether you dream of waking up to the sound of the waves or enjoying the privacy of a grand estate, there is a property to suit your vision.
Barbados’ West Coast is known for its beautiful beaches and calm, clear waters. It’s here you’ll find two exceptional all-inclusive resorts that each bring something special to your island retreat. Read on to hear how…
On the unspoilt southwestern shore of Antigua, you’ll find a place of quiet luxury and genuine Caribbean warmth. Carlisle Bay is set on a stunning horseshoe bay, framed by rolling hills and tropical rainforest. It’s a resort that pairs five-star service with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, and following a series of exciting refurbishments, the experience is now better than ever. Let’s take a closer look at the newly renovated suites and updated public spaces that make a stay here so special.
Often described as the ‘pearl of the Indian Ocean’, Sri Lanka is where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with untamed wilderness and tranquil beauty. But this is not the Sri Lanka you’ve seen before; this is the Sri Lanka that whispers to curious travellers, the ones who seek authenticity, serenity, and soul-stirring moments away from the usual trail. From flourishing coconut estates and wildlife-rich parks to remote peninsulas and sacred peaks, this journey recently explored by Travel Counsellors invites you to explore a different side of Sri Lanka - one that reveals itself slowly, beautifully, and unforgettably.
Most people picture Japan in spring with parks full of pink petals, picnic blankets, and camera flashes. But what if you swapped cherry blossoms for fiery autumn leaves instead? The autumn season, known locally as kōyō, brings a slower, more atmospheric kind of beauty. It stretches across months rather than weeks and gives you a deeper sense of Japan’s rhythm, if you plan ahead, that is. Because once the colours start turning, hotels and viewing spots fill up fast.
The countdown is on for one of the most exciting global sporting events, the Winter Olympics in Italy, taking place from 6th to 22nd February 2026. Known officially as Milano Cortina 2026, this will be the first Winter Games hosted across multiple cities, giving you a chance to experience both the sleek buzz of Milan and the snow-covered allure of Cortina d’Ampezzo in one unforgettable trip. While your Travel Counsellor can’t book official Olympic tickets, they can help you plan an incredible trip around the host locations.
Just a short trip from UK shores, a family holiday in France combines laughter, adventure, and relaxation across landscapes as diverse as the country itself. From golden beaches in the South to cosy mountain chalets, from all-inclusive resorts to thriving city breaks in Paris, France offers experiences that bring generations together. Let’s explore why France is the perfect playground for all ages.
