The best swimming pools in the world

11 July 2025

Imagine the sheer delight of dipping into a crystal-clear pool, the sun glistening off the water as you take in breathtaking views. An unforgettable swimming pool can be among the highlights of your holiday, so we’ve rounded up some of our favourites, whether you’re looking for somewhere to cool down after seeing the sights or want a tranquil spot where you can relax and unwind.

Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa

A beautiful infinity pool overlooks a watering hole in the highly regarded River Lodge Spa, the largest of the Kapama camps, with its five charming luxury lodges and the option of romantic sleep-outs. When you’re not busy relaxing, more than 40 species of mammals, including the Big Five, can be seen during twice-daily guided game drives and after-breakfast bush walks.

One&Only One Za'abeel, Dubai

Opened in January 2024, this vertical urban resort includes the world’s longest cantilever, between its towers – and across this cantilever, the UAE’s longest infinity pool unfurls a spectacular 27 storeys above the city. Bathed in year-round sunshine, it’s part of a pool club that is one of the best spots in Dubai for relaxing, socialising, and celebrating. Luxurious cabanas, sunken seating areas, and cushioned day beds encourage you to linger for as long as possible.

Alila Ubud, Bali

A sublime 25-metre infinity pool with valley views is the centrepiece of this hillside retreat high above the Ayung River, with thatched-roof rooms and villas seeming to float on stilts over a ravine. It's also much-loved for its holistic spa offering locally inspired treatments such as the lulur body scrub, an ancient remedy originating from the rice farmers of Bali.

Daios Cove, Crete

This chic property in a secluded bay features a heated seawater infinity pool with cove views and a kids’ area, plus two indoor seawater pools in its fabulous spa. Accommodation itself includes rooms, suites, and secluded villas with up to three bedrooms and their own pools. But Daios Cove also encourages guests to explore the island by biking or hiking in the mountains or hopping aboard a thrilling boat ride around the coast.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Maldives

An indulgent infinity pool with weekly pool parties sits at the heart of this barefoot resort in the remote South Nilandhe/Dhaalu Atoll, although all its 125 airy beach and water villas and suites come with their own freshwater plunge or swimming pool too. Other big draws include an overwater spa with hydrotherapy pools, snorkelling on the house reef, kayaking, sunset cruises, and cultural excursions.

Amangiri, Utah, USA

This secluded resort in Canyon Point is built around a central heated pool curving around an escarpment of a 165-million-year-old Aeolian sandstone rock to blend in with its astonishing desert surroundings. Divided into 34 modernist suites and its satellite Camp Sarika, with ten tented pavilions, Amangiri is perfect for both peaceful desert retreats and adrenaline-fuelled adventures in untouched red-rock country over 900 acres of the Colorado Plateau.

To book your holiday at one of these properties with remarkable pools, call your Travel Counsellor today.

The best places in Spain to see the 2026 solar eclipse

11 March 2026

On 12th August 2026, Spain will take centre stage for one of the most anticipated astronomical events in Europe, the solar eclipse. As the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, parts of the country will slip briefly into darkness, turning a summer evening into twilight for up to almost two minutes. The eclipse will sweep across Spain from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean, with northern cities and the Balearic Islands sitting right in the path of totality, the only places where the Sun will be completely covered. If you’re planning a trip around the event, Spain offers plenty of places where you can pair the spectacle in the sky with great food, coastal views, and a bit of exploring before the big moment.

5 Easter holiday ideas for a spring getaway

11 March 2026

Easter is one of the easiest times of year to plan a getaway. With the long bank holiday weekend and school holidays falling together, it’s a natural window for a week away. It’s also a great time to travel before the main summer crowds arrive. In Europe, spring weather is starting to warm up, while destinations further afield offer reliable sunshine or late-season winter adventures. Whether you want a family-friendly trip packed with activities, a relaxed beach break, or something a little more adventurous, these destinations offer a mix of experiences that work particularly well over Easter.

How to spend the summer in Chicago

09 March 2026

For an incredible nine years in a row, Chicago has been crowned the ‘Best Big City in the U.S.’, and it’s not hard to see why. This Midwestern metropolis, set on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers a holiday experience that feels endlessly exciting. With its welcoming spirit, world-class attractions, and a cultural scene that is constantly evolving, Chicago makes everyone feel right at home. Whether you are seeking artistic inspiration, family adventures, or simply a new city to explore this summer, your Travel Counsellor can craft the perfect itinerary to help you discover this exceptional city.