When it comes to the Ionian Islands, most people head straight for Corfu or Kefalonia. But Simpson Travel offers something a little more considered, with dramatic coastline, genuine character, and the option to experience two very different islands in one trip, Lefkada and Meganissi deserve your attention. Just 20 minutes apart by sea taxi or private boat, they sit side by side in the Ionian yet feel worlds apart. Each works beautifully as a standalone holiday, but together, they're hard to beat.
Lefkada: Dramatic coastline and an island worth exploring
This idyllic island captures the essence of Greece’s allure, with Lefkada offering a coastline that keeps visitors returning time and again. The west coast, in particular, is striking, with sheer white cliffs dropping into water that shifts from turquoise to deep indigo depending on the light. Kathisma Beach is the standout, but explore a little, and you'll find smaller coves with barely a soul in sight. The island suits those who want activity as much as rest, with water sports, sailing, and coastal hiking all on the table, while the tavernas in villages like Kalamitsi make evenings genuinely enjoyable rather than just functional.
Where to stay in Lefkada
Simpson Travel's villas here are well-chosen. Villa Alessia (sleeping ten) is a Simpson Signature property set high on a hillside with mountain and sea views, a tennis court, private vineyard, and Kathisma Beach within easy reach. For something smaller and closer to the water, Acqua di Mare – Villa Bella sits right at the shoreline, with a pool on one side and the sea on the other, with the option to combine with neighbouring Villa Siena if your group grows.
Meganissi: A slower pace and genuinely unspoilt
Cross to Meganissi and the pace shifts immediately. This is a small island that hasn't been overrun, with olive groves rolling down to the water, fishing boats in quiet harbours, and the village of Vathy still functioning like an actual village rather than a tourist set. It's the kind of place where evenings happen at waterfront tavernas watching the light change, and nobody's in a rush. If Lefkada is the island you explore, Meganissi is the one where you relax.
Where to stay in Meganissi
Simpson's villas here reflect that character well. Villa Mimi is an elegant four-bedroom home perched above the Ionian with an infinity pool, landscaped gardens that lead to the sea, and interiors that are stylish without being showy. Vathy is ten minutes away when you want to visit it. Synthesis takes a different approach: a waterfront villa spread across three buildings with direct sea access, an outdoor kitchen built for long al fresco evenings, and uninterrupted views across the water. Both have companion properties nearby for larger groups, too.
To book your two-island Greek escape, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.
When most people think of Thailand, they picture the dry, busy months - the packed beaches, the long queues at temples, the peak-season prices. But, outside of these peak months, Thailand’s green season reveals a softer, more atmospheric side of the country. The landscapes deepen in colour, the pace eases, and familiar places begin to feel more spacious, from temple courtyards and hillside trails to palm-fringed beaches.
For families planning a Riviera Maya holiday, Iberostar Waves Tucán and Iberostar Waves Quetzal are returning with even more reasons to stay. Reopening in December 2026 after an extensive renovation, the sister hotels have introduced new family accommodation, upgraded pools and water facilities, and a refreshed line-up of places to eat and drink. Best of all, families staying at either property can enjoy the common areas and restaurants across both hotels, giving everyone more choice without having to travel anywhere else.
From adults-only hideaways made for two to easy-going family resorts by the beach, Iberostar offers plenty of ways to holiday in Spain. Across Ibiza, Mallorca, Fuerteventura, and Tenerife, its hotels pair standout coastal locations with excellent dining, inviting pools, wellness facilities, and thoughtful extras. Whether you want a quiet week with your partner, a family break where everything is taken care of, or a more indulgent stay with personalised service, these six Iberostar hotels each bring something different to the table.
Finding your match...