13 March 2025

Fashion and travel have always gone hand in hand. Some cities aren’t just style capitals—they practically breathe fashion. Whether it's the chic café culture of Paris or the bold streetwear in London, these cities set trends not just during their epic fashion weeks but every single day through the effortlessly cool sense of style of their residents and the recognisable architecture of their neighbourhoods. If you’re looking to explore destinations where the streets double as runways and inspiration is around every corner, these five cities are calling your name. Paris - for understated elegance; The phrase ‘effortlessly chic’ might as well have been invented here. Paris, the global hub of haute couture, is a true celebration of timeless elegance. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées or take a seat in a quaint Montmartre café, and you’ll witness Parisians redefining understated sophistication. Take some time to wander the fashionable boutiques and galleries of Le Marais (also known as SoMa for South Marais), a trendy district in the 4th arrondissement, stay in the 7th arrondissement for hotel rooms with views of the iconic Eiffel Tower, and don’t miss a trip to the Louvre where you can visit the museum’s first fashion exhibition showcasing statement pieces from the Byzantine era to the present day. Milan – for full-throttle glamour; If Paris is all about subtlety, Milan takes the opposite approach with its unapologetic grandeur. Known as the fashion and design capital of Italy, Milan exudes luxury and sophistication on every corner. Marvel at the designer boutiques and lavish architecture of the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (the country’s oldest shopping arcade), grab an espresso and take a selfie in front of the towering Piazza del Duomo before catching a vintage tram on your way to Brera, a charming artsy district loved for its galleries. For some downtime and stylish people-watching, find a spot in Parco Sempione, a haven of calm in the heart of the city where you can also find sculptures, a library, and the grand Arco della Pace which was built specially for Napoleon. London – for the bold and quirky; London has a reputation for breaking the rules—and its fashion scene is no exception. A melting pot of cultures and influences, this city thrives on individuality. From punk-rock edge in Camden to vintage treasures in Shoreditch, Londoners show a fearless approach to style that is evident in every area you visit. Shop ‘til you drop at Harrods in Knightsbridge, book a table at Belvedere in Holland Park for beautiful surroundings and delicious pizzas or at the fashion set’s favourite haunt, Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone. If you’re looking for more culture and style, spend a few hours at the V&A Museum which is hosting an exhibition all about fashion icon Naomi Campbell until April. New York City – for off-duty cool; The city that never sleeps perfectly blends street style with practicality. New Yorkers master the ‘off-duty' model look, and you’ll spot plenty of them whether you’re wandering through Soho or catching a show in the iconic Meatpacking District. New York Fashion Week kicks off the global fashion calendar each year, setting the tone with its focus on innovation and accessibility, so if you want to immerse yourself in the action, be sure to visit in early February or early-to-mid September. There’s a buzzing restaurant and bar scene (although book your table as far in advance as possible as the best spots are notoriously hard to get into on the fly), plenty of famous department stores to visit such as Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman, and some of the most stylishly decorated hotels in the world that ensure you are close to all the landmarks, whether that’s Central Park or the Empire State Building. Copenhagen – for laid-back vibe; Fashion-forward yet refreshingly laid-back, Copenhagen is a textbook example of Scandi cool. Known for its relaxed vibes, this city prioritises comfort without compromising on style. The city’s commitment to being a more sustainable destination is evident in the lack of Uber availability, choosing instead to encourage residents and visitors to bike or walk where possible, championing the recycling of everything from clothing to bottles and cans, and innovative ways to reuse waste – a few hours skiing on the slopes of Copenhill, a futuristic recreational area built on top of a waste management centre is a unique way to spend an afternoon. Copenhagen is also a treasure trove of vintage shopping, so leave a little extra space in your carry-on to bring some gems home, and remember to make the most of the many green spaces to relax and, if you’re feeling brave enough to face the cold waters of the canals and harbours, the city’s waterways are famously clean and a popular spot for locals to take a dip.

04 March 2025

28th January was International Reducing CO2 Emissions Day and, as Travel Counsellors, we feel that it is our responsibility to ensure all our customers know how to make lower carbon choices when travelling. To help you with this, I’ve gathered my top tips for reducing the carbon footprint of your next trip. Swap flights for rail; Opting for the train in place of flying can cut your emissions by as much as 90%. Whether you’re travelling across the UK, hopping over the channel to Europe, or are looking for an itinerary that weaves its way around the continent, your Travel Counsellor can create your next holiday without any air miles. Flying direct; Non-stop flights are generally more fuel-efficient than connecting flights because take off and landings are the most fuel-intensive parts of the journey. If available, choosing direct flights to your destination is the best way to go. Use public transport; Whenever possible, use public transport like buses, trains, or trams instead of using taxis while you’re on holiday. Public transport is often more energy-efficient and produces fewer emissions per passenger. If you’re making long distance connections, along with giving great carbon savings, these leisurely rail journeys let you unwind and experience the unfolding scenery of the countries you’re visiting. Packing light; Cramming that extra pair of shoes into your case might not seem like the most obvious source of emissions, but as the carrying weight of planes increase so too does the amount of fuel required. Renting heavy equipment instead of packing it and using refillable miniatures for toiletries are two easy ways to make small but effective changes. Choose Green Leaf accommodation; Choosing a hotel with our Green Leaf label is a simple way of ensuring that your hotel has carbon emissions reduction measures in place. Each of the hotels with the label has been recognised as having sustainability standards that are aligned with those created by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Be mindful of energy usage at your accommodation; Each of our Green Leaf-labelled hotels and resorts have measures in place to manage their energy usage. You can help them with a few simple switches like turning off lights, air conditioning, and heating when not needed, and unplugging chargers and electronic devices when they're not in use. Eat like a local; Part of the fun of travelling is the opportunity to discover new flavours and dishes that you wouldn’t get to try at home. What’s more, eating local food can also help you minimise food miles, as well as supporting the local businesses that you dine with. To find out more about Green Leaf hotels and to book a more sustainable getaway, contact me today!

03 March 2025

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, the Four Seasons Koh Samui Resort is a laidback and luxurious hideaway that acts as the location for the new, highly anticipated season of ‘The White Lotus’. With sweeping views of the sea and the island's lush interior, this resort's commitment to offering an unrivalled experience is evident in its melding of traditional Thai architecture with a contemporary sense of comfort and style. If you’re a fan of previous seasons of this cult HBO show, you will love the accommodation here. From the soft linen of your king-size bed to the harmonious palette of local materials and artisan crafts, it’s easy to see what drew the filmmakers here. Live like one of the characters in one of the sea-facing villas complete with a private terrace and infinity pool, relax in one of the private residences which are perfect for families or groups of friends and come with a live-in personal assistant to ensure every aspect of your holiday is taken care of. Beyond the opulent features of your abode, a tapestry of experiences awaits outside your door. The resort's impressive facilities, including its beachside pools, fully serviced spa, and fitness centres, offer a retreat within a retreat. Focus on your overall wellness with signature spa treatments and yoga classes, aligning your body and mind with the timeless wisdom of the land. Diving, sailing, and excursions to nearby landmarks and villages further connect you with the island's natural wonders, making it more than the backdrop of a story; it becomes an integral part of your narrative. Beyond the sheltered coves of Four Seasons Koh Samui Resort, the island beckons with a wealth of cultural and natural experiences. From the ethereal beauty of the Ang Thong National Marine Park to the vibrant life of the Chaweng Beach, the island encapsulates the essence of ‘The White Lotus’, offering a dichotomy of peace and stimulation. To book your stay at this wonderful resort, contact me today and we can start planning.