Sue Aitken - Travel Guru

14/01/2025

PERFECT PLACES. Located on the western coast of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula, Lagarta Lodge's hillside perch provides glorious uninterrupted views of Playa Nosara as well as the meandering Nosara River which plays host to a variety of wildlife. You can make the 15-minute walk downhill to the town's handful of restaurants and bars or the inviting Pelada Beach. In fact, there’s a clutch of different beaches to choose from here. It's an inviting boutique lodge with all the modern amenities and comforts of a luxury hotel - the perfect place to relax at the end of a touring itinerary around Costa Rica. Get in touch and let me build you the perfect itinerary for a dream holiday in this fabulous country.

13/01/2025

WHERE TO TRAVEL IN…MARCH. Although this month brings the promise of Spring, the prospect of a holiday in warmer climes is always a temptation. For guaranteed high temperatures and sunny weather by the beach, you’ll need to travel long haul. It’s shoulder season in destinations such as the Maldives and the West Indies, so prices will come down after the winter peak. And Sri Lanka and Thailand are good value choices, and the weather here will be very warm.
March is also a perfect time to visit Bucket List destinations like Vietnam, India, South Africa and Argentina – which are high on my own personal list of favourite countries. If you're looking for the trip of a lifetime, any of these destinations would certainly deliver with the right, properly-planned itinerary.
If you’re simply looking for a “quick fix” short break away, then consider places such as Seville, Lisbon, Istanbul or Marrakech where the weather will be fine and perfect for exploring these fascinating cities. And as Easter is quite late this year, you can fly off in March without paying top prices. Get in touch, and let’s sort out your spring break so that you have something to look forward to during the next couple of bleak winter months.

12/01/2025

DECISIONS, DECISIONS. Mauritius or the Maldives? Skiathos or Skopelos? Patagonia or the Pantanal? Sydney or Singapore? Are you struggling to come up with a holiday destination for your travels this year? Whether you’re looking for an idyllic beach holiday somewhere exotic, a safari adventure, a tour around South East Asia or a family holiday in the Med, get in touch and let me suggest the perfect destination for your next trip.

Travel Guru - Sue Aitken, Your source for Luxury Tailor Made Holidays. Discover the ultimate in Tailor Made Holidays and create unforgettable travel experiences with us.

12/01/2025

DESTINATION INSPIRATION. As peak holiday booking season is upon us, I've written five different blog posts on various themes: fab beach destinations, amazing islands, interesting city breaks, spectacular National Parks and gorgeous lakes. Of course, these are my own personal take and you may disagree with my recommendations and think there are some glaring errors - but hopefully they'll provide some food for thought as you consider your next holiday. https://www.travel-guru.co.uk/blog/categories/destination-inspiration Get in touch to discuss your holiday plans for this year (or next!)

A series of blog posts designed to provide ideas for places to visit on your next holiday.

11/01/2025

ARE YOU FINDING LOOKING FOR YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY STRESSFUL? Searching for a holiday can be confusing and is always time-consuming. You’ll trawl the internet for ages trying to find the right destination. You’ll spend hours online scanning reviews on Trip Advisor from people you don’t know and whose standards may be different from yours. Whereas you can have a 30-minute chat with me and then sit back and wait for me to come back to you with the perfect itinerary. And if I don’t get it right first time, we’ll tweak, hone and adjust it until it’s everything you could possibly want from your trip. And then I'll look after you until the day you arrive back home. Does that sound tempting? I'm available to chat this weekend, so give me a ring on 07973 629233 and save yourself endless hours of aggravation.

I'm a personal travel consultant providing a tailored, bespoke service for all your holiday needs. 5* customer service.

10/01/2025

SPOTLIGHT ON...CHILE. With the soaring Andes to the east, the Pacific to the west, Patagonian fjords and glaciers down south and the spectacular Atacama Desert in the north, Chile is the kind of diverse natural playground that adventure-lovers dream about. And alongside this amazing variety of landscapes there are vibrant cities like Santiago and Valparaiso, rolling winelands dotted with world-class wineries and mystical Easter Island with its impressive ancient moai statues. With good flight connections and a well-developed infrastructure, it's possible to fit in quite a few of Chile's riches in a 14-night trip without feeling too rushed. More sophisticated than many of its neighbours, a visit here is a great choice for a first foray to South America. And combining time in Chile with Argentina is always a very popular option. Get in touch and let’s plan your South America adventure.

08/01/2025

JUST BACK FROM...GUATEMALA. I've just caught up with my client who spent Christmas in Guatemala. She said they had a brilliant time. All the arrangements went smoothly, they loved the Guatemalan people, ate really well and really enjoyed the combination of nature and culture they told me they were looking for when we first spoke. She's sent me this short compilation video which gives a great flavour of this fascinating country.

07/01/2025

10 OF EUROPE’S BEST BEACHES. Europe is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches, offering a mix of pristine waters, golden sands, and captivating landscapes. Whether you're looking for a serene escape, an adventurous water sports haven, or a vibrant coastal vibe, there's a European beach perfect for your next getaway. Here's a roundup of the top beaches in Europe that might provide some inspiration for your holiday this year.
1. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Greece
Also known as Shipwreck Beach, this is one of the most iconic beaches in Greece. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat, this crescent of white sand and turquoise water is a must-visit. The rusting shipwreck at its center adds an air of mystery and charm to the breathtaking setting.
Highlights: Snorkelling, cliff diving, and dramatic photo opportunities.
2. Playa de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Spain
Often compared to the Caribbean, this beach boasts powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Located in the Balearic Islands, this beach is perfect for relaxation or sailing trips. Its shallow waters make it ideal for families as well.
Highlights: Luxury yachts, water sports, and nearby seafood restaurants.
3. Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal
A gem of the Algarve, this beach is known for its striking rock formations and golden cliffs. It's a paradise for nature lovers, offering excellent snorkelling and scenic hiking trails along the cliffs.
Highlights: Stunning natural arches, secluded coves, and vibrant marine life.
Zlatni Rat, Brač Island, Croatia
Zlatni Rat, aka the Golden Horn, is a uniquely shaped beach extending into the Adriatic Sea. Its shape shifts with the tides and winds, creating a dynamic and picturesque landscape. It's a favourite for windsurfers and kite surfers.
Highlights: Water sports, nearby vineyards, and panoramic views from Vidova Gora.
5. Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa, Italy
Frequently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach) features powder-soft sand and shallow, warm waters. Situated in a protected nature reserve, it’s also a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles.
Highlights: Turtle spotting, pristine surroundings, and tranquil swimming.
6. Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland
For a unique beach experience, head to Reynisfjara, famous for its black volcanic sands and striking basalt columns. Though swimming isn't recommended due to strong currents, the dramatic scenery and rugged cliffs make it a must-visit for photographers.
Highlights: Puffin watching, surreal landscapes, and geological wonders.
7. Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Known for its lively atmosphere, Nissi Beach is a hotspot for party-goers and families alike. The shallow turquoise waters are perfect for wading, and the beach transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub in the evenings.
Highlights: Beach bars, water sports, and DJ events.
8. Balos Lagoon, Crete, Greece
Balos Lagoon is a tropical paradise on the island of Crete, featuring shimmering blue-green waters and a mix of sandy and rocky terrain. Accessible by boat or a challenging hike, it’s worth the journey for its unspoiled beauty.
Highlights: Lagoon swimming, hiking trails, and panoramic views from the surrounding cliffs.
9. Playa de las Catedrales, Galicia, Spain
Known as the Beach of Cathedrals, this stunning coastline is famous for its dramatic rock formations that resemble cathedral arches. The best time to visit is during low tide, when you can walk through the natural stone passageways.
Highlights: Unique rock formations, photography, and a peaceful ambiance.
10. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
Elafonissi Beach is a magical spot known for its pink sand and shallow lagoons. It’s perfect for families and those seeking a tranquil beach day. The unique coloration of the sand comes from crushed coral, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Highlights: Pink sands, warm lagoons, and protected natural beauty.
Get in touch now to book this year’s beach holiday.

04/01/2025

If you're struggling with ideas as to where to go on holiday this year, I've come up with a cunning plan that might help. Comment on this post with 4 or 5 things that you'd need for the perfect trip and when you're thinking of travelling and I'll come up with a few suggested destinations for that time of year. So, something like...
Food, scenery, culture, wildlife + November.
Island hopping, beach, diving, luxury hotel + March
Think of it as a win-win - you get a bit of destination inspiration and it will be a good warm-up for me as we head into peak holiday booking season.

04/01/2025

BUCKET LIST TRIP. I don't usually feature offers on this page, but I've made an exception for this fab 14-night private tour of Japan in November - just the right time to see the beautiful autumn foliage. From only £3899 per person - with several tours and excursions included (includes 40% saving on accommodation and discounted air fares). You'll travel around on the super-efficient rail network, experiencing the unique contrasts of this fascinating country - from the uber-modern cities of Tokyo and Osaka to the traditional temples and shrines of Kyoto and a Buddhist temple stay in Mount Koya - one of Japan's most sacred sites. I've visited all these places and I think this itinerary showcases everything that I love about Japan, with a decent amount of time to explore each place. 4 nights Tokyo - 4 nights Kyoto - 2 nights Mount Koya - 4 nights Osaka. There are 9 different excursions (too many to list details here) such as a day trip to Hakone and Mount Fuji and a private Tea Ceremony in Kyoto. Price includes international flights from Heathrow, Japanese Rail Pass, accommodation in 4* hotels (apart from temple stay in Koya) and private airport transfer in Tokyo. Regional departures are available for a supplement. Get in touch for the full itinerary.

02/01/2025

FIVE BEAUTIFUL LAKES. If you prefer the scenery of inland lakes to coastal destinations, here are five absolutely gorgeous lakes around the world which won’t disappoint and that you might like to add to your Bucket List.
LAKE KAWAGUCHI, JAPAN. The conical peak of Mount Fuji is one of the most iconic vistas on the planet, and an iconic symbol of Japan. Few places can compete with the splendour of Lake Kawaguchi, which is the second-largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, but undoubtedly the most picturesque. It’s easily accessible from Tokyo, which half-explains its popularity, though people would hardly be able to stay away from its beauty even if it were more secluded. But don’t just come for a day trip – I’d recommend at least a couple of nights in this beautiful area – there’s plenty to see and do apart from Fuji-watching.
LAKE TITICACA, BOLIVIA/PERU. Straddling the countries of Bolivia and Peru, Lake Titicaca has an impressive list of accolades. Not only is it the largest freshwater lake in South America, but it’s actually the world’s highest large lake and the supposed birthplace of the Incas. But that’s far from the only reason this lake is so popular. It’s also beautiful and has bags of biodiversity, plus myths and legends which were inspired by it. Lake Titicaca also has over 40 islands, a ruined temple at the bottom and is supposedly shaped like a puma. On different visits - I’ve stayed on both the Bolivian and Peruvian sides of the Lake, both stays were equally magical – in particular the amazing night-time sky.
PLITIVICE, CROATIA. Not just one lake but 16 at Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park, midway between Zagreb and Zadar. They’re connected by more than 90 waterfalls, one of which is the highest in the country, and the colours of the water change from emerald green to hazy blues, due to the levels of minerals as well as the angle of the sun. Come in spring for thunderous waters, summer for clouds of butterflies, autumn for the colourful leaves or in winter for icy lakes and frozen falls. Bears, wolves and lynx hide in the remoter reaches of the park’s old-growth fir and beech forests.
THALE NOI, THAILAND. Commonly referred to as “Lotus Lake”, Thale Noi is a protected wetlands and waterfowl park in southern Thailand and is one of the loveliest spots in the entire country. Aside from the millions of pink lotus flowers skimming the lake’s surface, the protected wetlands contain some unique wildlife, including box turtles, storks, and water buffaloes. The best time to visit Thale Noi is February to March when the lotus are in full bloom and large swathes of the wetland will be carpeted with bright pink lotus flowers.
LAKE ATITLAN. Flanked by volcanoes and Mayan villages, this serene lake in the Guatemalan Highlands is a must for anyone considering a trip to Central America. Aside from enjoying the lake’s Eden-like beauty, travellers are spoiled for choice when it comes to activities in the area, whether hiking to the nearby San Pedro volcano or shopping for Guatemalan textiles in one of the local villages, like San Juan La Laguna. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days.

01/01/2025

HAPPY NEW YEAR. Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2025. If you're now turning your thoughts to holidays, here are five good reasons why you should book with me. And if anyone who's reading this has travelled with me before - I'd be grateful if you could like the post or comment to let people know I'm not just blowing my own trumpet!
YOUR HOLIDAY IS PROTECTED
Although you may be tempted to book all the elements of your holiday direct, your holiday won’t be protected if any of the elements fall down. Booking all your arrangements with one company means your holiday is protected legally and financially because of Package Travel Regulations. My business is part of the Not Just Travel Group, and it’s ABTA bonded, so you also have that safeguard.
YOU’LL SAVE TIME AND AGGRAVATION.
Whatever kind of trip you’re looking for, searching for your holiday can be confusing and is always time-consuming. You’ll trawl the internet for ages trying to find the right destination. You’ll spend hours online scanning hotel reviews on Trip Advisor from people you don’t know and whose standards may be different from yours. Whereas you can have a 30-minute chat with me and then sit back and wait for me to come back to you with the perfect itinerary. And if I don’t get it right first time, we’ll tweak, hone and adjust it until it’s everything you could possibly want from your trip.
NOTHING TRUMPS DESTINATION EXPERTISE
Whilst the web is a huge source of information on hotels, tours and places to visit, there’s really no substitute for specialist knowledge, based on up-to-date feedback. I have key suppliers that I use for different destinations around the world and will select the right one for you, dependent on what you’re looking for. What’s more, I’ve travelled extensively around the world and will bring my own considerable destination knowledge into the process, to advise and recommend on the best itinerary for your needs – and to make sure that the pace and rhythm of your holiday is right, and that accommodation is perfect for the style of holiday you’re looking for.
YOU’LL KNOW YOUR ARRANGMENTS WILL WORK
It’s essential that the ground arrangements and logistics are booked through a reputable operator – with transfers that you can feel comfortable will turn up and with guides that speak good English. You’d be surprised at how often arrangements can fall apart. All my suppliers have super-reliable teams in-country, to make sure that your holiday runs on oiled wheels.
ONE POINT OF CONTACT
I provide the highest levels of personal service - you’ll see that all my Google reviews are 5* - and I’ll look after you from our first phone call until the day you arrive back home in the UK. You can call me direct on my mobile – say goodbye to waiting on the phone to speak to someone at a call centre when you have a question or want more information.

Do get in touch if you'd like to talk holidays. Email or Whats App me in the first instance so we can schedule a call and get the ball rolling.

29/12/2024

FIVE AMAZING NATIONAL PARKS. If your idea of a perfect holiday is to be surrounded by spectacular scenery and to be inspired by the wonders of Nature, here are my recommendations for five amazing National Parks to consider for your next holiday.
TORRES DEL PAINE, CHILE Nothing can prepare you for your first glimpse of Torres del Paine. It doesn’t matter how many photos you see of it, when you eventually make it here, it’s bound to take your breath away. Skirting the edge of Chilean Patagonia, it really is one of the most stunning places in South America. The centre piece of the park is the Paine Massif - and it’s in this granite mountain range that you’ll find the Torres del Paine themselves – three soaring peaks which translate to ‘towers of pain’. Although spectacular at all hours of the day, they’re particularly impressive at sunrise, when they take on a vibrant orange glow.
SERENGETI, TANZANIA. Known for its beautiful, vast plains, incredible wildlife, and iconic wildebeest migration, the Serengeti is one of the most spectacular wildlife destinations you’ll find in the world. Whether you want to spot wildebeest, zebra, gazelle and other grazers among the grasses, lion and leopard packs hunting among these herds or perhaps gentle giants such as elephant and giraffe... You're in with a great chance of seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
IGUAZU, ARGENTINA/BRAZIL. Stretching almost 3km along the border of Argentina and Brazil, there are actually around 275 different waterfalls. This is my favourite place of everywhere I’ve visited. I’ve stayed here multiple times and the spectacle of these amazing waterfalls never disappoints. To stand and watch the thundering water and be drenched by the spray is unbelievably life-enhancing. I always like to stay at the Belmond Las Cataratas on the Brazilian side of the Falls because it’s actually in the National Park – so you can have the Falls to yourself before 9 and after 5 and can avoid the busloads of tourists.
KAKADU, AUSTRALIA. This is Australia’s largest National Park and wins hands-down for untamed beauty and anthropological importance. It sprawls over 20,000 square kilometres in the Northern Territory, with high escarpments juxtaposed against infinite plains, waterfalls cascading into natural plunge pools, swampy wetlands and wildlife-filled billabongs. Saltwater crocodile viewing is a big draw, but the jewel in Kakadu’s crown is its Aboriginal history and one of the highest concentrations of rock art sites anywhere in the world. There are around 15,000 galleries, some up to 20,000 years old.
GUILIN LIJIANG, CHINA. The best way to soak up China’s Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is by taking a boat trip along the Li River. The area is famous for its limestone karsts and vast bamboo forests, typical of the topology of the land. With names such as Dragon Head and Elephant Trunk, these wave-like hills and limestone cones have inspired many Chinese artists and poets alike, and they’re even featured on the 20 Yuan banknote. The scenery is absolutely stunning here, and I really felt privileged to visit the area.
Contact me if you'd like to discuss your holiday plans for next year. Either email [email protected] or Whats App me on 07973 629233 and we can schedule a time for you to brief me on what you're looking for.

28/12/2024

FIVE GORGEOUS BEACH DESTINATIONS. If you’re a regular visitor to this page, you’ll know that I often feature a selection of the world’s best beaches on my page. And here are five that are certainly worth considering if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday where the beach is the star of the show.
PLAGE DE PALOMBAGGIA, CORSICA. This is Corsica’s most beloved beach, nestled on the southeast shore of the island near Porto-Vecchio. Known as a beach lovers’ paradise, this sublime area is home to numerous postcard-perfect coves making it a coastal wonderland for visitors looking for sea and sand. It's a fabulous mix of white sand, orange-red rocks and umbrella pines set along a beautiful semi-circular cove and turquoise water. It's been classified by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
LE MORNE, MAURITIUS. Go to just about any shore in Mauritius, and you'll find a reef-protected beach with calm, clear water. Le Morne Beach is particularly noteworthy for its 2½ miles of sugar-soft sand densely lined with palm and pine-like filao trees. And the nearby Le Morne Mountain provides a dramatic backdrop. It's certainly one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius and there are a few lovely luxury properties in this part of the island.
SOURCE D’ARGENT, THE SEYCHELLES. This beach regularly makes lists of the world’s best beaches – location on La Digue island in the Seychelles - the 3rd largest in the archipelago. It’s picture-postcard pretty with pink-tinted sand, crystal clear turquoise waters and with huge granite boulders at both ends of the shore. When people think of holidays to the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is often forgotten. But it's definitely worth considering the Seychelles if you're looking for an exotic beach destination. There are some fabulous hotels - and you could even have an island-hopping holiday so that you get the chance to experience different islands.
GRACE BAY BEACH, TURKS & CAICOS. Located on Providenciales in Turks & Caicos Grace Bay is often named the best in the world. You'll find crystal-clear water, powdery sand and a colourful coral reef just begging to be explored. Paddleboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing, jet-skiing, and water skiing are all available, but you could just stretch out on a beach towel and soak in the sun. Granted, Turks & Caicos is a bit more difficult to get to than other places in the Caribbean – but if you’ve done it, been there with Barbados, Antigua and St Lucia, it’s a fab less-visited alternative.
WATAMU, KENYA. The area around Watamu has some of the best beaches on the Kenyan coast. Here you’ll find powdery white sand juxtaposed against the turquoise, aquamarine, and emerald hues of the Indian Ocean. During the summer months of December, January, and February, the beaches here are sublime. The water is usually clear, the days are warm and sunny, and a lovely breeze keeps you from overheating. And Kenya’s a particularly good value alternative to other Indian Ocean destinations.
Do get in touch if you'd like to discuss a beach holiday for next year.

27/12/2024

DESTINATION INSPIRATION. "Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." Mark Twain. There's an amazing, colourful world to explore - so many places to see and so little time! Get in touch and let's start planning your next adventure.

27/12/2024

FIVE FABULOUS ISLAND DESTINATIONS. There’s nothing quite like an island holiday, whether you’re looking for time lounging on the beach or a more active trip where you can explore both the coastline and the island interior. Here are five recommendations for amazing island destinations to consider for your next trip in 2025.
SICILY, ITALY. This beautiful island is perfectly placed at the heart of the Mediterranean. And because of its position it attracted a succession of colonisers from the Greeks, Romans and Carthaginians through to the Arabs and Normans. This has left its mark - with a range of fabulous architecture from different centuries and culinary influences that make Sicilian cuisine unique and delicious. Sicily's varied landscape makes a dramatic first impression. This juxtaposition of sea, volcano and mountain scenery makes a stunning backdrop wherever you are in the island. Mu advice is not to bite off more than you can chew with Sicily – pick an area of the island and explore at a leisurely pace.
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR. It’s one of the greatest national parks on earth, the place where visitors get a front-row view of nature like nowhere else in the world. From giant tortoises the size of small cars to great piles of sunbathing iguanas, dancing blue-footed bo***es, nosy sea lions and wolf-whistling frigate birds – when it comes to wildlife, the Galapagos archipelago delivers an amazing spectacle. With more than 4,000 species, and 40 per cent of them found nowhere else on earth, it’s impossible not to have your socks well and truly knocked off. Combine a cruise around some of the islands with a tour around mainland Ecuador – there’s plenty to see here too.
WHITSUNDAYS, AUSTRALIA. Located along Queensland's central coast, the islands and mainland towns of the Whitsundays offer everything you’d expect from a tropical paradise; turquoise waters and gorgeous white sands, beautiful, secluded beaches and world-class luxury accommodation. Set amid the iconic Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays are a mecca for sailing, diving and snorkelling - and there are plenty of opportunities to tick off some bucket-list worthy activities like swimming with turtles or flying over famous Heart Reef.
SRI LANKA. If you’re looking for a holiday with variety, Sri Lanka has it all. Endless white sand beaches, 8 UNESCO world heritage sites, welcoming people, national parks with elephants, leopards, crocodiles and sloth bears, the spectacular landscapes of tea country all capped off with utterly delicious food. And with distances quite short, it’s possible to see quite a bit of the island on a 2-week trip without rushing around. One of the best ways to travel around the country is in a private car with driver/guide. It’s good value and it gives you the flexibility to take your time and tweak your itinerary without the more organised itinerary of an Escorted Tour. And you can end your journey with a few days at the beach - there are some lovely hotels to choose from.
RAJA AMPAT, INDONESIA. These 1500 islands and cays lie on at the heart of the Coral Triangle, a biodiversity hot spot where the Pacific and Indian Oceans collide. Likened to the “Amazon of the seas,” this tropical labyrinth holds one of the world’s highest densities of marine life with over 1000 species of fish and ¾ of all known corals. Divers and snorkelers alike explore the aquamarine waters in search of wildly-patterned carpet sharks, massive manta rays and pygmy seahorses. Raja Ampat is still not really on the tourist trail and it’s definitely a destination to get to as soon as possible and before the infrastructure develops and divers start flocking here.
Get in touch to discuss your next island adventure in 2025.

26/12/2024

CITY BREAK IDEAS FOR 2025. If you’ve done it, been there with Paris, Barcelona and Rome, but you fancy a few days away before the summer – here are my five suggestions for lovely cities I've visited that are great destinations you may not have considered. I do love a good city break – because you cram quite a bit in, you feel as though you’ve been away much longer than you actually have. For me, any city break destination needs to deliver on three fronts: interesting historic sights, great bars and restaurants and good shopping.
TOULOUSE, FRANCE. I spent a year in this lovely city on my year abroad as part of my French degree, and I highly recommend it for a short break. Called “La Ville Rose” (the pink city) it’s the capital of the Occitania region and 3 Unesco World Heritage Sites dot the terracotta streets: the Canal du Midi, the impressive Roman Basilica of St. Sernin, and former hospital, Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques. One of my favourite spots is the impressive medieval Couvent des Jacobins with its amazing interior and lovely cloisters. And there are numerous excellent restaurants and bars and some great boutiques when you get tired of sightseeing. A tango festival comes to Toulouse in July, and jazz bars and speakeasies by the Garonne River come alive for summer in a fusion of French nightlife that’s not to be missed.
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN. Stockholm is a beautiful city - I've visited in the heart of winter and in late summer and enjoyed both visits equally. Spread across 14 islands, all connected by bridges, the city really comes into its own in the spring and summer when the loveliest way to explore is by boat. Float from the historic old town, Gamla Stan, on Stadsholmen to artsy Södermalm (don’t miss the excellent Fotografiska gallery, housed in a former customs building on the waterfront), then on to the green oasis of Djurgården island, where you’ll also find the ABBA museum which is a lot of fun even if you’re not a fan. And the food is universally excellent here – albeit quite pricey.
BOLOGNA, ITALY. Bologna boasts medieval architecture, stylish boutiques and, more importantly, some of Italy’s very best food – not least, this is the birthplace of bolognese (though here they call it ragu). In fact the Italians call this city “La Grassa” (the Fat One)! As well as eating very well, there are plenty of sights to explore in the city's medieval heart and Bologna is also famous for its hundreds of porticoes or portici. There are 62km of them around the city, where you can literally stroll under them through history. And they're particularly useful if it's wet! These were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021.
LJUBLIJANA, SLOVENIA. This city is a hidden gem that boasts romantic bridges, lively squares, and an enchanting medieval old town. Wander through car-free streets lined with pastel-hued buildings, quaint cafes, and artisan shops, where a sense of tranquillity pervades. Admire the fairytale-like Ljubljana Castle perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city below. With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, Ljubljana is a refreshing alternative to the crowds of other European cities, promising a truly unforgettable journey through the heart of Slovenia.
CORDOBA, SPAIN. Often overlooked for neighbouring Seville, Cordoba is a Roman city that became a centre of Islam in the Middle Ages and it’s a fascinating meeting point of cultures. You can see this in the majestic architecture strewn around its cobbled streets, with a particular highlight being the Mezquita-Catedral de Cordoba, a Unesco world heritage site that began life as a mosque before becoming a cathedral. Equally interesting is the food scene, which borrows from the Muslim, Jewish and Spanish heritage of the people who now call this city home. Home to a thriving flamenco scene, Cordoba is also the place where you can visit Centro Flamenco Fosforito, a museum charting the history of the dance with free performances.