Category

Travel

Category

One of the most frustrating parts of traveling is packing the suitcase for the trip. It’s hard to gauge if you’re packing too much or too little. Did I remember this, that, and the other thing? Do I roll my clothes, or fold them?

In general, traveling can be stressful. Travel blogs, like inspire4travel, can help ease those concerns with tips and tricks to make the experience go smoothly.

10 Tips for Packing the Most in Your Suitcase

Knowing a few packing hacks can also help reduce the stress of travel. Here are 10 tips for making packing easier:

1. Roll your clothes. Let’s end the debate. Rolling your clothes provides more room. Rolling does cause wrinkles, but most hotel rooms have irons.

2. Plan your daily outfits. Many people make the mistake of throwing every piece of clothing they like into one suitcase. Then, when they get to their destination, pulling an outfit together is a hassle. Planning your outfits saves suitcase room AND dress-stress.

3. Leave the liquids home; use bar-shaped toiletries. If you’re flying, most airplanes have strict rules regarding liquids. Skip trying to remember the liquid limits. Use bar shampoos and conditioners.

4. Pack heavier items at the bottom. This is a well-known hack. Pack heavier items, such as shoes, at the bottom of your suitcase. It will prevent the heavier items from making the suitcase tip over, or damaging fragile items.

5. Use a sunglasses case to store cell phone chargers. Phone chargers can break easily if left loose in the luggage. Putting them in a sunglasses case protects them, and makes it easier to find when you get settled in your destination.

6. Put a sticker on your luggage to help identify it quickly. Not many things in life are more awkward than the baggage carousel. At least one person always picks the wrong suitcase off the line. Putting a bright sticker, or other easily recognizable visual cue, can help get you out of the baggage claim without any awkwardness.

7. Create a packing inventory. Do you always forget at least one item when you pack for a trip? A packing inventory can ensure that you have everything you need. Toiletries, chargers, enough socks, etc.

8. Wear that heavy jacket or sweater on the plane. Nothing takes up more room in the suitcase than a bulky jacket, or sweater. One beloved travel hack is to wear it on the plane. It’s a win-win solution: More room in the suitcase, and planes are always freezing.

9. Use a dryer sheet to keep clothes smelling fresh. No matter how far you travel, your clothes will somehow end up smelling funky. Tossing a dryer sheet in the luggage will help keep it smelling fresh between washes.

10. Don’t leave packing to the last minute. One reason why people pack incorrectly is because they do it at the last minute. Rushing through packing only ensures that you will forget something. You don’t have to pack a week ahead, but a day or two in advance is better than last minute.

While much of 2020 was a wash for travel, adventurers are looking to 2021 to get away. In fact, over half of the vacations already booked for 2021 are for international destinations. After a year of road tripping, these packing hacks will come in handy for long-distance travels.

When people are traveling, there’s always the urge to give up moral standards that they observe at home. There’s greater potential for casual sex, mostly because of alcohol and drug use, peer pressure, desire for adventure, and travel excitements. And while there’s nothing wrong with casual sex, statistics show that many Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) occur during international travel.

Travel can be a great way to explore the world, and having sex while at it can make the experience even better. There are even now apps available (check it out) to enable you to find someone for a casual hook up wherever you are! However, it’s important to understand the social and cultural differences of sex around the world. This way, you’ll enjoy the experience to the fullest without putting your health on the line. So, here are 4 great tips that will help you have better, safer sex while traveling:

  1. Know Your Status Before Leaving

Normally, sexually active adults should take STI tests at least every 6 months. According to Sandra Larson, a nurse and relationship expert at My Sex Toy Guide, getting tested regularly should be a standard procedure, especially if you have multiple partners. “Knowing your status, at least twice a year allows you to make the right decisions to protect yourself,” she says.

When planning to travel, testing becomes even more important as it helps you to take all the necessary precautions. Depending on whether you have an STI or not, the doctor will advise you on what to do to protect yourself and those around you. You can even choose to postpone travel until you’re off the medication.

  1. Pack Your Condoms

Whether you plan to have sex or not, make sure you pack enough condoms in your bag before leaving. Furthermore, condoms are affordable, lightweight, and even the TSA guy will give you the go-ahead nod. So, depending on the duration of your stay, pack as many as you might need. Having enough condoms puts you a step ahead in avoiding STIs and pregnancy.

Sandra advises that you avoid the temptation to buy when you get to your destination. “It can be a hassle to buy condoms when traveling, especially female condoms.” So, take care of your sex life and pack up before the journey.

  1. GET CONSENT Before Sex

Regardless of how tempting it might be to disregard your moral responsibility away from home totally, consent is a MUST! After all, the last thing you want is to be accused of rape in a foreign land. Besides the embarrassment, you might be jailed and might need to get help from criminal lawyers. So, before anything else and despite how intoxicated you might be, ask for consent before touching, kissing, or sleeping with someone. Besides getting you out of trouble, consent clears the confusion, doubt, and cultural misunderstanding.

Note: You don’t have to engage in sex when traveling. But if you must, ensure you’re familiar with the sexual etiquette at your destination. Understand the norms for sex but don’t fall victim and participate in uncomfortable and risky behaviors.

  1. Everything in Moderation

As stressed before, the feeling of being no longer obligated to observe the same moral standards when traveling as at home can lead to risky behavior. Whether it’s from peer pressure or the desire for adventure, do everything in moderation. Besides learning about the sexual etiquette at your destination, make sure you drink and do drugs (if you have to) in moderation.

Remember, you’re in a foreign land, and you might not be able to get away with it as you do back home. Most importantly, look out for yourself and enjoy the experience. Also, make plans on how to get back home beforehand and have a clear understanding of no-go zones.

To sum it up, traveling can be good for your sex life, especially when done well and responsibly. The adrenaline that comes with experiencing a new culture is immeasurable, especially because you know it’s only for a limited period. However, numerous things might not go as you’d have anticipated, and prevention is better than cure. Isn’t it?

So, whether you’re traveling with your partner or exploring new ground solo, know your status before leaving, pack your own condoms, get consent before sex, and most importantly, do everything in moderation. Additionally, get a good private room for accommodation, be aware of your surroundings, and have fun!

The next year is the perfect time for a staycation, as the UK and its resorts look to get back on their feet and welcome tourists back for a full on summer season.

In fact, even now seaside towns are awash with illuminations and bright lights to celebrate the festive period.

If you can’t wait to plan a getaway for next year, then you could certainly do worse than the likes of Brighton, Cromer and Whitby. But what are the must do activities for a day beside the seaside?

Eat Fish & Chips

You won’t find better fish and chips than you will in seaside towns, especially those with a fishing port. Many towns on the coast are renowned for their catch of the day and the likes of Papa’s in Cleethorpes and Harbour Lights in Falmouth having become iconic.

There are many different variations, and specialisms in different part of the country, but fish, chips and a bit of salt and vinegar, and you really can’t go wrong.

Right across the land you’ll find tons of excellent coastal fish and chip shops, and you can click this handy guide to find one close to where you’re holidaying.

Play Bingo

Across seafronts and down piers you’ll find plenty of fun and games to enjoy from hook-a-duck to donkey rides and plenty of shooting games and rides. But no game is more iconic by the seaside than bingo.

Bingo has so many social aspects to it and because of this the game has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years. It’s developing a real community online, and a number of online bingo fans are picking up their dabbers on holidays by the sea too.

In some areas you’ll find huge bingo halls, while others are simple huts on the pier, but all offer the same thrills as you would find online and there are plenty of prizes up for grabs too!

Go Crabbing

For those with a family especially, crabbing can offer hours of fun. It’s fishing with a twist, with that twist being you’re out to catch crabs.

Popular in port towns especially, all you need is a net or bucket and a long piece of string, with the aim then to dip your vessel in the water and hope to pull some crabs out!

Of course, it’s important you put them back in the water after as some crabs are also not edible, so you also don’t want to make yourself ill!

There are many hotspots for crabbing across the country, with the likes of Whitby and Scarborough in North Yorkshire, as well as Salcombe, Dartmouth and South Pool along the south coast.

Dip Your Toes In The Sea

No trip to the seaside is complete without at least dipping your toes in the water. Of course it’s cold, it’s Britain, but if you’re not going to head for a swim, at least walk along the shoreline and feel the sand or pebbles between your toes and let the water wash over them.

It’s a tranquil and therapeutic feeling that can’t help but calm you, and in times like this, that feeling is priceless.

As part of our ongoing Cheshire series, House of Coco set off on a mission to discover the county’s idyllic landscapes and history-book heritage.

After another month spent lamenting within the four walls of our interiors, the prospect of a 48-hour change of scenery was welcomed with open arms. Courtesy of the Bromley-Davenport family, Capesthorne Hall opened its doors – that have since been firmly bolted shut due to lockdown restrictions – to us for a weekend of rest, reset and adoration.

As anticipated, the scenery was not one to disappoint. Despite the building’s Jacobean interior casting similarities to a number of the country’s ‘Stately Homes’, a distinctive family-orientated ethos echoes through portrait-lined corridors and ancestral relics. A home not only rich in history, but also familial affection.

A room well-loved for its compelling qualities, The Saloon is frequently used to host and entertain guests of the family. A prominent feature of the space is the commissioned paintings of the Bromley-Davenport’s ancestors, which form a striking display of opulence.

The Drawing Room, often used as one of the primary quarters for wedding ceremonies, boasts a selection of Italian artwork and soft-toned Boulle furniture.

Featuring checkboard flooring and arched columns, brides descend their way down The Main Staircase before greeting their invitees in The Drawing Room.

South Tower

The public quarters refuse to shy away from their own grandeur. Nestled away from its gargantuan neighbour, South Tower Cottage celebrates a fusion of aristocratical heritage and contemporary London-townhouse style. Expect to be welcomed by a myriad of English fauna whilst, from South Towers window view, gardens swathed in perennials and seasonal blooms make for picturesque backdrops.

Lakeside Bridge View and South Tower Cottage.

Lakeside Village

A credit to the family, who’s values traverse through the Hall’s grounds and into the visitor havens, formally recognised as The Lakeside Village. Fashioned as a community of timber-clad exterior lodges, the fuss-free designs feature a spacious bedroom and bathroom complex, but the shared kitchen and dining space is where the true family affairs take place. Located overlooking the lakeside gardens, guests can enjoy mealtimes with relatives and relish within the privacy of their own familiarities.

Lakeside Village lodges interiors and the communal kitchen space, also recognised as The Potting Shed.

Adjoined to The Potting Shed lies Lakeside Cottage; a private sanctuary that overlooks the lodges, but is often saved for Bride and Groom to-be’s.

Localities

As for localities, the Hall finds itself at a notable advantage. Situated amongst a handful of Cheshire’s more-established districts, (Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Holmes Chapel) guests are never short of convenience, where local walking spots, independent boutiques, and quality eateries are concerned. An undisturbed oasis, minus the sensibility of isolation that so often accompanies a countryside hideaway.

Should you find yourself searching for an escape to secluded serenity, make Capesthorne Hall your first point of call.

Capesthorne Hall is closed to the public until local restrictions are reassessed on 02/12/20. For more info on the grounds, visit www.capesthorne.com.

How often do you get the feeling that it’s time to drop everything and get away? To have some real me-time with nothing to concern you apart from how to fully indulge yourself? However, all too often, the real world, in the form of work or other commitments, get in the way so you never actually book anything.

Never fear. You can always treat yourself at home instead by transforming your surroundings and creating a five-star staycation experience.

Creating Ambience

One of the main things that many people judge the quality of a hotel stay by is, not surprisingly, the bed. While getting a new mattress might be a bit excessive – and may even cost as much as going away – you might like to treat yourself to some luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, which are considered to be the best by many people.

Remember to buy some indulgent chocolates too and leave one on the pillow for a little bedtime treat.

Luxury Dining

Going away is also the time when you want to leave the cooking to someone else as well as to explore some new flavors and cuisines. The great news is that, these days, virtually anything that you could ever want from abalone to zabaglione is a phone call away. Delivered to your door, ordering in is like the very best room service.

Maybe you’ll also want to theme your staycation around one particular country, or around a few, by ordering different cuisines, you could take a gastronomic tour of the world.

The Nightlife

Travel is all about soaking up new experiences and cultures, and you can reflect this in the entertainment that you want to enjoy. So, maybe start to sample the sorts of foreign-language films you might not normally watch on a streaming service like Netflix.

Many foreign language titles are filmed on location, so you could choose based on where these films are set, as well as by the plotline or genre, to get a feel for what it would be like to visit. Watching films set in the country you intend to visit can also give you ideas of what you’d like to do for fun when you get there. So, as well as enjoying a movie and learning about different cultures, you’re also getting in a little research into restaurants, bars, and other forms of entertainment for when you do travel.

As an example, a casino is often a favorite form of entertainment when you’re away. Five-star hotels famously combine the two, with the likes of Caesar’s Palace and The Venetian in Las Vegas being among the most prominent examples. You can complete your luxury staycation experience by emulating all the excitement of roulette, blackjack, and slots from the comfort of home with an online casino. If you’ve never tried one before, you’ll find some great ideas for getting started on a comparison site that will also tell you where to find bonuses and the widest choice of games. It will also provide a simple way to register so you can get your evening of entertainment started quickly and easily.

Just Relax

Last, but not least, remember to take time out to relax. This might mean catching up with all those books you’ve been meaning to read, or transforming your bathroom into a chilled-out spa with candles and some ambient sounds. Or, you could just seize that all-too-rare opportunity to do nothing at all.

However you choose to spend your staycation, one thing is for sure. You’ll emerge at the end of it feeling more refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the world – at least until the next time that you need a holiday at home.

After months and months of hard work, finally, you will have the opportunity to take some time off from work! If you do not want to spend your free time at home, repeating the same activities over and over again, we recommend going on an adventure! We could say that the words adventure and careful planning do not go hand in hand, but still, if you decide to visit some exotic place, you simply need to have a plan! You can plan your adventure months in advance, and if you do so, you can rest assured that you will have the best time, when the time comes, of course! Here, we have three excellent recommendations for you, and we will also tell you how to get there!

If you just look on your left, or right, depending on where you live, you can see this beautiful island of the name Hawaii. This island is a paradise, and we have three special locations that will amaze you! If you decide to visit Hawaii, summer is the most popular time to visit Hawaii, you can book a private jeep tour at https://www.hoalohajeepadventures.com, and this platform allows you to gather more info about the offer. Each destination has wonderful sights, some out of this world sceneries, and you will appreciate every moment of the trip! You should take a look at the details of each offer, and while you are still on the website, you can write down the plans for each road trip. Road trips last up to eight hours at max, which means that only after eight hours spent during sightseeing, we will be coming back to hotels.

Renting a private jeep is the best way of visiting all these places. Normally, you would not be able to see all these destinations on foot. During a seven day trip, you will have a chance to choose a day. Jeep will come to the hotel’s address and pick you up early in the morning. We have approximately an hour and a half of driving until we arrive at the first part of the destination. From there, the distance between points of interest is short, but still, you will have a jeep at your disposal. All three tours are available for kids and senior people, and overall they are accessible to everyone. Since jeep only has some certain number of seats, these tours are private and mostly oriented toward groups of people who already know each other, or families. However, if you came solo on this trip, we will match you with a group of people who are also solo adventuring.

The driver is responsible for your comfort, and safety, however, the driver will also tell you a bit about the history of places. For instance, if we have eight points of interest, in between, you will have the opportunity to see the land, take pictures, and simply enjoy fresh Hawaiian air! This planet has given us so many wonders, and this land is precious due to its natural beauty. You should see it ASAP!

With quarantine restrictions being likened to a game of whack-a-mole, it certainly seems that long haul travel is out of the picture for most would-be travellers. However, there are plenty of destinations — especially those whose COVID-19 response has shined throughout the crisis — that people can still and should travel to as soon as we are able.

With news of a potential vaccine giving us a needed dose of hope, we’re beating the #BlackNovember blues by pre-planning all our holidays for 2021 to these stunning locales that are still open for tourism.

Coral Reef Club Barbados

With British Airways launching direct flights from London Heathrow to Bridgeton, there is literally no reason in the world you shouldn’t be pre-planning a beachy escape to the Coral Reef Club in Barbados.

This family-run hotel balances familial island warmth with tropical luxury and is undeniably one of the best properties on the island. Check into one of the Coral Reef Club’s 88 rooms and get lost within its 12 acres of garden. You can also relax and take in the calming views of the Caribbean or get stuck into a wide range of sporting activities.

For those looking for a little bit more adventure, there’s plenty of shipwrecks to discover in the West Coast. Keen environmentalists can also volunteer in the Barbados Sea Turtle Project, which is next door to the hotel.

Zannier Hotels Omaanda and Sonop

If you’re planning a trip to Namibia in 2021, why stay in just one incredible Zannier hotel when you can stay in two? The Zannier Hotels in Omaanda and Sonop are made up of just ten luxury huts and ten luxury tents respectively – and offer the ultimate in Namibian luxury.

Zannier Hotels Omaanda is surrounded by savannahs filled with breath-taking wildlife. You can fill your days with game drives or even participate in the Zannier Reserve’s Rhino Rangers volunteer programme, which helps to fight against poaching in Namibia.

At Zannier Hotels Sonop, you can take your holiday to (literal) new heights with a helicopter ride or hot air balloon safari overlooking the dunes. You can also check out the oldest and largest sand dunes on Earth at Sossusvlei, with some dunes rising to 383metres high (which is higher than The Shard!).

Bequia Beach Hotel St Vincent & The Grenadines

The Bequia Beach Hotel is known as the Caribbean’s best kept secret and it’s easy to see why. Bequia is remote island destination is located only on seven square miles of true tropical paradise west of Barbados and South of St. Vincent.

The hotel is nestled within nine acres of stunning tropical gardens on the beautiful Friendship Bay. Next year, the Bequia Beach Hotel welcomes the ultra-luxurious Villa One, which has five generously-sized suites that are perfect for a socially-distanced getaway with the family.

The hotel is also launching a saltwater infinity pool, refreshed menus, and a new wine cellar for 2021 – So how soon can we book again?

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort, Maldives

The Maldives have been added to the UK’s travel corridor list – hurray! And we’re satiating our wanderlust by pre-planning our dream trip to the Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Pullman Maldives is an all-inclusive paradise set on 18 hectares of tropical forestry and pristine beaches. This January, global wellness coach Sarah Hoey is joining the resort for a wellness residency that will certainly eradicate all of your pent-up pandemic anxieties. Can 2021 come any sooner please?

Kagi, Maldives

Located in the Northern Male Atoll, the Kagi Maldives Spa Island is a newly-opened five-star wellness resort experience. Kagi Maldives was designed by Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, who built the resort to surround the 1500 sqm wellness centre. Guests can choose from a Beach Pool Villa, Lagoon Pool Villa or Ocean Pool Villa, but heck, if the resort is this spectacular – it doesn’t matter which villa you decide to stay in. Everything is perfect in paradise after all.

Hotel Fariones, Lanzarote

With the Canary Islands back on the UK’s travel corridor list, we’re looking at the Hotel Fariones for our next Spanish beach break in 2021. This casual laid-back hotel exudes effortless Spanish charm and features a rooftop bar and pool – perfect for watching the sunset.

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Overlooking the breathtaking St Lucia’s Pitons World Heritage Site, the Jade Mountain hotel is the ideal spot to get back in touch with nature. This incredible property features 29 open-air Infinity pool and jacuzzi sanctuaries. It even offers a ‘Six in Your Sanctuary’ in-suite Tasting Menu, which is just the thing those looking to social-distance while on holiday. The Six in Your Sanctuary Menu comprises six gourmet dishes with complementary wine pairings and served by a private butler too.

Alphonse Island, Seychelles

We can’t think of a better way to reward ourselves for surviving 2020 than with a trip to the Alphonse Island, Seychelles. Alphonse Island offers a wealth of experiences that celebrate the rich biodiversity and natural surroundings of the Seychelles. From fly fishing and scuba diving, to just spending a day lounging in your sustainable beach bungalow – we think this is Seychelles at its finest – and we can’t wait to visit.

The Peligoni Club, Zakynthos, Greece

With a select-few Greek islands still on the travel corridors list, we’re pre-planning a luxurious villa getaway to The Peligoni Club. This cool and laid-back members only property combines homegrown Greek hospitality with sleek and minimalist luxury villas. Perfect to give you some much-needed calm after what has been a pretty hectic year.

Glenapp Castle, Scotland

If you’re afraid to risk quarantining and want to avoid travel corridors in general, why not book a luxury staycation in the UK? Glenapp Castle is an incredible Relais & Chateaux castle that boasts timeless charm and a rich history. Located on the breath-taking Ayrshire Coast, it is easy to forget about the COVID-19 blues and lose yourself in Glenapp’s extensive grounds. Believe us, nothing is better than taking in the relaxing sea views of the Ailsa Craig and maybe even catching a glimpse of Ireland’s coast on a clear day at Glenapp Castle.

If you know me, it’s no secret that I love Ibiza. As soon as I land on the island, I feel an instant rush of calm and excitement in equal measures. I lose all track of time, ignore my phone at all costs (unless, of course, it’s to take a snap or two) and fully embrace the bohemian way of life for a week or two.

My favourite time to visit is in the quieter autumn, winter and early spring months. The air is crisp but the sun is still warm. And it’s during these times that the real Ibiza emerges and a different sort of hedonism can be explored.

Experience the epitome of Ibiza luxury living with exclusive villas, stunning waterfront views, and unparalleled amenities, making your off-season stay truly unforgettable.

And if like me, it looks like you’ll be working from home for the foreseeable and you fancy a change of scene – most preferably in sunnier climes – I’ve pulled together a list below of my favourite things to do and spots to visit; that are best experienced away from the madding summer crowds.

Sensational Sunsets
And while no day is likely ever the same on an island where anything is possible, sunsets are a guaranteed spectacle to behold and their high-season is in the low-season when the celestial light shows take on richer colours of pink, yellow, orange and deep reds.

Such is the fortuitous setting of Hostal La Torre – another Ibiza restaurant-cum-hotel (more on that below) – it makes my list twice. It’s perfectly positioned to see the sunset – centred directly in line with the sun. But you don’t have to pay to drink or dine at La Torre to catch the last rays of the day. Next door, there is a lookout point with a few benches and picnic tables for the general public, so be sure to pack wine, nibbles and maybe a blanket, if you might prefer to edge closer and sit on the rocky cliff edges.

Another favourite sunset spot, and roughly about 40 minutes north from La Torre is Benirass. On Sunday’s the beach comes alive with drummers and musicians performing an eclectic sunset ritual. Part of Ibiza’s charm, the event is marked by the attendance of people from all walks of life gathering to enjoy the show.

Es Vedra, off Cala D’hort beach (also included in my list of best beaches) sits on the south coast of Ibiza and while geologists disagree, it has been said to be the third most magnetic point in the world. Legend also has it, that it has healing powers and that it’s the ancient site of the lost city of Atlantis. What is unquestionable is its beauty at sunset. One of my favourite places to go to is the deserted pirate lookout tower, Torre de Savinar or there is also a great lookout point which is often used by locals to meditate or practice yoga at sunset. Friend and local yoga instructor, Pixie Rath, is renowned for taking some of her yoga classes at the lookout point, a few snaps from her Insta below.

@PixieRath

Best beaches

S’Estanyol
In the south of Es Cubells, this unspoiled beach was built around a wooden jetty. It’s a bit of a hike to get to once you’ve parked but it’s totally worth it. Just be sure to pack a pair of trainers for the journey down.

Cala D’Hort, Sant Josep
Although a busy spot in the summer due to its fortuitous setting overlooking the magnificent Es Vedra and neighbouring buzzing Cala D’Hort restaurant, this is one of my favourite places to visit and while away the day reading a book and swimming.

Cala Xuclar
The north east of the island offers some of the most beautiful and lesser-known beaches – there are plenty to be found and explored which is why renting a car is essential. Cala Xuclar is a tiny horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by old fishing huts and crystal clear water. It is never overcrowded and we often have it to ourselves if we go early enough.

Cala Mastella
Still relatively untouched and unspoiled, this beach has retained its special bohemian-like status. This is another gem in the north east of the island and I would advise getting there early (and bring beach shoes as the sea bed is very stony).

A few of my favourite lesser-known beaches Cala Mastella, S’Estanyol and Cala D’Hort

Activities
The island has been long-loved by sporting enthusiasts as the terrain is a challenging mix of rocky flat and hilly trails offering some of the best cycling and hiking trails in Spain. In the summer, most would struggle as temperatures soar but in the off-season, the cooler weather offers much-needed respite to help tackle the steep climbs.

If walking is more your thing, Walking Ibiza offers guided and private walks for travellers looking to explore the beautiful island in detail. Runners can join running groups – there are a few on Instagram and Facebook – that are open to anyone. Running Ibiza, for example, offers Ibiza Town running tours, trail runs and (very helpfully) offers training for beginners as part of their Couch to 5K experience, so no need to feel intimidated if you’re a running novice like myself. Active Ibiza is another favourite of mine. They collaborate with an array of fitness instructors who provide guided programs and equipment.

SUP (Stand-Up Paddle) boarding is a must. The waters are calm and easily manageable for all levels of experience. It’s also a great way to explore the different coves and a lot of people have attempted the island in its entirety (a friend of mine included) stopping off at different places to camp for the night. There are plenty of rental places on the island, so best to find one that is near to where you’re staying.

While I’m there, I often try and book a few sessions at my favourite reformer pilates spot on the island, Energii Ibiza in Ibiza Town, which hails from Denmark. It truly is the “ultimate workout” but the helpful and friendly instructors make it a not-so daunting experience for beginners (like me). Classes start from approximately £17 per person.

Under-the-radar restaurants
A lot of great restaurants stay open on the island throughout the year. And while it’s not hard to stumble upon great places to dine, drink and dance, below is a list of my firm favourites and definitely worth exploring next time you’re in town.

La Finca Can Sul Dat
A former farmhouse hidden well off-the-beaten track on the road to Es Canar, it’s one of my favourite places to visit on the island and was introduced to me by a close friend who lives locally. The Swiss owner, Peter – possibly Ibiza’s answer to Hugh Hefner – is one-of-a-kind and always equipped with colourful stories to regale his guests with. He has often joined us for a drink or a shot of his famous home-made rocket fuel limoncello. The decor throughout is boho chic and his bedroom is actually in the middle of the restaurant complete with red velvet rope and curtains. The spot is equally famous for its live music and it’s not unknown for the evenings to carry on well into the wee hours of the next morning. The food menu is small but tasty. I highly recommend the entrecote for two to share.

Shamarkanda
Nestled in a beautiful olive grove near San Juan, in the north of the island, this magical spot – named after a city in Central Asia – offers a blend of cultures and flavours in its dishes. This year was my first time going at the recommendation of a friend and we opted to dine outside under the stars which had a magical Secret Garden Party feel, complete with glowing lanterns and draped light bulbs surrounded by trees. We tried their incredible bao buns, bursting with flavour (and it’s definitely worth ordering one of each). We also ordered the California rolls topped with salmon which was flambéed at the table, adding a touch of drama to the experience. The cocktail and wine list is also extensive and offers a nice mix of international and local flavours.

New favourite: Shamarkanda, San Juan

Hostal La Torre
Although no longer much of a hidden gem, there is no way I could write about Ibiza and not include Hostal La Torre. The latest offering from the Anadon family – owners of the infamous Cafe Mambo along with a few other outposts on the island – the restaurant-cum-boutique hotel not only serves up incredible food and spectacular views, but it also falls under the category of boutique listening joint. Be transported there NOW, listen here to Hostal La Torre Volume 1 and 2, selected by DJ’s Pete Gooding and fellow resident Mark Barrott.

It’s open all year and it is a must when on the island. It’s also extremely affordable to stay on site, with room nights starting from £40 per night in low-season.

Insider’s Tip: Other venues offering a heavy dose of eclectic Ibiza spirit includes Petit Pereyra on Talamanca Beach, Nightmares on Wax’s Wax Da Jam and Acid Sundays, both held at the old hippy market Las Dalias (more on that below).

Can Berri Vell
Exuding total charm and authenticity, this small and intimate outdoor-indoor restaurant is one of the most romantic restaurants in Ibiza in the heart of the town Sant Agusti des Vedra. Overlooking a typically Ibizan architecture church, it sits atop a small mountain, seamlessly blending into the rolling hills. The food is traditional Spanish grub with a modern-European twist.

Babylon Beach
Although it’s certainly grown in popularity since the first time I went, Babylon Beach is a great place to grab brunch and layout in the sun on the deck chairs provided. It’s still relatively low-key, especially during low-season; and don’t forget to try their insanely good pancakes!

Gare du Nord
I was blown away by this unexpected hole in the wall in San Juan, North Ibiza. The small entrance featuring an outdoor seating area and long bar leading into a sprawling yet intimate leafy courtyard. The food is a mix of classic European dishes using locally sourced produce. The wine list is elegant and yet adventurous. It’s also here that I discovered one of my new favourite wines, Black Nose, which is made in Ibiza. Gard du Nord also offers quirky yet modern rooms with prices starting from £50 per night in the low-season.

@GareduNord

Culture trip
Artists and craftsmen have flocked to Ibiza over the centuries, so it’s only natural that the island offers the opportunity to get close to some pretty incredible art and crafts to take home.

Hippy Market Las Dalias
Every Saturday locals descend upon the world-famous hippy market to uncover the latest trinkets and treasures on display by local craftsmen, artists, food artisans, to the tune of live performances by local musicians and DJs. The market began in 1954 and was the brainchild of farmer and carpenter, Joan Mari. The market is one of my absolute favorites and I go every time I am there. This year, as part of an island-wide initiative to encourage out-of-season travel to Ibiza, the market is staying open throughout winter and early spring, to help encourage trade on the island and make up for lost time and earnings, as a result of the first lockdown earlier this year.

La Nave Salinas in Las Salinas Beach
Arguably one of my favourite art spaces in the world, La Nave Salinas launched last year as a space dedicated to “art in all senses”. The space is an old salt warehouse by the neighbouring salt lakes Ibiza is also known for. To date they’ve hosted several big name contemporary artists, including Kaws. The space is open and currently exhibiting works by the artist Albert Pinya, painter and cartoonist including ceramics, animation shorts, sculptures and ephemeral murals.

La Maison D’Éléphant
This design concept store is hard to miss, fronted by enormous sculptures of robots, pink elephants and silver skulls making it hard to miss. Inside, visitors can explore five floors of outrageously quirky and contemporary design. Among the incredible art you are able to find and buy decorations, antiques, unique furniture, and even clothing. The founder, Bruno Reymond, is interior stylist to many infamous buildings on the island, including Ushuaia and the Pacha Hotel.

Sluiz.
Although it doesn’t stock one-of-a-kind, handmade crafts and art, it does offer a huge collective of outdoor, indoor furniture, cool lighting, clothing and accessories from around the world. Founded by a Dutch couple, the sprawling warehouse-like store, also has a bar and restaurant featuring low-hanging ornate crystal chandeliers and plush armchairs. I often go and spend a few hours there indulging in all of the good food, cocktails and shopping.

@LaNaveSalinas

Please note, all of the aforementioned businesses were still open and operating at the time of writing this article. This might have changed as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve around the world.

When it comes to taking a glamorous holiday, there’s a certain group of destinations that simply scream “luxury”. Whether they’re world-renowned for their exceptional culture, cuisine or fashion, each of these cities is the ultimate dream destination.

While 2020 has been all about the ‘StayKation’ – discovering the gems that are available in our nation’s great cities – the focus for 2021 will undoubtedly switch to holidays that are more far-flung. If you’re planning to indulge yourself in 2021 with a trip to somewhere glamourous, you could do a lot worse than to book your holiday in one of the following five designations.

Monaco

Situated on the glorious French Riviera, Monaco is an alluring mix of opulence, high glamour, and classic French charm. A favourite destination with the world’s elite, it may be the world’s second-smallest ‘country’ – Monaco is actually a sovereign city-state – but it’s one of the world’s wealthiest.

The exquisite Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco is the ultimate symbol of wealth and luxury. This gorgeous building doesn’t just house the famous gaming rooms, it’s also the home of the Opera de Monte Carlo and the offices of Les Ballets de Monte Carlo. The Casino itself is famous for transforming the fate of the principality in the late 19th century, saving it from bankruptcy due to the sheer popularity of historical games like roulette – which is still played to this day in the casino, following the original European Roulette format.

Abu Dhabi

The capital city – and style capital – of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is the refined older cousin of Dubai and a go-to vacation destination for the jet-set. Calm and sophisticated, the atmosphere in Abu Dhabi is like nowhere else on earth – spectacular holy buildings like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque rub shoulders with the most modern of cultural institutions, while public spaces and blooming gardens are warm and inviting.

The ultimate in desert glamour can be found at The Emirates Palace. This self-described “lavishly imagined dream” is the epitome of first-rate accommodation. Its 394 different rooms and suites regularly house the biggest names in both entertainment and business, offering a level of opulence that can only be described as “presidential”.

Saint-Tropez

The second French Riviera destination on our list, Saint-Tropez, epitomises the luxurious vibrancy of the Riviera lifestyle. The destination of choice with glamorous film stars since Hollywood’s Golden Age, Saint-Tropez is equally exciting and romantic, with its intriguing mix of modern luxury and historical culture. Famously captured in And God Created Woman, A-Listers have been floating into the town by the yachtful for decades.

Vieux Port (Old Port) and La Ponche (Old Town) are colourful and captivating, but it’s the beaches that are the biggest draw of Saint-Tropez. The private beach clubs along the Pampelonne are exclusive to members only, but you can still get a taste of Riviera life by lounging on the Plage des Canoubiers or the Plage des Salins.

Geneva

The fifth most expensive city in the world to live in, Geneva is unbeatable when it comes to 21st-century sophistication and sheer natural beauty. It’s no wonder global organisations like the United Nations and the Red Cross have chosen this serene lakeside city as their HQs. As well as being a European seat for diplomacy, Geneva is also home to the world’s most exclusive jewellers, including Rolex and Tudor, as well as being an epicentre for banking and finance.

Like much of Switzerland, Geneva is absolutely gorgeous to explore. And while it’s not as loud in its outward displays of wealth as Riviera destinations, nevertheless it’s a popular spot with global travellers for whom prestigious hospitality is a must.

Thanda Island

Nothing quite says exclusivity like a stay on your own private island and Thanda Island is the “world’s best”. Situated just off the east coast of Tanzania, the island was officially opened in 2016, but it has already lured in the world’s super-rich.

A stay here isn’t cheap – starting from $10,000 per night with a minimum three-night stay. For that, however, you’ll get exclusive use of the island, including its impeccable beaches and world-class sports and leisure facilities, as well as private chefs and villa staff to cater to your every need.

The year 2020 has been tough, and we cannot wait for the pandemic to be over. With the progress made from a series of vaccine tests and trials, according to CureVac, there is hope for 2021. As a result, planning for a dream destination for summer 2021 is not a bad idea. There are many options to choose, and this guide covers some of the best.

Chengdu — The City of Panda

Asia has some of the most beautiful destinations in the world today. Among the different places that you can visit in Asia is Chengdu, China, which is also known as the city of Pandas. If you love pandas, this is a good choice for a summer vacation.

If you have used 2020 to focus on your online business or similar, it is time to plan a break. While you take some well-deserved time off, you can outsource work to make sure you stay afloat. Contact a company like www.clickintelligence.co who can help to manage your SEO marketing campaigns, and your content creation, so you can relax and soak up the sights.

The Beautiful City of Santorini

Europe is another exciting destination for summer 2021. Currently, there are different options to choose from and among them is the beautiful city of Santorini. Located in Greece, this fascinating city has impressive structures, unique red and black sand beaches, lively nightlife and more. To ensure that you get the best summer experience in this city, we recommend you go here to read more.

Meknes – The Ninth Century Medina

If you love to visit historical places and seeing old-time architectures, Meknes is a perfect fit for you. This ninth-century Medina and one of the previous capitals of Morocco. In this city, you can learn more about the cultural heritage of the country. Aside from that, you can visit the historical palace as well as other major sites.

Ubatuba, São Paulo

South America is known for beautiful beaches and cultural heritage. A visit to this continent for summer 2021 is a good choice. Among the various places that you should consider is the Ubatuba beach in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This is a good location for anyone who wants to have a memorable outdoor summer vacation. Aside from visiting the beach, you can have fun with the locals.

The Grand Teton National Park

The US is another perfect summer destination. There are countless possibilities that you can choose from. One of the top choices is Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, which towers above the Jackson Hole Valley. This is a wonderful destination for photographers and mountaineers as well as hikers. Here, you will find hidden waterfalls, and you can kayak through the snake river and more!

Final Verdict

Aside from the five top destinations that we have mentioned, there are other exciting locations that you can visit. This ranges from the beaches in California to the magical settings of Salvador, the great outdoors of Scotland, mountains of Norway and more. Without a doubt, there are many options and amazing locations you can check out all around the world.

It does not matter where you decide to go; you need to ensure that you have a good understanding of the location. To do this, you can call to ask your trusted travel agent or contact any of the local guides. That way, you will not have any problem fitting in with the locals, which is a sure way to have a swell summer 2021.