Florence knows how to do Christmas. By late November the city feels alive again. Lights stretch across the piazzas, music drifts from street corners and the smell of warm panettone follows you through the narrow lanes. Walk over the Arno and the bridges sparkle with illuminations.

Wellbeing and holistic travel are reshaping the luxury hotel experience, creating retreats that rejuvenate mind, body and spirit. These hotels understand that true luxury means slowing down, restoring balance and connecting with nature—all without sacrificing comfort.

Branded residences are where luxury hotel service meets the warmth and privacy of a home. You get year-round access to world-class hospitality, wellness and community—a true evolution of living well, whilst living away in a foreign country.

There’s a quiet sort of freedom in knowing a trip has been built with someone in mind. No group itineraries, no identical photo stops, no fixed dinner times. Each day unfolds at a natural, unhurried pace, with a personal feel. 

A personalised holiday bends around preferences rather than forcing them to fit a plan. It’s not about extravagance or being waited on; it’s about detail, the kind that remembers how someone takes their coffee or that they’d rather walk than ride. Travel feels different when it’s shaped around a person’s habits and pace, not a company’s timetable or a guidebook’s script.

There’s a certain kind of travel that changes how you see comfort. It’s not about chandeliers or champagne on arrival, it’s about space, quiet, and the feeling that everything’s been thought through before you even ask. 

Head to the west shores of Lake Garda and you’ll discover two charming hotels owned by the Arosio family. Hotel du Lac and Hotel Gardenia al Lago, traditional and authentic these two privately owned hotels are both lakeside. Think staff in uniforms, tablecloths and napkins, service with a smile - Italian hospitality at its best. Oh, and great value too…

Head to the west shores of Lake Garda and you’ll discover two charming hotels owned by the Arosio family. Hotel du Lac and Hotel Gardenia al Lago, traditional and authentic these two privately owned hotels are both lakeside. Think staff in uniforms, tablecloths and napkins, service with a smile - Italian hospitality at its best. Oh, and great value too…

Hotel du Lac is a charming 12 room boutique hotel on the west shores of Lake Garda. Owned by the Arosio family this traditional hotel is authentic and traditional and a rather romantic place to stay.

Travelling alone isn’t about being brave anymore — it’s about being free. The best solo trips give you space to think, explore at your own pace, and meet people along the way who make the experience richer. Whether you want to recharge, reconnect, or rediscover your independence, these destinations and hotels offer style, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Travel in 2025 is all about places with personality — smaller hotels, B&Bs, slower rhythms, and a stronger connection to local life. Forget the obvious names; this year it’s about authenticity, design with soul, and destinations that still feel a little under the radar.

Sicily has layers. Coastlines that glitter, hills that roll into vineyards, markets that fizz with life, and towns where you can happily lose an afternoon. This is a place to slow down, take the side streets and watch the rhythm of local life unfold. One minute you’re wandering past Baroque churches, the next you’re tasting panelle in a noisy market or swimming off a rocky cove.

Luxury here isn’t fuss. It’s space, comfort and experiences that feel honest and unforced. Below I’ve picked five stand-out spots, with what to see, where to eat and the simple pleasures that make each place worth your time. This isn’t a box-ticking tour. It’s about doing Sicily properly.

Choosing where to go with the family can feel overwhelming. The good news is there are brilliant, family-friendly places all over the world, and I’ve picked five that strike the right balance. Think comfort and good sleep for you, adventure and easy fun for the children. Whether you’re keen to dip into local culture, try new food, or spend long days by the sea, there’s a spot that fits. And if passports feel like too much this year, you can still have a fantastic break closer to home. Your dream family holiday might be abroad or just a train ride away — what matters is time together and a plan that works for everyone.

There’s no better place to truly relax and unwind than somewhere overlooking the beautiful coast. These destinations provide guests with unrivalled scenery, a laid-back vibe and utter privacy. Think hidden coves, private terraces and luxury villas overlooking the sea.

Everyone talks about “switching off” these days, but how often do we really give ourselves permission to do it? Europe is full of places that seem designed for slowing down - where the pace of life is naturally softer, and wellbeing doesn’t feel like a trend but something woven into the culture.

Amalfi coast interiors at Casa Angelina in Praiano

The best places to go after exams are over..

Preidlhof is one of the best destination spas in Europe. Come here for a bespoke programme, a menopause retreat or some downtime in the South Tyrol mountains.

Part 4 of our 50 new boutique hotel openings in 2022/23. Hip hideways, city escapes, luxury lodges and much more..

Discover the top 50 new boutique hotel openings in 2022/23. Lodges, city hotels, hideaways, beach hotels and much more..

Discover the top 50 new boutique hotel openings in 2023.