The vibe at Mama Shelter in Shoreditch, London, is cool and effortlessly hip without trying too hard. A mix of creative types, locals and travellers fill the open-plan bar and dining area, where people sit with their laptops, lunch, cocktails or brunch. There’s no expectation to move along or order endlessly. You can sit, work, meet or daydream for hours and no one bats an eyelid. The music’s good, the mood’s better, and everyone genuinely seems to be having a nice time.

Ulpotha sits in one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions of Sri Lanka. Its story stretches back over 5,000 years and is carried in the soil, the water and the hills that surround the village.

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…

Chewton Glen is one of Britain’s great country house hotels for good reason. Set in 130 acres on the edge of the New Forest, a short walk from the sea, it blends style and polish with real warmth. The latest chapter is a standout refurbishment by London studio Goddard Littlefair, which has reimagined some of the rooms, the bar, Dining Room and drawing rooms with an elegant, lived-in feel. Think parquet underfoot, velvet sofas, handmade wooden tables, soft lavender and green tartans and herringbones, and open fires glowing wherever you turn. It’s sophisticated and classic, and it suits Chewton Glen beautifully.

Hotel Gardenia al Lago is one of the loveliest hotels on the western shores of the lake. Family owned and run for generations this charming lakeside hotel is an idyllic spot for romance and some late summer/early autumn sunshine.

Lime Wood Hotel and Spa, one of the best country house hotels in the UK