In my role as Head of Britain’s Finest, I have positioned myself at the very intersection of British hospitality and modern spa experiences. With over twenty years of experience navigating the luxury hotel, travel and wellness sectors, I have vetted many spas, boutique retreats and hotels across the United Kingdom. 

My travel essentials for long-haul (or any!) travel in 2026. I spend a lot of time in the air, hopping between hotels, scouting out the best places to stay, and writing about them. And after years of perfecting my packing routine, I’ve nailed down the travel essentials that I won’t board a flight without and my recommendations on what to bring. It’s a bit of a mixed bag—some practical, some indulgent—but they all make long-haul travel that little bit easier.

Retreat, Wellness-lead, Wellbeing, Wellness - words that are being used over and over again but places and hotels that are hosting ‘retreats’ ie. a two night stay with a massage and use of spa. Is the world of wellbeing being diluted? Has the word ‘wellness’ been so used that it has lost its meaning?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment - a beginner’s guide.

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.

A fantastic all-round SOS balm from Ilapothecary - an absolute must for all bathroom cabinets.

A brilliant portable and at-home sauna that can fold up when not in use..experience the health benefits of a sauna whilst catching up on Netflix!

Grantley Hall, luxury hotel in Yorkshire has an enviable spa. Three Graces focuses on the holistic re-balancing of your emotional, physical and mental wellbeing.

Casa Ceu is a charming 4-room adults-only hideaway in Olhāo in Portugal’s Algarve.

Riad de Tarabel, one of the best luxury riads in Marrach..

Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & SPA, the only red palazzo in the whitewashed city of Ostuni, Puglia.