By Amira Hashish The Maldives is known for its picture-perfect coral islands, glistening waters and idyllic beaches but there is so much more to this dazzling destination than its romantic retreats. Whether you are seeking an action-packed adventure or a cultural getaway, this escape to paradise is brimming with special activities. From a marine expedition […]

By Anya Cooklin-Lofting The very idea of getting away from it all, feeling soft white sand between your toes and the sound of wind amongst rustling palm leaves, is enough to ease anyone through a slow Wednesday at their desk. If you do find yourself planning a break, there is no better place to aim […]

By Amira Hashish Liz Simpson and Sarah de Vere-Drummond, co-founders of Kip Hideaways, are champions of the UK staycation. The dynamic double act set up their business after working in the boutique travel industry for years and realising that there was a gap in the market for the kind of adventures they had in mind. […]

By Anya Cooklin-Lofting What cities spring to mind when you fancy a culturally rich, stimulating, exciting city break with friends or a loved one? Paris, of course. Rome, naturally. Innsbruck? If you say so. The timeless sophistication of the greatest and most renowned ‘weekender’ cities is undeniable and will appeal for generations to come, but […]

By Amira Hashish Where to begin when navigating Greece’s sparkling islands? There are more than 200 inhabited destinations to uncover, brimming with world-class beaches, dazzling sunsets and culinary delights. Start by getting to know the main groups, each with their own mix of statement escapes and hidden gems, before deciding on the island-hopping route that […]

By Anya Cooklin-Lofting I can’t imagine a finer holiday than a few days in France, punctuating the languorous poolside hours with jaunts to the nearest antique market for a good rifle through rustic, storied bric-à-brac to take home. A vintage ashtray marked serendipitously with the initials of a good friend makes the perfect gift, or […]

By Amira Hashish Rome is having a moment and we are here for it. The Eternal City is essentially an outdoor museum with breathtaking landmarks at every turn. Little wonder it has long formed the glamorous backdrop to movie sets or romantic breaks away.  Despite its incredible architecture and Italian flair for style, there has […]

Festival season is almost upon us. Eager groups of friends have gathered conspiratorially around laptops for tickets, while piles of tents, wellies, face paints and sleeping bags have begun slowly to amass in the corners of hallways and living rooms across the country. The steady, growing ascent to the crescendo of the mosh pit, the […]

By Anya Cooklin-Lofting Picture the scene: you’ve donned your coolest, floatiest clothes, a pair of trusty flip-flops and a rather sweet straw hat you picked up at the stifling market square just yesterday afternoon. Your skin smells of suncream and there is a light breeze to cut through the relentless rays of glorious sunshine. It’s […]