10 luxury travel ideas to inspire your next adventure
See another side of Grand Cayman
Uncannily pretty throughout winter and spring, the Caribbean paradise that is Grand Cayman is all about warm, sunny days bristling with adventure and, obviously, those pristine white-sand beaches. Perfect for escaping the bitter chill of the British winter, Cayman Villas' handpicked home-away-from-home villas and condos supply a sublime blend of comfort, luxury and first-rate privacy. Explore gorgeous coral reefs, sample world-class cuisine or unwind by your very own private pool with glorious ocean views just a brief barefoot stroll away. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, family trip or friends' retreat, Cayman Villas is a great bet for an unforgettable holiday in the sunshine. Book your idyllic escape now and make memories that will last a lifetime. Learn more at caymanvillas.com
Escape to Grand Cayman for sun-kissed beaches and luxurious villas
Hit the spa in a Northumberland country estate
Northumberland's first – and only – five-star hotel, Matfen Hall is a dreamy destination for a splashy spa getaway. Set in just over 300 acres of picturesque parkland scenery, it's a place where couples, families and friends can relax and unwind. Rich in history, the luxury country bolthole has a plethora of elegant rooms – everything from cosy romantic classics to opulent suites. The Retreat at Matfen Hall has expert therapists eager to provide next-level treatments using premium wellness products from Germaine de Capuccini. The Retreat's glass-roofed 15m spa pool, alongside the signature whirlpool bath, sauna, steam room and aromatherapy room, all promise a revitalising escape from the worries and stresses of the world outside. Visit matfenhall.com
Indulge in a spa getaway at the five-star Matfen Hall in Northumberland
Swing by a glossy golf resort in Mauritius
Fancy a refined retreat in the enchanting Bel Ombre region of Mauritius? For luxurious indulgence, top-drawer wellness and plenty of tee time, swing by Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort. The colonial-style suites are smart and comfortable with tasteful modern amenities, while the locally renowned spa offers rejuvenating treatments in a calm and restorative setting. Golfers love getting stuck into the award-winning 18-hole championship course. Dining is truly elevated here, with enviable meals at Le Château de Bel Ombre, a historic mansion where simple, locally sourced ingredients are alchemised into expertly crafted dishes. Guests can explore the unique local flora and fauna on guided nature walks, and there are water-based activities and fun cultural outings. All in all, an ideal holiday for those seeking upscale luxury and quality time on the green. Learn more at heritageresorts.mu
Enjoy golf, wellness, and fine dining at Heritage Le Telfair in Mauritius
Stay connected at a price that's right
Weary of outrageous roaming charges? Fed up with fiddly travel SIM cards? Swiss provider Yesim offers seamless, secure eSIM connectivity in 200+ destinations and territories, with flexible plans including fixed data, unlimited usage or pay-as-you-go plans. A single eSIM supports 140-plus countries, so it's ideal for frequent fliers. The Yesim app simplifies activation, with transparent pricing and handy features like virtual phone numbers, multi-currency payments and a built-in VPN for secure browsing. Customers can also earn 5 per cent cashback on every purchase. With partnerships across more than 800 network operators, Yesim stands for reliable connectivity and automatically switches to the strongest signal to prevent you from getting cut off. Trusted by over a million users and supported by 24/7 customer service with quick response times, Yesim is all about providing dependable calls and internet anywhere. See for yourself at yesim.app
Stay connected abroad effortlessly with a Yesim eSIM
Behold the beauty of Cyprus
Treat yourself to a sojourn down the south-west coast of Cyprus. Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort is a luxurious spot blessed by abundant natural charms, overlooking the Mediterranean and near Akamas National Park. The resort has 202 stylish rooms and suites impeccably tailored for comfort and elegance, and you can dine on both local Cypriot dishes and adventurous global flavours at a choice of 10 restaurants and bars. The generously proportioned spa by Valmont & Cinq Mondes offers indulgent treatments, poolside chill spots, and cutting-edge fitness gear. A 130m private beach, lively nightlife, boutique shopping, horse-riding and yacht trips mean you'll never be bored. With an eco-friendly ethos, Cap St Georges is a great getaway for families, couples or solo travellers. For more info and the best rates go to capstgeorges.com
Discover luxury and natural beauty at Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort in Cyprus
Get more from your all-inclusive in Crete
Want more from your holiday? Aside from its spectacular highlights – a working organic farm and one of Europe's largest open-air cinemas – Creta Maris, the five-star all-inclusive resort in Hersonissos, Crete, which is now celebrating 50 years in the business, has no fewer than seven restaurants and five moreish snack points, not to mention 11 bars, a Blue Flag beach and 16 pools. Kids will love the waterpark and club, and adults will adore the spa and upmarket wellness facilities. The resort offers special events and new features, including an adults-only deluxe area, the Nami wine cellar and the new premium package with concierge service and priority table reservations for all premium accommodations. Learn more at cretamaris.gr
Experience the ultimate all-inclusive holiday at Creta Maris in Crete
Savour a sparkling stay in Vienna
For an intimate, arty escape in Vienna's cultural heart, check out the Sans Souci Hotel. Just steps from the Museum Quarter and close to Vienna's historic centre, it's a delightful base for exploring the city's countless treasures. Inside, romance flourishes with beautiful details: swim beneath glittering chandeliers in the spa's serene pool, indulge in a couples massage or toast your sweetheart over a private champagne tasting at Veranda Brasserie & Bar. Here, seasonal plates are paired with gorgeous paintings, creating a feast for both palate and eyes. With elegant rooms designed by London's award-winning YOO Studio and impeccable service anticipating every need, the Sans Souci is ideal for couples seeking luxury and charm in one of Europe's most sensuous cities. For more info visit sanssouci-wien.com
Enjoy art, romance, and luxury at the Sans Souci Hotel in Vienna
Uncover hidden gems in Japan
Ise-Shima, in Japan's Mie Prefecture, offers discerning travellers an irresistible combination of natural charm, cultural heritage and luxury experiences. Known as the birthplace of Japanese pearl cultivation – out in pretty Ago Bay – the area is also home to the revered Ise Grand Shrine, one of Japan's major Shinto sites. Ise-Shima is a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated escape off the beaten track. Here you can sample fresh seafood impeccably prepared the local way, explore the poetic coastal landscapes, hike the hills or go cycling and immerse yourself in the area's cultural traditions, before retiring to one of the region's outstanding luxury accommodations. Ise-Shima offers something for everyone – it's a standout getaway, even by high Japanese standards. Learn more at iseshima-kanko.jp
Explore the hidden gems of Ise-Shima, Japan, for a unique luxury escape
Splash out in Sharm El Sheikh
The Savoy Group of hotels and its entertainment complex Soho Square have set out to challenge the way you think about luxury in the Egyptian beach resort of Sharm El Sheikh. Each hotel has its own distinctive character, and the entertainment hub of Soho Square will thrill visitors with its dancing fountain, high-end retail stores and dizzying range of restaurants and bars. Each hotel caters to a different kind of traveller – The Royal Savoy is an exclusive, adults-only retreat for couples who want peace and tranquillity. Families can choose between private villas with private pools and the friendly vibes of Savoy, Sierra and Grand Oasis. Blending upscale rooms with diverse leisure options, the Savoy Group stands for a seamless blend of sophistication and entertainment in this sublime, sun-kissed destination – whatever your holiday needs. Visit savoy-sharm.com
Experience a new level of luxury at Soho Square in Sharm El Sheikh
Get cosy in a Welsh castle
Getting tired of the chill this winter? For crackling fires and knockout scenery, take in a fairy-tale castle retreat at Chateau Rhianfa with Great Little Breaks. A UK-based travel operator that specialises in homegrown stays – plus theatre trips and UK rail-inclusive holidays – Great Little Breaks is offering up to 36 per cent off an overnight stay at the Grade ll-listed French-style Chateau Rhianfa. Breakfast here is cooked from local, seasonal produce and you can enjoy a memorable afternoon tea gazing out at the mountains of Snowdonia and over the Menai Strait from the picture-perfect Isle of Anglesey. Offer valid from 3 February to 31 August 2025; for more information subscribe to Great Little Breaks newsletter and visit greatlittlebreaks.com
Cosy up in a Welsh castle at Chateau Rhianfa for a magical winter retreat
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Metro
6 minutes ago
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I went to a European country that doesn't exist
Kieran Brown is fascinated by places that don't exist. Not officially, at least. The British content creator recently spent a day in Transnistria, a breakaway republic of Moldova that is of Europe's most unusual destinations: a self-declared nation that the world doesn't recognise. Touted as a 'surreal relic of Soviet times', this tiny enclave – known locally as Pridnestrovie – is a magnet for intrepid travellers. It's got Lenin statues and ramshackle restaurants run by babushkas. It's got a ghostly railway station, a dark military history and streets that look like a time-warp to the past. In other words, it's fascinating. 'There's not a ton to do, it's more about soaking up the weirdness of it all,' Kieran, 29, tells Metro. 'Hammer and sickle flags are still flying, and the ATMs don't accept Visa or Mastercard.' Best remember to bring cash, then. The local currency is the Transnistrian ruble, valued against the Euro at 20 to 1. It's the only accepted currency used in day-to-day life there. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Sandwiched between the Ukrainian border and the Dniester River, Transnistria broke away from Moldova in a short civil war in the early 1990s. Backed by Russia, it became a de facto independent republic, with its own government, parliament, military, police, currency, postal system and vehicle registration. The separatist region has also adopted its own constitution, flag and national anthem. But under international law, it belongs to Moldova. It's difficult to find accurate information on what life is really like there; for instance, population estimates vary wildly, from 300,000 to 475,000, depending on who you ask. What we do know for certain is, it's cheap. Very cheap, even by eastern European standards. Kieran estimates that he spent around $15 for a whole day of sightseeing and food. A big bottle of vodka is the equivalent of one US dollar, he says. This place punches above its weight. Transnistria is home to a football team that beat Real Madrid in 2021 – the greatest upset in Champions League history. At the time, the estimated value of the entire Sheriff squad was 12 million euros ($14m), about the same as the annual salary of Madrid defender David Alaba. As for Transnistrian locals, Kieran had a mixed bag. 'People were generally stoic but polite, especially the older ones,' he says. 'Younger people often speak a bit of English and are curious why you're there. One man in a tracksuit accused us of being spies as we had a camera but our driver sorted it out.' You can't fly to Transnistria as it doesn't have an international airport. So, if you want to visit, you'll need to follow Kieran's lead and take a day trip from the Moldovan capital, Chișinău. From there, it's around a 90-minute drive or marshrutka (shared minibus) to Tiraspol. For most nationalities, no visa is necessary, but there is a border crossing patrolled by Russian soldiers. Many countries advise against travel to Transnistria due to its proximity to Ukraine, and the fact it is outside the control of the Moldovan government. The UK is one of them, so if you decide to travel, you'll be doing so at your own risk. The Foreign Office won't be on hand to help. It's always a good idea to research ahead of any trip, and have reasonable knowledge of what you're getting yourself into. Kieran says he felt completely safe, even at night. He also knows solo women backpackers who have been there without an issue. 'It's very quiet, with a heavy police and military presence,' he says. 'As long as you don't go filming military bases or causing a scene, you're fine.' More Trending Does he plan to hit up more unrecognised states? You bet. Kieran has already been to Northern Cyprus, a breakaway state that declared independence in 1983 following the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Next, he plans to visit Somaliland in the Horn of Africa. 'There's something fascinating about places that exist in this limbo between countries,' he says. 'They often tell you more about global politics, identity, and history than official capitals ever could.' MORE: 'City of dreams': The Spanish destination that hasn't succumbed to mass tourism MORE: The best lesser-known Greek islands for dodging tourists in 2025 MORE: 'Like the Caribbean': Ibiza's quiet little sister with lunar beaches and turquoise oceans
Daily Mirror
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American tourist tries roast dinner at British carvery and brands one thing 'ridiculous'
An American man has shared his thoughts on a traditional British roast dinner after visiting a carvery in Yorkshire - and it's safe to say he was quite surprised by the size of the portion An American tourist has been left gobsmacked by the "ridiculous" size of a roast dinner he tucked into at a York carvery. Joel, a US YouTuber with a soft spot for all things British, regularly hops across the pond to explore the UK, ticking off destinations from Liverpool to Scarborough and Brighton, and most recently, the stunning Yorkshire Dales. In his latest video on his channel, ItsJps, Joel, who's also a dab hand at reacting to British culture clips, and reviewing iconic UK establishments like Wetherspoons, dropped by a Toby Carvery in York for a taste of the classic British roast dinner. As he returned to his table with a plate piled high with carrots, spuds (both mashed and roasted), Yorkshire puds, and stuffing, it was hard to make out the choice of meat beneath the veggie avalanche, though a quick shuffle of the plate revealed what seemed to be beef peeking out from under the peas. Joel couldn't hide his amazement as he exclaimed: "I can't even see half of the plate. Like, there's so much underneath that you can't even see what I got." Facing the camera, he continued to express his astonishment at the generous spread: "The amount of options here are ridiculous." He reminisced about previous Sunday roasts but noted this experience was on another level: "I've had Sunday roast in the past, but not with this many ingredients and things on the plate. The plate is so damn full, you don't even know what's on it. Half the plate is covered up." Joel was buzzing about his "first time here", confessing he'd "starved" himself in anticipation and was ready to "go crazy" with the grub, hinting it would be "one of many" feasts. Back in 2024, and Joel found himself in historic York once again, this time stepping into a Wetherspoons for a maiden voyage to see what the "wonderful establishment has to offer". The YouTuber couldn't believe his eyes when he saw the bargain prices. He was particularly struck by the £10.60 deal for a classic curry and an alcoholic beverage, branding the value as "ridiculous". Once he'd finished up, he reflected that he "enjoyed it" despite only sampling the drinks, which left him acknowledging that there "wasn't much to judge". Although he noted the absence of music or TVs, which left him a tad underwhelmed, Joel still seemed to have had a good time. He observed: "There was nothing in there but three slot machines so definitely geared towards profit from an entertainment perspective, but overall, I thought it was really nice." But this carvery adventure is just one chapter in Joel's ongoing exploration of the UK. He's already lauded our public transport and now seems taken with our pubs too. When explaining the concept of a pub to his audience, Joel painted it as a spot where you can "place you can just go and talk to your neighbour" and "enjoy a pint." For him, it's less about wild nights out and more about the "sense of community."
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2 hours ago
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Hidden gem country 3 hours away praised for bargain prices, beauty and culture
From its bargain beaches to its variety of experiences and relaxed charm, the country is an affordable gem for those looking to holiday in Europe When planning a European getaway, Bulgaria may not be the first destination to come to mind, but that's exactly why it's becoming a top pick for savvy travellers, according to travel specialists. Tucked along the Black Sea coast, this " Eastern European gem" offers far more than its modest profile suggests. According to Daniel Howick, Travel Manager at Your Co-op Travel branches, Bulgaria continues to excel in terms of value, natural beauty, beaches and family-friendly experiences. Located in southeastern Europe, Bulgaria is generally considered a good place to visit for people interested in history, nature, and affordability. It offers a blend of beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. Below, Daniel has shared five reasons why British holidaymakers are setting their sights on Bulgaria this year - from unbeatable prices to a surprisingly rich cultural offering. Bargain beaches without sacrificing quality Daniel says Bulgaria's headline attraction is its prices, which he says are hard to beat. He adds: "Whether it's a getaway with friends or a sunshine-soaked family escape, the country routinely comes out as one of the most affordable beach destinations in Europe. "We've found holidaymakers love that they can book an entire beach holiday - flights, hotel, food, and drink - for a fraction of the cost they'd pay in Spain, Portugal or Greece. Sunny Beach is a standout resort in Bulgaria that boasts a Blue Flag-awarded beach, golden sands, and a vibrant nightlife scene, as well as family-friendly amenities." All-inclusive comfort at self-catering prices The travel manager says one of Bulgaria's major appeals is how far your money goes. Holidaymakers can enjoy all-inclusive hotels for the prices typically associated with self-catering stays elsewhere in Europe. Even those who opt to dine out will find the costs "refreshingly low". He explains: "Because Bulgaria isn't in the Eurozone, the cost of living is significantly lower, which means meals, drinks, and taxis are incredibly affordable." Experiences to suit everyone Beyond its golden coastlines, Bulgaria often surprises visitors with its cultural and historical depth, according to Daniel. A "must-see" is Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, he says. This ancient town features cobbled streets, Byzantine churches, and Roman ruins. He adds: "Whether you're a history buff or just looking to explore Bulgaria beyond your sun lounger, Nessebar adds an unforgettable layer of magic to your stay." Charm that'll have you coming back for more Bulgaria draws a diverse crowd, including families looking for hassle-free fun in the sun, younger groups seeking nightlife on a budget, and couples enjoying a quiet escape. But what's especially notable, according to Daniel, is the high number of repeat visitors. "Many travellers who take a chance on Bulgaria return again and again," he says. "It is proof of its lasting appeal. With a variety of things to see and do, each trip to the country reveals something new." A hidden gem that's easy to reach Daniel claims that one of Bulgaria's greatest strengths is its accessibility. Direct flights from the UK to coastal cities like Burgas are "frequent and inexpensive," even during peak summer months. The relatively short flight time (around three hours) adds to its "convenience", making it ideal for long weekends or quick getaways. He said: "Add to that the low cost of airport transfers and hotel shuttles, and it's no wonder many travellers find the overall travel experience refreshingly simple and affordable."
