From the peaceful temples of Japan to the paradise beaches of Indonesia, via Thailand and India, the possibilities for travel itineraries are endless! Here is a selection of the best routes to explore in Asia for an unforgettable experience in 2026. Vietnam to Singapore Route, Southeast Asia Set off to discover one of the most iconic routes in Southeast Asia! In just 19 days, travel across three countries on a complete and immersive journey. Start your trip in Hanoi, then continue to Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital, known for its golden temples and street food. Head next to Chiang Mai, where you can meet elephants in a sanctuary within their natural habitat. Then make your way to the paradise beaches of Phuket before ending your trip in Singapore, a modern and fascinating city. This tour includes everything you need for a stress-free experience: flights, accommodation, breakfasts, and 21 activities. Diverse and immersive, this itinerary is perfect for a first trip to Asia! The Golden Triangle of China If you draw a line between Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, you get a triangle hence the name. This 9-day itinerary takes you through nearly 5,000 years of history, blending traditional and futuristic urban landscapes, and includes a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World (I’ll let you guess which one!). Starting in Beijing, spend 4 days exploring the city and its magnificent palaces. Then take a high-speed train (250–350 km/h) to Xi’an for 2 days, where you’ll discover the famous Terracotta Army, over 2,000 years old. Finally, head to Shanghai to explore the old town, go shopping, and enjoy breathtaking views from the top of the country’s tallest tower. India to Indonesia You can also explore the cultural richness and stunning landscapes of Indonesia. This itinerary takes you through some of the country’s must-see destinations. Visit Bali, famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, and Jakarta, a lively capital filled with shops, museums, and historical sites. Don’t miss Komodo Island, home to the famous Komodo dragons, perfect for adventure lovers. You can also customize your trip based on your travel preferences. A perfect destination for nature lovers and fans of tropical landscapes! Golden Route, Japan Japan also offers fascinating itineraries to explore. Set off on a 6-day journey across the country, starting of course in the Japanese capital, Tokyo, where you’ll spend 3 days discovering its most iconic districts, enjoying its vibrant atmosphere and incredible food scene. Continue to the legendary Mount Fuji, then stay by Lake Hamana. Then head to Kyoto, the country’s cultural heart, before ending your trip in Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city! A perfect trip to discover the contrasts of Japan, between ancient temples, lush nature, and futuristic cities! If you haven’t done it yet, now is the perfect time to explore Asia through these carefully designed itineraries, created to help you experience the best of each destination. Whether you’re traveling for a few days or several weeks, you can explore these countries at your own pace. One thing is certain once you’re back, you’ll only want to go again!

For travellers looking to trade packed coastlines and soaring temperatures for something a little more refreshing, the French Alps are quietly emerging as one of summer’s most appealing alternatives. And with demand for active, experience-led holidays continuing to grow, Club Med Grand Massif Samoëns Morillon  is positioning itself as a compelling option for families seeking both adventure and ease. Set high in the mountains with sweeping panoramic views, the resort offers a distinctly different kind of summer holiday. Instead of crowded beaches and busy promenades, guests can expect fresh alpine air, open landscapes, and a programme centred around activity and wellbeing. A Cooler, More Active Summer Alternative While Mediterranean hotspots often reach peak heat in August, the Alps provide a welcome contrast. Temperatures are typically milder, making it easier—and more enjoyable—to spend full days outdoors. This is where the Grand Massif experience truly comes into its own. Guests can take part in guided hiking across scenic trails, explore the region by bike, or simply enjoy the slower pace of mountain life. For families, the resort leans heavily into shared experiences, offering activities designed to suit a range of ages and energy levels, ensuring that both adults and children can make the most of their time in the mountains. The all-inclusive format adds another layer of ease, removing the need to plan logistics or manage daily costs. Dining, activities, and entertainment are all taken care of, allowing guests to focus entirely on the experience. Strong Value in Peak Summer In what is traditionally one of the busiest—and most expensive—times of year for travel, Club Med is currently offering a strong value package at the resort. A seven-night all-inclusive stay at Club Med Grand Massif Samoëns Morillon  is priced from €2,384 per adult (reduced from €2,695), based on double occupancy. The package includes return flights from Dublin and transfers, with departures available on 15 August 2026. This positions the Alps as not only a refreshing alternative to the beach, but also a competitive one when it comes to overall value—particularly for families looking to maximise both experience and convenience during the school holiday period.

Dreamy beaches, medieval charm, and Aperol spritzes by the sea, Alghero is Sardinia’s cool-girl coastal gem. With Catalan roots, cobbled streets, and a turquoise-hued coastline, it’s the perfect mini-break for those craving a Mediterranean escape with a side of style. Where to Stay: Chic Sleeps by the Sea Check into Villa Mosca Charming House , a boutique hideaway perched just above the promenade, with terraced gardens and front-row sunset views over the bay. Prefer a splashier vibe? Hotel Carlos V   offers sleek design, a cliffside pool, and balconies overlooking the sea, yes, please. Day 1: Historic Strolls & Seaside Sips Start your weekend with a coffee and flaky sfogliatine  at Caffè Costantino , tucked inside Alghero’s old town walls. Then wander the Centro Storico , where coral-colored buildings, sunlit piazzas, and Gothic-Catalan churches create a picture-perfect maze. Snap a photo at Bastioni Marco Polo , the city’s iconic sea walls lined with palms and gelato stands. For lunch, grab a terrace seat at Trattoria Lo Romani , locals love their seafood fregola and crisp Vermentino. In the afternoon, dip into Spiaggia del Lido  or hop a scooter to Maria Pia Beach , a stretch of fine white sand backed by whispering pine trees. For golden hour, head to Riservato Beach Bar , a laid-back wooden deck bar perched over the rocks, moody cocktails and the sound of waves make for the ultimate sundown snap. Dinner calls for a table at Musciora , Alghero’s modern bistro where Sardinian tradition gets a chic twist. Think octopus carpaccio, bottarga-topped pasta, and a local wine list worth exploring. Day 2: Boats, Boutiques & Beach Clubs Wake up slow with brunch at Café Mirò , then set sail on a boat tour along Capo Caccia , those limestone cliffs and sea caves were made for reels. Or hit La Bombarde Beach , where Kelu Lounge   serves spritzes and DJs spin chilled beats straight from the sand. In the afternoon, explore Alghero’s artisan coral shops and boho-chic boutiques tucked into ancient alleyways. Don’t leave without a handmade piece from Linea Corallo . Wrap up your stylish Sardinian escape with a drink on the panoramic rooftop at Skybar Blau , where the views stretch from the marina to the mountains, and the vibe is pure dolce vita.

With so many holiday packages available for a Lapland getaway it can be overwhelming. Many options cater for group tours and structured itineraries, standard accommodation but I wanted a different experience. I wanted to be able to explore at my own pace and with a desire to make this a once in a life time trip I wanted to experience a luxurious hotel in exquisite surroundings, gourmet meals, experiences to create core memories. In my search I stumbled upon the Apukka Resort , a breath taking luxury resort, just 25 minutes from the airport. It offered everything I had on my checklist not just for the adults but for the kids also, no easy feat. Apukka Resort is a luxurious retreat in the heart of Lapland. Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Finnish Lapland, the resort features a range of luxurious accommodation, from traditional log cabins to modern glass roofed igloos. We choose the glass igloos which promised the opportunity to witness the northern lights from the comfort of your bed adding a magical touch. Each cabin is tastefully and intentionally decorated to reflect the surroundings in a luxurious fashion. The resort's amenities include a Spa, gourmet dining options, and a variety of outdoor activities that cater to both thrill seekers and those looking to unwind. From husky sledding and snowmobiling, ice fishing, visit to Santa Claus by reindeer, the list is endless. There were also Sledges and Toboggans for the kids just outside the restaurant which meant we could have a long leisurely breakfast whilst they were entertained. With some many activities on offer and not enough time or money to do all of them, we choose 3, 1 activity per day. The first activity we did was the snowmobile through the Finnish forest it was an adventure into the wild landscape. It lasted around 2 hours and both the adults and kids enjoyed this enormously. The next day we visited Santa at Santa Park , we spent the whole day there , kids were highly entertained, that evening we booked the night Husky sled ride through the forest. It's around 3km long, takes over 2 hours. We were so lucky to witness wild reindeer in their natural habitat . It was definitely a tick off my bucket list. The last day we did the Apukka snow and fun activity , it was a little bit of everything, perfect for the whole family, combines the best of Lapland, huskies, reindeer, mini snowmobiles and more. The ideal way to end of Lapland trip, Worth noting that Apukka resort also provide all the clothing required for the outdoor activities. Every evening we ate at the Restaurant Aitta, which featured a large fireplace and a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape and of lake Olkka. The food was superb , something for everyone, even fussy little eaters. There is also another restaurant in Apukka, Restaurant Kota but that was closed whilst we were there. Overall Apukka resort was magical and sleeping in a glass igloo looking up at the stars, witnessing the northern lights is something as a family we will never forget. This personalised approach and the luxury of Apukka made my Lapland holiday not just a weekend break but a truly unforgettable experience.

New York City is a whirlwind of fashion, food, and film-worthy moments—and in 48 hours, you can live your best metropolitan life one latte, rooftop, and iconic slice at a time. Here's how to do it in true NYC style. Day 1: Brunch, Boutique Streets & a Hidden Cocktail Kick things off with brunch at Balthazar  in SoHo, where the energy is electric and the croque madame is always a good idea. Prefer a cozy classic? Head to Bubby’s  in Tribeca for fluffy pancakes and a maple-syrup-soaked moment that feels like home. After brunch, dive into NYC's fashion playground. Browse designer staples and cult-favorite brands in SoHo  and Tribeca —think The Row, Acne Studios, Reformation, and Totême. Then shift gears and explore downtown’s edgier side with vintage gems  in the East Village or Beacon’s Closet  in Williamsburg for Y2K finds and downtown flair. As evening falls, slip into something tailored and head to Tucked away in Grand Central Terminal, the Campbell Apartment is a cocktail lounge frozen in time. Grab a seat at the bar after the commuter rush dies down , the moody, hidden bar in Grand Central that’s been featured in more films than you can count. Order a martini, lean into the vintage vibes, and toast to the city’s secrets. Dinner? Make a statement at Sartiano’s —Italian glamour in SoHo with candlelight and caviar. Or keep it casual and cool with thin-crust perfection at Rubirosa , beloved by locals and celebs alike. Day 2: Sunrise Strolls, Skating & Star-Studded Dining Wake up early for a sunrise walk across the Brooklyn Bridge —a peaceful, golden-hour moment above the city. Then head to Diner  in Williamsburg, a 90-year-old Kullman dining car turned Brooklyn staple. The expansive bar is its heart—warm wood, worn enamel, and a space that feels like the protected hold of a ship. Grab a coffee, settle in with a newspaper or just people-watch in cozy, vintage bliss. Spend your afternoon in Central Park —coffee in hand, maybe a little skating at Wollman Rink , and lots of dreamy, cinematic strolls. Wrap up your New York moment with dinner at the iconic Waverly Inn . Hidden behind ivy-covered walls in the West Village, this cozy, clubby haunt has welcomed everyone from Anna Wintour to Leonardo DiCaprio. The vibe is firelit, velvet-draped, and effortlessly old New York. What to Pack: A statement coat & sleek boots for city walks One effortlessly cool outfit for cocktails or celeb-spotting dinners A crossbody bag for hands-free exploring Layers, sunglasses & bold lipstick A little black dress or great suit for that New York night moment  Getting There: Direct Flights from Ireland to New York From Dublin (DUB): Aer Lingus : Offers direct flights to New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), with return fares starting from approximately €385.  United Airlines : Provides direct flights to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), with return fares starting from approximately €470.  Delta Air Lines : Operates direct flights to New York JFK, with return fares starting from approximately €500.  Virgin Atlantic : Offers direct flights to New York JFK, with return fares starting from approximately €524.  Virgin Atlantic Flights *Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on availability and booking time. From Cork (ORK): Currently, there are no direct flights from Cork to New York. However, several airlines offer one-stop flights with competitive return fares: NYC doesn’t just sparkle—it pulses with style. Come for the skyline, stay for the attitude, and leave with a little more edge than you came with.

Anantara Hoi An Resort in Hoi An, Vietnam is offering a Short Breaks Special  package that combines stay benefits with dining and spa perks for guests booking a minimum two-night stay. The offer includes two nights’ accommodation , daily breakfast for two , and a one-time set menu dinner for two  during the stay. On qualifying room categories such as River Suites and Anantara Suites, the package also includes a 60-minute spa treatment for two  and one signature cocktail or mocktail per person per stay . Guests benefit from late check-out and a room upgrade, both subject to availability , as well as 20 % savings on dining (excluding alcohol) and 20 % off 90-minute oil spa treatments  throughout the stay. The resort sits less than a kilometre from Hoi An’s historic centre and offers a range of facilities including riverfront dining, a pool and access to local experiences. Rates for the Short Breaks Special start from approximately €249 per night , with pricing and availability subject to seasonal variation and booking terms. The offer is available for direct booking with Anantara Hoi An Resort, subject to availability and applicable terms.

There’s no music festival quite like Coachella , a desert dream of fashion, sound, sunshine, and surreal vibes. Held over two weekends each April in Indio, California , Coachella is more than just a festival; it’s a full-on cultural moment. Whether you’re going for the headliners, the art installations, or to live your best Instagram life, here’s how to make the most of a 5-day trip to Coachella, from Palm Springs stays to where to eat, drink, and beat the desert heat. Getting There First things first: fly into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)  if you want to stay close and chic. It’s just a 35–40 minute drive from Indio and serves direct flights from major U.S. cities. Alternatively, fly into LAX  or Ontario Airport , then rent a car or arrange a festival shuttle. Avoid driving yourself to the festival if you can, parking can be a nightmare, and ride shares surge hard during peak hours. Where to Stay While camping at Coachella is an option, for comfort and cool vibes, book a stay in Palm Springs . The Ace Hotel & Swim Club  is an iconic choice, laid-back, retro, and built for poolside lounging. For something more upscale, try the Parker Palm Springs , known for its chic design and lush, private grounds. Most hotels offer festival shuttle access (or coordinate with local transport options), so check before booking. Day-by-Day Breakdown Day 1 – Arrival & Chill Check into your hotel and spend the afternoon by the pool. Grab a cocktail and soak in the desert sunshine. For dinner, head to Birba , a stylish spot serving wood-fired pizzas and great wine under the stars. Day 2–4 – Festival Time Start your days with brunch at Cheeky’s   or Ernest Coffee . Take it easy hydrate, sunscreen, and dress for both fashion and  comfort. Shuttles to Coachella usually begin running mid-afternoon. At the festival, explore the massive art installations, pop-up lounges, and grab bites from gourmet food stalls like Sweetfin   and Prince Street Pizza . Don’t miss the iconic Coachella Ferris wheel at sunset. Day 5 – Recovery Mode Sleep in, then book a massage or poolside cabana. End your trip with a farewell lunch at Workshop Kitchen + Bar , one of Palm Springs’ most stylish eateries. Final Tips Pack light layers, it’s blazing hot during the day and chilly at night. Invest in portable chargers, bring a refillable water bottle, and wear shoes you can dance in. Book your shuttles early and keep your festival wristband in a safe spot, you cannot  replace it if lost. With the right prep, Coachella is everything it promises to be: a vibrant, stylish, sun-soaked celebration you’ll never forget.

A March 2026 report on  dream destinations  found that Japan appears in travelers’ wish lists more often than any other country. With international tourism surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time, a new study by the digital entertainment platform  JB.com  shows which countries are trending among travelers right now. Japan is the world's most trending destination , with over 1,600+ mentions in travel wish lists across Reddit alone. Every year, 185 million tourists make their dreams come true by going to Italy , the most-visited country in the world.  New Zealand is also among the must-see getaways,  appearing in travelers’ bucket lists nearly 1400 times. To find which countries people dream about visiting most, the research analyzed 100 Reddit threads where travelers shared their bucket lists and dream destinations. The study also tracked monthly online search interest for each destination, Instagram hashtag counts, and how many tourists actually visit every year. Countries were finally ranked by how often they appeared in online wish list discussions.  Here's a look at the top 10 countries people dream most about visiting: Country Estimated Mentions Average Number of Tourists Instagram Hashtags #country Japan 1,620 42,683,551 191M New Zealand 1,380 3,510,000 25.8M Italy 1,210 185,000,000 176M Iceland 1,090 1,800,000 16.1M Norway 970 7,196,000 29.4M Switzerland 890 34,400,000 34.7M Australia 820 8,840,000 89.6M Canada 780 72,900,000 102M Greece 730 37,980,000 53.3M Scotland (UK) 690 7,700,000 29.9M You can access the complete research findings  here . 1. Japan Estimated mentions:  1,620 Average number of tourists:  42.7 million Instagram hashtags:  191 million Japan is the world’s most popular tourist destination right now. The country appears in travel wish lists  1,600+ times  across Reddit discussions, way more than any other country in the world. Japan already welcomes  43 million tourists  annually, but it seems there are still many who haven’t made their dreams come true yet. The same can be seen on social media as well, with 191 million Instagram posts keeping Japan at the top of travel feeds. 2. New Zealand New Zealand ranks second, appearing in  nearly 1,400  bucket lists. The country attracts just  3.5 million tourists  yearly, making it one of the least-visited places in the top 10. Yet it is trending as high as Italy right now, which sees  50 times more  actual visitors. New Zealand is frequently mentioned on Instagram too, with  26 million users  sharing its photos and feeding the hype. 3. Italy Italy takes third place, making over  1,200 travel wish lists . The country already hosts  185 million tourists  each year, as it is the most-visited destination in the world. But mass tourism hasn't killed its romantic appeal yet. Over  two million people  search for travel tips to Italy every month, and the country continues to be social media’s favorite, with  176 million  photos on IG alone.  4. Iceland Iceland comes fourth, getting mentioned nearly  1,100 times  in online travel discussions on Reddit. The volcanic island attracts fewer than  2 million tourists  yearly, as its remote location makes traveling there quite expensive. Still, around  1.4 million  people search for what it would cost to go there, keeping it on their wish list and waiting for the right time to book. 5. Norway Norway rounds out the top five dream destinations, appearing in Reddit bucket lists  970 times . The country welcomes  7.2 million tourists  each year, far fewer than Italy or France, but northern lights and fjords keep it among the must-see places for many. The country is always trending on Instagram, too, with  29 million photos  depicting its scenery.

To celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s 100 th birthday coming up on the 8 th of May, the team at Windows On The Wild have compiled three top bucket list packages , each linked to one of his moving documentaries that encourage the same wanderlust and love for animals that these trips offer. From cruises through icebergs or unforgettable safaris through Namibia, Windows On The Wild have a huge variety of packages to celebrate everyone’s favourite TV documentarian. Life on Earth (1979) and A Gorilla Story (2026), getting close to a mountain gorilla family on a Classic Rwanda Safari Animal enthusiasts can recreate one of the most iconic scenes from his documentaries, and what he states may be the most important sequence in his life: when he found himself in close quarters to a mountain gorilla family in Rwanda for Life on Earth . The community of gorillas is to be revisited in A Gorilla Story: Told by David Attenborough that is set to air in Netflix on the 17 th of April , making it the perfect time for travellers to visit the mountains gorillas  themselves. Windows On The Wild’s Rwanda Safari package includes all the highlights of the beautiful ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’. The best part of this 11-night trip is tracking and spending an hour with a mountain gorilla family, much like the famed documentarian has done, as well as tracking Golden monkeys and chimpanzees. The Classic Rwanda Safari is an 11-night itinerary priced from £8,720 per person (based on two people sharing, with single supplements available on request). The price includes full-board accommodation in a double room, 1 gorilla, 1 chimp tracking permit each, safari-modified Land Cruiser with English-speaking driver/guide and fuel for this itinerary, All entrance and other fees for the activities included in the itinerary. Not included are international flights, visas, travel insurance, personal expenses, and tips. More information on windowsonthewild.com . To book please call 020 8742 1556   The Blue Planet (2001) from the Falklands to Antarctica This itinerary starts off in the luxurious Arakur Resort & Spa, with an evening briefing before boarding the small ship full of polar experts who host entertaining and informative talks throughout the trip. Stopping off at the western Falklands Islands , birders can see the same albatross breeding colony that Sir Attenborough explains has evolved from the churning South Atlantic Waters bringing nutrients to the surface.  To make the most of an environment this isolated and vast, the trip offers hands on experiences with the Citizen Science programme that not only enables passengers to contribute back towards the area but helps celebrate the renowned natural historian’s continued championing of conservation and environmental causes. These programmes include Cloud Observations, Seabird Surveys, Phytoplankton Data, Identifying Whales, and studying Antarctic Snow Algae that is used a measure of global warming. This is a trip of a lifetime where guests can experience the giant ice continent inches above the water, navigating icebergs and ancient glacial ice via kayak and experience working with scientists to help preserve the unique environment they have travelled to. The Polar Latitudes Voyage is a 19-night itinerary priced from £18,240 per person from 9 th -28 th January 2027. The price includes one pre-voyage hotel night with breakfast in Ushuaia, transfer from airport in Ushuaia to group hotel, transfer from group hotel to ship for embarkation. While on board, the price includes shipboard accommodation and meals, beer/wine/soft drinks at lunch and dinner, 500MB WiFi card for use on your personal devices, expedition jacket for use during the voyage, fleece-lined down jacket (yours to keep), a pair of loaner boots for use during the voyage, all schedule landings and excursions, their Citizen Science program, a photography coach available throughout the voyage, participation in the Polar Plunge, access to their onboard medical clinics, access to their onboard fitness centers, all port and landing fees, digital voyage log. Post Disembarkation, included in the price are the group transfer from ship to airport to hotel in Ushuaia, or central location. Not included are international flights, visas, travel insurance, personal expenses, and tips. More information on windowsonthewild.com . To book please call 020 8742 1556   Africa (2013) through a Namibian safari Travellers can begin their journey with two days in the Caprivi Strip, a wildlife-rich region where they explore the Kwando River by boat before continuing on a game drive through Mahango Game Reserve. The itinerary then continues to Etosha National Park, which surrounds the vast Etosha Pan. Its many waterholes attract a wide variety of wildlife, offering excellent opportunities to see elephants, antelope and lions. Guests will also stay near Brandberg Mountain, along the dry Ugab River, where they may encounter the rare desert-adapted elephants. These remarkable animals have evolved unique features, including larger feet, slimmer bodies and smaller herd sizes, enabling them to survive in harsh, arid conditions. As the journey continues into the Namib Desert, travellers pass striking, lunar-like landscapes near Swakopmund before arriving at towering red sand dunes. Here, they can enjoy unforgettable sunsets over some of the highest dunes in the world, and as Sir David Attenborough once said “Cherish the natural world, because you’re part of it and you depend on it”. The Namibia & Zambezi Safari is a 14-night itinerary priced from £2,645 per person. The price includes 14 nights on safari at small lodges (including tented lodges), with ensuite facilities, 14 breakfasts, 11 lunches and eight dinners, transport in custom-built Sunway Safari trucks and possibly Mercedes Sprinter minibuses on 5% of tours. Not included are international flights, visas, travel insurance, personal expenses, and tips. More information on windowsonthewild.com . To book please call 020 8742 1556

For solo travellers with a taste for culture, cuisine, and connection, this one’s for you.   Solos Holidays  has unveiled an exciting 13-day guided discovery tour of South Korea , setting off on 6 May 2026 - and it’s tailor-made for sociable solo adventurers. From the palaces and street food markets of Seoul to Gyeongju’s temples and the coastal energy of Busan, this small-group adventure mixes culture, nature, and modern K-life experiences. Travellers will journey by high-speed train, explore UNESCO-listed villages, and even try their hand at a traditional Korean cooking class. Highlights include a guided visit to the DMZ, a walk through the tumuli tombs of Silla kings, and hands-on experiences such as the Korean ‘Gamasot’ iron pot ritual. With English-speaking guides and handpicked local experiences throughout, this is a culturally rich and sociable way to discover South Korea. The 12-night  South Korea Tour   departing 06 May 2026, costs € 6,070 pp and includes return flights & transfers, airport taxes & charges, a welcome drink, twin room for solo occupancy, breakfast daily, two dinners, a Korean cooking class, DMZ tour, a visit to Ojukheon, Andong Hahoe village, Gyeongbok Palace, Tumuli Park, Hachuri Village, entry to N Seoul Tower observatory, Gamasot experience, English speaking guides and an accompanying Solos Tour Leader.   For more information, visit www.solosholidays.com .

This spring,  YTL Hotels’  five-star   The Gainsborough Bath Spa  invites guests to immerse themselves in a curated calendar of wellness and creativity. From the launch of a new treatment menu at the Spa Village Bath to invigorating yoga sessions, speaker event series and art workshops, The Gainsborough remains the definitive destination for an authentic and elevated experience in the centre of Bath.    New Spa Menu   The Gainsborough Bath Spa is proud to unveil a new, elevated treatment menu harmonising ancient thermal traditions with modern therapeutic innovation. Guests can experience the  Thermal Mineral Wave , a unique full-body massage performed on warm water cushions that mimics the rhythmic flow of the springs, or indulge in the  Copper and Quartz Firming Massage , which utilises pure copper tools and warm rose quartz to provide anti-inflammatory sculpting. For those seeking rejuvenation, the  Blue Diamond Performance Facial  offers a high-end anti-aging journey powered by Omorovicza’s premium line and advanced LED technology. Additionally, the  Mineral Mud Back, Neck and Scalp   Treatment  is a new 50-minute detox featuring a warm mud application and deep pressure massage. For a grounding experience, the new  Foot Massage  combines a vigorous knee-high scrub with the soothing heat of hot stones to release deep-seated tension.    The new spa menu also offers guests a selection of 25-minute add-ons, to enhance the Spa Village experience including a mini facial, foot massage, mineral scrub or head massage. Guests can also add LED technology to their treatments, with no additional treatment time.   Full treatment menu and pricing available  here .     Speaker Events   The hotel serves as a vibrant cultural hub this season, hosting an enriching dual-series of intellectual and creative events. The  Phenomenal Women  series celebrates trailblazing leadership, featuring  Cara Charles-Barks MBE  (7 th  May) discussing her distinguished career in the NHS,  Lady Carnarvon of Highclere Castle  (11 th  June) exploring the seasonal rhythms of historic estate life, and  Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England  (9 th  July), sharing her vision for regional growth.     Complementing these talks are two new dates for  The Writing Life  talk series, which invites literary enthusiasts to delve into the creative processes of acclaimed authors  Jennie Godfrey  (18 th  June) and  Joanna Nadin  (17 th  September). Together, these events offer guests an unparalleled opportunity to engage with world-class speakers in an intimate, historic setting, fostering a unique atmosphere of inspiration and community in the heart of Bath. Each intimate evening begins at 17:30, with prosecco and canapés, followed by an engaging conversation and Q&A session.  Tickets cost £15 per person, including fizz and canapés. Bookings can be made  here .      Bath in Bloom: Art Workshops in The Chapel   Set inside the beautiful chapel at The Gainsborough Bath Spa,  Art in the Chapel  is a relaxed two-hour creative experience, offering the perfect way to slow down and feel inspired. Hosted on  Monday 18 th  May,  the event begins with a glass of fizz and some nibbles before settling in for a talk from leading florists  Flowers by Passion , diving into their stunning seasonal floral display for the hotel and the artistry behind it. From there, local Bath artist and host,  Emma Taylor   will guide guests through an illustration workshop, perfect for novices and experienced artists alike to observe, sketch, and create.   The event will run from 12:30 - 15:00 on 18 th  May, £46 per person including prosecco and canapés. Bookings can be made  here .      Yoga in The Chapel   Suitable for all levels, this immersive session led by expert teachers  Bex Bridgford  and  Lana Kingo , offers a beautifully rounded experience that begins with grounding QiGong and breathwork, followed by a dynamic yet accessible blend of Yang and Yin yoga. Concluding with the serene tones of crystal singing bowls and a deeply restful guided sleep meditation, these sessions are designed to leave guests feeling balanced and restored.   Sessions will be held on the following dates at 10:00 for £25 per person: 4 th  May, 19 th  July, 20 th  September & 22 nd  November. Bookings can be made  here .

Quietcations gains a new name in 2026 - the rise of hushpitality shows how slower and restorative travel is still fuelling travel in a world that is racing. Nova Maldives is one to have on your radar, offering the kind of atmosphere that truly allows guests to switch off. This summer, the resort will roll out a thoughtfully curated programme of activities, inviting guests to let their days unfold gently — shaped by the body’s rhythms and instinct, rather than rigid plans.   With just 76 beach and overwater villas set on a natural island in the South Ari Atoll, the resort strikes a thoughtful balance between privacy and connection, offering space to retreat or engage as desired, ensuring guests will not be overloaded with options, but ones that are intentionally wholesome. ​   What a week of stillness looks like     Day 1 – Arrival & Decompression : Ease into island time with a barefoot arrival, followed by a gentle sunset stretch or quiet moment by the water. No agenda, just space to come home to yourself. Day 2 – Breath & Body: Begin with complimentary sunrise yoga and a stroll by the beach and a nourishing breakfast buffet at Soul Kitchen, then ease into unhurried moments capturing Nova’s most photogenic corners. Don’t miss the overwater swing at first light or sunset, the perfect setting for a cinematic silhouette against the horizon. Day 3 – Underwater Mindfulness : Experience Nova’s signature wellness diving programme, combining breathwork, buoyancy awareness, and ocean immersion to get into a meditative state. Afternoon hours can be left open - for rest, reading, freestyle snorkelling at Nova's house reef or Maldivian spa rituals at EsKape. Day 4 – Connection, Softly Held : Join the weekly Holhuashi gathering beneath the banyan tree, a low-key cultural moment with Bodu Beru dance performance, where guests can share stories, flavours, and traditions in an unforced, intimate setting. Day 5 – Island Rhythm: Drift between solitude and shared experiences: a marine excursion to spot whale sharks or manta rays, followed by a slow, starlit dinner by the sea. Day 6 – Reflection & Reset : Close the journey with stillness, a bespoke crystal chakra session and journaling moment, or quiet swim, and leave with a renewed sense of clarity and calm.   A deeper journey this summer - Solo Traveller Month    This July, Nova deepens its commitment to mindful travel with its upcoming Solo Traveller Month , designed to support personal growth, connection, and exploration.   At its heart lies the ReRooted Retreat (w/c 20 July), a multi-day wellness journey in collaboration with the UK's The Self Love Lab, blending movement practices, mindful workshops, and immersive rituals, allowing guests to reconnect with themselves at their own pace. Alongside this, a dedicated Women’s Dive Day weekend (18-20 July) prior will spotlight female empowerment in the underwater world, offering accessible introductions to diving experiences and meaningful conversations around ocean exploration.   Guests can tailor their retreat experience to be shorter (3 days) or lengthier (5/6 days), depending on how much time they'd like to dedicate towards introspection and shared experience, ensuring a personalised trip that aligns with individual priorities.   Where flavour finds its roots     Taking inspiration from nature and Maldivian heritage, an enhanced contemporary island cuisine programme will be unveiled this season, featuring fresh ingredients gathered from island communities and nearby producers. Each dish reflects a thoughtful balance of flavour and texture — from green mango paired with toasted coconut to delicately layered heritage pumpkin soup — reimagining Maldivian ingredients through an artistic and modern lens.   Here, dining becomes a cultural exchange for guests to understand a place , by honouring provenance and slowing the process from source to plate. Across the resort’s dining spaces, including Soul Kitchen, the experience unfolds through a curated menu of new appetisers, mains and desserts that celebrate seasonality and simplicity. Expect inventive plates such as breadfruit wellington, plantain gnocchi, and cassava brownies, each offering a contemporary take on island flavours, while remaining deeply connected to place.   Cultured gathering beneath the banyan tree     Created as an occasion for travellers to take something truly meaningful away from their visit, Nova's weekly Holhuashi gathering beneath the banyan tree is an intimate ceremony that brings to light the spirit of Maldivian island life through storytelling, music, and shared rituals. As dusk settles, the space comes alive with the rhythmic beats of Bodu Beru drumming , considered the heartbeat of the Maldives, known to improve moods and lower stress levels.   Throughout the event, participants are introduced to elements of local life, from the Dhivehi language to time-honoured Maldivian street-food, games, and demonstrations of harvesting customs and craftsmanship that offer personal understanding of what constitutes Maldivian culture. The casual format makes for an unhurried and unscripted experience, where attendees have a chance to observe and engage with Maldivian resort staff to learn from their lived experiences.     In a world rushing on with constant stimulation, Nova offers something hard to come by: the feeling that you can finally exhale. Whether through mindful underwater activities, gentle rituals, or simply the absence of an hourly to-do list, every element is designed to help travellers restore balance, grounded in the belief that powerful travel experiences need not be extravagant, but should feel real and anchor you in the present.   Beach Villas and Water Villas on Full Board at Nova Maldives start from £286/night and £352/night in July, respectively, prices quoted from direct bookings as of 13 April. Summer of Soul special offer with up to 50% off all room types and meal plans is currently available for bookings made before or on 30 April, staying between 1 May and 31 October.     For more information, visit www.nova-maldives.com