Earlier this spring in March 2026, I spent three nights in the Yorkshire Dales on a retreat with Zest Life and it turned out to be exactly the kind of reset I didn’t realise I needed. Having just relaunched my style with anita membership I was spent! Very tired and craving the outdoors and wholesome food.
Category: Travel and Lifestyle
A stylish stay at Hotel Indigo, Bath
Bath is one of those cities that effortlessly blends history, architecture and a gentle pace of life, making it the perfect destination for a short UK getaway. During our recent visit, we stayed for one night at the charming Hotel Indigo Bath, a boutique hotel that perfectly captures the spirit of this elegant Georgian city.
a blissful cotswolds escape: cotswold house hotel & spa
If you’re looking for a peaceful yet pampering break in the Cotswolds, Cotswold House Hotel & Spa in Chipping Campden is a hidden gem. With boutique charm, exceptional service and easy access to countryside culture, it’s the perfect getaway for women 40+ or empty nesters craving calm, comfort and a dash of luxury.
a weekend at billesley manor: shakespeare, secret gardens & scenic escapes
If you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway that blends heritage, relaxation and a touch of literary romance, Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa offers all that and more. Nestled in the Warwickshire countryside just a stone’s throw from Stratford-upon-Avon, this elegant 16th-century manor is full of surprises and makes the ideal base for a memorable escape.
A Stylish Weekend Escape to The Bush Hotel, Farnham
As empty nesters, there’s something liberating about weekend getaways. No packed schedules, just slow mornings, gentle walks, and the kind of calm that soothes the soul. If you’re looking for a stylish and relaxed escape with history, charm, and convenience, The Bush Hotel in Farnham ticks all the boxes.
planning a trip to India? read this first!
15 things women need to know when travelling to india In February 2020, just before the world changed, I travelled to India with my best friend to celebrate our 50th birthdays. India is a country of contrasts—bustling cities, serene temples, chaotic markets and breathtaking palaces, intense heat, and cool mountain retreats. It’s a destination […]
Skiing in Chamonix: Girl Powder Retreats
I was beyond excited when I was invited to ski by Laura, the founder of Girl Powder Retreats, who owns a beautiful chalet in Chamonix—Chalet Melezes. Skiing had been on my bucket list for years, and at 54, I finally had the chance! Heading to Chamonix, France, for my first ski experience, I felt excitement and apprehension. As a midlife woman—and a woman of colour—venturing into a sport often stereotyped as the domain of the young, affluent, or predominantly white, I wasn’t sure what to expect or if I’d fit in.
Thornbury Castle hotel
Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire is a destination steeped in history, architectural beauty, and indulgence. My husband, Tom (an architect with an eye for detail), and I were recently invited to spend one night exploring this extraordinary setting. It was the first time either of us had stayed in a castle, and my main concern was being cold because of its cavernous rooms and high ceilings. Well, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your getaway.
An overnight stay: Bath, Somerset
Nestled in southwest England, Bath is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage city combining historical charm and contemporary flair. It is perfect for a one-night, two-day getaway and offers an ideal mix of relaxation and culture. With accessible travel options and walkable attractions, it’s a destination worth the journey for solo travellers, friends, and family.
UK Autumn Staycation: 7-Day Packing Guide
I cannot stress enough the importance of packing lots of light layers for autumn staycations—I’ve lost count of the number of times we added and peeled off layers during the day. The temperature varies from morning to noon to night, but when you’re walking, hiking, or cycling, it’s easier to regulate your temperature with light layers. Packing chunky knits doesn’t cut the mustard, as you’ll overheat, and they are too bulky to carry.