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.

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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.

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Danube River Cruise: August 2024

As my daughter prepared for university and I embraced the reality of becoming an empty nester, we embarked on a memorable journey together—a Danube River cruise with AmaWaterways, travelling from Vilshofen to Budapest. This trip wasn’t just a holiday but a precious opportunity to bond, explore, and create memories that will stay with us for a lifetime.

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48 Hours in Munich: August 2024

Ah, Munich! A city where history, culture, and that famous Bavarian charm collide most delightfully. If you’re planning a quick 48-hour escape to Munich, as I did with my 18-year-old daughter before she flew the nest to go to university, you’re in for an unforgettable ride. With just two days to explore, a central stay and some pedal power are the way to go. Here’s how we made the most of our time, mixing history, fun, and a few stops for the best pretzels in town.

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Fiskardo, Kefalonia

We wanted a week away with our teenage children, which was very relaxed and restorative. Our prerequisites were no car hire – can’t be faffing with insurance and driving around hairpin bends with backseat drivers! walking distance from beaches and restaurants, and obviously good weather! Fiskardo (also Fiscardo) is a village and a community on the Ionian island of Kefalonia, Greece.

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Glasgow

Glasgow is renowned for its friendliness and has earned the title of one of the friendliest cities in the world. The friendliness of its residents has been acknowledged through various travel awards and surveys. While specific awards may vary, Glasgow consistently receives recognition for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a visitor favourite. The city’s hospitality is often highlighted as a key factor in creating a positive and memorable visitor experience.

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Edinburgh

In October, my daughter and I embarked on a delightful adventure to the enchanting city of Edinburgh in October — a perfect haven for mid-lifers like me (but not my daughter!). Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a whole week, Edinburgh welcomes you with open arms. The city’s charm lies in its walkability and the well-connected bus routes, ensuring you won’t miss a beat.

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Rhine river cruise with amawaterways

In November 2023, my husband Tom and I embarked on our first-ever cruise with AmaWaterways, setting sail from Basel, Switzerland, with Amsterdam as our final destination. As self-proclaimed land lovers, the thought of a cruise with thousands of passengers had always been intimidating. But after experiencing a river cruise with AmaWaterways, we can confidently say that this is how cruising should be done as an introduction.

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in:spa retreat

in:spa retreat, Chateau de Puissentut, France In September 2023, I was kindly invited to be a guest at one of the in:spa retreats at Chateau de Puissentut in Toulouse. I had been on two retreats before, so I kind of knew what to expect: good food, yoga, exercise, some downtime and all your day-to-day living is […]

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