DISCOVER EUROPE
Europe is the most visited continent in the world, thanks to the close proximity of its countries and the ease of travelling between them. Out of the 51 independent nations, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting over 20, returning to some of them multiple times. Highlights of my European travels include hiking to the highest peaks in the UK, snorkelling around the crystal-clear waters of the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and wandering through the historic Old Town of Dubrovnik.
There’s nothing quite like the charm of a crisp winter day in Paris or London just before Christmas—shopping, exploring festive markets, and ducking into cosy coffee shops to thaw frozen fingers. Then, just a few months later, you could be savouring pasta, wine, and gelato along the Mediterranean coast, watching a magical sunset from your balcony, with views of yachts and brightly coloured houses dotting the shoreline.
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
There’s no wrong time to travel to Europe—each season offers something unique, making it the perfect destination year-round. For budget travellers and backpackers, it’s best to avoid school holidays to take advantage of cheaper flights and accommodation.
Summer vacations in popular destinations like France, Spain, Italy, and Greece are often booked well in advance to avoid steep prices during peak season. Similarly, ski resorts in winter can get pricey if left to the last minute. But with Europe’s diverse offerings, there’s always an ideal time and place to visit, whether you're after sun, snow, or something in between.
While the well-known countries in Europe are always appealing, don't overlook hidden gems like Slovenia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. These lesser-visited destinations still offer a rich cultural experience, with stunning landscapes, delicious food, and fascinating history. They provide the perfect alternative for those looking to explore more off-the-beaten-path corners of Europe.
TOP TIPS
Europe's extensive train network is ideal for backpackers and anyone looking to travel between countries with ease. One of the best ways to save on travel is by checking out Interrail, which offers flexible passes for unlimited travel within a set number of days. I used their passes in Italy for 10 consecutive days, and it was incredibly cost-effective, not to mention convenient for hopping between cities and regions.
When it comes to finding great deals on accommodation and flights, I swear by Trivago, Skyscanner, and Airbnb. These platforms help me find the best prices and options for my travels, whether I’m booking last-minute or planning ahead. Europe is bursting with exciting city breaks, from the bustling streets of Barcelona to the historic charm of Prague, and these can be enjoyed at any time of year. Whether it’s a summer getaway or a winter escape, there’s always a destination for every season.
I always make sure I have a trip planned, as living in-between Dubai and the UK means I’m just a few hours away from a new adventure. Europe's proximity and easy transport options make it a dream for spontaneous trips. Whether you’re seeking rich culture, scenic views, or vibrant nightlife, there's no shortage of places to explore. Plus, with budget airlines, train options, and travel deals available year-round, Europe is as accessible as it is diverse.
TRAVEL GUIDES
Battersea has changed dramatically over the past decade. Once an industrial corner of south west London, it has become the focus of one of the city's most ambitious regeneration projects. For years, Battersea was best known for its power station. Today, it's one of London's most exciting neighbourhoods, where historic landmarks sit alongside new hotels, riverside restaurants and green spaces.
The Cotswolds has recently undergone a radical transformation from a quiet rural retreat into a global digital phenomenon. This surge is primarily driven by the TikTok effect, where the region's honey-coloured Jurassic limestone and lopsided medieval hamlets have become the face of a viral English aesthetic. Once known only to local walkers and historians, these villages now face a massive influx of international tourists who view the 17th-century streets as the ultimate high-contrast backdrop for travel content. This newfound status as a social media honeypot has turned ancient wool towns into essential bucket-list destinations for a new generation of travellers.
Sorrento sits on the edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula with views across the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius and the islands offshore. It has long been one of the most convenient bases for exploring the Amalfi Coast thanks to its transport links, central location and easy access to ferries, trains and buses. The town itself is known for its historic centre, lemon groves, waterfront marinas, and busy Corso Italia, which stays lively from morning to late evening. You get a mix of coastal scenery, good food and day trips without the steep prices or limited access you find in the smaller cliffside towns.
Rising from the Tyrrhenian Sea just off Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, Capri is a small island of cliffs, coves, and impossibly blue water. Though only 10 square kilometres, its steep terrain makes it feel much larger — from sea level to the top of Monte Solaro, the island climbs nearly 600 metres. Roads curve along terraces of lemon trees and whitewashed villas, leading to hidden beaches and panoramic viewpoints over the Bay of Naples. It’s the kind of place that feels effortlessly glamorous yet still connected to nature, and perfect for a day trip from Sorrento when planned right.
Walking out onto the cobbled streets of Rome one September morning, it felt like everything was within reach. The river’s gentle hum, historic façades dripping with stories, and the promise of gelato round the corner set the scene perfectly. For the ideal base, I stayed at the citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina, part of the wider citizenM family now under Marriott Bonvoy. The hotel retains its distinctive for the people ethos while offering the reliability, reach, and loyalty benefits of one of the world’s largest hotel networks.
I have travelled to so many countries over the last few years, but when booking this trip to the Amalfi Coast it turned out to be the most confusing trip to plan and took far longer to understand the logistics than any other trip I have done. I visited Italy ten years ago and have explored many parts of the country, but this was my first time on the Amalfi Coast. I read so many articles warning me not to hire Vespas because they are dangerous, not to drive because the roads are too tight and there is nowhere to park, that buses are always delayed, and that ferries are the best option but sometimes do not run due to bad weather. I mean, talk about scaremongering.
If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro and want a stay that combines modern comfort with incredible views, Olga’s Piece of Paradise in Dobrota is worth considering. Just 15 minutes from Kotor Old Town, this brand-new three-bedroom apartment spans 130 m² and accommodates up to six adults. It’s tastefully designed with modern colours, designer lighting and high-quality finishes, making it an ideal base for couples, families or friends who want both comfort and functionality on their Montenegro holiday.
If you want to see England beyond its big cities, this two‑week road trip takes you on a complete circular route starting and ending in London. Travelling by car gives you the freedom to reach places that trains don’t always serve directly, from the university charm of Cambridge and the quiet coast of Skegness to the rolling hills of the Peak District and the dramatic landscapes of Snowdonia National Park. The route continues through the historic streets of Bath, down to the south coast at Bournemouth with a stop at Stonehenge, before following the shoreline to Brighton and back to London. It’s a varied journey that shows you England’s countryside, coast and culture in one trip.
London is packed with iconic sights, world-class museums, and diverse neighbourhoods — but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. This guide covers 20 top things to see and do across the city, from historic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to modern favourites like the Shard and Sky Garden. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re back for more, these highlights will help you get the most out of your time in the capital.
Over the last few years, it’s felt like everyone’s been heading to Europe for their summer holiday — and the FOMO is real. The reason? Guaranteed sunshine, great vibes, golden beaches, tan lines, and a seriously good time. Missing out on a Euro summer is like missing out on summer all together. Whether you're after a party-filled city break or a quiet hideaway in the mountains, summer in Europe is always a good idea. From the best beach destinations in Europe to iconic cities and underrated gems, here’s where to go for your perfect Euro summer 2025 - where will you be heading this year?
The UK’s coastline is full of variety—windswept bays, lively promenades, quiet estuaries and golden stretches that rival anything abroad. From the tidal sands of Devon to the peaceful dunes of Wales and the pebble shores of the south coast, these beaches each offer something different. Whether you’re after a bracing sea swim, a family-friendly spot with a pier, or a quiet walk with uninterrupted views, here are some of the best beaches across the country worth visiting.
London’s food scene is endlessly exciting—diverse, ever-evolving, and full of character. From hidden coffee shops to rooftop restaurants with panoramic views, the city delivers memorable dining moments at every turn. Whether you’re in the mood for a slow brunch, a quick bite between galleries, or an unforgettable dinner above the skyline, this guide highlights the best places to eat and drink across the capital. Here’s where to go when you’re hungry and after something a little more special than the usual chain.
Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic buildings, art'otel London Battersea Power Station brings a new kind of cool to the capital. Located within the vibrant Battersea Power Station development, the hotel is part of a bold transformation that’s turned this once industrial landmark into a buzzing cultural and lifestyle hub. With shops, restaurants, art spaces and riverside walks, Battersea is quickly becoming one of London’s most exciting areas—and art'otel fits right in. We stayed last September and loved everything about it. For anyone looking to experience a different side of London, this hotel delivers.
If you’re on the hunt for honeymoon inspiration, just like my hubby and I - then you’ve come to the right place. We got married in April 2024, and had our ‘mini-moon’ a few months later in July. We spent 4 nights in Zanzibar which was exactly what we needed after a long year of wedding planning. But we both said we would save our big honeymoon for 2025, with plans in place to spend 3 weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zambia. Sorry I don’t have inspiration for these destinations - yet! But watch this space! (I can’t wait!)
Glencoe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on the planet. With towering mountains, calm lochs, clean air, cascading waterfalls and scenic routes that take your breath away at every angle. Glencoe is just a 30-minute drive away from Ben Nevis and the town of Fort William, in the Scottish Highlands.
Montenegro is a small, yet stunning country located in Southeast Europe on the Adriatic Sea. It’s known for its diverse landscapes, which include rugged mountains, deep canyons, and picturesque coastal areas. Podgorica is the capital and largest city, though many visitors are drawn to the coastal city of Kotor for its historical charm and scenic beauty. Montenegro’s compact size means that you can experience a lot in a short amount of time, making it a great destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Never heard of punting? Well, stop right there, and let me give you all the information you need for this wonderful experience! Punting in Cambridge has to be one of my all-time favourite things to do in England. Venice vibes… but a bit colder.
Cambridge is a city in the East of England, only 50 miles north of London. The city is famously known for it’s university, gorgeous architecture, and of course punting along the River Cam.
One of the most famous, and visited landmarks in the Untied Kingdom. Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument dating back to around 3000 to 2000 BC. It features a circle of tall standing stones weighing about 25 tons each. The larger Sarsen stones were brought from quarries 25 miles away, while the smaller bluestones came from 150 miles away in Wales.
Iceland is a country that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. It’s not every day you’re surrounded by raw, natural beauty and dramatic, un-touched landscapes, that Iceland has. There’s so much to see and do that you’ll need multiple trips to cover the whole country.
Let me paint the perfect picture of our trip.
Iceland, Iceland, Iceland. Where do I even begin? It was an absolute thrill to experience many of the wonders that this incredible country has to offer, and an even bigger dream of mine to capture the endless beauty and dramatic landscapes, that I had thought about for so long. It’s a place where every photo taken, is worthy. In my opinion it’s pretty difficult to take a bad picture here. From the geysers to the glaciers, and from Seljalandsfoss to Skógafoss. Every corner of this magical country is picture perfect.
After what feels like a lifetime of wanting to travel to Iceland… I finally did it! And it was everything I could have imagined, AND MORE. Seriously though, there is no other place like it on the planet. Truly one of a kind. Waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs, black sand beaches, volcanoes and of course cute Icelandic ponies. They don’t call it ‘the land of fire and ice’ for nothing.
If you're looking to explore a new country, in a limited amount of time and on a budget, then this is the trip for you! For years, Italy was at the top of my bucket list but I couldn't decide which part I wanted to go to first. Then I discovered Interrail which enabled me to travel to Milan, Venice, Pisa, Florence, Rome, Naples and Sorrento all within ten days.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Dubrovnik is one of my favourite places on the planet. The combination of the dramatic coastline, turquoise waters, orange-roofed buildings, the mountainous backdrop and the European summer feels, are the best. Dubrovnik has become quite the hotspot in recent years due to the accessibility of surrounding countries and, of course, Game of Thrones fans. Walking around the Old Town, swimming in the Adriatic sea and the view from Mount Srd are all my highlights.
This was a totally spontaneous trip that turned into one of my all-time favourites. My sister and I were enjoying an all-inclusive holiday in Croatia when we decided we wanted more than just the beach, pool and cocktails. We had already discussed a day trip to the Krka National Park and knew we needed a car to get there. So, we arranged a hire car from the hotel, for two days and thought why not travel to another country? As you do. This is when Europe has its perks.
Wales is famously known for its rolling hills, beautiful beaches, adventure holidays… rain and sheep.
Growing up, we had numerous family summer holidays in the Brecon Beacons, Barmouth, Tywyn and Snowdonia. Which are some of the most beautiful places in the UK.
London is a hotspot at Christmas time, with endless markets, pantomimes, shopping and of course, Winter Wonderland. There is nothing better than walking down Carnaby Street with a hot coffee warming your hands. Going into the shops, hearing the Christmas music and seeing the lights turn on. If you’re lucky, you may even see some snow!
Rome is one of Europe’s oldest and most popular cities. Rich in history, iconic landmarks and architecture. Not to forget that it’s THE place to immerse yourself in Italian cuisine. No guilt required when trying all of the pizzas, pastas and gelato. Washed down with glass of red wine. Honestly, no other delicacies matter here.
Venice is one of the world’s greatest cities, famous for the car-less streets, picturesque canals, gondolas, the Rialto Bridge and many historic buildings.
A romantic city, perfect for a weekend away with your loved ones. Or a solo trip that will re-ignite your soul for food, passion and love. The relaxed Italian way of life rubs off on everyone that visits.
One of my favourite countries in the world - Italy! A place that is dreamy from every aspect - the language, landscapes, culture, history and of course the cuisine. Italians are the kings at maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Which is something that the rest of the world can definitely benefit from.
When it comes to dramatic coastlines and world-class shorelines, Cornwall completely stands apart. Shrugged by the wild Atlantic ocean, this southwest peninsula is home to some of the finest sand in Europe, where towering granite cliffs give way to expansive tidal flats and hidden, turquoise-water coves. Threaded together by the spectacular South West Coast Path, these landscapes offer incredible clifftop walking trails that lead directly down to the water's edge.