Travel Inspiration
Looking for somewhere new to explore? This section features first-hand travel inspiration — from long weekend guides and walking tours to seasonal postcards and hidden gems worth seeking out.
We’ve covered iconic cities and quiet corners, from Edinburgh’s old town alleys to the sunlit streets of Nice. These are the places we’ve actually visited, photographed, and written about — no stock itineraries or AI listicles here.
Whether you’re planning a stylish city break, a scenic detour, or simply dreaming of where to go next, you’ll find practical ideas, personal stories, and plenty of reasons to travel well.
Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine, Tokyo: A Second Burst of Spring Colour
A short guide to the Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine in Tokyo. Visit in April for a second wave of spring colour, set among torii gates and historic shrine grounds.
Sakura Season in Japan: More Than Just Cherry Blossom
Sakura season in Japan is more than cherry blossom. From shifting bloom dates to seasonal food, hanami, and everyday details, this is what to expect when visiting in spring.
Kagoshima, Japan: Volcano Views, Samurai History and Southern Kyushu
Kagoshima offers one of the strongest senses of place in southern Japan, with Sakurajima across the bay, the legacy of the Shimazu clan, and visitor highlights including Sengan-en and the volcanic landscape beyond the city.
Dejima, Nagasaki: Japan’s Window to the West
Dejima is one of Nagasaki’s most revealing historic sites, a reconstructed trading post that helps place the city’s international story in context.
Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park: A First-Hand Visit
A first-hand visit to Nagasaki’s Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park, placing the memorial sites within the wider story of the city.
Thomas Glover and Glover Garden in Nagasaki
Perched above Nagasaki harbour, Glover Garden preserves some of Japan’s best-known Western-style houses. The Former Glover House tells the story of Scottish merchant Thomas Glover and the city’s role in Japan’s opening to the world.
Nagasaki Travel Guide: History, Culture and Visiting Japan’s Western Port
A first-hand guide to Nagasaki on Japan’s western coast, covering its historic trading port, Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Museum and how to visit by cruise or Shinkansen. Set around a deep natural harbour on the north-west coast of Kyushu, Nagasaki is one of Japan’s most historically significant cities, with layers of international influence, wartime memory and striking hillside views.
What to Know Before Taking Japan’s Bullet Train
Taking Japan’s bullet train for the first time can feel daunting when you are planning from afar. This guide covers what to expect on the Shinkansen, from booking tickets and navigating large stations to luggage rules, food on board and the small details that make the journey memorable.
Taking the Train Around France: A Better Way to Travel
Swap flights and long drives for a more relaxed way to see France. From Lille and Paris to Provence, Marseille, Cannes and Nice, this guide explores why travelling by train can shape a smoother, more rewarding trip.
How to Find Abbey Road
A clear and practical guide to finding Abbey Road in London. Here is how to reach the famous Beatles zebra crossing, what to see when you arrive and how to make the most of your visit.
Our 2025–26 Guide to Luxury Holidays in the Maldives
Our 2025/2026 guide to the Maldives for luxury holidays covers everything you need to know — from atolls and island names to seaplane transfers, travel tips and standout resorts.
Where Is the “Into the Wild” Magic Bus Now & How to See It into 2026
Once stranded deep on Alaska’s Stampede Trail, — the “Into the Wild” Magic Bus has a new home. Learn about the story of Bus 142, why it had to be moved and how you can see it into 2026.
3 Insta-Worthy Villas to Visit in the South of France’s Golden Triangle
Walk the French Riviera’s Golden Triangle in a single day. Discover three stunning villas — Kérylos, Fleur du Cap, and Ephrussi de Rothschild — plus a bonus stop for music fans at Villa Nellcôte.
Un long week-end à Paris pour les amoureux de la mode
Un long week-end à Paris pour les amateurs de mode — de la haute couture aux grands restaurants, des hôtels élégants aux balades le long de la Seine.
A Visit to Villa Kérylos – Ancient Greece on the French Riviera
Step inside Villa Kérylos in Beaulieu-sur-Mer and experience a stunning recreation of an ancient Greek villa on the French Riviera. This travel guide covers its history, highlights, and practical tips – plus details on the current Gold of Time exhibition.
Bastide du Jas de Bouffan – A visit to Cézanne’s Country House Under Restoration
On the edge of Aix, Cézanne’s old family home is slowly being brought back to life. A short visit to the Bastide du Jas de Bouffan revealed shaded gardens, muted summer colours, and easels showing exactly where the artist painted.
Postcard from Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence is a town of golden stone, fountains, and an easy pace of life. In our latest postcard, we share our impressions from a long weekend of wandering, from record shop finds to Cézanne’s presence everywhere.
Eurostar’s Gare du Nord Business Premier Lounge – A Stylish Step Up
A first-hand look at the stylish new Eurostar Business Premier Lounge at Paris Gare du Nord. Calm, modern, and a perfect place to unwind before boarding the train to London.
The Flame Returns to the Tuileries: Summer 2025 in Paris
One year after the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Vasque fountain returns to the Tuileries Garden. Visible from streets, rooftops—even our hotel balcony—the Olympic flame lights up the city once more in a spectacular summer display.
Long Weekend in Nice, France: A Stylish Côte d’Azur Guide
Planning a long weekend in Nice, France? This guide brings together beaches, art, shopping, food and places to stay, with first-hand tips for making the most of a few days on the Côte d’Azur.