At Travel Seen, we love shining a light on the incredible brands within our family, the ones who live and breathe travel just as much as we do.
Recently, I spent a day with eShores, one of our standout brands specialising in tailor-made, multi-centre holidays.
Gavin Lapidus – Director of eShores
Nadine Brown – Director of eShores
Meeting the founders
My visit began with a warm welcome from Gavin and Nadine, the founders of eShores. Their energy and passion for travel were instantly clear. They started eShores with a simple idea: to create holidays that feel as unique as the people taking them, no generic packages, no cookie-cutter itineraries, just authentic, personalised journeys.
“Every holiday starts with a conversation,” Gavin told me. “We listen, we learn, and then we build something unique.”
Nadine added, “It’s about bringing our clients’ ideas to life and turning those ‘ideas’ into beautifully balanced, unforgettable trips.”
Tailor made travel done differently
What sets eShores apart, and why we’re so proud to have them as part of the Travel Seen family is their expertise in multi-centre holidays. These are the kind of trips that let you see more of the world in one seamless journey. eShores curate trips which are much more than your fly and flop. They are for people with a more adventurous side, those who want to experience a bit of culture and not your standard, off the shelf holiday.
Think New York and Las Vegas for an iconic U.S. adventure, Maldives and Sri Lanka for the perfect blend of relaxation and culture, or Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia for an unforgettable Asian escape. Each itinerary is hand-built by a travel expert who knows every stop inside out, from the best rooftop bars to the most peaceful hidden beaches.
Their attention to detail and genuine passion for getting it right is what keeps clients coming back time and again.
Behind the scenes
Spending time in their Rochdale office felt like stepping into a creative studio rather than a travel agency. Maps, photos and notes filled the walls and the air buzzed with conversation, ideas flowing, details being fine-tuned. It’s clear this is a place where travel dreams take shape.
Each consultant takes real pride in their work, crafting experiences that feel both effortless and extraordinary.
Part of the Travel Seen family
At Travel Seen, we celebrate brands that share our vision of meaningful, story-driven travel and eShores embodies that perfectly. Their thoughtful, personalised approach reflects exactly what we believe travel should be: inspiring, seamless and deeply human.
If you’ve ever dreamed of connecting multiple destinations into one unforgettable journey, the team at eShores are the experts who can make it happen, with care, creativity, and that all-important personal touch.
Introducing Club Avandra: a new world for solo female travellers
October 2025
This month, our Travel Seen team had the pleasure of attending the incredible launch of Club Avandra – an exclusive new community founded by Debbie Flynn, designed for solo female travellers who crave adventure, connection and experiences that money simply can’t buy.
The launch
The event took place at the beautiful Marylebone Hotel in London, where we were welcomed with glasses of Champagne PIAF and an atmosphere full of inspiration. We loved connecting with so many amazing people within the travel industry and listening to the powerful panel discussion led by Debbie, featuring Marianne Jones, Kathy Lette, and Rosie Green. Their stories of travel, independence, and empowerment truly resonated with us.
The room sparkled with incredible guests, including Kate Garraway and Arlene Phillips, making the evening one to remember.
Club Avandra is so much more than just glamorous events –
it’s a space for women to connect and explore unforgettable destinations, from Malta to Verbier and Helsinki, with exclusive stays at world-class hotels such as Gili Lankanfushi, Passalacqua, and Capella Ubud.
Welcoming Club Avandra
As the official travel partner, we’re thrilled to help bring these one-of-a-kind experiences to life. Here’s to new friendships, inspiring adventures, and the empowering journey that lies ahead.
Europe in winter has a certain kind of magic, twinkling lights on cobblestone streets, the scent of mulled wine drifting through squares, and that perfect mix of crisp air and cosy cafés. Summer has its shine, yet winter turns familiar cities into something cinematic.
If you’re dreaming of a winter escape that balances charm, culture, and a touch of luxury, these are our five favourite winter city breaks in Europe for 2025 – a blend of hidden treasures and beloved classics with a fresh twist.
Ghent, Belgium
Ghent, Belgium Medieval glow and canal-side cafés
Tucked between Bruges and Brussels, Ghent is a winter wonderland that keeps its cool. Medieval façades, snow-dusted rooftops, and glowing stalls set the scene for a weekend that feels romantic without the crowds.
Don’t miss: A slow wander along Graslei, the gothic Gravensteen Castle, and a Belgian hot chocolate or a trappist beer by the canal.
When to go: Late November to February.
Travel Seen Tip: Visit in February for the Ghent Light Festival, when the city becomes an open-air gallery of installations.
Where to stay
1898 The Post — storybook boutique inside Ghent’s former post office, moody and elegant.
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof — refined, central, with a serene courtyard and a quietly luxurious feel.
Pair with: A day trip to Bruges by train for wintry canal views, then back to Ghent’s lively dining scene.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia Fairytale lights and riverside strolls
Ljubljana is winter charm in pocket-size form. The old town glows beneath festive lights, riverside cafés feel like a Christmas card come to life, and December brings music pop-ups around the centre.
Don’t miss:Ljubljana Castle for views over terracotta rooftops, a stroll along the Ljubljanica River, and an arty detour to Metelkova.
When to go: Early December to mid-January for peak sparkle.
Travel Seen Tip: Pair your city break with Lake Bled — just 40 minutes away and even more magical under a dusting of snow.
Where to stay
Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel — intimate, design-led, and steps from the river.
InterContinental Ljubljana — modern skyline views, spa, and an easy base for winter wanders.
Pair with: A half-day at Thermana Laško or Therme Olimia if you fancy Alpine-adjacent wellness.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, Hungary Thermal baths and river lights
Few cities do winter like Budapest. Imagine easing into Széchenyi or Gellért as steam curls into frosty air, then stepping out to grand boulevards, market squares, and candlelit dinners by the Danube.
Don’t miss:Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, the Parliament glowing at dusk, and a Danube dinner cruise for warm plates and city lights.
When to go:Late November to early January for markets and the famous fairy-lit Christmas trams.
Travel Seen Tip: Book thermal baths with timed entry to skip queues and keep the day unhurried.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Gresham Palace — Art Nouveau icon opposite the Chain Bridge.
Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel — palatial glamour with a standout bar.
Aria Hotel Budapest — music-inspired boutique with a glass-roofed atrium.
Pair with: A morning at Ruin Bars for photos without the crowds, then a pastry stop at Gerbeaud.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria Baroque spires and snow-globe romance
Home to Mozart and the Sound of Music, Salzburg turns delightfully old-world in winter. Baroque spires, snow-topped rooftops, and elegant markets create a city break that’s timeless without trying.
Don’t miss:Hohensalzburg Fortress, mulled wine in Residenzplatz, and a classical concert in a gilded hall.
When to go: Advent weekends through Christmas for market energy, January for calmer streets.
Travel Seen Tip: Stay in the Altstadt to wake up to church bells and buttery pastries.
Where to stay
Hotel Sacher Salzburg – riverfront grand dame, chocolate torte included.
Hotel Goldgasse – chic rooms on a tiny historic lane, perfect for walkers.
Hotel Bristol Salzburg – classic style with theatre-night energy.
Pair with: A snowy day trip to Hallstatt if conditions are favourable.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków, Poland Cinematic squares and serious comfort food
Kraków’s cobbles glint under fairy lights, with Rynek Główny transforming into a festive hub of wooden stalls and hand-crafted gifts. When the snow falls over the Cloth Hall, it’s pure film set.
Don’t miss:Wawel Castle, the cafés and galleries of Kazimierz, and a hot-chocolate stop so thick your spoon stands up.
When to go: Early December to mid-January for markets, late January for fewer crowds.
Travel Seen Tip: Try winter comfort plates – pierogi, goulash, warming soups — then a late-night jazz bar in Kazimierz.
Where to stay
Hotel Copernicus – vaulted ceilings and historic gravitas near Wawel.
PURO Kraków Kazimierz – contemporary, design-forward, walkable to everywhere.
Hotel Saski, Curio Collection – heritage shell with smart modern touches by the square.
Pair with: Daytime culture at MOCAK then evening drinks on Szeroka Street.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków, Poland
FAQs
What are the best winter city breaks in Europe for 2025? Ghent, Ljubljana, Budapest, Salzburg, and Kraków for festive markets, cosy cafés, and standout hotels.
When is the best time to visit Europe for winter markets? Late November to early January, with many markets closing around 24 December. Some cities keep lights and pop-ups into early January.
Is winter a good time for luxury hotels in Europe? Yes. Outside peak Christmas and New Year, winter often brings excellent value with upgraded room types and short-stay offers.
Which winter city break is best for spa lovers? Budapest for thermal baths. Salzburg pairs nicely with Alpine wellness. Ljubljana offers easy day trips to lakes and Slovene spas.
Where can I avoid heavy crowds but keep the festive feel? Ghent and Ljubljana are brilliant for a calmer, more local atmosphere while still feeling celebratory.
Find your winter escape with Travel Seen
Ready to plan? Our team will tailor flights, transfers, stays, and restaurant bookings, with on-the-ground insight from places we actually visit.
Interested? Call us on 0333 305 9912 and we can plan your trip for you.
Ikos Andalusia: our go-to “all included” family escape on the Costa del Sol
October 2025
When we say Ikos Andalusia is a unicorn for families, we mean it. Jen calls it “all included” because it feels nothing like a standard all inclusive. It’s polished and genuinely luxurious yet completely effortless. No mental maths over how many ice creams the kids have had. No decision fatigue. Just sun, service, and a very happy family.
Why we love it
Truly “all included” – à la carte dining, premium drinks, beach and pool service, 24-hour room service, kids clubs, the lot
Serious family hardware – nine pools, direct beach access, brilliant kids and teens clubs run by pros
Rooms that work hard – gorgeous suites and larger private-pool villas for families who want space
Location that delivers – on a wide sandy stretch between Marbella and Estepona so it’s easy to dip out for day trips
Service with warmth – attentive without fuss which is why we keep going back
Rooms we'd book again
We stayed in a Deluxe Collection set-up then toured the two-bedroom villas with private pools for a future trip. Bedrooms are calm and contemporary with clever storage. The villas are the win for multi-gen or friends with kids – separate living, proper terraces, and your own pool so nap time doesn’t derail your day.
Dining that feels like a treat
This is not buffet-and-hope. It’s à la carte with menus by Michelin-starred chefs, Mediterranean to Asian, plus a Dine Out programme so you can try local favourites off-resort. Lazy lunches by the sea, sunset dinners with the Med as your backdrop, and room service when little legs tap out.
Kids happy parents relaxed
Ikos nails the balance. Kids clubs by qualified teams, beach games, paddle boards, creative sessions, teen hangouts. You get a guilt-free hour at the spa or an iced coffee by the pool. Everyone gets what they need which is why family trips here feel easy.
Wellness and play
Mornings start with sunrise yoga or a beach walk. The Ikos Spa by Anne Semonin Paris is calm and clinical in the best way. There’s tennis, bikes, water sports, gym classes, then the kind of loungers you actually want to lie on.
Good to know:
25–45 minutes from Malaga airport depending on traffic
Pre-book restaurants and kids clubs in peak dates
Deluxe Collection extras add lounge access and other nice touches
Final Thoughts
We’ve been, we know the room-by-room differences, and we hold the contacts that unlock the best set-ups for families. Tell us nap windows and non-negotiables. We’ll handle the rest.
Ready for the ease of “all included”? Message us and we’ll plan a tailored 5-night stay at Ikos Andalusia with the right room configuration, transfers, and dining already lined up.
We’ve just come back from Marbella where autumn softens the edges in all the right ways. It’s still warm enough to swim, tables are easier to get and golden hour lingers. Kimpton Los Monteros hosted our stay last weekend and it’s exactly the right fit for an easy grown-up escape.
Why autumn works here
Days sit around 25°C so pool or beach is still a yes
Fewer crowds which means calmer beach clubs and easier dinner plans
Better room choice and value than peak summer
Kimpton Los Monteros
Kimpton Los Monteros
Kimpton Los Monteros what stood out for us
Location & setting A little out of the bustle which is a plus in autumn. You’re on the prestigious Los Monteros estate where A-listers keep houses yet it’s a quick cab or a relaxed beachside walk to Old Town or Puerto Banús. Best of both worlds.
Look & feel Interiors sit somewhere between Soho House ease and Wes Anderson symmetry. A subtle thread of yellow runs through details across the hotel which gives spaces a sunny styled lift without trying too hard.
Rooftop & pool The rooftop cocktail bar is a proper golden-hour spot with a calm social feel and the main pool is big enough for real laps not just a quick dunk.
Food & drink Excellent breakfast selection that actually sets you up for the day. There’s a 6pm happy hour for in-house guests with complimentary drinks and wine which makes pre-dinner plans effortless. Along with a selection of restaurants, including a Michelin starred dining room.
Tennis & padel Access to the hotel’s tennis and racquet club adds a nice active thread. Bookable courts for tennis or padel if you like to mix sunshine with a hit.
Rooms We book for light and layout not just category. If you’re late sleepers ask for the quieter side. If a bath matters we’ll secure one as not every room has it. Travelling as two couples or with older teens we can map adjoining options that still feel chic.
Nearby done the TS way
Marbella Old Town — coffee in the squares, tiled tapas counters and flowered lanes for an easy half day
Marbella Club — heritage vibes for a long lunch at MC Beach then a coastal walk back towards Los Monteros at golden hour
Puente Romano — dinner-hop territory with Coya, Cipriani, Gaia or the Chiringuito depending on mood
Puerto Banús — designer browse and yacht-watch by day then slip out before it gets noisy at night
Disclosure: Kimpton Los Monteros hosted our stay in October 2025. Views are our own.
Final Thoughts
We were on the ground last weekend so the advice is current. We’ll secure the right room, time transfers to your flight and line up tables that fit your pace. Tell us how you like to travel and we’ll shape the rest.
Tuscany in autumn – Florence to Chianti with Travel Seen
October 2025
There is a moment in Tuscany when the light softens, vines deepen to ruby and Florence exhales after summer. Autumn is when gallery mornings feel unhurried, truffle hunts return to the woods and vineyard roads run quiet under cypress and sky. This is the season we love most. Travel Seen curates the inspiration, the rhythm and the right addresses, then our partner brands secure the stays and the little touches that make it feel effortless.
Portrait Firenze
Florence art, elegance, ease
Base yourself where Renaissance bones meet modern comfort. We pair style to mood, then our network handles suite strategy and smart timings.
Portrait Firenze places you beside Ponte Vecchio with Arno views worth waking for. Design, discretion and stroll-everywhere ease.
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze is a 15th-century palazzo wrapped in a private park with a serious spa and an outdoor pool that still catches October warmth.
Hotel Savoy sits on Piazza della Repubblica with modern glamour and the most walkable address for shopping, galleries and late lunches that turn into early evenings.
From any of these, we unlock quieter corners of Santa Croce, line up the best window tables at golden hour and time museum entries so you never feel rushed.
COMO Castello del Nero
Belmond Castello di Casole
The Tuscan hills slow roads, vineyard rhythm
Leave the city on the scenic SR222 and watch the landscape open into neat vines and olive groves. Here, vineyard hotels give you space to slow down while driver-days make tastings simple.
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Montalcino sits on a vast private estate with its own Brunello winery. Borgo life, rust-red lanes and villas with pools for friends who like room to breathe.
Belmond Castello di Casole brings ten-century drama with olive groves and terraces that glow at dusk. Classic Tuscany with service one step ahead.
COMO Castello del Nero blends frescoed halls with a wellness-first approach. COMO Shambhala mornings, long lunches and vineyard walks that unspool the day.
We’ll weave in truffle hunts near San Miniato, cellar tours in Montalcino and backroad viewpoints that never make the guidebooks. Our partners confirm the drivers, the reservations and the room keys waiting with your name.
A simple outline that always works
Day 1 – Florence Check in, timed gallery entry, river-light aperitivo, dinner within strolling distance.
Day 2 – Into Chianti Driver via the SR222 with a pause for that light-struck viewpoint. Truffle hunt or winery lunch, spa hour at COMO or a terrace nap, firelit dinner.
Day 3 – Val d’Orcia Brunello tasting in Montalcino, a slow drive over open hills to Pienza, last terrace coffee, late flight home.
Every trip is tailored which is why we start with your dates, pace and the mood you want to capture. Travel Seen shapes the flow, our partner brands secure the booking details.
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
Hotel Savoy, Florence
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco
Seasonal flavour
Markets brim with figs and chestnuts. Menus lean into porcini risotto and pappardelle with wild boar. White truffles arrive in late October then peak through November which makes autumn in Tuscany the moment for long lunches where the simplest plates taste the most luxurious. We’ll place the chef’s table on a bright-light day with a short road home.
Practicalities we line up
Flights into Florence or Pisa with meet-and-greet on arrival
Private drivers for city to countryside and tasting days
Gallery entries without long queues
Restaurant and winery reservations timed for the light and your pace
Hotels and suites chosen for view, quiet and layout that suits how you travel
Because of our relationships, you’ll find smarter rooming, the right side of the building for sunrise or sunset and small touches that feel personal.
Ready when you are
Tell us your dates and wish-list. Travel Seen will shape a Florence-to-Chianti route that fits the season, then one of our partner brands will finalise the booking with preferred rates and the right value-adds.
Plan my Tuscany escape — curated by Travel Seen, booked through our partners