Perfect Pairings | The Caribbean islands that work better together

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There’s a tendency to treat the Caribbean as a one island trip. Pick a hotel, fly in, switch off, fly home.

 

But the trips that stay with you tend to be built differently.

 

Pairing islands – properly – allows you to experience contrast within a single journey. A few days of energy and atmosphere, followed by somewhere quieter and more removed. A shift in pace, scenery and mood that makes the entire trip feel more considered.

 

These are three of the combinations we return to most often, not just because they’re beautiful, but because they work.

Barbados
& Canouan

Barbados is often the starting point, and for good reason. The west coast delivers that classic Caribbean rhythm – beach clubs, excellent restaurants and an easy sense of familiarity that makes you settle in quickly.

 

A stay at Sandy Lane sets the tone. Polished but relaxed, with a social energy that feels grown-up rather than overwhelming.

 

From there, Canouan offers a complete shift.

 

Arriving into Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, everything slows. The beaches feel almost untouched, the villas are spaced out and private, and the overall atmosphere is one of quiet, understated luxury.

It’s the contrast that makes this pairing work – Barbados brings the life, Canouan brings the exhale.

Sandy Lane, Barbados

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan

St Barths
& Anguilla

St Barths has a reputation, and it earns it. There’s a sharpness to the island – in the fashion, the food, the attention to detail.

 

Staying at Le Toiny gives you access to that world, but with a degree of privacy. Villas tucked into the hillside, a quieter base away from the centre.

Anguilla is where things soften.

 

At Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, the pace shifts completely. Long stretches of white sand, calm water and a sense that nothing needs to happen unless you want it to.

 

Together, they balance each other out, style and stillness in one trip.

Le Toiny, St Barths

Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

Grenada
& Bequia

For something less obvious, Grenada and Bequia offer a different take on Caribbean travel.

 

Grenada is lush, green and full of texture. There’s more depth here; in the landscape, the culture and the food. Calabash Hotel reflects that, with a more intimate, character-driven feel.

 

Bequia is smaller and quieter. The kind of island where days drift between the beach, the harbour and long lunches.

 

At Bequia Beach Hotel, everything feels unhurried. It’s low-key, but still refined.

 

This pairing is for those who want something a little less expected, without compromising on quality.

Calabash Hotel, Grenada

Bequia Beach Hotel, Bequia

A two island trip,
fully planned

The Caribbean isn’t short of beautiful islands. The difference is how you put them together.

 

When it’s done well, a two-island trip doesn’t feel like more effort. It feels like a better version of the same holiday.

 

And that’s exactly where we come in. Building it so it flows, from the first flight to the final night.

Start planning your next escape

 

If you’re planning 2026, this is where to start.

Speak to a Travel Seen specialist and start planning your next escape →

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Inside Switzerland’s Quiet Luxury

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Switzerland’s appeal among celebrities isn’t accidental. With its balance of privacy, precision hospitality and cinematic landscapes, it has become a go-to for those seeking a quieter kind of luxury. From alpine icons to lakeside retreats, here’s a breakdown of the key destinations to know and where to stay, what to do and exactly who has been drawn there.

Lake Lucerne: understated lakeside luxury

As we explored earlier this week, set against a backdrop of mountains and historic towns, Lake Lucerne offers a slower, more restorative pace. And it’s exactly where Molly-Mae Hague has just checked in.
 
Where to stay
Bürgenstock Resort – perched high above the lake, known for its infinity pool, panoramic views and complete seclusion.
 
What to do
Boat across the lake, swim in its clear waters, explore Lucerne’s old town or take a mountain excursion for sweeping alpine views.
 
Who’s been here
The Bürgenstock has historic ties to screen legends like Audrey Hepburn, who lived and married on the mountain, giving the area a long standing association with old Hollywood elegance.

St Moritz: classic winter glamour

Few destinations are as synonymous with alpine luxury as St. Moritz. It’s polished, exclusive and firmly on the celebrity circuit.
 
Where to stay
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – an icon of old world glamour with a loyal A-list following.
 
What to do
Skiing in winter, lake side walks in summer, high-end shopping and refined après ski.
 
Who’s been here
Princess Diana famously holidayed here, while figures such as Gianni Agnelli helped cement its jet set reputation. More recently, names like Leonardo DiCaprio continue to frequent the resort.

Geneva: polished and private

More cosmopolitan than its alpine counterparts, Geneva offers a different kind of Swiss escape. One rooted in discretion, culture and lakeside elegance.
 
Where to stay
The Woodward – one of the city’s most exclusive addresses, known for its all-suite concept and lakefront setting.
 
What to do
Fine dining, luxury shopping, lakeside walks and exploring the Old Town.
 
Who’s been here
Geneva has long attracted royalty and global figures, including Queen Elizabeth II on official visits, and is closely associated with residents such as Roger Federer. Its discretion also makes it a base for countless high profile individuals who prefer to remain out of the public eye.

 

 

The bigger picture

Across all of these destinations, the appeal of Switzerland remains consistent: privacy without isolation, luxury without excess and landscapes that do most of the talking.
 
From Audrey Hepburn’s connection to Bürgenstock to Princess Diana’s St. Moritz holidays, Switzerland’s relationship with celebrity and royalty is long established. Molly-Mae’s recent stay is simply the latest chapter and proof that, while trends come and go, Swiss luxury remains timeless.

The Travel Seen take

 

 

Switzerland’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer true escape without spectacle. It’s a place where privacy is protected, luxury feels effortless and the setting speaks for itself. From the historic glamour of lakeside retreats to the quiet drama of its alpine villages, it continues to attract those who value discretion above all else. 

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Poppy’s Pick of the Week: Bürgenstock Resort & Alpine Spa

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Hey, I’m Poppy, and for this edition of Poppy’s Pick, I’m shining a spotlight on Switzerland at its most cinematic. If you’re after a proper switch-off kind of escape, this is about as good as it gets…
 
Set 500m above Lake Lucerne, Bürgenstock feels less like a single hotel and more like its own quiet, elevated corner of the Alps. There are wide views, clean mountain air and a sense of space that’s hard to replicate.

Why Poppy loves it

There’s something about Bürgenstock that just feels like it resets you a bit. It’s the scale of it – the way everything is spread out across the mountain rather than stacked on top of itself. Nothing feels rushed or crowded. You’re up above Lake Lucerne, looking out at it all, and it’s hard not to slow down with it.

About Bürgenstock

Bürgenstock isn’t really one hotel, it’s a whole mountain top resort made up of several properties all connected by paths, lifts and long views across Lake Lucerne. It feels intentionally spread out, so nothing ever feels enclosed or busy.

At the centre of it is the spa, which is easily one of the defining parts of the stay. The infinity pools are the most photographed for a reason (especially the one that appears to spill out towards the lake) but it’s really the scale of the wellness space that stands out. There are multiple pools, saunas, steam room  and quiet relaxation areas, all designed to make you slow down without thinking about it.

The design throughout is modern and minimal, with floor-to-ceiling glass doing most of the work. Rooms are calm and unfussy, think neutral tones, clean lines and views that take over as soon as you walk in. It’s the kind of place where you don’t really need to leave your room for it to feel like a full experience.

Dining is spread across the resort, from easy all day options to more formal restaurants. Everything is positioned to make the most of the setting – terraces overlooking the lake, long evening light and that feeling of being slightly above everything else.

What ties it all together is space. You move between parts of the resort slowly, often outside, often with a view. It never feels rushed or condensed but more like a small world built into the mountain.

Perfect for

This is for slow travellers. People who want space more than stimulation.

 

It works if you’re celebrating something, if you need a proper reset or if you just want a few days where everything feels a bit more considered than usual.

 

It’s not really a “base for exploring every hour of the day” kind of place,  it’s more about being there.

 

 

Exploring Switzerland

If you do want to build it into a bigger Swiss trip, it pairs really well with the Glacier Express.

 

You could go from Lake Lucerne into Zermatt and continue the slow luxury theme from mountain top stillness to one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The shift works nicely: spa days and lake views, then full cinematic travel across glaciers, valleys and alpine villages.

 

Alternatively, you can keep it simple and just drop into Lucerne for a few hours to explore old town streets, the lake promenade and then back up to the quiet again.

Poppy’s take

 

 

The Mark isn’t just a hotel, it’s a New York institution. It combines the privacy of a luxury residence with the polish of a world-class property, all wrapped up in one of the city’s most coveted addresses. 

 

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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British Airways just revealed where luxury travel is heading next…

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British Airways has announced a series of new routes and increased frequencies – but this isn’t just a routine network update.

 

If you know how to read it properly, it’s a clear signal of something bigger: where luxury travel is shifting, what’s becoming easier to access and which destinations are about to surge.

 

From Sri Lanka to Melbourne and increased access to destinations like Tokyo and Cape Town, these aren’t random additions. They reflect a move towards more seamless, experience-led travel, with less reliance on stopovers and more focus on doing long-haul properly.

 

So if you’re planning ahead for 2026 and beyond, here’s what’s changed and exactly where to stay when you get there.

Sri Lanka
(Colombo)

Launching 23rd October 2026 from London Gatwick – 3x weekly

 

Sri Lanka has been building momentum for years, this just made it significantly easier to do properly.

 

It’s one of the few destinations where you can combine coastline, culture and safari in one seamless trip.

 

Where to stay:
Cape Weligama – clifftop villas, uninterrupted ocean views and a pace that forces you to slow down.

 

The shift: Multi-stop, high-impact itineraries are replacing single-destination trips and Sri Lanka delivers that effortlessly.

Cape Weligama, Sri Lanka

Cape Weligama, Sri Lanka

Melbourne
Australia

Launching 9th January 2027 from London Heathrow – daily

 

A direct route to Melbourne isn’t just convenient – it changes how people approach Australia entirely.

 

Instead of rushing between cities, travellers are slowing it down and building more considered itineraries.

 

Where to stay:
Jackalope Hotel – bold architecture, vineyard setting and one of the most design led stays in Australia.

 

The shift: Australia is moving from “once-in-a-lifetime” to repeat, curated travel.

Jackalope Hotel, Melbourne, Australia

Tokyo
Japan

Increased frequency of flights

 

Japan isn’t slowing down and increased flights confirm it.

 

Tokyo continues to dominate for travellers who want something culturally rich but still design-led and refined.

 

Where to stay:
Aman Tokyo – calm, minimalist and perfectly positioned above the city.

 

The shift: High-demand destinations are becoming more accessible, but still require proper planning to get right.

 

 

Aman, Tokyo, Japan

Barbados
(Increased Frequency)

Barbados remains a staple but increased flights give you more flexibility to time it properly.

 

Where to stay:
Sandy Lane – iconic, polished and consistently one of the best stays on the island.

 

The shift: Classic destinations aren’t disappearing, they’re being done better, not differently.

Sandy Lane Hotel, Barbados

Costa Rica
(Increased Frequency)

Costa Rica is leading the move towards experience-first travel.

It’s less about switching off and more about doing something meaningful while still staying somewhere exceptional.

Where to stay:
Nayara Tented Camp – fully immersive, without compromising on comfort.

The shift: Luxury is no longer just about the hotel, it’s about the experience around it.

Nayara Tented Camp, Costa Rica

Cape Town, South Africa
(Increased Frequency)

Few destinations offer as much variety as Cape Town.

 

City, beach, wine region and safari – all in one itinerary.

 

Where to stay:
One&Only Cape Town, a strong base for building a multi-stop trip.

 

The shift: Destinations that offer range are winning.

One&Only Cape Town, South Africa

The bigger shift
behind these routes

This isn’t just about new destinations.

 

There’s a wider shift happening across long-haul travel. Airlines are investing more in direct routes that reduce reliance on traditional stopover hubs, while also responding to demand for more seamless, experience-led itineraries.

 

For travellers, it means less friction and more opportunity to design trips that feel considered from start to finish.

Start planning your next escape

 

We’ve already paired each of these routes with the hotels that make them worth booking.

 

If you’re planning 2026, this is where to start.

 

Speak to a Travel Seen specialist and start planning your next escape →

 

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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The Glamour of Monaco

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Monaco, the glimmering jewel of the French Riviera, has long been synonymous with luxury, glamour and jet set living. Nestled along the Mediterranean coastline, this tiny principality packs a punch when it comes to high-end experiences, making it a favourite playground for celebrities, royalty and travellers seeking the ultimate in indulgence.

Who's been spotted there

From Hollywood A-listers to sports legends, Monaco’s star-studded reputation is no secret. George Clooney, often spotted enjoying the Monaco Grand Prix, Formula 1 drivers like Lewis Hamilton make the streets of Monte Carlo their second home during racing season. Tennis stars such as Novak Djokovic, along with Hollywood icons including Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman have been seen enjoying glamorous parties and the sun soaked beaches of the principality. Even royalty, including the British royal family and Monaco’s own Prince Albert II add to its elite allure.

Where to stay

Monaco offers a wealth of luxurious accommodations to match its glitzy reputation.
 
  • Maybourne Riviera – A sophisticated hideaway just outside Monaco with breathtaking sea views, exquisite dining and elegant suites, perfect for privacy and indulgence.
  • Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo – Iconic and legendary, right in the heart of Monte Carlo, offering classic luxury, renowned restaurants and easy access to the casino and designer boutiques.
  • Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo – A Belle Époque masterpiece featuring a luxurious spa, Michelin-starred dining, and panoramic views of the harbour.
  • Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo – A refined, intimate five-star retreat blending Mediterranean elegance with contemporary style, known for its serene pool, exceptional spa and dining by world-class chefs.

What to do

Monaco isn’t just about seeing and being seen, there’s a wealth of experiences that combine culture, adventure and indulgence:
 
  • Monte Carlo Casino – Try your luck where the rich and famous have been gambling for over a century. Even if you don’t play, the architecture and interiors are stunning.
  • Monaco Grand Prix – The ultimate adrenaline rush. Watch Formula 1 cars zoom through Monte Carlo’s streets in one of the world’s most prestigious races.
  • Larvotto Beach – Relax on pristine sands with the Mediterranean at your feet, a favourite spot for sunbathing and celebrity sightings alike.
  • Luxury Shopping – Monaco is a haven for haute couture and designer boutiques, perfect for fashion lovers and window shopping aficionados.

 

 

The essence of Monaco

Monaco isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. From rubbing shoulders with celebrities to indulging in world-class cuisine, staying in hotels like the Maybourne Riviera, Hotel de Paris or Monte-Carlo Bay Resort, and exploring cultural and scenic gems, every moment in Monaco feels curated for the discerning traveller. Whether you’re here for the glamour, the beach or the thrill of the Grand Prix, Monaco offers a dazzling blend of luxury, sophistication and Mediterranean charm that leaves a lasting impression.

The Travel Seen take

 

 

Monaco is the kind of place that fully lives up to its reputation – refined, glamorous and unapologetically luxurious. Yet beyond the yachts and haute couture, there’s a rhythm to it that feels surprisingly effortless.

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Poppy’s Pick of the Week: The Mark Hotel, New York

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The-Mark-Penthouse-Rooftop-Terrace-WEB
Hey, I’m Poppy, and for this edition of Poppy’s Pick, I wanted to spotlight a New York stay that feels effortlessly polished, quietly iconic and perfectly placed for a stylish city escape.
 
If you’re dreaming of crisp Central Park mornings, elegant Upper East Side living and a hotel that feels both exclusive and welcoming, The Mark is a perfect pick for a grown-up New York getaway that feels truly special.

Why Poppy loves it

It’s often said that New York feels like a collection of villages and if that’s the case, The Mark would undoubtedly be the heart of one. It has all the hallmarks of a world class hotel but with a much more personal, residential feel. The location is a huge part of the appeal also, tucked away on a quieter street yet just moments from Central Park and Madison Avenue so you really get the best of both worlds.

About the hotel

The Mark stands out for its sense of space and individuality (something that’s genuinely rare in Manhattan). The rooms and suites feel generous and liveable, designed with personality by Jacques Grange, blending bold design with comfort in a way that feels very “New York.”
 
It’s also a hotel that goes beyond the expected. Whether it’s arranging something special in Central Park or adding thoughtful touches to your stay, everything feels tailored and effortless.
 
The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges brings a real energy to the hotel too stylish but relaxed and always a great atmosphere. It’s as much a destination for locals as it is for guests, which says a lot.
 
Service is where The Mark truly excels, highly attentive but always discreet. The team has mastered the art of personalisation, making it a favourite among high-profile guests and loyal return visitors. As Anna Wintour perfectly puts it, the staff are “caretakers and stewards of the highest order… they make magic happen every day.”

Perfect for

The Mark is ideal for travellers who want a more refined, low-key luxury experience. It works beautifully for families thanks to the space, but equally for couples or VIP clients who value privacy, style and a sense of ease.
 
If you’re looking for a New York base that feels like your own Upper East Side apartment (but better) this is it.

 

 

Exploring the Big Apple

Staying at The Mark places you in one of New York’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Spend mornings strolling through Central Park, afternoons browsing Madison Avenue’s boutiques and evenings exploring world-class dining and culture nearby. The location allows you to experience the city at your own pace – whether that’s relaxed and refined or buzzing and cosmopolitan.

Poppy’s take

 

 

The Mark isn’t just a hotel, it’s a New York institution. It combines the privacy of a luxury residence with the polish of a world-class property, all wrapped up in one of the city’s most coveted addresses. 

 

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Remote desert luxury | The hotels redefining luxury travel in 2026

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There is a clear shift happening in luxury travel.

 

It is moving away from crowded destinations, overexposed beach clubs and itineraries that feel the same wherever you go. In their place, a new kind of escape is emerging — one defined by space, stillness and experiences that feel genuinely immersive.

 

Welcome to the rise of remote desert luxury.

 

From the vast landscapes of Namibia to the ancient rock formations of Saudi Arabia, desert destinations are becoming the choice for travellers who want something more considered. Less about being seen, more about how it feels to be there.

Why desert travel is
having it's moment

Desert environments offer something that is increasingly hard to find in modern travel: perspective.

 

There is a natural stillness to these landscapes. No crowds, no constant stimulation, no pressure to move quickly from one place to the next. Instead, time slows down.

 

But this shift is not just about switching off. It is about deeper connection – to the environment, to culture and to the experience itself.

 

The best desert hotels are designed to reflect this. Architecture blends into the surroundings, materials mirror the tones of the land and experiences are carefully curated rather than over-programmed.

 

It is luxury that feels intentional.

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia

Longitude 131°, Northern Territory, Australia

Our Habitas
AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Set within the dramatic sandstone valleys of AlUla, Our Habitas offers a more mindful take on luxury travel.

 

The focus here is on wellbeing and cultural immersion. Days are shaped around yoga, sound healing and guided experiences through one of the most historically rich landscapes in the region. The design is minimal, allowing the environment to take centre stage.

 

It is a place to slow down properly.

Our Habitas AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Amangiri
Utah, USA

Few properties have reached the same status as Amangiri.

 

Carved into the desert landscape of Utah, it is known for its architectural simplicity and complete sense of seclusion. Clean lines, natural materials and uninterrupted views create a stay that feels both grounding and elevated.

 

Experiences range from canyon hikes to private desert explorations, but the real appeal is the calm that comes with being completely removed from everything else.

 

 

Amangiri, Utah, USA

Longitude 131°
Northern Territory, Australia

Positioned directly facing Uluru, Longitude 131° offers one of the most powerful settings in luxury travel.

 

Its tented pavilions are designed to frame the landscape, with floor-to-ceiling views of one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks. The experience goes beyond the visual, with guided cultural insights that connect guests to the history and significance of the land.

 

It is both immersive and unforgettable.

Longitude 131°, Northern Territory, Australia

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Namibia

Set deep within the Namib Desert, this lodge is designed for complete disconnection.

 

Suites feature floor-to-ceiling glass, allowing the desert to stretch endlessly in front of you, while the region’s famously clear skies make it one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

 

Experiences here are raw and elemental; from exploring towering dunes to quiet moments watching the landscape change throughout the day.

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia

What connects them?

A classic that still feels current. Eden Rock is co-owned by Jane Spencer Matthews who is also an artist and the hotel carries that creative energy throughout.


Why we love it: when you want sunshine, ease and an iconically good hotel scene, this is the one.

Planning a desert escape
properly

Desert travel is not something to piece together on a comparison site.

 

The best experiences come from understanding the nuances; when to go, which room categories are worth it, how to combine destinations and which properties truly deliver on what they promise.

 

That is where working with a specialist makes the difference.

 

At Travel Seen, our specialists have first-hand knowledge of the hotels we recommend, alongside access to preferred rates, upgrades and added value that are not always available when booking independently.

 

If you are considering a remote desert escape, we will help you plan it properly – from the first idea through to the final details.

Start planning your next escape

 

If you are looking for something beyond the expected, desert destinations offer a completely different perspective on luxury travel.

 

Speak to a Travel Seen specialist and start planning your next escape →

 

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Sardinia | Where celebrities go to disappear in style

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There are beach destinations and then there’s Sardinia. Long favoured by royalty, supermodels and low key billionaires, this Italian island has quietly evolved into one of Europe’s most exclusive summer playgrounds. Think turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean, rugged coastlines dotted with mega yachts and a social scene that feels like a more discreet, less try hard cousin of Saint-Tropez.

 

At the heart of it all is Costa Smeralda, the glossy stretch of coastline originally developed in the 1960s for elite travellers and still very much the place to see and be seen.

Who's been spotted there

Sardinia’s appeal has always been its ability to attract celebrities without the chaos.

Over the years, names like Beyoncé and Jay-Z have holidayed here aboard superyachts, while Kendall Jenner and Leonardo DiCaprio are regulars along the Costa Smeralda circuit. Even royalty, most famously Princess Diana, spent her last vacation here.

The vibe? Understated wealth. No red carpets… just linen shirts, oversized sunglasses and €100M yachts anchored offshore.

Where to stay on the Emerald Coast

Sardinia’s hotel scene is undergoing a serious glow up with major luxury players entering the market in recent years cementing its status as a next-gen hotspot.

 

  • Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel – Recently relaunched under the ultra-luxe Belmond portfolio, this iconic beachfront property has been reimagined for a new era of jet-setters.
  • Hotel Pitrizza (future Cheval Blanc) – Set to become Cheval Blanc’s first Italian property, this ultra-exclusive hotel is undergoing a transformation ahead of its 2026 debut—marking a major luxury power move by LVMH.

 

Elsewhere, legacy icons like Hotel Cala di Volpe and private villas hidden in the hills continue to attract A-list regulars who prefer privacy over paparazzi.

What to do (beyond beach clubs)

While beach hopping is a given, Sardinia offers more than just sunbeds and rosé.

 

  • Boat the Maddalena Archipelago
    Charter a yacht and explore the crystalline waters of La Maddalena Archipelago—widely considered some of the most beautiful in Europe.
  • Lunch in Porto Cervo
    The unofficial capital of Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo is where designer boutiques, polished piazzas, and long lunches collide.
  • Beach Club Scene
    Spend the day at Phi Beach for sunset DJ sets or Cala Brandinchi for a more laid-back, Caribbean-style escape.
  • Go Inland for Authentic Sardinia
    Swap yachts for culture in the island’s interior—think traditional agriturismos, ancient ruins, and a slower, more authentic rhythm of life.

 

 

Sardinia's next chapter in luxury

Sardinia is entering its next chapter. With the arrival of brands like Belmond and Cheval Blanc plus ongoing luxury investment across the Costa Smeralda, it’s shifting from old money favourite to new luxury frontier.

 

What makes it special though, is that it hasn’t lost its edge. It’s still raw, still rugged and still just under the radar enough to feel exclusive.

 

If Capri is the show off and Saint-Tropez is the party, Sardinia is the insider’s choice. The place you go when you don’t need to prove anything, but still want the best of everything.

The Travel Seen take

 

 

For us, Sardinia is the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard and doesn’t need to. It’s confident, understated and quietly impressive in all the right ways. That’s what keeps it interesting and why we’d keep going back.

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Poppy’s Pick of the Week: OKU Ibiza

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Casa Cook Ibiza

Hey, I’m Poppy, and for this edition of Poppy’s Pick, I wanted to spotlight a sun soaked Ibiza escape that feels effortlessly cool, beautifully designed and just the right balance of relaxed and indulgent.

 

If you’re dreaming of sunshine, style and a little escapism, OKU Ibiza is a perfect pick for a grown-up getaway that feels special. Tucked away on the quieter side of the island, it blends laidback luxury with Ibiza’s signature energy.

Why Poppy loves it

There’s something about OKU Ibiza that just works. It’s chic without trying too hard — think earthy tones, minimalist design and a calm, bohemian feel that instantly puts you at ease. The pool scene is a standout: one of the largest on the island, with daybeds, DJs and that perfect balance of buzz and relaxation. It feels like a sanctuary, but never sleepy.

About the hotel

Set just moments from the gorgeous beaches of Cala Gració and Cala Gracioneta, OKU Ibiza is all about understated luxury. Rooms and suites are spacious and serene, many with rooftop terraces or swim-up access.

The hotel’s Japanese-fusion restaurant, led by a world-class chef, is a destination in itself.. beautifully presented dishes, fresh flavours and a setting that feels special without being formal. Add in a sleek spa, outdoor yoga and curated music sessions, and you’ve got a hotel that captures the spirit of Ibiza in a more refined way.

Perfect for

  • Couples looking for a stylish, relaxed escape
  • Friends who want a social atmosphere without full party chaos
  • Design lovers and wellness seekers
  • Anyone who loves Ibiza but prefers the calmer, more elevated side

 

 

Exploring the island

Even if you never leave the pool (tempting), Ibiza has so much to explore, from beach hopping to chasing those iconic golden sunsets along the west coast. Wander through the cobbled streets and boutiques of Dalt Vila for a touch of history and charm, or spend a day on the water with a boat trip over to Formentera. The dining scene is just as varied, with everything from rustic beach shacks to glamorous hotspots  and of course, no trip is complete without experiencing Ibiza’s legendary clubbing scene, whether that’s a laid-back beach club by day or dancing into the early hours at one of the island’s world famous venues.

Poppy’s take

 

 

OKU Ibiza is Ibiza at its most effortlessly cool. It gives you the energy of the island but with space to breathe, somewhere you can fully switch off while still feeling part of the scene.

 

If your idea of a perfect escape is sunshine, beautiful design, great food and a hint of glamour (without the chaos), this is one you’ll keep coming back to.

 

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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Inside Jen and Gem’s Alpine Weekend at Armancette

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There is something about an Alpine weekend that always delivers.

 

The fresh air, the mountain views, the excuse to wear great knitwear from breakfast onwards and in this case, the kind of hotel that makes the whole trip feel even better. On a recent weekend away, Jen and Gem headed to the Alps for a few days of skiing, good food and first-hand hotel research, with Armancette becoming the standout base of the trip.

 

And while there was plenty of polished luxury to take in, it was also exactly the sort of weekend we love most – fun, a little chaotic at times, a few falls on the slopes, lots of laughs and the kind of experiences that remind us why getting out there and seeing hotels properly matters so much.

A hotel that
sets the tone

From the moment they arrived, Armancette felt like the right kind of mountain hotel.

 

Set in Saint-Nicolas de Véroce, just above Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and within easy reach of Megève, Armancette offers a more peaceful and understated take on an Alpine escape, with Mont Blanc views and a setting that feels a world away from busier ski hubs.

 

It has that beautiful balance of being luxurious without feeling stuffy, stylish without trying too hard and intimate in a way that immediately makes you relax. Set against an incredible Alpine backdrop, it felt calm, elevated and quietly confident – the sort of place that lets the setting do the talking.

 

For Jen and Gem, it was the perfect base. Somewhere that gave them the full mountain experience but with all the warmth, comfort and polish you want from a luxury stay.

Rooms that feel refined
rather than overly styled

One of the things Armancette gets very right is the accommodation itself. The hotel has just 19 rooms and suites, which immediately gives it a more intimate, boutique feel than some of the larger Alpine properties nearby.

 

The rooms are individually designed, generous in size and finished in a way that feels polished without losing that mountain warmth; think noble materials, soft textures and views that make you want to slow down for a minute before rushing off to the slopes.

 

It is that smaller scale that really worked for Jen and Gem. After full days out skiing, it felt like the kind of place you wanted to come back to, calm, comfortable and chic without ever feeling formal.

The spa is a real
part of the experience

For a ski weekend, the wellness side of a hotel matters, and Armancette does this particularly well. The spa and wellness area looks directly onto the mountains and includes a heated indoor-outdoor swimming pool, indoor jacuzzi, two outdoor jacuzzis, a sauna, steam room, treatment rooms and a 24-hour fitness space.

 

It is not just a token hotel spa, it feels like a proper part of the stay, especially after a day on the slopes.

 

That balance of active and restorative is a big part of what made the weekend work so well. Ski, reset, eat well, do it all again.

 

 

Michelin-starred
dining that elevates the stay

Another thing that really sets Armancette apart is the food. Its signature restaurant, La Table d’Armante, holds a Michelin star and is led by chef Thomas Vonderscher, with a menu built around local and seasonal produce. Michelin describes the space as plush and cosy, with the kitchen celebrating ingredients such as fish from Lake Geneva and regional duck, which says a lot about the standard and sense of place they are aiming for.

 

That matters because it means the hotel is not simply a beautiful base near the slopes – it is a destination in its own right. For Jen and Gem, that made the whole stay feel more complete. You had the skiing and the mountain energy during the day, then a hotel experience in the evening that still felt elevated and special.

Skiing, a few falls and
great times in Megève

Of course, this was not a trip spent sitting quietly in a robe the whole time.

Jen and Gem are both lovers of a ski weekend, so the days naturally included plenty of time on the slopes – along with a few inevitable falls, which only added to the fun. That is part of the charm of these trips. However polished the setting, the best ski weekends still have that slightly chaotic, laugh-about-it-later energy.

 

A real highlight was heading over to La Folie Douce in Megève, which brought that classic après-ski shift in mood: lively, fun and full of personality after a day in the mountains. It gave the weekend that extra layer of energy and reminded us that the best Alpine escapes are never just about the hotel, but about the rhythm of the whole trip.

 

One of the standout evenings was dinner at La Fruitière, next door, which felt like the perfect continuation of the day. After skiing and après, it was exactly where you wanted to end up; good food, great atmosphere and that cosy but elevated Alpine mood that makes mountain dinners feel especially satisfying. It is those combinations that make a trip memorable: a beautiful base, brilliant food and enough fun in the mix to stop it all feeling too polished.

Why Armancette stood out

 

What made Armancette such a success for this trip was that it gave Jen and Gem the best of both sides of an Alpine weekend. It had the intimacy, comfort and high standard you want from a luxury mountain hotel, but it also placed them perfectly for the skiing, the social side and the kind of moments that actually bring a trip to life.

 

Inspired by Jen and Gem’s weekend? We can help you book your own Armancette escape and tailor the wider experience around how you like to travel.

 

Ready to book?
Send us an enquiry and we will get you matched to the right experience. Call or Whatsapp us on 0333 305 9912.

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