Spain takes on a slightly slower, softer rhythm in September. The peak summer crowds have eased, the evenings still feel made for long dinners outside, and there’s enough warmth left for beach days, city strolls, and countryside escapes. From island coves to wine country and elegant northern coastlines, these five Spanish destinations all come into their own as summer gently gives way to autumn.
Winter sun doesn't have to mean the same destinations year after year. Whether you're dreaming of tropical islands, unforgettable wildlife encounters, bustling cities, or beaches that stretch for miles, there are plenty of destinations that come into their own during winter. If you're already thinking about your next escape, here are five winter sun destinations worth adding to your travel wish list.
When most people think of Thailand, they picture the dry, busy months - the packed beaches, the long queues at temples, the peak-season prices. But, outside of these peak months, Thailand’s green season reveals a softer, more atmospheric side of the country. The landscapes deepen in colour, the pace eases, and familiar places begin to feel more spacious, from temple courtyards and hillside trails to palm-fringed beaches.
Choosing where to stay can completely change the feel of an Algarve holiday. Beyond the region’s larger resorts, there are whitewashed villas overlooking the Atlantic, converted village houses in the countryside, intimate design hotels, and peaceful coastal retreats. From the fishing village of Salema to the quieter landscapes around Vila do Bispo and Lagos, these four stays each offer their own take on southern Portugal, whether you want the freedom of a villa, easy access to the beach, or somewhere small and characterful to come back to after a day exploring.
As summer draws to a close, city breaks come back into focus, and few destinations pack as much into a long weekend as Valletta. Malta's compact capital combines centuries of history with a thriving food scene, waterfront views, and a walkable centre that makes it easy to fit plenty into just a few days. With warm autumn temperatures, open-air cafés still spilling onto the streets, and a calendar of events continuing well beyond peak season, it's an easy choice for anyone looking for somewhere that feels both relaxed and full of character.
Set among the rolling hills of Cyprus’ south-west coast, Aphrodite Hills Resort offers much more than a standalone villa or apartment stay. Guests have their own private space, with options ranging from serviced apartments to large villas with private pools, while still having championship golf, tennis and padel courts, restaurants, wellness facilities, and family activities close by. Just 15 minutes from Paphos International Airport, it is a practical choice for couples, families, groups, and longer stays, with added services such as housekeeping, arrival food baskets, breakfast at the Golf Clubhouse, and private chefs available to make the holiday even easier.
Cruising has never offered more choice. Beyond the familiar image of large ocean liners sailing between famous ports, there's a whole world of alternative cruise experiences designed around discovery, culture, and immersive travel. Whether you're dreaming of remote polar landscapes, Europe's historic waterways, or hidden coastal harbours that larger ships can't reach, there's a style of cruising to match the way you like to travel. The key is finding the one that's right for you.
As part of a recent South Africa trip, a group of Travel Counsellors set out to experience the country first-hand, exploring the places, stays, and local moments that help shape more personal holidays for their customers. While Kruger National Park was a major part of the itinerary, the journey there offered something just as memorable. The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga became a scenic road trip filled with deep canyons, dramatic waterfalls, forest walks, small-town food stops, and viewpoints that made everyone pause for longer than planned. It was a reminder that South Africa isn’t only about safari; the routes between each stop can be every bit as rewarding.
Are you based in the UAE and tired of spending your free time trawling through endless travel websites, only to feel unsure you have made the right choice? Many travellers here are looking for something more personal, more premium and far better supported than booking online on their own. That is where working with a dedicated Travel Counsellor comes in.
