Whether you’re undecided on where to go this summer or just fancy a long weekend in the sun, our contributors and friends are here to inspire you with their own upcoming travel plans. From boutique hotels in Mallorca to island hopping in Malaysia, here’s what they’re up to…
Alexandra Dudley
Cook & SL Columnist
“This summer, I’m embracing the Mediterranean – no complaints there. My husband and I have made it something of a tradition to spend two weeks on the idyllic island of Spetses each year. It’s a small but incredibly beautiful spot just off mainland Greece, opposite Hydra, and it holds a special place in our hearts. This time, we’ll have our daughter Anabel (who will be seven months old) in tow. We’ve rented a little house on the island and have family coming and going while we’re there. It’ll be all about beach picnics and big, home-cooked family suppers.
“In June, I’m heading to Zelia Halkidiki for a long weekend with my sister. It’ll be a very different vibe – think lazy days by the pool, ideally with a cocktail in hand. And before all that, I’m hoping to escape for a few days in May to hotel Anassa in Cyprus. That one’s particularly nostalgic for me. I first went there with my mum and siblings when my brother was very young, and we had the most brilliant time. It’s perfect for children – there are loads of activities and a wonderfully relaxed attitude to families, but it’s also incredibly chic. It never feels like you’re in a full-blown kids’ club.
“Closer to home, I’m planning a couple of staycations. The Seaside Boarding House is top of the list – it was a trip we had to postpone last year when I was heavily pregnant and not feeling my best. I’m also hoping to squeeze in a night at Holm in Somerset. I love Nicholas Balfe’s approach to food and the way he works with ingredients. The property has just seven rooms, all of them beautifully done, and it’s in one of my favourite parts of the world, for walks, farm shops and art.
“As for day trips, we recently moved from east to west London, and while I love our new home, I really miss the east. Now that we’ve settled into a bit more of a rhythm with Anabel, I’m planning some sunny London days out at a few of my favourite restaurants. I’ve already booked Rochelle Canteen and Elliot’s in Hackney. A day trip to Paris is also in the works. I like to take the first Eurostar out (painful, but worth it). There’s nothing quite like that first bite of pain au chocolat on French soil. Then it’s a long lunch in Le Marais, a stroll across the city and one last glass of wine before heading home on the train. Perfect.”
Click here to read the article in SheerLuxe.