De Madrid al cielo ('from Madrid to heaven') is a popular local expression that fittingly describes the Spanish capital. With historic landmarks, an array of culinary choices, picturesque plazas and world-famous nightlife, there’s a little piece of heaven awaiting every traveler. Take some time to explore Madrid’s sunlit barrios (neighborhoods) and you’ll discover pockets of…
Cosmopolitan Mexico City can seem somewhat pricey by Mexican standards, but when you factor in all the free activities on offer, it's practically a bargain. From first-rate museums and inspiring public art to invigorating hikes and live music, many of the cultural capital's premier attractions won't set you back a single peso. You won't pay…
Itching to hit the open road in Mexico? We have five epic drives to fuel your wanderlust. Winding through the country's most stunning regions, these classic itineraries take you to jungle-set Maya ruins, dramatic turquoise coastlines and culturally rich colonial cities, not to mention a slew of remote places best reached by car. The distances provided are…
Prague is a city that knows how to surprise. Wander its beautiful medieval core, and you’ll soon be bumping into both fairytale vistas and provocative street art. At night, small, dimly lit doorways can lead to vast convivial beer halls, whereas riotous music clubs hide behind grand Art Deco facades. Whatever brings you to the…
"Where locals go" is our new series featuring under-the-radar holiday destinations that are often overlooked by visitors but cherished by locals. In this edition, our Italy experts showcase their favorite holiday spots at home. Italians are well aware of their country's charms and when in need of a holiday, they usually head to the mountains…
A land of snow-capped mountains, mirror lakes and lush forest, New Zealand comes up on many travelers’ bucket lists. Before you book your flights, however, it’s important to make sure you have all your paperwork in order. Here’s all you need to know about whether you need a visa or vaccination certificates to travel to…
Be prepared to chat a lot when you’re in Sydney. Don’t be surprised if the waitstaff ask more than just “Did you enjoy your meal?” or if your tour guide invites everyone to kick on at the pub later. Sydneysiders, like most Australians, are genuinely friendly people. They just want visitors to have a good…
Like most people, I had never set foot on a private island — outside of my daydreams. Then earlier this year, I got to visit andBeyond Mnemba Island — a private coral-fringed, white-sand island off the Zanzibar archipelago in Tanzania — and it felt like something I’d conjured in my imagination. A ‘pinch me’ vacation that was…
Maldives, a tropical paradise renowned for its unspoiled beaches and turquoise waters, is a treasure trove of vibrant culture and exquisite handicrafts. On 19 May 2023, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo launched…
Portugal is one of the most family friendly countries in Europe. Children are an integral part of daily life, and they're happily welcomed anywhere, from museums and restaurants to town squares and theaters. Cities are rife with parks, playgrounds, while the rest of the country is a perfectly preserved natural paradise. With 300 days of…