"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…
COMO Hotels and Resorts is delighted to announce the upcoming Space Summer Camp series for children and teenagers, led by NASA and Citizen astronauts in July and August 2023. Young…
For LGBTIQ+ travelers, most trips begin by seeking out the local “gayborhood.” The sight of rainbow flags and same-sex couples can feel like a liberating breath of fresh air. For many, these destinations are welcoming, safe havens; friendly places where the collective community spirit dwells. There’s often a rich gay history embedded, too, inviting visitors…
Visitors coming to Madrid for a bit of winter sun often get a surprisingly chilly reception. This is because Madrid, perched at 657m (2155ft) above sea level, is Europe’s highest capital city after Andorra. This elevated position means that while it’s invariably sunny, in winter, temperatures are not much warmer than those in northern Europe.…
The cultural dynamo that is Porto has a packed calendar of festivals, concerts, markets and countless other events throughout the year. There’s always something going on in the city, so weather and visitor numbers should be the prime considerations for planning your trip. Whether you’re seeking warm sunny days and open-air celebrations or budget deals…