Posts by : Izy Berry

The beginning of a new year is always prime time for weather forecasters, predicting how the forecast will be wetter, colder, and more challenging for us to battle through on our daily commute. While many people struggle enough in January, combatting the post-festive blues, it’s also the beginning of the UK’s peak storm season. With many epic freezes on record, a chilly start to the year has happened a lot over the years. Let’s take a look at some of the most historic winter freezes in the UK and predict whether 2020 will follow suit.

1836

One of the oldest cold snaps on record, the winter of 1836/37 sent a chill right through the core of the UK, with a hostile combination of sub-zero temperatures, snowstorms, and gale force winds. On Christmas Eve of 1836, the southern region of the UK was battered by a formidable deluge, as well as intense blizzards and high winds, resulting in serious snow drifts. By Boxing Day, there had been little to no relief from Mother Nature and the storm hit the town of Lewes, Sussex, near the Southern coastline. The north easterly winds swept up a deep layer of snow on Cliffe Hill, and it was reportedly near 20 feet deep. The overhang of show was fated to collapse onto a row of houses belonging to some of the poorest working people in the town, known as Boulder Row. The residents were advised to leave their homes but refused to do so, even after the snow drift partially collapsed and swept an entire timber yard close to the cottages into the nearby River Ouse. On the following day, the remaining snow drift fell, engulfing the cottages. Nowadays, the avalanche is commemorated by the Snowdrop Inn, a pub built on the former Boulder Row site.

1947

Post-war Britain was hit by a serious wintery snap in February 1947, and it was a freak event which certainly took the nation by surprise. The weather had followed the now modern trend of a mild January, only to experience blankets of snow in a sudden chill at the end of the month. This pattern has become a common trend ever since — making the 1947 freeze the origin of what we now know as the typical British winter. Since the snow started on the 23^rd January, it fell somewhere in the UK every day for 55 consecutive days after, and we’ve not experienced this since!

1962/63

Considered as the worst winter in recent history, 1962/63 was certainly a year the UK wrapped up warm and stayed indoors, as outside temperatures fell to a record -20°C in December 1962. In Glasgow, snow fell on Christmas Day for the first time since 1938, making for the ultimate festive postcard scene. Across Wales and in South West England, snow drifts were cutting communication off in towns and villages for days at a time. Lakes and rivers around the nation were transformed into icy spectacles, and the sea even froze over near harbours and ports. Newspaper headlines in Ireland read ‘More Snow Falls as Cut-Off Families Run Short of Food’, and images show groups of people pushing vintage cars out of deep snow. This freeze was the coldest to hit for over 200 years, and the country only began the upwards climb out of winter in March 1963.

2018

Throughout the ‘noughties’ we certainly experienced some particularly frosty periods, but the notorious cold snap which gripped the country from February 2018 onwards was undoubtedly one of the worst events in recent history. This wintery spell caused £1.2 billion in damages, with the lowest temperature of -14°C recorded in Cairn Gorm, and a shocking 17 UK casualties. The phrase ‘Beast from the East’ is used to describe cold and wintery conditions created by a polar continental air mass, happening typically when air pressure is high over Scandinavia. Across the continent in Europe, many countries experienced a similarly intense chill, with snow falling in Rome for the first time in six years and in Paris, metro stations were adorned with icicles hanging from the ceilings.

At home, UK residents were forced to prepare for the wintery influx and the MET office issued several weather warnings — reaching the highest recognised level, red. From the north of Scotland to the south of London, every corner of the UK was affected to some extent by chillingly low temperatures, black ice, and blizzard conditions leading to some power outages. This continued into March, with travel disruption from closed roads to cancelled trains and planes alike.

2020

What could be in store for this winter then? Meteorologists have taken a look at the patterns we experienced towards the end of 2019, and with this in mind, it seems like cold snaps will be short lived. But climate change scientists have forecasted that January and February will experience an average temperate of 3.9°C. This is 0.5°C below average for the time of year. These cold snaps might not be prolonged though, and there’s rain on the long range forecasts — nothing a birdcage umbrella can’t tackle! However, if this prediction is right, then winter 2020 could be the seventh coldest of the past 30 years.

As we move into February, time will tell on whether or not we will shiver long into March, welcoming spring with open arms!

The United States of America is a destination many people dream of visiting. Vast plains, diverse landscapes, a melting pot of cultures and both budget-friendly and luxurious holidays await those who traverse the globe to see the sights the USA has to offer. If the land of the free is calling to you, how do you ensure you enjoy a getaway which is as luxurious as it is exciting? Below you will find three ways to create the dream American vacation.

Travel in Style

This point may be an obvious one, but it’s one worth repeating. If you are spending hours in the air to reach America, why not do it in style and make it a journey to remember? Air travel doesn’t have to be a stressful affair, with screaming kids kicking the back of your seat for the duration of the journey. By splashing out a little bit extra, you can recline in First Class, ready to hop off the plane full of energy and excitement. Of course, you could always try and get a flight upgrade without paying the price, but these are few and far between, even if you’re celebrating a special occasion, such as a honeymoon! Luckily, for those traveling with little ones, there are no set rules which state children aren’t permitted to fly in First Class, so don’t hold back on purchasing those select tickets. 

Find Luxurious Accommodation 

What does luxurious accommodation look like to you and your travel companions? For some, it may be a Manhattan apartment, overlooking Central Park, with a concierge ready to assist you any way they can. For others, it’s a sprawling log cabin, hidden away in a forest, where you don’t see (or hear!) another soul for miles around. To choose the right accommodation for you, which will offer both luxury and comfort, think carefully about the kind of getaway you are planning. If you are traveling with a family, a penthouse apartment may be a dream come true but not offer the necessary kid-friendly features you need. If you are planning a trip for you and your significant other, a luxury hotel suite may tick all the boxes.   

Plan Exciting Activities 

Getting to America and finding somewhere incredible to stay is only half the battle of planning a luxurious getaway. The other half is filling your time with fun things to do, exciting activities you can’t find anywhere else. As mentioned before, America is a melting pot of cultures, so whatever you want to do, see, or eat, you will find it here. 

One great American pastime which you simply can’t miss when in the country is seeing a live production at a theatre. If your children have never witnessed this before, you can be sure they will be blown away as they see their Disney favorites, for example, take to the stage in front of their eyes and sing those all-too-familiar songs. To ensure you don’t arrive at the theater to find there aren’t any tickets left, buy ahead of time at ticketsales.com. 

For some families, visiting America is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see incredible destinations in real life, that were previously only viewed through a TV screen. From the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls to Hollywood and New York City, wherever you choose to lay your head in the USA, make sure you plan a luxurious getaway, with activities the whole family will love. After all, this is your chance to make memories that will live on forever. 

Are you bored of travelling to the same couple of holiday destinations every year? Most people travel to the same short-haul destinations on a yearly basis, enjoying the familiarity and stress-free nature of a short-haul, return trip. However, if you want to start to spice your holidays up, you should read on for a comprehensive guide on some of the best long-haul destinations in the new year.

Are you uncertain whether long haul destinations are right for you? 

Long haul destinations can set your creativity alight and help you to stay inspired and in love with the world around you. What’s more, they are endlessly educational, and there is nothing like experiencing a culture or visiting a historical monument to keep you learning and open-minded throughout the rest of the year. 

Now, where should you travel to?

Due to the location of New Zealand, you may struggle to find manageable, long-haul flights around the world. However, there are plenty of exciting and exotic locations that can inspire you throughout the year. 

South America

South America is full of gems for every single traveller, and that includes those from New Zealand. Whether you want to explore the rainforests of Costa Rica in order to spot unique wildlife such as tapirs and sloths, or enjoy the art and wine of Argentina, the continent is definitely worth the long trip from New Zealand. If you want to see as much of South America as possible in a limited time, you should consider booking a tour with Exoticca, who specialise in exotic vacations such as trips to Argentina, Chile, and Peru.

Europe

Although you might not associate Europe with some of the most exotic locales in the world, countries such as Turkey can help to open your eyes to completely new cultures that differ from your own. Visit Istanbul and enjoy Byzantine relics such as the Galata Tower and the Dolmabahce Palace. You can also step into historical delights such as the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia for an insight into the traditions of Turkey. 

Not only this, but if you want to lounge on beach islands as well as experience the long and varied history of Europe, travel to the East in order to visit countries such as Croatia, where you can both enjoy the natural attractions of Plitvice Lakes National Park and explore the old town in Dubrovnik. 

The Caribbean 

Although a trip to the Caribbean may take as long as 23 hours from New Zealand, the Caribbean has long been known as the first stop for people in search of an island paradise. One of the most popular destinations is the Bahamas, where you can enjoy warm summer temperatures. Not only can you soak up the rays in locations such as Pig Beach, but why wouldn’t you want to travel to a beach resort called Paradise Island?

Africa

From Marrakesh in Morocco to Cape Town in South Africa, there are endless destinations in Africa that should appeal to you if you are looking for a long-haul flight that you will remember forever. See the spectacular sight of the pyramids in Giza, Egypt, or go on a safari in Kenya to see the Big Five. Whether you see the real city behind the Hollywood glitz and glamour in Casablanca or indulge on tropical islands such as Mauritius, there is a sparkling array of destinations to add to any long-haul bucket list.

Christmas Day is the most popular day of the year for couples to get engaged – that’s according to a survey by Wedding Wire. Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day and New Year’s Eve all follow closely behind, meaning that the festive period is a hit for romantics – but planning the perfect proposal can be stressful, especially when it comes to picking out the perfect location. If you’re in need of some inspiration, Angelic Diamonds have put together this guide to the top locations for an unforgettable Christmas proposal.

1.      An Ice-Skating Adventure at The Natural History Museum

Unless your partner has two left feet on the ice, proposing at an ice rink is one of the most romantic things you could do this Christmas. With a Christmas tree in the centre, the Natural History Museum’s ice rink is enveloped in trees illuminated by hundreds of fairy lights. A romantic atmosphere is set with the 12^th century gothic Natural History Museum as the backdrop to your question. Day or night, your partner is bound to be in awe of the location.

If you contact your local ice rink, they’re usually happy to help you plan the engagement and may even offer special discounts and treats. Hiring professional flashmob ice skaters is a fun way to surprise the person you’re proposing to, turning fellow ice skaters from strangers on the rink to a unique event dedicated to him or her. And chances are, they won’t be expecting it at all.

2.      A Cosy Lake District Getaway

You could plan a cosy Christmas getaway for you and your loved one this year. If you both love the outdoors, the Lake District offers plenty of scenic winter walks to embark on together, during which you could pop the question against a backdrop of magnificent mountains and frost-coated trees. Afterwards, nothing beats relaxing in a snug cottage with a roaring fire to keep you warm and toasty.

The Lake District also offers plenty of Christmas events throughout the month of December. From Carlisle Christmas market, to the Keswick Proms. For a more luxurious proposal experience, Lake District Country Hotels are offering a three-night Christmas package, where you can enjoy mulled wine and gourmet food.

So, there we have some of the best Christmas settings to pop the question this year, check out Christmas events at cities near you for more inspiration.

3.      Your Local Christmas Tree Farm

If you think your partner would prefer more of a low-key proposal, an understated yet traditionally festive location such as a Christmas Tree Farm could be what you need. This is also an excellent way to catch them off guard whilst in the midst of a festive activity.

It’s worth getting in contact with your local Christmas tree farm and asking if there’s a secluded area where you can decorate, and maybe even hire a photographer to hide and snap pics of the unforgettable, private moment. You could even take the Christmas tree you got engaged next to home!

4.      A Christmas Market or Christmas Carol Concert

Christmas Markets are now in almost every city, so you don’t have to travel too far to find one. To make this engagement extra special, you could plant small, thoughtful gifts at different stalls, commemorating your relationship together — these could be inside jokes, things you know they love. Make your way around the stalls until you get to a Christmas tree where you can drop to one knee and ask those special words, ‘will you marry me?’

You could also take your partner to a Christmas Carol Concert. If they’re a fan of taking part in traditional Christmas songs, you could check out local events and surprise them during one of their favourite carols.

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant city in Malaysia, full of stunning sights, delicious cuisine and rich culture. Whether you go with your family, friends or solo, you’ll find plenty of things that everyone will love.

The people of Kuala Lumpur are quite friendly and open and you will have no problem communicating with them, as their English is excellent. What’s more, it’s easy to get around due to a superb public transit system, including metro, uses and even a monorail.

So what should you do during your holiday in Kuala Lumpur? Well, keep reading and find out about the five things you truly can’t miss experiencing.

Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers are twin skyscrapers, holding rank as the tallest buildings in the world until 2004. During your visit, you can participate in interactive displays and learn all about the history of how they were built, from start to finish.

It’s especially cool to go during the night, because they are lit-up resulting in a stunning display of hundreds of lights, and the water fountain out front dances to music and colourful hues.

And you definitely can’t miss the opportunity to walk across the world’s highest bridge, that is, the sky bridge that connects the two towers.

Next to the towers you’ll find a spacious, landscaped park where you’ll find walking paths, a jogging path, the water fountain mentioned above and a wading pool for children for those hot summer days.

You can also head to the Petronas Art Gallery, or the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The Science Centre is also nearby, a great place to learn all about the petroleum industry if that’s your kind of thing.

The Petronas Towers are also located in the centre of the city so they are conveniently located near many hotels in KualaLumpur.

Street food

Kuala Lumpur is known for its varied and super tasty street food, especially in Jalan Alor in the Bukit Bintang area. This area features a night market bursting with stall-owners selling a diverse range of food and drinks from various parts of Asia. You can wander around sampling food as you go, all the while enjoying the amazing and intermingling smells of fare from Japan, Thailand, China and India. Some of the best-loved Asian dishes that you’ll be able to find include:

• Ramen (it is nothing like the ramen you ate in college)
• Coconut ice cream
• Crispy chicken wings
• Durian fruit

Perdana Botanical Gardens

Take a break from the bustle of the city and escape to a natural oasis. The Perdana Botanical Gardens make up the largest park in Kuala Lumpur, and were established in 1888. During your visit, you’ll find a sweeping lake, quant bridges and a multitude of flowers, including a very special orchid garden. The orchid garden is strewn throughout with charming walking paths, enchanting fountains, a pergola and a rock garden. Plus, there are over 800 species of orchids!

After you ogle the orchids, head over to the hibiscus garden, as after all, the hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia. In the hibiscus building you can have tea and read all about the history of the hibiscus flower in Malaysia.

There is also a deer park where the deer roam around freely!

You should consider not going in the middle of summer, because it can get pretty hot in the gardens, and make sure you bring some water with you to carry around.

Islamic Arts Museum

You don’t even have to look at the displays to be utterly impressed by the Islamic Arts Museum. The building itself is a grand showcase of Islamic art traditions from Kuala Lumpur, with ornate arabesque carved into the bright white domes.

But if you go, you should definitely take a look at the galleries as well. You’ll find replicas from world-famous mosques and ancient Islamic manuscripts. And you’ll also be able to see Chinese scrolls and textiles that also were influenced by Islamic culture. And what’s more, children under 5 get in for free, so if you bought your budget tickets on Airasia Airlines, and are looking for more ways to save money, this is a great option!

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

Here’s a good activity to try right after you visit the Perdana Botanical Gardens. That’s because the bird bark is right next to the gardens, and is a great place to take families with children. (Adults can totally on their own too and have a great time).

What will you see while you’re there? 200 species of Asian birds, sheltered by a vast treetop canopy.

You might want to make sure you’re there for feeding times, which happen throughout the day, or during the bird shows which happen from 12:30 to 15:30—the opportunity to see super smart birds performing super cool tricks.

You can eat there too, there’s a wonderful restaurant there with an outdoor patio and a children’s playground if you need some time to just sit.

If you’re going on holiday in Kuala Lumpur, you’re sure to be absolutely blown away. You’ll enjoy the buzz of a modern and vibrant city, love the convenience of the train and monorail and you’ll get to eat some of the best food you’ve ever tasted. Go there alone or with the family—you’re sure to have a great time.

Buildings often get used for many different things over their lifetimes and even the most iconic buildings have had to adapt and change to stand the test of time. Here we look at the stories behind some of Scotland’s most iconic buildings and the different things they have been used for.

From private townhouse to a hotel: Cairn Hotel Edinburgh

Designed by William H. Playfair in 1822, the building that now serves as an Edinburgh hotel was originally envisioned as a set of private townhouses along all of Windsor Street. The houses formed Playfair’s Eastern New Town scheme, so the Cairn Hotel in Edinburgh has some fantastic examples of the architect’s style in a rare domestic setting.

Playfair, famous for designing the National Monument and the National Gallery, embedded a number of his trademark features within the townhouses, like wrought iron balconies with a trellis pattern and Greek key border. Playfair was well-known as a catalyst for the Grecian-style revival throughout Edinburgh in his day, hence Edinburgh’s nickname as the ‘Athens in the North’.

From a place of worship to a place of spirit: Òran Mór

Whether you’re visiting Glasgow or living there, it’s difficult to avoid the neon lights of the Òran Mór. Situated at the head of Byres Road, this famous whisky bar — offering over 280 malts — and events venue doesn’t hide its original purpose at all.

Built in 1862, the Òran Mór was built to serve the local residents as a much-needed place of worship. The church building to this day features 11 carved heads within the arches of the main hall, which now serves as an auditorium. The heads are symbols of prominent church figures from the time of the building’s creation.

From costumes to fine dining: Timberyard

With a name like ‘Timberyard’, assuming this now-restaurant building in Edinburgh started as a timber work yard would be forgivable. The restaurant does make use of the timber-theme, with chopped-log décor throughout. Indeed, the site has been used by timber company, Lawson’s, in the past, but this was its second purpose along the road. It was originally built to be a props and costumes warehouse back in the 19^th century.

Nowadays, the site consists of two spaces: the main restaurant, Timberyard, and a smaller-capacity, bare-brick outhouse to cater up to 10 guests. The restaurant serves up fresh food made with foraged ingredients and home-grown herbs and their own filtered, bottled water.

From a church to a centre of arts: St Andrews in the Square

This former 18^th century church began life in 1754 as a place of worship in Glasgow. It stayed that way until as recently as 1990, until it was hampered by increasingly expensive maintenance costs. Due to this, the category-A listed building was sold for just £1 in 1993 to the Glasgow Building Preservation Trust.

In order to keep the building useful for future generations to come, the church was given a new lease of life as a performing arts centre. The building now boasts a café, dressing rooms, toilets, and plenty of space as an events venue, able to serve up to 250 guests at a time.

Instead of letting old building fall into disrepair, we clearly have a lot to gain by repurposing them to fit modern lifestyle needs. Not only does this add more facilities for people to enjoy, but it also helps towards maintaining and enjoying these historic buildings.

Whether it’s car rental for a business trip, or relaxing to the max on your summer holiday, extra comfort is high on the agenda for many. For some of us, we just can’t resist travelling in luxury. Here, we look at how to travel in luxury. However, for many of us, the idea for getting more for your money is something that carries obvious appeal. This has led to an increase in budget holidays and economy travel.

Airport

Airports have a variety of benefits. Benefits of the airport lounge include complimentary snacks and drinks to make the most of. As most of us spend time in eating establishments and watering holes anyway to kill time before our flight, why wouldn’t you want to do so in added comfort? Many are child-friendly too, providing gaming consoles to keep the little ones calm during the waiting period.

Whether it’s with the family, friends or on business, relaxing is key before you board the plane. Airport lounges are perfect for this; don’t be fooled into thinking you must be in possession of a first-class ticket to enter. Simply book online and take advantage of the spacious and secluded environment for up to three hours* before your flight.

For those of us who travel on business, airport lounges provide a tranquil environment in which to carry out work tasks. With plenty space to knuckle down, it’s ideal for those with hectic schedules.

Flight

Channel 4 went behind the scenes at Singapore Airlines, where a flight can cost £9,500 one-way. For the price, you get your own private suite, with a bedroom, leather chair, wardrobe, ensuite bathroom, and 32-inch TV all at your beck and call.

However, for those who can’t stump up thousands of pounds for a flight, the company does offer a range of considerably cheaper routes from the UK to Asia.

Budget airlines are those such as easyJet and Ryan Air.

Hotels

Offering added luxury is key to gaining certain clientele, and with a range of services, hoteliers have this market well tapped. From private airport transfers to swim-up pool bars, all-inclusive option to complimentary snacks, they really do have it all. However, this isn’t for everyone and hotel companies know this. The star ratings are something hotel owners take pride in and being labelled a five-star resort can stand you head and shoulders above your competition.

Tour Australia or Asia and you’ll find an array of hostels to keep costs to a minimum. Like the budget flights previously mentioned, there are plenty hotels, B&Bs, and apartments available across the globe that will suit any budget.

We’ve all heard of the Hilton hotel chain and how it’s well known for its added comforts and luxurious surroundings — so much so it’s often voted the best hotel brand in the world.  From its 25 Waldorf Astoria properties around the globe which offer world-class service and signature accoutrements that define luxury, to its more affordable Homewood Suits that are ideal for longer stays, the brand has thought of it all.

Travel company Trivago insists that inside your room you must offer plush pillows, soft and oversized bath towels, complimentary refreshments, full-size toiletries, and a special welcome touch to help your guests feel ‘special’ in a luxury stay.  Outside of your sleeping zone, late checkout, poolside service, gourmet foods, spa rooms, and private cabanas all top the list of must-have gimmicks to make a stay even more luxurious.

Train

If you want to go one step further, a journey on the Northern Belle will see you travel in a whole new luxury. While you may in some instances need to stand up for your train journey, booking a seat first class can see you enjoy a complimentary meal service.  The train holiday may be better known for interrailing around Europe on your gap year as a student, but with Planet Rail you can experience a luxury journey throughout Europe, including UK breaks.

Car

The Audi A7 is a perfect example of the manufacturers assets with its innovative design and sophisticated technology. With features to assist you as the driver, the model allows you to have a safer and simpler drive. With the likes of park assist providing surrounding and edge detection and cross traffic assist rear bringing visual support, you really can sit back and enjoy the ride.

There’s not a chance to get up and stretch your legs so you must make sure you pick a car that you’d be happy to sit in for a long period of time. There are many ‘luxury’ car manufacturers out there to consider, but with a literal translation of its slogan being ‘advantage through technology’ Audi is a great choice for anyone looking for that extra bit of comfort.

Coach

With several sizes available through luxury coach companies, from 16-seaters upwards, you have the option of having on-board kitchen space — including the all-important filter coffee machine— and sumptuous armchair-style seats, so you really can relax as you take to the road.

The likes of the Mega Bus is often utilised by students looking for cheap travels out of term time to return home at an affordable rate. The no-frills travel is perfect for getting from A to B, but for a holiday experience that offers a little bit more luxury, there are companies that can sort you right out. Many may think of the affable Brendan from television’s Coach Trip, or the budget-friendly National Holidays, but there are many option to travel in extreme style.

While some luxury travel may be out of grasp for the vast majority, there are certainly ways to travel in comfort. With a bit of research, you should be able to find a deal to suit your budget that incorporates a touch of fine living. Happy travels!

*check the airport’s information beforehand as some may differ.

Going on holiday is a great excuse to add some key summer pieces to your wardrobe. Who doesn’t love holiday shopping? Planning outfits not only makes us feel as though we’re already abroad, but it also helps us to plan what we’re doing once we arrive in this new part of the world.  For those who crave a holiday full of pampering, relaxation and luxury look no further. Browse this selection of five luxurious holiday destinations, brought to you by CT Shirts, retailers of men’s dress shirts.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Located in the east of Puerto Rico, Necker Island is part of Sir Richard Branson’s lucrative British Virgin Islands. Reservations are hard to come by but don’t miss out on the chance to stay in one of The Great House bedrooms, fitted with king size beds, en-suite bathrooms, a jacuzzi, and a sundeck. Boutique restaurants will be the perfect opportunity to wear a sharp fitted shirt, with long chino trousers or linen alternatives and loafers. Watch the sun set and sip on a cocktail while your evening meal is prepared in The Beach Pavilion.

The isolated island boasts a plethora of nature for you to soak in. Lemurs, flamingos, tortoises, and iguanas are amongst a few of the creatures that you will be sharing your holiday with. A slim checked shirt and chino shorts can be the perfect daytime attire, paired with flip flops to sift through the sandy coastline. If it wasn’t exclusive enough, Kate Moss, David Hasselhoff and even members of the royal family are known to have visited the island.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

For somewhere equally as exotic, the French Polynesia has been the choice of travelers for many years and it continues to remain a beautiful landscape. For a simply mesmerising destination then this is your best choice, the island boasts secluded white sandy beaches which meet the blue coral reef beneath the surface. Once you’ve dried off, change into a polo shirt and some linen shorts paired with some casual shoes.  Mingle amongst the locals at one of the renowned street markets in Vaitape where you will find hidden treasures such as black pearls and vanilla beans and embrace the vibe of the island.

If you want to avoid overcrowding, recommended visiting times are May, September and October. Conveniently, this also falls under the dry season when temperatures reach an average of 28°. For an uber extravagant getaway then choose to stay in The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, a 5-star venue where a one-night stay in one of the over-water villas costs around £3,528 a night. In fact, it was the setting for Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s multiple honeymoons (visiting once just isn’t enough).

Los Cabos, Mexico

If you’re happy to travel long-haul, Los Cabos is a beautiful and versatile landscape surrounded by seas, desert and mountains. A luxury holiday in Los Cabos can be as low-key or as extravagant as you want it to be, choose from private sailing excursions to Mexican cooking classes and market tours, or simply laze on the closest stretch of sandy shores.

Again, linen is the recommended clothing choice as it will help combat the heat and keep you comfortable while you lounge around in the baking temperatures. Along with the staple selection of chino shorts, a classic men’s evening shirt will come in handy for nights spent enjoying some seriously fine dining at El Matador, a mixture of vibrant Mexican, Latin, and seafood dishes. Wake up in time for brunch and head to Cabo San Lucas along the coastline. The French toast and tacos on offer at Café de Ciudad are more than worth it.

For those people wishing to hide away and enjoy Los Cabos in peace, The Las Ventanas Al Paraiso is perfect. It might be one of the most expensive places to rest your head, but it is known as a popular choice for solo travellers who just want to get away from it all for a while! Get out and explore or simply kick back in the infinity pool and sip a Margherita.

St Lucia, Caribbean

This Caribbean island is perfect if you want a holiday full of a mixture of adventure and rejuvenation. The picturesque scenery is nestled amidst a land carved by volcanic activity, with scatterings of rainforests and the famous Pitons, a UNESCO world heritage site. Other beauty spots to visit include the Sulphur Springs, Toraille Waterfall, and Morne Coubaril Estate.

At its hottest, St Lucia can reach heights of 31° and can remain light for almost 12 hours each day. Casual shirts and chino shorts will be essential for evenings spent drinking champagne overlooking the Caribbean sunset.

There are several options when looking for a hotel to fulfil your holiday dreams in St Lucia. Choose the Jade Mountain Resort in Soufriere, where the nightly rate for one of the exquisite suits is anywhere in the region of £1,500-£1,800. Some of the rooms feature a breath-taking infinity pool and a panoramic view of the Caribbean sea. Some famous faces known to have enjoyed holidays on the island include Chadwick Bosman, star of Marvel’s ‘Black Panther’, Ellie Goulding, and Oprah Winfrey.

Antibes, France

Compared to the other chosen destinations, France is not the first place that comes to mind when imagining a tranquil getaway – city breaks to the likes of Paris dominate the holiday market. However, the glamorous vibe and a relaxed dress code means you can enjoy days wandering through the old town streets. Why not stop to sample some delicious local cuisines along the way? In fact, it is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway with your significant other. Antibes is a mere stone’s throw away from Cannes, so there is plenty of opportunity to explore.

Trainers or loafers are perfect to explore this destination while a neutral linen shirt is the perfect colour to keep cool while visiting. Spots along the Riviera are frequently becoming the backdrop of many summer weddings too, and a blue suit will make for the perfect combination with a riviera wedding tan.

Frequented by famous faces such as Emily Ratajkowski, John F. Kennedy, Orlando Bloom and Will Smith, The Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc is a go-to. The sea views are astounding and everything about the hotel is private — pools, butlers, and more.