Why choose High Altitude at Easter By April, many lower resorts in the Alps are battling slushy afternoons, patchy pistes, and closed valley runs. But Tignes and Val d’Isère form the legendary Espace Killy ski area , where top lifts reach around 3,400–3,450 metres . Thanks to glaciers like the Grande Motte in Tignes and the Pissaillas in Val d’Isère, skiers can still carve crisp turns long after other resorts have packed away their season. More altitude means: Reliable snow cover on upper pistes Longer season , often until early May Cooler temperatures up top , preserving conditions Tignes Altitude advantage : The main villages of Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret sit at about 2,100 metres , higher than most Alpine resorts. Add in the Grande Motte glacier (3,456 m), and you’ve got some of the most dependable snow in Europe. What to expect : Great snow quality in the mornings, even on lower runs. Softening/slush on sunny afternoons down at village level. Superb high-altitude cruising on reds and blues above Val Claret. Family-friendly base with ski-in/ski-out convenience.  If your main priority is snow security , Tignes often edges out Val d’Isère thanks to its higher base.

Thailand – The “Land of Smiles” Thailand has come a long way from its days as a well-kept secret among backpackers. Today, it’s one of Southeast Asia’s most accessible and welcoming destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Often called the Land of Smiles, Thailand is celebrated not only for its breath taking beauty but also for the warmth and friendliness that greets you everywhere you go. From energetic city streets and unforgettable cuisine to white-sand beaches and jungles thick with tropical greenery, Thailand offers a little bit of everything. And last month, I was lucky enough to return. It had been 16 years since my first visit, but the moment I arrived, I was reminded exactly why this place captured my heart the first time around. Thailand still manages to surprise, delight, and completely draw you in! 

It might surprise you to know that the Seychelles were completely uninhabited until the late 18th century. With no indigenous population, everyone here has roots from somewhere else Africa, Europe, Asia, and that blend of cultures has created something truly special. Seychellois Creole (Seselwa), a soft, French-based language, is spoken alongside English and French, and this diversity shines through in the islands’ music, dance, food, and everyday warmth. But what really sets Seychelles apart isn’t just the vibrant culture or the picture postcard-perfect beaches, it’s how fiercely this place protects its wild beauty. Nearly half of the entire land area is preserved as national parks or nature reserves, and unlike in other destinations where nature is often curated for aesthetics, here it's left untouched, sea grass is left to grow, coral is allowed to thrive, and wildlife leads the way. You’ll find giant tortoises, rare birds, pristine reefs, and forests you can hike through without fear, no snakes, no poisonous insects, just pure, unspoiled nature. It’s one of the few places where wild still feels safe. Peaceful, stable, and deeply respectful of its land, Seychelles is more than just beautiful, it’s grounded, and it’s real.

It has been over 20 years since my last visit to St. Lucia, a family holiday with my two young sons. Coming back, I was reminded why I loved it so much. The island is stunning, with a real variety of landscapes, friendly locals, and a vibrant culture that blends British, French, and Caribbean influences. It’s not just about the beaches (though they are beautiful). St. Lucia offers everything from volcano visits and rainforest hikes to chocolate-making, rum tastings, and relaxing by the sea. The range of hotels is impressive too, stylish stays in some of the most scenic spots I’ve seen. Whether you're here for a few nights or a full adventure, St. Lucia truly has something for everyone, and it’s even better the second time around.

"Durrells in Corfu" is a captivating British TV series based on Gerald Durrell's trilogy. Set in the Greek island of Corfu, it follows the adventures of the eccentric Durrell family. With stunning scenery and heart warming storylines, this show has captured viewers worldwide. If you haven't watched then I highly recommend the series, but even better why not take a trip there! This month I have been lucky enough to visit Corfu with CV Villas, my trip kicked off with a visit to the Grecotel Corfu Imperial Hotel. A truly stunning hotel nestled on its own private peninsula in Kommeno Bay. It's super chill and secluded but just a quick 20-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Corfu Town, and even closer to Gouvia and Dassia. The hotel has four Blue Flag beaches - sandy ones mixed with shingle - so you've got options galore for soaking up the sun or trying out some water sports. A pool area that was huge, so ideal for families! Plus, there are five top-notch restaurants on-site. All in all, this 5-star gem offers a classic and elegant style hotel with warm service despite it's size. They also offer everything from rooms for 2 up to huge private villas (with pools) overlooking the bay!

There are luxury cruises—and then there's Sea Cloud. I recently had the chance to experience this extraordinary ship, and it was far more than a voyage, it was an adventure. If you're curious about what sets Sea Cloud Cruises apart, I will share the highlights of a journey that exceeded every expectation. The story begins in 1931, when cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post commissioned what was then the largest private sailing yacht in the world. With golden swan-shaped taps, marble fireplaces, and French antiques, Sea Cloud was a floating expression of elegance and ambition. Nearly a century later, that same spirit lives on—both in the original ship and in her graceful sister, Sea Cloud II.

For devoted travellers, there’s nothing more exciting than planning the next adventure. As proud Virtuoso travel advisors, The Travel Concept has access to insider knowledge from Virtuoso’s global network of travel experts and industry contacts. We’ve gathered their top recommendations for on-the-rise, get-there-first destinations that deserve a place on your 2025 or 2026 itinerary. Whether it’s heli-skiing South America’s wild slopes, diving the Technicolor reefs of West Papua, or exploring southern Italy by train, now is the time to start planning. (That 12-casita private island in Zanzibar and 22-passenger Peruvian riverboat won’t stay available for long.) Let this guide inspire your next unforgettable journey.

France is a country which continues to draw millions of visitor s with its palpable charm, beautiful countryside, coastline, world-renowned cuisine and architecture. There is a treasure trove of destinations worth visiting across France with each region possessing its own unique landscapes and ambience. Whether you want to see the stunning 16th century chateau de Monbazillac in the Dordogne, storing 6000 bottles of wine in its cellars; the vibrant, Provencal lavender fields at the Abbaye de Sénanque; the white wine route running through the Loire Valley; or the rising medieval walls of Carcassonne – the list is endless! Take a look at our recommendations, which include a beach hotel, a touring holiday, and a special interest holiday, all curated by Expressions Holidays, our trusted partner with first-hand expertise of this destination.

Africa – they say it captures your heart, and its so true. I was fortunate enough to visit South Africa on my honeymoon in 2010, which led us to the Kruger National Park and then to Mauritius. Fast forward 14 years, and I had the privilege of returning (while celebrating my wedding anniversary) with my almost-teenager this time! My journey led us to two renowned game reserves: Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa's Northwest province and Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg district. Both offer sightings of the Big Five and a wealth of captivating wildlife experiences. Madikwe Safari Lodge - Lelapa "Lelapa" the Setswana word for "family," warmly invites you and your loved ones to enjoy the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve and promises an experience designed for the whole family. The accommodation is ideal with a spacious open-plan bedroom and bathroom, along with a separate cosy sleeping area for children. Our ranger, Byron, was exceptional with our daughter, sharing fascinating bush facts that greatly enriched her experience. The camp's relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere and exceptional service make you feel at ease while being surrounded by the thrilling adventures of the game reserve. The watering hole located near the swimming pool is a captivating spot where time seems to slip away. One afternoon, as we lounged by the pool, a herd of elephants made an appearance. We were spellbound for about 45 minutes watching these majestic creatures, and were even luckier to witness their playful babies joining in the water. It was a mesmerizing experience for my daughter, who was completely captivated (and happily off her phone!). The food was so good catering really well for families with plenty of options to suit everyone. Of course being in South Africa the choice of wines were very appealing too! They have a fantastic kids eco-house the perfect place for children to learn about conservation at Madikwe and enjoy arts & crafts, jewellery making and much more. Whilst the kids enjoy themselves here parents can relax in the outdoor lounge area or take a nose in the lodges gift shop. There is also a gym & spa if you are feeling energetic or want to relax even more!