Six fashionable European city breaks

This week on the Travel Seen blog we’ve collated our favourite places to see and be seen in Europe… including what to wear and where to stay.

These are our top picks of Europe’s trendiest city hotels and must-have fashion favourites.

Think iconic couture, like perusing Paris in Chanel then retreating to a legendary luxury resort in the French capital; to exploring Oslo wearing a vintage coat before getting cosy at an edgy Norwegian art hotel.

 

Rome, Italy

What to wear:

When in Italy, it has to be Prada. Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday with the design house’s Marocain top, with its retro touches and scarf collar. This feminine, fluid shirt teamed with a midi skirt is a chic look to wear for your Trevi Fountain photo opportunity.

 

Where to stay:

Close to the Spanish Steps and with a tiered Secret Garden, Hotel de Russie from Rocco Forte Hotels is an elegant base for your Roman retreat. Don’t miss botanical-inspired cocktails in the Stravinskij Bar; one of Travel Seen’s best bars in Rome to see and be seen.

 

 

 

Paris, France

 

What to wear:

You can’t visit Paris without a little Chanel, and a stop at the couture fashion house’s flagship store on 31 Rue Cambon is a must-do. For summer styling, opt for a classic Chanel jacket in a pastel shade like this one. It’s the perfect piece to throw over your shoulders with a classic white tee and jeans for sitting at a pavement café with a latte under the Parisian sun.

Where to stay:

It’s hard to beat the luxurious surrounds of the grande dame that is Le Bristol Paris. This year the legendary hotel celebrates its centenary, so expect plenty of 5-star extras to add indulgence to your stay.

 

 

 

Dubrovnik – Croatia

What to wear:

Dubrovnik’s beauty will entice you to explore, with its coastal position meaning the sea is always in your sights. Keep your cool in this breezy, linen Acacia dress from Zimmermann, ideal for wandering the city walls when paired with your favourite sandals, then grabbing a relaxed lunch with views of the harbour.

Where to stay:

For a stellar private lookout of the city, the elegant suites with sea-facing vistas at Hotel Excelsior are hard to beat. Our team cites this as one of the best places in Dubrovnik to watch the sun set. Ask your Travel Seen advisor for our luxury Dubrovnik deals at this dreamy hotel.

 

 

Madrid, Spain               

What to wear:

Despite being known for its Paris HQ, Balenciaga was originally a Spanish brand, with one of the original stores founded in Madrid. The city has a new Balenciaga store, and from their Spring collection we think this crepe, loose-fit knotted dress is the perfect fashion fix for a peruse of the Spanish city.

Where to stay:

Are you walking down a catwalk or into your private suite? The two feel interchangeable when you book a stay at The Madrid EDITION. Make sure you pack something “smart and chic” for an evening at MISTICA, the hotel’s basement nightclub which is quickly becoming Madrid’s best late night venue.

 

 

 

Porto, Portugal

What to wear:

Explore the Portuguese city in ME+EM’s Palazzo Travel Jumpsuit; with its super flattering fit that’s comfy for walking around the city, and forgiving when you’re making the most of Porto’s famous foodie hotspots!

Where to stay:  

Your Travel Seen expert can create a bespoke Porto itinerary for your visit to this glorious part of Portugal, including a few nights at Le Monumental Palace. With its Michelin-starred restaurant and heated indoor swimming pool, it’s an indulgent retreat for a 5-star city break in Porto.

 

 

 

Oslo, Norway

What to wear:

Effortlessly chic and Scandinavian-inspired, the Totême Annecy Padded Coat is the perfect blend of warmth and style for an Oslo city escape—ideal for staying cosy while exploring the snow-dusted streets of Grünerløkka or enjoying a crisp winter walk along the Oslofjord.

Where to stay:

For an Instagrammable backdrop at every turn, book a stay at Oslo’s The Thief. Among the contemporary rooms, this modern city hotel boasts the Apparatjik Suite, where décor includes “video art, music, disco textiles and art installations”. It’s a totally unique suite designed for travel trendsetters on the hunt for Europe’s artiest hotel rooms.

Feel inspired? Our Travel Seen team has plenty more recommendations for Europe’s trendiest city centre hotels. Give them a call for their first-hand insight, personal recommendations and a tailor-made quote.

Luxury holidays in iconic filming destinations

Film and television sets have always been hugely inspiring for holidays.

Long before the birth of the internet, wanderlust was stirred in cinema audiences and TV viewers; who saw new and exciting places around the world come alive for the first time on their screens.

Today visiting those destinations we see in our favourite series and blockbuster films is within easy reach. So we thought we’d put together a few of the Travel Seen team’s favourite, iconic filming destinations to inspire your next luxury holiday:

Tennessee, US

From Walk The Line to Nashville, the southern state of Tennessee is awash with filming locations. In what would have been Elvis’ 90th year, there’s also plenty going on in 2025 if you’re looking for another excuse to visit the region. Baz Luhrmann’s ELVIS movie was actually filmed on the Gold Coast of Australia! But there are numerous real-life locations in Memphis you can visit to see where the icon grew up and began his famous music career.

Jamaica, Caribbean Sea

Of the many movies and television shows that have used the Caribbean island as their set, the most famous to come out of Jamaica is surely James Bond.

It was on this easygoing island that Ian Fleming retired after the war and set up home to write his spy series.

Much of 2021’s No Time To Die was filmed on the island, and super fans of 007 shouldn’t miss a visit to Dunns River Falls of Ursula Andress and Sean Connery fame.

Morocco

The dreamy backdrop of Morocco with its bustling markets, quiet deserts and rocky mountains have been used extensively as locations in film and TV.

Most famous are probably Game of Thrones, The Mummy, Mission Impossible – Rogue Nation, and Sex and The City 2.

Somewhat ironically, one of the world’s most famous cinematic productions of all time, Casablanca, wasn’t actually filmed in its namesake in Morocco at all; but on set at a Californian studio!

Croatia

From Captain America to Robin Hood, Star Wars: The Last Jedi to Game of Thrones; beautiful Croatia is often chosen by production teams for its wealth of diverse landscapes in a small area.

For a Dubrovnik stay that’s a luxurious base for exploring this epic city and its coastline, ask your Travel Seen expert for a tailormade quote with Adriatic Luxury Hotels collection. Hotel Dubrovnik Palace is a great spot close to the city, or for oodles of 5-star amenities within walking distance of the city walls try the Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik.

Rome, Italy

Pretending you’re on the set of an iconic movie is just one of the many reasons to book a 5-star stay in Rome. From the Trevi Fountain in La Dolce Vita; to Castel Sant’Angelo in Roman Holiday; The Spanish Steps in The Talented Mr Ripley; to Piazza Navona in Eat, Pray Love; there are famous film sets scattered across this great city.

Add some celebrity-level luxury with a stay at Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie.

Have another iconic filming destination in mind for your next holiday? Speak to our team on 0333 305 9912 for inspiring hotels, the best flights and huge savings on your luxury travels.

Why stay at Constance Halaveli Maldives?

Looking for the ultimate last minute Maldives holiday?

Then have we got a Travel Seen saving for you…

 

Book before the end of February and you’ll get a whopping 35% off* a week’s stay at the 5-star Constance Halaveli Maldives!

This dreamy Indian Ocean resort is the ultimate honeymoon hotel, set on its own private island in the pristine North Ari Atoll.

Here at Travel Seen we’re thrilled to offer our followers this exclusive offer. But if a huge saving isn’t enough to tempt you, here are few more reasons Constance Halaveli Maldives should be on your luxury holiday bucket list:

Start your stay in style

Our offer includes return seaplane transfers to the exclusive private island resort, which is just a 25-minute flight from Malé International Airport. This scenic journey is the perfect length of time to enjoy an aerial vantage point of world-class ocean views; yet without being too long after your international flights from the UK.

Take the plunge

Accommodation at Constance Halaveli Maldives has its own plunge pool, the perfect spot for a private, cooling dip. Begin your day with a refreshing swim before heading to breakfast, and then finish with a soak under the stars before retreating to your luxurious bed for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Below the surface

Of course the Maldives is renowned for its unspoiled waters, and at Constance Halaveli you can make the most of this natural underwater world with an expert-led diving course or snorkelling trip. The month of May (which our exclusive offer is based on) is the start of manta ray season; so you might be lucky enough to see one of these majestic marine creatures on your adventures beneath the waves.

TRAVEL SEEN INSIGHT: Free snorkelling equipment is offered for all guests staying at Constance Halaveli Maldives.

Off into the sunset

Visiting for a romantic holiday? Looking for the perfect Maldives place to propose? Or celebrating an anniversary or honeymoon? Then book a Sunset With Champagne experience, where an idyllic scene is created just for you on the beach, and includes a tasty selection of hors d’oeuvres to accompany your chilled fizz.

Indulgent Indian Ocean cuisine

As you’d expect from a resort of this calibre, the dining options are exceptional. From a feet-in-the-sand sushi restaurant, to seafood on the beach, or Asian fusion evening meals with endless ocean views; at Constance Halaveli Maldives you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to wining and dining.

A sanctuary on stilts

Set on stilts above the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, the resort’s blissful spa is a retreat with a real sense of place. Spa rooms boast an outdoor deck to soak up the views post-therapy; signature treatments use healing ingredients sourced in the locality; and thatched overwater facilities are connected by wooden boardwalks.

Tempted? Don’t forget, to receive our exclusive offer you’ll need to book with Travel Seen by 28th February 2025. Call us on 0333 305 9912 and get it booked!

*Based on travel between 13th May – 22nd May, 2025. As with all offers, Ts&Cs apply and offer is subject to availability.

Ikos Resort updates

Ikos Resorts

Ikos Resorts is delighted to celebrate 10 years of the brand’s pioneering luxury all-inclusive concept in 2025, with exciting news across its award-winning portfolio. The brand marks a decade of world-class innovation and continues its robust growth, revealing details of the much-anticipated next opening, Ikos Kissamos in Crete.

Supper Club

Starting 2025, guests can treat themselves to a relaxed evening with our new Little Guests Supper Club. Supervised by our friendly staff, children will dine at the hotel buffet and burn off energy with engaging activities. Full and happy from a nutritious meal shared with friends, they’ll return contentedly ready for bed.

– 30 euros for three hours and bookable in advance – Ages: 4 to 11.

 

Spa X Heroes Club

The Spa Department and the Heroes Club Department are pleased to announce a collaborative event designed to provide young guests with a delightful experience. This unique initiative features natural spa treatments, including cucumber eye patches and yogurt face masks. Young participants will enjoy learning about skincare in a fun and relaxed environment.

 

Ikos Olivia Rooms Renovation 

Ikos Olivia Halkidiki, Greece, is delighted to unveil a chic new look for the 2025 season, to coincide with the brand’s 10th anniversary. The enchanting redesign marks a full-circle moment for Ikos, as the serene beachside retreat of 22 verdant acres was the brand’s first and original opening in 2015. Located on the white sands of the Gulf of Toroneos, with hundred-year-old olive trees, fragrant firs and immaculate lawns, the hallmark all-inclusive experience remains, but from April 2025, guests can look forward to a fully refreshed resort, redesigned with a blend of timeless style and contemporary luxury. Guests can expect beautifully refurbished rooms and suites to complement the updated main building as well as new restaurants, bars and impressive new garden entrance.

 

Enoteca Restaurant – Ikos Dassia

Ikos Dassia welcomes the brand new Italian Mediterranean bistro, serving exquisite à la carte delicacies paired with world-class wines.

Part sophisticated wine bar, part intimate eatery, Enoteca combines the elegance of lounge dining with an à la carte menu showcasing the finest local produce, sourced daily. Refined Italian-Mediterranean flavours beside the adults-only pool. Perfect for grown-up lunches or dinners, savour specialist pairing menus or join sommelier- guided wine tastings.

 

The Hippocrates Garden Of Life – Ikos Aria

In 2025, Ikos Aria will introduce the new Hippocrates Garden of Life. This exciting new addition provides guests with a new, immersive experience and celebrates the rich history of Kos that surrounds the resort.

The experience will offer guests the opportunity to learn about the benefits of local herbs, originally studied by the Greek philosopher who was born on the island, as well as providing beautiful new areas to discover and relax.

 

Football Pitch/Paddel Courts – Ikos Porto Petro

We’re delighted to announce the addition of brand-new sports facilities at Ikos Porto Petro for the 2025 season. Guests can look forward to enjoying three glass padel courts, each measuring 20×10 meters, perfect for thrilling matches in a beautiful setting.

Additionally, a new football pitch, measuring 25×15 meters, will provide the ideal space for friendly games or solo practice under the Mediterranean sun.

Thoughtfully integrated into the resort, these new facilities enhance the Ikos Porto Petro experience, offering even more ways to play, relax, and create unforgettable memories.

 

New Opening 2026 – Ikos Kissamos, Crete

Ikos Resorts is delighted to announce its first property on the iconic Greek island of Crete, Ikos Kissamos, due to welcome guests from Spring 2026. The new property will add to the group’s already impressive collection of seven award-winning, luxury all-inclusive hotels in spectacular beachfront locations across the Mediterranean. On the sparkling shores of the northwest of the island, set on a stunning stretch of pristine beach just 45-minutes from Chania airport. The new opening is also within easy reach of untouched nature and crystal-clear waters on some of the world’s best beaches. These include Elafonisos, Falasarna and Balos Beach and lagoon, and known for its white sand and vivid turquoise sea, which is shallow and warm, ideal for families. Stay tuned for further details of the newest Ikos luxury escape.

Six unique family half term holiday ideas

Seeking a half term holiday that’s out-of-the-ordinary? Our Travel Experts have rounded up their 6 best unique family holidays to inspire you…

Mauritius, The Indian Ocean

If you’re seeking a half term holiday that keeps everyone happy, our experts recommend Mauritius. Why? Well the idyllic Indian Ocean island may be renowned for its honeymoon beaches and hotels for two. But there is actually plenty to satisfy parents and kids, with many of the best resorts in Mauritius offering excellent clubs for younger guests, alongside the luxurious spa treatments and time-for-two facilities made for grown-ups.

Our team recommends the Constance Belle Mare Plage for a Mauritius family holiday in style.

 

 

Bulgaria

This eastern European country had some serious tourism publicity last year, and it looks set to be a trending travel destination for 2025 too.

For families Bulgaria boasts a coastal climate similar to Turkey; a short-haul flight of around three hours (with direct flights from Liverpool); Blue Flag beaches; and incredible value compared to other family holiday destinations in Europe. For a splash of luxury, try the Voya Beach Resort.

 

Oman, Asia

Neighbouring Dubai might be a better-known family travel destination thanks to its vast resorts and theme parks, but Oman offers something special for a holiday with kids too.

At the quiet Kempinski Hotel Muscat for example, you get all the guaranteed sunshine of the Middle East in an incredibly peaceful setting. Children have a dedicated, shaded swimming pool, and the kids’ club boasts a reading room, multimedia room and playground.

If you’re travelling with a baby or preschooler in tow, Oman offers a destination for tired parents to recharge alongside facilities for little VIPs too. The ultimate place for a family ‘fly-and-flop’.

 

Thailand, Asia

As a family-orientated destination, Thailand really packs a punch for your next holiday with kids. In just two weeks you can fit in both adventure and relaxation.

How about starting your Thailand family holiday with a few days in your arrival destination of Bangkok? It’s a fascinating city to explore. Stay at The Salil Riverside where Family Rooms have bunk beds and a small kitchen. Then how about heading to Six Senses Koh Yao Noi? Here children can take part in the Junior Eco Warrior Programme while parents relax in the resort’s own spa village.

 

USA Ranch Holiday

Saddle up for a Wild West adventure on a family ranch holiday to the USA! Think cowboy cookouts, campfire s’mores, and getting up at dawn for a morning ride through the cactus-strewn landscape before returning to the ranch for a well-earned pancake breakfast.

For something a bit different, and a more luxurious family ranch experience, ask your Travel Expert about all-inclusive The Ranch at Rock Creek.

 

Cruise with kids

Whilst your first instinct as a parent might be that there isn’t enough to keep your kids busy on a cruise, there are plenty of family-friendly cruise holidays designed specifically for travellers with children.

Top 5-star cruise holidays for families include: Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, or how about the all-inclusive family river cruises from UniWorld? They’re designed for intergenerational travel, offering a slower pace, cultural cruise experience which the whole family will love.

Inspired for your next luxury holiday with kids? Speak to our team for first-hand suggestions, the best family travel offers and a tailor-made quote.

Five wellbeing holiday trends for 2025

At Travel Seen we have our finger on the pulse of all things 5-Star travel, and we want to share that expert insight with you.

For 2025 one of our top travel trends is a healthy holiday or wellbeing break; the kind where you can truly switch off and give yourself some much-needed ‘me time’.

We asked our team of luxury holiday aficionados for their top 5 wellbeing holiday trends for 2025. Here’s what they had to say…

Discover a wellbeing community

In a post-pandemic world, many still yearn to be with others and to feel part of a community. Healthy holidays of the past often focussed on isolation, peace and a solitary experience. And while those are still trending, travel forecasters like us are seeing a desire for the opposite too; wellbeing breaks which nurture a sense of community, connection and shared experience.

From a natter in a communal sauna, to finding your feet on a group hike, or dining at an easygoing shared table; wellbeing travellers are seeking out retreats which centre on a feeling of coming together.

Nurture relationships alongside wellbeing

As well as finding a place amongst a group of fellow travellers, tourism businesses like ours are also seeing growing popularity for healthy holidays which give time and space to nurture existing relationships.

Whether it’s a Mother & Daughter programme at a stunning Lake Garda spa hotel, or couples’ float therapy and an in-water massage at the iconic Blue Lagoon in Iceland; retreats to enhance your health and wellbeing, whilst also giving you space and time to nurture those special relationships in your life, are tipped to be high on the holiday agenda for luxury travellers in 2025.

Support female-specific health concerns

There has been much in the media recently about the need for us all to put greater investment into the female-specific health concerns experienced by women.

The tourism industry is playing its part with tailored retreats where the focus is on improving the mental and physical state of women going through changes in their life. From fertility support to pelvic floor exercises, menopause to conception, top spas and luxury wellness hotels are creating gender-tailored treatment programmes with women’s health at their heart. Examples include Combe Grove in Bath, which has a programme dedicated to women experiencing the menopause. And hot off the press is London’s first postpartum retreat run by Tenth Wellness out of the über-luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Hyde Park.  

Find peace on a calmcation

Whatever you want to call them – quiet escapes, unplugged getaways or a calmcation – travel specialists like Travel Seen are getting requests from their clients for off-grid, silent travel in destinations with little to no noise pollution, whilst staying in technology-free suites.

Activities might include sound healing and sound baths; forest bathing and sound walks; conscious resting and embodied mindfulness.

Alongside is the rise in popularity of hard-to-reach resorts, where night skies dazzle, in-room tech is limited and softly-spoken staff see to your every whim. Tempted? Try One&Only Moonlight Basin.  

   

Learn something new on a skillcation

Wellbeing retreats and healthy holidays are a great quick fix for supporting you to reboot and recharge. But as the experts at BodyHoliday in St Lucia note, for long-term health benefits, the skills required to keep the healthy habits going long after you come home are required.

That’s where a skillcation is proving popular. With all the benefits of a luxury wellbeing break – fine dining, plush suite, 5-star spa etc – they also include workshops and classes to teach you new wellbeing tricks too: whether it’s something for your mind like guided meditation or painting; or for your body, such as yoga or paddle boarding.  

Inspired to make your next break a wellbeing holiday? Get in touch with our team for their personal insight and a bespoke quote. 

Luxurious destinations to explore for travel and sports enthusiasts

Luxury travel and sports often create a harmonious blend of adventure and indulgence. For those seeking both world-class comfort and exhilarating activities, these destinations promise an unforgettable experience.

Aspen, Colorado – The Ultimate Ski Retreat

Aspen is more than just a ski destination; it’s a sanctuary for those in search of luxurious chalets, exquisite dining, and après-ski relaxation. Spend your days gliding down pristine slopes and your evenings savouring gourmet meals at prestigious mountain-side restaurants. With opportunities for snowboarding and ice skating, it’s a winter wonderland for active travellers.

 

Dubai, Abu Dhabi – Where Luxury Meets Adventure

Dubai serves as a playground for sports enthusiasts who appreciate opulence. Experience sandboarding in the Arabian desert, play golf on world-class courses, or dive into thrilling water sports such as jet-skiing along Palm Jumeirah. Conclude your day in style at a lavish beach resort or enjoy a private yacht cruise.

 

St. Moritz, Switzerland – Elegance on The Slopes

Renowned as the birthplace of winter tourism, St. Moritz offers elite ski runs, luxurious spas, and even horse racing on a frozen lake. It’s an exquisite destination for those who enjoy merging sports with high-end leisure.

 

Queenstown, New Zealand – The Adventure Capital

Queenstown is an essential stop for sports and travel enthusiasts. From bungee jumping to heli-skiing, the thrill never ceases. Stay in lakeside lodges featuring breathtaking views and unwind in hot pools after a day full of excitement.

 

Monte Carlo, Monaco – The Home of Glamour and Racing

Monte Carlo epitomizes luxury and motorsport. Experience the Monaco Grand Prix for a blend of high-speed action and elite society or showcase your skills in exclusive yacht racing. Its opulent hotels and fine dining options make it a premier destination for luxury travel.

Whether you’re pursuing snowy slopes, desert dunes, or high-speed circuits, these destinations provide the perfect fusion of adventure and luxury. Tailor-made for the discerning, active traveller, they combine the best elements of travel and sports.

Get in touch today on 0333 305 9912 to start planning your trip.

Top cruises for a luxury experience in 2025

Embarking on a luxury cruise is the epitome of sophisticated travel, offering discerning adventurers the chance to explore the globe in unparalleled comfort. Whether you’re seeking opulent amenities, fine dining, or exclusive excursions, these top cruise lines promise a journey as to lavish as the destinations they visit.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas redefines all-inclusive luxury. Their elegant ships feature all-suite accommodations, unlimited shore excursions, and impeccable service. Popular itineraries include the Mediterranean, where you can explore iconic cities like Rome and Barcelona, and exotic locales such as Southeast Asia.

 

Silversea Cruises

Silversea’s small, ultra-luxury ships provide a boutique experience with personalised service. Their culinary programme, S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste), immerses guests in regional cuisine. Destinations like the Galápagos Islands and Antarctica offer unique adventures paired with creature comforts.

 

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn’s fleet combines intimate ships with access to exclusive ports. Their wellness programmes, developed with Dr Andrew Weil, complement gourmet dining and spacious suites. Destinations range from the Caribbean to world cruises spanning multiple continents.

 

Crystal Cruises

Recently reimagined, Crystal’s ships feature expansive suites, exceptional dining, and unrivalled enrichment programmes. Their bespoke itineraries include river cruises along the Danube and Rhine, as well as ocean journeys through Asia and the Arctic.

Interested in a cruise trip this year? Call us on 0333 305 9912.

The top restaurants in Lisbon for your next city escape

Planning a city escape to Lisbon? Known for its stunning architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant nightlife, the Portuguese capital also boasts an incredible culinary scene. Whether you’re a foodie seeking authentic flavours or simply want to pair city exploration with unforgettable dining, Lisbon offers something for every traveller. Here’s our pick of the best restaurants to add to your itinerary.

Belcanto

In the heart of Lisbon, Belcanto, a Michelin-starred masterpiece by chef José Avillez, offers an elegant menu inspired by Portuguese traditions. Perfect for a luxurious dining experience, its sophisticated atmosphere and curated wine pairings make it a must-visit for fine dining enthusiasts.

 

Time Out Market Lisbon

This bustling food market is a culinary hotspot. Featuring stalls from Lisbon’s top chefs, it’s ideal for sampling iconic dishes like custard tarts and fresh seafood. A vibrant stop for anyone looking to explore the city’s flavours.

 

Cervejaria Ramiro

Seafood lovers can’t miss Cervejaria Ramiro. Famous for its fresh shellfish, this relaxed and family-friendly spot is perfect for enjoying the best of Lisbon’s ocean-inspired cuisine.

 

Prado

Prado focuses on sustainable, seasonal ingredients in a chic setting. With its farm-to-table ethos, it’s a favourite for travellers seeking an eco-friendly yet refined dining experience.

 

Ponto Final

Across the river in Almada, Ponto Final offers stunning views of Lisbon’s skyline. Known for fresh seafood and traditional dishes, it’s an idyllic spot for a romantic meal or a relaxing break from the bustling city.