Where The Team Is Travelling This Summer
Planning is the buzzword for summer – and we’re not sure about you, but for The Handbook, travel is a big part of that. Some of us are looking for scenic European getaways, while others are planning adventures further afield in the Caribbean and the US. In a nutshell, we’ve never been more excited about our holiday allowance. If you’re in need of some travel recommendations, take a look at where the team is heading this year:
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
“This summer, I escaped to Amsterdam for a long weekend and checked into Hotel Okura, a five-star retreat tucked away in the chic De Pijp neighbourhood. Between canal-side coffees, wandering around Museumplein and exploring the city’s galleries and markets, I spent plenty of time making use of the hotel’s incredible facilities too, including a Swedish massage at Nagomi Spa, one of the best hotel meals I’ve had in a long time at Yamazato, and panoramic views across the city and canal from my room on the 18th floor.”
“It was the perfect balance of city break and wellness escape, reminding me that I don’t need to fly halfway around the world for a lush break.” – Mallory, Junior Food & Drink Editor
Sorrento, Italy
“This July, I am heading off to Sorrento for a mother-daughter trip, and I could not be more excited. After completely falling in love with Florence a few years ago, exploring more of Italy has been at the very top of my bucket list.”
“This will be my first time exploring the Italian coastline, and the itinerary is already looking pretty stacked. Among the activities on the agenda are a boat trip to Capri, hiking the famous Path of the Gods, and exploring nearby areas like Ischia and Positano. I’m also banking on copious amounts of Aperol Spritz and focaccia being consumed!” – Amelia, Culture and Lifestyle Writer/Creator
Barbados, The Caribbean
“I’m off to Barbados this year for my honeymoon. I’ve never been before, but I can’t wait for some beach time and unwinding after the celebrations.”
“I’m planning to stay at The Coral Reef Club, which is something of an institution on the island, spanning a whopping 12 acres. It’s a five-star luxury boutique hotel complete with all the classic furnishings – think: secluded balconies, wicker armchairs and shutters. I’ll know I’m on holiday once I have an umbrella-adorned cocktail in hand at the open-air bar overlooking the seafront.” – Natasha, Digital Editor
The Highlands, Scotland
“Despite the fact I’m half Scottish and have lived here for the past few years, I’m ashamed to say there is still so much of the country I’ve yet to explore. Mainly the Highlands, which, while it can be an absolute trek to get to, is so worth it once you’re there. Think spellbinding beaches you wouldn’t believe are in the UK, still majestic lochs, and munros to climb (or just admire)—all of which have instant shoulder-dropping, grounding powers.”
“I’m hoping to visit the newly reopened Newhall Mains, a selection of very stylish cottages and suites, overlooking Ben Wyvis. And I’m particularly looking forward to visiting their restaurant, Spruce, for excellent seasonal and Scottish produce – preferably mounds of langoustines, oysters and venison – before cosying up by the fire (it’s a Scottish summer, after all) with a wee dram.” – Astrid, Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor
Paphos, Cyprus
“This summer, we’re heading back to Cyprus for our second family holiday there. As a family of seven, we’ve become quite the critics when it comes to holidays, but Cyprus never disappoints. The food alone is worth the flight: think endless Mediterranean sharing plates, fresh fish and enough halloumi to keep everyone happy!”
“We’ll be staying at the Elysium in Paphos, which seems to have cracked the impossible brief of keeping teens, tweens, younger children and tired parents entertained. There are activities galore for the kids, while I’m already eyeing up the spa. Best of all, the family suites are genuinely big enough for all of us, so we don’t end up killing each other!!” Tamara Corin – Contributing Beauty Editor
US Road Trip
“I have a love affair with road trips and mini adventures, always have. Having spent much of my childhood in the US and then lived there as a teen, I find those trips often pull me right back to the States. This summer, I’m heading back down memory lane and showing my girls where I went to high school. I mean, that’s an adventure in itself.”
“It will take us on a journey to the buzzy heights of Chicago for the arts and city life by the lake, then down to the strawfields of Kansas to revisit old friends and teenage hangouts in Wichita. There, we’ll experience good Midwest hospitality, think corn dogs and old-school drive-in movie theatres. Then, we’ll finish our trip in the beautiful city of Charleston, one of my faves, known for its impeccable food scene and movie-set aesthetic. To say I’m excited is an understatement.” – Ashling McCloy Contributing Style & Interiors Editor
Maine, The United States
“This year I’ll be doing the ULTIMATE holiday trip right back to where I grew up — Maine. While it might seem like quite a humble, woodsy place, to anyone who’s visited, Maine is the most spectacular destination in the states (but perhaps I’m biased).”
“I’m from mid-coast Maine, which means long days out on the boat, sailing, swimming, fishing, and always finishing the day with the best lobster roll on the planet (yes, the planet). For such a laid-back lifestyle, this lesser-known state is perhaps one of the most abundant in activity, in amazing food, and altogether the best vibes in the world. I CAN’T WAIT.” – Mallory, Junior Food & Drink Editor
