Honeymoon and travel ideas for couples in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire

P&O Cruises colleagues tie the knot on board Iona

P&O Cruises colleagues René Palguta and Yricka Espinosa Fausto are celebrating after meeting and then getting married on board Iona. Customer services manager René, from Slovakia and assistant shore excursions manager Yricka, from the Philippines, exchanged vows in Iona's Ivory Suite, with the ship's Captain officiating the ceremony in front of family, friends and fellow crew members. And what a place to carry on the honeymoon celebrations!

Chapter Chianti Redefines The Modern Tuscan Retreat

Chapter Chianti has officially opened its doors in the rolling hills of Tuscany's iconic Chianti region. Set within a restored 17th-century original borgo spanning over 50 hectares of vineyards, olive groves and landscaped gardens, the property marks the second opening in the Chapter Italia portfolio, developed by Marco Cilia following the success of Chapter Roma. Bringing the brand's signature energy, contemporary design and social spirit beyond the city for the first time, Chapter Chianti introduces a fresh and unexpected take on the Italian countryside.

Great Plains Introduces New Experiences at Mara Expedition Camp, Kenya

Great Plains, the iconic eco-tourism company founded by National Geographic explorer-filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, is delighted to unveil a collection of new guest experiences at Kenya's Mara Expedition Camp for Summer 2026. From floating bubble baths and the camp's much loved Singing Kitchen to guided cycling adventures and family-friendly experiences, the new additions encourage guests to discover the Maasai Mara in entirely new ways beyond the traditional safari drive.

The Ultimate Literary Stay for the Edinburgh International Book Festival

As the Edinburgh International Book Festival returns from 15th - 30th August 2026, bringing together some of the world's most celebrated authors and storytellers, The Witchery offers one of the city's most atmospheric places to stay for literature lovers. Set beside Edinburgh Castle on the historic Royal Mile, the iconic hotel places guests within easy reach of the festival's programme while immersing them in the rich history and character that has long inspired writers drawn to Scotland's capital.

The Nest at Glenapp Castle Opens

Glenapp Castle, the 21-bedroom Relais & Châteaux hotel on the Ayrshire coast, has opened and unveiled the first imagery of The Nest, its new standalone one-bedroom Garden Cottage Suite set within the estate's historic 1830s walled garden. Designed as a secluded nature sanctuary, the suite features a separate bedroom with a super king-size bed that can be twinned, and a sitting room with a sofa bed. It's also home to the largest bathroom at the Castle, complete with a roll-top bath and a generous walk-in shower.

ANNUA SIGNATURE HOTELS UNVEILS GRAN HOTEL MARGALIDA, MALLORCA

ANNUA Signature Hotels opens the doors to Gran Hotel Margalida, the brand's fifth and most eagerly anticipated destination to date in the heart of Mallorca. Following the celebrated openings of César Lanzarote, Son Xotano in Mallorca, and Amagatay and Morvedra Nou in Menorca, Gran Hotel Margalida marks a new chapter for ANNUA shaped by cinematic design, elemental beauty and immersive, slow-paced luxury.

Discover Europe's most stunning rooftop escapes

As Europe embraces the summer months, this selection of hotels invite guests to embrace the spirit of summer from the city's most coveted vantage points: sun-drenched rooftops. From Florence's golden terraces to London's skyline lounges, these properties welcome travellers to celebrate the warm days with open-air dining, panoramic views, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant seasonal menus - al fresco vibes, summer loving and Instagram-worthy snaps for those venturing abroad or staying at home.

Wizz Air Launches Direct London - Yerevan Flights

Armenia is now more accessible than ever for British travellers following the launch of Wizz Air's new direct service between London and Yerevan. The inaugural flight landed in Yerevan on 8th June 2026, marking a significant milestone in connectivity between the United Kingdom and Armenia. The new route will operate twice weekly, offering convenient direct access to one of Europe's most exciting emerging travel destinations.

Recreate a Dua Lipa-Inspired Italian Love Story

Following Dua Lipa and actor Callum Turner's well documented wedding and honeymoon in Sicily and around the Italian coastline, Italy is once again firmly in the spotlight as the world's most romantic destination. As celebrity-inspired travel continues to influence where couples choose to celebrate life's biggest milestones, Italy's blend of historic villas, cinematic coastlines and unforgettable food experiences is making it a top choice for proposals, destination weddings and honeymoons alike. For couples looking to recreate their own Italian love story, here are three standout properties that capture the glamour, romance and timeless appeal of a celebrity-worthy escape.

Madeira´s most extraordinary pools

As European travellers increasingly seek meaningful escapes that combine luxury, authenticity and wellbeing, Madeira continues to emerge as one of the continent's most desirable summer destinations. Far removed from overcrowded coastlines and predictable holiday hotspots, the Portuguese island offers a unique blend of dramatic Atlantic landscapes, year-round mild temperatures, world- class hospitality and a slower, more refined pace of travel. At the heart of this experience are two distinctive Savoy Signature properties , Savoy Palace and Saccharum, where extraordinary pools, private accommodations and elevated wellness experiences transform a summer holiday into something truly memorable.

Keep your jewellery tangle and tarnish free on your honeymoon

Want to keep your jewellery tangle and tarnish free when travelling or on holiday this summer? Then you need a jewellery travel case. Small enough to fit in your suitcase or hand luggage but big enough to hold your accessories to complete your summer holiday looks, a jewellery travel case is the must- have travel essential you never knew you needed.

Vegas to Volcanoes

With the UK remaining the number one international market for weddings in Las Vegas and with almost 10,000 travelling to Hawai'i from Europe (source: State of Hawai'i DBEDT) for a honeymoon or wedding last year, we're delighted to hear the news that from August 6th 2026, Southwest Airlines will launch a new nonstop, three day a week service between Las Vegas and the beautiful town of Hilo on the Island of Hawai'i.

Calm city breaks this summer with Ruby Hotels

As Europe's most popular coastal hotspots begin to fill up for the summer season, beaches quickly become packed with travellers chasing sunshine. Meanwhile, something quieter is happening elsewhere: Europe's cities begin to slow down. Restaurants that are usually fully booked suddenly have space, museums can be enjoyed at a gentler pace, and green spaces feel more peaceful. It's the perfect time to experience cities in a more relaxed, unhurried way. With brilliantly located properties in some of Europe's most vibrant cities, Ruby Hotels is the ideal base to explore these calmer moments. From strolling through well-known neighbourhoods without the usual crowds to meandering around iconic cultural spots, everything is within easy reach. Each hotel also features Ruby's signature experiences, including lively 24-hour bars, after-work DJ sets and music sessions, ensuring there's always something to enjoy.

Canopy by Hilton Seychelles Resort brings family island living to Mahé

Located on the shoreline of Anse La Mouche, Canopy by Hilton Seychelles Resort, is placing family travel at the centre of its island experience, with serviced residences, direct beach access, three swimming pools, Bounty Seekers Kids Club and a programme of activities designed for all ages. An ideal option for the UK summer school holidays, particularly for families looking to escape the peak European heat, a stay during these months coincides with the region's cooler, drier season between July and October. The resort establishes itself as a southwest coast base for multi-generational travel and extended island escapes.

Italian vibes at Kimpton Fitzroy London

Kimpton Fitzroy London, one of the capital's most iconic hotels, is delighted to announce the return of The Terrace, created in partnership with renowned Italian aperitif house, Campari. Nestled within the hotel's stunning open-air courtyard in Bloomsbury, said to be London's most romanticised intellectual quarter and recently recognised in Condé Nast Traveller's 2026 "Best Places to Go in the UK," The Terrace introduces their newly renovated, sun-drenched space for the neighbourhood: an effortlessly transportive, Italian-inspired escape in the heart of the bustling city.

Step Into the World of ‘Rivals' at Ellenborough Park

With season two of Rivals now captivating audiences once again, interest in its world of high society, scandal and 1980s excess is firmly back in the spotlight, and Ellenborough Park offers guests the chance to immerse themselves in it firsthand. As one of the standout filming locations featured in the series, the historic Cotswolds estate invites visitors to experience the atmosphere behind the drama, from its grand interiors to its unmistakably cinematic setting. Ideally situated just moments from the famous Cheltenham Racecourse, the estate is also the perfect destination for those looking for an authentic equestrian stay inspired by the show.

An Italian Twin-Centre Escape: Milan Meets Lake Como

Ever considered a luxury Italian twin-centre itinerary pairing the energy of Milan with the tranquillity of Lake Como? This in particular, combines two of Italy's most iconic destinations in one seamless trip, with the journey between the two taking just under 1hr30 by car. The stay begins at Portrait Milano, the Ferragamo family's flagship hotel hidden within a restored 16th-century seminary in the heart of the Quadrilatero della Moda, the fashion district. Centred around one of Milan's largest private piazzas, the hotel blends Milanese sophistication with understated residential luxury, placing guests moments from Via Montenapoleone while offering a quieter, insider feel to the city. Alongside its fashion credentials — from Antonia boutique to SO-LE Studio by Maria-Sole Ferragamo — the hotel is also home to The Longevity Spa, one of Milan's most forward-thinking wellness destinations, offering advanced biohacking and science-led treatments focused on sleep, stress and recovery.

Step into honeymoon season with LINZI

LINZI's 'Element' sandals are the understated honeymoon essential your suitcase needs. Featuring a modern square toe and sleek minimalist silhouette, they embody the quiet luxury aesthetic trending everywhere this season. Perfect for beachside dinners, rooftop cocktails, and warm evening strolls, 'Element' offers designer-inspired elegance at an accessible £22.99 price point — proving chic holiday style doesn't have to come with a luxury markup.

The Zambian Safari Lodge Reflecting the Future of Luxury Family Travel

As luxury safari travel increasingly prioritises meaningful, educational, and multi-generational experiences, Chichele Presidential in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park stands out as a shining example of where the modern African safari is heading. At the heart of the family experience is Chichele Cubs, the lodge's immersive children's programme designed for travellers aged 4-11. Launched with the property's 2025 reopening and far from a traditional kids' club, Chichele Cubs incites young travellers to discover the African bush through all five senses – Taste, Touch, Smell, Hear, and See – fostering curiosity, environmental awareness, creativity, and genuine connection to nature.

Honeymoon ready? Have you checked the date of your SPF?

Dermatologists are warning that one of the biggest summer skincare mistakes could already be sitting in your bathroom cabinet. While consumers diligently replace expired make-up and medicine, many are unknowingly relying on out-of-date SPF, potentially leaving skin vulnerable to sun damage despite believing they're fully protected. As Dr Clare Kiely, Founder of The Skin Diary and Consultant Dermatologist, explains: "SPF is often treated as something that 'lasts indefinitely'... in reality, it's a highly regulated, functional product where stability is critical."