Florence and Venice don’t rely on scale to establish presence. They work through surface — stone chosen carefully, colour repeated with intent, decoration applied patiently over generations. You begin to notice this not in moments of spectacle, but in how long you linger without planning to. A wall holds light differently as the day shifts. A pattern repeats just often enough to feel structural. These cities don’t rush interpretation. They allow meaning to settle gradually, through proximity and habit rather than explanation.

Approaching Florence without resetting attention

Arrival into Florence rarely feels abrupt. The city gathers itself gently, streets narrowing as they move inward, pace adjusting without instruction. Travelling via Rome to Florence train tickets, the shift feels continuous rather than directional. Urban density loosens into open land, then reforms again without demanding attention. Speed exists, but it doesn’t disrupt rhythm. Whatever sensitivity Rome instils — to layering, to density, to time behaving unevenly — carries forward, allowing Florence’s quieter forms to register immediately.

Florence and the discipline of detail

Florence feels built around attention rather than display. Giotto’s Bell Tower doesn’t dominate its surroundings. It refines them. Marble panels sit at eye level, inviting closeness instead of awe. Sculptural details repeat with restraint, rewarding patience more than admiration. The tower doesn’t perform vertically. It works horizontally, through proportion and rhythm, reminding you that craft here was once a civic language rather than an artistic flourish. You don’t stand back. You move closer.

Venice’s architecture of assertion

Venice doesn’t refine its authority. It states it. The Doge’s Palace stands not apart from the city, but within its logic — facing the water that once carried trade, power, and reach outward. Stone and colour layer insistently, repeating until they feel inevitable. The building doesn’t invite intimacy. It establishes presence. The architecture makes its priorities legible through scale, placement, and repetition. The rhythm you’ve adjusted to stays present, even as direction changes. Despite its scale, the Doge’s Palace doesn’t feel distant. You encounter it while moving — crossing the square, adjusting to water light, listening to sound echo differently off open façades. Grandeur here is not theatrical. It’s administrative, confident, practiced. The building assumes continuity. It expects to be seen often, not once. Power, here, is not momentary. It’s sustained.

Returning to Florence after elsewhere

Coming back to Florence after time in places like Venice feels less like retracing steps and more like resetting attention. The Venice to Florence train is spoken about as a line rather than a moment — a familiar corridor that links inward focus with outward reach. The city receives you without ceremony. Streets feel narrower than you remember, quieter, more inward. Whatever outward pull Venice created — the openness of water, the insistence of light, the sense of scale — dissolves gradually as Florence gathers itself again around stone and proportion. You move differently on return. You notice detail sooner. The city doesn’t reintroduce itself. It assumes familiarity, allowing you to slip back into its rhythm as though you’d only been briefly distracted rather than truly away.

Craft as civic confidence

In Florence, material becomes instruction. Stone teaches consistency. Pattern teaches order. Ornament never overwhelms; it steadies. Over time, detail stops reading as decoration and starts reading as structure. You notice how easily daily life moves around these surfaces — people crossing squares without pause, conversations unfolding beneath centuries of careful work. The past doesn’t interrupt the present. It holds it in place.

When ornament becomes background

After time in both cities, ornament stops asking for attention. Pattern becomes expectation. Colour settles into familiarity. You stop noticing individual details and begin sensing coherence instead. This is when architecture feels most alive — not when it overwhelms, but when it supports movement without friction. People pass through spaces designed centuries ago without breaking stride. History doesn’t interrupt routine. It absorbs it.

Cities that refuse summary

Florence and Venice resist reduction. One isn’t simply measured and the other extravagant. They overlap in memory — marble recalling mosaic, repetition echoing repetition. The distinction softens as familiarity grows. You stop ranking experiences. You stop translating what you see into meaning. The cities remain in use, continuing to shape posture, pace, and attention without explanation.

Photo by Maksim Shutov on Unsplash

What remains in the surface

Later, what returns isn’t a tower or a palace. It’s a way of looking — slower, closer, less concerned with scale. Marble and mosaic don’t resolve into ideas. They linger as texture and rhythm, reminders that some places were built to reward sustained attention rather than instant understanding. The experience doesn’t conclude. It thins out, unfinished, leaving you more attuned to surface, repetition, and the quiet authority of things made carefully and meant to last.

After the ornament fades

In the end, it isn’t Florence or Venice that asserts itself most clearly, but the space between them — the slow recalibration of attention that happens once you stop trying to separate restraint from grandeur. Giotto’s measured surfaces and the Doge’s patterned authority begin to feel like parts of the same language, spoken at different volumes. Marble and mosaic lose their status as objects to be admired and settle into something quieter: a way cities have learned to hold time. The journey dissolves first, then the landmarks. What remains is an ease with repetition, with surface, with the idea that meaning doesn’t arrive all at once, but waits until you’ve stopped asking it to.

A surface you carry with you

Long after the specifics blur, you find yourself noticing surfaces differently. Stone feels more intentional. Pattern feels earned rather than decorative. You slow down without quite knowing why, pausing a moment longer than necessary in places that don’t ask for it. Florence and Venice no longer exist as destinations in memory. They reappear instead as instincts — a preference for proportion, an acceptance of excess, a comfort with things made slowly and left to age. The article doesn’t end with them. It loosens, leaving behind a way of looking that travels quietly onward, unclaimed and unresolved.

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The post Marble and mosaic: architectural travel from Florence to Venice appeared first on Silver Magazine.

It’s early December and I’m realising that, although the sun is shining, perhaps it wasn’t the best idea to wear a short-sleeved summer dress on this particular expedition. One of the group lends me a thin scarf which keeps the chill off my chest and neck, but the slightly biting wind still whips about my goosebumped bare arms.

The guide and locals are in winter mode ready for our trek – puffa jackets, snoods and woolly hats – so I’m sticking out like a sore thumb. But I just tell myself the 12-degree breeze is positively bracing, and that a bit of air to the bottom never did anyone any harm before proceeding to hike up the steep slope to the Acropolis.

Yes you read that right – the Acropolis in Sicily…

Founded as a Greek colony in 580 BC, ancient Akragas (now Agrigento) rose to become one of the Mediterranean’s wealthiest city-states. Its Doric temples – seven in total, built between 510 BC and 430 BC – symbolise its golden age under tyrants like Theron, who commemorated victories like the 480 BC Battle of Himera against the Carthaginians.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the 1,300-hectare park remains Europe’s largest archaeological site, where tales of Carthaginian sieges in 406 BC left scorch marks on temple walls, still visible today.

We visit four ancient monuments, each more inspiring than the last

First comes the Temple of Heracles, the oldest on the site, built in the late 6th century BC and now reduced to eight columns after an earthquake. Then there is the vast Temple of Olympian Zeus, begun in 480 BC, once more than 110 metres long and famed for its colossal telamons standing up to 7.5 metres tall.

The tour then takes in the instantly recognisable Temple of Castor and Pollux, marked by four columns reconstructed in the 19th century, before ending at the Temple of Concordia. Built in the 5th century BC and later converted into a church in the 6th century AD, it is the best preserved of them all, its survival owed to that later life.

We also got to admire the metal sculpture of a fallen Icarus, a new addition to the site by artist Igor Mitoraj. The Polish sculptor’s monumental 2011 bronze installation hugs a 1000-year-old olive tree, its gnarled trunk a living relic from the site’s medieval olive groves, symbolising Sicily’s enduring agricultural heritage since Phoenician times.

Our guide Luigi tells us there’ll be an exam at the end of the tour but, fortunately, he’s just messing with us. What actually waits at the culmination of the trek is something far more pleasant.

Time to roll up our sleeves…

Deep within an oasis of cacti and palm trees was a beautiful cooking school and restaurant. In the kitchen area, we’re introduced to the chef and watch reverentially as she tosses dough in flour, pats the resulting pizza bases into shape, and deftly arranges a few toppings. Olives, tomato passata, spinach and cheese, before she tosses the pizzas into the fiery oven. Then it’s our turn.

One of the group gets a bit over-enthusiastic and piles his toppings way too high, causing a near-disaster in the oven. The pizza catches fire and, as the chef tries to rescue it, it collapses and has to be tossed into the embers! Despite me not being the greatest of cooks, I’m relieved my creation emerges in one piece. Within a minute or so, the sizzling results are shovelled out onto wooden boards, ready for consumption.

My pizza, even though I say so myself, is not only easy on the eye (I got a bit arty) but is also absolutely delicious with all the same toppings but arranged differently. After wolfing down our creations in the restaurant, we’re presented with a vegetarian smorgasbord of delight: pasta with lentils, roasted potato wedges and cubed pumpkin, followed by a dessert of almond tart and Sicilian orange mousse. And lashings of local vino of course.

Too stuffed to walk back, we thankfully get a lift from the lovely Adler hotel/spa driver Adriano, who tells us that in a past life he was a session musician touring with the likes of Emeli Sandé. That’s a whole another story.

In a single five-day winter’s trip to Sicily, I saw so much

I was privileged to stay in the capital Palermo at a beautiful private residence/palazzo – the Palazzo Pantelleria, run by the charming and accommodating Francesco Cazzaniga, nephew of the owner. And I also got to attend a talk by author Francesca Campioli on her book – A Parigi Con Stile – about fashion designer Coco Chanel.

I visited the local marina and ate the most delicious ice-cream I’ve ever tasted; I had salted caramel and dark chocolate and Francesco had mango and prickly pear. Our choices were chalk and cheese. That was after the breakfast of local croissants, fresh fruit and coffee that Francesco had kindly prepared for me. Needless to say, eyes bigger than belly, I couldn’t finish the ice-cream.

Back at the palazzo, l had a wander around the property

Housed in the 14th-century fortified outpost, built in the late 1300s and later owned by the Spanish Requesens family under Charles V, the palazzo was rescued from ruin in 2002 by Francesco’s collector uncle Massimo Cazzaniga. Cazzaniga transformed it over two decades into an 11,000-square-foot home museum of Baroque frescoes, Venetian tiles and eclectic antiques from global ports.

In the backstreets behind the Palazzo Pantelleria, on our walk to the marina, Francesco told me about the days of the Spanish Inquisition, when prisoners were executed outside the nearby Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri – the 14th-century Gothic stronghold turned Inquisition tribunal from 1604 to 1782. Legend says the local executioner had to scurry, hooded and incognito, through the narrow alleyways, hoping he wasn’t spotted or recognised by locals who disapproved of his actions and choice of career.

Under Spanish Habsburg rule from 1479, the Holy Office targeted Jews, Muslims and “heretics” in Sicily’s diverse melting pot, leading to mass expulsions in 1492 and brutal interrogations in Steri’s graffiti-scarred cells, where desperate prisoners etched poems in Sicilian, Latin and Arabic-Judaic, invoking Dante’s Inferno amid tortures like the rack and waterboarding.

I didn’t think a night at the Palazzo Pantelleria could be surpassed

But then the taxi arrived ferried me to the heavenly Adler Spa Resort Sicilia two hours away from the capital. I say ‘heavenly’ because this stunningly-designed eco-spa is perfect in every way. When I wasn’t pinching myself awake from the blissful dream I thought I was having, I did actually feel like I’d died and gone to heaven.

On a hillside overlooking the Agrigento coast in Siculiana, sitting alongside the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve, this eco-luxe retreat, built with humidity-regulating Sicilian clay walls and volcanic rock cladding, offers thalasso pools, Pilates sessions and farm-to-table Sicilian fare in a serene Mediterranean paradise.

The highlights of my five-day trip most definitely included the pizza-making in the Valley of Temples, but then there was the wine-tasting at the Donnafugata winery – where the Rallo family’s 170-year legacy, revived in 1983 by Giacomo and Gabriella, yields acclaimed vintages like the passito Ben Ryé from UNESCO – protected Pantelleria vines; the swimming in the heated infinity pool at the Adler Spa resort; the one-night stay at the Bella Palermo and that overall feeling of living in the most beautiful dream. I can’t imagine I’ll ever again feel such pleasure in such a short period of time.

December travel info:

Jacqui travelled with Ryanair from Stansted to Palermo airport, return flight £130. She stayed at Travelodge Stansted prior to the flight.

She enjoyed her one-night stopover in Palermo at the Palazzo Pantelleria residence. Contact Francesco Cazzaniga at info@labellapalermo.com  for more details and check out the website

The wine-tasting and Valley of Temples excursions were arranged via the Adler Spa Resort Sicilia.

Jacqui Deevoy

Jacqui Deevoy has been a freelance journalist for over three decades, starting out on teenage magazines, then later working for women’s magazines worldwide, and national newspapers including the Daily Mail, the Mirror, Express and Telegraph. These days, as well as writing for magazines, papers and websites, she produces documentaries and hosts a Monday night talk show for Unprecedented TV.

The post A Sicily holiday in winter: ancient wonders and everyday joy appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Looking to get away from the madness this year? Suddenly realised you’d rather be somewhere gorgeous for the silly season? It’s not too late to look at getting away from it all – so where are the best places to go for Christmas and New Year? We’ve rounded up a few that we like the look of…

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya

For those of us happy to trade away the British grey, there’s sunshine, safaris and stunning star-filled skies waiting in Kenya.

Imagine spending Christmas day on an incredible wildlife spotting safari, with zebra, elephants and rhino basking in the beautiful wilderness around you. You could ride out on horseback for an exciting Christmas adventure, or take a scenic flight to take in the sights from a new angle.

Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine and culture, gorgeous temperatures averaging 24-28°C, and clear views of an incredible starlit sky.

Special things going on over Christmas

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy have just opened their new Private Wilderness where groups of up to 10 guests can enjoy a more secluded wilderness experience.

There are 10 cabins, each with an ensuite bathroom, as well as a shared private chef and tour guide.

Where to stay

If you want to stay somewhere that’s right in the heart of the wilderness, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is the place to be. They’ve got 64,000 acres of stunning wilderness to explore, incredible safaris, bush breakfasts and the Private Wilderness available. There’s even a visit from Santa on camelback for a bit of family friendly Christmas fun, as well as crab fishing and pony rides.

Costs

December rates at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy start from approximately £988 per person per night, and from approximately £8,406 per night for Private Wilderness (based on a minimum of 6 people).

Stargazing in Tenerife

It’s not just about the warmer climes. Tenerife is the perfect Christmas destination for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike. And there’s the Geminids meteor shower set to peak on the 13th-14th December, meaning now is the ideal time to make some exciting new Christmas memories.

With high altitudes, minimal light pollution and crisp winter air, Tenerife is one of the best places to stargaze in the world. So why not spend an unforgettable Christmas getting lost in endless starlight?

Special things going on over Christmas

Spring Hotels is offering Atlántico Excursions’ Night Skies Tenerife tours, where visitors can use powerful telescopes and lasers to experience the night sky like never before. Each tour is accompanied by multilingual astronomy guides, and has options for dinner, hotel pick-up and self-driving tours.

Where to stay

Spring Hotels boasts multiple outdoor pools, fitness facilities, restaurants, bars and a spa all within its grounds. And beyond the hotel grounds, guests can enjoy gorgeous beaches and local attractions all along the southern coast.

For stargazers, the hotel is only an hour’s drive from Teide National Park, an excellent spot to watch the upcoming meteor shower.

Travel & costs

Flights from London to Tenerife are available throughout winter. For a 7-night stay, including flights from London Heathrow, a Double Standard room on a Half Board basis, starts from £1,566 per couple.

Northern Lights, ICEHOTEL and sledding in Swedish Lapland

If you’re looking for more of a magical, snow-filled Christmas experience, Swedish Lapland has all that and more. Between serene snow-covered forests, frozen archipelagos and stunning snow-capped mountains, there is no shortage of festive magic.

Spend the season enjoying reindeer rides, sled dog explorations and snowmobile excursions all beneath the alluring Northern Lights. Or just enjoy a bit of peace amidst the holiday hubbub, taking in the endless skies and serenity of Sweden.

Where to stay

For a truly unforgettable Christmas, the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi offers an experience like no other. Everything, whether that be the bed you sleep in or the glass in your hand, is expertly carved from pure ice. Winter doesn’t get more magical than sleeping in your very own ice palace!

Or if you book before December 16th, you can experience Sunvil’s seven-night Winter Delights in Swedish Lapland holiday, with costs starting at £2,030 per person for a sharing couple, including return flights from London Heathrow.

Adults only in Mauritius

Shandrani Beachcomber, Mauritius

Hoping to escape the gloomy grey of a British winter? Why not spend the season sunbathing on the beautiful sandy shores of Mauritius?

Mauritius is home to gorgeous beaches, warm weather and sunlit skies that are sure to brighten up the festive season. Explore the beautiful Blue Bay Lagoon, or just take some well-earned rest by the beach, looking out over the stunning Indian Ocean.

Where to stay

Shandrani Beachcomber is situated on the stunning south-east coast of Mauritius, overlooking the Blue Bay Lagoon. With freshly redesigned rooms, spa, sauna, beauty parlour, hair salon and pool, there’s no shortage of self-care and relaxation.

For couples, the “Shandrani for Two” adults-only experience is a fab way to have a romantic Christmas getaway. The new exclusive adults-only wing features 69 rooms with private beach access, beachfront bar and dining area.

Beach view from a bay view room at Shandrani Beachcomber

Travel & Costs

You can fly to Mauritius from London Gatwick with Air Mauritius. Return flights are around £600, and nightly rates at Shandrani Beachcomber start from £219 for 2 sharing adults on a half board basis.

And right now, Shandrani Beachcomber has a Christmas special offer, with a 35% discount on accommodation, including meal plan, for stays booked before 26th December 2025.

Winter sports in the Austrian Alps

Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, Austrian Tyrol

If you’re looking to stay active during the festive months, the Austrian alps make for an unforgettable snow sports holiday. And it’s not just skiing and snowboarding – there’s tobogganing, winter hiking, paragliding, and even zip-wires to really get the adrenaline pumping.

Special things going on over Christmas

Spend your winter evenings at Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis’ incredible adventure nights. They’ve got spectacular evening ski shows with lights, music and fireworks, as well as regular live music, cultural events, and more.

Where to stay

Schlosshotel Fiss is a five-star, mostly all-inclusive luxury hotel in the heart of the Austrian Alps. Alcohol is charged separately, but it does offer breakfast, lunch and dinner as part of the room rate.

It boasts not only an exciting range of snow sports and activities, but also 5000m2 of wellness and spa facilities, including a Finnish panorama sauna and a 250m2 panorama pool with incredible views to take in as you swim.

After a long day of activities (or just chilling by the pool), you can treat yourself to phenomenal food and drink awarded a Michelin Star for dining, as well as Michelin Key hospitality.

For families, there’s a wide range of family friendly activities available, including a newly re-designed Kids Club. There are daily supervised activities for both kids and teens ranging from glitter tattoos to archery to pizza making.

Costs

Nightly rates are from roughly €526 per room (1-3 nights) and €472 per room (4+ nights).

Lake Como, Italy

Italy is a classic holiday destination famous for its amazing cuisine and gorgeous sights. And for those of us hoping for a more sophisticated Christmas, it’s absolutely the place to be.

At Hilton Lake Como’s Terrazza 241, you can find a culinary experience like no other, specially curated for the Christmas season. Enjoy an elegant dining experience featuring unique flavour pairings, bespoke cocktails, and gorgeous panoramic views.

There are also endless opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation beside the elegant Lake Como through hydrotherapy, saunas and more. Experience their floating meditation bath, with warm mineral-rich waters that will ease any lingering festive tension and allow you to end the year with a deep sense of peace.

Special things going on over Christmas

Terrazza 241 has its special Christmas Tasting Menu throughout December. It captures the essence of the holidays through a carefully curated à la carte menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients. Each meal is accompanied by the gorgeous views of Como, as well as soft music and warm lights.

Where to stay

Hilton Lake Como is available all holiday season, with wheelchair accessible rooms available as well as family friendly activities. They have a heated rooftop swimming pool open all year round with breathtaking views of Lake Como, as well as lakeside views from your balcony.

Infinity pool at Hilton Lake Como

Costs

At Hilton Lake Como, nightly rates start at €350 per night based on double occupancy with breakfast included.

Biosphere and Starlight reserve La Palma, Canary Islands

La Palma in the Canary Islands is the perfect place to find warmth and sunshine in the winter months.

Looking for something chilled and back-to-naturey? Located in the north-west of the Canary Islands, La Palma is a Biosphere and Starlight Reserve tucked away from regular tourist spots. The island’s black sand beaches are not only beautiful but uncrowded, letting you enjoy the season in peace.

And beyond the beaches, you’ll find cobbled streets rich with authentic Canarian culture – none of the touristy stuff. Not to mention the gorgeous architecture, beautiful vineyards, and incredible cuisine, all in sunny 20-25°C weather.

Special things going on over Christmas

Christmas lights in La Palma

During the festive season, La Palma has family friendly festivities of music and traditional carols filling the streets. And the party keeps going through to New Year, with local volcanic wines and traditional Canarian cuisine, each rich in both flavour and culture.

Best way to get here

There are weekly flights from London to La Palma Airport, including direct flights.

Ummahat Island, Saudi Arabia

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ummahat Island, Saudi Arabia.

Hoping to spend the season somewhere warm, beautiful and, most importantly, quiet? Ummahat Island in Saudi Arabia offers just that, giving its guests the opportunity to really slow down and embrace the rhythm of the Red Sea.

With gorgeous untouched reefs, an expansive night sky of stars and the sea itself stretching endlessly beyond, Ummahat Island is a stunningly peaceful spot to spend the holidays.

You can spend the season planting mangroves at the resort’s conservation centre, or gazing into one of the world’s clearest skies with a resident astronomer.

Special things going on over Christmas

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers a range of signature festive events, including Saudi coffee-making, a starlit New Year’s Eve gala, bonfire gatherings and lunar flow yoga.

Ummahat Island, Saudi Arabia

Where to stay

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is right in the heart of a secluded archipelago, surrounded by uncharted reefs and panoramic views. It offers a range of exciting seasonal events, as well as its very own Neyrah Spa, offering transformative wellness experiences inspired by the stars and the Arabian Peninsula itself.

The resort has four restaurants to choose from, each offering a range of global cuisines for a unique dining experience, whether you wish to enjoy traditional dishes, seafood or even a French-style patisserie.

Travel & costs

You can get a direct flight from the UK, or international flights to the Red Sea International Airport with an additional transfer by speedboat or seaplane.

Rates at Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve start from £2,388 per person per night.

Christmas markets, family time, and Finnish food in Helsinki

Helsinki offers more of a traditional Christmas feel reframed within the gorgeous capital of Finland. You can spend the season exploring beautiful Christmas markets, sampling the local Finnish food scene and enjoying local art festivals.

Whether you’re exploring the many sights of the city or basking in the beauty of the Baltic Sea, there is plenty of beauty, culture and festive spirit to be found.

Special things going on over Christmas

For an extravagant Christmas lunch, you can enjoy restaurants like Nokka, Svenska Klubben or Strindberg, as well as traditional glögi and gingerbread in local Christmas markets and cafes. And don’t forget Finland’s most famous pastime, the sauna. There are loads of saunas to warm your body in whilst you’re there!

A highlight of the season is Lucia Day on 13 December, when Helsinki crowns its own Lucia to bring light into the darkest time of the year. The Finnish Lucia tradition dates back to the 1950s and remains one of the most cherished symbols of hope and brightness in the Nordic winter.

The celebration of light continues into the new year with Lux Helsinki (4–8 January 2026), a spectacular light art festival that illuminates landmarks, parks and hidden corners across the city. Showcasing both Finnish and international artists, Lux Helsinki brings creative brilliance to the darkest time of year and offers a stunning finale to the festive season.

Where to stay

Marski by Scandic offers its guests a range of facilities including saunas, a gym, and an art gallery featuring local artists. It also has its own bar, Marski Bar, with a DJ playing every Friday and Saturday night. For some more Christmassy fun, there’s tree decorating, gingerbread icing and sparkling Christmas drinks available at the bar.

Marski is pet friendly (at an additional cost) and family friendly, with children under 12 able to stay free and receive a welcome drink as a member benefit.

There’s also the Hilton Helsinki Kalastajatorppa, which offers a huge range of activities for the whole family, including sauna sessions, a special Christmas Land and Elf Trail just for children, candlelight concert, visits from Father Christmas and loads more. They have a dedicated Christmas page with full details.

Getting there

There are several flights from UK to Helsinki. Guests can take the Airport train to the city centre and/or a tram to their destinations.

Costs

A classic double room at Marski by Scandic starts at €152 per night.

South Ari Atoll, Maldives

OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Why not spend the festive season away from thick coats and busy high streets, and instead immerse yourself in sun, sand and sea?

For those looking to relax this winter, South Ari Atoll is home to calming beaches, exclusive resorts and rich Maldivian culture to really immerse yourself in. Or for the adventurous, it’s also one of the best places in the world to encounter whale sharks! The winter is the best time to travel to this destination, where you’re guaranteed plenty of luxurious beachside action.

Where to stay

OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is situated on a private island, offering absolute peace and tranquillity during your stay. Enjoy culinary masterclasses, slow atmospheric evenings, cinema under the stars and palms, and even brand-new aerial yoga.

The resort is family friendly, with kids 12 and under able to stay and dine for free. There are also Family Beach Villas for up to five guests, and a Treehouse Kids Retreat offering daily activities and adventures for kids.

Travel & costs

Flying to the Maldives from the UK usually involves a stopover in a Middle Eastern hub (like Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi) or Colombo, taking 12+ hours from the UK, though direct flights (10-11 hrs) are available from London (LHR) with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic to Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. From there you can reach the resort via a short scenic seaplane trip.

OUTRIGGER is currently running their annual Cyber Sale for up to 50% off and a range of bonus inclusions. Prices currently start at £850 per night, or from £5,699 per person for 7 nights half board in an Over Water Villa, including flights departing Heathrow.

Passenger Assistance

Need a bit of help with booking or travel? We found this app and feel it’s worth knowing about. Passenger Assistance is an accessibility app developed by Transreport designed to help make festive journeys smoother for disabled users and those who find the organisation of travelling tough.

Travellers can request support directly from train operators, making sure their journey is all confirmed and planned in advance. It also makes booking assistance quicker, more flexible and intuitive. It streamlines the process and helps ensure rail travel remains accessible for everyone, even during the busy Christmas period.

You can find the Passenger Assistance app here.

Aiden Winn

Aiden is an editorial and production staffer at Title Media. He’s constantly looking for opportunities to have fun and get creative, whether it be art, baking, storytelling… you name it!

The post Some of the best places to go for Christmas and the New Year appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Milestone birthdays have a way of sneaking up on us. Fairly soon I’ll be embracing my big five-oh. And while my fortieth was all about Ibiza with an extended crew of friends, a huge party, and a ‘recovery’ trip back to Spain, I can’t quite imagine repeating that level of, er, admin for the next decade marker.

These days, what calls me isn’t deep house and dancing until dawn, but something that makes me feel special. And something that will help me celebrate how far I’ve come.  This does all need to come with a side of style, and barefoot luxury.

Malliouhana in Anguilla, pics by Emmie Blower

I had my answer the moment I stepped into the lobby of Malliouhana in Anguilla. The mirrored mosaic floor flickered like liquid silver, reflecting the turquoise sea just beyond. Pastel walls, ‘70s black-and-white photography, and Moorish arches framed the Caribbean in the most effortlessly chic way. It was luxurious without being loud, exclusive without being pretentious, and I knew instantly: this is the kind of place where milestone birthdays should be marked.

Meads Bay

Meads Bay, Anguilla

If you’re considering the Caribbean for a bucket-list trip, Anguilla should be top of the list. Meads Bay in Anguilla has been voted among the world’s best beaches, by USA Today and Travel + Leisure, and the entire island of Anguilla has also received numerous accolades for its pristine shores.

As soon as I set foot on Meads Bay, the sand was impossibly soft and bright white, and the glare was so strong it took a moment to adjust.  The water is glassy, aquamarine perfection, clearer than anywhere I’ve ever swum. It’s not an exaggeration to say that this beach doesn’t just top the awards lists, it alters your brain chemistry.

It sounds incredibly privileged to say but Antigua feels a little faded in comparison

Anguilla is blissfully unspoilt. There are no fast-food chains, no casinos, no cruise ships, and no noisy jet skis. The island has no heavy industry and as such, its beauty is protected. This is an island for those who want exclusive, unhurried, Caribbean paradise.

Anguilla is a little off the radar, and that’s the exact reason why A-listers have made it their go-to for years.  Oprah Winfrey, Justin Bieber, Sandra Bullock, and Robert De Niro all have homes here, and it’s not unusual to spot them at the island’s legendary Elvis’ Beach Bar. A ramshackle bar built out of an old boat, Elvis’ feels like a museum of good times and core holiday memories.

A playground for the sea-lovers

One fantasy I’ve long flirted with for my fiftieth is chartering a yacht. Anguilla, with its calm bays and impossibly blue water, is the perfect place for this. Watching glamorous couples being whisked away from Crocus Bay to their catamaran reminded me that this is indeed a millionaire’s playground, and that’s really what I should be aspiring to for my glam half-century.

Anguilla is already on the radar for serious yachters, and with a new marina and upgraded airport terminal underway – funded, interestingly enough, by revenue from its highly sought-after .ai internet domain – this slice of paradise will become even more accessible from 2026.

By luck or design the ai domain that’s native to Anguilla has generated millions for the island as artificial intelligence companies have paid to own the domains.  Forward thinking or sheer good luck? Who knows. But the island has now got a major income stream and they are spending it wisely on improving the accessibility.

A feast from the sea

For me, milestone celebrations must involve food, and seafood is my true passion. Anguilla does not disappoint. Imagine lobster so big that you don’t need sides, crayfish grilled over charcoal until the shell blackens and the flesh inside becomes smoky-sweet, and red snapper served fresh from the boat. Many of the island’s chefs are Michelin-trained, having traded the intensity of yacht kitchens for island life. Which means the standard of dining is consistently extraordinary.

At Mango’s Seafood Restaurant you can find giant, beautifully seasoned lobster portions. For something more refined, Sand Bar is a chic spot for small plates with international flair, cocktails, and live music at sunset.  It is fair to say I did not have one bad meal on the island which is another box ticked for my celebrations.

Where to stay

The island is small but packed with extraordinary places to stay. Malliouhana remains an icon, with its contemporary Caribbean chic. Zemi Beach House on Shoal Bay East combines modern design with a Thai-style spa housed in a centuries-old sugar mill, perfect for slow, indulgent days. For a more boutique feel, Frangipani Beach Resort offers just 19 rooms, making it feel like you’ve been invited into someone’s elegant island home.

Zemi Beach House, ©Thierry Dehove Photography

Getting there

From the UK, the most straightforward route is via St Maarten, with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offering direct flights from London to Princess Juliana International Airport. From there, it’s a 25-minute ferry or short charter flight to Anguilla. Alternatively, fly direct to Antigua and connect via a short regional hop. The journey might be slightly longer than to other Caribbean islands, but trust me, it’s worth every mile.

Does Anguilla make the cut?

For my fiftieth birthday celebrations, I want world class beaches. I want to eat lobster until I can’t move. I want to jump off boats into turquoise waters and I want to feel both grown-up yet relaxed.

Ibiza was perfect for my fortieth. But Anguilla with its stunning hotels, jaw dropping views, friendly locals and exclusive energy I think has made it high on the list for the big five-oh.

FACT BOX

Anguilla Tourist Board

For more information on Anguilla, please visit www.ivisitanguilla.com.

Zemi Beach House

Prices to stay at Zemi Beach House start from US$600 per room, per night, plus taxes, service charge and a reef recovery fee at an additional 27%.

• At the Thai House Spa, the price of the ‘5 Elements Massage’ is $170, plus taxes & service, for 50 minutes and $240, plus taxes & service, for 80 minutes.
• The price of the lobster BBQ evening is $75, plus taxes & service, per person.

Frangipani Beach Resort

www.frangipaniresort.com

Prices to stay at Frangipani Beach Resort start from US$385 per night for single or double occupancy, plus tax and service at an additional 23%.

• The price for the FrangiCat II trip is $100 per person for a full day. Rum punch, beer, wine, sodas, water, towels, snorkel gear, music, stories, dancing are all included! FrangiCat II makes a lunch stop at one of the island’s beach restaurants, which the guest covers.

Trans Anguilla Airways

www.transanguilla.com

Trans Anguilla Airways provides scheduled flights between Antigua (ANU) and Anguilla (AXA), among other routes. The flight costs for ANU – AXA range from US$400 – $550 per person, for a return journey.

How to get to Anguilla

From the UK, you can fly from UK regional airports first to Paris or Amsterdam, and then connect to a flight to the neighbouring island of St Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport. From St Maarten, it’s a 25-minute ferry or short charter flight to Anguilla.

Alternatively, fly direct to Antigua with British Airways or Virgin Atlantic and reach Anguilla via a short regional flight. The journey might be slightly longer than to other Caribbean islands, but trust me, it’s worth every mile.

Blanchards Beach Shack, Anguilla

Restaurants/bars:

• Madeariman: madeariman.restaurant
• Rendezvous by Tasty’s Beach Club: instagram.com/rendezvoustastysbeachclub
• Blanchards Beach Shack: https://blanchardsrestaurant.com/blanchards-beach-shack-anguilla-restaurants
• Mango’s Seaside Grill: https://mangosseasidegrill.com
• Da’Vida Beach Club: https://davidabeachclub.com
• SandBar: https://sandbar-anguilla.com
• Elvis’ Beach Bar: elvisbeachbar.com

Emmie Blower

Always finding the BEST holidays, hotels and restaurants. Travel, food and wellness writer, content creator, and reviewer.

Find her on Insta

The post Why Anguilla is the best destination for a big birthday appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Imagine the fresh sea breeze ruffling your hair, the salty splash over the bow, and the sight of a magnificent ferry, almost like a floating city, pulling into port. Whether it’s your first voyage or a much-anticipated return, channel ferries transform travel from a routine journey to an enchanting adventure. With the splendid English Channel as your canvas, painting memories with family couldn’t be easier. Let’s embark on a mini-voyage of practical advice and get inspired for your own family odyssey across the Channel!

Setting sail: why choose a channel ferry?

Traveling by ferry is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about enjoying the ride there. Particularly for families, channel ferries offer several advantages:

• Space and Freedom: Unlike cramped airplane seats, ferries provide ample space for kids to explore. Watch their eyes light up as they roam the decks, discover play areas, and even peek into the itinerary “behind-the-scenes” activities.
• Affordable Comfort: Travel accommodates every budget, often at a lower cost than flights, without compromising on comfort. Dining options abound, from casual eateries to fine dining, leaving plenty of room to sprawl out with snacks in hand.
• Variety of Routes: From the UK, popular crossings include Dover to Calais, Portsmouth to Cherbourg, and Newhaven to Dieppe, courtesy of trustworthy providers like P&O Ferries, Brittany Ferries, and DFDS.
• Eco-Friendly Travels: A leisurely pace and larger capacity ensure a smaller carbon footprint compared to short-haul flights.

Pre-departure: preparing for your journey

Before setting off, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth voyage.

Booking your ferry

• Early booking often nets better deals, especially during peak school holidays.
• Visit Openferry.com to easily compare Dover to Calais prices, ensuring you book the best ferry for your family.

Navigating ports and timetables

Port Information: Ports such as Dover and Calais are bustling hubs with clear signage and plenty of amenities. Arrive early to navigate check-in and loading smoothly.

Timetable Pointers: Opt for daytime crossings if it’s your family’s first-time sailing. Night crossings are exciting but may disrupt kids’ routines.

Packing essentials for ferry travel

A well-packed bag makes for a stress-free trip:

• Comfortable Layers: Temperatures can vary between port and sea, so plan outfits you can easily add or remove.
• Entertainment Kits: While ferries have amusements onboard, consider packing favourite toys, colouring books, and tablets loaded with movies or games.
• Essentials: Don’t forget hats, sunscreen for the sunny deck, and seasickness remedies if needed.

Onboard experience: exploring your floating wonderland

Here’s where the fun truly begins! Entertain your little ones, cherish some family moments and explore the wide-open sea together.

Kid-friendly activities

Most ferries are designed with families in mind:

• Play Areas: Many ferries offer supervised play zones with toys, games, and interactive installations.
• On-Deck Adventures: Encourage a sense of adventure by exploring the outdoor decks. Try a family-friendly scavenger hunt to make the most of your maritime surroundings.
• Meet the Crew: Some ferry companies offer tours or meet-and-greet opportunities with the crew, a perfect chance for little ones to ask all their burning questions.

Dining with the family

Treat your taste buds without restrictions:

• Family Menus: Seek out eateries offering diverse dishes, from fish and chips to continental staples. Le Bistro on Brittany Ferries and The Kitchen on DFDS cater to even the pickiest eaters.
• Snack Stops: Keep energetic tots fuelled with quick bites available at onboard cafes.

Relax and savour

Don’t forget to take moments of quiet:

• Absorb the views from the lounges, strategically placed with panoramic windows.
• Snuggle up in comfortable seating, and indulge in a good book, or enjoy a moment of reflection.

Disembarkation: smooth sailing into port

As your journey across the waves draws to a close, prepare for a seamless landing into new or familiar lands.

Navigating arrival

Know the procedure to quickly pass through immigration and customs:

• Prepare documents for each family member beforehand.
• Familiarise yourself with the port layout. Maps are often located in common areas aboard the ferry.

Local transportation

Once you’ve landed, the adventure continues:

• Trains and Buses: Ports usually connect directly to public transportation networks. Consider whether your destination is easier reached by train or hire a family-friendly taxi for convenience.
• Car Rentals: If road tripping, pre-booked rentals offer family suites to accommodate luggage and kids’ needs.

Your channel ferry adventure awaits

Traveling by channel ferry gracefully balances the thrill of journeying with the pace of family life, turning travel into an art form. Soak in the unique blend of sea and sky, cater to both relaxation and amusement, and make every moment count with your loved ones.

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But, for some reason, I seem to have gone the other way. Despite the fading eyesight and creaky bones, I’m bolder since hitting 60 than I’ve ever been. It’s the feeling of life getting shorter, mixed with a need to hurry up and get those ambitions ticked off that bucket list before it’s too late that spurs me on. So each trip away becomes a little more daring than the last. That’s why, a month ago, instead of going for a peaceful weekend in the Cotswolds, I chose to take a 48-hour solo holiday in exotic Morocco.

I wasn’t going to rough it, oh no. I mean, I don’t mind a bit of glamping but, this time, I wanted luxury. I was given the opportunity to stay Casa Memoria, a breathtaking villa near Marrakech, and grabbed it with both hands.

Because I only had 48 hours to spare, I made sure my itinerary was action-packed. But that didn’t mean I wasn’t going to have a good few hours indulging in less frenetic activities – namely lounging by the pool and people-watching from cafés and bars in town. I wanted to experience the magic of Morocco but didn’t want to totally wear myself out. Balance is the key to a successful whirlwind two-day escape.

Here’s how it went…

After taking an EasyJet flight from the UK – the return ticket was just £130 – within a few hours, I was at Marrakech airport. A 30-minute taxi ride (which cost around £50) led me to Casa Memoria, a stunning villa set in nine hectares of lush gardens. As I walked through the grand tiled hallway and out into the grounds, palm trees in contrast with the bright green grass and colourful flowers dotted everywhere, the stress of my life in England started to melt away.

The villa itself had a real 1930s vibe to it, even though it was built in 2008. Its six gorgeous suites, which can sleep up to a total of 12, were decked out with traditional zellige tiles and comfy queen-size beds. A strong scent of roses hung filled each room. The air-conditioning gave instant relief from the 40-degree heat outside and promised a great night’s sleep.

On both mornings, I woke to the smell of freshly baked pastries wafting up the stairway. Breakfast could be as minimal or lavish as I liked with a choice of fresh bread with local honey, eggs, strong coffee or mint tea, all prepared by the villa’s talented chef.

The first morning, after breakfast, I walked across the lush lawn to the 25-metre turquoise-tiled pool, heated to a perfect 30 degrees. A waiter appeared to take my drinks order and returned minutes later with water and coffee. I flicked through a novel I’d borrowed from the villa’s quirky book collection and wiggled my toes. This was the life!

After a swim, I decided to have a wander around the grounds

The peacocks, emerging from the olive groves, screeched at me in greeting (I think it was in greeting anyway) as I walked barefoot across the dense and spongey lawn.

Back inside the house, I started to explore. I’d read up a bit on Casa Memoria and had discovered that, despite the building being relatively new, it already had history. It had once been home to the legendary artist Bill Willis, and his bold paintings and sculptures, mixed with ancient Moroccan treasures, featured in every room.

After lunch – cinnamon-dusted chicken and a fresh beetroot salad – on the terrace, I took a 20-minute taxi ride into Marrakech. I soon became lost in the souks, haggling for leather bags and unusual handmade jewellery.

The heat was almost unbearable, and the air was dusty. I dodged the man in the market square offering me a monkey to hold, and swerved the snake charmer and his swaying cobra! I bought a pendant and some healthy tea then made my way ‘home’.

Back at the villa, dinner was pure magic: tender lamb tagine, spiced oranges and creamy crème brûlée, accompanied by chilled local white wine. As the stars came out, I stepped back into the garden. The night was still and warm, the peacocks silent, the scent of flowers divine. Heavenly! That night, I slept like a particularly contented and well-fed baby.

Into the desert…

On the second day, after another delicious breakfast, I headed to the Agafay Desert, about 40 minutes away, for a half-day adventure with Starry Morocco Tours. I started with a camel trek.

When I first saw the camels, with their gyrating jaws and matted fur, the younger, more fearful me kicked it. I had a bad back and climbing up one of these huge humpy beasts looked difficult. I couldn’t imagine that a trek across the sun-baked plains, the Atlas Mountains towering in the distance, aboard one of these stinky creatures would do my sciatica any good, so at first I declined.

Watching other people clamber up though caused me to come to my senses. “I’ll do it!” I shouted. The camel lowered itself by bending its front legs into a kind of kneeling position (although technically I suppose the bending parts are elbows, not knees!) and a kindly man in a turban and long robe helped me up. The initial lurch as the camel returned to standing position was a bit scary but, other than that, the experience was fine. And, oddly, my back felt better after the trek than before.

Then came the real thrill – quad-biking over dunes and rocky trails. The adrenaline rush was unreal as we raced across the desert, following our instructor, dust flying in huge clouds behind us as we rode!

Later, guests at Casa Memoria, could enjoy a traditional Moroccan massage at the neighbouring hotel’s spa. Dinner was another masterpiece: flaky pastries stuffed with aubergine and perfectly spiced chicken that I’m still intending to try cooking at home. As night fell, I sipped cocktails and watched an amazing fire performance – a mesmerising end to a perfect day.

Information

Casa Memoria, an all-inclusive paradise with gourmet meals and drinks included, is perfect for anyone who craves luxury and adventure. It’s romantic enough for a weekend away with a paramour (not that I have one, but I can dream!), ideal for a chic getaway with friends, and is a fabulous venue for a family milestone celebration. The staff made the experience seamless and luxurious. And while it’s not cheap (check prices at Casa Memoria), every moment was worth it.

My stay at Casa Memoria combined sophistication, adventure and Moroccan soul. From the heated pool to the art-filled rooms, from desert thrills to souk treasures, this 48-hour escape was pure joy. I left with memories – and a feeling of pride at being such a daredevil. I’ll cherish that forever.

Jacqui Deevoy

Jacqui Deevoy has been a freelance journalist for over three decades, starting out on teenage magazines, then later working for women’s magazines worldwide, and national newspapers including the Daily Mail, the Mirror, Express and Telegraph. These days, as well as writing for magazines, papers and websites, she produces documentaries and hosts a Monday night talk show for Unprecedented TV.

The post My unforgettable 48-hour solo holiday in Morocco appeared first on Silver Magazine.

I’ve recently had the pleasure of visiting the Maldives, staying at the idyllic Cora Cora Maldives resort. And I’m here to tell you two perhaps surprising things.

Firstly, that although May/June is technically low season, when it’s wettest and most humid, it’s actually a very good time to go. More on this later.

And secondly, that this luxury paradise is not as pricey as you might think – particularly if you go in low season. Considering the stunning beach villa I had, the amazing food and wine I inhaled, and the fact that it’s genuinely all inclusive (more on that later too), when I came to look at the cost, I was very pleasantly surprised.

Let me tell you all about my stay…

Heading east to the Indian Ocean

Flying east is always a bit tougher on the old body clock than heading west. And when you travel to the Maldives, you’re losing a solid four hours. The pro trick? Fly overnight, sleep as much as you can on the flights, and lean into the luxury at the other end. I found that doing it this way made it easily tolerable, with minimal jet lag.

We left Heathrow on a Sunday afternoon, and flew through the night with a stopover at Doha before touching down at Malé airport just after 8am local time on the Monday morning.

As with most resorts in the Maldives, the best – and often the only – way to access the resorts is by seaplane. And I was very excited about this. However, as we were about to board, blundering around in a jetlagged brainfog like overtired toddlers, the heavens opened and there was wild wind and rain, putting us on hold for a bit. Frankly I found the whole thing quite exciting, and not because I’m British and love rain, thank you.

Arriving on a seaplane is straight out of a Bond film

Being May, it’s the start of the rainy season so this sort of thing is to be expected. But the downpours are short, and we were soon skimming across turquoise waters and tiny islands like something out of a Bond film.

I slept almost the entire 45 minutes it took to get there. I think most of our group did. But how wonderful to stagger off the seaplane, on to the jetty and meet the team from Cora Cora Maldives, armed with cool flannels and floral neck garlands for us. What a gorgeous way to arrive anywhere.

Day one – settling into the luxury

Our first day was a gentle one – just enough to shake off the travel haze and settle in properly. Absolutely LOVED my beach villa. Outside the cool, air-conditioned suite, I was able to open the back door, walk onto the sand, scattering colourful birds and little lizards and crabs, and fall straight into the warmth of the Indian Ocean. I also loved the indoor/outdoor bathroom – there’s something hugely decadent about showering outside, completely naked.

Pics from my villa: the ‘back yard’, the bubbles and sweets left out for me on arrival, and my gorgeous inside/outside bathroom

We gathered for a relaxed lunch at the biggest/main restaurant on site, Tazäa, where I asked for an enormous gin and tonic and got something so strong it would have floored a rhino. OK Harrington-Lowe, I thought. When they say, ‘how many measures?’ and you hilariously say ‘six!’, maybe reframe that. I had freshly-made gazpacho and a Caesar salad. Man, it was good.

I’m just going to say that I would love to write more about all the food in this review, because every single meal I ate was exemplary. But if I gave you the rundown on everything, you would genuinely be in a retirement home by the time you’d finished reading. Everything is extraordinarily fresh, with clean, elegant menus at each restaurant. I didn’t have a duff meal once in the whole time I was there. And I tried a LOT of food!

I might have had a tiny gin-fuelled snooze after lunch…

Before easing into the evening island vibe. I had a shower, and a little mooch about outside before we all met up for dinner. Which was a frankly fantastic Japanese experience at the elegant Teien.

Japanese feast at Teien. So beautifully fresh and exquisitely prepared

If I have any regrets about my trip, it would be that I didn’t get more time in Teien. It’s very rare you go to an ‘all-inclusive’ and get the option to eat yourself silly in the premium restaurants. Often, one can eat and drink in a couple of the main outlets, with additional costs levied for eating in the special places. That’s not the case here, and it’s one of the things that makes it properly standout. All the eateries are included in your package, and so are premium drinks such as champagne. It’s such a treat not to have to think about it as you go along, and an even bigger treat to eat and drink like Henry VIII 24/7.

When in, er, the Maldives…

Doing a sterling job of reviewing everything on offer, we headed for a snifter at Italian-flavoured Acquapazza, where the breeze was soft, the night was warm, and the nightcaps flowed freely. I must admit to being a bit of a lightweight here – I think I had one and headed for the very welcome AC coolness of my villa. It’s a solid 29 degrees all day and all night here, and I needed a day or two to get acclimatised to that.

Fellow group mate Lauren’s late-night battle with the local gecko population provided plenty of entertainment after I’d left, via our group WhatsApp messages. “I’m never sleeping. One’s hissing at me,” she said.

Day Two: lizards, learning, and laughter

Tuesday dawned hot and bright, and Lauren survived the night. And after breakfast we were taken on a tour of the resort. A site inspection might sound dry, but not here. Whilst the resort is a paradisical playground, the owners also work in a largely unique way to not only champion ecology and sustainability, but also to applaud and recognise its Maldivian history.

For those who don’t know about the Maldives’ background… ancient trade hub/stopoff point for Spice Road, Buddhist for centuries, Muslim from 1153, Portuguese arrived 1558, Dutch followed, British protectorate till 1965. I think I have that right. And the Dutch Onion museum on the resort reflects a lot of the rich tapestry that makes up the Maldives’ history.

The museum visit was a genuine pleasure, mostly because of the guided talk we had. Our guide was truly passionate and knowledgeable. In a small resort playground with mostly ‘fun’ things to do, I found a touch of culture very welcome. There is exceptionally thoughtful curation and some fascinating insights into Maldivian heritage.

A similarly passionate coral conservation talk led by marine biologist Giulia Morello was delivered just as the skies opened in an apocalyptic downpour – not that it dampened our mood. And it was fascinating to learn how they’re creating coral ‘reefs’ using frames which they gently attach new corals to.

Talk at the museum, relics from the Brits tucked away in the curation room, and learning about the coral frame restoration project

Time for some more indulgence

Hitching a ride on one of the golf buggies to get me to the spa without getting drenched, the next thing on my agenda was a massage. Which I enjoyed face down on the bed, watching the waves and fish in the sea underneath the lagoon villa, through a special window in the floor. Masseuse Eva launched herself at my back and gave me the kind of working over I always want, but rarely get. That girl has The Gift.

Lunch followed at Acquapazza again, where the food is so consistently good I never want to stop eating. Yves reported that he had been having a bath and discovered a peeping bat staring at him from a tree. There are HUGE fruit bats flying around all the time. I thought they were birds, they’re so big.

Dinner was at Ginger Moon, where we overindulged in a wild array of the most amazing pan-Asian dishes under a canopy of dramatic monsoon clouds.

Fantastic pan-Asian dinner at Ginger Moon whilst the monsoon whooshed around us outside. A fantastic experience – and amazing food

Wednesday: saltwater, stretching, and storms

The day dawned bright and sunny. And by Wednesday we’d all more or less adjusted to the rhythm of island life. Which is to say barefoot by breakfast and blissed-out by sunset. The day began with yoga, of course, because nothing says ‘posing in paradise’ like trying to balance in tree pose while the sound of the sea washes around you. It really was very special.

Then it was into the water for snorkelling – a proper highlight. The reef is lively and vivid, full of darting fish and the occasional moment where your brain tells you that shadow might be a shark (it might be!).

The evening brought a resort meet-and-greet, followed by dinner back at Acquapazza, where the rain decided to put on another spectacular show. The air was fresh after a brief, wild downpour. I loved it. The champagne is always on tap, the food always excellent, and the company pretty good too!

Acquapazza delights: carpaccio and Champagne, night-lit pools, and yes that IS a rum baba and it was heavenly

Thursday: vibes, views, and velvet skies

Thursday slowed things right down. A morning sound bath lulled us into a sort of transcendental calm, although I found just as I was drifting away it was over all too soon. We drifted between the pool and the sea in a collective trance, broken only by the occasional splash and laughter from those attempting to perfect their ‘casual holiday float’ for Instagram (looking at you, Lauren!).

As the sun dipped low, we boarded a boat for a sunset cruise. Bubbles on board and lots of bobbing about on the warm seas. The sky turned apricot and gold, Kevin and Yves recreated ‘that’ special Titanic moment, and the whole thing felt deliciously cinematic.

Bubbly and being daft on the sunset cruise, an awesome chance to see the atoll from the waters

Friday: Champagne and so long

Friday was our final day, and the weather really turned it on. Blue skies, blistering sun, and water so clear it looked Photoshopped. We swam in the sea, lounged in the heat, and reluctantly packed our bags. A last lunch at Acquapazza, complete with chilled champagne, was the perfect farewell toast.

And then it was back on the sea plane, skimming across the waves once more, trying to hold on to the sense of calm and colour that only a place like this can give you.

Practical travel tips for UK visitors to the Maldives

Time zone shift
The Maldives is +4 hours ahead of the UK, which can mess with your body clock – especially flying east. To beat the worst of the jet lag, opt for an overnight flight. You’ll arrive in the morning local time, which makes it easier to power through the first day and reset.

Flights and transfers
There are some direct flights from the UK to the Maldives, but many have a stop. We flew with Qatar Airways and stopped at Doha, but the changeover was speedy. And honestly it was quite nice to stand up and move around for a while.

Once at Malé (MLE), many resorts (including Cora Cora Maldives) require a seaplane transfer – a glorious, scenic way to arrive, but it’s worth knowing:
• You’ll likely need to wait at the seaplane terminal a while after landing.
• Seaplanes don’t fly after dark, so late-arriving flights may require an overnight in Malé.

Currency
The Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR) is the local currency, but USD is widely/more generally accepted, especially at resorts. You won’t need much cash – most things go on your room tab – but a few bucks are handy for tips or local purchases.

Weather
Expect heat and humidity year-round. May is the start of the southwest monsoon, so while it’s warm, you may get sudden tropical downpours. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, light clothing, and a decent hat – the sun is fierce.

Connectivity
Wi-Fi is generally good at high-end resorts like Cora Cora, and I found that by the time I’d piggy-backed the Wi-Fi in the airport and then the resort, I didn’t need to pay for data for my phone, which can be expensive. Download anything essential before you go, and consider a local SIM or travel data package if you plan to be online a lot and you’re moving about.

Sustainability notes
The Maldives is incredibly eco-conscious – especially the newer resorts. Cora Cora Maldives is single-use plastic free, has its own coral regeneration programme, and encourages barefoot luxury with a conscience. Treat this with the respect it deserves.

Costs

Looking ahead to 2026 and planning as if I was going to go back for my birthday in late January, these are the best costs I tracked down online (in June 2025), booking directly with Cora Cora Maldives, and Qatar Airways.

Six nights at Cora Cora Maldives, January 2026

Lagoon Villa £2,000 pp
Beach Villa £2,500 pp
Flights on Qatar Airways £745 pp

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post Paradise found. Cora Cora Maldives delivers more than you expect appeared first on Silver Magazine.

If Athens and the Acropolis are on your bucket list but you’re put off by the thought of intense heat and insane crowds, this is your sign to go right now. Because springtime is the best time to visit Athens.

Usually when I step off a plane in Athens, it’s summertime. That sort of punch-you-in-the-lungs heat that you never get in the UK. It’s always a bit of a shock to the system.

It can easily hit 40 degrees in high season Athens. And in fact the only thing saving Athens from being completely unbearable is the breeze that blows off the Aegean Sea. Many Athenians abandon the city for the islands in summer, because it’s so hot inland. That should tell you something.

My springtime experience…

Firstly, I’ve had a very decent ride with Aegean (complimentary hot Greek meal and drinks, clean A360 plane with good legroom). Arriving into Athens on easyJet is a lot less easy on the old 50-plus bod, it has to be said. I’m Aegean all the way from now on.

A very decent prawn cocktail, hot pastitsio, and snacky biccie thing on board, for those of you interested. Wine not shown, ahem.

It’s heavenly stepping off the plane

Not unlike an early summer’s day in England – everything is warm, but has a light, green feeling. You can take a deep breath, draw in the fresh air, everything verdant and new, rather than the heat of summer when it’s all overripe, heavy and cloying like a black banana.

It’s early March and it’s the first time I’ve done Athens so early in the year. Before I even leave the runway and get into the airport I’m a convert.

First stop in my short trip is the hotel

I’m staying at the famous and beautifully elegant Hotel Grande Bretagne in Syntagma Square. One of the best five-star residences in Athens, and arguably the most famous, the hotel celebrated 150 years in 2024. It’s actually a Marriott now, but don’t let that put you off; it’s also a Luxury Collection hotel and retains its stately standing, with beautifully appointed bedrooms, excellent bars and restaurants, luxey pools and spa amenities, and that feeling I always want from a grande dame.

It has all its individual charm, great service, and feels every inch the traditional five star. My room also has a great view, plus the most exciting snackie drawer and well-stocked mini-bar I’ve seen in a hotel room for a long time. Bravo.

We arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon – there are a few of us travelling together – and once we’ve showered and changed, we’re all ready for some fun.

First things first; a drink in Alexander’s Bar at the hotel. This is a great place to start the evening – the bar and lounge are furnished with a nod to both Greek culture and the British theme of the hotel. I try not to feel too colonial.

The hotel, incidentally, has great views of the Acropolis. There’s an outdoor pool with stunning views of the hill and the buildings. Inside Alexander’s, there’s also an atrium where you can sit ‘outside’ and enjoy a peaceful oasis slap bang in the middle of one of the noisiest cities in the world. Cocktails all round, and then we’re definitely ready for some food. We head out into the Athens nightlife.

Read more: Why Mexico should be on your bucket list

Time for dinner and we’re off to Ergon

This is a place I’ve been wanting to visit for ages, so I’m thrilled to be at Ergon House. This isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a deli, a place to stay… a place to eat and drink and relax. The inside is set in a vast light atrium space, and the ethos is very much about local farmers and producers, seasonal foods and sustainable agriculture.

There’s even a ‘vertical orchard’ stretching up one wall of the 25-metre atrium which is worth the trip alone to have a look at. Incorporating the latest advancements in hydroponics and aquaponics, it serves as a 2.0 farming field, growing seasonal herbs such as oregano, basil, and rosemary. Unfortunately my photograph of it was awful, but you can see it on their website.

As you’d probably imagine from a place with these credentials, the food here is stunning. We pile into a range of different smaller plates; dolmades, Greek salad, khachapuri (that bread boat thing with cheese and egg in the middle), mad cheese pastries… but seeing as we’re sat right in the middle of one of the best butcheries in Athens, the obvious choice here is from the fresh meat counter.

You can pick things to eat from the deli and butchery counters – it’s an immersive eating experience – so I went for some lamb chops which were on the specials board. Sublime. And to finish off, at the insistence of the team at the restaurant, a vast quantity of local piney liqueur, Mastika, made from tree resin. This is an acquired taste, but a good digestif.

Safe to say we weren’t moving at any kind of speed after that lot, and we slid happily into digesting, chatting, and enjoying the buzz of an Athens just waking up from winter.

However, I’ll sleep when I’m dead…

I’m only in Athens for a short time so I’m making the most of it. I’ve been recommended a bar called The Bank Job. I feel it’s my duty to try it out, and my travelling chums are keen to support this noble effort. It’s only a short walk from Ergon (what did we do before Google maps?), and we’re glad we made the effort.

As you might guess, it’s in an old bank vault, with drinking spaces both inside and out, and it’s gently busy. We enjoy some really outstanding cocktails, and some freebies from the owner. I’d love to tell you his name but by this point things are delightfully hazy. Deciding to call it a night, and not ruin the next day, I slide off around 1am. Apparently I’m becoming more sensible in my advancing years.

Clearly being very sensible. Making the most of the Athens nightlife

Not sensible enough to avoid a thick head the next morning unfortunately…

But sensible enough to get up, shower, enjoy a decent breakfast and get to the Acropolis at a very reasonable hour. The site is open from 8am and I’m there before 9, because I’m wondering if there might be a bit of a queue, even at this time of the year. However, I wasn’t prepared for it to be so quiet. We paid our money, got our tickets and slipped straight through.

The Erechtheion or Temple of Athena Polias

Once on the site I could count the number of people there on one hand. It was slightly bizarre. I’ve been before but only in summertime, which is brutal. It’s so busy you can barely see the ground under your feet for crowds around you, let alone the ancient wonders.

This, then, is possibly the best reason of all to come in springtime. Late February/early March (avoiding that sneaky half term towards the end of the month) and probably well into April is prime time if you want to really see the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and so on. Not to mention a smog-free view of the city, laid out around you. It’s breathtaking, no exaggeration. Do it.

The Greek Theatre of Dionysus, and Athens beyond

View over Athens from Acropolis

Leaving the Acropolis we pottered down the hill

Already slowing into Greece pace – siga, siga, for those who know – which roughly means ‘slowly, slowly’. By this point it’s around 17 degrees, and the streets are littered with jolly dogs and watchful cats enjoying the gentle spring warmth. I pat a few lazily wagging curs. They sniff me hopefully for treats, and I wonder how they cope in the blazing summer heat. I guess they’re used to it. The road is cobbled and in very good nick. It’s also very clean.

Next up, the Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is relatively new, having opened in 2009 after a fierce architectural competition – CAD-bags at dawn, one assumes. It’s actually a lovely job, architecturally-speaking. Modern and minimalist, the design lends more than a nod to the stately Acropolis architecture on the hill behind it. And there is a lot of glass. The windows are coated and the antiquities positioned so there’s no sun damage. But the lighting throughout the building is a joy.

The museum incorporates an ancient Athenian village, built around it to both preserve and display it. Discovered during an excavation, this 4,000-square-metre insight into ancient Athenian living can be seen from the viewing platforms. And somewhat disconcertingly through the glass floors.

Upstairs you enter an extraordinary space, filled with statues and pottery findings from past civilisations, leading up to the Roman Empire. Move through and you can get up close and personal with a couple of caryatids, sculpted women who for a couple of thousand years bore the weight of the Erechtheion. And there are the strangely humbling Parthenon statues upstairs in the glass gallery. It’s quite the ride, and a must-see for archaeologist enthusiasts.

At the museum I joined a tour group

So I could traipse round and understand what I was looking at. The guide however spent half the time telling everyone how terrible the British were for stealing things. A fair point, I’ll concede, but not something I can personally fix whilst on a mini break. And her endless ranting made it impossible to enjoy the treasures. Eventually I got fed up of being told off for something I hadn’t actually done myself, and went off piste, abandoning the group. I wasn’t the only one to ditch, either.

Happier walking around at my own pace, and feeling less like a dog with its tail between its legs, I drifted through the beautiful statuary in a happy little dream. The museum is well laid out and enjoyable to walk around. But like any museum, one hits a limit eventually – or at least my lower back does – and it’s time to stop the drifting.

Thankfully, there’s a very good restaurant on site. Time for some lunch after my busy morning. Obviously the vast meal of last night and hearty breakfast of earlier haven’t quite done the trick because I’m all over this lunch like a cheap suit. Excellent wine makes my cheeks pink, and I work my way through both spanakopita and Greek salad, followed by some kind of slow cooked beef thing (not stifado) with potatoes.

I’ve impressed even myself. I’ve also knocked myself flat on my back – I grab a taxi and head back to the hotel. Time for a nap.

My ‘nap’ ends up being an all-nighter

I ended up feeling so fat and happy in bed that I stayed there. I ordered a bit of room service, and had a good night’s sleep. In the morning, we left early, and my only regret is that I didn’t get to explore the hotel further. I had wanted to swim in the pools, eat in the restaurants. But it was a flying visit, and hopefully I’ll be able to go back.

More than anything, I would urge anyone keen to see the ancient treasures of Athens to go right now, before it gets any hotter. I am here to tell you that – for this kind of experience – springtime is the best time to go to Athens.

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post Why springtime is the best time to visit Athens appeared first on Silver Magazine.

If you want to escape for some winter sun and sand and enjoy the cultural pleasures of a Mediterranean cruise as well but can’t decide where to go, we’ve got you covered. A favourite of many are the iconic Greek islands, the Balearic Islands and the Canaries. So why not opt for a Mediterranean cruise itinerary that takes you island hopping to these destinations, so that you can decide for yourself?

Greek islands vs Balearic Islands

Beaches

While both islands share one essential element, the Mediterranean Sea, the beaches of the popular Greek islands are not generally as good as those on the Balearic Islands.

Even though the Greek islands are known for their beaches, there are often more awe-inspiring options on the beaches of the Balearic Islands. You know the legendary names like Minorca, Mallorca, Ibiza and the islet of Formentera, to name a few, all covered with white sand coves and crystal clear waters.

Mallorca’s Cala del Moro is one of the most stunning coves in the area, known for its dazzling sands and crystalline waters, located in the secluded area of Santanyi.

This is one beach we can pair with the Kamari Beach in Santorini because access to both is steep and tricky, but once there you can easily stay there and spend the day.

Another beach which is comparable is the Playa de Es Trenc beach in Mallorca, which is nearly 3km long. It’s very natural with no big buildings nearby, and there are even some places shrouding a small cove where you can bare all.

You can pair this beach with the Sarakiniko Beach in Milos Island, where the whiteness of the sands is reminiscent of the surface of moonscapes.

Climate

As for the climate, the Balearic Islands are less windy and the sea is generally warmer. While the vegetation on both the Greek and Balearic Islands is Mediterranean scrub, the Balearic are also generally greener. However, regarding prices, the Greek islands – with a few exceptions – tend to be far cheaper.

Nightlife

Some resemble each other such as Mykonos and Ibiza for the wild nightlife or Formentera and Elafonisos for the splendid beaches, but both are fundamentally Greek and Spanish.

Canary Islands vs Balearic Islands

Both these islands receive millions of visitors each year because of the amazing beaches and the perfect warm weather.

Beaches

The Balearic beaches are mostly white, while the Canaries mostly have black volcanic sand. Both have small, secluded coves where you can escape the crowds and be totally by yourself.

Final decision

Choose the Balearic for nightlife, short flights and when traveling with friends. Head to the Canaries for winter sun, adventure and long sand beaches.

Head to the Greek islands if you are looking for endless variety, delicious food, killer drinks and excellent island hopping cruises that allow you to enjoy the Greek culture and epic nightlife on the way.

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The post Greek islands, the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands for island hopping? appeared first on Silver Magazine.

There is so much of Mexico to explore. And when travelling, if you’re looking for something authentic, you always need to look that one step further. While popular tourist destinations like Cancun or Mexico City get all the attention, Lili Lowe on why you should consider Chihuahua in the north of Mexico for your next adventure…

If I’m being honest, I’d never really heard much about Chihuahua; apart from the dog, of course. So, when I decided to explore the Mexican region, I was excited to see a part of the world I didn’t know anything about.

The journey to Chihuahua was much like any long haul… a bit of a slog. With a 12 hour transatlantic flight to Mexico City, and a couple of hours on a connecting flight to get there – although a slightly less onerous nine-hour trip home – I was pleased to have my feet on the ground by the time I landed. It’s quite a trip.

Let’s start with Chihuahua City itself

Chihuahua might not be as big or famous as Mexico City, but it’s equally or maybe even more rich in history. One of the first things I learned was that the Mexican revolution of 1910 started in Chihuahua, rather than in the capital.

Within the city, we visited some beautiful sights, including Quinta Gameros Cultural Centre, a stunning, French-inspired mansion. It’s now owned by the local university and is a popular student hang-out. I was definitely a little jealous of the students who get to each their lunch here.

Quinta Gameros Cultural Centre

But my favourite spot by far was the house of Francisco “Pancho” Villa’s second wife, now called the is now the Francisco Villa Museum. María Luz Corral de Villa was second among 25 women who have claimed to be married to him at one time or another! He’s known as the Mexican Robin Hood, which might explain his appeal among the ladies. Marital matters aside, he was the former governor of Chihuahua and a pivotal part of the Mexican revolution.

We learnt about his rise to power, his arguments with his American neighbours, and his inevitable fall. The house, as per his request and after his second wife had died, was left to the military. Soldiers still mill around the mansion. They won’t smile at you, but they are friendly enough, if a little imposing.

Francisco Villa Museum

As well as the city’s historic charms, we stayed in District One or ‘The Modern District’ for the first couple of nights. In all honesty, it felt like a weird dystopia in comparison to the old town. Like Canary Wharf, but in the desert. It was still pleasant with lots of fancy cocktail bars, restaurants, health food shops, and even a café that had vegan options. It wasn’t my favourite part of the city but I can see why people would enjoy a night out there. Plus, it felt pretty safe. I don’t imagine the old town has much CCTV.

Chihuahua City ‘Modern District’

Wandering around Chihuahua City, the divide between those with money and those without is pretty obvious. A few of my travelling companions said that Chihuahua felt like it had been lightly touched by the western world, but much of it was left untouched. Religious buildings are everywhere, and there are houses that look exactly as you’d expect after watching a western set in Mexico. And of course, you’re conscious of the desert and mountains all around you.

Away from the Mexican metropolis

Wherever you look in Chihuahua City, you are reminded that you’re just in a small part of the state. There are mountains everywhere. And if you drive just 20 minutes outside the city, the landscape becomes unrecognisable. The desert stretches out for miles, populated by vultures, eagles, snakes and lizards. I was in awe, not necessarily because it was so pretty, but because it was so different to anything I’d seen before.

In the desert, we visited a Sotol distillery to see how the traditional Chihuahuan drink is made. It comes from Genus Dasylirion plants, which are found in north Mexico deserts, New Mexico, Arizona and Texas. Sotol is a bloody unique drink; kind of smoky, not a million miles away from tequila, but a lot more ‘rustic’. It’s like nothing I’ve never tried before. A lot of it is also insanely alcoholic.

Obviously 10am is the perfect time to visit a distillery

Some of the many flavours of Sotol to choose from

The brother of the master distiller of Sotol taught us that to even sip the drink neat, you have to first produce a small ball of spit to the front of your mouth to enjoy it on the tongue.

I tried many flavours and learnt so much, such as how Sotol was only legalised in 2002 because of its strong ties to prohibition. When the authorities searched distilleries, the booze was buried in graves, which was a pretty effective hiding place. It’s probably not my drink of choice, but with ABV percentages ranging from 30 to 70, it’s a pretty good way to get the party started.

Getting up into the mountains

The drive up to the mountains was full of stunning views and winding roads. Every time we stopped, I was reminded of how lucky I was to be seeing this. The scenery is breathtaking.

We stayed in a small town called Creel. It was felt a bit like a Swiss mountain town but hotter, with dogs instead of goats, and far less yodelling. Before we settled in, we drove about an hour away to the Valley of the Monks, a stunning spot that overlooks giant, pointy rocks. They were probably more phallic than religious, but gorgeous all the same (picture above).

Rarámuri women

Traditional crafts by the Rarámuri people

At the Valley of the Monks, we met indigenous Rarámuri people. They live off the land in places completely untouched by the modern world. These are ‘high canyon’ Rarámuri people, and most of the women and girls were dressed in bright, beautiful traditional clothing. At the foot of a mountain that we hiked up, they were selling handicrafts, such as carved wooden earrings and handwoven baskets, and insisted on posing for pictures with us. Despite living mostly off the land, drought has been a real problem, so they still need pesos to survive.

Following a train journey by the Chepe Express (more on this below), we landed in Creel, and had dinner at a steakhouse. This limited my options as a vegan, but I was helpfully assured the meat was very nice. It’s a small town, but it has everything you may need and a lot of what you don’t too. As well as practical amenities, such as banks and pharmacies, there are gift shops and small markets.

The beautiful, colourful buildings were very photogenic and I was disappointed to have only spent a night there. It’s the kind of place where you could happily wile away a few days. Creel is high up, with an elevation of more than 2,300 metres above sea level. So if you suffer with altitude sickness, this may not be the place for you. In October, it was chilly at night, but a rather pleasant 25 degrees by day.

The Copper Canyons

I have to say, the biggest draw of Chihuahua has got to be the Copper Canyons, known locally as Barrancas del Cobre. Twice as deep and four times as large as the much-visited Grand Canyon, photos and words cannot describe the sheer magnitude.

Formed of three mountains, we drove for hours and stayed in multiple locations, yet I feel like I haven’t seen even half of the views, valleys and forests.

We spent a night at Hotel Mirador, which was built so that every room and common area looked out on the mountains. From my balcony, I could see valleys, Rarámuri settlements, blue jays, eagles, vultures and more. I got up early to watch the sun rise over the mountains. As I sat there with my tea warming my hands, music in my ears, watching as the world woke up, I honestly had a little cry. It was profoundly moving, and throughout my visit I often had to take a moment just take it all in.

The world’s second longest zipline starts here

One of the wildest things I did in the mountains was take a ride on the world’s second longest zipline. The experience lasts about three minutes and can reach speeds of up to 135kph, starting from a height of 2,248 metres. When I saw the drop and looked at the wire – which I couldn’t see the end of – I gulped a bit. But as soon as I was kitted up, I couldn’t wait to go. And it was amazing, every second was a thrill. You’re going so fast you spin, and I definitely whooped and threw my hands in the air like a proper tourist.

On the other side, however, you have to hike up to the cable cart station to get back. It’s about 700m and takes anywhere between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on your fitness levels. If you think the hike might be a bit much, the adventure park has many other options for everyone involved.

We stopped at a few viewpoints to see valleys and different aspects of the canyons. At every point, I was awestruck. One of the things I loved most was seeing how different life was in different parts of the mountains, from colder, harsher temperatures up the top to rainforest temperatures and humidity in the valleys. It’s so vast and expansive that I felt like I could never have seen enough.

Read more: why the over-50s are leading the way in adventure travel

The Chepe Express

Let’s talk about the train ride! This was definitely a highlight of the trip. It’s about nine hours by rail between Los Mochis to Creel, with five stops where you can get off for further exploration. During the trip, we crossed one of the country’s most imposing mountain ranges via bridges and tunnels, all gems of Mexican engineering. And this journey took place in an environment where excellent staff pampered us in comfort.

There are three classes; first, premium, and tourist. I was lucky enough to be in first, but did venture down to premium, which wasn’t greatly different. I didn’t get a look at tourist class, but was assured that is was still a nice experience. It’s not so much about the amenities but the views. Click here to check out the rates.

It was an incredible vintage train going through the mountains, it was spectacular, it was hot – especially getting off at Los Mochis at the other end – and it was mad. They love music in Mexico and there were so many places where music was blasting through speakers. This train was no different, but it did not take away from the experience at all.

As well as the canyons, tunnels and bridges, I saw cowboys – I’m talking about actual cowboys with lassos – which was pretty exciting. I implore anyone travelling to Mexico to consider this train journey. You will not be disappointed.

On the whole…

I had a fantastic time and I came home feeling like I’d really experienced something new and interesting, not like I’d just been on holiday. This sort of buzz may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for a genuinely new and exciting experience, then this could be the trip for you.

A nine-night stay in Mexico (six nights in Chihuahua and three in Mexico City) with Audley Travel costs from £4,090 per person (based on two travelling). The price includes all flights, transfers, accommodation, a first-class ticket on Chepe Express and excursions in Chihuahua and Mexico City. www.audleytravel.com/mexico

Lili Lowe

Lili works across all the channels; writing articles, taking photographs, creating content, and designing eye-capturing imagery. She’s an animal-lover who cries just seeing a picture of a baby sloth.

The post Consider Chihuahua in Mexico for your next adventure appeared first on Silver Magazine.