Summer Holiday Hotlist

Get out of your comfort zone and venture farther afield to Hawaii - this collection of pacific islands will not disappoint. Think sugary white beaches and crystal clear reefs, then add lush rainforests and dramatic volcanoes to the picture and you’ve found yourself in paradise, or Hawaii. This is a playground of natural wonders, and its culture, food and hospitality are just as top notch. 

I mean, what could be better than sitting in the warm evening sun, with a beautiful glass of red wine and a huge pizza in front of you? It’s a well repeated statement that Italy provides the best food in Europe, but for me, it really does - and it’s a country worth visiting on that basis alone. But when you combine foodie heaven with rolling Tuscan vineyards or dramatic Amalfi coastline, you know you have actually hit the jackpot here.

Stealing hearts left right and centre, Bali is the hottest new summer getaway, and for good reason. With its wonderful Indonesian hospitality, array of glorious beaches and an abundance of fascinating cultural sites, Bali has it all. Plus, the surf is world class, massages are considered a necessity and the food is – in typical Asian fashion – absolutely delicious. What are you waiting for?

It’s a classic for a reason. Just a short flight away from good old Blighty lies the contrasting climate of the South of France. It’s hot, it’s glamorous, and it’s full of beautiful cities on the coast. Whether its baroque architecture and cobbled streets, sweeping pebbled beaches, or peaceful provincial greenery you’re after, the South of France has it all. And if that wasn’t enough to persuade you, it’s the home of baguettes, brie and beautiful wine.

Avoiding the rainy season which hits the more popular Thailand, Vietnam makes a wonderful alternative for those seeking a South-East Asia experience. Getting out into the rural landscapes here is a must, the rolling rice fields and domineering mountains make for a site worth beholding, as do the powder soft white beaches that line the coasts. A country of colour, culture and kaleidoscopic experiences Vietnam is the perfect summer holiday for the more adventurous traveller.

Whether its Santorini, Mykonos or the mainland, Greece has summer down to a T. Spend your days swimming in azure blue waters and sunbathing on hidden beach alcoves, then as night falls, tuck into fresh seafood, juicy olives and an array of mezzes, with a cocktail overlooking the sea to finish. There’s nothing quite like the Greek lifestyle for the ultimate slowed down, sunny break.