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Tag: travel europe

  • I booked a last-minute weekend trip to Berlin. Here’s everything I did

    Next, I decided to explore Berlin’s art scene at Museum Island. I knew time was tight, so I chose the Alte Nationalgalerie for the romantic 19th-century masterpieces, but if you have more time, check out the Pergamon Museum for its jaw-dropping ancient treasures.

    In the afternoon, I headed to Kreuzberg, the creative soul of the city, where I spent a relaxed afternoon browsing independent boutiques and hunting for vintage denim at Garage. Then, before heading back to the hotel, I refuelled with a traditional doner kebab from Mustafa’s Gemüse Kebap – an institution in its own right.

    After a quick power nap at Sly, I headed back out for dinner at Katz Orange. Think farm-to-table dining with a chic Berlin twist, set in a fairy-lit courtyard. Everything looked and smelled delicious, but the beef brisket in particular was a real standout. For night owls, however, this is just the beginning; Berlin’s clubs start late and end whenever you want them to.

    Katz Orange

    Berlin How To Spend 48 Hours In Germany's Capital City

    Katz Orange

    Day two

    After a quick coffee in the greenhouse, I grabbed an Uber across town to Charlottenburg and my second hotel. From the moment you pass through its gates, Wilmina surprises. A wild garden and intimate courtyard greet you, softening the red brick façade and heavy doors that hint at its women’s prison past. Once inside, rooms offer crisp minimalism, white walls, pale woods, clean lines and large windows.

    Berlin How To Spend 48 Hours In Germany's Capital City

    Chris Abatzis

    Berlin How To Spend 48 Hours In Germany's Capital City

    Chris Abatzis

    After settling into my room, I headed for brunch at Father Carpenter. I know it’s basic, but I cannot resist an avocado toast and oat flat white, and Father Carpenter’s are better than most. Taking one of many suggestions for friends, Mauerpark was next on my list. On Sundays, it transforms into a sprawling flea market where you can score quirky vintage finds and watch open-air karaoke, which was a sight that must be seen but possibly not heard.

    After a leisurely stroll through Tiergarten, Berlin’s central park, I headed back to the Wilmina to make the most of their dreamy rooftop sauna and pool.

    For my last dinner, I sought out another highly recommended spot – House of Small Wonder, a leafy hideaway serving Asian-fusion plates. With decor reminiscent of a Wes Anderson film, it’s a treat for the eyes and the stomach. To finish off my trip in style, a rooftop bar is the only answer, and Klunkerkranich, a rooftop bar atop a shopping mall, has the best sunset view in the city.

    Berlin How To Spend 48 Hours In Germany's Capital City
    Berlin How To Spend 48 Hours In Germany's Capital City

    In 48 hours, you’ll touch its history, taste its flavours, dance until sunrise, and maybe even leave with a thrifted treasure or two. And the best part? No matter how much you see, Berlin will always have more secrets waiting for your next trip.

    Sly Berlin rooms start from £120
    Wilmina Hotel rooms start from £145

    Glamour Shops: The cosiest breaks to combat winter blues

    Eilidh Williamson

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  • I had the most perfect hen do at this villa in the Andalusian mountains

    It’s worth noting that the villa is around 70km from Malaga airport, and as you ascend into the mountains, the roads can become narrow and difficult to navigate, particularly at night. I’d definitely recommend using the transfer service operated by the villa’s incredibly helpful owner, Alan, or renting a car at Malaga airport. We did neither of these things, instead hopping in a taxi at the airport, and ended up getting lost somewhere in the Andalusian mountains at 11pm which, if anything, made a very memorable start to the hen do which we still laugh about now (well, some of us). Renting a car is also pretty essential if you want to explore the surrounding area, too (Alan recommends visiting the beautiful beaches of Nerja, around 40km away).

    But I won’t lie, we didn’t leave the villa the whole weekend, except for calling a taxi when we needed to pick up extra groceries (read: more wine). And honestly? I have zero regrets. Normally I’m very adventurous when travelling somewhere new – I’m down for any activities and don’t like staying in the hotel too long – but as all brides know, planning a wedding is stressful and time-consuming. All I needed was a few days with my best friends to do, well, not very much at all. Besides, we had everything we needed for a glorious girls’ weekend right there in the villa. It’s the kind of place you’ll never want to leave, even just for a short while.

    Prices start from £2,183 for a four-night stay or from £3,817 for a seven-night stay for 10 people, working out at approximately £55 per person, per night.

    easyJet flights from London Gatwick to Malaga start at £20.99.

    Find out more at oliverstravels.com.

    Ali Pantony

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  • I’ve been to the South of France more times than I can count – here are my favourite hotels

    As a woman who has been to the South of France her fair share of times, I’ve learned a thing or two about the difference between a Tarte Tropézienne and a Marrons Glacés – and the magic of a perfectly chilled glass of Chateau Minuty on a hot summer’s day.

    The South of France, or as the French say, the Côte d’Azur, is one of the most-loved holiday destinations in Europe. From the picturesque French Riviera to the warmth of Nice’s sun-kissed beaches, there are so many things to love about it. Think: rolling lavender fields, clifftop roads and ancient olive groves spreading for miles, best enjoyed at your own leisure from your very own roof-down hire car. So, if you’ve found yourself googling the ‘best hotels in the South of France’, you’re certainly not alone.

    Best Hotels in the South of France at a glance

    Which cities are the best to visit in the South of France?

    So, where is the best place to stay in the South of France? The most popular seaside principalities and towns in the Côte d’Azur include Nice, Cannes, Saint Tropez, Antibes, Marseille and Monaco – to name but a few. These stylish cities all offer plenty of sun, sea and sand – as immortalised by Slim Aarons – but are also home to some of the coolest beach clubs, chicest boutiques, swankiest hotels and seaside restaurants.

    Cannes, well-known for the annual Film Festival, is a great destination for travellers looking for an elevated Mediterranean holiday. Check out the Rue d’Antibes for some excellent shopping or enjoy poolside cocktails right on the Croisette in the truly majestic Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic.

    Saint Tropez, with its elegant five-star hotels, high-fashion boutiques, and sun-soaked beach clubs, has an excellent day and night party scene – and is one of the most stylish cities in Le Sud. If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the opportunity to party at Nikki Beach in Ramatuelle, which is a table-top dancing, saxophone-playing, foam party riot. On Saturdays, Places des Lices in the middle of St. Tropez transforms into a vibrant market. Here, you can buy all sorts of French delicacies and craft products from spiced saucissons and truffles to high-quality linen bed sheets.

    Hannah Lynn Tan

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  • I found peace at this otherworldly luxury hotel in Iceland

    I found peace at this otherworldly luxury hotel in Iceland

    There are also submerged treatment options, with in-water massages and ‘float therapy’ providing the opportunity to to soak up all the expertise of ‘bodyworkers’ without having to leave the lagoon.

    If that all sounds far too relaxing, you can call on any member of the infinitely-attentive – yet in no way intrusive – team of hosts to book you on one of the many external excursions, ranging from helicopter tours of the Reykjanes Peninsula to guided photography tours, volcano tours, snowmobiling, snorkelling among the subaquatic hot springs at Kleifarvatn lake and ATV adventures.

    We opted for the latter one morning, and quickly found ourselves motoring across lava fields, black sand beaches and insanely lunar-like mountainscapes before stopping-off to warm our freezing hands in one of those puffs of volcanic steam; the unmistakably eggy sulfur smell being the only thing to bring you back to reality during an otherwise entirely otherworldly experience.

    Whether you spend your days white-knuckling your way around the island’s outdoor activity scene or soaking the day away in the lagoon, your worked-up appetite is in no danger of being left wanting.

    With a cosy, universally dressing gown-clad breakfast served in the sunken lobby seating pre-sunrise (fear not the lie-in was safe – sunrise isn’t until 11am in December) and afternoon tea served daily in the same spot, other mealtimes offer up the impressive choice between the spa restaurant (serving an exceptional burger), Lava restaurant (relaxed dining with stunning views out onto the shores of the Blue Lagoon) or the jewel in the crown: Moss restaurant.

    Having been awarded a Michelin star earlier this summer, Moss, led by Head Chef Aggi Sverrisson, sees 5 and 7-course set menus take you on a diverse tour of the heritage of Icelandic cuisine.

    Switching effortlessly between food from the mountains to the farmlands, via rivers and oceans, dishes are almost Oscar-worthy in their visual theatrics, with dry ice tumbling over salt-fresh prawns and perfectly-seared beef served atop a smoking lump of authentic volcanic rock.

    Iceland's The Retreat At The Blue Lagoon Hotel And Spa Review
    Iceland's The Retreat At The Blue Lagoon Hotel And Spa Review

    After heading back through that vast-yet-cosy lobby to our room on the final night, we received our first much-anticipated ‘wake-up call’ while packing. The Northern Lights had finally appeared.

    Charlie Teather

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  • This stunning Lake Como hotel is a bucket list must-visit

    This stunning Lake Como hotel is a bucket list must-visit

    We stayed in the luxurious JFK suite, complete with a lake view snug, two bathrooms, a grand bedroom complete with gilt bed frames and marble pillars (seen below) and a balcony overlooking the hotel entrance. We couldn’t quite get over the fact JFK had slept and woke up to the same view of the ornate floral ceiling fresco. If you want a room (or rather suite) to impress then this is it!

    The JFK Suite at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

    FTfoto

    You’ll really want for nothing here – my only tip would be to take your own hairdryer if you are a blow dry pro. The bathrooms come with a deliciously scented products made with herbs from the hotel garden, but the hair dryer is the slightly outdated wall fixed variety that’s no match for a Dyson. Alternatively, there is a private hair salon in the hotel spa.

    What about food and drink?

    One of our favourite spots was The Darsena Terrace Bar overlooking the pool and Lake. Make time in your afternoon for an aperitif here, it’s the perfect vantage point shaded from the afternoon sun. Then head into one of the two restaurants on site, La Goletta is the informal dining down overlooking the pool, serving salads, pizza and meat and fish.

    Upstairs on the veranda is the formal dining restaurant, Mistral, with food by renowned Chef Ettore Bocchia. Here you can indulge in his 7 course tasting menu, order a la carte or alternatively pick a sharing dish or two. Our pick? A delicious lobster and tomato spaghetti sharing plate that gets cooked at your table and the pineapple ice cream dish, made with liquid nitrogen as you watch, was also a show stopper.

    But really it’s the 180 view of the lake out front and the show that unfolds as the sun sets and the stars twinkle overhead that really steals the show. On a warm balmy night the glass walls of the restaurant come down and the roof recedes allowing you to dine under a night sky canopy. We’d say it has to be one of the most romantic places in Italy to have dinner. So it’s another add for the bucket list.

    Camilla Kay

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  • I visited this peaceful Mallorca hotel for a romantic retreat, and I’m already planning a return visit

    I visited this peaceful Mallorca hotel for a romantic retreat, and I’m already planning a return visit

    I am not exactly known for my skills of organisation, so my husband’s expectations for his big birthday weekend were low to say the least. He considers himself lucky if I remember to get him a card.

    Little did he know we were heading to the Valldemossa Hotel, a newly renovated manor house nestled in the Sierra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the edge of Valldemossa village in Mallorca. As we arrived, with ice-cold sparkling cava in hand and relaxing on the sun-baked red stone patio overlooking the mountains, we couldn’t believe how easy it had been to get here. Just a 90 minute flight from Gatwick and a 30 minute transfer from Palma makes this the perfect distance for long weekend escapism.‌

    The property sympathetically blends contemporary Spanish art and modern designer furniture, with natural stone and earthy toned walls. This blend of high design with breathtaking nature is a signature of the IT Mallorca hotel group, which has several properties on the island. Our room was full of charming details; snuggly cashmere blankets to enjoy morning coffee on the terrace, a signature hotel fragrance of fig and lemon to create sensorial memories and the fluffiest giant bath towels.

    Image may contain Architecture Building House Housing Villa Plant Tree Outdoors Pool Water Chair and Furniture

    Caroline Hooley

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  • A group of well-travelled women weigh in on the best cabin suitcases for 2023

    A group of well-travelled women weigh in on the best cabin suitcases for 2023

    The Original Carry-On

    Specifications:

    • Size – 55.1 x 34.8 x 22.9cm.
    • Weight – 3.2kg.
    • Standout features? For a surcharge, it can include an ejectable USB-connected power bank for on-the-go leisure or business travel charging.

    Pros:

    • Includes a water-resistant laundry bag (also handy for any leak-prone toiletries).
    • Only four and five-star ratings from frequent flyers in the reviews.
    • The charger will boost your phone back to full battery up to four times.

    Cons:

    • In-built charger only available for an extra £20.
    • Not Ryanair cabin luggage compliant.

    AWAY recommendations: “I usually travel a lot for work, and [in pre-pandemic times] average one or two trips a month,” says Lale Arikoglu, senior editorial operations manager at Condé Nast Traveler and cohost of the Women Who Travel podcast. “In terms of length of trip, it’s been anywhere from 10 days in Colombia to whirlwind weekends in cities like Portland or Chicago.” But no matter where she’s headed, she brings her Away Carry-on. “Sure, pretty much everyone in the airport seems to have one now, but they are so well-designed that I genuinely believe that they have made me a better packer,” she says. The other piece of luggage she cannot live without is her Paravel fold-up bag. “It zips up into a small pouch when you’re not using it, and then opens up into a full-size duffel when you need it to.”

    Born and raised in Australia, Molly Goddard, cofounder of the luxury sleepwear brand Desmond & Dempsey, says her dream is to walk onto a plane carrying nothing. But in reality, she’s usually lugging laptops, sample pyjamas, and the occasional painting she’s picked up for a project. She takes two big trips a year to find inspiration for her collections; destinations can be anywhere from the English countryside to Morocco and Mexico. Still, she’s a light packer and loves her Away carry-on. “I have learned the less you take, the more you can take home,” she says. “Keeping things light also means getting ready is a breeze while you are traveling.”

    On her most recent trip to New York, Claire Vero, the Surrey, England–based founder of Aurelia Skincare, says she bought an Away suitcase, which she’s now in love with. “The charging function is a godsend and I love their designs. I want to add to my collection with one for each of the children, and my husband too,” she says. Although she moved from South London to the countryside a year ago, she still travels regularly for work (namely New York, Paris, Copenhagen, and Rome) and likes to leave a little room in her luggage for retail therapy.

    Mayola Fernandes, Talia Abbas

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  • I’ve discovered a child-free holiday sweet spot – and I can’t gatekeep it any longer

    I’ve discovered a child-free holiday sweet spot – and I can’t gatekeep it any longer

    The first night is always trial and error as you figure out where your favourite spots are, and there are many to choose from here. To remove all indecision, we opted for “Dining Under The Stars”, one of the carefully curated experience meals. With an interesting barbeque-style set menu that included inspired dishes like seafood Souvlaki, grilled Kung Po prawns, Japanese smoked beef and char-grilled pineapple flambé. We were hoping for an exquisite Mediterranean feast with an equally special star-lit setting, and that’s exactly what we got.

    We thought the meal experience might be more sociable, but in fact, the tables were very private, spacious, peacefully lit, and extremely romantic. As with everything at Anassa, the food and service were impeccable. There are different experiences to choose from every night, so don’t leave without trying at least one. Apparently, a guest favourite is the village square, with a traditional Cypriot feast, folk music, and dancing set to the backdrop of the classic dome chapel, a location for weddings that happen most weekends.

    Our personal highlight meal was in the less traditional Basilika, which had an unexpected Mediterranean-Asian-inspired menu. The menu included sushi perfection and the most tender sashimi, a nice change from the rich but wholesome Mediterranean flavours we’d become so accustomed to at Anassa.

    With floor to ceiling creams and whites it has a chic subterranean feel, it’s definitely one for the adults. We didn’t get the chance to try beautiful Helios. Still, the menu is refined French-Mediterranean (as always, there’s a twist!), and the setting is beyond Instagram-worthy, with carefully laid tables scattered amongst ancient olive trees under pretty festoon lighting. Hot tip: make sure you book your dining well ahead of your stay; these unique spots get booked up fast.

    For shady daytime lunches in the shade, there is Pelagos, a casual poolside restaurant with tasty mezze and a daily fresh fish counter, with lots of healthy options for a lighter dining experience if you fancy it. Succulent lamb koftas and tangy Greek salads are a must have and they will be the best you’ve ever had. Or for those who don’t want to venture far, the lounger service is excellent. We were really impressed with the quality of the menu by the pool and on what feels like a completely private beach. Perfect Caesar salads and shoreline chilled rosé were ordered on repeat.

    Grace Barnes

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  • Madrid is having a moment – these are the chicest hotels for your summer city break

    Madrid is having a moment – these are the chicest hotels for your summer city break


    Madrid makes for the ideal getaway. Less than a three-hour flight from London, and with all the culture and food you could hope for, the city is constantly buzzing. And while it may have historically come as second choice for most after Barcelona, the capital city is having a moment, with some of the coolest bars, restaurants and hotels in Spain opening in the past few years.

    Hotels in Madrid are certainly worthy of applause. The city is home to grand palaces that have been restored to their former glory and converted to palatial escapes, and city centre hotels that overlook the busy streets below. Whether you’re in the market for a cheap and cheerful escape, or you’re looking for a bouji stay to remember, we’ve selected the very best hotels in Madrid to help you choose.

    Best hotels in Madrid at a glance:

    How we chose the best hotels in Madrid:

    When selecting hotels, we consider the things we know you’ll care about: location (and proximity to main tourist attractions), service, food and drinks offering and – of course – hotel design. We look for all the little things that make a trip memorable, from exceptional service to extras like a drink on arrival. We also consider the facilities a hotel might have, such as a spa or free bike hire. Lastly, we look at what other travellers think of the hotel, to make sure your experience will be as wonderful as possible.

    Which area of Madrid is best to stay in?

    The Centro district is where you’ll find hotels, restaurants and museums. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you might want to consider basing yourself in Sol, where everything is walkable and you’ll have easy access to many hotels and bars. Malasaña is also located in Sol, but is its slightly cooler neighbour, with vintage shops and locals milling around. For a quieter break, or if you’re travelling with a family, Retiro is home to parks, the city’s botanical garden and plenty of memorable restaurants.

    Ahead, our full edit of the best hotels in Madrid 2024.



    Abigail Malbon

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  • 21 of the best hotels in Puglia for a chic Italian getaway

    21 of the best hotels in Puglia for a chic Italian getaway

    Over the past decade, Puglia has quickly established itself as the fashion crowd’s favourite holiday destination, with the likes of Alexa Chung, Jack Guinness and the Beckhams regularly spotted here. Just as pretty as the Amalfi Coast and as warm as Tuscany – but more discreet – it’s located on the southernmost tip of Italy and is home to bougainvillaea-adorned streets, lush olive groves and turquoise waters, with a unique culture all of its own.

    Case in point: the architecture, which comprises sprawling stone masserias (old farmhouses) and dome-shaped trulli (stone huts), many now converted into luxury hotels and villas to stay in. There are even entire trulli villages that you can visit, with Alberobello, Locorotondo, Fasano, Ostuni, Cisternino, Martina Franca and Ceglie Messapica being the most famous.

    Elsewhere, the historic centres of Lecce, Bari, Valle D’Itria and Otranto offer plenty of culture, art and Baroque architecture for culture vultures, while the authentic Apulian cuisine will lure foodies to the region – think: orecchiette pasta, focaccia, taralli (crispy bread dough), caciocavallo (similar to mozzarella) and an abundance of freshly-caught seafood. Bellissima!

    The best hotels in Puglia at a glance:

    1. Best Hotel in Puglia On The Beach: Baglioni Masseria
    2. Best Hotel in Puglia for Families: Borgo Egnazia
    3. Best Villa for Groups: Masseria Gemmabella
    4. Best Five-Star Hotel in Puglia: Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita
    5. Best Boutique Hotel in Puglia: Paragon 700

    How we chose the best hotels in Puglia:

    Unsurprisingly, there are a plethora of options to choose from when it comes to picking a hotel in Puglia – with something to suit every taste and budget. For families, there’s the option of staying in a self-catering villa with everything you need on site, or a five-star all-inclusive hotel on the coast. Couples might want more privacy, or more options of places to explore. Luckily, our experienced editors have been there and done the research, with the resulting list of 21 hotels being the best of the best in Puglia.

    After another destination? Book the best hotels in Mallorca, best hotels in Sicily, best Amalfi Coast hotels and the best hotels in the Maldives.

    Ahead, we’ve reviewed the best hotels in Puglia 2024 – all you need to do is check-in.

    Hannah Lynn Tan

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  • 19 best hotels in Mallorca to visit in 2024, from Palma to Cala d'Or

    19 best hotels in Mallorca to visit in 2024, from Palma to Cala d'Or

    If Ibiza is the party mecca of the Balearics, then Mallorca is its more laidback sibling. Long a popular destination amongst discerning travellers – Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco had their honeymoon here at Cap Formentor, while Audrey Hepburn, Winston Churchill, Princess Diana and the Dalai Lama were all frequent visitors to the island – it’s gained a reputation for luxury hotels, a buzzy restaurant scene (it’s home to 12 Michelin-stars) and fabulous shopping.

    In recent years, the island has seen Kate Moss throwing karaoke parties, Pixie Geldof getting married, and Tom Hiddleston smouldering in The Night Manager (C’as Patro March, the Deia-restaurant where some scenes were filmed, is a pilgrimage for the film buffs), while it gets regular air time every summer thanks to Love Island, which takes place here.

    The largest of the Balearics islands, it’s a melting pot of Spanish, Moorish and Catalan influences, with the architecture, culture and cuisine reflecting this. As well as delicious tapas and fine Spanish wines, Mallorca has incredible natural landscapes, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Serra da Tramuntana, Mondragó Natural Park and the Albufera Natural Park, while beaches like Cala Deià, Pollensa and Cala Vasques draw in both local and tourist crowds.

    If – as it should be – Mallorca (or Majorca, begrudgingly), is on your list of potential holiday destinations for 2024, our guide to the chicest places to stay should come in handy – and make sure you peruse our Jet2Holidays discount codes and EasyJet promo codes for deals on flights.

    Best Mallorca hotels 2024 at a glance:

    1. Best Adults-Only: Pure Salt Port Adriano Hotel & Spa
    2. Best Mallorca Hotel for a Romantic Getaway: La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel
    3. Best for Foodies: Cap Vermell Grand Hotel
    4. Best Family-Friendly: Kimpton Aysla Mallorca
    5. Best New Opening: Hotel Son Net
    6. Best In Palma: Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden
    7. Best For Couples: Palacio Can Marques
    8. Most Remote: Es Racó d’Artà

    Which part of Mallorca is best to stay in?

    Palma de Mallorca is the island’s capital city and cultural heart. Its beautiful Old Town (one of the best preserved Gothic centres in Europe) is home to many historic landmarks (such as Bellver Castle), museums and galleries (don’t miss the Fundació Miró Mallorca, dedicated to the famous artist), as well as Michelin-star restaurants (Zaranda is one of the oldest and the best), not to mention rooftop terrace, exclusive nightclubs, outdoor pools and picture-perfect beaches, natch.

    Rebecca Cope

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  • We tested Antler’s suitcases in Puglia, Barcelona and Barbados – here’s how they got on

    We tested Antler’s suitcases in Puglia, Barcelona and Barbados – here’s how they got on

    “From house to car to airport to plane and then through the city, this nifty little case didn’t once feel uncomfortable to manoeuvre. It features a one-button handle collapser which was arguably my favourite feature, because it meant that I didn’t have to struggle getting it onto the security belt, into or out of the taxi at the other end. On the same note, the four multi-directional wheels were a dream. They never once got caught which meant a brisk stroll was easily achievable.

    “There’s nothing more embarrassing than turning up for your holiday with a suitcase that’s clearly several years old, battered and bruised. I honestly don’t think I’ll ever experience that feeling again though with the Stamford cabin. It came home unscathed bar a couple of scuffs (which are only visible because of its pink hue), and I have no doubt it’ll stay that way for as long as I continue to use it. It also features a USB charging port, though you will need to provide your own battery, and the TSA fixed combination lock sits on the top of the bag instead of on the side – so you can easily access things without having to lay it down.

    “Overall, this case is spot on for city breaks or long weekend getaways where a holdall won’t suffice. I will 100% be using it again, and my partner is already sharking after one too.”

    The assignment: I took my Antler Clifton away on my first beach holiday of 2023, to Barbados. I was there for five days, but my first experience of 30+ degree heat this side of the new year meant I had a *major* desire to overpack. I needed choice; I needed options and I needed space. My Antler needed to serve me well.

    The tester: Sophie Cockett, Senior Commerce Editor, Europe.

    The product: Stamford medium in Black.

    Pictured: GLAMOUR’s Sophie Cockett with the Stamford medium case in Black.

    An Honest Antler Luggage Review From GLAMOUR's Shopping Editors 30 Off Black Friday Deal

    The verdict:

    “I am *such* a fan of Antler luggage, not least because the act of having a cabin suitcase which matches your hold suitcase and weekend bag is such a luxury.

    “My suitcase arrived wrapped in a sleek, grey dust bag which was such a nice touch – and my first impression upon lifting it out of the box was how lightweight it was. The large Stamford weighs just over 5kg when unfilled, which isn’t very much given the quality.

    “Packing was a breeze: the extender added 5cm of space which meant I could overpack to my heart’s content, and in addition to the packing straps and zipped compartment, I found the suitcase divider a helpful feature. It meant my clothes remained flat for the duration of my travels, and creasing wasn’t too much of an issue.

    “At the airport, the TSA-approved combination lock meant I could send my suitcase away without a worry, and the 360-degree rotation wheels made speeding through customs *so* easy. I was surprised by how quietly the wheels glided along the ground.

    “All-in-all, my Antler Stamford was perfectly suited to a long-haul beach holiday and I can’t wait to use it again later in the year. My only disappointment was the fact that the black polycarbonate shell scratched fairly easily, so after being thrown around on luggage carousels, my case was subject to a few white marks. I’d maybe opt for a lighter colour next time so that scratches aren’t so visible.”

    The assignment: Headed to Puglia for a week with my boyfriend, I needed a bag big enough to fit both mine and his clothes as we only paid for one in-hold suitcase. I’m an over-packer to begin with, let alone when the weather forecast is looking mixed, requiring me to prepare for both a sunny and rainy holiday. Also, with a walk from the car port to our Airbnb in Puglia, I’d need a suitcase that’s capable of taking on a large chunk of cobbled roads. Good luck, Antler.

    Lucy Smith, Georgia Trodd, Sophie Cockett

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  • PSA: The most-purchased suitcase set among GLAMOUR readers is reduced for Prime Day

    PSA: The most-purchased suitcase set among GLAMOUR readers is reduced for Prime Day

    Gearing up for some winter sun? The best Amazon Prime Day luggage deals may not have been the focal point of your shopping agenda initially this October, but since holiday season isn’t limited to one time of year, we’re well in favour of a suitcase upgrade. So what better a time to give your packing set-up a makeover than the Amazon Big Deals Day sale?

    From luxe brands like Antler and Samsonite to the more accessibly-priced TravelPro and Coolife, Amazon are treating us to some of their best Prime Day reductions yet. Remember, though, the shopping extravaganza ends tonight at 23:59 (October 11th) so we wouldn’t wait around.

    As discerning travellers, we’re in the market for either a three-piece set from a heavily discounted luggage brand, or perhaps one single piece from a more premium carry-on luggage brand (ahem, American Tourister). See, for instance, the Soundbox Spinner model: it’s reduced by 21% and offers buyers a durable hardshell makeup, double spinner wheels and a TSA lock. Elsewhere, the Coolife spinner luggage trio has certainly piqued our interests, not least of all because its design appears an affordable rival to our favourite high-end brand, Brics.

    Whatever your shopping interests this Prime Day sale, be it a weekender bag or duffle, a travel backpack or extra large checked bag, Amazon are sure to have a Prime member reduction on just what you’re after. So, without further ado, we present the best Amazon Prime Day luggage deals in the October Amazon Prime Day Sale (AKA Prime Big Deal Days) – and we’ll be adding more deals as they drop.

    The best Amazon Prime Day luggage deals, by discount:

    More Amazon Prime Day 2023

    Lucy Smith, Mayola Fernandes

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  • Um, Important: The Antler suitcase loved by GLAMOUR readers is reduced for Prime Day

    Um, Important: The Antler suitcase loved by GLAMOUR readers is reduced for Prime Day

    You may not have anticipated the best Amazon Prime Day luggage deals being the focal point of your shopping agenda this October, but holiday season isn’t limited to one time of year. We’re well in favour of winter sun, actually. So what better a time to give your packing set-up a makeover than the Amazon Big Deals Day sale?

    From luxe brands like Antler and Samsonite to the more accessibly-priced TravelPro and Coolife, Amazon are treating us to some of their best Prime Day reductions yet. Remember, though, the shopping extravaganza is only on for two days, starting today (October 10th) and ending tomorrow (October 11th) at 23:59.

    As discerning travellers, we’re in the market for either a three-piece set from a heavily discounted luggage brand, or perhaps one single piece from a more premium carry-on luggage brand (ahem, American Tourister). See, for instance, the Soundbox Spinner model: it’s reduced by 21% and offers buyers a durable hardshell makeup, double spinner wheels and a TSA lock. Elsewhere, the Coolife spinner luggage trio has certainly piqued our interests, not least of all because its design appears an affordable rival to our favourite high-end brand, Brics.

    Whatever your shopping interests this Prime Day sale, be it a weekender bag or duffle, a travel backpack or extra large checked bag, Amazon are sure to have a Prime member reduction on just what you’re after. So, without further ado, we present the best Amazon Prime Day luggage deals in the October Amazon Prime Day Sale (AKA Prime Big Deal Days) – and we’ll be adding more deals as they drop.

    The best Amazon Prime Day luggage deals, by discount:

    More Amazon Prime Day 2023

    Lucy Smith, Mayola Fernandes

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