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Yeah, it’s Friday – we made it!

Any exciting plans this weekend? I’m trying to book a few summer breaks but I’m in a bit of a quandary as to where to go.  That’s the problem, when ’the world is your oyster’.  

I’ve short-listed five destinations, but any thoughts, I’d love to hear.

1.    Santorini - Greece

I’ve never been to Santorini, in the dreamy southern Cyclades; but the stunning, ‘almost paradise’ like pictures I’ve seen are certainly enticing.  Santorini is famed for its glorious sunsets and turquoise sea, towns perching on the edge of the extinct volcano, and white marble streets. Some of the best hotels are situated in the little town of Oia, which boasts outstanding restaurants and fashionable nightlife; and it’s to this glamorous town that the travel bloggers flock (always a good sign). Apparently, a hotel room facing the vast volcanic bay (the caldera) is one of the most awe-inspiring, and romantic, views on the planet. So, it definitely sounds like a ‘stroll around’ kind of town.

2.    Ibiza

Ibiza isn't just about partying: the island’s energy is really conducive to relaxing, too. Sure, there’s a club scene, and if dancing until dawn is your vacation goal, you can do it here with some of the world’s best DJs. But that accounts for only a small percentage of Ibiza’s appeal, as the rest of this gorgeous island offers the polar opposite. 

About 15 years ago, I read an article about Jade Jagger living there (I think she’s since relocated back to the UK), and I was surprised to read how chilled and normal her life was (well, maybe not all the time).  It looked beautiful and relaxing, and I promised I’d go all bohemian and take a holiday there, one day.  A strong contender.

 3.    London.

I’ve been invited to a really nice event in Knightsbridge to hear three of my favourite bloggers talk and it’s just too good an opportunity to pass up. So I’m going to accept the very snazzy invite, and turn it into a holiday. I always, always, stay at the same hotel in Sloane Street, but this time I’m not (yikes) - I’m going to try somewhere new. Don’t get me wrong I love trying new things, but The Millennium Hotel in Sloane Street is close to everywhere I like (Fifth Floor Harvey Nics, Errol Douglas, Patisserie Valerie at the back of Harrods).  I love an early morning stroll up Sloane Street, across Sloane Square, stop off in Pimlico (for boiled eggs and sourdough soldiers @ Daylesford Organic), along the Kings Road and into Chelsea. It’s the perfect route, the perfect city for people watching and mooching. Can’t wait. 

4.    Dubai

I know, I know, but I’ll never tire of this city - the perfect choice for a glamorous getaway. I guess because I lived there I love the certainty of knowing I can hop off the plane and not waste time trying to find my way around (great if you’re just on an extended weekender). To me, Dubai has everything - a luxury holiday destination where old meets new. I love the glamour, the sandy beaches, the bustle of city life, meander through the souks and soak up tradition, or hit the malls for some seriously stylish shopping. The ultimate city break, but maybe I should wait until the temperature cools a little.

 5.    The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is widely considered Italy's most scenic stretch of coastline, and frequently I think about travelling there. It runs from Punta Campanella to Salerno, and includes the picturesque hilltop towns of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello (so a car is definitely required).  Hiring a car on holiday is probably one of the reasons I’ve never been before, so I may have to consider going all Audrey Hepburn-like, and hire a chauffer. Amalfi is home to some of Italy's finest hotels and restaurants, all precariously perched along a beautiful coast of rugged cliffs and sandy coves. I recently watched Chef Gino D'Acampo explore a secluded citrus grove, to pick Amalfi lemons (renowned for their unique flavour and intense aroma). Perched high on the cliffs above the town, the scenery was breathtaking.  Sophisticated glamour – my kinda town!

Have a great weekend x

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