Here’s some very exciting news for those who are a fan of J. R. R. Tolkien and  The Lord of the Rings . Now, chances are that you have already visited or put on the top of your dream list, a trip to the Hobbiton movie set. Millions of passionate fans have thronged the Hobbiton movie set over the years but none of them have had the opportunity to spend a night in ‘Middle-earth’. Until now. When everything changes and an opportunity of a lifetime is made available! For the first time ever, fans from around the world can explore the faraway lands of their favourite holiday films with an exclusive overnight stay at the original Hobbiton™ Movie Set. Host Russell Alexander is inviting guests to his family’s property to live like Bilbo Baggins and retreat to The Shire ™  for an overnight stay at Hobbiton, as featured in the famed  The Lord of the Rings  and  The Hobbit  film trilogies. Nestled in the picturesque pastures of New Zealand’s Waikato region on a 2,500-acre working farm, the property’s rolling, green hills – bear a striking similarity to The Shire™ as described by J. R. R. Tolkien in  The Lord of the Rings . It was this likeness that captivated Sir Peter Jackson’s movie scouts more than two decades ago. The team quickly realised the Hobbits had found their home – and this holiday season, it could be yours.  Alexander will host three individual two-night stays for up to four guests at NZD $10 per night* as a homage to the 10th anniversary of  The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey , courtesy of Airbnb.  With access to 44 Hobbit Holes, The Millhouse , The Green Dragon Inn , and other beloved locations from the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, guests will take an unexpected journey into Middle-earth for an experience unlike any other.  What is on offer whilst they are there, and what can they expect to enjoy? Cozy overnight accommodation curated by the trilogies’ Creative Director Brian Massey, including a writing nook fit for Bilbo Baggins at The Millhouse. Private access to a personal Hobbit Hole, set up for relaxing moments of  Preciousss ime and afternoon tea.  An evening banquet in The Green Dragon Inn with a feast featuring beef and ale stew, whole roast chickens, freshly baked breads and plenty of ale, plus Second Breakfast™ and Elevenses™ served daily.  A behind-the-scenes private tour of Hobbiton Movie Set. Excited? How can you apply? You may request to book at one of three overnight stays on Tuesday, December 13 at 9 PM GMT at  airbnb.com/hobbiton . Stays will take place March 2-4, March 9-11, and March 16-18, 2023.  To request to book, guests must have a verified Airbnb profile, a history of positive reviews and be aged 18+. Maximum occupancy is four persons. Two bedrooms are configured, featuring one queen bed, and the other two king-singles. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from Auckland, New Zealand. Round-trip car transportation will be provided for the two-hour journey between the airport and the property.  For those who haven’t as yet made their foray into the world and work of J. R. R. Tolkien and are intrigued by all the terms we’ve used (what’s Middle-earth, what’s a Hobbit Hole and Hobbiton, you ask?), here are two helpful links. Find out about J. R. R. Tolkien here and about the movies and more based on his work here . Now, set for your calendars for December 13, and request a booking!

If you’ve always fancied a digital nomad lifestyle, or want to explore one, here’s some news you could use. And an opportunity that you can make good use of in 2023. You could work from incredible destinations and explore the world alongside your 9-5 job. Holiday rentals marketplace HomeToGo has announced a search for its first ever Professional Nomad: a remote or hybrid worker who’ll receive up to three months of free stays in incredible rentals via HomeToGo’s marketplace in order to experience the ultimate workation. The opportunity, which is open for submissions via hometogo.de/nomad/en up to 15 January 2023, comes alongside new research revealing the top cities for workations across Europe in 2023. The demand for workations is soaring, with web searches for the term seeing a year-on-year increase of 210% in 2022¹. Moreover, in a recent HomeToGo consumer survey of German residents², 75% of participants stated that they would like to go on a workation next year. To help this wave of remote working adventurers find ideal destinations for their travels, HomeToGo has researched over 150 European cities to create a ranking of the top spots for workations across the continent.  Looking for locations that offer superlative set ups for travellers working remotely, plenty of things to do and see around the 9-5, plus good value for money, HomeToGo’s 2023 Workation Index takes into consideration the number of coworking spaces per capita, internet speeds, the amount of highly-rated tourist attractions, hours of daylight, and the median price per night per person for holiday accommodation in each city. Jonas Upmann , Travel Expert at HomeToGo , adds: “ From seasoned digital nomads to those starting to think about their first trip of this kind, we hope that HomeToGo’s 2023 Workation Index will provide plenty of workation inspiration to all types of travellers. It’s clear that workations are here to stay – and with privacy, space, and functional office setups, holiday rentals are the ideal accommodation for this type of travel. We look forward to finding our first ever Professional Nomad to test this out at scale in 2023! ” And here are the best 10 destinations for digital nomads in 2023. Also, here’s more about what the professional nomad offer is all about. What will the Professional Nomad’s responsibilities include? With privacy, space, and functional office setups, vacation rentals are the ideal type of accommodation for workations. Receiving up to three months of free stays – valued at €10,000 – via the HomeToGo marketplace, HomeToGo’s first ever Professional Nomad will test this out at scale. They’ll choose when, with whom and to whence they travel, with one key responsibility: experience the ultimate workation with HomeToGo. Who can sign up for a chance to be selected? If you’re able to work remotely, we encourage you to apply! Entrants must be aged 18 years or older. We have given you plenty of inspiration for 2023. Now it’s time to pack your laptop, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to find your next workation destination, with guidance from the list above.

The series that everyone is talking about is filmed in some stunning locations. After the first Hawaii-set season became a sleeper hit (and won several awards), the show evolved into another season. The first two seasons of  The White Lotus  were filmed in real-life luxury hotels by the Four Seasons chain. The instalments also include restaurants from the hotels.  The first season of  The White Lotus  was filmed at the  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea as filming took place in 2020, the crew was under strict COVID-19 guidelines. Rooms at the luxury property begin at approximately €1,000 per night and include the spa, three pools, 81 cabanas, water sports, and snorkelling. It’s beside the beautiful Wailea Beach, which is also featured on the show. In the tv show, the rooms are painted in print, wild colours, whereas in real-life the decor is much more muted. In season two, the location moves to Sicily to the San Domenico Palace, Taormina . Overlooking the Ionian Sea, including views of the beautiful Greek theatre, the Teatro Antico di Taormina as well as the active volcano Mount Etna, this stunning hotel has hosted Hollywood royalty such as Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. The four seasons chain took over in 2020. Season 2 was also filmed at  Lumina Studios close to Rome and on location in Sicily. Noto, a southeastern town famous for its Baroque architecture, was featured in a quick girls’ trip for Daphne and Harper.

Saudi Arabia’s ancient city of AlUla is in the limelight in 2023. It will once again play host to the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo, the world’s only modern polo tournament to be staged in a desert, from Thursday January 26 to Saturday January 28, 2023. Organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla in partnership with the Saudi Polo Federation, Desert Polo is the first modern polo tournament in the world to be staged in a desert environment.  About AlUla Located 1,100km from Riyadh in north-west Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a place of extraordinary natural and human heritage. The vast area, covering 22,561km², includes a lush oasis valley, towering sandstone mountains and ancient cultural heritage sites dating back thousands of years. The most well-known and recognised site in AlUla is Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tickets and packages You can book different kinds of packages and tickets to the tournament, including a three day access pass. This 3-day access pass allows you to enjoy the high-energy weekend-long tournament from start to finish. You can dress to impress at this exclusive tournament in AlUla and be a part of the celebrations as Adolfo Cambiaso and La Dolfina Saudi Polo Team are welcomed to the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo once again. Competing teams The eight competing teams will be led by an expert player from global polo icons, with the world famous La Dolfina Polo Team players back again joined by Facundo Pieres and Gonzalito Pieres and other professional players, while invited patrons and players drawn from both Saudi Arabia and the global polo community will make up the sides. Putting your best foot forward Like any sporting event, spectators and visitors not only rejoice in the game, but also in the opportunity to put their best fashion foot forward! Richard Mille is the official timekeeper of the exclusive two-day event (amongst some of the most renowned polo players participating in the tournament was a member of the Richard Mille family and long-term brand partner, Pablo Mac Donough). “We are proud to be part of this significant event and to support the continuous development of polo in Saudi Arabia. The AlUla region provides the perfect natural stage to witness some of the greatest polo stars on the planet in action,” Peter Harrison, CEO of Richard Mille EMEA. Make a trip out of the sporting event The region has some stunning landscapes, and you can see gorgeous images here . You can explore the region and its many attractions, making the desert polo tournament a stepping stone to a great vacation.

Here’s some good news for those who love rail travel, and especially across Europe. Known as the ‘ Good Night Train ,’ this sleeper service will link several European cities this year. The current route on offer is Brussels – Amsterdam – Berlin. Ticket sales will start on  20 February , 2023. What would the sleeper train journeys be like? According to its website, these journeys would include the following amenities and options: Comfortable couchettes, good beds and seats. Breakfast in compartment; more catering options available Bikes can be transported, pets in private compartments Will start with three times a week, daily if possible from 2024 Tickets from €49 for a seat and from €79 for a bed

From yoga retreats to living like a monk, rejuvenating the mind and body is one of the travel industry’s top trends for 2023. The need to unplug and reboot is largely due to fast-paced lifestyles, increased stress factors and post-pandemic lag. California has long been a mecca for travellers seeking a higher level of health, fitness and inner peace. Retreats can be found all across the Golden State, from the beachy yoga culture in Southern California to the breezily beautiful Central Coast and remote northern regions. Discover five of the best wellness experiences for 2023 in California.  Live like a monk in Shasta Abbey, Mount Shasta Achieve a more profound sense of self through a stay at Shasta Abbey. This Buddhist monastery welcomes outsiders into its beautiful, sacred space, located on a 16-acre forest near the base of Mount Shasta. The three-day Introductory Retreat encourages visitors to try Soto Zen through guided meditation, Dharma talks, and mindfulness. Soak in a desert oasis at Two Bunch Palms, Desert Hot Springs Two Bunch Palms , a former favourite of Al Capone, the resort has more recently hosted Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Madonna, and more. Thanks to natural aquifers found in Desert Hot Springs (30 minutes outside of Palm Springs), guests can soak in healing mineral water under the shade of tamarisk trees. The spa menu encourages adventure through unique therapies, including water shiatsu, sound vibration healing and shaman-lead classes.  Find your centre, then ride waves with a Surf & Stay retreat, San Diego Up your fitness, SoCal-style, with a Surf & Stay retreat in San Diego. Guests can choose from weekend or five-day packages, both of which include accommodations at Blue Sea Beach Hotel , overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Guests will be fully kitted out in head-to-toe surfing gear while enjoying unlimited lessons and surf tours up and down the San Diego coast. Yoga classes, guided bike tours and stand-up paddleboarding lessons are offered too. Relax with curated cannabis in Mendocino County Incorporating cannabis into wellness has become more popular and for those who would like to combine the CBD trend with travelling, Mendocino is a place to be. Key takes on integrating CBD and cannabis products into a visit include a session at Fort Bragg’s The Bakery, featuring artisanal cannabis products presented in bakery-style display cases. In Ukiah, visitors can head to  Plantshop for a selection of local sun-grown herb or a medicated yoga session. Located in the most southern tip of Mendocino County, Gualala’s High Tides offers up full service of “compassionate cannabis care”.  Relax with yoga and wine in Westerbeke Ranch, Sonoma It’s all about balance at Westerbeke Ranch in Sonoma where Body Flows hosts regular retreats. It includes daily yoga classes, meditation, hikes, healthy farm-to-table meals, and nightly tastings best enjoyed before a dip in the hot tub. Visitors can retire to the private or shared cabin, nestled in among trees and gardens.  For more information www.visitcalifornia.com

Here’s another inspiration for your 2023 bucket list. From Austria to Vietnam, 32 destinations from all around the world have been named as ‘Best Tourism Villages 2022’ by the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). In 2022, a total of  32 villages from 18 countries  across the five world regions were awarded the recognition. The villages were evaluated by an independent Advisory Board based on a set of criteria covering nine areas: Cultural and Natural Resources Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources Economic Sustainability Social Sustainability Environmental Sustainability Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration Governance and Prioritization of Tourism Infrastructure and Connectivity Health, Safety, and Security The Best Tourism Villages initiative is the flagship project of the  UNWTO Tourism for Rural Development Programme.  The Award Ceremony will take place in AlUla, Saudi Arabia on 27-28 February 2023 back-to-back with the first presential meeting of the UNWTO Network of Best Tourism Villages. The next edition of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO will open in February 2023. But who are the winners for 2022? Here are the names (the order is as per the list), but this is the link for the complete list: Zell am See , Austria Wagrain , Austria Puqueldón , Chile Dazhai , China Jingzhu, China Choachí , Colombia Aguarico, Ecuador Angochagua, Ecuador Choke Mountains Ecovillage, Ethiopia Mestia , Georgia There are some very interesting and attractive names on the list. Some of these places you may have been to before, some may be on your dream list. Yet others you may have watched documentaries or travel shows and wondered about what it would be like to see it in person. Now’s your chance. A new year has begun and brought with it endless possibilities. Whatever your dreams, do chase them in 2023.

With Valentine’s day around the corner, plenty of couples will be seeking a romantic getaway. From relaxing spa days in the Wieliczka Salt Mines to the city of lovers, Ljubljana here is a round-up featuring the top romantic destinations for February 2023.  Also included is a variety of top places to stay, including the eco hotels of Bohnji and luxury skiing lodges in France.  Poland Love locks at Tumski Bridge in Wroclaw Symbolise your unbreakable love at lover’s bridge in Ostrów Tumski, Wroclaw. Adorned with locks of lovers, names and memories Tumski Bridge is a place of enamoured tradition for couples. Sitting over the Oder River in Ostrów Tumski, the oldest and most historic part of the city, this unique area has proven to be a popular destination for those seeking romance. Write your names or precious date on a lock, tether it to the bridge and throw the key into the Odra river to symbolise eternity. Representing love from all over the world, walk hand-in-hand across the bridge reading the names and stories of hundreds of loved ones for the perfect romantic date.  The Bridge Wroclaw MGallery Ostrów Tumski was once an island connected to the right bank of the Oder by a bridge. Today this is the location of The Bridge Wroclaw MGallery Hotel. A 5-star lifestyle hotel that offers a range of luxury and stylish accommodations, including some top of the range suites, overlooking the river, or the cathedral. Don’t miss to visit the hotel’s roof terrace for unforgettable views and unforgettable romance.  Stay Valentines night from £91.77: https://all.accor.com/hotel/B1Z1/index.en.shtml Czech Republic Visit the romantic poets in Vyšehrad Cemetery  With its beautiful cobbled streets, gothic architecture and medieval charm, Prague is a picture-perfect romantic destination. Walk hand-in-hand over the Charles de Gaulle Bridge and discover the fascinating history and culture of the city. Take a stroll through the grounds of Vyšehrad Castle and visit the poet’s buried Vyšehrad Cemetery. Established in 1869, this is the final resting place of many composers, artists, writers, and bohemians of the country. Just like Highgate in London or Père-Lachaise in Paris, the cemetery draws many visitors through its gates, wanting to pay their respects to the various Czech luminaries. Find yourself walking among famous romantic poets such as Jan Neruda and Karel Hynek Mácha, many of the tombstones are engraved with beautiful verses.  For further information: https://www.visitczechrepublic.com/en-US/Things-to-Do/Places/Landmarks/Castles-and-Ruins/c-prague-vysehrad Romance with the May Kiss in Prague Celebrate love in the Czech Republic with the tradition of May kissing. Originating from the romantic Czech poem by Karel Hynek Mácha, written in 1836, it is custom to kiss under a flowering tree. A bronze monument of the famous poet stands in Petřín Gardens within Prague, tradition says couples should kiss under the statue and then under a blossoming tree. As Prague explodes into a spectacle of delicate pink and white take a stroll through Petřín Hill and discover rows of blossoming cherry trees. One of the largest parks in the city centre, Petřín Hill, offers breath taking panoramic views. With a beautiful backdrop of Prague’s Mala Strana historic quarter, romance is in the air.   For further information: https://www.visitczechrepublic.com/en-US/Things-to-Do/Places/Nature/Lookout-Towers-and-Viewpoints/c-prague-petrin Aria Hotel Experience the boutique Aria Hotel Prague for an unforgettable luxury break. Just steps away from the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. The five-star Aria Hotel Prague harmonises a unique musical concept with luxurious accommodation, fine dining at CODA Restaurant, a Rooftop Terrace, and exceptional amenities. Stay in the Dvorak Luxury Suite for romantic garden views and a king sized bed.  Stay Valentines night from 214 euro : https://www.ariahotel.net/ Slovenia Fall in love with the City of Lovers  A hidden gem amongst Europe, Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana is a city with rich history, mesmerising architecture, and beautiful natural green surroundings. Better known as the City of Lovers , Ljubljana directly translates as ‘the beloved’ perfect for a romantic break. Couples can walk along the banks of the Ljubljanica River or take a boat ride along its waters for a scenic tour of the city. Ljubljana offers a green oasis with numerous public parks in the heart of the city. A walk through the historic Ljubljana Botanical Gardens, established in 1810 is a must for any nature lover. Be sure to soak up the romantic architecture before relaxing in some of its superb cafes and restaurants. For further information: https://www.visitljubljana.com/en/visitors/ Hotel Nox  Hotel Nox is a central boutique hotel located in the Šentvid area of Ljubljana. Choose from 34 completely uniquely designed rooms and enjoy large windows offering stunning city views. Indulge in their romantic package, for a pampered night for two. Find a suit strewn with rose petals, champagne and strawberries with chocolate chips and cream. After a romantic night, start your day with a delicious breakfast which can be ordered in your room.  Stay Valentines night from 105 euro: https://hotelnox.com/en Hike the majestic Julian alps  Experience breathtaking views, beautiful landscapes and charming towns for the perfect romantic get away in the Julian Alps. Discover the best cycling and hiking trails of slovenia including the incredible 290km long Juliana bike route and the Juliana hiking Trail. Both of these trails are located in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Spend quality time with your loved one hiking one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Slovenia, The Soča Trail. Wander along the emerald green river Soča and discover log bridges, scenic canyons and breathtaking nature. The 25-kilometre trail is a part of the Alpe Adria Trail and will take you through the Alpine valley of Trenta along numerous natural and cultural sites. Hike extra early to witness a romantic sunrise among the green Slovenian valleys.   For further information: https://www.slovenia.info/en/the-julian-alps Bohinj ECO Hotel and Sunrose 7 Relax in absolute luxury at sister properties Bohinj ECO Hotel and Sunrose 7. Both are ideally located at the border of Triglav National Park and are recognised as being two of the greenest and most eco-minded hotels the country has to offer. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that is all around from the comfort of Bohinj ECO Hotel’s top floor pool. Enjoy luxury and nature as a couple for an unforgettable romantic break. Revitalise your body and soul at Sunrose 7’s spa and wellness area. Stay Valentines night from £115: https://www.bohinj-eco-hotel.si/ Stay in February from £143: https://www.sunrose7.com/ Morzine, France  Romance is the Alps What speaks romance like being whisked away for a ski break? Spending your days on the slopes, taking in the natural beauty of the mountains, and enjoying the views from Mont Blanc. Take to Morzine’s outdoor ice rink in the town square for a classic date night. At night the town comes alive with pretty white lights and folk outside taking in the resort’s atmosphere. You are able to rent boots and equipment from the hut outside the Tourism Office. Résidence Les 3 Sophie Take the festival to the next level with a stay at Les Sophie. Just a six-minute drive from the centre of Morzine, nestled between the forests and mountains, Les Sophie delivers the authentic charm of a French Alpine village. With high-quality luxury facilities, discover apartment complexes capable of sleeping up to twelve people. Relax after an adventurous day surrounded by the best motorcycles in the world with a cosy apartment imbued with mountain spirit. Stay for a week in February from 860 Euro: https://terresens-msh.com/residences/residence-les-3-sophie-morzine/?lang=en

You may want to invest in a big, fat travel notebook for we’ll keep inspiring you with bucket-lists! Whether your travels take you to Spain, or to Japan, these festivals will ensure that you get a slice of the loveliest vibe. From street performances, free activities, events and many traditional and current traditions – these streets and cities come alive with a buzz like no other during festive times. Light-Up Event in Shirakawa-go, Japan,  January – February (various dates)  The village of Shirakawa-go will hold the 37th Light-Up Event  in the early months of 2023.The UNESCO World Heritage Site has garnered a global reputation for its traditional gassho-style house, which will be illuminated to give the streets a warm and welcoming glow each Sunday for six consecutive weeks. Known as the ‘White River Village’, the deep winter months see the steepled roofs, built from straw-like kaya plants and moulded into the shape of praying hands, blanketed with snow.  www.mitsuboshi-kaidou.com/ Hachinohe Enburi Festival (Rich Harvest Festival), Hachinohe, Japan,  February  One of the Five Great Snow Festivals of Michinoku,  Hachinohe Enburi Festival  will this year be returning to the region. Held as a prayer to bring in the coming spring season, the Enburi Festival is well-known for its traditional performances carried out by the dancers (tayu), who are adorned in spectacularly decorated tall hats resembling the shape of a horse’s neck. The distinctive dance is designated as an ‘Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property’, and features movements which reflect farming practices, such as planting rice or sowing seeds.  visithachinohe.com/en/ Las Fallas returns to the city of Valencia, Spain,  1-19 March  One of Spain’s most beloved festivals returns to the streets of Valencia this year,  The Fallas of Valencia . With giant sculptures set alight, musicians, costumes, and florists, the celebrations have maintained their heritage and traditions over the century. The festival begins with the ‘Crida’ – the opening ceremony where ‘Mayor of Falleras’ encourages citizens and visitors to enjoy the party. Declared an event of ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ by UNESCO in 2016, Las Fallas has returned with traditional acts such as the  mascleates  (fireworks), late night parties, and art installations where around 800 monuments fill the streets with colour and joy.  Visitvalencia.com SLO CAL Craft Beer Festival 2023 ,  California,  25 March Visit SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) in California for the 5 th  annual  Central Coast Craft Beer Festival  on 25th March at the famous Sunken Gardens in Atascadero. The festival will host a range of singers, bands and DJs with plenty of food vendors to indulge in whilst enjoying tasty samples from over 55 independently owned local craft breweries, wineries, seltzer and kombucha makers and cideries from across California, not to mention the giant beer pong table! Starting at $50, tickets include a complimentary glass and samples from any of the vendors on site.  www.slocal.com/ Takayama’s Spring Festival, Gifu, Japan,  14-15April Takayama, a town in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu prefecture, boasts a beautifully preserved old town for visitors to explore. For those looking to immerse themselves into Takayama’s history, make the most of the April days at the  Takayama Matsuri Festival . The Covid pandemic has halted official Spring Festival activities since 2019, and this year will mark the full operation of Takayama’s Spring Festival. The celebrations showcase the town’s long legacy of craftsmanship through centuries-old floats that are renowned for their extravagant carvings and karakuri ningyo shows. Throughout the event l, the festival’s 12  yatai  are on display in the heart of the town. Visitors can enjoy the evening on the 14 th  by following the floats, blanketed with lanterns, as they parade around the historic centre.  visitgifu.com/ Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, California,  14-16 April, 21-23 April Beyond the musical acts, the  Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival , held in April at Empire Polo Club in Indio, has morphed into something of a cultural phenomenon, with fantastic food and high-wattage stars showing up in their best desert boho outfits. Artists also present large works, making the event a feast for the eyes as well as the ears, which is part of the reason why nearly 200,000 have attended the annual festival in recent years.  www.visitcalifornia.com WeHo Pride, West Hollywood, California,  2 – 4 June For nearly four decades,  West Hollywood’s Pride  has been celebrating diversity and inclusivity across the storied city. Kicking off Pride Month is the  LGBTQ Arts Festival , with a schedule of events from exhibitions to multimedia projects. As June rolls round, WeHo Pride Weekend starts with a free street fair and the  OUTLOUD Raising Voices Music Festival . The final event is the energetic and colourful Pride Parade with the whole city showing up to wrap up the festivities. West Hollywood has been advocating for the LGBTQ+ community and ensuring their visibility and expression since its recognition as a city with a first US majority gay council in 1984.  www.visitwesthollywood.com Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride, Colorado,  15 – 18 June Nestled in the rugged San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado, the  Telluride Bluegrass Festival  welcomes visitors from far and wide. This year is going to be even more spectacular with the festival’s 50th anniversary celebrations, which include free workshops, a 2023 NightGrass schedule and a better than before music lineup. Not only an iconic representation of the music scene, the experience is a place of awe inspiring beauty – a destination where travellers can dance under the solstice sun and embrace their truest self.  www.colorado.com The Tremblant International Blues Festival, Québec, CA,  14 – 16 July Delighting fans year after year, The Tremblant International Blues Festival is one of the largest musical events in Canada. Set over three days, visitors will enjoy over 40 performances across three outdoor stages and numerous indoor venues, as well as family activities and more. Mont-Tremblant’s alpine-style village offers an enchanting backdrop nestled in the beautiful Laurentian mountains, just 90 minutes by car from downtown Montreal.  www.tremblant.ca Capitol Hill Block Party, Seattle,   21 – 23 July Celebrating the Capitol Hill neighbourhood in Seattle,  Capitol Hill Block Party  has 100 local and national acts performing at bars, outdoor stages and restaurants in the area. Known for creating the world’s most influential musicians, such as Nirvana and Pearl Jam, Seattle is the city for music fanatics and Capitol Hill is where the newest and best in the industry can be found. This year’s headliners are still TBC.  visitseattle.org Drishti Beats Yoga and Music Festival,Snowmass Village, Colorado,  July  Set in the magnificent mountains of Aspen Colorado, the  Drishti Beats Yoga and Music Festival 2023  is the ultimate way to connect with nature this summer, blending mindfulness and music to create a festival experience like no other. The weekend features a plethora of immersive yoga classes and sessions hosted by carefully selected teachers with live musicians, world class hospitality and a mix of electronic chill and house music for you to dance the night away to. Look out for the 2023 line-up and ticket announcements for the chance to secure a spot.  Aspenchamber.org ,  gosnowmass.com Arte Viva Festival, Florida’s Paradise Coast,  now – September Supporting the rebound following the devastation of Hurricane Ian, the  Arte Viva  Festival on Florida’s Paradise Coast – Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades – has given the resilient region a reason to celebrate. This year-long celebration of Hispanic culture offers events and exhibitions taking place for locals and visitors to enjoy the diversity of art, artists and music.  Until September, Frida and Her Garden  is one of these exhibitions, celebrating Frida Kahlo and her colourful self-portraits and paintings by transporting visitors to her home garden in Coyoacán, Mexico City.  Florida’s Paradise Coast Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival – Pittsburgh,  15 – 17 September Don’t miss this soulful weekend at Highmark Stadium with more than 140 jazz musicians.  Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival  sees world-renowned musicians grace the stages as well as new artists to watch. With numerous vendors, huge stages to bask in the talent and a friendly, lively crowd, this exciting weekend is a must for music lovers.  www.visitpittsburgh.com Farm-to-Fork Festival, Sacramento – California,  8 – 24 September  Farm-to-fork is the way to live in the Sacramento region. For more than a century, the region has been an agricultural powerhouse boasting a year-round growing season and an ideal climate. Local restaurants utilise the abundance of regionally grown products to create an unparalleled freshness – whether it’s a burger joint or an upmarket restaurant. As the seasons change, so do restaurant menus in Sacramento, ensuring an authentic taste of local flavour. Visit Sacramento will host its ninth annual  Farm-to-Fork Festival  known to be the most anticipated food and music celebration on the West Coast, taking place from 8 – 24 September.  www.visitsacramento.com

Think gorgeous British summer. 140 artists. Open studios and the wilds of the North York Moors. If you want a summer vacation that rewards you with all the benefits of slow travel, and indulges your love for all things art and artsy, we’ve something for you. Stretching from the coast to the moors, dales, and beyond, North Yorkshire’s artistic community invites the public to take a peek inside their studios this summer. The open studio event takes place across the first two weekends of June: 3-4 and 10-11 June, 2023. It offers everyone an exciting opportunity to discover works from emerging and established artists in the region. The open studio event is organised by the artist-run collective, North Yorkshire Open Studios (NYOS), a not-for-profit community that works to support the hundreds of painters, sculptors, print-makers, jewellers, ceramicists, photographers and creatives who live and work in North Yorkshire.  For the first time, NYOS has teamed up with the North York Moors National Park to host a three-month long preview exhibition of this summer’s open studio event at the Inspired by… gallery at Danby Lodge National Park Centre, near Whitby.  The exhibition will showcase some of the artists who will be opening their studios and takes place from 12 February to 21 May 2023, along with special artist talks and demonstrations. During the exhibition, visitors will be able to vote for their favourite two-dimensional and three-dimensional artists as part of an Audience Choice Award, sponsored by the Inspired by… gallery. The two winners will receive £200 towards furthering their art practice. Garth Bayley, Project Manager for NYOS , said: “The open studio event is a chance to go ‘through the keyhole’ of an artist’s studio, appreciate the creative process, and meet and get to know the artist too.” This year, NYOS aims to attract visitors from across the north including Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds.  An art trial map will be available for visitors to plan their trip. Garth said: “With the trend for slow travel and staycations, the art studio trail covers coastal spots in Scarborough, through to scenic National Parks including the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales, and the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, alongside picturesque villages and vibrant market towns. It’s a wonderful opportunity to go on an artistic and cultural magical tour, visit the well-known attractions or explore lesser-known areas and experience this beautiful and diverse region with new eyes.” Artists taking part will highlight attractions near their studios, such as castles, abbeys, beauty spots and visitor attractions to help visitors create itineraries for a full day, or even a weekend getaway break, perfect for culture vultures.” Sally Ann Smith, curator of the Inspired by… gallery at the Danby Lodge National Park Centre , said: “ We are delighted to be involved for the first time and to have the opportunity to exhibit some of the most talented painters, printmakers, sculptors and designers in our region. This is such a fantastic opportunity for artists to showcase their work to new audiences, and for visitors to the Inspired by… gallery to immerse themselves in all the creativity and originality that North Yorkshire has to offer.” All works in the open studio event are for sale. The scheme is supported by the NYOS Patron, the Duchess of Devonshire. The Duchess of Devonshire, said: “ I’m delighted to support this inspiring and supportive platform, which is now in its 16th year. North Yorkshire is home to some of the UK’s most beautiful scenery, and the source of inspiration for generations of artists, including Hockney, Hepworth and Turner. This is an exciting opportunity to discover some incredible talent, as well as champion North Yorkshire as a vibrant place for art. It offers interactive, adventurous experiences as well as the chance to get your hands on some unique artworks.”

Celebrations are plentiful in Poland and historical milestones are a great way to remember history, culture and heritage. February is no exception as the country commemorates the 550th anniversary of the birth of Nicolaus Copernicus. One of Poland’s most famous historical figures, Copernicus was born in Torun on February 19 1473.  Visitors to Torun can celebrate the 550th anniversary of Nicolaus Copernicus’ birth and learn all about the great Polish-born astronomer. Torun is Copernicus’ birthplace and visitors can discover the importance of his place among the most outstanding scientists in history. Undoubtedly Torun’s most famous citizen, the street where Nicolaus Copernicus was born now houses a fascinating museum dedicated to him. The Nicolaus Copernicus House is a proud reminder of his life and legacy which should be top of the list of things to see in Torun. Today, visitors can enjoy a multimedia, interactive exhibition which includes an audio guide, films about astronomy, the universe and scientific discoveries. The exhibition also offers an insight into the medieval city of Torun itself. In addition to celebrating all things Copernicus, Torun is sure to appeal to many curious visitors. Must-see attractions are The Planetarium Hall, The Centre of Modern Times, The House of Legends, The Gingerbread Walk of Fame and The ZooBotanical Garden. Plus, in keeping with the astronomy theme, the Cosmopolis Fountain is not to be missed. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy spectacular programmed performances combining water, light and sound. Torun is also famous for its delicious gingerbread. The oldest known recipe originates from a medical book and visitors can find out all there is about Torun gingerbread at the city’s two dedicated museums. The Museum of Torun Gingerbread and The Living Museum of Gingerbread offer visitors the chance to bake their own!  This simple yet sublime treat is another important ingredient in the city’s colourful heritage. Furthermore, this historical city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and now one of the most cultural destinations in Poland – ideal for visitors who have exhausted the other great Polish cities. For anyone looking for a fresh, new experience in the country, it’s time to put Torun on the wishlist for 2023! How to get there? The nearest airport to Torun is Bydgoszcz. Flights to Poland from the UK are regularly available from airports across the UK with easyJet ,  Ryanair and Wizz Air . For more information on Poland, visit Poland.travel

The trick to perfect island-hopping in Greece is to plan a little, but not too much. While accommodation and ferries will need to be booked in advance, the whole spirit of exploring the islands is rooted in spontaneity. The islands are dabbed across the turquoise Aegean and Ionian seas. Over the years different ones have been a la mode, but all of them are unique and beautiful. It’s hard to describe the intoxicating excitement of sailing into the port of a new island when moving from one to the next. My own 4-week adventure took place 20 years ago, but my memories of the islands, the beaches, the food and the architecture are as crystal clear as the Aegean. Every moment of that trip was spectacular, perhaps with the exception of one minor moped accident! Zakynthos In spite of a huge surge in popularity in recent years and becoming a package holiday favourite, there are quiet pockets with isolated coves, serene villages and a mountainous interior. Naviggo, a beach which holds the remains of a freight ship that sunk in the 1980s has become the hippest spot for young travellers. Its Instagram-worthy shores attract thousands of tourists a day by boat as it’s inaccessible by land. Ios Known as a party island since the 1970s, something I’m assured is still very much the case, the island also has something to offer the more chilled-out traveller. Leaning into the wellness market, there is an abundance of spa hotels. A resort hotel named Calilo nails the laid-back ‘good vibes only’ atmosphere. Rising out of, and carved from, the native rock, Calilo is cradled by 1,000 acres of protected land and fringed by six miles of golden sand, lapped by a cerulean sea.  The hotel’s ethos advises you to leave cynicism at the door on arrival and live by the motto ‘Create a life you can fall in love with’. Crete The largest of the Greek islands and the one with the most diverse landscape, Crete, unlike the other islands which rely on tourism, is a working city which can come as a surprise to travellers. Distinctive Venetian influences are apparent in some of the architecture and the island is flanked by the soaring White Mountains. Santorini One of Europe’s most popular destinations, Santori packs a solid punch in the beauty stakes. Though possibly what you might expect from an island borne from an erupted volcano in 1613BC. Sunset in Santorini is an event that can settle into your soul. The skies are blood orange and pink above the glittering water and amongst the chalky white buildings. Find a place to serve some sparkling Greek wine and you are guaranteed to fall in love with your life. At least at that moment.