According to the latest 2022 Travel Trends Report by award-winning hospitality management software developer, Cloudbeds , destinations with plenty of outdoor offerings is a trend set to continue into 2022 with 30% of travellers saying they prefer outdoor and small-town destinations more now compared to before the pandemic. Here’s a round-up of some of the best small towns and remote parts of the world to unwind and enjoy a peaceful holiday.  The Best Remote Destinations Immersed in Nature in the USA Granby, Colorado A small mountain town in Colorado, Granby has just over 2,000 residents and is praised for its friendly atmosphere and close proximity to Denver. Surrounded by Rocky Mountains National Park, Granby really lives up to its motto of ‘being something truly grand.’ Brimming with outdoor activities in the spring, travellers can breathe in the fresh air with hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding or boating. Nestled in Granby, C Lazy U Ranch is a luxurious dude ranch offering an upmarket yet authentic wild western experience. An all-inclusive resort, guests can enjoy incredible views of the Continental Divide mountain range in complete peace and tranquillity whilst switching off from the rest of the world. Alpine Lakes High Camp, Seattle, Washington Just a short ride from Seattle, two hours to be precise, sits Alpine Lakes High Camp in Leavenworth. A remote area alongside the Alpine Lake Wilderness area, Alpine Lakes High Camp includes nine A-frames and cosy cabins along with private forests which are perfect for travellers who crave seclusion and untouched territory. In the warmer months, expect empty hiking trails, a wood-fired hot tub and intimate moments with nature. La Jolla, San Diego, California The southern California city of San Diego is known for its laid back atmosphere, beautiful coastline and incredible Mexican cuisine. Travellers looking to enjoy a slow pace of life should visit the La Jolla neighbourhood in the north of the city. Boasting numerous beaches, picturesque coves and Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve – a peaceful park set atop a cliff, with views of the Pacific Ocean – La Jolla is a great spot for a remote holiday. Visitors can stay at the La Jolla Shores Hotel ; with each of the rooms offering coast or garden views, guests feel as though they are a million miles away from anyone else. Rooms from $339 per night. St. Helena, California Nicknamed “Napa Valley’s Main Street,” the downtown area of the charming wine-country town of St. Helena brims with lovely little shops, art galleries, and cafés set in historic buildings. It’s all nicely walkable within its primary half-mile-long core, so visitors can browse gourmet shops, fashion boutiques, and candy stores of this picturesque small town. Downtown St. Helena is ringed with wineries, such as the iconic Merryvale Vineyards, which was the first winery in the valley to open after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. The perfect place to stay in St. Helena is Auberge du Soleil hotel; with breathtaking views, it is the dream of French restaurateur, Claude Rouas. Nestled within a terraced, sun-kissed hillside amid 33-acres of heritage olive and oak trees, the hotel’s 50 contemporary guest rooms and suites make a perfect location for a peaceful stay away from the crowds. Rooms for £1,136 per night.

When we think of places we’d love to visit in our lifetime, our mind often wanders to faraway places across the globe. It’s easy to forget that we have an abundance of incredible landmarks in the UK. Travelodge has put together the top 10 landmarks you can’t miss when visiting the UK. Landmarks You Can’t Miss When Visiting the UK Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Edinburgh Castle is one of the most impressive historical landmarks in Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland’s vibrant capital city, it is sure to capture your imagination with tales as old as time from its days as a military fortress, royal residence and prison of war. If you want to learn more about the castles’ rich history, you can take a tour with the castle stewards, and if all the excitement makes you peckish, why not indulge in afternoon tea at the castles’ tea rooms? And if you’re a music-lover, head here when the castle is transformed into a concert venue in the summer. This year there’s Deacon Blue, Texas, The Script and Elbow, among other top names. Edin Project, Cornwall Once a former clay mine with no soil or plants, this inspirational site in Cornwall is now home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, with over 20 acres of outdoor gardens and a wild outer estate. An enjoyable and educational day for both children and adults, there’s so much to see and do at the  Eden Project. You can learn about nature, pick up inspiring ideas on caring for the planet, try zip-wiring, or rock out to world-class performances. This summer, you can see Diana Ross, Noel Gallager and My Chemical Romance, to name a few. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland With almost 1000 years worth of rich history to discover,  Alnwick Castle  is one of Britain’s most enchanting historical sites. It has served as a military outpost, a teaching college, a refuge for evacuees, a film set, and a family home. Delve into its extraordinary history and travel through the centuries with the many exciting things to see and do here. You can take a guided tour and learn about the castle’s history, including its use as a filming location for shows such as  Downton Abbey.  Or check out special events and performances, have a go at archery and test your abilities with a bow, or learn to fly a broomstick in the spot where  Harry Potter  first took flight. Albert Docks, Liverpool A truly iconic northern British landmark, Liverpool’s  Albert Docks  dominated global trade in the 19th century. Its peaceful waters stretched the size of three football pitches! Today, the Dock plays a central role in the city’s rich and varied culture. With world-class cuisine, shopping, art, music, museums and more, the modern-day Dock is a colourful and lively place to visit with all the family. With  pop-up events  throughout the year, there’s always something new and exciting to see here. Bath Abbey, Bath Having been a place of Christian worship for over a thousand years, there is a great deal to discover within the history of this sacred place. Tales of Kings, Queens, saints and sinners are all waiting to be told here. And apart from its compelling history, the  Abbey  provides an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the beating heart of this lively city. With its awe-inspiring architecture, whatever your faith, one can’t help but feel charmed by this magnificent historical landmark. So whether you come here to  join a service,  light a candle or listen to music, don’t miss out on visiting this majestic slice of history. Iconic Landmarks You Need to Visit in the UK Yorkshire Minster, York People come from all over the world to visit this beautiful cathedral. Since the 7th century, the Minster has been at the heart of Christianity in the north of England and today remains a thriving church holding daily worship and prayer. Every aspect of this ancient building – from the exquisite, handcrafted stone to the unrivalled collection of mediaeval stained glass is a treat for the eyes. And if you want to learn more, there’s the  Undercroft Museum,  part of  York Minster.  From the remains of a Roman barracks to 1,000-year-old artefacts still found in the cathedral today, you can discover objects and stories to help you explore nearly two millennia of York’s history. London Tower Bridge, London The iconic  Tower Bridge  instantly springs to mind when anyone thinks of London. So why not visit and discover fascinating insights from one of the UK’s defining landmarks? From events that led to the Bridge’s construction, how it was built, how it lifts the road for river traffic, the  Victorian engine rooms  and some of the key and quirky events from the Bridge’s history. It’s also worth coming here for the stunning panoramic views from the high-level walkways and the thrill of seeing London life through the glass floor. Blackpool Tower, Blackpool Blackpool Tower  has stood proud over the Fylde Coast for over 125 years and was coined the ‘Wonderland of the World.’ One of Britain’s best-loved landmarks and most popular attractions, the iconic venue opened in 1894, where the first visitors stood in awe of the remarkable design, immense scale and ornate decorations. There’s more to this tower than first meets this eye too. You can take a whirl on the dance floor at the legendary  Blackpool Tower Ballroom  or enjoy afternoon tea while listening to live music. And for the kids, there’s the  Blackpool Tower Dungeon, The Circus, SEA LIFE Aquarium,  or  Madame Tussauds,  plus lots more to see and do here for all the family. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth A visit to  Portsmouth Historic Dockyard  takes you on a journey through time. Allowing you to step onboard world-famous ships, explore heroic submarines and gain compelling insights with first-hand accounts from the Royal Navy’s finest. On a day out here you can visit the Mary Rose, King Henry VIII’s favourite ship, which sank in battle in 1545 and was raised from the sea outside the Dockyard in 1982. You can also see HMS Victory and see Nelson’s legendary warship, dive deep onboard HMS Alliance or take a Harbour Tour and discover a working naval base from the water. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the UK’s prime destination for anyone interested in maritime history. Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Cardiff Castle  is one of Wales’ most famous heritage sites and attracts visitors from all across the globe. Walk through its gates, and you can discover 2,000 years’ worth of history in the making. From the Roman occupation of Britain to the Norman Conquest, civil war turbulence, a Victorian transformation and even the horrors of World War 2, when the castle was even used as an air-raid shelter, these walls sure have seen it all. As well as learning about the castle’s fascinating past, many exciting family events are run throughout the year, including summer concerts and outdoor cinema screenings.

Colorado’s surroundings are both beautiful and breathtaking, with so much outdoor recreation to be explored. Nicknamed the Centennial State, it’s known for its Western heritage and traditional cowboy culture, which are still celebrated today. Travellers looking for an authentic Colorado experience can book a ranch stay; whether luxurious, romantic or fun for the whole family, there’s a ranch for everyone to channel their inner cowboy. Ranch Stays in Colorado You Need to Visit Rainbow Trout Ranch Rainbow Trout Ranch  combines the best of the Colorado Rockies with the enchantment of nearby New Mexico. Located in the beautiful secluded Conejos River Valley at 9,000ft, the 5-star ranch features vast amounts of the unspoiled countryside that lends itself to outdoor recreation. Something for every member of the family, activities include horseback riding, fishing, archery and white-water rafting. At the end of each day, families can enjoy the atmosphere of the western log cabins and share stories with other guests over home-cooked meals. Rainbow Trout Ranch is just a 44-minute drive from Denver.  Priced from $2,800 per adult and $2,200 per child in summer, including all meals and on-ranch activities.  Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa Nestled among the rugged mountains of Ranch Valley Creek in Tabernash lies  Devil’s Thumb Ranch , a historical and anthropological haven of mythology and beauty. As a leading Colorado mountain resort with pristine landscapes, Devil’s Thumb Ranch prides itself on its sustainable credentials. Solar panels and battery banks supply almost all of the spa’s electrical needs, and a large portion of the lighting runs on DC (direct current) power, which is more energy-efficient than AC power. Using homegrown produce for the Ranch House Restaurant, including vegetables and honey from the 80 beehives on the property, Devil’s Thumb Ranch is committed to being eco-friendly and preserving its natural surroundings. Other sustainable amenities include organic skincare products, electrical vehicle charging stations, digital newspaper subscriptions, recycling bins in guest rooms, compostable containers and geothermal heating.  The bed & breakfast package including a night’s stay in the High Lonesome King Suite w/ Loft starts from $554.00. Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch As the name suggests, Loveland is the perfect place to spend a truly romantic break. Located at the foot of the Rockies,  Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch  is an intimate option for newlyweds, anniversary celebrators and everyone in between. Couples can disconnect from everyday life and soak up one another in the beautiful surroundings. With so many activities to choose from, guests can decide if they want to be adventurous on the many hiking and biking trails, saddle up with a horse ride, or simply relax in the outdoor heated pool.  Priced from $2,600 per adult in summer, including all meals and most activities. C Lazy U Ranch Operating since 1919,  C Lazy U Ranch  is a luxurious dude ranch offering an upmarket yet authentic western experience. An all-inclusive resort, amenities include world-class cabins, a wealth of outdoor activities, daily horse rides and exceptional cuisine. With an extensive culinary history at many five-star resorts, Chef Cory Untch’s style of cooking is ‘fine dining meets casual family gatherings.’ The wood-fired, farm-inspired seasonal menus ensure guests’ pallets are always presented with the best that nature has to offer. Set within beautiful log cabins next to Willow Creek and neighbouring acres of untouched land is the on-site spa, where guests can enjoy incredible views of the Continental Divide mountain range in complete peace and tranquillity whilst switching off from the rest of the world.  Priced from $817 per person per night in summer, including all meals and most activities.

For a record-breaking 43 nights from September 2 through October 31, Universal Orlando Resort presents Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida. Starting today, guests can purchase tickets and plan an unforgettable fall getaway with friends to scream together as they brave terrifying haunted houses, menacing creatures and more at the world’s premier Halloween event. Hailed by fans as “nonstop scary awesomeness,” “absolutely terrifying” and “downright chilling,” Halloween Horror Nights is the pinnacle of immersive Halloween entertainment and has transformed fall travel into a “must do” for people around the globe. Season after season, the terror has no bounds as Universal Orlando pulls out all of the sinister stops to celebrate Halloween with a fearsome slate of festivities that not only come to life at the award-winning event – but also across the entire destination, from dining to hotel experiences and more. Halloween Horror Nights 2022 will boast 10 new, movie-quality haunted houses inspired by everything from cinematic greats to unfathomable original abominations, five scare zones filled with hordes of gruesome creatures lunging from the shadows, and two outrageous live shows that will showcase compelling performances. And when they need a break from the scares, guests can satiate their appetite with sinfully delicious food and beverage inspired by the event’s haunts, shop the latest merchandise at highly themed retail locations that are attractions in and of themselves, and enjoy Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting rides. Additional details about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood will be revealed soon, with tickets available through selected partners.

Move over revenge travel. Reconnection travel –  booking a trip to make up for lost time – is one of the latest travel trends. According to easyJet holidays, 25% of UK customers will be prioritising going away with their extended family to make up for lost time. Henbury Travel has also seen an influx of grandparents booking breaks with their children and grandchildren. Discover 10 incredible destinations the whole family can enjoy.  Inspiration for Multi-Generational Holidays in America San Diego, California San Diego’s world-class attractions can be enjoyed by parents and grandparents of all ages. Families can make lifelong memories with visits to LEGOLAND, San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, USS Midway Museum and the newly-opened Sesame Place theme park; take to the water with a boat trip or watersports on the Pacific Ocean, or simply relax by the beach and enjoy California’s famous sunshine with icecream in hand. Book a stay at Paradise Point Resort and Spa which has a range of suites, bungalows and accessible guest rooms to cater to all visitors.  www.sandiego.org Steamboat, Colorado Hit the slopes at Steamboat, a welcoming resort that’s true to its western roots and packed with family-friendly activities. Skiing may be the main draw, but the resort also offers snow tubing, a mountain roller coaster, ice skating, snowshoeing and special sleigh ride dinners which takes families on a scenic horse and carriage ride through Yampa Valley’s rolling hills. Kids age 12 and under can also ski for free at Steamboat with the purchase of a five-or-more day adult lift ticket, making it a purse-friendly option for multigenerational families.  www.steamboat.com Sacramento, California Sacramento is the perfect place for multigenerational travel. The 28-acre National Historic Landmark, Old Sacramento, offers fun, historical activities for the whole family. Sacramento’s History Museum is dedicated to the city’s rich history and the exhibits explore the stories of pioneers who settled during the Gold Rush. Kids can try their luck at gold panning and visit the interactive exhibits, as well as join the underground tour, where they are taken under the city streets to hear about the history of the area. While in Old Sacramento, there are a number of attractions that will also keep the parents entertained, including the California State Railroad Museum – where visitors can get inside old trains – and the Delta King Hotel, a floating hotel and restaurant in a resorted historic vessel on the American River to enjoy lunch after a morning of exploring the area.  www.visitsacramento.com Greater Palm Springs, California  With nine cities in one beautiful oasis, Greater Palm Springs is rich in experiences for all generations, with outdoor adventure, healing mineral spas and world-class events.  The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway  – the world’s largest rotating tram car – offers an exciting full-day of family adventure as it travels over two and a half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon, up to the wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State. Admire the view in awe as the 10-minute tram ride offers spectacular views of the valley floor, before reaching the end of the journey at an elevation of 8,516 feet. From here, everyone can enjoy over 50 miles of hiking trails and 14,000 acres of pristine wilderness, while grandparents enjoy lunch at Peaks restaurant with panoramic views of Coachella Valley.  www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com Yosemite Mariposa County, California Take a family trip to Yosemite and the High Sierra over the winter – it’s a beautiful, quiet and inspiring time of year to visit, with a sparkling white coat of snow that rests lightly on the ledges of Yosemite’s grand cliffs and settles peacefully among the pines.  Badger Pass Ski Area is a great and affordable place for children to learn how to ski or snowboard. The family can also try snowshoeing through the park’s winter landscape and combine a snowshoe adventure with learning new things about Yosemite’s winter ecology and wildlife on a ranger-led snowshoe walk or guided tour. To truly make for an incredible family experience, get a home away from home with a holiday rental. In Mariposa County there are around 600 amazing holiday rentals, ranging in size from hideaway cabins for two, to large homes that can accommodate a multiple family get together. www.yosemite.com Florida’s Paradise Coast Florida’s Paradise Coast is spoilt for choice when it comes to family activities, and best of all they’re all set amongst the backdrop of the region’s great outdoors. Spend quality time relaxing with family on the beaches of Naples or Marco Island, exploring wildlife in the Everglades, or checking out one of many other attractions that make the Paradise Coast the perfect spot for a family vacation. From spotting wild dolphins to zipping down water slides, summer on the Paradise Coast brings fun and excitement for the whole family in this easily accessible destination. For those looking to escape the sun head indoors to Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. This two-story museum offers 16 unique exhibits, from an Everglades-themed maze to an entirely blue room with giant construction blocks, guaranteed to entertain kids and adults alike.  Paradisecoast.com  San Francisco, California San Francisco is full of amazing activities and places to visit that are interesting for parents, grandparents and children of all ages whether it is visiting Alcatraz or San Francisco Zoo. The Walt Disney Family Museum is best for families with older kids, though the sheer amount of Disney paraphernalia is great for Disney fans of all generations. Muir Woods is a short drive away from the city making it an excellent day trip for San Francisco visitors. The trail is accessible to both strollers and wheelchairs, making it great for younger and older family members.  www.visitcalifornia.com Whistler, Canada While Whistler may be most known for  skiing, snowboarding  and  biking , it’s also packed with things that help make a multigenerational trip awesome any time of the year. Whistler offers a wide range of  activities  spanning interests and abilities, lots of dining choices and an accessible central core –  Whistler Village . There is a wide range of accommodation from  townhomes and chalet s to  hotel s with a kitchenette perfect for those with young children. Dinner time is a great opportunity for families to share their favourite parts of the day and to plan their next adventure. Whistler has many family-friending restaurants, a few trusty ones for kid-approved food at a good price are  Old Spaghetti Factory ,  Hunter Gather  and  Caramba .  www.whistler.com

Spring has sprung so now is the time to get back outdoors, breathe in the fresh air and reconnect with nature. Spending time in nature has endless benefits such as improving mental health, reducing feelings of stress and anger, and boosting physical health.  More Outdoor Breaks You Need to Try Hakusan National Park, Gifu and Ishikawa Prefectures, Japan Hakusan National Park, Gifu and Ishikawa Prefectures, Japan Mount Hakusan, the tallest mountain in central Honshu, is visible from four prefectures and is one of Japan’s three holy peaks, revered in Japanese tradition. Since monk Taicho Daishi made the first pilgrimage to this mountain in 717 CE, many have followed in the man’s footsteps. Before tackling the holy mountain, stretch your legs amongst the various verdant forests on the park’s grounds across the Gifu and Ishikawa prefectures. Alpe Adria Trail, Slovenia More than 60% of Slovenia is covered in forest, making it the third most densely forested country in the EU, so it’s no surprise that Slovenia is fondly known as the green heart of Europe. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, there is no better way to experience the great outdoors than taking part in the Alpe Adria Trail. Linking Slovenia to Austria and Italy, the trail is approximately 750 kilometres long, has 43 stages and is suitable for hikers of all abilities. Stages one to 21 run through Austria before getting to the 22nd stage which takes trekkers across Slovenia, where the Italian and Slovenian borders intertwine. Destined to win every traveller’s heart, paths guide tourists through Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps, Lake Jasna, Trenta Valley and the emerald-green Soča River. The Slovenian part of the trail offers many opportunities for authentic restaurant stops and stays at mountain huts and traditional inns. The Islands of Tahiti The rugged volcanic terrain found across The Islands of Tahiti offers numerous hiking possibilities for all abilities through jungle pathways, vanilla plantations and fields of wild orchids. All hikes provide rich rewards of stunning mountain top panoramas, and those looking for a particularly challenging hike can try to scale Mt Otemmanu on Bora Bora. For those looking to mix culture into their workout, head to the Marquesas Islands, such as Nuku Hiva, and explore the Tiki statues and original settlement archaeology sites as you wind your way around the islands. Hachinohe, Japan Tucked into the north-eastern Aomori Prefecture, well off the typical tourist trail, Hachinohe is a thriving region where city meets coast. The region is known for its coastal walking, but it also boasts plenty of ancient woodlands perfect for forest bathing. Walk past the secluded fishing port of Fukkubo to find Yodo-no-Matsubara, the Yodo Pine Grove. Here, rows of 100-year-old pine trees sway in the ocean breeze. Glimpse rugged and whitened coastline through the trees, a picture-perfect walking experience.

Visit Egypt with Uniworld and explore an enchanting land of marvels, myths, and wonders old and new, Egypt is an extraordinary destination no culturally curious traveller will want to miss. Incredible Reasons to Explore Egypt & the Nile Pyramid of Giza Getting up close and personal to the Great Pyramid of Giza is a true bucket-list experience. As you follow your Egyptologist, you will marvel at ancient wonders including the surrounding pyramids and equally impressive enigmatic Sphinx. Sail Along the Nile A cruise along the Nile was a manner once reserved for queens and pharaohs. As you sail from Luxor to Aswan you will sail past endless temples and explore the Nile’s most wondrous sites in style and luxury – A highlight being an afternoon tea at the Old Cataract hotel, where Agatha Christie famously wrote her novel,  Death on the Nile . Great Temples Wander amongst the towering ruins of Temples of Karnak, Luxor, Abu Simbel, Hatshepsut and many others whilst gazing upon the original artwork and hieroglyphics that surrounds you. You will even visit the Valley of the Kings, an ancient burial ground the mummified remains of Tutankhamen are on display. Ancient Artefacts This captivating itinerary begins and ends in Cairo, where you’ll visit the famous Egyptian Museum and its stupendous and unrivalled collection of pharaonic artefacts, including treasures recovered from the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Super Ship Sphinx As part of the only luxury river cruise line in Egypt, the newest ship on the Nile River perfectly captures the essence of the Great Sphinx of Giza. S.S. Sphinx’s reimagined design scheme will bring the beauty of the region to life onboard, with locally sourced Egyptian fabrics, artwork and hand-carved furnishings.

Recently, I was lucky enough to experience Finnair’s business class experience. I flew from the beautiful Helsinki to London Heathrow. Extreme comfort, full flexibility, top-class service – Finnair’s Business Class is the embodiment of Finnair. A signature premium Nordic experience down to the very last detail. Finnair’s Business Class tickets include exclusive meal services paired with award-winning wines and beverages. With a Business Classic or Flex ticket, you can also enjoy priority services at the airport, access to Finnair’s business lounges and 2 or 3 pieces of baggage (maximum weight 32kg).  Completely Renewed Business Class on Long-Haul Flights Finnair is completely renewing its Business Class cabins on the airline’s entire long-haul fleet during 2022 and 2023. The renewed Business Class will have an updated premium Nordic interior and service experience, and, as you would expect from such an airline, the Business Class has been designed to maximise your travel comfort and respect your privacy on board.  Finnair Comfort & Style in Business Class Enjoy furniture-like comfort with an entirely new Collins’ AirLounge seat that amplifies your personal space and freedom to move with its innovative contoured shell design. The seat offers you the best-in-class sleep comfort by turning into a spacious lay-flat bed with a proper mattress pad. Of course, this is all with the chic and exclusive Marimekko design textiles.  In addition, there is ample stowage features, personal custom-design reading light and built-in USB A and C sockets, PC power and a standard wireless charger to help you travel in style.  The new seat will become available gradually during 2022 and 2023 as part of Finnair’s cabin renewal. During that time, some of our aircraft will still have the current full-flat seats.  Marimekko Travel Kit When travelling in Finnair Business Class on long-haul routes, you will enjoy the amenity kit exclusively designed by Marimekko for Finnair. The “Travel Kit” series comes in eight beautiful collectable Marimekko print designs, features L:a Bruket personal care items and integrates sustainable solutions. The pouch is designed to live beyond your journey with Finnair and to be used countless times after your flight. Modern Finnair Fleet The Finnair fleet is one of the most modern in Europe, with mostly Airbus aircraft.  Currently, the airline is rolling out a full cabin upgrade to their entire long-haul fleet, which means even more comfort and consistency for you onboard their Airbus A350s and A330s.

It’s no secret that train travel has been on the rise for some time. It’s sustainable, offers breathtaking views of destinations, and provides a different way of seeing the world. Colorado is well known for its scenic rail routes which date back centuries. In celebration of  Rocky Mountaineer’s  new Rockies to the Red Rocks route beginning on16 April, which takes passengers from Denver to Moab, Utah, via Glenwood Springs, take a look at four more Colorado rail routes that are guaranteed to impress.  California Zephyr Said to be one of the most beautiful train trips in North America, the  California Zephyr  is a daily Amtrak train that starts and ends in Chicago or San Francisco, with six stops in Colorado between Fort Morgan, Denver, Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction. The high-speed tour offers comfort and convenience, whilst coursing through the plains of Denver and soaring across the Rockies. Three-course dinners are included. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad  Best known for its appearance in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), the  Toltec  is a National Historic Landmark on wheels. Steaming 64 miles over the Rocky Mountains and elevated cliffs, experience the confined Toltec Gorge, over 10,000 feet of Cumbres Pass, and endless views of evergreen forests, not to mention the 100-mile views in every direction. Starting and ending in Antonito or Chama New Mexico, travellers have a choice to sit in the Victorian elegance of the Parlor Car, the newly restored Deluxe Car or the budget-friendly Coach Car which all come with a delicious buffet lunch. The C&T runs several special trains throughout the year including moonlight dinner runs and a kids express, the Cinder Bear Express. The season begins in May and runs until October.  Georgetown Loop Railroad  Connecting the mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, the  Georgetown Loop Railroad  train runs for two miles through steep, narrow canyons and is famous for its historic narrow gauge roads. The engineering marvel extended over the Devil’s Gate Bridge and winds through a scenic Rocky Mountain pathway. The railroad’s 1800s builders constructed tracks that corkscrewed up more than 600 ft in elevation on four bridges. Passengers can choose to opt for a tour of the historic Lebanon Silver Mine in conjunction with their ride. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad  This coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive offers a safe haven for backpackers, day hikers and fishermen as they can get on and off the train mid-route to access the San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness. Beginning and ending in either  Durango  or Silverton, the railway runs 200 feet above the Animas River and features views of majestic peaks as it passes through the western wilderness and charming canyons of the Animas Gorge and San Juan National Forest.

Whilst Seattle is well-known for its arts and culture, thriving food scene and beautiful, natural surroundings, there are many hidden gems and lesser-known neighbourhoods to discover. Explore like a local and make plans to visit the below areas to uncover the best of Seattle. Seattle’s Best Kept Secrets Ballard With its roots laid firmly in the seabourne industries, Ballard’s location on the Puget Sound (an inlet of the Pacific Ocean) made it the original centre of Seattle’s Scandinavian seafaring community, who were drawn to the area because of its plentiful salmon fishing opportunities. Nowadays, it’s a hip waterfront neighbourhood and the epicentre of Seattle’s craft ale scene, with  Stoup Brewing ,  Reuben’s Brews  and  Urban Family Brewing  all a stone’s throw away from each other. A great place to get a taste for the city’s distinctive culture, old and new, visitors can watch boats set sail or return with their haul whilst eating fresh-off-the dock seafood at  Chinook’s at Salmon Bay . Travellers can then flock to Golden Gardens Park to lounge on the beach and witness stunning sunsets over the towering Olympic Mountains. Every Sunday, Ballard Avenue transforms into  Ballard Farmers Market  which is filled with Washington-made produce and craft beer.  University District An eclectic mix of historic architecture, shopping areas and authentic eateries, the University District surrounds The University of Washington. Attractions include a museum for contemporary arts,  Henry Art Gallery  which is currently exhibiting  Packaged Black: Derrick Adams and Barbara Earl Thomas,  an exploration of black identity available for viewing until 1 May, and  Burke Museum  which focuses on educating travellers on Northwest native art, biology and palaeontology. There are an array of indie dining and drink options, as well as the opportunity to visit the historical grounds of The University of Washington which boasts classical architecture, plentiful green spaces and at this time of year, blossoming cherry trees. Those interested in outdoor pursuits can take part in kayaking on Lake Union or Portage Bay, go biking through the Burke-Gilman trail, or support the football teams at Husky stadium. West Seattle With serene beaches and overflowing forests, West Seattle has a number of natural attractions for everyone to indulge in. Travellers can grab an oceanfront spot at Alki Beach or rent a kayak from  Alki Kayak Tours & Activities . Either way, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset and enjoy the tranquillity the water brings. Visitors can also head to the 135-acre Lincoln Park; from discovering the green forests, rocky beaches and meadows to zip-lining, hiking and jumping in the outdoor heated saltwater pool, adventure here is encouraged.

Wellness travel has been on the rise for some time and Slovenia is filled with ways to relax. From salt therapy and saunas to relaxed hiking, the country is a great place to enhance wellbeing. Sečovlje Salt Pans Nature Park The sea is a treasure trove of natural ingredients that are destined to have a beneficial effect on our bodies. Slovenia’s Sečovlje Salt Pans Nature Park is a natural outdoor wellness centre where visitors can enjoy pampering from the rich minerals of the Adriatic Sea. Situated on the nature park, the Lepa Vida Thalasso  Spa  offers traditional thalassotherapy using salt pan mud and brine from the Park. Treatments include mud wraps, salt scrubs and full-body massages Salt is proven to be beneficial on the respiratory system and skin as well as preventing infections.  Pohorje Peat  Pohorje peat  is a unique mud extracted from the Pohorje Hills forests which have natural healing characteristics. For production, it requires low annual temperatures, heavy rainfall, and an impermeable base to form. Consisting of 90% water and 10% decomposed plant material that easily traps heat, peat contact both soothes pain, promotes healing and is popular for curing many ailments. The power of the natural resource is used for therapies and pampering through baths and wraps. World of Saunas  The  World of Saunas  in Topolšica offers a range of different sauna experiences, from thermal pools with bubbles and a refreshing ice cave to a healing Kneipp terrace and modern saunas. The wellness centre boasts relaxing natural aromas and comfortable resting areas as well as beautiful views of its green surroundings. Wellness seekers can choose from a variety of speciality saunas from honey, mud, bioherbal and salt. Hotel Špikl, Gozd Martuljek At  Hotel Špik  in Gozd Martuljek visitors can bask in the natural works of mother earth with five Alpine themed wellness rooms to choose from. Each represents the five natural elements and sources of energy, and offer alternative therapies such as colour, sound, heat, oxygen and infrared. The Room of Wood contains concentrated oxygen and aromatherapy to boost creativity, whilst the Room of Fire has an infrared sauna to enhance love through the raising of the heartbeat and blood flow. Visitors can also experience The Room of Earth which boosts happiness through relaxation.  The Slovenian Mountain Trail  The  Slovenian Mountain Trail  is one of the most popular long-distance trails in the country. Spanning 617 kilometres, the hike begins in Maribor and takes walkers across the plateaus of the Pohorje Hills, the Kamnik and Savinja Alps. The trail is split into multiple stages, catering to everyone from beginners to advanced walkers. Travellers can see the incredible Karavanke Alps, Julian Alps, and feel the fresh sea breeze of the Adriatic coast. Alpe Adria Trail Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year,  there is no better way to experience the great outdoors than hiking the  Alpe Adria Trail . Linking Slovenia to Austria and Italy, the trail is approximately 750 kilometres long, has 43 stages and is suitable for hikers of all abilities. The Slovenian part of the trail offers many opportunities for authentic restaurant stops and stays at mountain huts and traditional inns.

Editor of travel2ireland, Joan was a guest on The Home Show with Sinead Ryan on Newstalk Radio and they talked about the quirky holiday rentals you can enjoy and experience in Ireland and around the world. Quirky Holiday Rentals in Ireland and the World The internet has made renting holiday properties around the world so much easier, especially when you use companies that manage and curate such places. Companies like Airbnb, Holiday Rentals, Holiday Lettings, Interhome, VRBO, 9Flats have opened the market for people to promote and rent properties. It has also led to a big improvement in the quality of holiday rentals and allowed people to be imaginative. On Newstalk’s The Home Show with Sinead Ryan, I explore some really interesting ideas of places to rent in Ireland and also around the world. From lighthouses to inland islands, from a stationary jumbo jet to a train carriage in someone’s garden, to a cave in the Andalucian mountains, join us for a tour. Listen back here . Towering Lighthouses Being a rugged island in the Atlantic, Ireland has more than its fair share of lighthouses.  Many of them are now decommissioned, using automated light and satellite technology. There is quite a few of these remote properties around the coast. In some cases, you can stay in the lighthouse itself and in others, the cottages that would have housed the lighthouse staff. The soaring stone tower of Wicklow Head Lighthouse will give you a real feel for what it was like to live there. The surroundings are also gorgeous and wild. You will find a variety of these properties are managed by The Landmark Trust, see here. There are also several lighthouses and lightkeepers’ cottages in private hands such as at Fanad in Co Donegal, see here . Island Escapes in Ireland We think of islands as places to stay off the coast of the country, however, this little island treasure is on a lake, Lough Oughter in Cavan. Trinity Island was home to Trinity Abbey built in the 13th century and the remains are still there. The O’Dowd family converted a stone-built granary into a comfortable retreat for up to six.  This is the place to go to for peace and quiet. The only sounds are the birds, its perfect for bird-watching. The lake is also full fish and there are boats and canoes available. And the barn has been converted into a games room.  Trinity Island also has a sauna and jacuzzi and costs from €1,500 per week all year round. See the website here and it is also on airbnb.com, Play upstairs downstairs in West Cork, Mount Corrin Fans of Bridgerton will love staying in this traditional period house in West Cork.  The interiors have been put together as it would have been in the 19th century, but with 21st century comforts. They include a pool, jacuzzi, gym and entertainment.  Feel like lords and ladies. The house has three bedrooms with additional accommodation on site, €5,000 per week see here . Not leaving on a Jumbo jet in Sweden Plane-spotters will love this idea, a Jumbo jet 747 has been converted into accommodation at Sweden’s Arlanda Airport.  On board you can stay overnight in a comfortable room, with bathrooms too. There are a mix of rooms from dorms to two swanky private suites. There’s even a bar and food on board, definitely a night to remember, book here . Choo Choo in the A Field We all know the love the British have for trains, and it seems that when they come to the end of their life, they are hard to let go. Which mean not surprisingly there are several train carriages located all over the UK from Scotland to Cornwall and they make unusual holiday rentals.  Take your pick of these unusual properties. They are ideal for family holidays and in a lot of places dogs are welcome too, see details on QuirkyAccom, here . Cave houses in Spain Fancy being a troglodyte – cave dweller. All around Spain’s hottest regions people bored into hillside to make cave homes to protect them from the sun.  These underground houses usually maintain a constant temperature all year and were perfect for those regions with big temperature differences. Holiday Lettings have more than 70 cave houses to rent with prices from €80 per night, some even have swimming pools, outdoors, of course. Listen to the The Home Show on Newstalk with Sinead Ryan here . Have you stayed somewhere unusual, let us know on Facebook , Twitter or Instagram .