10 ways to extend that summer holiday feeling
There's something transformative about travel, no matter which season you choose to embark in.
If you've still got the travel bug after returning from a summer sojourn or are already an all-year round voyager, here are some fantastic recommendations.
Read on to be inspired by the timeless glamour of Miami Beach, the raw natural drama of Central Asia or the stillness of a European river at sunset.
Elsewhere, new technology like Airalo's eSim makes staying connected across borders effortless, while luxury luggage from Moncrief ensures you'll travel with elegance.
Whether unwinding at a villa under Corfu's sunny skies or boarding a steam train in Sussex, these experiences are worthy of even the most seasoned adventurer.
Be it wild, refined or somewhere in between, the world is your oyster.
Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. These Central Asian nations – known as the Three Stans – were once vital stops along the ancient Silk Road. Today they offer breathtaking views, from the soaring Tian Shan mountains to the vast Kazakh Steppe and the intricate Islamic architecture of Samarkand and Bukhara.
Join one of Steppes Travel's group tours, dedicated to unlocking the Three Stans. Running from August 23 to September 6, the 15-day Central Asia Tour will take in the deep history, culture and sweeping landscapes of all three countries.
Your guide for the trip will be Central Asia expert Diana Driscoll, who provides insight about the sites of both ancient and modern history, many of which are Unesco recognised.
Whether you're overnighting in a traditional yurt on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, exploring bustling bazaars or wandering centuries-old caravanserais, this immersive journey promises both discovery and perspective.
Places are £3,950 per person (excluding international flights) with a single supplement of £595.
Stitch your story into the Silk Road. Find out more at steppestravel.com and speak to a Steppes Travel expert to reserve your place
Travel should provide an opportunity to relax and unwind, but from the minute you touch down and connect your phone to a mobile provider or public wi-fi, stress levels can hit the roof. Am I likely to be stung by huge roaming fees? Will I be hacked via an insecure wi-fi service? Do I have to queue for a new local Sim card at every destination?
eSims from Airalo remove all this stress, offering a way to connect to a mobile network without needing to buy a physical Sim card.
As the world's first eSim travel app, Airalo gives travellers instant access to mobile data, calls and texts in more than 200 destinations worldwide.
Ideal for digital nomads, family holidays and business travellers, Airalo lets you download an eSim in minutes and then top up anytime via its app.
Connecting users to local mobile networks around the globe, it takes away the need to buy and swap countless local Sims on arrival, offering fast and safe connectivity whether you're working on a beach or at the top of a mountain.
Find out more at airalo.com and use code TIMES15 for 15 per cent off your first eSIM
Known the world over for its sun, sea and sand, Florida's coastal resort city of Miami Beach should be on your radar if you want to step into a world of timeless glamour and vibrant design.
With exclusive hotel offers at properties such as Hotel Victor South Beach and Faena Miami Beach, visitors can take time to explore the area's bold architecture and lose themselves in luxurious experiences and curated fashion moments.
From ocean-front dining at the former Versace mansion to art-infused afternoons at Faena Bazaar, every detail here is a tribute to creativity and culture. And the chic vibes continue at design-driven destinations like The Standard and the stylishly reimagined Monterrey Bar, where wellness and retro-modern aesthetics meet.
Shop the latest runway-inspired collections at The Webster and discover hidden gems at Sunset Harbour and Lincoln Road mall.
Don't miss the new 100 Years of Art Deco exhibition too – celebrating the design movement that put Miami Beach on the global style map.
Visit experiencemiamibeach.com to find out more and check out @experiencemiamibeach on Instagram for stylish stay inspiration. Download the EXP Miami Beach Tours app to start planning a getaway
The island of Corfu, located off the northwest coast of Greece, is a haven of sun-drenched beaches, Venetian charm and olive grove-covered hills. It's the perfect holiday setting and Prestige Villas is more than equipped to provide a dream base for your next Greek adventure.
A trusted family-run business and a proud member of ABTA, Prestige Villas provides peace of mind from booking to arrival, as well as a 24/7 concierge service as standard.
Across more than 100 villas in Nissaki, Kassiopi and beyond, you can take your pick of stays from a luxury waterfront with private moorings to a mountain retreat. Whether you seek a family experience, a car-free holiday or just pure indulgence, Prestige Villas has it all.
Indulge in fresh Mediterranean cuisine, explore quaint seaside villages and unwind in elegant resorts. From centuries of rich history to crystal-clear waters just waiting for you to dive in, Corfu offers a joyful blend of relaxation and adventure for every traveller.
Visit prestigevillas.co.uk or call 0845 594 2980*
Summer adventures definitely warrant a few sparkling moments along the way and Bottega Gold is the pinnacle of all things fresh, crisp and bubbly.
Distilled from Glera grapes native to hilly terrain in the province of Treviso that's optimal for growing, Bottega Gold Prosecco DOC Brut has links to four centuries of wine-making in that region, balanced with a very modern care for sustainability.
Presented in its distinctive gleaming gold bottle, Bottega Gold reveals a fruity and floral bouquet that carries hints of apple, pear, citrus fruit and white flowers.
Its versatility is its strength, whether it's paired with food, offered as an aperitif or served as the first drink at a pool party.
It's a quintessential summer drink, yet one that is informed by a year-long passion for choosing just the right grapes, all harvested from manually tended vines as part of an artisanal process.
Appreciated the world over, Bottega Gold is the perfect taste sensation for the seasoned traveller, bringing a very special corner of Italy straight to you.
Shop now at amazon.co.uk
Everyone likes to feel secure and confident on their travels – and this extends to your choice of insurance.
Gigasure is an insurance provider with a handy app that travels with you, ready to use if you need it and tucked away when you don't.
Through a series of different products including Travel Insurance for Single Trips, Annual Multi-Trips, Backpacker's Insurance, Car Hire Excess for Single Trips and Annual Multi-Trips, coverage is quick and easy to take out.
Gigasure is always here to help – the 24/7 Gigasure Assist is available for medical emergencies, while the customer care team can be easily reached through the Gigasure app for any other issues, including flight or baggage delays.
Travel insurance policies can be tailored to suit your needs and budget, but the flexibility doesn't stop there.
You can quickly upgrade your policy while travelling, to add insurance for spontaneous plans like adventure sports, golf or cruises. Whether you ' re planning ahead or making last-minute decisions, Gigasure makes it simple to stay covered.
It just takes a few simple steps to travel in total confidence.
Visit gigasure.com or download the Gigasure app today to get a quote and secure your travel insurance in just a few taps
Inspiration is a special exhibition train touring Britain as part of the Railway 200 celebrations – marking two centuries since the Stockton and Darlington Railway's first journey.
Launched from London Paddington in late June, Inspiration features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Where better to enjoy Inspiration on its tour than at Bluebell Railway in Sussex? This 11-mile heritage line in West Sussex is an icon of great British rail travel.
Inspiration will be stopping at Bluebell's Horsted Keynes station from July 23 to August 2 as part of its tour.
There is a Kids for a Quid offer with every accompanying fare-paying adult and the museum's All Day Rover ticket lets you board as many times as you wish, and includes access to the railway's own museum and other attractions.
And then, of course, there's the actual Bluebell Railway line itself.
The first preserved, standard gauge steam-operated railway in the world to become available for public enjoyment, a trip on board is a must.
Visit bluebell-railway.com for more information. Get 10 per cent off advance full-fare adult All Day Rover tickets using the voucher code CHECKLIST25
Code may be applied online to purchases up to and including Sunday November 2, 2025. Does not apply to special events. Standard third-class travel only
Moncrief is known for its range of luxury and hand-crafted briefcases, wallets and bags, including its luggage collection – perfect when you want to add a little timeless elegance to your next flight.
Inspired by an ancestral legacy tracing back to the Pictish warriors of ancient Britain, Moncrief blends nomadic spirit with modern sophistication.
Each piece – handcrafted using the finest leather – is a testament to artisanal mastery. Skins are meticulously stripped and burnished 13 times, resulting in rich textures such as crocodile-embossed, deerskin, buffalo-effect and iguana finishes.
Signature creations include the exquisite Alethea Emerald Bag (£2,200), ideal for weekend escapes, alongside refined staples such as the men's wallet (£475), briefcase (£2,995), weekend bag (£4,450) and the luxurious trolley case (£7,495) – all featuring secure stitching and stain-resistant linings.
Moncrief offers bespoke customisation, exclusive colour palettes and unmatched durability, setting a high standard in luxury luggage that's designed for the modern traveller.
Go to moncrief.co.uk to explore the full collection or visit Moncrief ' s London store at 7 Heath Street, NW3 6TP
Located in the heart of the beautiful city of Ghent in Belgium, 1898 The Post is a charming boutique hotel, based in a neo-gothic landmark – a huge former post office.
Recognised by the Michelin Guide, it charms guests with romantic 'Harry Potter-like' interiors – think turret views, sloped ceilings and antique details.
As you would expect, the experience of staying here is just as grand as the setting. Indulge in a fireside breakfast and enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at The Kitchen. When you have returned from exploring Ghent's charming corners, relax with one of the award-winning cocktails at the hotel's bar, The Cobbler by Jurgen Nobels.
Each of the 38 uniquely themed rooms – boasting names such as Stamp or Postcard – pays tribute to the building's previous life.
With personalised service and a storybook atmosphere, this is more than a stay – it's a timeless experience in a building that really has to be seen to be believed.
Visit 1898thepost.com and use promo code POST10% to receive 10 per cent off your stay
A quality cruise offers the chance to glide along taking in stunning landscapes, explore cultural gems, savour regional cuisine and relax in refined comfort. It's no wonder this method of travel has seen a significant surge in interest over the last few years.
Riverside Luxury Cruises is an expert operator offering meticulously designed itineraries for those wishing to explore the Danube, Rhine, Rhône and beyond.
Its cruises come with spacious and comfortable suites and a guest-to-crew ratio that promotes personalised attention for all travellers.
Impeccable service, gourmet cuisine and all-inclusive indulgence are standard on board, while the array of charming medieval towns to disembark at – plus exclusive shore excursions – allows passengers to enjoy the rich history and culture of destinations along the way.
Book within a limited time and enjoy more exclusive offers, including best-in-market pricing and enhanced on-board experiences.
Explore its itineraries and start your journey today at riverside-cruises.com
This is a commercial article paid for by our advertising partners
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