Holly: Absolutely! Finding those hidden gems where you can truly escape the tourist buzz often comes down to three key things: timing, location, and local insight. Even the most popular destinations have their quiet moments. Traveling just outside peak season, often called the ‘shoulder season’, can transform a place. Think the Greek islands in late September when the crowds have thinned but the sea is still warm, or Japan’s countryside in late spring after the cherry blossom rush. I always tap into local recommendations, whether it's chatting with boutique hoteliers, diving into independent travel blogs, or asking a well-travelled friend. Places that aren’t splashed all over Instagram often hold the most charm. If a local tells you about a tiny family-run guesthouse in the mountains or a secluded beach with a single, exceptional seafood shack, you know you’re onto something special.

Sabrina: Miami, Florida. My grandma lived there throughout my childhood, and we had an apartment in the same condo, so we'd fly out there every school holiday from London. It means more to me than anywhere in the world, and my house in London is full of South Beach art deco prints that my parents bought back in the 1970s when they first lived there, that hold such sentimental value to me now. Miami is what we in England would call a Marmite destination - "you either love it or you hate it" - but I think the biggest mistake people make when visiting is to stay in the heart of Miami Beach and get mixed up with all the revellers and nightlife (unless you want to party, of course!) There is a magic in the air in Miami that I've never felt anywhere else.

Holly: Passalacqua, on the shores of Lake Como. It's only been open a couple of years, but in its year of opening it was crowned the World's Best Hotel. It's set in a meticulously restored 18th century villa and effortlessly blends old world Italian elegance with contemporary touches. It has to be seen to be fully appreciated, but every corner there was a wow moment. It has these beautiful lush gardens that stretch down to the shores of the lake, that feel like the perfect oasis, and because it's a small property, it feels very exclusive. It’s a place where time slows down, and luxury is defined by its attention to beauty, history, and heartfelt hospitality. And, it was the last hotel I reviewed with my husband before I had my daughter, so it will always hold a special place in my heart. 

Holly: Adventure doesn’t have to mean a round-the-world trip or a bucket-list expedition - it can start right where you are. My biggest tip is to embrace curiosity and spontaneity. Say yes more often, whether it’s a last-minute weekend getaway or even trying a different neighbourhood in your own city.If you’re on a budget, get creative - take advantage of off-season deals, explore destinations closer to home, or swap hotels for unique stays like cabins, houseboats, or even campervans. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive to be rewarding.And finally, don’t overthink it! The best adventures often come from a bit of flexibility and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Book the ticket, pack light, and go!

Holly: I’m often drawn to destinations by the allure of particular hotels, and right now, Villa Mabrouka in Tangier, Morocco, is high on my radar. Originally the home of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, it has been beautifully reimagined by Jasper Conran, blending Moroccan craftsmanship with an effortlessly chic, nostalgic charm. The history, the design, and the sense of place it evokes make it a must-visit for me. Sardinia is another destination that keeps coming up again and again on the podcast, and with several exciting hotel openings on the horizon, it’s firmly on my bucket list. Further afield, Sri Lanka is a dream destination for me. It’s such a beautifully diverse country, offering everything from lush tea plantations and ancient temples to wildlife-rich national parks and pristine beaches. Plus, the ability to experience so much without the need for internal flights is a huge bonus.