FRENCH-INSPIRED STYLE, BEAUTY, TRAVEL & LIVING
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about The Ultimate Spring Getaway Guide for 2026. Spring 2026 is officially in its “soft reset” era. After a long winter, everyone’s craving sunshine, fresh air, and trips that actually feel good — not rushed, not chaotic, just right. The vibe this year isn’t about cramming …
The Latin Quarter in Paris is one of those places that looks exactly how you imagine it; or rather, it looks just like you imagine Paris to be! And that is because it is one of the oldest districts in the capital city. Tucked along the Left Bank of the Seine, the 5th arrondissement is …
Coffee in Paris is experienced differently. People don’t rush around with a paper cup on the way to work; they sit on a terrace and enjoy a quiet start to their day. And yet, the French capital has never had a strong reputation for great coffee. Hear me out. Paris is famous for its café …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to the 10 Best Places for Winter Sun, by Senior Editor, Hannah REES. As the weather turns colder and the rain seems to become a permanent feature of the landscape, many wish to leave the winter for another taste of summer. This is especially true in …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Important Things to Do Before You Travel: A Practical Pre-Trip Checklist. Travelling abroad is always exciting, but a successful trip depends on careful preparation before you even leave home. A little thoughtful preparation can turn travel from something slightly stressful into something genuinely pleasurable. For …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about 5 Things You Need to Know Before Booking Your First European Walking Holiday. A gentle Sunday stroll through the park and a multi-day European walking holiday may both involve putting one foot in front of the other, but they are two very different experiences. On …
If, like me, you have ever found yourself staring at the computer screen in frustration, wondering how the price of your airfare could have increased so much in the time it took you to make a cup of coffee, then this post about How to Get a Cheap Flight without stress is for you! I …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to Seven Unforgettable Luxury Hotels Around the World. The world is varied, and full of new experiences everywhere you look. While getting away from your home can be expensive, whether it be for a relaxing holiday, adventure, or anything in between, it’s always worth it There’s …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to The Real Highlights of Latin America Seen Through Luxury Private Tours. Latin America is one of the most diverse regions in the world, shaped by Indigenous cultures, European influence, dramatic geography, and a pace of life that changes with every country. It has a way …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and this article about Why Learning to Sail Is Becoming the New Luxury Travel Skill. Travel is evolving. While relaxing at a resort will always have appeal, modern travelers increasingly want something deeper—experiences that feel meaningful, skill-building, and connected to nature. Today’s new luxury is not just about where …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about a Vancouver Island road trip: Exploring Victoria, Nanaimo & Tofino. When people hear Vancouver Island, they often picture historic harbours, misty forests, quaint surf towns, and wild beaches… and that is exactly what the island delivers ! So whether you are drawn to the call …
Paris is always a good idea—even more so when the festive season draws nearer and the entire city transforms into a winter wonderland. As soon as the spooky season is over and the weather turns colder, festive decorations and twinkling lights begin to appear throughout the city. A few weeks later, as November ends, Christmas …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to Mardi Gras Around the World: How Different Cultures Celebrate. Mardi Gras has many names worldwide—Carnival in Italy and Brazil, Fasching in Germany, or Pancake Day in the UK. Whatever the name, it’s all about one last big celebration before the start of Lent. It’s a …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about 7 Cultural Activities to Add to Your Thailand Bucket List. Thailand’s beauty goes far beyond its picture-perfect beaches and ornate temples. The real heart of the country reveals itself through its traditions, rituals, flavours, and the warm hospitality woven into everyday life. To truly understand …
Whenever speaking of Paris, the Marais seems to be a word that hangs on everyone’s lips — sounding like a mysterious, trendy and maze-like area. That is exactly what the neighbourhood offers, with cobbled-stoned streets leading to hidden courtyards and secret squares. Because of this, I believe that the Marais truly captures what the city …
If you are a fan of the festive season, chances are you have already heard of Aachen, the stunning medieval city in western Germany, nestled between the borders of France and Belgium and you may also have heard of the Aachen Christmas Market. For those of you who don’t know the town, imagine a city …
Update January 2026 : Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes was recently awarded Green Globe Gold certification, acknowledging five consecutive years of continued improvement in its sustainable management and operations. Celebrating its one hundredth anniversary this year the iconic hotel encapsulates French elegance and refinement and is known for its timeless charm and breathtaking views over the …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Why Yacht Holidays Are the Ultimate Luxury Escape. Yacht getaways are the ultimate treat for anyone looking to combine luxury with a true sense of freedom. Rather than following the well-trodden path of regular holidays, a trip on a yacht lets you switch off from …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to the “Habits de Lumière” Epernay : a celebration of champagne and light, by Senior Editor, Hannah Rees. You’ve probably already heard of Reims, the capital of the Champagne region of France, known for its stunning Cathedral where Charlemagne was crowned — as well as, of …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to Europe’s Most Beautiful Christmas Markets: A Timeless Winter Travel Guide. Christmas in Europe is a time for magical fairy lights, mulled wine, delicious pastries, midnight masses in gothic churches, Christmas wishlists, candle-lit evenings spent with family and friends, and of course –Christmas Markets. From charming …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to the Best New Year Destinations 2026: Top Ten Places to Celebrate in Style, by Senior Editor, Hannah REES. Whether you dream of waltzing beneath fireworks in Vienna, chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, or celebrating barefoot on Zanzibar’s beaches, there’s no better way to welcome …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about the Best Aruba Excursions & Sunset Cruise Guide for 2025. Aruba, often called the “One Happy Island,” is one of the Caribbean’s most beloved destinations. Known for its year-round sunshine, turquoise waters, and friendly culture, Aruba offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. While …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Breakfast in Sukhumvit: The Essential Guide for Travellers on the Go. Sukhumvit is more than just nightlife and shopping—it is also a paradise for early risers and busy travellers who desire flavour and convenience. Breakfast in Bangkok Sukhumvit can easily set the tone for your …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about How To Ensure a Safe Gastronomic Journey Abroad, with smart tips and savvy planning. Exploring new destinations often begins with the senses — the scent of sizzling spices, the sight of artfully plated dishes, and the taste of something you’ve never tried before. Food tells …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about The Art of Relaxation at Sea: Tips for Planning a Stress-Free Island Escape. Planning a stress-free island escape involves understanding your needs and prioritizing peace of mind. Whether seeking seclusion, luxury, or simple routines, approach travel intentionally for a serene island adventure. Before departure, identify …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Why You Should Stay at 5-Star Resorts in Phuket’s Patong Beach. Phuket has been one of Thailand’s most famous places for a long time. People from all over the world come for its white-sand beaches, busy nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. Patong Beach is one …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about A guide on how to pack for a spontaneous trip away. The excitement of booking a spontaneous trip is unmatched, but the sudden need to pack can feel a little scary. You don’t have hours agonising over what to take with you. When adopting a ‘less …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about 10 Best Things to Do in Banff, Canada’s Mountain Gem Tucked away in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a destination that blends natural beauty with mountain-town charm. Famous for its alpine scenery, wildlife, and access to outdoor adventures, Banff also offers a …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about How to Go Skiing On a Budget, with smart tips, affordable destinations, and savvy planning. Planning a ski holiday? Ski holidays are unlike any other kind of travel experience and give you the ability to escape the stresses of daily life to wintry landscapes and …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Hidden Gems in Japan That Most Tourists Miss. Japan is a country that has captured the hearts of travelers from around the world. With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that millions of tourists flock to Japan each year. However, …