FRENCH-INSPIRED STYLE, BEAUTY, TRAVEL & LIVING
Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this guide to what to do on a week-end in Lisbon. I’ve lightly updated this Lisbon guide in 2026 as part of my evolving City Guides collection, keeping it fresh, practical, and easy to follow. A week-end in Lisbon Lisbon is a beautifully atmospheric city, known for its …
Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Tips For Road Tripping Around the UK. Road trips are a fantastic way to experience the diversity and beauty of Britain. From rolling countryside and rugged coasts to historic towns and cities, Britain offers endless possibilities for an amazing road trip experience. But no “successful” …
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 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 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 …