Hidden Italy Weekend: Tropea (Calabria) – the Pearl of the South

Perched on cliffs overlooking the Tyrrenian Sea with views across ‘the infinite sea’ to smoking peak of Stromboli and the other Aeolian Islands visible on the horizon on a clear day, Tropea is one of the most enchanting coastal towns in southern Italy. It is an elegant and well-preserved town, with a laidback atmosphere, some excellent restaurants and caffes and a string of clean, sandy beaches running around the foot of the cliffs – a perfect place for a weekend (or more) in summer.

Island Calm: Boutique Thai Luxury at The Retreat Koh Chang

Against a backdrop of swaying palms, warm Gulf waters and Koh Chang’s rainforest-cloaked hills, The Retreat Koh Chang delivers a more refined vision of Thai island hospitality where thoughtful architecture, attentive service and understated luxury create a genuine sense of escape.

As Thailand’s islands continue to evolve under the pressure of mass tourism and rapid development, finding a property that still feels connected to its environment and culture has become increasingly rare. On Koh Samui’s quieter shores, however, boutique luxury still survives in pockets of calm sophistication, and few places capture that spirit better than The Retreat Koh Chang.