I’m starting to plan my summer birthday trip abroad, and I want your help! Last year, I set the very lofty goal of taking a one-month sabbatical this August to celebrate my 35th birthday. (Yes, this is also the year I’ve decided I’m going to start lying about my age.) But the truth is, I don’t really like traveling for more than 10 days at the time—I miss my bed, my kitties, and just the general comforts of home. And then there’s that insignificant detail called work; it turns out, taking a month off is harder than I originally thought (damn you, Four-Hour Work Week guy!). So I’ve scaled back to a more reasonable holiday—cramming as much as possible into a short amout of time, so I feel like I need a vacation when I get back from my vacation. I kid, I kid! Here are some of the ideas I’m playing around with, but I would love your input. What have been your most unfortgettable trips? I want to know hotels, restaurants, cities—especially in the UK and Ireland!
LONDON
It’s no secret, London is my favorite city, so no matter where we go, we will start here. You can fly non-stop from Los Angeles, and it just makes it an easy home base for anywhere else we may decide to go.
I have always wanted to try One Fine Stay, the luxury version of Airbnb. Every home is curated, and a guest services member greets you at the property upon arrival—essentially white-glove service at every turn. They are only based in a few cities, and London happens to be one.
The Laslett is high on my list of hotels to stay. I only got to tour the property last time I was in town, but I would love to go back and spend the night. While I’m super curious about One Fine Stay, I really really love the hotel experience.
THE COTSWOLDS
It’s been my dream to spend a few days in the Cotswolds for as long as I can remember. Aside from a day trip to Soho Farmhouse last year, we’ve just never made it a priority. Have you been? What hotels did you love?
I feel in love with Thyme by following them on Instagram. It looks like the most charming manor house with a cookery school and sheep that roam the grounds!
As I was searching for hotels, I came across Barnsley House, which looks to have a gorgeous spa. That could be a really great option if we don’t have good weather.
Babington House – An English friend told me about this place years ago, and it’s remained on my list. Owned by Soho House, it will no doubt be incredible, but I wonder if I’d rather have a more family run experience.
IRELAND
Ireland is currently in the top running because it’s such an easy trip from London & The Cotwolds. Ashford Castle is my number one choice of hotels because A) It’s a CASTLE (5-star I might add) and B) They have a falconry school.
PORTUGAL
Portugal really tops our list of vacation spots. You can relax by the beach, visit wine country, and there’s tons of culture. That said, we’re feeling this might be too much on top of London and the English Countryside. Photo from the Six Senses resort in Douro Valley.
We plan to start moving foward in the next week, so stay tuned for an update!
