Every summer has its own magic, but Summer 2025 was one for the books. From glamorous days at Royal Ascot to a seaside escape in Margate, sparkling wine in the English countryside, and cherished trips back to Boston and New York City, I packed this season with experiences that will stay with me forever.
Whether you’re planning your own adventures in the UK or abroad, here are seven highlights that defined my summer.
After a scenic train ride from Newquay to St. Ives, I arrived at the Harbour Hotel St. Ives, a boutique-style hotel perched on the hillside above Porthminster Beach. In true small-town fashion, I even met a member of staff on the train who pointed out a shortcut from the station to the hotel. Hint: it involves stairs, so it is best attempted if you’ve packed light.
I paid for my stay myself. Therefore, this review is an unsponsored account of my experience. Below, I’ll take you through the room, amenities, dining, location, and share my verdict on whether the Harbour Hotel St. Ives is worth booking for your Cornwall escape. As a bonus, I’ll embed my video reviews of this hotel, plus my St. Ives travel vlogs and blog posts at the end to help you as you plan a trip to this magical place.
After years of dreaming about a getaway to Cornwall, I finally made it to St. Ives and it exceeded every expectation. With its turquoise waters, charming boutiques, sandy beaches, and thriving art scene, this coastal town is the perfect place for an escape. I visited in summer, stayed at a beautiful hotel, soaked up the sun on Porthminster Beach, wandered the winding streets, and explored local art, food, and fashion.
Here’s a look at everything I experienced and loved on my trip to St. Ives.
Looking for a coastal escape that blends boutique charm with barefoot luxury? Let me introduce you to the Watergate Bay Hotel in Newquay, Cornwall. Nestled on a jaw-droppingly beautiful stretch of beach, this design-forward hotel has been on my UK travel wishlist for some time—and now that I’ve stayed, I can confidently say: it was worth every minute of the five-hour train ride from London.
Whether you’re coming for a surf-filled weekend, a wellness reset, or just a change of scenery with sea views, The Watergate Bay Hotel delivers.
Ten years in London – what a milestone! It feels like just yesterday I was settling into this incredible city, yet here I am, a decade later, still completely enamored with its charm, quirks, and ever-changing energy. January kicked off another year of London adventures, and despite the gloom and chilly weather, I made the most of it by taking long walks, exploring museums, and even getting caught in one of the city’s more unusual traditions. Whether you’re planning a trip to London in January or just looking for inspiration to make the most of winter, I’ve got you covered with a mix of cozy, cultural, and downright unexpected experiences. Let’s dive in!