I spent my honeymoon island hopping in Greece.  There were so many magical moments but Esperas Houses is worth a special mention.  Small and friendly, this little boutique style hotel was a complete winner.

WHERE: Esperas Houses, Santorini, Greece

WHY: There are so many wonderful hotel options in Santorini that it is almost an impossible task to find the right one for you.  Esperas Houses however, is a great option for a number of reasons.  Firstly, it is more affordable than most of the cliff top hotels but yet its position and views are fantastic.  Every room is carved into the hill side to create a cave and whilst the decor is quite simple, it has an authentic Greek charm that is rather refreshing to the usual uber chic Santorini boutique hotel.  The atmosphere is wonderfully laid back and no request is ever too much trouble for the very friendly staff.  I have to admit that I chose Esperas based on its rather 'Mama Mia' style traverse down to a tiny, idyllic cove below and it didn't disappoint.  After an exhausting walk down hill, you will find a couple of fantastic reastaurants on the water's edge and boats moored up waiting to take you on a trip around the island.  If the walk back up the steep path seems too much, you can always jump on the back of a donkey (again, very Mama Mia!)

TIP: As with many hotels in Santorini, there is a relatively long walk and quite a few steps to get to the hotel and back from the nearest car park so make sure you are prepared to be a little more active than usual.

www.esperas-santorini.com

Comfort is key with all the step climbing involved but as dusk falls, transform yourself into a dreamy Grecian Goddess.

Triangle Metal Statement Necklace, Urban Outfitters

Maxi Dress, Massimo Dutti

Flat Metal Sandals, Zara

Acid Pink Denim Shorts, Topshop

Beaded Tank Mailot, Mara Hoffman

Insight Bandana Shirt, ASOS

Images: T.Bagnall and Esperas Houses

We only spent 1 night here and I was incredibly sad to leave which I think says rather a lot.  Ashvem Beach in itself is definitely worth visiting and I would recommend trying here first.

WHERE: The Palm Grove, Ashvem Beach, North Goa

WHY: Ashvem and its neighbouring beach, Morjim are part of a stunning stretch of coast in North Goa.  The popularity of Ashvem Beach has exploded in recent years with chic beach bars and boutique hotels springing up regularly whilst Morjim is still managing to cling on to its sleepy, fishing community roots.  The combination of the two though is irresistible and The Palm Grove on Ashvem provides the perfect balance.  Run by Eva and Gustaf, one of the nicest couples you will ever meet, the hotel is made up of an idyllic collection of cottages (with amazing names such as Cookie Cool).  They are simple but more substantial than many beach huts in Goa, although there is no hot water which is a little surprising given that this hotel is more expensive than other options on Ashvem.

TIP: Little Palm Grove is a sister hotel and 2 minutes walk along the beach from Palm Grove.  It is smaller and quieter and also worth a look.

www.palmgroveingoa.com 

www.littlepalmgrove.com

Bring out your inner hippy and embrace the wanderlust style of cool, breezy fabrics with statement accessories.

Mara Hoffman fiesta dress, Beach Flamingo

Antalya coin collar, Freepeople

Cobra silver sandal, Aspiga

Bali tassel scarf, Andara

A Fine Balance in paperback, Waterstones

I actually stayed at Riad Ariha whilst in Marrakech for work.  Buying trips are always incredibly stressful and exhausting but Riad gave us the most beautiful and relaxing setting to come back to at the end of the day.

WHERE: Riad Ariha, Marrakech, Morocco

WHY: During my many visits to Marrakech, I have found it difficult to find a conveniently located, traditional style riad at the lower end of the price range which I have actually enjoyed staying in.  Riad Ariha however, ticks all the right boxes: It is beautifully decorated in a wonderfully calming palette of white and greys, only a 10-15 minute walk from the hustle and bustle of the main square and with prices starting from just £58 per night, it is surprisingly affordable.  By the time you have been served a delicious breakfast in the little inner courtyard and whiled away the hours on the roof terrace star gazing, it becomes very difficult to leave.  

TIP: Riad Ariha are great with their offers and discounts so make sure you check the special offers on their website or contact them for information on current deals prior to booking.

www.riadariha.com

Go for easy wear boho style so you can hit the souks in comfort.  In the Spring and Autumn, Marrakech can still get very chilly at night so make sure you pack layers.

Suede biker jacket, Mango

Embroidered tribal print dress, Forever21

Panama hat, J.Crew

Leather cutwork sandal, Wrap London

Hipanema bamako bracelet, Urban Outfitters

Barcelona is one of my favourite cities in the world and I love nothing more than heading to the beach in the early evening to people watch and soak up the atmosphere.  Pez Vela is now my new favourite place to do that.

WHERE: Pez Vela, Barcelona, Spain

WHY: Sitting under the new W Hotel and looking out onto the beach, Pez Vela is the perfect place to sit and enjoy a few sun downers.  The decor is very 'urban beach shack' with a cool blend of exposed concrete and rafia sun shades but perhaps surprisingly, the best reason to come here is the food.  

TIP: If you're looking for a seriously good paella then this is the place to head to.  

www.grupotragaluz.com/restaurantes/pez-vela

Go loose and comfortable for an effortlessly chic Spring look 

Ethnic Fabric Chains Jacket,  Mango

 Superga Classic Plimsolls, ASOS

Sarong Trousers, Zara

Suede messenger bag with fringes, Zara

Usually the idea of communal dining with strangers would make me run a mile but this place just gets it so right.  

WHERE: The Farmhouse, Morzine, French Alps

WHY: A completely charming, family run chalet where all guests are welcomed as long lost friends.  The Decor is stunning whilst maintaining a relaxed, lived in vibe and the food really is delicious. 

TIP: All guests eat at one large table so if you are not staying as a guest but would like to go for dinner, book in advance to bagsy your place at the table.

www.thefarmhouse.co.uk

Take a leaf out of Brigitte Bardot's book and keep your Alpine style chic and simple

Mirror Lens sunglasses, Target

Tecnica moon boot queen in black, Moon-boot

Classic cashmere polo neck, Brora