Palm Springs has become a hotbed of hip hotels, perfect for the ultimate hipster getaway, filled with pool parties, cocktails and the laid-back ease of desert life. Retro-chic and mid-century style is the Palm Springs classic look, and you’ll also find plenty of fun, playful touches. From glamorous luxury retreats to party-filled hotels, this is … Read more
This three-day San Diego itinerary covers all the top sites, from Balboa Park to La Jolla, making it perfect for first-timers. Plus lots of food, hotel, and tour recommendations to make sure you get the best out of your three days in San Diego. San Diego is a famously laid back city in Southern California, … Read more
Our lowdown on the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California. This will suit you if you’re keen to discover the creative side of the city, and all the best cafes, sweet treats, bookshops, beauty spots and Santa Cruz must-sees. Updated for 2025. Santa Cruz is the land of surf, mountains, hippy culture, redwood-covered … Read more
Are you wondering if it’s possible to visit Universal Studios with a baby or toddler, and for the whole family to still have an amazing time? Before we went to LA, I thought the answer would be no, but after spending a brilliant day at Universal Studios Hollywood with our then 10-month-old baby, I can … Read more
Sonoma County is the gloriously laid-back sister of glamorous Napa Valley, known for its down-to-earth rustic vibes and celebrated farm-to-table cuisine. It’s a place to slow down, connect to the land and unwind with a glass of wine in hand and the redwoods as a backdrop. We fell head over heels for the place, and … Read more
From the food trucks to the forests to the creative, quirky vibes, Portland is filled with the ingredients that make up my ideal city. We spent a week there, soaking it all in slowly, and this post is a round-up of our Portland itinerary highlights, which would work well for a weekend or three days … Read more
Portland has become a well known foodie destination, best known for its high-end food carts, serving dishes from around the world. Some give rise to restaurants while others stick to their humble roots. And there’s an incredible restaurant scene too. From gourmet donuts to some of the best examples of international cuisine you’ll find outside … Read more
Our complete guide to planning the ultimate California road trip. It includes where to stay, what to eat, things to do and how much it all costs. Pick and choose to create your perfect California road trip itinerary. Updated for 2026. A California road trip is the stuff of dreams and one that Steve and … Read more
Outside of this blog, I also freelance as a writer and editor. One of my favourite things is interviewing people and Lionel Shriver has been a highlight. This is a piece I wrote that was published in Oh Comely magazine. “I’m willful and regimented and I don’t quite trust myself so I have rules that … Read more
Some of the best trips we’ve ever done have been in winter – and not to sunny climes, but to full-on wintry landscapes where you can embrace the coldest season. One of my favourite things is to get cosy and there’s no better time for it. If snowy scenes and cuddling up with a hot … Read more