Nice, France

Ah Nice…. 6 things to do

Ah Nice…. named after the goddess Nike, city of flowers, sunshine, art and capital of the Riviera. A historically important port with a reportedly 330 days of sunshine, the largest carnival in France and a favorite holiday destination of Queen…

Prince's Palace, Monaco

A Day Wandering Monaco: From Medieval Fortresses to Billionaire Skyscrapers

Monaco is roughly two square kilometres, which means you can walk across the country faster than it takes to lose €50 at the casino. But despite its toy-sized geography, the principality packs eight centuries of architectural ambition into a very…

Hotel du Paris, Monaco

Best Bed: Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Monaco

Opened in 1864, Hôtel de Paris was built with a clear purpose: to accommodate the wealthy guests drawn to the newly established Casino de Monte-Carlo across the square. From the outset, the hotel was conceived as part of the casino…

Lucca at night

Day Trips From Florence

Florence may be the heart of the Renaissance, but some of Tuscany’s most memorable experiences lie just beyond the city walls. Within a short drive, you can find yourself walking medieval streets, tasting world-class wines, exploring ancient towns, or floating…

Pont de Pierre, Bordeaux

Ah Bordeaux…. 5 things to do

Ah, Bordeaux a city that casually leans against a river, swirls a glass of red, and says, “Oh this old thing?”while standing in front of some of the most elegant architecture in France. Known affectionately (and sometimes grandly) as La…

© Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Losing Her Head, Keeping Her Style: Marie Antoinette at the V&A

The V&A has gone full rococo with Marie Antoinette: Style. Stepping into the galleries feels a bit like tumbling down a gilded rabbit hole. Feathered wigs, silk brocades, diamond-encrusted everything—it’s Versailles turned inside out. But behind the froth and finery,…