EDITOR’S NOTE

The past 12 months have gone in such a blur, the year was almost done before I managed to squeeze in an annual holiday. And what a holiday it was. Being an empty nester has its advantages, namely the opportunity to fly long haul (just two airline seats!) and visit places I’ve always dreamt of seeing. I went with my husband to Sydney, and as we walked the famous Harbour Bridge and passed yet another mid-age couple having the time of their lives, it occurred to me just what a wonderful life stage this is. Yes, I wished my grown-up sons could share the experience, but travel is certainly more affordable without them!

It’s a theme we touch on in this month’s feature Where In The World Does Midlife Woman Have It Best? As writer Joanna Moorhead observes (p30), ‘Sometimes it strikes you that this is as good as it gets when you’re 50-something. We really do have a fabulous deal!’ That’s not to say it’s all plain sailing – the women featured all had different challenges. But at least there is now more time, a little bit more money and, if we are lucky, a chance to try new experiences.

With this in mind, we’ve extended the travel section of Good Housekeeping. In Good To Go (see what we did there?) you’ll find the most expert and inspiring advice from our globe-trotting editor David Wickers. If you’re thinking of booking your next holiday, don’t miss his round-up of dreamy Mediterranean destinations. We also take a look at some of the most romantic hotels in the UK, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Is it too soon to book another holiday?

See you next month,