Expat Living (Hong Kong)

Escape to Europe this summer

Long, light nights, clement weather, stunning scenery and incredible cuisine – Europe offers it all during the summer months. Here’s where to head to in 2020, as recommende­d by Lightfoot Travel.

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#1 Paris, France

It’s Europe’s most glamorous city, the world’s most chic, and it’s always a good idea! For a romantic city break or a longer cultural holiday there are endless fascinatin­g things to do and see in Paris. No one ever fails to be impressed by the Eiffel Tower, the picturesqu­e Avenue des Champs-Élysées or the imperial splendour of the Arc de Triomphe, but after ticking them off your list the fun only continues. If you’ve got children in tow, enjoy a treasure hunt at the Louvre; explore Jardin des Tuileries with its jungle gym and ponds with vintage boats; and embark on a pastry-making cooking class (including tasting, of course!).

Lightfoot recommends: Just a few steps from the Louvre on the Left Bank, Cheval Blanc is set to open this year with a selection of rooms and suites. Sophistica­ted and elegant, it’s slated to feature several restaurant­s and bars, a cocoon of a spa and an undeniable Parisian atmosphere.

#2 Montenegro

Montenegro had a reputation as the San Tropez of the Balkans during the 50s and 60s, with stars of the silver screen – Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Sophia Loren – mingling with European royalty. While small in size, it’s packed full of beauty thanks to its imposing mountains, primeval forests and ancient towns perched on dramatic rock faces. The exclusive yachting scene is not to be missed (even if it’s just to have a sneaky peek!), and it’s definitely not hard to find. Head to Porto Montenegro where super yachts line up next to gourmet restaurant­s, boutique hotels and buzzy bars. Deck shoes at the ready!

Lightfoot recommends: One&Only Portonovi, Montenegro in Boka Bay is a new property and the brand’s first move into Europe. A destinatio­n spa in itself, the Espace Chenot Health Wellness Spa offers dreamy wellness programmes and treatments, and there are various restaurant­s to keep you well-fed, pools to assist in burning off any extra calories, and a kids’ club to give little ones plenty to do (and you the chance to relax!).

#3 United Kingdom

While the major cities of the UK have their own inimitable allure, it’s the UK’s beautiful countrysid­e that owns the summer holiday. Somerset is one such spot, with its meadows and orchards, miles of coastline, quaint villages, historic towns – and not forgetting cheddar cheese! Head to the World Heritage Site of Bath with its hot Roman baths, pump rooms and Georgian architectu­re, or the cathedral city of Wells and Glastonbur­y, famous for the enigmatic Glastonbur­y Tor and the music festival. The best part? You can leave your heels behind and treat your feet to wellies.

Lightfoot recommends: The Newt in Somerset is the height of unique with its South Africa meets Scandinavi­a via Somerset décor. Ramble in the gardens, go wild swimming, feast on locally sourced estate-grown food or just sit back and sip on the free-flow “cyder” in your mini larder.

#4 Portofino, Italy

Everything is good-looking in Portofino: the cobbled streets, the glittering bays, the stylish boutiques and, of course, the yacht-packed harbour. Even the pizza causes a wide-eyed double-take. Since its 1950s explosion, when Portofino became the place to see and be seen, this seaside hamlet has grown even more gorgeous with age. Alongside the glamour, it’s also a great spot for outside activity with over 80 kilometres of hiking trails, diving and snorkellin­g destinatio­ns, kayaking options and coves made for Instagram feeds. Pack designer sunnies and clothes with an expandable waistband…

Lightfoot recommends: Belmond Splendido Mare is not only one of the most stunning hotels in Portofino, but it’s currently undergoing a major renovation. It’s due to re-open in summer 2020 with a top-to-toe redecorati­on that features 14 rooms styled like an Italian fishing boat, using natural wood, ropes and brass.

#5 Malta

Two things you need to know about Malta: it’s hailed as the sunniest spot in Europe and was one of the major filming locations for Series 1 of Game of Thrones. Fans of tans will love the red-gold beaches peppered along the rugged rocky coastline, and King’s Landing lovers can explore the rock formations, saintly sites, sandy buildings and cobbled streets depicted in the show. If you’re looking for more, the temples, coves, amazing snorkellin­g and scuba diving, and local pastizzi puff pastry should do it.

Lightfoot recommends: Located on historic St Barbara Bastions and overlookin­g the Grand Harbour, Iniala Malta is due to open this spring. This luxury stay is spread over four Maltese townhouses and several ancient vaults that have been perfectly restored. Many suites feature their own plunge pool, and there’s an indoor pool, gym, yoga room, spa and rooftop restaurant.

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