David has been covering the travel scene for more almost 40 years, combining this passion with his life as a Fleet Street journalist.
Much of his early writing was for the Press Association and many of his features over the years have featured in The Mail on Sunday, TravelMail and, more recently, The Independent and the i. He is also a regular contributor to TripAdvisor.
Travellers seeking a sophisticated city break in northern Portugal would be wise to consider the Crowne Plaza Porto, above, which has recently undergone a complete refurbishment. This contemporary retreat, located in the heart of Porto’s elegant Boavista district, combines modern comfort with 5-star elegance and straightforward access to the city’s cultural highlights. It’s an excellent
In early 2026 The Zetter Group is to expand its London portfolio early with the opening of its third hotel – The Zetter Bloomsbury. The 68-bedroom townhouse hotel is set across six interconnecting Georgian buildings on Montague Street, directly opposite the British Museum. It will bring The Zetter’s distinctive, personal approach to hospitality to one
Hilton’s DoubleTree Tower of London hotel has unveiled the completion of a multi-million pound refurbishment project, with 201 newly redesigned guest rooms across three floors. The significant investment introduces the new Tower Deluxe and Tower Executive room categories, designed to offer guests a more elevated and contemporary stay while paying tribute to the hotel’s location
The Edinburgh Grand, a landmark residence on St Andrew Square, has reopened marking Marriott International’s Luxury Collection Scottish debut and its fourth outpost in the UK, alongside London, Buckinghamshire and Manchester. Owned and operated by Chris Stewart Group, the property has undergone a light refurbishment and repositioning to target the luxury extended-stay and leisure markets.
The five-star London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square in the heart of Mayfair has unveiled a significant renovation ahead of its 40th anniversary on 12 June. The upgrades include a redesigned lobby with a new all-day food and drinks offering; an upgraded M Club Lounge; and enhancements to its meeting and event spaces. This builds on
Valamar, Croatia’s leading hotel and resort brand, is set to unveil its newest dining destination along the stunning Poreč waterfront, spearheaded by the world-renowned chef Ana Roš. Known for her acclaimed restaurant Hiša Franko in Slovenia’s Soča Valley – home to three Michelin stars – Roš is now regarded as a chef of distinction. Opening
In celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Fairmont Monte Carlo has hit new heights with the reopening of its three rooftop terraces. With panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from an enviable location in the heart of the Principality, the Fairmont offers the perfect setting to unwind and embrace the Riviera lifestyle. Amù Monte Carlo The
When Kimpton Los Monteros Marbella originally opened in 1962, it set a benchmark in exceptional hospitality on the Costa del Sol, becoming the first hotel in Spain to receive a Michelin Star. Now, following an extensive renovation, the luxury lifestyle brand has reimagined its legacy, blending historic grandeur with contemporary, laid-back luxury to offer guests
The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne is embarking on a year-long celebration for the hotel’s 150th anniversary. Affectionately referred to by locals as The White Palace, the hotel proudly stands as the UK’s only five-star seafront hotel. Situated on the Victorian seaside promenade and located just moments from the start of the South Downs Way, it
After nearly two decades offering luxury Maldivian hospitality on Fesdu Island, W Maldives decided it was time to go a step further. Now, following a bold, full-scale transformation, this island escape, nestled in the North Ari Atoll, is getting ready to welcome guests once again. From the beginning of March the resort is to reopen