We jumped for joy at the news from France, which means that the Francophiles among us can return to the slopes and cities of our near neighbour. SRT ski specialist Lowri has four superb ski options for families in school holidays and those who have the freedom to ski whenever they choose.

Not so keen to ski? Then hop over to Paris to immerse yourself in culture, sights and culinary delights that you’ve been missing for so long. Giles recommends that you stay à la Bonaparte at the Shangri-La Paris for grandeur, luxury and elegance with views of the Eiffel Tower.

Away from France, seasoned epicureans must have a visit to San Sebastián, an hour from Bilbao, on their travel wish list. Considered by many to be the culinary capital of Europe, if not the world, San Sebastián is home to 11 (!) Michelin starred restaurants. Make sure you pack with a expanding waistline in mind …

But if the spa beckons, there’s nowhere better than Thailand. Open under the sandbox scheme, guests can fly, flop, relax and recharge, ready for whatever 2022 throws at us …

FREE TO SKI?

Ski-lovers everywhere must have breathed a sigh of relief when France announced that it would welcome back travellers from the UK (subject to some restrictions). SRT ski specialist Lowri was among them.

For those of you able to ski at any time, Lowri suggests a short break in Megève. Easy to get to from Geneva in an hour and fifteen minutes, Megève is great for a few days on the slopes. Stay at the beautifully serene Beaumier L’Alpaga with views of Mont-Blanc and the Aravis range.

For a full week of amazing skiing, stay at MiL8, Avoriaz’s new 4-star hotel where the slopes are on your doorstep. This contemporary hotel enjoys an incredible location in the centre of Avoriaz. It’s perfect for making the most of all that’s happening in the resort and skiing off from your doorstep to explore the Portes du Soleil, one of the largest ski areas in Europe.

Contact Lowri for more details

TIME TO SKI EN FAMILLE

Lowri says there’s still time to make your school holiday ski plans, but availability will be tight, so don’t delay.

Lowri says the I.L.Y. La Rosière is perfect for February half term. The exceptional sunshine, uncrowded slopes, fresh and light snow and a chairlift located 100m from the hotel, directly accessible from the hotel ski room make this a great choice for skiers and boarders alike.

Or, enjoy a fabulous family ski holiday at Easter in Val d’Isere staying at le Tsanteleina in the heart of the resort, 150m away from ski lifts and slopes. The hotel offers a warm atmosphere in a cosy ‘chalet-hotel’ style, perfect for all ages.

Contact Lowri for more details

SPRINGTIME IN PARIS

Whether you fly or take the train, Paris is a super-easy short break that somehow gets overlooked.

The Shangri-La Paris is the former home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, gracefully restored as a Parisian palace. Its position gives breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and is home to France’s only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant. After seeing the sights, relax by the beautiful indoor pool bathed in natural daylight thanks to enormous glass windows, located in what was once Prince Roland Bonaparte’s stables.

While in Paris, check out a few restaurants off the usual tourist trail such as Les Enfants Perdus, Cafe Charlot, Hotel du Nord and Buvette Gastrotheque. And don’t miss Giles’ the old favourite, La Coupole, the brasserie famous for Fruits de Mer and hosting film stars and poets since 1927. Giles says it was just as good as ever!

Contact us for more information and pricing.

THE CULINARY CAPITAL OF EUROPE

With the highest number of Michelin stars obtained by one city per m² than any other place in the world, the Spanish city of San Sebastián can claim to be one of the world’s culinary capitals. The mountains of the Basque Country frame San Sebastián, the coastal resort town where a love for food borders on obsession. Go native and join the locals as they hop from bar to bar, standing up, and sampling bite-size bits of culinary art, aka, the pintxo.

Elegantly modern while evoking the spirit of the Belle Èpoque, the Hotel María Cristina overlooks the old town and the beautiful buildings that line the River Urumea. The city’s two central beaches are just five minutes away, adding another dimension to this charming and under-the-radar city break.

Contact us for more information and pricing.

BANISH THE WINTER BLUES IN THAILAND

Tired of the cold, rain and mud of a UK winter? Then take advantage of discounts on accommodation of up to 30% for stays up until 31st March 2022 at SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort in Koh Samui.

This stunning 5-star pool villa beach resort and spa is home to a superb white sand beach, luxurious pool villas and suites each with a private pool, a beautiful beachfront swimming pool and a romantic beachfront restaurant. We can’t think of a better way to get some much needed vitamin D than a week under blue Thai skies.

Contact us for more information and pricing.