From safari in Zimbabwe to swimming in Italy, we share our favourite-ever trips

EVERYONE has their own vision of the perfect holiday, whether it's a serene staycay or a luxe long-haul trip.

Here Team Fabulous share our favourite ever holidays, from soaking up the sun in Italy, to going on Safari in Zimbabwe, and staying closer to home in the Lake District.

Barcelona, Spain

Senior Features Writer Emily Cope and boyfriend Chris will never tire of the sunny city.

I first went to Barcelona three years ago, fell madly in love and have returned every year since.

Combining vibrant city life with the relaxation of a beach hol, it’s hands down Europe’s greatest city by the sea.

We walked everywhere, spotting iconic buildings by architect Antoni Gaudí – including the breathtaking Sagrada Família cathedral.

Then there’s the food. You can tuck into Spanish treats at the sprawling La Boqueria food market just off main street Las Ramblas (Boqueria.barcelona), and you’re never far from a tapas restaurant.

My fave is Tapas 24 and its signature truffle “bikini”, a melted cheese and ham sandwich (Carlesabellan.com).

Finally, head to the beach for a dip in the ocean and a beer.

We stayed at W Hotel, which sits at the top of the beach and has Insta-worthy views (Marriott.com).

After sundown, watch the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, which spurts cascades of water set to music, or dance the night away at a club. Muy bien!

Kariba, Zimbabwe

Art Editor Nikki Ackerman went wild for this safari camp.

While visiting family in Zimbabwe in 2016, all 12 members of our clan headed off on a bucket-list trip to Changa Safari Camp.

We drove four hours out of the bustling capital Harare, then sailed across the beautifully serene Lake Kariba before arriving at the remote retreat.

From early morning safaris on foot to game drives at sundown, the wildlife-spotting opportunities were endless.

Back at camp we sipped delicious Malawi shandies while lounging around the infinity pool as elephants roamed freely nearby.

Dinner was a barbecue of juicy steaks and king prawns served under the stars to the beat of a drum.

We ended each day with an African nightcap of Amarula on ice around the fire pit, followed by a soak in private outdoor candlelit tubs.

I never wanted to leave (Changasafaricamp.com).

Florida, USA

It’s the American dream for Assistant Picture Editor Antoinette Cumberbatch.

A road trip around Florida with my boyfriend will always be one of my fave holidays. From party city Miami to the tip of the Florida Keys, each island holds wonder, excitement and beauty – and glorious weather.

One of our most memorable stop-offs was Drop Anchor Resort (Dropanchorresort.com).

From tucking into local conch chowder at Robbie’s in Islamorada (Robbies.com) to bathing in the turquoise waters at the Bahia Honda Key national park (Bahiahondapark.com), it was the trip of a lifetime.

But energetic Key West is definitely the jewel in the crown.

You can happily walk around for hours bumping into fire eaters, street performers and jazz artists on every corner, or head to Duval Street’s many welcoming bars.

I’d fly back there in a heartbeat.

Cartmel, UK

This Lake District bolt-hole ticks every box for Deputy Chief Sub-Editor Stacey Halls and husband Andy.

Last summer my family and I booked a weekend at Broughton House in Cartmel and loved it so much we’re going to make it an annual trip (Broughtonhousecartmel.co.uk).

A Georgian family home set in two acres of tranquil gardens, there’s a tennis court and Moroccan-style marquee for afternoon snoozing.

Owner Cate makes a fab fry-up and leaves home-made shortbread in your room.

It’s a home away from home, with a comfy library, country-style kitchen and cuddly resident dog Puffin.

Plus, forget two teabags in a caddy – there are hundreds to choose from!

The Lake District is on your doorstep, with walks, boat trips and tearooms galore.

Pop to nearby Grasmere for gingerbread (Grasmeregingerbread.co.uk), visit Beatrix Potter’s cottage (Nationaltrust.org.uk), and eat a superb steak and ale pie at The Cavendish Arms (Thecavendisharms.co.uk).

Puglia, Italy

Editor-In-Chief Sinead McIntyre returns with her family again and again to Robinson Club Apulia.

I love this resort so much that we’ve gone every year since our first visit five years ago.

From the wonderful staff who greet us like family to the incredible food, this place is truly special.

Plus, everyone must love it as much as I do, because the same families always seem to be there! But it’s the activities on offer that really set it apart.

There are five swimming pools, a children’s water park, water sports, tennis, archery, cycling, beach volleyball and even yoga on the beach.

The buffet restaurant is to die for with fresh pasta and paella cooked right in front of you, or you can book the beachside restaurant for an out-of-this-world fresh seafood feast.

I’m not sure we will ever tire of Club Apulia, and I can’t wait to go back this year (Robinson.com).

Source: Read Full Article