Melanie King - MTA Travel Designer

14/04/2026

Surrounded by nature’s stillness and nestled within lush greenery, Capella Singapore’s one- and two-bedroom villas offer an exclusive invitation to retreat in complete serenity, each featuring a private plunge pool for the ultimate escape.

14/04/2026

Whether it’s a secluded rainforest lodge or a polished beachfront resort, Costa Rica offers a luxury stay for every kind of traveler. Read more to learn which one is right for you, then reach out to plan your escape. 🌿✨

Where to stay in this adventure-friendly country, from the cloud forest to the beach.

12/04/2026

A little pause… with paws 🐶

Tucked into the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, we found the sweetest little spot — the Corgi Café.

Pretty interiors, great coffee, indulgent pancakes… and something a little unexpected.

A handful of very adorable locals roaming around,
keeping a close eye on every table and hoping for a pat.

Safe to say, it was an instant hit with the kids.

12/04/2026

Effortlessly chic, undeniably Barcelona ✨

Tucked down a quiet street in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, the Kimpton Vividora Barcelona blends effortless style with understated luxury - the kind of place that feels considered from the moment you arrive.

Steps from the cathedral and surrounded by some of the city’s best little restaurants… yet it feels like a calm retreat from it all.

Rooftop pool, sunset cocktails, and that golden light stretching across the rooftops.

And our suite? A mix of colour, leather and luxe textures, beautiful design, and a private balcony made for slow mornings and pre-dinner drinks.

It’s stylish, it’s relaxed… it’s very Barcelona.

11/04/2026

Visiting churches across Europe with kids can be a little challenging.

For adults, they’re beautiful, historic, and full of meaning.
For kids… sometimes just another “old” building.

Travelling with my own little people, I have learnt to look for something different — something that brings it all to life.

At the Palais des Papes in Avignon, there was an interactive iPad experience - suddenly they weren’t just walking through rooms, they were on a treasure hunt.

At the Concatedral de San Nicolás in Alicante, Spain, it was climbing the bell tower with winding stairs to the rooftop, ringing bells, and views out over the city.

When there’s something to do, something to discover, something a little unexpected - it changes everything.

Because when the kids are engaged…you get to slow down and enjoy it too.

11/04/2026

Alicante in Full Colour

Full of colour, with mosaic-tiled avenues lined by palm trees and boats filling the harbour.

Alicante has so much personality for a small city - fun, vibrant, and full of that seaside energy.

Rows of sun loungers and umbrellas stretch along the beach, giving it a lively, slightly faster-paced feel compared to the traditional towns we’ve visited further south.

Gorgeous views from Castillo de Santa Bárbara, the historic fortress perched high above the city…and of course, the sweet treats - almost too pretty to eat. We had the best breakfast of our trip in a little pâtisserie recommended by a local driver we met. I love an insider tip for great food.

09/04/2026

Cartagena, where history still takes centre stage

There’s something about standing in a place that’s been here for over 2,000 years.

Cartagena is one of those cities where ancient history is simply part of everyday life — scattered throughout a living, working town.

From a Roman amphitheatre built during Augustus’ empire to the remains of a Roman forum.

And what I loved most?
You step off the ship and you’re right there in the heart of it all.

The historic old town is just moments from the cruise terminal - easy, walkable, and perfect for exploring at your own pace.

08/04/2026

Málaga, full of soul

Málaga was all about the authenticity for me.

Wandering through the Alcazaba of Málaga, layers of history quietly revealing themselves as we explored.

We went to watch flamenco dancing — and my daughter was completely spellbound, clapping with delight as the dancers moved with so much strength and grace.

And then lunch…
A small local restaurant, menu entirely in Spanish, no English spoken, and a line of locals waiting for a table.

Always a good sign.

And that last photo?
Not an ice cream - a cone of Iberian ham and cheese.

Because in Spain, it’s all about simple, local flavours done so well.

08/04/2026

Gibraltar’s true locals 🐒

Gibraltar is full of incredible history — Romans, Moors, British influence at every turn.

But travelling with kids keeps things in perspective…

Because if you ask my little ones, there was only one highlight.

The monkeys.

Cheeky, fearless and clearly very comfortable getting up close and personal… they completely stole the show.

06/04/2026

From the sea to the cathedral — Cádiz. Spain

We started by the sea — low tide, little boats scattered across the sand, and my little ones exploring the rockpools.

From there, into the old town for a long, lazy tapas lunch… streets lined with palms, full of life, and plates of fresh seafood shared in the sun.

And then, by afternoon, a completely different pace — stepping into the cathedral on Good Friday, surrounded by locals and tradition that feels deeply part of this place.

A day that felt so easy, so full… and exactly what travel should be.

02/04/2026

Holy Week in Seville 🤍

We planned this part of our trip around Holy Week… and last night was the highlight.

From a private balcony along the procession route near the cathedral, we watched it unfold below us - candlelight flickering, drums echoing through the streets, and these incredible floats carried slowly through the crowd.

It’s hard to explain the feeling…
quiet, emotional, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Having a local guide with us made such a difference- understanding the meaning behind it all, and just how important this week is to the people of Seville.

Even the kids were completely captivated.

One of the most memorable things I’ve ever seen 🤍

31/03/2026

An Elegant, Historic Stay in the Heart of Lisbon

The One Palácio da Anunciada is a beautifully restored 16th-century palace, tucked just one block back from the main square in the heart of historic Lisbon — the perfect base for wandering the city on foot, at your own pace.

Painted ceilings, fresh flowers at every turn, and thoughtfully designed spaces create a sense of quiet elegance that never feels overdone.

We spent our last two nights here, and it’s been my favourite hotel of the trip - understated luxury and genuinely personal service.