A NEW WAY TO DO summer

These up-and-coming destinations are set to be some of the hottest this travel season (literally)

Nashville, Tennessee

An alternate way to explore the US, Nashville has become a bustling hub of culture, and a great way to dip your toe into the Deep South lifestyle (minus the controversial views). The Grand Ole Opry country music show still serenades visitors every week, the state is the birthplace of Jack Daniels whiskey (and you can even grab a tour of their distillery), and there’s the home comforts of barbeque food to boot. It’s also a city of incredible sights, including parks laced with luscious greens, rivers (head to Radnor Lake State Park), and neon lights lining the streets of ‘The District’. The best time to visit Nashville is in April to May or September to October as it’s not too hot, and there are less tourists.

Where to stay: : Omni Nashville Hotel

Where to eat: Puckett’s Nashville for no-frills southern food

Valletta, Malta

A mediterranean backdrop and grand architecture bathed in the glow of sunlight are what makes Europe’s smallest capital a joy to explore. Valletta has so much history (it was built by knights on the premise of being ‘by gentlemen, for gentlemen’), and every position you stand in offers panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, which is packed with hip bars and restaurants. However, if a palace or an art museum isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of boutique hotels to soak up the sun, or sprawling yachts you can take a trip on.

Where to stay: Iniala Harbour House

Where to eat: Fifty Nine Republic

Boulder, Colorado

Boulder has been named ‘the happiest city in America’ - and there’s little wonder why. Situated in the picturesque valley below the iconic Flatirons, Boulder has the weather (300 days of sunshine a year), the entertainment (particularly great if you’re someone who loves the outdoors), and outstanding food, all set to an incredible backdrop. In the city, one of the most popular attractions is Pearl Street Mall, where you can enjoy street performers and a taste of city life. Or, just moments away are worldleading hiking and biking trails. It’s even a great place to ski during the winter months.

Where to stay: St Julien Hotel and Spa

Where to eat: Oak at Fourteenth

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is often overlooked when it comes to choosing an Italian getaway, but the Mediterranean island is rife with culture, relaxation, and hidden troves to explore. It’s the perfect place for water-based activities such as scuba-diving and finding ocean caves, or if you’d prefer to stay on dry land, you can even catch a glimpse of flamingos in the salty lagoons. Moving inland, consider hiring a Vespa and heading up the winding mountain roads to catch a glorious view from above. As with any Italian trip, however, the highlight is always set to be the authentic, locally-produced food. Sorry if your stomach is rumbling now.

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Cannigione and Spa

Where to eat: Il Portolano

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia has become a go-to spot for sun-seekers with its budget-friendly holiday options (both for travel and when you arrive), as well as glistening waters likened to those of the Maldives. Dubrovnik offers a mix of beach vibes and education for history lovers, and plenty of stunning Baroque architecture for those Instagram snaps. It’s even most-recently been a filming set for Game of Thrones, so you can relive your favourite characters’ storylines. However, palaces and monasteries are a definite must-do.

Where to stay: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

Where to eat: Nautika

Gustavia, St. Barts

St. Barts is at the top-end of the price range when it comes to taking a holiday to the Caribbean - and is so exclusive you can’t get flights directly from the UK. That being said, should you get the opportunity to rub shoulders with the elite on the French territory’s sandy beaches, it’s sure to be unforgettable. Known for its party culture, luxury boutique shopping, spa retreats, and water sports, it’s a haven of relaxation - that’s if you can take your eyes off the scenery. One worth saving for.

Where to stay: Le Barthelemy Hotel and Spa

Where to eat: L’Esprit St. Barts

Training and periods: are you in sync with your cycle?

Did you know that how you feel and perform in the gym can change throughout the different stages of your menstrual cycle?

Research by PureGym found that 76% of women struggle with their workouts at different points in their cycle and more than 3 in 5 women stop exercising at some point each month due to the severity of their symptoms.

Syncing up your workouts can help you work with your body, not against it and help you stay active. Dr Shireen is here to give you the low down on how to make your cycle work for you!