Published 28th Jun. 2021
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When asked to picture their perfect holiday, many people's minds immediately hit the beach; warm white sand between the toes, sparkling azure waters and someone rather good-looking fanning you with a large palm leaf. And who are we to deny such glories? But here at Original Travel we're also partial to something a little more... rousing. That is to say we love a good city. Oh yes, we rub our hands together in veritable glee at the prospect of bustling markets, burgeoning foodie scenes, street art, botanical gardens, booming nightlife and incredible architecture. And whether you're in need of a short sharp hit of culture with a classic weekend city break or are exploring as part of a longer trip, we've got the inside track (and a network of concierge contacts), to ensure the ultimate city adventure...
San Francisco, USA
Road trips are such stuff as bucket lists are made on, and driving along the west coast of the USA is a classic. San Francisco, with its mish-mash of peoples and cultures from hippies to tech gazillionaires, is the perfect pit stop. It's not short of a sight or two either with the iconic prison of Alcatraz, the original hippie commune of Haight-Ashbury and the sea lions at Pier 39.
Seville, Spain
Seville is a city with something of a split-personality; a giant jumble of Moorish, Baroque and Gothic architecture with a dash of the ultra modern thrown in for good measure, ripe for exploration over a long weekend. Think tapas on tap, secret flamenco shows and a buzzy nightlife. What's more, the weather stays warm right through to November.
Marrakech, Morocco
A holiday in Marrakech is essentially an exercise in sensory overload; head in to the medina and you'll encounter the city's intense heat, exotic aromas and bustling souq packed with shouty street vendors and haggling shoppers. Retreat to the calm, cool oasis of one of the many chic riads inside the walls of the medina, or in the greenery of the Palmeraie region.
Cartagena, Colombia
Colombia, having historically suffered from something of an image problem, is swiftly becoming one of Latin America's most vibrant destinations, thanks in no small part to the wonderfully colourful colonial city of Cartagena. The best way to soak up the city is to simply meander through its maze of cobbled streets, stopping off at some excellent bars and restaurants along the way.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is Japan in the classical sense, home to traditional wooden houses, cherry blossom trees, majestic palaces and zen gardens. It was Japan's capital for over a thousand years and so is endowed with a rich tapestry of history and cultural attractions, from the iconic Golden and Silver Pavilions to the geisha district of Gion.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town can lay claim to perhaps the most beautiful physical setting for a city anywhere on the planet (discuss) with Table Mountain right at its heart. Make like a Capetonian and hike up to Lion's Head, where you can gaze across the city's chic urban areas, public gardens, wilderness, forests and vineyards.
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Soaked in sunlight, suncream and ice-cream, August is brimming with holiday spirit, particularly for us in the Northern Hemisphere. The only problem? Figuring out how – and where – to savour it. From balmy breaks on the French Riviera to far-flung forays into Singapore’s concrete jungle, there’s no shortage of places to dial up the heat and bask in holiday bliss before autumn rolls around. So, to whet (or should we say warm?
18th May 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Tucked away in the shadow of Mallorca, Menorca is often overlooked in favour of its flashier neighbour. A shame because, for those willing to steer off the well-trodden track, there’s a medley of marvels to be found. This is exactly what our Co-Founder and Brand Director, Tom Barber, discovered on his trip to Menorca, which he spent tracing the deep history and quiet allure of this bashful Balearic island.
13th May 2026 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Like all continents, North America is vast and varied, but its countries share a key similarity: the sheer size of their landmass. From Canada’s rocky regions to America's plentiful plains and Mexico’s sun-soaked swathes – there’s no shortage of ground to cover. With an abundance of sprawling landscapes and beautiful vistas, the best way to soak it all in is by train travel. But which trips to choose?
7th May 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from checking you in for your flights to our network of local Concierges
