5 Must See European Destinations to Visit This Summer

European summer is just around the corner, parents are gearing up for sunny half term breaks, and with the long days and warm nights on the horizon, I've found myself looking ahead to sunny weekend city breaks or beach trips. 

Having just had to cancel our cruise this year, I've got absolutely nothing booked and a bit of "blank page" syndrome. There are so many places I would love to re-visit from previous cruises, because one day in port just isn't enough! At the same time, it's a big world out there with lots to explore! If you're in the same boat and looking to book some summer trips, allow me to share a few of my all time favourite destinations to inspire you.

Can You use Your Phone on a Cruise Ship?

Can You Use Your Phone at Sea?

Like Christmas Eve, everything is packed and ready to go, the house is walking a fine line between show-home and organised chaos, and you're ready for an early night before the big day. But while you're getting ready to board your cruise ship, you might be wondering how to keep in touch with friends and family throughout your trip. It's common knowledge that cruise ship wifi packages are tantamount to daylight robbery - so can you just use your phone on board instead? The short answer is yes. You will be able to get a mobile phone signal while at sea but, before you breathe a sigh of relief, keep reading for the full story. If you don't, you could be liable for a phone bill worth several hundred pounds! 

Moxy Hotels Southampton Review - The Perfect Pre-Cruise Stay?

Moxy Southampton - The Ideal Pre Cruise Stay?

Southampton isn’t just a student city - it’s the busiest cruise ship port in the UK, and one of the busiest in Europe. With this in mind, you won’t be surprised to learn that you’ll be spoilt for choice when trying to find a hotel in Southampton. Whether you’re looking for a pre-cruise say or a weekend getaway, Southampton is the perfect base for your adventures. In my never-ending pursuit to find the best hotel in Southampton for your money, I stayed at Moxy in Southampton city centre for a night to put it to the test.

After first experiencing Moxy during a mini-break, the quirky hotel chain has been a go-to for me. Full of personality without being style-over-substance, Moxy always manages to cover the basics and sprinkle some fun and luxurious touches on top. Each Moxy hotel is decorated to reflect the local area - in Chester the communal spaces features thoughtful touches that gave a nod to the city’s horse racing heritage, so you can imagine the nautical theme running through the chain’s Southampton offering.

5 European Adventure Holidays to try this Summer

Hey Owlets,

For almost a decade I've been exploring Europe to experience the wide variety of cultures across the continent. With diverse landscapes and rich histories, it doesn't matter which country (or countries!) you choose to visit, you'll have plenty of opportunities to experience something new. Whether you're seeking the sun, snow, or an adventure, there are so many incredible options for your European holiday in 2025. So if you're seeking inspiration for your 2025 travels, here are some of my personal recommendations for every kind of holiday in Europe this year. 

Shoulder season: Discover the benefits of off-peak travel

When you’re planning a trip, timing is absolutely everything. Peak season means sunny skies and a festive buzz. However, it also comes with higher prices, bigger crowds, and less flexibility. Meanwhile, travelling in winter can leave you experiencing bad weather and destinations that feel more akin to a ghost town. That’s why savvy travellers are turning to the shoulder season – that almost-quiet period between peak and off-peak – as their new favourite time to explore the world. Read on to discover why the shoulder season is all the rage right now.