Aidy Smith

Copenhagen is presented as an LGBTQ+-friendly destination with inclusive nightlife, central Pride events and welcoming neighbourhoods. The guide recommends eight hotels, led by Andersen Boutique Hotel as the best overall, Hotel d’Angleterre for luxury, AC Hotel Bella Sky Copenhagen for modern design and Comfort Hotel Vesterbro for nightlife. Other highlighted options include Nimb Hotel, Hotel SP34, Scandic Copenhagen and The Square, with recommendations based on location, design, amenities, service, sustainability and access to LGBTQ+ venues. Copenhagen Pride will take place from 8 to 15 August 2026, with the parade scheduled for 15 August.

Aidy Smith recommends eight LGBTQ+-friendly hotels in Brighton for 2026, assessing their locations, amenities, service and relationship to the city’s queer community. The New Steine Hotel is named best overall, The Queens Hotel and Spa is recommended for spa treatments, and The Amsterdam Hotel for gay-owned hospitality. The guide highlights proximity to Kemptown, St James’s Street, LGBTQ+ venues and the seafront, and includes information about Brighton Pride events and local LGBTQ+ demographics.

Eight Liverpool hotels are recommended for LGBTQ+ travellers, with choices spanning spa luxury, boutique design, value, waterfront access and proximity to the city’s Pride Quarter. Hope Street Hotel is selected as the best overall option, while The Municipal Hotel & Spa, The Resident Liverpool, Titanic Hotel Liverpool and INNSiDE by Meliá Liverpool receive category-specific recommendations. The guide emphasizes welcoming service, convenient access to LGBTQ+ nightlife and Pride events, distinctive design, comfort and value. Liverpool’s Pride Quarter around Stanley Street is highlighted as the centre of LGBTQ+ nightlife, while the city’s Pride celebrations and other cultural festivals are noted as reasons to visit.

Aidy Smith recommends eight LGBTQ+-friendly hotels in Amsterdam for 2026, ranging from luxury properties such as Pulitzer Amsterdam and W Amsterdam to budget options including Generator Amsterdam and Hotel Not Hotel. The guide assesses design, location, amenities, atmosphere, affordability and demonstrated inclusivity, with particular attention to Pride-related programming and welcoming spaces. It also highlights Amsterdam’s major WorldPride events, including the Canal Parade on 1 August 2026, and identifies Reguliersdwarsstraat and nearby central districts as key LGBTQ+ areas for nightlife and accommodation.

Turkey and Egypt refused entry to an LGBTQ+ cruise ship, prompting criticism that their decisions harm local tourism economies more than the travelers affected. The incident highlights the high economic value of LGBTQ+ tourism and the inconsistency with previous openness to similar sailings. Ports in Greece and elsewhere benefited instead, reinforcing that travelers choose destinations where they feel welcome. The commentary argues that discriminatory political climates damage national reputations and urges LGBTQ+ travelers to support inclusive destinations.

Berlin offers a wide range of LGBTQ+‑affirming hotels, from luxury properties to boutique and budget options, all emphasising inclusivity, comfort and strong locations near the city’s queer neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Highlights include Axel Hotel Berlin for nightlife access, Hotel Palace Berlin for luxury, 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin for design‑led stays, and ArtHotel Connection for personalised service. Additional options span historic, cultural and budget‑friendly choices, with each hotel offering amenities tailored to diverse traveller needs. Pride events, travel tips and LGBTQ+ neighbourhood guidance accompany the recommendations.

A selection of New York City hotels is recommended for LGBTQ+ travellers, highlighting design, amenities, inclusivity initiatives and proximity to cultural landmarks. Each hotel offers a unique blend of style, location and supportive environments, ranging from luxury stays to boutique and budget-friendly options across the city’s neighbourhoods.

Seven Toronto hotels are recommended as inclusive and welcoming options for LGBTQ+ travellers, highlighted for their locations, affirming staff and LGBTQ+ friendly credentials, including several Rainbow Registered properties. Each hotel is described for its style, atmosphere and suitability for those visiting Pride or seeking an inclusive stay, drawing on the author’s personal travel experience and familiarity with the city.

Madrid is presented as one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers, with a curated list of hotels that stand out for inclusivity, design and location in neighbourhoods such as Chueca, Gran Vía and Plaza Mayor. Each property is described in terms of atmosphere, amenities, style and price, ranging from rooftop‑focused social hubs to serene luxury retreats and creatively themed stays. The recommendations are based on the author's personal experience, highlighting accessibility to nightlife, cultural attractions and Pride celebrations.

Eight Liverpool hotels are highlighted for their inclusive and LGBT‑friendly atmosphere, selected for location, design, service and proximity to Pride events. Each property is described for its strengths, from spas and creative interiors to comfort, nightlife access and welcoming staff, offering options suited to luxury stays, boutique experiences, good value or Pride‑weekend convenience.

Copenhagen is presented as an authentically inclusive city with a strong LGBT+ scene, and eight hotels are reviewed for their appeal to LGBT+ travellers. The list highlights luxury options such as Hotel d’Angleterre and Nimb Hotel, modern design choices including AC Hotel Bella Sky and Hotel SP34, and centrally located, community‑focused stays like Andersen Boutique Hotel and Comfort Hotel Vesterbro. Each recommendation includes design notes, neighbourhood appeal, amenities, and proximity to gay‑friendly venues. The guide also notes Copenhagen’s safety, LGBT+ nightlife options, and ideal travel seasons.

A guide to Brighton’s most LGBT-inclusive hotels highlights eight properties known for affirming hospitality, community proximity and welcoming environments. Each hotel is described in terms of its location, approach to inclusivity and suitability for different travel experiences, from luxury spa stays to culturally immersive visits. The writer emphasises the importance of queer‑affirming accommodation and provides practical details such as addresses and starting prices, along with broader travel tips for visitors to the city.

A curated selection of San Francisco hotels known for their inclusivity, design, and welcoming environments for LGBT+ travellers highlights options ranging from retro motor lodges to luxury high‑rises. Each property is praised for its atmosphere, neighbourhood setting, and commitment to comfort and queer‑friendly hospitality, offering travellers choices that balance style, personality, and community connection.

A curated selection of Amsterdam hotels offering inclusive, LGBT+-friendly stays highlights options ranging from luxury properties to artistic boutiques and budget-friendly hostels. Each hotel is praised for its welcoming atmosphere, community engagement, and distinct character, with several noted for active Pride participation and long-term support for queer travellers. The guide provides practical details including location, pricing, and amenities, helping visitors choose accommodations aligned with their style, comfort preferences, and budget.

The emotional and sensory crash many neurodivergent people experience after travel stems from overstimulation, disrupted routines and heightened emotions. Creating a protected landing day, maintaining comforting rituals, breaking post-trip tasks into manageable steps, processing the emotional impact of travel and easing slowly back into socialising help reduce overwhelm and support a calmer re-entry into daily life.

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is presented as a pinnacle of luxury with exceptional service, grand duplex suites, world-class dining and extensive facilities including a spa, private beaches and access to nearby attractions. The hotel’s design, exclusive experiences and attention to detail are highlighted, though the use of plastic straws is noted as a drawback. Ideal for travelers seeking an indulgent stay, it offers expansive amenities, personalised services and striking views across Dubai.

A global guide highlights destinations where LGBT+ couples can safely and joyfully celebrate wedding anniversaries, featuring inclusive cities, beach resorts and cultural hubs known for progressive attitudes and vibrant queer communities. Each recommended location offers distinctive attractions, from nightlife and nature to art, dining and historic landmarks, alongside curated suggestions for LGBT‑friendly hotels and neighbourhoods.

Fifteen emerging LGBT+ friendly destinations across the world are highlighted for their inclusive cultures, growing queer scenes and welcoming hospitality. Each location offers distinct experiences ranging from arts and nightlife in Medellín and Oaxaca to spiritual retreats in Chiang Mai and Nordic calm in Aarhus. Featured hotels in every destination are noted for their inclusive service and comfort, while festivals, community spaces and cultural heritage underpin the appeal for queer travellers seeking authenticity, safety and meaningful connection.

A guide to nine major Pride celebrations across the UK highlights key events for 2025, showcasing London, Brighton, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff, Belfast, Leeds, Newcastle and Blackpool. Each Pride offers distinct experiences, from large-scale parades and music festivals to political activism, charity fundraising and community-focused programming. The article emphasises inclusivity, local culture and the significance of Pride as both celebration and protest, encouraging readers to plan ahead for standout events throughout the summer.

A comparative tasting identifies top tequilas across blanco, reposado and añejo categories, highlighting flavour profiles, production quality and value. Espolòn and Olmeca Altos stand out for affordability, El Mayor leads among blancos, and Patrón, Don Fulano and Teremana excel within reposados. Clase Azul earns recognition for luxury craftsmanship, while Padre Azul and Casamigos dominate the añejo group. Maestro Dobel Diamante is named overall best for its blend of aged tequilas, versatility and strong price-to-quality ratio.

Irish whiskey’s modern revival is showcased through a diverse selection of standout bottles, ranging from peated expressions and wine-cask finishes to luxury limited editions. The tasting process evaluated each whiskey neat, with water and ice, and in cocktails, highlighting growing innovation and craftsmanship across Ireland’s distilleries. Sliabh Liag’s Legendary Silkie emerged as the top overall pick for its versatility, approachability and award‑winning character, exemplifying the renewed energy and creativity defining today’s Irish whiskey landscape.

A comparative review of leading wine clubs highlights differences in value, personalisation, wine selection and membership perks. Wanderlust Wine is rated the top choice for its diverse global styles, support for small producers and strong customer service. Perfect Cellar and The Little Fine Wine Company stand out for premium and innovative offerings, while Virgin Wines, Majestic and The Wine Society provide extensive selections and dependable subscriptions. Smaller-producer‑focused services such as Good Wine Good People, Plonk and Grapey receive praise for customisation and unique access. English wineries Gusbourne and Ridgeview are recognised for showcasing high‑quality local wines.

A curated selection of standout whiskies from around the world highlights distinctive expressions from India, the United States, Japan, Ireland, Taiwan and Scotland. The list emphasizes unique production methods, notable aging processes, and diverse flavor profiles, showcasing both limited editions and widely celebrated bottles. Each recommendation underscores craftsmanship, regional character and the growing global innovation in whisky making.

A curated selection of luxury wines and spirits highlights standout champagnes, white and red wines, whiskies, rums and tequilas from leading global producers. Each bottle is described through its craftsmanship, aging process, flavor profile and rarity, with many noted for limited production, award‑winning quality or historic significance. The list spans regions including France, Argentina, China, Scotland, Ireland and Japan, emphasizing exceptional terroir, meticulous distillation and premium oak maturation across categories.

Rye whiskey’s history, from its origins with early American immigrants to its decline after Prohibition and eventual resurgence, shows its growing modern popularity driven by bartenders and renewed consumer interest. Several standout rye whiskies from producers including WhistlePig, Sonoma Distilling Co, Basil Hayden’s, Jack Daniel’s, Woodford Reserve, Catoctin, Distillery 291, Rossville Union and Minor Case demonstrate the style’s diversity in flavour and craftsmanship. Tasting notes highlight profiles ranging from spicy and herbal to rich and sweet, and a rye-based Manhattan recipe rounds out the recommendations.

Eight common misconceptions about wine are corrected, including myths about bottle dimples, screw caps, cork taint, wine aging, decanting, aeration, serving temperatures and food pairings. Proper understanding of wine faults, storage, aging preferences and serving practices is emphasized, along with examples of white wines and even champagnes that benefit from decanting and pair well with red meat. A selection of recommended wines is provided for further exploration.

Explains what qualifies a spirit as cognac, outlines its grape varieties, distillation and aging requirements, and describes the six production sub‑regions. Details how cognac matures in oak, how classification tiers such as VS, VSOP and XO differ, and how innovation through alternative cask types is shaping new styles. Highlights several notable bottles across categories and provides recipes for cocktails that showcase cognac's versatility.

White Bordeaux wines, once a dominant part of the region’s production, now make up just nine percent of vineyards, resulting in a stronger focus on craftsmanship and quality. Sauvignon Blanc leads plantings, while Semillon and Muscadelle provide depth for distinctive blends ranging from rich, Burgundy-like whites from Pessac-Léognan and Graves to crisp, fruit‑forward Sauvignon Blanc–driven wines from Entre‑Deux‑Mers. Producers are creating expressive styles at accessible prices, and a range of recommended bottles highlights both creamy and tropical profiles. The piece encourages readers to revisit white Bordeaux as a high‑quality yet often overlooked category.

A curated selection of recommended Christmas-season wines, spirits and festive food-and-drink gifts highlights standout sparkling wines, white wines, red wines, gins, whiskies, rum and various accessories. Each item is described with detailed tasting notes and offered as a suggested purchase across a range of budgets, emphasising celebratory flavours, quality, and gifting appeal.

Explores wine and whisky through detailed tasting notes, including a South African rosé and a Sauternes-finished Glenmorangie. Outlines expert wine and cheese pairings focused on texture and balance. Highlights Miele’s SommelierSet as a premium wine‑storage gadget and profiles a historic Spanish monastery hotel known for food, wine and thermal spa experiences.

Highlights include an exceptionally rare twin-vintage port release from The Last Drop Distillers, a highly praised rum from the Philippines, and curated recommendations for refreshing white Bordeaux wines. Additional features cover a premium champagne and music travel experience by Krug, a notable Austrian wine destination, and a strong endorsement of the Coravin preservation gadget for enjoying fine wines without committing to the whole bottle.

A selection of global whiskies is recommended for Father’s Day, featuring detailed tasting notes and highlighting rare, innovative and affordable options. Additional sections offer guidance on using water or ice, expert picks for value whiskies, unique whisky-related gifts and immersive tours, along with cocktail recipes showcasing Balcones spirits.

Bordeaux is highlighted as a diverse and accessible wine region offering excellent white wines, affordable options, cocktail versatility and bottles ready to drink young. A series of recommended wines, sparkling rosés and travel suggestions accompany the discussion, along with endorsements for Black Cow Vodka and Rewined Candles as standout products in the drinks and lifestyle space.

A comprehensive Christmas wine and spirits guide recommending standout sparkling wines, whites, reds, sweet wines and whiskies across global regions, with detailed tasting notes and price points. Wanderlust Wine is named Wine Retailer of the Year for its sustainable focus and innovative delivery model, while Termanthia 2012 is highlighted as the top wine investment for its depth, heritage and exceptional quality. The piece celebrates diverse producers, premium bottles and unique spirits suited for gifting, entertaining or festive indulgence.

A selection of festive alcohol-themed gifts and seven rich red wines are recommended as ideal winter warmers, highlighting products such as spirit and wine advent calendars, booze-filled tree baubles, and bold wines from the US, France, Spain and Australia. A recipe for an inexpensive mulled wine punch is included, featuring fruit juices, brandy, spices and merlot.

A US company, Talking Tables, has introduced a Prosecco Pong kit as an alternative to traditional beer pong, offering smaller prosecco coupes and pink ping pong balls for a playful twist on the drinking game. The piece highlights various sparkling wine options and retailers, encourages responsible drinking due to higher alcohol content in sparkling wines, and notes that the game set is available for purchase through Firebox.

Häagen Dazs introduces five alcohol‑themed ice cream flavours, each containing about 1% alcohol and currently available only in Canada, with plans for wider release. The new varieties include rum, vodka, whiskey and Irish cream combinations aimed at expanding the brand’s creative offerings in the frozen dessert market.

White port and tonic is promoted as a refreshing, affordable alternative to gin and tonic, drawing on its long-standing popularity in Portugal. The drink combines white port with quality tonic and citrus garnish, with flexibility for experimentation. Several recommended white ports and tonics are highlighted for creating variations of the drink.

A new coconut-infused rum called Aluna Coconut is presented as a lower-sugar, high‑quality option crafted from Guatemalan and Caribbean rums blended with coconut water. Highlighted for its natural sweetness, smooth toasted coconut flavor, and affordable price, it is positioned as a healthier alternative to traditional sugary rums and expected to be popular for summer drinking.

Explains common mistakes diners make when selecting wine, including relying on familiar grapes, choosing the second‑cheapest bottle, avoiding tasting samples, hesitating to seek sommelier guidance, overlooking appropriate glassware, and being too polite to return faulty wine. Encourages openness, asking for advice, and prioritising food pairing and personal preference to improve the dining experience.

Common pitfalls when ordering wine in restaurants include relying on familiar grape varieties, defaulting to the second cheapest bottle, avoiding tasting samples, assuming sommeliers are only for expensive choices, using improper glassware, and being too polite to return a flawed bottle. Emphasizing openness, communication and confidence helps ensure better pairing decisions and a more enjoyable dining experience.

The release of Dom Pérignon’s 2009 vintage is celebrated with praise for Richard Geoffroy’s craftsmanship and willingness to embrace challenging winemaking conditions. The champagne is described as vibrant and fruit‑driven, with notes of stone fruits, citrus and toasty oak, culminating in a long, zesty finish. The vintage is characterized as refreshingly acidic and well suited to those who enjoy lively, high‑energy champagne.

Argentinian malbecs available in the UK are reviewed across affordable, mid‑range and premium tiers, with tasting profiles, serving advice and purchasing notes. Wineries from Mendoza, Salta and Patagonia are highlighted for producing expressive wines featuring rich dark fruits, structured tannins and varying levels of spice, oak and complexity. Recommendations span budget-friendly bottles through rare high-end selections, encouraging exploration of diverse malbec styles.

Provides eight tips to help shoppers choose better wine, advising readers to read back labels, track preferred regions and grapes, ignore vague marketing terms, understand VAT costs, use sweetness indicators, look beyond eye‑level shelves, treat discounts with caution, and use wine apps such as Vivino for recommendations and price comparisons.

Seven wines suitable for Mother’s Day are highlighted across sparkling, rosé, white and red styles, with each bottle described for its flavour profile, origin, and appeal. Recommendations include selections from England, France, New Zealand, Chile, California and Argentina, emphasising accessibility, quality and the personal stories behind certain producers. The guide encourages choosing wine as a thoughtful alternative to flowers, with each option tailored to different tastes.

A selection of nine classic British pies is paired with affordable wines chosen to complement their flavours, ranging from white Rhône for creamy chicken pie to Argentinian Malbec for beef and Guinness, Provençal rosé for spinach and feta, Bordeaux reds for hearty meat pies, and sweet Sauternes or Austrian Spätlese for dessert pies. Each pairing highlights how acidity, sweetness or bold fruit profiles enhance the richness or spice of the dishes, with wines sourced from supermarkets such as Lidl, Aldi, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose.