Double vision: top multi-centre picks from our experts

For family magic: Istanbul + Antalya

Our Europe Product Manager Angelo Davino loves our Istanbul and Antalya multi-centre.

“I can’t think of a better place than Turkey for combining a relaxing beach break with an authentic city stay that gets to the essence of this country. Blessed with 4000 years of pre-Anatolian history, its idyllic coastal and mountain landscapes span Europe and Asia and Istanbul itself has neighbourhoods on both sides.

There’s a colourful chaos in the vibrant streets of Istanbul, where evidence of empires past – Latin, Byzantine and Ottoman – are imprinted in its east-meets-west fabric, and where you can find a Turkish tea or a local raki well into the buzzy wee hours. The bohemian neighbourhoods of Galata, Karaköy and Beşiktaş are among the hippest in Istanbul. But it’s such a huge city to explore in a few days that I’d recommend taking advantage of Kuoni’s experiences collection that includes an Anthony Bourdain Street Food Tour. 

Cullinan Belek, Antalya

If you’re travelling with children, the all-inclusive resorts in Antalya have really stepped up their game in terms of hospitality, creature comforts and activities. There are lazy days of rest waiting for you on the pine-fringed, white sand beaches and endless fun to be had in some of the Turkish Riviera’s incredible resorts that have their own water parks as well as ultra-equipped children’s clubs, live entertainment and world-class cuisine.

With a 13-slide aqua park, Cullinan Belek in Antalya is for both the young and young at heart and won Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resort of 2024 in the World Travel Awards. Away from the luxe resorts, explore mountains and waterfalls or tee off at one of the area’s many golf courses.”

Read more about the best things to do in Istanbul.

For escape artists: Sri Lanka + The Maldives

Travel Expert Amy Bachelor from Kuoni at John Lewis Southampton recommends pairing the teardrop isle with tiny island dreaming on our Sri Lanka and Maldives twin-centre.

“No two countries combine better. Sri Lanka captivates with its cultural heritage, wildlife, diverse landscapes and immersive experiences, while the Maldives offers simple pleasures in the form of scenic sunrises and sunsets, barefoot beach strolls, leisurely lunches and restful relaxation – both over and under the water.

Journey through sacred cities, ancient rock temples and verdant tea plantations. Scale Sigiriya Rock fortress, explore the cave temples of Dambulla, trundle alongside the wild elephants of Minneriya National Park and explore the cultural wonders of Colombo and Kandy.

A private chauffeur guide is included on many of our Sri Lanka tours. More than just a driver, your guide will be a constant companion. They are knowledgeable about everything from culture to food, wildlife, general knowledge, politics and history, and will help you get under the skin of this fascinating place.

Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi, Maldives

Just an hour and a half away, you’re in for a treat on the fantasy islands of the Maldives. This scattering of atolls plays host to idyllic resorts that are just made for R&R. Explore the underwater world of the house reef, enjoy romantic sunset dinners on the beach, become a regular at the spa or simply lie on the deck of your overwater villa and reminisce about all you’ve seen and done.”

Read on to see why Sri Lanka and the Maldives are the perfect holiday duo.

For chill seekers: South Africa + Mauritius

Zoe Fox, Personal Travel Expert in our Meadhowhall store is a big fan of our South Africa Highlights & Mauritius pairing.

“First stop on this spectacular trip combining some of the best of South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town – a cool, contemporary city with a vibrant fusion of cultures. Follow Nelson Mandela’s Walk to Freedom from Robben Island, encounter penguins at Boulders Beach, enjoy the panoramic views and marine life of Cape Point and tuck into world-class food in the Cape Winelands. The adrenaline is ramped up a few notches as you travel on the Makalali Game Reserve in the vast plains of Great Kruger Park in the hope of seeing the Big Five.

After the excitement of the bush, jet off to the white-sand beaches of Mauritius. Do as little as you please or take advantage of incredible dolphin-spotting boat trips, snorkelling and diving. My favourite hotel is Lux Grand Baie – next level sophistication.”

Discover top 10 reasons to visit South Africa.

For culture vultures: Athens + Islands

Europe and Arabia Product Manager Sheena Paton says combine Athens with one of the Greek Islands.

“Start among the cobbled walkways, ancient churches, pavement cafes, rooftop bars and arty neighbourhoods of Athens. As well as the Parthenon, visit the new Acropolis Museum. Then head out to one of the islands. Mykonos has cosmopolitan nightlife. Make the most of it by staying at the super-chic Mykonos Riviera overlooking the marina. And don’t leave without sipping a cocktail in Little Venice to the lull of the ocean lapping.

It’s a short boat ride to the beautiful island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s the mythical birthplace of Apollo. Crete is a good all-rounder for families. You could even combine a stay in the picturesque town of Chania with one in Elounda on our Crete Two Stop Trip.”