What is the right way to live? Everyone wants to be a King – balanced, calm and relaxed. But is that possible? The world is full of mice that gnaw at roots and toads that block the water to fountains. Our society is based on performance, so anyone that doesn’t work has no value. On top of that, there’s the irritating temptation of the world of commodities. But you don’t have to own everything in order to be considered successful or happy. If a fairy godmother were to appear and offer to grant three wishes, very few people would be able to decide which ones. Then there’s the constant angst-inducing news reports: coronavirus, war, climate change. Life is not easy. How much energy is expended just to find the best energy provider alone?

Travelling solo. Experiencing solo. Enjoying time solo. Unwinding solo. The Italian word “solo”, which translates as “only”, was originally used mainly in the context of music. Now, however, it’s caught on in the travel industry. Three “soloists” tell us what it means to go solo. Alina is the last of the trio …

PLAY NOW – 16 APRIL: Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht was formerly the Public Library and is now one of the most creative five star luxury-lifestyle hotels in the city. A stay at Andaz Amsterdam is a dream for every design lover looking for an unforgettable local experience. Win an exclusive 3-night stay in a Canal View Room with breakfast included …

The recently renovated Steinach Townhouse Meran is a hidden gem in the historic streets of Merano in Italy’s South Tyrol. Owned by two designers from Milan, the B&B provides a warm welcome to this central European city, and is the perfect retreat in the heart of the Alps.

This is where it all started for the Torel Boutiques hotels, and it’s a tale filled with history and sophisticated luxury. Torel Palace Lisbon, the first of their four establishments occupies a picturesque setting on Sant’Ana, one of the seven hills in the historic centre of the Portuguese capital …