When you arrive in Istanbul, you’ll meet our representative at the airport and be transferred to your hotel, where you’ll be based for the first three nights of your trip. Those few days give you enough time to get a real sense of the city without rushing through it. You might start with the well-known landmarks like Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, both impressive in very different ways, before making your way to Topkapi Palace, which gives a glimpse into how the Ottoman rulers once lived. Away from the main sights, the city feels just as engaging. The Grand Bazaar and the spice market are also worth-experiencing. If you feel like slowing things down, a Bosphorus cruise in the evening is worth considering. On day four, you’ll head to the airport and continue your journey towards the Maldives, where the pace shifts almost instantly.

Mövenpick Hotel Istanbul Golden Horn

For your stay in Istanbul, we’ve selected the 5-star Mövenpick Istanbul Golden Horn. It’s set along the Golden Horn. At the same time, you’re still within easy reach of the main sights, so getting around doesn’t feel like an effort. The airport is also relatively close, with transfers taking around 25 minutes. Rooms are thoughtfully designed, with either city or waterfront views. Dining is straightforward and well covered. CulinArt Restaurant and Arça Restaurant & Grill both serve a mix of Mediterranean dishes and local favourites. There’s also space to slow down when you need it. The wellness centre offers a range of treatments if you feel like unwinding properly, and the fitness area is there if you prefer to keep to your routine while travelling.

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Once you arrive in the Maldives, you’ll continue your journey by a shared speedboat transfer to your resort.  This is where you’ll spend the next seven nights. Snorkelling and diving are both worth considering here, especially if you haven’t experienced marine life in this part of the world before. Your stay is on an all-inclusive basis, so meals and selected drinks are already taken care of. It makes the whole experience feel more relaxed, without having to think about the smaller details during your stay. After a week on the island, you’ll make your way back for your return flight on day eleven, bringing the trip to a close.

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is set in Vaavu Atoll, in a part of the Maldives that feels quieter and more open compared to some of the busier regions. It’s the kind of place where you might head out for a quick swim, or spend time snorkelling just a short distance from your room. The Superior Beach Lofts are positioned right along the shoreline. When you feel like slowing things down further, the spa offers a range of treatments that are easy to fit into your day. If you’d rather stay active, there are options like canoeing, along with both indoor and outdoor activities around the island. You can also choose to add a few experiences to your stay if you feel like exploring beyond the resort. Island hopping, dolphin watching, and sunset cruises are all available, along with more low-key options like sunset fishing. For something a bit more personal, private beach dinners can be arranged as well.

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