EDITOR'S LETTER:

This month really feels like the start of something new – beyond the usual ‘back to school’ and ‘back to business’ September feeling. This year, there’s an extra crackling undercurrent of excitement as the world rights itself post-pandemic – as if Q4 holds all the cards for a new era of possibility and potential.

An indicator of what the future holds is, of course, determined by what countries are doing with their borders. It was back in January 2020 that I travelled to Phuket to stay at the ultra-luxurious Layan Residences by Anantara, having sat on the story since then waiting for Thailand to re-open. Like many, Thailand employed a staggered border opening strategy and I’m happy to say that Phuket is now open to vaccinated travellers (some caveats in place, of course), meaning I can finally share my Anantara experience with you.

From the Andaman coastline to Casablanca, to uncover world-class architecture and Art Deco treasures, and back to the GCC with some inspired stays stretching from Saudi to Bahrain and Oman. While international adventures feel intrepid and exciting once again, we should never lose sight of all the rich and rewarding experiences on our doorstep.

Whatever travel you have up your sleeve this month, enjoy it!

Emily Baxter-Priest