Becca Herridge

One of my favourite holiday destinations is the Dominican Republic, a place that will always hold a special place in my heart as it is where I got married in 2016. My husband and I had visited many times before our wedding, staying in several of the island’s beautiful hotels, spending our days playing volleyball on the beach and our evenings sipping cocktails beneath the stars. When it came time to tie the knot, there was no doubt in our minds that this was where we wanted to be. We celebrated our wedding at the stunning Dreams Palm Beach Resort, part of the AMR Collection, surrounded by friends and family. I organised the entire trip myself, liaising with the hotel to make sure every detail was perfect. Wearing my Mori Lee beach wedding dress, and with the hubby-to-be in a linen shirt and flip-flops, I could not have imagined a more relaxed and beautiful setting. The Dominican Republic truly captures the essence of the Caribbean: relaxed, vibrant, and endlessly welcoming. With its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back charm, it is the ultimate destination for an all-inclusive escape. For anyone visiting, a trip to Saona Island is an absolute must, offering a slice of paradise that perfectly reflects the island’s natural beauty and carefree spirit.

My second favourite holiday destination is Malta, a place that feels like a second home as I spent much of my childhood there, even living on the island for a few years since my dad is Maltese. Right in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta truly has it all. From ancient history at the Tarxien Temples to the grandeur of the Knights of St John, the island is steeped in culture and charm. Valletta, the capital city, is one of the main ports for cruise ships and a treasure trove of stunning architecture, lively cafés and breath taking harbour views. The coastline offers both rocky coves and sandy beaches, and film lovers might recognise several movie locations, including where Troy was filmed. Travelling around the island is a joy, with highlights such as the Blue Grotto, boat cruises, and visits to its smaller sister islands. Whether you are seeking a short winter break or summer sunshine, Malta is the perfect destination. Having stayed in so many of its hotels over the years, I can honestly say there is not a single one on the island that I do not know.

Another favourite holiday destination proves that sometimes there really is no place like home. I’ve done road trips across the United States, visited Disney, and even flown Club Class to the Bahamas, but nothing compares to spending time with my family in our static caravan on the beautiful island of Anglesey, in Trearddur Bay. Surrounded by rural charm and coastal beauty, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Summer days are spent paddleboarding, enjoying beach barbecues and even a bit of cliff jumping, while winter brings cosy evenings at one of the local restaurants or bars. I love UK holidays — there’s something so special about finding paradise just around the corner.