Winter skin — Preparing for your seasonal travels with Dr Azadeh

Travel during the winter months presents its own unique beauty — from snow-dusted Alpine villages, festive European cities, or sun-soaked southern hemisphere destinations. Yet the season can be unforgiving on our skin, and your skincare deserves the same level of preparation as your carefully curated itinerary. But while we meticulously plan every detail of our journeys, our skin often bears the brunt of winter travel without the same thoughtful attention.

Winter travel presents unique challenges for our skin. Long-haul flights in recirculated air strip moisture from the skin. High-altitude ski destinations mean increased UV exposure combined with biting cold winds. Moving between heated indoor spaces and freezing outdoor temperatures creates constant stress on the skin barrier. Complexions feel tight, look dull, or lack their usual luminosity precisely when we want to feel and look our best. This is where thoughtfully chosen medical aesthetic treatments can make a genuine difference, hydrating the skin at a deeper level, supporting collagen production and restoring overall balance before and after your travels.

Dr Azadeh Ovaici, a GP and aesthetic doctor with over 15 years' experience at her Harley Street clinic, works with clients who understand that looking after oneself is part of travelling well. Her approach to winter skincare mirrors the philosophy I bring to travel planning: personalised, considered, and focused on creating the conditions for you to experience your journey at your best.

Treatments that restore and revitalise.

Skin Boosters

Treatments such as Profhilo and Redensity 1 deliver hyaluronic acid beneath the skin's surface, improving hydration, elasticity and luminosity from within. These are particularly effective for dry, dehydrated or crepey skin, helping to boost collagen, improve texture and enhance overall tone throughout the winter months.

Polynucleotides

Derived from purified DNA fragments, polynucleotides such as Plinest HPT work at a cellular level to repair and regenerate the skin. They're especially effective for under-eye dullness, crepey or fragile skin, and fine lines caused by dehydration and reduced firmness.

Vitamin B12 injections

Winter fatigue can show not only in how you feel, but also in your skin. Vitamin B12 injections support energy levels, mental clarity and overall skin vitality — particularly valuable during busy or demanding winter months.

Anti-wrinkle treatments

Cold weather and dehydration can make fine lines appear more pronounced. Carefully administered anti-wrinkle treatments can soften dynamic lines while maintaining a natural, expressive appearance.

Medical skin consultation

Every skin is different. At Dr Azadeh Clinic, comprehensive consultations allow for proper assessment before any treatment. Dr Azadeh creates personalised winter skin plans, taking into account hormonal changes, menopausal skin, postnatal recovery, and lifestyle factors. This ensures the treatment approach supports both immediate skin health and long-term results.

Common question about winter skincare.

Should I exfoliate more often in winter?
Not necessarily. Over-exfoliation can damage the skin barrier, especially when skin is already dry. Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week is usually sufficient.

Will heavier moisturisers solve dry skin?
They can help on the surface, but true hydration occurs deeper within the skin. Treatments such as skin boosters provide longer-lasting, cellular-level hydration.

Is SPF still important in winter?
Yes. UV rays and blue light from screens affect the skin all year round, even on grey days. Daily broad-spectrum SPF remains essential, particularly if you're undergoing aesthetic treatments.

A considered approach to travel wellness.

What distinguishes Dr Azadeh's practice is her commitment to safe, evidence-based treatments that prioritise skin health over quick fixes. Her clinic offers tailored treatment plans based on medical assessment, treatments that consider long-term skin health, a discreet and welcoming environment in central London, and exclusively CE-marked, medical-grade products.

Just as I believe in meticulously preparing every detail of your travel experience, preparing your skin for the demands of winter travel is another form of thoughtful planning. Whether you're about to embark on a ski holiday in the Alps, planning festive markets across Europe, or escaping to warmer climates, a personalised approach to skincare ensures you can be fully present and confident throughout your journey.

Winter travel need not mean compromising on how your skin looks and feels. With the right guidance and preparation, you can protect your skin before departure, maintain its health during your travels, and restore it upon return — arriving and experiencing your journey at your very best.

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Dr Azadeh Ovaici is a GP and aesthetic doctor based at Harley Street, specialising in personalised, evidence-based skincare treatments. For more information about polynucleotides and other aesthetic treatments, visit drazadeh.co.uk

What Virtuoso membership means for your travel

Airelles Château de La Messardière, Saint-Tropez

When I mention that I'm a Virtuoso travel advisor, clients often ask what that actually means for them. It's a fair question, because the answer goes far beyond access to a booking platform.

Virtuoso is a network of the world's finest travel advisors and luxury travel providers. It's highly selective — less than 1% of travel agencies worldwide are invited to join. But more than that, it's a community built on relationships, expertise, and a shared commitment to exceptional travel. My membership gives me direct connections to hotel managers, resort directors, and experience curators across the globe — the kind of access that transforms how I work for you.

The difference in how I work.

When I'm designing your trip, I'm not simply searching online or making requests through generic channels. I'm reaching out to people I know personally — I may have had lunch with them or been introduced to them through my trusted agent network. I'm having conversations about what would work best for your specific situation — whether that's the sunrise facing suite you’re looking for, or the guide who specialises in exactly what fascinates you.

This matters because luxury travel isn't really about grand gestures. It's about the small, thoughtful details that show someone has truly understood what you need. It's the hotel knowing you prefer an early breakfast before anyone else is around. It's the restaurant reservation that seemed impossible suddenly becoming available. It's arriving to find something waiting that you mentioned once, in passing, weeks ago.

What this looks like in practice.

Let me give you some tangible examples of how these relationships work in your favour.

When Airelles Venezia opens its doors in Spring 2026, I'll have early access to book your stay at what's set to become one of Venice's most sought-after addresses. Rather than joining a waitlist or hoping availability opens up, my Virtuoso connections mean I'm already in conversation with the team there. And if you've stayed at Airelles Saint-Tropez, Château de la Messardière and loved it, I can ensure that the same level of personalised service follows you to Venice — because these relationships travel with you.

Or perhaps you’re considering a family trip to the Maldives. You might see Soneva's three properties — Fushi, Jani, and Secret — and wonder which suits your family best. Through Virtuoso, I'm not guessing based on website descriptions. I know that Soneva Jani's kids' club is genuinely exceptional: two storeys high with a zipline, waterslide, bowling alley, LEGO room, and skateboard ramp. I know the teens have their own dedicated space with a music room, telescope desk, and cave bar complete with DJ booth and mocktails. This isn't information I'm reading off a brochure — it's the kind of specific, useful detail I can share because I've met and am connected to people who know these properties intimately.

Then there's Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como. When I book you there through Virtuoso, you receive exclusive amenities — room upgrades where possible, daily breakfast for two, a hotel credit that you can use towards spa treatments, dining, or activities, early check-in and late check-out when available, and welcome amenities tailored to the hotel. The property credit alone often covers that massage you'd planned to book anyway, or a bottle of wine with dinner overlooking the lake.

But the real value is in what happens when I mention to the team that you're celebrating an anniversary, or that you'd love a quiet table overlooking the lake for dinner. These aren't requests that get lost in translation. These are conversations between people who trust each other to take care of what matters.

Soneva Fushi, Maldives

Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como

The power of being known.

There's something powerful about being part of a trusted network. Hotels and resorts want to impress Virtuoso clients because they know we're discerning, that we'll return if the experience is right, and that we share honest feedback. This creates a relationship where everyone is motivated to exceed expectations — not just meet them.

I've seen this play out in countless ways. The chef who comes to your table because the hotel manager mentioned you're celebrating something special. The suite upgrade that happens not because of points or status, but because someone wanted to delight you. The behind-the-scenes tour that wasn't on any itinerary but felt perfectly aligned with your interests.

These moments aren't guaranteed—luxury travel shouldn't feel transactional — but they happen more often when there's a foundation of trust and connection, which is what Virtuoso membership gives me on your behalf.

Why this matters to you.

Ultimately, my Virtuoso membership means you're not navigating luxury travel alone, hoping you've made the right choices. You're working with someone who has spent years building relationships, learning what works, and earning the trust of the people who make exceptional travel possible.

It means when I recommend a hotel or experience, it's not based solely on reviews or reputation, but on genuine knowledge and often personal experience. It means your trip isn't just well-planned — it's connected to a network of people who genuinely care about delivering something memorable.

When a new property like Airelles Venezia is launching and everyone wants to be there, you have someone with early access. When you need to know whether Soneva Jani or Soneva Secret better suits your eight-year-old and your teenager, I can give you the real answer. When you want that perfect table at Grand Hotel Tremezzo during peak season, I know who to ask.

And perhaps most importantly, it means you can travel with confidence, knowing that someone is genuinely looking after your best interests, with the resources and relationships to make your vision a reality.

If you've been wondering whether working with a travel advisor truly makes a difference, this is part of the answer. It's not about someone else booking things you could book yourself. It's about access, relationships, and expertise — the kind that transforms good trips into extraordinary ones, often in ways you didn't even know were possible.

Frequently asked questions about Virtuoso Travel.

Do Virtuoso benefits cost extra?
No. The amenities and upgrades are included when I book qualifying rates at Virtuoso properties. You receive additional value at no extra cost.

Can I book these hotels myself and get the same benefits?
No. Virtuoso benefits are exclusively available when booking through a Virtuoso travel advisor. Direct bookings or third-party sites don't include these amenities.

How many hotels participate in the Virtuoso program?
The network includes over 1,800 preferred hotel and resort partners worldwide, from intimate boutique properties to renowned luxury brands.

Do you only work with clients in London?
While I'm based in London, I design travel experiences for discerning clients throughout the UK and internationally. My Virtuoso membership provides global reach regardless of where you're located.

How does working with a Virtuoso advisor differ from using a luxury travel booking site?
Beyond exclusive amenities, you gain personalised expertise, direct advocacy when issues arise, and access to experiences and rates not available online. It's the difference between a transaction and a trusted relationship.

The art of subtle luxury — A conversation with Maisons Pariente

When true luxury speaks, it whispers rather than shouts. This philosophy stands at the heart of Maisons Pariente, the family-owned collection of exceptional properties that has redefined luxury hospitality across France.

In a recent conversation with Leslie Kouhana, the eldest of the Pariente sisters and co-founder of this distinctive hotel collection, I discovered striking parallels between her approach to hospitality and the transformative travel experiences I design for my clients.

A family philosophy.

“Luxury should not be ostentatious, but rather subtle and felt through carefully considered details,” shares Leslie, whose vision alongside her father and sister Kimberley has shaped Maisons Pariente into what it is today. This philosophy of understated excellence permeates every aspect of their collection, from the French Riviera to the Alps, Provence, and Paris.

What struck me most was the genuine warmth behind their approach. "We aim to create spaces where every guest feels at home, surrounded by warmth, art, and culture," Leslie explains. It's this commitment to creating a sense of belonging that elevates a stay from simply comfortable to truly memorable.

The art of personalisation.

At the heart of Maisons Pariente lies an exceptional dedication to personalised service. “We take the time to understand our guests' preferences and desires, ensuring that every interaction feels genuine and tailored,” notes Leslie. This might manifest as a handwritten note acknowledging a special occasion or thoughtfully curated amenities for returning guests.

This level of attention resonates deeply with my own belief that exceptional travel experiences begin with understanding what matters most to each traveller. It's about creating moments that feel intentional and uniquely yours.

Local authenticity.

Each Maisons Pariente property stands as a reflection of its surroundings. The family takes great care to embed local culture and heritage into every aspect of their hotels, from architectural choices to culinary offerings.

Leslie's family's passion for art curation adds another layer of distinction. "Each one of our hotels is carefully curated, each detail has been thoroughly thought like the property was our own home," she shares. This artistic nod, combined with local partnerships, creates environments that feel both elevated and authentic.

The true meaning of luxury.

For Leslie, true luxury in hospitality lies in what she calls “the art of subtle attention” — the ability to anticipate needs without intrusion, creating environments where every detail matters and service feels seamless yet deeply personal.

“What will make our guests remember us, more than the absolute comfort of our rooms or the views of sublime surrounding landscapes, is the relationship our staff create with them,” she noted. “It's about creating emotions and memories that each guest will always cherish.”

This philosophy mirrors what I believe creates exceptional travel experiences: the understanding that luxury is found not just in lavish surroundings, but in the thoughtful curation of meaningful moments that remain long after the journey ends.

In a world where true luxury increasingly means personalisation, attention, and authenticity, collections like Maisons Pariente remind us that the most memorable experiences are those crafted with genuine care and understanding - a principle that also guides every journey I design for my clients.

The Maisons Pariente collection includes: Hotel Lou Pinet in Saint-Tropez, Hotel Crillon le Brave in Provence, Hotel Le Coucou in Méribel, and Hôtel Grand Mazarin in Paris.

Beyond the glass — The art of non-alcoholic hospitality at Adler Lodge Ritten

During my recent stay at Adler Lodge Ritten in South Tyrol, I discovered something unexpected that elevated the entire experience: their commitment to non-alcoholic beverages. As someone who probably identifies as sober curious, this refreshing approach to inclusive hospitality was another marker of their quiet luxury that I experienced during my stay.

A philosophy of inclusion.

There are two driving forces behind this focus as explained to me by Hannes Pignater – who recently hung up his apron working in the kitchen at the property and is now the Associate Director of Sales. Firstly, he has a personal passion for creating sophisticated alcohol-free options, and secondly, a practical reality of Italian culture — the country's strict penalties for drink driving have created a genuine need for high-quality alternatives.

What struck me most was the underlying philosophy. At Adler Lodge Ritten, choosing not to drink alcohol isn't treated as an exception requiring explanation. Instead, it's seamlessly integrated into the luxury experience. No one feels left out or needs to justify their choice — they're simply enjoying another facet of the hotel's thoughtful and personal touch.

Craftsmanship without compromise.

This commitment manifests in several thoughtful ways. Their mocktails aren't afterthoughts but carefully crafted experiences, presented in proper cocktail glassware with the same ceremony as their alcoholic counterparts. Ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible, celebrating the abundance of ingredients from South Tyrol.

The attention to detail extends to sensory experience. Many recipes incorporate ginger for a warming kick that mimics the sensation of alcohol, creating a complex and satisfying flavour. Throughout the day, guests can help themselves to an array of interesting soft drinks - sparkling teas, fruit infusions, and botanical blends that refresh and delight.

Even presentation reflects this dedication to equality. Several non-alcoholic options arrive in wine-style bottles, complete with corks and elegant labels. The visual and ceremonial aspects of uncorking and pouring remain intact, preserving the social ritual that often accompanies drinking.

Local ingredients, global inspiration.

A perfect example of their innovative approach is the "Bloody Roots" mocktail, which Hannes named after a song by his favourite Brazilian heavy metal band. This striking creation showcases a key regional ingredient: Feral no. 4 red beet - a fermented red beet drink infused with wild blueberries, lavender, and juniper berries.

Produced by a small company based in the nearby Dolomites, this non-alcoholic drink has a complex and interesting flavour. While delightful on its own (you could happily enjoy a glass or two as you would wine), it truly shines as a base for mocktails, lending earthy depth and subtle sweetness that transforms the drinking experience.

The future of hospitality.

What Hannes and Adler Lodge Ritten understands — is that true hospitality means everyone at the table feels equally valued. In an era where guests increasingly seek wellness-focused experiences without sacrificing pleasure, their approach represents the future of thoughtful service and I experienced this from every staff member throughout my stay.

Far from being a limitation, abstaining from alcohol at Adler Ritten introduces guests to a new world of flavours and sensations. It's a reminder that luxury isn't about conformity to traditional indulgences, but rather about exceptional experiences tailored to individual preferences.

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Bloody Roots: A taste of South Tyrol

Recipe graciously provided by Hannes Pignater at Adler Lodge Ritten

The deep crimson colour makes this mocktail as visually striking as it is flavourful - a perfect representation of Adler Ritten's commitment to elevating the non-alcoholic drinking experience.

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Ingredients

• 90 ml Feral no. 4 red beet drink

• 5 ml raspberry purée

• 2 ml fresh ginger juice

• 3 ml sugar syrup

• 2 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice

• Fresh thyme and juniper berries

• 2 ml egg white

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Method

1. Combine the Feral no. 4 red beet drink, raspberry purée, ginger juice, sugar syrup, lemon juice, thyme leaves, juniper berries and egg white in a cocktail shaker.

2. Add ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to properly incorporate the egg white and create a silky texture.

3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

4. Serve immediately to experience the complex earthy notes of the beet contrasted with the bright tang of raspberry and the subtle warmth of ginger.

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From fashion to hospitality — A conversation with Aby Saltiel of Kalesma Mykonos

The journey from dreaming to experiencing defines truly remarkable travel. During my recent conversation with Aby Saltiel, co-owner of the exquisite Kalesma Mykonos, I found someone who shares my passion for creating travel moments that resonate deeply with each guest's personal story.

The art of personal hospitality.

After 40 years in the fashion industry, Aby's transition to hospitality was born from his own experiences as a world traveller. “Because I travelled so much, I became a very difficult client. I was always finding little details which were missing,” he shared. “I dreamed of making a hotel the way I want a hotel to be.”

That dream materialised in Kalesma, set on a family property that Aby had spent many Summer holidays at — a piece of land with special energy, perfectly positioned to capture Mykonos' legendary sunsets.

Service beyond expectations.

What sets Kalesma apart is Aby's philosophy on service that extends beyond the property. “My philosophy is that if a client goes out and doesn't have a good time, it's still your fault, even if you didn't organise it,” he explains. This comprehensive approach to guest experience resonates deeply with my own commitment to creating seamless journeys for my clients.

The personal touch at Kalesma is unmistakable — Aby is present daily, connecting with guests and often reshaping their plans to ensure authentic experiences. We have a whole team that finds out what's new” he notes, emphasising how recommendations must stay current and trusted rather than relying on outdated advice.

His “alternative Mykonos” plans reveal hidden treasures: off-the-beaten-path restaurants, activities for families of all ages and glimpses of authentic island life. This season, they're even bringing in a local female artisan to demonstrate traditional looming — a 300-year-old craft — offering guests both cultural insight and the opportunity to commission bespoke pieces.

A personal travel philosophy.

Aby's approach to hospitality is influenced by his own travel philosophy: “The most important thing about travelling is being able to be flexible and to get what you pay for. You pay $100, I expect $100. I pay a $1,000, I expect a $1,000.”

Coming from a family that prioritised travel from an early age, Aby has carried this tradition to his own children. As a father of four, he ensures they travel not just as a family but that he also travels individually with each child, creating one-on-one memories. “It's beautiful to create memories for every kid, to give them personal attention,” he shares, recounting a month-long journey through the Far East with his son and an unplanned adventure with no real itinerary through Brazil with his daughter.

A destination within a destination.

Kalesma has evolved into what Aby calls “a destination in itself,” offering the exclusivity and service of a high end resort whilst also with the advantage of having everything Mykonos offers just minutes away. “I want to create a whole fantasy world for guests,” he explains, “but if clients just come and don't want to do anything, that's fine too.”

This balance of creating a haven of refined luxury while offering seamless access to authentic experiences beyond the hotel perfectly captures what truly memorable travel should be: personal, intentional, and meticulously attuned to each traveller’s unique desires.