Features Writer · Brighton

Sophie Clarke

Writes seasonal escapes, cruises and romantic breaks.

Sophie covers seasonal travel, cruises and special-occasion holidays.

Latest from Sophie

Two travellers checking a phone beside a basement entrance on a Beyoğlu street near Istanbul gay bars

Holiday News

Istanbul gay bars after police raids: what travellers should know

Reports of ID checks and closures raise practical questions for LGBTQ+ visitors, even as parts of Istanbul’s nightlife continue.

8 October 2026 · 5 min read

Two travellers exploring Scotland by bus look through a window towards Loch Leven and steep mountain slopes.

Where to Go

Scotland by bus: scenic routes worth planning a holiday around

From west-coast beaches to island distilleries, Scotland’s local buses can make the journey part of your holiday — provided you plan the return first.

8 October 2026 · 5 min read