Leo, a travel consultant with 16 years of expertise, has visited Istanbul twice and fallen in love with its cultural richness. He enjoys the city’s unique mix of arts, architecture, local life, and culinary heritage.

Stay in Sultanahmet for easy access to major landmarks. Don’t miss the Egyptian Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar for souvenirs like carpets, lamps, and baklava—use your haggling skills for the best deals!

Nelly has been in the travel industry for 25 years. She recently enjoyed the ‘Balkans Adventure’ with TravelMarvel River Cruise, discovering the beauty of the Balkans along the Danube. She admired Budapest's Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Iron Gates.

Visit in spring or autumn for mild weather, explore Transylvania's Bran Castle, and try Romanian cabbage rolls. Use the Bolt taxi app and check out Budapest Market.

Chelsea has 14 years’ experience in the travel industry and recently travelled to Lapland, starting in Helsinki and journeying to Kirkenes. She recommends visiting from December to March for a winter wonderland experience, with chances to see the Northern Lights. Must-do activities include dog sledding at Bear Hill Lodge and Arctic ice floating from Kemi.

Try reindeer meat and Arctic char; stay in an Aurora cabin; pack quality thermals and waterproof boots. Base yourself at Northern Lights Village for diverse activities and consider extending your trip with the ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ rail journey and a Hurtigruten voyage. Adventure World specialises in curating Nordic experiences.

With 28 years in the travel industry, Cindy's favourite destinations are Canada and Alaska. She cherishes her memories of The Rocky Mountaineer and the pristine beauty of Alaska’s Inside Passage cruise. Highlights include the wildlife, isolated coastal towns, and stunning scenery.

Visit Grouse Mountain in Vancouver to see grizzly bears. Book shore excursions in advance and use smartphone audio tours. Best time to visit: May to October. Must-try seafood: halibut and king crab. Book our recommended suppliers, APT and Rocky Mountaineer, with Travel Club by Travel and Leisure.

A Japan expert with 10 years of experience living and working there, Vanessa delights in Kyushu Island. She recommends visiting Takachiho Gorge, formed by Mt. Aso’s volcanic activity, with its dragon-scale walls and Minainotaki Falls and renting a boat for the best view.

Enjoy somen noodles from bamboo strips at stream-side noodle shops. Don’t miss the sea of clouds from Kunimigaoka in autumn and winter. Experience Yokagura, an all-night dance and music performance in Takachiho City from mid-November to February.

With 27 years in the travel industry, Leanne recently enjoyed a luxury small ship coastal Kimberley cruise with APT and Ponant. The 10-night cruise from Broome to Darwin featured hot dry weather, flowing waterfalls, and active wildlife. Highlights included stories shared from the expedition team, Zodiac trips to see sacred rock art, and delicious food and entertainment.

Visit from May to August for gorgeous weather, clear skies, and stunning sunsets. Book our recommended suppliers, APT and Travelmarvel, with Travel Club by Travel and Leisure.

Karina has been in the travel industry for over 2 years. A Disney enthusiast, she encourages travellers to stay at Disneyland Resort Anaheim for early park entry, crucial for popular rides like Rise of the Resistance and Radiator Springs Racers.

She recommends booking a 3-day Park Pass with Lightning Lane Multi Pass and unlimited photos, and trying the Walt’s Main Street tour. She recommends visiting during special events like Pixar Fest, Halloween, or Christmas for extra magic.