The converted Edwardian mansion has nine rooms and a long history. For Christmas the Beaconsfield hosts an Old Fashioned Christmas special including two nights, dinner and tickets to local attractions.

In a country as blindingly bright and scorching hot as Malta, a place of coolness, quiet, and retreat is essential. Writer Krista Bjorn found such a spot at the Knights of Malta Bed and Breakfast in the small town of Naxxar.

Though she arrived six hours late and in the middle on the night, Krista Bjorn was waited on hand and foot at the 20-room boutique Hotel Baron.

Tucked away in a corner of the Fijian island of Viti Levu, the Sonaisali Island Resort feels world’s away.