Lydia Swinscoe
Lydia is a travel writer and solo travel expert, based mostly in London. Her work has been published in print and online for the likes of Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, BBC Travel, Harper's Bazaar, ELLE, Marie Claire, Oh magazine, The Evening Standard, and woman&home.
A solo trip to Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico aged 19 kickstarted her travel addiction and she's since gone on to explore parts of 60 countries, returning to many often. Solo travel is her speciality, and she's happiest when hunting out great food while wearing flip-flops, preferably somewhere hot. Her award-nominated blog Lydia Travels documents artistic intimate hotels and brilliant restaurants across the globe.
She began her career compiling fashion and beauty pages for teen magazines at the BBC where she interviewed and styled some of the world's biggest pop acts, from Taylor Swift and Demi Lovato to One Direction, before joining celebrity magazine Now, as Fashion and Beauty Director, and later Woman magazine as Lifestyle Director, overseeing all fashion, beauty, food and travel content. But it's travel that has been a constant passion throughout her 14-year career.
At 23, she quit her job and travelled out of a backpack for a year, living on just $26 (£20) a day. Of the 15 countries she visited, 13 were explored by land in a bid to cut her carbon footprint. Highlights from the trip include completing Nepal’s Annapurna Base Camp trek, a teaching by the Dalai Lama in the foothills of the Himalayas, sleeping on the world's largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, and being completely overwhelmed by the magnificent Iguazu Falls on the Argentina-Brazil border.
Latest articles by Lydia Swinscoe
-
Awe-inspiring places to spot incredible wildlife across the globe
Looking for an adventure with a difference? These stunning spots boast all manner of amazing animal-spotting opportunities
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The world’s most idyllic beaches - from the black sands of Iceland to Costa Rica's inspiring coast
Whether you’re into hiking, sunbathing or seeking out deserted coastal stretches, there’s a dreamy beach waiting to be explored
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
Where to catch the world's most beautiful sunsets
From the bohemian Chilean city of Valparaiso to India’s southernmost point, these sunset spots promise gloriously serene evening scenes
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The world's most beautiful buildings, from Colombo’s standout Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque to Ricardo Bofill’s vibrant La Muralla Roja
These photogenic structures will leave you spellbound
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The best-ever travel tips from travel editors, experts, influencers, and writers across the globe
32 tried and tested travel tips from people who travel for a living
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
32 tried and tested ways to improve your sleep
Having a hard time nodding off? These tips and tricks are here to help
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
32 foods high in Vitamin B, from crunchy hazelnuts and creamy pistachios to kale, lentils, and avocado
Add these foods to your diet to help boost brain function and up your energy levels
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The world’s best healthy holiday destinations, from wellness retreats to tranquil mountain escapes
Return home feeling calmer, well-rested, and with a renewed sense of joie de vivre
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
32 incredible foods to boost your immune system
From fresh ginger to citrus, here’s what to add to your plate for a healthier immune system
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The best climbing plants for adding depth, colour, and interest to your garden
From joyful bougainvillea to the heady scent of jasmine, these climbing plants will elevate your outdoor space instantly
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
Incredible film locations to inspire your next getaway - from the tropical landscapes of Sri Lanka to the deserts of Jordan
These inspiring destinations are begging to be explored...
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
Mesmerising castles you can actually stay in - from a tranquil Japanese retreat to the luxurious Irish lodge celebrities and artists flock to
Get the royal treatment in one of these impressive chateâus...
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The magical islands where celebrities and royals like to spend their downtime
In need of some holiday inspiration? These astonishing islands are sure to dazzle...
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
Healing spa towns across the globe for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation
From mineral water treatments to hot spring baths, these idyllic spots will help soothe your soul
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
32 alluring plants to liven up your garden - from cottage garden blooms to vibrant foliage
Whether you've got acres to landscape, or a compact patio these lively plants are sure to add interest
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The best indoor plants for your health and wellbeing, from mould-busting houseplants to aromatic herbs
Vibrant foliage, aromatic herbs, and intriguing blooms to enhance your home and wellbeing
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
33 places Princess Diana loved to spend time at - from Argentina’s remote Patagonia to her tropical Caribbean island hideaway
We revisit some of Princess Diana's favourite travel moments and the places she adored
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
Mallorca reimagined: Intriguing things to see and do on the beloved Balearic island
Be inspired by Mallorca's land and sea in an out-of-season sojourn
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
11 hidden gems in Europe for a unique, energizing and inspiring vacation
Whether you want to unwind, be immersed in breathtaking scenery, or eat your way through delightful dishes, these hidden gems in Europe provide it all…
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
Madrid vs Barcelona: Which Spanish city should you choose for the best tapas, culture, and stunning sights?
Having spent extended time in both cities, travel writer Lydia Swinscoe muses on the highlights of these two Spanish gems
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
I asked a Madrid resident where to get the best Spanish tortilla in the city, here’s what she told me…
Looking for the best tortillas in Marid? You’re going to want to listen up…
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
This is the most expensive rental on Airbnb, but what do you get for the £10k a night price tag?
Got £10k a night to spare? This is what it'll get you in the city of love...
By Lydia Swinscoe Published
-
The easiest countries to work abroad in, whatever your age: 10 best destinations for remote workers
These are the easiest countries to work abroad in, whatever your age, according to travel writer Lydia Swinscoe, who’s been living and working nomadically for over three years
By Lydia Swinscoe Last updated
-
The best UK staycations 2023: Discover cosmopolitan cities, coastal walks, and innovative dining
Forgo flying to make the most of the best UK staycations for 2023
By Lydia Swinscoe Last updated