Harriet Sime

1 week ago | dailymail.co.uk | Hattie Sime |Harriet Sime

‘We are looking forward to welcoming you!,’ the WhatsApp message pinged unexpectedly some 24 hours before our arrival at Four Seasons Madrid. It was from Claudia, part of the hotel’s guest experience team, checking on our arrival time and offering us assistance with taxis and hotel and spa reservations. Our requests were simple - an early check in, if possible. Which, of course, was granted when we walk through the elaborate doors staffed by men in three piece check suits and top hats the next day.

Feb 24, 2025 | dailymail.co.uk | Hattie Sime |Harriet Sime

Sunday morning and old men in sun-faded gilets are gesticulating at Bar Centrale while sipping on espressos. Outside, elderly women in colourful aprons push aside shutters on iron balconies as the early sun bathes the medieval streets. I'm in Lari, a tiny village known for its castles and craft pasta in the rolling Tuscan hills, 25 minutes east of Pisa.