Just Landed – February’s new arrivals

You made it through January and now winter’s almost over… that deserves a holiday – we don’t make the rules February’s new arrivals have just landed and this month is all about fresh stays in your fave places. The category is boujie boutique, from retro realness in Rome to modern rooftop vibes in New York. If you’re seeking sunshine over city scenes, our hot new stay in Crete is all yours.   

Let’s get into it… here’s what’s shiny and new this February.  

La dolce vita is so on in Rome…   

Spring is around the corner and this kitschy stay is the ideal setting for seeing in the season. Mama Shelter Roma is giving cottage core, from the gingham tablecloths and stripy, fringed parasols to the flower-print armchairs. Florals in spring? Groundbreaking… IYKYK. There’s a real family energy here and it’ll feel like you’re visiting the Italian nonna you never had. Sip a spritz in the leafy garden, eat homemade tiramisu in the restaurant and soak up the Vatican views from the rooftop. For a closer look, head out the front door and you’ll be right in the city centre, only a few streets over from the world’s smallest state’s walls. Ticking off St Peter’s Square, the Basilica and the Sistine Chapel is super easy, then you can either walk or take the metro to explore the rest of the city. Rome is notorious for getting your steps in, so the spa centre and indoor pool back at the hotel will be your best friends after a full day of sightseeing.  

… and in Florence 

February loves an iconic Italian city. Florence – or Firenze if you want to score points with the locals – is like staying in a mega art gallery. Sculptures sit on basically every street and the architecture is all about that Renaissance aesthetic, like the dreamy Duomo Cathedral. Room Mate Luca is perfectly placed to make the most of it all – its Old Town postcode puts you 15 minutes’ walk from Piazza del Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery, home to Botticelli’s masterpieces. This 19th-century stay didn’t miss out on the grand memo – everything about it serves old-world charm. We’re talking classical pillars, tiled floors and high-ceiling rooms filled with plush furniture. You’ll be out and about most of the time, ofc, but you’ve got the essentials here like a breakfast room and a bar. They might be simple but the style deffo isn’t – think bold wallpaper, luxe fabrics and rich pops of colour. This would’ve been Michelangelo’s pick.  

Enter your Wolf of Wall Street era in New York…  

Pack your fave blazer and channel your inner finance bro at this stay in the heart of New York’s Financial District. Hotel Indigo is right on Wall Street, but its lore goes way deeper… the historic building stands on the site of Tontine Coffee House, AKA the city’s original stock exchange. The modern hotel that’s taken its spot is super sleek but still nods to the area’s legacy, like the moody speakeasy bar that’s all dark wood and prohibition-era furniture. It’s a similar story in the rooms, where there’s a stylish combo of metal and clean marble surfaces. Plus, you’ll get an epic view of the neighbouring high rises from your window. If you’re embracing the business babe life, there’s also a café that’s perfect for working in. Then, once you’ve clocked off, head up to the rooftop bar and look out over Lower Manhattan with a cocktail. It’s called balance.  

Make your Greek island summer happen in Crete… minus the screaming kids 

Noble Hotel Suites Adults Only really wants you to know that this is a safe space with strictly no kids allowed… you’re welcome. The sophisticated vibes would be wasted on them, anyway – only grown-ups can appreciate the beachy-boho bar, the zen spa centre and the fresh, local food served up at the gourmet All Inclusive buffet. The peaceful lagoon-style pool features in-water loungers and palm tree islands, although even without little ones around, we can’t promise there won’t be any splashing or underwater handstands going on… but you could always upgrade to a deluxe swim-up suite if you want to practise yours in your own pool. Or, switch up the swim settings at the sandy beach – it’s only a 15-minute stroll away and the village’s pretty harbour is even closer. They’re both in the modern part of Gouves, plus you’re within walking distance of the whitewashed old town if you want that classic Greek look. Think winding alleys, domed churches and family-run tavernas.  

Stay in the loop about the latest arrivals on our New to First Choice page.  

Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.  

Author: Daisy Colley (she/her)

Last updated: 21/02/2025