Chantal Strasburger

Thirst Trap \ˈthərst træp\ n.: A social media post intended to elicit sexual attention, appreciation of one’s attractiveness, or other positive feedback. My earliest attempt at a “thirst trap” (my “first trap,” if you will) took place in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon in 2014. I did not know it was called a thirst trap at the time, as the term had not yet entered my lexicon—though apparently it was first defined by Urban Dictionary in 2011.

My one goal in life is to be the kind of person who boards an international flight with exactly one tiny tote bag in tow. Partly to witness the strangers whose mouths I’d leave agape with wonder as to what kind of mysterious, zero-belongings life I lead, but mostly because I hate luggage.

The Cotswolds, an 800-square-mile stretch of rolling English countryside, has always been charming and picturesque, but with an influx of new places to eat, shop, and stay—even Soho House has moved in—the area can now also officially be considered cool. Head to the hills (or “wolds”) for a romantic weekend, family-friendly farm adventure, or marathon antiquing spree. But first, read on for our list of the best fire-lit pubs, idyllic gardens, and cozy-chic inns.