Take me there
Why do battle with Christmas crowds on the high street when you could be picking up exotic handmade gifts in the medieval souks of balmy Marrakech? Tour operator Specialist Morocco (020 7193 2461; specialistmorocco.com) has put together a shopping package for £299pp which includes three nights' half-board accommodation in the Riad Africa and the services of a personal shopper who'll help you navigate the labyrinthine medina. After a hard day's haggling for slippers, lanterns and spices, return to the riad for a massage in the hammam or soak up some winter sun on the roof terrace. Easyjet has return Gatwick-Marrakech flights from £62.
Travel clinic
The dilemma I've been with my girlfriend for three months and want to take her away for a weekend. She's dropped hints about Babington House, but this is way out of my price range. James, Farnborough
Ah, the first mini-break: few romantic milestones are more loaded with the potential for heartbreak. Rather than blowing the budget on a posh country house, play it low key. There are some great new country inns which offer all the style and service of a five-star hotel but without the stuffiness or the price tag. A room in Babington will set you back at least £300, but at the Archangel (archangelfrome.com) in nearby Frome you'll get similar flair and attention to detail – think funky wall murals, zinc roll-top baths and top-notch toiletries – for a third of the price (doubles from £120). A lively programme of music and cocktail nights attracts a young crowd, and the food is fabulous. In Wiltshire the Beckford Arms (beckfordarms.com) offers even better value, with rooms from £95. It's co-owned by a former director of Babington (the next best thing to staying there, surely?), so you'll get the trademark blend of laid-back cool and gorgeous country setting and still have funds left to splash out on a bottle of champagne.
If you have a travel dilemma, email Joanne O'Connor at magazine@observer.co.uk. For more travel suggestions, go to guardian.co.uk/travel
Three of the best: UK winter ice rinks
The run-up to Christmas wouldn't be complete without the chance to cut a dash (or show yourself up) at an open-air ice rink. Here are three in the most memorable locations
1. Royal Pavilion, Brighton Incomparable Regency backdrop. Mulled wine and fondue at the Alpine café. Adults £9.50, children £6.50. Until 22 Jan (royalpavilionicerink.co.uk)
2. East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh One of Europe's largest open-air rinks. Live entertainment, too. Adults £8.50, children £6. Until 4 Jan (edinburghschristmas.com)
3. Somerset House, London Club nights, cocktails, champagne on ice: skating doesn't get sexier than this. From £7.50. Until 22 Jan (somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rink)
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