24 December 2023

Thirteen years later, I'm back in Sydney, and it's like reconnecting with an old friend - some things have changed, but the love is still strong! Here are 5 fun changes that caught my eye since I was last here: 1. Skyline Glam: Sydney's skyline has gone full glam with shiny new skyscrapers, giving the city a trendy makeover. 2 Smooth Moves: Getting around has become a breeze, thanks to the Sydney Metro and upgraded transport. No more traffic nightmares! 3 Nom-Nom Revolution: The food scene has gone wild with delicious options from around the globe. Sydney, you've become a foodie's paradise! 4 Eco-Friendly Vibes: Sydney's gone green, embracing sustainability like a champ. Mother Earth approves! 5 Culture Explosion: Art and culture are popping with festivals, galleries, and shows that'll make your heart sing. I also fondly reminisce about the years I spent living on Scotland Island in Pittwater, a slice of paradise that will forever hold a special place in my heart. The tranquil waters, untouched nature, and close-knit community made it a unique and cherished home. This Christmas, being back in Sydney to celebrate with my mum means the world to me. It's a reminder of the importance of family, the enduring beauty of this city, and the joy of revisiting cherished memories. Sydney, then and now, is a testament to the city's ability to evolve while preserving its unique character and charm. Here's to the past, present, and future of this incredible city! Merry Christmas everybody xxx

24 December 2023

I recently flew into Singapore, on a stopover, and it is safe to say that customs procedures have taken a significant leap into the digital age. Gone are the days of sitting on the plane filling out arrival cards. Instead, travellers are now greeted with QR codes to complete before disembarking. While it is undoubtedly a step forward in terms of efficiency and reducing paper waste, after a long flight, it can seem somewhat tiresome and may lead to minor delays upon arrival. Nevertheless, it is a sign of Singapore's commitment to modernisation and streamlining processes for travellers. Choosing a hotel in Singapore for my recent trip was all about convenience and comfort, and Changi Cove Hotel fit the bill perfectly. My priority was proximity to the airport, as I had a late arrival and an early departure. I have often found myself in similar situations, and while many airport hotels in Singapore are indeed luxurious 5-star properties, I did not want to splurge on an overnight stay. Changi Cove Hotel offered the best of both worlds. It is just a 20 min taxi ride from Changi Airport, making it incredibly convenient for weary travellers like me. The short commute allowed me to maximise my rest while still ensuring I did not miss my flight. What truly sets Changi Cove Hotel apart is its unique character. The hotel encourages guests to unleash their creativity by doodling on the walls in designated spaces. It is an unexpected and delightful touch that adds a touch of personalisation to your stay. Whether you are an artist at heart or just want to leave your mark, it is a fun way to engage with your surroundings. Or if you need to expend some frustration due to not following one of my travel tips (see travel tip 1 below). But what truly stood out during my stay was the exceptional staff. They were not only friendly and welcoming but also incredibly accommodating. Their genuine care for guests made my short stay even more pleasant. In a city known for its extravagant accommodations, Changi Cove Hotel offers a refreshing alternative for those who value convenience and a personal touch without breaking the bank. So, if you find yourself in a similar situation of late arrivals and early departures, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Changi Cove Hotel a try. It is a charming and cost-effective choice that does not compromise on comfort. My 5 Tips when travelling to Singapore: 1. Prepare Customs Entry: Before arriving in Singapore, it is a great idea to download the SG Arrival Card and complete the required information. This includes your health declaration and contact details. Doing this ahead of time will help streamline the customs process upon arrival, allowing you to pass through customs smoothly. #SingaporeCustoms #SGArrivalCard 2. Changi Airport: A Marvel: Singapore's Changi Airport is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world, and for good reason. It offers a range of attractions, including gardens, movie theatres, a rooftop pool, and even a butterfly garden. If you have a layover, consider exploring the airport itself – it is an experience in its own right. #ChangiAirport #AirportExperience 3. Use Public Transport: Singapore's public transportation system is efficient, clean, and well-connected. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is a convenient way to get around the city. Purchase an EZ-Link card or a Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited rides during your stay. #PublicTransport #MRT 4. Respect Local Customs: Singapore is known for its strict laws and regulations. Remember to be respectful of local customs, including rules against littering, chewing gum in public, and smoking in restricted areas. Familiarise yourself with these rules to avoid any fines. #SingaporeRules #RespectLocalLaws 5. Explore the Neighbourhoods: Singapore is a diverse city with many unique neighbourhoods to explore. From the vibrant culture of Chinatown and the bustling streets of Little India to the futuristic Marina Bay Sands area, each district has its own charm and attractions. Do not limit yourself to just one part of the city; explore as much as you can. #SingaporeNeighborhoods #ExploreSG. Visiting Singapore whether for a holiday or a stopover, is an amazing experience, and with a bit of preparation and knowledge, you can make the most of your trip while enjoying the warm hospitality and modern amenities the city has to offer. #VisitSingapore #TravelTips

21 February 2023

Exploring the Wonders of the World is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that no traveller should miss. From the majestic Great Wall of China to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, the world is full of incredible sights and amazing experiences. As a Premier Travel Agent & World Bucket List Travel Planner, I’ve had the opportunity to experience some of the world’s most incredible places and I’m here to share my insights with you. First, let’s start with the Great Wall of China. Stretching over 13,000 miles, the wall is an incredible engineering feat that has stood the test of time. From the top, you’ll have stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Not only that, but you can also explore the many towers and watchtowers along the wall, which will give you a further appreciation of the scale of this fantastic structure. Next, let’s explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, this incredible site is one of the most iconic ancient sites in the world. From the unique stone structures to the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, you’ll be in awe of this incredible site. Finally, take a trip to the Taj Mahal in India. This majestic marble mausoleum is one of the most beautiful structures in the world and is truly a must-see for any traveller. From the intricate marble inlays to the stunning gardens and courtyards, the Taj Mahal is a site that will take your breath away. No matter where you go, exploring the Wonders of the World is an unforgettable experience. These incredible sites, from the Great Wall of China to the Taj Mahal, will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Let's start planning your next trip today!

01 November 2022

Unsure of which jet suits your requirements? That is where I can help. I have held various roles with Jet operators and brokers both in Australia and the UK. I have a wealth of experience and will work closely with you to establish the most cost-effective solution tailored to your specific trip requirements. Do you want to take your dog on holiday? I can help with this too. Dogs play a huge role in the lives of a lot of families and why not give them the VIP treatment they deserve? Let me talk with you and find out your exact requirements. Simply tell me where you are going, how many are travelling, and an idea of your budget and I will do the rest. I pride myself on building long-lasting relationships with my clients and understand that success in this business is all about trust and transparency. The impact of the global pandemic has changed the way people travel and more and more people are turning to private jet charter for both business and leisure. I look forward to curating your bespoke holiday. Need some idea's on Luxury Villa's? I can help with that too. With us...it's personal!

01 June 2022

There are so many choices of destination when you are going on holiday. The main questions are how big is your budget, what sorts of things do you and your family love doing, and are you travelling domestically or internationally? Ask any traveller, and they will have numerous suggestions, but here are 5 top-rated places to go that should suit every taste and budget. The overseas suggestions will be worth a visit no matter what the exchange rate. 1. Singapore This is a fantastic island-country and city with the best food in the world at the most affordable prices. The accommodation ranges from tourist to five stars, all at affordable prices. There’s so much to do that you won’t be spending time in your room. The public transportation is superb, so you can get anywhere you need to go. Buy a travel pass when you arrive at Changi airport and head out for adventure. The tourist buses called "ducks" will take you around every attraction in the city centre plus onto the river. Ask me about the 'Explore Singapore on a 1-hour duck tour’, which allows you to see city sights by both land and water. On ‘the duck,’ an amphibious military vehicle that was refurbished from World War II, you will drive around the city to check out attractions like the Fountain of Wealth and Singapore Flyer. Then hit the water to cruise past landmarks like the Merlion, Singapore’s famous statue that sits where the Singapore River meets Marina Bay. Everyone speaks English, and the British influence is still strong. Try the chocolate buffet at the Fullerton Hotel on Saturdays and the original Singapore sling at the world-famous Raffles bar. Even the height of luxury is affordable in this paradise. 2. New Zealand - North Island and South Island New Zealand (‘Aotearoa’ in Maori) is an island country in the South Pacific Ocean. It has two main islands, North Island and South Island. It has a diverse environment including mountain ranges, lakes, rivers, and a long coastline of sandy beaches. You will usually fly into Auckland on the North Island and branch out from there. For those who love the tropics, head north to the beautiful Bay of Islands for a beach holiday. If you want a spa holiday, head to the middle of the island, Rotorua. Are you a fan of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit? Head to Wellington on the North Island for tours of many of the locations used. If you love skiing, head for Queenstown on the South Island to ski the Remarkables, filmed so lovingly in the movies just mentioned. At Travel Counsellors, we collaborate with direct suppliers who are experts in New Zealand. For those wanting to see the main highlights of New Zealand, but also get a bit off the beaten track, why not let me show you the 14-day North to South Discovery. This is the perfect itinerary, to see as much as you can within two weeks. Are you looking for a Honeymoon idea, then why not combine New Zealand and Fiji? Having travelled to both, I can recommend some amazing places. 3. Ireland Ireland is full of fun, food, and fabulous attractions. Air Lingus flies to Shannon from Birmingham, Heathrow, Edinburgh, and Manchester. If the budget allows, why not get a few friends together and hire a private jet for a long weekend. Speak to me about different options, you will be surprised at how affordable it is and you don't waste all your time at the airports, going through security. Your weekend away starts the moment you arrive at your private aircraft facility. Ireland is full of castles, un-spoilt nature, and seafood and everyone is very friendly. Dublin caters to tourists, so it does not have the real Irish feel of Cork or Galway, but it does have a fantastic number of attractions, including Trinity College and the two cathedrals. 4. Portland Oregon This is a family-friendly city with lots to do and superb public transport. It is also the gateway to all sorts of scenic locations, including the glacier Mt. Hood, where the ski season never ends. If you are looking for downhill or cross-country skiing, the best time to go is between Jan and March when there is more likely to be snow at all elevations. However, some of the Mt Hood ski resorts are at a high enough elevation that you can even find snow in the summer. The variety of restaurants is as good as New York City, but for a fraction of the price. Don’t miss Powell’s City of Books - the largest bookstore in the world and occupies an entire city block on busy West Burnside. 5. Walt Disney World Resort - Florida Walt Disney World Resort in Florida – make dreams come true! – Magic Kingdom Park-Disney’s Hollywood Studios-A State of The Art Sports Complex and countless opportunities for dining, shopping, recreation, and relaxation. It is easy to see why Walt Disney Resort is the holiday of your dreams. https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/Offers/Easter-2023-in-Florida Contact me to make these dreams come true- just like magic - Email: samantha.hazelgrove@travelcounsellors.com