Welcome to ‘Handcrafted by Travel Counsellors’, a taste of the immersive destinations and experiences currently piquing our interest.
You’ll have your trusty favourites already – those places you can relax straight into – but if you’re also hungry to explore beyond your norm, discover different cultures or (re)awaken your sense of curiosity, the blogs below are for you. These holidays will open your eyes, change your perspective, and leave you feeling all the richer for it. We hope you enjoy these ideas and they whet your appetite for your next holiday! All of these holidays can be handcrafted to your tastes.
Your personal Travel Counsellor will bring their consideration and expertise, help shape your ideas and fulfil your travel plans according to your unique tastes and wishes. If you are yet to enjoy the benefits of booking with a Travel Counsellor, simply click on the 'Find your Travel Counsellor' black button.
Explore Australia in 13 days, from the serene Blue Mountains to vibrant Sydney and the tropical Whitsundays. Unwind in an eco-retreat, soak up Sydney’s iconic harbour lifestyle, and sail the Great Barrier Reef’s pristine islands, including Whitehaven Beach.
Are you looking for an Australian trip that fuses rugged landscapes, rich Indigenous culture, and exclusive experiences? Take a look at this thoughtfully crafted journey, an ideal choice if you're looking for an alternative to Australia's Golden Triangle.
Greek island hopping has rarely been so popular, with the Aegean archipelago in particular playing host to iconic locations. One of the best ways to discover the region is on a cruise and, even if you don’t consider yourself a ‘cruise’ person, it’s worth exploring for the ease, convenience and value of all-inclusive travel.
Puglia is known for its striking variety and beauty. You’ll find rolling hills dotted with farms, olive groves, and dry-stone walls, and villages rich in history. This itinerary features three diverse locations and you’ll be driven between them all – there are vineyards to explore after all!
From the Riviera’s shimmering coastlines to the earthy richness of Provence, this road trip is designed to connect you to the soul of southern France. Drive from Nice along the riviera before heading inland to explore the areas around two of Provence’s big hitters, Aix-en-Provence and Avignon.
Thailand invites you to explore its rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality on this extensive 19-night itinerary. You’ll also stay at the remarkable Elephant Hills, where there is a profound sense of respect for Thailand's wildlife. Picture yourself in rainforest as you observe elephants in their natural environment.
If you’re looking for a trip to Australia that combines the best of city life and private island indulgence, this is a good place to start. It explores two of the world’s most dynamic cities – Sydney and Melbourne - before transporting you to an exclusive island retreat in the Whitsundays.
If you really want to throw yourself into Thailand’s culture, cooking and crafts, then look no further. We can take you to parts of Bangkok to meet artisans in their workshops, or guide you around a neighbourhood little-visited by tourists, where colourful street art and hidden coffee shops are thriving. You can travel by eco-conscious transport, learn from guides who elevate the richness of travel, and stay in luxurious hotels along the way.
Covering just 0.03% of Earth’s landmass, but home to 6% of its biodiversity, Costa Rica is a dream destination if you love being surrounded by nature. Engage with local communities, learn about their traditions, and support conservation efforts while immersing yourself in Costa Rica’s natural beauty. This journey has been developed with the support of sustainable tourism charity, the Travel Foundation.
This small Southeast Asian country has history, culture and wildlife to rival its illustrious neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam. Delve into its rich past at the temples of Angkor while staying in vibrant Siem Reap. Slow down and marvel at ancient rainforests teeming with life. And see how Phnom Penh has developed into a bustling and brilliant metropolis.
South Africa ticks all the safari boxes. Epic game drives. Waterhole sundowners. Vast, untouched landscapes. But Grootbos Private Nature Reserve offers you something way beyond the usual. This incredible reserve, set over 3500 acres, has been an ecotourism pioneer since it started as a simple B&B back in 1991. Today, it’s a byword for understated luxury and, quite simply, this is somewhere you’re guaranteed to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Hot off the back of news that Gary Barlow’s Wine Tour: South Africa is gracing our screens this month on ITV, we thought we’d take a look at the very best wine experiences in the country. From an iconic tram ride through vineyards to a pinotage history lesson, we’ve outlined six of the best things to do around the fabled Winelands region near Cape Town.
Yellowstone is one of the most famous national parks in the USA. It’s loved for its spectacular and unique scenery, which embraces everything from volcanic features to shimmering glaciers. Immerse yourself in the spirit of classic Americana with breathtaking nature and a stunning ranch hotel. The air is crisp, the landscapes are awe-inspiring, and the possibilities for exploration are endless.
Can India cut it in the luxury stakes?
When it comes to the Golden Triangle, we can handcraft an itinerary packed full of experiences, insider knowledge and stays at some of the world’s leading hotels. Leah Spellman, Relationship Manager here at Travel Counsellors, has just returned from a luxury tour of India and tells us more.
Yellowstone is one of the most famous national parks in the USA. It’s loved for its spectacular and unique scenery, which embraces everything from volcanic features to shimmering glaciers. Immerse yourself in the spirit of classic Americana with breathtaking nature and a stunning ranch hotel. The air is crisp, the landscapes are awe-inspiring, and the possibilities for exploration are endless.
This journey not only showcases India’s rich cultural tapestry but also offers an opportunity to slow down and savour the simple pleasures of life along the Goan coast. With a mix of vibrant city exploration and tranquil beach time, this tour offers a well-rounded and enriching experience of India’s diverse landscapes and histories.
From epic overwater villas and boutique resorts to remote island escapes, we're diving into the details of the properties who have earned their place on The World’s 50 Best Hotels in 2024 list.
