31 October 2023

I’ve recently returned from a magical stay at Meneghetti hotel in Croatia and simply had to share with you how smitten I am! Nestled in the Istrian countryside among centuries-old cypress trees, vineyards and olive groves you’ll find this unique Relais & Chateaux property. Offering a mix of hotel rooms, residences and villas, many with private pools, there are accommodation options to suit everyone from solos, couples, families and larger groups. The restaurant here is Michelin recommended and offers a modern interpretation of traditional Mediterranean cuisine using fresh local ingredients, many of which are sourced from the hotel’s own gardens. Locally sourced olives and truffles are a speciality. I’d go back here for the food alone, but there’s so much more besides. The hotel has two outdoor and one indoor swimming pools, but if you’d prefer a dip in the sea it is less than 2km from Croatia’s turquoise coast. There’s a beach shuttle service or you can walk/cycle if preferred. A boho beach club complete with bar and sunloungers on the water’s edge awaits. The winery on site produces over 100,000 bottles of wine every year and there is ample opportunity for wine tasting (I can confirm it is divine!), tours of the vineyards and wine making process. The olive oil produced on site is also recognised as among the world’s finest and is utterly delicious. I can’t imagine a better place for celebrating a special occasion, and the site can host a range of events such as birthday or anniversary celebrations, weddings and even corporate meetings. It's impossible to convey adequately in words all the things that make this hotel so special, it pleases all senses. The area smells blissfully of herbs, pine trees and olives and the soft light bathes everything in a glorious warm glow. The staff are genuinely friendly and welcoming, and the service is exemplary and discreet. As an idea of cost, a three night weekend break at Meneghetti on Fri 05 July 2024 from Gatwick is from £1,125 per person based on two sharing a Vintage Room, B&B (at time of writing, Oct 2023). I stayed at Meneghetti on a short weekend break and twinned it with a stay in charming Rovinj town nearby on the coast. It also lends itself well to a twin centre with nearby Venice, or incorporated into a longer itinerary exploring more of Croatia, Italy or Slovenia. In Rovinj I stayed at adult only Monte Mulini hotel, which is a short walk from the narrow cobbled streets of Rovinj old town and perfect for exploring the local area. Monte Mulini has a gorgeous beach area and a host of pools. Rovinj is known as the ‘pearl’ of the Istrian peninsula. Its Venetian old town contains a treasure trove of artisan workshops, eateries and boutiques. Fine dining restaurants are tucked away next to chic lounge bars and gelato shops lining the waterfront. The backdrop is one of dense pine trees, interspersed with pristine coves for swimming.

05 June 2023

For the next country to tick off the itinerary we docked at Acajutla in El Salvador, where a guided tour to see local churches was on offer, but I decided to take the local transfer bus to go and explore independently, seeing a couple of stops in Acajutla including a nice sandy beach area. I was received so warmly wherever I went in El Salvador, and even had a chance to try the refreshing local beer and stock up on coffee to take home with me. It is here that the ship’s helicopter took to the skies, whizzing passengers over El Salvador’s fascinating landscapes and azure coastline. One of my favourite stops was next, docking at Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala, where we had the opportunity to summit Pacaya, an active complex volcano. The views from our hike were resplendent, and a real highlight of the trip. Guatemala has 37 volcanoes in total, so by climbing one you get to witness for yourself just how many there are in the surrounding area- every vista has a volcano- some of which are erupting with smoke and fiery red lava! We were yet again shown the most incredible hospitality here at every turn, such a warm, welcoming country and one I would love to return to again. Others on the cruise chose to visit the picture perfect town of Antigua 1500m above sea level, once the city’s colourful colonial capital with bougainvillea draped buildings clustered around stunning bright courtyards and squares. Saying farewell to Guatemala we next arrived into the port of Huatulco in Mexico, home to a rich and varied heritage of indigenous groups where the local National Park has 300 bird species and 87 types of amphibian and reptile flourish in the unique ecosystem. Excursions here included a boat trip through silent mangroves looking for crocodiles, or a visit to a coffee plantation to hear all about this important produce from the area. Our penultimate port of call was at the buzzy seaside resort of Puerto Vallarta, a beach destination backed by the Sierra Madre mountains, made famous for the publicity around Elizabeth Taylor’s affair with Richard Burton while filming in Banderas Bay, putting it firmly on the map in the sixties. Here we visited local taco restaurants and dipped into the local markets and shops along the pedestrianised Malecon, a waterfront walkway that’s the heart and soul of the city where musicians and street artists play alongside stall vendors, lively bars and restaurants. Travelling onwards north into the Sea of Cortez we had the excitement of seeing whales breach and play as well as devil rays doing backflips out of the water in incredible ariel displays. The final stop was dropping anchor just off Isla Cerralvo, or Isla Jacques Cousteau, an island located off the Mexican Baja California Sur. Above the water line here the dry landscape is very barren and with sparse spiny cacti. However, under the water life flourishes. Virtually all local marine life must migrate past the island, and the water visibility goes up to 30 meters making it a prime location for snorkelling- I spent an hour or so admiring the richness of marine life here, especially the vivid puffer fish, who were ubiquitous. From Baja we had a short flight up to Los Angeles for one final night on land, staying at the classy SLS hotel in Beverley Hills. I was enamoured with LA- from the moment we approached the city it was like being immersed in the movies. From the swish shops in Beverly Hills to the skateboarders at Venice Beach to the wide sands of Santa Monica I soaked it all up in 24 hours and it’s a city I look forward to revisiting. I could say as much about my time at sea, sailing along in the sunshine, as I could about the places we stopped. The sea life in this region is varied and spectacular, so vast pods of dolphins accompanied us alongside the ship daily. Whales joined us as we got further north, breaching and feeding, so the ship stopped to allow us time to watch at a respectful distance. Flying fish and leaping devil rays wowed with acrobatics above the water and large turtles regularly stopped to bob by the ship. Sea birds accompanied our progress, and there was never a dull moment as the scenery slipped by seamlessly, always stunning and ever changing. There were plenty of places to relax on the ship, from the hot tubs and sun deck on top deck to the refreshing plunge pool outside the spa area. I indulged in daily yoga or stretching classes, and topped up my training for the London marathon in the ship’s gym, where dolphins leapt and played in the waters outside the window as I ticked off the miles on the treadmill. This has to be the best view of any gym in the world, surely? There were daily seminars discussing the history, wildlife and vegetation of the areas we travelled through, as well as performances from the talented on board singers and entertainers. My favourite memories from the cruise will be sitting on my private balcony in the sunshine having breakfast whilst rainforest views slid by and dolphins played alongside the ship in bright turquoise waters, shoals of flying fish glittering in the morning light. The views of Guatemala from the summit of the volcano, and the chilled beach vibes in Mexico were also highlights. I loved watching the climate, flora and fauna change as we sailed north along the coast. From the humidity and thickness of the lush green tropical rainforest in Panama and Costa Rica to the volcanoes of Guatemala to the barren parched earth of Jacques Cousteau Island. Spending time on Scenic Eclipse, this very special ship, was a dream. The sight of her brought tears to our eyes as we approached to dock from the zodiacs, she is the most beautiful sight to behold and turns heads wherever she goes. If you’re looking to experience a cruise like no other and want to know more about sailing on Scenic Eclipse then please get in touch.

05 June 2023

There’s 'cruising', and then there’s 'Scenic Eclipse', 6 star luxury discovery cruising in the some of the most marine rich and diverse waters on the planet. I was very fortunate to embark on the latter, with a two week ‘Central America Discovery’ cruise on board Scenic Eclipse. This is no ordinary cruise itinerary, and no ordinary ship. Before I go into the places we sailed to, let’s talk first about the stunning ship I was sailing aboard. Scenic Eclipse is the World's First Discovery Yacht. She’s 168m in length and hosts only 228 passengers in 114 spacious cabins. The fact she was built in Croatia makes me love her even more. Each cabin has a dedicated butler, and there's a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio. There are more than 38 chefs, from 15 different countries offering cuisine at 10 different dining venues, and there are 9 bars and lounges. She's got a sleek exterior with custom-built stabilisers that are 50% larger than other ships, offering a smooth ride for navigating waters all over the globe. The spa is 550m2. She houses 2 helicopters, 1 submarine, and a host of zodiacs, kayaks and SUP's for exploration on, above and below water. She's as comfortable in Polar regions as she is in the tropics. Her sister ship, Scenic Eclipse 2, launched this year so now there are two ships that offer this elevated cruise experience with all-inclusive luxury food, beverages and discovery excursions all included. Her voyages range from Antarctica and the Arctic to the Mediterranean, Canada and Australia, and she is at her forte in the polar regions, where the ship effortlessly glides through icy waters with glacial backdrops in search of penguins, seals and whales in one of the most extreme climates on earth. On this voyage exploring the west coast of Central America we sailed from Panama to Mexico’s Baja peninsula. Stops along the way included Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico, with a final night in Los Angeles. The once in a lifetime journey started in Panama city, a curious and colourful blend of old and new. Highrise glass and metal juxtaposes with the soft beauty of the historic quarter’s quaint, narrow streets. Enroute to board the ship the driver of our bus pulls and signals to a roadside almond tree, where two hairy sloths peer out of the foliage- yes we’re definitely in Central America! Scenic Eclipse looks like a sleek private yacht docked in Panama’s busy port, and alongside ‘normal’ cruise ships she’s dwarfed. After being warmly welcomed aboard the ship with red carpet treatment I was shown to my cabin which was very spacious and had every amenity imaginable- Dyson hairdryer, espresso machine for fresh coffees, well stocked minibar, and even two carafes for decanting your favourite tipple. They really have thought of everything. The ship is immaculate, clean modern luxury- think plush carpets, shiny glass or metal and décor that belongs in a sleek hotel. There are a variety of amazing restaurants, cafes and bars on board and room service is 24/7, should you wish to dine in the cabin. I really liked the café concept of Azure, where you could pop in anytime for a sandwich and a coffee, with an outdoor deck to watch the world go by. Evenings proposed a range of places to dine, some of which required advance booking, and the standout meal for me was at the sushi restaurant. Our first port of call was at one of Panama’s untouched tropical islands, Isla Cebaco, where we had the first taste of what it’s like to have a luxury experience on a remote sandy beach. Isla Cebaco offers no commercial transportation, meaning it can only be reached by private charter so the beaches are empty and the water is warm and clear, fringed by gently rustling palms. The ship docked in a tranquil bay and then zodiacs taxied guests onto the beach. What awaited was a dream come true! The ship had provided a full bar fully stocked with ice cold drinks, deckchairs, shade from the sun under gazebos and clean fluffy beach towels. The setup was so well planned- including a range of suncreams to use in case you left yours on the ship. There were also kayaks, SUP’s and snorkelling gear- all in all, everything you could possibly need for the most perfect afternoon on the beach- in remote unspoilt paradise. One of Scenic’s many charms is that their cruises include excursions, so at the next stop in Costa Rica at Golfito we were given a choice of activities from which I chose the dolphin watching, which was a great chance to head out into the gulf on a small local boat to see dolphins enjoying their natural habitat, undisturbed. It didn’t take long to spot several pods of playful dolphins, and a marine expert on board provided us with lots of information about these remarkable marine creatures. Those who explored the rainforest at Casa Orquideaos saw crocodiles and a huge variety of local birds. Isla Tortuga in Costa Rica was the next stop, and we had the chance here to snorkel from a platform above coral and an abundance of fish. There was also a great sandy sweep of beach to kick back on, with local bars serving up rum in fresh coconuts and more great snorkelling opportunities. The marine life on view underwater here was incredible, I enjoyed it so much I did it twice, the kaleidoscope of colours and variety of different fish left me astounded and amazed. Back on the ship, the stern had been transformed into a floating pontoon, allowing those on the ship to swim from the back of the boat so whilst the sun set on another perfect day we could jump into the warm water form the back of the ship, making the most of every minute. Zip lining in Costa Rica is a must, so the next day a group set out to zipline through the jungle canopy spotting local wildlife and soaking up the rainforest atmosphere. Continued in blog 2...

16 February 2023

Zoëtry Marigot Bay, St. Lucia is located on a stunning harbour, the waterfront restaurant here is known as 'Hurricane Hole' due to its natural protection from the elements. Glittering yachts line the marina with a steep backdrop of dense lush jungle. We explored the island on horseback and snorkelled in azure seas next to the famous Piton Mountain Twin Peaks. This impressive hotel is built into a steep hill on Marigot marina. There are several lovely pool areas spread over the resort, plus there is a swim up bar. It is all-inclusive, and has no buffets at all, everything is à la carte - including room service. Yoga at the hotel was superb, and several times per week in the morning for guests, under a pagoda in the open air. We also took a guided walk provided by the hotel, to a nearby lookout point with a knowledgeable guide telling us about the local flora and fauna. Boat trips from here are easy, as boats can dock at the hotel’s private jetty to collect. We went on a catamaran afternoon to view the Piton mountains with snorkelling and lunch and would highly recommend. We were even joined by a pod of playful dolphins who raced the boat and played in the bow waves, which was magical. The concierge at the hotel can organise boat trips plus a range of activities like zip lining or horse riding too. The hotel is set on a marina, so there’s no official beach area. The harbour is beautiful, a green and lush cove surrounded by dense trees and plants. The hotel provides a water taxi to take guests from one side of the marina to a small beach on the other side of the bay. There are plans to open a beach bar with hotel sunbeds on this strip of beach in the future. Café Coco on the marina has delicious fresh pastries/cakes cooked on site and coffees/teas all day, a real highlight. Residence rooms are massive, with a large kitchen/lounge area separate from the bedroom. Some rooms have private plunge pools on the balcony. There’s the possibility to book two or three-bedroom suites here, so it’s ideal for larger families or groups. The ‘mini bar’ in the Residence rooms is in fact a full-size fridge, stocked with drinks and snacks, and there is a decent coffee maker in the room for morning coffees. There was lively evening entertainment like karaoke, but this didn’t pollute the resort with noise. An exclusive little rum cave bar offers private dining and rum tasting. You can check in/out whenever you want, so we kept our rooms until we left, which was a real bonus. We also went to St. James’s Club hotel and were shown architect’s plans and a prototype room for the renovation into a brand-new adult only Secrets Saint Lucia resort, due to be open by the end of the year 2023, and it looks incredible. They plan to upgrade all rooms, renovating all public areas and restaurants and adding a helipad, so clients can helicopter transfer to the resort. Located on a superb beach, with a pier going out into the crystal-clear water, this promises to be a really special resort once it’s had a Secrets makeover, ideal for weddings and honeymoons.

02 November 2022

Kalkan is located on Turkey’s stunning Lycian coast. The weather in early October was hot and sunny, ideal for sightseeing and sunbathing at beach clubs and on boat trips. What an amazing combination of hot sunny weather, delicious food, jaw dropping views, amazing friends and loads of fun. Our week was simply perfect at Villa Sapphire. Kalkan is the prettiest town with charming, cobbled streets, a weekly local market and top-notch rooftop restaurants. The food and drink in Kalkan were incredible! It's always a real highlight of travelling to Turkey. Kalkan's best restaurants are hidden high up above street level, in a series of small rooftop restaurants. Lit with twinkling fairy lights, these little gems serve up delicious fresh food with views over the pretty town and harbour below. Luxury beach clubs offer the indulgence of fresh cocktails delivered to your sun lounger, and local markets are overflowing with produce, showcasing local flavours and ingredients. We visited Likya Residence & Spa, a luxurious adult-only retreat a short stroll from the heart of the charming harbour town of Kalkan. Most impressive here is the terrace restaurant with a wide menu of delicious Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, a fabulous spot to marvel at the stunning views over Kalkan and out to sea. This excellent restaurant is probably one of the best, if not ‘the’ best in Kalkan. All the light, airy and incredibly spacious rooms and suites offer unrivalled sea views and have a large balcony or terrace, a superb spot to sit and watch the sun go down over the deep blue Mediterranean. Asfiya Sea View Hotel, a modern boutique hotel with sea views from every angle and in an exceptional location, within a stone's throw of the centre of Kalkan. With only 34 stylish en-suite rooms, 15 have their very own plunge pools, 3 rooms have direct access to the communal swimming pool, and all enjoy breathtaking sea views. Guests are invited to use the nearby Yali Beach Club, easily accessible on foot, a 10-minute stroll downhill from the hotel. Parasols and day beds are scattered on rocky platforms and waiter and towel service is available to your daybed. A highlight of any time in Turkey is the opportunity to visit a Turkish hammam, which offers a classic hamman experience with intense steam room massage and exfoliation with lots and lots of bubbles! There's also loads of things to do in Kalkan and the area, from luxury beach clubs to boat trips for lunch and snorkelling and easy access to Saklikent Gorge and Patara beach. There's a local market every Thursday, which was a great experience. Bougainvillea spirals from every house in Kalkan, and the sunsets here are breath taking. A perfect holiday! Here are my top tips from Kalkan: General: - Taxis to/from the centre are 60 to 100 lira (£3 to £5) each way in Kalkan. - Cash is king in Kalkan! British pounds or Turkish lira are both widely accepted. There are several ATMs dotted around town. - You will need to prebook almost everything in Kalkan over peak summer months, it does get very busy. You will need reservations for a boat trip, tables at restaurants, hammam and sunbeds at beach clubs. Restaurants: - Rooftop restaurants we tried in central Kalkan include Blue Terrace, Kalamaki and Lal, all excellent with amazing views. Book ahead! - Trio is on the waterfront overlooking the harbour and has amazing food and service is second to none. Go here for balloon bread! (Authentic Turkish Lavas Puff Bread) - Likya Residence & Spa hotel has an incredible restaurant, with a terrace that overlooks the bay. - If staying in a villa or apartment then you can get pizza /pide/ kebabs delivered, and inexpensive too. The supermarkets also offer a shopping delivery service. Hammam: - We had the hammam starter package at Nur & Hakan Spa at Elixir Boutique Hotel, which was so good we went twice! Two people go in at a time. - The spa/hammam at Lykia Residence hotel is also lovely. Things to Do: - Don’t miss trips to nearby Salikent Gorge and Patara Beach. It’s inexpensive to get taxis there or use local dolmus (minibuses which act as public buses and are fast and cheap) for an authentic taste of travelling in Turkey. - Kalkan has a colourful weekly market every Thursday morning, don’t miss the fresh orange juice, and pancakes that are made in front of you while you wait. - BSG handbags in the centre of Kalkan have the best reputation for ‘genuine fakes’ and have a great selection of real leather handbags that look just like the real thing! Boat Trip: - Common consensus is that Eylul boat is the best. Lunch on the boat was utterly delicious, and we stopped at beautiful bays to swim/snorkel. Beach Clubs: - Zest: We thought this was the best one. Book well in advance for Bali beds/ the best location. Built in 2019, it has a huge infinity pool and really comfy sunbeds. Access to the sea is from steps and platforms. You can get a free shuttle bus here from the harbour to/from the club. - Yali Beach club: has a couples/adult’s atmosphere, not so great with kids. - Indigo: right by the harbour. - Kalamar is the most basic of the beach clubs, but has a restaurant/bar and a sea trampoline for kids, kayaks etc. Very family friendly. Lovely at sunset, as it faces west. Call me to plan your holiday in Kalkan, I can find you the perfect Kalkan holiday from hotels to apartments and private villas.

29 October 2020

This was my first overseas venture in covid times, and I was intrigued by what travel now looks and feels like in late 2020. When I was offered the opportunity to travel to Barbados courtesy of the Barbados Tourist Marketing Inc. alongside a handful of agents as well as the UK and Irish media, I jumped at the chance. This was a last-minute break, so there was no time to waste. Barbados is on the government’s ‘safe corridor’ list, so no quarantine is necessary on return, but negative PCR (covid) test-two of them-are required. The first test is within three days of travel. A private clinic performed the test with guaranteed results by the following evening. Once I had my negative certificate, I uploaded this to the Barbados immigration form, printed off several copies, and was ready to go. The airport experience at Heathrow was identical to normal, just with masks on and social distancing in place throughout. There was a palpable atmosphere of excitement when we took off, this was the first trip abroad for many since the start of the pandemic and everyone was thrilled to be flying again. Our arrival in Barbados was spectacular. There in the balmy darkness on the warm runway was a full brass band and stilt walkers to welcome us. As we entered the terminal building, our PCR certificates were checked, and we were each given wristbands to signify we had just arrived and were now in quarantine until our second negative test. Our temperatures were checked, and we were asked to record and submit our temperatures twice daily. Check in at The Sands hotel was seamless. Our temperatures were checked again, and we were shown to our spotlessly clean room. It was explained that until we’d had a second test, we’d be asked to stay in the quarantine areas of the hotel with no access to the pool or to the beach, as all beaches in Barbados are public. There is a lovely garden with sun loungers for the initial quarantine, and a separate area within the restaurant. Content with being asked to lie on a sun lounger until asked to move, I was happy with this arrangement! The Sands, Barbados offers apartment accommodation with a slick and distinctive smart Miami Beach feel. It has a superb location right on Worthing Beach, whilst also being within easy walking distance of St Lawrence Gap’s many restaurants, cafés and bars. The flexible apartment rooms can be adapted from double rooms all the way up to two-bedroom duplexes set over two stories, ideal for larger families. The rooms overlooking the beach are south facing, so capture both the sunrise and sunsets that grace the island with a riot of colour. The beach front restaurant here provides delicious fresh à la carte meals, and the pool is larger than most, with a graduate entry point. Our second covid test, 48 hours after arrival, was a private test, arranged through the hotel. We were tested at 6.30am and the results were back by early that evening. Our wristbands were ceremoniously removed, and now permitted to leave the hotel, we got straight into a taxi for a sunset cruise on board the luxury catamaran Cool Runnings IV. This was an experience I’d highly recommend. The food and drinks on board were incredible, the views were divine, and once moored we swam from the back of the boat in the still warm waters. With the remaining time in Barbados, we explored different hotels and activities. The Sea Breeze Beach House have not only adapted to the way we now travel; they have positively embraced it. Their ‘VIP experience’ area they have created for quarantining guests has access to a swimming pool and huge comfy loungers. The luxury block of the hotel houses the best rooms: pared back minimal beach house style overlooking the wide expanse of white sandy beach. Situated close to the fishing village of Oistins on the south coast of Barbados, we were lucky to be taken to the fish market, where turtles swam underneath the pier and local fisherman prepare their catch for market. Coral Reef Club offers not only a calm sandy beach but also the opportunity to snorkel the kaleidoscope of coral located right in front of the hotel. The impressive spa here is a destination in its own right. The luxurious rooms are spaciously set within the 12 acres of lush tropical garden, and there’s a feeling of space and privacy with all the rooms. An incredibly popular hotel with repeat clients, it is easy to see why guests return year after year here. The Sandpiper is a sister hotel to Coral Reef Club with lush and verdant garden areas. Guests are free to use the facilities at both hotels. A distinctly family-run hotel, it has a lovely boutique feel. The newly built Tree Top Suite has jaw dropping views over the ocean from its glass fronted balcony. Families are encouraged and welcomed, with two-bedroom suites that sleep five comfortably and with a popular and award-winning restaurant, foodies won’t be disappointed. Cobbler’s Cove is a small family-owned converted mansion painted pastel pink throughout that is a Barbados institution. With only 40 suites, guests here are mainly repeat clients and know the hotel staff by first name, creating a charming laid-back atmosphere. It is a benchmark in old school luxury and glamour, where the comforts of a grand country house meet the rustic charm and colour of the Caribbean. A pool party thrown by our hosts at Villa Tamarindo was graced by an exquisite sunset and the Barbados Minister of Tourism, The Hon. Lisa Cummins, who spoke with positivity and hope for the future. The villa itself, highly spec’d with five bedrooms, private pool and direct beach access, is a west coast high-end luxury gem, ideal for a special occasion or family/group holiday. A journey around the island on board the vintage #1 Bajan Bus was a highlight. The rugged east coast of the island, pummelled by the Atlantic, is such a contrast to the calm Caribbean west. We stopped at Mount Gay rum distillery, the oldest in the world, and sampled the delicious products! There was a sense of renewed normality in Barbados. In so many ways it was a glimpse of holidays pre-covid; Live music, dancing, families splashing in the pool together, meals with new friends. But in many other ways there was always a reminder that times have changed, masks, temperature checks and social distancing vigilance. It reminded me just why I love travel so much, and how it is possible to travel safely in 2020 and beyond with the right preparation and advice from a trusted travel agent.

02 March 2020

Flying to the Caribbean in February to escape the British winter had never seemed like a better idea than when we boarded our 10-hr flight to Jamaica, leaving behind the freezing cold rain and gale force winds of Storm Dennis in the UK to swap for balmy heat, swaying palm trees and white ribbons of fine sand next to azure seas. In hindsight, this was just pre-covid so our last trip away before the pandemic, and timed so that we arrived back just before the world went into lockdown. Our hotel, Bahia Grand Principe, is situated in Runaway Bay, around halfway between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. No frills, it provides great family friendly accommodation with all-inclusive food and drinks. The BBQ jerk chicken with rice and peas served by the pool at lunchtime was a daily feast, and I have been learning to cook this similarly since I returned home. The à la carte offerings were mediocre, although the fresh cooking station at the Teriyaki restaurant was delicious and the chef put on a great show, keeping the attention of the kids and wowing us with their skills. The best thing about Bahia Grand Principe was the outdoor areas. The pool is massive and snakes around the resort, providing hours of fun for the kids, who never seemed to tire of chasing a ball around. They also loved the swim up bar with mocktails on tap. There is a newly built water splash park with slides for smaller kids, which is ideally located just behind the beach. The beach areas are out of this world with shallow, gently sloping white sand and crystal-clear sea, ideal for snorkelling. A floating lobster bar (not included with the hotel AI) appeared most lunchtimes in the bay, and we could swim up to enjoy a freshly caught lobster lunch and ice-cold beer, amazing. An absolute highlight was a visit to ‘The Blue Hole’, also known as Island Gully Falls, Irie Falls, or The Cool Blue Hole. This series of natural limestone sinkholes, near Ocho Rios, gets its name from the deep azure hue of the waters. It was exciting making our way through the lush rainforest to walk to these Secret Falls. We’re still talking about this trip at home, and my son has asked to revisit one day. It was one of the best things we have done together on holiday, a real treat. We spent several hours scrambling, climbing, jumping, cliff diving, swimming, rope swinging and exploring this jaw-droppingly beautiful spot in the deep jungle, surrounded by nature. Our private guide took lots of videos and photos for posterity and made sure we safely navigated the complex of pools, waterfalls and rapids whilst making it super fun for the kids. We sadly never made it to the famous Dunns River Falls, as our catamaran engine died en route, leaving us floating at sea and needing to be towed back to port. An adventure that we had not expected but isn’t that what travel is all about?! Whilst in Jamaica, we jumped at the chance to visit The Bob Marley Museum, located at the former home of the reggae legend. Bob’s home is filled with rich memories and treasured mementos, which seek to preserve the life and accomplishment of this great Jamaican and outstanding musician. Our friendly, funny and knowledgeable guides escorted us through the grounds, which include the main house, exhibition hall, theatre, gift shops and the One Love Café. All the original rooms have been kept as they were when Bob lived here to ensure authenticity. Whilst in Jamaica, I could not resist a visit to nearby hotel Beaches Ocho Rios, which is the family brand of Sandals Caribbean all-inclusive resorts. We spent the day enjoying the hotel’s excellent family friendly facilities. The kids spent all day busy on the water park slides, snorkelling and endless banana boat rides (all of which are included) and I sat back and soaked up some sunshine and cocktails, along with a tour of the whole hotel and various room categories, so I could see what they offer. We travelled back on the upper deck of Virgin's 747 which was worth every penny of the £30 prebooked seat charge. The upper deck cabin has a 2-2 configuration of seats and only 10 rows of economy seats, and 10 rows of premium. The smaller cabin size means it is much quieter with lots more space. We had more legroom than seats downstairs, plus there is a wide gap between the window seat and the window, which Virgin have cleverly filled with a storage chest, so all blankets/ pillows/ bags/ shoes can go in there to clear more space. I also thought the service was better and more attentive on the upper deck, as the crew had fewer passengers to deal with. I'd recommend. We all agreed: Jamaica is a destination we’ll come back to again and again, hopefully as soon as possible. A family getaway in February half-term to escape the UK in the winter months, grabbing some much-needed Caribbean sunshine vibes is on the do list for as soon as possible!

03 December 2018

Mark Twain is famously quoted as having said that “Mauritius was made first, and then heaven; and that heaven was copied after Mauritius.” Never were a truer word said. When you’re on the island of Mauritius, the rest of the world suddenly seems irrelevant and quite unnecessary. It is pure paradise, in the truest sense of the word. Located in the vast Indian Ocean just east of Madagascar, this small island (28 miles by 40 miles) offers travellers the chance to experience their own version of heaven. Be prepared to cry when it’s time to leave. Don’t believe the misconception that Mauritius is just about the beaches, because it has so much more to offer. You can swim with dolphins in the wild, walk alongside giant tortoises, zip line, browse colourful local markets, visit museums, trek sumptuous jungle routes, hire a car and road trip, cycle through lush vegetation, watch the sun setting from a catamaran, whale watch, dive into waterfalls and so much more. On my latest educational trip to Mauritius, I visited 11 stunning properties, so here’s a snippet of my thoughts: The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita offers villa accommodation, with each villa boasting its own private pool. If you envisage pure luxury, this hotel epitomises it in every facet. I loved this hotel so much I only had two hours sleep the night I stayed here, because I didn’t want to miss a single moment! The food is up there with the best I’ve ever had, and I was blown away by the consistency of the excellent service, friendly attitude and warm welcome. I’ll treasure memories of the exhilarating speedboat ride over to Ile Aux Cerfs where the colour of the water is mesmerising blue and watching the sunrise turn the sky golden. Constance Prince Maurice is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, and it’s easy to see why. Gracious, elegant luxury pervades this exclusive resort. There is an impressive wine cellar boasting over 25,000 bottles, ideal for wine tasting. The grounds and rooms are immaculately kept, and the large villas here are ideal for families or groups. Golfers can enjoy a round of golf on the two courses at the nearby sister resort. Maradiva Villas have a picture-perfect view of the Le Morne peninsula in the distance, and the beach here is unforgettably beautiful. Each villa has its own private plunge pool, so it’s ideal for couples who want total privacy and tranquillity. Quirky touches like the Rolls-Royce used for day trips around the island, and well-stocked gin bar, mean that you’ll feel like royalty staying here. Families are equally welcome with a kid’s club and spacious two-bedroom villas to accommodate everyone. Sakoa is a small, intimate boutique hotel situated on one of the best beaches on the island, Trou Aux Biches. It’s perfect for couples, with such a romantic setting, and has a genuine authentically Mauritian rustic feel to it. The town of Grand Baie is only 10 minutes away, so if you like exploring and eating out, then the location’s ideal. This is the hotel I’ve been dreaming of since coming back! LUX* Grand Gaube is immaculately designed by Kelly Hoppen and is possibly the most ‘Instagram worthy’ place I’ve ever been! It oozes super chic décor and interiors, as well as being situated on a stunning stretch of beach. The spa is sumptuous, there’s a fun kids club, the food is out of this world, they have a specialist coffee shop, and there are gin and rum bars to tempt you. An adult only pool and wing of the hotel allows couples their privacy, but I’d really recommend this funky hotel to families - this is the hotel I’d bring my son to, any time. St Regis has a grown-up look and feel and sets the benchmark for what a 5-star property should offer. I loved the private villas here, ideal for families and groups. We had a BBQ dinner with toes in the sand on the beach and the food was superb. The threads of luxury weave through the whole resort, and the spa here is jaw-dropping. Families are welcome, and the kids and teens clubs are also spot on. Ravenella Attitude is an authentic tropical paradise hotel - completely laid back, relaxed and cool. It’s the perfect place for sundowners and barefoot walks on the beach. I loved the emphasis on cuisine with a wide array of restaurants. Choose from 8 dining venues as well as cooking classes, dinner in a local home, market visits and culture and heritage tours. LUX* Belle Mare has also been treated to the Kelly Hoppen magic design wand, with funky interiors and public spaces. The rum shack stocks over 150 rums, and it’s home to one of the island’s largest swimming pools. It’s got a family-friendly feel, but there’s also an adults-only area of the beach. I loved the pop-up beach cinema, speciality tearoom and PADI dive centre, and was really wowed by the food here. Westin Turtle Bay has an excellent coral reef in front of the hotel, providing snorkelling opportunities aplenty - it's called Turtle Bay for a reason! Rooms here are very spacious with signature 'Heavenly Beds' (like sleeping on a cloud) and 'Heavenly Baths', and there’s a peaceful adult only pool area. Outrigger Hotel offers great family-friendly facilities, a selection of pools and a superb beach. Families are well catered for here with nice touches like a kids-only seating area in the restaurant, and excellent kids club facilities. If staying as a couple, it's worth upgrading rooms to allow access to the private club area, for a more secluded luxury getaway. Club Med La Plantation D'Albion has all the bells and whistles you’d expect of a ClubMed property. An adults-only zen area provides peace and quiet, but there are so many activities for both kids and adults to partake in, you’ll not be bored for a minute. You can fly to Mauritius from various UK airports, there are direct services from London Gatwick with BA and Heathrow with Air Mauritius (who are due to renew their fleet next year which is long overdue and exciting news). You can connect via Dubai with Emirates from regional airports - opening the possibility of a twin-centre here. And if you’re considering a safari with a beach break at the end, then flights work out well for combining Mauritius with South Africa. Having now visited a total of 19 hotels on the island of Mauritius, I am the perfect person to help plan your next trip to this dream island, whether it’s for a honeymoon, anniversary, family break or golf trip. Just call me to discuss! 02920 003530.

17 November 2018

Mauritius is best known as a honeymoon destination, and its reputation for classic white palm-fringed sandy beaches and turquoise waters is not misplaced. It is however becoming an increasingly popular destination for families who want a great alternative to Europe for school holidays in summer, or as a contender to the Caribbean in winter. Mauritius also caters for any activity you can name whether it’s scuba diving, horse riding, kite surfing, walking alongside giant tortoises, boat and snorkelling trips, shopping, hiking and mountain biking - to name a few! This is not just a beach destination - there is so much more to it than that, which is why it’s so popular with honeymooners and families who want the best of both worlds. Weddings in Mauritius are also very popular and if you’re looking for a beach wedding, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more stunning location. Beachcomber have eight hotels on the island, all on the West Coast, and they all offer unique personalities and features. There are, however, several threads of continuity that run from hotel to hotel: The hotels all feel very luxurious, well maintained and spacious. The grounds of the hotel are always impeccably maintained and wandering around the hotel space is a joy. The rooms are larger than average, and they offer a brilliant variety of room options, including interconnecting rooms for families and the ever-popular family rooms with two separate bedrooms. There are even villas with their own private pool-ideal for larger families or groups. Land and water sports are included in the price, which means endless opportunities for being active. The smallest people in your family will be well catered for, welcomed and made to feel special. All the Beachcomber hotels offer an excellent kids club, so parents can relax and know their kids are being entertained, educated and cared for, whatever the time of day. The food is incredible - both à la carte and buffet style. I’ve never eaten so well. And the cocktails are fantastic too! Here’s the low down on the eight hotels Beachcomber offer: Shandrani - There are a choice of beaches here, from the sheltered gently sloping beaches of the lagoon to the ‘wild’ beach with crashing waves and opportunities for long barefoot walks. Don’t let the proximity of this hotel to the airport put you off. It means the transfer time is nice and short, and the flights are infrequent and not at all disruptive. Le Mauricia - This hotel has distinct Mediterranean influences with great all-inclusive facilities, making it perfect for families. The resort is within walking distance of the lively village of Grand Baie. The rooms here are ideal for families, with cool ‘loft’ rooms and apartments with two bedrooms. There’s even a villa where you can have the privacy of your own pool with the benefits of the hotel’s amenities. Le Victoria - One of the most popular hotels for families in Mauritius, this hotel will also soon feature an adults-only area for some quiet time away from the kids. Rooms here are massive, and the all-inclusive option makes this a very serious contender against holidays in Europe in the summer. There’s a kids club as well as a club for teens, so the whole family will be entertained. Trou Aux Biches - There’s only one thing you’ll be able to do when you arrive at Trou Aux Biches and that’s relax! The whole hotel has a feeling of complete calm and tranquillity, it’s wonderful. The rooms are arranged in crescents, each one with its own pool, so whilst it’s a big complex it never feels impersonal. The villas at the hotel are ideal for families or groups and are the ultimate in villa luxury yet felt homely and comfortable. If you want to be more active, there are loads of water sports to try. Le Cannonier - The highlight of Le Cannonier for me was the spa-built into an ancient banyan tree, it’s a unique treehouse spa experience and the ultimate in relaxation. The kids club here is also very unique, built into an old fort, and old cannons dot the beautifully maintained grounds. The hotel is built on a peninsula, so views are stunning in all directions, and there is a very laid-back vibe to the hotel with low thatched roofs. Royal Palm - This hotel is the jewel in Beachcomber’s crown, and rightly so. I’d be hard-pressed to name a hotel I’ve liked more than Royal Palm; it is an absolute joy to behold. From the sumptuous rooms with their Moroccan inspired fretwork to the most divine beach, this hotel is as close to perfection as you could imagine. Treat yourself with a helicopter transfer from the airport - we were taken by helicopter from Royal Palm, and the sweeping views of Mauritius from the air only made me love it even more. Paradise Hotel & Golf Club - I was so impressed with the location of this hotel, situated at the foot of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Morne Brabant Mountain. The golf course is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course within walking distance from all of the rooms. Staying here, you also have access to all the facilities of the Dinarobin, the adjacent hotel. A real plus are the beachfront villas. Dinarobin Hotel & Golf Club - The Dinarobin is also on the Le Morne peninsula with the backdrop of the iconic Le Morne mountain, so its location is breathtaking. Expansive sandy beaches fringe one of the most beautiful lagoons of the island. Guests have access to all the facilities of the Paradise next door. The ‘Club at Dinarobin’ is a private, adults-only club. You can view a video online about my trip to Mauritius, which also showcases the eight different hotels here - see if you can spot me! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GS9PIkfgcYA

17 November 2018

Our latest trip to Croatia was first to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Trogir, a medieval walled town situated on an island a mere ten-minute bus ride from Split airport. This pretty town has a labyrinth-style network of narrow cobbled streets, Venetian stone buildings and shaded courtyards blossoming with flowers. Trogir is a town with soul, and despite the tourist crowds in August, it has a lived-in feel with locals sipping coffee on the Riva (waterfront) alongside visitors from every corner of the globe, adding to the town’s already cosmopolitan air. Large yachts and rugged wooden oldtimer boats line up on the Riva. At sunset the warm stone paved quay is lined with artisans, performers and people simply strolling along with an ice cream in their hand, watching the world go by - a typical Croatian scene. We drove to nearby Krka National Park and navigated our way whilst admiring the sweeping coastal views. This was my first visit to Krka and despite having visited the waterfall’s notorious big brother, Plitvice, I was not in the slightest bit disappointed. We scrambled over slippery boulders to reach the deeper water for a swim, reflecting on how useful a pair of waterproof shoes would have been for this! From Trogir, we travelled by bus to nearby Split, the second largest city in Croatia. This seaside city is home to Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. It’s rumoured that this location is to be used for the filming of the forthcoming new series of ‘Game of Thrones’ and this otherworldly backdrop will not disappoint fans of the series. From Split we took a ferry to the island of Hvar which has become one of Croatia’s most notorious hotspots, described by Conde Nast as one of the top ten islands in the world and billed as the ‘new St. Tropez’. Celebrities come here to party the night away, alongside yachters and in-the-know backpackers or holidaymakers. Bars like Carpe Diem have given this small town international notoriety yet this has not spoiled the town’s picturesque charm. Cafes and restaurants spill out onto the largest piazza in Croatia and you can instantly see the town’s appeal in its jumble of pretty narrow streets and dazzling architecture. Whilst on Hvar we chartered a speedboat and skipper to take us to neighbouring Vis and Bisevo Islands. We stopped first at the Blue Caves, where you enter by boat through a narrow, low entrance so everyone has to crouch down on the bottom of the boat. This delighted the children onboard, who felt part of a real adventure. Once inside you can sit up and admire the view - crystal clear water infused with natural sunlight reflected from the seabed - this is surely Mother Nature just showing off how beautiful the world can be?! We headed next to Stiniva beach on Vis, a real gem of a hidden cove which opens up like an amphitheatre once inside and is a magnet to those looking for a cold beer (there’s a bar!) on a picture perfect beach. Next stop was the green caves, which the boat motored right into, and dropped anchor so we could swim. The cave was cool and shady, with only one intense patch of sunlight slanting through a hole in the cave roof. Our final stops were at the Pakleni islands just off Hvar, including Milni beach and the sandy Palmizana beach. Finally, it was back to the mainland and a day trip to Drevnik Veliki Island. This is an island that’s truly off the beaten track, with one small shop, two restaurants and a small cluster of pretty stone houses. We swam in shallow coves, caught sprats in our fishing net and ate delicious fresh seafood before it was time to get the ferry back to Trogir - a truly perfect day. There are so many options in Croatia; it has something to suit everyone whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a family break, an island hopping cruise on a small boat or more adventurous pursuits such as rafting and cycling. If you’d like some great suggestions for a Croatia trip to suit your style and budget, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me.

17 November 2018

Club Med were our delightful hosts in Marrakesh, staying at the Club Med Marrakech La Palmeraie Hotel, only ten minutes from the city centre. This was my first visit to a Club Med property, and I was delighted to be greeted in the impressive high-ceilinged reception area with a cold towel and a drink and most importantly lots of smiling welcomes! The hotel is set within Morocco's oldest palm grove and is built in traditional Moroccan style which includes lots of shaded walkways leading to impressive, mature gardens with calming, cooling water features. My room was warmly decorated, and I loved the lanterns, vibrant colours and intricately designed wood and mosaic work, perfectly in keeping with the local style. The large, sunny balcony overlooked fields to the Atlas Mountains beyond - we really were right on the edge of the city’s limits. Meals can be taken in the buffet restaurant, which offers a staggering selection of meals to try, many of which are freshly prepared while you wait. I particularly loved the salad bar where the chef chops up your salad, seasons and adds dressing before presenting it on your plate - deliciously fresh and just the way I wanted it. Soft drinks and beer are on tap, and wine flows freely on every table. There are two main pool areas - and I plumped for the adult’s only pool for its peaceful, tranquil vibe with private areas for sunbathing. Waiters come round at regular intervals with lovely cool drinks - and being on all-inclusive meant that I could frequent the bar to keep my cocktail topped up as necessary! Once I’d had my fill of sunbathing and swimming, there are so many activities on offer, I almost didn’t know where to start! On-site you can go horse riding, play tennis, hire bikes, play golf, do archery, hit the well-equipped gym and (believe it or not) you can even try your hand at the Flying Trapeze School with circus activities! Of course, if all you want to go is chill, there’s also a spa on site with a range of treatments. Parents will love the kids club which caters for all ages from 2 to 17 years and the kids club is welcoming and well-equipped with its own pool area, so little ones are kept busy and entertained whilst making new friends. All Club Med resorts offer childcare, and this is one of the many reasons families love Club Med. For a bit of extra luxury, you can book to stay in the private five star Riad area of the hotel, complete with its own pool. This was a true haven of peace and offers lush suites with private terrace or garden as well as privileged services such as room service for breakfast and champagne in the evenings as well as extended concierge service. A real highlight of my stay was the ‘white evening’ where everyone dresses in white for the outdoor BBQ buffet, which was stunning. Fairy lights are strung between trees, and the desserts are plated up hanging from tree branches - it was very ‘Alice in Wonderland’ and I loved eating outdoors surrounded by sparkling lights and the beautiful serene gardens. The tables are dressed white to match the theme and everyone gets involved - it was the perfect way to end our trip. Of course, no to visit Marrakesh would be complete without taking in the exotic sights and sounds of Jemaa el-Fnaa - the large public square in the city centre filled with small merchants, hawkers, and entertainers which are popular with tourists and locals alike. The hotel runs a regular shuttle bus into the city centre, making it easy to pop in for some shopping and sightseeing. Once here you can nip into the narrow alleyways of the shopping souks to pick up amazing souvenirs ranging from handbags and shoes to pottery, lanterns, and artwork. I was in my element! It’s always good to have a haggle over prices, and it’s a great way to get to chat with local people. I bought a wooden chess set and ‘magic’ wooden box from a seller who uses his feet and hands to lathe the wood into shape, and we watched him work for ages, entranced by his amazing skill. Entering each shop is like going into a world of treasure and mystery, and you are always met with smiles and welcome – it’s one of the real highlights of being in Marrakesh. At night Jemaa el-Fnaa is a different world, busy, bustling and frenetic - full of street artists, snake charmers, and many small pop-up eateries cooking fresh food over open fires - the atmosphere is electric! Locals gather round games being played and hawkers call out to sell their wares. I am totally won over by Club Med’s friendly, warm atmosphere and amazed by the diversity of locations you can visit with them - from Brazil to China! And it is also well worth considering Club Med for a skiing trip, as their all-inclusive packages mean they work out a superb value for money. Call me to find out more!

24 September 2018

Continued from Part 1... From Trogir, it’s easy to take a day trip into the nearby city of Split, half an hour away. Split is home to the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, and the ruins are nestled within the pedestrianised old town. The Riva here is equally beautiful and away from the old town, Croatia’s second-largest city has an urban feel. Klis fortress is nearby and rewards visitors that climb up the steep hill with views that stretch for miles, giving you a bird’s eye view all the way to the coast. If you love nature and the great outdoors, then don’t miss a visit to Krka National Park, which is only an hour away. Here you can marvel at waterfalls and visit the Krka Monastery, built above ancient Roman catacombs, and hike amongst unspoilt nature trails and pathways. Plitvice National Park is a little further but well worth the effort- superlatives couldn’t possibly do it justice as it’s easily amongst the most beautiful places on earth, it’s simply not to be missed in my opinion. This area of pristine forest has a chain of 16 terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls that extend into a deep limestone canyon. The water is an ethereal blue and so clear that you can see fish swimming in the depths. There are excellent, well signed walking trails, many of which criss-cross over the azure water on wooden walkways. The town of Zadar is also only 1.5 hrs away, and music lovers will adore the ‘sea organ’ – an organ that’s been built into the walls of the quayside, so the waves play a tune as they ebb and flow through the organ, it’s magical. The town is divine and there are some great places to eat here or sit out in the cathedral square and soak up the atmosphere. With so many things to see and do nearby Trogir, it’s a great place to base yourself to visit all the attractions in the local area. Peak visitor numbers here are from late June to early September, although this season is getting longer each year as Croatia’s popularity rises. I love springtime here and the end of May and early June is perfect when the temperatures start to creep up and the days are long and sunny, flowers are in bloom and the marketplaces sell the most delicious cherries you’ll ever taste. It’s also much quieter, and the region feels like it’s waking from the winter months and preparing for the summer season to begin. So where to stay when visiting Trogir? In the centre of the old town, I love the rustic charm and unbeatable location of friendly Hotel Tragos which is family run and offers smart rooms and a great restaurant. For a slice of boutique luxury, the newly opened effortlessly chic Brown Beach House has views of the old town from the pool and occupies a former twentieth century tobacco warehouse. For families the island of Ciovo offers a great beach, easy access to Trogir and a wide array of apartments or villa to suit any budget. You can fly to Split airport from most regional airports. The airport itself is expanding massively to allow even more visitors and infrastructure work is going on to allow even more visitor numbers, so don’t delay-book to visit soon! Call me to find out more- 02920 0035030.

21 September 2018

On my latest trip to Croatia, I returned to the small medieval town of Trogir where I was based as a tour guide working in the early noughties. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been back here, and its testament to how enduring Trogir’s charm is. I’m not usually one to return again and again to the same place on holiday, but I’d happily spend every summer here. It’s a popular place to start and end Dalmatian Island Cruises and its proximity to Split airport makes it a great place to spend a night or two when flying in or out, but don’t overlook spending a week or more here. There’s plenty to see and do in both the old town and the vicinity. The town has several nicknames: The Town Museum, The Stone Beauty and Little Venice of Dalmatia. Trogir has a very high concentration of palaces, churches, towers and a fortress and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With influences from the ancient Greeks, the Romans, and Venetians who’ve all lived here, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this picture postcard town. The old walled part of the town is on a small island sandwiched between the mainland and a larger island called Ciovo. The town is connected to the mainland by a small bridge (Mali Most) and to Ciovo Island by a big bridge (Veliki Most). Like so many coastal towns in Croatia, it’s completely enclosed by imposing stone walls, built to repel unwanted visitors. There are two main entrances to the walled old town - the imposing, elaborate and ornate north and south gates. The South town Gate is decorated with renaissance ornaments and the original preserved wooden doors. Look above as you enter the North Gate - on the top of the gate is the patron of the Town - St. John, guarding its citizens. The town’s completely pedestrianised streets are narrow alleyways which form an intricate maze. The network of passages leads onto stunning piazzas, bougainvillea filled courtyards and open-air restaurants. It’s very easy to get lost, although this is part of the fun; it’s not a huge town, so you can briskly walk the circumference in half an hour or while away hours meandering though the centre on polished cobbled stones worn slippery smooth by centuries of footfall. Even though Trogir has become increasingly popular with visitors, the town still has an incredible old-world charm. Although many locals give up their prime old town apartments during the summer (to lucratively rent out) the town still has such a local feel with washing hanging across the street, locals playing Bocce (like boules) in the park and kids playing football in the shadow of 15th century Kamerlengo Fortress. The perfect mix of old and new. Foodies will love the array of restaurants here. The best of Mediterranean cuisine is on offer from fresh seafood to pizzas, pasta, risottos, fresh salads and hearty meat dishes local to the region. Gelato shops are abundant with a dizzying selection of flavours. Iced coffees are sipped under umbrellas in the piazza and chic bars line the waterfront, allowing you to watch yachts come and go. The region produces excellent wine, and cherry brandy is also a popular local tipple. Bakeries serve up fresh crusty bread and my favourite- cherry strudel fresh from the oven. Trogir’s ‘Riva’ (waterfront) area showcases local artists and musicians in the summer months. It’s a popular stop off for yachts and in peak season the boats jostle for spaces on the quayside and floating gin palaces line the port alongside more traditional wooden ‘old-timers’ with sails which have been converted from freight boats to allow passengers to sleep on board. The town’s links with the sea are evident everywhere, and you’re never far from the glittering blue waters that surround the island. For excellent swimming and snorkelling you don’t have to walk far in any direction away from the town to find a spot to take a dip, but for the clearest waters and azure sea head to the south of Ciovo Island, where trendy beach bars overlook the bluest waters. Relax in opulent cabanas or Bali beach beds while sipping a cocktail and snacking on seafood, it’s a genuine slice of heaven on earth. Walking through Trogir, you’ll be bombarded with buildings that boast fascinating histories. There’s the three knave Venetian St Lawrence's Cathedral; Karmalengo Fortress that houses atmospheric outdoor concerts during the Trogir Summer festival; the Small Loggia packed full of local art and jewellery; St Nicholas's Benedictine Convent; Marmont's Gloriette, an elegant gazebo by the sea; The splendid Grand Cipiko Palace with intricately carved Gothic gallery; 15th century Town Hall and St Sebastian's Church… to name just a few! Pay a visit to the museum, which is housed in a former palace, with artefacts from Trogir’s long and rich history. The neighbouring island of Ciovo boasts a long beach, Okrug Gornji, which is packed with places to eat and very popular with families. There’s a wide array of villas and apartments here, perfect for a self-catering holiday. The island’s coastline is lined with pine trees and alive with the hum of cicadas (tree crickets). You can easily catch a water taxi from Trogir’s Riva to the beach, which takes around 20 mins. If you like being out on the water, then a three-island boat trip will take you to the nearby Drvenik Islands, where you can snorkel and swim in the magnificent Blue Lagoon. Then, visit Šolta Island to admire the local village's charming architecture and idyllic stone cottages, before stopping off on the south of Ciovo Island for a BBQ lunch and more swimming in the crystal-clear sea. You can also take the interisland ferry from Trogir to the Drvenik Islands and step back in time. The islands are untouched by the modern world-no traffic, very few tourists, just peace, calm and the traditional Dalmatian way of life. The smaller island, Drevnik Mali, only has around 50 inhabitants. Walk from one side of the island to the other across the interior and admire the olive groves, stone walls and glimpses of the sparkling blue Adriatic at every turn. To be continued.... Part 2 on my next blog!

16 July 2018

Travelling with children can be a daunting prospect, no matter if it’s your first or fifth child! When you book a family holiday with me, I take care of all the little details, from pre-booked seating on the flights to arranging for a cot or kid's bed in your room or car seats on the transfers/car hire to top family hotel and destination recommendations. Just call me to find out more. Here are my top 20 travel tips based on personal experience. 1. Bring a change of clothes for your little one – and for you! Take warm clothes for everyone, as the air con on the plane can be very chilly, especially after a week in the sun. If potty training, it’s extra important to take spare clothes for the journey - the excitement and distraction of the flight can mean kids often forget they need the toilet before it’s too late. 2. Technology can be a great distraction to keep kids entertained on a flight, just make sure it’s fully charged and to take a charger with you (with appropriate plug adaptor). To avoid travel sickness, don’t let kids look at iPads/gadgets for too long at a time. Encourage them to look up and around and if they start to feel queasy, put the tablet away! 3. If still in nappies: create a nappy pack. Put one nappy and two or three baby wipes into a nappy bag. Loosely tie up the bag. Create as many as you think you’ll need for the journey. When you need to change a nappy on the plane, you just pull out one of your nappy packs without having to rummage around, which makes you feel more organized and relaxed. 4. Gift wrap an activity pack; little ones love this! Fill a small bag with gift wrapped activity and reading books, pens and small toys so that every half hour or hour they can open one and play with it - great for preventing boredom setting in. 5. Always make sure that you take a favourite toy, if it is small enough to travel with you. Nothing can beat that sense of security of having that favourite thing with them when at the airport, on the plane and when you arrive at the hotel and their new bed. 6. Ask kids of any age to help you pack. Get your children involved and let them pack a small backpack with their things. Let them pack their changes of clothes and their swimsuits in case your luggage goes missing, as that way they can still get into the pool when you get there. 7. Prepare for popped ears! If you’re travelling with kids, try to make sure you have a drink and some sweets available for take-off and landing (or a soother/dummy if they use it) to help their ears to pop. Remind them to swallow lots and ask them to open their jaw as wide as possible during ascents and descents to assist with equalizing the pressure. 8. Make sure you pack any medication for you and your child in hand luggage. If you use Calpol, then take some with you in case you need it at any point in your journey. I also always pack a mini first aid kit for bumps and scrapes - just a few plasters and some antiseptic wipes, just in case. 9. Try and keep as much as possible to your normal routine, so get children to brush their teeth, go to the toilet and put their pyjamas on before you get them to try and sleep. Their regular routine is just as important on the plane or at the hotel as it is at home. 10. Bring a sheet, blanket or pillow case from home. Bringing your child’s bedlinen from home will help them to sleep and to make them feel more secure when they go to bed. Often hotels don’t provide cot bedding, so this is extra important for babies - and if they’re used to a sleeping bag it’s a good idea to take a light summer weight one as the thicker bags will be too warm for a beach holiday. 11. Carry an ‘anything’ towel for spillages/accidents! Pack one or two medium-sized hand towels. You can use them for anything! As a changing mat, a vomit towel, to dry your hands, mop up spilt drinks - an ‘anything’ towel! 12. Don’t forget to take kid’s swimming things - armbands/floats/goggles etc. You can always buy these out there, but they tend to be quite expensive. Pool toys and floats are also a great idea to keep kids entertained in the water. 13. Footwear is an important consideration for kids on holiday. Flip-flops look great but can easily cause trips and falls, so closed toe sandals or crocs are best. Make sure they’ve been worn in before you go away, as you don’t want blisters! 14. Take adequate sun protection. This obviously includes sunscreen- I find 'Ultrasun' and 'p20' are the very best. Despite being pricey, they can be applied once, are non-greasy and last all day even when they’ve been swimming, saving the trauma of hourly applications on unwilling kids! Also, don’t forget a UV protective top and hat (with neck cover) which they can wear into the water, so their shoulders, head and neck are covered. 15. Snacks, snacks, and more snacks! Kid’s favourite sweets are always a good distraction when they are getting tired and cannot see reason! You can never have too many snacks packed! I tend to pack fruit, nuts, cereal bars, dried fruit, crisps and raisins. Also remember that when you arrive, you still have to transfer your final destination as well. 16. Be aware that you can only take liquids in your hand luggage through security in 100ml containers, and these must be in a plastic bag. You can buy water for everyone once you are through security. It’s really important for everyone to stay hydrated on the flight. 17. Many parents choose to take a buggy or pram, even if their child is now walking, which can be handy as they can double up as places to rest from the heat or if up a little later than usual to lie down and rest in a restaurant, for example. 18. Take it slow. Be at the airport in plenty of time to allow for unscheduled delays like loo breaks, snack stops and the occasional tantrum! It saves a lot of stress if you’re not worried about the time. Consider booking fast track through security to save time spent queuing at the airport. 19. If you’re worried about your child getting lost, simply write your mobile number on their arm so when they are found, you can be contacted easily. 20. If all else fails, don’t forget to keep smiling and stay calm! Packing your sense of humour when travelling with kids is vital. The best way to ensure a smooth journey and memorable holiday is to get me to book it for you and let me take care of all the details.

28 June 2018

Going to the Caribbean was always my dream when I was younger- it had the allure of clear azure seas, tropical paradise, swaying palms and underwater technicolour. To have been able to visit this part of the world with my job has literally been a dream come true, and I would love to take my family there on holiday as a special treat. If you haven’t been, then all the superlatives are true- and photos don’t do it justice. If you’ve been before, then you’ll know what I mean- but there are so many places to visit-how do you know which one to choose? Here’s a snapshot of 10 of my favourite islands-the hardest choice is which one to pick! 1. Jamaica: Colourful, carefree and lively. Choose from family friendly resorts like Beaches, or chic boutique hideaways. The bobsled ride at Dunn’s River is always a huge hit, and who can resist the coolest bar in the world-Pelican’s, which is around 1 mile from land! 2. St Lucia: The Twin Peaks of the Pitons dominated St Lucia’s stunning natural beauty, and I have to say snorkelling here is some of the best I’ve seen. You’re spoiled for choice with adult only hotels here and my favourite hotel, Sugar Beach, sits nestled between the Pitons-the ultimate luxury hotel with one of the finest locations on the planet. #holidaygoals! 3. Antigua: This pretty island has 365 beaches - all equally stunning with white, powdery sand. Visit Stingray cove to have a hands-on experience with these amazing creatures and fly through the jungle zip lining. 4. Barbados: Great for those who don’t want all-inclusive, you can visit the buzzing bars of St Lawrence Gap in the south of the island and the Friday night fish fry at Oistins is a veritable Barbados institution. A great island to visit if it’s your first time in the Caribbean. 5. Dominican Republic: Often a very affordable way to see the Caribbean, with a great range of hotels for the whole family. With 1000 miles of coastline and great scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities. 6. Bahamas: With 700 islands, this is the place for tropical adventure and home to the legendary Blackbeard! Take a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Exumas with the wild pigs that reside there, where these friendly animals will piggy-paddle alongside you for a unique photo opportunity- a once in a lifetime experience. 7. St Kitts and Nevis: Firmly off the tourist trail, these islands are sleepy and unspoilt. Ideal for peace, tranquillity and utter relaxation. For more active pursuits, you can Climb Nevis Peak, take a rainforest hike or even join a monkey tour! 8. British Virgin Islands: a stunning cluster of 60 breathtakingly beautiful islands and cays, the Virgin Islands offer an idyllic escape for those seeking barefoot luxury, and the region’s protected coral reefs also make for some superb diving. 9. Grenada: Less developed than many of the other Caribbean islands, Grenada enchants with low rise boutique hotels, laid-back way of life and a lush rainforest that opens out onto beautiful beaches and indigo waters of the Atlantic and the Caribbean. Here you will find hot springs, vividly scented markets, spice plantations, volcanic crater lakes and the striking Seven Sisters Falls. 10. St Barths: The jet set crowd has long had a love affair with the understated Caribbean beauty and chic French flavour of this island. Opulent, high end and stylish, at just eight square miles the island packs a punch, with white sands, designer boutiques, fine dining and ultra-luxe hotels. One for a special treat. Call me to chat about where you’ll visit in the Caribbean!

27 June 2018

America’s Deep South is an area drenched in history, musical legends and famed for its Southern hospitality. We set off to attend a friend’s wedding in Tennessee - but not before we’d road tripped from New Orleans to Memphis and Nashville first - 1,600 miles on the road! New Orleans was everything I had expected and so much more. We stayed in the Hyatt in the French Quarter next to Bourbon Street, an area with busy bars and crowds of tourists. We managed to visit much of the city on foot - enjoying the riverside and aquarium, as well as the narrow streets of the French Quarter. Furthermore, we were even lucky enough to run into a marching band procession! The street cars in New Orleans are a great way to get around and when our legs had had enough of walking, we took the streetcar to admire the large private houses on leafy Charles Street before grabbing a slice of excellent pizza and slowly wandering back to the centre. We visited the Boho Frenchman Art Market at night, which is lit up by fairy lights and offers a great chance to browse the open markets stalls displaying art, jewellery and textiles. The whole Frenchman area was incredible - music spills out of the bars, and it has a great, friendly vibe. A real highlight was the trip out into the Louisiana swamps to go in search of alligators on an air boat tour. Skimming across the surface of the swamp, our guide took us deep into the lush, overgrown backwaters where alligators swam round the boat and cranes and cormorants stood like statues by the water’s edge. It felt like stepping back in time. In our hire car, we set out from New Orleans and headed north across the undulating landscape of Louisiana into rural, agricultural Mississippi. We hadn’t booked any accommodation for our night on the road, but we were heading for Highway 61 and Clarksdale - location of the famous Crossroads - where the legend says blues musician Robert Johnson sold his soul to the Devil, marked with three large guitars. We stayed at a low-key motel for the classic road trip experience, driving right up to the door for convenience. Onwards to Memphis where we visited the Civil Rights Museum, which was thought-provoking, moving and inspiring. Memphis was in the grips of their hottest time of year, and it was over 40 degrees! Despite this, we loved wandering around admiring the graffiti and street art and occasionally riding the bus trolley up and down the main street. Did we visit Graceland, once home to Elvis? No, sadly the queues were too long, and we didn’t have the time in our schedule - a good reminder of why it’s a good idea to pre-book tickets in advance before you go! Downtown Nashville was noisy and brash, with numerous cowboy boot stores and cocktail bars - a lively, vibrant city that is proud of its musical legends. We stayed outside the city in a rural area surrounded by green fields and a real highlight here were the fireflies zipping around at night creating an incredible spectacle. No visit to Nashville would be complete without a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and we marvelled at the various clothing, instruments and even cars that were associated with musical legends. The last stop on our tour was Crossville, Tennessee, where we stayed at lakeside cabins reminiscent of a 1950s holiday camp - think ‘Gellerman’s’ for anyone that’s watched Dirty Dancing! It felt like a classic all-American experience. The cabins overlooked the lake and there were plenty of activities to take part in including pedalos, kayaks and boat rides. A night out in Crossville included line dancing and plenty of locally produced Jack Daniel's bourbon - made in the distillery only a few hundred miles away. We were lucky to see inside the world's largest tree house (according to the Guinness World Records) and meet the man who built it, Horace. It was a staggering labour of love and now sadly closed to visitors, as it was one of the highlights of our trip. A huge part of the draw of the South is its food, and we tasted amazing classic such as; po boys, fried chicken, crawfish, pancakes and BBQ - which were all tasty and very, very plentiful! I loved the mix of places we stayed on this trip - from the luxury and convenience of the Hyatt in New Orleans to the classic motel whilst on the road, to the rural idyllic apartment near Nashville and the lakeside cabins at Crossville. There are lots of ways to experience the Deep South for yourself, from guided coach tours to self-drive adventures, and it’s an area which truly has something for everyone.

27 June 2018

Ask me where my favourite place in the world is, and I’ll answer you in a heartbeat: Croatia. I’m smitten with the crystal-clear sapphire sea, the endless beautiful islands and the delicious seafood, wine and gelato. I dream of the summery background hum of cicada tree crickets and the smell of hot crunchy pine needles and sea salt carried on a warm breeze. Furthermore, I admire the humour and warmth of the infinitely welcoming Croatian people. The 1,100-mile stretch of coast and more than 1000 islands means there are a surprising variety of places to choose from when planning a visit. Despite the country growing increasingly popular with tourists in the past few years, this hasn’t faded its charm and appeal. To start with, you can’t overlook Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, famous for its imposing medieval stone walls that encircle the old city surrounded by dazzlingly clear blue water. Walk on top of the entire, 1940 m wall diameter for the dizzy drops and heights and take a sea kayak out at sunset for the ultimate view of this majestic, proud city. The city of Split is home to waterfront Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace and has a great selection of bars, cafés and boutique shops, all set within the ancient, crumbling palace walls and surrounding streets. From Split, you can jump on a ferry to many of the Dalmatian islands, but don’t pass through too quickly, as you’ll be disappointed you didn’t stay longer. Towns don’t come much prettier than picture perfect Trogir, a small town with a labyrinthine network of narrow cobbled streets worn smooth by centuries of pedestrians. Venetian stone buildings hide shaded courtyards blossoming with flowers; it is a town with soul. At sunset the warm stone paved quay is lined with bobbing wooden boats, artisans, performers and people simply strolling along with an ice cream in their hand, watching the world go by, a typical Croatian scene. If you fall in love with Croatia’s natural beauty, you’re in good company. According to legend, Odysseus was enchanted after being shipwrecked here and stayed for 7 years. See where he lived on peaceful Mljet Island, where the National Park has a network of spellbinding pine scented forest trails you can explore by foot or bike. There are also two vividly blue saltwater lakes perfect for swimming or kayaking. My favourite National Park is at Plitvice Lakes, where hundreds of waterfalls cascade into 16 sparkling azure interconnecting lakes. There’s nowhere else on earth like this; it should be on everyone’s bucket list. The island town of Hvar is Croatia’s most notorious hotspot, with a marina that rivals St Tropez’s glitz and glamour. Holidaymakers rub shoulders with celebrities, while yachters mingle with in-the-know backpackers. Don’t be put off by this if you’re after some serious culture and history, as the town is steeped in both. Cafés and restaurants spill out onto the largest piazza in Croatia, and you can instantly see the town’s appeal in its jumble of pretty, narrow streets, fortress and dazzling architecture. Nearby sleepy Korcula has less international notoriety but ample picturesque charm and is known as ‘mini-Dubrovnik’. With so many islands, it’s easy to find your own secluded paradise in Croatia if you want to escape the tourists in peak season, and they’re all connected by local ferries. The Veliki Islands are truly off the beaten track. Expect to share the ferry there with a handful of locals and their weekly shopping bags. You can swim in pristine shallow coves, catch sprats and eat delicious fresh seafood- a perfect day out. Lošinj and Cres Islands are equally remote and home to a resident population of dolphins. Here you’ll find the Lošinj Dolphin Reserve, the first of its kind in the Med. Croatia has a host of culinary delights in store for visitors. There are gelato shops on every corner, stone baked Italian style pizzerias, fresh seafood and lots of local specialities. Try tangy cheese from Pag Island, truffles from Istria, fresh strudel from the local bakers, and don’t miss the signature dish of the Dalmatia region, a ‘peka’, which is a mix of meat and vegetables drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with herbs, and then baked to perfection under a bell-like dome. Suggested Itineraries: Short Break… For a weekend away that combines a cultural city break with sun and swimming, you’ll be hard-pressed to choose between Split and Dubrovnik. Both offer top-notch eateries, a wealth of sightseeing and pretty beaches for relaxation. For a special break, treat yourself at romantic hotel, Villa Dubrovnik, perfect for honeymooners and anniversaries. For a winter break, don’t overlook the capital, Zagreb, which has amazing Christmas markets. A week in the sun… For families, the Istrian peninsula has some great hotels. The town of Rovinj, only 70 miles across the water from Venice, is a classic Mediterranean fishing port surrounded by wooded hills and the town’s piazzas and steep streets make it a perfect place to while away a week in the sun. The local produce here is legendary and the daily marketplace houses truffle traders who sell oil, honey and various other pungent products. There are two island hotels a boat ride from the old town which offer the perfect mix of island seclusion, great beaches and easy access to the bustling market town. Neilson’s Alana Beachclub also has a perfect spot between the Adriatic and peaks of the Paklenica National Park and is perfect for active families looking for great kid’s clubs and a very family friendly atmosphere. Two weeks to explore… A fortnight in Croatia? Lucky you! Jump on board a cruise on a traditional wooden ‘old-timer’ boat or a sleek luxury yacht for a week sailing around the Dalmatian Islands. Drop anchor at hidden coves to swim ashore and find secret beaches and hop from one pretty town to the next. All with the benefit of not having to unpack - and the views of each island as you arrive by boat are stunning. For the second week you can head inland to see Plitvice National Park, hire a car and head into Montenegro, or just relax on your choice of beach resorts along the coast. When to go? The weather is typically Mediterranean, with peak visitor numbers between March and September. I like June the best for the spring flowers, endless sunshine and the best cherries you’ll ever taste. Croatia is less than a 3-hour flight away, so it’s perfect for short breaks or longer. Call me to plan your next Croatia holiday!

27 June 2018

Travelling isn’t about ticking countries off a list, it’s all about experiences. Here are 30 of my favourite travel experiences whether it is food, people, sounds, sights or smells. These are the things that we remember from our travels, and they’re what make us go back for more. 1. Spain: The smell of sweet jasmine and the sound of delicate flamenco guitar in Seville. 2. Iceland: Floating in the steamy, warm waters of the Blue Lagoon as snow falls. 3. China: Wandering ‘The Bund’ (waterfront in Shanghai) at night, when the city is lit up and everyone promenades with their families. 4. Costa Rica: Zip lining through the misty forest canopy in the Monte Verde Cloud Forest. 5. Cuba: Stopping for Piña coladas at a roadside shack on the way to see Che Guevara's tomb. 6. Italy: The amazing acoustics at the Baptistry at Pisa. 7. Malaysia: Grilled lobster on lush tropical getaway Gaya Island in Borneo. 8. India: Sunny mornings drifting on a rice boat in the backwater of Kerala as school children wave cheerily, kingfishers catching their breakfast and colourful sarees hang to dry in the breeze. 9. Croatia: Cocktails on the medieval roof turret at Bar Massimo in Korcula, for the jaw dropping Adriatic sunset. 10. Thailand: Overnight just one jump away from the lake at the floating Rainforest Camp in the jungle at Khao Sok’s unique Elephant Hills, then feeding, washing and interacting with Asia’s largest land animal. 11. Canada: The best ever seafood chowder at Hastings House on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia. 12. Morocco: Hawkers, musicians, entertainers and sizzling street food combine after dark at the electric, buzzing Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh. 13. Sweden: Stay in what must be the coolest tree houses in the world at the Scandinavian-chic TreeHotel. 14. France: You can’t beat chocolate mousse at Chez Janou in Paris. 15. Montenegro : Coffee and people watching on the Bay of Kotor in trendy Porto Montenegro, as superyachts come and go. 16. Tanzania: The ultimate in safari innovation, a ‘Tent with a View’ is a working 4X4 that converts into luxury tented safari accommodation with an elevated bedroom and balcony looking out to the African wilderness. 17. South Africa: Seafood on the stylish waterfront in Cape Town. 18. UAE: Burj al Arab afternoon tea in Dubai after skydiving over The Palm. 19. USA: An evening visit to Alcatraz to watch the sun set over the Golden Gate Bridge. 20. Norway: Husky sledding under the Northern Lights before settling into a cosy glass igloo for the night. 21. Antigua: A beach lover’s paradise, there are 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. 22. Egypt: Stargazing in the vast silent desert with traditional Bedouin tea and shisha pipe. 23. Colombia: Night time swimming in sparkling bioluminescence in the warm inky waters of the Caribbean. 24. Indonesia: Paradise palm fringed beaches and the feel of powdery white sand between your toes on the traffic-free Gili Islands. 25. Scotland: Swimming with seals and then warming up in a wood fired hot tub and drinking gin that’s been made on the premises at Torrisdale Castle Estate. 26. Bolivia: Other-worldly landscapes that will blow your mind at the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. 27. Guatemala: Dawn, and the sound of the jungle waking up around the ancient Mayan citadel in the rainforests of northern Tikal. 28. St Lucia: The psychedelic underwater world of fish and coral that awaits when snorkelling or scuba diving with the backdrop of the Piton mountains above water. 29. Mauritius: A sunset cruise with dolphins playing in the wake of the catamaran. 30. Kenya: Share your breakfast at the aptly named Giraffe Manor, where the windows are flung open to welcome the gentle giants as they poke in their long necks to see what's on the menu.

27 June 2018

Here are some of my top travel hacks when visiting Croatia - enjoy! • Croatia has a host of culinary delights in store for visitors. There are gelato shops on every corner, stone baked Italian style pizzerias, fresh seafood and lots of local specialities. Try tangy cheese from Pag Island, truffles from Istria, fresh strudel from the local bakers, and don’t miss the signature dish of Croatia’s Dalmatia Region, a ‘peka’, which is a mix of meat and vegetables drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with herbs, and then baked to perfection under a bell-like dome. • In Dubrovnik, follow signs for ‘cold drinks’ to locate the well-hidden ‘Buža’ bars and find yourself on the outside of the steep walls just above the sea for sunset ‘wow’ moments. • Check the cruise schedules when you’re visiting as, many ports like Dubrovnik, Pula, and Hvar are a popular stop on the larger cruise ship’s itineraries. Ideally, plan your city sightseeing on a day when no ships are in. • Game of Thrones fans will recognise many of the sights and vistas in Croatia from the hit series. You can even take a guided GOT tour in Dubrovnik of the sites they used for filming. The guides will regale you with behind the scenes gossip from the cast and crew, and you can even sit in a replica of the legendary Iron Throne. • Walking the city walls in Dubrovnik is a must but try and do this either early in the morning or late evening as there’s not much shade once you’re up on top of the walls. During peak times the walls open from 8.00am until 6.30 or 7.30pm, and I love it here at sunset as the light change's minute by minute over the terracotta rooftops. • The wine produced in Croatia is one of the country’s best kept secrets. Most vineyards offer wine tasting, and islands like Vis and Korcula are famous for their delicious produce. • You can easily visit Montenegro from Dubrovnik, either as a day trip or longer. A twin centre break works really well to these two destinations. • For the best sunset in Korcula town head up the ladder inside the medieval turret at Massimo cocktail bar - but get there early for a good spot and prepare to stay all evening as after a couple of drinks the ladder back down can be a daunting prospect! Drinks are served courtesy of a basket pulley system on the outside of the ancient walls. • With so many islands it’s easy to find your own secluded paradise in Croatia if you want to escape the tourists in peak season, and they’re all connected by local ferries. The Veliki Islands are truly off the beaten track. Expect to share the ferry there with a handful of locals and their weekly shopping bags. You can swim in pristine shallow coves, catch sprats and eat delicious fresh seafood - a perfect day out. Lošinj and Cres Islands are equally remote and home to a resident population of dolphins. Here you’ll find the Lošinj Dolphin Reserve, the first of its kind in the Med. Nature lovers will enjoy the hiking and cycling opportunities on these islands that time forgot, they are a world away from the glitz of Croatia’s notorious island hot spots like Hvar. • Try and include a visit to the ‘Blue Caves’ near Vis Island, where you enter the cave (that was apparently a much-loved haunt of Tito) by boat through an entrance in the rock face that is so narrow and low everyone has to crouch down on the floor of the boat. Once inside, you can sit up and admire the view - crystal clear water infused with natural sunlight reflected from the seabed, giving the whole cave an ethereal blue glow. • Stiniva beach on Vis Island is a gem of a hidden cove – hidden from passers-by due to the rocks which open like an amphitheatre once inside and is a magnet to those looking for a cold beer (there’s a bar) on a picture-perfect beach. • Svetni Jakov beach near Dubrovnik offers far-reaching views of the old town and is popular with locals - well worth the 20-minute costal walk - find it tucked behind the church and descend several flights of steps for a perfect beach hideaway complete with bar and restaurant. • In Split, don’t forget to rub the statue of Gregorious of Nin’s big toe and make a wish! • Klis fortress is 5 miles from Spilt and thanks to its high vantage point you can walk to the top for spectacular far-reaching views all the way to the coast.

14 June 2018

Written by Steve Rickett, 29th May 2018 In May, we boarded the Cruise and Maritime vessel Marco Polo for an 11-day Icelandic adventure. After a prompt departure we made stately progress through the lock and entered the Bristol Channel, choosing to miss dinner to witness the familiar landmarks of Penarth, seen from the top deck rather than from dry land. The Marco Polo is a classic ship built by the Russians as an ice breaker in 1965, and it looks like what you’d expect a ship to look like, rather than a floating multi-storey hotel. Being small and perfectly formed, it does not have the unadulterated luxury and decadence of its flashy cousins, but it does have tremendous double-hulled strength and great stability on the open sea. It also has wonderful, friendly staff who can’t do enough for you, good food, pleasant communal areas, serviceable cabins and the best live entertainment that we have experienced to date. After a night and two days at sea, we made landfall at the isolated Faroe Islands early on Saturday morning and were straight into shore excursions, visiting a local wood carver at 8:30! Our excellent guide gave us an insight into life in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, and we learned that seventeen of the nineteen islands are inhabited, but one has only two residents. After a visit to the fishing port of Kvivik, it was back to the boat for a lunchtime departure and overnight crossing to Seydisfjordur for our first taste of Iceland. Marco Polo was severely tested by rough seas but proved equal to the task, ironing out the rolling swell. Seydisfjordur, at the end of a long V-shaped fjord on the south-east coast, was picture-perfect, with cloudless sunny skies, ice capped mountains and pretty dwellings in pastel colours, the only sting in the tail being a really strong wind which almost blew you over. It was Sunday and very quiet, and we were happy to forego the excursions and wander around this delightful settlement, which enjoys the reputation of being the loveliest village in eastern Iceland. A further overnight of rock and roll brought us to Husavik on the north-eastern coast, another coastal town doing a balancing act between commerce and tourism. After another early start, our all day excursion took in the magnificent Godafoss waterfall (where it snowed briefly!) which could give Niagara a run for its money; volcanic pseudo craters at Lake Myvatn where we enjoyed an outstanding lunch of local produce, including Icelandic lamb and trout; weird and wonderful lava rock sculptures at Dimmuborgir and at the Namafjall Geothermal Area we experienced steaming fumeroles and amazing boiling mud pots coloured blue from the basalt with red and yellow sulphur steaks, set in hostile baked earth, which is completely sterile and supports no forms of life. This was Iceland at its best. As we re-joined the ship to continue our westbound circumnavigation of Iceland, we received the unwelcome news that the continuing bad weather meant that the captain had reluctantly abandoned our next port of call at Isafjordur. We later learned that Iceland had been experiencing its worst May weather for many a year, with temperatures rarely struggling beyond six degrees centigrade, strong winds and big rough seas which rendered mooring up on the north-western coast out of the question. Instead, we had an unexpected additional sea day as we headed west and south to the capital Reykyavik, where we arrived in the early evening of Tuesday to be greeted by mist and rain. We forsook the offer of a free shuttle service to explore the downtown area and thoroughly enjoyed an excellent performance by the Show Team instead. The next day dawned bright and clear and was ideal for an excursion around the Golden Circle, taking in the town of Hveragerdi, which straddles the American and Eurasian tectonic plates and experienced severe damage when hot springs caused a major earthquake in 2008. Next, we went to the geothermal area at Haukadular which boasts the thermal geysers Geysir, which has given up spouting and Strokkur, which can be depended upon to produce a spout of water up to six metres in the air every five minutes or so. After seeing this spectacle several times in the cool easterly breeze, we retired to the nearby restaurant for another Icelandic meal. After lunch, it was the splendid Gulfoss waterfall, followed by a walk through the Thingvellir National Park, where the footpath leads you down a steep sided ravine created by the clashing of the two tectonic plates. It was like something out of Game of Thrones and made you feel very humble. On the outward and return journeys, we had a flavour of Reykjavík, which is essentially a modern city with some interesting buildings and a pleasant downtown area. For us, the essence of Iceland is in the rugged and fascinating interior and the coastal settlements which cling on to their sea-based existence. Then it was goodbye to Iceland and looking back, although we were regularly regaled with tales of the disastrous May weather, all our shore excursions were mostly dry with the two really important full day trips having a great deal of sunshine, so we were lucky on land but had to batten down the hatches when at sea. Luckily, the sea conditions were much kinder for our two sea days before arriving at Ringaskiddy in Cork Harbour, where we received a warm and friendly Irish greeting and visited the glorious Blarney Castle after a quick coach tour of Cork. Rejecting the half hour queue to kiss the Blarney Stone, we wandered through the beautiful gardens where we found ourselves overdressed in a positively balmy seventeen degrees centigrade, having been used to chilly Iceland during the previous week. Our adventure was rounded off in Christie’s Bar for a complimentary Irish coffee before a lunchtime departure to reach sleepy Cardiff at six o’clock on Sunday morning. After a short journey back to Penarth, we found ourselves back home, somewhat lost after a packed eleven days away and having to make our own lunch! In conclusion, we had a splendid trip on a ship full of character and people who genuinely want you to have a good time, and we visited some unique places that have made an indelible impression and given us lifelong memories. Best of all, it only took us ten minutes to get to the ship.

05 June 2018

I have always wanted to visit the Caribbean islands, it’s somewhere that’s been my dream destination since I was small. When I had the opportunity to visit on an educational trip with Virgin holidays I was over the moon, although I was concerned that my extremely high expectations may mean I was disappointed. I am happy to report that I wasn’t- in fact Antigua exceeded my expectations in every way and is literally heaven on earth. This is really my idea of a perfect destination- sunshine, stunning coastline, friendly people, amazing food and loads to see and do. Virgin showed us several properties on the island, from affordable to downright luxurious so I got to experience a real range of places to stay. We also swam with stingrays at Stingray City, lounged on a catamaran day trip around the island and inspected so many hotels that I’m now keen to go back and see them all again! Here are the hotels we visited with a little bit about each one: Blue Waters This is a very well- kept luxury resort with lots of room and villa options. Perfect for groups and luxury travellers. I was wowed by Rock Cottage, which can be privately rented offering groups or large families the best of both worlds - a well-equipped private villa with the benefit of hotel facilities. The beaches here are small but perfectly formed. Cove Suites at Blue Waters Very luxurious and extremely spacious suites, with ocean views and beautiful pools. I loved how the bathroom doors can be opened so you can bathe with view of the ocean. Perfect for honeymooners. Verandah Great for families, with two lovely beaches and loads to do for kids. Rooms were fairly basic, but two bed suites are available which is ideal for families who don’t all want to be in one room together. There are lots of places to eat and the fab kids club gives parents the chance for some relaxation whilst the kids are entertained. St James Club & The Beach Club Good facilities for families with practical self-catering villas as well as dining options on site. The adults only suites have great views. The wide sweeping beach here is calm and relaxing with a fantastic backdrop. At the Beach Club, exclusive to Virgin, the rooms are spacious, overlooking the beach and out to sea. Carlisle Bay Wow! This is true top end luxury, with very stylish rooms and a superb beach. Despite being very chic and understatedly stylish the hotel caters very well for families with an on-site cinema and pizza oven. The food was out of this world, and the service impeccable. Stay here and you will not be disappointed! Cocobay My favourite hotel on Antigua. Adults only, with brilliant little wooden pastel coloured cottages dotted around the site reflecting the local architecture and divine views from every direction. There are three great beaches if you can drag yourself away from the breath-taking infinity pool. I loved the rooms with slipper baths on the veranda. Honeymooners paradise, I can think of no better place to stay. Sugar Ridge Seat back away from the coast this is a very luxurious, modern styled property with a large gym and excellent spa facilities. Far reaching views are a real winner, and there is a regular shuttle to beach. Ideal for style conscious couples. Galley Bay A superb adults-only resort with great facilities and dining options, plus a wonderful long stretch of beach. The best cocktails on the island! There are various room options here, many of which lead directly onto the sandy beach. The whole atmosphere of the resort is warm and welcoming, and this would be an ideal honeymoon retreat. The food and service were truly excellent. Sandals Grande Antigua A large resort with two distinct halves, the Italian side which is high rise and quite imposing and the Mediterranean side which is low rise. The resort has a host of facilities - and everything is of a very high standard. Loud music round the pool and resort area may put people off who are looking for tranquillity, but there are quieter areas to explore and the all-inclusive meals, drinks and activities really do mean you won’t be reaching for your wallet once you’re in resort. I can't thank Virgin Holidays enough for the chance to see this destination, and the wide selection of hotels that they offer guests. If you are considering a holiday to anywhere in the Caribbean please do not hesitate to get in touch so we can discuss your options, there are so many islands to choose from and the beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, amazing food and drink and welcoming people will never fail to impress.

05 June 2018

Whilst in Saint Lucia, I had the opportunity to visit three hotels on the island, all of which had unique personalities and offer very different experiences. I must admit, I didn’t want to check out and leave any of them! Rendezvous is a couple’s only, all-inclusive hotel situated on a two-mile stretch of Malabar beach. The atmosphere here is laid back and friendly, and the rooms are luxurious and spacious. It’s worth paying to upgrade to a newly renovated Verandah Suite - the comfy daybeds on the terrace and wow factor interior complete with standalone bath and rain shower is very special. My favourite part of this hotel was the ‘lazy river’ which is a hidden gem. Set amongst dense foliage, you’d be forgiven for not even noticing it’s there! It winds its way around the hotel site and has private seating areas and day beds that are offer privacy and seclusion, along with the opportunity to take a dip in the river when it gets too hot. Waiters will bring drinks to your spot on the river and the service is so attentive that they’ll keep bringing your favourite tipple, ice-cold, until you ask them to stop! The beach front pool features a swim up bar with great cocktail options (try the Rendezvous Paradise - it’s the best!) and a further spa pool gives you plenty of options for poolside relaxation. The food options here are excellent. There’s a fresh delicious buffet option or if you prefer to dine à la carte this is included, as many times as you like. The Malabar Beach restaurant, a new addition to the hotel, offers barefoot, feet-in-the-sand dining and focuses on locally sourced, fresh Caribbean style meals. Nearby there’s a jungle adventure centre where you can zip line through the canopy and take a sky tram up into the jungle to a great lookout point. Weddings at the hotel are free with stays of seven nights or more, and it’s truly ideal for celebrating wedding anniversaries and honeymoons. The Body Holiday Hotel has a unique concept - “Give us your body for a week, and we’ll give you back your mind”. This is an all-inclusive wellness holiday with a difference. I was a little concerned I’d be marched off to exercise at every opportunity, but the reality is very different. Yes, there are an abundance of activities you can take part in from tennis, yoga, spinning, walking, water sports, water polo, biathlons, tai chi… the list goes on, but they are all entirely optional, and you can do as little or as much as you want. Every guest at the hotel gets a daily spa treatment included, choosing from a list of 12 options. I went for the lime and ginger body scrub and a hand and foot massage - both were divine. I also enjoyed a yoga class in the air-conditioned studio, kayaking in the bay, ‘tubing’ and scuba diving - all of which were included at no extra cost. There are healthy food options to choose from, and some not so healthy - again, the choice is yours. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, this is very well catered for. Buffet and à la carte options are included, so there’s a good choice of places to eat, and the standard is very high. Guests here must be 16 years plus, except for in July and August, when the minimum age is lowered to 12. This makes it a popular choice for families with teenage children who want a wealth of activities to keep the whole family happy. The Body Holiday is also very popular amongst solo travellers - there is even a week in September dedicated to solos. My recently renovated Grand Luxury Ocean Front Room was on the ground floor overlooking the sea and had a large decking area - I left my doors open and drifted to sleep listening to the waves, which was heavenly. The highlight of my visit to Saint Lucia was the Viceroy Sugar Beach. The hotel has rightfully been given numerous awards and accolades, is notoriously popular amongst celebrities, and is undoubtedly one of the very best hotels in the Caribbean. Words and photos really don’t do the property justice, and it has to be seen to be believed. The hotel is nestled amongst pristine rainforest between the two iconic, dramatic Piton mountains and the various rooms, cottages and residences are dotted over the large 300-acre estate, leading down to a white sand beach and pure turquoise waters. The Pitons are a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site and the snorkelling is incredible as the waters off Sugar Beach are part of the National Marine Reserve. My room, the Beachfront cottage, was located directly on the beach with a private garden and outdoor Jacuzzi and shower area. The room décor is chic and smart with a large four-poster bed, freestanding bath and walk in wardrobe area complete with Nespresso machine and fridge. A seating area and hammock overlook the pristine white sand beach. All rooms here come complete with butler service 24/7, and you’re provided with phones to call the butler when you need assistance. This hotel takes Caribbean luxury to an entirely new level. The hotel’s ambience, divine smell (lavender and lemongrass I’m told), discreet and friendly service, food and drink, accommodation options and backdrop of natural beauty all combine to make this an unrivalled luxury experience. The resort also offers one and two-bedroom villas, and two, three, four and even five-bedroom residences which are perfect for larger families and groups. Children are welcome at the hotel and there are kid’s clubs to suit. The dining is as you'd expect from a hotel of this standard and I enjoyed the Asian-inspired menu in the funky Cane Bar as much as the five-course taster menu, wood fired pizza from the Beachside Bay Bar or freshly cooked breakfast on the terrace. The location of Sugar Beach and the constant backdrop of the Piton Mountains is stunning, and the hotel is a real five-star delight. I really must debunk the myth that the Caribbean is too rainy to visit in our summer months (May-September). This is the second time I've been in the Caribbean during the 'low' season, and on both occasions the weather has been great. There is the occasional rain shower, but it quickly passes and is followed by glorious sunshine. It also rained heavily overnight, but I loved being inside with the balcony doors flung open, listening to the sound of the rain and tree frogs - part of the music of the Caribbean! Saint Lucia can be visited 365 days of the year and if you are looking for an affordable Caribbean break then the summer months offer fantastic value for money.

14 April 2018

Although I’ve travelled a lot in Central America, this was my first time in South America, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I am lucky to have friends living in Medellín, the country’s second-largest city nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its temperate weather, so this was my first port of call. The city is nestled in a steep sided valley and has worked hard to shake off its history as one of the most dangerous cities on the planet. The cable car across Medellín is a relatively new construction and is one of the many physical signs that this city is forging a new future. Another is the sleek escalators, clean platforms and efficient service of the overland metro. The two together give Medellín a transport system that European cities would be envious of, the goal being to connect the city’s poorest residents with the city below them. As we caught the cable car out into the countryside to Parque Arvi, rising steeply out of the valley, we had a bird’s eye view of local Medellín life. Medellín’s changes extend past public transport improvements to many new libraries and public spaces. My favourite park space was the Botanical Gardens which not only showcase a vibrant array of plants but also houses a butterfly house and a fascinating science museum. Sculptures by Fernando Botero decorate downtown Medellín's Botero Plaza, while the Museo de Antioquia displays more of the Colombian artist’s work-both are well worth a visit. Families stroll here in the plaza enjoying days out, hawkers sell their wares from market stalls, and street food stands sizzle and tempt with delicious smells. We caught a short internal flight from Medellín over to the seaside town of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. This historic 16th-century port city is nestled alongside the Caribbean Sea and is one of Colombia’s prettiest towns. The old town is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow cobbled streets and brightly coloured colonial architecture. We stayed in the hip Getsemani area of town, around a 15-minute walk from the walls of the old town. Our accommodation, Casa Relax, had a lovely outdoor pool and clean spacious rooms. The Getsemani area had a great feel to it with lots of lovely cafés and restaurants, tourists mingling, and locals chatting in doorways and crowded round guitars and board games on the street. At night, it was quite lively - the bars spill onto the street and there’s music everywhere. I could have spent several days wandering round the old town and going into boutique shops and funky cafés. We also visited the castle that's on top of San Lázaro hill, dominating approaches to the city by land or sea. It was built by the Spanish during the colonial era to defend the town's great wealth from pirates - and the British. There are tunnels here to explore and amazing views - I recommend visiting at sunset to escape the heat and for the best photos facing out to sea. One of the highlights of Colombia was the high standard of food we ate everywhere. Every meal - from cheap street eats to expensive sit-down dinners, was beyond delicious, and I’d go back again just for the food! The best street food was arepas which are corn discs that come in all different shapes and varieties from thick and cheesy to soft and sweet. The sheer variety of delicious ripe succulent fruits on offer was also mind-boggling. For breakfast, we ate the exotic Cherimoya which had an odd white gooey texture but tasted divine - like a mix of every tropical fruit rolled into one! After a couple of nights in Cartagena, we travelled west for a beach sojourn to nearby Baru Island by road. Playa Blanca beach is crowded during the day - we arrived by shared taxi in the afternoon and had to weave our way through families on sun loungers spending a day at the beach, and numerous food and drink sellers. There are a few small hostels dotted along the beach - all of them simple, rustic bamboo buildings with basic rooms. Our room had a fan and no running water - we washed from a large bucket suspended above the floor with a tap - properly back to basics! The on-site bar made up for what the room lacked - Piña coladas are served in fresh pineapples, and a freshly tapped coconut can be prepared in an instant. The freshly cooked fish served with fried plantain was delicious. By late afternoon the beach is almost empty except for those staying on the beach and by sunset the beach is warm, quiet and still. If water sports are your thing, there’s plenty to keep you busy at Playa Blanca. There’s scuba diving, snorkelling, jet skis and much more. The clear turquoise blue sea and white sand is the perfect backdrop to rest and relaxation, and I could have whiled away an extra week here just taking it easy. The highlight of my trip was a nighttime boat trip at Playa Blanca to see the magical, swirling bioluminescence in the water. After sunset, we set off to a nearby lagoon just behind the beach and after a quick briefing we jumped in to see the magic happen. The water temperature was the same as the air temperature - around 31 degrees - so it was like swimming in an inky warm bath. As you move through the water, the thousands of tiny star-like bioluminescent phytoplankton shine and light up like a starry sky. The bioluminescence results from a light-producing chemical reaction and can’t be caught on a normal camera. We played in the water for ages, letting the ‘light’ drip and run down our arms and creating huge swirling tornadoes of light with our legs and arms under the water. A once in a lifetime, magical experience. I can’t recommend Colombia enough - it has been a real highlight of my travels in the past few years. There are lots of ways to see Colombia - from a twin centre like I did, or a cruise stopping off along the coast, or a more in-depth tour that takes in several different locations. It caters for everyone from a budget conscious backpacker to all out 5-star luxury. Of course, you can twin Colombia with another country nearby such as Costa Rica, Peru or the Galápagos Islands. Whatever you do and wherever you go, you’ll be met with warm smiles and find yourself immersed in a stunning natural environment with elegant architecture and towns and delicious cuisine. Call me to find out more!

21 September 2017

As anyone who’s ever talked to me about travel knows, Croatia is my favourite place on earth, and I never grow tired of going back there on holiday. This time I revisited Dubrovnik, where I worked as a tour leader 10 years ago for Explore Worldwide. I was excited to go back and see how things had changed and visit some of my favourite hotels in the area. We went for a week, staying in a two-bedroom apartment Villa Curic located in Lapad, about 10 minutes bus ride from the old town overlooking Gruz Port. The apartments were excellent - clean, spacious and with a huge terrace with sweeping views overlooking Lapad and the port, so we could watch the cruise ships come and go. There was a small rooftop pool and, even better, a winery where they make their own wine in huge vats! Dubrovnik sits at the southernmost point of Croatia’s Adriatic coast-a stretch of seafront that’s famous for its crystal-clear waters. Jaw dropping stone walls encircle the old city of Dubrovnik, and the imposing medieval walls have never been breached. You can walk the entire, 1940 m diameter on top of the walls, and see for yourself the dizzy drops and heights where the walls meet the sea. One of the highlights of our trip was sea kayaking at sunset, which was extremely tiring but lots of fun. Our effort was rewarded with a stunning sunset, which we watched whilst bobbing in our kayaks not too far from the old town. The trip lasted around three hours, and we ended up kayaking all the way around uninhabited Lokrum Island. We stopped to explore caves and have a swim. The whole experience was excellent and ended with yet more lovely Croatia wine, but only once we’d got out of the kayaks! The three-island boat trip by galleon was a brilliant day out from Dubrovnik and took us to the small and totally unspoilt islands of Kolocep, Šipan and Lopud. The wooden galleon-style boat moored on each island, giving us long enough to swim off the sandy beaches and sample local cafés and restaurants before sailing onwards to the next destination. A great way to get around and see a sample of these beautiful Elaphite islands. We also took a daytrip on a minibus to see Korcula town, which involves driving along the Pelješac peninsula to Orebic village and then a short ferry ride across from the mainland to the island of Korcula. Korcula town is nicknamed ‘mini-Dubrovnik’ and is picture-perfect in every way. From the clear blue waters that surround the town to the stunning medieval walls and narrow cobbled streets, it’s easily possible to while away an afternoon wandering around taking in the views and exploring the numerous small jewellery shops and cool bars. Although this was my own holiday, I’m never off duty for long, so I visited three of my top-selling hotels in the area, so I could see them all for myself. Hotel Croatia is in sleepy Cavtat town, around 30 to 45 minutes from Dubrovnik, and close to the airport. The hotel is 5-star and has a very modern, clean feel to it with minimalist, non-fussy design. The sea view rooms are most certainly worth the extra cost-the views are jaw dropping. Top Tip: If you want to be on the same level as the swimming pool, you need a room on floor level five. The hotel is on top of a very steep hill, so it’s not ideal if you have walking difficulties. However, a golf buggy shuttle service runs regularly down into Cavtat town and to the beach bar and waterfront area which is lined with restaurants and cafés where you can watch the boats come and go. The hotel is on the flight path, but the incoming flights were infrequent, and I didn’t find this obtrusive. The old town of Dubrovnik can be reached by water taxi, which is the perfect way to view the city walls from the water. Villa Dubrovnik is another 5-star hotel, this time overlooking the old town of Dubrovnik and around 5 minutes from Dubrovnik’s port by the hotel’s own vaporesso speedboat. If you prefer, it’s a 20-minute pleasant stroll along the coast to walk into the old town. I love the fact that you arrive at the hotel to a simple wooden door that then whisks you in an elevator down into the main buildings. It almost feels like a Bond film, giving you an instant feeling that this is going to be a very exclusive place. This is a very grown-up property that oozes luxury and style and is unashamedly understated and chic. Rooms look out over the sparkling sea, and many have views of the old town too. Communal areas are beautifully decorated, and the staff can’t do any more to help, it’s a true haven of peace, calm and indulgence. There’s a pool as well as a restaurant terrace overlooking the sea and the cherry on the cake-a rooftop bar which serves sunset drinks with panoramic views. I honestly didn’t want to leave. You need to be prepared for the cost of this hotel, but I’d say it’s worth every penny for the experience-ideal for honeymoons, an anniversary or just a romantic holiday for two. Hotel Kompas has just had a major renovation and has changed almost beyond recognition since I used to eat in its restaurant 10 years and more ago. The only thing that’s not changed is its superb location right on Lapad beach, with easy access to the beautiful pedestrianised promenade lined with restaurants, bars and cafés in Lapad. The hotel is officially a 4-star but so many elements warrant 5-stars, from the funky fresh décor to the views from the reception over the beach area, I was impressed. The hotel has an area of the beach reserved just for guests with towels and loungers, so it’s easy to hop onto the beach for a bit. I loved the location here for families - lots of places to eat out, beach on your doorstep and a great atmosphere. Croatia offers the potential for so many different types of holidays, it’s a shame to only visit there once. Believe me, once you’ve taken your first trip there, you’ll be wanting to go back for more! You could stay for a short city break and explore Dubrovnik or Split; have a winter shopping trip to the markets in Zagreb in the run-up to Christmas; spend time on pristine beaches; chill at laid back cafés and chic bars; sail between islands or spend a week living aboard a wooden boat; have an adventure kayaking and climbing at Omiš or visit National Parks at Plitvice, Mljet and Krka. Croatia’s got all my perfect ingredients for a great holiday-great fresh seafood, good local wine, crystal clear sea, reliable warm weather, stunning local architecture steeped in history and friendly welcoming people.

19 December 2016

I’ve had many happy clients go on Neilson holidays, so I decided that this summer we’d pack our bags and head to a Neilson resort in Turkey and see what the fuss is all about! With two 8-year-old boys in tow, we were hoping they’d be kept busy whilst we had time to relax, and we were not disappointed. ‘Relax as hard as you want’ is Neilson’s motto, and I thought I'd put this to the test! Whilst I experienced the ultimate sunbed and pool relaxation, both boys loved the kids’ clubs and experienced paddleboarding, sailing, pizza making, kayaking and much more. And they still managed to fit in around 8 hours a day in the pool! I also decided to sign up for a level 1 sailing course, which was so much fun with a laid back, relaxed atmosphere. We literally didn’t stop laughing, whether on shore or at sea, where I became quite a master of the capsize! When not devouring a good book by the pool I also did cycle rides, a Turkish hammam massage, shopping in local markets and a 2 km swim back from a nearby island to the mainland. It was the perfect mix of downtime and activities. It was also great to spend quality time with the kids and take them out on the water where we paddle boarded, water-skied, sailed and kayaked together. The standard of food at the hotel far exceeded our expectations. Even though it was a buffet it was all very fresh and locally sourced, there was never a queue, and the service at our table was excellent. I did find the prices of drinks a little more than anticipated, however my bill at the end of the week wasn’t dreadful despite several evenings with the cocktail list! It was great being on ‘club’ board, as twice in the week we ate out at local restaurants instead of at the hotel, which is always a real highlight. Local restaurants line the seafront and are lit by twinkling lanterns - they all serve fresh seafood, and our meals out were excellent. I met many people at the hotel who have holidays as a family every year with Neilson, and it’s easy to see why they have such a loyal following. The whole family can find activities that suit - even teens have their own ‘club’ so they can choose to eat together and generally avoid their (embarrassing) parents, so families with children of all ages are well catered for. There’s a lovely atmosphere at the hotel - everyone is very friendly, and by the end of the holiday we knew lots of people and had made great friends. "Relax as hard as you like" isn’t just a tagline with Neilson, it’s their philosophy. It doesn't matter whether you relax doing 360s in the Med, surfing the powder of the Dolomites, cruising the blues of the Alps as a total newbie, or by taking a breather on a sunbed, with just headphones for company. Neilson offers both summer and winter holidays to keep the whole family content. Neilson have two new locations for 2017 in Croatia and Sardinia, which is exciting as Croatia is still my number one destination in Europe. As a parent, it’s rare to find a beach holiday where both kids and parents are kept completely happy - well done Neilson for finding that perfect balance. We’ll be back soon! If you’d like to find out more about Neilson, or any aspect of family holidays, please get in touch and I can help find a holiday to keep the whole family happy and make memories to last a lifetime.

09 July 2016

To bear witness to one of nature’s most spectacular light shows, the Northern Lights, has always been on my ‘bucket list’. For this trip to Lapland we were based in Karesuando village, deep within the Arctic Circle on the border of Sweden and Finland. Our accommodation was in a quaint little timber cabin nestled amidst several feet of snow. Almost as soon as the sun set there was a knock on my door and a cry of ‘The Lights are out!’ I quickly bundled my son in a duvet and we rushed out into the icy landscape so we could stare at the night sky in anticipation. I have to be honest and tell you that the sight of the swirling, misty green lights in the sky made my eyes fill for it has to be one of the most beautiful, crazy and surreal things I’ve ever seen. I’d read so much about the science behind the Aurora Borealis- the KP index, solar flares, magnetic resonance and the suchlike that I could scarcely believe something so mathematical and factual could produce a display of such magnitude and raw beauty. The activities that were offered were amazing and really hit the spot with the kids and adults alike. The husky sleigh ride was exhilarating and had me whooping like a child as our team of dogs effortlessly pulled us at high speed through a glittering icy landscape with not a soul in sight - it felt like we were racing to the end of the world and I did not want the adventure to end. Afterwards we fed the huskies and helped their trainers put them into their individual kennels, getting to know each animal’s personality and getting a fascinating insight into the lives led by the dogs and their attentive carers. The snowmobile expedition was a real highlight- the controls are incredibly easy to use and the kids all travel in a wooden sleigh pulled by an experienced guide so they can enjoy the exhilarating ride as well. Having never ridden a skidoo before I was a little cautious at first but after five minutes or so I was zooming along like a pro, admiring the frozen rivers and marvelling at the beauty of the frozen landscape around me. We were taken to a lookout point, high up above the treeline with 360 degree views all around. It felt like we were literally on top of the world- no photos could have done the view justice - nor captured the spirit of adventure that you feel stood atop a hill with nothing but the frozen arctic surrounding you. Meeting the reindeers was a surprise as they were much smaller than I’d imagined, and also very tame! We sat around the fire in a kota, a traditional Lappish tent, and enjoyed reindeer sausages roasted on an open fire washed down with loganberry juice - both local specialties. I must admit to being a bit of a sun seeker when it comes to holidays in the past but this trip to Lapland has changed my perception completely. This was a true adventure to the ends of the earth and I can’t recommend it highly enough. If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list too then give me a call or email me and we can chat about the various ways you can do this as there are lots of options (cruising, Lapland, Iceland, with/without kids etc) and I’d be more than happy to discuss these with you. Lapland isn't just about Santa and his elves - it's a great playground for big kids too!

09 July 2016

One of the most frequent questions I get asked about the Northern Lights is one that’s unfortunately quite difficult to answer: when and where is the best time to travel abroad to see the Northern Lights? It is the $64,000 question, as everyone wants to give themselves the best chance of glimpsing the famous Aurora Borealis. The best places to go depend on what you want to do when you get there. For a city break with a twist, Reykjavík in Iceland is hard to beat, although Tromso in Norway is equally popular. For a more remote break it’s best to head north into the Arctic Circle-the northerly parts of Finland, Norway and Sweden are known collectively as 'Lapland' and all offer great winter escapes where you be as active as you want with snowmobiling, husky sledding, skiing and ice fishing on offer. There are some very individual and different places to stay in Lapland besides a classic cosy wooden log cabin. Quirky Ice hotels, igloos made of snow or even glass and unbelievable tree houses make a unique and once in a lifetime holiday. Santa is in situ in the lead up to Christmas, so a trip to see him could also mean a sighting of the lights as well! In terms of which month to pick, the lights are generally viewed from September to March, when the nights are long, and the sky is dark. The aurora is at its most active around the equinoxes in March and September, however if you want to travel in September remember there won’t be any snow around yet! Most tours start in November, when snow has fallen, and the landscape is transformed into stunning wintery glory. It is a myth that the lights come out the colder it gets. However, there are less likely to be clouds obscuring the view when the temperatures drop. Another myth to debunk is that the waxing and waning of the moon makes a difference to the northern lights. Whilst a full moon does lighten the sky, and therefore possibly reduce the visual intensity of a display, the northern lights can be seen at all stages of the moon’s cycle. There are two things which obscure a good view of the lights-cloud and light pollution. To increase your chances of seeing the lights, you really need to be in a location with very little light pollution, so away from built-up areas. If you’re on a city break to Reykjavík in Iceland or Tromso in Norway, there are tours you can take that leave the city and take you into the countryside by bus or car. Better yet, a short nighttime cruise is a great way to get away from artificial light and maximise your chances. There are a range of longer cruises up the west coast of Norway and you spend the entire voyage within the Arctic Circle, giving you the best opportunity to see the Northern Lights. In terms of timings, the lights are commonly most seen between 17:00 and 02:00 but can be seen any time when the sky is clear, which is most of the time in winter when you're in the far north. They don’t usually exhibit for long – they may only show for a few minutes, then glide away before returning. A good display may last for no longer than half an hour, though, if you’re lucky, it could extend to a couple of hours or longer with the lights appearing to ‘dance’ across the sky. Most hotels will wake you up (at your request) if the lights make an appearance after bedtime. Depending on your location, you can even view the lights from your bedroom window. The lights are a very special natural phenomenon. Despite the advice I’ve given above, I saw the lights in Finnish Lapland in early April when at dusk and the sky was partly cloudy, which just goes to show there is an element of luck involved too! If you’d like to know more about where to go to see the Northern Lights, I’m always happy to discuss options and ideas with you, so please feel free to get in touch.

01 June 2015

I must admit I wasn’t sure what to expect when I set foot onboard Celebrity’s most popular cruise ship for the UK, Eclipse. I was lucky enough to experience this two night cruise from Southampton to Le Havre, a ‘taster’ of what life at sea has to offer with Celebrity. The ship was at maximum capacity- 2,850 passengers- and has just completed a refurbishment which has left it looking fresh and modern. Celebrity Cruises challenge all previously held conceptions about cruising with their ‘Modern Luxury’ approach and are enticing people who had never considered cruising to give it a try. And it’s easy to see why it’s working. Gone are the stereotypes we all hold about cruising. The interiors are light, bright and full of quirky designs. The top deck features a real grass expanse, a real tree grows up through the sleek foyer where elevators glide seamlessly, there’s a two story wine tower, nightclub, huge theatre and a frozen bar where the martinis are always on ice! It was difficult not to tuck in and over indulge on the wide selection of food available. We ate on the first night at one of the speciality restaurants, the Tuscan Grille, which served excellent Italian food. The main restaurant, with its wine tower centrepiece, was an excellent way to start the following evening before going to see a lively performance of classic show tunes in the theatre. It would have been churlish of me to not try the selection of drinking establishments on board, including the martini bar complete with frozen bar top, authentic looking wine cellar which serves up a cheese selection alongside your wine and brand new slush bar serving frozen drinks by the pool. I can safely report back that they were all excellent! We were kept entertained throughout the cruise in the form of a wine tasting session from Oz Clarke and an entertaining adventure talk from Ben Fogle. The list of events on the ship are varied and of the highest standard. We watched a West-end style performance of famous show tunes in the massive theatre backed by a huge orchestra. It was almost impossible to imagine that all of this was on a ship! If you are new to cruising I think Celebrity offer a wonderful introduction to life at sea. Call me to discuss the endless possibilities that cruising has to offer!

06 January 2015

I’m a massive fan of the sunshine so when I had the chance to visit Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt in December I jumped at it! This is a fantastic destination for winter sun. We took boat trips to coral fringed islands, rode camels in the desert whilst the sun set, star gazed, watched fire jugglers and snorkelled for hours on end! I wasn’t expecting the scenery at Sharm to be so breath-taking. The jagged mountains rise steeply from the coast giving the whole place a gorgeous backdrop - the mountain’s colours change every minute and a trip out into the desert at sunset is a must-do. If you’re a fan of swimming and snorkelling then the reefs in Sharm are compelling. Out hotel, Hilton Sharks Bay, had a jetty extending right over the house reef. We simply jumped into the water and it was like entering an aquarium - a kaleidoscope of colour and life. The water is clear, calm and stunning turquoise blue, very inviting for all levels of swimmer, and perfectly safe for kids. A day trip to barren Tiran Island, with shallow warm turquoise waters and endless coral reefs was a great way to spend the day, stopping off at great snorkel spots and a chance for first timers to try scuba diving and those with scuba experience to go off and explore underwater. The temperatures during the day stayed in the mid to high twenties which was perfect and hot enough to sunbathe. One of the large freeform pools at the hotel, complete with artificial beach, was heated and had a water slide for the kids (and grown-ups!) which kept us busy with more swimming. Just a short stroll away in Sharks Bay is Soho Square which has numerous boutique shops and cafes, plus many more restaurants if the hotel food gets repetitive. For an authentic Egyptian experience try the Old Market area after dark - bustling with shops and traders with some beautiful local handiworks to buy. Butchers and greengrocers sit alongside shops selling handbags and fake sunglasses, it has a nice atmosphere. Cafes are full of men playing backgammon, mulling the days events and smoking sheesha pipes. It is an occasional glimpse, albeit a brief one, of what lies beyond the tourist façade in Sharm. I’d definitely recommend Egypt for a winter break, and it suits all type of holiday makers - from families to couples and independent travellers. If you’d like to know more then please call me.

05 January 2015

Firstly, the weather in Seville at the end of September is perfect - warm, sunny, but not too hot and perfect for sitting out on a pavement café in the evening watching the world go by. I was in heaven! The smell of sweet jasmine, the taste of amazing bread, cheese and tapas, the sound of delicate flamenco guitar, the sight of colourful ceramics, brightly painted buildings and palm trees waving - these are all of the things I loved about Seville, plus so much more! There’s so much to see in this amazing city that we ended up hiring bikes to get around which was very safe and easy although did require stopping every 100 metres or so to check the map as the city’s narrow twisting streets can easily get you lost - although this is part of the fun. We took our time to visit the city’s main attractions. The Cathedral with its ominous paintings and hoards of gold and great views over the city from the belfry. The Real Alacazaar’s amazing tiled walls and ornate ceilings were only surpassed by its tranquil high-walled gardens complete with maze, palm trees and novelty water- powered organ! You could easily spend a whole day here! One room leads to another which leads to a courtyard, which leads to another room. The complex is huge and completely awe-inspiring. We enjoyed lying down in the sunshine in a quiet part of the gardens and relaxing in the tranquil surroundings. The flamenco show we saw as Casa de Flamenco in the old town area of Santa Cruz was mesmerising. The dancers and musicians were so talented that the whole room gave a standing ovation. It was spell binding and I have to admit I wasn’t expecting to be so blown away by the whole experience but it had me enthralled throughout. Another highlight was the local flea market, where the pavements are crammed with locals selling their wares. Much like a car boot sale without the cars! We picked up some amazing prints to frame when we got home and enjoyed looking at the variety of clothes, furniture, ornament, pictures, old cameras and trinkets on sale, soaking up the fantastic atmosphere before diving into another lovely café for a refreshing drink. We stayed at the centrally located Casa de Mestro boutique hotel for 3 nights, and with direct flights from Stansted plus private transfers the whole trip cost around £225 per person which is great value for an amazing city break like this and beats Barcelona’s prices and tourist hordes any day! I spent most to this trip either eating the best ever tapas or being wowed and amazed at the beautiful architecture, culture and street life. If you want a city break in Europe with great weather, top notch food and loads to see and do then call me for a personal quote.

15 May 2014

March is quite early to visit the Balearic Islands and we had mixed weather but it was perfect for sightseeing and we certainly saw a lot in 4 days. The island is popular for biking at this time of year- the empty, winding roads and mild but sunny weather makes perfect conditions for cyclists. There is blossom everywhere in March so the countryside is beautiful. We hired a car and spent the first day driving from our base near Palma to the south coast and the pretty bay of Canyamel, where I spent my holidays as a child. En route we stopped at Canyamel Castle, built in by the Moors in 1250 which was worth a short visit- the restaurant next door also houses some amazing artefacts from days gone by and serves great food. The south of Mallorca’s coast is riddled with caves to visit but my favourite and undoubtedly Mallorca’s most impressive caves are the Caves of Drach-, or ‘Dragon’s Caves’. The stalactites are growing at a rate of around 1 cm per 100 years, and some of them are as tall and thick as large tree trunks- staggering how old they are, dating back to the Miocene era up to 20 million years ago! The route through the caves ends with a crystal clear lake, where you take a seat and watch as small boats, lit with fairy lights and filled with musicians perform a classical recital which is breathtakingly beautiful and sounds amazing. You then have a short boat ride on the underground lake before emerging from the 80% humidity up hundreds of steps to fresh air! The wooden train that rumbles slowly through the mountain between Palma and Soller was our next adventure. It’s a very slow journey and the temptation to pick a ripe orange or lemon straight from the tree as we meandered past lush groves dripping with fruit was strong! The views of the mountains on this journey are incredible and the train goes over viaducts and through tunnels on its route to Soller town. At Soller we headed straight to the ice cream shop and manufacturers ‘Sa Fàbrica de Gelats’ which supplies much of Mallorca with its great ice cream in a bewildering variety of different flavours. A tram runs from Soller to the coastal town of Port Soller, so we jumped on and enjoyed watching the sea get closer. The beach was empty (except for the ducks!) despite the sunshine so we built sandcastles and dipped our feet. There is a great view of the coast if you wander uphill to the museum at the east end of the town, and we were greeted by friendly ‘Hola’s’ everywhere we went. The seafood here is deliciously fresh and no visit would be complete without a plate of fresh fish enjoyed overlooking the marina. It was easy to jump on a bus to take us back to Palma, where we marvelled at the giant cathedral and wandered past fountains and statues. Mallorca is known for its beach life but there is so much more to do besides, it’s the perfect break for the whole family whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or both! Call me plan your perfect Mallorca break.

19 November 2013

I was fortunate as a tour leader to be assigned to a 13 day tour of Kerala, India. I was there for several months from September to April- the best time for visiting although it can get very hot and humid. This small slip of land by the coast in India is known as ‘Gods Own Country’ and it's easy to see why. The coast is lush verdant green with palm trees as far as the eye can see leading down to warm waters and sandy beaches. Kerala is most renowned for the hundreds of miles of rivers, canals, streams and estuaries known collectively as the ‘backwaters’. Here you can board a Keralan houseboat - a converted wooden barge which would traditionally have been used to transport rice and other goods around this network of waterways. This is a great chance to explore deep into the Indian countryside and be amazed at the sights and sounds of the Backwaters. Men in small boats punt past, herding huge flocks of ducks. Children wave and smile as they play by the water’s edge. Bubbles appear beneath the surface quickly followed by several men carrying mud up from the depths to load onto barges. Women line the river banks washing colourful saris or pots and pans. The Snake Temple, deep in the backwaters with its 30,000 plus images of serpents it is said to bring fertility to those who worship here. Upon the birth of the child, the family bring the baby back to the temple and a huge set of scales are used so that the family can give the temple back the baby’s weight in gold, or for more modest families, bananas or coconuts. One of the real highlights of this tour was the chance to stay with an Indian family in their home. The homestay was a chance to really get to know the gracious Paritickel family who welcomed us with open arms and were the most gracious hosts. They became my family whilst I lived and worked there and were an endless source of information and friendship for me. Heading away for the coast the land rises steeply up and palm trees give way to fields of pineapples and rubber trees. As the roads get steeper and windier, the smell of spices are everywhere and at last we arrived at Periyar. This National Park is home to tigers, elephants, deer and otters, which can be viewed in their natural environment undisturbed from a boat trip on the lake. Heading further inland and gaining altitude, the land opens up to miles of carefully manicured tea terraces. The rich dark green is speckled with the vibrant colours of ladies picking the tea leaves in their vivid saris. Munnar is a town with a distinctly colonial feel as it was the favoured summer resort of erstwhile British rulers. It’s here that I enjoyed the very best curry in India at Saravana Bhavan café- a traditional thali served on a coconut leaf for only 20 rupees. Back on the coast the city of Kochi is a typical bustling Indian city with the usual traffic, horns honking and crazy rickshaws! The old part of the city at fort Kochi is an oasis of calm in comparison. You will certainly recognise the Chinese fishing nets, much photographed with a backdrop of the setting sun. Each 10 m high structure is a cantilever with an outstretched net suspended over the sea and operated by a team of up to six fishermen. You can choose your fresh catch of the day and have it cooked over and open fire whilst you wait- delicious! There are several companies who operate group tours to Kerala to suit all tastes from cycling and walking tours to more leisurely paced affairs, cooking tours or yoga retreats. There is also the option to tailor-make your Keralan tour, or perhaps combine it with a stop in Sri Lanka or a trip to the north of India. Kerala is ideal for your first trip to India, and provides and gentle and laid back introduction to one of the most fascinating and diverse countries on earth. Please get in touch with me to find out more.

17 September 2013

Our second visit to Turkey’s Lycian coast was a twin centre holiday. Flying into Dalaman airport, the first half was spent in the seaside town of Fethiye, and the second half at the famous ‘blue lagoon’ in Olu Deniz. Fethiye harbour is a picturesque bay with rows of large and small boats lined up and cafes and restaurants lining the waterfront. It’s a wonderful place to watch the world go by and soak up the atmosphere. Unlike other towns in this area, it does not feel touristy but you will find numerous British people who have moved here to live, or who have holiday homes here- very lucky! Beyond the harbour the cliffs rise up steeply providing a stunning backdrop, which is made even more spectacular by the Lycian rock tombs sculpted into the limestone cliff face which date back as far as the 4th century BC. It is well worth the steep walk up to visit these as you will be rewarded by far reaching views over Fethiye and beyond. We enjoyed speculating about how these ancient civilisations achieved such feats of engineering without modern equipment- the temple porticos are impressively large and complex. Our favourite activity in Fethiye is to hire a boat complete with enigmatic captain for the day to take us to quiet coves and beaches nearby. It's a great day trip and not as expensive as you'd think to charter your own private boat. The captain prepares the most delicious fish picnic lunch with delicious bread and salad. We also met up with a scuba dive boat in the afternoon so I could go for a dive. We hired a car and drove to the Saklikent Gorge, the second-largest (20 km-long) gorge in Europe, about a 40 minutes' drive from Fethiye. It is a spectacular place, with sculpted walls soaring high above. You can walk a fair way into the gorge along boardwalks and then, if it’s dry season, beside the river itself. From Saklikent we then drove to Patara beach, a 12km long stretch of sandy beach. You can easily see why it is frequently voted one of the top beaches in the world. Part of a national park, it is a key biodiversity area rich in birdlife and the breeding ground of the endangered loggerhead turtle. Luckily the beach has been declared off-limits for development because of the turtles which means it is completely unspoilt. Once inside the national park area we were surprised to discover the ancient Lycian ruins of Patara. This was the major naval and trading port of Lycia, and what remains are a vast and impressive collection of ruins, including a huge amphitheatre that has only been rescued from the sand in the past couple of years. In fact, excavation is still underway all around the site. The kids enjoyed watching the archaeologists digging for ruins and playing at being gladiators in the massive amphitheatre. We spent the second week in Olu Deniz and loved our hotel which had a massive swimming pool, was only a few minutes to the beach and had loads of kid’s activities. Whilst the children were entertained we enjoyed a Turkish hammam- lots of bubbles and the most amazing massage! The blue lagoon at Olu Deniz is a nature reserve a 15 minute walk from the town and well worth a visit. This naturally formed lagoon is perfectly still, and the turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and a trip on a pedalo! Olu Deniz is famous for its paragliding opportunities and you can sit on the beach and watch the brave (or foolhardy!) float down to the safety of solid ground. It certainly keeps the kids busy, watching the skies for the next glider! Turkey has something for everyone from a classic family holiday such as mine to all out luxury. What I love so much is the mix of old and new. Wherever you go you're never far away from a reminder of Turkey's fascinating history. It’s still a very affordable country to visit as it won’t break the bank to eat out and the food is amazing! If you want to visit Turkey or would like to know more about holidays there please do not hesitate to get in touch.

03 September 2013

Quite simply, my favourite country in the world is Croatia. What I love about it is the crystal clear sapphire sea, the endless beautiful islands, the delicious seafood, wine, ice-cream, the hum of cicadas (tree crickets), the smell of warm pine needles and sea salt carried on a warm breeze, the humour and warmth of the Croatian people and the fact that the country remains unspoilt by tourism. I have previously worked for several seasons in Croatia on Explore Worldwide’s Dalmatian Island Cruise, an 8 day tour of island highlights. I truly believe that one of the best ways to see Croatia is by boat, after all, there are over 1200 islands which are home to so many hidden gems- pristine coves and beaches, pine forests, terracotta roofs and pretty medieval towns with rich histories. The boat used for the island hopping cruise was a Croatian oldtimer, which is a traditional Croatian cargo boat converted into comfortable cabins with a sundeck and a dining/bar area. There are a huge variety of boats which sail the Dalmatian islands and you can choose a more budget option with bunk beds and shared bathrooms. Alternatively you could opt for all-out luxury and a boat that has large cabins and ensuite facilities. Our route took in the very best islands in the Adriatic- Vis, Brac, Korcula, Mljet and Hvar. Stopping at a different port every night we island hopped from medieval towns to deserted beaches, Venetian buildings and pine scented forest trails. The week-long tour started in Trogir, a medieval walled town steeped in over 2300 years of history. Culturally it was created under the influence of the ancient Greeks, and then the Romans, and then the Venetians. This is spectacularly reflected in its architecture - every view of the town is worthy of a photograph! We headed next to Vis town on the island of the same name, which has an interesting history as a military base. The island has been closed to visitors until very recently. You can still see many of the bunkers previously used by the Yugoslavs, some of which were to hide their ships from the air raids during the Second World War. We stopped here for wine tasting in a section of a tunnel that has been converted into a family run wine cellar. At nearby Bisevo Island is the blue caves a grotto that displays the most wondrous turquoise waters, lit by sunlight filtering in beneath the waterline. Next it was on to the pretty town of Korcula, nicknamed a ‘mini Dubrovnik’ due to its layout and similarly awe inspiring medieval walls. This wonderfully compact town’s history, like most of Croatia, spans the centuries. Korcula is another photographers dream, with its red terracotta roofs, stone cathedrals and winding roads. The next highlight is the island of Mljet, a National Park which has a network of pine scented forest trails you can explore by foot or bike. There are also two interconnected vivid blue saltwater lakes perfect for swimming or kayaking. On then to bustling Hvar town, renowned for its party scene and a magnet to those wanting a combination of great nightlife, stylish beaches and cafes. Don’t be put off by this if you’re after some serious culture and history- the town is steeped in both. Visit the Spanjola fortress, the 16th century arsenal building and the oldest theatre in Europe. Foodies will love the selection of restaurants and fine wines and there are so many wonderful places to explore, nestled away in courtyards and spilling out onto narrow cobbled streets. Our final stop was at Split, once home to the Roman emperor Dioceltian and now just home to the remains of his impressive palace, complete with real Egyptian sphinx! Rub the statue of Gregorious of Nin’s big toe and make a wish- it’s a tradition that even the locals indulge in! After a week aboard a Dalmatian cruse on a small boat such as this it’s hard to say goodbye to your fellow passengers and the charming, friendly captain and crew. If you’d like more information on how to book a Dalmatian island cruise then please don’t hesitate to contact me, I’d be delighted to talk about one of the most beautiful places on earth with you!