23 April 2025

Looking for a sunny break this May half term that doesn’t involve long-haul flights or overtired kids? Here are five family-friendly destinations that bring the sunshine. French Riviera: Expect pleasant spring sunshine with temperatures around 20–24°C in May, perfect for seaside strolls and outdoor dining. Families can explore the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco, take a boat trip to the Lérins Islands, or relax on the beaches of Nice and Antibes. Flight time: 2 hours Mallorca: With average temperatures of 22–25°C in May, Mallorca offers warm but not scorching weather ideal for families. Kids will love a visit to Palma Aquarium, exploring the scenic Tramuntana mountains, or enjoying the calm beaches at Alcudia Bay. Flight time: 2 hours: 2.5 hours Algarve: The Algarve enjoys May temperatures around 22–26°C, with plenty of sunshine and fewer crowds. Families can explore the sea caves on a boat tour, visit Zoomarine park, or take a nature walk in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Flight time: Just under 3 hours Sicily: Expect balmy Mediterranean weather with temperatures ranging from 22–26°C, ideal for sightseeing and coastal fun. Sicily is best known for its stunning beaches, Mount Etna (Europe's tallest active volcano), and its rich history and culture, including ancient ruins and Baroque architecture. Flight time: 3 hours Corfu: Corfu in May is warm and green, with average highs of 22–24°C, perfect for beach days and light exploration. Try horse riding in the olive groves, snorkeling in Paleokastritsa, or wandering through Corfu Old Town’s charming alleys. Flight time: just over 3 hours

04 March 2025

I recently asked friends and family about their dream travel destination, and the top answer? Japan! And what better time to visit than April, when the iconic cherry blossoms (sakura) are in full bloom. Why is April so special? Cherry Blossoms: Parks and temples are transformed into pink wonderlands—think Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path or Tokyo’s Ueno Park. Mild Weather: Comfortable temperatures (10-20°C), perfect for exploring. Festivals: Experience hanami (flower-viewing parties), the Takayama Spring Festival, and tea ceremonies under the blossoms. Best Time for Sightseeing: Japan’s landscapes, from Mount Fuji to ancient temples, look even more breathtaking in spring. With its blend of ancient culture, futuristic cities, and incredible food, Japan is a dream destination for so many—and now is the perfect time to go! If Japan is on your bucket list, let’s make it happen! DM me to start planning your unforgettable sakura adventure. #JapanTravel #CherryBlossomSeason #Sakura2025 #BucketListTravel #SpringInJapan

06 December 2024

In our fast-paced world, holidays have become more than just a luxury—they’re a necessity for our well-being. Taking time to step away from the daily grind offers a chance to relax, reflect on life, and recharge yourself physically and mentally. Beyond the adventure and excitement of travel, it’s in those moments of stillness that we truly reconnect with ourselves. Recent trends highlight the growing popularity of wellness retreats, where the focus goes beyond sightseeing to nurturing the mind, body, and soul. These retreats often combine serene locations with practices such as yoga, meditation, spa treatments, and mindfulness activities, offering a holistic approach to rejuvenation. One spectacular destination for wellness enthusiasts is Bali, a paradise known for its spiritual ambiance. The island boasts world-class retreats like Como Shambhala Estate (pictured), nestled in the forest between two mighty rivers, with unique Residences inspired by nature. Here, guests can enjoy tailored wellness programmes, from detox menus to healing massages and sunrise yoga overlooking tropical valleys. Just 90-minutes drive from the beaches and international airport at Denpasar, once here guests enjoy experiences designed to feed body, mind and soul, including immersive hikes and carefully curated cultural tours. Holidays give us the space to reflect on what truly matters, leaving us recharged and ready to embrace life’s challenges with renewed energy and clarity. So, why not make your next holiday not just a break, but a journey to wellness and self-discovery? It’s an investment in you—and that’s always worth it. Just looking at these pictures make me feel better on this wintery day in England! Included in the pictures are the one bedroom suite and the Wanakasa garden room. Dry season is April to October with hot, sunny days and clear skies, is also peak season, so worth considering is also April-June and September-October when the weather is still great but will be less busy.

28 November 2024

As someone passionate about sustainable travel, I’m constantly reminded of the importance of making thoughtful choices when it comes to where we stay. One destination that truly embodies responsible travel is Bawah Reserve, nestled in the breath-taking Anambas archipelago in Indonesia, just 75 minutes by seaplane from Singapore. It’s not just a resort—it’s a sanctuary, a place where pristine nature and eco-conscious hospitality come together seamlessly. I have not visited the Reserve, but you only need to spend 10 minutes on their website to be sold. Bawah Reserve offers the kind of beauty that takes your breath away—six islands surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, with overwater and beachside villas designed from sustainable materials to blend effortlessly into the natural surroundings. But what truly makes this place special isn’t just its luxury or jaw-dropping setting; it’s the commitment to protecting the planet. From running on solar energy and eliminating single-use plastics to creating jobs in local communities and empowering women through craft and fabric initiatives, Bawah Reserve is a shining example of hospitality with heart. They even protect the local Trigona bees, conserve drinking water, and work tirelessly to preserve fragile ecosystems across the islands. Staying here is more than a holiday—it’s a conscious choice to support a resort that places the planet and people first. For me, Bawah Reserve serves as a reminder that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand and is a call for us to reflect on how we travel and ensure that the choices we make leave a positive impact, not just for today but for future generations.

17 November 2024

With a career rooted in production and logistics, transitioning to a travel planning role with Travel Counsellors has felt like a natural evolution of my skills. Most recently, I had the privilege of managing ground transfers for the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs), a role where precision and coordination were essential to ensure presenters and artists could focus on their performances. Similarly, in my Travel Counsellors business, I’m the behind-the-scenes strategist, planning and managing journeys that leave no room for error or worry. At Travel Counsellors, I enjoy applying these skills daily, turning dreams into reality and transforming how people experience the world, in a personalised way — one trip at a time.

24 October 2024

In May, 6 of my school friends and me set off on a memorable trip to Northern Ireland. Our journey kicked off with a scenic coastal drive that showcased Northern Ireland’s rugged beauty. Heading towards the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, we meandered along winding roads that offered breath-taking views of the coastline. The blend of dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and picturesque seascapes surprised and delighted us. Along the way, we made several stops to soak in the scenery and snap a few photos. Giant’s Causeway, with its unique basalt columns and mythic history, was a highlight. We also visited Port Rush, Castlerock Beach and Roe Valley Country Park. As we continued our coastal journey, we passed through charming villages, their quaint pubs offering the perfect spots to pause and share stories over a pint of Guinness. Our trip was a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and friendship. Northern Ireland’s dramatic landscapes provided the ideal backdrop for creating new memories with old friends.

22 October 2024

I use the term 'break' loosely. Read on. We flew into Geneva when good luck offered us two inset days and a weekend. 45 minutes later we were in the charming alpine town of Saint Gervais, home to my gorgeous cousin and his family. Known for its breath-taking scenery, excellent facilities, and warm atmosphere, the town immediately captured my heart as I arrived. Although I’m not a seasoned skier, I was eager to hit the slopes and take in the stunning mountain views. However, my lack of experience quickly became evident on day 2 with a fall that resulted in an ACL injury. I had to be rescued off the mountain (which my concerned teenagers found amusing), an experience that was both humbling and a bit terrifying. Yet, even with this setback, Saint-Gervais left a lasting impression. The town itself is beautiful, with quaint streets lined with traditional chalets, shops, and cosy restaurants. It’s the kind of place where you feel instantly at home, whether you’re relaxing after a day on the slopes or exploring its charming corners. The facilities are top-notch, from the ski lifts to the wellness centres, offering plenty to do for both skiers and non-skiers alike. While my skiing adventure was cut short, I still enjoyed the beauty of the area and the welcoming vibe of the town. It’s a place I’ve recommended to many since my return, despite my misfortune. For those looking for an authentic, picturesque ski destination with plenty to offer, Saint-Gervais is a must-visit, even if you’re a novice like me! Insurance note: Always travel with it!

20 October 2024

In March, my partner and I took a five-day break to the Algarve, Portugal, hoping for some early spring sunshine. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans—it was cold and wet for most of the trip. But despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the Algarve still managed to charm me with its beauty and unique offerings. We stayed at the Wellness Cascade Hotel in Lagos, a stunning property with lovely views over the ocean. The hotel’s amenities were really great, from the large, inviting pool to the luxurious spa facilities that offered a much-needed escape from the chilly winds outside. Even though lounging by the pool wasn’t an option, the spa made up for it with its relaxing treatments and peaceful ambiance. Over the five days, we explored Sagres, Lagos, Praia da Luz, Praia da Rocha, Carvoeiro / Algar Seco, Albufeira and Loule. Each town had its own distinct vibe, with cobbled streets, beautiful tiled buildings, and an abundance of street art adding splashes of colour to the grey skies. Despite the weather, the picturesque landscapes and charming architecture of the Algarve were undeniable highlights. The food in the Algarve was another high point of the trip. We enjoyed fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes, as eat all you can sushi and a variety of local delicacies in cozy restaurants that felt like the perfect retreat from the rain. While the timing for the weather may not have been perfect, the Algarve’s coastal views, cultural richness, and welcoming atmosphere made the trip worthwhile. Sometimes, even on a cold and rainy holiday, you can still find warmth in the places you visit. #visitalgarve #portugal #getaway #wintersun