26 September 2018

Firstly...huge congratulations! How exciting! Now the fun really starts, (or stressing as some couples might say). Weddings can be really challenging to plan, from picking the perfect venue, the perfect dress, bridesmaids, groomsmen, guests, planning the speeches, and if you agree with me and most married couples I know, the dreaded seating plan! Then comes the guest-list which is commonly accompanied by a gift-list. Traditionally, the happy couple would ask their families and friends to buy them items for their new home, however in modern times, most couples already live together and have plenty of pots, pans, towels, a toaster and maybe even a spiralizer! Often asking for vouchers or money can feel a bit cheeky so instead, why not let your wedding guests contribute towards an unforgettable honeymoon which is exactly what Wayne and I did when we tied the knot! I understand that no two clients are the same and of course, no two honeymoons and weddings are the same either. As your personal Travel Counsellor, I’ll tailor your experience to your wants and dreams, creating your own unique experience. Our network of local overseas experts across the globe helps you to not only visit a destination but experience it too. We’ll provide you with a fabulous personalised web page and secure payments portal where guests are greeted with a personalised message from you, and details of your amazing honeymoon plans! We can also provide stylish cards that you can send out with your invitations to let everyone know you would prefer a contribution towards your dream honeymoon. All contributions from your family and friends will be deposited into one account - you can log in at any time to read your guests messages and see your honeymoon pot build up. After your wedding, you can either put your guests’ generous contributions towards the cost of your honeymoon or if you’ve already paid the balance, you can use your honeymoon fund towards excursions, upgrades or even another holiday. This works well as lots of couples are now doing a "mini-moon" and then go on a bigger trip some months later. Having been an overseas wedding co-ordinator in a previous job role, I have had the pleasure in helping dozens of couples plan many honeymoons and weddings in various locations across the globe. Single centres across the Mediterranean, Thailand, Caribbean, USA and Worldwide, weddings at sea, twin-centres or multi-location itineraries, weddings on safari and in unique places you choose. I have also visited many of the locations, so can personally recommend places to suit your requirements! Please feel free to get in touch for any advice or recommendations, and I look forward to helping plan the most amazing trip of your lives - all with the added bonus of a fund to build to help you realise that dream wedding/honeymoon!

13 September 2018

Having been to Vegas once before back in 2015, I had a slight advantage in that I knew exactly what to expect from the city that definitely never sleeps - I loved it then and I love it equally, if not more now! This trip was a little different being the start and finish points of a Californian Coastal Road Trip (further blog to follow). We started with a few days staying with good friends who moved out there a few years ago - pretty awesome right? Seeing Vegas from a resident’s point of view really makes you appreciate how amazing a place it really is, and how much more Vegas has to offer visitors. Rather than experience it at 1000 miles an hour, we were able to relax and enjoy it a bit more authentically as a "local". As we expected, arriving in mid-August it was hot! 40-degrees by 9am to be exact (47 by midday) so our first morning as a “local” started very early with a short 15 mile drive out to Red Rock Canyon for a morning hike. When I say hike, I mean a two-hour stroll around one of the many easy walking trails (being a novice and extremely unfit). Despite being visible from the strip, Red Rock Canyon sits a world away from Las Vegas as we know it. Famous for its formations of red rocks, it has ample outdoor activities on offer. Hard to believe that this amazing National Conservation area in the Mojave Desert is so close to the glittering heights, and offers hiking, biking, rock climbing, desert wildlife watching, horseback rides, guided hikes, electric bike rides, Segway, and scooter tours, or even a romantic hot air balloon rides and all such a short drive from Downtown. For the less adventurous or abled, there is a 13-mile scenic loop through the park that gives visitors a look at the Mojave Desert scenery from the comfort of a car or bicycle with ample stopping points for photo opportunities. In the afternoon we headed to Downtown, better known as Fremont Street. The spot where it all began and personally my favourite area! We stopped for a bite to eat at the Container Park, an offbeat open-air shopping and entertainment venue, where you are welcomed by a giant, fire breathing praying mantis. It features 38 unique retail shops, restaurants, and bars built from shipping containers and even a courtyard with playground for the kiddies. The authentic and iconic Vegas, where the original Binion's, 4 Queens and Golden Nugget casinos still welcome guests with open arms. Home to the world’s biggest video screen suspended 90ft above the main mall, it offers free light shows and houses Slotzilla Zipline, at 77 feet high and 1,700 feet long I would highly recommend it. There is a shorter, lower version for the less brave. You can enjoy free live concerts, Walking Dead Survival Experience, themed shows, epic affordable eateries and just generally have an all-round great time! We also visited The Mob Museum, the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. It’s an interactive journey through true stories, from the birth of the Mob, to today’s headlines and where you can travel back in time to the Prohibition era. “The Underground” is home to a distillery and speakeasy – well worth a visit to try the homemade Moonshine. A short walk from here will get you to the Neon Museum, where old Las Vegas signs go to retire - something we did on a previous trip. We also finished our 2-week trip with a few nights back in the heart of Vegas on the strip at The Paris Hotel, a stunning architectural masterpiece perfectly located in the heart of the Strip. Versailles-style fixtures and luxury romantic decor, sophisticated and modern with authentic features such as chandeliers and oversized bathtubs. A sign in the shape of the Montgolfier balloon, a two-thirds size Arc de Triomphe, a replica of La Fontaine des Mers, and of course a half scale replica of the actual Eiffel Tower. It's stunning! We opted for a red room; a high floor, Eiffel view which also overlooked the Bellagio Fountains – just perfect! We spent the days chilling by the pool and the nights casino-hopping to soak up the atmosphere and have a little flutter. Our previous trip entailed a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon and Hoover Damn, MJ One Cirque Du Soleil and live music events. We braved the world’s highest rides on top of the Stratosphere Hotel, and just had a ball! The place is constantly evolving and building more attractions to lure in tourists, I can’t believe how much the place has changed in just four years – how many more hotels, attractions and entertainment spots are now on offer; The Linq, HighRoller, The Park at MGM “Megaresort”, to name but a few. Always striving to get bigger and better with something for everyone. It's no wonder people return time after time. If you still need convincing that it’s worth a visit, please get in touch as I’d love to chat more about this amazing destination and share my experiences.

28 June 2018

Durban could quite possibly be the coolest city in South Africa that you have never seen, and everybody should go at least once in their lifetime. This unpretentious and multi-cultural city on the beach has temperatures reaching 28 degrees Celsius in the winter, a laid-back lifestyle, super-friendly locals and outstanding food (and coffee) so what's not to love? We started with a whistle-stop bus tour of Durban for a to see the highlights of the city. We then headed to the incredible Moses Mabhida Stadium to pick up our Segway’s for a tour around the ground. Built in 2009 to host the 2010 World Cup it’s an incredible stadium used today as a multi-function venue. The fact we just happened to bump into the England Rugby Team who were arriving to train before a big international match, just added to the wow factor! Once we were all safety briefed and confident on two wheels, we headed over to the beach for an extended ride along the entire esplanade, from North Beach, through the sunken gardens, along the pier, Bay of Plenty, and down to South Beach! A ride along the stunning coastline known as the “Golden Mile” makes you realise why it’s no wonder this is a popular spot for holidays with South African residents from near and far as well as international visitors. Durban has been likened to the Mediterranean for its beach-bum vibe and relaxed atmosphere. Due to the glorious weather Durban experiences all year, its beaches are as swimmable in winter as summer and warm too. The Golden Mile (the beach front strip which is lit up beautifully at night) is a surfer’s idea of heaven. Slightly more rugged the norther you go, they are still as appealing. Although famous for its curry scene, Durban also has a healthy craft beer, food and spirits draw - a distillery producing spirits made with local ingredients and weekly food markets like the "I Heart Market" & the "Morning Trade Market". We had the chance to visit a local restaurant to sample the most famous food on the menu here - Bunny Chow! A fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry of your choice! It originated here back in the 1940’s from the high population of Indian migrant workers who required a way of carrying their lunches from home to work in the sugar cane plantations - genius (and super tasty). Although we didn't get time to explore the wider hip and happening quirky neighbourhoods surrounding the city, there are plenty to explore on an extended stay as well as historical tours, walking tours, botanical gardens, and the SkyCar at the MM stadium - a ride on the arch that gives you amazing views over Durban. The city has so much to offer and as the new British Airways direct flight from London to Durban commences on the 29th October this year, I highly suspect visitor numbers will massively increase to this hotspot. I will definitely be amongst them to spend more time in this beautiful city on the beach!

28 June 2018

I have just been lucky enough to spend 12 days exploring the Kwazulu Natal Province of South Africa courtesy of the south African Tourist Board and British Airways and couldn't wait to share my experiences with you all! I've got so much to say it's spread over three blogs so be sure to check out the other two after reading this one! Kwazulu Natal is a year-round destination and in my opinion, it is ideal for second time visitors to South Africa. If you love SA, but you’ve already visited Cape Town, the Garden Route or taken a safari before, this area offers a new experience of a familiar country. A beautiful place where you can experience everything; Stunning beaches, breath-taking mountains and vast savannahs alongside spotting the ‘Big 5’. I flew direct with British Airways to Johannesburg then a short one hour connecting flight to Durban. This time I was lucky enough to experience World Traveller Plus on the outbound journey - upstairs on the A380 aircraft. Day 1 – Midlands Meander A short drive into the Drakensberg to the stunning 5* Fordoun Hotel and Spa. A multi award winning boutique hotel and spa nestled in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains - a luxury retreat with incredible facilities and cuisine. Day 2 – Howick/Winterton This morning we headed to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site for an emotional and educational morning. The exact site near Howitt, where Mandela was captured and arrested on the main highway between Durban and Johannesburg on 5th Aug 1952 is now home to a cultural and historical exhibition centre where you can learn more about the life of Mandela and visit the sculpture in his honour. The memorial is made of 50 steel columns that have been cut by laser to form an image of the former president when viewed at the correct angle. This monument is situated at the end of a winding path, which represents the long walk to freedom that he took towards his goal of political equality. We had lunch at Piggly Wiggly, a country village near the capture site. Situated in the centre of the Highgate Wine Estate, Piggly Wiggly offers a variety of local shops, a lovely coffee shop and a pizza place. Piggly Wiggly is a lovely environment for families, friends, couples and pensioners, with something to suit everyone. A picnic area with playground, mini-train rides and a zip-line, it’s a lovely day out on its own! Then further into the Drakensberg, we headed up into the mountains to Cathedral Peak Hotel for an afternoon of horse riding through the estate, more amazing food and a one-night stay. Day 3 – Winterton/Ladysmith No time for brekkie today. An early morning wake-up call from the local wildlife (see pictures) and straight into action with a tour of the Drakensberg Mountains on quad bike. This is an amazing way to take in the breath-taking scenery of this World Heritage Site and view the incredible unspoiled surroundings of Cathedral Peak. An hour’s drive and on to Ladysmith, Winterton for tonight’s stay Spionkop Lodge. An afternoon plains game drive in the bush surrounding the stunning Tugela River, sundowner drinks on the Spionkop Damn and finishing off with the most breath-taking sunset I think I have ever seen on all my travels Day 4 – Ladysmith/Rork’s Drift Our fabulous host Raymond at SpionKop Lodge whisked us away on a private half day tour of the Spionkop battlefields. An education on one of the most significant battles that ever took place on SA soil; The Second Boer War 1899-1902 was fought between the British Empire and two Boer States, over the Empire’s influence in SA. We visited Mount Alice Memorials and Spionkop Mountain to see the actual site where the battle took place and see the memorials dedicated to all the brave, fallen soldiers that fought tirelessly to try and protect their lands. For those of you who didn’t know, this is the war that Ghandi, Churchill and Botha all participated in and survived. Hard to imagine how history would have panned out if these iconic figures had been amongst the fallen men of the Boer War! A few hours’ drive out of the Midlands and on to Rorke’s Drift where we met our guide for an afternoon visit to another of the battlefields, this one the spot of one of the most famous and significant battles in the Anglo-Zulu war. If any of you have seen the film “Zulu” this is what it’s all about! An extremely informative and enthusiastic recollection of the events that took place here by our wonderful guide. Tonight, we stayed local at the fabulous Fugitive's Drift Lodge and Guest Hous. This is a selection of luxury en suite cottages with private verandas overlooking the plains and Buffalo River Gorge. Day 5 – Hluhluwe Five hours by road, east to the beautiful Hluhluwe for a two-night stay at Hluhluwe Rievr Lodge. Twelve beautiful, authentic, thatched roof chalets located in an indigenous forest setting with sweeping views of False Bay and the Hluhluwe river floodplain. It's a true home-from-home spot with bike trails, safari, birding and walking trails on offer. An incredible scenic drive, super safe and easy if you were thinking to self-drive. A route even enjoyed by the locals (remember they drive on the same side of the road as the UK so it makes life much easier). As this part of Kwa-Zulu Natal becomes gradually closer to the coastline, the breeze of the Indian Ocean keeps the air moister, it’s much more crop rich and the scenery becomes ever increasingly green as we travelled towards our destination. Day 6 – Hluhluwe An early morning game drive in the Hluhluwe National Park where we spent around five hours with our fabulous guide for a “Big 5” experience. As well as the big guys we were also blessed with an extremely rare day sighting of an ardvark. It’s practically unheard of for one of these little guys to be seen during daylight, even the guide was super excited and had his camera out! It’s the oldest nature reserve in Africa and spans 960km2 so you could literally drive round all day admiring the scenery and wildlife. Check out my further two blogs to read on.....

28 June 2018

Day 7 – Khula/St. Lucia A shorter journey this time, around 1.5hrs to a rural Zulu village called Khula to meet the locals, enjoy their traditions and hospitality. We were welcomed into church by the town’s women, assisted with craft making, helped the local children with their school work, had a traditional tribal dance (with audience participation) and finished off with a visit to a traditional healer known as a Sangoma (or witch doctor) from the local township. What an incredible experience this was! On to St. Lucia and a different type of safari this time - a two-hour hippo and croc safari on the St. Lucia estuary - SA’s first World Heritage Site! A fun, informative and relaxing afternoon with lots of sightings before a short drive towards Durban for 1 night at the stunning Fairmont Zimbali Hotel Nr Durban. Situated inside the exclusive Zimbali Coastal Estate, is a tranquil retreat offering the utmost in stylish comfort and unrivalled service. Located 5 minutes from the bustling holiday town of Ballito, 20 minutes from Umhlanga and 30 minutes from Durban, this beachfront North Coast hotel provides easy access to the province’s attractions. Day 8 – Durban Today we headed off to the beautiful city on the coast Duban. As this stunning beach location offers a completely different experience to the rest of the province, I feel it deserves a write up of its own so head over to my other blogs and check it out! Late afternoon we took a flight back up to Jo'Burg to check in at The Sandton Sun Hotel for the last two nights of our stay in SA. Dinner this evening was hosted by the famous Butchers Shop & Grill, a hip and trendy steakhouse offering a mouth-watering menu specialising in red meat and wine. If you are thinking about eating out in Jo’Burg then this spot is an absolute must! Located on Nelson Mandela Square a public square in Sandton - home to the most exclusive restaurants and retail shops in Johannesburg that bustle from morning to evening. The centre houses a gigantic bronze memorial statue of Nelson Mandela and pretty water fountains. Day 9 – Johannesburg This morning we took a guided walking tour around The Maboneng Precinct - located on the Eastern edge of the city, Maboneng is a connected Urban neighbourhood in downtown J’Burg and is fast becoming the most unique and innovative area of the city! With its diverse eateries and entertainment areas, quirky and cool vibe, teamed with the creative use of shipping containers as studios/offices/shops it very much reminded me of being in Shoreditch, London or Williamsburg, Brooklyn. For many years Johannesburg has been known as one of the most dangerous places on earth but in recent years crime has tapered off and previously abandoned neighbourhoods have been redeveloped and have begun to thrive. Maboneng is an excellent example of how the stabilisation and growth of the economy teamed with the determination and TLC of local communities can get JNB back on the map for tourists. Not once did I feel unsafe or threatened and would highly recommend a visit. Long gone are the days of Jo’Burg just being a flight connection point, it really is worth a night or two stopover to explore this fascinating city. I can’t wait to revisit and spend more time in the vibrant, friendly and cool area. This afternoon we met with many local hoteliers and suppliers for a Trade Presentation and Conference. Speed marketing and networking to be able to find out and collect details of just what this amazingly diverse country has to offer for visitors. Day 10 – Johannesburg/Soweto This morning has been super emotional - a guided visit to the Apartheid Museum - possibly the finest cultural museum on the African Continent. The museum illustrates the rise and fall of SA’s era of segregation and oppression and is an absolute must see on any visit to Johannesburg. Using a variety of dramatic media; photos, videos, press clippings and personal artefacts, it provides a chilling insight into the implementation of the apartheid system and first-hand stories of the struggles experienced on the route to democracy. It highlights the notorious system of racial discrimination and provides an invaluable understanding of the inequalities and tensions that still exist today. The museum has two entrances labelled “white” and “non-white” and you are randomly selected a ticket on arrival. From this point on I pretty much sobbed my way round the whole place but it was an education in what I was perhaps a little ignorant to prior to my visit. So hard to believe that SA’s history is as recent as 25 years and the horrors experienced and still prevalent today. On to the last experience of the visit, a trip to Soweto, Gauteng I’ve been waiting all week for this afternoon! We made our way to Lebo’s - a safe, central backpackers spot in the heart of Soweto. After a speciality local lunch, we headed of on a bike tour of one of the 41 townships located in Soweto, East Orlando, home to the famous Kaizer Chiefs Football Club. The two-hour cycling tour is a fun, interactive and informative way to experience life and culture and to interact with the people whilst learning about Soweto’s history. We visited the Hector Pieterson Museum & Memorial, the historic landmark of the 1976 students uprising, before continuing on to the most famous street on the planet - Vilakazi Street The only street in the world where two Nobel Peace Prize winners resided. We visited one of these houses - the former home of Nelson Mandela which is now known as Mandela House and is a public heritage site. A superb and poignant way to end a truly memorable trip to South Africa during which I have laughed, cried, ate and drank far too much, been educated and shocked, wowed and ooo-ed, met the most incredible indigenous people, made new friends and fell in love with the country all over again! It really is a truly diverse and wonderful destination with such a wide appeal to so many different types of visitors; City breaks, beach holidays, cultural, educational, historic, safari’s, sports enthusiasts, extreme sports, adventure and activity, food and wine lovers - the list is endless! I would have absolutely no hesitation whatsoever in recommending this fascinating destination to absolutely anybody.

22 June 2018

I often speak to clients, old and new who are wanting something “different” from their next trip and are looking for a little inspiration or advice on what to do/try. Whether it be an exotic long-haul adventure into the unknown, or something a little closer to home like a European city break. Lately I have spoken with quite a few of you who are thinking about venturing into the unknown and who would like to try a cruising holiday. Either as a single trip, or part of a larger itinerary with a stay on land as well as on the waves. When it comes to taking a cruise there really is a heck lot of choice! So many different cruise lines and destinations it’s hard to know where to start, so I thought it might be quite handy to put together a little guide on some of the top cruise lines and what they have to offer. You may be thinking of taking a cruise for the first time or indeed be an experienced cruiser that is thinking about trying another ship, cruise-line or destination - either way there is a cruise out there for you! I hope the below will give you a small insight as to what some cruise lines have to offer, and of course you can always call get in touch for more advice. P&O CRUISES P&O cruises currently have seven ships in their fleet: the newest being their flagship Britannia, launched in March 2015. I was lucky enough to be one of the Agents onboard for the inaugural sailing to take part in the celebrations so can recommend this ship first hand! Built for the British market with all outside cabins having a balcony, Britannia holds hold over 4000 passengers, with a crew to passenger ratio of 1:3. They are known for offering passengers Strictly Come Dancing at sea and for their celebrity chef Food Heroes on-board ships. They offer the mostly cruises out of Southampton, and many "mini cruises" where you can sample life onboard for 2-4 days before taking a longer sailing - ideal for first timers or those of you who are unsure about cruising. You would like P&O if • You like home comforts such as tea and coffee making facilities in your cabin and a “British” feel. • You wanted an adult only cruise, as you have the option to sail on one of the adult only ships - chose Arcadia or Oriana for this experience • You wanted to sail with children as you could enjoy one of the family friendly ships such as Aurora, Oceana, Ventura and Britannia Royal Caribbean Cruises Possibly the most well-known cruise line currently in the market. Royal Caribbean are always adding to their fleet, but currently have seven ship classes, with 25 ships in their fleet ranging from small to super-size! Their current largest ship, Symphony of The Seas can take up to 5,518 passengers with a crew to passenger ratio of 1:3. Don’t let this put you off, their ships may be big but there is plenty of space on board for everybody and with things like sky diving, bumper cars, surfing, rock climbing, ice skating and a full-size carousel on board some of their ships, there is plenty to do. The Independence of The Seas has been voted the UK’s favourite cruise line and has just had a multimillion pound makeover including new bars/restaurants and cabins and the very first trampoline park at sea! You would like Royal Caribbean if • You are a family and are looking to keep the kids entertained (the kids and teens clubs are amazing) • You want a more relaxed atmosphere on board - no compulsory formal nights • You like West End Show Productions and great entertainment • You are a first-time cruiser - there are lots of different ships, you will find one that suits you Cunard Cruises Cunard are very much a traditional "old school" cruise line, more liners than cruise ships. Think Titanic and Hollywood glamour in terms of formality, style and sophistication and you would be spot on. With a crew to passenger ratio of 1:2 the service is second to none! There are three exceptional ships in the fleet; Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and the flagship, Queen Mary 2. The QM2 was built specifically for transatlantic sailings (Southampton to New York) and this particular ship is the only one I am aware of that also has its own deck for dogs, with kennels, a full time “doggy” butler and you can visit your pooches at certain times during the day! I was fortunate to sail on the now retired QE2 during her heyday and have been onboard both the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria so again able to highly recommend these beautiful ships. As well as the transatlantic voyage, Cunard also operate world cruises in January, mini cruises and sailings from Southampton throughout the year. You would like Cunard Cruises if • You like formality and tradition • You like exceptional service • You like to dress up in the evenings - you will be right at home in black-tie on here • You can’t bear to be parted from your furry friend whilst on holiday (provided he/she has a passport of course) Celebrity Cruise Line 12, soon to be 13 award winning liners make up the fleet, which are divided into five classes. Each are fitted out to the highest standard, with stunning spaces designed by some of the world’s most famous architects and interior designers. Celebrity are what I would classify as a 4*+ cruise line. With a crew to passenger ratio of 1:2 they're a little bit classier than Royal Caribbean and Norwegian but not as formal or traditional as Cunard. With lots of speciality restaurants on board, Martini bars, wine bars and on some ships a lawn club with real grass to picnic! They are family friendly and do have kids and teen clubs onboard, however not so much as in comparison to the likes of Royal Caribbean. I would personally recommend this more for couples or groups of friends - they have some amazing itineraries. As well as Europe, Celebrity showcase a huge variety of destinations including Antarctica, The Galapagos, India, South Pacific, Hawaii, Australia and New Zealand, Caribbean, Asia, and Alaska to name but a few. The newest ship which launched earlier this year, The Edge, is like nothing you have seen before! The first ship in this same name class is setting a new standard of luxury and innovation at sea. It's the first ship of its kind and features another first at sea, the incredible Magic Carpet – the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform that reaches heights of 13 storeys above sea level. You would like Celebrity if • You are a couple or travelling with a group of friends • You like to eat out in different restaurants • You love being pampered - Celebrity are home to the largest and most comprehensive spas at sea • You want to cruise to different destinations Norwegian Cruise Line NCL have 15 ships in their fleet and sail almost worldwide: Australia, Hawaii, South America, Alaska, Canada, Caribbean, Asia and of course in Europe. Built for freestyle, designed to give you freedom and flexibility there are no set dinner times, no dress codes, you do as you wish when you wish. Great entertainment on board including shows, comedy clubs, Ice bars, bowling alleys, water slides, kid’s clubs. With an approximate crew to passenger ratio of 1:2.5, they have recently gone all-inclusive so the price now includes all your drinks and the gratuities. Another great thing is that NCL were the first cruise line to build cabins specifically designed for solo travellers. Cruise lines are notorious for charging high single supplements but on a few of the NCL ships they have studio cabins that are very affordable. You would like NCL if • You are a solo cruiser • You are a couple or travelling with a group • You prefer a relaxed informal style of cruise • You are a family (lots for everyone to do) • You like to budget all your costs prior to your holiday (tips/drinks already included) Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Fred Olsen are a family run cruise line that have four ships. These ships are much smaller than other cruise lines and generally appeal to the older market. They are well known for their friendliness and levels of service. They sail from lots of ports in the UK including, Dover, Harwich, Tilbury, Liverpool, Newcastle, Southampton and Edinburgh making them very appealable to non-flyers, and sail all over the world including Europe, The Amazon, Indian Ocean, South Africa, Norwegian Fjords, The British Isles and many more. Crew to passenger ratio is 1:2.8 Each evening on most cruises there are hosted dance events, great if you are into ballroom dancing. There is entertainment and lots of guest speakers and lectures throughout the cruise. Because the ships are smaller you do feel like you are getting a more personal service, however if you are looking for lots of activities or to party all night then this wouldn’t be the cruise line for you. You would like Fred Olsen if • You are of an older generation or like things low-key • You like good service and a very friendly ship • You like to visit smaller ports of call (because the ships are smaller they can access places that the big ships can’t) • You want more choice of departure points from the UK • Can't/don't want to fly to pick up a sailing MSC Cruises MSC Cruises are a predominately Mediterranean cruise line. Including their newest ships there are currently 17 in the fleet and they sail mostly in the Med, The Caribbean, Dubai, Northern Europe and South America. You may have just seen the MSC Meraviglia on Channel 5 recently on Cruising with Jane McDonald. Like Royal Caribbean, the majority of these ships are big ones but again with lots to do on board including water slides and a bowling alley. MSC are a little different, being Mediterranean you will find that the food and entertainment reflect that, however they do have a ship called Magnifica which is sailing from Southampton this year to Northern Europe and this ship will have a more British feel, with tea and coffee making facilities in the cabins, British comedians and more British inspired food. You would like MSC Cruises if • You have a family with children (kid’s prices are normally very good with MSC) • You want to mix with lots of different nationalities • You want to visit lots of ports • You are price conscious (MSC are very competitively priced) • You drink – MSC have one of the best priced drinks packages at sea! Of course, the above list is not comprehensive and there are many other cruise-lines out there, but these are a few of the most popular and well known ones to whet your appetite.

22 June 2018

Prague is a tourist hot spot that never seems to go out of fashion, and after many years of “threatening” to visit, 2017 has finally seen me tick it off my bucket-list. My husband and I visited with my cousins from Up-North; as we never seem to be able to sync calendars in this country, they suggested it would actually be easier to catch up on my travels! This amazingly-preserved medieval city coupled with a rich history, expansive parks, lively nightlife, and a hint of romance seemed to tick all the boxes from our combined “must-have” list so Prague it was! You could actually lose yourself for hours wandering the beautiful cobblestone streets and taking in all the quaint medieval houses and stunning architecture. The city has incredible charm and you can’t possibly tire if looking upwards to take in the marvel of all the stonework, until you get neck ache that is! The Old Town Square has numerous attractions from the Astrological Clock (installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world), the beautiful St. Nicholas church, the underground catacombs, and my personal favourite building in Prague - the stunning Týn Church. Legend has it that the Tyn Church towers gave Walt Disney the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle. True or not, it is absolutely spectacular and you must see it by day and night to appreciate just how beautiful it is. Alternatively just sit and people watch and enjoy the numerous street artists from one of the many outdoor restaurants/cafes. Apart from the famous Prague Castle, there are a few pieces of outstanding architecture I personally think you should see: 1) The Powder Tower, or Powder Gate as it is also known, is an impressive Gothic tower and is one of the original 13 city gates. It separates the Old Town from the New Town. 2) The stunning Charles Bridge is lined with 30 baroque-style statues and statuaries, and is a perfect photo opportunity (if you can get close enough to one of them). Don’t miss the impressive 3 protecting bridge towers - two of them on the Lesser Quarter side and the third one on the Old Town side. 3) Vyšehrad, said to be the original first settlement point of Prague, is a historic fort containing the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul, as well as the Vyšehrad Cemetery where many of Prague’s famous are laid to rest. The Rotunda of St Martin from the 11th century is the oldest surviving building in Prague and there's much more to be seen here! 4) The Scouse in me was of course desperate to see the John Lennon Wall. Towards the end of Communism in the 1980s, students started writing John Lennon lyrics on this wall as a way to air their grievances. Today, the wall represents love and peace. Tourists can write or paint on. Head over to the Kampa area below the Charles Bridge to see it, a beautiful little haven amongst the hustle and bustle of the city. 5) Amongst the beautiful historical Prague, there are a few modern wonders, none more seemingly out of place than the Žižkov Television Tower. This ugly but intriguing structure is located around 3.5km from the Charles Bridge and is actually a member of the World Federation of Great Towers. It is also home to a restaurant, café bar, one room hotel and boasts panoramic views of Prague and the surrounding areas! As well as these, you must visit The Jewish Quarter dating back to the 12 th century - it's steeped in its own mystical history. Known as Josefov, the former Jewish Ghetto is home to the oldest still existing synagogue in Europe. If you like a good walk, then Petrín Park is definitely one to go on your list of things to visit; the city’s biggest and most beautiful park, it has sweeping views of Prague that are well worth the uphill walk to reach it. You’ll find beautifully manicured gardens, a maze, museums, a Monastery, a brewery and a lookout tower that was built as a mini version of Paris's Eiffel Tower in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition. On the way down stop in the quirky Peklo restaurant which is built inside the caverns of the monastery for a bowl of traditional goulash soup (served in an edible bread bowl) and a glass of Blueberry Beer, brewed on-site. If you don’t feel like making the trek, there is a funicular that can take you down (and up) the hill! So to sum up, “the City of a Hundred Spires” really was worth the wait to visit and absolutely did not disappoint. I absolutely loved spending four days “getting lost” exploring the centuries old history, taking in the stunning architecture, beautiful views and of course sampling the local delicacies with a few cocktails thrown in for good measure!

22 June 2018

I have to report that Morocco is one destination that has truly taken me by surprise and exceeded my expectations in every way possible. It truly is a destination to stimulate all senses and interests. The sights, smells & tastes cannot be described in words or shown well enough in a picture to really do it justice, but I will try! I spent 3 nights at the beautiful Movenpick Manour Eddhabi a superb 5* Hotel is only 4km from the airport, designed to create an authentic but contemporary, refreshing oasis, right in the centre of Marrakesh. Just a few minutes away from the bustling Medina in the central L'Hivernage district it's the perfect location to explore the captivating Red City. Exploring the famous Djemaa El-Fnar Square & Souk in Marrakech was truly incredible, something that has been on my bucket list for many, many years and it did not disappoint. With the help of a local guide, without whom I think I would still be wandering around the maze of alleys & stalls, I was able to comfortably explore and watch in awe as the incredibly skilled craftsmen & women create everything from rugs to shoes, bags to dresses and stunning ironwork lamps from their tiny, tiny workshops barely big enough stand in never mind create such intricate pieces of artwork and finery! Not once did I feel unsafe or nervous whilst exploring even when I did lose sight of my guide for 15 minutes or so - I found the Moroccan locals extremely friendly & helpful. No pressure to buy, a simple "no thank you" was sufficient enough to allow you to wander on in peace and soak up the "Arabian Night" atmosphere. Whilst listening to the prayer calls in the air, you are able to sample the local spices and tagine cooked Moroccan style "tapas" but be careful to keep your wits about you as you will inevitably have to dodge a bike or scooter in the tiny maze-like alleyways as the locals dash about on their day-to-day business! After a couple of hours in the Souk, we stopped at the rooftop terrace at Café de France - the perfect pit stop to watch the sunset over the UNESCO Heritage Site that is the famous Djemaa El-Fnar Square. A glass of the warm sugary mint tea was exactly what I needed to warm myself from the cool breeze and enjoy watching the famous snake charmers entertain the crowds of tourist and local children who were gathering for a bit of night shopping As Morocco’s rich culinary heritage is a major attraction to foodies, I thought I should sample some of Marrakech’s top restaurants. The first night was "the place to be" on a night out in Marrakesh... Le Palace Marrakesh. A restaurant/club with resident DJ and fine dining with cocktail bar for partying into the small hours. The buzzing atmosphere is created by sounds of an eclectic mixture of music, belly dancers & very cool waiters singing along and even stopping for a little dance every now and then if a tune takes their fancy. Ladies dancing with trays of lit candles on their heads (known as Raks al shamadan) You are encouraged to sing along or even get up and participate if you can tear yourself away from the vast platters of grilled meats and vegetables and huge tagines of mouth-watering lamb or chicken. Night two, and just off one of the many ancient alleyways off Djmaa El-Fnaa Square, you will also find a red-carpet entrance to Le Salama restaurant where guests are escorted into a Colonial Style restaurant, full of mystery and charm which almost makes you feel like you have stepped into the film set of “Casablanca.” A little more laid-back than Le Palace and suitable for the whole family, top service and hospitality the menu offers classics Marrakchi dishes and a panoramic terrace overlooking the Atlas Mountains where you can enjoy desert or a tea after dinner. All in all, a great destination for a short break or longer if you plan to explore a little further afield than the central sights & attractions. Have a look at my further blogs to read about my time spend in the Atlas Mountains and the Beach Resort of Essaouira.....

26 October 2016

I was keen to find out what the dynamic island had in store for visitors in 2017 and beyond, now that Paphos has been awarded European Capital of Culture 2017. I also visited a selection of hotels which had undergone some major refurbishments since my last visit in 2003. Four days with the Cyprus Tourist Organisation gave me the perfect opportunity to do just this! There are few places in the world with history dating back as far as this fascinating island. Its long history dates all the way back to the 10th millennium BC, meaning the entire island is scattered with prehistoric ruins, some of which are registered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Due to its strategic geographical position, determined conquerors have long tried to leave their mark and in return left a wonder of charm and culture to explore. A two night stay at The Napa Mermaid Hotel & Suites in Ayia Napa, meant I was perfectly located to explore the natural beauty of the eastern tip of the island. Contrary to popular belief, Ayia Napa has more to offer than just an array of late night drinking venues for the 18-30 market. Natural sea caves, monasteries steeped in history, ancient temples and national parks to name but a few. Ayia Napa is sandwiched between the two stunning beaches of Fig Tree Bay and Nissi Beach, with crystal clear waters that remain warm until late October. These are just two of the outstanding Blue Flag Beaches of which Cyprus proudly boasts a total of 57! The stand out hotel for me here would have to be the 4* Adams Beach Hotel in Nissi Bay - perfect for all visitors of any age. Recently renovated to a very high standard, it now features an adult’s only wing with exclusive facilities. The hotel also boasts its own secluded cove and island which you can safely walk to in the shallow, turquoise water. Travelling west along the coast towards Larnaca, we stopped to take in the beautiful Finikoudes (Palm Tree) seafront promenade. A bustling town where old and new intertwine harmoniously. The Byzantine church of Agios Lazaros stands magnificently in the picturesque square in the centre of town, fascinating for even non-religious visitors. Hire a car and visit the quaint village of Lefkara, famous for its handmade lace, where you can relax in one of the traditional cafes and enjoy the slower pace of life. Explore the narrow streets and wonderfully preserved mansion architecture, simply beautiful. Next stop Limassol - a large town home to two of the top hotels on the island. The 5* Amathus Beach and 5* Four Seasons, both members of The Leading Hotels of The World. The Amathus Beach strapline is "indoor luxury, outdoor paradise” and it certainly lives up to its title. I spent two nights here indulging myself in all its glory. Nestled on the beach amidst tropical gardens, the newly renovated hotel is a sanctuary of world-class comfort. With a fabulous range of state of the art facilities, top notch services and an award winning spa. A site visit of the Four Seasons Hotel left me wide eyed and open jawed with the ultimate wow factor. The prestigious independently owned and operated hotel is situated on a sandy beach east of Limassol, midway between the airports of Larnaca and Pafos and only a few minutes’ drive from the city centre. This resort is the pinnacle of luxury and style, combining impeccable facilities with world class hospitality and service. Limassol town is a maze of historical wonder developed around its medieval castle and the old port. With modern eateries and shopping you could spend days wondering round and taking it all in. Unfortunately I only had two hours to enjoy this hidden wonder so will definitely be making a return visit. Next we were lucky enough to experience agro-tourism at its best. A 30-40 minute drive inland we took in some magnificent views of the stunning Troodos mountains en route to the Zambartas Winery. A short tour of the wine making process finished with the tasting. Founded in 2006 this well-established winery produces a selection of red, white and rose wines which are not only sold in Cyprus but shipped worldwide. You may even be lucky enough to sample these tasty wines in selected restaurants in London! On to the beautiful Omodos Village to experience the simple and serene life, learn about old folk customs and enjoy the unique traditional foods and drink with the local Cypriot villagers. We even tried our hand at bread making. We finished with a visit to Kourion archaeological site (Unesco) which was once one of the island’s most important city-kingdoms. The magnificent Greco-Roman theatre, the site’s centrepiece, was built in the 2nd century BC. The theatre has now been restored and is used for open-air musical and theatrical performances (mainly during the summer months) making it one of the most popular settings for high-calibre cultural events. Many of these can be booked and enjoyed as part of the Culture Capital celebrations. My final day in Cyprus took us further west with a quick photo stop in Old Paphos at Petra Tou Romiou, the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. Then a drive through British Territory (a surreal experience) to our final destination of New Paphos. Although named new Paphos, do not be mistaken into thinking it's a modern town as there are numerous sites of exceptional architectural and historic value. The mosaics of New Paphos are among the most beautiful in the world. The city contains many catacomb sites dating back to the early Christian period. The most famous is Saint Solomoni Church, retaining some of its 12th century frescoes. An iconic sacred tree at the entrance is believed to cure the ailments of those who hang a personal offering on its branches (so don't forget to take a spare hankie). The beautiful harbour houses a medieval castle and a stretch of beautiful promenade as far as the eye can see. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to quality restaurants and bars, we even had a surprise visit from two pelicans whilst we enjoyed the fresh fish meze on the sea front. Paphos is a shopaholic’s dream, from indoor malls with designer outlets to open-air markets and traditional souvenir shops. To my surprise the best part of the trip was a visit to Tochni Village - agro tourism houses located around a 10 minute drive inland from Paphos Town. Offering the unique opportunity to stay in a traditional stone-built village home. Spend your days strolling through the narrow cobbled paths to the village square, have a coffee with the locals and settle into an easy-going Mediterranean lifestyle that respects and nurtures timeless traditions. Participate in traditional daily activities such as olive picking to make your own olive oil or fishing for your own lunch. Before you know it, you feel part of the local community! Absolutely stunning with a wide appeal, fantastic for a short stay or as a base to explore the old and new wonders that Cyprus has to offer. I will be back!

22 June 2018

On my first visit to the Capital of Tuscany, it was easy to understand why this gem of a city continues to captivate the heart of so many visitors year after year. Best seen on foot, a guided walk will take you on a relaxed tour of the city highlights. As you walk around the beautiful streets and enchanting alleyways, each turn you will find yourself face to face with a piece of history. World famous renaissance sculptures, stunning architecture dating back from medieval Europe or churches from various periods in history will have you mesmerised, especially the masterpiece that is The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore - or "Duomo" for short. I was lucky enough to stay in a piece of such history thanks to Classic Collection Holidays. The stunning 4* Hotel Brunelleschi boasts a prime location in the historic centre, and has perfectly preserved the oldest building in Florence as part of it's structure. On my visit to 6 hotels, each uniquely beautiful, I experienced fine dining at its best with outstanding hospitality. If a city centre hotel is not for you, a 10 minute drive will bring you face to face with a number of magnificent villa hotels. Set in landscaped gardens, historical mansions such as "Il Salviatino or the "Villa Cora" certainly have the WOW factor! Florence is a shoppers paradise: leather goods, Murano Glass, Burano Lace and everything in between. Ponte Vecchio, the famous medieval bridge over the Arno River, houses numerous jewellers, art dealers and souvenir shops and has it's own place in history... a story for your own discovery! For the less adventurous there is an abundance of coffee shops, cafes and restaurants dotted around the magnificent Piazzas where you can sit and people watch whist you absorb the charming atmosphere, and plan your next steps. So a stand alone city break or as part of a tour/twin/multi-centre holiday, Florence is a must for your next European adventure. Perfect for visitors of all ages and interests.