06 October 2023

Last summer, you may recall I took a 3 month sabbatical in Italy to have a change of scene and take a reset for myself and my business after the pandemic. This year I haven’t been away for 90 days but I have taken several wellness breaks. Wellness travel is a growing trend and refers to travel that focuses on physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It has become increasingly popular as clients seek ways to prioritise self-care and health during their holidays. Wellness travel often involves destinations and activities that promote relaxation and stress relief. Whether it's a spa retreat, yoga retreat, or a peaceful nature retreat to help you unwind and recharge. Taking a break from the routines of daily life and experiencing new environments can reignite motivation and creativity, leading to a more positive outlook on life. For me personally, I find wellness breaks help with self-reflection and introspection, great for when I need to pause or think things over. Wellness travel is also often an opportunity to meet with like-minded people with similar interests in health and well-being – great for solo travellers. This can lead to forming meaningful connections and a sense of community during the trip and adopting healthier habits and making positive lifestyle changes after returning home. Many wellness travel programs include activities like hiking, yoga, fitness classes, and outdoor adventures. Spending time with like-minded people and sharing these experiences together, will ensure you return home feeling recharged. In May this year, I went to Kefalonia in Greece on a yoga break – activities included morning and evening yoga sessions, daytime watersports, lunchtime coaching workshops and 1-1s with a life coach. The group were from varied backgrounds and very supportive of each other’s personal journey. Group or solo adventures are available in many destinations with activities as varied as cooking, painting, walking, cycling to learning a new skill like surfing or meditation. As well as Luxury resorts like the Body Holiday St Lucia or COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali, guests can also stay in quirky cottages, treehouses, eco lodges, log cabins or yurts. I am a big fan of staying in a shepherds hut for some downtime. Being outside in nature spending time reading or journalling often helps me with clearing the thoughts whirling in my mind. This year I’ve stayed solo in a luxury hut the middle of some bluebell woods. I’ve stayed near the sea in a group retreat in super comfy lodges with shared kitchen space & individual shower rooms. My most recent discovery was a countryside retreat at a farm with spa facilities and high quality restaurant in the main converted barn. Accommodation was in lodges and shepherds huts overlooking the meadows. All of these had high quality hotel amenities and furnishings and definitely felt more like glamping than camping. Since staycations had a resurgence during the pandemic, there are so many different options available for mini breaks or longer stays. I come from a camping family and cannot recommend enough the virtues of spending quality time together outdoors to recharge and enhance overall well-being. If you would like to find out more about any of these amazing locations or to plan your next getaway to take some time out to breathe, relax, truly unwind and just get away from it all on a wellness trip in UK or overseas, please get in touch with me. I’ll discuss with you what’s important for your break and present some options from our varied range of suppliers.

31 October 2022

This Summer I was fortunate to spend 3 months in beautiful Lake Garda. One of the benefits of being a self- employed business owner is being able to pack up your laptop and work wherever you have a good Wi-Fi connection. When I’m at home I like to work from local coffee shops and a coworking space and this summer I had an opportunity to go to Italy for 90 days and found some work spots with a great view of the lake. I had worked in Italy previously so it was a quick decision to go back - how could I turn down a chance to live la dolce vita and explore some of northern Italy’s most iconic spots? Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is situated between the three Italian regions of Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino. There are 25 picturesque villages around the lake rich with historical monuments, castles and fortresses. The climate is ideal for the cultivation of local products e.g. olives, lemons and oranges, wine and truffles known worldwide. I was based in the town of Salo on the south west coast of the lake known as the Riviera Bresciana, also taking in Gardone and Gargnano. Salo has the longest lakeside promenade filled with shops, cafes and pizzerias and also a stretch of small shingle beaches with pontoons for swimming or paddleboarding in the crystal clear water. The first morning I arrived, I went down to the lake for an early morning walk along the promenade and swim and from then spent many mornings with my laptop beside the lake enjoying a cappuccino and brioche or people watching in the afternoons with Aperol Spritz and pizza. The historic buildings in Salo are the classic pastel colours and in the cobbled back streets you can find the local Musa museum dedicated to the towns musical heritage. Back in the 16th century Gasparo da Salo invented the violin which was allegedly based on the shape of the lake. Outdoor classical concerts are held in the square outside the Duomo during the summer months. From the Salo promenade, there is a daily boat service to all areas of the lakes so I was able to visit many of the towns around the lake which all have their own personality. Limone is an authentic old town on the north west of the lake. The tiny alleys are filled with shops and restaurants with flowered balconies. On Tuesdays there is a weekly market where you can buy local products olive oil, wine and cheese and of course lemons! Riva del Garda at the northern tip of the lake is less quaint and more like a proper town. It has a cosmopolitan feel and is a popular base to stay rather than visit for a day trip. The northern end of the lake is also popular with windsurfers and kite surfers. Malcesine on the north east side of the lake has a rotating cable car up to 1800m Monte Baldo which is a compulsory stop for tourists around Lake Garda for an amazing panoramic view of the lake. Bardolino is one of the most well-known tourist destinations on Lake Garda. It is located on the east of the lake and borders in the north with Garda and in the south with Lazise. Bardolino is well known for the production of the famous red wine and wine festival in October. Desenzano del Garda is on the south of Lake Garda and is the largest city on the lake with good road and train connections. The city is in the centre of a large bay with flower lined lake promenades and impressive buildings and canals in Venetian style. Peschiera del Garda is at the south of the lake is a typical Italian old town with charming historical alleys and cafés on the small harbour. Between Peschiera and Sirmione stretches a large beach ideal for relaxing in the sun. Sirmione is a picturesque town on the south coast with an Instagram worthy castle at the entrance to the old town. There are also thermal baths and Roman ruins to explore for the 1000s of day trippers. Away from the lake there are plenty more sights to visit – Verona for some culture including the famous Romeo & Juliet balcony. The Dolomites for hiking, biking and even canyoning and there are also plenty of local vineyards for wine tasting, tours and picnics. There really is something for everyone at Lake Garda for a short break or longer trip. Travel Counsellors has a close working relationship with a wide range of travel partners which means I can personalise an itinerary in Lake Garda or across Italy that’s just right for you.

06 October 2021

This Autumn, I have been on a 1000-mile road trip around the UK to visit some friends in far flung corners of the country that I haven’t managed to see for a while. The trip started with a mini break in the Peak District and ended with a Shepherds Hut stay in Cambridgeshire. Peak District – Derwent View First stop on my trip was Matlock in Derbyshire on the edge of the Peak District National Park. The former spa resort of Matlock Bath where we stayed lies immediately south of the town with a promenade beside the Derwent just right for a stretch of the legs after the 150mile drive. We booked an apartment via TC for 3-night stay overlooking the river. The weather was sunny and warm perfect for morning coffee on the balcony. There were also plenty of local coffee shops to choose from, our favourite was Fig Coffee on North Parade opposite Matlock Bath station. We also visited some of the local pubs, after our days exploring, we had a riverside drink on the terrace at The Midland and a lovely evening at Rose Cottage chatting to the locals and enjoying some homemade pies. Next morning, we set off to explore the town of Bakewell, just 9 miles away via a scenic drive over the dales. The town centre was similar to Matlock with lots of independent shops and local cafes and plenty of opportunities to sample the traditional Bakewell Tart. You can send a Bakewell tart or pudding gift from here to anywhere around the world. We spent the rest of the day visiting Chatsworth House & Garden a few miles from Bakewell. The house is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and set in an impressive 105-acre garden so there’s plenty to explore. We did a tour of the state rooms and then wandered around the various sections of the gardens and ended with a cream tea picnic on the lawn. We ended our visit with a trip to the estate shop where we purchased some excellent local produce for dinner. Our minibreak in the Peak District was soon over and I was on my way to catch up with a friend 200 miles north, just across the border in Dumfries. It was my first visit to the Scottish town with the River Nith running through and impressive old red mill buildings on the riverside. As my friend had only recently moved there, we explored the town’s history at the local museum which also has a viewing tower. The town is surrounded by countryside and we also enjoyed lunch and a walk in Loch Arthur a few miles away. Next stop on my road trip was a visit to another seasonnaire friend who now lives in Norfolk. The drive was 350 miles long with the added pressure of a petrol panic, but I made it eventually. We enjoyed a catch up over dinner at a local pub Bird in Hand where I chose some local Norfolk pork belly. A quick shopping expedition and coffee followed by a late September barbecue lunch and I was off again to my final destination. Cambridgeshire – Avenue Farm For the last stop of my road trip, I wanted a retreat where I could switch off and recharge after my whirlwind tour of the country. I was a bit apprehensive about staying in a shepherd’s hut and the facilities being basic, but I was super impressed with the comfort and little touches to make my stay perfect. The fridge was filled with local produce for breakfast and I stocked up with a few treats for afternoon tea at the local community shop a few minutes’ walk away. I sat in the evening sun and watched the stars come out with my Sky View app. Next morning was terribly rainy and windy but I set off on a run around the local P walk which was approx. 4.5km Back at the warm hut, the hot shower and cooked breakfast set me up for a day of journaling about my trip and catch up on some reading for my book clubs. I was sad to leave the peaceful field and beautiful sunrises and will be looking at another shepherd’s hut stay somewhere soon. At Travel Counsellors we work with a wide range of UK suppliers who have a selection of accommodation types. If you’d like more freedom than a hotel stay offers, let me help you source a unique stay at a cottage, shepherds hut, glamping pod or even a double decker bus for your next UK staycation. With my guidance, your UK getaway will be everything you need from travel, just a little closer to home than you may have thought.

14 September 2021

This past year, like many people’s, my passport has been taking a break in the drawer as I’ve been embracing the UK staycation options to explore parts of the UK that I don’t know so well. Suffolk Coast - In Summer, I enjoyed a country house mini break at the Seckford Hall Hotel & Spa in Suffolk. Seckford Hall is a beautiful 16th-century listed country house steeped in Tudor history. It is set in magnificent grounds and the rooms have stunning views of the Suffolk countryside. We enjoyed a lovely summer evening sipping Pimms in the courtyard before a superb 3 course dinner which was included in our special offer rate. The hotel is within easy reach of the heritage coast seaside towns of Southwold and Aldeburgh. Both have charming independent shops to mooch around and there’s also a weird pier museum and the famous Adnams brewery at Southwold to explore. The spa was closed at the time of our visit due to Covid restrictions – so a repeat visit is necessary to experience the wonderful pampering on offer. North Kent - In Spring, I rented a cottage in the lovely town of Whitstable on the North Kent coast. I had visited Whitstable on childhood caravan holidays and thought it time for a repeat visit. Whitstable is how you picture a quaint English seaside town. The harbour is full of boats bringing in the famous local oysters. There are numerous excellent seafood restaurants and quite a few excellent local pubs and coffee shops. Harbour street is famous for its independent shops selling books, clothes and occasionally a bucket and spade! Whitstable also has its own castle on the hill where we enjoyed a lovely cream tea in the orangery cafe.. It doesn’t all have to be about the seaside or the countryside. Our cities are also full of culture and fantastic architecture. From Whitstable you can follow the Crab and Winkle Way which is a 7.5 mile trail to Canterbury. Canterbury is Kent’s no 1 tourist attraction, as well as visiting the famous cathedral where Thomas Beckett was murdered, you can also enjoy the sights and sounds of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. We also discovered a fabulous undercover farmers market- The Goods Shed based in the old railway buildings next to the station. Superb produce on offer and of course more coffee and cake consumed. Whatever the reason to get away, whether it’s a romantic break, birthday celebration or just time to relax and unwind, a short break away in the UK is perfect for any occasion. With my guidance, your UK getaway will be everything you need from travel, just a little closer to home than you may have thought. This Autumn, I am off on a UK road trip to visit some friends in far flung corners of the country that I haven’t managed to see for a while. Starting with a stay in the Peak District and ending with a Shepherds Hut stay in the East of England so watch this space for my next blog.

06 June 2019

Readers of my blogs will recall that I had a big ‘0’ birthday recently. Previous memorable birthday celebrations have involved cocktails in the Caribbean so this year I decided on a girly trip to Mexico to celebrate and took advantage of an agent offer with Oasis Hotels in Cancun. I’ve been lucky enough to spend my birthday in some fabulous places over the years working in travel and Mexico had been recently added to my wish-list after I arranged a Rick Stein inspired foodie trip there for a client last year. Time off is precious, and I like to combine some cultural and food experiences with some relaxation so booking a beach-based stay with some excursions was my ideal short break. We flew from Gatwick to Cancun with TUI on their daily 787 Dreamliner service and pre-booked a bottle of champagne onboard to start the trip with a pop. On arrival we had also pre-booked a private transfer to whisk us straight off to the resort after the 9.5hour flight. The Grand Oasis Hotel is located on the beach in Cancún's Hotel-Zone; approx. 20mins from the airport. The Pyramid at Grand Oasis is the VIP All Inclusive level with separate concierge, 5 exclusive restaurants, 4 exclusive bars including a beach club, a relaxing spa, special lounge, upgraded minibar and entertainment shows available to guests. After a speedy check in at the dedicated Pyramid lounge, we were shown to our Deluxe Ocean View room. Unpack and quick change, we set off for to explore the resort and check out our dining options for our first meal. In total, there are 10 restaurants and 19 bars across the Grand Oasis Cancun complex, so we were spoilt for choice during our 7night stay. There was somewhere to suit all tastes from the Black Hole dine in the dark experience to Benazuza techno emotional cuisine. We decided to book The White Box gastrobar for my birthday meal which didn’t disappoint. It was a 10-course tapas style food extravaganza which was visually beautiful and tasted superb, finished off with a special birthday cake. Lazy days were spent relaxing by the pool. The huge main pool has plenty of sun loungers for all the guests with a flash mob style pool team randomly popping up to entertain you. The Pyramid guests also have exclusive pool and beach areas with day beds and cabanas with waiter service for your refreshments so well worth the upgrade. Between relaxing, we also booked a couple of day excursions with the onsite tour company. One day was spent on a sustainable tourism snorkelling trip to the nearby coral reef. Whilst the guide pointed out turtles and Nemo lookalike fish to the group, I was saddened by what had happened to vibrant colourful seabed I remembered from my first visits to the Caribbean almost 20 years ago. Another trip was to the temples at Chichen Itza. The long drive included a stop en route at a Mayan visitor centre for lunch where I had my Mayan birth chart read for my landmark birthday. We reached the awe inspiring Chichen Itza site in the mid-afternoon sun so after a 2hour guided tour, the next stop at a freshwater Cenote for a refreshing swim was welcome. A quick visit to the magnificent church at Vallodolid on the way home finished off our long day out. A week passed quickly in a blur of cocktails and champagne and soon enough my birthday holiday was over. Arriving back at Gatwick, at least I had more birthday celebrations to look forward to. The trip left me wanting to know more about the mysterious Mayans and their legacy and wanting to return to Mexico to explore more. If you want to know more about Cancun or have special trip in mind that you would like help planning, please get in touch.

14 March 2019

This year I have a big ‘0’ birthday coming up so have been thinking about my travel wish list and where to celebrate. I’ve been lucky enough to have my birthday in some fabulous places over the years of working in travel. My last big birthday 10 years ago, I was working for a tour operator in Italy so spent the day in Venice eating gelato and visiting the beach at glamourous Venice Lido where they hold the film festival. Previous memorable birthday celebrations have involved cocktails in the Caribbean and a safari and wine tasting in South Africa. Kuoni recently published its Top Places for a Special Trip: 10 - South Africa - the classic safari destination but is also home to great beaches and popular waterfront in Cape Town, not forgetting the winelands and garden route. I’m lucky to have a friend living in Cape Town so have visited a few times. 9 – Vietnam - traditionally popular with young, adventurous backpackers, Vietnam is now following Thailand into the mainstream as it also offers great value once you are there. A big draw for me would also be the food. 8 – India – if you have ‘done’ the Golden Triangle, other must sees to experience include the River Ganges and the national parks. I’ve been to the southerly region of Kerala which is very laid back and increasingly popular for those seeking a contrast to the north. 7 – Italy – I’m very biased after working in Venice for 3 years, so can understand why it’s the best-selling short haul destination and the only European entry in the top 10. I’ve loved every region of Italy I’ve visited - the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, Lake Garda and Sicily. 6 – Bali - top honeymoon destination, favoured not only for its reliable climate during the peak summer honeymoon months, but also the diverse landscapes and variety of luxury hotels, many with pool villas. Definitely on my wish list. 5 – USA – consistently popular for visits to Florida, Las Vegas and New York, but now increasingly for alternative city breaks and fly-drives in California and New England. I’ve visited New York several times, also had city breaks in Chicago, LA and San Francisco. Miami beach and Hawaii are good alternatives for a city beach stay. 4 – Mauritius – always a leader in the barefoot luxury trend. I recently attended some training on Mauritius and discovered it’s much more than just a beach destination. It’s a firm favourite for weddings and honeymoons but families are well catered for too and there’s no jet lag compared to the Caribbean. 3- Thailand - Still the most popular Far East destination. Real cultural experiences such as cycling tours, market visits and local food are what travellers are now looking for in less traditional areas and smaller islands. My dream destination for a yoga holiday. 2 – Sri Lanka - (removed due to current FCO travel guidelines) 1 – Maldives - deliver a level of luxury that was unheard of a generation ago. New hotels are being developed all the time which are contemporary but retain a simple slice of Maldivian charm. Indian Ocean is an affordable luxury I would like to experience more of. Everyone I know has a travel bucket list and there are some trips that always come up like seeing the Northern Lights or going on a safari or visiting Machu Picchu. I’ve arranged trips to all these destinations for clients to tick off their list this year. My current top 5 wish list which changes constantly: Vancouver and Rockies, Iceland, Mauritius, Bali, Elephant Hills – Thailand Holidays are precious downtime and I like to combine some cultural and food experiences with some relaxation on my ideal break. I’ve finally booked a trip to Mexico for my birthday this year. I’m also planning a spa break and a UK country house weekend with some fine dining. Look out for more blogs about my trips. Adventure awaits you in exotic destinations and off the beaten track journeys. From air balloon rides over exotic landscapes to riding on a catamaran over tropical seas in sunshine, what is the most memorable #TCExperience you have had on your travels? Where will your next ‘wish you were here’ moment be taken? If you have a special birthday or anniversary trip in mind that you would like help planning, please get in touch.

10 August 2018

Last month I went on my first ship visit on the MSC Magnifica in Southampton. It was a very informative day involving some training on the MSC routes and fleet, a tour of the ship’s lounges, restaurants, pools, spa area and cabins followed by a well-earned lunch. I signed up for my ship visit after a cruise training evening in Greenwich. I have only been on one cruise before, many years ago with Carnival from Miami to Bahamas, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from today’s cruises. I am keen to expand my cruise product knowledge and experience more ships. The cruise experience varies dramatically depending on the ship and style of cruising you opt for. Holidays including a cruise are increasing in popularity as cruise lines become more inventive with their facilities and services on board and ashore. Because cruises are generally all-inclusive, it’s a fantastic way to budget for a family holiday and for the adventurous types who love exploring lots of places on a trip, this way you only need to unpack once! There really is a cruise ship and itinerary for everyone. Firstly, think about whether the ship or the destinations are most important to you. Some clients recently returned from a Norwegian Fjords cruise. The Fjords had been on their bucket list for a while, so I helped them to find the best itinerary and a ship to suit their style and budget. How long do you want to go for? For your first ever cruise, you might not want to risk spending 14 days at sea. Luckily plenty of cruise lines now offer two to five-night itineraries, for example Cunard’s city break cruises departing from Southampton and heading to Hamburg, Amsterdam, Bruges and more. What kind of atmosphere would suit you? Some cruises still have the formal dress codes which are strictly adhered to, so if you don’t want to do the whole black-tie/cocktail dress thing then steer away from those. Many others have a ‘Captain’s Night’, which is still smart but not as formal or strict, so you can enjoy getting dressed up but don’t have to worry too much. What about where you sleep? Think about how much time you’ll be spending in your cabin, and whether you will find it good value for money to have the top- grade ocean view and balcony or whether you’d rather spend your time elsewhere and go for a budget inside cabin. And what you like to eat? Think whether you would be happy with set dining times or prefer to eat whenever you want. Do you prefer a fine dining experience on your holiday or the all you can eat buffet? A few operators offer drinks packages and often the earlier you book, the better the deal you get so the drinks packages might be included for free. Keeping busy on board. Norwegian/MSC/Disney and Royal Caribbean ships are family-focused and have lots of fun things on board including ice skating, rock climbing and water parks to name a few. If it’s just the two of you then perhaps look at Celebrity Cruises or Holland America. So, you’ve decided you want to try a cruise. You might know exactly where you want to go and what kind of ship you want to sail on, or you might have no idea where to begin. Whether it’s a boutique river cruise, 2 weeks sailing the Caribbean on a family-friendly adventure or something further afield and more obscure, that’s where I come in to match your perfect cruise to you. If you’d like copy of our new Voyage magazine to inspire you, please get in touch.

20 September 2017

I’ve just returned from a short break in Cyprus to get away from it all after a busy summer. I’m back feeling refreshed in mind and body and recharged, ready to face the autumn season. Ayii Anargyri Natural Healing Spa Resort in Cyprus was the perfect choice. It’s a lovely resort up in the hills north of Paphos. The hotel’s grounds are filled with orange trees, jasmine and lavender surrounding the limestone buildings so the resort looks and smells wonderful and has an atmosphere which is totally relaxing. We stayed in a quiet room in the corner of the resort overlooking the pool area. The rooms are modern and spacious with air con and terrace/balcony. Meals are served adjacent to the pool. The half board food was plentiful, excellent quality produce, served by helpful and friendly staff. There is also a spa attached to the hotel which is a haven of calm. Access to sulphur thermal spa baths is included for hotel guests. The hot spa baths are in three sections to concentrate on different areas of the body. We left feeling soothed. It was difficult to choose from the extensive spa menu but I went for an Absolute Body Ritual which included a full body exfoliation and massage. Bliss! The resort also has a weekly wellness programme including aqua aerobics, yoga classes and nature walks. It would have been easy just to while away the time relaxing around the hotel and spa, but as this was my first visit to Cyprus, we did go out and about on a couple of days. The town of Polis is nearby and can be easily reached by bus or taxi. There is a small town square surrounded by tavernas and souvenir shops. Just along from Polis is the beach resort of Latchi, which has a shingle beach and pretty harbour. Another day we hired a car and went to visit Paphos approx. 30mins away. The car was easily arranged to be dropped off and collected from the hotel. Driving is on the left so easy to navigate. We parked near to the ancient harbour and visited the beautifully intricate Roman mosaics which were first discovered in 1965 but still more are being excavated today. After a spot of souvenir shopping on the promenade and our daily pit stop for fresh orange juice and frappe iced coffee, we drove up along the coast to the ‘Tomb of the Kings’. These are 3rd/4th century ruins of underground burial sites. Numbers three, four and eight are most interesting. Next stop along the coast was Coral Bay beach for a swim in the sea. This is a bustling resort beach with lots of sun loungers, pedalos and banana boat rides on offer. Then just time for a stop at the local winery in Kathika on the way back to the resort. The Cyprus local wines were served in the hotel and quite drinkable! I can absolutely recommend Cyrpus for some late summer sunshine. The Ayii Anargyri was a great alternative to a traditional beach resort if you want to get away from it all and have a digital detox. There was of course Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel for those who can't bear to switch off!

12 May 2017

Just returned from an amazing time in vibrant Cuba. Cuba has been on my wish list for a while, as I was intrigued to learn more about this unique country frozen in time since the 1959 socialist revolution. We flew with Thomas Cook Holidays on an all-inclusive package which covered our arrival visas. The flight from Gatwick to Holguin is 9 hours. The airport is small so we were soon on our way to the resort in Guardalavaca. We stayed at the Brisas resort which has a main hotel with an adjacent villa area which is quieter so there are rooms to suit everyone. Our room was large with aircon and slightly dated décor compared to other Caribbean islands I’ve visited, but this is Cuba! The resort has 2 pools and 5 restaurants to choose from. There were all sorts of activities going on all day from poolside entertainment to tennis to chess tournaments. One cloudy morning we rented some bikes and stopped off in the local square where the barber was giving haircuts then visited the local souvenir market. Of course, there is also a long stretch of white sandy beach to relax on a lounger with a book if that’s more your thing. My expectations of the food were minimal but I was pleasantly surprised by the huge buffet selection available at breakfast and lunch, plenty of fresh fruit, salads, fish and there was always something tasty. The a la carte restaurants bookable for the evenings, were an eclectic selection, our favourite meal was at the Internacional. Whilst staying at hotel, there was a Cuba Tourism conventional being held, so hotel guests were also invited to evening entertainment on the beach, salsa dancers and celebration buffet. The tourism minister gave a rousing speech to the delegates and the marketing video truly highlighted the uniqueness of Cuba. From Holguin there was an overnight excursion to Havana to experience the bustling capital city, encompassing visits to tobacco factory and Ernest Hemingway’s house. Nearer places to visit from Holguin included Santiago de Cuba, the birthplace of the 1950s revolution and original capital. Traditional colonial architecture sits side by side with eastern European influences in the main cities. Revolution reminders are everywhere and Castro is celebrated with statues, memorials and plaques. The population are still living with ration books in the 21st century, the average monthly wage is equivalent to $15, people try to make an extra peso raising a pig. Pigs are more common than dogs, however cows are rare and protected, hence the name Guardalavaca – guard the cow! Most people cannot afford to buy cars or houses, washing machines are still considered luxury items, however the people are welcoming and friendly and seem happy with life. School, university and healthcare are all free here. Health tourists from other South American nations such as Venezuela come here as the health service is so good! Raul Castro came to power a few years ago, after Fidel Castro retired and is starting to relax some of the regulations, relations with US are defrosting so more changes are certainly on the horizon. Most tourists come from Canada, UK and Germany currently; many guests at the hotel were on their 2nd, 3rd 4th even 16th visit! Exploring outside of the hotel, seeing the way of life, culture and history were the highlights for me. I can certainly see why people return and why particularly now Cuba is a popular destination. I recommend you go soon!

31 March 2017

To celebrate my partner's 50th birthday in August last year, we wanted a short weekend break destination and chose the Algarve for the luxury golf & spa resorts and sunshine just a couple of hours flight away. I booked the flights direct with EasyJet, and after extensive internet research booked a 4 star resort hotel in Vilamoura at the best rate I could find via Trivago for our 3 night stay. This was before I joined Travel Counsellors and even though I considered myself quite internet savvy regarding travel arrangements, I was caught out when Low Cost Holidays went bust just 2 weeks before we were due to travel. The hotel room I had booked via Trivago had been with Low Cost Beds and my reservation was cancelled and money was lost. Not wanting to cancel the flights, but not knowing whether I would be able to get my money back, I had 2 frantic weeks trying to rearrange the accommodation at the last minute. The hotel reservations department said I could rebook my room at the standard rack rate but this was at 50% higher price than I had previously paid. Eventually I had to opt for a cheaper 3 star hotel in Quarteira just along the coast from Vilamoura. We went on the trip and had a great weekend. My first experience of white sangria! We had beautiful weather and a lovely birthday meal. We rented some bikes one morning and rode along the promenade to see where we should have stayed and stopped there for coffee and custard tarts. On our return to UK, I spent several weeks making phone calls and writing letters to my credit card provider and after a worrying 2 months finally, my original monies were refunded under Section 75. It was an expensive lesson well learned. Everything I book for you through Travel Counsellors is 100% financially protected. Our financial trust is the best in the industry so you know your money is safe, no ifs, no buts. If I had booked via a Travel Counsellor we would have been rebooked automatically, no hassle or stress. Don't get caught out like me!

30 March 2017

Last May we chose Barbados for an all-inclusive holiday for my birthday week. I had been to Barbados before but almost 20 years ago on an educational trip with British Airways. This time we flew with Virgin Atlantic, who operate several direct flights a week from Gatwick. The short transfer from the airport to Hastings showed that as well as the exclusive luxury hotels there are now accommodations to suit all budgets on the island making it a more accessible destination. We stayed at the Savannah Beach Hotel on the South West coast, a small hotel with just 93 rooms built in the colonial style from a converted plantation house. Rooms all face onto the central pool area and our room had direct access down into the pool from our terrace. As well as the main pool area there was also a private beach area with plenty of loungers set amongst the palm trees. From the beach we frequently saw turtles swimming and shared wedding cake with some newly-weds. The three restaurants provided a la carte and buffet options, with barbecues and themed food and entertainment evenings. Service was always friendly and relaxed. The hotel was close to the Richard Haynes boardwalk which was good for early morning or evening strolls with plenty of coffee or food stops along the way. From Hastings it was also easy to visit Bridgetown for duty free shopping and boat trips. As this was just a short trip we didn't venture too far from the hotel beach and bar. I was lucky enough to enjoy cocktails on my birthday and a relaxing massage at the on-site spa. The Bajan people were as welcoming as I remembered and keen for us to enjoy every aspect of our holiday. I would certainly recommend considering Barbados as there are options to suit all tastes. It remains my favourite of the Caribbean islands.

26 March 2017

In October 2015, I went on my first trip to India. Kerala is a state in the South of India and a world away from the frenzy of the North. This laid-back place has something for everyone from beaches, to backwaters, to tea covered hills, to wildlife and nature reserves. Kochi (Cochin) airport is the first airport in the world to be entirely powered by solar power and well served by the major airlines, we travelled with Emirates via Dubai. After passing through immigration relatively quickly since the introduction of the Evisa for U.K passport holders, we were whisked off to the first hotel on our itinerary, the short transfer being our first experience of the street noise which I will always now associate with India. We stayed on Willingdon Island which is quick hop outside of the city by tuk-tuk or ferry. From here, we were able to spend a couple of days exploring the sights and sounds of Fort Kochi, the traditional Chinese fishing nets, Kathakali dancing and the many European influences on the city including the resting place of Vasco da Gama. Next stop on our whirlwind tour were the tea gardens of Munnar, reached by a drive through the beautiful lush green mountains covered by tea and spice plantations. Munnar is a colourful hill station with modern hotels set amongst the bustling streets. A visit to the tea museum showing the process from picking the tea leaves to your cup was very informative, with an opportunity to sample and buy all grades and flavours of tea. The following day we were off to Periyar wildlife sanctuary for an early morning walk with our guides through the tropical forests in search of wildlife. There is a slim chance of seeing a tiger but we were only fortunate to see monkeys, flying squirrels and birds as well as abundant tropical plants and brightly coloured flowers. In the evening we took part in a local cooking lesson where we prepared several traditional dishes and breads for the group to eat. After breakfast at our luxury treetop hotel, we were off to a more simple home stay. We stayed for 2 nights with a local family in a village on the backwaters, sampled home style cooking including our favourite breakfast boiled egg curry and learning about the real-life customs of Keralan locals. Next we were off to Alleppey to board a houseboat for a cruise along the backwaters. These converted rice barges have accommodation on board which come in all standards. The cruising pace is slow and purposely relaxing to take in life along the riverside. During the afternoon we stopped off at an Ayurvedic centre at the side of the canal for a traditional massage treatment before cruising off into the sunset. Then mooring for the night, our delicious evening meal was prepared by the crew. The cuisine wherever we travelled was mostly vegetarian, and meat dishes in spices were available to suit all tastes. Bananas are a staple with every meal, even in curries. Fish curry was widely available. Ginger prawns were a favourite meal of mine in Kochi, but a simple meat or paneer dosa was also tasty. (I have since found a Keralan restaurant local to me where I can relive these food memories.) At the end of our week- long tour, we opted to extend our trip with a couple of nights at Cherai Beach. This was a short transfer from Kochi and a relaxing way to end our trip after a busy bus tour. 10 days was just a short taster of this lush green southern state as you could easily stay longer and explore further, any of the destinations on the route. It's difficult to pick a tour highlight but my favourite was the serene cruising on the house boat. I highly recommend Kerala as a gentle introduction to the people, colours and flavours of India and now can't wait to go back and experience other parts of this varied subcontinent.

26 March 2017

Years ago, I was lucky enough to work in beautiful Venezia for 3 summers for a tour operator. My days off were spent exploring this unique city and the surrounding area. Here are my top tips: - Getting around Venice is easy. Everywhere is signposted back to St Mark’s Square - Piazza San Marco or the Rialto bridge - Ponte di Rialto so you can't get lost. Explore the back streets and quieter areas away from the hustle and bustle and you'll find lots of gems, whether that be cosy bars, restaurants and splendid architecture. The Jewish Ghetto and Cannaregio districts are particularly lovely. The island is mostly walkable although there are of course many bridges over the canals to negotiate. You can get around the main sights and across to the islands by Vaporetto (water bus) which is quite easy to navigate. Buy a 24-hour or 3-day ticket for best value. The Vaporetto runs until late in the evenings. - San Giorgio Maggiore is a well-kept secret. If you are in Venice in busy times, nip across the water for the best view. It's free entry to the San Giorgio Maggiore church which is very theatrical and houses art treasures such as ‘The Last Supper’. There's a small charge for the lift to the top of the bell tower where the view is equally as stunning as from the Campanile San Marco without the queues. - When in Venice of course you must have a Bellini at the famous Harry’s Bar, but you must also try the local aperitif - Aperol Spritz. Most bars serve Aperitivos, generally between 7pm and 9pm, when locals can relax post-work over a glass of Prosecco or Aperol and some snacks. It’s a great way to experience local culture, to people-watch, to unwind with a drink after a long day of sightseeing… You will see all the locals drinking the bright orange drink in the evenings before dinner. Aperol Spritz is a citrus taste similar to Campari. - If you want more than a city break, Venice Lido has a beautiful sandy beach on the Adriatic and it’s just a quick hop across by Vaporetto or Water Taxi. Venice Lido has beachfront hotels with the glamorous feel of the Côte d'Azur, it’s where the Venice Film Festival is held in September. You can spend days on the beach and pop across in a water taxi in the evenings for a meal or concert when the day trippers have departed and Venice is much more relaxed and serene. - Venice can equally be a family friendly option, there are several award-winning camp sites across the lagoon at Punta Sabbioni, located along the Adriatic coast, such as Marina di Venezia and Camping Union Lido. These have all the amenities you could possibly need, pool complexes and direct access to the sandy beach. There are also mobile homes here where families can enjoy the freedom and space of a campsite and easily explore Venice. - For a more relaxed ambience in Venice, go off peak if you can, when the city isn’t besieged by day tourists and cruise passengers. February has the week-long Carnevale when the Venetians don masks and costumes and September has the Regatta Storica, an historic gondola race and parade of boats along the Grand Canal. Whichever option you choose, Venice is unique and has something for everyone, you won’t be disappointed!