04 November 2023

Peru In September 2023, my partner, Tom, and I embarked on an unforgettable three-week adventure to Peru, a country known for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Our journey was filled with incredible experiences that left a lasting impression and created cherished memories. Lima Our adventure began in Lima, the bustling capital of Peru. We couldn't resist indulging in the diverse and delectable Peruvian cuisine. Lima's culinary scene proved to be very impressive, and we savoured every bite. From the freshness of the ceviche by the sea to the aromatic stews in the city's vibrant markets, Lima's food offered a delightful introduction to the gastronomic wonders of Peru. There is a fantastic restaurant tasting tour that can be arranged in advance of your arrival, which I would highly recommend! The Amazon Rainforest From Lima, we ventured into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, so, right up my street. Guided by expert naturalists, we embarked on thrilling excursions, exploring the world's most biodiverse jungle. As the lush canopy enveloped us, we marvelled at the sights and sounds of the Amazon, it’s surprisingly loud in there! Along the way, we encountered a mesmerizing array of creatures, from a leisurely sloth hanging from the trees to elusive tarantulas lurking in the underbrush and tiny bats lined up on tree trunks. The haunting howls of howler monkeys resonated through the forest, especially at dawn, and the sight of formidable bullet ants gave us newfound respect for nature's power. However, the true highlight was undoubtedly spotting a family of giant river otters, playing and feeding in an oxbow lake, this was what I’d been hoping to see. They even went ashore for a few minutes, allowing us to get a proper look them, they deserve the “giant” in their name. ?????? The Sacred Valley Leaving the Amazon behind, we journeyed to the Sacred Valley, a place steeped in history and surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes. Here, we explored ancient Inca ruins, each site revealing the secrets of a remarkable civilization that once thrived in these high-altitude landscapes. The stone walls, terraces, and temples told tales of a people with an incredible connection to nature, leaving us in awe of the ingenuity of the Inca Empire. We also had the incredible opportunity to spend time feeding and interacting with alpacas and llamas, which was great fun. Little did we know that this experience would spark a new obsession – having these charming creatures as pets back in the UK. Machu Picchu The climax of our journey was our breathtaking excursion to Machu Picchu. Instead of hiking the 4-day Inca trail, we chose to arrive via the Vista Dome train purely to save on time but we heard firsthand stories about the challenging yet doable trek with stunning views. Standing amidst the ruins, we marvelled at the architectural prowess of the Inca Empire and we couldn't help but feel privileged to be in this remarkable archaeological icon and one of the new 7 Wonders of the World. I must admit I had to pinch myself on numerous occasions, it’s quite surreal seeing something in pictures for years and then suddenly being there in person. It was even more impressive than I had expected and the views are absolutely incredible! Machu Picchu was not just a destination; it was a culmination of history, beauty, and a true bucket-list moment for both of us. Cusco From Machu Picchu, we travelled to Cusco, the historic heart of Peru, and the former Incan capital, which welcomed us with its stunning architecture and rich heritage. Wandering through the cobblestone streets and visiting centuries-old churches and palaces, we felt like we'd stepped back in time. Cusco's fusion of Inca and Spanish colonial influences creates a unique atmosphere that is both charming and deeply historical. Rainbow Mountain Another standout moment of our journey was our spontaneous visit to Rainbow Mountain. Even though it was a last-minute decision, we were thrilled that we included it in our itinerary. Upon reaching the summit, we were greeted by an otherworldly and awe-inspiring panorama of colorful layers in the earth, as if nature had artistically brushed its masterpiece. It was a sight unlike any we had ever witnessed. The strenuous and often breath-catching hike was undoubtedly worth every step, and sharing the experience with new friends was the icing on the cake. We chose the faster and somewhat easier option of going horseback to the base of the climb, which added its own unique dimension to the adventure. Lake Titicaca Our journey continued to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. We visited the Uros Floating Islands, where the local communities live on floating reed-made islands. Their way of life and warm hospitality provided a unique insight into Andean culture, and we were amazed by the intricacies of their floating homes. We also had the chance to explore Taquile Island, where the traditional way of life remains untouched by time, it so peaceful there, no motorised vehicles or even dogs on the island. The serene beauty of Lake Titicaca left a impression on us, and it was a reminder of the vastness and diversity of Peru's landscapes. Paracas Our final stop was Paracas, a coastal gem in the Desert where we embarked on an exhilarating flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines. Viewing these enormous geoglyphs from above was a surreal experience, and the mystery of their purpose added an extra layer of intrigue to our journey. We were left with a sense of wonder at the enigmatic history of the region. I was also a little green from the aerial acrobatics of the plane, I won’t lie ?? Peru left an indelible mark on our hearts. The country's incredible scenery, rich history, and friendly people made every moment unforgettable. We also made wonderful friends along the way, sharing our love for this captivating destination. Peru, with its diverse landscapes and cultures, is a treasure waiting to be discovered, and we can't recommend it highly enough. I’d be more than happy to help you create your perfect itinerary for an adventure of a lifetime in Peru, just reach out and let’s get planning ??????

25 August 2023

Homecoming Adventures in Bray, Ireland: Reconnecting, Exploring, and Raising a Glass at the Guinness Storehouse! Hey there fellow travel addicts, It's been a while, 9 months to be exact, since I’d been home for a visit to Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland. As always I was welcomed back with open arms, big shout out to my beautiful friend Clodagh and her family who gave us a home away from home. I've got some fun tales to share from my recent escapades. So, make yourselves comfy as I take you on a journey of reconnecting, sightseeing, and lots of Guinness drinking! ## Reconnecting with Friends and Family So just to be honest from the start, I’m a bit of a mush and nothing warms the heart like spending time with your childhood pals and family after months of only chatting on the phone, I mean video calls are great but they can’t hug you. Bray, with its cozy charm and the waves crashing against the shore, was the perfect backdrop for catching up, swapping stories, and sharing endless laughter. We gathered at our favourite local haunt, the Harbour Bar, where time seemed to stand still as we reminisced about old times and made new memories. There's something about the familiar faces and cozy vibes that truly make coming home a cherished experience. ## Tom finally gets to see the views from the top of Bray head With the sun shining bright, a threat of rain in the air (it is Ireland after all), we made our way to the easier, Southern cross route up Bray head. This was Tom’s first time walking up to the cross, Clodagh and the kids happily joined us in our mini adventure. The trail winded through lush greenery, and not a small amount of prickly gorse, revealing panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see. As we ascended, the cool breeze swept away any lingering worries, (the remains of a hangover), and the sight of the rolling hills meeting the glistening sea was a reminder of Ireland's unparalleled beauty. From the top, we soaked in the stunning vistas, Bray on one side, Greystones on the other and I couldn't help but feel grateful for this slice of paradise right in my backyard. ## Guinness Storehouse: A Must-Do Dublin Experience Now, what's a visit to Ireland without paying homage to the iconic beverage that's practically synonymous with the country itself? The Guinness Storehouse tour in Dublin was a day well spent, as we discovered all there was to know of the history, craftsmanship, and, of course, the art of pouring the perfect pint of Guinness. From the interactive exhibits to the captivating stories behind each step of the brewing process, I came away with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each glass. The rooftop Gravity Bar was the cherry on top – a 360-degree view of Dublin that paired beautifully with the creamy pint I managed to down far too fast. It's safe to say that the Guinness Storehouse is more than a tour; it's an immersive journey into Irish culture and tradition. After the tour we headed for the famous shopping area Grafton street in south Dublin, where hours were spent people watching and drinking far too many drinks with dear friends. ## Final Thoughts As my brief but oh-so-sweet weekend came to an end, I'm reminded of the unique blend of old and new that makes Bray, Ireland, an enchanting destination. From the heartwarming reunions to the awe-inspiring views atop Bray head and the immersive Guinness Storehouse experience, this trip was a testament to the undeniable magic of my homeland. So, whether you're a globetrotter seeking fresh adventures or simply looking to rediscover the beauty of your own backyard, Bray is ready to welcome you with its open arms, rolling hills, and a pint of Guinness raised in warm Irish hospitality. Sláinte! ??