Holidays for a life well lived

Welcome to ‘Handcrafted by Travel Counsellors’, a showcase of the most inspiring resorts, hotels, and immersive experiences currently capturing our imagination.

You may already have your trusted favourites - those places where you can instantly unwind - but if you’re eager to go beyond the familiar, indulge in exceptional stays, or uncover unique experiences that spark your curiosity, the blogs below are for you. These holidays are designed to open your eyes, shift your perspective, and leave you enriched by the journey. From luxurious resorts to hidden retreats and unforgettable cultural encounters, we hope these ideas inspire your next adventure.

Your personal Travel Counsellor will bring their expertise and attention to detail to craft a trip that perfectly matches your tastes and desires. If you’re yet to experience the benefits of booking with a Travel Counsellor, simply click the 'Find your Travel Counsellor' button to get started.

 

A selection of our handcrafted favourites...

Spotlight on: Castel Badia

Set within a carefully restored manor house in the Italian Dolomites, dating back to the year 1000, this retreat offers an exclusive experience that balances historical weight with contemporary refinement.

The world's finest One&Only resorts

Not all luxury resorts feel genuinely distinctive. One&Only does. Think private reserves, dramatic coastlines, mountain retreats, and classic beach hideaways, all delivered with a level of care that feels considered rather than showy. 

Extras that turn a holiday into an ultra-luxury experience

True ultra-luxury lies in the details - the bespoke touches and behind-the-scenes arrangements that elevate a trip from exceptional to utterly unforgettable. Here’s how Travel Counsellors can transform your next escape with these extraordinary extras.

Australia’s cities & private island experience

If you’re looking for a trip to Australia that combines the best of city life and private island indulgence, this is a good place to start. It explores two of the world’s most dynamic cities – Sydney and Melbourne - before transporting you to an exclusive island retreat in the Whitsundays.

Japan's Golden Route, reimagined

This journey is your personal path through the heart of Japan, a route where centuries of tradition meet the energy of the future. From the electric cityscapes of Tokyo to the reflective calm of Hiroshima, this itinerary has been crafted by your Travel Counsellor to reveal the country’s authentic soul.

Côte d'Azur and Provence, France

From the Riviera’s shimmering coastlines to the earthy richness of Provence, this road trip is designed to connect you to the soul of southern France. Drive from Nice along the riviera before heading inland to explore the areas around two of Provence’s big hitters, Aix-en-Provence and Avignon.

Safari special: Big cats

From the 'land of the lions' in Kruger National Park to the elusive black leopard in Kenya's Laikipia region, read on and see where a big cat adventure can take you and how we can make it special.

Safari special: Primates

Imagine seeing a silverback in the mountains of Rwanda or chimpanzees swinging through the canopy in Uganda’s Kibale Forest National Park. We can tailor-make a world-class safari experience just for you.

Safari special: Gentle giants

Big, cumbersome and totally awe-inspiring, our planet’s gentle giants are a phenomena best seen in their natural habitat. If you want to spot elephants or whales, we know where to find them.

Safari special: Bears

Powerful, predatory and playful – seeing bears in the wild is spectacular. Tell us if you have a fascination for grizzly, black, or polar bears, and we can pair you with a wildlife expert to ensure you have the best chance of spotting one.

A luxury escape to Puglia

Puglia is known for its striking variety and beauty. You’ll find rolling hills dotted with farms, olive groves, and dry-stone walls, and villages rich in history. This itinerary features three diverse locations and you’ll be driven between them all – there are vineyards to explore after all!

The Essence of Marrakech, Morocco

From the intricate architecture of ancient palaces to the earthy aroma of bustling markets, this is Marrakech through the eyes of Travel Counsellors who know its rhythms and secrets. This seven night suggested itinerary gives you a real taste of the city.

Iconic roadtrips:
California 1

No road trip is as awe-inspiring as the route along Highway 1 from San Francisco to LA. You’ll hit the road in the Bay Area, marvelling at the towering redwoods of Muir Woods

Thailand... away from the cameras

Stay at some of Thailand’s best hotels. Start your Thai adventure in Bangkok, a heady mix of alluring sights, sounds, aromas and flavours. It's a place of contras.

Experience South Africa's most remarkable ecolodge

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve blends luxury with conservation, offering epic adventures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences in South Africa’s Walker Bay.

Villas 1 Awali Background Colour Banana Island 3 (2)

Finding your match...

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.