Blog

See Japan from every angle on a classic small-group adventure

14 August 2026

Japan is a destination of contrasts. One moment you can be crossing one of Tokyo's busiest intersections, and the next you're soaking in the peaceful surroundings of a mountain town. Ancient temples sit alongside futuristic skylines, centuries-old traditions remain part of everyday life, and every region brings its own distinctive food, landscapes, and character. For those who want to experience more than Japan's headline cities, this 14-day Classic Japan small-group tour from InsideJapan brings together some of the country's best-known sights with quieter corners that are just as memorable. Travelling from Tokyo to Hakone, Osaka, Kyoto, Takayama, and Toyama before returning to the capital, it's a journey that reveals just how varied Japan can be.

How to make the most of a South Africa safari holiday

14 August 2026

A safari is one of those holidays many people dream about for years. The first lion sighting, an elephant appearing beside the road, sundowners as the sun drops behind the bush. But as our Head Office colleague Heather discovered during a recent trip to South Africa, the most memorable safari experiences are often the ones you could never have planned.

Singapore through the seasons: why there’s always something to celebrate

10 August 2026

Singapore may be compact, but its calendar is packed with celebrations that can transform an already memorable city break into something even more special. Throughout the year, its neighbourhoods are illuminated by festival lights, the Marina Bay skyline becomes the backdrop for fireworks and motor racing, and streets fill with parades, markets, music, and food. Many events reflect Singapore’s multicultural identity, giving visitors the chance to experience Chinese, Malay, Indian, and international traditions within the same city. You don’t necessarily need to plan your entire holiday around one event, either. Time your visit well, and Singapore’s annual celebrations can add colour, flavour, and a real sense of occasion to the attractions, restaurants, and neighbourhoods already on your itinerary.

Why Portugal is the perfect destination for every type of traveller

10 August 2026

Some destinations ask you to choose between a city break and a beach holiday, culture and nature, or relaxation and adventure. Portugal makes it surprisingly easy to experience them all. Its size means you can explore Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods, unwind beside the Atlantic, taste wine among the terraces of the Douro Valley, and hike through mountain or volcanic landscapes, sometimes within the same trip. Add a mild climate, warm hospitality, and a distinctive regional food scene, and it is easy to understand why so many people return to discover a different side of the country. Whether you are planning your first visit or looking for fresh inspiration, there is a version of Portugal to suit almost every kind of holiday.

Five unforgettable wildlife encounters in Costa Rica

07 August 2026

If you’re dreaming of a journey that blends adventure, nature, and authenticity, Costa Rica deserves a spot at the top of your list. With its rainforests, striking volcanoes, and pristine coastline, this Central American gem perfectly captures the relaxed pura vida way of life. What truly sets it apart, though, is the extraordinary range of wildlife that calls it home. From sleepy sloths to migrating whales, Costa Rica offers some of the most remarkable animal encounters on Earth. Here are five you won’t want to miss…

Trade the beach for the streets of Valletta this autumn

07 August 2026

As summer draws to a close, city breaks come back into focus, and few destinations pack as much into a long weekend as Valletta. Malta's compact capital combines centuries of history with a thriving food scene, waterfront views, and a walkable centre that makes it easy to fit plenty into just a few days. With warm autumn temperatures, open-air cafés still spilling onto the streets, and a calendar of events continuing well beyond peak season, it's an easy choice for anyone looking for somewhere that feels both relaxed and full of character.

Why Aphrodite Hills Resort offers more than just a villa holiday

07 August 2026

Set among the rolling hills of Cyprus’ south-west coast, Aphrodite Hills Resort offers much more than a standalone villa or apartment stay. Guests have their own private space, with options ranging from serviced apartments to large villas with private pools, while still having championship golf, tennis and padel courts, restaurants, wellness facilities, and family activities close by. Just 15 minutes from Paphos International Airport, it is a practical choice for couples, families, groups, and longer stays, with added services such as housekeeping, arrival food baskets, breakfast at the Golf Clubhouse, and private chefs available to make the holiday even easier.

Where to stay in the Algarve, from villas to boutique retreats

07 August 2026

Choosing where to stay can completely change the feel of an Algarve holiday. Beyond the region’s larger resorts, there are whitewashed villas overlooking the Atlantic, converted village houses in the countryside, intimate design hotels, and peaceful coastal retreats. From the fishing village of Salema to the quieter landscapes around Vila do Bispo and Lagos, these four stays each offer their own take on southern Portugal, whether you want the freedom of a villa, easy access to the beach, or somewhere small and characterful to come back to after a day exploring.

The Panorama Route: South Africa’s scenic road trip surprise

07 August 2026

As part of a recent South Africa trip, a group of Travel Counsellors set out to experience the country first-hand, exploring the places, stays, and local moments that help shape more personal holidays for their customers. While Kruger National Park was a major part of the itinerary, the journey there offered something just as memorable. The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga became a scenic road trip filled with deep canyons, dramatic waterfalls, forest walks, small-town food stops, and viewpoints that made everyone pause for longer than planned. It was a reminder that South Africa isn’t only about safari; the routes between each stop can be every bit as rewarding.

The Blog

See Japan from every angle on a classic small-group adventure

How to make the most of a South Africa safari holiday

Singapore through the seasons: why there’s always something to celebrate

Why Portugal is the perfect destination for every type of traveller

Five unforgettable wildlife encounters in Costa Rica

Trade the beach for the streets of Valletta this autumn

Why Aphrodite Hills Resort offers more than just a villa holiday

Where to stay in the Algarve, from villas to boutique retreats

The Panorama Route: South Africa’s scenic road trip surprise

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