How to make the most of your annual leave in 2022

05 July 2021

If you're of a mind to plan ahead for your travels, now is the perfect time to schedule your holidays strategically to allow you to make the most out of your annual leave. By booking holidays around these key dates you'll be able to get the most out of your annual leave in 2022, allowing you to spend more time exploring the world.

April 15th ​–24th. Take 4 days leave for a 10-day holiday

April weather in the UK is unpredictable at best. One minute we could see sunshine poking through the clouds and the next we’re hit with snow showers. Leave the uncertainty behind with a trip to the Maldives where April temperatures average between 27-31 degrees meaning you can spend your days soaking up the sun out on the soft white sand, and your evenings sat out on the deck of your private overwater villa under the blanket of stars in the pitch-black night sky.

Alternatively, head west across the Atlantic to Mexico where temperatures sit around a similarly tropical 30 degrees and the idea of home seems a million miles away. Expect warm and gracious hospitality, fresh punchy cuisine and exotic wildlife. 

May 30th – June 12th. Take 8 days leave for a 14-day holiday

A massive boon for anyone that likes to feel that they’re getting a little extra, the Queen's Platinum Jubilee will be marked by a four-day weekend next year, creating the perfect gap in the calendar for an adventure and where better to head than the good old USA on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip. Head over to the west coast to discover the highlights of California and Nevada on a road trip that will allow you to experience the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, sample delicious Mexican flavours in beautiful seaside San Diego, stand in awe above the magnificent Grand Canyon, try your luck along the Las Vegas strip, hike through Yosemite National Park and soak up the rustic charm of Napa Valley wine region.

“There is so much to see and do in California and I will be returning in the future.”

Lisa, Travel Counsellor

Aug 27th – Sep 5th. Take 4 days leave for a 9-day holiday

Over August Bank holiday weekend take the short flight down to southern Portugal to the delightful Algarve. A long-standing favourite amongst European travellers, the Algarve has a depth of attractions that few regions can compete with, from the pleasant climate and golden beaches to the championship golf courses and delightful dining scene which utilizes the bountiful produce of the neighbouring Atlantic ocean and features no fewer than eight Michelin star restaurants.  

If you’re ready to venture further afield and experience an entirely new culture, one which beguiles visitors and opens their eyes to new possibilities, take this opportunity to visit Bali on a twin-centre adventure. We recommend splitting your trip between a beachside resort such as Seminyak, where a collection of cosseting accommodation options awaits, and the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud, where you will experience the mystical Hindu traditions which make this island so unique.

December 24th – 2nd Jan. Take 3 days leave for a 10-day holiday

Following the joy of Christmas, take advantage of the bank holidays that succeed it by jetting off for some extended time in the sun. If beachside relaxation is what you need following a busy festive period, then the island of Barbados beckons. Sink your toes into the warm sand of the Platinum coast as the Caribbean Sea creates a soothing melody and the sun sets on another day in paradise.

Alternatively, if you’re hungry for adventure then South Africa is the place to visit. Shark diving, safari drives, bungee jumps, surfing and scenic coastal rod trips are just a few of the activities that make the rainbow nation unmissable.

“The game drives were amazing. We got to see the BIG 5”

Martina, Travel Counsellor

Top tips for those new to cruise

Top tips for those new to cruise

22 April 2024

Seeing the world, or parts of it, by cruise is more popular than ever as people realise just how fantastic it can be to float from place to place, discovering more than one destination in a single trip.  As Travel Counsellor Dinah says, ‘There’s a cruise ship to suit everyone, and yes you can get off at every port, as many times as you like!” If you’re in any doubt over whether a cruise is right for you, there are mini cruises of just a couple of nights that will help persuade you.

Discover the ultimate Greek Island escape with Domes

Discover the ultimate Greek Island escape with Domes

22 April 2024

Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring beauty of the Greek islands, where Domes’ 'Cool Inclusive' properties blend the essence of authentic Greece with the utmost luxury. Venture to their two Aulūs havens, located in the enchanting isles of Zante and Crete, where upgraded Cool Living areas elevate your holiday experience with a lavish array of extras, including access to exclusive serene spots.

Set sail for adventure with Star Clippers

Set sail for adventure with Star Clippers

22 April 2024

Celebrating over three decades of sailing history, Star Clippers is thrilled to unveil St. George's in Grenada as its newest departure port for the winter 2025/26 season. This announcement heralds the beginning of longer voyages aboard the magnificent 166-passenger Star Clipper, introducing guests to virgin territories like the untouched beauty of Charlottesville and the serene Castara Bay in Tobago.

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