01 September 2024

A Hidden Gem with Endless Adventures I've always been drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations, which fits perfectly with being an adventure and touring ambassador. This trip to the Alentejo region in Portugal was a fantastic opportunity to explore a lesser-known part of the country. A special thanks to TAP Air Portugal, Visit Portugal, and Visit Alentejo for hosting this incredible trip and providing me with the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of the Alentejo. Often overshadowed by the Algarve, this region offers a unique and authentic experience for travelers seeking something beyond the typical tourist hotspots. With its medieval towns, charming villages, stunning landscapes, vineyards, cuisine and more, this region is a bit of an undiscovered secret to many. The Alentejo is a great addition to a Portugal itinerary, especially if you're visiting Lisbon or exploring the northern or southern regions. On our way from Lisbon, we stopped at a local vineyard for a delicious lunch and wine tasting, and a tour where we had a great introduction to the region's winemaking traditions, also learning lots about growing and harvesting cork.. Our next stop was Evora, the capital of the Alentejo and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evora itself is a treasure trove of Roman, Moorish, and Gothic architecture. Beyond its historical significance, A really charming town with cobbled streets, quaint squares, and a vibrant atmosphere. One of the most memorable attractions here is the Chapel of Bones, a macabre yet fascinating chapel decorated with human skulls and bones. This unique site is a must-see for those interested in history and culture. Praca do Giraldo, the central square is a great spot to soak up this town, sit in one of the cafes or restaurants and watch the world go by, with a fountain centre piece, this is the point where around 8 different streets converge. After our time in Evora, we stayed at the 5* Convento do Espinheiro, a historic building dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Located on the outskirts of Evora, this former convent offers a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing atmosphere. There is a wide range of accommodation throughout this region, ranging from small B&B’s, hotels such as this stay, to boutique and more modern options depending on the location. Alqueva Lake. One of the highlights of our trip, europe's largest artificial lake. This tranquil oasis offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. I opted for a leisurely paddleboarding session, others in the group took a boat around the lake, however there are also opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. After a morning on the water, we enjoyed a delicious lunch and more wine, at the 4* Herdade dos Delgados, a family owned and run hotel and spa that I would highly recommend for not just their excellent food, but for the lake location. Perfect for star gazing which many guests travel here specifically for. From here we went onto the nearby medieval village of Monsaraz. This charming car-free village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Alentejo. A great spot to purchase local handicrafts such as unique pottery and hand woven blankets. Exploring Serpa and Beja Following our visit to Monsaraz, we made an overnight stop in Serpa, a town located in the Beja district. Known for its strong agricultural heritage, Serpa offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Alentejo. We took some time the next morning to explore the medieval castle in Beja, a 13th-century fortress that sits high above the town, providing stunning panoramic views. From Beja to Comporta We headed from Beja through the countryside towards the coastal area of Porto Covo and then up to Comporta. We spent some time walking through the sleepy cobblestoned village of Porto Covo and down to the beautiful sandy coves, before moving up the coast with a delicious lunch in a fish restaurant, frequented by locals and tourist alike. With more food and wine consumed (rude not to !) we then moved onto our next overnight stop, Comporta. I was pleasantly surprised on this part of the trip as to the diverse range of activities available. In addition to the lake-based activities and walking, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure seekers. Horseback riding, biking, jeep tours, hiking, diving, archery, and 4x4 driving are just a few of the activities on offer. The coastline is also well-known for surfing, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Our final destination was Comporta, a charming coastal village known for its pristine beaches, unspoiled nature, and bohemian atmosphere. It is surrounded by the ocean, sand dunes and rice paddies which was completely unexpected, and whilst this village is becoming more and more “trendy” it still manages to retain its authenticity alongside a more upmarket, yet boutique feel. On our last day, we made a stop in Troia, a popular beach destination with a Roman history. We embarked on a walking tour that took us for a leisurely stroll through the pine forests and onto the "Rota de Garum," the ruins of a Roman fish-processing complex. From here we then took a boat ride on the Sado River. As a bonus, we were very lucky and treated to a sighting of dolphins in the river estuary. A Culinary Delight: The Alentejo is renowned for its hearty and flavourful cuisine, which often features pork (the best pork i have tasted !), lamb, and game, accented by herbs and spices. The region's cheeses are also famous, and I was pleasantly surprised by their quality and variety. Of course, no trip to the Alentejo would be complete without indulging in the local wines. The region's vineyards produce a wide range of excellent wines that pair perfectly with the hearty dishes. The Alentejo is a hidden gem that deserves to be explored. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, diverse range of activities, and delectable cuisine, it's a destination that will appeal to travellers of all ages and interests. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, the Alentejo has something to offer everyone. While driving offers the most flexibility, organized tours can be a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive. So please do get in touch to plan your next adventure...

19 August 2024

Costa Rica – a name that conjures images of lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and the spirit of Pura Vida. My recent trip to this Central American gem far exceeded my expectations and left me with memories I will cherish forever, and even more first hand knowledge in my role as an Adventure and Touring ambassador. I felt like we only scratched the surface of this incredible country, and I am already dreaming of returning to explore more of its hidden treasures. Costa Rica is a place where adventure, relaxation, and a deep appreciation for nature intertwine seamlessly. WILDLIFE WONDERS One of the main reasons I was drawn to Costa Rica was the opportunity to see sloths in their natural habitat. I am thrilled to say that my mission was accomplished, seeing both two and three-toed Sloth’s. Spotting these adorable creatures hanging upside down and moving around in the trees was an absolute highlight and a moment I will never forget. Did you know that a Sloth can hang suspended without using any energy. They can eat, sleep and give birth in this position ! But it was not just about the sloths, I quickly realized a stronger appreciation for all wildlife. From the industrious leaf cutter ants to the dazzling hummingbirds, every creature in the rainforest captured our attention. It became a bit of an obsession spotting wildlife, and we found ourselves trying to spot things before our knowledgeable and experienced guides, which trust me was not that often! THRILLS AND RELAXATION Our trip was packed with exciting activities. Zip-lining through the Monteverde rainforest canopy was an adrenaline junkie’s dream, and this one was by far the best I have experienced. When my close friend and travel buddy (someone very scared of heights) achieved this 7-section zip line including going superman style, said, “thank you for making me do this”! You know it was one incredible place and a memory we will keep for years to come. We also enjoyed hiking, kayaking, and soaking in rejuvenating hot springs. We were able to experience the Lava trails hike at Arenal, Costa Rica's best-known volcano, some jungle hikes where we saw stunning waterfalls, and the walks around Manual Antonio National Park were filled with so many wildlife experiences. Kayaking through the Mangroves was made even more special by the knowledgeable guide and owner of this local small business "William", a marine biologist he educated us in a really engaging way about the 5 x different Eco-systems that exist in Costa Rica – the fact we wouldn’t have Mangroves, without Rainforests , and the impact it would have if neither existed was eye opening, and again strengthened an appreciation for the wildlife and country we were so lucky to experience throughout this trip. Costa Rica is not just for adventure seekers. It is also a perfect destination for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Plenty of opportunities for photography, beach lounging, and taking in the stunning natural beauty. Don't miss the Coffee and chocolate tours, this was great fun. SMALL GROUP TOURING This was my first true experience with a small group tour, and it was fantastic. Our group of ten clicked instantly, and we had a lot of fun getting to know each other and exploring the country together. The important thing about group travel is that you already share a common interest in the destination, making it easy to connect with fellow travellers. That said, it is important to remember that it is your holiday. Do not hesitate to take some time for yourself if you need it and keep this in mind when selecting the right itinerary for you. TRAVEL THAT GIVES BACK We travelled with Intrepid, who specialise in small group adventures that go beneath the surface of a country, experiencing interaction and giving back to local communities. They are hugely experienced in this kind of travel, and with a local leader as your guide, getting to know the country starts right from when you meet on Day 1, Karol our guide being no exception, becoming known by the end of the week as Momma Karol! We had our first taste of a local homestay, staying with a family in the Jualanima community, appreciating how” instant” our own lives can be in comparison, it was a unique experience. Welcomed to the community by our host families we shared lunch as a group, and then enjoyed a hike to some nearby waterfalls, when back we split up and joined our individual host families in their homes, helping prepare dinner and enjoying a home cooked meal. I would highly recommend learning more than just the basics of the local language to maximise your experience, the experiences within the group varied between families, so travel with an open mind to get the best from a stay like this, it was a new experience for me and one I would do again. Cooking our own lunch with a local family - another highlight of our itinerary. This family used to own their own restaurant in Quepos during the pandemic, unfortunately this closed and Intrepid now support them with this activity from their own home. We cooked different dishes under the supervision of both husband-and-wife team and enjoyed eating our creations with them. PERFECT WEATHER FOR ADVENTURE We visited Costa Rica in early July, which is considered the start of the wet season. While we did experience some afternoon/evening downpours, the mornings were typically clear and perfect for outdoor activities. The humidity did make it feel warmer, but it was also refreshing after a day of exploring. My advice would be skin is waterproof! And much easier to dry out than clothes in humid weather. The beaches were amazing, our itinerary took us to the Pacific coast, Quepos near Manuel Antonio. A much warmer climate than the higher Monteverde cloud forest we travelled from, and perfect for some beach time. After a busy itinerary, taking some time to relax was very much needed, we did not have the opportunity to extend our trip on this occasion however would highly recommend. It is also a wonderful time of year to see sea turtles on the Caribbean coast. So, do not let the rainy season deter you from visiting at this time! Overall, this trip to Costa Rica was an unforgettable adventure, I cannot wait to share more details and tips with you. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Costa Rica has something to offer everyone. Let us chat about planning your perfect Costa Rican adventure!

19 June 2024

This trek was one of many commitments I made during Covid, to do something personally challenging, live life to its full and give back to others. I persuaded my sister Jan to join in, which gave us a great opportunity to spend time together on training hikes and to raise money for 3 amazing charities close to our hearts. This blog is intended to share what an amazing experience this was, that many strangers you meet through small group adventure travel will go on to be close friends, how unexpected events take place and still become treasured memories and how important it is to have moments in your life you look back on with a smile and huge sense of achievement. Not all adventures have to be as active or eventful, so whether it's this or a more relaxed adventure you are after, there is something for everyone. September 2022, saw 28 trekkers of which we were 2, arrive in Morocco with Intrepid Travel, to take on the beautiful Mount Toubkal, the highest peak of the Atlas Mountains standing at 4167m. Intrepid Travel are and have been the leaders of sustainable adventures for over 30 years. They work with local leaders and guides, and include local authentic experiences. We prepared for this trip as best we could, training for the terrain and altitude here is not that easy, however we were fit and ensured our kit included everything we needed. What we hadn’t foreseen was managing an overseas hospital process, the language barriers that gave us, the discovery of my new best friend - google translate and dealing first hand with travel insurance and international medical assistance! I always ensure my clients have Travel Insurance in place to cover the unexpected and now I can say, I have dealt with this scenario first hand, and without travel insurance it would have been a very different and more expensive experience! Day 1. Marrakech. As a group we met in the hotel with Nicola Graham, the founder and mummy of Reuben’s Retreat, the main charity we were all walking for. She covered the vision, progress, and work that they do in memory of Reuben, which was incredible, heart warming & motivating for all of us. From this moment on we all went from strangers to a strong and bonded team of adventurers ! We were also joined by Ibrahim and Mohammed, our guides for the coming days, and they soon became great friends. They welcomed us to their country, discussed the plan for the next few days and then we ventured out for the Marrakesh medina and foodie experience, we discovered the local street cafes, dined on soup with doughnuts, tagines and plenty of desserts from street vendors. Our senses were overloaded with smells, singing, drumming, dancers, snakes and much more. This evening will also firmly be remembered, as it also marked the day, we received the sad news that our Queen had passed away, such a surreal moment now embedded in this trip’s memories. Day 2. We left Marrakech and travelled through the valleys and up towards the higher villages, the High Atlas Mountains presence were taking our attention to what lay ahead. We arrived in Imlil Village, from this traditional mountain village we started our trek to base camp. The trail crossed the floodplain of the Ait Mizane valley before we headed up the mountainside. It was here that it starts to get steeper, this is what we had prepared for, and every step was nearer our goal. We arrived at Toubkal Base Camp, Neltner (3,207 metres above sea level) where for some the altitude was now felt. This section took us around 7 hours, even with a lunch stop and petting baby goats on our way. After this long day you would expect everyone to get to bed early and sleep like babies. Not many of us, and not me! I couldn’t sleep- my heart started racing with the altitude and maybe it was just adrenalin and excitement too. Day 3. Summit Day. Today was a key day for us as it was Reuben’s birthday, so despite the lack of sleep, we all donned our head torches and left for the summit around 4am. Thinking of Reuben was motivation for the early start. I headed up in the first group to reach the summit, it was pitch black, hard going and a very rocky and unforgiving terrain. About an hour after we left the altitude really started to kick in with me, I literally hit a brick wall. Unable to move forwards, my legs felt like dead weights and my breathing was very difficult. Many of us hit this point at varying stages, and the team spirit to support and motivate each other to battle on was amazing, along with lots of Jelly Babies and a few swear words !! Two years of training and to be so close, I wasn’t giving up, so a huge mind over legs moment to pull through! But wow, the summit… 4167m ! We managed to get there early, which meant we were treated to the most amazing sunrise and clear views across the Atlas Mountains range. This wasn’t just beautiful but emotional for so many of us. Jan’s group made it up to the summit about an hour after we did. It was a really special memory to share. We all sang Happy Birthday for Reuben, then there was not one but two marriage proposals in the group !! Time to descend, so we started the trek back down around 10am after leaving base camp at 4am, just halfway through our trek! The sun shining, and a terrain that downhill was definitely tricky, a bit like walking on marbles and one of our party fell badly, my sister ! Mohammed was so quick to run back up the mountain to bring down 2 doctors he happened to get chatting to earlier ! So, with what we thought was a dislocated ankle, being on the side of a mountain doesn't make for the easiest of locations to be rescued from. The guides were incredible, and so kind to us and kept spirits up as much as they could as they literally piggybacked Jan down to base camp, through rain, thunder and lightning (shows how quick weather can change), then a mule for a few more hours back to Imlil Village. Once I had caught up, later that evening in the dark - trek complete ! We took various forms of transport back to Marrakech and checked into Clinique International where we stayed for the next 3 days. Not quite the All-Inclusive luxury hotel stay we had planned on checking into. Regardless, this really was the most amazing adventure. It will definitely be an experience we will talk about for many years to come. Thank you again, to all who donated at the time, we raised over £30k for Reubens Retreat, plus Jan and I were able to support our own personal charities.

02 July 2023

Bella Italia ! You may have visited “Beautiful Italy” before or never reached this “bellisimo angolo d’Europa” (beautiful corner of europe). Either way with my own adventures taking me back to Italy this summer for a fourth visit, this time to explore the stunning Amalfi Coast (practising my Italian as you can see !), I wanted to share with you the abundance of fulfilling experiences Italy offers aswell as explaining why it is the perfect destination for an escorted touring holiday. As I write this, I have clients coming to the end of a short break in Rome, now sipping an Aperol Spritz in the sunshine after soaking up the historic legacy of the Colosseum, plus others packing for their imminent Amalfi coast adventure where they will also be touring - taking a boat trip over to the enchanting island of Capri, where past the bustling quayside they will find terraced vineyards , lemon groves and fragrant pines, alongside spectacular views. They will also be taking in the roman town frozen in time, known to us as Pompeii, with more adventures including bustling Sorrento, pretty Amalfi, the hilltops of Ravello and not forgetting Positano, they can shop in the chic boutiques or simply tickle those taste buds with traditional Italian home made pizza, pasta or gelato, washed down with a glass of Italian Wine I am sure. There will also be time to relax and just simply appreciate this area and how it overlooks the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean so beautifully, oh my goodness I am counting down the days until I go ! WHAT MAKES A HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE FOR YOU ? ACTIVE : You may enjoy walking or hiking opportunities, a walking tour with an experienced local guide has many benefits, you will see places and gain unique local knowledge you just wouldn't achieve on your own. Leaving the city walks, your feet may prefer a walk to the summit of Vesuvius. Hiking opportunities can take you along the rugged paths in Cinque Terre or around the stunning lakes of Garda, Como or Maggiore with mountain backdrops to die for. You could even be more adventurous and take a Jeep in Sicily to get up close and personal with Mount Etna ! CULTURE : The choice is endless, from the magical waterways of Venice with St Marks Square, its Basilica, the Doges palace with its paintings, frescoes and gold leaf to Verona the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, grasp the opportunity to take in an open air Opera Festival or simply enjoy exploring between its century's old walls. Florence, Italy's “art city” is blessed with dozens of stunning structures and galleries, The eternal city of Rome , watch cascades of water fall over the Trevi fountain, take a stroll down the 18th century Spanish steps and of course lets not forget the Colosseum and The Vatican. Sicily, the Mediterranean's largest island, offers historic ruins with fine examples of architecture at the magnificent Cathedral in Palermo, and a lot more on this must go to island – one very high on my bucket list. UNIQUE EXPERIENCES: Include something different in your plans. Add a scenic rail journey across to Switzerland from an Italian lakes tour, or a private Borromean islands cruise in the lakes, walk to the summit of Vesuvius, add a night at the Montecatini Opera Festival in Pisa, or simply add a visit to see the unique and traditional Trulli houses in the Puglia region. You could just take a Christmas break on the Sorrento coast. LOCAL FLAVOURS: For those foodies out there this is heaven, as well as the delicious home-made pasta dishes, tradition Italian pizza and seafood offerings, make your mouth water more by enjoying a local farmhouse lunch in Masseria the Puglia region, or a farmhouse dinner on the Secret Lakes of Italy tour. Let us not forget the abundance of vineyards and wineries, I may just take in a combined lunch and winery visit in the Amalfi Hills myself! TRAVELLING SOLO: JUST YOU are the UK’s Best Singles Holiday company, the solution for those of you who are passionate about travelling and would love to experience this with the security of a plan and others around you to share it with. Your own room and NO Single supplement ! You could even experience a unique opportunity to spend Christmas with the Countess of Luppis, with a stay at the now Boutique Hotel Villa Luppis once a Benedictine monastery, now the residence of the actual Countess of Luppis. THE BENEFITS OF AN ESCORTED HOLIDAY : Italy, as you will have soaked up by now, is a perfect destination for touring, and whether you are a solo traveller , couple, family or group there is something for everyone. It can be hard to know where to start when planning a trip to Italy, so whilst I can arrange an independent tailormade plan for you. Our amazing partners TRAVELSPHERE, who have over 60 years experience in escorted touring, and JUST YOU for the Solo traveller come into their own, with itinerary options that take away all of that planning ! 1 - Classic Touring - Where you will most definitely see so much more. 2 - Relax & Discover style Touring – The perfect mix of your own time plus the benefits of a tour. 3 - Travel with and meet likeminded people. 4 - Experienced local holiday directors – Adding knowledge you would never have been able to gain travelling on your own. 5 - JUST YOU for Solo Travellers offers a solution to “travelling Solo but never alone”. 6 - Options that include everything from short breaks, right up to the 15 day "Grand Tour of Italy", not forgetting the rest of the world on offer if Italy is not at the top of your bucket list ! 7 - Travelsphere & Just You “ Care” about supporting the local community – Encouraging you to eat out locally, and also working in local partnerships that address long term solutions for communities and the environment. Hopefully this has sparked a new plan or return visit to Italy, and an interest in Escorted Touring/Solo holidays. Please just get in touch, I would love to answer any questions you have. We can chat through the amazing itineraries available and help you secure your own slice of BELLA ITALIA !

21 February 2021

What an amazing experience this was! This 5-day taster of a luxurious, unique and intimate way to travel was incredible. The places we visited, the beautiful scenery and the onboard experience has me promising myself a return to the river. Even though I class myself as a very open-minded traveller (being a travel professional and all that jazz!), river cruising did surprise me. I hadn't fully appreciated the variety of destinations and off-board experiences available, plus the high standards and excellent value for money this offered. But because I had my perceptions turned, I thought I would share with you my experience. Whilst this is one of the most popular river itineraries, there are many other options you can book, including France and Portugal as well as those in Egypt, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. There are lots of choices so do get in touch if you fancy a chat. Places we visited: Travelling in early October, we joined the ship at Rudesheim, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. The ship was docked within walking distance of the centre, and after being shown to our cabin, we were offered a choice of excursions, including independent options. Whilst staying onboard for a wine tasting experience was very appealing, we chose to take the “Gondola” cable car ride to the Germania monument. Gliding above vineyards, it was a pretty grey day; yet we still managed to get a great view of the Rhine below, and the adventure that awaited. We sailed to Miltenberg that night passing Frankfurt during the late evening hours and arrived at Miltenberg around midday. We were on the Main River, also known as the “Crawling Snake”, smaller and cosier than the Rhine. Waving to a family walking along the river, going through locks (a much-upscaled version and luxurious vessel than that of my childhood canal boat lock experiences) and the slower pace of life really hit home. It was such a magical way to reach these towns and cities, not from a road but from the water, through stunning scenery and in such a relaxed style. Miltenberg, “The Pearl on the Main” really is a picture book town and probably one of my favourites. We chose the walk along a 2000-year-old Roman Path through the forest with vineyard views up to Miltenberg castle, overlooking beautiful views. We arrived at our next stop Wurzburg, the capital of “Wine Franconia” the following morning. Surrounded by vine-clad slopes and church steeples, we could either have taken a visit to the palace, visited a local farm or taken a scenic one hour drive to Rothenburg medieval walled city. We chose the latter and it did not disappoint! A gorgeous, cobbled city and the highlight here was most definitely the Christmas shop – a must if you are ever in the vicinity. We cruised the last stretch of the River Main and entered the Main Danube canal. Bamberg a “UNESCO world heritage town”, and Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city. Both fantastic for history lovers, foodies and of course like all of Germany, many fantastic beer delights to sample. After this the treats of the Danube with Vienna and Budapest still awaited! What was the onboard experience like? We stayed in a beautiful cabin, with both a French and outside balcony. I would highly recommend this option for the panoramic views and fresh air. This ship offered a walking track for outside space with plenty of comfy seating and a heated swimming pool on the sun deck. We travelled in October, so the sun deck seating area was well-equipped with warm blankets as well. Everything was so well thought of and you could ensure that you made full use of the outside areas, soaking up the stunning surroundings and uninterrupted views. It was incredibly peaceful and relaxing. Top tip: There are times when going through locks where the sun deck is all collapsed down, and access to the outside of the ship is restricted, but from the onboard lounges or comfort of your cabin you can still take in the lock experience! And not forgetting – the ship was equipped with its own fleet of onboard bicycles. These can be used on your own or on one of the many guided bike tours at each itinerary stop. There was a fitness room and massage/hair salon also available onboard, with other ships offering onboard cinemas. The Entertainment: Lock hoppers! What are these I hear you ask? The entertainment varies onboard depending on the River Cruise operator: we experienced glass blowing demonstrations, wine-tasting experiences, musical interludes from the onboard musician, and even guest singers. Some of these guests hop on at one lock and hop off at a lock further down the river, hence the name, “Lock Hoppers”. Timing is crucial, as we discovered when we kept one lady guest singer chatting too long, and she had to disappear quite quickly when the crew needed her to hop off! The food: Whichever luxury river cruise ship you experience, the cuisine is exceptional with locally sourced ingredients and specialities, paired with local wines for lunch and dinner. Most offer an all-inclusive option with all meals and drinks included or have the option of adding a drinks package. As you can tell, I loved my experience. Not only would this kind of experience be great for solo travellers and couples, but I would also highly recommend this for groups of friends looking for a boutique-style hotel as well. Whether you are a younger age group or travelling as a family, there are various options that you can tailor your itinerary to and have a truly amazing experience.

28 January 2021

For any of you who follow me on my social media, you know how much I love talking about not just future destinations I’m hoping to visit but also places I’ve been to. In this part of my Travel Diaries, we are going to the “Pearl in the Adriatic” - Dubrovnik. I’ve been to Dubrovnik a couple of times, and this blog is about my second visit but I must admit, I cannot wait to go back! My first experience of this gorgeous city was when we stopped here on a family cruise holiday, taking in parts of the stunning eastern Mediterranean. For our cruise, we departed from Venice and discovered the delights of Santorini, Athens, Dubrovnik and Split, followed by an extended stay in Venice. Dubrovnik and Split were absolutely beautiful. Having never visited Croatia before, they stood out to us and put Croatia high up as somewhere we would love to spend more time exploring. One of the great advantages of a cruise is that you get to sample more than one place and a brilliant way to plan future travels. Well, we did revisit Croatia, choosing Dubrovnik for an adult-only weekend away with friends, in the summer month of June. Where to stay This really does depend on the kind of experience you would like to have, whether you are looking for somewhere in the heart of the old town, or outside of the old walls, where you can relax without the crowds. Travelling as two couples, the focus was on being somewhere where we could easily access the old town of Dubrovnik by a short taxi ride or walk, be located somewhere more peaceful with the option to relax (and really enjoy having no children around!), whether by the pool or with a drink over an evening meal. We chose to stay on the Lapad peninsula, just a 10-15 minute taxi ride away and wow what a stunning location it was! The beautiful 5* luxury boutique Hotel More was perfect, with its own pool, a buffet and an a la carte restaurant, and not to be missed - the unique natural cave bar it is well known for. If you were looking to stay here, I would opt for the Seaview rooms here. The view first thing in the morning was simply stunning and so relaxing. Where to go and what to do in Dubrovnik The Old Town of Dubrovnik: For Game of Thrones’ fans, this is a sight to behold. But it is not essential to be one! You will see lots of references to it, as clearly it is one of the reasons for an increase in popularity. But the beauty lies in its paved streets, discovering the side streets, taking a look at the harbour, discovering hidden churches and walking in and out of shops. You absolutely must take in the view from the old city walls, looking over the Terracotta roofs. Stop off for a drink or bite to eat in many of the small restaurants in the main central streets, or find somewhere a little more unique. I will share a unique, no frills spot worth visiting further on in the blog... We had a fantastic time visiting Old Town, properly this time and at our own pace, without unwilling children or the lack of time during our cruise. So, this time we took the opportunity and walked the walls. A prime opportunity and might seem a little daunting in the heat but trust me, it is well worth it! Sea kayaking: Now to really appreciate this walled city, my best tip would be to try and view it from as many angles as you can. We arranged a sea kayaking trip that took us literally from the walls of the old fortress and off out to sea and around the island of Lokrum. With regular stops, and one longer stop for a spot of swimming or snorkelling in the Adriatic Sea, looking back at the fortress walls is a must for anyone that likes to be a little more active. Cable Car & Buggy Safari - A view from above: Whilst it is possible to hike up Mount Srd, this was not an option we chose, the plan was to take the cable car, much faster and you get to look out the windows at the amazing view the whole time. Our experience was slightly different, in that when we got to the top and a bit of adrenaline awaited in the form of an off road buggy safari! This was great fun, a chance to race around the hills above the old town, and the views were simply stunning. Although we did have a moment dicing with some local wildlife that was determined to outrun us on the buggy!! For any history lovers and to better understand the history of Dubrovnik, pay a visit to the Museum of Croatian War of Independence, housed in the Napoleonic Imperial Fort on top of the mountain. Before leaving the top, we enjoyed lunch in the Panorama restaurant, again a beautiful spot and one I would highly recommend as the 360 degree view of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands are a view to really soak up and enjoy. Not to be missed, beautiful Cavtat: On our last day in Dubrovnik we took a boat trip to Cavtat, a pretty nearby town which can also be reached by road. Full of restaurants and narrow little streets to explore, with a gorgeous harbour and headland you can walk around. Probably one of our slower paced days, and a great resort to stay in should you want to base yourself with no hustle and bustle. What to eat Being surrounded by the sea you can expect fresh seafood on most menus. The Dubrovnik speciality is crni rižot or black rice, which is cuttlefish risotto with black squid ink, a very rich dish with a slight mushroom flavour. Hubby sampled this and really enjoyed it! If you’re more of a meat person, then there are lots of other options, and with lots of side streets in the old town there are the smaller more authentic settings, along with the larger more central options with al fresco dining options, a great atmosphere within the buzz of the city walls. Dubrovnik is also littered with Gelaterias, which we took full advantage of on multiple occasions! And the stop I mentioned earlier for a drink with a view, try Buza Bar. Sat on the cliffs outside the town walls, a no-frills location, no facilities other than the small bar and not great if you have a fear of heights, however perfect for a sit down with a gorgeous view out to sea. Dubrovnik is an ideal getaway for solo travellers, couples and families alike. Either as a port of call on a cruise itinerary, a city break, as part of a Croatian island hopping or multi centre experience, with many sailing opportunities in this area too. If I’ve inspired you to plan a visit, do get in touch. I’ve planned so many different itineraries and am always happy to discuss and create a tailored experience that works for you.

17 December 2019

Praslin & La Digue After three nights on Mahe we set off for Praslin, the second largest of the Seychelles. I would totally recommend island hopping in the Seychelles, it was very easy to transfer and make the short 20-minute flight to Praslin and what a remarkably beautiful place! The second largest of the Seychelles Islands. We stayed 2 nights at the Hotel Paradise Sun, a great option for those looking for a short stay option, no frills and right on the beach. With a few bars and restaurants within approximately a 10min walk along the beach too, this was a great barefoot on the beach, relaxation spot. Now if I were to pick another experience that will stay with me, it would have to be our island hop to La Digue. Renowned for its iconic picture-perfect beaches and laid-back vibe, this island has no airport, however is easily reached from both Mahe and Praslin. We transferred to the jetty on Praslin and after a 15-minute ferry stepped off onto this wonderful island. Take your snorkelling gear, hire a bike, or take an island tour depending how long you stay here for. We only had the day here, we hired bikes which was great fun, and this was enough time to soak up the atmosphere of La Digue, relax a bit on the beach and we found a great spot for a leisurely lunch, Old Pier Café, where local fish and chips with a few beers came it at about £15. Following La Digue we stayed on Praslin and moved onto another Leading Hotel of the world, The Constance Lemuria for our last few nights. From arrival at this hotel, you feel a part of the natural environment that this hotel has so lovingly captured. The beaches are stunning and protected, with a resident conservation specialist, known as “Robert the turtle man”. He has been here for 10 years and what he doesn’t know or do to protect the turtles was truly fascinating – what an amazing job to have! Along with beautiful spa facilities, water sports and amazing dining options, there is also a superb 18-hole Golf Course here. I am not a golfer; however, we had the opportunity to have a go as the sun set over the course with views out to sea and that was most definitely one of my “#Constance moments”. For those non-golfers there are three beautiful beaches to choose from, a must being Anse Georgette – I could have sat here for hours. Sadly, this amazing Indian Ocean experience had to come to an end, so with a short flight back from Praslin to Mahe, we connected to our direct BA flight home to London. Whether you visit the Seychelles as one destination, island hop or add on after visiting another destination such as a South Africa, I would love to help get this experience right for you. Whilst here I also had the opportunity to visit other hotels on Praslin, so I have much more knowledge to share, there is only so much space in a blog and so much to tell you! Thank-you for reading and if this sounds like it could be for you, please feel free to get in touch……

17 December 2019

Mahe, well where do I begin? I already knew this would be an amazing experience, anyone that has ever been here, seen pictures or just spoken to someone that has been – would agree it is a truly beautiful destination. My opportunity to see if this place was for real and not just one of those places you dream of visiting, became a reality in March! We took the direct flight from Heathrow with British Airways which I would totally recommend and a route that has also helped increase the British market to the Seychelles. Great if travelling with children too, 9 hrs 30 minutes and a night flight there makes a big difference, sleep and wake up to paradise! On arrival with a private transfer that took around 40 minutes we were taken to our first hotel, one of the Leading Hotels of the World, the Constance Ephelia Resort, our home for 3 nights. Being greeted with cold flannels and a welcome drink we sat in the tranquil setting of this amazing resort, with hospitality you could not fault, making us feel truly at home in no time at all. What was the weather like, I hear you ask? The Seychelles are located south of the equator in the Indian Ocean and with its tropical climate is a great year-round destination. The hottest months are November to April, travelling here in March it was definitely very hot and humid. The cold flannels on arrival were very welcome! Make sure you pack light weight loose clothing – an absolute must! The restaurant choice here is superb, we ate on our first evening at Adam and Eve, Thai style cuisine with outstanding service, the staff here excelled themselves. For anyone with specific dietary requirements you can be assured that this is taken seriously by each chef and their teams, you will be very well catered for, something that was so great to see throughout our whole experience in the Constance resorts. Restaurants are all located outside and allow you to feel immersed in the beautiful resort and surroundings. The resort is spread between a north and south beach, taking approximately 20 minutes to walk between or you can use one of the many buggies available frequently around the resort. An absolute must is to have dinner at the Cyann restaurant on North Beach, the only supplement payable restaurant, however worth every penny. The restaurant was full when we ate here, yet the layout and ambience meant that you would never have known this, beautiful, romantic in a beautiful setting. Another evening meal was taken at Seselwa, the fish /seafood restaurant located On North Beach, for any seafood lover this was a fabulous experience with a huge choice. Did you know the USPA at the Constance Ephelia is the largest spa in the Indian ocean! Just WOW - this was the best massage I have ever had! The spa is set out in keeping with the natural surroundings and offers a sensational relaxing experience. It was approx. £100 for 45 mins and believe me worth every penny. Whilst relaxing is very easy to do in the Seychelles, you can be more active, the water sports and diving opportunities are amazing, however staying in the resort (although not run by the Constance resort) “zip lining through the treetops” was one of my most memorable experiences from this trip. The view as you walk up to the first zip line is truly stunning and the eight zip line sections that followed this did not disappoint, costing approximately £40, worth every penny! We did leave the luxury of the hotel and explore the island of Mahe, which has a population of 95000 amazingly, the largest of the Seychelles islands with the capital Victoria. Exploring this island is a must, take a camera and you will see beautiful islands such as Turtle Island, great for a trip, beach party or BBQ? Conception Island another island accessible from Mahe. Eden Island as you travel around Mahe cannot be missed, the new purpose-built luxury island with its privately-owned properties, where the rich and famous reside. It's surrounded by other natural islands that in low tide can be walked between. We stopped at the islands tea factory, amazing views from here, and if you like tea a great opportunity to purchase some “Seyte”. For a spot of history then a stop at Venns Town, the Islands first school was built here on a plantation, known as the mission. It was wonderful to understand this island’s history, only ruins are left now however the island protect this very important site. Victoria, the largest capital in the Seychelles. We took in the local market whilst here, where you can buy meat, fish, veg, and souvenirs such as clothing and other small gifts. The locals use this market for all their fresh fish, meat and vegetables. The town has everything you need with some traditional buildings here that make it very interesting to walk around. Our lunch stop in Victoria at a local restaurant named Marie Antoinette cost 400 rupees per person, approx. £20 per person. Beautiful food, a buffet type selection of fish dishes including tuna, red snapper, rice, mango salad, chicken curry and more. A beer plus 2 x sprites came to 250 rupees, around £12-£13. Next stop Praslin…find out more in my Seychelles Part 2 Blog

06 October 2019

As a child myself, I spent holidays in Cornwall, Wales, the Lake District and Scotland, with great memories. Now as a parent myself over the years we have done many of our own UK family holidays, however never got as far as the Lake District, so I really wanted to make sure that my own children, (aged 14 and 9 years old) had the opportunity to experience more of the beautiful country we live in. The appreciation of what we have on our doorstep is so important (bearing in mind I want to show them the world!) So, with a desire for open space, fresh air, activity and great walks with our dog, off we went for our family holiday in August this year. We stayed directly on Lake Windermere in a 2 bedroom pet-friendly lodge with the added bonus of our own hot tub! You can sit in a hot tub, whatever the weather, and even going in August we were under no illusion of guaranteed sunshine, although we were very lucky and most of the week was beautiful sunshine! We were located directly on Lake Windermere between Troutbeck and Ambleside, very close to the Brockhole Visitor Centre. We had access to onsite facilities such as an indoor pool, restaurant, bar and small shop. This was a great base for a family, the short walk to Brockhole Visitor Centre was excellent and offered an array of things to do, great to keep those little people active or in our case (not so little anymore). Brockhole House with its gardens are set in a beautiful location, offering a Treetop Trek, Treetop Nets, Archery, Adventure Playground, Woodland walks and much more. On the edge of the Lake you can pick up Windermere Lake Cruises and further around the lake we tested out the water sports. Kayaking off into the lake was a great adventure, getting each other very wet and getting excited when a larger boat passed as it created some waves to master – very funny memories made! Top tip: the roads can get very busy around the Lakes in peak season so do allow plenty of time. We visited Ullswater Lake, not only a stunning drive up and over Kingstone Pass to reach here but some great spots on this lake to take a swim, both kids and the dog loved it! Ambleside (about 10 mins ways from us) and Grasmere (about 20 mins) are both lovely, great for a wider choice of shops, cafes, restaurants. Definitely pay a visit to Baldry’s Tearooms in Grasmere, the best Lemon Meringue Pie we have ever had! Bowness and Ambleside both offer boat hire, we hired our boat for a few hours from Bowness. Another great day, armed with a pack lunch, lifejackets and a small crazy dog who now loved water and swimming (We managed to keep him in the boat!) we explored and checked out beautiful scenery, not forgetting stunning properties located along the edge of the lake, very relaxing and interesting. Not happy with all these water activities, we also managed to go horse riding and take in some great walks with the dog. With our last day spent on the other side of the lake, east of Coniston Water in Grizedale forest, here we all completed the Go Ape Treetop Challenge – a few wobbly, high up and hilarious moments, great fun though and more family memories made! We truly only scratched the surface of this stunning part of the country. With something to suit everyone, from families with children of all ages to adults travelling solo, couples or groups, and things to do no matter how fit or unfit you are! You can experience all the scenery and activities from whichever kind of base you prefer, whether it be a self-catering lodge, cottage, B&B, luxury hotel, there is so much choice. Also lots that are dog friendly too. In fact, even though you'd expect it to be a dog friendly area, I was nicely surprised to see how much accommodation advertised this and the number of cafes, shops etc that love to accommodate both you and your four-legged furry friend should you have one with you! So, whether this is a short break, your main holiday or a stop on route somewhere else, please get in touch to find out more and let me help you plan your experience of the Lakes – we will most definitely be going back again!