16 September 2024

Some places feel as though they've been plucked straight from a dream, and Crete, with its endless skies, shimmering waters, and rugged landscapes, is undoubtedly one of them. I was fortunate to spend a long weekend at the luxurious Phaea Blue Palace, a hotel that beautifully combines Crete’s rich heritage with true Greek hospitality. Perched on a cliffside overlooking the Gulf of Elounda, Blue Palace offers tranquillity and breathtaking views. Part of the family-owned Phaea brand, it has welcomed guests for over two decades, yet its reimagined offerings make it feel fresh and inviting. With just 47 intimate bungalows and suites, the promise is a personalised Greek experience that lingers long after you've left. The Perfect Location: A Gateway to Crete’s Beauty The hotel's location struck me immediately. Perched high with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea and Spinalonga Island, Blue Palace offers a sense of seclusion yet is conveniently close to Crete’s treasures. Only an hour from the airport, it’s ideal for those wanting to explore. Nearby, the charming village of Plaka beckons. Its cobbled streets are lined with vibrant tavernas and local boutiques brimming with handmade crafts. The lively atmosphere adds to the village's warm, welcoming vibe. The beach, just a short walk or golf-buggy ride away, offers stunning views with a gentle sea breeze. Rooms: An Oasis of Comfort and Style Entering my room felt like stepping into a sanctuary. Every detail, from the natural materials and Greek art to the soft, muted colours, was thoughtfully designed. My suite’s private terrace with a pool overlooking the Aegean was perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Each room blends traditional Greek charm with modern comforts. Crisp linens, plush bedding, and thoughtful amenities like a well-stocked minibar and luxurious toiletries made the space feel both indulgent and homely. Facilities: Everything You Could Ask For, and More Phaea Blue Palace excels in luxury. The hotel features a well-equipped gym, but I was drawn to the more relaxed activities. The spa, with treatments inspired by ancient Greek wellness rituals, was a true haven, and the serene beachfront was ideal for a morning stroll or evening dip. Dining options showcase the best of Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine. After a morning at the spa or a swim, indulging in local culinary delights was a true pleasure. Dining: A Feast for the Senses The dining experiences at Phaea Blue Palace were exceptional. Our first night featured a traditional Cretan evening at Blue Door Taverna, with rustic charm, live music, and Greek dancers. The fresh fish and local ingredients captured the essence of island life. The highlight was the Phaea Farmers Feast, a pop-up dining experience in the hotel’s organic garden. We handpicked ingredients with a Phaea Farmer, and the farm-to-table philosophy shone through with vegetables cooked over open flames. This magical experience brought us together around a communal table to share Greek hospitality. Our final night was at Anthós, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Dining al fresco under the stars, we enjoyed dishes that celebrated traditional Cretan cuisine. Locally sourced meats and fish, along with vegetables from the organic garden, made each dish visually stunning and delicious. Service: A Warm Welcome Like No Other What sets Phaea Blue Palace apart is its exceptional service. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel like royalty. Every need was anticipated, and no request was too big or small. Their kindness and attention to detail enhanced our stay, with warm welcomes, attentive waitstaff, and impeccable housekeeping. An Unforgettable Experience: The Traditional Caique Adventure On our last day, we sailed on a traditional Caique along Elounda’s coast. Admiring the cobalt waters and secluded beaches with a glass of local wine and a platter of Cretan cheese and fruit was a perfect farewell to this beautiful island. The caique experience allowed me to reflect on my time at Phaea Blue Palace, where every moment was infused with timelessness and authenticity. Ready to Experience Crete for Yourself? My stay at Phaea Blue Palace was nothing short of magical. It’s a place where luxury meets authenticity, designed to make you feel welcome and at home. If you’re dreaming of a holiday where you can unwind while exploring Crete’s rich history and culture, I highly recommend Phaea Blue Palace. Whether for a special occasion or a serene escape, this hotel offers an unparalleled experience. If you’re planning your next getaway and want more information on booking a stay at Phaea Blue Palace or exploring other incredible destinations, I’d love to help you plan the perfect trip. Contact me to start creating unforgettable memories!

25 March 2024

Since starting my own travel business, I’ve been asked, “Why should we book with you instead of going to the high street or online?” and “What do you offer that’s different to everyone else?”. Imagine going on a journey that feels like it was tailor-made just for you – every detail perfectly aligned with your dreams and aspirations. That's the experience I will deliver as your dedicated Travel Counsellor. In a world inundated with options and choices, allow me to be your guide, crafting unforgettable adventures that reflect your unique personality and preference. To help answer those questions, here are my top 5 reasons to book with me, your Travel Counsellor. 1. Personal service When you call, you’ll speak to me. Someone who knows you and remembers you; no more queuing on hold to speak to call-centres or trying to communicate with an online chat-bot. I believe in getting to know my clients and treating their travel plans as if they were my own. I like to take my time getting to know your preferences, what you enjoy and what matters most to you when travelling. Develop a relationship. After listening to your wish list, I’ll tailor-make a holiday to your requirements, making the whole experience completely stress-free and highly personal. “I was looking for flights to Canada to visit family with my three young children, options were limited due to the lateness of booking. I approached Samantha who listened diligently to my requirements, within a short time Samantha came back with options better than I could find myself.” M. Anderson. I genuinely care about your experience and aim to foster a lasting relationship. I’m keen to hear about your adventures and gather your feedback to enhance future journeys. By offering this level of personalised service, I aspire to earn your trust and loyalty, creating customers for life. 2. I can save you time and money! Benjamin Franklin famously said "time is money”. In our fast-paced world, where every moment counts, saving time and money is a universal aspiration. By entrusting your travel arrangements with me, you can do just that. We are all busy and finding the time to scour numerous websites or taking a day off work to visit high street agents is a luxury few can afford. “Samantha was very patient with me, I did have a lot of asks and was a difficult booking. Even when I thought I found something myself, Sam bettered the holiday. Highly recommend.” J. Green I can do all the research for you, offering suggestions on all aspects of your trip, from car hire to excursions, airport parking or lounges, I will take care of everything. Putting this all together to create a personalised package that fits perfectly within your budget. 3. 100% financial protection Your peace of mind is my top priority. When you book your holiday with me, rest assured that your money is 100% protected. Whether it's a holiday with ATOL protection or a one-off travel arrangement, your funds will be held securely protected in an independent trust account. Meaning that in the rare event of unforeseen circumstances, you can trust that your financial interests are secure. 4. Round the clock support When it’s time to travel, all you have to do is pack – I’ll take care of everything else. From departure to arriving back home and beyond, I’m here whenever you need me. You’ll also have access to the Travel Counsellors 24/7 global Duty Office for emergencies, ensuring you have full support anytime, anywhere. 5. You are supporting a small business In today's evolving business landscape, there's a growing trend towards supporting small business owners and start-ups. Collaborating with individuals who are passionately building something of their own is far more rewarding than engaging with large international corporations that often provide minimal client support. Unlike the big online suppliers, I genuinely appreciate and value every booking. Your support is deeply appreciated, as it fuels my passion and commitment to providing you with the best possible experience. “Samantha has been fantastic... very patient and helpful as we had a few things at our end to resolve before we could confirm. Thanks so much.” G. Buxton Booking with me means more than just a transaction—it's a meaningful choice. By choosing to book your trip with me, you're not only supporting me but also my family and my dream. Choosing me ensures you'll receive exceptional service right from the moment you make your initial enquiry. This commitment doesn't end once your booking is confirmed; it extends beyond your departure and even after you return. If you are thinking of getting something in the diary to look forward to, please don’t hesitate to get in contact. I’d love to help plan your next adventure.