Based In Cheshire

Sara Dickenson

Available for new enquiries

It's Nice To Meet You

A warm welcome to my website. I’m so happy you have found my page.

*Why me?*

I’m your personal travel consultant. I’m here to help you plan those holidays that are so memorable that when you flick back through your photos you think “that was one of the best times of my life”.

On a recent holiday in Thailand every second sentence that was uttered by my daughter was “THIS IS AMAZING”. The joy of watching my family make the most wonderful memories will stay with me forever. That’s why being a Travel Counsellor is a dream come true. I get to help my clients create these moments for themselves and their loved ones. That’s pretty special.

Planning a holiday can be overwhelming. You want it to be perfect. It needs to be tailored to suit everyone. You might not be sure exactly what it is you want or not be sure what’s available or if it’s any good. Perhaps you’re a solo traveller or not sure where is best for you. Or maybe you’re just too busy. That’s where I come in.

*How I Work*

As a Travel Counsellor, I take the time to get to know you and see the world through your eyes. I then craft travel plans that are truly bespoke. But you’ll always be in the driving seat. I’ll simply be planning the best route with you in mind.

Whether it be a multi-centre safari adventure, luxury all-inclusive beach holiday, cultural city break, adrenaline fuelled ski holiday, world class cruise or last-minute getaway, I will plan, organise and book the holiday of your dreams.

I’ll be with you every step of the way from the moment we start planning to when you step back through the front door having made some amazing memories. Why? Because I get pleasure out of being a small part in the creation of lifelong memories for you and your loved ones.

*Benefits*

INFORMED & MEANINGFUL HOLIDAYS – armed with a deep understanding of you as well as the insider knowledge of experts on the ground, I will tailor-make your holiday to suit you.

METICULOUS PLANNING & ORGANISATION – providing you with a seamless, stress-free experience is my ultimate goal and your travel plans are always at your fingertips via the Travel Counsellors’ personalised travel app. Prefer physical tickets? I can do those too.

CONCIERGE SERVICE - I’ll take care of everything from transfers to trips, once-in-a-lifetime experiences to any little extras that will allow you to sit back (or not!) and enjoy your holiday.

24/7 FLEXIBILITY – I’m your main contact and will always be available at times that suit you, and should you ever need further support, Travel Counsellors is there to help 24/7.

PROTECTION – Travel Counsellors is a global travel company offering complete financial and ATOL protection for your peace of mind.

I’d love to hear more about your travel plans. Call, message or find me on social media and let’s plan your dream holiday together!

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Contact Me

Whatever your holiday needs I'm here to help you, so simply give me a call or send me an email with your contact details on and I can get things started for you:

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My Blog

I absolutely live and breathe travel and I love to write about my experiences! Please take a look through my posts - you might find your own holiday inspiration.

The Ultimate Travel Guide: Magical Marrakech – A Family Adventure in April

23 April 2025

In April 2025, we took off on a family holiday to Marrakech—a city I’d always wanted to explore, but wasn’t sure how it would work with three children in tow (aged 7, 10 and 13). Spoiler alert: it was brilliant. Challenging at times, but full of colour, culture, adventure and memories we’ll never forget. Arrival & First Impressions We landed early from Liverpool and, after waiting fairly patiently in 3 different and very long queues, were greeted by our pre-booked transfer—thankfully, a seamless start. Our driver, Soultan, immediately set the tone for the trip with fascinating facts and a warm welcome as we made our way into the bustling city. Top Tip #1: Have your transfers organised. Marrakech's airport is renowned for long queues. After the airport experience, you'll definitely want to hop-in to a pre organised transfer with zero haggling. We’d chosen to stay in a riad in the heart of the medina (old town), and it was the perfect base—authentic, intimate, and ideal for exploring. A Whirlwind Tour of Marrakech The next day we embarked on a private guided tour of the city. Our guide, Usama, was fantastic. Patient, engaging, and full of insight, he opened doors we’d never have found ourselves. In the souks, we watched a carpenter skilfully use his feet to carve chess pieces, sampled warm bread straight from a community bakery oven, explored a herbalist’s treasure trove of all-natural products, and shopped for scarves in preparation for our desert adventure. Of course, we also visited a rug co-operative, where I fell head over heels for a stunning handmade rug. Our guide gently steered us through this experience as, as you can imagine, it's very different to shopping in the UK. He also made sure the tour was exciting for the children and focused on places where they could see things being made by hand (or feet!). Top Tip #2: A private guide is a must, especially for first timers. Marrakech is an overwhelming feast for the senses, and having someone guide you through it all and take you to the hidden gems is invaluable. Top Tip #3: To get the best out of your private guided experience, be clear with your guide. If you don’t want to shop, say so. Set expectations early, and you’ll have a richer, more authentic experience. Into the Desert Early the next morning, a new guide, Abdul, collected us for our desert adventure. We travelled through Aït Benhaddou, stopped at Ouarzazate, and arrived at Kasbah Hnini—a hidden gem of a hotel. Then… the rain came. And not just any rain—the heaviest rainfall Marrakech had seen in a decade. Roads flooded, plans shifted, and we had to pivot fast. Abdul was incredible, making sure we were safe, informed, and calm. We visited a welcoming Berber village and toured traditional homes. Later, we made it to a desert camp—rain-soaked but still beautiful. That night, traditional music and dancing lit up the evening. Sunrise on Camelback – A Moment to Remember A thunder and lightning storm lit up our desert tent at 2am but that didn't stop us rising from our beds at 5:30am for a sun rise camel ride. And this experience will be etched in my brain forever. The early wake-up was so worth it. The storm had passed just enough to gift us a magical sliver of calm and clear skies. It was just us, our camels, and the vast red dunes stretching into the horizon. The kids ran free, climbed dunes, and connected with their camels. It was pure, unscripted magic. Later, we booked ATVs to tear through the dunes (cue lots of whooping), but motion sickness eventually got the better of us and we retreated to camp. Because of the rain and floods, what followed was a looooong 11-hour drive back to Marrakech—no stops, no sightseeing, just road. The silver lining? We all built our resilience. Family & the Atlas Mountains Finally back in Marrakech, we moved into a serviced villa and joined up with extended family. Cue slower mornings, shared meals, and more adventures. The Atlas Mountains day trip was a firm favourite of everyone (aged 7 to 73). Again, led by a fantastic local guide, Houcine, we stopped at a local market—no tourists, just real Moroccan life. It was chaotic and brilliant, and the kids got a real sense of the culture. Then came our trek from Imlil to a Berber village. Between my MS, a 7-year-old’s short legs, and a fit but slightly wobbly 73-year-old grandma, we were quite the group! But we made it—two hours of steady walking, rewarded with breathtaking waterfalls, mountain views, and a home-cooked Berber lunch overlooking the snow capped mountains. Later, we ticked off another highlight: a full family camel ride caravan. Twelve of us in a line on camels through the landscape = pure joy and many giggles. Waterparks, Balloons & the Rest One afternoon, we hit Oasiria Waterpark. It wasn’t busy, the queues were short, and the kids had a blast. We also splashed out (in a monetary sense) on a sunrise hot air balloon ride. The weather didn’t cooperate—we missed the sunrise, and the view was cloudy—but it was still an unforgettable experience. Floating above Morocco with your family? Absolutely worth doing. We squeezed in amazing restaurants, hidden rooftop cafes, and little gems I wish I had more room to list here. (Message me if you’re planning a trip—I’ve got recommendations galore!) Final Thoughts & Top Tips Morocco is a sensory overload: beautiful, wild, challenging, rewarding. You will be sold to but you’ll also meet some of the warmest, most welcoming people. This trip stretched us, delighted us, and bonded us. And while the weather had, at times, other plans, it didn’t dampen the magic of Morocco. Top Tip #4: Don’t miss the Jardin Majorelle. But book direct at least one week in advance to get tickets! Thinking of heading to Marrakech with kids? It’s an adventure like no other. Just come with open eyes, flexible plans, and a good guide! My advice, ask an expert for help. You won't be disappointed. Contact me on 01270 917091 or sara.dickenson@travelcounsellors.com. Day 1: Relax & gently immerse yourself in the colours, sounds and textures of Marrakech Day 2: Private Guided Tour of Marrakech Day 3-5: Merzougha Desert Adventure Day 6-7: Marrakech and REST (mum gets to go to a hammam & spa) Day 8: Private Guided Tour to Atlas Mountains (visit a local market too) Day 9: Visit a waterpark (one for the kids) Day 10: Trip to Ourika Valley or watch the sun rise from a hot air balloon Day 11: Say goodbye

An Afternoon of Ritual and Rooftop Bliss at El Fenn, Marrakech

22 April 2025

Tucked away in the heart of Marrakech’s buzzing medina lies El Fenn—a design-lover’s dream and an oasis of calm amidst the city’s vibrant chaos. On my recent trip, I treated myself to their signature Ancestral Magic spa experience, and what followed was nothing short of rejuvenating. The treatment began with a traditional hammam, something I’d been both curious and a little nervous about. I was given a tiny paper thong—more symbolic than practical—and led into a dark, beautifully tiled steam chamber that felt like a hidden underground sanctuary. The air was warm and thick with steam, and every surface shimmered slightly in the low light. What happens in a Hammam? A kind, soft-spoken attendant began by gently dousing me in warm water using a small bowl. There was something ritualistic and nurturing about it—each motion deliberate, slow, and tender. She then applied rich, velvety black soap to every inch of my body, its scent earthy and calming. I lay there, cocooned in the warm air, letting the scent and steam melt my thoughts away. After a few minutes of blissful stillness, the soap was gently washed off with bowlfuls of hot water. Next came a verbena clay mask, smoothed over my skin and left to sink in. Finally, the exfoliation began—firm, yes, but still incredibly soothing. With a mitt, she sloughed away every trace of old, tired skin, rinsing me off with more steaming bowls of water. The final touch was an application of orange blossom oil—its scent delicate, floral, and grounding. I emerged from the hammam 45 minutes later, wrapped in a soft robe, feeling newborn – yes, really! A Re-energising Massage I was then guided to another serene room for a full-body massage, where every knot and kink was coaxed away. Afterward, I was offered a warm herbal tea—simple, fragrant, and perfectly timed. Time for me Floating out of the spa and back into the sun, I made my way up to El Fenn’s rooftop bar and restaurant. Let me just say: wow. The design strikes that elusive balance between luxe and laid-back, paying homage to Moroccan aesthetics while feeling thoroughly modern. Rich red fabrics, jewel-toned cushions, a plunge pool, and a larger swimming pool create a dreamy tableau, framed by sunbeds and shaded seating areas. I sipped on a pineapple mojito mocktail that was bursting with freshness and just the right amount of zing. Later, at the rooftop restaurant, we ordered a selection of Moroccan salads—each one vibrant and flavourful. The service wasn’t exactly warm; the staff seemed distant and not overly attentive. Maybe it’s just the vibe, but it was a contrast to the heartfelt care I received in the spa. Despite that, El Fenn is undoubtedly one of the most stylish spots in the medina. Whether you go for the spa, the design, the rooftop views—or ideally, all three—you’ll leave feeling restored, inspired, and just a little more in love with Marrakech.

6 Nights in Paradise: Sarah & Ben’s Soul-Soothing Escape to Railay Beach, Thailand

18 April 2025

When work schedules are packed and the to-do list never ends, sometimes all you need is a quick getaway to reset. That’s exactly what Sarah and Ben did with their fleeting but fabulous 6-night escape to one of their favourite corners of the world: Railay Beach, Thailand. “We had a fleeting 6 nights in Thailand which is all we could squeeze into our work schedules,” Sarah said, “but it was exactly what we needed.” Phuket to Railay: Returning to a Beloved Spot Their journey began by flying into Phuket, followed by a smooth transfer over to Railay Beach, a place they’ve visited multiple times — twice as backpackers and once on holiday. “It never disappoints to soothe our souls,” Sarah shared. With its dramatic limestone cliffs, jungle-lined paths, and dreamy sunsets, it’s easy to see why this little peninsula keeps calling them back. Foodie Heaven: A Daily Feast Every day was a delicious adventure. Their top culinary highlights? • The Heart Restaurant – “Freshly grilled fish and prawns were off-the-chart good.” • Family Restaurant – A must-visit for pad siew and pad krapow lovers. • Local favorites like stir-fried morning glory, papaya salad, and those addictive banana and sweet milk dough pancakes became daily rituals. “And let’s not forget the Chang beers,” Sarah laughed. “We drank a lot of Chang at the bars all along Walking Street, right down to Last Bar.” Adventure + Zen: Rock Climbing, Yoga & Massage From adrenaline to absolute relaxation, Railay delivered. They tackled rock climbing with Spider Rock Climbing, who Sarah described as “incredible coaches who got us up walls I wouldn’t have otherwise dared to do!” There were beach yoga sessions, morning runs, and — the ultimate treat — a daily massage. Their go-to? Railay Relax Massage, where an hour of bliss cost just £10-15. “Why not, right?” Final Stop: 2 Nights of Luxury in Phuket For the last two nights, Sarah and Ben chose a bit of pampering at the JW Marriott Resort & Spa on Mai Khao Beach. While Sarah usually prefers independent boutique stays, this one impressed: • Spacious, comfortable rooms • Multiple pools (including an adults-only one!) • A stunning, peaceful beach • “Breakfast was included — and it was brilliant!” They ventured just 5 minutes down the beach for lunch and dinner at Lay Mai Khao Seafood and Parichart Restaurant. “The fish, the noodles, the Panama curry, the mango sticky rice — heaven!” Sarah loved the warm hospitality too: “A couple next to us had a young baby and within seconds a waitress scooped him up and became babysitter for the night — the parents looked thrilled!” To top it off, all non-motorised watersports at the hotel were included, so they spent hours paddleboarding along the beautiful coastline. In Just 6 Nights… …Sarah and Ben packed in adventure, incredible food, rest, and joy — all without needing weeks off work. Sometimes, the perfect trip isn’t the longest one. It’s the one that brings you back to life. Inspired by their journey? Let’s plan your next Thailand escape! Contact me for details.

A Mother-Daughter Adventure in Marrakech: A City of Colour, Culture, and Warmth

28 March 2025

Jenny and her daughter, Maja, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Marrakech, a city bursting with colour, history, and warm hospitality. From the moment they arrived, they felt an incredible sense of safety and belonging, thanks to the genuine kindness of the Moroccan people, who were always eager to help and share their rich culture. A Feast for the Senses Marrakech is a sensory delight, with vibrant souks, intricate tile patterns, and a rhythm that is both lively and enchanting. The mother-daughter duo began their adventure by exploring the heart of the city—the medina souks. Wandering through the maze-like alleys, they discovered handwoven rugs, exquisite lanterns, and beautifully crafted pottery, all while engaging in friendly banter with the shopkeepers. One of the highlights of their cultural immersion was visiting Jemaa el-Fna square, where they marvelled at snake charmers, storytellers, and the intoxicating aroma of sizzling tagines filling the air. The square truly encapsulated the spirit of Marrakech, a place where the past and present blend seamlessly. Soaking in the History Jenny and Maja dedicated time to exploring some of Marrakech’s most iconic historical sites. They stood in awe of the Madrasa Ben Youssef, with its intricate tilework and tranquil courtyards, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich Islamic heritage. They also wandered through the grand halls of Dar El Bacha, a stunning palace turned museum, and admired the ruins of El Badi Palace, once a symbol of the city’s opulence. A visit to the serene Jardin Majorelle, with its cobalt blue villa and lush botanical gardens, provided a refreshing escape from the bustling city streets. The Ultimate Hammam Experience No trip to Marrakech would be complete without experiencing a traditional hammam. The duo indulged in the ritual of steam, scrubbing, and deep relaxation, emerging with rejuvenated skin and an even deeper appreciation for Moroccan traditions. It was an experience that connected them to centuries-old self-care rituals in the most serene setting. A Culinary Journey One of the most delightful parts of their trip was the food. Marrakech’s culinary scene did not disappoint, and they savoured every bite of the city’s incredible cuisine. For breakfast and lunch, they enjoyed cosy yet stylish spots like Cafe Arabe, Cafe Les Epices, Nomad, Grand Cafe De La Poste, 1112, and the famed Bacha Coffee, where the rich aromas and decadent pastries made every morning special. When it came to dinner, they dined in some of the city’s most spectacular restaurants. El Fenn provided a stunning rooftop setting, while Les Jardin Du Lotus offered a dreamy ambiance with delicious flavours. They relished the authentic Moroccan dishes at Al Fassia Agdal, indulged in the aromatic spices of Safran by Koya, and revelled in the lively atmosphere of Comptoir Darna. Their culinary journey concluded at La Trattoria, a perfect blend of Moroccan and Italian elegance. Marrakech: A City to Remember No Marrakech trip would be complete without a camel ride dressed in traditional attire and both Jenny and Maja enjoyed this short trip immensely. Jenny and her daughter left Marrakech with full hearts and unforgettable memories. The city’s vibrant culture, historic charm, and the warmth of its people made their trip an extraordinary experience. They felt incredibly safe throughout their stay, and every interaction reinforced the kindness and hospitality Morocco is known for. For any traveller considering a trip to Marrakech, Jenny and Maja's adventure is a testament to the magic of this enchanting city. From the bustling souks to the tranquil gardens, from the steamy hammams to the mouth-watering cuisine—Marrakech is a place that welcomes, delights, and leaves a lasting impression. If you’d like to experience all that Marrakech has to offer, get in touch on 01270 917091 or sara.dickenson@travelcounsellors.com.

The Best City Breaks for a Long Weekend

25 March 2025

Sometimes, a long weekend is all you need to escape the daily grind and dive into a new adventure. Whether you're looking for history, culture, great food, or just a change of scenery, these five European cities offer the perfect getaway. Here’s why Oslo, Berlin, Budapest, Venice, and Palma should be on your weekend city break list. Oslo – A Scandinavian Escape Norway’s capital is the ideal mix of modern design, breath-taking natural beauty, and rich Viking history. Start your visit with a stroll along the stunning waterfront at Aker Brygge before checking out the Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the roof for incredible city views. Don’t miss the Viking Ship Museum or the MUNCH Museum to get a taste of Norway’s cultural heritage. If you love nature, take a ferry to the nearby fjords or explore the lush parks around the city. Berlin – The Ultimate City for Culture and Nightlife Berlin has a reputation for being edgy, vibrant, and packed with history. Walk along the East Side Gallery, the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall, and explore Museum Island for a deep dive into art and history. Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie are must-sees for history buffs. When the sun sets, Berlin’s nightlife scene is legendary—head to a hidden cocktail bar or dance until dawn at one of its iconic clubs. Food-wise, don’t leave without trying a currywurst or a classic Berliner schnitzel. Budapest – A City of Thermal Baths and Ruin Bars Hungary’s capital is an absolute dream for a weekend escape. Start with a soak in the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths before taking a sunset cruise along the Danube River for jaw-dropping views of the Parliament building. Wander through the charming streets of the Castle District, then make your way to the ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter—Szimpla Kert is an absolute must. For a foodie fix, dig into a hearty bowl of goulash and enjoy a chimney cake from a street vendor. Venice – Romance and Canals Venice is pure magic, and a long weekend is enough to fall under its spell. Start at St. Mark’s Square and visit the beautiful Basilica, then get lost in the maze of canals and hidden alleyways. A gondola ride is a bit touristy, but honestly, it’s worth it. For a unique experience, visit the colourful island of Burano or explore the quieter Dorsoduro district. Be sure to indulge in fresh seafood, cicchetti (Venetian tapas), and, of course, gelato as you wander through this floating city. Palma – Sun, Sea, and Spanish Charm If your idea of a city break includes a bit of beach time, Palma de Mallorca is perfect. This Balearic beauty offers a blend of history, culture, and relaxation. Visit the stunning La Seu Cathedral, stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, and stop for tapas and a glass of local wine in Santa Catalina. If you need a break from sightseeing, the beaches are just a short ride away. The nearby hilltop Bellver Castle also offers panoramic views of the city and sea. Final Thoughts Each of these cities offers something special for a long weekend, whether you want to immerse yourself in history, relax by the sea, or dance the night away. The hardest part? Choosing which one to visit first! Wherever you go, a weekend in one of these destinations is sure to leave you refreshed and inspired. But don't miss the highlights. Contact me to book your weekend break and ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. 01270 917091 sara.dickenson@travelcounsellors.com

Ikos Dassia - A Young Family’s Dream Escape

21 March 2025

As seasoned travellers who once roamed the world freely, Vicky, Jono and their two children were hesitant about an all-inclusive holiday. They’ve always been explorers, preferring to immerse themselves in local cultures rather than settling into one resort. But with two little ones in tow, the idea of a hassle-free luxury retreat sounded increasingly appealing. Enter Ikos Dassia, a five-star all-inclusive resort in Corfu that turned out to be the perfect blend of indulgence and relaxation. Let’s find out more about their experience. First Impressions: A Warm Welcome to Paradise From the moment we arrived, we were wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and hospitality. The resort’s setting is breathtaking—fringed by lush greenery, with an idyllic stretch of beach and views over the sparkling Ionian Sea. The check-in process was seamless, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Our room was beautifully designed, spacious enough for our family, and featured a private terrace where we could unwind after busy days in the sun. Luxury Without the Stiffness One of the things we loved most about Ikos Dassia was how it managed to be luxurious yet incredibly relaxed. Despite the five-star setting, the atmosphere was welcoming and easy-going, making it the ideal place for families. The kids could run around freely, and there was no pressure to be anything but ourselves. It was indulgence without pretension—a rare and perfect balance. A Culinary Delight for All Ages We love our food and getting a blend of great food for us and food our kids will happily eat can be a challenge. The resort offers a diverse selection of dining options, from gourmet à la carte restaurants to more casual settings, all included in the package. Our children loved Flavors – the buffet style restaurant that served breakfast, lunch and dinner. We loved it too. They rotate themes so it always feels new and exciting. The flexibility of dining times and the attentive service meant we could all eat at our own pace—no stress, no fuss, just great food. Then there were other restaurants that needed to be pre-booked. An Italian, Greek, French and Asian restaurant were on site and you could also get a voucher to eat in a local restaurant just outside the resort. TOP TIP – demand is high and availability is limited at these restaurants so you MUST book in advance before you travel. Sara, your Travel Counsellor, can help with that. Entertainment for Everyone Entertainment at Ikos Dassia was another win. The resort offers a fantastic kids’ club and a range of activities for all ages. We weren’t sure if our girls would want to go to the Kids Club but they loved it. Our 5-year-old was enchanted by the storytelling and arts and crafts, while our 2-year-old loved the splash pools and gentle beach waves. The staff were fantastic. I knew my children would be safe and well looked after. In the evenings, we all enjoyed the live music and family-friendly performances, which added to the holiday magic. There was always something to keep us entertained, but never so much that it felt overwhelming. TOP TIP – again, demand is high for the kids club so book in advance. Sara will help with all your arrangements. Service That Sets the Bar High What truly sets Ikos Dassia apart is the impeccable service. Every staff member we encountered was friendly, professional, and genuinely eager to make our stay exceptional. Whether it was the concierge arranging a special dinner, the kids’ club staff making our children feel safe and happy, or the beach attendants ensuring we always had a fresh drink in hand, the service was flawless. The Perfect Length of Stay For us, 10 nights felt like the sweet spot. It gave us enough time to truly unwind, experience all the resort had to offer, and enjoy quality family time without feeling restless. Any longer, and we might have started itching to explore further afield. While Ikos Dassia provides an exceptional all-inclusive experience, we still have that ingrained traveler’s spirit that loves a little adventure. The Price Tag: Expensive but Worth It There’s no denying that Ikos Dassia comes with a hefty price tag, but for us, it was worth every penny. The seamless blend of luxury, convenience, and family-friendly amenities meant that for once, we could truly relax. No meal planning, no navigating unfamiliar territories with tired toddlers—just pure enjoyment in a stunning location. Would We Go Again? Absolutely. While we don’t see ourselves switching entirely to all-inclusive holidays, Ikos Dassia proved that sometimes, convenience and luxury can be just as rewarding as adventure. For families with young children, it’s an unbeatable option. We left feeling refreshed, extremely well-fed, and already dreaming of our next escape. If you would like to find the right Ikos resort for you and ensure a seamless all-inclusive experience, get in touch with me, Sara Dickenson, on 01270 917091 or sara.dickenson@travelcounsellors.com.

A Family Adventure in Costa Rica

17 March 2025

Costa Rica is a dream destination for families looking to experience nature, adventure, and relaxation. My friend Eve and her family of six—two adults and four energetic kids—embarked on an unforgettable journey through this beautiful country. From the bustling streets of San José to the breath-taking beaches of Manuel Antonio, they discovered a land filled with adventure and wonder, and made memories that will truly last a lifetime. ITINERARY: San Jose > La Fortuna & Arenal > Monteverde > Manuel Antonio Here’s what Eve said: San José: The Starting Point We landed in San José, the capital city, and spent a day adjusting to the tropical climate. A guided tour of the city introduced us to its vibrant culture, colourful markets, and delicious community honey – the guide made sure we had plenty of stops which meant the kids weren’t grumbling. We saw the beautiful French influenced architecture from the 1800s and learnt about the Costa Rican way of life and how honey and other natural remedies are central to their healthcare. With a hire car in tow, it was now time to adventure into Costa Rica’s natural wonders. La Fortuna & Arenal: Hot Springs and Rio Celeste Our first stop was La Fortuna, home to the stunning Arenal Volcano. The drive itself was an adventure, with lush green landscapes and occasional wildlife sightings. One of the biggest highlights here was a visit to the natural hot springs, where we soaked in warm, mineral-rich waters while the kids splashed in shallow pools. Another magical experience was our hike to Rio Celeste, a bright turquoise river hidden deep in the rainforest. The kids were fascinated by the fairytale-like colour, a result of volcanic minerals reacting with the water. The trek was a bit challenging but completely worth it for the stunning view. This is where we got brave and really enjoyed ourselves white water rafting. That has to be our favourite activity of the whole trip. It was SO much fun. The kids still talk about it. My top tip here is that you have to book the National Parks in advance. Monteverde: High-Octane Adventures in the Cloud Forest Next, we journeyed to the cloud forest of Monteverde, a haven for adventure seekers. Our family loved the thrill of ziplining through the misty treetops—some of us screaming in excitement while others (okay, mostly the parents) held on for dear life. The hanging bridges provided a calmer yet striking way to take in the rich biodiversity of the region. For a different kind of excitement, we took a walk through the jungle, spotting tree frogs, sloths, and even a toucan. It was an incredible way to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Costa Rica. What I hadn’t planned for was how wet this area is! Silly really in a cloud forest, but I hadn’t come prepared with waterproofs. The air is saturated. Every night I was trying to get our clothes and shoes dry for the next day. So make sure you pack wisely. Manuel Antonio: Sun, Sand, and Wildlife The final leg of our journey took us to the stunning coastal town of Manuel Antonio. This place is truly where the jungle meets the ocean, with white sandy beaches framed by dense rainforest. The kids loved spotting monkeys, iguanas, and even a few lazy sloths lounging in the trees right by the beach. We spent our days relaxing by the water, swimming in the warm Pacific, and exploring Manuel Antonio National Park in a kayak, which is teeming with wildlife and scenic trails. The contrast between the lush greenery and the bright blue ocean made it a picture-perfect paradise. Back to San José and Home Again Our adventure came full circle as we made our way back to San José, taking in the final glimpses of Costa Rica’s breath-taking landscapes. The kids were already planning their next trip back before we even boarded our flight home! Thanks to Eve Davies for sharing this wonderful family holiday. Final Thoughts Costa Rica offered the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and nature for Eve’s family of six. Whether it was soaking in hot springs, trekking through rainforests, ziplining through cloud forests, white water rafting, kayaking through mangrove forests, or relaxing on pristine beaches, every moment was filled with discovery and joy. If you're considering a family trip that combines thrill and tranquility, Costa Rica should be at the top of your list! Contact me on 01270 917091 to book your dream trip.

My customer stories

Sent by Vicky Owens

Sara makes it so easy! My husband and I were looking for a quick weekend break in Madeira to spend some much needed time together. I was so overwhelmed with all the different accommodation options and activities on offer. I reached out to Sara and within a day she had sent me over the PERFECT boutique hotel and a FANTASTIC itinerary for our 3 days that suited us brilliantly. Thank you, Sara! You are my first port of call next time I'm thinking of booking a holiday.

Sent by Mark Dickenson

A huge thanks to Sara, our holiday to Morocco was elevated from Good to Great because of her excellent recommendations and most especially due to the quality of excursions that she arranged for us. We found ourselves off the beaten track in the high atlas mountains, in the heart of the medina for a traditional hammam in a beautiful riad, travelling to a remote village for a traditional tagine lunch with a Berber family, as well as several other wonderful experiences. Sara was so supportive all the way through the trip and even helped us out with a minor issue that cropped up which was greatly appreciated. Highly recommended!