Travel blog

Lou, our Argentina specialist, has spent a great deal of time exploring Argentina over the years; really getting under the skin of its culture and people. Now is a great time to plan a trip to this wonderful kingdom, so here’s our roundup of 8 remarkable things to do that prove Argentina deserves a place on your ‘to-travel-to-soon’ list…   8 not-to-miss Highlights for your trip to Argentina 1. Explore colourful Buenos Aires Buenos Aires is a fantastically diverse city and a charming place to start your Argentinian adventure. A melting pot of European influence and Latin flavour, this dynamic centre really is one of a kind. With a spectacle happening on every corner, it’s a wonderful introduction to the vibrancy of Argentina. As you stroll along the tree-lined streets, don’t be surprised if you stumble across an impromptu tango performance (or three!). The talent of these dancers and the rhythm of the music is totally infectious and radiates across the city. Your toes will be tapping in no time. The dancers are often more than happy to teach bystanders a few steps too, so don’t forget your dancing shoes! This Latin influence lives alongside the French-inspired architecture that can be seen all over the city. Spend an afternoon exploring the breathtakingly stunning Teatro Colon (often considered to be one of the worlds’ most spectacular opera houses) before changing things up a little with a visit to the haunting Recoleta cemetery. Sprawling over an incredible 14 acres of land, with more than 4,500 ornate mausoleums filling the space, this is a cemetery unlike any other.  Argentina’s iconic first-lady herself, Eva Peron, is laid to rest here. There are countless quirky neighbourhoods to explore in Buenos Aires, each worthy of a trip in its own right. So why not join a bike tour one morning and explore a little further afield. From the trendy and hip district of Palermo (independent bars and restaurants on every corner!) to colourful La Boca, bursting at the seams with creativity and vibrant street art (guaranteed to brighten up your holiday snaps!)  Each one has its own character to get to know and quirks to discover. Rhythmic Buenos Aires really does have something for everyone. … 2. Be dwarfed by the Perito Moreno Glacier Prepare to be made to feel very small by the imposing hand of nature as you visit the Perito Moreno Glacier . Located on Lake Argentino in the Los Glaciares National Park, this magnificent natural phenomenon is an incredible 30 kilometres long and is as tall as a twelve-storey building. What makes this glacier even more special is, where most others in the world are retreating and melting every day, Perito Moreno is one of the very few that is getting bigger. There are many ways you can experience this majestic sight. You can enjoy a walk around the platforms to the sides of the ice, seeking the perfect spot from which to grab those impressive holiday photographs. For a more energetic option, why not pop some crampons on your feet and trek the glacier itself, feeling the sensation of ice underfoot as you navigate this icy land. You can opt for a short ice walk if you’d like a taster, or perhaps choose to take on a more adventurous day trek if you’re feeling particularly energetic. Fancy a mix of activities? Why not combine an ice trek with a paddle in a kayak and be dwarfed by the glacier from the water of Lake Argentino? Whichever way you choose to experience Perito Moreno, this world of blue ice is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Argentina. . 3. Marvel at the natural wonder of Iguazu Falls Argentina isn’t short of spectacular natural phenomena, boasting one of the most spectacular waterfalls on earth. Shared with Brazil, this watery wonder is one of the most visited natural landmarks in the whole of South America. As the thunderous, foamy water cascades over rocks, plummeting to the lake below, be prepared to be taken aback by the sheer volume of Iguazu Falls . You’ll need to raise your voice to have a conversation here! Iguazu (meaning ‘big water’ in the local language) is nestled amidst the sprawling and lush Atlantic rainforest. With a natural wonder at every turn, you’ll really feel overpowered by nature after spending some time Take a stroll around the winding network of walkways, following them as they twist around the falls, allowing you to enjoy the magnificent sight and cooling spray from different angles. If you’re lucky you may just spot vivid rainbows dancing in the water. You can’t visit this spectacular wonder without getting up close and personal with it. Why not consider adding a Jungle & Falls Adventure tour to your plans or talk to us about the best way to experience this watery wonderland. . 4. Relax in Mendoza and treat yourself at the wine valleys The wine lovers amongst you are in luck. If you didn’t know already, Argentina has a much-celebrated wine industry. With stunning vineyards nestled amidst the backdrop of the Andes mountains, a trip to the Mendoza wine region will allow you to take it all in; the wine and the views. Mendoza is at the epicentre of Argentina’s prized vineyards. Boasting a Mediterranean climate and one-of-a-kind terrain, Mendoza is the perfect spot for winemakers to harvest the delicious Malbec grapes – and for wine-lovers to enjoy them! The climate lends itself to many varieties of red, but Malbec is, without doubt, the most popular product of the region. Why not take off on a bike and spend an afternoon winery-hopping? In addition to the many boutique wineries and vineyards that can be found out of town, the historic centre of Mendoza itself is absolutely worth a visit. Spending a few days in this tranquil region is definitely one of the most relaxing things to do in Argentina. Choose to stay between the vineyards and the city for the best of both worlds. Close enough to the hustle and bustle of Mendoza to sample food at some of its many restaurants and explore the historic centre, but far enough out to still enjoy the peace and beauty of the countryside. (And be that much closer to the wine, of course). . 5. Spot wildlife off the rugged coast of Peninsula Valdes Perched on the southern Atlantic shores of Argentina, Peninsula Valdes is pure heaven for any wildlife lover. Many Patagonian species including marine mammals, birds and penguins all call this rugged area of the coast home at some point in the year. So, whenever you go, you’re in for a treat. The deep waters that surround the Peninsula could give you the rare chance to encounter the endangered southern right whale. These magnificent mammals arrive around June, to give birth to their calves and raise them in the waters off the coast until around November. Being humbled by the grace of these humongous creatures is a rare experience not to be missed. Why not consider taking a small boat whale-watching trip out onto the water to get even closer to the action? Not visiting during these months? Not a problem! Equally stunning Orcas can occasionally be spotted around the coastline between December and April as they attempt to feed off the seal pups that call the shoreline home. Whatever time of year you visit Argentina, Peninsula Valdes is a worthy addition to the itinerary. . . 6. Experience the cultural heart of Argentina with the Pampas Estancia Tour You can’t visit Argentina without submersing yourself in the gaucho culture. Gauchos are the cultural symbol of Argentina and you don’t need to go too far outside of Buenos Aires to really experience this tradition in all its glory. The vast, flat grasslands and cattle ranches (or estancias) of the Pampas are just an hour and a half’s drive from the centre of Buenos Aires yet feel a million miles away. Begin your Pampas Estancia Tour in the quaint town of San Antonio de Areco where many gaucho traditions are well-preserved. You can learn first-hand from the locals how they work on fine silverware and make saddles for the gauchos. Then head to a beautiful estancia where you’ll meet your hosts and be treated to an Argentine delicacy – the asado barbeque. Incredible Argentinian beef is paired with red wine and delicious empanadas… all this alongside the wonderful Argentinian hospitality… you won’t want it to end! Finish your time in the Pampas by watching the gauchos work with their horses as the sun sets over the ranch. . 7. Take an exhilarating hike through the Fossil Canyon From ice-capped mountains through to jagged Jurassic terrain, this excursion is one that encompasses real adventure and exploration. Only accessible by boat from El Calafate (in the south of the country), the Fossil Canyon Trek really gets you away from it all. After a 1.5-hour crossing, you’ll reach the jaw-dropping region of Estancia Cristina and be greeted by your hosts. Your adventure starts with a daring 4WD ride along a glacier-carved mountain trail to reach the base camp. This is where your feet take over and lead you to some of the most mesmerizing views you’ll ever see. After a short walk, you’ll reach the spectacular viewpoint of Upsala Glacier with the magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Andes dominating the horizon. The fossil canyon trek really does allow you the opportunity to take in some of this region’s most striking scenery. This is true pinch-yourself stuff. You then have plenty of time to take in the dramatic landscape as you make the 14km gradual downhill trek through the magnificent Fossil Canyon. You’ll absolutely want to make sure your camera is charged for this one. . 8. Enjoy bird watching by boat in the Ibera wetlands One for the wildlife lovers now… head to the Ibera wetlands and take a boat trip to explore the maze of waterways that weave their way through the swamps and marshes. The wetlands are a huge flood plain and an absolute haven for a whole host of wildlife – there is said to be more than 350 species of animal living in the Ibera area. The extensive birdlife is definitely the main draw of this area and you’re guaranteed to see a wide variety of flying friends… From beautiful storks to colourful kingfishers, spotting these winged beauties whilst cruising along the calm waters is a real joy. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a caiman ominously floating through the water or a family of capybaras basking in the sun. Keep your eyes peeled! .   Tempted?… Argentina might just be for you if you love losing yourself in the great outdoors, get goosebumps when faced with dramatic sweeping landscapes, live for wildlife encounters and enjoy learning about new cultures. Oh and not forgetting if you’re partial to delicious food and good wine. Argentina has it all. Is this sounding like the holiday you’ve been looking for? Give Lou a call on 01242 253 073 to chat through what you’d love to get out of a trip to Argentina. As always with Holiday Architects, by chatting with Lou or any of our other travel specialists, you’re guaranteed personal, honest, first-hand knowledge and opinions every time. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!         .

Whenever you return from your holidays, we’re always chomping at the bit to hear how you got on. We want to know what your best bits were, what wildlife you spotted, what adventures you had. And these chats are even more exciting when they’re bought to life by your holiday snaps.  Andy and Fran were the talk of the HA office when they sent their Namibia photos over to their speciality, Kirsty, last month. Their photographs below are guaranteed to transport you from your screen to the wild plains of Namibia . A huge thank you to them both for sharing their talents with us! On their tailormade Namibia holiday they… ✔️  Climbed the monstrous sand dunes in Sossusvlei ✔️ Walked over the otherworldly Dead Vlei , ✔️ Spotted the fascinating creatures that live their lives in the arid Namib Desert (the Peringuey’s Adder, Palmato Gecko and the Namaqua Chameleon, to name a few!) ✔️ Kayaked with the seals at Pelican Point ✔️ Tracked the famous desert-adapted elephants in Damaraland ✔️  Spent a night under the stars on the top of Crystal Mountain in Etendeka (the photo they snapped below shows this was every bit as magical as it sounds!) ✔️ Watched the wildlife congregate around water holes in Etosha National Park ✔️ And even took on a very unique park-run…     Great holiday self drive in Namibia “We have just returned from 2 weeks in Namibia organised by Kirsty at Holiday Architects. Kirsty was very knowledgable and put together the perfect itinerary for us. We were self-driving which was quite an adventure (some roads in Namibia are interesting), however we felt really well supported throughout with excellent local contacts. We gave Kirsty quite a difficult brief as we had to arrange this holiday at short notice on specific dates but Kirsty was able to include all we wanted to do including the Swakopmund parkrun. The organisation was seamless and the communication excellent. Altogether superb. Definitely recommend.”           We love nothing more than chatting to happy clients after their holidays and browsing through their brilliant holiday photos. Our Trustpilot page is a place that makes us very proud, if you fancy a read! Do you have your next big holiday planned yet? Feeling inspired? Give our travel-loving team a call on 01242 253 073 today or get a quick quote now , to get the ball rolling on your next adventure. We’re ready to design the perfect holiday for you.  

What’s your role at Holiday Architects? I head up the Client Experience team, helping make sure everything runs smoothly.   Why do you love travel? I love the unknowingness of what each new trip is going to bring. There’s something so exciting about throwing yourself headfirst into a different culture & knowing that you’re going to have the challenge of navigating different languages and customs. It isn’t always easy but it’s always so interesting and most importantly, fun! Travel is one of the only situations where you get to stimulate that wayfinding part of your brain and I love that – give me a map and stick me in the middle of a city anywhere in the world and I’ll be a happy man.   How did you come to work in travel? I graduated from university and was set on heading onto a masters in sport psychology but decided to spend a summer coaching lacrosse in the USA before doing so – the best decision I ever made! It ignited my love of travel and I spent the next seven years either exploring the globe or funding my next adventure. When the time came to settle back in the UK a career in the industry just made sense. I get to talk about one of my favourite things every single day, surrounded by people who are equally passionate about said thing!   What do you love doing when you’re not keeping things running smoothly at Holiday Architects? My life currently revolves around entertaining my crazy labrador named Yogi and attempting (and failing) to renovate my house. I love my food and drink, although I’m definitely a lot better at eating a meal than preparing one. I’m also a big football fan, both English (following Stockport County, for my sins) and American (Baltimore Ravens) – again, much better at watching than participating.   We’re big foodies here at HA. What would be your dream three-course dinner? I’ll start with chicken wings drenched in authentic Buffalo sauce with a blue cheese souffle-dip hybrid on the side. For my main, a simple fillet steak cooked rare with a side of fresh asparagus and potatoes three ways – dauphinois, hasselback and thick cut chips. I’ll finish with a classic crème brulee with an Old Fashioned as a bonus digestif!   What’s your karaoke tune? Always by Bon Jovi, although I’ll happily murder any tune.     Tell us more about one of your favourite destinations you’ve travelled to…   What makes it special? I’m flying the flag for Peru . It was the first destination I ever travelled solo and the one that really solidified my love of travel. It’s such an amazing place and one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet. There’s history, there’s culture, there’s great cities but most importantly there’s the world-renowned gastronomy – so, so good!   What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? The whole Inca Trail was pretty amazing. It had been on my bucket list since I did a primary school presentation on the Inca empire, so that moment when I finally reached the sun gate and got my first look of Machu Picchu is something I’ll never forget.   Where’s your favourite place to visit in Peru? I absolutely love the city of Cusco . I spent two weeks there on my first visit and would have happily stayed longer, it’s such a gem of a city. There’s so much to see and do and the culinary scene is up there with the best. The main square has such a charm to it and the many bars/cafes whose balconies surround it are a great place for people-watching – I’d happily spend a day sipping on pisco sours and watching the world go by.   Tell us something most people don’t know about Peru Peru is home to arguably the largest sand dune in the world, the Cerro Branco – for reference, it’s nearly 100m taller than Mt Snowdon!     Ronnie’s adventures  

 When you’re thinking of Vietnam holiday ideas, there are so many options to consider. Imagine waking up to the vibrant chaos of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where the scent of pho floats through narrow streets. Picture yourself cruising along Halong Bay’s emerald waters, between the towering limestone karsts cloaked in mist. Perhaps you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Hoi An, its lantern-lit alleys steeped in history? Or maybe you’re trekking through Sapa’s terraced rice fields, encountering the colorful hill tribes along the way? So many adventures await in Vietnam. We’re here to help you find the best one for you. Here are 5 of our favourite holiday ideas for a taster. (Remember, everything we do is tailor-made, so this is just a taste of what could be possible…)   5 Vietnam holiday ideas for your next adventure   Highlights of Vietnam – 15 days   This 2-week journey across Vietnam, soaks up all of the highlights. Trek through the serene valleys of Mai Chau, sail through the mystical beauty of Halong Bay , soak up the quaint charm of Hoi An ‘s countryside and embrace the rhythm of rural life, flexing your culinary skills with a cooking class. From bustling Hanoi to spirited Saigon, the sights, people and food of Vietnam are all ready to welcome you on this highlights holiday.   The Beauty of Northern Vietnam – 15 days Embark on a 15-day Vietnam adventure through the enchanting landscapes of Northern Vietnam. Trek among the emerald rice terraces of Sapa, mingle with colorful hill tribes, and sail through the mysterious landscape of Halong Bay. Then, let the rhythm of the waves guide you to the sandy shores of Danang and Hoi An for a well-deserved beach break. Dive into bustling markets, sip on local delicacies, and soak in the vibrant culture at every turn. Extend your journey southward to Saigon or delve deeper into the Mekong Delta. Whether it’s relaxation or adrenaline you’re after from your Vietnam holiday ideas, this trip has you covered.   Ultimate Vietnam – 17 days Got the time for a serious adventure? Picture yourself exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam, from the impressive north to the vibrant south. Imagine meeting the hill tribes up in the Tonkinese Alps, cruising through the picturesque waters of Halong Bay , and discovering the historic gems of Hue and Hoi An . Feel the exciting pulse of Hanoi and Saigon, and spend some time with your feet up on a serene beach. This ultimate journey offers a blend of culture, adventure and downtime, giving you an in-depth flavour of real Vietnam.   Express Vietnam – 9 days Get set for a whirlwind 9-day escapade through Vietnam , all led by your very own private guide. Plunge headfirst into Hanoi’s bustling streets, basking in the vibrancy for two nights, before sailing through Halong Bay. Next, spend two nights absorbing Hoi An’s ancient charm. Then, buckle up for two nights in the pulsating heart of Saigon. This speedy Vietnam holiday idea hits the key highlights and, if you’re short on time, it’s a great option for your first visit to the country. We guarantee you won’t want it to be your last! Luxury Vietnam and Cambodia – 15 days If you’re after an adventure sprinkled with a little bit of luxury, this is the holiday for you. Taking in the South East Asian gems of Vietnam and Cambodia, your journey starts at the ancient wonder of Angkor, where romance mingles with history. Indulge yourself with a champagne breakfast before heading to the vibrant streets of Saigon, exploring its hidden gems and savoring the tantalizing flavors of Vietnamese street food on a vintage Vespa. Your opulent adventure ends at the Six Senses Resort on Con Dao Island , where paradise awaits with six blissful nights of secluded serenity, perfect for honeymooners or anyone after a touch of romance!     Remember, every single holiday we design is unique to you. And we love every second of creating every one. If these Vietnam holiday ideas have inspired and you think Vietnam might be the right spot for your next big adventure (or any of our other destinations), give us a call on 01242 253 073 to chat to our friendly experts. We’re here to help.  

By a long way, our favourite part of our job is hearing all about your holidays and experiences when you get home. When we design your holidays, we’re truly invested in designing the very best tailormade adventure for you. We want to tick all of your boxes, have you experiencing moments you’ll never forget and sights you may never have uncovered without our help. So, receiving feedback and photos like this really is the cherry on the cake of it all. A huge thank you to Chelsea and James for sharing their Sri Lanka holiday adventure with us. We’re so pleased you had such a brilliant time. And we can’t blame you for wanting to return – it’s a country that will never be knocked off our holiday wishlist (regardless of how many times we make it there!)     Chelsea and James’ Sri Lanka holiday review   “ Ayubowan ” – is how you say “Hello” in Sri Lanka. Usually myself and my husband have a rule where we never visit the same destination twice… Sri Lanka is now an exception. At the end of November 2023, we left the UK and flew into Columbo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. We had no idea what to expect and we were looking for a place that we would never forget… and we got just that! The people, the heat, the landscapes, the culture, the food this place has it all! I didn’t eat meat for almost 2 weeks – not because I didn’t want to, just because the fruit and the vegetables, the dhal curries, the recipes they have, and the colours and flavours are so different to what we have at home. This, along with many reasons, is why we didn’t want to leave. Rebecca from Holiday Architects was incredible. She knew exactly what we were looking for out of a trip, and excelled in all areas. We were able to do a variety of activities from strolling around the beautiful old city of Galle, seeing the stilt fishermen work, moving on to the amazing safari in Yala National Park and managing to see an array of wildlife including elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, monkeys and more!! Taking tuk-tuk rides to rice paddies and eating home made dhal curries with our fingers from a lilly pad will be a day I’ll never forget. And of course, tasting the Sri Lankan delicacy of Buffalo curd! The Turtle Hatchery was an amazing experience to witness and be a part of and learn about. We also had some creative, and perhaps unusual requests for Rebecca during the planning process – but she ticked every box…  pottery classes and mask painting were on our wish list and we were not disappointed! This country is truly unbelievable and even though we only travelled half of it we need to go back to do the other half! Rebecca clearly knows her locations, activities as well as hotels extremely well. Everything she designed matched our brief entirely and made it completely bespoke to us. None of this would have been possible without her planning and going above and beyond to make this trip so memorable. Sri Lanka truly has a place in our hearts.”   Chelsea and James, HA Sri Lanka clients, November 2023     A big thank you to Chelsea and James for sharing this lovely review of their Sri Lanka holiday and the brilliant photos to match. We’re so pleased you had such a wonderful time! (And that you fell as in love with the country as we have!) If you’d like our Rebecca to design you a Sri Lanka holiday that’s as perfect for you as this one was for Chelsea and James, you know what to do. Give us a call on 01242 253 073 or get a quick quote, to start you holiday planning now. Whether you want to spend your time mask painting or beach lounging, Rebecca (or our other brilliant Sri Lanka specialist, Lisa) can help.        

Dawn, one of our fabulous Latin America specialists here at HA, is just home from her latest adventure around the country. And to say she is buzzing with tales of her Andean adventures is an understatement. Read on for a few of her travel tales…      I went on an unforgettable journey back to my beloved Peru! It’s a country that never ceases to amaze me with its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted people. I think I did Peru in a completely different way than I’ve ever done Peru before. I got into the bones of the country this time and took the path less followed, less travelled. It wasn’t about doing things the way they’re normally done. This time, it was about connecting with the local people, local tribes, and finding the Inca ruins that weren’t as famous. But of course, not forgetting those famous ones too! Because, wow, Machu Picchu is truly breathtaking. From Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, to the Amazon and Lake Titicaca, read on for all of the highlights of my 3-weeks in Peru.     Lima My adventure began in the vibrant capital city of Lima. From the moment I landed, the city’s dynamic atmosphere charmed me. I wandered around the artsy district of Barranco, explored the fancy Miraflores (of course sampling some of its fantastic gourmet restaurants) and took in the sunset with a walk along the Malecon. I stayed at a wonderful, small boutique property, Fausto. The staff there were just beyond wonderful.  The Manager asked me if I’d like to visit the local market on my first morning – so I jumped at the chance!  We went for a wander and ended up talking to everybody on the stalls about the different herbs and vegetables and where they were from. I had a slight cold from the flight, and one seller bundled me up a selection of herbs that worked wonders! If you think Lima is just a quick stopover, think again – you could easily spend three days here and not see it all.     The Sacred Valley of the Incas After soaking up the sights and sounds of Lima, I took a short flight to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. The altitude in Cusco is a challenge, so I quickly headed down into the Sacred Valley to acclimatise. The ancient valley is a realm of awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant local communities, and preserved Incan ruins. My stay with the Huilloc community, perched high in the Andes at 3,500 meters above sea level, was a real highlight of my entire trip. You can only reach the village by private car (and a special invitation!), so it was such an honour to visit. This village and its wonderful people in their colourful dress offered an authentic glimpse into traditional Andean life. These authentic moments of magic are what make travel so special. I learned all about their traditions, shared food with them, and even tried my hand at weaving! I’ll never forget it. What’s more, when you visit you’ll see first hand the difference you’re making. Your visit directly helps fund the building of a school for the local children – that was the cherry on the cake for me. I can’t wait to go back again and see it finished!       Machu Picchu Of course, no visit to Peru would be complete without a trip to the incredible Machu Picchu . Hopping on the train and taking in the views as it meandered through the lush mountains, sent my excitement into overdrive. I hiked the Inca Trail last time (beyond special if you’re up to it!), but the train journey was a real treat, with the views getting better around every corner. I struck gold with my guide, Percy, he was brilliant. In his younger days he used to be a porter on the Inca Trail, so he was able to expertly navigate us to the quietest viewpoints away from the crowds and was full of stories and insider knowledge. It was so special soaking it all up away from the hustle and bustle. Words simply can’t capture the magic of Machu Picchu – I’ll let my photos do the talking here! In short, it may be a top tourist highlight, but there are ways to experience this wonder that get you away from the madding crowds. Plus, if hiking isn’t for you, don’t be put off. The train ride is just as beautiful! Do reach out to chat to me more about it if Machu Picchu is on your bucket list. I’ll try my best to get you the legend that is Percy if I can!     Cusco Returning to Cusco (via one of the most lively train journeys of my life!), I spent a few days indulging in its culinary delights, cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and historic monuments. Each corner of this city holds a story, from its grand cathedrals to the bustling markets. I love it. I spent a brilliant afternoon just outside of Cusco at the family-run Sulca Textile Farm. Surrounded by incredible views, I got to learn all about the Incan tradition of weaving, watching the process from start to finish. And the best bit? The farm is packed full of llamas you can feed! There’s a wonderful museum and shop, too. It would make a brilliant addition to a Peru family holiday, kids would love it. I was also lucky enough to visit the ancient site of Sacsayhuamán, just outside the city. Machu Picchu gets all the press, but this is another incredible example of Incan architecture and engineering. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, the sacred structures have become an integral part of the landscape around them. Visiting its massive stone walls and breathtaking panoramic views is a must if you’re a history enthusiast!       The Amazon My next adventure took me deep into the Amazon basin . A short flight transported me to a world of lush rainforests, exotic wildlife and serious heat! It was hot hot hot, but just breathtaking. The temperature shift was unbelievable, but with bug spray and sunscreen in hand, I set off on an unforgettable few days. Here, nature reigns supreme. When I arrived at the lodge, I was greeted by a troop of monkeys swinging through the trees, and it didn’t end there! An Amazon highlight for me was when I was at the top of the canopy viewpoint, Scarlet Macaws flying ahead as I watched the magical sunset sink lower in the sky. Then, the massive Amazonian moon rose at the same time – I was one big pile of goosebumps. That moment sparked something phenomenal in me. The next morning, I was lucky enough to watch as the Amazonian sun lit up the clay cliff and before I knew it – it was breakfast time. Suddenly, the air was filled with the sounds of colourful birds swooping down to feed. Parakeets, parrots, and brilliant macaws perched and preened on the cliffs. The vibrant colours and lively calls were amazing. Seeing them gather and feast on the clay was a unique experience. Top Tip: If you’re heading to the Amazon (and I highly recommend it!), make sure you factor in enough time to take things slowly. With the heat and the humidity, having time to relax in a hammock between all of the wildlife wandering is a must!       Lake Titicaca Back in Cusco, I boarded the luxurious Andean Explorer train for an 11-hour journey through some of the most stunning scenery I’ve ever witnessed. I took this journey a few years ago, but this time I made sure I soaked up every moment as it wound through the ever-changing landscapes of the Andean Plains. The colours and contrasts were truly captivating. At times it looked a bit like we were flying through the moon, and then at times it was so sparse and barren. Then the next moment you’re passing big packs of llamas grazing. This was real Peru. This scenic ride brought me to Puno and the serene Lake Titicaca, the highest navigational lake in the world, and so so beautiful. When I got to Lake Tititcaca, I stayed at a lodge called ‘’Titilaka’’ located on the south-eastern shore of Lake Titicaca on a tranquil private peninsula shared only with the local Aymara community. Surrounded on three sides by the pristine lake and with four acres of grounds, a perfect base to explore this undiscovered corner of the earth. The lodge had these incredible panoramic windows looking out over Lake Titicaca. It was dark when I arrived, but the next morning I set my alarm for 5.30am to watch the sun rise. It was pinch-myself incredible. I sat in glorious peace and watched the sun rising over the water, and just llamas, birds, the sun, the colours for company. It was fabulous. One of the main draws of going to visit this part of Peru, is to meet some of the local tribes that live on these floating islands. Some of the options can get a little touristy these days, and again, I wanted to do something a little bit different. So, I took off to visit some homestays on the islands. I spent so much time sitting and talking with these tribes, people from Tequil and Uros, all about what they do for a living and how they spend their days. I got to meet their children and share lunch at their home. This was so special, it felt like I was part of the family for a day. I was seeing the real, authentic Peru. There were a couple of absolutely beautiful spots, hosted by the most special people. I’m adding them to my Peru holiday itineraries from now on for sure!       Colca Canyon From Puno, a 6-hour land transfer through the majestic Andes found me perched at the edge of the massive Colca Canyon , the second-deepest canyon in the world. I’ve been lucky enough to visit this incredible part of the world before, but this time I did it a little differently. This time, I glamped! Picture me, camping (very comfortably) under the stars at the edge of the magnificent Colca Canyon. There was a smoking volcano to one side and snow-capped mountains on the other. Peruvian wildlife is everywhere, with horses and llamas dotted around the landscape. I’ll never forget waking up to the birdsong, I felt so grounded and in tune with the Earth. I was lucky enough to have another incredible guide here: Mauricio (a.k.a. Condor Man). He found us a secret spot away from any crowds to sit and watch so many majestic condors in flight. His knowledge was phenomenal, he knew how the birds would move on the thermals, so he told us exactly where to look, stand, and even pose for photos with them. Their wingspans are immense – putting away my camera and quietly watching them soar through the canyon was a humbling experience.       Arequipa My final destination was the White City of Arequipa . This city, with its beautiful colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, was the perfect conclusion to my Peruvian adventure. Again, my guide was top-notch. I wasn’t being shown around the way everybody else was. First, we sat down together, had a coffee, and watched the world go by whilst he told me about the history of the city, little snippets about the culture and all about the different kinds of architecture that can be seen around the streets. Then we explored. Arequipa is his home, and with every single word he said you could tell how passionate he was about his city, his country and his job. He also had a wicked sense of humour, which anyone who knows me, will know went down well!       Phew! What a trip. I didn’t want to leave and I’m already dreaming of my next visit to this incredible country. If you think Peru might be for you, do get in touch on 01242 253 073 , or email me at [email protected] I’m still on such a high from the trip, and having an excuse to share my stories with you ear to ear would make my day!    

HA have scooped 3 WINS and one second-place award at this year’s Best Workplaces in Travel Awards!    Monday evening was a brilliant one for Team HA. Andy and Rachel headed to London for this year’s Best Workplaces in Travel Awards – and to say they walked away chirpy would be an understatement! We scooped not one, not two, but THREE first-place wins at the awards, and a second place as the cherry on the cake.   Award for Wellbeing: WINNERS Award for Performance Recognition: WINNERS Award for Equitability: WINNERS Best Small Company: 2nd Place   “It was a huge and very pleasant shock to walk away with three awards and a second place at the BWIT Awards last night. A big thank you to BWIT, all the sponsors and the hosts for such a wonderful evening. We spend a really significant amount of time at HA thinking about our work culture and environment, a process that involves everyone contributing and engaging with what we’re trying to achieve. You hope to get things right most of the time and to know when you’ve got it wrong, but it’s only surveys like this that give us the definitive answer, and I couldn’t be more proud of the effort from everyone at HA to create such an amazing environment. I’m especially proud that our employee net promoter score was 100%: knowing everyone here would recommend working at HA to their friends and family is an amazing feeling.” Andy Hunt, HA Founder       What are the Best Workplaces in Travel Awards? The #BWIT Awards were launched to celebrate the importance of attracting, engaging and retaining talent in the travel industry. They recognise that employee advocacy has never been more business-critical. So, they launched an employee engagement survey to allow travel companies to ask their teams (confidentially) how they honestly feel about their work and what is most important to them. The anonymous responses to that survey are what these awards are based on. And that’s why we couldn’t be prouder of these results.     Some lovely anonymous words from the survey “I’m so proud to work for HA. The balance of trust to get on with your own role, the freedom to take ownership of it and the overwhelming sense of teamwork that’s weaved throughout it all is second to none.”   “It’s an amazing place to work – we have so much fun together as a team that I feel isn’t something you can necessarily create. A lot of thought is put into the hiring process and it shows in the team we’ve created.”   “It is an open and honest place to work, with like-minded adults all striving for the same goals.”     A few more highlights…               A big thank you to the Best Workplace in Travel Awards team and a huge pat on the back to Team HA – for proving, as ever, that teamwork and our genuine love for HA and what we do really is a little bit special!  

“This was the best trip we’ve undertaken.” When we receive photos and a review from clients that so perfectly encapsulate why we believe a country is so special, we can’t not share them! A big thank you to Rob and Audrey, who have done just that with these top-notch photos and their stellar review of beautiful Jordan. The highlights: Jordan is safe and Jordan is seriously special.   “We’ve been lucky and have undertaken a number of organised/escorted trips to different countries through reputable agents such as Kuoni, but this trip to Jordan booked and organised through holiday architects was the best we have ever undertaken. We were away for 10 days and the itinerary was just perfect with a balance of touring days visiting some amazing sites and days spent chilling in some lovely hotels. The local agents, UTA, were absolutely spot on. We were met at the gangway of the aeroplane and escorted through border control with our visas pre prepared and handed over to an excellent driver, Moayyed, who stayed with us throughout the trip. His personal knowledge and recommendations were great. We can’t believe Jordan hasn’t been on our radar before now. What a country! You can probably travel extreme north to south in 5 hours and the change in scenery is amazing from lush green to deserts and wadis. There is a huge range of historical sites other than Petra to visit with some of the most preserved ruins we’ve seen. I’d recommend taking two days to explore Petra to ensure everything can be covered at a reasonable pace. Due to the Palestinian situation, Jordans tourism is 70% down at our time of travel and the country is suffering with people losing their jobs. “I don’t recall ever feeling safer on holiday.” At no point did we feel unsafe, threatened or wish we hadn’t made the trip. In fact, I don’t recall ever feeling safer on holiday. UTA also provided a mobile for us to keep throughout our stay so we could contact our driver whenever we needed. Jordan is amazing, the food is great and the people warm and welcoming. In Amman, people randomly thanked us for visiting their country and wished us a good trip. We visited Amman , Umm Qais, Ajloun, Jerash , Karak, Aqaba , Wadi rum, Petra and spent our final day/night at the Dead Sea (45 mins from the airport) All this just 5 hours flight from the UK. We were very sad to leave and come home.”   Rob and Audrey, HA Jordan clients, March 2024         Haven’t they captured the country wonderfully? Jordan is a spot in the world that too often gets overlooked – and as you can see – it deserves better! Our HA Jordan experts have spent so much time in the country, uncovering authentic experiences, seeking out the best viewpoints and sharpening up their knowledge to pass on to you. So, call us on 01242 253 073 or get a quick quote , to start planning your very own journey to Jordan today.          

What’s your role at Holiday Architects? I’m the General Manager here at HA.   Why do you love travel? I grew up in Oman and my earliest memories tend to involve travel in some form or other – whether that was exploring the mountains and coast of Oman with my family, or the slightly more prosaic rigmarole of flying to and from the UK for school, which I still loved doing. I’m old enough to remember air travel having a whiff of allure about it, or it may just be selective memory, but I do remember peeking out of the window as we were coming into land at Muscat, catching a glimpse of a huge pod of whales swimming in the Indian Ocean. Things all came back down to earth with a bump when my family moved back to the UK after 25 years. It felt a bit soon to be retiring from travel and – lovely as the UK is – I felt that there was quite a bit more of the world to be seen.   How did you come to work in travel? I studied languages at university (Spanish and Arabic, but please don’t test me!) and loved my time in Granada and Cairo as part of my course. After university I found myself interpreting for the army in post-invasion Iraq, which doesn’t really count as “travel” but was still a pretty good encapsulation of it – plenty of excitement, lots of encounters with interesting people and some memories that you just couldn’t get anywhere else. My years in Oman and speaking Arabic has meant that a lot of my travel career has centred on the Middle East and North Africa – I love Morocco and Egypt especially. I’ve been working in travel in some shape or other since 2004 though and have managed to scratch off a few other countries on the map. Namibia was a standout for me because I am a sucker for a good landscape.         What do you love doing when you’re not keeping things running smoothly at Holiday Architects? When I’m not at work, it feels like I spend most of my time trying to wrangle my kids into their school uniform or pyjamas – depending on the time of day – or walking the dog. I have an OS map of my local area and am trying to walk all of the footpaths and bridleways on it – it turns out there are a lot! I also spend far too much time reading recipes and not enough time cooking them which is a source of constant regret because I love food.   We’re big foodies here at HA. What would be your dream three-course dinner? Short answer is that I will eat anything that doesn’t include beetroot or sardines. Long answer? I’d go for a starter of mixed Lebanese mezzes and salads, then for main I’d take a Bengali Gosht curry with limitless naan and paratha. If I’m still conscious, I’d finish with a rum baba. How’s that for fusion?   What’s your karaoke tune? ‘Mr Jones’ by Counting Crows, but I need a hand with the high notes in the chorus.         Tell us more about Namibia…   What makes it special? As mentioned above, I am going to represent team Namibia. I’m one of those weird people that actually enjoys being behind the wheel (!) and with the amazing scenery there it feels just like you’re driving around in a 4K slo-mo shot from Planet Earth. It’s pretty immersive! The lodges are in some stunning locations too, and there’s a great variety of things to do; you’ve got your traditional African safari elements, as well as some fantastic hiking, stargazing in Dark Sky reserves, kayaking with seals…  and just a wonderful sense of how big the world can feel.   What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? I was staying at Desert Rhino Camp and had enjoyed a wonderful day getting close up with the critically-endangered black rhino (not too close though – they are massive). Relaxing back at the camp with a cup of tea, I could hear an approaching crescendo of rustling, twig-snaps and snorts as a herd of elephants announced themselves, swaying out of the bush in front of me and filing right past my chair. I did say that Namibia was immersive!   Where’s your favourite place to visit in Namibia? It’s not exactly a hidden treasure as almost every visitor to Namibia will go there, but for me it’s the dunes at Sossusvlei. I love photography, and it’s one of those places where time loses all meaning and I can find myself snapping away for hours. The way the dunes change their colour and tone over the course of a day is magical – everyone who visits will take pretty much the same shot of a withered tree at Deadvlei (you know the one I mean), but I’m still very proud of my effort!   Tell us something most people don’t know about Namibia Namibia is the second-least densely populated country in the world (behind Mongolia) and most of the tiny population lives in the very northern border area, where tourists rarely visit. Basically, if you’re someone who appreciates a bit of solitude and identifies with Jean-Paul Sartre’s famous quote about “other people”, it’s perfect.     Harry’s adventures