Travel blog

We knew HA turning 15 was going to be a big celebration, but none of us were quite prepared for what Andy had in store... He kept it a secret for months, never letting any details slip, until finally the day was here. Introducing: 'HA Race Across the Cotswolds...' A snippet of Andy's speech But first, we couldn't resist sharing this behind-the-scenes snippet from Andy's speech at our 15th birthday evening. It perfectly sums up the magic of the culture we have here at HA. And exactly why we're all so proud to be a part of it. Here at HA, we're always talking about the importance of people and connection. It really is at the heart of everything we do, and we believe the success of HA is in no small part down to the close-knit team and amazing culture we all work to protect and build on every day. A birthday celebration to remember When it came to planning our 15th birthday party, we knew one thing for sure: it had to feel like us. And Andy pulled this off perfectly. This wasn't just a party. It wasn't just your standard 'team day'. It was a day that really captured the spirit of HA... adventurous, a bit unpredictable, full of laughter, and rooted in connection, fun and the brilliant journey we’ve all shared. And so, on a (mercifully sunny) morning in Cheltenham, the HA15 celebrations began... Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => This is genuinely the best team day idea I've ever heard of. [name] => [location] => [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ This is genuinely the best team day idea I've ever heard of. ” Team HA 'Race Across the Cotswolds' On our birthday morning, we all met at our Cheltenham office bright-eyed, bushy-tailed and ready to find out what adventure was in store. Before long, we were split into five groups and Andy's secret plan was finally revealed... Introducing Team HA's 'Race Across the Cotswolds' Each team had a “Friend of HA” along for the ride (to check there was no cheating taking place), someone who has been a big part of our story in one way or another: Damien, our original co-founder Byron, who shared his office space with us during the Covid years Sophie, one of the HA originals Nick, who’s been cheering us on from day one Chad, our ever-wise and ever-patient chairman Outside the office, five mysterious minibuses were waiting. Our phones and wallets were handed over to each team’s “Architect’s Assistant", the blindfolds went on, and with no idea where we were headed, off we drove into the Cotswolds. Roughly 30-40 minutes later, we were dropped in the middle of a random destination, with a bit of cash and a list of brilliantly bizarre challenges. Our mission was to firstly, figure out where on Earth we were, and second, to make our way back to a pub in Cheltenham by 4pm... whilst, of course, tackling a list of challenges along the way. What were the challenges? The challenges set by Andy were as brilliantly quirky as the day itself... 🐶 Walk a stranger’s dog 👕 Swap an item of clothing with a stranger 🥪 Have a picnic in a field (no buildings in sight) 🧸 Buy a gift that Andy would enjoy "immensely". 🚍 Ride at least two kinds of public transport 🍺 Have a drink in a country pub 🐑 Take a photo with a sheep 🎶 Film a stranger singing Happy Birthday to HA 📸 Get a photo outside each of HA’s 5 past office locations (and associated locals – of course.) It was a day that was part scavenger hunt, part team-building and part improvised comedy. We made friends with locals. We got lost. We found ourselves again (eventually). And we laughed, an awful lot. Then, the celebrations continued After meeting back at the pub and going through the crucial scores and winners, it was time for the, slightly more civilised, evening events to kick off. We all got our gladrags on, headed out to one of the loveliest restaurants in Cheltenham, listened to Andy's brilliant speech and had the most delicious dinner (musical-chairs-style, making sure we all got to spend some time with eachother during the night.) What a day to remember. Join the adventure through photos Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [title] => one mysterious minibus [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-40-32.jpg [width] => 1200 [height] => 1600 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-40-32.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => One of the mysterious minibuses ) [1] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Blindfolded [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-09-44-13.jpg [width] => 2016 [height] => 1134 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-09-44-13.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Blindfolded enroute to who knows where!? ) [2] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Photo of a sheep [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-11-49-43.jpg [width] => 1600 [height] => 1200 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-11-49-43.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Take a 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powerlines in sight) [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-11-27-54.jpg [width] => 1600 [height] => 900 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-11-27-54.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Have a picnic with no buildings or power lines in sight. ) [10] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Find a wheelbarrow [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-52-57.jpg [width] => 2048 [height] => 1536 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-52-57.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Find a wheelbarrow ) [11] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Tree climbing [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-48-47.jpg [width] => 1536 [height] => 2048 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-48-47.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Two of your team up a tree ) [12] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Major supermarket [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-48-47-2.jpg [width] => 1536 [height] => 2048 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-48-47-2.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Photo at a major supermarket ) [13] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Church [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-42-50.jpg [width] => 1536 [height] => 2048 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-42-50.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Photo at a very old church ) [14] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Wheelbarrow [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-38-59.jpg [width] => 1536 [height] => 2048 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-38-59.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [image_focus] => top [caption] => Find a wheelbarrow ) [15] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Tree climbing [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-31-09.jpg [width] => 1600 [height] => 1200 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-31-09.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Two of your team up a tree ) [16] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Walk a strangers' dog [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-25-38.jpg [width] => 1600 [height] => 1200 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-25-38.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Walk a strangers' dog ) [17] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Supermarket photo [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-10-24-56.jpg [width] => 1600 [height] => 1200 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-10-24-56.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Photo at a major supermarket ) [18] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Team hilarity [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => 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images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-11-52-21.jpg [width] => 1600 [height] => 1200 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-11-52-21.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Ride on two forms of public transport ) [22] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Picnic [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-11-55-02.jpg [width] => 1536 [height] => 2048 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-11-55-02.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Have a picnic in the countryside away from buildings and powerlines ) [23] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Have a drink at a country pub [thumb] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/10/02/_spmedia_thumbs/photo-2025-09-18-12-01-05.jpg [width] => 900 [height] => 1600 ) [full] => images/2025/10/02/photo-2025-09-18-12-01-05.jpg [alt] => [item_type] => image [caption] => Have a drink at a country pub ) [24] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Public transport - bus [thumb] => 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"Show More" : "Show Less"; if (anyHidden) { const expandButton = document.getElementById("zen-gallery-expand"); const rect = expandButton.getBoundingClientRect(); const scrollTop = window.pageYOffset || document.documentElement.scrollTop; window.scrollTo({ top: rect.top + scrollTop - 200, behavior: "instant" }); } } }); It was a day of pure joy, hilarity and the best kind of chaos. We laughed, we went on a little trip down history lane, and we celebrated the fact that our amazing little company has turned 15. Fancy being a part of the next 15 years? Get in touch to chat holidays with one of the HA team today, we'd really love to help. Get in touch Holiday ideas we love

To mark our 15th birthday, Andy has shared a personal message looking back on the journey so far. There have been highs, there have been challenges, but above all, there have been plenty of adventures and incredible people shaping them. Below, you’ll also find a timeline graphic and a year-by-year snapshot of how HA has grown.  

The Galle Literary Festival is an event that takes place around the same time every year and is must if you love nothing more than losing yourself in the pages of a good book. What’s more, it takes place in beautiful Sri Lanka! Set within the ancient colonial walls of Galle’s Dutch Fort, the festival is packed full of talks and discussions led by world-renowned authors and speakers from the literary world. The setting is as special as the talks themselves, plus, over recent years the festival has expanded to feature cookery exhibitions, live music performances, stand-up comedy and even art trails around the city. So, there’s plenty for everyone!   When is the Galle Literary Festival 2026? Mark your calendars for January 22nd to 25th, 2026. Over these days, the colonial city of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka transforms into a real haven for bookworms. You might be a keen literary enthusiast or perhaps you just love nothing more than immersing yourself in local events when you travel – either way, this celebration of culture and creativity is one for your diary. It’s come a long way since the first-ever festival back in 2005, with 2026 marking the 13th year of the festival put on by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and every year it gets bigger and better. The lineup of authors and speakers for 2026 is looking to be a good one! If you’ve got your heart set on an early 2026 Sri Lanka holiday though, get in touch with our experts soon as the best hotels will be snapped up quickly.    A note from Rebecca, HA Sri Lanka expert “If you can time your visit to Sri Lanka to coincide with the Galle Literary Festival, I’d hugely recommend it! Galle always has a lovely buzz about it – it’s one of my favourite spots in Sri Lanka for that reason – but it really comes to life on another level over the festival. Stroll down the cobblestone streets filled with authors, poets and great thinkers from all around the world. Listen to readings, join in discussions, and even share a cup of Sri Lankan tea with your favourite author if you’re lucky! The event gets better every single year and the talks are always brilliant.” Rebecca, HA Sri Lanka expert     If you fancy timing your Sri Lanka holiday to coincide with the Galle Literary Festival 2026, we’re here to help! Our Sri Lanka experts, Rebecca, Lisa and Dawn, are ready and waiting to design a holiday that’s perfect for you. Get in touch today.   What’s the lineup for the Galle Literary Festival 2025? Boasting a status as the ‘author’s favourite’ literary festival, some star appearances in previous years include Sunday Times bestseller, Sathnam Sanhera, British TV presenter and endurance athlete, Louise Minchin and two winners of the International Booker Prize 2024; Jenny Erpenbeck and Michael Hoffman.  The lineup for 2026 will be released here. Here’s a glimpse of more of last year’s lineup for an idea of what to expect. Ravinder Bhogal, Saraid de Silva, Saba Douglas-Hamilton, Jenny Erpenbeck, Afua Hirsch, Michael Hofmann, Sunela Jayewardene, Ramya Jirasinghe, Helen Macdonald, Sharanya Manivannan, Louise Minchin, Greg Mosse, Kate Mosse CBE, Dr Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai, Devdutt Pattanaik, Sashi Perera, Aube Rey Lescure, Dr Adam Rutherford, Razeen Sally, Philippe Sands, Sathnam Sanghera, Shyam Selvadurai.   How to book tickets for the Galle Literary Festival 2025? Tickets will be available to purchase online later this year. As always with an HA holiday though, chat to your expert about it all and we can make the arrangements for you.    Exploring Galle beyond the festivities Without doubt, these festivals are a must if you’re able to time your Sri Lanka holiday for the start of the year. But beyond the festivals, Galle is a real treat of a city to explore. Wander around the ancient streets of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, and don’t miss a stroll along the fort walls as the sun sets – the perfect time of day to get a snap of the iconic lighthouse. There are countless bars, restaurants, coffee shops and quirky art studios to explore in the city itself, and when you’re ready to venture further afield, a short tuk tuk drive away will see you walking on the most beautiful white sand beaches (with plenty of them to choose from!).    Why visit Galle Literary Festival 2026 on your Sri Lanka holiday? Our Sri Lanka experts have spent so much time exploring every corner of Sri Lanka, digging out the best hotels, locations and experiences for you. We love nothing more than seeking out those special touches that give you a real insight into the culture of where you’re visiting – and the Galle Literary Festival does just that.  If you fancy experiencing the Galle Literary Festival, do get in touch early because Galle availability always gets snapped up over this period. We’d recommend a 3-night stay to really make the most of it!      Browse our selection of Sri Lanka holiday itineraries to get an idea of what might be possible, and then give our experts a call to get your adventure plans started today.  

  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  

What’s your role at Holiday Architects? I’m a travel expert designing holidays to beautiful Vietnam , Cambodia and Sri Lanka . (How lucky am I?!)   Why do you love travel? The memories of my first trip when I was just a little girl are still fresh in my mind; travel has always excited me. The buzz of expectation, arriving at the airport, the noise of the aircraft, and the bright duty-free shops (everyone knows I can’t resist a duty-free bargain)! Then the excitement of boarding the aircraft knowing that I’m on my way to either somewhere I’ve been before and knowing how much I love it, or somewhere new wondering what it will be like, experiencing new adventures and culinary delights. Locking those memories away is so special to me. The way I feel when I talk about my travel memories is a bit addictive – there really is nothing like travel to stir my passion.   How did you come to work in travel? When I was growing up I knew I wanted to work, live and breathe travel – there is no better feeling in the world for me than when I am going away somewhere or talking about travel. I studied travel at college and started working behind the scenes in a sales support role, before taking the step into a sales role. I’d already been lucky enough to travel extensively by this time, so felt confident and comfortable to advise clients on where to see and what to experience on their holidays. I love nothing more than matching a client’s wishes to an itinerary, feeling their excitement about the trip, and then hearing all about how much they loved it on their return.   What do you love doing when you’re not designing holidays? I’m not one for sitting still – I adore exercise as well as music, and combining the two is even better. I love walking, running, HIIT sessions and Zumba, all done with music surrounding me. I love animals and have a cat who very much wants all the attention. I would love to fill the house with multiple cats and dogs one day! I also love cooking and once I have some yummy food to feast on, you’ll often find me with the obligatory glass of wine in hand, chatting to friends with my records on.   On that note! We’re big foodies here at HA. What would be your dream three-course dinner? Cheese, cheese and more cheese please! Cheese soufflé to start, followed by a proper Italian style pizza, with Cheese and biscuits to finish. Oh, or would I go lemon tart? That’s a difficult one.   What’s your karaoke tune? Without a doubt ‘Proud Mary’ by Tina Turner, what an absolute belter of a tune! Can’t promise I will belt it out quite the same, but I’ll give it a good go.       Tell us more about Vietnam… What makes it special? It’s hard to pick just one thing. Vietnam is such a diverse country, but the food definitely is one of my favourite things! Everything is so fresh and tasty, and so cheap too!   What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? Without doubt the Saigon by Night: Street Food and Scooter excursion . Zipping through the streets of Saigon on the most amazing and exciting scooter ride. The wind in my hair, witnessing the daily life of locals and sampling different dishes was just exhilarating and the best end to my trip I could have ever hoped for.     Where’s your favourite place to visit in Vietnam? This has to be beautiful Hoi An . From the lantern-lit streets and boats on the river at night to the green and scenic paddy fields, and the beautiful beaches only 7km from the town. For somewhere that’s relatively compact, it offers so many different types of scenery.   Tell us something most people don’t know about Vietnam Vietnam is the world’s largest producer and exporter of culinary black pepper accounting for 60% of the world’s trade and roughly 45% of the EU!       Tell us more about Cambodia… What makes it special? Cambodia has so much to offer, but the one thing that really stands out in my mind is how friendly the people are. Also, I can’t not mention the iconic Angkor complex, which has countless temples to visit not just the iconic and amazing Angkor Wat. They really are jaw-dropping temples, all different to each other too, so make sure you explore further than just Angkor itself!   What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? The beautiful beach at The Royal Sands on Koh Rong Island . Desert Island vibes eat your heart out!   Where’s your favourite place to visit in Cambodia? Has to be Siem Reap – a beautiful leafy green city set on the river. Whilst it is the base for visiting the Angkor Temples, it has much more to offer! It has such a lovely feel to it and is so easy to navigate on foot.   Tell us something most people don’t know about Cambodia Cambodia is known to have a talking gecko! The Tokay gecko, a large green lizard found in Cambodia, is known for its distinctive loud chirp. Locals believe that hearing the gecko chirp seven times in a row is a sign of good luck, even predicting who you might marry! So, keep an ear out when exploring Cambodia’s jungles, you might just get a lucky omen!     Tell us more about Sri Lanka… What makes it special? How can you not fall in love with Sri Lanka ? I love how diverse it is – so much coastline with it being an island, the National Parks and wildlife, the jaw-dropping and breathtaking scenery of the tea country (I have honestly never seen anything like it), the food, the people, palm trees and beautiful greenery everywhere you look. The list is endless!   What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? The most breathtaking train journey I have ever taken from Nuwara Eliya to Haputale. Everyone needs a Sri Lanka tea country train journey on their bucket list. Wow, wow and more wows. It’s hard to put into words just how beautiful it is. I’m even getting goosebumps thinking about it as I type this!   Where’s your favourite place to visit in Sri Lanka? The Tea Country! The scenery really is something else; I don’t think my eyes have ever witnessed anything so beautiful.   Tell us something most people don’t know about Sri Lanka Yala National Park is home to one of the world’s largest populations of leopards. There are more leopards per until of land in Yala than almost anywhere else on Earth!     If you’d like to chat to Lisa or any of the rest of team HA about your next holiday, give us a call on 01242 253 073 ! We’re a team packed full of first-hand knowledge, experiences and stories. We’d love to help.  

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            

What’s your role at Holiday Architects? I design holidays to Morocco , Oman and Lebanon .   Why do you love travel? I couldn’t wait to hit the road once I had finished university – in fact, I went off interrailing on the same day as I handed in my dissertation. Since then my life has revolved around travel, and for me it’s all about an exploration about how other people live and discovering the world’s magnificent scenery at the same time. Learning to understand the diversity of our amazing planet is something that takes a lifetime and I’m here for the job!   How did you find yourself working in travel? After travelling straight out of university back in 2009, I have spent every day since then figuring out a way to travel as much as possible. I spent six years after that living as a travel writer on the road, at first here there and everywhere. I then had longer stints living in Latin America and Canada, before coming back to the UK and Ireland spending a year travelling around to discover my homeland, and spending a further year in Portugal after that. Now I enjoy life living in the Cotswolds and the job at HA allows me to share my passion for travel with clients, and I still spend most weekends travelling closer to home to feed my curiosity to always be discovering!   What do you love doing when you’re not designing holidays? Any opportunity I get to talk about my dog and I’ll take it – Lyra is a Beagle x Collie and has run our household since 2020! She is our lockdown fur baby and comes on holiday with us in our campervan all the time; we’ve taken her to France, Italy and Switzerland, as well as all around the UK. Otherwise in my spare time you’ll find me stomping up hills, avidly reading, and cooking up a storm in my kitchen.   We’re big foodies here at HA. What would be your dream three-course dinner? As one of the office’s chief foodies, this is a difficult one, but I’ve listened to enough episodes of the Off Menu podcast to have really put some thought into this over the years! I would have some sort of incredible pasta to start (complete with a snowdrift of cheese), a Sri Lankan feast from this incredible place in Cheltenham as my main, probably with a non-sensical side of dauphinoise potatoes, and sticky toffee pudding to finish. These all come with dream locations and drink pairings of course so if you want more detail you’ll have to give me a bell and I’ll give you the full version!   What’s your karaoke tune? Don’t Speak by No Doubt       Tell us more about Morocco… What makes it special? There are too many things about Morocco to pick just one thing. I’ve been to the country five times now and discover something new on every return visit! If I really had to say a couple, I would of course say the food – Morocco’s cuisine is absolutely delicious! – and I think the people. They are so warm-hearted and welcoming, I am bowled over at their kindness every time I visit.   What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? It’s got to be staying overnight in the Sahara Desert – nothing beats that feeling of total silence as you watch the sun rise or set over the dunes. We also have a beautiful and very secluded camp too so you’ll get none of the noise or light from nearby, making it feel really special.   Where’s your favourite place to visit in Morocco? Aside from the desert I’d have to say Fez – as vehicles aren’t allowed in the medina it has a very different feel to Marrakesh ; slightly calmer. It’s also the city of handicrafts so I could happily spend days wandering around picking up homewares to take back to the UK with me! The tanneries are something else too – something so Moroccan that you could watch for hours (if only it didn’t smell so bad!!)   Tell us something most people don’t know about Morocco It’s HUGE! Most people don’t realise it takes 10-12 hours to drive from Marrakesh to reach the Sahara , and I feel like maps just don’t convey its scale very well. That just means there is more to love though, and you could spend weeks travelling around to see it all. I would definitely recommend splitting the north and south between two different trips, or setting aside a good three weeks for it.         Tell us more about Oman… What makes it special? For Oman , I think it has to be the scenery and authentic culture. Just south of Muscat there are the Hajar Mountains, which is for sure my favourite part of the country. Think jaw-dropping canyons, traditional mud-walled villages, and the waft of frankincense drifting through souks. This is where you’ll see the real Oman, and it’s totally intoxicating.     What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? I think the livestock market in the mountain town of Nizwa is one of the memories that really sticks out for me. This is a maelstrom of activity, where locals from across the countryside come to trade goats, cows, camels – you name it! It’s a chaotic morning but well worth it as it’s a bit of culture that has remained unchanged for a long time.   Where’s your favourite place to visit in Oman? It’s got to be the Hajar Mountains , a couple of hours south of Muscat. This is home to the Omani Grand Canyon , and some of the very best scenery the country has to offer. I love hiking so this region is heaven for me – nothing beats going for a walk in this sublime scenery, surrounding by vast chasms of rock all around you.       Tell us something most people don’t know about Oman. There isn’t much of a food scene in Oman , unless you love goat and rice (which they do cook very well in fairness!). I know that in itself doesn’t sound very exciting, but it just means that they take inspiration from their neighbours and closeby instead – you get a really delicious mix of Persian, Lebanese, Turkish, and India food here, meaning you won’t be eating the same thing over and over again during your stay!     Tell us more about Lebanon… What makes it special? The best thing about Lebanon is that totally distinct culture – food, history and modern life all combine to make Lebanon an amazing place to travel. It’s been given such a bad rep in the last few decades, and the news has not helped that at all, but travelling there feels so safe and exciting, and the people are just delightful. They are so keen to always show the real Lebanon, and prove there is so much to love.   What’s your favourite memory from your time spent there? Hiking in the Qadisha Valley , where you can witness all these hidden monasteries carved into the cliffs – a remnant of when monks were driven into the hills and had to live here in exile. It’s a really unique part of Lebanese culture, unlike anything I’ve seen anywhere else in the world!   Where’s your favourite place to visit in Lebanon? I think the Roman ruins at Baalbek stunned me the most – I have never seen such incredible history, so quiet and untouched as no one is there! They are some of the best-preserved Roman ruins on the planet, and it’s impossible not to feel humbled by their towering columns.   Tell us something most people don’t know about Lebanon. It’s so small! Lebanon is half the size of Wales, so you only need a couple of weeks to really get under the skin of the country and see the vast majority of it.       Emma and the rest of team HA are always on hand to talk holidays. Have a clear idea of where you fancy? Or not sure and need to chat things through? Give us a call on 01242 253 073 to find out more. We’re here to help!    

What’s your role at Holiday Architects?  I’m a Destination Manager at Holiday Architects, designing holidays to Costa Rica , Peru , Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands .   Why do you love travel? I’m in my happy place when I’m lost in nature. The dawn chorus makes my heart sing, and the Howler Monkey alarm clock always makes me smile. Walking through the rainforests and not knowing what you could see next is pure joy! I love all things nature, adventure, and learning about different cultures, cuisines, and languages. The world is an incredible place, and it’s just waiting to be discovered. Why would you not explore?   What do you love doing when you’re not designing holidays? If I’m not overseas in Central or Latin America, you will usually find me hiking in nature in the Welsh mountains or walking Toby the family Cavachon. I love cooking up a Mexican banquet for family and friends, reading a good book, and watching a drama on TV with lots of twists and turns.   We’re big foodies here at HA. What would be your dream three-course dinner? Easy and simple: fresh fish ceviche to start, pozole for the main, and a large slice of ”Tres Leches Cake”.   What’s your karaoke tune? Tina Turner ‘Simply the best’. It’s like she’s in the room!       Tell us more about Costa Rica… What makes it special? Where do I start?  The nature, the spectacular landscapes, the outdoor adventures, the people… Costa Rica is special. The country has deservedly earned its reputation as one of the world’s best destinations for a wildlife holiday, with an impressive 25% of the country now protected national reserves. Its dense rainforests, rolling cloud forests, lush mangroves, and stunning coastlines are hard to beat. Plus, it’s home to an incredible 5% of the world’s biodiversity, which includes over 800 species of birds, 250 species of mammals, and even a quarter of the world’s recorded butterfly species. The country’s genuine commitment to preserving the environment means you can enjoy an intense wildlife experience safe in the knowledge you’ll be leaving minimal impact. This isn’t somewhere you go to discover ancient ruins or colonial cities; towns and ‘people-made’ things are simply not what Costa Rica is about. You go to completely immerse yourself in the country’s wildlife and volcanic scenery, get a dose of adventure, and then unwind after it all on a jungle-fringed beach. And I can’t get enough.     What’s your favourite memory of your time there? I was so excited to head to the Osa Peninsula for the first time. This is one of only four tropical fiords around the world and is home to a variety of marine life forms, including cetaceans. Two species of dolphin spend their whole life cycles in the Golfo Dulce, so I was hoping I’d get a sighting of those, plus the sea turtles and marine birds who often make an appearance. Little did I know that this day would be forever imprinted in my brain as one of my favourite ever moments in Costa Rica. As we flew across the Golfo Dulce, we were greeted by humpback whales and their calves playing in the millpond-like water. Honestly, I’ll never forget it.     Where’s your favourite spot in the country? Every visit to Costa Rica is enriched for me by popping in to see my friends at the Caribbean Sloth Sanctuary, Selvatura Park – the perfect location to study rescued sloths up close. On you’re visit, you get to observe all the rescued sloths as they roam among the trees and foliage of the sanctuary. Selvatura Park supports education and promotes environmental conservation, as sadly, these beautiful mammals arrived at the sanctuary having been rescued from the effects of poaching, habitat destruction, illness, and accidents, among other reasons that now prevent them from being reintroduced to their natural habitat. Anyone who knows me, will know that sloths are without doubt my favourite animal. I have sloth mugs, teatowels, cushions…. you name it. I challenge you not to fall in love after visiting!   Tell us something people don’t know about Costa Rica… Although best known for its tropical rainforests, miles of sandy beaches, and stunning variety of exotic wildlife, Costa Rica is also a richly cultural country. With many historic and artistic influences, the culture of Costa Rica has been heavily influenced by Spain but has a rich history of its own. One of the world’s oldest democracies, Costa Rica was inhabited largely by Mesoamerican and Andean people until the Spanish colonised it in the 18th century. This blend of native culture and European influence is evident today, from the architecture in San Jose to the art in the capital’s many galleries. Traditional music in Costa Rica was largely shaped by the Mayan cultures of Nicaragua, the country’s neighbour to the north. Deriving further influence from the Afro-Caribbean cultures of the East, Costa Rican music has grown and changed, taking on a unique sound and cultural history.   Tell us more about Peru… What makes it special? Peru is South America at its most iconic : with breath-taking landscapes from the Andes to the Amazon, colourful indigenous markets, colonial cities, vestiges of ancient civilisations and, of course, the mighty Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Despite being a country known for its active pursuits, the majority of Peru’s attractions are remarkably accessible, meaning that travellers of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy the delights on offer here. Machu Picchu, for example, can be reached by a scenic train journey through a pristine mountain valley if trekking the Inca Trail does not appeal, and there are some other superb rail journeys to be enjoyed across the country. Compact colonial cities such as Arequipa and Cusco can be easily explored on foot, and you can marvel at magnificent architecture, the Andean peaks, or simply watch the world go by in elegant pavement cafes. You’ve even got the Amazon, the world’s largest tropical rainforest, ready and waiting to be explored.     What’s a stand-out memory from your time there? This has got to be my visit to the stunningly beautiful Colca Canyon . It was such an early pick-up, and I was rather chilly until we reached the Condor’s Cross, a dramatic lookout point over one of the deepest sections of the vast canyon. The journey was spectacular, but I was not prepared to witness the magnificent condors with wing spans up to three metres flying on the morning thermals. It was a majestic spot and I felt so teeny tiny perched on the edge.     Where’s your favourite place to visit in Peru? Crossing the waters of Lake Titicaca by boat to the unique floating “islands” of the Uros is always a step back in time. The Uros are an ancient culture that lives on these artificial islands built on a base of reeds growing in the lake itself. It’s the perfect place to take in the ancient traditions of the local people and explore Amantani Island. This island is inhabited by Quechua-speaking natives still governed by their ancient traditions, whose main occupation is the production of ceramics and textiles. I hugely recommend factoring in an overnight stay at the house of a local islander to enjoy the hospitality of a typical Amantani home. This really is a treat and such a brilliant opportunity to get a real, authentic taste of what life on Amantani Island is really like.     Tell us more about Ecuador…   What makes it special? I might be biased, but Ecuador really is one of the most enriching travel destinations in the world. Often overlooked by visitors for its more famous neighbours in South America, colourful Ecuador is as diverse as it is fascinating. Similar in size to Germany, it might be relatively tiny by South American standards, but don’t let that fool you. It’s brimming with wonderful sites and contrasts. Pretty colonial towns nestled on the doorstep of astoundingly biodiverse rainforests and dramatic landscapes. It’s also the gateway to another place very close to my heart: The Galapagos Islands! If you’re visiting Ecuador , you simply must spend some time exploring the unique, otherworldly and wildlife-packed islands of the Galapagos.     What’s your favourite memory from your Ecuador adventures? This has got to be my time spent in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Staring in the town of Coca (a fairly uninspiring gateway to the astonishing biodiversity in the Ecuadorian Amazon ) I took a motorised canoe and headed down the magnificent Rio Napo. As we travelled deeper into the Yasuni National Park and Amazon basin, I remember continually reminding myself of how lucky I was to be visiting such a special place. The Ecuadorian Amazon is home to indigenous populations as well as over 300 species of mammals, more than 350 types of reptiles, and over 800 species of fish. Deep within the forest, I witnessed lurking caiman, playful river otters, howler monkeys, and the elusive jaguar, along with a huge array of birds, including toucans, macaws, and tanagers. It was simply spectacular.   Where is your favourite spot in Ecuador? The lesser-known city of Loja is one of Ecuador’s oldest cities and sits within the southern Cuxibamba valley. Loja doesn’t often feature on visitor itineraries, perhaps because the city does not quite match the standards of beauty found in Cuenca to the north. However, sections of Loja are really beautiful and there are plenty of examples of traditional colonial architecture and pretty plazas to explore. I always feel like I have the city to myself, away from the crowds. And we love getting you off-the-beaten-track when you visit a country! What’s more, the region surrounding Loja is renowned for its coffee plantations, so it’s a must for coffee lovers too!     Tell us more about the Galapagos Islands…   Why do you love them so much? I’m with Charles Darwin. His theory of natural selection, along with tales of swooping blue-footed boobies, lumbering giant tortoises and bobbing marine iguanas have all contributed to the Galapagos Islands ’ status as one of the most prized wildlife-watching destinations in the world. Even with sky-high expectations, the first-time visitor to the Galapagos is never a disappointment; it’s almost impossible to anticipate what awaits before experiencing it for yourself, with your own eyes. Located more than 600 miles from the coast of Ecuador, each of the 13 remote volcanic islands has its own unique landscape. Moon-like lava formations, lush highlands, tropical beaches and cactus forests are home to an abundance of often endemic creatures. What’s more, the wildlife here appears to be almost fearless. Simply stand and watch as they inquisitively approach you rather than the other way around. Time spent on the Galapagos Islands will gift you some of the closest animal encounters possible with nature.     Tell us about your stand-out Galapagos memory? Without a doubt, seeing the magnificent giant tortoises in the wild. The highlands of Santa Cruz are one of the best places to see these incredible creatures in the wild. South of Santa Rosa is El Chato Tortoise Reserve, where I was able to see them in their natural habitat for the first time. These virtually catatonic, prehistoric-looking beasts extend their accordion-like necks to feed, it’s such an impressive sight. It was almost surreal, they were so large, peaceful and playful. A memory cherished.     Where is your favourite place to visit in the Galapagos? A must if you are going to these remarkable islands would be a stop at the Charles Darwin Research Station, located in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. In 1964, the scientists used the station as a base for their research on the Galapagos Islands. Their mission has always been to tackle the greatest threats and challenges to the Galapagos through scientific research and conservation action. They’re working to safeguard one of the world’s most important natural treasures. For decades, it has worked on conservation, restoration, and sustainable development projects to ensure that the archipelago is well-managed. A visit here makes you feel a part of this really special place and the work done to protect it. it’s not to be missed.     Dawn and the rest of our travel-loving team are at the end of the phone ready to talk holidays. We love nothing more than chatting to you, listening to what’s important to you, and then designing the perfect tailormade adventure to match. Give us a call on 01242 253 073 or request a quick, free quote to get the ball rolling on your next holiday today. We’ll be so happy to help!      

We love Uganda. For starters, it’s the best place on earth to come face-to-face with an endangered mountain gorilla – a life highlight, just waiting to happen. Picture this, you’re walking through the lush rainforest, the air thick with humidity as every step takes you closer to an encounter you’ll never forget. All of a sudden, your guide tells you to stop and be very quiet. And there, in the clearing just ahead, is a family of mountain gorillas cleaning themselves in the speckled sun as it shines through the trees. Uganda is about more than the gorillas though. Every holiday here promises to be packed full of unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first African adventure, a Uganda holiday is an experience like no other. Chat to Cat, our Uganda specialist here at HA about discovering the magic and beauty of this remarkable country – you won’t be disappointed! Below, she shares some of her favourite national parks in Uganda …     Bwindi Impenetrable National Park   Home to half of the world’s remaining population of endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the must-visit national park for any Uganda holiday. This national park is so famous for its large population of endangered mountain gorillas. Taking off from your beautiful lodge for a guided trek through the forest to find these magnificent creatures is an absolute must here. It can be tough going on the legs, but it’s worth it in the end! Once you’ve finished pinching yourself over your unforgettable gorilla trekking encounter , Bwindi Impenetrable National Park also offers opportunities for unique gorilla habituation experiences, birdwatching, hiking , cultural tours to the nearby Batwa pygmy community and nearby treks through the bamboo forests in search of the exceptionally rare, golden monkeys. A golden monkey hanging out in the bamboo forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park   Kibale National Park   Away from the gorillas, you have so much more wildlife to explore. Head to the beautiful Kibale National Park in the west of Uganda, to trek in search of wild chimpanzees . This national park, a 5-hour drive from Kampala, boasts a population of more than 1,000 of these cheeky primates, so your chances are good! In addition to the chimps, you can also spot warthogs, elephants, adorable big-eyed bush babies and so much more here. Plus, surrounded by volcanic crater lakes, the landscape around Kibale National Park is truly unique and makes a beautiful addition to any Uganda holiday.   Birdwatching in Uganda Kibale National Park is said to be home to more than 400 species of bird, some of which are extremely rare and endemic to Uganda. If you’re a keen birdwatcher, keep an eye out for the Cassin’s spinetail, green-breasted pitta, masked apalis, and blue-headed bee-eater – all birds that haven’t been recorded anywhere else in the country. The Bigodi Swamp in Kibale National Park is the place to head to if birdwatching is top of your agenda. Papyrus Gonolek   The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a community-run project, set up to protect the swamp area and its birdlife from development. Hundreds of birdwatchers have been lucky enough to glimpse sightings of Papyrus Gonoleks and Congo biome birds.   Queen Elizabeth National Park Head to Queen Elizabeth National Park to experience the very best of African wildlife. You’ll take game drives through the spectacular Rift Valley scenery , hop on a boat and cruise along the Kazinga Channel , all the while keeping your eyes peeled for the countless animals around. Afternoon cruises often coincide with the time that families of elephants move down to the river, and you might be lucky enough to spot lions, leopards, hippo and Ugandan kob, too!   Don’t miss a visit to the remote Ishasha sector. This region is the best place to go in search of the famous tree-climbing lions. Plus, being so close to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, combining a visit here with a gorilla-trekking adventure would work brilliantly for your Uganda holiday.       Murchison Falls National Park   If you’ve got the time on your Uganda holiday, we hugely recommend a visit to the Murchison Falls National Park in the northwest of the country. Yes, there will be a few extra transfers to endure, but once there, you’ll be in for a treat. The sight of the powerful River Nile forcing its way through the Rift Valley scenery really is a sight to behold. Take a trip to the top of the falls to get up close and personal with the majestic force of the nile as it crashes its way through the 8-metre gap in the landscape.     Combine this with a tranquil boat trip on the river at the bottom of the falls , and you’ll experience this powerful example of nature from all perspectives – with wildlife viewing opportunities throughout, of course.     lion cub perched on a termite mound in Murchison Falls National Park     Kidepo Valley National Park We love to get you off the beaten track here at HA, and adding Kidepo Valley National Park to your Uganda holiday itinerary would do just that.   Hidden right up in the north-eastern corner of Uganda, Kidepo National Park is as remote as it is beautiful. With semi-arid valleys, distant mountains and open savannahs, it’s the perfect place for a wildlife adventure away from it all. Plus, being so tucked away, this sprawling national park is home to some of the country’s rarest wildlife. On a game drive here, keep an eye out for cheetahs. Kidepo Valley is the only park in Uganda where you can spot these majestic big cats in the wild! It’s not just about the speedy cats though, you can see lions, elephants, buffalo, impalas, hyenas, Rothschild giraffes, Burchell’s zebras and warthogs… and with 475 species of bird too, that’s just the start.       Cat is so wonderfully knowledgeable about Uganda. She’s got the first-hand knowledge and experience needed to design a Uganda holiday that’s absolutely perfect for you. So, whether bird-watching is a top priority, or extra time with the majestic gorillas – she can get that sorted. Give her a call today on 01242 253 073 or request a quick quote now.       Latest Posts 15 of our favourite holiday ideas Summer holiday ideas: Our team share their favourite summer itineraries The hibernation’s over: Canada holidays are back! The most popular destinations for 2025 so far Holiday quiz: Find your perfect holiday