Travel blog

Here at HA, South Africa is the first destination we ever designed holidays to, so it will always have a very special place in our travel-loving hearts! However, although we might be a little biased, the beautiful places in South Africa really do speak for themselves. And, with unmissable highlights such as… ✓ Pinch-yourself wildlife encounters ✓ Some of the best driving roads on earth ✓ Bustling, cosmopolitan cities to explore ✓ World-class wines ✓ Endless photo-worthy landscapes   …it’s impossible not to love it.   This country is oozing beauty at every turn. Don’t believe us? Have a scroll through these most beautiful places in South Africa…   1. The Garden Route South Africa’s Garden Route really is a road trip to add to the wish list. If the idea of getting behind the wheel of your own car, with nothing but the open road and countless breathtaking viewpoints and stop offs ahead of you, you won’t be disappointed here. You could take to the water for a whale watching tour , visit one of the many wildlife sanctuaries , take long sunset strolls along stretches of white sand beaches, or even explore the impressively cavernous Cango Caves . With countless highlights, chat to one of our South Africa specialists about how to make this remarkable stretch of road fit perfectly with your holiday and your interests. Take me there >   2. Bo Kaap, Cape Town Have you ever seen a street more colourful? A visit to Bo Kaap, the rainbow heart of Cape Town, is sure to brighten up your day (and your photo album!) Literally translated, Bo Kaap means ‘above the Cape’ was formerly known as the Malay Quarter and is the oldest residential area in Cape Town. With its vibrantly coloured homes (that are repainted every year!) and cobbled streets, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most photographed areas in Cape Town. Take me there >   3. Knysna Knysna is a beautiful place in South Africa to stop during your time on the Garden Route. Would you just look at how inviting that turquoise water is? Drive to the stunning viewpoint at Knysna Heads and watch the waves crashing below you, book a sunset cruise up the lagoon, unwind on the stunning beaches, visit the orphaned elephants at Knysna Elephant Park or visit the Featherbed Private Nature Reserve. Find out more >   4. Tsitsikamma National Park Walking over the swaying Tsitsikamma suspension bridges at Storms River is a must for a stop off on this part of the Garden Route. Park at the top and make your way down the paved trail towards the iconic bridge where the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Lush green hills cascade down to the jagged coastline, and the hung bridges lead you over the impressive rocks as they’re battered by the powerful impact of the surf. The bridges move quite a lot even on a calm day, so brace yourself! Find out more >   5. Table Mountain Table Mountain is as beautiful as it is iconic. Synonymous with South Africa, this mountain really is a sight to behold. We recommend taking a ride (or a hike if you’re feeling adventurous!) up on a clear day to take in the magic views from the top, and prepare to be spellbound as you follow the paths surrounded by far-reaching 360 degree beauty. As shown in the picture above, Table Mountain is often covered by a thick layer of clouds – called the ‘tablecloth’ by locals – and they wouldn’t do much for the view! But, on a blue-sky day you’ll see all the way out over the city towards Robben Island if you look one way, or down the rocky spine of the Cape Peninsula if you look the other. Keep your eyes peeled for the local dassies whilst you’re exploring, too. These furry critters look a little bit like inflated guinea pigs, but – fun fact – their closest relatives are the African elephant! Take me there >   6. The Winelands South Africa’s stunning Winelands are worth a visit whether you’re partial to a tipple or not. The towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are each full of fantastic foodie-worthy experiences to be enjoyed, whether you choose to take a wine tour with a local legend , hop onto your own two wheels for a cycling tour , or treat yourself to the ultimate Winelands experience: a ride on the Franschhoek wine tram ! What’s more, this delicious destination is easy to reach on a day trip from Cape Town, or makes the perfect stop off on the way to your Big 5 safari! Tell me more >   7. Cape Town Cape Town is undeniably one of the most visually beautiful and culturally varied cities you could hope to visit in our wonderful world. It’s also, quite rightly, the foundation of any South Africa trip! Take the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain , explore the V&A Waterfront , get a flavour for the local cuisine on a food tour , take a cruise around the harbour or pay a visit to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela spent many years incarcerated. There’s so much to do and see here, it’s without doubt a stop you’ll be raving about after to everyone you meet. Take me there >   8. Kruger National Park No ‘most beautiful places in South Africa’ round up would be complete without including the iconic wildlife haven that is Kruger National Park. It is THE place to encounter Africa’s ‘Big 5’, with countless lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino all calling this 19,000 square kilometres of stunning nature, home. The beauty of nature is at play in a big way here and, whether you experience it in ultimate luxury or camp out under the stars , Kruger really is the dream playground for animal lovers. Imagine walking in the footsteps of a pride of lions on a walking safari, pulling up next to a watering hole where an elephant family are taking a drink or driving through the bush as the bright orange African sun slowly sinks beneath the horizon. It’s magic. Take me there >   9. Cape of Good Hope A drive along the Cape Peninsula to the Cape of Good Hope is something we always recommend adding to a stay in Cape Town. Head up to the top of the lighthouse for an unbeatable view of the dramatic, rocky headland jutting out into the blue of the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll feel like you’re at the end of the earth here! The journey here is just as impressive as the destination though, with many stops worth making on the way – Llandudno Beach , the penguins of Boulders Beach and the stunningly beautiful Chapman’s Peak Drive to name a few!) Take me there >   10. Valley of Desolation The Valley of Desolation is a geological phenomenon found in South Africa’s Camdeboo National Park on the Eastern Cape . The impressively sheer cliff face that glows golden in the light of the setting sun along with the sweeping views over the Klein Karoo are well worth the easy walk up to the viewing points. There’s not a huge amount to do here, but if you take some refreshments spending an hour or so taking in the fantastic views would be well worth the trip. Take me there >   11. Pretoria’s Jacaranda lined streets Between late September and the middle of November, more than 70,000 Jacaranda trees cover Pretoria in a sea of purple, making it a city worthy of any ‘most beautiful places in South Africa’ roundup – and your holiday snaps! What’s more, many South African students believe that if a purple petal falls on your head, it’s good luck for those exams! Take me there >   12. Drakensberg Mountains The Drakensberg Mountains span an incredible 700 miles, two countries and five South African provinces and are best enjoyed from the western corner of KwaZulu-Natal where they rise to their imposing best, forming the impenetrable border with Lesotho. The spectacular scenery is best enjoyed on foot, taking in one of the countless hiking trails that wind their way through the rolling hills, jagged mountains and up to iconic landmarks such as the Amphitheatre . Take me there >   13. Chapman’s Peak Drive This road often features on ‘best road trips in the world’ list, and we’re very much behind that decision! Weaving around the jagged coastline between Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula, if you love the feeling of the wide-open road leading you somewhere new, you won’t forget your drive around Chapman’s Peak in a hurry! Take me there >   14. Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town Boulders Beach is a must-stop on any road trip from Cape Town to the Cape Peninsula. Simon’s Town itself is a charming naval town, but its biggest draw for sure is the African Penguin colony which lives on its shores. The beach is home to hundreds of penguins who you can watch going about their daily business – there will be waddling, washing, swimming, playing and potentially mating! It’s a great excursion for all the family! Take me there >   15. Blyde River Canyon Would you look at that landscape? No roundup of the most beautiful places in South Africa would be complete without mentioning the sprawling, lush, mountainous views to be found at Blyde River Canyon. Blyde River Canyon is in the heart of the Mpumalanga province and is the third largest canyon in the world. It’s also the perfect place to enjoy endless stunning scenery, fresh air that’s truly good-for-the-soul and, if hiking is your thing, some truly breathtaking walking trails (just watch out for the baboons!). Take me there >     16. The Wild Coast South Africa’s Wild Coast really is what it says on the tin. A jagged coastline complete with rocky cliff faces, hidden coves, sheltered beaches, beautiful rock formations (like the Hole in the Wall ) and so much beautiful open space to explore. If you’re a fan of hiking , there are some staggering trails that lead you around the cliff edge. Plus, if you like to balance your active adventures with cultural ones, you can pay a visit to the Nelson Mandela Museum in his birth town of Mthatha or visit one of the villages of the Xhosa tribe to learn all about way of life in this remote part of South Africa. Take me there >   17. God’s Window God’s Window found in Mpumalanga on the Panorama Route, will treat you to breathtaking vistas from the edge of a cliff face that drops a dizzying 700 metres to the valley floor below. You’ll see from the edge of the Great Escarpment out across the Kruger National Park to the distant Lebombo Mountains that share a border with Mozambique. We recommend trying to visit on a clear day if you can, to make the most of the far-reaching views and intimidating drop below you. The surrounding area with its waterfalls ( Mac Mac Falls is a must!), river canyons and huge swathes of forest and wildlife make for a great stopover destination if you’re travelling between the Kruger and Johannesburg, and is also a good place to combine with time on safari. Take me there >   18. Bourke’s Luck Potholes This beautiful spot is the perfect place to marvel at the hand of Mother Nature. Found in the Blyde River Canyon area, these natural rock formations have been beautifully carved by the flow of the river and really do look like potholes! Take me there >   So there we have it, 18 of the most beautiful places in South Africa, just waiting for you. Fancy it? Give us a call on 01242 253 073 and have a chat to Cat or Kirsty, our South Africa Specialists (fanatics), who will be delighted to help design your perfect adventure. Alternatively, pop an enquiry in here and they’ll be in touch soon!

  Holidays are a big deal. We save for them, we plan for them, and we count down the days until that flight takes off. Your holiday needs to be special. And we couldn’t be more on board with that. With so many unique destinations to explore around our wonderful world, it can be tough to narrow it down. That’s where we come in. Our destination experts are fit to bursting with holiday ideas to knock your socks off. Below, we share a few of our favourite ideas for your next big holiday. These are purely designed as a starting point to inspire – every holiday we create is as unique as you are. Whichever holiday destination you choose, your expert will design, tinker and tweak your holiday itinerary until it ticks all of those ‘dream holiday boxes’ of yours (and often some you didn’t even know you had.)     15 of our favourite holiday ideas     1. Elephants, tea hills, beaches and top-notch food in Sri Lanka  If you’re looking for a holiday idea that encompasses a bit of everything, Sri Lanka should go right to the top of your holiday ideas list. It’s got the vibrant culture, the friendly people, the ancient UNESCO sites, the deserted beaches, the endless tea hills, all of the elephants, and some of the best food we’ve ever tasted. (And if you know anything about us here at HA, you’ll know that food is a big deal. We take it seriously.) On the subject of food, if you’re planning a Sri Lanka holiday around February, don’t miss the Galle Literary Festival – which often coincides perfectly with the annual Gourmet Food Festival, also in Galle. If the elephants weren’t enough to clinch it, surely a food-focused festival will be? Our Sri Lanka experts, Rebecca, Lisa and Dawn, would love to put together the Sri Lanka holiday of a lifetime for you. Just give us a call and you’ll be put through, prepare for all of the travel tales (and food recommendations!) Our favourite Sri Lanka holiday ideas Sri Lanka and the Maldives – 14 days Ultimate Sri Lanka – 21 days       2. Mountain drives and moose tracks in Canada Canada is the kind of place you could visit over and over again – and still only scratch the surface. Cruise along the Icefields Parkway, with glaciers on one side and turquoise lakes on the other. Go bear spotting in the forests of British Columbia or follow a guide through the wilds of Yukon, keeping your eyes peeled for wolves, elk and eagles. Take it slow with a lobster roll by the sea in Nova Scotia, or take the train ride of your life through the Rockies. It’s vast, it’s varied, and it’s all about the outdoors. Our Canada expert, Paul, has explored it all – from tiny fishing villages to epic mountain lodges – and he’ll help you put together a trip that fits just right. Whether it’s a summer road trip, a wildlife adventure or a rail journey through the snow, Canada’s always a good idea. Canada holidays we love Ultimate British Colombia – 15 days Canadian Icons – 14 days       3. Celebrate our world and all things Pura Vida in Costa Rica As the years tick by, we’re all becoming more aware of our environment and how important it is to look after it. Especially in the travel industry, we’re dedicated to protecting it, respecting it, and honouring it. As well as enjoying it to the full, of course! (Check out our carbon offsetting info to see how we’re doing to make sure we make a positive difference with our trips). We travel because we share a love for our world – so it’s beyond important to look after it. One country that’s leading the charge on this, has always been Costa Rica. One of the country’s most impressive feats is reversing years of deforestation, successfully increasing their forest cover from 15% in 1960, to around an incredible 53% today. They’re ahead of the curve when it comes to sustainable energy, too, with more than 98% of their electricity generated from renewable sources. With all this considered, it’s no wonder that 5% of the entire world’s biodiversity decides to call it home, is it? If eco-conscious travel, getting amongst nature, and staying in some seriously special environmentally-conscious lodges is on your wishlist for your next holiday – a Pura Vida adventure in Costa Rica might just be just the gold (green) ticket. Our favourite Costa Rica holiday ideas Go Local in Costa Rica – 15 days Simply Costa Rica – 13 days       4. Wildlife, wine and road-tripping in South Africa We’d argue that it’s always a good time to visit the Rainbow Nation. If you’ve always fancied a South Africa holiday , or if an African safari has been lingering on your wish-list for a little too long – why not make this the year you finally go for it? Whether you’re travelling with a family, are after a bit of luxury, or simply want a once-in-a-lifetime holiday packed full of so much variety you don’t know what to do with it – you should consider a South Africa holiday. It’s a big country to plan a trip around, with so many different experiences and options available. But that’s where our experts come in! They’ve spent so much time exploring the country, from sampling the restaurants in Cape Town and hanging with the penguins on Boulders’ Beach, to sipping on different wines in the Winelands (tough job but someone’s got to do it) and visiting countless safari lodges to find the best ones suited to your needs. A South Africa holiday completely tailored to you is just a natter away, we’d really love to help.  For some inspiration, here are a couple of our favourite South Africa holiday ideas South African Grand Tour – 21 days Unexplored South Africa – 14 days       5. Spice trails and sacred rivers in India India is impossible to sum up – and that’s half the fun. No two trips are the same, and no two days are either. You could be spotting tigers in the jungles of Madhya Pradesh one day and gliding down the backwaters of Kerala the next. Watch the sunrise over the Ganges in Varanasi, where daily rituals unfold like clockwork. Hop between palaces and markets in Rajasthan, weaving through colour-drenched streets and golden forts. Walk with a naturalist through the tea plantations of Darjeeling, or feast your way through the spice-scented lanes of Chennai. It’s vast, it’s vivid and it’s packed with real-deal experiences. Whether you’re after a spiritual adventure, a family escape or a foodie feast, our Clare is the perfect person to help you piece together the version of India that’s just right for you.   India holiday ideas we love Taj & Tigers – 10 days Treasures of the North – 14 days       6. A Lawrence of Arabia adventure through Jordan We’ve spoken to a few clients who have concerns about visiting Jordan with everything going on in the world. We completely understand the worries, but we’re here to reassure you – there’s no reason to sideline a Jordan holiday. Obviously, a certain level of caution is required (as it would be anywhere) and it’s recommended to stay within the popular tourist areas. And it’s always worth checking the current FCDO advice for the most up-to-date information on a country. Feel free to pick up the phone to chat with Cat or Ian, our Jordan experts, to put your mind at ease, too. We’ve sent many happy clients to Jordan over the last year, and they’ve all returned full of admiration for this incredible country and its resilient people. In fact, HA client – Rob, actually returned saying: “I don’t recall ever feeling safer on holiday.” And if one thing’s for sure, it’s that the Jordanian people will be more grateful for your visit than ever before. This could be the perfect year to see a quieter Petra with your own eyes, ride a camel through the endless sands of the Wadi Rum desert, or experience the feeling of true weightlessness with a float in the Dead Sea . Two of our favourite Jordan holiday ideas Grand Tour of Jordan – 15 days Adventurous Jordan – 13 days           7. Rhinos, sand dunes and ghost towns in Namibia Are you looking for somewhere truly unique for your next big holiday? Namibia could well be it. With red dunes towering over ghost-white deserts, abandoned towns swallowed by sand, safaris peppered with unique, desert-adapted wildlife sightings, and some of the starriest skies you could ever hope to see – a Namibia holiday promises to be one like no other. Plus, when planning your Namibia holiday, you’ll get to chat with our expert Kirsty (which is a big plus, trust us). The passion she has for the country knows no bounds, and after one conversation with her, we’re sure you’ll understand why!   Two top Namibia holiday ideas Classic Namibia Self-Drive – 14 days Wildlife and Conservation in Namibia – 13 days         8. World Wonders, rainforests, Incan communities and llamas in Peru Maybe you’ve always dreamed of a Costa Rica holiday, but haven’t yet considered Peru? If so, we reckon that needs to change. If you want the inside scoop on why this Latin American spot is such a treat of a destination, now is the perfect time to give us a call. Dawn, one of our brilliant Peru experts, hasn’t long returned from her latest three-week adventure around the country. She’s been regaling all of us in the office with countless travel tales, memories and moments from her trip – and she lights up so much while she’s sharing them, we’re all considering booking! From spotting soaring condors on the edge of Colca Canyon, and sharing food with local communities in the Sacred Valley to cruising down the Amazon River deep into the rainforest – Peru is so much more than Machu Picchu. (Dawn visited the wonder of Machu Picchu too, of course. And her guide, Percy, really made it.) Read more about Dawn’s adventure here, or explore our Peru holiday ideas for a little more inspiration…   Two ideas for your Peru holiday Quick Escape to Machu Picchu – 9 days Peru & Galapagos In-Depth – 18 days       9. Fall in love with Cambodia Cambodia is one of those countries that steals a piece of your heart and never gives it back. Explore the sights. Return the countless Cambodian smiles you’ll be on the receiving end of. And it won’t be long until it hits you just how special this place is. As you uncover Cambodia’s dark and recent history, the resilience, warmth and happiness of the people comes to mean even more. Yes, it’s got the bucket-list worthy sights (hello, Angkor Wat!), the stunning beaches (don’t miss Koh Rong Island), and the unforgettable experiences (support the local community by spending an evening at Phare circus ), but the people you’ll meet along the way are what makes a Cambodia holiday shine. If you’re looking for a holiday that will see you experiencing a different culture, trying different foods, and exploring so much beauty all in a wonderfully authentic way, a Cambodia holiday could well be for you. Read more aout HA Cambodia expert, Fenton’s, visit with his own young family here . It really goes to say something when you spend every day of your working life talking about a country, only to want to visit it on your time off. Cambodia holiday ideas Best of Cambodia – 13 days Simply Cambodia – 12 days       10. Wine, glaciers, waterfalls and gauchos in Argentina Argentina is such a vast and varied country to explore. You might spend a day sipping on a glass of red in the Mendoza Wine Valleys and the next being dwarfed by the icy Perito Moreno glacier or the cascading Iguazu Falls, all before dancing the tango on the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires. We love this country: The scenery, the people, the steak! (Plenty of vegetarian-friendly options are available, too.) Our expert, Lou, has spent so much time exploring and has plenty of stories to share. She’s perfectly placed to cherry-pick the best experiences and routes to suit you.   Ideas for your Argentina holiday Complete Patagonia – 16 days Northern Off-Road Adventure – 13 days        11. A collision of new-world technology and old-world charm in Japan Japan is one of those countries that manages to seamlessly blend mind-blowing modernity with all of the charm of the ancient world. A holiday here will take you far beyond the bright lights of Tokyo. You’ll ride bullet trains, soak in hot springs, dine on traditional dinners in old-world ryokans, walk ancient streets, step back in time exploring tranquil temples, and – most likely – feast on gyoza any chance you get. Emma, one of our Japan experts here at HA, spent an incredible three weeks adventuring around Japan on her latest trip, sampling the delicacies, exploring the temples and meeting the wonderful people. She’s bursting with unique ideas and ways to make your Japan holiday unforgettable, all based on her own experiences and adventures. And our Fenton has an endless host of Japan-based knowledge to share.   Two Japan holiday ideas to help inspire The Road Less Travelled – 15 days Classic Japan – 11 days     12. A slice of Moroccan magic So close to us in distance, but so far in culture – a Morocco holiday could be a great option if you don’t want to go too long-haul on your next holiday. Enjoy moments of calm in the Sahara Desert as the sun sinks below the dunes, and moments of endearing chaos as you attempt to find your way around the bustling souks of Marrakesh and Fez’s ancient medinas. We’ll help make sure you soak up the culture authentically. Sharing a home-cooked tagine in a local family home. Sipping on a fresh mint tea as your guide tells you tales of his hometown. Heading high into the Atlas Mountains to learn all about how the Berber people live. You can do it all. And, whatever time of year you’re looking for a holiday, Morocco could work. Things get a little chillier over our winter months, but there’s something to be said for cosying up in your riad with snow-capped mountains in the distance and a roaring fire to keep you toasty.   Morocco holiday ideas we think you’ll love Ultimate Morocco – 21 days Morocco Family Break – 9 days       13. Cheeky orangutans, rainforest music festivals and desert islands in Borneo When you think of Borneo, if you’re anything like us, hairy orangutans will swing through your mind. This is the very best place in the world to see these cheeky primates in their natural habitat – and we know it will be a holiday highlight you chat about around the dinner table for years to come. But, you’ll also have the chance to explore lush national parks and snorkel in some of the clearest water you’ve ever seen. If this sounds like a holiday you could get on board with, chat to our Erin or Ian, our Borneo specialists, and let’s get your wild Borneo show on the road.   Borneo holiday ideas Classic Malaysia and Borneo – 15 daysClassic Malaysia and Borneo – 15 days Orangutans and Tropical Islands – 12 days       14. Nature, wildlife, cities and beaches on an adventure through Malaysia  Incredible as a stand-alone holiday, or perfect to tag on to your Borneo holiday after you’re done hanging with the orangutans, Malaysia is soaring in popularity and for good reason. In one holiday you’ll soak up the buzz of city life, the tranquility of some of the world’s best nature (don’t miss the Cameron Highlands ), and learn about rich cultures that differ so much from our own. Wander the streets of Kuala Lumpur, where shining skyscrapers dominate the skyline, towering above historic temples and maze-like markets. For the sun-worshippers or those who just want to get their toes in the sand, the shores of Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands are the perfect place to unwind. Clear waters. White sand. Glorious sunshine. What could be better? We couldn’t do a brief roundup of Malaysia without raving about it’s food scene now could we? Blending Malaysian, Chinese and Indian influences to create delicious dishes like nasi lemak and laksa, it’s got some of the best street food you can find on your travels. You’ll want to recreate them when you get home – trust us on that!   Malaysia holiday ideas Wild Malaysia – 18 days Malaysia Summer Family Escape – 15 days        15. Vespa rides and rice-paddy hikes in Vietnam Vietnam is so varied, you could visit every year and have a completely different holiday and experience every single time. Cruise between the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Fly through the streets of Hanoi on the back of a Vespa, sampling local specialities as you go. Trek through the rice paddies and share lunch with a hill tribe in the mountains. Float down the Mekong Delta on an overnight adventure. And sip on a sundowner on a white sand beach, reminiscing about the experiences you’ve had and hatching a plan for your next Vietnam holiday. What’s more, stretching as far as it does from North to South, Vietnam is a country you can visit all year round. You just need to be a little clever about where you head to when – but we can help with that.   Vietnam holiday ideas we love Go Local in Vietnam – 12 days Vietnam Express – 11 days      So there you have it: Our pick of our favourite holidays you could be taking off on next. We’ve only just scraped the barrel though, the number of options, tweaks, combinations and experiences on offer is endless. We’ve lost count of how many holidays we’ve designed over the years, and no two have been the same. When you send an enquiry or pick up the phone to us, your journey has begun. Our team are so full of passion and love for what they do and the destinations to sell, we know you’ll end the conversation knowing your next big holiday is in the best hands. We understand how important it is to get it right. We’ll be as excited about your holiday as you are. Get a quick quote or give us a call on 01242 253 073 to get the ball rolling today.    

Do you have someone in your life who is notoriously difficult to buy for? Well, if they’re partial to a cheeky holiday, we might well be about to solve your struggles with these Christmas gift ideas for travel lovers. One of the silver linings to come out of the strangeness of the last 18 months is the rallying of support for small, local businesses. Supporting local initiatives around the world is so important to us when we’re designing your holidays, so we have tried – where possible  – to point you in the direction of travel gifts from small, independent businesses. They may be little, but they are mighty and more than worthy of your custom. We hope this helps with your Christmas shopping efforts this year! For the Adventure Chasers 1. Engraved St. Christopher necklace St. Christopher is the patron saint of travel, so gifting a loved one a St. Christopher (in any form really), is effectively giving the gift of protection for all future travels. What could be better? This engraved St Christopher necklace is the perfect gift for an adventure chaser. Alternatively, if your pal isn’t a necklace wearer, this St Christopher bracelet could be the perfect alternative. 2. Personalised portable wireless charger If your loved one is prone to an adventure in the great wilderness, they may well appreciate the chance to make sure their phone still has juice (even if just for emergencies!) Give them the gift of power wherever they are with this personalised portable wireless charger they can pop in their pocket.   For the Endless Explorers 3. Travel wall art prints Gift a slice of adventure to brighten up the walls of your travel loving friend with one of these striking destination prints , guaranteed to be a welcome addition to any endless explorer’s gallery wall. Grab them one of their favourite place, or even a set and allow them to continue their endless wanderings even once they’ve returned home. 4.Travel token keyring We all know that one person who loves to add countries to their ‘explored’ list. A travel token keyring with the option to add new tokens whenever they visit somewhere new, is a unique and special way to do just that and keep it in their pocket always…   For the Luxury Travellers 5. Personalised weekend bag Are you looking for a Christmas gift for a travel lover who is that little bit fancy? Enter the personalised washbag. The stylish accompaniment for any quick getaway.   6. Personalised luggage tags and passport cover If the full weekend bag is a bit of a budget stretch, why not gift this gorgeous matching passport cover and luggage tag set in supple brown leather will still be a lovely treat for the luxury travel lover in your life.     For the Memory Makers 7. Cross stitch your own passport cover Do you have a travel lover in your world who has a bit of a creative streak? This ‘ cross stitch your own passport cover ‘ where you stitch over every destination you’ve visited, could well be their favourite gift this Christmas. 8. Personalised travel keepsake box There’s something really special about keeping trinkets, photographs and memories of your travels in a safe place. This personalised travel keepsake box is the perfect home for your friend or loved one to store all of their adventure memories. Imagine being able to pop open the box and revisit your precious memories with a cuppa time and time again over the years.   For the Bookworms 9. Lonely Planet Guide Book A Lonely Planet Guidebook is absolutely perfect for your travel lover’s coffee table. Packed full of stunning photography and inspiring descriptions, the book ranks the globe’s must-visit destinations. It could well be the perfect starting point to inspire your friend’s next adventure. 10. Wanderlust subscription Give the gift of travel inspiration this Christmas with a subscription to the new look Wanderlust magazine . Wanderlust is the must-have magazine for travel lovers, packed from cover to cover full of fresh ideas on where to travel next and awe-inspiring photography guaranteed to transport you to a far off world. Plus, they’ll get six issues throughout the year, so it really is the gift that keeps on giving.   For Family Fun Times 11. Flags of the World If you’re after Christmas gifts for travel lovers who also have a young family, this ‘Flags of the World’ game could be the perfect way to bring them all together over a bit of travel trivia, making learning about other countries and nations fun. 12. Who Knows Where This mammoth travel game includes more than 1000 questions in five different categories (capital cities, major cities and towns, events and facts, famous sites and iconic landmarks) and is a great way for travel lovers to learn more about the world and teach their families too!     For those who simply need a getaway 13. Dubai City Break Surely the ultimate Christmas gift for travel lovers is quite simply, a getaway! Obviously it depends quite how much you love them, and where they sit on your Christmas gift priority list, but we challenge anyone to not be bowled over and chuffed to pieces over a city break in Dubai paired with a desert getaway. Also, Dubai are holding the incredible Travel Expo 2020 until 31 March 2022, featuring an incredible number of travel related events and experiences, which is almost a good enough reason alone for a travel lover to visit Dubai.     14. Or perhaps you want to go all out and gift them a holiday to somewhere wonderfully exotic? (Psst, we can help with that! Have a gander at some of the places open for travel right now….)

We’ve crossed the halfway mark of the dreariest month of the year, hurray! It won’t be long before the days get longer and Spring is on the horizon. We all know how quickly 12 months can fly by – they won’t be around for long, but all the more reason to make them memorable. So, here are 12 holiday itinerary ideas to help you make 2023 a belter to remember. Don’t forget, all of our holiday itineraries are just examples of what is possible. Every single holiday we design is completely tailormade to you, your interests and your bucket lists.   Are you… Short on time? Chasing sandy toes? Looking for fun for all the family? Wild about wildlife?     If you’re short on time…   1. South African Cape Escape – 10 days Why we love it If you haven’t got too much time to spare, but still want a taste of the Rainbow Nation, this 10-day adventure through the Cape Region is a great way to get a real taste of South Africa. You’ll explore cosmopolitan Cape Town before heading down to the spectacular (and often underrated), Cape Peninsula . Of course, this itinerary also leaves time to indulge in the Winelands , before spending a couple of days relaxing on the beach at Paternoster. Don’t miss… When driving between Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula, don’t miss Chapman’s Peak Drive. One of the best driving roads on earth, you’ll be pulling over around every corner to soak it all in.   2. Japan Express – 9 days   Why we love it Japan has been off the holiday agenda for far too long, but now, it’s back! You could spend every single one of your holidays in Japan forever more and not even scratch the surface of this incredible country. However, if you are limited for time, this Japan Express holiday is the perfect introduction to the land of samurai, sushi and robots (with the help of the speedy bullet train, of course!) Following the ‘Golden Route’, you’ll spend 3 nights amidst Tokyo’s neon lights , a night at a traditional ryokan inn out in Hakone (keep your fingers crossed for a glimpse of the elusive Mount Fuji!), before finishing up ambling around ancient Kyoto .   Don’t miss… Visit Kodaiji , one of Kyoto’s most famous temples, for an early morning tea ceremony . Led by a tea master, this age-old tradition is hugely significant to Japanese culture. The experience is so popular, so be sure to let us know early if you want to take part!   3. Quick Escape to Machu Picchu – 9 days   Why we love it? You might have to cross the Atlantic to get there, but with many direct flights every week, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a shorter trip to Peru – and tick a major player off the bucket list in the process. On this holiday you’ll take in the culinary delights of Lima , be charmed by the winding cobbled streets of Cusco , get a taste of real local life in the Sacred Valley , and take the train to the most iconic site of them all: the ancient terraces of Machu Picchu.   Don’t miss… If you’re one for an adventure – and aren’t scared of getting soggy – factor in a white-water rafting adventure on your way to the Sacred Valley. You’ll never forget battling your way through the rapids against the backdrop of rolling Andean valleys. Magic. When to go… Between April and October   Chasing sandy toes?   4. Mauritian Explorer – 14 days   Why we love it? Mauritius is such a special place. Whether you just want to while away the days with your feet in the sand and a cocktail in your hand, or get to grips with the local sites and cultures, this 14-day holiday offers a bit of everything. It’s a small island, so you won’t be spending too much time travelling about – which leaves more time for the good bits! Pristine white-sand beaches, beautiful water to snorkel in, delicious street food to sample and breathtaking mountains to explore inland, you can’t not love Mauritius.   Don’t miss… Once you’ve had your fill of sandy toes, head to Black River Gorges National Park to explore the endless walking trails through forest peaks, waterfalls, crashing rivers and plummeting canyons. If you’re visiting between September and December, the park will be flowering, too!   When to go… Between April and December   5. Sri Lanka and the Maldives – 14 days     Why we love it? Who wouldn’t love a holiday that combines culture and wildlife, with delicious food and some of the most spectacular beaches on Earth? You’ll visit Sri Lanka’s great ancient cities of Sigiriya and Kandy, spot the wild elephants in Minneriya National Park , take the most beautiful train ride into the lush tea country and take a street food tour in Colombo. Relive your countless highlights whilst sipping on a fresh coconut, Robinson Crusoe style in the Maldives .   Don’t miss… Climb Pidurangala Rock at sunrise for the most spectacular view over the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Seeming to grow from the surrounding jungle, this is a fairly easy hike with a serious reward at the top.   When to go… This holiday can work all year round – the Christmas and Easter holidays can get particularly busy though!     If family fun is top of the bill…   6. Oman Family Holiday – 12 days   Why we love it? Oman shouldn’t be overlooked as a family holiday destination. With some incredible beach resorts in Muscat to unwind at, desert dunes to play on , camel rides to psyche your bottoms up for and ancient mountain forts to adventure around, the whole family will love it.   Don’t miss… If you’re travelling with energetic teenagers, canyoning in Oman will be the perfect way to keep them occupied (and tire them out!) Snake Gorge, in the heart of the Wadi Bani Khalid is a bit of an adventure haven. You can canyon, trek, swim, abseil, rock jump – this is the kind of activity that will tempt your kids into coming away with you for years to come.   When to go… Best between October and April. Our summer months get hot, hot, hot!   7. Family Singapore and Borneo – 15 days     Why we love it? Combining some time to adventure through one of the best cities on earth with Borneo orangutan encounters that you’ll be talking about forever more, and finishing up with some time on a tropical island beach … we think this holiday combo is a wonderful one for families.   Don’t miss… You can’t come to Borneo without spending time with the orangutans making it to the top of your wishlist. Don’t miss a visit to the Sun Bear & Orangutan Conservation Centre . This amazing place works so hard to raise awareness and protect these amazing animals. You can even spend some time with Dr. (Hon) Wong Siew Te, who founded the centre, and learn all about the facility and their work – that’s better than any lesson in a class room!   When to go… This holiday works all year round. It can get a little busier in their High Season, between May and September though.   8. Family Roadtrip – Canada – 14 days     Why we love it? Canada is a country that just screams adventure. From the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, to the emerald lakes, the bear-filled forests and the whale-packed ocean. This family holiday takes in the very best of British Colombia (with plenty of adventures to be had along the way). Take a ride on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer , spot whales from Vancouver , canoe on the River of Golden Dreams and even take a pinch-yourself flight over the glaciers.   Don’t miss… We defy you to introduce us to a kid who wouldn’t love to fly through the air on a zipline adventure. Whilst in Whistler, be sure to factor in some time to enjoy the original Whistler Ziplining Experience. You’ll fly along five ziplines and make your way across four treetop bridges.     When to go… Between June and September     Wild about wildlife?   9. Undiscovered Costa Rica – 14 days   Why we love it? This two-week Costa Rica adventure takes you away from the well-trodden tourist route, treating you to quieter trails, empty beaches and Costa Rica’s spectacular wildlife – with fewer people to share it all with. Sloths, toucans and 5% of the world’s biodiversity awaits. You’ll be visiting lesser-known areas, but you won’t be compromising on experience. Trade Monteverde for the Cloud Forest of San Ramon , head up to the north to explore Costa Rica’s most cultural region, Turrialba , before venturing down the coast to the isolated wildlife paradise of the Osa Peninsula .   Don’t miss… Don’t miss a stay at the beautiful Pacuare Lodge – a lodge you can only get to by white water rafting: that’s the kind of entrance we like! What an adventure.   When to go… This holiday is best between November and August (avoiding the rainy season!)   10. Classic Uganda – 10 days     Why we love it? This 10-day trip takes in the highlights of amazing Uganda – and of course allows for multiple chances to come face to face with mountain gorilla and chimpanzee as you go. You’ll trek through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , enjoy early morning game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park and, finally, two nights in the Kibale Forest – where successful chimpanzee sightings linger around the 80-90% mark.   Don’t miss… We love authentic, local experiences here at HA. So, don’t miss this Traditional Meal and Homestay experience : a fantastic chance to learn more about life in Uganda and sample the local food, all whilst staying with a host family. If you’re lucky you might be treated to a dance show by the local children at the end of the evening. When to go… All year round.   11. Wildlife of Ecuador and the Galapagos – 15 days     Why we love it? Few combinations of destinations will give you access to this amount of nature, biodiversity, wildlife, varied landscape and experience. Spend some time in colonial Quito , venture into the Ecuadorian Amazon and last, but certainly not least, follow in Charles Darwin’s footsteps with a cruise around the enchanting islands of the Galapagos . Blue-footed boobies, pink flamingos, cumbersome tortoises and playful sea lions will all be there to greet you. If you consider yourself a wildlife enthusiast, this is the holiday for you.   Don’t miss… Taking in the nature, flora, and fauna is going to be top of the expectations when you visit the Amazon, but a visit to a local indigenous community is an experience not to be missed. Learn all about local life, the ancient crafts, traditions and customs that continue to this day. You may well be lucky enough to catch a local dance, too! Learning about these ancient communities is a really valuable way to spend an afternoon here.   When to go… Anytime you like   12. Serengeti Great Migration – Tanzania – 9 days     Why we love it? The Serengeti’s Great Migration is a phenomenon that needs no introduction. Every year, more than 1.5 million wildebeest make their way around a huge migration loop in search of greener pastures. This Tanzania holiday itinerary is perfectly designed to ensure you experience the very best of this natural spectacle. Nothing in nature is ever guaranteed, but by working with the very best guides in Tanzania, we’ll get you the most memorable sightings of the migration herds as possible. Heralded as one of the “Seven Wonders of the Natural World”, it’s an experience to add to the list!   Don’t miss… Seeing the migration from the ground is pretty special. But seeing the hoards of animals dancing across the plains from above, is something else entirely. Don’t miss this sunrise hot air balloon flight over the plains for an experience you’ll never forget. Once you come back down to earth you’ll celebrate with a glass of bubbles and English breakfast under a tree. Breaky doesn’t get more special than that. If you’ve got the time to give it, this South East Asia adventure will see you travelling through Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos – and hitting all of the key spots as you go. There are simply too many highlights to list, but you’ll… Explore all three capitals Spend a day at the ancient temples of Angkor Wat Take it easy in the relaxed towns of Luang Prabang and Hoi An Trek with the hill tribes of Mai Chau Enjoy a bucket-list-worthy cruise on Ha Long Bay Float down the Mekong Delta from Vietnam into Cambodia.   So, there you have it – 12 holiday ideas to make this year an unforgettable one. Whether these float your boat or you have other ideas in mind, our team are busy designing holidays all over our incredible planet. Give us a call today on 01242 253 073 to chat about what could make your next holiday your best one ever.   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 2025 holiday  

You could be forgiven for thinking that there was no happy news in 2020. But, we’re here to tell you there was! Buried under all of the news of lockdowns and travel bans, were little nuggets of joy. We’ve dug out 12 of them to give you a smile this festive period. 2020 wasn’t all bad…   1. Tesco removed 67 million pieces of plastic from stores Tesco has replaced plastic-wrapped multipacks with plastic-free multibuy offers on their tinned food. With 183,000 tinned multipacks bought at Tesco every day, this move will eliminate 350 tonnes of plastic from the environment every year. Good on you Tesco! Read more…   2. Zoom is lifting its 40 minute limit over the Christmas period, allowing more people to connect with loved ones for longer Video calling has been more important than ever this year, and Christmas is set to be no different. With tier rules restricting contact between families and friends, Christmas day Zoom calls could be a social lifeline for many. By lifting their usual 40 minute limit on calls, Zoom is doing their part to help loved ones socialise safely this festive season. Comfy Christmas pajamas on the bottom, festive fanciness on top…  and don’t forget to take yourself off mute! Read more…   3. Footballer Marcus Rashford wins fight for free school meals for children The Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on household incomes across the UK. In a poll run by ‘The Food Foundation’, it was found that 200,000 children were missing meals. Manchester United player Marcus Rashford succeeded in pushing the government to extend their provision of free meals for school children this year. And he was, quite rightly, awarded an MBE this year for his support of vulnerable children during the Covid-19 crisis. How’s that for a bit of happy news in 2020? It couldn’t be more well deserved, well done Marcus! Read more…   4. The Black Lives Matter movement swept the globe and changed lives The killing of George Floyd by a white police officer in the US this year was the wake-up call we all needed. The rallying cry of the #BlackLivesMatter movement swept the globe, with people everywhere passionately protesting for racial equality. There is no place for prejudice in today’s world and we all need to do better.  There is still a lot of work to be done, but the growth of the #BlackLivesMatter movement is a positive step in the right direction. In the fight for equality, we must all make a conscious to educate ourselves, to learn and to grow. Read more…   5. Seven baby mountain gorillas have been born in Uganda this year (twice as many as 2019!) Uganda has declared a ‘baby boom’ this year, with seven baby mountain gorillas born between January and September. Compared to only three births during the whole of 2019, this is a fantastic bit of happy news in 2020! With just over 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the world, this increase in population is a brilliant sign for Ugandan conservation efforts. If you think 2021 calls for an adventure to top all others, why not meet them for yourself on a post-pandemic gorilla-tracking holiday in Uganda? Read more…   6. Africa was declared free of wild polio in a ‘public health triumph’   In August, the World Health Organisation officially declared that Africa had defeated wild polio. In 1996 it was estimated that a staggering 75,000 children were paralysed by the virus. With 2020 marking four years since the last recorded case in the continent, the WHO have declared this a ‘public health triumph’. In a year dominated by negative health news, this is definitely a positive piece of happy news in 2020 to hold on to. Read more…   7. Captain Sir Tom Moore won the hearts of the nation Without a doubt, one of the biggest pieces of happy news in 2020 was our nation falling in love with war veteran Tom Moore – now ‘Captain Sir Tom Moore’, quite rightly! In the midst of a pandemic, when most of us were horizontal on our sofas surrounded by chocolate wrappers and shame, 99-year-old Tom Moore laced up his walking shoes and decided to walk 100 laps of his garden for charity. What started as a fun family fundraising idea, soon catapulted into a national rallying cry. Bringing people together in support of the NHS, this incredible man raised more than £32 million for NHS charities and bagged himself a well-deserved knighthood in the process. Truly, the absolute best of British. Read more… 8. Ikea published the recipe for their famous meatballs to make lockdown a little tastier for many Our favourite flat-pack furniture store just moved even higher up in our good books. For many, the delicacy of the IKEA Swedish meatball is a highlight of any home shopping trip. These little bites of delicious energy invigorate and propel you around as you obediently follow the directional arrows. This year, Ikea finally shared their secret with the world this year, releasing a flat-pack recipe – obviously – in an attempt to make lockdown that little bit tastier… We know what we’re having for dinner. Read more…   9. An ‘unprecedented’ number of blue whales have been spotted off the coast of Antarctica After only two of these colossal animals were recorded in the area in 2018, an incredible 55 blue whales were spotted by scientists off the coast of Antarctica this year. This massive increase suggests that the animals are returning to their old feeding grounds. Being critically endangered, this huge increase in sightings is a hugely important piece of happy news in 2020 for our world and its waters. Read more…   10. Two otters find love in lockdown This fairytale lockdown love story between two lonely otters has got to be one of our favourite bits of happy news in 2020.  After Pumpkin lost her elderly partner Eric, the team at Sealife in Scarborough reached out to other sanctuaries in the hope of finding her a new mate. That’s where Harris comes in. Also, lonely after losing his partner, he moved to Scarborough and the hairy pair hit it off right away. It turns out 2020 was most definitely lucky for some. Read more…   11. Writer starts a pandemic pen pal project to brighten strangers’ days New Yorker writer and editor, Rachel Syme, started Penpalooza this year after recognising letters as a way for people to feel more connected during lockdown. After a call-out on Instagram, the initiative has grown from an initial 100 participants to 4,000 people all across the world. In a year dominated by digital communication, Rachel’s idea is a reminder of the magic of physical post. The excitement and feeling of connection that can be felt when opening a hand-written note, drawing or gift is unparalleled. Combating loneliness, fighting against distance and promoting good feelings all around, we all need a bit of that after this year. Read more…   12. 90 year old in the UK becomes the first person in the whole world to have approved Covid vaccination And finally, possibly the most relevant piece of happy news in 2020 right now. A 90-year-old UK woman became the first person in the world to have the approved Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine. As we know all too well, there’s still a long road ahead with bumps and teething problems almost certain. However, thanks to the incredible work of these scientists, this vaccine has gone from conception to approval in just 10 months – a process that usually takes 10 years!  This is a phenomenal achievement and a piece of news that calls for cautious optimism as we move into 2021. It’s looking very hopeful that this is the light on the horizon we’ve all been waiting for. Read more…     So there you have it, 12 pieces of happy news in 2020 that deserve to be shouted about. It’s been a tough year all around, there’s no denying that. But, we’ve made it through, and plenty of good has happened along the way. Here’s to 2021, a year full of friends, family, travel and everything else we’ve missed this year.        

We’re all for experiencing things that go beyond the ordinary here at HA. Are you partial to a spot of adventure? If you’re keen to really get under the skin of the country you’re visiting on your holiday, our experts can help with that! South Africa is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, wildlife wonders and a huge array of quirky experiences. If you’re itching for a dose of excitement, read on for 12 of our favourite adventures to have in South Africa , that will all make for fantastic travel tales to tell around the dinner table once you’re home.   1. Driving the Sani Pass: A High-Elevation Adventure Strap in for a heart-pounding drive up the Sani Pass , one of the world’s most treacherous mountain roads, to the small country of Lesotho. We recommend jumping in a jeep with a guide, as you need to know what you’re doing on roads like these! As you ascend into the clouds, winding your way around hairpin bends, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a chance to enjoy a drink at the highest pub in Africa. This might be one of our favourite things to do in South Africa, but you’ll be visiting a brand new country, too! Treacherous roads and sky-high pints   2. Tour of the Battlefields: Soak up South Africa’s rich history History-lovers unite! Dive into the history of South Africa with a tour of the famous Battlefields. Walk in the footsteps of soldiers who fought for their beliefs over battlefields that offer an emotive glimpse into the nation’s history. From the Zulu War to the Anglo-Boer conflicts, these hallowed grounds are the site of such bravery and sacrifice. Exploring these sites is an unmatched way to gain an understanding of this nation’s past. Adventure to the battlefields   3. Uthando Philanthropic Cultural Tour: Authentic connections with local communities South Africa isn’t just about thrilling escapades; it’s also a place to connect with its warm-hearted people and local communities. Uthando, a charitable force, showcases the real heart of South Africa’s townships. Led by James Fernie, this unique tour grants visitors firsthand insight into life-changing projects. From market gardens to empowering youth, Uthando’s impactful experiences are not routine tourist stops; they’re a real chance to make a difference and find hope in humanity. Travel authentically with a visit to Uthando   4. The Cango Caves: A Journey into the Earth’s Depths Nestled in the Swartberg Mountains, the Cango Caves offer a subterranean adventure like no other. Make your way deep into the Earth’s belly, exploring magnificent limestone formations, eerie chambers, and narrow passageways as you go. If you’re looking for things to do in South Africa for families, this is a great option – the kids will love it. Find out more about Cango caving   5. Brave a walking safari in the Kruger National Park: Soak up the wild side of South Africa It’s hard to over-egg the thrill of walking through the wilderness of Kruger National Park, letting the sounds and scents of the African bush assault your senses. Imagine walking along with the knowledge that you’re walking in the very footsteps of a pride of lions. There’s something so special and uninterrupted about a walking safari. No engine noise, no crowded sightings, just you, your guides, and the unknown of the African plains. Walk on the wild side   6. Zulu Homestead Visit: Immerse yourself in a different culture Here at HA, we understand the value of real human-to-human connection when you travel. It’s powerful beyond language and comes packed with so many lessons to learn. Step into the heart of Zulu culture with a visit to a traditional homestead on your South Africa holiday. Learn about their customs, dance to rhythmic beats, and try their home-cooked, authentic cuisine. It’s an opportunity to connect with the indigenous roots of South Africa, and you won’t forget it in a hurry. If you’d love to pack your holiday with more authentic things to do in South Africa like this, our specialists can help with that! Visit a Zulu Homestead   7. Ignite your adrenaline and test your nerve at Victoria Falls If you’re a fan of challenging yourself (and your nerve), Victoria Falls will make a great addition to your South Africa holiday. This adrenaline lover’s haven has no shortage of heart-pounding activities to choose from. From white water rafting to bungee jumping into the gorge, skydiving to abseiling, and zip-lining to river boarding. You can also try jet boating, kayaking, and quad biking. Or, perhaps you’ll give them all a bash!? Chat to us about the best way to get these booked if you’re ready for the rush! Are you ready for the rush?   8. Horseback Safari in the Waterberg: A Unique Perspective We’re huge lovers of a safari here at HA, and of course a safari is always one of the top things to do in South Africa. Whichever way you choose to enjoy one will be special, but this adventure lets you explore the African bush from a different vantage point. From high up in the saddle of your horse, riding across the Waterberg, you’ll enjoy a more intimate connection with wildlife as you trot through the savannah. Hop in the saddle for a wildlife adventure like no other   10. Take to the waters: Whale watching from Plettenberg Bay Plettenberg Bay’s coastline teems with marine wonders, from playful dolphins to majestic whales. While southern right whales dominate from July to November, humpbacks grace the area year-round, and Bryde’s whales are regular visitors. So, your chances of a memorable encounter are high! You can choose between two types of boat tours—up-close encounters or broader explorations. Both offer a window into the ocean’s depths and the chance to connect with its extraordinary inhabitants. Or, if dry land is more your thing, spend some time in Hermanus where the whales can often be seen frolicking from the shoreline! Your very own Whale watching adventure   12. Hiking in the Drakensberg: Breathe in the mountain air If you’re a keen hiker, of all the things to do in South Africa, The Drakensberg Mountains needs to be up there on your list! Often dubbed a hiker’s paradise, this region boasts countless scenic trails to explore. You’ll take in breathtaking views, discover San rock art, and revel in birdwatching and wildlife encounters galore. Giant’s Castle, with 19 marked trails managed by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, will be a real highlight. From short, picturesque hikes to epic day-long adventures, there’s a path for every explorer whatever your walking prowess! Many recommended hotels and lodges also offer private reserve and park trails, ensuring you’re always surrounded by mountain magic here. Head to the mountains     So, there we have it, 12 slightly different things to do in South Africa that will really get you under the skin of the Rainbow Nation. This really is just the start though. Get in touch to chat to one of our incredible South Africa experts. They’ve spent so much time in the country, uncovering all of the best bits, the hidden spots and the best ways to make sure your South Africa holiday is one to remember!

Travel authentically For us, the most valuable part of a holiday often isn’t the feeling of the sun on your face or your toes in the sand. It isn’t even the awe-inspiring wonder you feel when you lay your eyes on a breathtaking view for the first time. It’s the enriching and long-lasting benefits that come from real, authentic interactions with the people who live where you’re travelling. We sent a survey around at the end of last year (a big thank you again to everyone who filled it in!) and one of the most stand out responses was a desire for authentic travel – and we couldn’t agree more. We pride ourselves on our love of seeking out quirky, real experiences that really get you under the skin of a country. There are so many, but here are… 11 of our favourite authentic experiences to have around our wonderful world   1. South Africa – Uthando Philanthropic Cultural Tour South Africa is a truly magnificent country, but its townships are renowned for representing the harder side of poverty, inequality and SA’s all-too-recent apartheid history. Township tours have developed as a way of exploring these issues, but all too often get it very wrong. Uthando is a charity that has got it very right, ensuring that visitors can see, directly, how the cost of their tour directly benefits projects in these deprived areas. Uthando is involved in so many projects, from working to provide fresh fruit and vegetables for families, working with orphanages and care homes, all the way through to theatre projects for local kids. This is a humbling and challenging day, but ultimately hugely uplifting as you’ll be able to see exactly how your contributions are giving hope and opportunity to these local people. Find out more >   2. Costa Rica – El Trapiche Plantation Tour This fascinating and interactive two-hour tour takes you to family-run plantation where sugar cane has been cultivated for nearly 70 years. You will meet the family who will teach you all there is to know about sugar cane cultivation (with crucial tastings along the way, of course!). You’ll also have the opportunity to sample the other crops that are grown here such macadamia, oranges, bananas and coffee. Your tour of the farm will include the opportunity to take a short ride in a traditional, colourful Costa Rican ox cart. We really think this day out makes the perfect addition to a Costa Rica itinerary as it really does offer something a little different in Monteverde, a real slice of authentic, ‘Pura Vida’ culture. Find out more >     3. Sri Lanka – Local village activities in Tissamaharama The small Sri Lankan village of Tissamaharama is the perfect place to befriend local people and enjoy a range of authentic experiences such as buffalo curd making, lake fishing with the local fisherman, learning the ancient art of weaving Palmyrah leaves and pottery making. That’s our very own Sri Lanka specialist, Rebecca, learning to weave in the photo above – those smiles speak for themselves! Find out more >     4. Jordan – A day with a Bedouin shepherd What’s the best way to learn about what it’s really like to live a certain lifestyle? Immerse yourself in the different way of life and experience it first-hand of course. Factor this ‘Day with a Shepherd’ excursion into you Jordan holidays for a real taste of authentic Bedouin culture. There will be an early alarm call to start your day, before you follow the shepherd and his family’s goats as they graze through the wilderness of Feynan. You’ll then sit down with over a fire with him, talking about life, baking the tantalizing ‘Arbood’ bread and sipping on traditional sweet Bedouin tea. Find out more >     5. Argentina – Pampas Estancia Tour This experience will see you leaving the bustle of Buenos Aires behind as you head to the flat grasslands of the Pampas, home to traditional cattle ranches and the heart of gaucho culture. In the small town of San Antonio de Areco, you’ll pay a visit to local workshops to learn about how the artisans craft intricate leatherwork and silver items used by the gauchos. You’ll then journey to a beautiful estancia where you will be met by your friendly hosts to feast on one of Argentina’s most famous foodie traditions – the asado barbeque and learn all about gaucho life and traditions. The delicious locally reared beef is matched with excellent red wine, empanadas (local savoury pastries) and warm hospitality – so do make sure you bring a hearty appetite! Perhaps then it’s time for a siesta before a swim, walk, ride or carriage ride around the estate and watch the gauchos at work as they demonstrate their skills with horses. This is a real enriching taster of the life of a gaucho! Find out more >     6. Namibia – Meet the Himba Namibia’s Himba people may be nomadic, but for much of the year a Himba community spend time in the Palmfontein area of Damaraland. Their settlement is close enough to the Grootberg Lodge to make it easy to add a day visit into your Namibia holiday itinerary. This is a unique opportunity to meet the Himba people, take some time to interact with the women and children of the settlement and learn about how they achieve their distinct, decorative appearance. You’ll also see their simple homes, at least from the outside, constructed largely from natural materials such as dung, grass and leaves. Find out more >     7. Burma – Making a difference in Yangon This is your chance to explore and support Yangon’s up and coming social enterprise. Yangon is the largest city in Burma and over recent years, entrepreneurs have set up the business determined to make a positive social impact in the city. There are many activities that you can enjoy spread across several of the city’s diverse townships. You can pay a visit to ‘Amazing Grace’ in the Yankin Township, where local people with hearing and physical disabilities are trained to make unique handmade fashion accessories using recycled materials. There is a traditional puppet show to enjoy, a gold workshop, craft marketplaces and delicious local restaurants where you can sample the delicious local cuisine. Whatever authentic experience you enjoy, you’ll meet interesting and dynamic people who are all doing what they love and working to benefit Burma’s communities and cultures.     8. Vietnam – Hoi An Organic Farm Cooking Class Nestled just 3km outside of the beautiful Old Town of Hoi An, you’ll find this tranquil farm. Established by an expert in all things nutrition, with a big passion for food and local cuisine, this is the perfect place to learn all there is to know about Vietnamese cuisine. Their food contains a brilliant balance of heat, sweetness and sourness, as well as the umami flavour that comes from the use of fish sauce. On arrival at the farm you’ll be greeted by the friendly team, then led on a stroll around whilst learning about how this unique setting supports the local community. You’ll listen to inspiring stories about how food and vegetables can be used for healthy living, before picking-up some ingredients before heading to the lovely kitchen to make your five unique dishes with a hands-on cooking class. Once finished sit down and savour the flavours of your creation before heading back to Hoi An. Find out more >     9. Cambodia – Working to improve the lives of street children This truly unique experience offers you the chance to meet with the inspiring locals who are working to break the cycle of poverty and provide a brighter future for the youth in Cambodia at Pour un Sourire d’Enfant (For the Smile of a Child). Your day begins with a sobering look at the darker side of Cambodia as you travel into one of the poorest Phnom Penh neighbourhoods to learn about local ways of life. Many of the children living here are orphans, having lost their parents to disease or abandoned due to financial concerns. Until recently, their only way to get by was to scavenge the rubbish dump for food and items to sell. You’ll meet with the volunteers who run Pour un Sourire d’Enfant and are helping to improve the daily lives of the street children in this part of Cambodia. You’ll learn about the struggles of daily life in poor urban Cambodia and how history has impacted the present. Be inspired by the work being done at the centre through its education, vocational training, and job placement programs for street children before enjoying a delicious lunch at Lotus Blanc. This is a special opportunity to enjoy a delicious home-cooked Cambodian meal all whilst supporting the training of these local children. Find out more >     10. New Zealand – Maori Tour of Auckland Māori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, and their culture is an integral part of life in the country, influencing everything from customs and language to cuisine. Today, as many as one in seven New Zealanders identify as Māori, so it’s clear how central their history, language and traditions are to New Zealand’s identity. This tour of Auckland will get you up close and personal with the indigenous culture and you’ll learn how inextricably linked it is to the environment. This small group tour with a local guide will see you wandering through lush rainforests, walking over volcanic black sand beaches, marvelling at intricate Māori carvings and learning all about the historical monuments and artefacts around the city and the west coast. Find out more >     11. Sri Lanka – Vedda Walk with the chief in Gal Oya The Vedda people are an indigenous community in Sri Lanka and this excursion gives you the opportunity to go on a walk through the forest with the chief and his second in command, learning all about these ancient people and their great knowledge of nature. Some parts of this experience have been designed to help tourists better understand the Vedda culture, however the time you spend walking and talking with the chief and learning about their ancient community, is about as authentic as it gets. As you walk through the jungle, you’ll learn all about their traditional methods of storing food, how they use plants medicinally and, if you play your cards right, you might just be lucky enough to be invited into the chief’s home – the ultimate honour. Find out more >     As always, if you have any questions at all about your well-deserved adventure, our team are ready to take your call on 01242 253 073 . We are so happy to be back designing holidays for you, our fantastic clients again. Let’s make 2022 a year to remember, for good reasons this time!        

All too often in this day and age, our holiday memories are doomed to live in the depths of our mobile phones forever. But, here at HA, we know we design holidays worthy of printed memories. So, we’ve teamed up with the brilliant  Bob Books to help make sure your travel photos get out of the digital realm and onto your coffee table. Read on for 10 top tips for how to put together the perfect travel photo book that your trip deserves.     Have you recently returned from your holidays with hundreds of beautiful travel snaps that you’d like to preserve and share with friends and family? Or maybe you have an ever-growing collection of holiday photos from over the years that you rarely look at? Although social media tends to be the first place we think of sharing our travel photos, there’s something undeniably special about a physical book that you can flip through and display on your coffee table at home. Fortunately, using your photos to create professional-quality travel photo books is easier than you might realise. To help you get started, we’ve put together some useful tips and advice for putting together a travel photo book with Bob Books .   Organise your photos Before you even think about the format and layout of your travel photo book, you’ll need to organise the content. This means going through your photo archives, selecting the strongest images, and then saving them together in a folder on your PC, MAC, smartphone or tablet so they can be easily added to your photo book. Aside from taking care to select images that are sharp and well-lit, you should also look for photos that tell a story and provide a sense of what your journey or holiday was really like, from silly airport selfies to beautiful panoramas of cities and nature.     Edit your photos Once you have all the photos you would like to include saved together in a folder, give them a once-over to see if any edits are needed, such as cropping and adjusting the exposure, white balance, colour temperature and contrast. If you want to make sure the style is consistent throughout your photo book, you could even choose a specific preset or filter and apply it to all the images you want to use. It can also be nice to group photos with similar hues and tones together, such as blue tones from the beach and poolside or colourful photos of sunset and sunrise.   Choose a format and paper type Once you’re ready to begin making your photo book, you will need to first select your preferred photo book format and paper type , as well as hardcover vs softcover. Although any format can work well for travel books, we love the landscape format for highlighting striking scenery on double page spreads with lay-flat binding. Our classic paper type works well for any type of photo book, but if you’ve opted for a lay-flat photo book, we recommend the lustre photographic paper, which produces sharp detail and vivid colours without too much shine.   Decide on a theme Before you begin putting your photo book together, it can help to think about the main purpose of the book. For example, are you simply looking to preserve and share your travel photos with friends and family or are you hoping to showcase your travel photography and maybe even sell a few extra copies of the book? Choosing a theme for your travel photo book can help you decide which images to include. Examples of themes include ‘black & white’, ‘family travel’, ‘nature and wildlife’ or ‘city break’.   Use a template as a guideline Once your photos have been selected and edited, it’s time to think about the design and layout. If you’re short on time or just need some help envisioning the layout of your photo book, you can use one of the readymade templates available in the Bob Designer software. The templates range from fun and colourful to clean and minimal, so there’s something to suit every style of photography and travel.     Include text and captions Although text is not a must in a travel photo book, there are certain things that can be nice to include as you’re likely to forget some of the details down the line. For example, you could include a little intro at the beginning of your book with details about when you took the trip and anything else you’d like people to know about your destination. Alternatively, you could include individual captions along with the photographs to share details of when and where they were taken or even add personal stories to jog your memory when you look back on the photos years later.   Add some fun extras Along with photos, you can add other fun extras to bring your travel book alive, whether it’s a map of the place you visited or a little fact sheet to share any interesting information you learned about a historical site or city. You could also scan in some memorabilia to include on one or two pages of the book, such as boarding passes, visa stamps and museum tickets.   Leave some white space You’ve probably heard the old adage that “less is more” and this is certainly true when it comes to the design of your travel photo book. Make sure you leave some white space on each page and between images so that each photo will have room to stand out. If you have a lot of photos to include, you can choose a mixture of page layouts, with some featuring multiple photos alongside and others highlighting just one image on a single or double-page spread.     Design an eye-catching cover Since the book’s cover is the first thing anyone will see, it’s worth spending a bit of time thinking about what you want it to look like and choosing the right title, font and cover image. Make sure you include a title that sums up the book and feature at least one cover photo that conveys a sense of what your trip was like, whether it’s a fun group photo or a beautiful landscape image.     Publish and share Once your book has been completed and ordered, you’ll have the option of publishing it in the Bob Bookshop . This is an excellent way to let any friends and family who may have travelled with you to view the book and even order an extra copy for themselves. If you’re looking to earn from sales of your travel book, you can also add an author markup and share a link to the book on your website and social media.     Ready to get started? Make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount on photo books that Bob Books is offering all Holiday Architects clients!       So, which unbeatable holiday will your first coffee table photo book feature? Get in touch with our team today on 01242 253 073 to chat through potential holiday ideas and start working on finding the perfect one for you.    

Sri Lanka is a country packed full of surprises. With so much to see, from emerald tea hills to stunning beaches and everything in between (including some seriously impressive wildlife!), it’s almost impossible not to fall in love with the tear-shaped island floating in the Indian Ocean. Here are 10 top things to know and expect before you head off on your Sri Lanka holiday.   The local food is ridiculously good The food in Sri Lanka is delicious, and we mean seriously delicious. It’s worth making the most of it at every opportunity while you’re there – you’ll thank yourself! From egg hoppers, to Kottu and fragrant curries, we almost guarantee you’ll be seeking out your local Sri Lankan restaurant as soon as you get home. Many of the best curries are vegetable-based too, making it very vegetarian and vegan friendly! Make time for a cooking class on your Sri Lanka holiday if you can, then you’ll be able to bring the incredible flavours of the country back home to your own kitchen.   It’s best not to drink the water We wouldn’t advise drinking the water in Sri Lanka, so taking a reusable water bottle with an inbuilt purifier is a great idea. Bottled water is available in most places for around 60 rupees (around 22p), but a reusable bottle would always be our first choice: helping to make sure you’re doing your bit to protect our beautiful world as you’re discovering it.   Don’t miss the best train ride on earth The iconic blue train that flies through Sri Lanka’s tea hills is world renowned – and for good reason. This really is the only way to travel from Kandy to Ella (hopping off at other stunning stops in the hill country on your way!) If you’ve got an adventurous streak, take a turn sitting in the open doorway and feel the wind in your hair as you take in the endless passing scenery, peppered with the multicoloured saris of the tea-pickers. This isn’t just a journey from A-B, this is a bucket-list worthy experience of its own.     There’s no rushing here Sri Lanka is a country of winding roads, steep hills and a slow infrastructure. The overall vibe here is a calm, laid-back one. So getting where you need to go can often take a little longer than planned. But travel is just as much about the journey as it is about the destination, so that’s okay! Kick back, relax, take in the scenery and accept that things just move a little bit slower here!   Sri Lanka is all about the R&R, not the rave! A Sri Lanka holiday isn’t top of the list if lively nightlife is a holiday priority for you. This beautiful country is very much about the quieter pace of life – think peaceful dinners and chilled sunset drinks on the beach.   Make use of the tuk-tuks If you have any days without a driver guide (or choose to go it alone!), do make use of the tuk-tuks! They’re a brilliantly cheap way to get around and meet the locals. Plus, with the exception of Columbo where you need to be a little more careful, the prices offered are fair and honest so there’s no need to haggle!     There are plenty of opportunities to get active If you’re keen to get active on your holidays there are so many fantastic options. Why not try your hands at surfing in Arugam Bay, test your stamina with a hike up to Lipton’s Seat in the hill country, or even test your nerve with white water rafting in Kitugala. Find out more about the adventures that await on this ‘Active Sri Lanka holiday’ itinerary.     The people are wonderful One of the most common things we hear from clients returning home from their Sri Lanka holiday is just how friendly and kind the people are. They are always open to a conversation or simply sharing a mutual smile, so do make the most of this while you’re there. It’s these types of authentic interactions that can really engrain a destination in your memory for years to come. You can experience the wonderful Sri Lankan hospitality for yourself on our Classic Sri Lanka holiday idea     Set your alarm early for your Sigiriya climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of our must-visit spots in Sri Lanka. If you’re visiting it on your trip, set your alarm early to make sure you get there for its 8am opening time to avoid as many of the crowds as possible. It’s a single-file climb all the way up, so it’s worth nabbing a spot at the front!     Don’t turn your back on Buddha! In Sri Lanka, it’s considered really offensive to have your photo taken with your back to Buddha. So make sure you save the selfies for another time and follow all photography rules in cultural and religious sites.       So, there we have it: 10 experiences not to miss on your Sri Lanka holiday – and if we’re honest, this is just the start! There are so many incredible sites and opportunities for one-off experiences packed into this small island, you’ll never be short of things to do. Rebecca, Lisa and Dawn, our Sri Lanka specialists, are at the end of the phone on 01242 253 073 ready to answer any questions and design your perfect holiday. Or, simply follow the link below to request a free quote. We’d love to show you what a Sri Lanka holiday has to offer!