Travel blog

Located at the southern tip of India and surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise. With picture-perfect golden beaches and impossibly blue seas, tropical rainforests, cool mountains and manicured tea estates thrown in for good measure, as well as some spectacular wildlife, colonial history and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder Sri Lanka is such a popular holiday destination, as you’ll truly experience it all on your  Sri Lanka holiday . Sri Lanka is teeming with vibrant and colourful life. From trees heavy with coconuts and mangoes to frangipani and bougainvillea abounding – and that’s not all. This small but mighty ‘teardrop’ island is also home to a whopping eight (count ‘em!) UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sri Lanka has a long and fascinating history. The previously off-limits war zones of the north and east are now open, and visitors are flocking to explore this tropical destination that quite simply has it all. From mountainous terrains to lush jungle and palm-fringed beaches, read on to discover the different sides to Sri Lanka and what you can expect from your Sri Lanka holiday… Colonial Galle With its strong European influence and colonial architecture, Galle is like backpacking for grown-ups. Built by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century and later colonised by the Dutch and British, charming Galle sits on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka and feels like it’s in something of a time warp. With its pretty cobbled streets lined with Dutch-colonial buildings, the historic fort is only one of Sri Lanka’s eight World Heritage Sites you will experience on your Sri Lanka holiday. Here you can wander the grid of streets and explore artisan shops. Then, enjoy the coffee culture, or head to nearby Unawatuna beach to soak up the sun. If you fancy, you can even catch a cricket match at the International Stadium – it’s like a home away from home! Cultural Kandy Kandy is without a doubt the culture capital of Sri Lanka, and there’s no better place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere while on your Sri Lanka holiday . Colonial buildings stand alongside ancient temples in this bustling market town that’s also an important centre for local artisans. We’d recommend starting your day browsing for souvenirs expertly made by local wood carvers, metal workers and gemstone jewellers. Next up, wander around the Royal Botanical Gardens with its 4,000 species of plants. These include spices, medicinal plants and a spectacular collection of orchids. In the evening, soak up some Sri Lankan heritage. Watch a cultural show and experience some traditional Sri Lankan dancing. And of course, no visit to Kandy is complete without a trip to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is said to hold one of Buddha’s teeth. Picture Perfect Beaches If it’s beach life you’re after, Sri Lanka won’t disappoint. With beaches on the south, east and west coast, you’ll be spoilt for choice. In the west coast, you’ll find coconut palm trees and lush green surroundings framing picture-perfect sandy beaches, whilst the sun-drenched south coast is home to the tropical paradise of Tangalle . Think soft white sand, turquoise waters and a thriving fishing port – and if you head to nearby Rekawa Beach you can even spot up to five different species of turtles laying their eggs between January and April, so if wildlife is what you’re looking for, there’s no better time to book your Sri Lanka holiday. On the other side of the country, the east coast is very different to the rest of Sri Lanka. It’s even got a different weather pattern, meaning it’s perfect in the European summer months. Quieter and more untouched than the south and west coasts, here stunning unspoilt beaches are fringed with swaying palms. It’s also a great spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. Once you’ve had enough beach time, the city of Trincomalee is more than worth a visit thanks to its striking combination of colonial history and colourful Hindu temples. The Cultural Triangle No Sri Lanka holiday would be complete without exploring a little history of the countries rich history.  The Ancient Cities is a fascinating region full of history and civilisations that are more than 2,500 years old. During the Golden Age of the Sinhalese civilisation, it was known as “Rajarata”, the Land of the Kings. And thanks to its ancient cities and Buddha-filled temples, the Cultural Triangle is still a spectacular place to visit today. Anuradhapura was the first ancient city to be built, followed by the rock fortress at Sigiriya and then Polonnaruwa. Perched at the top of Sigiriya, Lion Rock is an abandoned palace that has been described as the eighth wonder of the world. The ruins date back to the 5th century, when it was selected by King Kasyapa as his new capital. There are even some ancient frescoes still visible on the walls. Up next, there’s Polonnaruwa, the second largest kingdom in ancient Sri Lanka. Whilst Anuradhapura, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities, is home to some of the most sacred Buddhist sites globally. Finally, the 80 cave temples at Dambulla are still used by monks today. The largest cave complex in Sri Lanka, with 153 Buddha statues, as well as carvings and murals on the walls. Misty Tea Plantations A Sri Lanka holiday wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the tea plantations, and from the Cultural Triangle, you can head on to the tea estates in the Central Highlands. With lush green hills and cascading waterfalls, the Central Highlands is the perfect region to explore. Wander on foot via the walking trails, listening to the sound of waterfalls crashing down nearby. We love Nuwara Eliya – known as Little England – which is typically English in style with its manicured lawns and Georgian architecture. And of course, no visit to the Hill County is complete without a trip to one of the tea estates. Discover the history of Sri Lankan tea and find out about all the different types grown. Our Sri Lanka expert, Tracey, and her partner with the elephants! Exceptional National Parks Thanks to its 22 national parks, Sri Lanka is one of the best places in Asia for seeing wildlife.  There’s the Uda Walawe Nature Reserve with its 500 wild elephants (an elephant sighting is almost guaranteed here, even if you only go on one game drive), whilst at Yala National Park you can try and spot leopard amongst the ebony trees on a leopard safari. Other national parks include Wasgamuwa, Sinharaja (undoubtedly the best for exotic bird spotting), Minneriya (the seasonal congregation of 300-strong elephants is a truly unmissable experience) Wilpattu , where you can try and spot the elusive sloth bear, and untouched Gal Oya for a boat safari. Basically, whatever your itinerary, there will be a national park somewhere on your Sri Lanka holiday that works. Whether you want to experience the ancient mystery of Sigiriya, look for leopards and elephants on safari, visit some of the most important Buddhist relics in the world, or just enjoy simply stunning beaches, we weren’t lying when we said Sri Lanka has something for everyone. Ready to plan your Sri Lanka holiday ? There’s nothing our resident experts Rebecca and Tracey don’t know about Sri Lanka and they’ll be more happy to share their expert advice and build a holiday that’s tailor-made for you. Contact them today.                    

Bordering Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank, the Dead Sea is 431 metres below sea level, making it the lowest point on Earth. It’s not actually a sea at all, but a colossal land-locked lake anchored in the desert like an intensely blue oasis, surrounded by a ruffled crust of pure white salt. The Dead Sea is truly not one to miss while on your  Jordan holidays. What’s more, it’s not only the lowest point on dry land but also the saltiest and most mineral-rich body of water in the world – so much so, its dense, black mud is used in restorative spa therapies in some of the area’s top-notch spa resorts – it’s nature’s very own health spa. The Dead Sea is so salty; ‘swimming’ in the lake is actually something of a misnomer, as the naturally buoyant waters mean you’ll bob leisurely rather than swim laps. The low altitude also means filtered ultra-violet rays from the sun and air that’s richer in oxygen due to its barometric pressure. Save for a few swaying palms, the surrounding desert is largely barren – though there’s a stunning contrast between the baked earth and the wide blue skies. There are also fantastic sunsets which stain the horizon a deep, burnished gold. But there’s more to the area than salt and sand: all around there are many spectacular oases and a number of important historic sites. An easy drive from Amman and Madaba, it’s a perfect stop-off on Jordan holidays , where you can enjoy pampering as well as visiting one of the world’s most intriguing natural wonders. It’s the perfect wind-down after Jordan adventure holidays in Petra or Wadi Rum. Read on to discover the perfect Dead Sea spa resort for you… Mövenpick Dead Sea Resort With its desert-inspired architecture, Mövenpick Dead Sea Resort blends beautifully into the surrounding ochre-hued landscape. Built on the north-eastern shores of the Dead Sea, the five-star resort is close to the Earth’s lowest point and yet just over half an hour from the country’s largest airport near Amman. It’s surrounded by 20 acres of gardens, kept beautifully green all year round, and built from creamy stone resembling the country’s older-style buildings. The resort is more laid back than other luxury spa hotels on the Dead Sea, but service is still attentive – you’ll want for nothing more from your Jordan holidays : a wide array of swimming pools, tennis courts, a beach and a vast spa covering 6,000 square metres, with a whopping 31 treatment rooms, a gym, juice bar and choice of over 70 treatments. The rocky shore of the Dead Sea can be accessed via a wooden ramp, where there are pots of natural mud to cover yourself in. It’s a big resort with 346 rooms, but each one is well-equipped and comfortable with a terrace or balcony. Kempinski Hotel Ishtar The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar is widely regarded as one of the best hotels in Jordan: it’s home to the largest spa in the Middle East, where you can get Thai massages as well as treatments using mud and salt from the Dead Sea. The more exclusive Ishtar area of the resort has a separate check-in – like a hotel within a hotel, it feels very upscale and great if you enjoy the finer things in life – but wherever you choose to stay, you’ll enjoy the best position on the coast and a Gardens-of-Babylon-style design that flows down the hill to the lake. While there’s direct access to the Dead Sea, the five-star resort has its own man-made beach – the longest in Jordan – and the nine swimming pools are some of the best you’ll ever swim in, with stunning views over the Dead Sea. You’ll also get amazing views from every one of the sleek, salmon-hued bedrooms: they all overlook the lakeshore and the milky waters. If you’re looking for luxury while on your Jordan holidays , look no further. Hot Springs Ma’in If you prefer to stay in a more traditional hotel, Hot Springs Ma’in is surrounded by rugged mountains, rising from the scenery like a serene oasis. It’s 30 minutes’ drive from the Dead Sea so you’ll need to make a short transfer, but the distance means you’ll enjoy the striking landscapes of the interior. The spa is spectacular: set under a hot spring waterfall that gives the resort its name. Mineral-rich waters cascade into the spa pool below, where you can enjoy a relaxing dip after exploring the saline waters of the Dead Sea, and it’s run by Six Senses – a world authority on indulgent spoiling – so you can be sure you’re in good hands. Dining experiences are more authentic here too: tuck in to traditional Zarb cuisine at Olive, housed in a Bedouin tent, try local wines and cheeses at The Cellar, or make a trip offsite to Panorama Restaurant, set atop a rocky outcrop with striking views across the Dead Sea – a visit for sunset is a must. Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa The Hilton hotel brand is renowned the world over, so of course, it has its own slice of real estate on the Dead Sea. Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa is the first Hilton hotel in Jordan and it’s got a great location too, with a huge lobby that looks out across the Dead Sea as far as neighbouring Israel. Access to the lake is direct, so you can take a dip whenever the mood strikes, as staying here affords access to the only floating pontoon and sun deck – great for soaking up those filtered rays! The infinity pool is pretty special, too. All of the hotel’s rooms have been designed to promote maximum relaxation, with a big terrace overlooking the lake, comfy beds and Satellite TV. It’s the most family-friendly hotel on the shore, so ideal if you’re travelling with little ones who can make use of the children’s pool and supervised kids’ club. If you’re looking for more grown-up activities, try a treatment at the spa, a drink at the swim-up pool bar or a slap-up meal at one of the seven restaurants. Jordan Valley Marriot Resort & Spa Jordan Valley Marriot Resort & Spa stays faithful to its surroundings with stone walls and wooden towers, with a courtyard-style square – it feels like a traditional Jordanian home, but inside the lobby sparkles with white columns and guest rooms and suites are modern and expansive with marble bathrooms and big floor-to-ceiling windows opening to a balcony. While the main draw is, of course, the Dead Sea, if you’re looking to spend a few days here you’ll find day trips to the Mujib Nature Reserve or River Jordan easily accessible from the resort. There’s everything you need on your doorstep: a lively atmosphere surrounding the various pools, six restaurants and bars and a huge spa with steam room and an indoor pool filled with water from the Dead Sea. The food here is excellent: breakfast buffets at Mosaico Restaurant are a Bacchanalian affair, lunch is equally bountiful with plenty of salads, pasta, and desserts. Dinners could include fine Italian dining at Il Terrazzo. Whether you’re looking for an authentic experience amid spectacular landscapes or want to be able to toe the saline shore at your own convenience, there are plenty of Jordan holidays available. Contact our resident expert Catherine who will be more than happy to share her expert advice and build a holiday that’s tailor-made for you.

Jordan is famous for its ancient history, excellent hospitality, world wonders like the Dead Sea and Petra and its magnificent desert scenery, but what if we told you Jordan is also one of the Middle East’s finest culinary centres? Experience a foodie awakening while on your  holidays in Jordan . Indulge in lip-smacking traditional cuisine made with fantastically fresh ingredients – a cuisine that dates back thousands of years. If you enjoy sampling new flavours while you travel, Jordan might be the perfect place for you. Whether you embark on a tasting tour of Amman’s street food, try out new skills in the kitchen during a cooking lesson or learn about the country’s wine production at a vineyard, there are plenty of opportunities to explore Jordan’s varied gastronomy. Combined with sightseeing and a dose of adventure , sampling the food of Jordan is sure to feature favourably on your holiday highlight reel. From the humble chickpea to rich meat stews, read on to discover our favourite Jordan food and drink. Street eats The best way to get to know a country’s traditional cuisine is often to head to a street market, and sample the wares alongside the resident population. You may have already heard of kofta and kebabs, but there’s much more than traditional fast food to Jordan’s quick street eats. Amman is a fantastic place to try Jordan street food. Stalls are piled high with bread and falafel, sweet roasted nuts. The many shawarma dens give off an intoxicating aroma that permeates the tangle of streets. Mezze is a key part of street eating. Pick up sizzling flatbreads stuffed with falafel, bowls of fava beans swimming in olive oil and tender kebabs. These are best all enjoyed together to sample the variety of flavours. No holidays in Jordan would be complete without sampling the world famous falafel. In fact, many Jordanians will attest that their falafel is the best in the Middle East. We can heartily agree: light and fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, with mouth-watering flavours of cumin, garlic and parsley. Jordan is also one of the largest producers of olives in the world. An  excellent snack or side dish as well as providing flavour to many main dishes. All meals are completed with a little something sweet. You can grab a slice of baklava or sugar-syrup drenched kanafeh, a soft cheese with a crumbly orange-scented semolina crust. Unearthing Zarb cuisine Zarb cuisine is the food of the Bedouin, the nomadic people of the Middle East; the cooking practice is full of drama and can definitely be classed as ‘slow food’ – it can take as long as several hours to cook, but it’s definitely worth the wait. Because of their roaming lifestyle the Bedouin people keep cooking equipment to a minimum, so every item is precious: using the land, they are able to cook their meals underground in a hot oven using embers from the campfire. During Zarb cooking, lamb or chicken with a mix of vegetables and herbs wrapped in palm leaves and cooked in an iron pot with a heavy lid, and then buried in the sand. The low, slow cooking process means the meat falls off the bone; it’s succulent and delicious. You can sample traditional Zarb cooking while on your holidays in Jordan , with the Bedouin in and around Wadi Rum. Mansaf: the national dish Mansaf is celebrated as Jordan’s national dish. Traditionally served on a large platter, it’s designed for communal eating among families and friends. Tender chunks of meat are layered between thin flatbreads and served alongside piles of aromatic rice, toasted nuts and a tangy yogurt sauce called jameed. The dish also originates in the Bedouin kitchen, so the recipe varies across the Middle East, appearing in home cooking from Israel to Iraq. Restaurants usually serve mansaf made with lamb or chicken, but you might also find it made with camel meat. Another classic Jordanian dish is maqluba. Often made at home, it’s a jumble of chicken, rice and vegetables inverted on the plate like a cake (the word maqluba means ‘upside down’). World-class wine While alcohol is available across Jordan the variety is not huge. However, beer is brewed in the country and equally fruit juices are deliciously fresh. But Levantine wines are growing in popularity and Jordan’s fledgling wine production is the best accompaniment to its cuisine. So don’t fear, you’ll still be able enjoy a tipple while on your holidays in Jordan . There are also choices from slightly further afield. Many restaurants now offering labels from the mature wineries of the nearby Lebanon. While staying in Amman, make a trip north of the city to the St George Winery . Here, you can take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the production process. Vegetarian paradise Vegetarians will find plenty to satisfy their taste buds while on their holidays in Jordan ; the foundation of many beloved Jordanian dishes begins with the humble chickpea. Whether deep fried into delicious balls of crunchy falafel (best stuffed into a flatbread with spicy dressing) or whipped into a creamy hummus, probably one of the best know Levantine dishes. Wherever you order it you’ll find the taste subtly varies depending on the ratio of lemon juice and olive oil – and just about every restaurant in the country offers it. For a different texture, give fattet hummus a try, which is made with white bread. It has a deliciously whipped texture and is lighter than the regular version. Another Jordanian favourite ingredient is Aubergine, which are widely used in Jordanian cooking too. Why not try muttabal (garlic-roasted aubergines) or a bowl of thick, smooth baba ghanoush with slices of bread for a light lunch, or with a side of herby tabbouleh. Taking tea Tea, particular of the mint variety, is drunk in astounding quantities across Jordan. Traditionally, the beverage is very sweet and often flavoured with aromatic sage. When visiting a Bedouin camp, you may be invited to share a drink with the people. This is traditionally served in tiny ornate glasses, but beware – you may find yourself receiving infinite refills, unless you signal your satisfaction by placing your hand over the glass. If coffee is more your cup of, well, tea, you may find it to be considerably more aromatic than it is at home. Syrupy sweet, Jordanian coffee is rich and made with ground cardamom. If you delight in trying new flavours or are wanting to be more adventurous with your palate, Jordan’s fresh and tasty cuisine is the perfect place to start. Whether you opt to take a cooking class while on your holidays in Jordan or decide to embark on a full-on tour of the country’s culinary landscape, our experts can help. Contact our resident expert Catherine who will be more than happy to share her favourite dishes and places to eat. She’ll also be able to help you build your perfect holiday to Jordan.  

From sheltered bays to crashing waves and golden sands to frontier towns, with its national parks, wildlife and a huge range of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder the  Garden Route is one of the most popular South Africa multi-centre holidays . Stretching 200 km across the country’s southern coast from Mossel Bay to Storms River, the Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most scenic regions and an area of spectacular natural beauty. Named because it is so lush and green in comparison to the rest of the country, a self-drive holiday is a perfect way to get off the beaten track and explore this rugged and beautiful region. So whether you want to take a detour and spot whales in their natural habitat, relax on golden sand beaches, explore hidden forests, feast on fresh seafood overlooking a turquoise lagoon or walk hand-in-trunk with an orphaned baby elephant, the Garden Route is the place to do it. Having recently returned from a self-drive adventure in South Africa, Charlie is a true expert on South Africa multi-centre holidays – and shares with us her top spots for an unforgettable week along the Garden Route below… Whale spotting in Hermanus Before you embark on the official start of the Garden Route, if you have any time to spare this pretty little seaside town just along the coast from Cape Town is one to tick off the bucket list. It’s got a charming historic quarter, as well as plenty of shops, seaside cafes and seafood restaurants – but what Hermanus is most famous for is whale watching. From July to November, it’s one of the few places in the world where you can spot Southern Right Whales from land – and what better vantage point than the winding coastal paths and cliffs of Hermanus? It’s quite common to be able to spot whales from as close as 10 yards – and on some days up to 80 have been spotted in the bay. The town even employs its own whale crier who blows a kelp horn to announce each new arrival! This waterfront wonder truly is a must see while on your South Africa multi-centre holiday s. But it’s not all about whales in Hermanus: some of South Africa’s best boutique vineyards such as the Hemel en Aarde Valley are nearby if wine tasting is more your thing. Wilderness and Oudtshoorn Heading off from Hermanus, you’ll know you’ve truly arrived on the Garden Route when you climb the hills just before Wilderness and see the bright white sand and frothy blue ocean below. Its beaches, hiking trails and unique ecosystems of forests, rivers, and lagoons make Wilderness a paradise for nature lovers, and there’s a warm sunny climate year round too. About an hour’s drive from Wilderness you’ll also find Oudtshoorn and one of the most jaw-dropping sites of the Garden Route, the Cango Caves . These world-renowned caves have caverns of stalactites and stalagmites which have formed over millions of years to create a series of dark, eerie tunnels and stunning limestone formations. The main cavern is easily accessible, well lit, and a once-in-a-lifetime sight to be seen in itself; but for the more daring there is also a longer tour that continues up ladders, through narrow cracks and around twists and turns as you explore one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Picture-perfect Knysna At the heart of the Garden Route, Knysna is a great place to base yourself if you don’t fancy a self-drive holiday. As South Africa’s favourite holiday town, Knysna lazes on the shore of a large blue lagoon that’s protected by two rocky headlands and is a great place to relax and unwind. Here you can spend your time strolling through the town, stopping off at its coffee shops, art galleries and boutique souvenir shops before heading down to the buzzing Waterfront for fresh fish straight from the sea. If you’re going to sample seafood on your South Africa multi-centre holiday s, make sure it’s here: Knysna is renowned for its oysters and seafood cuisine. There’s even a 10-day oyster festival in July that’s growing in popularity every year – but if you can’t make that, an oyster tasting at the Knysna Oyster Company will do just fine. Other activities include taking a ferry to Featherbed Nature Reserve and strolling around its natural mosaic of coastal and clifftop paths or embarking on a cruise out to the heads to take in the beauty of the lagoon. Plettenberg Bay Known as Plett to the locals, its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere make Plettenberg Bay a quintessential seaside destination that’s popular with South Africans and tourists alike. There’s truly something to suit everyone’s South Africa multi-centre holidays here. It’s set in a horseshoe-shaped bay with lovely sheltered beaches and breathtaking views of the Tsitsikamma Mountains and offers up a whole host of activities from sea kayaking and horse riding to sailing and surfing. It’s a must for nature lovers too: there’s a large Cape fur seal colony, a seasonal penguin colony, and the chance to see dolphins and even whales in season too (June to November is best for boat-based whale watching). You can also head to the nearby The Crags to walk hand in trunk with an orphaned baby elephant, or venture to Monkeyland where you’ll find over 400 different species of rescued monkey, lemur, gibbons, and bushbabies. If that wasn’t enough, the largest free-flight aviary, Birds of Eden, is only 20 minutes away, and there’s plenty of nature reserves and hiking trails to choose from as well, such as the famous Robberg Peninsula . See, we weren’t lying when we said there’s something for everyone in Plett! Ending on a high at Tsitsikamma After your scenic drive along the Garden Route, what better place to stretch your legs than the Tsitsikamma National Park ? The park begins just east of Plettenberg Bay, and with over 80km of pure, unspoilt land, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most visited spots in South Africa – and an absolute must-visit for anyone travelling the Garden Route. From ancient yellowwood trees that are up to 800 years old to hiking trails, adrenaline sports and even dolphin spotting on the sandy beaches, there’s plenty to occupy your time here. The highlight is probably the Storms River, a stunning and fitting way to end your trip along the Garden Route: spot evidence of indigenous hunters in the Strandloper Cave before heading on the rope suspension bridge where the river meets the ocean, creating a maelstrom beneath your feet. A self-drive or organised tour, East to West or back again, however, you want to do the Garden Route , at Holiday Architects South Africa multi-centre holidays are our thing – so you can trust us to create the perfect trip for you. In fact, we’ve got a team of South Africa experts just waiting to plan your tailor-made adventure. Contact our team today to start planning your next experience!