Travel blog

Today is #NationalBookLoversDay . We love a good book here at HA. Books are there for the dreamers, they’re there to allow us an escape to another time, place or world. For many, they’ve been a bit of a salvation this last year or so, allowing us to travel to far of shores during a time when, for once, that wasn’t possible. To mark the occasion, here are 5 travel-related books recommended by our travel-loving team, for those days when you want to kick back, relax, and transport yourself to a far-off world…   1. The Travelling Cat Chronicles – Hiro Arikawa Fenton, our Japan expert, was quick to recommend this book. His review: ‘Melancholy and heart-warming in equal measures, this is the story of a man and his cat that will appeal to even the most die-hard ‘dog person’.  A unique glimpse into modern, rural Japan that will make you want to retreat to the countryside to contemplate life itself.’ Inspired? Check out our Classic Japan sample itinerary here. 2. Arabia – Levison Wood This book follows Levison’s adventures through the heart of the Middle East. Following in the ancient footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, this book is an account of Levison’s 5000-mile journey through the heart of the Middle East. Travelling through 13 countries, crossing the Arabian Peninsula, and learning about the region through the stories and lives of the people he meets, it’s a fascinating insight into a world we don’t often hear about. This book will transport you away from your sofa to a land of epic mystery, history, religious and spiritual adventure. Have an Arabian adventure of your own in Oman . Find out more .   3. Dark Star Safari – Paul Theroux Paul Theroux is the father of the iconic interviewer, Louis. This book follows his travels from Cairo to Cape Town in the most authentic way possible, only taking one flight – an impressive feat at 60 years old! Theroux really takes you deep under the skin of Africa, referring to it as a ‘dark star’ as he makes his way through lands that have faced many troubles and adversities over the years. Travelling through Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania , Uganda and South Africa (and more!) this is a tale of unpredictable adventures and the pages give you a window into real Africa. Experience Africa for yourself on this Ultimate Uganda sample itinerary . 4. The Motorcycle Diaries – Che Guevara The Motorcycle Diaries are the diaries of a young Guevara as he embarks on an epic adventure and explores the wonders of South America on the back of a bike. Reading tales written by iconic Che Guevara is never a bore and the pages are crammed full of dramatic adventures and youthful escapades as Che travels from one drink to the next. The adventures in this book would make for an eventful life and full memoir alone, without the epic life he had to come. If you’re more of a film buff than a bookworm, then you’re in luck. Che’s adventures were made into an Oscar-winning film back in 2004, the perfect Sunday film to wake your wanderlust. Inspired? Get off the beaten travel in Argentina on this Northern Off-Road Adventure . 5. Married to a Bedouin – Marguerite van Geldermalsen This is the tale of Marguerite, a New Zealand-born nurse, who met a Bedouin whilst travelling through the Middle East in 1978. Mohammed, a charismatic souvenier-seller, invited her and her friend to stay in his cave and, never ones to turn down an adventure, they said yes. And that was the beginning of their love story. They married and lived together within the 2,000 year old ancient caves of Petra. She worked as the resident nurse and learned to live like the Bedouin. She’d cook traditional dinners over an open fire, collect water using donkeys, and drink sweet black tea. Her story is truly extraordinary and makes for a fantastic read. Explore Petra and other highlights on our Classic Jordan sample itinerary .   We understand that things are still fairly uncertain right now. But we’re at the end of the phone on 01242 253 073 or email to answer any questions you may have about getting away on a much-needed holiday later this year or next. We can’t wait to get you travelling again! Get in touch today.

An Oman family holiday is always a great idea. With its wonderful mix of desert adventures, culture-full capital, dramatic mountains, sweeping beaches and warm waters, this Arabian gem has something for all the family. What’s more, all of this beauty is home to tantalising food to try, maze-like souqs to explore and some of the friendliest people you can meet. There are countless adventures to be had, too, from sleeping in desert camps under the stars to meeting the local Bedouin nomads, camel trekking and even watching baby turtles hatching on the beach. Here at HA, we understand that there will always be different requirements when travelling with a family, and that those are all dependent on how old your little ones are! So, do give us a call on 01242 253 073 to speak to one of our Oman experts about the perfect Oman family holiday for you and your brood. For starters, below we share our five favourite family hotels in Oman.   5 fantastic family hotels in Oman   1. Shangri-La Al Waha, Muscat     The Shangri-La Al Waha was Oman’s very first hotel built to be fully dedicated to families, and they’ve done a brilliant job of it. With multiple lagoon-like swimming pools for families to splash about in and a long beautiful beach to play on, it’s a true family oasis. (Psst, ‘Al Waha’ literally translates to ‘The Oasis’ – and it really delivers what it says on the tin!) What’s more, the hotel is set against the most breath-taking mountain backdrop that serves as a constant reminder of what a special country you’re in. One of our favourite family-friendly activities on offer here is the chance for kids to help release turtles back into the sea with the onsite turtle ranger as part of the Turtle Care Project. This is such an incredible occasion to experience as a family and memory to take home with you. There are countless other activities to enjoy together, too. Get off dry land and try scuba diving, snorkelling or kayaking in your very own clear-bottom kayak! Or, if you have wildlife-lovers in the family, head out on a boat trip for a spot of whale and dolphin watching. If downtime is what you’re after though, why not simply while away the hours floating along the lazy river and soaking up the sunshine? Explore more   2. Intercontinental Muscat     The Intercontinental Muscat is a fantastic 5* family hotel in Oman’s capital. What’s more, it’s one of the best value 5* properties in the city – you’ll struggle to get more for your money elsewhere! The location is great – right in the centre of Muscat’s residential quarter and just by the beach – so, if you’re looking for the right balance of city culture and family beachside fun, this would be a brilliant choice for you. The Intercontinental has everything you could dream of from a family hotel: Swimming pools, bars, restaurants, tennis court, a gym and not forgetting the white sandy beach! Find out more    3. Anantara Jabal Akhdar     The Anantara Jabal Akhdar is a firm favourite Oman hotel in the Holiday Architects family. As luxurious as it is family-friendly, this resort is just two-hours’ drive inland from Muscat and is magnificently perched on the edge of the most dramatic canyon. Andy (our fearless leader and founder), his wife Rachel (our HR Manager) and their two kids absolutely rave about this hotel – and for good reason. Here’s why Rachel rates it so highly as a top family hotel in Oman: “We just LOVED it – not just because it was a luxurious hotel but because there were lots of little touches that helped you to relax. There was an easel in our suite so Philippa instantly started drawing the amazing view. Our butler immediately took the girls under his wing – ferrying them to the kids club, going back to the room to get jumpers for them as they were a little chilly and generally being a really caring person. There was even a cake for Ellie on her birthday. The spa was spectacular and definitely a must for parents to unwind at. All the restaurants had kids menus and the main buffet style restaurant had little buffet stations so the girls could get things individually cooked for them (mainly Nutella pancakes). The most amazing element was our pool, even if you don’t have a suite, you can take a dip in the infinity pool with the most spectacular views. It really felt like you were a family and not just a booking.” Rachel Find out more    4. Desert Nights Camp     Imagine sharing dinner with your kids as the sun sinks slowly behind the dunes, your toes buried in the warm sand as you gaze up, waiting for Oman’s vast and magical starry skies to make an appearance. Desert Nights Camp is the place to do just that. This desert oasis is perfect for families looking for a unique, sandy adventure – without the long drives and constant cries of “are we there yet?!” Plus, if you’re self-driving, it’s super easy to find – we don’t want you getting lost on the dunes with little’uns in the car! There are great family suite options, plus their stunning private pool villas make for a lovely, private family stay with a little touch of luxury. They’re big on family activities at Desert Nights, too. Head out with the kids and explore the golden sands on camelback, quad bike, sandboarding or on your own two feet. This is a stay none of the family will forget in a hurry. Find out more   5. 1000 Nights Camp     1000 Nights Camp is a little bit more of a drive, but it’s worth it for the darker skies and secluded desert experience! Winner of the ‘Luxury Desert Camp’ award in 2019, its Bedouin wool tents complete with colourful Arabic carpets and furnishings really help to submerge you in this magical location. With a swimming pool to cool off in and plenty of activities including dune bashing, camel rides and sandboarding to enjoy, there’s no end of ways to fill your time. Plus, if you want to inject some authentic cultural encounters into your Oman family holiday, 1000 Nights Camp can arrange visits to local Bedouin families – giving you and the kids a real insight into life in this amazing part of the world. Find out more     Oman really is such a special place for a family holiday. With countless sights to see, places to explore, adventures to have and opportunities to relax and reconnect as a family. It’s one of those places that after visiting once, you’ll long to return to again and again.  

If you’re anything like us, you’ll be pleased to see the back of 2020. At the moment, the world-wide travel situation is changing by the day and advice is different for every destination. We understand that booking a getaway for this year, while being much-needed, may still be a little out of reach or too uncertain to commit to. But the world is still out there, all of those goosebump-inducing views and pinch yourself moments haven’t gone away. So why not think about getting a 2021 holiday in the diary to look forward to once the chaos of 2020 is over? Here are five 2021 holiday ideas that might help ensure 2021 is a year to remember – for all the right reasons!   Zip through Costa Rica’s lush Arenal rainforest Mark 2021 with a boost of adrenaline, hurtling above the emerald green rainforests of Costa Rica’s adventure center, Arenal . Costa Rica is one of the most nature-rich countries in the world. Despite taking up only 0.05% of the earth’s surface, it boasts nearly 6% of our planet’s biodiversity. It has mountains, rivers, beaches, rainforests, wetlands, cloud forests, dry plains and wildlife galore, all ripe for exploring. Plan a Costa Rica holiday >> Whale-watching in Canada Picture this. You are floating along the flat calm, glimmering blue waters off the coast of Vancouver Island , tranquil and still. When suddenly, a whale breaches the surface a stone’s throw from your boat, putting on a show. Few animal encounters are as humbling. If seeing these magnificent marine mammals in the wild has a place on your wishlist, Canada could be the destination for you. Whether you’re drawn to a wildlife-rich adventure , a road trip with picture-worthy photo opportunities at every turn, or an active getaway that gets you off the beaten track, Canada has all of the ingredients for the perfect 2021 holiday. Plan a Canada holiday >>   Walk in the footsteps of the Inca people at Machu Picchu One for the culture-seekers now. Head to Peru and journey into the high Andes mountains to the iconic site of Machu Picchu . This 15th century Inca citadel, positioned amidst the most dramatic of landscapes is sure to stagger. The site was so well-concealed amidst the lush green mountains, that it remained hidden until the American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered it in 1911. Whether you chose to reach the dramatic ruin via the Inca Trail or the power of your own two feet, this would be a 2021 holiday adventure to remember. We’d always recommend visiting the site with an authorised guide. With their knowledge of the city’s history, along with how to get the best photographs away from the crowds, they’re sure to bring your visit to life. Plan a Peru holiday >>   Explore the ancient temples of Angkor Angkor, just outside Siem Reap, Cambodia , is one of the most significant archeological sites in all of South East Asia. The heritage site covers an impressive 400 square kilometers. Once the center of the ancient Khmer Kingdom, countless temples and ruins can be found nestled amidst the sprawling jungle of the World Heritage site. Angkor Wat is, without doubt, the most iconic of the larger temples, but there’s so much more to see. From the many faces of the Bayon temple to Ta Prohm, half-swallowed by the jungle, a day exploring here will be a day well spent. Cambodia is a beautiful country, with remarkable sites and wonderful people. Our Classic Cambodia sample itinerary takes all of this in and so much more. Could this be your perfect 2021 holiday? Plan a Cambodia holiday >>     Walk on the wild side in Kruger National Park If any year is one for an ultimate adventure, it’s 2021. There are few experiences as wow-worthy as driving alongside a herd of elephants as they make their way to the watering hole, or spotting a pair of loved-up lions sunning themselves in the long grass. Kruger National Park in South Africa offers some of the best safari experiences on earth. With a wide variety of lodges and accommodation to suit all budgets, game drives and the option to drive yourself, a South African safari could be the perfect 2021 holiday to make it a year to remember – for good reasons this time around! Plan a South Africa holiday >>   If any of the above has got you in the holiday planning mood, we’re here. Our travel specialists are at the end of the phone on 01242 253 073 to talk holidays today. So, whether you want to discuss the current travel situation or talk about getting a holiday in the diary to look forward to, we’d love to hear from you. Alternatively, fill in our quick and easy form to get a free quote for your very own tailormade holiday now…  

“It’s got something for everyone” isn’t a cliche when it comes to  Sri Lanka holiday ideas . It really does. Ancient kingdom exploring for the history buffs. Goosebump-prompting elephant sightings for the wildlife lovers. Hidden Robinson Crusoe’esque beaches for the sun-worshippers. And some of the best food on earth for the foodies. And all of this is woven together by some of the most friendly local people you could ever hope to encounter. Sri Lanka has been exceptionally popular so far this year – and we’re not surprised at all! Dive in below to 5 of our favourite holiday ideas for exploring this teardrop-shaped gem of an island. (Remember, everything is bespoke with us, so this is just a taster).   Discover the magic for yourself on these 5 Sri Lanka holiday ideas   Ultimate Sri Lanka – 21 days Experience Ultimate Sri Lanka, our most jam-packed Sri Lanka holiday idea itinerary! From ancient wonders to hidden gems, experience the diverse richness of this island paradise. You’ll discover Anuradhapura’s history, the newfound charm of Jaffna, and the untouched beauty of the east coast. Spend time exploring Sigiriya , Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy’s ancient cities. Lose yourself in tea plantations, encounter leopards in Yala National Park , and stroll through Galle’s colonial streets. Brace for an unforgettable journey! 1 night Negombo – 1 night Anuradhapura – 2 nights Jaffna – 1 night Trincomalee East Coast Beach – 2 nights Sigiriya – 2 nights Kandy – 3 nights Tea Country (with train) – 1 night Yala National Park – 2 nights Galle – 3 nights Southwest Coast Beach – 1 night Colombo   Sri Lanka’s Hidden Gems – 17 days   There’s something extra special about exploring the path less travelled on your holidays. We’re huge advocates of always visiting the highlights (they’re highlights for a reason!), but there’s so much magic to be found when you dig a little deeper. Visit a working coconut plantation , share homecooked meals with local families and meet the indigenous tribes of Gal Oya National Park on this 17-day holiday. 1 night Horathapola Estate- 2 nights Wilpattu National Park – 2 nights Jaffna – 2 nights Sigiriya – 3 nights Pasikudah Beach – 2 nights Gal Oya National Park – 2 nights Knuckles Mountains – 1 night Gampaha       Sri Lanka Family Holiday – 14 days   Families and memory making is at the heart of this Sri Lanka holiday idea. Your two weeks will be packed full of wild elephant sightings, cave temples, ancient rock fortresses , whale-watching, diving trips, kayaking adventures and beach fun . The kids will want to join you on holidays forever more after this one! 3 nights Sigiriya – 5 nights Trincomalee Beach – 3 nights Digana/Knuckles – 1 night Colombo       Express Sri Lanka – 11 days   Pushed for time? No problem. We’d always recommend carving out as much time as possible for your Sri Lanka holiday (it’s worth it!). But, if 11 days are your goal, we’ve got you covered. This whistlestop Sri Lanka holiday takes in the sacred and historic city of Kandy , then sees you flying through the tea hills on one of the most beautiful train rides on earth. Then you’ll be spotting wildlife in Udawalawe National Park before winding up sunning yourself on a sandy southwest beach . This holiday is short, but perfectly formed. 1 night Negombo – 2 nights Kandy – 2 nights Tea Country – 1 night Udawalawe National Park – 3 nights Southwest Coast Beach     Sri Lanka and the Maldives – 14 days   If you’re looking for a holiday that ticks all of the memorable holiday tick boxes, this is it . You’ll explore two of Sri Lanka’s great ancient cities, Sigiriya and Kandy. You’ll get the chance to spot countless wild elephants in Minneriya National Park. You’ll hop on a stunning train ride through the tea country. And last – but absolutely not least – you’ll find yourself unwinding in absolute paradise on a Maldives beach . That doesn’t sound too shabby to us! 2 nights Sigiriya – 2 nights Kandy – 2 nights Tea Country – 1 night Colombo – 5 nights Maldives Beach       Travel is what we do and we’re never happier than when we’re designing completely bespoke, tailor-made adventures for you. So, give us a call on 01242 253 073 to chat to our Sri Lanka experts, Rebecca and Lisa, about getting your dream Sri Lanka holiday in the diary – we’re here to help!  

Fighting the urge to pack your bags pronto and fly to exotic shores? If so, you’re in luck! Morocco is open for travel, ready to welcome you and could well be the perfect place for that post-pandemic getaway. What’s more, if you’re double vaccinated, you don’t have to isolate when you get home! We understand you may not feel ready to take off just yet, but we’re at the end of the phone to chat through the best way to get you away on that much-needed holiday just as soon as the time is right for you. The very mention of Morocco alone somehow manages to conjure up visions of exotic wonder. The country is bursting with ancient traditions, bright colours and sights, sounds and smells just waiting to astound your senses. With energetic cities , bustling souks, imposing mountain landscapes , sweeping deserts and quaint coastal cities , there is so much to explore. What’s more, with so much on offer, there’s something for all the family. We love an excursion that’s just a little out of the ordinary here at HA. Below, one of Moroccan specialists, Rebecca, shares 5 of her favourite quirky things to do in Morocco, that might just surprise you. This is Morocco… but not as you know it. (We know things are still fairly uncertain right now. But our team of experts are at the end of the phone on 01242 253 073 to answer any questions you may have about getting away on a much-needed holiday later this year).     1. Take to the skies above Marrakesh Don’t miss this chance to see Marrakesh from a completely new perspective! You’ll be pleased you did once you’re floating above the hustle and bustle of the city, powered by flame under a colourful hot air balloon. As long as the weather plays ball, you’ll take to the skies before dawn for the chance to see the sun gradually appear over the horizon, casting a stunning golden light over the beautiful countryside just north of Marrakesh. Take in the view as local villagers go about their morning, and gaze in awe as the stunning desert-like landscapes change colour in the dawn light. After landing you’ll be invited to join a local Berber family for a delicious traditional breakfast. Enjoy this unique excursion and so many more on our Ultimate Morocco holiday itinerary. 2. Go Berber! The ultimate cultural excursion This wonderfully authentic local-living experience is one of my favourites. ‘Go Berber!’ immerses you in the daily life of an authentic mountain community. Nestled in the lush Ourika Valley amid the dramatic Atlas landscape, you’ll meet a local village family. They’ll teach you to bake bread and prepare traditional tagine, before gathering around a pot of traditional mint tea (made by you of course!) for a chance to get to know each other better. Your guide will be there to help with any language barriers, so don’t worry about that! While your lunch is bubbling away, why not get your hands stuck into wet clay in a ceramics workshop? Later, try your hand at weaving a colourful kilim with the local women and walk the farm terraces to see the sweated labour that goes into the ancient farming methods. You’ll also meet the community’s youngest members at the charity pre-school centre where little Berbers learn Arabic in preparation for big school. This day is a real honour to experience, really allowing you a rare glimpse into a wonderfully different way of life. You can experience it on our Best of Morocco holiday. 3. Wine tasting and tree-climbing goats in Essaouira The wilds of Essaouira have a few unexpected treats in store! The land is rich and fertile, home to protected thuya wood forests, grove after grove of argan trees and, completely unexpectedly to me, vineyards! This trip starts with a drive through lovely scenery (keep an eye out for the goats who have a penchant for climbing the argan trees – many thanks to our clients, the Crawleys, for sharing the fantastic image below!) and a visit to a local woman’s collective making argan oil which is fascinating to watch. The end of the tour is the real treat – you’ll enjoy a delicious wine tasting at the locally-owned Val D’Argan estate. Sip wine, meet the locals, and ogle at the fearless goats and more on this Marrakesh, Mountains and Ocean itinerary.   4. Chasing waterfalls in the Rif Mountains Waterfalls aren’t the first thing that come to mind when you think of Morocco, but this might just change that! This adventure starts with a drive along winding mountain roads, through rugged canyons and lush valleys to Akchour village. Then you’ll dust off your hiking shoes to set off on foot following the beautiful footpaths by the river. You’ll be with a local guide, so don’t worry about getting lost! As you climb, prepare to be greeted with dramatic views of majestic peaks and the beauty of the wild natural bridge (God’s Bridge). A gradual uphill walk will lead you to the village to meet the locals and learn about their lives and work farming and herding goats and sheep. This morning ends with an amble downhill to the local restaurant for lunch, before driving along the rushing river back to the blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen.   5. Fez Food Tasting Tour You won’t find a place that feels more Moroccan than the labyrinth of narrow lanes that sprawl through the medinas of Fez . This is such a fun, foodie experience, all about interacting with locals and tasting the various Fez delicacies at vibrant food markets across the city. You’ll be led by an English-speaking guide, sampling Moroccan crepes, traditional breads in a public bakery (so delicious!), dates and olives, preserved meats, and many kinds of honey. Keep your eyes peeled for the ladies making the phyllo used for the preparation of the Pastilla, a famous Moroccan recipe of Andalusian origins. You’ll also visit a traditional mint tea café to see the tea making and try this tasty traditional hot drink for yourself before enjoying a short presentation of the different spices used in Moroccan cooking. But that’s not all! Find out more >  

Somehow, it’s December and we find ourselves buried in an ever-growing to-do list of Christmas shopping, festive decorating, mince-pie tasting (we don’t mind that bit) and, at the moment, football-score-checking. If you’re anything like us though, you’ll be taking the time to look forward to 2023 and all of the travelling adventures it might bring. To lend a hand with narrowing down your holiday options, here are 5 of the World’s best countries (according to the recent Condé Nast Reader Awards!)     Japan   Japan is a country of contradictions. From robot restaurants to peaceful shrines, high-rise neon-lit cites to snow-capped mountainscapes, from the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world to ancient trails tucked away in hidden valleys, there’s something new and surprising to discover around every turn.   Japan holiday highlights we love Spend a night at a monastery in the beautifully remote temple town of Koyasan. You’ll learn about ancient traditions from Buddhist months and wake up to the sound of morning prayers. Unleash your inner ninja at a workshop designed to teach you the legend, art and history of these traditional warriors. (A great one for kids!) Explore Kyoto’s picturesque backstreets by bike , and keep your eyes peeled for the local Geisha or maiko in the famous Gion neighbourhood.     Morocco   Crumbling kasbahs, ancient mountain villages, bustling cities, maze-like souks bursting with sounds, smells and colours, breezy coastal towns and the golden sands of the Sahara desert. All of that, just a short hop on a flight from the UK. Morocco really does have something for everyone.   Must-have Morocco Moments Taste the flavours of Morocco on a food-tasting tour through the medina of Marrakesh with your local guide. Get a real, authentic taste of Moroccan life by spending a whole day with a local family in Fez Take a camel trip through the Sahara desert to your luxury tented camp , ready to spend a night under the stars. Explore the ancient Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou , boasting more credits than most oscar winners, you’ll feel like Lawrence of Arabia here…     Sri Lanka   From tea plantations and white-sand beaches, to elephant-filled jungle safaris and whale-watching on the Indian Ocean – a Sri Lanka holiday will be packed full of magic moments from start to finish. And that’s before we even mention the food and the smiling locals. If you’re looking for an active outdoor adventure in stunning UNESCO National parks, a bucket-list ticking safari, authentic insights into a rich culture or some lazy time on some seriously beautiful beaches – you can do it all on a Sri Lanka holiday.   Sri Lanka adventures we love Visit a local village and help to prepare lunch before eating with a Sri Lankan family in a traditional home. Experience a different kind of safari: Flying through Colombo on the back of a tuk-tuk sampling the street food delicacies on offer. Hop on a bike and take a ride through rural villages, this cycling tour from Galle will get you off the beaten track. Experience one of the most beautiful train rides on earth through Sri Lanka’s Tea Country.     Israel   Israel has so much history and opportunity for adventure packed into its relatively small space. There are many sites to see, all of which boast their own distinct vibe whilst remaining true to their Israeli roots and culture.   Israel adventures you can’t miss Listen to the prayers as they float around the skies of Jerusalem and enjoy a Shabbat dinner with locals . Soak up the atmosphere in Tel Aviv on a C ity Tour . Explore the Holy Sites of Galilee. Take a tour along Israel’s Mediterranean Coastline.       South Africa   It’s no secret that we’re big fans of South Africa here at HA. Being the first ever country we designed holidays to, we’re chuffed to see it make the Condé Nast list. The Rainbow Nation is a special one in so many ways. Its rich and often troubled history tells a story of strength and resilience, its never-ending safari plains are the places where safari dreams are made, its dramatic roads are some of the best to drive on earth, its cities are home to some world-class restaurants and last – but certainly not least – its wine is delicious. What’s more, the pound is strong against the rand right now, so it’s great value! 2023 could be the year for a holiday in one of the most varied countries on earth.   A handful of South Africa highlights Fly around the stunning roads of the Cape Peninsula in style – by sidecar! Spend an authentic but challenging day with the Uthando group. These philanthropic township tours really get it right – and you’ll leave with a better understanding of these communities, the issues they face and knowing exactly how your contributions are giving hope and opportunity to the people you meet. Hike amidst the spectacular scenery of the Drakensberg Mountains.     All of our experts are busy designing and locking in stand-out holidays for next year. Have you thought about your 2023 adventures yet? Give us a call on 01242 253 073 to have a chat through all of the options out there. The World is waiting!  

We’ve all learnt to appreciate wide-open spaces more than ever before this last year. So we thought, what better adventure to consider for your first saunter back into the world of travel, than a self-drive holiday in your own bubble on four wheels, exploring staggeringly beautiful places away from the crowds? Here are.. 4 of our favourite remote self-drive holiday ideas… (We know things are still fairly uncertain right now. But our team of experts are at the end of the phone on 01242 253 073 to answer any questions you may have about getting away on a much-needed holiday later this year).   Of all Africa’s renowned safari destinations, Namibia unquestionably offers the most diverse range of landscapes, experiences and activities. A vast country with very few inhabitants, the awe inspiring scenery quickly moves from rippling sand dunes and rugged mountains to windswept coast and shimmering salt pans, it’s the perfect choice for a self-drive holiday. There are great volumes of classic Big 5 wildlife and some truly unique, desert adapted rarities. An assortment of indigenous communities provides fascinating cultural interest, while modern conservation operations are among the most successful on the continent. All this goes without mentioning an intriguing colonial history, eerie deserted ghost towns, the world’s second largest canyon and a mini version of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. And to cap it all off, Namibia is safe, clean, welcoming, relatively good value and perfectly suited to a self-drive holiday. Read more >           Canada is a vast country, offering an extraordinarily wide range of scenery and experiences – everything from beautiful beaches to snow-capped mountains, wild outdoor adventures to gentle lake cruises. Boasting some iconic wildlife, it is also known for the friendly locals and laid-back approach to life. This fantastic self-drive holiday through British Columbia and Alberta takes you through spectacular mountain scenery and rolling winelands so you can enjoy both the natural and man-made delights of Canada. Along the way there are some great opportunities to explore the wilderness and hopefully see some of the wildlife that lives within it. Read more>       This self-drive holiday through New Zealand captures all of the country’s breathtaking highlights in three weeks. This is a fantastic self-drive itinerary that starts in the North Island and journeys all the way down to the bottom of the South Island, taking in sights such as the geothermal centre of Rotorua , the winelands of Hawkes Bay , the wildlife at Kaikoura and beautiful Milford Sound . It also includes a ride on the scenic Tranz Alpine train. Along the way you will experience the diverse, breath-taking scenery and wide-open spaces that make New Zealand so special. The downside? One visit almost certainly won’t be enough… Read more >     This South Africa self-drive holiday is the perfect way to get away from it all, and witness some phenomenal wildlife in the process. Three nights in the Kruger is an excellent way to begin your Safari adventure, spotting all the big and little game that call the park home. There’s something indescribably special about driving yourself through the magnificent park, stopping to allow elephants to cross or to watch lions sun themselves in the long grass. From here you head to the Escarpment for two nights and explore the stunning vistas of the area. Driving into Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) you stop here for the night before arriving into the KwaZulu-Natal region and spending three more nights on Safari. Finish your self-drive holiday on the coast, with the opportunity to go in search of the local marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins! Read more >   Inspired? View our full list of 31 destinations , give us a call on 01242 253 073 or simply request a free quote to start your dream holiday planning today.

Canada is open for travel! A Canada holiday is all about the scenery and the experiences. With more lakes than anywhere else in the world (said to be over 3 million!!), the spectacular snow-capped Rocky Mountains , cosmopolitan cities and more iconic wildlife than you can wave a maple leaf at, we warn you – one visit may not be enough! So, dive in below to… 4 of our favourite Canada holiday itineraries designed to wake your wanderlust 1. Eastern Canada Autumn Odyssey Autumn is the most beautiful time to explore Canada, so this two-week itinerary could be the perfect choice if you’re hoping to get away as soon as possible this year. Towards the end of September and into October, the far-eastern provinces burst to life with a rainbow of magnificent colours. From the forests and heather which cover the rolling hills to the city parks, fiery yellow, orange and red slowly blazes across the landscape, the views will have you pulling over the car to take photos at every turn. Plus, autumn is the end of the main tourist season, so you’re guaranteed a relaxing self-drive itinerary without the hoards of leaf-peepers that New England experiences at this time of year. Highlights include Halifax , Cape Breton and Fredricton … All the beauty, without the crowds! Explore more > 2. Canada Family Road Trip We’re going to hedge our bets that every member of your family is in need of a holiday right now (and fully deserving of one too!). This roadtrip would make the perfect summer Canada holiday with all the family. Get away, reward the kids for their resilience this last year and make new memories together. Your route takes in the diverse scenery of British Columbia and the Rocky Mountains with a bit of adventure thrown in along the way for good measure. Explore the vibrant city of Vancouver , before diving headfirst into the activity centres of Whistler and Banff . Finish your trip in the more laid-back parts of British Columbia such as Sun Peaks and the Okanagan , which also benefit from beautiful summer temperatures. This is a family holiday you won’t forget in a hurry! Explore more > 3. Canadian Icons Canada is home to a seriously impressive number of iconic sights and breathtaking scenery, we’re fairly certain you’ll want to return again and again. But, we have good news! It is possible to experience many of its best bits in one trip. This highlights itinerary starts with a few days in the bustling city of Toronto , including a full-day trip to perhaps the most famous Canadian icon of them all – Niagara Falls. You’ll then take to the skies to fly west to Vancouver and start your breathtaking roadtrip through Whistler and interior British Columbia across to the impressive Rocky Mountains. This is a nicely paced itinerary with some beautiful drives and by the end, you’ll have a real feel for this wonderful country and will have enjoyed some of the best bits it has to offer. Explore more > 4. Eastern Canada 10 day City Break The cities of eastern Canada all offer a wonderfully distinct character and flavour. The sprawling city of Toronto is a cosmopolitan metropolis nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario; Ottawa is the political capital, full to bursting with world-class museums; Canada’s most flamboyant city, Montreal , effortlessly blends traditional French flair with cosmopolitan creativity; and the French, walled city of Quebec is the perfect place to explore the jumble of narrow streets lined with boutique shops, street performers and artisan eateries. As if all that wasn’t enough, swing by the staggering Niagara Falls for a bucket-list worthy experience to remember.  Exploring the Eastern cities can feel a bit like visiting four different countries in one holiday, which we love! Whether you choose to relax and travel by train between the cities or get behind the wheel yourself for a road trip adventure, this Canada holiday come city break won’t disappoint. Explore more > We understand that things are still fairly uncertain right now. But we’re at the end of the phone on 01242 253 073 or email to answer any questions you may have about getting away on a much-needed holiday later this year or next. We can’t wait to get you travelling again! Get in touch