Travel blog

Kirsty is one of our wonderful Southern Africa experts here at HA. And, with two young children, she’s as clued up about travelling with kids as she is about all things safari.  Below, she shares her top tips if you’re thinking of heading off on a safari adventure with your own youngsters.   If you’re considering taking your kids on safari, I say do it! Last year, my husband and I escaped to South Africa (one of my favourite places on earth), for a safari holiday with our two children aged six and eight – and it was magic. Here are my top tips if you’re thinking of heading off on a safari with small people… there really are few more inspiring experiences you can have together as a family.   Tip 1: Wait until they are 6 years old If you can manage to, wait. I know it’s a tough ask! But, going on safari with kids will be a much better experience when they are at least 6 years old. Many lodges don’t allow children under 6 on game drives – even in private vehicles! As incredible and awe-inspiring as they are, game drives are long and there’s never any guarantee of how many animal sightings you’ll be treated to and how frequent they’ll be. (Amazing Africa is unlikely to disappoint on this front though, of course).     Tip 2: Don’t over do it A safari is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, it’s tempting to spend as much time as possible in the bush, packing in game drives left, right and centre. However, with the pre-sunrise starts and all that animal-spotting excitement, a safari with kids can get quite tiring. Plus, it’s unlikely that the youngsters are going to let you have a cheeky siesta if it all gets too much in the afternoon. Two or three nights on safari is a great amount of time with kids. This would give you four or six included activities and plenty of opportunities for pinch-yourself wildlife sightings.   South African Family Holiday Treat the whole family to all that South Africa has to offer on this 16 day holiday. You’ll explore Cape Town, unwind in the Winelands and enjoy all of the activities on offer on the Garden Route. All before heading to the Eastern Cape for a safari experience you’ll never forget. Take me there >     Tip 3: Always be prepared The weather on safari can be unpredictable. It might be hot, cold, wet or dry – depending on the time of year – so it’s always best to come prepared. I recommend having sun hats or woolly hats to hand (and even gloves!). Don’t forget to pack a warm wind-proof jacket and a waterproof in case of rain. Driving in open safari trucks before sunrise and after sunset can get a little chilly, even over the summer months. It’s always a good idea to bring a small backpack on the drives with you so you’re ready, whatever the weather!   Family Namibia Climb huge orange dunes, kayak in the Atlantic with seals leaping over your boat, watch elephants drinking at waterholes and get unfeasibly close to relatively tame cheetah and leopard. This 15 day Family Namibia itinerary is a dream holiday for young adventurers. Plus, it dodges malaria hotspots, too! Visit Namibia >     Tip 4: Dig out the old cameras Before you leave on your safari holiday, raid through your ‘odd-bits’ cupboard. (I’m convinced everyone has a drawer or a cupboard that becomes the forever-home of many weird and wonderful items you’ll probably never need ever again, but just can’t bear to throw away.) Dig out those old small digital cameras that you no longer use , charge them up and give them to the children. They’ll love taking their own photos and it’s so nice to sit down together and go through them once you’re home. You could even go old-school, print them and pop them in a real-life album , I highly recommend this! It’s also worth seeing if you can borrow enough binoculars for all children to have a pair. We found that with a camera and set of binoculars per child there was no squabbling or yells of ”it’s my turn!” every five minutes.     Tip 5: Chat about it as a family before you go The excitement before you go on a big holiday is all part of why we love travels so much. So, definitely take the chance to sit down with your kids to talk about the safari and what to expect. This is a great time to manage expectations a little! Explain tha t you’ll be out driving for three to four hours at a time. There will be stops for morning coffee and an evening sundowner, but there is a lot of driving around in between! And, perhaps lightly warn them that they’re unlikely to see a lion around every corner! I found our kids got genuinely excited about every animal, however big or small. They were much less obsessed about the ‘big 5’ animals compared to the adults! I also made it very clear that they would be expected to keep quiet and sit still when looking at animals – if your child can’t yet sit still, a guided safari may not suit them.   Family Safari in Zimbabwe Victoria Falls, family-friendly accommodation and pinch-yourself safaris in two of Zimbabwe’s top national parks… Zimbabwe family holiday >     All in all, a safari with kids is such a rewarding experience. Seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat is always so special, and how amazing to share these moments with your children. If you tick all of the boxes above, you’re sure to have a holiday that you’ll all be talking about for years to come. And the kids will have some ‘wow’ stories to chat about to their friends in the playground once home. Give me a call on 01242 253 073 or drop me an email at [email protected] if you’re thinking about heading off on a safari adventure with your young family. I’d love to help!   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  

This romantic winter getaway features cosy 4 and 5* boutique riads and lodges with upgraded rooms, Moroccan culture, stunning scenery and relaxation Highlights: Relax on the coast in Essaouira, unwind at your spa hotel amidst the rolling hills of the Atlas Mountains, sleep under the stars in a lavish tented camp in the Agafay Stone Desert and indulge your senses in Marrakesh before returning to the comfort of your luxury riad. Travel dates: November – December 2021 (selected departures) Duration: 9 nights / 10 days Morocco Holiday Offer price: £2,260 per person (includes saving of £370 per person ) Offer includes: International flights, luggage, accommodation, romantic hammam experience, sunset camel ride, massage and a souk and medina tour   This is just one of many tempting offers we’ve managed to secure for 2021 holidays. See them all here.   Dive in to the adventure that awaits you below…. Day One – Fly to Marrakesh, transfer to Essaouira After landing in Marrakesh, your guide will drive you to your hotel in the charming coastal town of Essaouira . The journey takes around three hours, but this breezy, characterful town is the perfect place to start your romantic Morocco holiday. Picture yourself sipping on a steaming pot of traditional mint tea, looking out over the ocean as locals fish and go about their day. The vibe in Essaouira is exactly what you’d expect from a coastal city: Relaxed, chilled and a much more calming introduction to this exotic country than the bigger, more central cities would be. Plus, the locals are so friendly and welcoming to tourists too, so you’ll be welcomed, soothed and seduced by this place in equal measure. View from Villa Maroc Villa Maroc, Essaouira Villa Maroc is luxurious but still maintains a relaxed energy (a bit like Essaouira itself!) After checking into your room, you’ll enjoy a complimentary dinner, served in the romantically lit courtyard. Soak up the atmosphere, sample flavours of Morocco and ease into your romantic escape. Day Two – Explore Essaouira Explore the medina On your first morning in Morocco, indulge in a leisurely breakfast before heading into the medina to catch the sellers slowly opening up their stalls for business. As you arrive at the old city walls, prepare to be charmed by the white and blue walls of Essaouira’s medina. It’s worth the early alarm as the streets will be quieter in the mornings, giving you more opportunity to browse and brush off your haggling skills! Compared to the hustle and bustle of Morocco’s bigger cities, Essaouira will give you time to find your feet, get the grips with bits of the local lingo and settle in to the Moroccan pace of life. Amble between the towering whitewashed buildings, along the narrow streets lined with stalls blanketed in colourful rugs and wooden crafts and spice stalls selling a rainbow of flavourful powders. If we can give you one tip, put the map away! There’s something truly magical about fully immersing yourself in a new place, and one of the best ways to do this is to get lost, on purpose. It will be good practice for Marrakesh too, you’ll be old hands by then! Essaouira See the fisherman at work in the fishing harbour Once you’ve explored Essaouira’s beautiful little medina, head to the bustling fishing port to walk the ancient ramparts, built in 1506 by the Portuguese. The smell of the ocean will hit you as you stroll along the waterfront, watching the frenzy of activity as the fishermen sort their catches of the day. If photography is your thing, you’ll want your camera handy as you explore this picturesque harbour. The characterful faces of the locals, the beautiful blue fishing boats, the white washed walls of the medina against the (hopefully) blue sky are sure to make for some fantastic holiday snaps.   Scala Du Port Scala du Port is a must-visit during your time in Essaouira. (Particularly if you’re a Game of Thrones fan!) Channel your inner Daenerys and climb the walls of the fort for the best view of the medina that you could hope to get. Here’s one of our Morocco specialists, Rebecca, making full, smiley use of the photo opportunity on one of her many visits to the city. If you’re the sorts to counter your romance with a healthy dollop of active adventure, then there’s plenty of that to be had in Essaouira. Why not go camel riding along the beach or make use of the wind and take to the shores for some watersports? Surf lessons are also available from many of the surf shops along the shoreline (if that floats your board!). Day Three – Learn to cook the local cuisine Here at HA, we truly value local experiences. And what better way to really get under the skin of a country, than to learn how to cook the local food? Not only do you get to meet and interact with locals, but you get a delicious meal, a sense of achievement, and learn something new that you can wow your friends with when you return home. It’s a win all round. Our favourite Essaouira cooking class is located in a former almond warehouse with stone arches, near the entrance of the medina. You will use a combination of modern and traditional kitchen equipment and cooking techniques to prepare a fully authentic Moroccan meal. Your menu for the day could be made up of any of the following: chicken or fish pastilla, lamb tagine with almonds and dates, seabass tagine with vegetables, kefta tagine with eggs, harira soup, and seven vegetable couscous. So, make sure you turn up complete with a big appetite!   Day Four – Transfer to the Atlas Mountains Today you’ll head to the Atlas Mountains where beautiful green rolling hills, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, await you. Nestled within 60 acres of parkland, flower beds, olive trees, orchards and plenty of rose bushes, your hotel is a real treat. La Roseraie is the only spa hotel in the Atlas Mountains and the tranquil pool makes it the perfect place to unwind and relax before exploring the surrounding villages and getting a taste of mountain life. This romantic Morocco holiday offer includes an upgrade to a suite, adding a real touch of elegance to your stay. For a slice of next-level pampering, why not book into the hotel spa and make use of the traditional hammam, jacuzzi and heated indoor pool. We could all use a bit of R&R after the last 18 months! Domaine de la Roseraie, Atlas Mountains The pool at La Roseraie is nothing short of magic. Can’t you just picture yourself lounging on one of those plush seats, taking in your surroundings and looking forward to the adventures still to come?   The Atlas Mountains   Day Five – Guided walk in Ouirgane If you can tear yourself away from the calming oasis of your hotel, we hugely recommend taking off on a guided walk in Ouirgane. In the heart of Berber country, this is the perfect opportunity to get an authentic glimpse into the rural mountain life that the Atlas Mountains are known for. On the fringes of the Toubkal National Park, the Valley of Ouirgane is a place of farmland and dramatic mountain backdrops, threaded through with the Ouirgane Dam reservoir. Your walk will take in all of these sights, including seeing traditional Berber farmers at work in this remarkably fertile hideaway. Today, the Berber people proudly call themselves ‘ amazigh’ (m), ‘ tamazight’ (f) or ‘ imazighen’ (plural), which means ‘free men’ or ‘noble people.’ After a delicious picnic lunch, as you make your way back downhill, you’ll also see an unusual piece of history, a Jewish quarter in the village of Anraz. This full-day guided walk includes five hours of easy-moderate walking in total. (And you could always book back into the hotel spa to sooth your weary limbs once you get back… we know we would be!)   Day Six – A night under the stars in Agafay Stone Desert This morning you’ll transfer into the Agafay Stone Desert to enjoy a completely different, almost otherworldly landscape. What’s more, the White Camel Lodge is the ultimate in decadent desert luxury. You’ll struggle to spend a more opulent night under the stars than here. As if that wasn’t already romantic enough, this evening you have a sunset camel ride included in your stay. Watch the sun sink below the horizon, painting the wide sky all shades of pinks and red as you enjoy this rather unique (and slightly rocky) form of transport. White Camel Lodge, Agafay Stone Desert White Camel Lodge, Agafay Stone Desert The pool at White Camel Lodge really is something to write home about. Taking a dip in the infinity pool, whilst gazing out across the far-reaching plains of the stone desert and Atlas Mountains beyond, is sure to be a stand out memory from your romantic Morocco holiday. Day Seven – Journey to Marrakesh Just a quick one hour transfer today and you’ll find yourself in the buzzing medina of Marrakesh. Quite the contrast to the wide open spaces and starry skies of the stone desert, Marrakesh is one of the jewels in Morocco’s crown. La Maison Arabe is your calming oasis in the midst of the narrow lanes, sounds, smells and choas of the medina. Hidden behind imposing and impressive, carved wooden doors, this riad hotel is almost palatial in style. We think it’s the perfect place to slink back to after a day of exploring the souks and medinas. Plus, being so central, you don’t have far to go either. It’s the perfect riad for your romantic Morocco holiday. We’ve included a complimentary 30 minute massage during your stay, because what romantic escape would be complete without a spot of ultimate pampering?   Day Eight – Half-day souks and me dina tour This morning you’ll enjoy a complimentary medina tour with a knowledgeable, local guide inside the exciting souks of Marrakesh . Prepare yourself for a true feast for the senses here. On your tour, you’ll taste delicious regional produce, smell the heady aromas of spice and oil, be dazzled by the kaleidoscope of colour that surrounds you, all whilst a symphony of sounds surrounds you. We love the madness of Marrakesh. However, when you return to the tranquillity of La Maison Arabe after your day of adventure, you’ll be thankful for the peaceful retreat and calming oasis. The ideal spot to relax before heading back out to explore the electric atmosphere of Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, by night.   Day Nine – Food tasting tour We’re sure you’ll have a real taste for the Moroccan cuisine by now, so we want to ensure you have your fill of it before flying home! With that in mind, for your final afternoon we’ve arranged a food tasting tour with a local guide to show you the delicacies of the city. You’ll visit a traditional bakery, explore a spice souk, peruse the olive, preserved lemons and date stands, and sample some delicious Tangia in the square. After washing all of this tastiness down with an exquisite Moroccan mint tea, your bellies will be happy, and so will you! Sfenj – Moroccan doughnuts/fritters made from a sticky and unsweetened leavened dough. Eat as they come or you can choose to dust with sugar if you have a sweet tooth. Perfect with mint tea!   Day Ten – Time to fly home We predict today will be a sad day, the end of a holiday always is! But, after ten beautiful days of exploring this alluring country, you’ll have plenty to reminisce about on your flight home.   It’s so rare we do offers here at HA as we’re always working our hardest behind the scenes to ensure we’re offering the very best price possible to you. However, due to the impact of Covid-19 on the tourism industry in Morocco, we’ve been able to work closely with our ground agents to secure this fantastic romantic Morocco holiday offer. The availability is very limited, so we recommend getting in touch as soon as you can to chat to Rebecca or Emma, our Morocco specialists, more about this holiday if it tickles your fancy! You can give them a call on 01242 253 073 or email [email protected] if you want to chat more about it!

This year was all about the world finally being open again. And Team HA were ready to take full advantage of it! From ziplining through the Costa Rican cloud forest and sleeping under the stars in Jordan’s Wadi Rum desert, to trekking through the emerald tea terraces in northern Vietnam and a wildlife-packed safari honeymoon in South Africa. Our team’s been busy this year. Here’s where we’ve been…   Erin, Vietnam “This year I’ve been lucky enough to spend three weeks over in beautiful Vietnam. It’s almost impossible to whittle it down to just a few best bits, but a highlight of my trip was definitely cycling through the mountainous district of Lao Chai up in the north of the country. The views of the neat and endless rice terraces framed by the rugged mountains were truly spectacular. In contrast, another highlight of my trip was whizzing through the bustling streets of Saigon on the back of a Vespa , indulging in Vietnam’s culinary culture amongst the locals at various street stalls and restaurants. A thrilling and truly unforgettable experience! Overall, it was the warmth and friendliness of the culturally rich nation which captured my heart on this trip, everyone I met along the way greeted me with infectious smiles, beautiful music and delicious food.” Experience all this and more on this ‘Ultimate Vietnam’ holiday       Ian, Jordan “Walking, cooking, jeep touring (and a bit of relaxing thrown in of course!); my trip to Jordan was a bit of everything rolled into one! I started off exploring the impressive ancient city of Jerash , before heading down to the capital, Amman , where I enjoyed an immersive cooking course with a local family. This was such an authentic experience and the perfect introduction to Jordanian culture! Then it was time to venture i nto the desert via a very windy Mount Nebo and head to the stunning Memories Aicha Luxury Camp , for a night under the stars. The silence was something else, and there’s nothing quite like waking up to the rumbles of a desert thunderstorm to start your day! Adventuring around the sands of the Wadi Rum and channeling my inner Lawrence of Arabia in the back of a jeep was a real highlight of my Jordan adventure for sure. But, an experience that can’t be beaten; Petra . My guided tour was fantastic and I made it up the 900 steps up to the Monastery (with the help of a lot of water – it really is crucial in that heat!). My trip ended with a walk around Kerak Castle and a relaxing float in the Dead Sea .” Dive in to Jordan on this Grand Tour holiday           Cat, South African honeymoon Our Cat’s adventure this year was an exceptionally special one – it was her honeymoon! A huge congratulations to her and Ian on their marriage, what a way to celebrate it! “It had been a long time coming, but finally I returned to South Africa and this time it was for mine and my husband’s honeymoon. Ian has never been to Africa before, and with my love of all things wildlife and the great outdoors, we headed to the KwaZulu-Natal region . Our adventure started with 4-nights at Makakatana Bay Lodge in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. We not only got to experience an introduction to the wildlife of South Africa, but we were treated to some of the best food I have ever tasted, all enjoyed around the roaring campfire. Next we travelled onto the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and spent three wonderful days on safari. The wildlife sightings were so special, we couldn’t tear ourselves away – so added another 2-night safari at the Nambiti Private Game Reserve – it was our honeymoon after all… why not aye!). Finally, our trip of a lifetime ended with three nights in the Drakensberg mountains where we climbed through the Highmoor Nature reserve and hiked up to the San Rock art of the Kamberg Nature reserve. South Africa was every bit the perfect honeymoon destination… and I’m pleased to report that my husband is already desperate to return!” Experience the magic of KwaZulu-Natal for yourself       Louise, Costa Rica “ Costa Rica is one of my favourite countries in the whole world, so of course, I jumped at the chance to return. There were so many amazing moments, but here are a few top bits… The wildlife encounters: We saw a wild ocelot in Arenal ! These cats are insanely rare and the excited look on our guide’s face was priceless. I also had an unforgettable run-in with two cheeky white-faced capuchin monkeys, opening the door to my room one morning to come face-to-face with a mumma and her baby. The birdlife in this country never fails to amaze me either. We saw so many colourful toucans, the hooligans of the bird world apparently – who knew!? The adventures: I love an adrenaline rush, so was first up to zipline through the cloud forest . There was even a free-fall jump at the end… I just had to go for it (and managed to persuade the rest of the group to do it too!) – What a rush! Simply bobbing about in the sea definitely has to have a place on the list. Boasting a year-round temperature of 29°C, it’s basically just one giant bath! The people: Last but certainly not least, there are just amazing Ticos everywhere you turn in Costa Rica. From the fabulous guides in the lodges, to gorgeous Elida at Chayote Lodge who taught us how to cook a traditional casado in her home. I can’t wait to return again!” Explore more on this ‘Costa Rica Wildlife’ holiday       Emma, Morocco “ I was lucky enough to return to Morocco this year for my fourth journey through this wonderful country. I travelled from Marrakesh and the Atlas in the south, all the way through the lush oasis, out to ride camels in the Sahara (serious bucket list moment!), up to the twisting labyrinth of Fez medina , and around the misty, mountainous north, including the blue-hued town of Chefchaouen . It really filled my heart to go on an incredible adventure again after such a long time of no travel! Morocco is just as beautiful as it’s always been, the people are so excited to have travellers back in their country, and there are smiles at every turn here. “ Experience the ‘Best of Morocco’ on this two-week holiday       Kirsty, a family holiday to South Africa “After a three-year break we finally made it back to South Africa for a quick half-term break in October. After catching up with friends and family we headed to the Champagne Castle region of the Drakensberg Mountains . This was a very active three days as we enjoyed zip-lining, a downhill monster scooter tour and a via ferrata. This area is superb for active families with so much to entertain all ages, and stunning scenery to boot. We ended with a final two nights on our first family guided safari (much easier to book now that our youngest has turned six!) We stayed on the private Nambiti Game Reserve, which was just beautiful. South Africa wouldn’t always be the first thought for a quick getaway, but all of this was possible within driving distance of Johannesburg Airport, so no pesky domestic flights to take up time. Plus, with no jet lag to tackle either, it was the perfect family escape from the autumnal UK weather. “ Whisk your family off to South Africa on this 16-day family holiday     Rebecca, the Maldives “How could anyone not have a whale of a time in the Maldives? I was lucky enough to visit again this year on a group familiarisation trip run by Siyam Resorts – another BIG thank you to them! My 10-day trip took me to four different island resorts (travelling in true James Bond style by speedboat and seaplane of course) each of which was fabulous in its own right. Whether you’re after romance or a little bit of a buzz, there’s an island in this archipelago for you. There are far too many highlights to condense into a short paragraph, but sliding down my water villa’s very own slide into the glistening ocean is most definitely up there! Alongside the amazing food and wine (I think I want my breakfast served floating in a swimming pool forever more), the top-notch snorkelling and paddle-boarding the unfaultable service and dreamy spas. You can read more about my adventure here , where I go into much more detail about which hotels are best for honeymooners, families and those looking to keep busy in paradise! Bottom line, if you’ve always fancied the Maldives, I highly recommend you go for it… it really is just as special as they say.” Get those toes in the sand       Fenton, Vietnam “It was so great to get back to Vietnam after so long – I’d never get bored of it. Always far too many highlights to list, but heading off the main tourist route to Pù Luông Nature Reserve was brilliant. It’s a great place for hiking if that’s your thing. The Saigon evening Vespa trip is the most fun you can have I think, possibly anywhere. It’s a brilliant way to see the city (with food, rooftop bars, live music venues thrown in, too!). Travelling in November, there were incongruous Christmas decorations everywhere and we were subjected to Xmas tunes every day. This does have the added benefit of me returning to the UK feeling more festive than I ever have in November though. My top tip? Vietnamese coffee is incredible, (not so good for your calorie intake, but utterly worth every sip). “ Take a voyage to Vietnam       Gabby, Costa Rica “ I was SO chuffed when I found out I was off to Costa Rica for nearly three whole weeks. We covered an awful lot and I spent the flight home mentally planning when I could return. The sheer amount of wildlife is verging on ridiculous – everywhere you look a tree is wobbling from the weight of a monkey swinging about or a Toucan taking a rest. From sloth tours in Arenal where we spotted EIGHT of the snoozy animals to floating in beautiful natural hot springs, ziplining through the cloud forest , coming face to face with a wild ocelot in the Mystico National Park (such a pinch-myself moment!), eating some incredible food – (I’m still dreaming of the fresh ceviche!) and bobbing about off a beach that looked like it was taken straight from Robinson Crusoe in the Osa Peninsula . All of this magic is capped off by the Costa Rican people. Ticos just radiate such genuine warmth and friendliness, I don’t think I passed a single person who didn’t smile and say hello. This is such a special place, can I go back now, please? Pura Vida!” Enjoy your own taste of ‘Pura Vida’ with this ‘Undiscovered Costa Rica’ adventure       Where will 2023 take you?     Recent 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! 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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.                    

The ancient settlement of  Petra is probably the most enduring image of Jordan. The rosy, wind-sculpted sandstone city lay hidden to the wider world for many centuries before being rediscovered in 1812 by an intrepid Swiss explorer; i t was one of the best and most famous discoveries of the time but had likely been left to stand empty since the middle of the 7 th century . Each year, nearly 800,000 visitors come to this remote corner of the Jordanian desert to view the incredible spectacle for themselves – it’s so well recognised, it was even voted one of the ‘new’ Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, and it’s one of the world’s most treasured UNESCO Heritage Sites. Being an easy drive from the capital city, Amman, and the popular visitor sites of Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea, Petra is a must-visit stop on holidays to Jordan, but what will you see once you arrive at Petra? Read our guide to help you discover what you might discover when you arrive on your holidays in Petra , one of Jordan’s most iconic sights. Discover the history of Petra Petra was believed to have been built as the capital of the Nabataean Arabs in approximately the 1 st century AD, when it flourished as a main trade centre for frankincense, myrrh and spices. Though its actual beginnings aren’t definitely known, it is believed that the land has been used by humans for over 10,000 years. Petra is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and is located in a key strategic position between the capital, Amman , and the Red Sea resort of Aqaba . The city later became a part of the enormous Roman Empire, though after being partly destroyed in an earthquake and with changes to the trade routes, the city was later abandoned and became deserted. For many centuries, this beautiful city lay forgotten from the rest of the world and was only known by the local Bedouin tribes from the area, who talked of their city with great pride. The Swiss Explorer Johannes Burckhardt set out to rediscover Petra in 1812; while travelling towards Cairo, he heard great tales of an ancient, ruined city hidden along a narrow valley, near the supposed Biblical tomb of Aaron, brother of Moses. Telling his guide he wanted to make a sacrifice to Aaron, he was led through the passage known as the Siq and became the first modern-day European to view the once-forgotten city of Petra. Since its ‘rediscovery’, the city has drawn visitors from all over the world to view its incredible tombs, theatre, streets and churches. In 1985 the city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ensuring its protection for many more centuries to come, and in 2007 it was chosen by popular vote to be one of the World’s New 7 Wonders, alongside other famous sites like the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal. What can you see at Petra? When Johannes Burckhardt visited Petra in the 19 th century, he was not warmly welcomed by the indigenous tribespeople . He was required to dress in disguise to attempt to blend in with the Arabic people, speaking in a local dialect to help gain the trust of the Bedouins who guided him through the desert . These days, however, visitors on their holidays in Petra from all around the world are warmly welcomed by the modern-day Bedouin who still live and work in the desert and make the ancient city their home, as well as in the neighbouring city of Wadi Musa which has more contemporary facilities and traditional home comforts. As well as the main site of Petra, there are a number of satellite attractions that can extend your stay, as well as a number of hiking opportunities (perfect for Jordan trekking holidays) in the surrounding desert . W e would recommend a minimum of two days to make the most of your stay, though holidays in Petra can easily be added on to any Jordan trip.   The Siq Most visits to Petra begin with a walk through the Siq . The narrow canyon is a former watercourse with near-vertical walls towering 200 metres above you. It runs for 1.2 kilometres, beginning beside a modern dam which prevents floodwater from the city flowing through the Siq . The entrance was once marked by a colossal Nabataean arch – its remains can be seen on either side of the entrance – and the 2,000-year-old terracotta pipes once used to bring water into Petra can still be viewed. The stone corridor is worth taking its time over to view many of these curiosities, and savouring the experience means your eventual arrival is even more exciting. The Siq is magical for more than just its end destination at the ancient city, for it was not carved by water but instead rent apart by tectonic forces. At some points, the Siq narrows to under two metres wide, where the light almost seems to disappear overhead; at another, you’ll see a small, square tomb and a lone fig tree, or carvings of camels and caravan men. Your introduction to the ‘rose city’ is just a small taster of what lies ahead. The Treasury The magnificent façade of the Treasury, known as Al Khazna, is perhaps the most famous photograph of Jordan and is carved from sandstone. Its original function remains a mystery – many believe it to be a temple, or a place to store official documents. The popular belief is that the front of the Treasury was built as a tomb for the Nabataean King Aretas, and that it takes its name from an Egyptian pharaoh who once hid his treasures within , however the intricate monument is empty inside; like all of Petra’s rock monuments, the outside does all the talking . We’d recommend you start your exploration of Petra early to make the most of the sunlight, as the Treasury is best seen between 9am and 11am when it is in full sun. Alternatively, you can also return after dark to enjoy Petra by candlelight – a truly atmospheric experience. Walking through a lantern-lit Siq, you’ll emerge in front of the Treasury lit by flaming torches, where you’ll be serenaded by local musicians. Street of Façades As you leave the Treasury behind, you’ll walk into the broader passage referred to as the Outer Siq . Here there are more than 40 tombs and houses built by the Nabataeans, known as the ‘Street of Façades’ , and unlike many of Petra’s tombs, they are easily explored. Some of the tombs have funeral chambers in the upper storeys, while others have fortress-like roofs built in the traditional ziggurat style . It’s well worth a visit to compare the differences in architecture. The Monastery Perhaps second to the Treasury, the Monastery is another of Petra’s most famous monuments . It is similar in style but on a much grander scale: some 47 metres wide and 48 metres high . The Monastery dates back to the early 2 nd century AD, and in later years during the Byzantine rule it was repurposed as a Christian chapel, hence the name. To reach the Monastery, you’ll need to climb the ancient processional route of rock-hewn steps up into the hills . On arrival you’ll emerge into a courtyard, once surrounded by many columns and used for important ceremonies . It’s a two-and-half hour walk from the Monastery to Little Petra, if you want to extend your Petra tour. The Theatre The Theatre was built more than 2,000 years ago, by the ancient Nabataeans rather than the Romans who later occupied Petra . Like the rest of the site, the Theatre was chiselled out of the rock and then later enlarged to hold around 4,000 people by the Romans, who also rebuilt the stage walls . The site was damaged by an earthquake in the 3 rd century AD, and due to its extensive damage, it was dismantled in places to build other structures . In its heyday, the Theatre had a three-storey stage and 45 rows of seating: you can still imagine the fantastic displays that would have been performed here. Royal Tombs Heading away from the Theatre you will discover the Royal Tombs, some of the most impressive you will see during your holidays in Petra . During sunset is the best time to visit, when the rose-coloured sandstone is bathed in golden light . A series of steps leads from the valley floor, and the hike up to the top offers amazing views across the Treasury. Aaron’s Tomb It was under the pretext of visiting Aaron’s tomb that Johannes Burckhardt convinced his guides to take him into the ancient city of Petra . The brother of Moses was believed to have been buried at Jebel Harun, known as the Biblical Mount Hor . The tomb is simple: built in the traditional Islamic style with a whitewashed dome that was added in later years but holds an ethereal beauty. It’s a lengthy walk beginning in Petra, but the towering paths that lead here offer stunning views around the surrounding mountains . Little Petra Situated five kilometres from the main area of Petra, Little Petra was believed to be a retreat for noble and wealthy Nabataeans – its ancient name is Siq Al Barid. It really is like a Petra in miniature, with scaled-down streets reminiscent of the ancient city and even a short, narrow entry canyon just like the Siq . Within Little Petra there are tombs carved into the rock, remarkable cave paintings and even a path leading out of the back to a ledge with captivating views. Should you wish to make a visit to Petra via the little-used back entrance on your holidays in Petra, you’ll start at Little Petra. It’s known as ‘ Petra’s Secret Back Door ’ and is worth considering if you’re planning a longer stay . You’ll enjoy a dizzying walk into the mountains, crossing voids and enjoying spectacular views – you’ll need a head for heights for this one. Setting off early in the morning means you’ll reach the Monastery long before any other guests, with only your local Bedouin guide to accompany you. Where to go after Petra Because Petra is in a convenient location at the heart of Jordan, it is easy to tie on a visit to another of the country’s fabulous sights during your holidays in Petra. Three hours to the north is Amman, so it’s possible to drive there on a short break, or the salt-ruffled shores of the Dead Sea , with its plentiful spa hotels . On the way back to Amman you can travel along the King’s Highway , stopping at the mosaics of Madaba, at Mount Nebo for the views, and the Crusader Castle of Kerak . To the south are the otherworldly desert landscapes of Wadi Rum where you can take a jeep tour of the dunes, and the Red Sea resort of Aqaba, which has famously good diving. Jordan holidays offer you an amazing selection of sights, and Petra is certainly the most impressive of its treasures . Contact our resident expert Catherine to discover more about this incredible historical monument and start planning your perfect holiday in Jordan.

We love nothing more than seeing the holiday photos you take on your adventures. And, every now and again, one of our wonderful clients sends us a holiday snap that stops us all in our tracks. Paul and Caroline have done just that, but not with just one! They’ve sent us the most incredible selection of photos from their Costa Rica holiday that it was nearly impossible to choose just 30 to share. A huge thank you to them for taking the time to share these with us and we hope they inspire you as much as they have us. This spectacular country really does have a slice of magic around every turn.   “Costa Rica… with plenty of wow factor! Just returned from a 3 week trip to Costa Rica, planned out for us by Louise at Holiday Architects. She listened closely to what we wanted to do, and organised for us to visit six different locations, all packed with interest. Accommodation was excellent, in country support very good. All in fall a fantastic holiday, and pretty much completely hassle free. Highly recommended.” Paul and Caroline, HA Costa Rica clients, March 2022   30 incredible photos of Costa Rica guaranteed to make you want to visit…   How all of our faces looked when we opened these Costa Rica photos   Hummingbird A three-toed sloth lazes in the trees   Rio Sierpe Wetlands National Park from the skies     The eye of a Cayman crocodile lurks in the leaves   A beautiful hummingbird searches for nectar     Mist rolls off the beach at La Leona   Fantastic forest walkway in Cahuita   A Capuchin monkey poses for the camera   Caroline walks into the sunset at La Leona beach   Another colourful hummingbird   Beautifully patterned iguana   Birds in flight as the sun sets over the sand   Paul and Caroline step in front of the lens on the Cahuita Coast   The magic of a Costa Rica beach at dawn   A hummingbird takes a rest in its nest   Taking in the view over Monteverde Cloud Forest   This Howler monkey doesn’t look to happy about having his photo taken   Travelling in style with a view of Arenal Volcano   La Leona Beach   A sleepy anteater takes a nap in the trees   You looking at me?   Caroline takes in the views from their treehouse lodge   The Jesus Christ lizard! (That is his actual name – he can walk on water!)   Two toucans perch on a branch near Maquenque Lodge   Soaking up the last rays on the beach   Another stunning hummingbird flutters for the camera   A disgruntled Howler monkey   The imposing conical summit of Arenal volcano   The beautiful Cahuita Coast   If this breathtaking selection of photos of Costa Rica doesn’t make you desperate to experience it for yourself, we don’t know what will! It really is a remarkable country, literally bursting at the seams with biodiversity, marvellous nature and wonderful wildlife. Give our Costa Rica specialist, Lou, a call today if you think it could be for you. She knows all there is to know about Pura Vida life and will be able to design you the perfect, nature-full escape for later in the year! A big thank you once again to Paul and Caroline for sharing their talents behind the camera with us. We felt like we were there with you!  

This week our thoughts and love are with our friends in Morocco.  On Friday evening the country was struck by a devastating earthquake, severely impacting rural communities and turning lives upside down in an instant. We are so relieved to assure you that all our colleagues and clients in Morocco are safe and well. We’ve been in contact with those scheduled to travel soon, but if you have any concerns, please reach out to us; we’re here to help. The epicentre of the earthquake was high in the Atlas Mountains, and the small surrounding villages are in need of all the support they can get as they start rebuilding their lives. The British Moroccan Society are doing amazing work alongside our Moroccan ground agents, Travel Link , to help. And, as a company, we will be working to support however we can.     We’ve received so many kind messages from previous Morocco clients checking in on their guides, drivers, and the Berbers they met on their travels through the Atlas Mountains. (Proving, once again, that HA clients are absolutely wonderful.) Thank you for every single one of your thoughts, they’ve been passed on to our team in Morocco. Tourism is going to be even more valuable to our friends in Morocco as they recover from this disaster. We want to play our part in that, so if you’ve been thinking about going to Morocco, we’ll be ready to help as soon as you want to make those dreams a reality. The Moroccan people are so resilient, and we know it won’t be long until they’re back on their feet.   It’s so difficult to comprehend the scale of need at times like these. All support will be so appreciated. If you’re not in a position to help financially, sharing the appeal link below will also be a huge, huge help to those in need. Thank you. https://www.gofundme.com/f/british-moroccan-society-earthquake-appeal     A note from our Morocco specialists “ Myself and Rebecca send lovely clients to Domaine de la Roseraie , a hotel in a village called Ouirgane, more than any other hotel in the Atlas Mountains – it’s a property close to our hearts. By some miracle, aside from some damage on one of their outbuildings that was under construction, the hotel remains standing and open for business. However, we have learnt just this morning that while they themselves are all safe, every member of staff has lost at least one family member in the earthquake. This news has really hit home for us both, and know it will for those of you who have visited on your travels – the staff are the kindest people you could hope to meet. We have clients there nearly every day of the year during travel season, and I know they too will be deeply saddened by that news. We continue to be in daily contact with our team in Morocco to offer whatever support we can at this awful time. ” Emma and Rebecca  

Our 6 holiday-trend predictions…  Our life has been on hold and we’ve all missed so much. Family meet ups, special occasions and those holidays that always provide such a welcome slice of respite in our calendars. But, with us taking the first steps back into normality and some holidaying happening already (despite some traffic light hurdles!), travel is slowly but surely finding its way back onto our priority lists again. We’ve really been thinking about what will be important for you to get from your holidays as the world opens back up once more. We’re about to get a bit Mystic Meg on you…   Below are our 6 travel-trend predictions for the coming year The travel-related news these last few weeks hasn’t been the greatest. However w e’re still so excited to be back doing what we love – designing holidays for you – particularly as we know they’ve never been needed more. Because, let’s face it, life is always a little brighter when you’ve got a holiday in the diary!   1. A lean towards wide open spaces and the path less travelled This last year has been all about social distancing and maintaining personal space. So, we’re expecting holidays to lesser-visited areas and quiet spots to be higher on the agenda than ever before.  Seeking out lesser-visited gems just happens to be our speciality, so we’ve got you covered here! Where? – Namibia Namibia is famous for its sweeping desert, wild coastline, rugged mountains, diverse wildlife and vast open spaces. All of which can be appreciated in the comfort of your own car on an incredible self-drive adventure. With no crowds to speak of here, you won’t have to share the wide open roads, framed by spectacular scenery and endless horizons. Find out more >   2. A focus on enjoying wildlife and protecting it in the process This worldwide pause has been beneficial to much of our world’s wildlife – as we explored last week. However, it’s had its drawbacks too. The lack of tourism in certain parts of Africa has had a detrimental impact. Fewer eyes have meant increased opportunities for poachers to move about the national parks unseen, giving them more chances to harm the precious animals for their tusks. Where? – South Africa It’s rare to come across a holiday bucket list that doesn’t feature ‘African safari’ fairly high up! And we’re all for this. Witnessing these phenomenal animals going about their days safely in their natural habitat really is an honour and experience like no other. Find out more >   3. Looking forward to marking missed occasions at last So many birthdays, anniversaries and occasions will have been and gone over the last year, with celebrations having to be considerably more low-key than we’d like. Perhaps you’ve made it to your ruby wedding anniversary, turned the big 5-0 or even tied the knot? Now the world is opening, missed celebrations are the perfect excuse to plan the holiday to beat all holidays. Where? – Canada 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. With some of the most beautiful lakes and national parks on earth, you’d struggle to celebrate with a better view… Find out more >   4. A focus on supporting local communities One of the lovely side-effects of an otherwise horrendous year has been an increased focus on the importance of supporting local businesses. Neighbours have been there for eachother and everywhere you look, people are going out of their way to show kindness for others. Here at HA we have always prided ourselves on the ability to really seek out the unique, authentic and local experiences that will get you under the skin of a country. We believe this renewed focus on supporting local will carry through into travel, with more holidayers ensuring their adventures feature plenty of authentic, local experiences. Where? – Vietnam We’re great believers that many of the highlights of any holiday come from the people you meet and the things you learn while you’re away. Travel broadens our horizons, and this is one of the many reasons it’s so valuable and important. This day in Mai Chau, will see you meeting, eating and talking with local people. Learning about their days and their lives. A magic addition to any Vietnam holiday. Find out more >   5. A family holiday to reward the kids We’ve all been through an awful lot this year, but our kids more so than most. Not being able to see their friends or go to school, spending an insufferable amount of time with us adults, yet still having to deal with the stress of exams and all of the general angst that comes with growing up. It’s undeniable that they deserve a treat. We’re excited to design lots of big family-focused ‘treat the kids’ holidays for the next year. Where? – Costa Rica If you’re looking for a dream family holiday destination with beaches, sunshine, wonderful people and a fantastic ethos, Costa Rica could be the perfect option for you. This green country lives and breathes it’s ‘Pura Vida’ motto. And you’ll have plenty of space to keep your distance too on the wide expanses of beach and endless lengths of jungle to explore. There’s no shortage of adventures to be had and activities to enjoy either – so the kids will be in their element from start to finish. Find out more >   6. The desire to revisit where we love We’ve been confined to our own four walls for far too long, missing all the people and places that lay beyond them. We all know the feeling of falling in love with a new place on holiday. The people, the sights, the climate, the food. We all have that place abroad that has a special place in our hearts and always will. There will be a great number of holidaymakers desperate to return to their favourite spots once more. Where? – Oman For many of the HA team, Oman is a place we love to revisit. A perfect clash of ancient architecture, culture and traditions harmoniously living alongside modern development – we’re so excited to return. But, where have you been dreaming of and armchair travelling to over the last year? We’re sure that wherever it is, they can’t wait to have you back! Find out more about our much-loved Oman >   7. Giving ourselves permission to ‘go big’ All too often life gets in the way of plans to go on that life-changing holiday to the place of our dreams. These are normally travels that take us a little further afield and involve a bit more adventure than your average sunny holiday. After the year we’ve all experienced, we know we’re more excited than ever to plan a getaway that will involve more excitement and new experiences than we can wave a plane ticket at. After the last year of weirdness, we all deserve that. Where? – Japan Japan – the Land of the Rising Sun – is an island nation, rich in culture and natural beauty, that has been an enigma to the West for as long as it’s been known. What better way to celebrate the hold on your holidays coming to an end than exploring somewhere so beautifully different in culture, architecture and almost every way to home? Find out more >    

Teetering right on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula,  Oman is a world of colour, culture, history and Arabic charm just waiting to be discovered. Jagged coastlines hide secret beaches, lush green lagoons are there to swim in, camels are waiting to be ridden through golden deserts, crumbling ancient towns are ripe for exploring and impressive canyons are there to be conquered. (There are some seriously lovely places to stay, too…)   Firstly, meet your Oman Specialists…         Our Emma (otherwise known as ‘Higgo’) fell in love with Oman during a round-trip visit through the country’s varied scenery. She explored the fascinating cities, hiked the imposing mountains, got a little lost in the endless deserts, and even ventured to its lesser-visited southern stretch. With soft spots for nature, food, and new cultures, Emma found everything she could want from a travel destination in Oman, and she’s confident you will, too! Catherine loves everything about Oman. From its rapidly expanding cities and grand mosques to the unspoilt deserts, rich marine life and flawless night skies. A big fan of the outdoors, Cat wasn’t disappointed with the numerous adventure activities on offer, from diving, hikes, cycle trails and all-terrain jeep tours to the lively and colourful souks. Oman is one of those countries which will surprise you, no matter how many times you return and Cat is well-equipped to guide you through this mesmerising Arabian country.       8 reasons to visit (and fall in love with) Oman   1. It has incredible cities, just waiting to be explored Muttrah Corniche, Muscat, Oman Oman’s capital city, Muscat , is a city of two sides. In its historic heart is Old Muscat and Muttrah where you’ll find the magnificent Sultan’s Palace, the old souq (where you can buy anything from frankincense to traditional Omani relics) and ancient forts. Away from the old centre, you’ll find a much more modern Oman. Here, air-conditioned shopping centers exist alongside the staggeringly impressive and opulent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. We highly recommend exploring it all on a Muscat City Tour. Explore Muscat and more on this ‘Classic Oman’ holiday   2. You’ll unwind on the beaches (with the turtles) Oman has some really beautiful beaches to unwind on. Whether you head to the coast near Salalah , escape to a secret beach lagoon on a snorkelling trip to the Daymaniyat Islands , spot the turtles at Ras al-Jinz or simply while away the hours at your beach resort hotel in Muscat . It might not be the first place you think of for a beach break, but it can deliver! This is why we think it makes a fab family getaway destination , too. Ras al-Jinz beach, Oman. The turtles at Ras al-Jinz (only hatching at certain – very hot – times of the year!) Sandy toes await on this family Oman holiday   3. Its ancient towns are ready to transport you back in time View from the ruins of Birkat al Mouz. It’s so worth heading up to the ancient capital of Nizwa and the surrounding Hajar Mountains on your Oman holiday. Take some time to explore the imposing canyons and terraced villages of Al Hamra and Birkat al Mouz, that seem to almost magically emerge out of the rock. You’ll feel a million miles from the modern world and prepare to have your breath taken away every time you turn a corner, only to be faced with a new spellbinding view (that might just be even better than the last!) Old town Al Hamra, Oman View over the Grand mosque from the Nizwa fortress, Oman Uncover an ancient past   4. You can lose yourself in the golden dunes Whether you’re keen to get right off the beaten track with a visit to Oman’s Empty Quarter (well worth it if you can spare the time!), or fancy a desert experience a little closer to the action – we’ve got you covered! The Wahiba Sands are only a few hours from Muscat, and you won’t be compromising on that magical desert experience. Endless dunes, camel rides and dream-worthy starry skies are waiting for you in Oman, however far you venture. Venture into the desert   5. An Oman holiday means staying in some seriously beautiful places Anantara Jabal Akhdar There are some very special accommodation options on offer in Oman. If you’re heading into the mountains, we LOVE the Anantara Jabal Akhdar . When in Muscat, if you fancy a smidge of adult-only luxury (and a private beach!), head to the Al Husn Shangri-La . And, for a luxury tented night under the stars in the Wahiba Sands, don’t miss a stay at the beautiful Desert Nights Camp . Desert Nights Camp in Wahiba Sands The private beach at Al Husn Shangri-La Sultanate in style on this luxury Oman holiday   6. You’ll answer to the call of the mountains The Balcony Walk For the adventurous and active amongst you, Oman has some truly spectacular hiking on offer. If you’re after the ultimate challenge, test your head for heights with a walk around the Balcony Walk on Jebel Shams (Oman’s highest peak!). We also recommend heading to the stunning Wadi Ghul nearby – it’s not known as Oman’s ‘Grand Canyon’ for no reason!     7. You’ll discover the bluest swimming spot s Oman is packed full of some seriously beautiful swimming spots. From the secret beaches tucked away in the rugged coastline and the turquoise lagoons at Wadi Bani Khalid , to the luxury beach resorts in Muscat , swimming with dolphins off the Musandam Peninsula and taking a dip in the picture-perfect waterfalls at Salalah . Wadi Bani Khalid, Oman Salalah waterfalls, Oman Bimmah Sinkhole, Oman Go on, dip a toe in…   8. There are so many adventures, just waiting for you Take to the turquoise on a snorkelling adventure and swim amongst turtles, vibrant fish, rays and even whale sharks. Head to the mountains and test your mettle on a canyoning adventure through the caverns . Or, head to the Wahiba Sands desert to explore the dunes on camelback. There are so many adventures just waiting to be had in Oman. Experience it all on this ‘Adventurous Oman’ adventure   So, there you have it: 8 reasons why you need to go to Oman (and will love it when you do!). All in all, Oman makes for a fantastic holiday destination. Whether you’re looking for some chilled out R&R, an adventure for all the family, or to soak up a brand new culture and rich history – you can do it all here. Chat to Emma or Cat, our fab Oman specialists, to start planning your perfectly-bespoke Oman holiday today.     Explore our 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