Travel Diaries

Tailormade holiday planning with an independent travel agent

A Rocky Mountaineer Experience: An Unforgettable 8-Night Canadian Rockies Adventure

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies on an 8-night holiday extravaganza. Begin your journey with a flight from London to Calgary, where the adventure unfolds amidst awe-inspiring landscapes, iconic landmarks, and the unforgettable Rocky Mountaineer experience. Welcome to Banff! Day 1-2: Arrival in Banff Upon landing in Calgary, your adventure kicks off with a scenic transfer to the picturesque town of Banff. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Banff offers a charming blend of alpine beauty and vibrant culture. Take in the stunning views of the rugged mountains as you explore the Banff National Park, and don’t miss the iconic Lake Louise for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. Maligne Lake boathouse Day 3-4: Enchanting Jasper Next, embark on a mesmerizing journey to Jasper, known for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. Marvel at the towering peaks of

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wooden boat on sand with blue sky and a few small clouds

Unlock the Wonders of Magical Crete: A Starter Guide to Exploring the Island!

Welcome to a week-long journey through the captivating island of Magical Crete, where sun-soaked days, crystal-clear waters, and ancient wonders await. Join us as we set off for a 7-night escape in the vibrant area of Hersonissos area. Rent a car to make exploration easy and add a round of golf at the prestigious Crete Golf Club. Let the adventure begin! Hersonissos coastline Day 1: Arrival and Hersonissos Unveiled Your Magical Crete adventure starts with a warm welcome to the Hersonissos area, known for its lively atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Check into your luxury accommodation and unwind after your journey. Choose between taking a stroll along the bustling waterfront and indulging in a delicious meal at one of the local tavernas. Or relax at your hotel and make the most of Greek hospitality and gastronomy on your doorstep. Aquaworld Aquarium – Mookie the iguana Day 2: Explore Hersonissos

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Balos beach from the cliffside, blue water, white sand, headland in the distance

A Luxurious Family Escape to Crete

Whilst the cool drizzle of a spring afternoon in England dampened our spirits as we watched our pampered pets frolic in the grass, one of my neighbours approached me with a simple question: “Do you have any ideas for a family holiday in mid-October?” Little did she know that the answer would unlock a journey to an unforgettable paradise – a luxurious escape to Crete in Greece. Zorba’s beach Why Crete? A luxurious escape to Crete, where ancient history meets modern elegance. This enchanting Greek island, the largest in the Mediterranean, boasts not only stunning landscapes but also a rich cultural heritage that captivates the senses. From the mesmerizing turquoise waters of its pristine beaches to the picturesque villages tucked away in the mountains, Crete offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveller. Whether it’s exploring the mythical birthplace of Zeus in the Ideon Cave or indulging in the

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columns of the Acropolis in Athens

A romantic weekend getaway to Athens

Are you looking for inspiration for a romantic weekend getaway? Look no further than the enchanting city of Athens, where history, culture, gastronomy, and romance seamlessly blend to create an unforgettable luxury weekend escape. Immerse yourselves in ancient wonders, savour delectable cuisine, and bask in the warm embrace of Greek hospitality. Let’s curate your dream romantic retreat in Athens, tailored to your every desire. Acropolis this way… Setting the Stage: Arriving in the City of Gods and Love Begin your journey by touching down in Athens, a city steeped in myth and legend. From the moment you arrive at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, you’ll be embraced by a sense of magic. This is the starting point for your tailor-made escapade. Opulent Accommodation: A Home Away from Home Indulge in opulence at Athens’ finest hotels. Whether you prefer a breathtaking view of the Acropolis from your private balcony or a cozy

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Morocco olives

A Taste of Timeless Flavours

Morocco reveals itself through flavour long before it explains itself in words. From the first scent of warm spices drifting through a medina to the quiet ritual of mint tea poured with care, food here is not an accessory to travel, it is the story itself. This journey follows that story across cities and coastline, where recipes are shaped by trade routes, geography, and generations of daily life. Taken slowly, city by city, it becomes a way to understand the country beyond its landmarks, through tastes, textures, and traditions that have endured for centuries. Marrakech Marrakech is where the senses are properly awakened. The city moves at its own rhythm, and food is woven into every part of daily life. In the souks, pyramids of cumin, saffron, ginger and paprika sit alongside baskets of olives and preserved lemons. Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive as dusk falls, not as a performance for

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Resort views in Sharm El-Sheikh

Chasing Winter Sun: Exploring Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt’s Hidden Gem

As winter blankets much of the world, I found myself craving some warmth and adventure. So, I packed my bags and headed off to Sharm El-Sheikh, a sweet spot along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, perfect for chasing winter sun. This place isn’t just about lazing on beaches or by the pool (though that’s definitely part of it), it’s a blend of laid-back vibes, underwater wonders, and desert escapades. Come along as I spill the beans on why Sharm El-Sheikh should be your next winter escape. Dive into Ras Mohammed National Park Ready to explore the underwater playground? Ras Mohammed National Park is the spot. Strap on your snorkel or scuba gear and dive into a world of colourful corals and curious fish. Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef are must-visit spots where you might even catch a glimpse of some bigger underwater pals like barracudas and reef sharks. Chill Out at

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Effortless Autumn morning in historic streets

Why some trips feel effortless

Why some trips feel effortless (and others don’t) Some trips feel calm from the moment you arrive. You walk out of the airport, find your rhythm quickly, and the days seem to unfold like clockwork. Others are technically fine on paper, but in reality, they feel like you’re always catching up: one more connection, one more queue, one more decision, one more detour you didn’t expect. The difference is rarely the destination.It’s usually the design. Effortless travel isn’t accidental. It’s created through a handful of decisions made early, before anyone has even packed a suitcase. Why “effortless” is usually designed Effortless doesn’t mean doing nothing.It means the moving parts have been quietly arranged so you don’t feel them. The best trips have a flow you can sense but don’t have to manage. The airport transfer works. The first night is simple. The pace matches how you like to travel. The

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Boulogne-sur-Mer old town and harbour

A Sunny Saturday Afternoon in Boulogne-sur-Mer

Boulogne-sur-Mer, a charming coastal town in northern France, capital of the Cote d’Opale, offers a delightful escape even in February. Known for its rich maritime history, picturesque old town, and bustling harbour, it is the perfect destination for a leisurely weekend visit. A rare sunny afternoon provided the ideal backdrop to explore its sights and atmosphere. Wandering Through the Old Town The heart of Boulogne-sur-Mer lies within its well-preserved old town. Encircled by imposing medieval walls, this historic quarter is a delight to explore. Cobbled streets wind past elegant townhouses, small boutiques, and cosy cafés. The afternoon sun cast a warm glow on the sandstone buildings, creating a serene yet vibrant atmosphere. Walking through the Porte des Dunes, one of the ancient gates, gave a sense of stepping back in time. The Magnificent Cathedral of Notre-Dame At the centre of the old town stands the impressive Cathedral of Notre-Dame de

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