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The Grecotel LUXME Dama Dama - Rhodes

The Grecotel LUXME Dama Dama is a spacious beachfront resort that combines a relaxed atmosphere with the convenience of a short transfer from the airport, making it an appealing choice for both couples and families visiting Rhodes.The resort offers a wide variety of spaces to relax, dine and socialise. One of the standout areas is the beach bar, where laid-back daytime music and uninterrupted sea views create an effortlessly calm setting. While the beach itself is coarse underfoot, it is excepti...

Athena Beach Hotel, a great option in Paphos

Jane’s final stop on her Cyprus adventure was the Athena Beach, part of the Constantinou Bros group.  The group has four hotels in Paphos – Pioneer, Asimina Suites, Athena Beach and Athena Royal – all set in prime beachfront locations with a wide choice of dining, room types and the option to upgrade to the Elite package (offering private check-in, preferred room allocation and added extras).The Athena Beach, the largest of the group, caters well to both couples and families. The...

Columbia Beach Resort - not just a place to stay

Columbia Beach Resort isn’t just a place to stay - it’s the kind of hideaway that instantly slows your pulse and reminds you what a real holiday feels like.Tucked into the unspoilt horseshoe bay of Pissouri, this 5‑star retreat sits peacefully between Limassol and Paphos, far enough from the bustle to feel exclusive yet close enough to dip into local life whenever the mood strikes. It’s luxury with a soul, and refreshingly family‑friendly too.A resort with characterThe property unfolds...

Standout service and a peaceful setting at the Cali Resort and Spa

Just a short stroll from the lively Coral Bay village sits The Cali Resort & Spa - a sleek, adults‑only escape where calm meets contemporary style. In just 5–8 minutes you can wander from the hotel to the heart of the village, with its easygoing mix of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Yet the moment you step inside the resort, the buzz melts away.Set slightly above the coastline, the hotel overlooks both Coral Bay and Coralia Bay, giving you front‑row views of sandy beaches and w...

Julia Bradbury Sets Sail on an Epic Journey to the Frozen South

Adventure lovers are in for a treat as Julia Bradbury teams up with HX Expeditions for an extraordinary 23‑day voyage through some of the most remote and awe‑inspiring places on Earth. Travelling aboard the purpose‑built MS Fram, Julia explores the rugged beauty of the Falkland Islands, the wildlife‑rich shores of South Georgia, and the icy wilderness of Antarctica.This remarkable journey forms the heart of a brand‑new three‑part ITV documentary series, Julia Bradbury’s Wonders of ...

Caribbean Beauty

John hadn't visited the Caribbean  in a few years so when he did he was reassured that its beauty never really fades from memory. This is what he had to say:This winter I returned to the Caribbean , spending time in Saint Lucia at the spectacular Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, Sugar Beach is tucked between the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Pitons.The trip began with a dramatic 20‑hour tropical storm - not quite the postcard skies I’d imagined  however even under heavy clouds the isl...

Joanne's whirlwind adventure through Southeast Asia

My recent journey through Southeast Asia with Intrepid Travel was nothing short of unforgettable. Packed with culture, nature, and thrilling adventures, my trip offered the perfect blend of exploration and connection with local communities. From Thailand’s jungle-clad mountains to Vietnam’s emerald bays, here’s how my incredible adventure unfolded.First stop……Thailand: Temples, Waterfalls and Whitewater ThrillsMy adventure began in Thailand, just outside Chiang Mai. The first stop...

Five Luxury Autumn Holiday Ideas

Five Luxury Autumn Holiday Ideas in EuropeLooking for the best autumn holidays in Europe? From truffle hunting in Italy to chasing the Northern Lights in Norway, these five luxury travel experiences offer unforgettable escapes filled with culture, cuisine and adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of cosy nights under Arctic skies or sun-drenched vineyards in Provence, there’s a perfect getaway waiting this season.1. See the Northern Lights in Tromsø, NorwayExperience one of nature’s gre...

New EU Border Rules - Effective from October 2025

From 12 October 2025, the EU is introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-EU travellers, including UK passport holders. This replaces manual passport stamping with a digital system and is being rolled out across all Schengen Area countries. It will be introduced in phases, building towards being fully operational by 10 April 2026.To help you get up to speed, here's our summary of the main points:Who is Affected?All UK travellers heading to Schengen countries (Cli...

A perfect family escape to Anda Barut Collection, Turkey

When you have two university-aged children, a precious week to spare before the academic year begins and a longing for late summer sunshine, there's an attractive option: a spontaneous trip to Turkey and the exceptional hospitality of Anda Barut Collection.Location and ArrivalNestled on the scenic Delice peninsula near the historic town of Didim, positioned between Izmir and Bodrum, Anda Barut Collection offers an idyllic retreat. Our journey began with a flight to Bodrum, followed by a luxuriou...

Ireland - where luxury meets warmth

This week Jane had the pleasure of being invited to a Tourism Ireland event and she was astounded. The range of wonderful hotels, unique experiences and genuine hospitality showcased reminded her just how special Ireland is.  Read on to find out more:We often dismiss visiting places that are near, because we can do that anytime.  But a trip to the Emerald Isle is not to be missed. Irish hospitality is second to none. Be prepared for a relaxing trip and when I say relaxing I mean reall...

A tale of two cities: Dresden and Gotha

For this solo adventure, Jo combined her love of live music with a passion for exploring new places. She visited two very different but equally beautiful German cities: Dresden and Gotha.Getting ThereI took an early morning flight from London Stansted to Berlin. While it’s possible to fly directly to Dresden, I chose to save money by flying into Berlin and taking a Flixbus to Dresden Central Station.Travel tip: Your Flixbus ticket is only valid for the specific bus you booked, so if your ...

Euphoria Retreat, Mystras - A sanctuary for the soul

Tucked away at the foot of the Taygetos mountains in the Peloponnese, Euphoria Retreat is a wellness sanctuary like no other. With just 45 suites and rooms, this elegant, holistic haven offers a variety of programmes ranging from detox and weight loss to general well-being, alongside top-of-the-range treatments rooted in both modern science and ancient healing practices.The setting is nothing short of magical – surrounded by forest yet just a five-minute walk from the tiny village of Mystras. ...

Finding calm by the Cretan Sea

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found myself less inclined to spend hours stretched out on a sunbed. I get bored, restless and always think I should be doing something. But not here.From the moment I arrived at Nana Princess, a luxurious boutique resort in Crete with just 107 rooms, suites, and villas, I felt something different. Every room boasts sea views and mine - a junior suite - came with a private plunge pool, ambient lighting and a sleek music system (which, I admit, took me a good 48 hou...

Japan

I have always wanted to go to Japan, and have tried many times but something always prevented it. So when it finally happened, I was very excited. This was a short trip, just a few nights in Tokyo, a short visit to Osaka and then some time down in the Wakayama and the Kii Peninsular.Tokyo is astonishing. I had dreadful jet lag so I certainly saw the sun rise and set several times in the land of the rising sun. Being wide awake, my hotel room was very modern and had a great city view as...

BARUT HOTELS – LUXURY AND HOSPITALITY IN TURKEY

Barut Hotels is one of Turkey’s most celebrated hotel brands, offering exceptional hospitality, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable experiences. With properties strategically located along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines, Barut Hotels cater to travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.Barut Hotels is a renowned Turkish hotel group offering a variety of luxurious and family-friendly accommodations along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Known for their exceptiona...

Prague - Jane's favourite city break of 2024

As the year comes to a close, my last city break of 2024 took me to the enchanting city of Prague—and it turned out to be my favorite. This stunning destination, rich in history, architecture, and culture, offers a perfect combination of beauty, affordability, and convenience.The JourneyGetting to Prague is a breeze. With a short flight time of just 1 hour and 55 minutes, followed by a quick 25-minute transfer to the city center, it’s ideal for a stress-free getaway.The Perfec...

El Fuerte Hotel, Marbella

The El Fuerte Hotel enjoys a prime location in Marbella, near the port and just a six-minute walk from the charming old town. This iconic hotel offers a variety of room choices and distinctive amenities, including separate breakfast areas, a quiet lounge serving drinks and snacks throughout the day, and the option to book a standard room with additional supplements for added features....

Jane's latest adventure to the Maldives: Lily Beach and Hideaway Beach Resort

Embarking on a journey from London to the Maldives is a dream come true, and flying with Qatar Airways makes it an unforgettable experience. Here’s a glimpse into this luxurious escape, perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.The JourneyA relaxed flight London Via Doha (6.45) and onwards after an 1.20 hour layover to the Maldives( 4.05) - don’t even get me started on Doha Airport I just wished I had 3 hours there !Seaplane TransferUpon arriving in Malé, a scenic 30-minute se...

Jane's trip with Just Sardinia to The Forte Village June 2024

Sardinia is a fantastic Italian island known for its beautiful waters, exquisite food, and fine wine. One of the standout destinations on the island is Forte Village, a large resort that caters to various markets, particularly appealing to families during the high season. The resort features an academy offering a wide range of sports and interests, from football to chess, ensuring that there is something for everyone.Forte Village boasts six hotels, each with its own unique style, ranging from 4...

Fiji

I was privileged to be given the opportunity to Visit Fiji from the Inspiring Travel Co and the Fijian tourist board.10 nights and 4 Islands:3 nights Denarau2 nights Likiliku2 nights Nanuku3 nights VomoSo , already I can hear your thoughts “ its such a long way” and yes your right – it is , but my oh my it’s so worth it.I took the route London to San Francisco (11 hours) 4 hours on the ground and you need it , then another 10.5 onto Nadi.BULA , this is the&n...

Cambodia and Laos – Active Adventure January 2024.

As you may have read form my previous blogs, I have had a love for Asia. I decided to go to Cambodia and Laos but this time not with a friend or my daughter but to join a small group for an active adventure trip.Day 1-2  Arrived in Phnom Penh and met my local guide and we covered all the major sights and sounds:  The Royal Palace and the stunning Silver Pagoda / The National Museum and Wat Phnom one of the oldest historical sites in Phnom Penh , walked along the Mekong River to the Ind...

Luxury Agent of the Year London.

Luxury bespoke operator, Carrier held its annual awards ‘The Carrier A-List Awards 2024’ on March 7, recognising the outstanding contributions from their top performing agent partners from all over the country. Following reports of a record breaking 2023, which the operator revealed was its best trade sales year to date, Carrier hailed their success was a result of growing and strengthening their agent partnerships. Held at the famed BAFTA Piccadilly, the event recognised the agents that pro...

The Beautiful City of Florence

Some of you may know from reading my past blogs , myself and three friends started the ABC holidays 9 years ago – this was our way of working round the Alphabet – a place , country -  home or abroad.This year we were at I – we chose Italy and the beautiful city of Florence.Where do I start ? Firstly we were diverted to Pisa Airport due to weather in Florence and for us that was a bonus – we jumped in a taxi to see the leaning tower of Pisa before enjoying lunch and a bottle of wine ...

Janes October getaways...

So early October I took my daughter to experience horse riding as she had requested this for her 16th birthday. Luckily for her I had just been invited to a dinner via Cyplon Holidays to hear all about the Cap St Georges hotel in Cyprus – and guess what ? Yes the hotels owner has stables and many horses just up the road from the hotel and they offer a varied amount of optional experiences.The hotel is a large resort hotel , with its own little private beach area – clear water , 3 main restau...