14 June 2018

Everyone talked about how amazing Croatia was, so I thought I would go and find out for myself. I booked 3 nights departing from my local airport Bristol to Dubrovnik and stayed at Hotel More and I wasn't disappointed. Dubrovnik sits at the southernmost point of Croatia’s Adriatic coast - a stretch of seafront that’s famous for its crystal-clear waters. Firstly, the hotel was beautiful - built in the cliff face overlooking the sea with the infamous Cave Bar as part of the hotel. It had two small swimming pools, a lovely restaurant where the chocolate bomb pudding was to die for and of an evening the most amazing sunsets could be seen whilst sitting outside at the bar along the cliff edge with a drink. What else could you ask for? Within a 10 min stroll from the hotel through a lovely square with lots of restaurants (great fresh seafood) and bars to the bus stop which then took us straight to the Old Town. The Old Town and its many sights (including the well-preserved city walls which you can walk along) is one of the top attractions here. The Old Town is also famous for Stradun (also known as Placa), the main thoroughfare – one of the greatest pleasures for many visitors is to have a drink in one of the nearby cafes and watch the world go by which I did. There is so much to see within the city walls from galleries to shops and coffee bars and restaurants. There is a small marina within the old town where the tourist boat trips depart from or we hired our own little speed boat with a driver for a couple of hours and he took us to the Blue Caves where we were able to get out and swim into the caves. However, one of the best views of the Old Town is by getting the 4-minute ride in a cable car up to SRD Hill where the views are amazing. There is a restaurant at the top where you can sit and have a drink and bite to eat whilst you look out onto the Adriatic Sea and Old Town. I was only there for 3 days so it was hard to cram everything in but Croatia offers the potential for so many different types of holiday it’s a shame to only visit there once. Believe me, once you’ve taken your first trip there you’ll be wanting to go back for more! You could stay for a short city break and explore Dubrovnik or Split; have a winter shopping trip to the markets in Zagreb in the run up to Christmas; spend time on pristine beaches; chill at laid back cafes and chic bars or sail between the islands. If you have never been to Croatia or it has been on your wish list, then give me a call and we can get you booked - it will be a holiday you will never forget and will want to keep going back. Call me to find out more.

31 October 2017

It has been over twenty years since I last visited Thailand so I jumped at the opportunity to visit again in April. I flew with Thai Airways from Heathrow direct to Bangkok to arrive the following day. From experience I know getting into Bangkok City can be horrrendous with all the traffic, so decided to take the BTS skyrail which leaves the airport and takes you to the city centre, which was really easy and efficient (even with your suitcases) and great views of the countryside along the way. The train took about an hour to arrive at Sukhumuit Road where our hotel was then a short walk away. Three nights staying at The Rembrandt Hotel, very central to everything. A beautiful hotel with a rooftop pool and bar with amazing views over the city - great way to spend an evening with a cocktail in hand... With only 3 nights i had a lot to pack in so the following morning it was off to the Grand Palace and reclining buddha. I did this in the morning and so pleased as when we were leaving the queues were huge and standing around in the heat would of been unbearable. Thailand were still mourning the death of the King who died in October 2016 and at the Grand Palace they are building a crematorium where the King will be cremated. A visit to the markets whilst in Bangkok is a must especially if you are into designer gear but without the price tag. With lots of clothes stores to food stalls the day markets then turn into night markets, and if you like to shop, then boy can you shop in Bangkok! The Central Embassy which houses top end brands such as Ferrari, Hugo Boss, Dolce & Gabanna, Harrods - this place is lethal to the credit cards! After our three nights I then flew from Bangkok to Phuket and stayed 5 nights at The Andaman Seaview Hotel which is at the furthest end of Karon Beach so lovely and quiet. The beach was across the road from the hotel and plenty of bars and restaurants to walk to. During my stay here was Songkran Festival which is Thai New Year and if you have never experienced this then it is crazy. Basically this holiday is also known for its water festival which is mainly celebrated by the young people. This festival is just one huge water fight in the streets with everyone walking around with water pistols and trucks driving past with barrels of water being thrown at anyone in sight - so if you don't want to get wet dont leave your hotel! Great fun and the kids loved it. The beach is lovely here, nice and shallow and calm. Then for my final stop I was off to Khao Lak which was approximately a two hour drive from Karon Beach. Khao Lak was devasted in the 2004 tsunami but you wouldnt know it now as the town and hotels have all been completely re-built. I stayed at The Sands Khao Lak which was beautiful, right on the beach. You could walk out to a few bars and restaurants or along the beach there were a few different restaurants and massage parlours otherwise the main town was only 10 mins drive away where it was more hustle and bustle. The Hotel had two swimming pools and a few different bars around the resort with one main restaurant and there was a childrens club too. You can book different excursions like to Phi Phi Island but we booked a day trip snorkelling that also took us to Mu Ko Surin Natonal Park. Food is very cheap in Thailand especially if you eat Thai food and remember to haggle for goods politely as they do expect this. The Thai people I also found very friendly, and can't do enough to help you. There is so much more to explore in Thailand but if this is somewhere that has been on your wish list then give me a call and I can talk more about where I visited or put together an itinerary for you. I visited the South of Thailand but there is also northern Thailand, as well as lots of islands.

14 June 2016

Myself and a friend decided to visit the Florida Keys but of course a stay in the cosmopolitan lively city of Miami was a must first. Florida Keys offers a land based escape and linking these two wonderful destinations is one of the iconic road trips following US Highway 1 - a highlight of this dramatic drive is the spectacular seven mile bridge linking Islamorada to the lower keys. We stayed at the boutique oceanfront Beacon South Beach Hotel which was in the middle of the art deco district, where you are in the midst of Miami's best shopping, dining and nightlife. Miami beach does also offer art festivals, music festivals and museums or you can sit & relax, watch the world go by in one of the trendy bars and see if you can spot any rich or famous people After a night in Miami it was where the adventure started with an hour drive to the Everglades to do a fan boat tour which was amazing whizzing through the swamps seeing so much wildlife and of course the alligators. After this we took a small drive to the Anhinga Trail which starts from the Royal Palm Visitor Centre and is a self-guided trail through sawgrass marsh where you can spot turtles, herons, egrets, alligators and so much more. From the Everglades we then drove another hour to Key Largo and stayed at the Marriott which is a waterfront beach resort and from check in found out we had been upgraded to a lovely large room with 2 king size beds and balcony overlooking the beach and pool. That evening we decided to eat at Gus Grille which is the hotels restaurant but earns the title of Key Largo's popular waterfront restaurant while watching the sunset (which is the 1st of many whilst you are in the Keys) Next day we were on the move again to the next Key which was Key Colony but not without stopping off at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. John Pennekamp is the first undersea park in the US which encompass approx. 70 nautical square miles. With mangrove swamps, tropical hammocks, its coral reefs and marine life that attracts visitors to the park where you can view the reef from glass bottomed boats to scuba or snorkeling trips. Canoeing and Kayaking are also popular. We decided to do a snorkeling trip where we got to swim with an Eagle Ray - amazing. From John Pennekamp we then headed to Key Colony where we stayed at The Glunz Ocean Beach Hotel. This is a 46 room family owned hotel just off the highway and we booked an ocean view room which is a must. Next door to the hotel is Havana Jacks which has live music, cocktails, food and overlooking the ocean which had a great atmosphere. We were staying for a few nights so for breakfast we found Leigh-Ann's coffee house which did amazing breakfast and had a deli shop aswell. Another night we ate at Sparky's Landing which is a 5 minute stroll overlooking where all the fishing boats and charters come in with their catch of the day followed by all the birds and pelicans.. From Key Colony our next stop was Key West but not before driving over that iconic Seven Mile Bridge. Key West is at the southern most tip of USA and 90 miles from Cuba. It is also the home of the famous author Ernest Hemmingway. We stayed at the Eden House Hotel which is a 9 minute walk to Duval Street's restaurants and bars. Eden House had a lovely swimming pool, hot tub, hammocks all dotted around the hotel and daily complimentary happy hour!! I loved Key West with its colonial style buildings and where so much more is going on with lively bars and live music. One day we took a seaplane trip to Dry Tortugas (a must trip) which is 70 miles west off Key West and took about 40 minutes flying over the turquoise waters and spotting turtles, sharks, ship wrecks and many different little islands. The 100 square mile park is mostly open water with seven smaller islands only accessible by boat or plane and is known the world over as the home of the magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, coral reefs, marine life, ship wrecks. The coral reefs here are the least disturbed of the Florida Keys reefs. The sunsets at Key West are truly amazing and the best place to watch this is Mallory Square - ever since the 1960's every day, 2 hours before sunset this area comes alive with street entertainers, musicians and many more. We also did an Adventure Island Eco Tour which was a great day staring with continental breakfast onboard the boat whilst they head out to where we can then get off and snorkel. Afterwards we are then take to a natural sandbar (having lunch whilst we sail there) where the waters are so shallow and clear, here we take a kayak and are lead out on a small tour and then back to the boat to have some more mimosa's while heading back to the marina looking out for dolphins on the way.. Great trip. Our final stop is back up the keys heading towards Miami to Islamorada (known as the 'sport fishing' capital of the world) where we stayed at the Moorings Village & Spa - Bloodline fans will recognize the pictures as this is where it was filmed.. Moorings Village is an 18 acre resort harbouring 18 cottages and villas ranging from 1 bedroom - 3 bedroom and outside of them all is the most beautiful crystalline white sand private beach with turquoise waters where on offer is complimentary kayaks to take out, wind surfing or paddle boards or you can just lay on the beach with palm trees swaying in the breeze.. Moorings Village doesn't have a restaurant but across the road which you can walk or take one of the complimentary bicycles is Morada Bay dining where you can eat at the beach café or for more fine dining Pierres Morada Bay, but both overlooking the Florida Bay, watching the sunset and both casual. I loved Florida Keys and there are so many keys to stop off and visit, so much to do and see like the Dolphin Research Centre or the Turtle Hospital, trips out to the coral reefs but what also struck me was the amazing turquoise blue waters that surround you all along the US Highway 1 down to Key West. Will definitely go back and visit some of the other keys If you would like to know more about The Florida Keys and Miami please do contact me

10 June 2014

I stayed five nights at the Abama Golf & Spa Resort which is a Ritz Carlton hotel in Guia De Isora (approximately 30 minutes from the South Airport). My partner Mark and I were welcomed with friendly staff at reception and a glass of champagne where we were told they had upgraded us to a Villa deluxe room. Our room was lovely and spacious and had access to one of the shared pools amongst the villas where you have a pool attendant offering complimentary water and fruit during the day. The hotel has seven swimming pools, some are adult only and one is exclusively for guests staying in the Tagor Villas which is also adult only. The secluded beach which is accessible by the hotels own funicular is a paradise for sun and sea-worshippers, with its own beach club restaurant offering light lunches and cocktails. There is a great selection of different restaurants, including two Michelin star restaurants. The food is fantastic and couldn't fault it and even had my first experience of Japanese food in the Michelin Star Kubuki restaurant. We were on a bed and breakfast basis and because we were staying in one of the villas, it meant we could not only dine in the main buffet restaurant we could also have breakfast in the El Mirador which is for adults only and has the most amazing views across the ocean and to La Gomera. Breakfast was lovely with a vast choice of cereals, fruit, pastries, juices, champagne teas and coffees or you could order a cooked breakfast of whatever you liked. Even though we didn't travel with children I did get to see the children’s facilities and are well catered for in the restaurants and also the kids club, which caters for 4 to 12 year olds free of charge between 10am and 6pm or for an extra cost after 6pm if you wanted. During peak seasons they do try and also cater for teenagers. There are different room types at the hotel to deluxe rooms within the Citadel hotel and one bedroom villa which also comes with your own buggy. We also saw the Tagor Villas and these are an exclusive row of villas for adults only with personalized check in, complimentary water, beers, white wine around the pool for the day, a selection of appetizers, a personal villa attendant on call between 8am and 8pm and a complimentary buggy. Abama has an amazing exclusive 18 hole, 72 par golf course which features lakes, white-sand bunks and thousands of palm trees. It has played host to several events of the European Tour and major national and international tournaments. For those who don't play golf but are left behind then there is also a spa and fitness centre where there are treatments and packages tailor-made to suit you. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would return, this is an up-market hotel so not much in the way of evening entertainment but to be honest it would spoil the elegance of this hotel. I now have a good contact at this hotel and if you are interested or would like to know more then don't hesitate to contact me.

14 June 2013

Having flown with Virgin Atlantic we landed in Dubai and the heat hit us when we got off the plane – it was 37 degrees! However, it was September and had expected it to be quite warm as this is one of the hottest times of year for Dubai. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is located in the heart of the desert, just a 40-minute drive from the city of Dubai and only 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport. It is an enviable location. The resort is low-rise, in the middle of the desert surrounded by gently sloping dunes and natural desert landscape. It provided the perfect setting for a wedding as it is quite idyllic. The literal translation of ‘Bab Al Shams’ is ‘gateway to the sun’. It is built in the style of an Arabic fort and is surrounded by an oasis. Whilst checking-in we were greeted with a lovely cold towel and a cold mint juice before being shown to our deluxe room. This consisted of a king size bed with a sitting area in the corner, large bathroom with luxury toiletries and outside was a private patio area with table and chairs. The pool area is well laid out with plenty of sunbeds and parasols. There’s an infinity pool looking out to nothing but the desert along with a swim up bar. Staff offered guests a cold towel, cold face spray and ice lollies which, believe me, was something we all looked forward to every day. There are 3 restaurants to choose from (Masala, Al Forsan & Al Hadheerah) offering Arabic delights, Indian Cuisine, buffet or a Pizzeria as well as a choice of bars. My favourite was the Al Sarab rooftop lounge with amazing views out to the desert. It is the ideal spot to watch the sun set. The hotel also offers activities as well as a complimentary camel ride in the desert which I was persuaded to do (when in the desert I suppose it’s a must). After spending 4 days at this beautiful hotel we moved onto Le Royal Meriden Hotel for our final 3 days of the holiday. Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa is set in landscaped gardens overlooking Dubai's famous Jumeirah coastline, located 25 minutes from the city centre. Although a large property, it never felt overcrowded and its impressive facilities cater for both couples and families. A stay here is not complete without a visit to Caracalla Spa and Health Club which has been designed in the style of ancient Rome's most luxurious public baths. Unlike the Bab Al Shams, this is a very contemporary hotel in style. Yes we were fortunate to be upgraded to a club room. This meant we had a choice of 3 restaurants to eat in on our half board basis and access to the club lounge. There is a lot of building work still going on in Dubai but we had a sea view looking out to the famous Palm. The grounds around the hotel are vast so there is plenty of sunbeds either around the 3 pools, within the gardens or on the beach. We did venture out every night and a must see is the fountain display at the Dubai Mall – this was amazing and is in time with music. All the malls in Dubai are huge and worth a visit, however I didn’t think anything was a lot cheaper than what you can get at home. We also visited the Atlantis Aqua Park which was great fun, with plenty of food outlets and shade (if needed). Thursday evening is the start of the weekend (Dubai weekend is Friday and Saturday) so the JBR is a must for petrol heads as everyone comes out to show off and pose in their sports car. We felt very comfortable and safe walking around Dubai and there are plenty of taxis around. I loved Dubai and would definitely go back. If you have any questions about Dubai then please do give me a call.

18 June 2012

Educational Trip with 6 colleagues flying British Airways We were met and driven to CORAL REEF HOTEL in St James Parish and WOW, myself and a colleague was given a 3 bedroom villa set amongst the gardens and a swimming pool which was shared by the other 2 villas next door. The hotel has 88 rooms, cottages and suites & is family owned. It is also part of the Small Luxury hotels of the World. Once settled in we started the evening with rum punch and a bbq by the sea which was fantastic. Just as I was about to call it a night 140 baby turtles were running all over the restaurant & staff was catching them to place them back on the beach. DID YOU KNOW – WHEN A TURTLE IS BORN AND SWIMS OFF INTO THE SEA, 30 YEARS LATER (IF IT SURVIVIES) COMES BACK TO THE SAME BEACH & HATCHES ITS CHILDREN… Next morning off to visit the CORAL BEACH AND TREASURE BEACH HOTELS in St James Parish. Coral Beach was great, excellent facilities and a fantastic spa. We then moved to the Treasure Beach which is a small boutique hotel in need of a little upgrade.This hotel even though slightly tired does have repeat customers. That evening we were off to visit and dine at the amazing Sandy Lane. SANDY LANE St James Parish WAS ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS (didn’t get to see any celebrities though!!) The hotel was perfect nothing out of place and the service was outstanding. The spa was world class and nothing was too much trouble and everyone was so happy. We dined in the Bajan Blue Restaurant and the food was out of this world… DID YOU KNOW IF YOU PASS A GREEN GRASSHOPPER IT MEANS YOU HAVE WISDOM AND LUCK AND IF YOU PASS A BROWN GRASSHOPPER SOMEONES PREGNANT…. HOTEL SANDPIPER (sister hotel to the Coral Reef) nice stroll along the road to the Sandpiper. Lovely little hotel, 46 rooms and at present renovating the bathrooms in each room. You can dine between the 2 hotels. That afternoon we were picked up and taken to COBBLERS COVE for a visit and lunch. The chef is Irish and makes everything himself. The hotel is designed like an English Country House (the owner lives in England). This hotel is a member of the Prestigious Relais & Chateaux. TAMARIND COVE AND THE HOUSE (St James Parish). The Tamarind Cove was nice and has been recently renovated and it has a big programme for children & you can interconnect up to 4 rooms. The HOUSE is very different and is Adult Only. With 33 rooms, their staff are called Amassadors who do everything from waitressing to concierge. That evening we ate at the FAMOUS DAPHNES which is situated between the Tamarind Cove and The House & famous for feeding Wayne Rooney and Mariah Carey back in the summer. For a 3 course meal you were looking at around £100 and £6 for a coke so not cheap but an experience!!! DID YOU KNOW SPEIGHTOWN IS THE TWIN TO BRISTOL UK AND THEY NOW CALL IT LITTLE BRISTOL – back in 1635. FAIRMONT ROYAL PAVILLION in St James Parish is an American style hotel that has undergone a total refurbishment is Adult Only and a 5 minute drive from the Colony Club. The 72 rooms are excellent and my room was a suite on the front with your own veranda onto beach. The Evening meal we had was excellent and the chef is French and originally from the Plaza in New York. COLONY CLUB (St Peters Parish) and met by the General Manager. The hospitality was exceptional and you could see it wasn’t just for us but the guests were treated the same. The one bedroom suites were excellent and they also had a seasonal childrens programme (no children allowed here in February.) This hotel is part of the Elegant Group. Last day and travelled to the East Coast where not many visitors venture, 45 minutes from St James to St Philips and visited THE CRANE. The crane is well known for its spacious rooms and the property that has the most pools. The hotel also deals with lots of Timeshare properties where you can collect points and convert into room nights. DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE 11 PARISHES IN BARBADOS AND 987 RUM SHOPS. If you are interested in visiting Barbados or want any more information on the hotels mentioned please don’t hesitate to call.