Yvonne Barker - Not Just Travel

As we wander around the world this morning we have arrived in beautiful Mauritius.
Mauritius, a small island in the Indian Ocean, has the most amazing white coral sand beaches and crystal clear lagoons which contrast vividly with the backdrop of the black volcanic mountains. Although a small island its 330+km of coastline offers a variety of beaches - the North has beautiful flat, sandy beaches and stunning weather and has plenty of water activities on offer. The East is wil...der, less developed and offers large turquoise lagoons but is windier, especially in winter. The South with its wild, steep cliffs is a stunning part of the island that is a must-see. The West has beautiful beaches with stunning sunsets, whereas South West beaches are popular with kite surfers.
The island is surrounded by coral reefs creating incredible snorkelling and diving. Most of the lagoons offer clear water and calm conditions suitable for snorkelling and experiencing tropical sea life not far from the shore.
Away from the beaches there is plenty to see. Chamarel 7 coloured earth geopark is a unique volcanic phenomenon with multi-coloured lunar-like dunes with shades of pink, green, brick red, orange, purple and grey that look their best at sunrise and sunset. They can be reached by a panoramic route that cuts through the tropical rainforest and past the impressive Chamarel Falls. The Black River Gorge National Park is home to walking trails, rainforest, stunning vistas and waterfalls as well as a huge variety of bird and animal species.
Port Louis is the Island's capital where you can visit the Caudan waterfront, explore the shops and the colourful fruit and vegetable market and enjoy walking the old cobbled streets and seeing the original colonial houses. It is also among one of the top cities in the world to experience street food. Pamplemousse Botanical Gardens are the oldest gardens in the southern hemisphere and host more than 650 varieties of plants along with giant tortoises and spectacular giant water lilies.
What to like: Stunning white sand beaches, snorkelling from the beach, rainforest and waterfalls, street food, just a 12 hour direct flight away from the UK, great value for money compared to other Indian Ocean destinations.
When to go: Warm all year round. May to August best for families and less humid. September to December hotter. January to April hottest and most humid, some short showers.
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #travelexpert #wherenext #gr8adventuresawait
Call me to chat about your future travel and holiday plans: 07967 563140
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On our wander round the world today we are in the breathtaking Patagonia region, which covers a third of Argentina and Chile in South America. It's a destination for lovers of the outdoors; a place to be awed by the natural world on an epic scale and where you can truly get away from it all.
At the northern end of Patagonia green Chilean deciduous forests meet dry Argentinian open pampas. At its extreme south, the flat plains around Chile's Punta Arenas give way to the fjords... and islands that mark the end of South America. Patagonia is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.
Not to be missed is the Los Glaciares National Park which has at its centre the huge Perito Moreno Glacier. Either from the observation platform or from a boat you can hear the glacier moving and see icebergs as they breakaway, or you can trek out onto the glacier itself. El Calafate is the gateway to the park and has accommodation, cafés and shops.
From there you can travel to the Torres del Paine National Park, home to one of the most iconic mountain silhouettes in the world. Enjoy spectacular scenery and majestic waterfalls by kayak or circumnavigate the park on foot, by bike or on horseback. Explore the park's series of Lakes - Azul, Verde, Toro, Sarmiento and Grey, which with fine weather turn a stunning turquoise and mirror the mountain backdrop. The park is home to wildlife including guanacos, the llamas smaller cousin, rheas the world's largest flightless birds and the elusive puma.
Take an unforgettable journey through the Andes Mountains from Puerto Veras in Chile to Bariloche in Argentina's Lake District, a beautiful area of glacial lakes, emerald forests and extinct snow-capped volcanoes.
A visit to Patagonia can also include a cruise on the Chilean Fjords where you can experience unspoilt wilderness and amazing sightings of whales, dolphin, seals and significant birdlife.
What to like: Spectacular scenery, stunning lakes and waterfalls, icebergs, wilderness and wildlife
When to go: October to March
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #gr8adventuresawait #travelexpert
To discuss your future travel plans give me a call: 07967 563140
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Known as the Spice Island, today as we wander round the world we are on the beautiful island of Zanzibar on Africa’s east coast. It is one of the world's great cultural crossroads, where Africa meets Arabia meets the Indian Ocean. You can spend your days swimming in aquamarine seas, snorkeling and diving among coral reefs, sailing on a traditional dhow and absorbing the Swahili culture.
In Zanzibar Town, the narrow alleys of historic Stone Town meander between ancient buildin...gs decorated with balconies and gigantic carved doors. Explore its historic heart, with its crumbling palaces and heart wrenching relics and stories from the former slave trade and catch the smells of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove in the Darajani bazaar or eat local specialities at Forodhani Gardens food market. Meanwhile on the coast of Zanzibar you can watch the local fishing boats set sail, and in the countryside see the farmers tending fields of rice or the clove plantations that give Zanzibar its 'Spice Islands' name.
Zanzibar's coastline has stunning beaches of idyllic white sand dotted with hotels ranging from upmarket luxury hotels providing fabulous service to simpler beachfront huts and rooms for those who just want to get away from it all. The sand and surf vary depending on what side of the island you’re on so be careful where you choose. The east coast is tidal and the waves break over coral reefs and sand bars offshore. Up north, ocean swimming is much less susceptible to the tides, and smooth beaches and white sand make for relaxing beach days. Zanzibar has nearby coral reefs providing incredible diving and snorkelling.
On the south coast of Zanzibar lies the Menai Bay Conservation Area, a sea turtle protection area for the endangered species that come to breed on the island. Along the south coast are also several schools of dolphins which can be seen on a boat trip from the village of Kizimkazi. Roads to the southeast coast take you through the Jozani Forest, home to Zanzibar’s rare Red Colobus monkeys and a number of other primate and small antelope species.
What to like: Idyllic beaches, sailing on a traditional dhow, fabulous snorkelling, Jozani Forest, Stone Town
When to go: June to March, July to September is the dry season
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #travelexpert #gr8adventuresawait
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We are on the South Island of New Zealand on our wander round the world today. Think incredibly diverse landscapes, stunning coastal highways, wildlife and outdoor living. I loved the freedom of travelling around the island by campervan, but alternatively pick two or three locations to act as a base from which to explore. Highlights not to miss include:
Marlborough Sounds, which includes 1,500km of New Zealand coastline and has secluded bays, historic sites, marine reserves ...and island sanctuaries. Take a kayak trip on the Sounds, spotting wildlife along the way. You can see whales throughout New Zealand, including sperm whales in the East coast resort of Kaikoura.
Aoraki (Mt Cook) is New Zealand's highest peak. Experience its beauty wandering the easy Hooker Valley Track or enjoy a birds eye view from a helicopter. The clear and vast starlit skies of the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve, seen from Mt John observatory, will take your breath away.
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand. Bungy jumping, jet boating, quad biking, white water rafting, river surfing, canyon swings and more mean that whatever you want to do to get your heart pumping you will find it!
Central Otago is breathtakingly different with vast undulating landscapes, rugged snow-capped mountains, clear blue rivers and tussock-clad hills. It is also home to New Zealand's many wineries, many producing world class pinot noir. Follow one of many wine trails by bike, or be chauffer driven! The extensive coastline on the island also provides a wealth of seafood with local specialities including crayfish, bluff oysters and greenshell mussels.
A UNESCO world heritage site Fiordland National Park can be accessed through the picturesque town of Te Anau and includes the majestic Milford and Doubtful Sounds which you can experience by boat, air on or foot.
Whilst glaciers around the world are retreating, the Fox and Franx Josef glaciers still flow almost to sea level and give you a unique and easily accessible opportunity to see a glacier close up.
What to like: Stunning landscapes and coastline, incredible diversity of scenery, outdoor activities and adventure, New Zealand wines
When to go: December to February are the summer months
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #travelexpert #gr8adventuresawait
Get in touch if you want to talk about future travel: 07967 563140 or message me
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Today as we wander around the world we are in sunny Greece on the island of Skiathos. One of the Sporades Islands, Skiathos offers a mix of popular vibrant hotspots for those who like busy beaches, fun crowds and a great nightlife as well as picturesque and unspoilt beaches. And of course it was one of the two main filming locations for the hit musical movie 'Mama Mia'!
The capital town of Skiáthos is a modern resort with excellent tourist facilities. A stroll around the town...’s paved streets reveals pretty white houses with red tiled roofs and colourful gardens, or sit and enjoy the warm evenings in one of the many tavernas, bars and clubs in the picturesque harbour.
The island has 60 superb beaches, among which Koukounaries in the South Western part of the Island is considered one of the best beaches in Greece. The beach is popular and well organized with loungers, water sport facilities and beach bars. Beach parties are frequently organized and last till the early hours. Another beach with crystal waters on Skiathos is Banana beach, a narrow coast surrounded by greenery, and also one that has a nudist area! Koukounariés beach is also known for its lush pine forest offering unique natural shade and Strofiliá, a rare wetland nestling amidst the pine forest, which has been declared a protected area due to its enormous ecological value.
Away from the beaches you can explore the island's green and mountainous terrain and visit cultural and historic sites including Kounistras Monastery in the hills behind Troulos, Evangelistrias monastery and the fortified ruins at Kastro. You can also go horse riding or hiking on the various trails around the island. A good bus service on Skiathos makes it easy to visit some of the quieter beaches if you don’t want to hire a car. Round the island boat cruises are also popular and will take you to more remote beaches such as Lalaria, local caves as well as the famous Trypi Petra Rock Arch.
Skiathos has some fabulous local produce and specialties including its traditional macaroon biscuits called amygdalota and its 'spoon sweet', homemade liqueurs, olives, honey and Skiathos pies.
From May to October direct flights to Skiathos run from the UK, outside of those times you can reach Skiathos by ferry from Athens.
What to like: Beautiful beaches and lush greenery, vibrant beach parties and nightlife, traditional white houses and red tiled roofs, Skiathos food
When to go: May to October, July and August peak time
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #gr8adventuresawait #travelexpert
Get in touch if you would like to chat about future travel plans by direct message or call 07967 563140
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Today on our wander round the world we are in Turkey doing a two destination stopover, starting in the central Anatolian region of Cappadocia and then visiting bustling Istanbul.
Just a short flight from Istanbul is the world heritage site and unique 'moonscape' of Cappadocia, where the rock has been carved into fantastical ravines, tablelands, turrets and 'fairy chimneys' and both natural and cultural features combine.
It is a magical place to explore and over a few days yo...u can walk or hike in the Ihlara Valley or Devrent Valley, explore the subterranean city of Kaymakli where rock-hewn churches contain ninth century frescoes, visit Uchisar Rock Castle and see the panoramic views and stay in budget or boutique cave hotels. For a real treat view the area from above in a hot air balloon.
After Cappadocia return to Istanbul, located on the edge of Europe where east meets west. Connecting the two continents the city hides layers of history, culture, colours and scents.
Places you shouldn’t miss include the beautiful Blue Mosque with its domes, minarets and ornate azure tilework; sprawling Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia museum. Kapali carsi (the Grand Bazaar) is one of the largest covered markets in the world with more than 4400 shops. Take a food themed walking tour and visit the huge and bustling Spice Bazaar for incredible food from simple kebabs to a meze feast, or try one of the many restaurants serving Turkish dishes. Istanbul also is home to a vibrant arts scene and the newly opened Arter, housing a contemporary art gallery, is well worth a visit.
A good area to stay in Istanbul is in the Sultanahmet district on the west (European) side of the Bosphorus for easy access to the Grand Bazaar, Spice bazaar and most historic sites.
What to like: Magical landscapes, living in a cave, fascinating cultural sites, food tours
When to go: April to October, hot in summer months
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #gr8adventureswait #travelexpert
Get in touch 07967 563140, or message me, if you want to talk about your future travel plans
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We have been stuck at the airport for a couple of days 😉, but we have now made it out and on our wander around the world today we are in the stunning Maldives
The Maldives is an Indian Ocean paradise made up of 1192 islands divided into 26 atolls or chains of islands. They have become famous for unrivalled luxury, stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear cyan-blue water and some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world.
Getting from the international airport to you...r island is an experience in itself. You will arrive by speedboat or by seaplane. Taking off from the water is an unforgettable experience as is observing the blue lagoons, tiny islands and coral attols from above.
Every Island has stunning almost perfect white powder sand and turquoise waters, but beyond that pick your island carefully as they are not the same. Some are tiny and focus purely on relaxation, seclusion and enjoying the pristine beaches, incredible food and drink and luxury service. Others are larger, giving scope to go out from the resort and do other activities on the island, and range from clublike resorts to chic boutique resorts, family friendly resorts to water sports activity centres. Twin centre trips give you the option of mixing it up. Whilst the Maldives do offer a great selection of over the water villas for anyone looking for romance and/or a get away from it all holiday and numerous premium luxury resorts, other more simple guesthouse are also available.
Underwater you will find amazing coral walls, magnificent caves and schools of brightly coloured tropical fish. In deeper waters you will see manta rays, turtles, numerous shark species including the hammerhead shark, moray eels and the world's largest fish the whale shark. You can snorkel close to many of the island resorts or for keener divers stay on a liveaboard boat. If you want to be able to snorkel from the beach to a reef, make sure you select an island with an easily accessible house reef.
To understand a bit more about local life visit Male, the capital of the Maldives, with its brightly painted houses, crowded markets and local teashops where you can chat to regulars and share plates of delicious 'short eats'. And in terms of culture attend a Bodu Beru performance, a traditional all male dance and drum performance that start with a slow, nonchalant swaying and swinging of the arms and become more animated and frenetic as the night goes on!
What to like: Pristine beaches, fabulous cuisine, local people, fantastic luxury options, incredible marine life
When to go: Year round destination, peak season December to April when climate is driest and hottest
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Today on our wander around the world we are in Aruba, a beautiful Caribbean Island located north of the Venezuala coast.
Reliably near perfect weather year round and a claim of more sunny days than any other Caribbean Island, warm temperatures, cooling breezes, low humidity, some of the best white powder sand beaches and friendly locals are some of Aruba's best features. Along with the fact that it is one of the safest Caribbean Islands and sits outside the hurricane belt! W...atersports are popular and below the crystal clear waters are several shipwrecks for divers to explore, as well as two sunken aircraft transitioning to artificial reefs.
Nearly 20% of Aruba is a designated National Park and home to a long list of animal species and plant life. In Arikok National Park you will find rugged deserts, towering green cacti and limestone cliffs along with numerous hiking and biking trails. The Park is also home to the spectacular Fontein caves with original Indian rock drawings, Conchi (the Natural Pool), unusual land formations made from limestone and nature walks through dry river beds to secluded bays.
Aruba's capital Oranjestad has colourful architecture and colonial buildings and is a great place to sample local food offerings with a mix of Caribbean, African and European flavours. In Aruba's south San Nicholas, known as Sunrise City, is a cultural hub offering vibrant and creative street art and many festivals.
Aruba is also becoming more eco-friendly - it is working towards 100% renewable energy, single use plastics are totally banned, as are sunscreens that cause damage to the local reef and at least 10% of all Aruba's hotels are Earthcheck certified.
What to like: Year round destination, stunning white sand beaches, eco-friendly, Arikok National Park
When to go: Consistently warm all year, high season is December to April
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #travelexpert #gr8adventuresawait #lovetravel
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OMG I love this - you can go live on a safari from home! CAT is 1 hour ahead of us.First 45 mins of each session geared for children and they can ask questions which will be answered live.

On our wander around the world today we are in Mexico exploring the Yucatan Peninsula with its world-famous archaeological sites, pink lagoons, enchanting colonial cities, romantic haciendas and resorts, beautiful beaches and distinctive cuisine.
A paradise for beach lovers the Caribbean coast beaches have white sand and astonishing teal blue waters. Cancun is the most popular destination with miles of sandy beaches, water sports and lots of hotels, shopping and nightlife. Fu...rther south is the coastal region popularly known as the Maya Riviera which offers a good alternative for anyone wanting to avoid the bigger resorts.
The peninsula is home to some of Mexico's most impressive archaeological sites. Chichen Itza with its massive step pyramid, known as El Castillo, is a UNESCO world heritage site. In this ancient city remarkable sculptures adorn the pyramids, palaces, temples and ball court (where death was the penalty for defeat!). Tulum, with its dramatic setting perched atop a cliff, is also spectacular.
All around the peninsula are the amazing cenotes, natural pools formed in limestone caves with incredible clear waters that provide a truly unique environment to swim, snorkel and dive.
The pink lagoons of Las Coloradas are stunning brightly coloured pink lakes where the locals harvest sea salt. Part of the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve these protected wetlands are home to flamingos, crocodiles, sea turtles and many sea birds.
The seafood in many of the coastal resorts is fabulous, and of course you should also check out a Taco party and try the local tequilas!
What to like: Ancient sites, swimming in the cenotes, stunning beaches, colonial cites, pink lakes, Tequila!
When to go: December to April
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #lovetravel #gr8adventuresawait #travelexpert
Get in touch: 07967 563140 or direct message me to chat about future travel plans
Pink lagoons photo by Walter Rodriguez
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Today on our wander round the world we are In New England combining a city break in historic Boston with the best of Cape Cod's beaches, coastline and art galleries.
Boston is unlike any other US city. It is a totally walkable city, downtown Boston is roughly two square miles, and is surrounded by water. It effortlessly combines the historic streets and sites of the Freedom Trail and Beacon Hill with a more contemporary feel and the buzz of the numerous independent shops, cof...fee shops, restaurants and bars. Sport is ever present and doing the Fenway Park tour and watching a Boston Red Sox Baseball Team is a must, along with the Museum of Fine Arts and local food and drink tours.
From Boston Harbour you can go whale watching from May to October, and be very confident you will actually see a whale. Last season they had a 99% success rate!
Just an hour and a half drive from Boston is Cape Cod offering amazing beaches and coastline views, lighthouses, free festivals and fabulous seafood. If you drive to Cape Cod from September to November you may also see the cranberries being harvested by workers knee deep in the fields. Falmouth, one of Cape Cod's towns, is a marine conservation area, has some amazing beaches and the Shining Sea Bikeway, an 11 mile flat cycle route that takes you along the Vineyard Sound shoreline from Falmouth to scenic Woods Hole. Province Town on the tip of the cape is home to the Cape Cod national seashore - miles of sand dunes and protected land. The area is a haven for artists and writers and a favourite destination for LGBT travellers.
What to like: Shortest transatlantic flight from UK to USA - 6.5-7 hours on way out and competitive flight prices, interesting and lively city to enjoy walking around, great sport, stunning coastline and beaches, artistic flavour, amazing seafood
When to go: late May to October, first two weeks of October for the Fall
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #lovetravel #gr8adventuresawait #travelexpert
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If you love travel and your holidays are important to you please support the #savefuturetravel campaign.
International travel has been brought to a complete standstill by measures to contain the pandemic and led to hundreds of thousands of holidays being cancelled. Under existing EU law, travel companies are expected to refund customers within 14 days of cancelling their holiday. But, it is impossible for many travel agents and tour operators to provide immediate cash refund...s right now. These businesses have not yet received the money back from airlines and hotels around the world that have temporarily closed. Unless a solution is found, insolvency will be the only option for many travel companies.
If that happens thousands of jobs will be lost and, when we recover and can travel again, the travel market and holiday availability will have significantly reduced.
Many other countries including France, Italy, Belgium, Spain, Germany, The Netherlands and Denmark have taken action to amend their laws on a temporary basis. This is about supporting businesses through an entirely unforeseeable, and short-term, cashflow crunch – customers will not lose their right to a refund, and their money is not at risk.
Please support the campaign https://savefuturetravel.co.uk/
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Today as we wander around the world we are stopping off in Montenegro. Located on the Adriatic Sea next to Croatia and opposite Italy it is the seventh smallest country in Europe with less than a million inhabitants.
This Balkan country has picturesque bays, imposing mountains, historic villages and UNESCO walled cities, some of the most spectacular coastline in Europe, the deepest canyon in Europe, the biggest lake in the Balkans and apparently the longest underground river...! Not bad for a country only 300km from tip to toe!
One of the top places to visit in Montenegro is the ancient town of Kotor in the heart of the stunning Bay of Kotor. This walled Venetian town is tucked into the sheer mountainside and has been an impenetrable and defensible location for centuries. It's labyrinth of alleyways lead past museums, old barracks, traditional restaurants and churches and behind the town, San Giovanni Fortress offers unforgettable views of the terracotta-roofed town and the Bay's dramatic scenery.
Sveti Stefan is a fortified fishing town on a small island with pink pebble beaches and azure waters. This is possibly the most photogenic place on the Montenegrin coast and a favourite to enjoy an afternoon swim followed by a dinner of fresh seafood, while watching the sun set over the Adriatic Sea. Or for something more lively Velika Plaza down on the south coast is a 12km stretch of sandy beach and one of the trendiest summer spots, with kite surfing, beach parties and a music festival.
Tara Canyon claims to be the second deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon and for the adventurous offers whitewater rafting, jeep safaris, canyoning and zip-lining. But if you want a bird's eye view, head up Mount Ćurevac. Skadar Lake is the largest lake in the Balkans and a mecca for bird and wildlife. It is easily combined with a visit to a local vineyard to taste the local traditional food and excellent Montenegro wine.
What to like: Direct affordable flights from UK, natural beauty, stunning coastline, attractive historic towns, Montenegro wine
When to visit: May to September warmest, July/August busiest
#dreamnowgolater #futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #lovetravel #travelexpert #gr8adventuresawait
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On our wander around the world today we are in Belize. Bordered by Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, this small country lays claim to a great natural and cultural diversity, with a luscious jungle interior and a stunning Caribbean coast along with the Maya Mountains, nature reserves and ancient Maya ruins.
Just off the coast of Belize is more than 185 miles of Barrier Reef, second in size only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. This provides world class snorkellin...g and diving opportunities in crystal clear waters where you can see sharks, stingrays, turtles and numerous marine species. The famous Great Blue Hole is one of the world's greatest geological wonders.
With around 40% of the land protected in Belize, there is a huge amount of wildlife to see including rare species such as the spider monkey, puma, ocelot and jaguar. For those seeking nature and adventure the Cayo District - the Highlands of Belize - provides lush jungle and pine forests, cave systems, Mayan ruins, waterfalls and emerald pools. It is also a centre for adventure activities, where you can tube down the river, zip line through the jungle canopy or explore rainforest trails on foot, by bike or on horseback.
It is estimated that hundreds of Mayan sites are still waiting to be discovered in the jungles of Belize. The best preserved, Caracol and Xunantunich, are well worth a visit enabling you to climb steep steps to the tops of temples and understand the fascinating history.
What to like: Fantastic scuba diving and snorkelling, white sand beaches, rare wildlife, ancient Mayan sites, lack of crowds, English speaking
When to go: Between December and April
#futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #dreamnowgolater #gr8adventuresawait #lovetravel #travelexpert
Get in touch: 07967 563140 or direct message me if you want to chat about future travel plans
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Today on our wander round the world we are crossing over to Namibia in Africa.
I've been lucky enough to visit Namibia twice and for anyone who loves dramatic landscapes, stunning coastline and incredible wildlife it has everything you would want.
Etosha National Park is one of the few National Parks that allows self-drive as well as guided tours. Covering a massive 20,000 square km, it is home to 4 of the big 5 with a good chance of seeing elephants, lions, leopards and th...e endangered black rhino. Over 114 species of mammals and 340 species of birds can be found in the park and during the dry season you will see a huge variety of animals congregating around the waterholes to drink. Having spent many hours there, watching the interplay between the different animals and working out the animal hierarchy is fascinating!
The Skeleton Coast National Park provides awe inspiring scenery where the desert meets the ocean, with stunning beaches, seals and shipwrecks and a range of activities including dune driving, guided walks and a chance to learn about the lives of the nomadic Himba people.
The Namib desert is home to the Namib-Nakluft National Park and Sossusvlei, with its enormous red sand dunes and white salt and clay pan, which along with Deadvlie and its stark trees is one of the most photographed locations in the world. Out in the desert it is truly remote and you will see the most awe inspiring night sky you have ever seen.
Fish River Canyon, a 160km gorge in the south of Namibia, is Africa's equivalent to the Grand Canyon and offers spectacular views and amazing hiking opportunities.
What to like: Stunning landscapes, accessible safaris and fantastic game viewing, unique locations, adventure activities, photographic heaven
When to go: May to October - July/August ideal for game viewing
#futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #dreamnowgolater #gr8adventuresawait #lovetravel #travelexpert
Get in touch: 07967 563140 or direct message me to plan ready for when we can travel again 😎
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Today on our wander round the world we are taking a city break in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Copenhagen is one of the hippest capital cities in Europe. It effortlessly balances the contemporary with the historic and is one of my all-time favourite European cities to visit.
Here are my top suggestions for things to see and do when you are there:
... 1. Explore the canals/waterways by boat and on foot, there are some really lovely places to see by the water and doing the canal tour helps you to orientate yourself. Visiting Nyhavn waterfront and quay is a must - picturesque, nice atmosphere, plenty of places to eat and drink
2. Go up and look up as you walk around. Copenhagen has some amazing contemporary buildings (the library and opera house were among our favourites) and the climb up the spiral staircase at Our Saviours Church where you can climb on the outside of the tower is scary but worth it!
3. Hire a bike and cycle around the city to see Rosenberg Slot, the Kastellet and the city's sculptures, such as the famous Little Mermaid
4. Visit the Design Museum then go to the main design/department stores on Strøget to see the latest work of Denmark's contemporary designers (and maybe treat yourself to something!)
5. Visit any of the numerous historic buildings and art galleries - we liked the Round Tower and there is also the National Gallery of Denmark and Amalienborg Palace, where if you time it right you can watch the changing of the guards.
6. Try something different in one of Copenhagen's many restaurants offering modern cuisine, though book ahead to guarantee a reservation. We enjoyed the 3 course set meal at the Almanak restaurant - superb food and beautifully presented!
What to like: innovative architecture, interesting museums, Nyhavn Harbour, fabulous contemporary cuisine and award winning restaurants
When to go: May to September for better weather, though a city break can be done anytime
#futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #dreamnowgolater #gr8adventuresawait #lovetravel #travelexpert
Get in touch: 07967 563140 or direct message me to chat about future travel options, ready for when we can go again 😎
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Today on our wander round the world we are saying Aloha from Maui in Hawaii!
Maui, known as 'The Valley Isle' is the second largest Hawaiian Island. Along Maui's 30 miles of beautiful palm fringed beaches you will find white, black and red sand beaches, renowned surfing locations and incredible 'secret spots' offering total relaxation without anyone else in sight!
Away from the beaches visit Iao Valley State Park with the 1,200 foot Iao Needle and take in a magnificent sunris...e or sunset from Haleakala, a dormant volcano offering breathtaking landscapes and skyscapes. Haleakala means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend goes that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky as he stood on the volcano’s summit, slowing its descent to make the day last longer!
For an injection of arts and culture visit the historic town of Lahaina with its many art galleries, unique shops and restaurants and historic trail; spot humpback whales during the winter months on harbour tours or learn the ancient mode of seafaring by canoe on a guided trip.
What to like: Stunning scenery, remote beaches, great surfing and water activities, sunsets, Maui/Hawaiian people and culture, fabulous fresh fish
When to go: Year round destination. Between March and September least rain and highest temperatures, December to April good for whale watching
#futuretravelinspiration #wherenext #dreamnowgolater #gr8adventuresawait #lovetravel #travelexpert
Get in touch: 07967 563140 or direct message me if you want to chat about future travel plans
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Today as we wander round the world we are in Madagascar.
Located off the eastern coast of Africa the Island of Madagascar is known for its ring tailed lemurs (think of the song "I like to move it, move it" in the Madagascar movie!), unique wildlife, culture, landscape and more. Not for the faint hearted, Madagascar offers off the beaten track adventure and is one of 17 nations of the world considered to be 'megadiverse' - 80% of plant and animals in Madagascar cannot be found... anywhere else in the world (Wow!)
Visiting Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is a must where you can explore the rainforest searching for the Indri, the largest species of lemur, chameleons and many other species. Visit Antsirabe Madagascar's most elegant city. Travel along the River Tsiribihina, stopping at villages along the way, to the iconic Tsingy De Benararah National Park to see the incredible giant limestone karsts. See the sunrise over the 'Avenue of Baobabs'. End your trip in a beautiful beachfront location such as Nosy be or Ile Sainte-Marie, with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters for snorkelling and diving off the coral reef. From June to September you can also see the humpback whales.
Whilst independent travel is possible, this is one destination where I would definitely recommend joining a small group tour. Tours include some activities you will struggle to organise yourself, offer logistical support and comfortable and reliable transportation and the knowledge of a local guide, which will be invaluable.
What to like: Real adventure, lemurs and chameleons, baobab trees, local life and markets, whale watching, Malagasy food
When to go: April through to mid-December. If you have particular wildlife you want to see, check when is best to see them.
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Get in touch: 07967 563140 or direct message me for further information and future holiday options
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