01 October 2025

Elephant Hills is not your average wildlife escape. Tucked away in the heart of southern Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park, it’s a place that effortlessly combines conscious travel with high-end comfort and it continues to be one of the most recommended experiences for those looking for something real, immersive, and utterly rewarding. This is not a zoo, not a show, and definitely not a petting p

04 September 2025

I used to think “the great outdoors” was just a catchphrase people threw around to make camping sound appealing. Then I discovered Yosemite. It only takes one national park in the USA to change your whole perspective on nature – and soon you’ll be plotting out road trips, collecting park passes, and debating the merits of bear spray. There are 63 official national parks in the US, and honestly,

06 August 2025

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to step into a living postcard - Morocco is it. I still remember wandering through a maze of dusty pink alleyways in Marrakech, where the scent of orange blossom danced through the air and the call to prayer echoed over rooftops. Morocco has that rare magic - something between a deep inhale and an awakening. It’s where Africa, Europe and the Middle East

15 July 2025

You know that feeling when everything just clicks? Your suitcase is packed, your airport pickup’s confirmed, and your only job is to enjoy every moment ahead. That’s the experience I design for each and every one of my clients. If we’ve worked together before, you’ll already know I’m not just another name in your inbox. This is personal for me. It always has been. I built my business on trust, wo

03 June 2025

India is a place that stirs your senses and captures your heart. It's colourful, chaotic, spiritual, and serene all at once. And if you're not sure where to begin with this fascinating country, the Golden Triangle is a perfect introduction. This classic route links Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - three cities bursting with history, architecture, and energy. But what if you could combine all of that wi

06 May 2025

Let’s have a little heart-to-heart about something that most travellers don’t get excited about: travel insurance. It’s not glamorous. It doesn’t come with ocean views, Instagrammable cocktails, or boutique hotel perks. But it’s essential, and it’s the one thing that could save your entire trip from becoming a very expensive disaster. So why do people still skip it? Often, it’s because they th

11 April 2025

As a travel agent and a parent, I’ve seen it all - from toddlers throwing airport tantrums to teens having life-changing "a-ha" moments while watching a sunset over the Sahara. And every time, I come back to this: travel is one of the best gifts we can give our kids. Not toys. Not more screen time. But memories. Moments. Adventures that become their "remember when…" stories forever. So, here are

18 March 2025

Travel isn’t just about ticking places off a list—it’s about the moments that take your breath away, the experiences that change your perspective, and the memories that stay with you forever. If you’re looking for the ultimate bucket list, here are ten travel experiences that will leave a lasting impact. 1. Witness the Northern Lights in Iceland There’s something truly magical about watching the

27 February 2025

Greece is the ultimate island-hopping destination, with over 200 inhabited islands offering diverse landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're chasing golden sunsets, crystal-clear waters, or a taste of Greek culture, hopping between these stunning isles is the perfect way to explore. Here’s why you should pack your bags and set sail for an adventure in the Aegean and

17 January 2025

Dive into several national parks packed with magnificent wildlife, from tree-climbing lions to rare birds and butterflies. Entebbe | Murchison Falls (3 nights) | Kabile Forest National Park | Queen Elizabeth National Park (2 nights) | Bwindi Forest National Park (3 nights) This is a trip full of breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime natural sights but also presents a wonderful opportunity to chat to

13 December 2024

A city break honeymoon can be a great option for couples who love to explore new places, experience different cultures, and indulge in delicious cuisine. Here are five of my favourites: 1. Paris, France - Paris is the epitome of romance and has long been considered one of the most romantic cities in the world. Its stunning architecture, charming cafes, and picturesque parks make it a perfect de

14 October 2024

Canada’s most spectacular coastline and every seaside activity you can imagine – these are the big reasons for visiting the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island – and the reasons I recommend them so highly to my clients looking for a holiday on the coast that’s about more than lounging on a beach. Think warm water swimming, long walks on uncrow

13 September 2024

South Korea and Japan have been so popular for my clients in 2024. Why not consider combining them and exploring tradition with innovation? My goal is to provide lots of travel inspiration for my clients and I think this 13 day sample itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in the sociable hustle and bustle of Seoul’s lively districts of Gangnam and Seongsu one week, then wander the peaceful, ti

23 August 2024

When it’s time for an adults-only getaway, the world offers plenty of amazing destinations and experiences where you can unwind, have fun, and recharge without the kids. Here are some of the best types of holidays to consider: 1. Luxury Cruises A luxury cruise, especially those geared toward adults, offers a sophisticated and relaxing experience. Cruise lines like Crystal, Seabourn, and Azamara o

02 July 2024

Cherry blossom season in Japan and Washington Japan’s cherry blossom season will leave you wowed, whether you picnic beneath the blooms of Osaka Castle Park or immerse yourself in nature among the trees of Mount Yoshino. The season usually starts mid-March and lasts from two weeks to a month. Alternatively, you can marvel at Washington DC’s cherry blossoms from late March until early April. Butt

04 June 2024

It's no secret that a big attraction for Japan is the cherry blossom season during spring, but other opportunities include vibrant foliage in the autumn and incredible skiing in the winter. Not forgetting the abundance of festivals and celebrations in the summer. Choosing the best time to travel to Japan can be difficult, as the country has so much to offer. When planning any trip to Japan, it is

17 May 2024

There are many different ways to see India, but this, in my mind, is one of the best, combining the finest hotels, epic sights, and a cruise along one of the world’s most spiritual rivers over the course of two of the most exhilarating weeks you’ll ever experience. You’ll begin in style with five nights at three award-winning Oberoi hotels and benefit from a rare opportunity to see the Taj Mahal

22 March 2024

Albania, a gem nestled in the heart of the Balkans, is a land of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture waiting to be discovered. From ancient ruins to pristine beaches, this Mediterranean paradise offers an array of experiences that will leave travellers in awe. If you're planning a trip to Albania, here are the top five must-see destinations that should be on your itinerary:

23 February 2024

China is a vast and hugely varied country with has some incredible sights. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, here are my 8 top must-see destinations and unforgettable experiences in China. 1. Walk the Great Wall It would take you about 17 months to walk the entire length of the Great Wall of China – at 21,196km, it’s roughly 1.5 times the distance between Singapore an

04 January 2024

As the world continues to evolve, so do the possibilities for unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, the year 2024 promises a plethora of enticing destinations waiting to be explored. From breath taking landscapes to vibrant cultures, here's my curated list of the top 5 countries to visit in 2024. 1. Japan - Where Tradition Meets Innov

21 November 2023

It doesn’t get any more thrilling than this week-long safari. Staying in luxury tented camps, you get to embrace unforgettable encounters with each area’s traditional tribal inhabitants to experience their authentic ways of life. Short and spectacular, it covers some of the best of Kenya in a few days and is a trip we wholeheartedly recommend for safari newbies, couples, families, photographers, a

03 October 2023

Seeing the world, or parts of it, by cruise is more popular than ever as ships and itineraries continually evolve. More people now appreciate just how wonderful it can be to sail from place to place, discovering several destinations in a single trip. Cruises present rare experiences to immerse in local cultures through a huge array of excursions and activities, while providing a real wow factor ba

01 September 2023

How old should children be to best enjoy a safari? Some camps and lodges are set up for children of any age, but as a rule of thumb, younger kids, age five and over can best appreciate this type of holiday. With younger kids, you need very specific sleeping arrangements, a private vehicle, and an itinerary factoring in plenty of rest time. Private vehicles are also getting more and more popular i

17 August 2023

10 Reasons to Visit Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som 1. Something for everyone: Zulal offers two distinct yet interconnecting experiences. Serenity is exclusively reserved for adult guests, with aesthetics and medical wellness services in addition to holistic therapies, while Discovery welcomes guests of all ages with a focus on family wellness and bonding through fun activities such as outdoor

01 August 2023

1. Broaden their minds - We all know travel is a great way of broadening the mind and immersing children in new cultures and other ways of living. We become more tolerant by travelling. Organised adventure tours can be a great way of encouraging this, opening up the world via destinations that you might be more wary of going to independently, such as South America or Southeast Asia. 2. Bring scho

14 July 2023

I'm not long back from my first trip to Morocco and I have to say, I loved it! With its ancient medinas, hectic souks, off-the-beaten-track Kasbahs and thrilling desert scapes to explore, as well as its brilliant Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches, there is something for everyone. Morocco is fabulous at any time of year, although I would recommend spring and autumn for their milder temperatures.

13 June 2023

A city break honeymoon can be an excellent option for couples who love to explore new places, experience different cultures, and indulge in delicious cuisine. Here are five of my favourites: 1. Paris, France - Paris is the epitome of romance and has long been considered one of the most romantic cities in the world. Its stunning architecture, charming cafes, and picturesque parks make it a perfe

12 May 2023

If you’re a lover of paradise beaches lifted fresh from the pages of a holiday brochure, the 115 islands which make up Seychelles are blessed with hundreds of them. Beyond the beach, there’s no shortage of scenic hikes and the turquoise shallows are a snorkeler’s dream. So leave your stresses and worries on the plane, and prepare for the holiday of a lifetime. Here are 5 of my top picks for the S

11 April 2023

The Maldives is a small tropical island nation located in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning natural beauty and crystal clear waters. The country is made up of 26 atolls, consisting of over 1,190 islands, which offer some of the most luxurious and exclusive hotels in the world. If you are looking for a luxurious and unforgettable holiday experience, then the Maldives should be at the top of

01 March 2023

A honeymoon is probably one of the most expensive trips you will ever take and it is important to get it right! Here are some questions to consider when deciding what type of honeymoon is best for you: 1. What are your interests? Do you prefer adventure activities, relaxing on the beach, or exploring new cultures and cities? 2. What is your budget? Do you have a set budget for your honeymoon, or

14 February 2023

When you think of Mauritius, images of palm-fringed white-sand beaches may spring to mind. The beaches here are almost entirely encircled by coral reefs and offer sanctuary for those who want to spend days lounging on the beach, but the nation’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for diving, snorkelling, swimming, and kayaking too. There is much more to Mauritius than you may originally think thoug

16 December 2022

Experience the best of this California from the air, land and sea in utmost luxury. Highlights include seeing majestic landscapes from a helicopter, tasting some of the world’s finest wines, feasting in Michelin-starred restaurants, spotting wildlife including whales and dolphins, horse-riding on a deserted beach and touring film stars’ homes. Below is a sample itinerary we could use as a base

16 December 2022

With golden beaches, rising waves, misty mountains, grand history, and friendly smiles, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for your next trip. There's plenty of activities packed into a small island, so travellers can be surfing the waves in the sunrise and enjoying the green carpeted mountains by sunset. Below is a sample itinerary we could use as a base to tailor make your perfect itinerary.

16 December 2022

With a unique cultural tapestry, rich history and diverse landscapes, your visit to India will be the adventure of a lifetime. The Golden Triangle is by far the most famous introduction to India and in my option, the best place to start! Below is a sample itinerary we could use as a base to tailor make your perfect itinerary. Day 1: Arrive in Delhi Arrive in Delhi where you will be greeted b

16 December 2022

From the most remote corners of the Amazon rainforest to the vibrant metropolis and golden beaches of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is a diverse country full of contradictions. Below is a sample itinerary we could use as a base to tailor make your perfect itinerary. Day 1: Into the Amazon Cruise along the Amazon to the famous Meeting of the Waters, passing local villages and spotting wildlife on the

25 November 2022

Japan is open and trending for 2023! So what should you include on your next trip to Japan? 1. Kyoto - for culture Situated on the island of Honshu, Kyoto, Japan’s former capital is a must-see for its imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, classical Buddhist temples, old wooden houses and gardens. Geisha are often to be found in the Gion district, while another local tradition is kaiseki – formal mea

25 October 2022

1. Santani Wellness Named for the Sanskrit word meaning “in harmony with,” Santani is the epitome of being in balance with nature in terms of their surroundings as well as their wellness offerings. The hotel is designed according to the highest sustainability and eco-standards and their wellness programmes in Ayurveda, detox, yoga and spa combine on-site pampering and rejuvenation with enlighten

28 September 2022

Gosh how has it been 3 years since I wrote a blog post?? Hands up, I apologise, I’ve been slack! My mid 2022 year resolution is to write more blogs. The pandemic is over – as I sit writing this, it is the first day in the UAE where masks are not compulsory. FINALLY! It feels good to be getting back to ‘normal life’. Travel is booming and my business is flourishing. Although pricing is up 1

24 June 2019

As I’m writing this blog, I am sat on a flight from Jaipur to Dubai after spending the last 5 days in India with Oberoi hotels. I was fortunate enough to be chosen to participate in this trip to learn more about the Oberoi brand and experience some of their hotels in the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra & Jaipur). I’ve always loved the Oberoi brand so naturally, I jumped at the chance to attend. My

09 June 2019

On the 6th day, we had our final breakfast at the stunning Bush Rover camp and headed off to Oldupai Gorge. Oldupai Gorge is the historical place discovered by Dr Leakey where they have fossils from what was believed to be the first human being in the world. Not my usual cup of tea (I’m not a history buff) but we had an interesting talk by a guide on evolution and the first human fossils found he

27 March 2019

Step 2 – where the real safari begins! The longest day of the trip started off with a hearty breakfast. One thing that I can’t fault about safari is the abundance of food. Daily breakfasts consisted of a fruit plate, eggs any style with various accompaniments, toast, tea, coffee, juices – all freshly prepared by the chef on camp. There’s no heating up a tin of beans over the campfire!! After

27 February 2019

I'll be honest, I was a bit apprehensive about doing a safari for my honeymoon. It was never a holiday that appealed to me, until I started working at Travel Counsellors. Hearing the feedback from clients who visited and seeing their amazing photos and videos had me hooked! So, at the beginning of Feb, we put our brave faces on and headed on an adventure of a lifetime. Located 2 hours from

20 November 2018

If you are looking for a spot of 18th century opulence and elegance, look no further than the Emerald Palace by Kempinski on the Palm Dubai. Opening on November 29th, 2018, I was lucky enough to have a sneak preview. One word...WOW! From the moment you enter the lobby, you will be stunned by the sheer elegance and opulence of this hotel. No detail has been spared and the materials are of th

01 November 2018

I spent the last weekend enjoying the 1st anniversary of Intercontinental Fujairah. I hadn’t been to Fujairah in a few years, so it was great to see a new property and enjoy seeing mountains again! The Intercontinental is placed conveniently next to the Miramar & Meridien Al Aqah, with easy access to Snoopy Island for snorkeling and diving. My first impressions of the room were corporate, m

30 September 2018

Over the past couple of years, I've had the pleasure of organizing lots of amazing honeymoons for my clients. Each one, unique to the couple and filled with special touches to ensure memories that lasted a life time. This year, I've had to plan my own honeymoon and I started to realise how overwhelming the choices are and how easy it is to get carried away. Stay tuned for my top tips!

07 August 2018

The Hard Rock hotel is THE family hotel in Kuta. If you are looking for somewhere, where you kids will be entertained 24/7, this is the place for you. Starting with the rooms, everything is designed with the little ones in mind. There is a separate kids room with bunk beds, child friendly décor and lots of options for interconnecting rooms. Their bathroom is filled with items such as bucket

07 August 2018

Being Irish, it’s not often I take the time to travel around Ireland and experience some of our amazing landscape and hotels. I met Lough Eske Castle at a luxury travel conference in Cannes at the end of 2017. From the moment I heard their presentation, I was hooked and knew I had to make time to visit them. Roll on summer 2018 and I’m spending a night in Donegal at the stunning Lough Eske

07 August 2018

Since I started working as a Travel Counsellor, I cannot tell you the amount of times I have heard people rave about Zanzibar. Across the last 5 months, my intrigue grew and I knew Zanzibar had to be my first proper holiday this year. Although it was technically rainy season, I decided to take my chances and hopped on the Fly Dubai flight (5h50m). I have to say, the night time flight was not

21 November 2017

One of my most frequently asked questions is "where is good to go within a 4 hour flight from Dubai?" Look no further! 1 hour Oman – known for it’s majestic desert, the Sultanate also offers fjords, beaches and a host of cultural activities. 2 hours Iran - nature-lovers have the opportunity of exploring great deserts, forests, mountains and seas and those who are enthusiastic about his

14 June 2017

1.Goa Fly: direct with Air India (3h10m) Stay: W hotel Top pick: Patnem Beach 2.Baku Fly direct with Fly Dubai (2h55m) Stay: Four Seasons Top pick: Nizami street 3.Tbilisi Fly direct with Fly Dubai (3.5h) Stay: Rooms Hotel Top pick: Wine Tour in Kakheti Region 4.Amman Fly direct with Fly Dubai or Emirates (3.5h) Stay: Intercontinental Aqaba Red Sea Top pick: Petra & The Read S

23 March 2017

I left my heart amongst a maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards in the city of Prague. Having visited twice, once in the depth of winter, surrounded by snow, I can confidently say, Prague is a paradise for the aimless wanderer. If wandering isn’t your cup of tea, here are my top 10 things to do in Prague. 1. Walk across the Charles Bridge 2. Take a cruise along the Vlatava River 4. Cz

22 March 2017

The baggage restrictions are set to be imposed as early as 25th March, however in the case for UK flights, the UK Government has advised that they have left this in the hands of the airlines to decide on when they should impose. Current reports indicate that any electronic device larger than a smartphone will not be permitted in hand luggage. Such items include but not limited to, tablets and

01 February 2017

I am so glad I discovered Alila Jabal Akhdar last year. Whilst searching on Instagram, I came across a stunning picture of their infinity pool. I was immediately intrigued and wanted to find out more. After looking at pictures and details of the hotel…I was hooked! This stunning hotel is nestled amongst the Al Hajar mountains, 2000m above sea level. It is a little piece of heaven on earth

18 January 2017

In October, I had the pleasure of taking a 5* tour of the Golden Triangle. We flew from Dubai to Dehli on Emirates and were greeted at the airport by our guide and driver. They took us on a short drive to our hotel – The Claridges. Upon entering the hotel, here was the most divine smell of jasmine. I cannot describe how exquisite it was and immediately we knew we were in for a treat. Our guid

18 January 2017

Let’s face it, the summers in Dubai can be unbearable at times and we all like to escape the heat every now and again. One of my favourite places to visit is Salalah in Oman. It is so peaceful and during Khareef season (late June to early September) the land is a luscious green and the temperatures vary between 23 and 27 degrees. I spent 2 nights at Fanar Hotel & Residences at the end of Augu