09 December 2020

So, what’s it been like for me as a Travelcounsellor during this Pandemic? It has been almost a year since we have been living with the virus now and i have to say i have been through my worst and my best! In March to May 2020 as a travel advisor/booker it was initially all about cancelling bookings and postponing holidays for my customers. Over the summer months as people began to gain more confidence with going on local holidays- i had a sudden influx of bookings for the staycation market which was great! My existing clients, not only did they book with me, but they also told their friends about me. Many booked with me for a special occasion- an anniversary, a birthday, or to mark what would have been their wedding day and i always tried my best to make it special for them. When the kids finally went back to school (including my own) my clients started getting in touch with me for the October mid-term break and December travel options. Whilst i still continue to work on December 2020, i am now beginning to get enquires for Midterm February and Easter 2021. Not forgetting my clients outside of the UAE are also enquiring on future holidays in the UAE During the pandemic i have built some great relationships and have come out stronger and better, i have learnt so much. Today my clients contact me because they trust me, they have faith in me, and they know for me ‘it’s all about them!” I have them covered from A-Z! As I approach the finish of my 3rd year with Travelcounsellors I can say that November 2020 (last month) I had my highest sales ever since joining the company! That is my cloud with a silver lining- it cannot get better I want to thank you today for your support and standing by me and trusting me with your holidays- when you have never needed them more! Thank you for referring me again and again. I look forward to 2021 being a great year and hopefully I can send my clients a little bit further than they have been in 2020- I miss most creating itineraries for my safari’s to East Africa, my Christmas Markets to Europe and Lapland to meet Santa for my little customers! Best wishes Zahara D’souza Zahara.dsouza@travelcounsellors.ae +971503968220 I can be reached on any of social media links below Follow me Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zaharadsouzaTC/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelcounsellors__zahara/ Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zaharakurji/

16 June 2019

If you’re planning a July getaway, here’s my pick of some top holiday destinations that you should definitely consider. Canada With a wealth of world-class attractions and sensational sights to discover, Canada has so much to offer whatever the season. However, perhaps the perfect time to visit is the summer months when this vast country is hot and lush. Nature lovers will be in their element in the beautiful provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, where you can enjoy everything from hiking and biking to kayaking and canoeing on the shimmering emerald lakes. If you prefer the bustle of urban life, soak up the sunshine on the glorious sandy beaches of Vancouver’s Stanley Park or enjoy the incredible atmosphere in Toronto, where there’s a food, music or cultural festival nearly every weekend. July is also the month of the world-famous Calgary Stampede, known as the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’, and the first of the month is Canada Day, so there’ll be plenty of celebrations across the country. USA The USA’s Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf Coasts are all home to some wonderful summer sun resorts, whether it be the exclusive Hamptons in Long Island, the world-famous holiday hotspot of Miami in Florida or Los Angeles’ plethora of legendary beaches. Away from the stunning coastline, explore New York’s host of world-famous landmarks, enjoy some thrills and spills at Orlando’s amazing theme parks or immerse yourself in Las Vegas, where mind-boggling casinos, a pulsing nightlife scene and the dry desert heat all combine to create a truly unique holiday experience. July is a particularly special time to visit the USA, as every year on July 4th, the country celebrates its independence from the British Empire with parties, parades and fireworks. Thailand Undoubtedly one of the world’s best beach destinations, captivating Thailand is home to an unbelievable amount of gorgeous tropical shorelines where the cashmere-soft white sands and sparkling azure waters are the stuff that holiday dreams are made of. From the peaceful seclusion at gorgeous Khao Lak and exotic Krabi to the party islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, all the way through to the elegant sophistication of Hua Hin, it’s so easy to find a beach which fits your unique vision of perfection. No visit to Thailand would be complete without visiting the buzzing capital of Bangkok. Take some time to immerse yourself in this invigorating city and explore all that it has to offer, including superb shopping, a vibrant nightlife scene, delicious street food and a rich Buddhist heritage. A land filled with stunning natural beauty, incredible culture and history, as well as some of the warmest people you could ever wish to meet, Thailand will both amaze and inspire; whatever type of holiday you may be looking for. Indonesia Indonesia, especially the exotic island paradise of Bali, is the perfect choice for a summer escape. Home to glorious palm-fringed beaches, dramatic volcanoes, lush forest, ancient temples and the friendliest people, you’ll soon see why Bali is often referred to as the ‘Island of the Gods’. Perhaps the most popular resorts on the island are upmarket Seminyak and lively Kuta, but there are numerous other beach resorts dotted around the island with more peaceful settings, such as laidback Sanur on the south-east coast, beautiful Jimbaran in the west and tranquil Tembok on the north of the island. Venture away from the glorious coastline and into Bali’s lush interior and you’ll also discover that there’s much more to this stunning island than sea and sand. With traditional villages, verdant rainforests and breath-taking cultural sites to explore, Bali really does offer something for everyone. Greece A remarkable country that’s filled with unparalleled culture and history, spectacular golden beaches and sun-soaked islands, gorgeous Greece is a land suitably fit for the gods. Dine on delicious dishes at cosy tavernas, discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites or swim in the glittering turquoise waters and feel the sun upon your skin, there’s plenty to entice all types of traveller here. If you’re searching for a blissful slice of paradise, you’ll be well served by the breath-taking Halkidiki peninsula on the mainland or the exquisite island of Rhodes. For nightlife, head to Kos or Corfu, and if culture’s your thing, don’t miss the largest Greek island of them all, Crete, where there’s thousands of years of history to explore. With fantastic weather, plenty of hours of glorious sunshine and a wide range of idyllic islands to choose from, whatever you’re looking for from your summer holiday, you’ll certainly find it in gorgeous Greece. Italy Whether it’s sun-kissed shores, shimmering lakes and ancient cities, Italy is the perfect destination for a magical summer holiday. The famous Amalfi Coast is perhaps one of the country’s most spectacular areas, with its exquisite shoreline that’s dotted with small beaches and pastel-coloured fishing villages. It’s also the perfect place from which to explore the stunning seaside town of Sorrento, the fascinating ruins of Pompeii and lively Naples, known as the birthplace of pizza. Away from the breath-taking coastline, head inland to see Italy’s great northern lakes shimmer like sparkling glass in the summer sunshine. The holiday retreat of Lake Garda is perhaps the most popular choice, with its temperate climate, magnificent setting and endless activities, whilst sophisticated Lake Como is perfectly positioned against a backdrop of spectacular mountains and is world-renowned for its palatial villas, stunning scenery and sublime cuisine. It may be hot in the city but surely no trip to Italy would be complete without visiting the Eternal City of Rome or the utterly romantic and unique travel destination of Venice? Both cities are bursting with unmissable treasures and surprises, and if the heat does start to take its toll, there are plenty of pretty piazzas where you can relax in the shade with a chilled glass of Prosecco or your favourite gelato.

30 May 2019

I am passionate about the restorative benefits of all holidays, but a growth in wellness-break bookings this year has encouraged us to showcase some of our hotels and resorts boosting mind, body and soul through activities, meditation, outstanding spa treatments or simply offering the opportunity to get away from it all. The Landings Resort & Spa by Elegant Hotels, Saint Lucia The one-, two- and three-bedroom villa suites at this tropical oasis of Saint Lucian hospitality are the height of luxury island living, with private terraces, four-poster beds, luxury linens and top-notch toiletries. All villa suites offer the services of a dedicated concierge while ocean and beachfront villa have a full-time butler. Other enticements include a large spa, a state-of-the-art gym, four pools, tennis courts, water sports and a kids’ club, while the Saint Lucia Golf & Country Club is close by. Coco de Mer, Seychelles Renovated in early 2018, this intimate and secluded four-star resort with its exquisite Indian Ocean views is named after the rare and exotic trees that surround it. Among its attractions are the pool-side bar specialising in colourful cocktails and a waterfront spa. The charming staff can arrange local excursions including deep-sea fishing and scuba-diving. “The Coco de Mer hotel backs onto the Valle De Mai and overlooks the ocean. It is a wonderful hotel in a wonderful setting, a little off the beaten track.” Domes Noruz , Crete Exclusively for adults, this stunning boutique hotel offers chic accommodation with views of the crystal-clear Aegean Sea, the chance to switch off completely in Soma Spa (where the signature Mythical Massage takes inspiration from five famous journeys from Greek mythology) and a poolside bar serving spanking-fresh sushi and hosting sunset DJ sessions. Nearby excursions include multicultural Chania and the wildly beautiful Samaria Gorge. Veranda Tamarin, Mauritius This laidback and funky three-star-plus resort – new in 2018 – caters to water-sports fans with a surf school and shop, kite-surf school, PADI-certified scuba-diving, kayaks and catamaran trips, but it’s also in a great location for discovering the salt pans of Tamarin, the Seven Coloured Earth geological formation, Le Morne mountain and the championship golf course of its sister resort, all close by. Amenities include a spa and beach kits with towels, coolers and baskets. If relaxation is your summer holiday inspiration, get in touch with me

10 November 2019

There has been so much interest this season on Christmas Markets, it has motivated me to write a blog. This should give you an overview of the most popular Christmas Markets in Europe. When I was studying in Switzerland, I took the opportunity to visit these markets and this is something that has stayed with me forever. I hope this will give you a little bit of an insight on each of the destinations. 1. Sofia Sofia’s Christmas Market, referred to as Kolidariya or Koledaria, is held in Borisova Gradina Park and runs from the end November until early January, taking in the Eastern Orthodox Christmas on January 7. Eating & Drinking: Try the delicious German sausages will keep you going as you browse the traditional handicrafts on offer. Try a tipple of greyana rakiya –a traditional grape brandy popular across Bulgaria. Shopping: Rose Oil is one of Bulgaria’s most famous exports and just happens to be one of the hottest products at the moment, so stock up for a beauty boost. Places to visit: The Boyana Church. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located on the outskirts of Sofia and dates back to the 10th century. The site hosts one of the most significant collections of medieval art anywhere in the world. 2. Paris Festive markets have become an essential festive event during the Christmas season in Paris. They are held all over the capital –in Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Place de la Nation on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées and in Place du Trocadéro. Eating & Drinking: My 2 favourites! Bûche de Noël – A traditional French dessert served at Christmas. Piernik – the traditional Polish gingerbread cake served at Christmas. Kir Royale – THE French cocktail – crème de cassis topped withChampagne Shopping: Freshly baked cakes and biscuits from the Christmas markets. These can be given as gifts at Christmas, although they’ll probably be eaten before you get them home. (but that's allowed) Places to visit: A day trip to Chateaux Vaux Le Vicomte – This 17th centurychâteau, an inspiration for the even grander Versailles, really decks the halls at Christmas time. Decorations inside bring the season alive while lights on the outside brilliantly illuminate the entire place. Look for the eight-metre tall tree inside the Grand Salon, decorated with over 5,000 baubles and balls. 3. Budapest Budapest’s famous Vörösmarty Square is transformed into a festive market placefrom the end of November with the start of the Christmas Fair. There is a wide range of shopping and eating options, live jazz, folk and world musictakes place on two huge stages, plus there are weekend puppets shows for the kids. Eating & Drinking: Mezeskalacs – this is a traditional spiced honey cookies glazed with red icing and colourful designs and of course Mulled wine or ‘forralt bor’ as it’s known in Hungary. Shopping: The traditional embroidery or lacework make an unusual souvenir or gift. Places to visit: It is a must to see the Budapest Nutcracker Ballet in the Hungarian State Opera House, take a boat down the Danube to see the city from another angle, take a dip in the Szechenyi Thermal Baths or go for a skate at the Budapest City Park Ice Rink. 4. Bucharest Two Christmas markets take place from the end of November at UniversitatiiSquare and one in Cismigiu Par – plus a cookies and sweets fair from December 5 – 7 at Sala Palatului. Eating & Drinking: Carnati – garlicky pork sausages, cozonac – a panettone-style cake or traditional ‘salata de boeuf’ – a moulded vegetable and chicken salad which, misleadingly, doesn’t contain any beef (funny enough) Tuica – a delicious plum brandy famous in Romania. Shopping: Stunning hand painted ceramics – perfect for serving up a Christmas feast back home. Places to visit: Bucharest’s new Santa Klaus Kingdom, where children can meet the man himself before having fun on one of the many attractions within, which include an indoor ski slope, skating rink, climbing wall and carousel. 5.Warsaw Traditionally festivities peak on Christmas Eve – known as Wigilia – when families get together to sing carols, exchange gifts and feast on a 12-course menu, featuring dishes including jellied carp. If that isn’t your thing, there are plenty of treats on offer. Warsaw hosts not one but three main Christmas markets – in the Old Town, Castle Square and Palace of Culture and Science. They all open on November 27 and run until Boxing Day. Eating & Drinking: Piernik – the traditional Polish gingerbread cake served at Christmas which is delicious Mulled beer – yes, hot beer. Spiced and then sweetened with honey it’s a staple tipple during the festive season in Poland. Shopping: Poland is famed for its artisans producing elaborate traditional blown glass Christmas ornaments. What better souvenir to take home and hang from your tree to remember your trip. Places to Visit: Lazienki Park, also known as the Royal Baths Park – a short tram or bus ride from the city centre, enjoy the open spaces whilst marvelling at the stunning Palace on the Water.

14 February 2018

Having lived in Nairobi, Kenya for most of my life, albeit just a stone throw away I had never been to Zanzibar. So, when Ray and I got married in Mombasa, Kenya we thought there was no better place to have our honeymoon than in Zanzibar and this decision we never ever regretted. We fell head-over-heels in love with this otherworldly island. The beaches are right up there with the best we had ever seen, an we found so much more than sand and sunsets and cocktails. Most people come here for the pristine white sand, calm waters and dazzling sunsets. If that’s what you’re after, you won’t be disappointed. This is one of those “Wow, is this real?” places, and you’ll probably come away feeling like the dictionary definition of paradise should simply be followed by the word: Zanzibar. We had booked at an all-inclusive resort Diamond La Gemma Dell’est. Located in the Northern western tip of Zanzibar on the beach known as Nungwi. (Kendwa and Nungwi are the top most recommended beaches on the island). The resort has 138 rooms all with a sea view and surrounded with a luxurious tropical environment and boasts four multi cuisine restaurants. We were transported to the room in a buggy and given a complimentary upgrade as well as a bottle of bubbles and other amenities. Our honeymoon had kicked off really well! Over the course of the next four days we dinned most evenings at the Pavillion restaurant and one night at the Romantic Beach Grill. We would however frequent the deck bar every evening for sunset and after dinner drinks with dancing, and this was our favourite spot. The staff were very pleasant and always made us feel special. During the day we spent most of our time on the beach. The one activity outside the resort we did was visit the stone town. Stone Town is known for its eating. Every night there’s a food market where you can browse and pick up plenty of cheap, tasty treats. Top of the list has to be the seafood, which is freshly caught and barbecued in front of you. Our final activity on Zanzibar that needed to be ticked off was snorkeling. From the northern or eastern beaches, trips head out daily to explore offshore reefs and this was absolutely breathtaking. It’s a great way to see more of this beautiful island from the water. And having a fresh, seafood barbecue on a deserted beach – that’s something you won’t forget anytime soon. Our short stay in Zanzibar ended very fast but we both had to be back at work, or we would have stayed longer. Zanzibar is absolutely one the bucket list and I totally recommend it as a honeymoon destination.

14 February 2018

Giraffe Centre Nairobi The Giraffe Centre was founded in 1979 by Jock Leslie- Melville, a Kenya citizen of British decent. Jock and his wife began the giraffe Centre after discovering the Rothschild giraffe were drastically depleting in numbers. The Giraffe Centre is the only wildlife sanctuary in the world within a capital city that enables you to come into very close contact with the world’s tallest yet endangered animal, the giraffe. As a child growing up in Kenya the giraffe Centre never failed to be on the yearly school trip list. And no matter how many times we went there we never seized to be amazed at these beautiful creatures Situated in a quiet natural environment, whose biodiversity makes it a home to a herd of Rothschild Giraffe, some Warthogs and over a hundred and fifty species of birds. The center is located roughly 12.5 miles (20km) away from the center of Nairobi and can be reached by private vehicle or matatu (public transport) and is open 7 days a week from 9am to 5.30pm What to do at the Giraffe Centre You can Pet, Feed and Kiss the Giraffe’s, this is the closest you will ever get to a giraffe!! You can tell my kids are loving it! The educator will hand you some food pellets, these are made from corn, wheat and molasses. They are sweet little snacks and that’s why the giraffe’s love them. When on the feeding deck do be careful as giraffes do swing their necks and if they bang into you or the kids it can be quite painful (more commonly known as head butting!) There’s an information Centre where you can learn more about these Giraffes and how to take care of them when they are not in their natural habitat. Artwork made by students is also on display. You will also have access to a 1.5-kilometere nature trail at no extra cost where you may spot several species of bird, and smaller animals such as dik-dik (small deer), warthogs (with their tv aerial tails) and squirrels. The trail takes you down to the Gogo river which is breathtaking. Don’t forget to grab some Kenyan Chai (tea) or Kahawa (coffee) whilst giraffe watching at the tea shop and visit the souvenir shop for some mementos to take home from your memorable day. You also have the opportunity to visit the Giraffe Manor next door, spend a couple of nights there and have breakfast with the Giraffe's but that's a whole other blog!