Why Train Travel in New Zealand Might Be Your Best Holiday Yet!
New Zealand is a country of extraordinary natural beauty, and there’s a particularly charming way to take it all in: by train.
Many visitors opt for self-driving, but train travel offers a different kind of magic. Imagine gliding through awe-inspiring landscapes without the need to navigate or keep an eye on the road. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy your holiday and soak up the scenery.
We specialise in creating bespoke travel itineraries that are tailor-made for you! We can include flights, trains, cruises, car or RV hire, private transfers, accommodation, excursions or a mix of everything.
One of the key benefits of train travel is the opportunity to see areas that are less accessible by car. Trains can take you through untouched wilderness, alongside beautiful rivers, and through picturesque towns. It’s a unique way to experience the country’s diverse geography. The large windows of New Zealand’s trains provide panoramic views, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the surroundings without any distractions.
There are three key routes - Tranzapline, Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific, and we can link with coaches and ferries for a complete adventure!
1. TranzAlpine
The TranzAlpine journey is one of New Zealand’s most remarkable rail experiences, whisking you from Christchurch to Greymouth (or vice versa) across the stunning South Island. As the train glides through this picturesque landscape, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the “Great Divide,” a majestic mountain range that forms the backbone of the island. The engineering marvels along this route, such as the 73-metre high Staircase Viaduct and the impressive 8-kilometre long Otira Tunnel, add an extra layer of intrigue to your journey.
The journey offers a visual feast, from lush rainforests to serene rivers and dramatic alpine vistas. As you travel, you can simply relax and enjoy the stunning scenery without the stress of navigating winding roads.
For those incorporating this into a self-drive holiday, it’s easy to leave your car in either Christchurch or Greymouth and continue your adventure by train. The flexibility of this option makes it an attractive choice for many travellers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking to experience the scenic wonders of New Zealand in a relaxed manner, the TranzAlpine journey is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
2. The Coastal Pacific
For those who are enchanted by the sea, the Coastal Pacific train journey is a must-do. This scenic route stretches from Picton to Christchurch, winding along the breathtaking east coast of the South Island. Picture yourself gazing out at the endless Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing against the shore and the occasional sighting of seals or dolphins playing in the surf.
As the train meanders through charming coastal towns, you’ll have the chance to experience some of New Zealand’s most picturesque seaside landscapes without the hassle of driving.
One of the highlights of this journey is the diverse range of scenery. From the rugged coastline to the lush vineyards of Marlborough, there is always something new to admire.
3. Northern Explorer
The Northern Explorer links Auckland and Wellington in a journey that showcases the island’s varied landscapes. Starting in the bustling city of Auckland, the train soon carries you into a world of rolling farmlands, dense forests, and volcanic peaks.
As you travel, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the changing scenery, from the fertile Waikato plains to the dramatic terrain of Tongariro National Park.
One of the delightful aspects of this journey is the opportunity to encounter a variety of landscapes in one trip. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to relax and enjoy the ride, the Northern Explorer offers a unique perspective of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking a seamless, scenic journey between two of the country’s major cities.
If you're ready to plan your railway adventure, call us on 01902 288 104 or book an appointment to make the most of your New Zealand journey.
Gilly's 48 hours in Seoul
During my recent visit to Seoul, I was only able to spend 48 hours in the bustling capital of South Korea. However, even with limited time, I was able to appreciate the wealth of cultural experiences, delicious food, and stunning views that this vibrant city has to offer.
One attraction that I highly recommend is Dongdaenum, the largest market in South Korea. This market is filled with mid to high-end shops featuring fashion outlets and international brands. Another cultural hotspot that I visited was Insadong market, where I was able to enjoy a unique blend of art galleries showcasing architecture, sculptures, calligraphy, and paintings.
Seoul is home to an impressive 115 museums, including a former prison turned museum and a war memorial that covers the history of the Korean War. These museums offer an in-depth look into the daily life of historical Koreans.
Religious buildings are also worth exploring, as they provide a unique insight into Korean culture. Visitors can also gain further insight into the country’s culture by attending one of the four yearly festivals that take place every spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Nature lovers, like me, will appreciate Namsan Park, which is one of Seoul’s most famous parks. The park offers stunning views of the city skyline and recreational hiking, which we thoroughly enjoyed. For a more elevated perspective, visitors can take a cable car ride up Nansam Mountain or visit the Seoul Skygarden, a kilometre-long walkway lined with 24,000 plants.
Foodies will delight in exploring the Gwangjang Market, the largest food market in Korea, which is filled with the tantalising aromas and flavours of authentic Korean street food. The heritage village of Bukchon, which dates back 600 years, is also worth a visit, with 900 traditional Hanok houses, including two palaces, and you’ll see lots of visitors dressed in Hanboks (traditional dress) which you can rent locally.
For those who are interested in Seoul’s nightlife and shopping scene, Gangnam is the place to be. This vibrant district is home to a bustling market with four floors of retail shopping, a large library, and an aquarium. Visitors can also catch a match or see K-pop performances at the Olympic Park.
We stayed in the Lotte Executive Tower Hotel, the perfect choice for a luxurious stay in a great central location. Our hotel rate gave us access to the hotel’s Club lounge ‘Le Salon’ where we enjoyed a lovely breakfast, afternoon tea and a light dinner with drinks. The gym was also excellent, and our room with views of the mountains and the city was stunning.
We only had 48 hours in Seoul as we were joining an 11 night cruise to Japan. On hindsight I wished we had at least a day longer in the city to enjoy more of the city’s nightlife and to visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) – the strip of land that separates South from North Korea. However, this is something you can only do on an organised tour and you need at least half, but ideally a full day.
Our time in Seoul was the start to an amazing 3 week tour of Korea and Japan. We joined Oceania’s Riviera cruise ship, and enjoyed an incredible cruise with stops in both Korea and Japan. Cruising is a wonderful way to get a taster of what destinations have to offer, however, for a more in-depth tour of Korea and Japan I’d recommend a tailor-made land tour by train!
Expedition Cruising | Seabourn Venture
Your luxury safari at sea...
Having been given the amazing opportunity to spend a day on Seabourn Venture, one of Seabourn’s, two new expedition ships, I was truly impressed.
These purpose-built expedition ships are designed to offer guests an ultra-luxurious safari-like experience at sea, enabling them to navigate through picturesque landscapes such as the Arctic, Antarctica, and the Galápagos Islands.
Despite its spacious design, the ship only accommodates a maximum of 264 guests, ensuring an intimate and calm stay with the help of an incredible crew of around 120 individuals, including a 24-member expedition team.
I took some pictures while on board, and you can find them at the bottom of the page. The ship is stunning, featuring exceptional spaces such as The Expedition Lounge, with its cosy fires, and The Discovery Centre, a theatre-style space with plush seating where lectures and briefings are held.
Expedition cruises don’t typically offer an array of entertainment, but on Seabourn Venture, The Club provides an opportunity for guests to enjoy late-night cocktails and music.
Seabourn’s expedition ships stand out in the world of ultra-luxury with their exceptional features, such as custom-built submarines and kayaks for intimate encounters with nature, and nearly 30,000 square feet of open deck for uninterrupted wildlife viewing. The thrill of discovery is brought to the comfort of your suite through the use of a 4K camera.
Despite expedition cruises offering more limited dining options, Seabourn maintains its reputation for exceptional dining experiences on board. The Restaurant, the main dining room, is a stunning space where guests can enjoy incredible food.
Guests can choose from a variety of luxurious ocean-front suites, each with a private veranda. While the Winter Garden, Signature, and Owner’s suites are all exquisite, the ‘standard’ veranda suites are also spacious and bright, equipped with a heated drying cupboard, making them ideal for most guests. The Panorama Penthouse Suites, with their meticulously designed interiors and curved windows offering unparalleled views, are a standout choice in my opinion.
Seabourn’s expeditions are led by their skilled and passionate Expedition Team of 24 members, who possess a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields. They curate immersive experiences, guiding guests throughout their journey to create moments that inspire wonder and insight.
I had the pleasure of chatting with four members of the team who proved to be exceptional in their respective fields. Their areas of expertise ranged from ornithology to global yacht racing, with one having served in the US coastguard and another now an accomplished submarine pilot after years as a Naval engineer. They all had captivating tales to tell, which they share with guests during dinner and drinks, making for an unforgettable evening.
Seabourn’s commitment to delivering distinctive voyages is exemplified through their advanced PC6 ice-strengthened hulls, personalised and intuitive service, and their enhanced level of ‘all inclusive’.
What's included?
Seabourn offers an impressive array of inclusions, such as premium spirits, fine wines, and champagne, available at all times, along with complimentary caviar.
Their dining options are world-class, with all venues being complimentary, as well as Wi-Fi and tips. Excursions, taken in the ships Zodiacs, are included, though kayaks and submarine excursions are optional extras. Seabourn even provides complimentary Helly Hansen jackets and backpacks to its guests on sailings to the Polar regions.
If you’re seeking an ultra-luxury all inclusive experience without compromising on comfort or care, Seabourn is the ideal choice for an expedition cruise.
Unveiling the Wonders of Expedition Cruising
Your passport to adventure...
Have you ever dreamt of tracing the pathways of the great explorers, of witnessing landscapes untouched by time, or encountering wildlife in their most primal habitat? Welcome to the exhilarating world of expedition cruising, where these dreams transform into reality. Whether you’re yearning for the icy embrace of the Arctic, the mystical allure of Antarctica, or the evolutionary wonder that is the Galapagos Islands, there’s an expedition cruise tailored just for you.
We work will all the major expedition cruise lines so we’re here to advise and guide you depending on your requirements and your budget.
Crafting Your Perfect Expedition Cruise Experience
Selecting the right expedition cruise can be as thrilling as the voyage itself and we’re on hand to assist.
With options ranging from cosy, basic accommodations to the pinnacle of luxury on the high seas, the key to unlocking your dream journey lies in understanding what you value most.
- Destination: Begin with where your heart yearns to explore. Each region offers a distinct blend of wildlife, scenery, and activities.
- Size of Ship: Smaller ships offer a more intimate experience with the chance to access remote areas, while larger vessels provide additional amenities and comfort.
- Budget: From basic, no-frills adventures to the lap of luxury with all-inclusive opulence, there’s an expedition for most wallets!
Navigating the Expedition Cruise Landscape...
We work with all the major expedition cruise lines. If you’re already a seasoned luxury cruiser it’s likely that you’ll have come across Seabourn and Silversea, both of these cruise lines have purpose built expedition ships. However, there are many cruise lines that don’t offer mainstream cruises, only expedition, such as Quark Expeditions and Aurora Expeditions (AE) for example.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Seabourn Venture & Seabourn Pursuit – ships with around 200 passenger – epitomise luxury, with state-of-the-art facilities, including submarines for underwater exploration. You can read my review of Seabourn Venture here.
- Silversea Expeditions – offers a blend of luxury and adventure, with a fleet designed to access the most secluded destinations while pampering guests with exquisite cuisine and service. With purpose built expedition ships (Silver Endeavour and Silver Origin) to the refurbished Silver Cloud and Silver Wind. I am an accredited Silversea Expedition Expert.
- Scenic – shines with its luxury yacht, Scenic Eclipse, equipped with helicopters and submarines, redefining ultra-luxury exploration with a touch of adventure.
- Hurtigruten Expeditions (HX) – focuses on sustainable, educational voyages that delve deep into the culture and ecology of the destination, ideal for the eco-conscious traveller.
- Atlas Ocean Voyages – attracts adventure-seekers with luxe-adventure voyages, emphasising authentic experiences in comfort.
- Ponant – combines French elegance with expedition spirit, offering a sophisticated exploration experience with a touch of luxury. It operates the world’s only luxury icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot.
- Quark Expeditions – specialises in polar adventures, providing robust, ice-strengthened ships for the ultimate Arctic and Antarctic experiences.
- Aurora Expeditions (AE) – known for its small ship focus, emphasises personal encounters with nature and high activity levels for a truly immersive experience.
- Albatros Expeditions – founded by Søren Rasmussen this is a family-run venture with a mission to provide immersive and sustainable travel. Read my review of Albatros Expeditions here.
Seasonal Splendours: When to Embark...
- The Arctic – the brief summer months of July and August are prime for Arctic exploration. Witness majestic icebergs, polar bears, and walruses under the Midnight Sun. Sample itineraries could include circumnavigating Spitsbergen or venturing into the remote Russian Arctic.
- Antarctica – the season runs from October to March, with each month unveiling unique wonders—from icebergs and penguin chicks to whale migrations. Early season voyages highlight pristine ice landscapes, while later trips focus on wildlife.
- The Galapagos Islands – year-round, each season offers something special. December to May brings warmer, calmer seas and vibrant marine life, while June to November emphasises active wildlife, including bird mating rituals.
Embarking on Your Journey
Embarking on an expedition cruise is not just about visiting remote destinations; it’s about making deep, personal connections with our planet. It’s about embracing the spirit of exploration that lies within all of us. With a tapestry of options available, there’s never been a better time to set sail on your own expedition story. So, chart your course, select the experience that resonates with you, and embark on an adventure that will redefine your relationship with the world’s most untouched landscapes. Bon voyage!
Find out why we're recommending Turkey out-of-season...
Say hello to ‘the winter concept’…
Turkey has really been expanding its ultra-luxury all-inclusive offer; however, these hotels have eye-watering price tags during the peak season, but out-of-season they can be incredible value!
The peak season for visiting Turkey for a beach holiday is between June and August, however, with temperatures reaching the high 30’s it’s too hot for many, and hotel cost are at their highest.
Belek has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you’re a sunseeker the best time to visit is between June and September with temperates exceeding 35°C (95°F), however, if sunbathing isn’t your number one priority, then Belek during the winter could be a great option.
Many guests are put off going to Turkey out of season as hotels can feel empty and soulless with restaurants and facilities closed, and little to do if the weather isn’t great. However, many ultra-luxury all-inclusive hotels in Turkey are enticing guests with their strong ‘winter concepts’ which offer golf, indoor and outdoor heated pools, multiple restaurants and much more.
These winter concepts typically run from 1st November to 31st March, with the summer concept starting on the 1st April, when hotels will open up outside restaurants, bars and aqua parks.
The average weather in the Belek area in March is around 19°C, with around 7 hours of sunshine, and 5 days with some rain. Ideal for golf, beach strolls and for enjoying the heated indoor and outdoor pools. In November it can be warmer with averages around 22°C, and with the sea temperature over 20°C, its the perfect time to take a dip!
This week we’ve had a chat to the team at the 5 star Maxx Royal Belek...
The Maxx Royal Belek, is just one hotel that’s got an excellent ‘winter concept’. They were quick to remind us that:
“It is only the outside restaurants and bars that are closed. There are 2 heated pools, an outdoor seawater pool, an indoor pool and an indoor kids’ pool. There are activities during the day and live music in the evening. The kids club, gym, bowling alley and spa are all open. The Mini Amusement Park, Playground, Dino Land and Adventure Park are also open, but service hours may vary depending on the weather conditions.
The all-inclusive during winter, at the Maxx Royal, includes the patisserie, chocolatier, ice cream parlour and the main restaurant. The hotel does have some stunning speciality restaurants which are bookable with a supplement (but well worth it in our opinion!) including OTAKU, Bueno Steak House (and Gastro by Alfredo Russo.”
Price comparisons...
In Staffordshire our Easter holiday is a little earlier with schools breaking up on the 22nd March. If you departed on Tuesday 26 Mar 2024 for 7 night with flights from Birmingham (with great times i.e. departing 08.45 and returning 17.25), the cost for 2 adults and one child (aged 11 or under) is £3,726.00, Including private transfers, luggage and a suite with land view. Or upgrade to a two bedroom suite with land view for an additional £900.
Compare this to Whitsun Week departing 25th May, when prices increase to £5600 in the suite with land view, and £8430 with the upgraded two bedroom suite. Depart on the 4th August and the cost increases further to £7400 and £10,200 respectively.
Book an appointment to start planning your trip to Turkey.
Prices are correct at time of writing (06/02/2024).
Countdown To Gilly's Grand Tour
Countdown To Gilly's Grand Tour
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On the 23rd February I will be setting off on my ‘2024 Grand Tour’, with Brian in tow! We will be heading to Mahe, the largest of the 115 islands of the Seychelles, spending two nights on the island before embarking the Silver Spirit for a 16-night cruise to Dubai, completing our trip with 4 nights in Abu Dhabi.
The Silver Spirit is one of our favourite ships with around 600 guests, it’s perfect for us. Here we are, in the photo above, in December 2022 when we transitted the Panama Canal on our way to Peru.
Gilly Bachelor
We will be flying with Emirates from Birmingham, which we find easy, with a short connection in Dubai. There are currently no direct flights to the Seychelles. British Airways previously offered a direct flight but this stopped in 2020 and has not been resumed.
On Mahe we will be staying at the L'Escale Resort Marina & Spa part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection.
The L’Escale Resort has just 25 luxurious guest rooms, with either a lush mountain or picturesque ocean view. It’s the perfect location for us as it’s centrally located between the airport and the cruise port in Victoria.
Whilst on board Silver Spirit we will be visiting two other islands – La Digue and Praslin, then on to Muscat (Oman) and from here exploring the United Arab Emirates of Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, plus the independent sovereign states of Qatar and Bahrain.
Our cruise will be finishing in Dubai however, we’ll be taking a private transfer from the cruise terminal back to Abu Dhabi for the final 4 nights of our tour.
Cross-Canada By Train
One of our most popular Canadian itineraries starts with a flight to Calgary, followed by time spent in Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. Exploring the Canadian Rockies by self-drive, private, or shared transfers, with highlights including the Banff Gondola (cable car), kayaking on Lake Louise and exploring the Columbia Icefield.
There are so many more options, perhaps to start your trip by flying and staying in Toronto for a few days, adding a Bear and Whale watching adventure in Vancouver Island, or an Alaskan cruise – you decide!
Rocky Mountaineer
Most clients continue their journey by joining the luxury scenic train – the Rocky Mountaineer – which takes them to Vancouver (with an overnight stop in a hotel in Kamloops).
The Rocky Mountaineer is a ‘bucket list’ rail trip for many, and it is a fabulous way to travel to Vancouver (or in reverse) but it is expensive and can swallow up to 50% of a £10k tour budget for just two days. However, there are more affordable alternatives.
The Canadian
My personal recommendation is the trans-continental train called the Canadian (operated by VIA Rail Canada, Canada’s national train operator) which links Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper and Vancouver, with services twice a week all year round, unlike the Rocky Mountaineer which only operates between mid-April and mid-October.
The complete journey takes 4 nights, however, the leg between Jasper and Vancouver only takes around 23 hours, leaving at 9.30am from Jasper and arriving in Vancouver around 8am the following morning.
TRAVEL CLASSES
I’m not recommending that anyone (except the very budget conscious!) attempt Economy class, albeit that the reclining seats are quite comfortable.
There is also a Sleeper Plus class, and a deluxe Prestige class however this ‘top’ class is a similar price to the Rocky Mountaineer, but it’s almost always sold out from the day of release (331 days before travel), but you’ll enjoy a much bigger and more luxurious cabin plus all drinks are included. However, I would recommend Sleeper Plus!
TRAVEL CLASSES
I’m not recommending that anyone (except the very budget conscious!) attempt Economy class, albeit that the reclining seats are quite comfortable. However, I would recommend Sleeper Plus, where you’ll enjoy your very own private sleeping-car, plus complimentary meals in the restaurant car.
There is also a deluxe Prestige class which is a similar price to the Rocky Mountaineer, but it’s almost always sold out from the day of release (331 days before travel), but you’ll enjoy a much bigger and more luxurious cabin plus all drinks are included.
SLEEPER PLUS
The prices do vary but Sleeper Plus is around 600 to 900 Canadian dollars (depending on the date you’re travelling) so if you budget for around £1200 to £1800 (for two) this is less than 20% of your £10k budget. You can book Sleeper Plus cabins for solo travellers or for 2, 3 or 4 passengers.
Cabin for two (shown in the photo):
• Toilet and wash area available inside each cabin;
• Day time: two comfortable sofa chairs;
• Night time: upper and lower beds replace chairs (see photo);
• Large window with blind;
• Access to a shower room (one shower room per car);
• Amenities include small closet, drinking water, towels, pillows, sheets and blankets supplied.
By day you can enjoy wine tastings, presentations, access to lounges and scenic dome cars plus freshly cooked meals and regional specialties in the dining car, all accompanied by stunning views.
Book an appointment to start planning your Canadian adventure.
No-fly cruising from the UK
If you’re looking for a no-fly cruise there is a huge amount of cruise lines that are sailing out of the UK including Silversea, Fred Olsen, P&O, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Cunard, Azamara, Ambassador, Oceania, Carnival, MSC, NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line), Regent, Viking, Seabourn and Disney Cruise Line.
Cruise lines with UK home ports
P&O Cruises (Arcadia, Arvia, Aurora, Britannia, Iona and Ventura), Celebrity Cruises (Celebrity Silhouette), Cunard (Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth), Princess Cruises (Royal Princess and Sky Princess) and Royal Caribbean (Anthem of the Seas) and finally MSC’s Virtuosa have their ‘home port’ in the UK, so you have the widest range of choice when it comes to no-fly cruise.
Which cruise line is best for - YOU?
P&O CRUISES
Iona and Ariva are just stunning, if you want to be ‘blown-away’ by stunning interiors these are the ships for you. The included dining options are good, but the speciality dining options are ‘top-notch’ and in my opinion well worth the supplement. The entertainment was also very good.
Tips are included in your cruise price but if you want Wi-Fi and a drinks package you need to add these on. The classic drinks package is £44.95 (per person, per day), and the high speed WiFi (which I need to work) is £18 (per person per day). For a 7 night cruise the enhanced WiFi and classic drinks package would be an extra £882.
Also, the trend for new ships is to get larger, with P&O’s Arvia taking 5,200 guests, and MSC’s Virtuosa taking over 6,300 passengers, making them just too big for many cruisers, who enjoy the smaller ships.
These larger ships also tend to be very popular with families, as they offer great value.
PROS – WOW INTERIORS, SPECIALITY DINING & ENTERTAINMENT, GREAT FOR FAMILIES
CONS – EXPENSIVE ADD ONS, AVOID DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS IF YOU’RE CRUISING WITHOUT CHILDREN.
PRINCESS CRUISES
The Sky Princess is stunning and is my favourite for its interior and layout.
The included dining options are very good with the buffet, main restaurant, and an excellent pizza restaurant.
The Princess Plus package which includes drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities offers excellent value, and this in my opinion sets it above P&O.
However, the service can be shaky at times (but very good most of the time!) and the Medallion App fabulous when it works and downright frustrating with its regular glitches.
When we were on board the WiFi was also problematic, as there is no ‘enhanced’ service, which I need to run my business. Princess promote the “The Best Wi-Fi at Sea – Fast. Reliable. Unlimited. Affordable” however, when I went last year, it was none of these things which was problematic, but clearly, less of an issue for light users.
The Sky Princess takes up to 4100 guests, so almost a third less than the new P&O ships.
PROS – WOW INTERIORS, DINING AND PRINCESS PLUS PACKAGE
CONS – WIFI, MEDALLION APP (if you are not very tech savvy)
PRINCESS CRUISES
The Sky Princess is stunning and is my favourite for its interior and layout.
The included dining options are very good with the buffet, main restaurant, and an excellent pizza restaurant.
The Princess Plus package which includes drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities offers excellent value, and this in my opinion sets it above P&O.
However, the service can be shaky at times (but very good most of the time!) and the Medallion App fabulous when it works and downright frustrating with its regular glitches.
When we were on board the WiFi was also problematic, as there is no ‘enhanced’ service, which I need to run my business. Princess promote the “The Best Wi-Fi at Sea – Fast. Reliable. Unlimited. Affordable” however, when I went last year, it was none of these things which was problematic, but clearly, less of an issue for light users.
The Sky Princess takes up to 4100 guests, so almost a third less than the new P&O ships.
PROS – WOW INTERIORS, DINING AND PRINCESS PLUS PACKAGE
CONS – WIFI, MEDALLION APP (if you are not very tech savvy)
FRED. OLSEN CRUISES has one of the highest level of returning guests. As new cruise ships move to become ‘floating resorts’ Fred Olsen retains the cruising traditions of formal nights, set dining times and shared tables, things I personally love!
Guests love the incredible range of no-fly itineraries, departing from Southampton, Portsmouth, Dover, Liverpool, Newcastle and Edinburgh (Rosyth).
There are only four ships in their fleet – and they’re small with around 1200 guests making the service intimate and attentive.
They are all older ships. You may find some of the cabins and bathrooms a little dated but they are generally spacious and well maintained. On Bolette, the amount of public space per guest is very generous, so the ship never feels too busy.
The food is very good, and the drinks package very well priced (£25 per person per day). Children’s facilities are limited, but they are offered during the school holidays, so whilst you’ll see a few children on board you won’t be overrun with them!
I thoroughly enjoyed by time on Bolette, and I can see why so many people love Fred Olsen. If you don’t like the huge ships, and you don’t want to pay Silversea, Seabourn or Regent prices, Fred Olsen is a really good alternative.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN, MSC & CUNARD
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
The Anthem of the Seas is a bold, beautiful ship, with more restaurants, bars and entertainment onboard than you can hope to experience in a week. It’s entertaining and flashy, think ‘Las Vegas hotel’. The atmosphere is equal parts modern sophistication and straight-up fun.
PROS – BEST FAMILY CHOICE & ENTERTAINMENT
CONS – VARIABLE FOOD, AVOID IF TRAVELLING WITHOUT CHILDREN IN THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, EXPENSIVE
CUNARD
My clients describe this as “how P&O used to be” and remains the most formal of the cruise lines. It also operates three different classes and attracts an older demographic.
The Queen Anne will join the Cunard fleet in 2024, alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth.
BEST FOR TRADITION & MOST FORMAL
MSC
MSC’s Virtuosa has been based in Southampton since covid and is a great value family choice with lots of things to do, but you need to double-check what’s included in the fare and what costs extra. The ship is stunning, the drinks package is very good however, the service and food are not consistent.
BEST FOR FAMILIES & BUDGET
CELEBRITY CRUISES
I loved my time on Celebrity Silhouette and if food and service are the most important factors when booking a cruise then there’s no need to look any further. Also, it’s great if you’re looking to manage your costs, as if you booked with an ‘always included’ fare your drinks, wifi and gratuities are all included. Though this is set to change shortly with gratuities being removed from this offer.
The ship takes 2,886 guests, so half of the passenger number on Arvia, Iona and MSC Virtuosa. The ship does feel busy, particularly the bars at night, which is great for ambience but you can also struggle to get a seat. The “lawn” is also something very different, I’m sitting on the grass writing this and watching ‘Elvis’ the movie on the big screen.
Our balcony cabin was spacious, particularly the balcony area which was double the size we had on Princess, which we’ve really enjoyed in the good weather.
However, the Celebrity Silhouette, as an older ship, just doesn’t have the wow factor of the new P&O, Princess and MSC ships. Also the main ‘theatre’ entertainment is just okay, though we enjoyed the guest entertainers and the ship’s musicians. The ship also has limited attractions for children, which self-regulates the numbers which many guests prefer!
The service was the best I’ve experienced on ANY cruise line, which for me is the absolute standout for Celebrity.
Celebrity Apex will be sailing from the UK in 2024, which is one of the most modern ships in the fleet so this is very exciting news!
PROS – SERVICE & FOOD
CONS – OLDER SHIP, BUT APEX IS COMING!
Canada
Canada is a hugely popular destination for 2023, particularly for families and couples! We hosted an amazing Canada and Alaska evening back in September, and it was clear to see that there was a huge amount of interest.
Canada is a truly gargantuan country, and while its cities are just as frenetic and cosmopolitan as any in the world, its vast and unpopulated countryside, home to Inuit communities, striking blue glacial lakes and fresh mountain air, are the real draw.
Download our fabulous brochure in partnership with Audley Travel here.
Canada - mountains, lakes, cities and wildlife
It’s a country of magnificent mountain ranges, ice-blue glacial lakes, remote coastal settlements and diverse cities, Canada offers a wealth of things to see and do. Wildlife is abundant with a healthy population of grizzlies, black and polar bears and plenty of places you can observe them in their natural habitat.
Across the country you’ll find diverse experiences on offer from white-water rafting and heli-hiking to haunted hikes and whale watching tours, while the country’s buzzing metropolises can be explored in unusual ways from fine food tours in Québec to food cart tours of Vancouver.
The best time to visit Canada is during the summer months, when sunny days and pleasant temperatures are the norm, this makes adventure and wildlife holidays in demand from families travelling during the school summer holidays.
Despite Canada’s size, weather patterns are largely the same across the country, with defined seasons similar to those in Europe. Coastal regions are usually more temperate than prairie provinces, and mountain ranges attract higher rainfall and snow in some areas than others. However, it’s cold everywhere in winter and warm in most locations in summer.
Springtime, which starts in late April through to early June, can also be a delightful time of year to visit. Gradual snow melt reveals forests and wildflowers, while Canadian wildlife re-emerges from the long winter hibernation.
September is considered the peak of the salmon run, attracting large numbers of bears. It also marks the start of autumn, with spectacular fall foliage lasting into October.
My recommendations!
Canada is the perfect destination to do a ‘road-trip’ so a self-drive holiday by car, or even motor home would be an ideal way to travel.
Taking to the wheel, you can follow a well-traversed route through the Canadian Rockies to see some of the region’s most remarkable natural features, such as the Athabasca Glacier and Lake Louise. You’ll visit both with a drive along the Icefields Parkway.
This 232-km (144-mile) road cuts through sheer-sided, glacier-clad peaks between Jasper and Lake Louise, following the milky waters of the Athabasca River past aquamarine lakes and frothing waterfalls. You can pause to follow forested hiking trails or picnic at one of the viewpoints.
Coastal Scenery & Vancouver Island
If coastal scenery is more your thing, British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast Highway curls along the forested seaboard north of Vancouver. Pausing for a few nights at one of the waterside properties gives you a chance to kayak on the sheltered waters, stroll nearby walking trails and relax with a spa treatment.
Then, cross over to Vancouver Island, driving through the island’s wild interior to Tofino for a chance to see bears foraging along the shoreline. You can make another stop in Victoria — arguably the best place in Canada for seeing orcas.
The Rocky Mountaineer
You can also join the Rocky Mountaineer in Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper to continue your train to the fabulous city of Vancouver!
See the sights by day, sleep in a hotel at night. With Rocky Mountaineer, you get the best of both worlds: maximum views, and maximum comfort. No sleeper cars here: stay in beautiful hotels at each destination.
Treat yourself to the GoldLeaf Service, where you will indulge your senses with gourmet meals prepared by Executive Chefs, and get expansive views through the panoramic windows of a bi-level glass dome coach to the Canadian Rockies.
Whales and bears...
Spot beluga whales in Seal River
For the ultimate wildlife experience, visit Seal River Heritage Lodge, a remote wilderness setting where it is possible to see wild polar bears roaming the tundra and beluga whales.
View polar bears in Churchill
Seeing polar bears sparring or a mother and cub play from the safety of a Tundra Buggy is a truly unique wildlife experience. Travel during early November to see the bears when they are most active.
Download our fabulous brochure in partnership with Audley Travel here and get in touch to start planning your holiday in Canada.
The Seychelles
Each island has its own unique culture and charm, so there’s plenty for you to explore. Take a boat trip to Mahé, stroll through the markets tasting fresh fruit before treating yourself to an indulgent spa treatment in the comfort of your own villa at Banyan Tree.
Take a refreshing dip in your private plunge pool at Raffles Praslin, before visiting the UNESCO world heritage site of Vallée de Mai National Park to spot the native black parrot and unique Coco de Mer nut.
If you’re looking for a hidden paradise La Digue’s Anse Source D’Argent beach won’t disappoint with its abundance of stunning scenery, beautiful rock formations and crystal clear blue waters.
Seychelles Hotels and Resorts
Soft sugary sands fringed by swaying palms and calm turquoise lagoons – your luxurious barefoot paradise awaits. Enjoy a total technology detox at the heavenly Denis private island or take a dip in your very own private plunge pool at Banyan Tree. Recline in the poolside chair and stare at the panoramic views of the Cote d’Or Bay at L’Archipel Hotel or why not embark on an island hopping adventure and combine more than one island?
Here’s just one of my favourites on the main island!
Constance Ephelia
Fringed by two of Mahe’s most beautiful beaches and overlooking the spectacular Port Launay National Marine Park, Constance Ephelia is a tranquil family friendly resort set within a 296-acre nature park. Admire the dazzling beauty of unspoilt beaches and tropical forests as you prepare to discover the ultimate setting for a relaxing and luxurious holiday.
The modern and chic hotel has five restaurants where you can treat your taste buds to dishes inspired by gourmet African cuisine. Enjoy a traditional massage in the largest spa in the Indian Ocean or unleash your adventurous side as you zip-line through the tropical treetops and take to the climbing wall.
Constance Ephelia is an extremely family friendly resort. With the bracelet barter initiative where your little ones can exchange bracelets for tasty treats throughout the resort and the feel like a team member project designed to give teens the chance to join one of the hotel departments for half a day for an insightful experience. Unforgettable adventures await the whole family.
The best time to visit the Seychelles is between April and May, or October and November, as these are the calmer periods between the two trade winds which hit the island each year. The northwest trade wind blows from November to March and the southeast wind from May to September. These winds cause seaweed to build up on some beaches, so it’s important to consider when choosing your hotel locations at different times of the year.
The temperature in the Seychelles is around 30°C (86°F) all year round, with a mixture of sunshine and tropical showers, and sea breezes which disperse the humidity. However, the Seychelles’ positioning, just seven degrees south of the Equator and away from large land masses in the Indian Ocean, makes it very hard to predict the weather or rely on online forecasts.
Coco de Mer - a intimate boutique hotel offering magnificent views. This serene hotel is the ideal base to explore the island of Praslin.
Escape to the secluded hideaway of Coco de Mer and the Black Parrot suites, located within 200 acres of natural beauty. Refurbished in 2018, this intimate hotel is nestled on a lush tropical hillside and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and surrounding islands. There are three magnificent swimming pools to choose between including one with a 270-degree view overlooking the ocean and a natural salt water pool. Reconnect with your loved one on the romantic setting of the jetty and treat yourself to a diverse selection of cuisine from a la carte grill and vibrant cocktails to international cuisine.
Opt for the family friendly chalet style rooms at the Coco de Mer with garden and beach views or stay within the idyllic setting of the adult-only suites at the Black Parrot to admire outstanding views of the Indian Ocean.
Coco de Mer essentials:
- Transfer 15-minute flight from Mahe to Praslin then 15-minute private car transfer
- Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast
- Restaurants: 2
- 52 rooms and suites
- Waterfront Spa and 3 swimming pools
- Complimentary private shuttle bus to Anse Lazio beach
Coco de Mer
Escape to the secluded hideaway of Coco de Mer and the Black Parrot suites, located within 200 acres of natural beauty. Refurbished in 2018, this intimate hotel is nestled on a lush tropical hillside and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and surrounding islands. There are three magnificent swimming pools to choose between including one with a 270-degree view overlooking the ocean and a natural salt water pool. Reconnect with your loved one on the romantic setting of the jetty and treat yourself to a diverse selection of cuisine from a la carte grill and vibrant cocktails to international cuisine.
Opt for the family friendly chalet style rooms at the Coco de Mer with garden and beach views or stay within the idyllic setting of the adult-only suites at the Black Parrot to admire outstanding views of the Indian Ocean.
Coco de Mer essentials:
- Transfer 15-minute flight from Mahe to Praslin then 15-minute private car transfer
- Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast
- Restaurants: 2
- 52 rooms and suites
- Waterfront Spa and 3 swimming pools
- Complimentary private shuttle bus to Anse Lazio beach
Denis Private Island
With no signal for your mobile phone, no in-room internet and no television to distract you – welcome to your technology detox.
Surrounded by powder soft sandy beaches and turquoise waters dive into the calm lagoon for a snorkelling adventure with turtles and exotic marine life. Home to some rare and endemic species such as the giant tortoises and magpie robin observe on-going conservation projects and sample freshly produced produce from the island farm.
With only 23 cottages on Denis Island set within 375 acres you can rest assured a private and intimate experience awaits. Why not try relaxing on your own terrace and enjoy the spectacular views or embark on a complimentary kayak, snorkelling or nature tour for an unforgettable way to experience the Seychelles. The protected natural lagoon is perfect for safe swimming or why not enjoy diving and deep sea fishing.
Denis Island Highlights...
Denis Island Essentials
- Transfer is 95kms from Mahe – 30 min by light aircraft
- Only 23 cottages
- One restaurant where 80% of the resort’s food comes from the natural local farm produce
- Full board
- TV & internet access in library only
- Baby sitting services available on request
Why not get in touch to start planning your holiday in the Seychelles?
