Elegant Escapes by Zahara

15/01/2025

Embark on an unforgettable 15-day journey through Malaysia and Singapore, visiting the vibrant cities of Singapore, Langkawi, and Penang. This 14-night adventure offers an exciting blend of captivating city experiences, pristine beaches, diverse cultures, and delicious cuisines.

In Singapore, marvel at the stunning skyline, explore lush gardens, and indulge in culinary delights at bustling hawker centres. Next, unwind on the beautiful beaches of Langkawi, where you can soak in the sun, enjoy water sports, and explore lush rainforests.

Finally, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Penang, famous for its colourful street art and mouth-watering gastronomy. This trip promises a fascinating fusion of modernity and tradition, leaving you with lasting memories of vibrant cityscapes, serene beaches, and unforgettable flavours!

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+971503968220

14/01/2025

Disneyland® Paris is the ultimate destination for family fun in 2025

Looking for a destination that offers non-stop fun for the whole family? Look no further than Disneyland® Paris. Whether you’re a Disney superfan or a first-time visitor, Disneyland Paris will leave you enchanted with its magical atmosphere, world-class attractions, and luxurious accommodation.

❤️

13/01/2025

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12/01/2025

Scaling New Heights: My Kilimanjaro Experience Through the Lens of Luxury Travel

As a luxury travel professional, I’ve always sought out the world’s most breathtaking destinations and unique experiences for my clients. But nothing prepared me for the personal transformation that came with climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Whilst I’m used to curating seamless, five-star adventures, this journey was about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of nature in its purest form. This also marked an early celebration for my 50th birthday 💥

In this blog, I’ll take you behind the scenes of my Kilimanjaro climb—from the unexpected challenges to the unforgettable moments that made it all worthwhile.

Please note you will need to click on' next post' to continue to Part 2

It’s one thing to dream of standing on top of the world, and quite another to actually get there. The moment I stood at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, on December 19th 2024, I felt like I had crossed an invisible line between who I was before and who I’d become after that climb. Uhuru Peak, th...

11/01/2025

Experience the real Cambodia

Step off the beaten path and dive into the heart of Cambodia with a two-week itinerary designed to leave a lasting impact—on both you and the communities you visit. From sunrise at Angkor Wat and cycling through lush rice fields to stargazing in a Khmer village and uncovering Phnom Penh’s resilience and creativity, this journey is your gateway to cultural immersion.

10/01/2025

An April escape to Portugal

Perfect for food lovers and adventure seekers, Conrad Algarve offers world-class dining, serene spa experiences, and access to the stunning Ria Formosa Nature Parka haven for wildlife and outdoor exploration. Spend your days relaxing by the heated infinity pool, exploring pristine beaches, or teeing off at nearby championship golf courses.

09/01/2025

Experience the magic of the Disney Music Festival

Pack your dancing shoes and get ready to immerse yourself in live concerts, mesmerising dance shows, and joyful street gigs featuring all your favourite Disney and Pixar hits. This spring, Disneyland® Paris is hosting the first-ever Disney Music Festival, a spectacular celebration of music, stories, and Disney magic.

08/01/2025

Imagine waking up to the distant roar of a lion, sipping your morning coffee as giraffes gracefully wander in the distance. This is just the beginning of your unforgettable family adventure in Kenya. At the heart of this adventure is Cottar’s 1920s Camp, an award-winning safari camp that brings the elegance and romance of a bygone era to life. With its exceptional location bordering the Maasai Mara and Serengeti game reserve, Cottar’s promises a safari holiday that will captivate every member of the family.

• Enjoy thrilling game drives led by expert guides as you witness the awe-inspiring wildlife that calls the Mara home. From elephants and lions to graceful gazelles, the ‘Big Five’ and beyond are waiting for you in one of the world's most iconic safari destinations.

• Cottar’s 1920s Camp exudes charm with its cream canvas tents and luxurious facilities. Specially designed family tents and thoughtful touches like kids’ dining and complimentary babysitting ensure that parents and children will feel indulged.

• Engage in authentic cultural experiences with the local Maasai community during your stay. From traditional dances to lessons about their age-old traditions, these moving encounters leave lasting impressions on you and your children.

• You’ll also enjoy two nights at The Emakoko, a serene haven on the edge of Nairobi National Park. With its blend of luxury and wilderness, this boutique lodge offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages, from thrilling game drives to peaceful moments by the pool.

What’s included:

• 7 nights in Kenya, Africa

• 2 nights at The Emakoko staying in a Family room; full-board basis

• 4 nights at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp staying in a Family room; full-board basis

Terms and Conditions:

Subject to availability. Please give me a call for further details. Price based on a family 4 (2 adults and 2 children sharing). Prices correct at time of posting. Offers are subject to change. I can advise on travel insurance at the time of booking.

7 nights from AED40,000 for a family of 4

07/01/2025

With stretch upon stretch of immaculate white sands, a laidback vibe and a huge range of activities to suit all tastes, the idyllic Indian Ocean island of Mauritius is the perfect place to relax, refresh and recharge.
Located in the Indian Ocean far off the south east coast of Africa, Mauritius is a melange of multiple ethnicities, languages and religions. It was colonised by the Dutch, French and British, who came for its natural resources; from ebony trees to vanilla, sugarcane and peppercorns. The island’s capital city: Port Louis has a diverse culture that is reflected in its vibrant arts, architecture, museums and markets.

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius is the best hotel in Mauritius; directly located on the pristine white beach of Turtle Bay, a natural marine park. Spread over twenty acres of lush, sub tropical gardens, it offers views of breathtaking sunsets and night skies bursting with stars.

Magnificent accommodation with traditional thatched roofs. Unique restaurants serving authentic Creole and international cuisines. And a Touching Senses programme of daily cultural and mindfulness activities. All complemented by warm, intuitive hospitality at our five star hotel in Mauritius.

Terms and Conditions:

Price based on 2 adults sharing a Luxury Pavilion Room at The Oberoi Mauritius on a half board basis, for 6 nights from 25th January 2024. Flights and transfers not included but can be arranged for an additional cost. Subject to availability. Give me a call for further details.

6-nights from AED20,915 for 2 Adults

06/01/2025

Listed as one of The Best Hotels in The Maldives by Condé Nast Traveller, take a trip to paradise and make your island dreams a reality at The Standard, Maldives. Book early to enjoy up to 45% off your stay, with kids staying free, plus a free meal plan upgrade for a value-packed getaway.

Just a short seaplane ride from the airport, enjoy a personalized experience perfect for lovers, friends, and families. Our 115 villas, whether overwater or beachfront, feature private decks and plunge pools. Explore the island's beauty with snorkeling, boating, and diving. Unwind at The Standard Spa for a wellness retreat. Indulge in unique culinary experiences, with all-day dining at Kula, authentic Maldivian cuisine at Guduguda, sunset izakaya bites at Beru Bar, and beachfront dining at BBQ Shak.

Terms and Conditions:

Price from AED32,670 is based on 2 Adults at The Standard Maldives in a Beach Villa wit pool on an All-Inclusive board basis. Checking in 1st February 2025 for 5-nights. Price includes mandatory domestic transfers. International flights are not included but must be booked to avail this rate. Subject to availability. Give me a call for further details.

5-nights from AED32,670 for a family of 4

05/01/2025

Discover the allure of the Algarve

Enjoy a seven-night getaway in the heart of Portugal's unspoiled Algarve coast. The Martinhal Sagres Resort offers a perfect blend of laid-back luxury and natural beauty, overlooking the golden sands and turquoise waters of Martinhal's Beach. This relaxing retreat is surrounded by the Costa Vicentina Natural Park and offers a perfect five-star experience for all everyone.

04/01/2025

A safari and Cape Town escape

Experience the perfect mix of urban sophistication and wild adventure with this unique twin-centre holiday to South Africa. Begin your trip with four nights in the vibrant coastal city of Cape Town, staying in the luxurious Romney Park Luxury Suites. Then, head to the heart of the African bushveld for three unforgettable nights at Karongwe River Lodge, where safari dreams come true.

03/01/2025

Discover a private island in the Maldives

Niyama Private Islands offers a truly unique escape, set across two breathtaking islands that seamlessly combine serenity and excitement for an unforgettable eight-night retreat. Each luxurious private villa features its own pool, an open-air bathroom, and mesmerising views of crystal-clear turquoise waters for supreme luxury.

02/01/2025

Great barrier reef
A luxury escape to Sri Lanka’s newest resort

Opening this December, Uga Halloowella is located on a hilltop within a 252-acre tea estate, in Sri Lanka’s historic central tea trails region. The best way to experience this five-star luxury resort is to include it as part of a wider Sri Lanka itinerary. Discover the beauty of Sri Lanka in style by pairing your stay with visits to breathtaking destinations such as Colombo, Yala, and Trincomalee.

01/01/2025

What a year it’s been! 🎉

As I reflect on 2024, I’m filled with gratitude for all the experiences and milestones. This year marks my 7th year at Travel Counsellors, and it’s been amazing to help 2747 clients in total as of today create their dream trips, with 802 bookings and a 9.9 average service score. It’s hard to believe how far I’ve come! 🌟

On a personal note, it’s been a year of balance. I didn’t get to travel as much as I hoped, but I was lucky enough to explore some incredible places. I started the year with a dream trip to the Maldives, then spent my summer in Kenya, where I had the chance to connect with nature and culture in a way that I’ll never forget. 🏝️🐘

But the most special moment of the year came just 12 days ago, when I checked off a major bucket list goal: summiting Mount Kilimanjaro! 🏔️💪 'The roof of Africa' It was a challenging journey, but standing at the top of the world was a feeling I’ll treasure forever. Thank you to the team at Altezza Travel without whom this would not have been possible.

Professionally, I had the privilege of speaking at the QnA International as part of the 'Women in Travel panel', and I also had the honor of being a guest speaker on a couple of travel podcasts. It’s been such a joy to share my experiences and connect with others in the industry.

It’s been a busy year—full of growth, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey. Here’s to 2025, with more travels, more adventures, and even bigger dreams to chase! 🥂✨

01/01/2025

Happy new year 2025 🎉🎊

31/12/2024

Explore Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

If you long to discover a place where lush rainforests meet turquoise seas, ancient cultures weave their stories, and wildlife welcomes you at every corner. Welcome to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, a tropical paradise that offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and inspiration.

30/12/2024

Experience Balinese charm at Viceroy Bali

Occupying a gorgeous, secluded ridge above Bali’s lush Valley of the Kings and ideally situated mere minutes from the cultural hub of Ubud, the Viceroy Bali is an intimate resort of just 40 pool villas and four suites, ensuring you receive the most personalised and heartfelt of welcome (the Balinese are famed far and wide for their warm hospitality).