https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/joanna.merredew

Merredew Travel, Amersham (2025)

25/06/2025

Chasing Mediterranean Glamour aboard Explora II 🌊✨

This summer I am excited to experience something different with my family. We'll be setting sail from Barcelona to Rome on the brand-new Explora II ship, retracing Grace Kelly’s iconic Mediterranean honeymoon!

Sailing from Barcelona to Rome, we'll stop in Saint Tropez and Monte Carlo for some Côte d’Azur chic then island-hop through the rugged beauty of Corsica and soak in the jet-set atmosphere of Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda. Golden beaches, crystal coves, and cultural gems from classical antiquity to the Renaissance will frame each day.

Explora Journeys is smaller ship luxury where children are also welcome and offers a wide spectrum of journeys—from sun-kissed Mediterranean escapes, thrilling Caribbean, Central American and Alaskan voyages, Adriatic island hoppers, to Iceland and Greenland exploration, longer grand cruises and Transatlantic adventures.

I've already booked clients for 2026 on some fantastic offers. Please let me know if you'd like detailed info on any of these routes—or help choosing the perfect sailing for your next adventure!

24/06/2025

Introducing the new Grecotel Filoxenia, Kalamata ! 🇬🇷

Grecotel Filoxenia is a stylish, family‑friendly beachfront resort on the edge of Kalamata in the Peloponnese, set beside the shores of the Messinian Gulf and backed by the dramatic Taygetos mountains.

With the olive & palm gardens flowing into the sea and gorgeous infinity pools, the elegant and exclusive 150 room & suite newly renovated resort is ideal for couples, friends and families.

Children up 12 years stay free and enjoy a vast range of sports and activities. From mini football and laser tag to baking experiences and pottery classes! Evenings feature movie nights, while daytime excursions to nearby islands with the whole family offer more fun and exploration.

The peaceful Olive Spa features an indoor pool, four luxurious massage cabins and a fully equipped gym. Named after the signature tree of Messinia, the olive, it offers rejuvenating natural treatments infused with essential oils from wild aromatic plants of the Messinian region, hand-harvested on the slopes of nearby Mount Taygetos.

The hotel offers a true taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage across its restaurants and bars to celebrate exceptional local ingredients.

It's also available this summer. Please message me for more details.

19/06/2025

A Winter Lapland Escape - Polar Sky Suites in Saariselkä 🌲

We may only be in July and one of the hottest days of the year, however most trips to Lapland for peak months are now full. This amazing new property has capacity for December 2025 which will not last long!

Perched high above the village of Saariselkä in Finnish Lapland, the brand-new Polar Sky Suites offer panoramic glass ceilings and laser-heated sky windows to spot the northern lights from the comfort of bed.

Enjoy a range of Lappish activities on this three-night adventure, including reindeer rides and of course the magical opportunity to meet Santa in his snowy home.

You’ll explore the area by getting a little further afield on a snowmobile. Gliding through the impossibly still forest and the crisp, clear Lapland air, you’ll come across some of the most beautiful natural landscapes anywhere in Finland.

Highlights include:

✅ Private sauna & en suite bathroom
✅ Spectacular stargazing from your glass-roofed cabin
✅ Resort Transfers
✅ Sleeps up to 4 – ideal for couples or small families

18/06/2025

Just Booked ✈️ Summer in Quinta Do Lago, Portugal 🇵🇹

I've visited the stylish Quinta Do Lago, Portugal several times and this gem of a hotel ticks every box for a summer escape. Surrounded by the Ria Formosa nature reserve and in walking distance to the wide sweep of sandy beach and lake, there is no shortage of sporting activities for active families.

The Wyndham Grand Algarve is a lovely 'apartment style' hotel; an excellent choice for families who prefer more space with all the facilities of a five star hotel.

Please contact me if you are still looking for a summer trip perfectly suited to your own family.

12/06/2025

Travel Offer ✈Escape to beachfront paradise in Aruba 🇦🇼

7 nights from £2,199 per person based on 2 sharing.

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba offers an enchanting escape for Caribbean coast exploration and relaxation. Set moments from Palm Beach, this tranquil haven is the ideal retreat for a boutique getaway.

The hotel's Coco Casita rooms are your own slice of paradise, featuring stylish Caribbean-inspired décor, private patios with hammocks, and outdoor showers under a canopy of stars.

Step outside and you’re just a short stroll from the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Palm Beach for swimming, snorkelling or paddle boarding.

Dine at charming nearby eateries, from beachside shacks serving freshly grilled seafood to stylish restaurants. The Coco Casita rooms are also equipped with a fully stocked kitchenette, perfect for preparing a laid-back breakfast.

Wander through Aruba’s rugged landscapes, from the serene oasis of Arikok National Park to the natural pools hidden away in rocky coves. Return to the hotel for a peaceful dip in the pools or a yoga session.

What’s included:

• 7 nights at Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba, Aruba in a Coco Casita room.

• Flights from London Heathrow on 17/09/2025; with private transfers

Subject to availability. Please give me a call for further details and for other dates. Offer price based on 2 adults sharing. Prices are correct at the time of posting. Offers are subject to change.

07/06/2025

Just Booked ✈ Paphos, Cyprus

Delighted to have booked a family to one of my favourite hotels (along with it's sister hotel, The Almyra) next month. Annabelle in Cyprus is situated in
one of the loveliest locations in all of Paphos, amid exotic gardens that creep elegantly towards the Mediterranean. It's a fusion of Cypriot antiquity and mod cons. Think heritage, elegance and sophistication plus oodles of fun in the sun! It's also walkable to bustling Paphos with a wealth of bars and restaurants.

If you are still looking for a family summer break please contact me for ideas...

02/06/2025

Just booked ✈️ Summer in Indonesia 🇮🇩

Last month was so busy with last minute summer holiday bookings! Indonesia is a perfect South East Asian destination to visit during our UK summer hols and a great choice for families with older children.

My first family will be jetting off in July for combined adventure and relaxation across Bali and Lombok. From laid-back surf beach vibes in Canggu to a burst of adventure in Ubud zip lining through jungle canopies, quad biking through the countryside, and white water rafting on the Ayung River. The trip ends in Lombok for peaceful beach time and snorkelling trips to the nearby Gili Islands.

Another family will venture from a two centre beach stay in Lombok and the Gili Islands to explore the wonders of Komodo National Park and idyllic surrounding islands on a traditional Phinisi liveaboard boat with further days exploring Flores.

It has been a pleasure to design these incredible trips. If you are still looking for a summer adventure, please contact me!

24/05/2025

Secrets of Egypt & The Nile 🇪🇬

Discover the secrets of ancient Egypt with a river cruise along the majestic Nile.

Immerse yourself in history as you sail past breathtaking temples, iconic pyramids, and uncover stories of a fascinating civilisation.

AmaWaterways offers the perfect blend of luxury and adventure, so you can relax in style while exploring this timeless destination.

From the colossal temples of Luxor to the intricate details of ancient hieroglyphics, every moment on this journey tells a story.

Indulge in luxurious amenities onboard as you immerse yourself in Egypt’s wonders, combining relaxation with exploration in perfect harmony.

21/05/2025

Discover Costa Rica’s natural wonders 🇨🇷

9 nights from £2,555 per person based on two sharing.

Costa Rica is a country of impressive landscapes, lively wildlife, and one-of-a-kind experiences. This carefully planned itinerary takes you from the streets of San Jose to volcanic terrains, lush rainforests, tranquil lakes, and golden beaches.

Each day offers the chance to connect with nature while exploring the culture and charm of this stunning country. Whether it’s the calls of toucans in the treetops, the soothing warmth of thermal springs, or the thrill of cloud forest zip-lining.

San Jose | Arenal (2 nights) | Monteverde (2 nights) | Tamarindo (3 nights) | San Jose

What’s included:

• 9 nights in Costa Rica

• Range of accommodation on bed and breakfast basis

• Flights from London Heathrow on 01/11/2025

• Night frog watching tour

• Boat ride across Lake Arenal to Monteverde

• Zip-lining through the Cloud Forest

Please give me a call for further details. Price based on 2 adults sharing with a November departure.

15/05/2025

Who watched Race Across the World Last night? 🇨🇳

I'm on catch up so still in China! I've been dreaming of this amazing small group exploration with G Adventures. 🏯 China & Tibet Awaits! Uncover emperors, monks & mountain majesty on this 18-day adventure of a lifetime.

Beginning with Beijing, Xian's Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall, you'll then head off the beaten track as you make your way to through Tibet's mountainous terrain, visiting some of the world's oldest monasteries. Camp overnight in yak hair tents to glimpse Mount Everest. This thrilling tour with two days in Kathmandu, Nepal's cultural capital.

Best of China & Tibet highlights

✨ Walk the Great Wall
✨ Visit the Terracotta Warriors
✨ Ride a high-speed train to Lhasa
✨ Meet pandas in Chengdu
✨ Explore ancient Tibetan monasteries
🛏 Nomadic Tent (1 night), Hotel (15 nights). | 🚄 All travel included

Price from £3,150 per person based on two sharing with international flights extra. Departures as soon as August 2025 still available. Please contact me for more information and to book.

13/05/2025

May Half Term Getaways! 🇬🇷

There are still pockets of availability for villas during May half term and this time of year is just perfect for a Greek getaway.

Villa Athina sits on the hillside above Agios Nikitas on the west coast of Lefkada. The village has its own pretty beach and enough tavernas to ring the changes for at least a week!

It’s a popular spot in the height of summer, but those lucky enough to be staying nearby will find the village quietens considerably as evening falls, so you can enjoy a relaxed stroll around its cobbled streets and traditional buildings as you choose your dinner spot.

From the pool area you look out over Lefkada’s rugged, forest-clad mountains, whilst the front patio offers equally wonderful views of the sea in all its shades of blue.

There’s plenty of room here to enjoy evening drinks or a barbecue, complemented by the nightly spectacle of a stunning Ionian sunset.

The interior is practical and comfortable, with two good-sized en-suite bedrooms located on the main terrace level, and a bright, airy living-dining area upstairs to take full advantage of the view.

Contact me for more details on this villa and other May Half Term steals!

Merredew Travel

25/06/2025

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12/06/2025

07/06/2025

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24/05/2025

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