Holiday Architects

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Holiday Architects

We're a UK-based tour operator specialising in tailor-made holidays. We design, for you to discover.

08/02/2025

🇵🇪 High up in the Sacred Valley, at 12,342 feet (3,762 meters) above sea level, you'll find Chinchero – a charming town where Andean tradition meets epic scenery. Our Peru expert, Dawn, spent time here and loved every moment:

"The rustic and charming town of Chinchero, tucked away between Cusco and Urubamba, is known for its rich cultural heritage and its stunning natural beauty. You can explore the town's ancient ruins and learn about traditional weaving techniques at the Chinchero Weavers' Cooperative – the textiles here are incredible, so bring some local sols because you’ll definitely want to make a purchase!

Sundays are particularly special, as locals gather to barter with cattle and crops – it was a magical experience. The views are spectacular, with rolling hills, snow-capped mountains, and locals in traditional dress adding to the atmosphere. My guide, Abel, was fantastic, stopping at all the right places away from the crowds – it was perfect!"*

If you're planning a trip to the Sacred Valley, Chinchero is well worth adding to your itinerary. Just remember to take it slow – the altitude is no joke! If you want to chat more about it, our Dawn would love to hear from you! 🌄🦙

06/02/2025

🇯🇵 Kanazawa might not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a trip to Japan, but don't overlook it! A city of beautifully preserved history, stunning gardens, and a glimpse into Japan’s past, it’s a must for anyone who loves culture and atmosphere. Emma, our Japan expert, recently visited and had this to say:

"I loved spending time in Kanazawa – this small city on the northern side of the island of Honshu is also known as Little Kyoto, mainly down to the Edo-era streets you'll find in the centre and the geisha culture that lies therein. You really feel like you're in Japan of yesteryear when you're surrounded by these beautiful typical houses with wooden slat fronts and sliding paper doors. There are also some old samurai houses there that are worth exploring, preserved to show you the typical way in which these iconic Japanese figures used to live, and a magnificent castle with some mind-boggling engineering that’s well worth getting to know. Kanazawa is definitely one for the history buffs!

Immediately next to the castle, you'll also find Kenrokuen Garden, which is described as one of the top three landscape gardens in the country, and it's definitely obvious to see why! The perfectly manicured grounds are filled with cherry blossom trees in spring and come alive with rich reds and oranges in autumn, and are large enough for a good couple of hours spent wandering along its magical walkways. See if you can spot some of the gardeners meticulously working on the moss that covers some of the beds – it's crazy how precise and thorough these professionals are!"

If you love history, gardens, and a bit of old-world Japan, Kanazawa is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. Emma and Fenton, our brilliant Japan experts, can help with that! 🍁🏯

05/02/2025

If you're looking for the "holiday of a lifetime", Japan might just be for you. And there are few better people to help make it a reality than our Fenton! ⛩🇯🇵

The best spots in Japan really do book up a long time in advance, so please do get in touch nice and early to give Fenton (and our other fab Japan expert, Emma), the best chance of snapping up the most perfect accommodation and experiences for you. 🇯🇵

04/02/2025

5 of our favourite things about Jordan... 🇯🇴

1. The Siq at Petra – That first glimpse of the Treasury through the narrow canyon walls? Goosebumps guaranteed.

2. Wadi Rum’s silence – There’s nothing quite like the feeling of standing in the desert, with nothing but sand, rock, and sky stretching out around you.

3. Jordanian hospitality – Whether it’s a friendly chat over mint tea or a full-on feast with a local family, Jordanians make you feel welcome everywhere you go.

4. The food – Mansaf, falafel, freshly baked bread straight from the taboon – Jordan is a dream for food lovers.

5. Floating in the Dead Sea – It’s a classic for a reason. Feeling that floating, weightless feeling is one of those lifetime 'must-do' experiences.

Have you been yet? Our Jordan experts Cat and Ian are on hand for a chat if you think the magic of Jordan could be for you! 🇯🇴

30/01/2025

We couldn't love these photos more! 🇲🇦

Catherine and Jonathan are two of our very favourite clients here at HA, having travelled with us to many corners of the world over the years. 🌍

Here they are earlier this month, enjoying the magic of beautiful Morocco and its wonderful people. What a way to kick off 2025! 📸 A huge thank you to them, as always, for sharing their photos with us (and for trusting us with their holidays in the first place! 🧡)

29/01/2025

Cape Town has done it – last week the city officially scooped the top spot as Time Out’s Best City in the World for 2025! 🎉 🇿🇦 And honestly, we're not shocked in the slightest.

From its iconic landscapes and vibrant history to its world class food and drink scene, Cape Town packs a punch. Spend your mornings soaking up those views from Table Mountain, your afternoons dipping your toes in the Atlantic at one of its Blue Flag beaches, and your evenings sipping on some of the finest wines South Africa has to offer.

It’s no wonder 97% of locals say living here makes them happy. Who wouldn’t be, with all this on your doorstep?

And, with a South Africa holiday, Cape Town really is just the start. If the Rainbow Nation isn’t already on your holiday radar, it deserves a spot! 🇿🇦 Chat to one of our South Africa experts today for a quote.

28/01/2025

🇮🇳 We're SO happy to have India back on our HA holiday list. And, with our brilliant India aficionado, Clare, on board – you're in the best hands. We asked Clare why she's most excited to be designing India holidays with us, and here's what she said...

🌏 India is huge, and no two trips I plan will ever look the same. Every itinerary is completely tailored to you – no cookie-cutter holidays here and I love that.

💡 As a small travel company, we’ve got the freedom to get creative. There are no restrictive contracts or pre-set packages here – just holidays that are all about what you want to get from your time in India.

🚂 India’s getting easier to explore. The road and rail networks have been vastly improved, making those magic off-the-beaten-track adventures more accessible than ever. Think sleepy villages, remote temples, and tucked-away treasures.

🧡 Simply, I just can't wait to share my love of India with you. Whether it’s insider tips, travel hacks, or first-hand knowledge from my own adventures, I’ve got you covered.

✨ Plus, any excuse to head back to India and research (aka unearth shiny new hotels and amazing experiences for your holidays) is a win for me!

🎨 What I love most? Finding out what you’re passionate about. Tea plantations, family heritage, railways, architecture, archaeology, artisans… you name it, we’ll make it happen.

Honestly, I can’t think of anything better than talking about India all day – so let’s chat! What’s on your India wish list?

https://holidayarchitects.co.uk/india/

25/01/2025

A snapshot of South Africa! 🇿🇦

We love these photos from our clients Ann and Keith who saw 2024 out in style with an adventure to the Rainbow Nation.

📸 A huge thank you to them both for sharing them with us. 😀 Seeing photos of your happy holiday faces really means the world.

22/01/2025

Could a wildlife extravaganza of a holiday through Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands be the next big holiday you've been looking for? 🇪🇨

Our Dawn can help with that! 👋

21/01/2025

Spring blooms, ancient wonders and plenty of expert insight. Jordan in the spring is warm, welcoming, and comes complete with hillsides bursting with wildflowers – including the rare black iris. Our Jordan experts, Cat and Ian, know Jordan inside out and love this time of year for its colour and vibrancy – it offers something a little bit special. They're already busy designing plenty of tailor-made Jordan holidays for 2025, and this itinerary is a great example of what’s possible. 🇯🇴 🐪

Start in Amman, exploring the Ajloun Forest Reserve, home to diverse wildlife and green landscapes. Next up, head to the Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest nature reserve, where rare plants and animals thrive. Of course, no trip to Jordan is complete without a visit to the wonder of Petra, the legendary ‘Rose City’. End your journey on the shores of the Red Sea with a spot of world-class diving or simply bobbing along weightlessly in the waters, before heading off for some migratory birdwatching at the Aqaba Bird Observatory. This Jordan holiday idea is the perfect mix of nature, history and relaxation. But, of course, your adventure will be designed just for you.

https://holidayarchitects.co.uk/jordan/holidays/jordan-in-the-spring/

Get in touch with Cat or Ian today if you think a Jordan adventure might tick your boxes this spring. 🇯🇴

18/01/2025

Wild landscapes, winding roads and wildlife encounters. Our new Canada expert, Paul, has designed this self-drive adventure around British Colombia for those who love the open road and don’t mind going the extra mile to find true wilderness. 🇨🇦🍁

Starting in Vancouver, you’ll head north through Vancouver Island, taking the Inside Passage ferry to Prince Rupert before journeying through the vast landscapes of British Columbia. Expect remote towns, endless forests and a serious dose of tranquillity. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for bears, eagles and whales – this is Canada at its wildest. 🍁

Could Canada be the 2025 adventure you've been looking for? Get in touch with Paul to chat more about it.

https://holidayarchitects.co.uk/canada-holidays/holidays/ultimate-british-columbia/

16/01/2025

One thing you need to know about Team HA? We're HUGE foodies. From tense lunch-option debates on our team chat, to full debriefs on what we ate every stop of our travels – we're invested in our stomachs in a big way! 🧡

And food is one of the many reasons we love Vietnam so much. 🍜

Food is the right at the heart of Vietnam. One of our favourite things to do is stroll through a busy Hanoi street market, the aroma of fresh herbs and sizzling street food all around. Slurping on a steaming bowl of hot pho, it's fragrant broth warming your soul, or chowing down on the freshest banh mi imaginable – at the very best local spot to try it. When you travel with us, we’ll guide you to the best hidden food spots – and we'll want to hear all about your favourites when you get home!

Explore Vietnam: www.holidayarchitects.co.uk/vietnam

15/01/2025

📍Otherworldly Namibia

Imagine this: It’s dawn in the Namib Desert. The air is beautifully cool and crisp, and the sand dunes are tinged with gold as the sun slowly rises. You’re standing on the crest of the monstrous Dune 45, watching the world’s oldest desert wake up.

We can make you a promise. Namibia is a place unlike any other you'll have ever visited. Whether it’s the surreal landscapes of Deadvlei or the desert-adapted wildlife of Etosha, the country is unique to its core. And Kirsty, our top tier Namibia specialist, knows all the secret spots to make your trip unforgettable. Ready to explore? Get in touch to find out more.

11/01/2025

Here are the smiling faces of our Rebecca and Kim exploring Fez on their recent Morocco research trip. 🇲🇦

Deep in the heart of Fez, they explored the city’s famous tanneries – some of the oldest in the world.

If you’ve never seen the tanneries of Fez, imagine this: rows of giant stone vats filled with vibrant dyes and natural treatments, all used in the centuries-old process of turning raw hides into soft, colourful leather.

The work is done entirely by hand, from soaking hides in lime and pigeon droppings (yes, really – it softens the leather!) to dyeing them with natural colours like poppy for red, saffron for yellow, and indigo for blue. It’s an intricate and labour-intensive process, and such a brilliant one to witness.

From chatting with local artisans and soaking up the sights and scents (pungent but fascinating!) of this iconic place – chat to Rebecca if you fancy visiting the tanneries on your own Morocco holiday. It's messy, vibrant, and totally mesmerising – just like Fez itself. ✨

09/01/2025

With us, the excitement of your holiday starts from the moment you pick up the phone. 👋

From your first call with one of our experts, all the way to landing home with a head full of memories – you'll be part of our world. And that's a world where we'll be every bit as excited about your holiday as you are!

Have you planned your 2025 adventure yet? If not, you know where we are if you want to chat through the options.

08/01/2025

Have your adventures taken you to Cape Town yet? 🇿🇦

Blue skies, warm waters, incredible food, rich history, brilliant people and let's not forget the Winelands right on the doorstep.

A huge thank you to Angela and Karl for sharing this snap of their South Africa holiday last year. Their smiles say it all – this is what unforgettable travel moments look like! 💛

Explore more of what you could experience on your very own South Africa holiday, or get in touch to chat to our experts about how we'd tailor your trip to be perfect for you. www.holidayarchitects.co.uk/south-africa

04/01/2025

It's a brand new year of travel, and some incredible destinations are already stealing the show here at HA HQ. You're seeking out bucket-list ticking adventures, wildlife encounters, and culture-packed escapes, all sprinkled with our signature HA touch of authenticity, connection and plenty of those unforgettable magic moments – of course.

Here’s a little peak behind the curtain at where everyone’s heading so far this year, along with some exciting 'up and comers'! ... will you follow the trends or go off piste?

If you want to chat holidays, you know where we are! 🧡

www.holidayarchitects.co.uk/the-most-popular-destinations-for-2025-so-far

02/01/2025

Let's be having you 2025! 🎉

We're ready to make our mark in a big way this year. With big holidays, big plans, big travels and even bigger smiles.

Our Dodds has started us off brilliantly by spray painting the HA logo (remarkably well! 👏) loud and proud during her recent adventures in Barcelona. *Disclaimer: This was part of a fun birthday excursion, she hasn't turned full blown rebel on us!

We're ready to talk all things holidays. So pick up the phone, give us a call on 01242 253 073 and let's chat. ☺️

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Cheltenham
GL501TA

Telephone

+441242253073

Website

https://holidayarchitects.co.uk/

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Videos

✨ This is India ✨ We’re so excited to shout about this – India is back, and has officially reclaimed its spot in the 'HA Holidays' portfolio. If you’ve been dreaming of vibrant cities, epic landscapes, incredible food, and adventures that take you right off the beaten track, then India’s got your name written all over it. Clare, our resident India expert, couldn’t be more ready to hit the ground running. Not long back from her latest research trip, she’s full of tips, tricks, and first-hand stories to help craft your perfect trip – whether it’s wandering through Rajasthan’s palaces, sipping chai in Darjeeling, or spotting tigers in the wild. Every trip we design is 100% tailor-made, so whatever you want your Indian adventure to look like, we’ll make it happen. Let’s chat about your India – we can’t wait to hear what’s on your list! 🌏✨ #IndiaIsBack #TailorMadeIndia #LetsGoToIndia #HolidayArchitects

Wow. Wow. Wow. 🤩 We can't thank HA client, Damien, enough for sharing this fantastic footage from his Galapagos holiday with us. When they say the Galapagos Islands are a wildlife paradise on earth, they're really not kidding! 🎥 Could 2025 be the year you walk in Charles Darwin's footsteps, sharing the beaches with giant tortoises and spot blue-footed boobies? Chat to our Lou and Dawn, they know all there is to know about planning an island-hopping adventure you'll never forget. 🐢

Canada is back! 🇨🇦 Have you heard the news? We're so so excited that Canada is out of hibernation and back on the HA holiday books. 🍁 Plus, with our new Canada expert Paul at the helm – it's set to be bigger and better than ever! “I’m really excited to be relaunching Canada, as it is such a special place that exceeds expectations. It’s home to some of nature’s finest masterpieces, like the well-known Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls, but also to some of the lesser-travelled wonders, like the Bay of Fundy or Dinosaur Provincial Park. Each offers different and unique experiences, but all are equally amazing." Paul Paul's aleady been working hard to uncover some great holiday ideas for you, too: "If you’re a forward-planner and think a 2026 Canada holiday could be for you, there’s such a brilliant offer on at the moment. The Rocky Mountaineer are offering up to $1000CAD off rail adventures per couple if you book before 31st March this year. Rail travel is such a magic way to experience Canada – if you’d like to chat more about it, I’d love to help!" Get in touch to chat to Paul about all things Canada today! (Music: Triumph by StudioKolomna)

📍 Kanazawa, Japan "A lovely stay in "Little Kyoto" – aka Kanazawa, a beautiful little city on the north side of Honshu, Japan's main island. Filled with samurai history, intricate gardens, and Edo-era streets, it's just such a charming part of Japan. It's a two-and-a-half-hour bullet train from Tokyo, dead easy to reach and one not to be missed. We loved our time here!" Emma, HA Japan expert. Could Japan be your next big adventure? #kanazawajapan #kanazawatrip #kanazawacity

Have you experienced the magic of a safari yet? If not, maybe 2024 is the year? Something tells us elephant sightings like this would be impossible to forget. 🐘 Give our Africa experts a call today to chat about where might be the best safari spot for you. We'll use all of our insider knowledge to piece together your perfect adventure, from lodges that are right up your savannah to secret experiences to add something that little bit extra-special to your safari adventure. #Safariholidays #AfricanAdventures #HolidayArchitects

What if your next family holiday served you up a great big slice of Pura Vida magic in #CostaRica? A huge thank you to the brilliant (and exceptionally talented reel creator) @cala_travel for allowing us to share this top notch memory of their family adventure last month. 🧡 🌴 🇨🇷 🦥 Now’s the time to get your summer holiday booked… give our Costa Rica experts Lou and Dawn a call today, they know all the very best bits! Explore more: www.holidayarchitects.co.uk/costarica/

Sloth spotting in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

"You're not beautiful, but you are attractive in a different way." 🦥 Dawn, one of our fab Costa Rica experts, just got sent possibly the best video we've ever received from a client on their holidays. 🇨🇷 🎥 A huge thank you to Tony for sending us this incredible capture of a sloth in the Osa Peninsula. (And the commentary could not have been better... all of Team HA now want that printed on t-shirts.) 😊

It's Friday! 🧡 We hope you're all swinging into the weekend as chirpily as our Rebecca was swinging through life on her most recent adventure in the Maldives. 🥰 (We'd be this smiley too if we were enjoying a stay at the beautiful Sun Siyam Olhuveli!)

👋 Meet Mike Our Vietnam Experts, Fenton and Erin, were lucky enough to spend a few days with Mike in Hanoi on their recent research trip to Vietnam. Here he shares a little about why he loves guiding people around his beautiful country. 🇻🇳 Authentic interactions with local people have always been one of our favourite things about travel. Real conversations, unplanned moments, shared stories and new friendships. They're what travel is all about. And guides like Mike help make those happen. 😊

Getting lost in the beauty and history of Peru’s Machu Picchu is something everyone needs to experience in their life. ✨🇵🇪 This adventure through the clouds will lead you to an ancient wonder of the world, fill your camera with photos, your heart with incredible memories and leave you speechless in the process. 🧡 You may well meet a llama or two on the way, too! 🦙 . . . . #MachuPicchu #Peru #Travelgoals #holidayarchitects #luxurytravel #adventure#visitperu #travelingram #travelgram #instatravel

Ah, venturing out for the post-turkey, Boxing Day waddle. We know it well. We hope you all had the best day yesterday and are merrily rolling into the christmas/New Year limbo week. 🎥 The penguins on Boulder's Beach, South Africa

A huge Happy Christmas from all of us, to all of you. 🎄 We hope your day is filled with love, laughter, happy memories, holiday planning (of course) and all of the food. 💛 #happychristmas

Shortcuts

We design, for you to discover...

Everything we do is designed specifically for you, and that design process starts with an initial conversation. We like to have that conversation to get to know you and understand the key things you want to get out of the holiday and we find the best way to do that is a friendly chat over the phone (or email if you prefer), where we take the time to really listen to what it is you want from your trip. We’ve travelled to our specialist destination many times, so we’ll also provide plenty of inspiration and ideas that we feel may best suit you. It’s because of our knowledge and experience that we are also able to offer honest advice about a destination, as we’ve most likely stayed in that certain hotel or gone on a particular quirky excursion ourselves; this will ensure you are able to make the right choices for your trip.

Next, your dedicated specialist will carefully design you an itinerary, with a price, and send that to you within 48hrs. This is very much a first draft and we can revise as necessary until we’ve got it exactly right for you. This is where we differ from our competitors as you’re not just going to get a standard itinerary, but something which is designed to your requirements with care. We take huge pride in our clients having the best possible holiday. Upon booking, you can rest easy, as your money is 100% protected either by our ATOL bonding or through our Travel Vault membership. Things don’t end there though, as our dedicated team is here on the phone and on the ground; to provide you with great service and peace of mind throughout your trip, so you can focus on your next discovery.