The Ultimate Travel Company

19/06/2024

New Zealand is rich in opportunity for adventure. With nearly a third of the country falling within national park boundaries. Is there any other destination where you can paddle a kayak through a marine reserve, stroll through a colony of yellow-eyed penguins or clamber up the sides of a volcano all in one day? ⁠
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This island nation is truly set apart, though, by its exclusive lodges. These are invariably owner-run and found in some of the most beautiful hideaway locations; they provide the perfect roost for exploring this incredible country, offering a unique and privileged experience.⁠
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Explore the Franz Josef Glaciers by helicopter, take a whale-watching cruise in Kaikoura or even swim with dolphins. For the real thrill-seekers, Queenstown promises adrenaline-fuelled bungee-jumping, white water rafting and tandem hang-gliding. Lovers of great food and wine can sample Sauvignon Blancs at the cellar doors of award-winning Marlborough wineries, or eat their way through the world-class restaurants of Wellington, Christchurch, and Blenheim.⁠
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New Zealand, simply put, is rich in culture and adventure. Talk with our experts today, who are on hand to help you plan your bespoke trip. Call us on 020 3553 0208⁠
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17/06/2024

We are delighted to share our latest Escorted Tours Calendar with details of the trips scheduled in the coming months.
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From long weekends in Europe to journeys further afield in such sought-after destinations as Japan, Nepal and Peru, we do hope that there is something here to inspire you. If boats are your thing, then we can offer a classic Nile cruise amidst the wonders of ancient Egypt, a gentle meander through the beautiful Keralan backwaters in southern India or an exhilarating island-hopping adventure in the Galápagos.⁠
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Whatever your preference, rest assured you will be travelling in informal small groups, with fun, like-minded travellers, accompanied by our leaders and experts who will ensure a smooth, trouble-free holiday.⁠

View tours: https://www.theultimatetravelcompany.co.uk/escorted-tours.
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We would love to hear from you so please do get in contact our Escorted Tours team on 020 7386 4620 or [email protected] to reserve a place on a tour.⁠
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12/06/2024

As we prepare for the start of summer, we reflect on a busy month of escorted tours last month. including a small group exploration of Peru led by our own Hamish Van Gruisen. Read on to discover Hamish's favourite moments of the tour...⁠
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A favourite experience was visiting the former Incan fortress and citadel of Ollantaytambo. Found in Peru’s Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo was built just as the Spaniards arrived into the country and is known for being one stronghold where the Incas were never defeated. ⁠
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Second on the list, and unsurprisingly considering its grandeur and a spectacle, was Machu Pichu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds such significant importance culturally and is seen as a sacred place to that of the Inca’s. Personal comments from Hamish continue to highlight Machu Pichu with it being, “Bigger and better than anything you see in the photos”. ⁠
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Another highlight that must not be forgotten, was the 2 day train journey on the luxurious Belmond Andean Explorer, which travels between Cusco, Colca Canyon and Arequipa. ⁠
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And of course, catching sight of the Andean Condor in Colca Canyon, must not go unmentioned!⁠
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If Peru is on your bucket list, join Joanna Worsley in April 2025 for the next escorted tour to the sacred land of the Incas! Call our experts to reserve your place - 020 3553 0208.⁠
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07/06/2024

With more than four decades of first-hand experience, travelling to all four corners of our planet in search of hidden gems, we have an enviable edge in sharing its wonders with you. Our handpicked selection of ‘unlocked’ destination ideas offer something a little different, from exciting new properties, places and routes to the truly remote. ⁠
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Explore the Southern Alps of New Zealand's South Island with the alpine lodges at Minaret Station, which are only accessible by helicopter. Visit one of the Earth's most remote islands, St Helena Island, as part of a trip to South Africa with direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town. Witness even more of South America's and Antarctica's wildlife with new charter flights in Chile between Explora Hotels - see both the Patagonian National Park and the Torres del Paine in one trip - or an adventure in the Ross Sea with Aurora Expeditions and see Emperor Penguins. In Nepal stay in Shinta Mani Mustang, found in the Mustang region, previously known for its inaccessibility.⁠
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Begin planning your bespoke adventure today. Give our dedicated team of destination experts a call - 020 3553 0208.⁠
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06/06/2024

With reports coming out from Botswana, we are thrilled to hear that the flood waters are returning and soon to fill the Okavango Delta.⁠
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The return of Botswana's highly anticipated High Season, means expectant travellers are, in turn, more likely to experience the diverse range of wildlife that congregate in the Delta when the floods arrive.⁠
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If you are as excited as we are and want to visit the dazzling jewel in Botswana’s crown then get in touch with one of our Africa experts to start planning your tailor-made safari - 020 3553 0208⁠
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04/06/2024

We strive to deliver a first class service for each guest who travels with us. Our enthusiastic, flexible and personal service takes the stress out of organising the adventure of a lifetime!⁠
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31/05/2024

A note from Nick Van Gruisen:⁠
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I am pleased to share my 2025 escorted tour dates, before they go on general sale. Hopefully you can join me! I would love your company.⁠
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I am taking groups to:⁠
Costa Rica 18 February – 2 March 2025⁠
Namibia 18 – 30 March 2025⁠
Jordan 4 – 14 April 2025⁠
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I know Namibia well, having first led safaris there in the 1970s when it was called South West Africa. I have revisited many times and it has changed little. A fabulous, unique country.⁠
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All the other destinations are new to me which is exciting. All very popular and I have no doubt we will have perfect visits. ⁠
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If you would like to reserve a place on any of these holidays or indeed have any questions please contact myself or Emily on 020 7386 4664 or [email protected].⁠
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Fingers crossed we can travel together next year!⁠
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Best wishes,⁠
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Nick⁠
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20/05/2024

With a world of destinations awaiting... you might as well explore in style.⁠
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Considering how 70% of our planet is made up of water, there is no surprise that travelling on our world's waterways will lead you practically anywhere - and with a wide variety of choices on offer, there is no better time to begin your next adventure with us. ⁠
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Witness the incredible wildlife of Africa from a different perspective, a river vessel on the Chobe River, or charter an ocean-going Dhow to explore the Kenyan coast. In South America discover the incredibly contrasting nature of the continent. Discover the white continent of Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions, or for warmer climates, head to the Peruvian Amazon with Aqua Expeditions. If ultra-modern luxury is more your style, choose a state-of-the-art yacht like Aqua Blu to explore Asia, or for something closer to home, perhaps it is time to explore Europe via its vast river systems.⁠
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Begin your tailor-made holiday today and give our dedicated team of expert consultants a call - 020 3553 0208.⁠
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15/05/2024

Here at The Ultimate Travel Company, we are constantly striving to provide an enthusiastic, personable and friendly service that keeps our guests returning time and time again...⁠
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13/05/2024

We are excited to share with you that, for the second year running, we have been nominated for 'Best Tour Operators & Specialists' category of the Condé Nast Readers Choice Awards!⁠
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The deadline for voting is approaching, so whether you have travelled with us before, have yet to do so or are friends of The Ultimate Travel Company, we would be very grateful it if you could take a couple of moments to vote for us. Voting closes Sunday 30th June 2024.⁠
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Voting is easy - just follow the link down below. There are a few questions, but you can skip through and just answer those of interest. We would really appreciate your support. ⁠

http://www.cntraveller.com/article/vote-readers-choice-awards
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09/05/2024

Following on from last night’s episode of the BBC’s Race Across the World the teams find themselves negotiating Thailand, with the archipelago of islands – Koh Phi Phi – as their next checkpoint. In this part of the adventure, the teams travel through some of our favourite destinations including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi and Phuket.⁠
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Thailand, or the ‘Land of Smiles’, reveals a world of timeless charm and beauty. Bangkok, where most adventures begin, is a captivating blend of ancient and ultra-modern. Venture north to Chiang Mai, to discover an ancient kingdom encircled by lush countryside, and immerse yourself in its cultural and history. When it comes to beaches, Thailand has some of the world’s finest. Relax on Phuket's legendary palm-fringed beaches, or head to Krabi, found on Thai’s mainland, where you'll find clear waters, sandy beaches, and coral reefs.⁠
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If watching the teams’ journey through Thailand has given you inspiration for your own Ultimate adventure, let our Asia experts design a tailor-made itinerary that shows you the best that South East Asia has to offer! Get in touch 020 3553 0208. ⁠ ⁠
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06/05/2024

When travelling by train, you'll see life from a different angle and perspective, from the comfort of your carriage.⁠
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A train journey can be the heartbeat of many extraordinary global adventures. South America’s greatest archaeological sites might be on your wish list or a coast to coast odyssey on the other side of the world in Australia. You may prefer a Rovos Rail safari through South Africa’s most iconic destinations or the art deco style and romance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express on a visit to some of Europe’s most alluring cities.⁠
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Begin your bespoke railway adventure today and give our dedicated team of expert consultants a call - 020 3553 0208.⁠
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02/05/2024

Catch last night's episode of the BBC's Race across the World? The teams are now in Cambodia where they had to travel around the Tonlé Sap Lake and then decide to either head east through Siem Reap or take a faster western route before reaching Thailand.⁠
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What might only be a town in perspective to the capital city, Siem Reap, is an essential destination for any explorer in Cambodia. Mainly because it’s a gateway to the lost city of Angkor, an ancient wonder of the world. The ruins offer awe-inspiring glimpses of the culture of the Khmer Empire. When you’re not visiting shrines, you can take a boat trips on the calm waters of the Tonlé Sap Lake to visit floating villages, where local traditions haven’t changed for centuries.⁠
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If watching the teams adventure through Cambodia has given you a desire for your own Ultimate adventure, let our Asia experts design a tailor-made itinerary that shows you the best that South East Asia has to offer! Get in touch 020 3553 0208.⁠ ⁠
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01/05/2024

A raving review from two happy clients who recently returned from their Ultimate experience in Egypt. ⁠
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Our experts meticulously design itineraries that are completely bespoke to their guests, building a relationship from the first call, to long after guests return home. It’s working in this style that enables our experts to deliver excellent service. ⁠
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If a tailor-made experience in Egypt is your idea of a dream getaway, then give our North African experts a call to start shaping your Ultimate trip - 020 3553 0208.⁠
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29/04/2024

Dreaming of an exotic spring getaway in 2025? An Ultimate Escorted Tour might be just the answer.⁠
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See the stunning natural wonders of Costa Rica with Nick Van Gruisen in February, or perhaps join one of our fellow tour leaders instead and you could be swimming with sealions and turtles in the Galapagos Islands, skimming the waters of the Mekong above Luang Prabang aboard a traditional Laotian long-tailed boat, or searching for orangutan and proboscis monkeys in the forests of Borneo. The choice is yours.⁠
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Spaces are limited, so give our Escorted Tours team a call as soon as possible to guarantee your place on any of the exciting journeys highlighted below - 020 7386 4620⁠
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#2025

28/04/2024

If you are watching the BBC's Race across the World tonight you’ll see that the teams have entered South East Asia, starting in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam before they make their way to Cambodia. ⁠
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Vietnam's electric capital city, Hanoi, has so much to offer the willing traveller, with it's captivating fusion of East and West. Gateway to the enchanting Halong Bay, the capital is the bustling centre of modern Vietnam whilst at the same time oozing old-world charm.⁠
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If watching the teams venture through Vietnam has given you a thirst for your own Ultimate adventure, let our Asia experts design a tailor-made itinerary that shows you the best that South East Asia has to offer! Get in touch 020 3553 0208.⁠
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25/04/2024

Discover Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island, and find a lodge that provides ‘beach house’ aesthetics, paired with dreamy ocean views to help set it apart from the rest. ⁠
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This property is one of our favourites in Australia, based on the East Coast off Sydney. Based in Lover’s Bay it’s a gem within a gem. The lodge has a free-flowing, understated style, with nine contemporary suites that echo the beauty of their natural surroundings that all look out across a turquoise lagoon to the ocean and mountain peaks. All suites boast luxurious king beds and ensuite bathrooms with oversized rain showers.⁠
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Capella Lodge puts its guests on the doorstep of the southern-most coral reef in the world, and many blissful days can be spent swimming, snorkelling and diving alongside rich marine life. To match with its aquatic aesthetic, Capella Lodge offers mouth-watering Pacific cuisine.⁠
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To find out more about organising your holiday to Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island or any of our other properties in Australia give our experts a call – 020 3553 0208 ⁠
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23/04/2024

We are pleased to share a mention in a recent piece by Siobhan Reid in Country Life Magazine titled “’Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge: The west at its wildest, showiest self’ where we are credited for 16-night tours of western Canada, taking in the Rockies and Vancouver Island.

'The tour also includes guided activities at the Wilderness Reserve, including kayaking, riding, mountain biking, wildlife viewing (whales, eagles, bears), archery, rappelling, rock climbing, stand-up paddle boarding, yoga classes, freshwater fishing and fly-casting, meditation and trail running.'

Read the full article here: https://www.countrylife.co.uk/travel/268030-268030

To start planning your Ultimate tailor-made itinerary call our experts - 02035 530208!

The Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is an experience like nothing else, as Siobhan Reid found out.

22/04/2024

Earth Day serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to take care of our planet. Since the beginning of 2020 we have made it our duty to offset the carbon emitted from the thousands of flights we arrange for our customers.⁠
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How is this possible? By planting 300 acres of Mangrove trees in Madagascar. Here we work with Offset Earth who work with partners in Madagascar to manage the reforesting project. Why Mangroves? They have a 10-year planting cycle, creating solid environments in a short period of time. They can also store up to four times as much carbon, per acre, in comparison to tropical rainforests and are stable habitats for a wide variety of species. Why Madagascar? Madagascar has lost 80% of its forest in the last 100 years. These planting initiatives also help provide employment to the local community.⁠
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The area we are planting in alone will absorb 37,000 tonnes of CO2 – exceeding the emissions from our own and our client’s travels. We know that it will not alone save our planet, but will hopefully help in a small way. Your support will be greatly appreciated, should you decide to book a holiday with The Ultimate Travel Company.⁠
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#2024

18/04/2024

Chile encompasses all the elements, creating a landscape that is truly astonishing. A place where you’ll find everything from lush alpine forests, the driest of deserts and thousands of fiery volcanoes, to the complete opposite extreme of epic glaciers and isolated coastal fjords.⁠
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Chile finds itself in a unique situation being 2,500 miles long but barely the width of England. Although a ‘thin’ country there are countless of experiences to immerse yourself in, especially if you are a fan of the natural world. Start off with the famously unique Atacama Desert and its salt pans, which gives it a strikingly similar lunar-esque landscape. Or, for an almost prehistoric feel, you can visit Easter Island with its enigmatic Moai statues. ⁠
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The astonishing natural beauty of Torres del Paine is one of the country’s most sought-after attractions, known for its epic trekking and views, here you’ll find yourself at the heart of the wilderness surrounded by glaciers, lakes, and soaring granite mountains. ⁠
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In contrast to the natural world, Chile is also famously known for its fine wines. With the warm and sunny climate of the Central Valley making prime growing conditions for the produce. Here you’ll find that everything from Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs to Merlots and Pinot Noirs are produced.⁠
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Chile has something for everyone’s appetite. Get in touch with our experts who are on hand to help you plan your bespoke trip. Call us on 020 3553 0208⁠
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16/04/2024

Did last weeks once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse across the America’s get you dreaming of a trip to get closer to the great cosmos? Then its time to turn that dream into a reality with The Ultimate Travel Company.

Seen as one of the last remaining named ‘Dark Sky’ places in the world, due to its isolation from light pollution. This state is an extremely rare and unique destination. We suggest staying at L’Auberge de Sedona. This boutique resort located in Red Rock country – where you will not only find world-beating rock formations but experience the magnificence of what our night sky appeared like millennia ago. ⁠
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To find out more and start planning your dream bespoke holiday call our experts today – 020 3553 0208.
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12/04/2024

A welcoming approach and being fully involved and engaged is exactly how we provide holidays that people love to remember. Our friendly and informed service allows for the creation of your bespoke upmarket holiday. ⁠
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10/04/2024

It’s been a busy month of escorted tours here at The Ultimate Travel Company! Louisa recently returned back from Sri Lanka after leading a 2 week small group tour. ⁠
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First, the group explored the cultural triangle, climbing the impressive Sigiriya Fortress and managing to squeeze in a morning safari searching for elephant and leopards! The tour then headed up to the North of the island, to visit Jaffna - a place less well known to tourists, which after suffering 26 years of war, has recently opened up to tourists looking to explore a city thats off the beaten track. ⁠
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The group then travelled to Kandy Hill Country for authentic cooking experiences, before embarking on the infamous train up to the tea country in Nuwara Eliya, or better known as ‘Little England.’ They ended their trip on the south of the island for a few days by the beach, although the more adventurous ones ended up going scuba diving. Never a minute’s rest!⁠
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Get in touch with our escorted tours team to secure your place on our next adventure - 020 3553 0208⁠
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08/04/2024

Zuri Zanzibar graces the shores of Northern Zanzibar. Located on one of Zanzibar’s best beaches, Kendwa provides calm, turquoise waters brilliant for swimming and snorkelling in.⁠
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The beaches are merely the beginning of this marvellous location. The hotel fronts itself with superb accommodation, which consists of 55 bungalows, suites and villas. A fantastic inclusive feature of tropical outdoor showers with each room brings you closer to nature. If you are looking for that little-extra opulence and privacy, then opt for a ocean-front luxury villa – giving you a private stretch of beach and an infinity pool.⁠
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Zuri Zanzibar also enables you to feel more in touch with the Zanzibaris and African culture with locally made furniture and African artwork filling up the rooms giving them their own unique flair. There is also the offer of Swahili cooking classes during your stay with the hotel’s chef.⁠
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To find out more about our offering of luxury African beach resorts give our experts a call – 020 3553 0208⁠
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28/03/2024

Navigate through Tanzania – for a truly incredible safari experience. Track the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater and witness the epic natural-world of the Serengeti – our tailor-made itineraries make anything possible.⁠
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There is so much variety in wildlife to cover everyone’s palette. All we suggest is making sure you pack a good pair of binoculars to get the best view of everything on offer. Perhaps track the wildebeest migration and their incredible dash across the treacherous waters of the Mara Rive. Alternatively, view nature and vegetation in full force with a visit to the Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. If you love the idea of awe-inspiring boats trips and excellent birdwatching, we recommend heading south to the continent’s largest and least exploited wildlife sanctuaries. Selous Game Reserve will provide you with views of beasts’ like elephants and buffalo. While the Ruaha National Park presents an untamed landscape that is truly untouched.⁠
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Get in touch with our experts who are on hand to help you plan your bespoke trip. Call us on 020 3553 0208⁠
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26/03/2024

We are the Ultimate Travel Company for a reason. We bring our long-standing reputable expertise and hands-on nature to every enquiry, seeking to deliver the Ultimate holiday experience. This is why so many people choose to travel with us again and again.⁠
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Get in touch with one of our experts today and find out more about our tailor-made itineraries and escorted tours– call 020 3553 0208⁠
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22/03/2024

Nestled in “The Golden Valley”, the Ceylon Tea Trails luxury bungalows will not only give you a new appreciation of tea, but a deep insight into the rich culture and history of Sri Lanka.⁠
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Set in Castlereagh Reservoir, your tea trail will have you staying at five characterful bungalows. Each bungalow has its own unique style, but all offer a taste of colonial-era luxury with plush beds, period furnishings, timbered ceilings, log fires and antique touches. Not to mention awe-inspiring views over the mountains, glistening lake and tea fields. When you’re not drinking in the splendid vistas, you’ll find tennis courts, a croquet lawn, outdoor pools, white water rafting and scenic hiking and biking trails to enjoy.⁠
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To discover everything you need to know about tea at Ceylon Tea Trails give our experts a call- 020 3553 0208 ⁠ ⁠
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15/03/2024

Discover a land of enchanting forests, remote jungle lodges, untouched beaches, authentic experiences and some of the most exotic and rare species on earth. Trek through the dense jungle of the centuries-old, virgin rainforest of the Danum Valley…to finally come face to face with an orangutan. But it’s not just the orangutans that make a holiday here special.⁠
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It’s wandering through jaw-dropping caves, the largest of them big enough to house St Paul’s Cathedral. Swimming in tropical pools and dining beside spectacular waterfalls. Walking through tropical jungle, surrounded by flying squirrels, proboscis monkeys, pigmy elephants and a kaleidoscope of birds. Or floating along meandering rivers in a traditional longboat.⁠
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Borneo is the world’s third largest island, and one of the most unspoiled regions on Earth, with a variety of habitats; from pristine coastline, to misty jungles and majestic mountains. If you’ve been inspired to experience it for yourself, speak to one of our Borneo experts.⁠
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11/03/2024

Introducing Tongabezi, an award-winning eco-lodge which resides, quite literally, on the Zambezi River. The secluded setting of this lodge give an intimate feel, so much so that even if you’re not on honeymoon, or celebrating a special occasion, you cannot fail to feel the romantic ambience of Tongabezi.⁠
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This lodge features hidden-away houses and cottages with teak decking, tented double beds and verandas that stand on the edge of the mighty river. You can dine beneath the trees with your toes almost in the water. Or on a floating sanpan. During the day, find yourself venturing to the nearby Victoria Falls or having guided bush walks or game drives into Mukuni Park.⁠
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Call our Safari experts to plan your trip to Tongabezi - 020 3553 0208.⁠
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07/03/2024

Specialising in tailor-made holidays with our extra personal customer service is what we do best. We will always go above and beyond to exceed your expectations. Tick the next adventure off your bucket-list with help from The Ultimate Travel Company.⁠
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Get in touch with one of our attentive experts today- call 020 3553 0208.⁠
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