Distant Destinations by Toni

28/03/2022

13/03/2022

From taking shorter trips first to preparing soothing strategies, here are our top tips for managing post-pandemic travel anxiety.

12/03/2022

Cyprus is sunny 320 days a year… Who’s ready to go???

https://youtu.be/p26olHCEEmA

Constantinou Bros Hotels Athena Beach Hotel, Athena Royal Beach Hotel and Asimina Suites Hotel

11/03/2022

Still looking for a family holiday in May Half Term? How about this 1 Bedroom Suite for an all-inclusive getaway to Cyprus?

The Akteon Holiday Village has modern well-equipped rooms and an impressive spacious pool area. The beautiful seafront location, picturesque landscaped gardens and excellent range of facilities make it the ideal choice for exploring all the local area has to offer. The town of Paphos is only a short journey away where you can find exciting nightlife and many historical attractions.

Seafront
Modern rooms
Large outdoor pool
Sea View rooms available
Children's club
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

11/03/2022

Love to see what Iberostar are doing to support sustainable travel!

https://youtu.be/URbi2CzvrrA

Iberostar has set the benchmark for responsible tourism based on high-quality initiatives. They strive every day to build a responsible tourism model that fo...

11/03/2022

I used to be able to stuff everything in a backpack and was good to go for a 4 day weekend... Packing for a family is nothing like that; especially when your kids have additional needs! (Have we packed the entire house??) It's a labyrinth of what do we need in the hold bags and what can we carry... while juggling two kids 🤪 Add in the tools of the trade in keeping our kids calm and entertained, it quickly turns into a juggling act of Cirque du Soleil proportions even before we add special equipment, like weighted blankets, safe beds, and wheelchairs to the equation.

Remember, when you book with me, I am YOUR ADVOCATE! Let me sort the questions you have; let me find out exactly what you need to pack that weighted blanket (by the way, most airlines will exclude the weight of the blanket from your baggage weight allowance as long as we advise them ahead of travel) I am the one who works with the airlines and hoteliers and airport assistance to find you the answers you need to enjoy the holiday you deserve!

11/03/2022

Who’s ready to unleash their inner panda??? I predict a new film will be on repeat in our house very soon!

11/03/2022

If there were two words to best describe the look of the Louis Paphos Breeze, they would be ‘effortlessly chic’. Its fresh, white exteriors are matched by bright, airy décor inside that makes you feel like you’ve entered somewhere special – which you certainly have.

The spacious rooms are similarly crisp and cool, all with balconies or terraces – some of which overlook the sea. Dining is a treat, offering a choice of buffet or à la carte options centred around Greek and Mediterranean cooking.

If you’re here with children, the kids’ club will keep them entertained while you enjoy the serene spa, complete with sauna, steam room, heated indoor pool and a range of treatments. There are also outdoor pools with lounger-lined sun terraces – and yes, they’re just as sleek as the rest of the hotel. Beach lovers will be pleased to hear there's also a strip of sand right on the doorstep, and the sea is sparklingly clear.

When it’s time to head out, the city of Paphos and its historic sites make a great day trip, and are only a 10-minute drive away. Alternatively, if you just fancy a relaxed sunbathing and swimming session, the nearest beach is just a few minutes’ walk.

There are also numerous other beautiful beaches within easy reach, plus scenic hiking and cycling trails, so you won’t be short of things to do in the area. The only problem is that with a hotel this stylish and relaxing, it might be hard to leave in the first place.

10/03/2022

Did you know that Bristol Airport has a booklet that can help you prepare your kids for the journey through the airport? I printed one off for the kids today so they can start preparing for our holiday.

The booklet is designed for passengers and their families and carers to use before and during a journey from the airport. It provides a clear guide on what to expect at the airport with photographs of each area including check-in, security, retail and catering outlets, boarding, arrivals and baggage reclaim. The booklet also contains space for passengers to record their own specific needs or any questions they may have along with emergency medical and contact information. 😊

https://www.bristolairport.co.uk/-/media/files/brs/at-the-airport/special-assistance/bristol-airport-booklet_adults.ashx?la=en&hash=CADD539B290DDAC20493AF414640FA43CBC03674

10/03/2022

Ramsden family holiday may still be a ways away…. But it’s never too early to start checking the weather!!! 😃☀️☀️☀️(for my North American followers that’s a high of 53 in Southampton and 62 Fahrenheit in Albufeira😉)

10/03/2022

Ask me my favourite destinations and Italy is always always always on the list! I only visited Lucca and Florence for a day each last time- I would love to spend longer next time!

Lucca is known throughout Italy for its fantastic medieval city walls that still encircle most of the historic old town. Originally this city was founded by the Etruscans and was then a Roman colony around 180 BC. During the Roman era, Lucca served as an important meeting place for Julius Caesar and Crassus

Florence, capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture. One of its most iconic sights is the Duomo, a cathedral with a terracotta-tiled dome engineered by Brunelleschi and a bell tower by Giotto. It’s also the home of Michelangelo’s David 😀

Travel tip: One of the reasons you book with me is to sort the details! Tell me everything that is important for you to see- and let me work it out! There is nothing worse than turning up to your destination’s MUST SEE site/venue, only to find it closed or hidden away for repairs/refurbishment!

This is a great offer from Typically Italian- contact me to book today!

09/03/2022

I was reminded of something on my Gatwick journey last week…

Sometimes, in the day to day of grown jump life, we don’t always stop and allow ourselves to just BE, to switch off, and to have some carefree FUN! To act like kids- with big smiles and all the time in the world. I think we ALL really need it, now perhaps more than ever! I left there buzzing with excitement and pure JOY!

The easyJet holiday team definitely know how to inspire the kid inside us all. So, go buy your easyJet branded packet of Walkers/Doritos and let’s book your easyJet Holiday!!!!

We can book all the way through summer 2023! So, what are you waiting for? If you need permission, here it is: Let me sort the details, YOU have the FUN!!!!!

09/03/2022

One more thing to tick off the Ramsden family holiday to do list! Global Health Insurance cards have arrived!

Did you know that, now the UK has left the European Union, it’s no longer possible to get EHIC cards renewed as they are no longer issued to most UK citizens?

You CAN, however, apply for your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) here:

https://www.gov.uk/global-health-insurance-card

09/03/2022

Did you know that Gatwick Airport is the first family friendly accredited airport? When you’re travelling with children, you want your trip to be stress-free. From dedicated Assistance and family security lanes to Kids zones, Gatwick airport are taking amazing steps to help you and your family get to your flight as smoothly as possible, with entertainment along the way.

They’ve created special Assistance and family lanes in security for departing families. If you’re travelling with young children in pushchairs, their dedicated lanes will give your family extra time and help to get through security. Simply follow the signs for the Assistance and family lanes after you've checked in.

When going through security, they will scan all items, including children’s toys. They know it can be upsetting for children to be parted from their possessions, but if they’re told in advance it can prepare them for what is going to happen. There’s nothing to worry about, we often hear that Teddies enjoy their x-ray adventures. To find out more about how Gatwick is supporting your family’s journey- have a look at this link: https://www.gatwickairport.com/at-the-airport/passenger-services/children/

09/03/2022

Ready to go abroad, but not quite ready to be in the larger resorts? Going away in family groups or have a large family yourself? Is staying in a Villa more your speed? When you book a Jet2 Villa holiday with me, flight, car hire, and Villa hire and 22kg hold luggage are all included in the price! (As well as having me to sort all your added details of course 😉)

09/03/2022

Book by 10pm on the 15th of March 2022 to get an additional £150 off this holiday!

SUN-FILLED BREAK IN CALETA DE FUSTE
Situated in the heart of the tourist area of Caleta de Fuste, this charming family-friendly aparthotel boasts stunning views of a golden beach. You’re at once close to a host of restaurants, bars and shopping opportunities. Sublime apartments are flooded with natural light and feature excellent self-catering facilities.

Enjoy a lazy soak in a gorgeous pool fringed by swaying palm trees. Kids will love a colourful activities room. Come evening, head out to a terrace decked in ultra-cool light-up furniture for cocktails under a swish gazebo. Golf enthusiasts will want to book a game at a top fairway that’s a short drive away. (price shown is for a family of four)

09/03/2022

Looking to go away from 1st of April to 30th of June? Spring sale may have ended last night, but easyJet holidays want to help supporting travel agents like me get you the holiday you want! So, if you book your easyJet holiday with me by 10pm on the 15th March 2022 you can save £100 off of holiday with a minimum spend of £800 or £150 off a holiday with a minimum spend of £2,000.

(Valid on holidays from the 1st of April 2022- 30th of June 2022)

08/03/2022

Check out this deal for a family of four over May Half Term!

If you’re looking for a hotel perfect for spending time together, where you can be on the nearest beach in minutes or just lounge by the pool, the four-star Hotel Puente Real is for you.

The All Inclusive offering here is perfect for making the most of your holiday budget – your breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks are all part of the price. Snacks and ice cream are also available during the day, so you can keep hunger at bay between mealtimes without having to reach for your wallet.

Think Torremolinos, think beach and lapping surf. Imagine dipping your feet in the tide or building a spectacular sand castle on the golden, sandy beach. Alternatively, it’s a suitable location to put your trainers on and go for a jog, enjoying the coastline as you go. With swaying palm trees rustling in the background, this provides a lovely background to your break.

Once you’ve buried yourself in sand, the majestic pool is waiting for you to dive. Poolside sunbeds provide the perfect prop to bask in the warm Spanish sunshine. For the more energetic, the onsite gym is available and with ping pong, tennis and multisport court available also accessible ensuring there’s something for all the family.

If you fancy playing golf whilst you’re away, you can find challenging courses, lush fairways and well-manicured greens all within touching distance of the Hotel Puente Real. You can discuss your round in the 19th hole afterwards.

All in all, the Hotel Puente Real provides a family-centric environment in which to unwind and some sun-filled days together.

08/03/2022

easyJet spring sale ends at 10pm tonight! Don't miss out on your additional savings of up to £200 off your total holiday price!

08/03/2022

Happy International Women’s Day ❤️

07/03/2022

In a superb beachfront location overlooking the scenic Malaga coast, the family-friendly Iberostar Malaga Playa is beautifully designed in a typical Andalusian style. Its bright and spacious accommodation is set amid lush grounds and decorated in restful tones, with lovely views over the sea or the hotel’s landscaped gardens.
The hotel boasts a mini club packed with activities for children, including sports, cooking, art and days by the sea learning about wildlife. There’s a lively pool for kids with plenty of flumes and water slides, and a more grown-up and restful pool with loungers for the adults. The serene spa, too, provides a tranquil retreat with detoxing treatments and massages, a heated pool and saunas.
The hotel’s restaurants specialise in local food and are a great place to try typical Andalusian fish dishes, though you’ll also find plenty of international favourites. Bars include a peaceful poolside spot where you can enjoy a drink from the comfort of your sunlounger, and a smart lounge for coffee or cocktails.
An upscale seaside hotel in the heart of the Costa del Sol, the Malaga Playa is great for anyone looking for a mix of sun-soaked relaxation and lively fun-filled activity.
Offering an impressive range of beaches, excellent places to dine and record-breaking caves to explore, Nerja holidays are an alluring prospect. Once a rustic fishing village, Nerja retains an easygoing vibe, despite now being a popular resort. At Nerja’s heart is the Balcon de Europa, a cute square with glorious views – the perfect place to stop and enjoy an ice cream.

The days can be whiled away at Nerja’s various beaches, which range from long, sun-baked stretches to tucked away, sandy coves, and the nights spent eating fresh seafood at one of the town’s restaurants or drinking cocktails at a beach bar. Away from the sea, popular excursions include the Cuevas de Nerja – an enormous cave complex where massive stalactites drop into a cathedral-like space – and Frigiliana, an arty, luminous village in the hills. With so much to offer, beach and besides, holidays to Nerja showcase the best of the Costa del Sol.

07/03/2022

Ramsden family holiday preparation update! Son1 has been learning Spanish at school, and since I am getting quizzed daily by him on how you say things I thought I should start preparing them to speak a little Portuguese on our holiday!

I personally have always believed it is really important to make an attempt to speak the native language when I travel and have met some truly lovely people on my journeys. I found this handy picture on goaheadtours.com that I can post on the fridge and help the kids get excited for our trip! Follow this link to their website to read essential Portuguese phrases to know before you travel- they even spell the phrases phonetically to help you with pronunciation 😊 https://www.goaheadtours.com/travel-blog/articles/portuguese-phrase-guide

07/03/2022

Did you know that easyJet opened its first airport lounge in 2021? Well, because I had an excellent visit to the The Gateway in Gatwick on Friday I am offering you 20% off your airport lounge package when you book an easyJet holiday with me! (Details below) A range of one, two and three hour packages are available with prices starting from just £18.50.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the main terminal! Enjoy their complimentary hot and cold food menu, with a selection of refreshing beverages and speciality teas and coffees, plus all the comforts of their lounge to get your trip off to a great start. The Orange Mixers is their specially created cocktail menu; enjoy a selection of easyJet orange Bourbon, Gin, Vodka and Spritz cocktails while you sit back and relax before your flight. Plus, get Unlimited WiFi, digital newspapers and magazines (via PressReader), charging points, and they even have a game room and TV room.

To get 20% off your chosen lounge package, simply book your easyJet holiday with me by 23:59 13 March 2022!

06/03/2022

06/03/2022

Gatwick has an amazing guide for you to use as a social story to prepare your kids; whether they are autistic or first time flyers, they can prepare for their trip through the airport!

05/03/2022

Yesterday I got the amazing opportunity to visit the Sensory Room in North Terminal. In 2018, Gatwick Airport became the UK's first airport to open a Sensory Room, offering a calming and relaxing environment designed for passengers with disabilities such as autism, dementia or cognitive impairment who would benefit from a safe and interactive place when in unfamiliar surroundings.

The Sensory Room is wheelchair accessible and free to use for passengers departing from the North Terminal only. You must however pre-book in order to guarantee your space. Only 4 people are allowed in at a time, so it is a nice space to escape especially if someone you are traveling with is likely to become overwhelmed in the main concourse. However, as access is restricted, slots fill up fast... As YOUR travel agent- one of the many things I can do to support you on your journey is booking this space for you when you book your holiday! One more thing that transfers from your to do list, to mine! 😉

05/03/2022

It's competition time! I need your help getting to 100 followers by the end of March! Since we are going on a Ramsden family holiday in Portugal this year, I thought I would start with a little taste of Portugal gift bag!

How to Enter: Like and share my page for one entry into the prize draw then message me your email address. For additional entries: Tag your friends in the comments or invite them to follow my page; you get an extra entry for every friend you get to like my page! 😊

05/03/2022

Who got to stand on a runway yesterday watching planes land and take off? 🙋🏼‍♀️I did!!!!