Kathryn Graham Travel

21/06/2024

Dear Private Clients,
The Virgin Atlantic Flash Sale is ON!
Celebrating 40 years of air travel...
Save up to £99 in Economy and Economy Delight, £199 in Premium and £299 in Upper Class.
Flying direct routes from UK to India, Africa, Asia and, of course, cities within Europe, USA and, my favourite, the Caribbean.
Take the opportunity to package with your favourite hotels or incorporate in you bucket list itineraries.
Maybe treat yourselves to an upgrade?

Bookings need to be made before 24th June 2024 so get your thinking caps on and let me know as soon as you can if you would like me to design a trip for you.
07970515185

02/02/2024

“Dull, damp and dreary”😔

Just overheard this from our weatherman .. need to plan an escape!

Hello Rodrigues!
The most charming little island off the east coast of Mauritius.

A 90 minute air hop from Mauritius will drop you into a paradise of serenity and seclusion.
Stay at the intimate 32 room Constance Tekoma , immerse yourself in nature , snorkel the stunning reef, relax in the spa and indulge in being marooned but with a touch of creole luxury.

Can always look at combining with one of the other fantastic Constance properties in Mauritius for the ultimate Indian Ocean experience.

Let me know when you are available😉

Have a great weekend
Kathy x


.tourism

12/01/2024

GRENADA
Spice Island Beach Resort
Set on Grand Anse Beach, a two mile expanse of flawless fine sand and gentle lapping waves, Spice Island is a tasteful low-rise hamlet of sumptuous suites with dramatic ocean scenery and beautiful gardens.

All guest suites showcase bathrooms designed by Philippe Starck and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Most benefit from direct beachfront access while a select few have private plunge pools or swimming pools with enclosed terrace and are set around the gardens. With attentive proprietor Sir Royston Hopkin at the helm of this magnificent ‘Small Luxury Hotel of the World’, meticulous personalised service is of utmost importance at Spice Island. Its name paying homage to the rich and exotic heritage of Grenada, the resort draws on local influences throughout its architecture and furnishings in an expression of tradition with a generous stroke of elegance.

Facilities include a stylish pool, supervised kids club, tennis court, gym, non-motorised watersports and access to a golf course with complimentary green fees. Janissa’s Spa, nestled privately in the tropical gardens, features a chic reflection pool, outdoor relaxation lounge and offers restorative therapies incorporating local spices in a modish designer space. Oliver’s Restaurant, at the water’s edge, presents exceptional international cuisine with a Creole twist which is showcased in a seven-course evening tasting menu that changes daily.

OFFER
Up to 22% discount on room rates
Save £650 per person , 7 nights from £3,040 per person
Price is based on two adults sharing an Oleander Garden View Suite on an all-inclusive basis and includes private transfer plus economy flights with British Airways. Blackout dates apply.

Valid for travel 29th Mar 2024 - 15th Dec 2024

Book by 31st Mar 2024

15/12/2023

Breaking news!!!

I have just been notified that there is unexpected availability at the wonderful for New Year!
I had a full site tour earlier this year and and can highly recommend!

If you fancy starting 2024 in style then I couldn’t think of a better place than at this luxurious Barbadian resort, set on one of the best stretches of the West Coast.


⭐️Dine in the Michelin-starred restaurant on live-fired meats, locally caught fish, and seasonal ingredients
🏖️ Enjoy complimentary non-motorised watersports, yoga and tennis
🌴 Take the head gardener's tour around the exotic and perfumed grounds of the hotel, before enjoying traditional English afternoon tea on the Taboras Terrace
✨Indulge with in-room holistic spa treatments

Prices from £10,799 per person based on 2 adults sharing a Signature Oceanfront Room for 7 nights including daily breakfast, return economy class flights from London Heathrow and private transfers.
Valid for travel completed by 7 January 2024
Price based on 26 December 2023 departure.

Feel free to call or DM me. 📞 07970515185

13/10/2023

Just been sent this deal and thought it was definitely worth spreading the word!

It’s surprisingly great value for a family holiday( based 2 adults, 2 children).

All inclusive, 9 nights, free land and water sports and private transfers currently selling for less than £7,500 TOTAL and in MAURITIUS!

So if you are thinking of doing something exciting with the children next year and can’t believe how expensive the quotes are for your European resorts and (not so) low cost airlines then why not consider taking your crew to the Indian Ocean flying with the wonderful Emirates from Birmingham or Gatwick via Dubai.
The hotel is the 4* Shandrani Beachcomber Golf Resort and Spa, located on a private peninsula in the south of the island,
“ lapped by the Blue Bay Marine Park and famous for its precious sea life, the Shandrani Beachcomber has three different beaches to explore”
See stories for link to the video!

Feel free to contact me to check out availability, quote was based on departure on 29th July 2024.

As a reminder I am on 07970 515185 😉

09/08/2023

What a fabulous way to explore this part of the Caribbean, and just before Christmas so you get to escape dark nights and dreary weather for a little while and then be back in time for the fun and frolics of party season!
(Plus great value this time of year)

16/07/2023

*Late Deal*
Introducing Apraos Beach House in Corfu,this property is offering a staggering 40% discount departing on 29th July 23!

Apraos Beach House sits in an enviable location overlooking the sea in Kalamaki, with direct access to the beautiful sandy beach below and nearby amenities just 2.5km away in Perithia. This newly built property is vast and impressive, with accommodation spread between the main house and two annexe buildings sleeping up to 16 guests in total. The main house is spacious and decorated in a contemporary style in a palette of cool neutral shades with chic wooden furnishings. There’s an open plan sitting room with a large sceen sky TV and an indoor dining table, should guests choose to dine indoors. A fully equipped kitchen has everything from a Nespresso machine to a wine fridge and is where the villa’s private cook will prepare meals for guests 6 days a week during July and August.

Three en suite bedrooms can be found on the ground floor, which all have access to a private terrace and one has the luxury of a whirlpool bath bath. A further three spacious doubles can be found on the first floor, each with its own bathroom en suite and a private terrace with a view. The front annexe is perfect for teenagers or grandparents looking to enjoy their own space. There’s a private living room and kitchen area and a double bedroom with bathroom en suite. The pool annexe is equally private with a double bedroom and a bathroom en suite.

Apraos House is perfect for outdoor living with an incredible professional outdoor kitchen, a pizza oven and not one, but two BBQ areas. There is a large shaded terrace with space for all guests to dine together al fresco with a matchless sea view. When it comes to entertainment the private pool is enormous, with a large shallow area that's perfect for kids and comfortable wooden loungers and daybeds for poolside relaxation. Elsewhere there is a private tennis court, table tennis, table football, a pool table and gym.

Included in the rental:

✔️ Chef Service

✔️ Concierge Service

✔️ Maid Service
Contact me for a quote📞07970 515185

11/07/2023

Who got caught out with flight cancellations? ..Me! 🙋🏼‍♀️

We have just returned from a fantastic week in Corfu which very nearly didn’t happen!

We (family) are creatures of habit and return to the same little villa which we love, I book it directly with the property management company in Corfu and then book flights independently (our family doesn’t always book or travel at the same time from the same airports!)
Anyway, no excuses, it’s not the ideal booking process, certainly not one I recommend and I came a cropper!
(Hanging head in shame!!)

Basically, our outward flight was cancelled, very late in the evening, 2 hours after the scheduled take off time. No alternative was offered. The only thing we could do was to buy 4 more tickets on an alternative flight (as couldn’t get hold of our lovely airline to change original booking) out of an airport a 3 hour drive away, very early the following morning.

It was:
A: very stressful
B: very uncomfortable ( could only get one room for all of us with airport parking at such late notice)
C: very expensive (no time to hunt around for best deals)
D: very tiring as hardly any sleep!

There was no-one available to help, we had to sort everything ourselves which is not a problem when you have the luxury of time but when it’s ‘after-hours’ and you can’t speak to anyone then it is challenging to say the least!

If I had booked my family holiday through one of the wonderful tour operators I work with then it would have been so much easier. They all have 24 hour emergency assistance based in UK.

You have probably read or seen that there is a problem with some airlines flying the popular European routes this summer so be prepared if you have booked your holiday elements independently. Better still, if you are yet to book, be smarter than me and try to place all your arrangements under the safe umbrella of a trusted ATOL bonded tour operator…. I can help with this as I know plenty! 🫣

23/06/2023

Late Availability not normally my bag, but this one is too good not to share!
I would be delighted to check availability for your August break if you have not already sorted

06/06/2023

31/05/2023

Hello Pacific Ocean😆

Survived the zip wires!

Actually loved flying high over the forest canopy in the Monteverde National Park, the views are breathtaking, such an exhilarating experience. We were also so lucky to have the most informative guide walking with us along the hanging bridges and the trails, he pointed out snakes, tarantulas, indigenous flowers and fauna that we would have missed if left to roam independently.

A wonderfully restful stay at Senda Monteverde, a mountain lodge comprising of bungalows and suites scattered throughout landscaped gardens fringed by rainforest, you are totally immersed in nature.
Then onto the Pacific Ocean where the wild coastline in and surrounding the Manuel Antonia National Park is breathtaking. Good selection of properties here but the star for me is the Arenas de Mar, a luxury property set in 11 acres, it’s beachfront with a great standard and selection of accommodation, food is delicious and the staff can’t do enough. Watch out for Fred, he’s the big daddy of the resident iguanas!

But the time has come to leave, and my memories of Costa Rica will stay with me forever, visit if you can!
I’m here to help 😉

17/05/2023

Watch out for more posts and photos next week as I hope to meet up with this chap and his friends!

Off to Costa Rica to learn more about this fabulous destination with my trusted suppliers … I cannot wait, if you have any questions then just DM me and I will try and get you some answers!

17/05/2023

🇫🇷 ❤️
I am hopeless at this Insta/Facebook thing!

We just had the most beautiful long weekend away in Brittany and I didn’t take any photos apart from the sea on the way home!
Anyway, if you fancy a quick escape over the water (if you are in the UK!) then consider Dinard, St Malo and neighbouring villages.. the region is beautiful 🤩

A lovely stay at 🙏

Ate everywhere, especially delicious lunches at .dinard
A special thank you to Laurent at the Le George V restaurant, .barriere - the shallot vinegar made it all the back to Wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 🦪 😉

Shopped everywhere… don’t miss the Dinard market with its impressive indoor food hall and outside there is all sorts of stuff you never knew you needed!

I have to get better at this! 🤦🏼‍♀️

15/03/2023

Just home from Porto, it was our first visit here and we have been totally spoiled at the Vila Foz.

This gorgeous, completely renovated and luxurious Manor House is a total escape from the city, yet it is only a 10 Euro taxi ride into town.
The lovely valets will order cars for you, give you some insider info and generally make your day with their smiles and humour ( BTW: Porto must have the promptest taxi service in Europe!)

Majority of rooms look out over the ocean, the Atlantic rollers break so close you can almost feel the sea spray when you are sat on your balcony, even though you are across the road from the beach and boardwalk.

There are 2 separate buildings, the newer one, Onice, has the dreamy spa and the vast majority of the rooms, all are sleek and airy.
The main building is the Manor House , all individually designed bedrooms here blending the original features with cutting edge style. They can be booked to suit your needs with possibilities of suites, interconnecting rooms and an attic floor.
The unique traditional bar, salon and reception are in the Manor House

If you are a foodie, book a table (well in advance) at the Vila Foz Restaurant where Chef Arnaldo Azevedo and his amazing team will take you on a gastronomic journey you will not want to end! Won’t be long until there is a second star I am sure!
There is so much left to say but not enough room here!
Basically,
if you are looking for a thorough spoiling then this might be your chilled city break answer, flight time is generally less than 2 hours, only a 15 minute transfer from the airport, on the beach and Porto city centre is just around the corner!

To quote my husband “It’s a hell of a place!”

09/02/2023

SUPERB MALDIVES OFFER IN COLLABORATION WITH LUSSO TRAVEL

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

COUPLES OFFER - 40% DISCOUNT ON ROOM RATES PLUS COMPLIMENTARY HALF BOARD
Save £4,520 Per Person
7 Nights from £7,510 Per Person

FAMILY OFFER - UP TO 30% DISCOUNT ON ROOM RATES PLUS COMPLIMENTARY HALF BOARD, REDUCED SEAPLANE TRANSFERS AND FREE CHILD TRANSFERS.
Save £13,905 per family of four
7 nights from £26,110 per family of four

DESIGNED FOR TRAVEL BETWEEN 10/5/23 AND 22/12/23.
All offers are subject to availability at the time of booking, close out dates may apply. Prices are based on London departures unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions apply.

I would be delighted to check if either of these offers is available for your preferred dates and get a quote for you, Lusso is one of my trusted suppliers.

07970 515185
[email protected]

14/01/2023

It has been a busy January so far, thanks to my fabulous customers trusting me to arrange their bespoke trips for this year and beyond. I only work with suppliers I can trust, we work together to ensure our precious and loyal clients get the perfect holiday experiences they deserve.
No 'Off the shelf' packages sold here, only those tailored just for you! 💙

02/01/2023

Sending very best wishes for 2023.

I bid farewell to 2022 with family and friends in Amsterdam, we had a ball and can highly recommend.

Here’s our itinerary if you fancy a visit:

Flew with KLM Cityhopper from our local airport, Cardiff. The flights were on time and we had swift onboard service by a very friendly crew. Really enjoyed flying from Cardiff, so convenient and no long queues ✅

Stayed at Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, beautiful hotel in the cool, cosmopolitan De Pijp district. Staff and rooms couldn’t be lovelier ✅

The most exquisite New Year’s Eve dinner at Le Hollandais, just a few steps from the hotel, Michelin star worthy✅

On New Year’s Day we sailed (very) gently around the canals of Amsterdam with a glass of something good in our hands on board a classic saloon boat whilst learning about the history and architecture of this wonderful city. ✅

Swiftly through Schiphol today, no delays at security and a very comfortable flight home ✅

Thank you Amsterdam- we will be back!
cityhopper

22/10/2022

San Sebastián.. The Pinxos Challenge!

It’s our wedding anniversary today, 29 years! The Husband sorted a trip away and boy did he do well! For those who know, this isn’t always the case.. there have been a few questionable stays and trips when “Dr Travel” has been in charge, however, this time he has nailed it!!

We are staying at the wonderful Lasala Plaza in Donostia / San Sebastián.
Location is perfect, staff are warm and welcoming, rooms are beautiful with outstanding views of the half moon bay, Kontxa Hondartza and the little marina.
There is busy bar and a good restaurant . The rooftop bar and pool are fantastic.. views are stunning 🤩

The lovely reception staff have supplied us with a list of recommended pintxos bars…there are 14 and we have taken it as a challenge! We are halfway through and less than 24 hours left!
The sun is out, we have had our morning swim and coffee… we are ready!!

28/08/2022

*** TRUST ***

My private travel clients trust me.

They know that I am here and will pick up the phone, answer an email or reply to a text.

They trust me to find the best solutions to their travel questions.

Peace of mind is essential.

Therefore, it is vital that I select the best trade partners, those I trust!

As I am an independent agent, I have the freedom to choose who, I believe, are the finest in their fields,.
I am not told or influenced by others. After 30 odd years in this business I have worked out who are my best wing men!

Last week I caught up with the marvellous team at Inspiring Travel in their Chester head office.
We discussed ways we could improve servicing my clients’ requests and go that extra mile- EVERY TIME.
I met up with the truly remarkable 24/7 service team who are there to sort any emergency overseas.
We reviewed the hotel portfolio selection criteria which is all about meeting and maintaining strict high quality standards, especially health and safety.

I met with Spectate and discussed the latest sporting packages available. They have some brilliant contacts throughout the worlds of golf, cricket, Formula 1, rugby and horse racing but will help me put together any sporting trip I might be asked for, if they can.

I am delighted to work with these guys, they are dedicated and professional individuals who just want to do their very best… they appreciate the importance of TRUST!
🙌

19/06/2022

Ionian Dreaming..

Missing my morning dip in the crystal waters of North East Corfu, missing the delicious Greek rosé and tzatziki dip even more!

Less of my yearnings, I have a DREAM of a resort for you.. Ikos Dassia in Corfu.

Totally relax in a heavenly 5* deluxe property whilst enjoying the superior all inclusive concept.

Space is key…. It was full when I was there but it felt like 50% occupancy!

They have thought of everything so you can truly chill, even the sandy beach was peaceful despite the hotel being as welcoming to families as they are to Adults Only … there are areas for all!
(Admittedly it was term time but there were small children about… perhaps we were all under the Ikos tranquil spell!)

Too many fantastic features, facilities and restaurants to write about here, drop me a line if you need to know more and an idea of cost including flights and private transfers.
PS. I have a very special private contact so all requests can be made directly and to the top 😉

07/05/2022

Looking for value for money for a long haul trip?

Consider Mauritius with so many luxury properties to chose from. coupled with the fact that the Mauritian hospitality is famous, the warmth and kindness of the islanders is unequalled.

For those who can resist the temptation to flop for the entire holiday then you have distractions in abundance.
Diving is excellent as the island is surrounded by a protective coral reef. 🐠
There are some truly spectacular golf courses, in fact this little island features some of the worlds top 100 courses. 🏌️‍♂️

Go exploring, there are a variety of excursions so you can immerse yourself in local life or take to the sea on a catamaran and see the island from the water, you might be joined by the dolphins. 🐬

Email me if you would like me to put together your dream trip to this wonderful gem in the Indian Ocean. I work with amazing specialists to create your unique, personalised trip whilst fitting in with your budget.

Direct flights are 12 hours or you can break it up and have a few nights in Dubai 😉

Word of warning… you can easily become hooked, nearly half of the guests are repeat visitors…
Doesn’t that say a lot?

04/04/2022

How could I check out my shortlist of four 5* hotels in 48 hours in Mallorca?

Solution…
Sleep in one, Dine at two and drive to the 4th for a fantastic tour!

Stayed at Sant Francesc Hotel Singular, located just behind the cathedral. Super staff, delicious food, outstanding service , inspiring interiors and the art collection is worth a visit in its own right!🖼


Ate and wandered around Hotel Cappuccino, another beautiful 5* property situated on one of the many squares in Palma Old Town. The bar is buzzy and the food is as you would expect from the legendary Cappuccino Group- excellent!
Look out for the home cinema.🎞


Explored Can Bordoy Grand House and Garden, again located in the centre, just steps away from the shopping on Passeig del Borne and the Gothic style buildings at La Llotja, if you ever want to leave this oasis with a pool in the glorious gardens. Lunch was delicious from the organic and healthy menu created by Andres Benitez. 🌴


(BTW - All the above city centre hotels have roof top pools 🏊🏻‍♀️)

The drive was to Santanyi where I was met and shown around one of the most beautiful hotels on the island.
Behind a door and just off a square lies Can Ferrereta, the ultimate hidden gem!
Sister hotel to Sant Francesc , sharing the same awe inspiring interiors, and art installations. 😎

They must also have their own special staff academy from where they recruit the loveliest and most helpful people.


Each of these very special hotels has its own unique vibe, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line to discuss which one you think might suit yours!

18/03/2022

Thank you for such inviting me to such a special event . It was great to meet up with old hotel friends and make new ones after 2 years away. 🙏🥰

18/02/2022

Some of us have been told to stay indoors today to avoid being battered by Storm Eunice so what better time to dream about Summer Holiday offers!

I have a fabulous one here at The Landings Resort & Spa in St Lucia🥰

50% saving at The Landings and US$200 booking discount. 💰
High quality family accommodation is scarce across Europe so why not look at the Caribbean?🐠

DM or email
[email protected]
if you need more info, be quick as offer ends 25th of this month!

15/02/2022

Here is the beautiful Blue Waters Resort and Spa 💙
Flanked by three powder-soft beaches and acres of lush gardens, Blue Waters is a true tropical haven with everything you need for a luxury beach escape. Delivering a first-class service, guests can enjoy everything from sumptuous dining across three restaurants and an elegant spa, to guided garden walks and non-motorised watersports.

I am so pleased to be able to extend this offer to you.
DM me here or email: [email protected]

I can check availability for your dates!

03/02/2022

2022 F1 PACKAGES JUST RELEASED 🏎

Here is the first round, will update with more as soon as I have costs and full tour details.

SPANISH GRAND PRIX
20-23 May 22
From £1995 pp

BELGIAN GRAND PRIX
26-29 Aug 22
from £1495 pp

HUNGARIAN GRAND PRIX
29 Jul-01 Aug 22
From £1695 pp

Inc flights or Eurostar ( Belgian), 4* or 5* accommodation, private luxury transfers and 2-3 day tickets ( depending on race weekend) and 24 hour emergency assistance throughout 👍🏼

Call or message on 07970 515185 if you would like more info on these or if you would like to contacted when I have info on the rest! 😀

28/01/2022

Friday temptation!
🐘 ❤️

21/01/2022

A catamaran cruise along the West Coast is unmissable!
Snorkel around the shipwreck, say hello to the turtles, have a delicious lunch on board and maybe a few rum punches gazing out across the Caribbean!

Thank you to the wonderful crew , we had an unforgettable day 🙏⛵️🤿🐠🍹🌅

20/01/2022

Caribbean tempting you?

Please just message if you want any info regarding what it’s like to take a break in Barbados as I am extremely lucky to be enjoying the wonderful Bajan hospitality!

Everyone is very careful here. You must sanitise your hands before entering shops and restaurants. Most places take your temperature. Masks are compulsory when moving around these venues.

I’m staying in a private rental but called in to meet a friend at The Sandpiper yesterday. The hotel is adhering to the Covid protocol beautifully, all very much understated so guests can get on with chilling in the sun!

Book the Meet and Greet airport services as they whisk you through providing you have completed your paperwork !

22/12/2021

Sorry to bang on about this but do not assume that the information you had yesterday is still correct today. Countries are updating their entry and isolation rules constantly so sign up and get the alerts.

Travel abroad is different. Prepare for rules to change at short notice due to the Omicron COVID-19 variant.

This could happen while you’re away and may disrupt your travel.

Sign up to email alerts for your destination and be the first to know.

http://ow.ly/25OL50HfH5U