Established in 1989, we’re an independent travel company based in Islington. Real Holidays is an independent travel company with over 20 years of experience.
We are experts in bespoke and tailor-made holidays to both short haul and long haul destinations across the world. Our knowledge and service guarantee the best possible advice for any travel requirement.
23/06/2024
One of the more unusual properties in our roster of recommendations, Dexamenes Seaside Hotel is a bold restoration set within an abandoned wine factory, located on a beautifully wild beach in the off-radar western Peloponnese region of Greece.
The hotel sits in a parallel position to the beach, so it’s very easy to take a stroll on the sandy shore or swim in the calm Ionian Sea. Sunsets here are a joy, setting the scene ablaze and allowing you to anticipate dinner in the taverna set within the engine room of the winery.
Here at Real Holidays, we are always on the lookout for those hidden hotels that do things differently. We think unique places that aren’t afraid to shy away from the norm and celebrate their character are the hotels which make for the most memorable stays.
Perhaps a heritage restoration, maybe family-run for generations or simply providing a vital link to local life and insider experiences, our in-the-know hotels are often off-radar but always worth the effort.
With Europe busier than ever, let us show you those secret places to stay where you can revel in authenticity, far from the crowds. We can also curate an itinerary for you that weaves together a few of our favourite hotels for a longer jaunt – just ask.
Meet the future kings of Hwange, Zimbabwe!🇿🇼🌿
Some gorgeous shots sent in from one of our customers who described their holiday as the best they’ve ever had!
30/05/2024
Explore the world with our Epic Family Adventures!
If you’re a family of adventurous spirits, the holidays that suit you best are filled with exhilarating experiences, where you explore the world together. Your adventures immerse you in the destination on active pursuits, cultural journeys and in pristine nature.
Typically though, these are some of the hardest holidays to get right – and that’s where we come in. Providing a portal to insider experiences with locals, getting deeper and further into the wilderness and offering engaging guided access are just a few ways we bring your family holiday to life. We also have plenty of tips and tricks to keep the whole crew happy with our flexible itineraries and family-friendly hotels.
Get in touch today and start planning you summer adventure.
+44 (0)20 7359 3938
06/05/2024
New York New York!🗽
From the best views of the city, the comfiest beds, best Broadway shows and food that will tantalise your taste buds, Real Holidays has you covered…
Travelling for work, bucket list or simply a tour around one of the best cities in the world 🗺️?
Contact one of the team to start planning your journey - 02073593938
Have you ever been to New York?!
26/04/2024
Sarah's 'just back from' - Escape to the countryside charm of Estancia Vik! 🌿 Built as a family home and now a breathtaking hotel, this property is bursting with artistic flair and cozy character. Each of the 12 rooms tells its own story through unique artwork, offering spacious sanctuaries with panoramic countryside views! And let's talk about the food, indulge in an unforgettable 'Asado' BBQ experience, with succulent meats grilled to perfection and paired with local wines. From exploring walking trails to leisurely bike rides, lounging by the pool, horseback adventures, tennis matches, or birdwatching, there's something for all of the family. And with the beach just a short 15-minute drive away it's almost perfect. 🐎🎾🏊♂️ Come for the beauty, stay for the experience!
Call us on 020 7359 3938 to start planning your Uruguay.
31/03/2024
TAPAS AND FLAMENCO IN SEVILLE
Seville’s tapas and flamenco scenes are no secret, but that creates a problem: there’s much dross amid the few gems, and Google won’t help you sort chaff from wheat.
We’ve enlisted local experts to provide guided (or part-guided) culinary adventure around the cities and its orange-tree streets. You’ll learn about the traditions of jamón iberico during an insider tapas crawl, then cross Rio Guadalquivir to the old gypsy district Triana for an authentic flamenco performance.
Call us today or 020 7359 3938
27/03/2024
Beautiful Peru, embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Peru, where ancient civilizations meet breath-taking natural beauty. From the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu nestled among misty Andean peaks to the vibrant streets of Cusco pulsating with history and culture, every corner of this mesmerizing country tells a story. Delve into the mysterious depths of the Amazon rainforest, marvel at the mystique of the Nazca Lines, and savour the flavours of Peruvian cuisine that dance on your palate. With each step, Peru captivates with its rich tapestry of landscapes, traditions, and heritage, leaving an indelible mark on every traveller's memory.
Call us today or 020 7359 3938
26/03/2024
To celebrate yesterdays Holi festival we're diving into Jaipur.
From the amazing people, food, atmosphere and architecture, to the tiny markets and festivals, we love it all. The Holi festival, also known as the Festival of Colours, is a vibrant celebration originating from Hindu tradition, typically observed in India and Nepal. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil, commemorating various legends from Hindu mythology. During Holi, participants gather to smear each other with brightly coloured powders and water, creating a kaleidoscope of hues that symbolize the diverse hues of life. Amidst laughter, music, and dance, barriers of caste, creed, and social status dissolve, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among people of all backgrounds.
Moving on to Jaipur, the 'Pink City' of India, we discover a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and architectural splendour. Set against the backdrop of the rugged Aravalli hills, Jaipur is renowned for its majestic forts, opulent palaces, and bustling markets. Explore the majestic Amber Fort, a UN World Heritage Site, with its intricate Rajput architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Old City, where vibrant bazaars brim with textiles, handicrafts, and aromatic spices. Don't miss the iconic Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, with its intricate façade adorned with hundreds of small windows. Jaipur is a city that captivates the senses.
19/03/2024
One of Conde' Nast's 'The Gold List for 2024' is the gorgeous Porto Zante, described here on their website- "Standing majestically on a private sandy beach of a secluded bay, on the island of Zakynthos, just west of Greece’s mainland and famous for its turquoise waters and Venetian villages, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is a boutique luxury hotel comprising world class luxury villas on the beach, all with private pools, exquisite Greek & Mediterranean cuisine at the Club House Restaurant, a luxury Asian Fusion Restaurant offering delicious fresh Sushi, Sashimi and Thai options, a fabulous waterfront Spa, 24-hour five-star hotel services, and an array of unique activities"
The beauty, well we think, is that it's not too far away nor is it too late to get booking for this summer.
Call the team today on - 020 7359 3938 to start planning your escape.
AD/PR - video courteous of
18/03/2024
Exploring the colourful streets and cozy corners of Copenhagen!
During the Spring is one of the best times to visit, let us help you plan your next get away 🏙️☀️👣
16/03/2024
Allegedly these are the most beautiful places to visit in South America, ranked from 1 to 7. What do you think?
7-Venezuela
6-Bolivia
5-Chile
4-Argentina
3-Peru
2-Ecuador
1-Colmbia
13/03/2024
The Lowdown on Real Holidays!
We have no set parameters when it comes to designing your holiday - sometimes we know that you need more than just a flight and hotel. Our insider itineraries make you feel less like a tourist by revealing local secrets and new perspectives through our personal experience, your own discovery or with a trusted local guide. All we ask is that you come back and tell us all about it!
Learning about your needs is the foundation of every trip on which we layer our expertise and experience to design a holiday that’s exactly right for you. Our experience comes from our extensive travels and for anywhere we haven’t been, we call on our pool of trusted contacts to give reliable advice.
Booking with us means gaining access to expert first-hand advice on your holidays whether it’s adventurous trips, hidden hotels or off-the-beaten-track experiences. We never book the same holiday twice and we love finding those authentic places which allow you to connect with your destination.
We look forward to hearing from you!
07/03/2024
Blue skies and solid ski's... the Dolomites are calling ⛷️
Follow the link in our BIO to find out more, or call us today on 020 7359 3938 to discuss a last minute trip!
21/02/2024
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of Yellowstone National Park, where every moment is a testament to nature's grandeur and the beauty hidden within America. From our luxurious camping sites nestled amidst pristine wilderness to calming horseback rides and Bison walks near the iconic Grand Prismatic Spring, every step unveils a new adventure. Traverse the rugged trails of Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, where history is etched into every rock formation. Experience the untamed beauty of America's wilderness like never before.
Contact us today for more information 🏞️🐎
20/02/2024
Some gorgeous content from from her 2019 trip to South Africa, Kruger Park. Here the Big Five are never too far away but in between is a dazzling array of other species and birds. The landscape here is classically what most picture to be true African safari country. Riverbeds fill and flow once a year and then return to sand while impressive trees with waterholes are where huge herds of buffalo and elephants gather.
Despite its size, getting around South Africa is super easy and stress free. There are direct flights between most major hotspots and it is also a very short hop to the islands of the Indian Ocean.
Contact our team for more information on how to plan the perfect trip for you and your family.
25/01/2024
Escape to Ibiti, a rural conservation project thriving for over 40 years. Immerse yourself in the indigenous nature of the Atlantic rainforest, surrounded by a dedicated community committed to rewilding. Experience the unique and unconventional landscapes, with uninterrupted viewpoints and extraordinary art installations hidden in the reserve. The project offers diverse accommodations, from a renovated farmhouse filled with local art to a secluded Eagle's Nest with an outdoor bathroom. Explore the forest on daily walks, picnics, and bike rides, spotting toucans, hummingbirds and rare primates. Indulge in sunset yoga, spa treatments, or open-air baths, all while enjoying sustainable, plant-based meals sourced from local farmers. Discover a regenerative economy that benefits all in this exotic natural wonderland 🌿
23/01/2024
Explore the different sides to central Vietnam on theis two-week trip that takes in cultural stops, colonial architecture, historical memorials, foodie encounters and beach time.
Top Tips;
-Take a guided tour around buzzing Saigon, enjoying French colonial architecture and a vibrant foodie scene including Chinatown.
-Marvel at the unfeasibly narrow and extensive Cu Chi tunnels and learn how the Vietcong used the tunnels during the Vietnam war.
-Explore the Imperial Citadel of Hue and cruise down the Perfume River.
-Stroll the cobbled streets of historic Hoi Ann and appreciate its varied architectural styles.
-Finish at a luxurious beach resort where you’ll receive excellent service in a beautiful location.
20/01/2024
News letter sneak peak-
For all it's dreary gloom, January is actually a great month to get planning and manifesting an exciting year ahead of travel.
With this in mind, we’ve put together some new ideas to inspire your travel calendar. Have a read then call us to discuss what getaways pique your interest whether it’s a gorgeous Greek Island holiday, hiking new pathways in Sri Lanka or a push-the-boat-out trip to Kenya. It would be our pleasure to bring it to life...
18/01/2024
Maldives- Catherine's just back from.
'With everyone heading to Europe for summer, consider bucking the trend and holidaying with the family in the Maldives. We discovered a luxe, tropical resort with plenty of space and a laid-back ambience where nothing was too much trouble. It’s ideal for parents who like ‘barefoot luxury’ and we left feeling surprisingly refreshed and relaxed. It was the perfect family holiday for us.'
If you'd fancy dipping you toe in to the Indian Ocean this year why not get intouch or follow the link in our bio to read more 📖🌴
15/01/2024
We’ve crafted the perfect 14-night itinerary showing you Kolkata, Jaipur and the Taj Mahal as well as India’s Big Five - one-horned rhino, Asian elephant, tiger, Asiatic lion and leopard.
The sights, smells and sounds of India are like nowhere else on Earth. Let us bring it to life for you with a trip which showcases the best of its wildlife and culture, staying in characterful properties along the way.
06/01/2024
Crete-
Perfect for all of your travels, solo explorations, couples retreat or family breaks!
With stunning terraces rooms by the pool or over looking the sea we have a great relationship with Kapsaliana Village, a quaint property restored with traditionality woven into it. With lots of character, a heated pool, great service and locally sourced produce we can't fault this for a relaxing get away...
Call us to book a beautiful fly drive this summer-
020 7359 3938
03/01/2024
Stay in comfort and Style in New Zealand
Alongside exploring gloriously diverse landscapes, the joy of travelling around New Zealand is staying in characterful properties that help immerse you in the local landscapes. This is the best season to see the beautiful lupins explode with colour.
Whether you visit North or South Island, incorporating a unique and authentic property such as the Lake house at Lake Hawea can really elevate your trip. We can help you create the prefect New Zealand itinerary for your trip, with some of New Zealand’s newest and finest places to stay...
29/12/2023
Family adventure-
There's nothing better for bonding than a thrill-seeking adventure where the whole family can get involved.
Whether it's introducing the kids to something you love, like surfing in Hawaii or diving in Belize, fishing or all experiencing a new culture. Going on an adventure with the brood can be the most enriching and rewarding holiday.
Call us to discuss your personalised trip away in 2024...
22/12/2023
Suiting the experiential traveller, small ship cruising means a slower place and a more immersive approach. Small expedition ships often head deeper into more remote areas, discovering hidden gems away from the well-sailed routes and large ports. Allowing you to get off and explore on land as much as possible, weather and wildlife permitting! Small ships also allow for more connection, whether that’s longer in your destination or smaller, lesser-known port towns or simply heading further off the beaten track. And you’re more likely to meet kindred souls onboard who are as passionate about travel and wildlife as you are. Like the sound of it? Contact us before the New Year and get planning you next adventure.
020 7359 3938
17/12/2023
Guatemala and Belize, perfect for a big adventure full of walking, culture, jungle and sight seeing.
Notes from a recent client's trip-
Our clients started off sight seeing the well known Tikal, then the smaller sights of Uaxactun and Yaxha. They then went on to find the remote El Mirador (which translates to 'The Lookout') via helicopter, they soon found themselves to be the only ones in the vicinity of the phenomenal sight and said this was a real highlight.
Get in touch with our team to discover the best ways for you to travel through this wonderful part of the world, visiting Chaa Creek national park, hacking through local forests and traveling to the waters edge in San Antonio Palopo to take in the culture or maybe even a dip in the lake!💧
Call us on 020 735 939 38 to start planning that 2024 adventure.
16/12/2023
Sri Lanka, one of Real Holiday's favourite destinations, where relaxation meets exploration. Wallawwa, an award winning 18th century colonial manor house sets the perfect scene to welcome you after a long flight. With only 18 rooms the accommodation is intimate and the staff are attentive to every need. Surrounded by tropical gardens and a gorgeous palm-fringed swimming pool you wouldn't believe you're only 20 minutes from Colombo airport.
Contact us to discuss booking your next escape now on 020 7359 3938
15/12/2023
Rajasthan and Sophie's experience, 'What I love most about travelling through Rajasthan is the diversity of the region. One moment your deep in rural Rajasthani homestays enjoying the hospitality and beauty of India's rural life, the next moment you're making your way through a bustling crowd in Jaipur whilst watching the changing colours of a romantic metropolis, full of life, culture and incredibly friendly people'
Chat to Sophie to discover more of the hidden gems you could be exploring next year!
04/12/2023
Swipe for a memorising moment...
In addition to our previous post, Sam's just back from, here is the beautiful vessel that sailed them through the Galapagos islands, Integrity Yacht. Small and intimate with up to 16 passengers and expert National Geographic guides to educate you on the phenomenal wildlife and surroundings, a truly unforgettable experience. With huge cabin windows, attentive staff a top deck hosting a whirlpool and BBQ area this seems like the only way to explore this wonderfully diverse landscape.
29/11/2023
Dreaming about an Italian summer already? So are we. Escaping to the heel of Italy to bask in the sunshine and enjoy one of the worlds favourite cuisines.
Start your trip in Bari and travel all along the famous heel of Italy to encounter a few of the most beautiful places, Trani, Bisceglie, the historical Castle del Monte or Polignano a Mare. So many options to explore along the coast for a slow trip through Italy with the family, a couples retreat or even a solo trip.
Phone us to discuss what's best for you on 020 7359 3938
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Videos
One of Conde' Nast's 'The Gold List for 2024' is the gorgeous Porto Zante, described here on their website- "Standing majestically on a private sandy beach of a secluded bay, on the island of Zakynthos, just west of Greece’s mainland and famous for its turquoise waters and Venetian villages, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is a boutique luxury hotel comprising world class luxury villas on the beach, all with private pools, exquisite Greek & Mediterranean cuisine at the Club House Restaurant, a luxury Asian Fusion Restaurant offering delicious fresh Sushi, Sashimi and Thai options, a fabulous waterfront Spa, 24-hour five-star hotel services, and an array of unique activities"
The beauty, well we think, is that it's not too far away nor is it too late to get booking for this summer.
Call the team today on - 020 7359 3938 to start planning your escape.
AD/PR - video courteous of @portozantevillas
Buzzing with both Caribbean and Latin influences, Cuba is full of character and charm from the crumbling colonial streets humming with salsa to the white-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters. With the steady rise of small stylish places to stay, you can catch Cuba on the cusp of change.
https://www.realholidays.co.uk/articles/cuba-hot-destination-2020/
Our Top 4 European Hiking Spots
Bright flowers and warm breezes make the early summer months ideal for a European walking holiday.
To find out more take a look at our latest blog post...
https://www.realholidays.co.uk/blog/item/europe-s-best-hiking
With Easter over its time to start planning your summer holiday.
Get in touch and our expert team will create something truly special for your summer getaway.
Sail around the Greek Islands? Sit on a beach looking over the Algarve? Or perhaps roam the cobbled streets of Rome? Whatever you decide we can help.
https://www.realholidays.co.uk/about-us
Explore Latin America...Argentina Here We Come
With a new direct flight on offer, Argentina's natural wonders are easier to reach than ever.
Take a look at the new itinerary available on our website to give you an idea of what's in store.
https://www.realholidays.co.uk/blog/item/argentina-here-we-come
Goldeneye
“What a wonderful place” were a clients first words after visiting GoldenEye in Jamaica….
"Secluded, laid back, staff not pushy at all, casual in the evenings and no dressing up required, unpretentious and understated."
The Beach Villa was perfect for them, with a kitchenette so they could cook when they wanted, and they felt very private and separate from the other villas. On their last day, they moved to a Lagoon Villa for the afternoon until their transfer to the airport and they thought these were beautiful rooms.
We are always delighted to receive such positive feedback after a trip.
https://www.realholidays.co.uk/holidays/destinations/jamaica
Five Seville Travel Tips
Named as Lonely Planet’s number-one city break for 2018, Seville offers a seductive blend of balmy evenings, orange tree-lined streets and Mudejar marvels.
Click here to continue reading.....http://bit.ly/2ouCT3I
Look who came to say hello on Sophie's recent trip to Wilpattu National Park in Sri Lanka!
Contact us on 0207 359 3938 to put together your own bespoke trip to spot leopard in Sri Lanka's wildlife parks, and also visit ancient Buddhist cities, lush tea plantations and stunning beaches. http://bit.ly/2uBuyP0
Real Holidays was established in 1989 and is an independent travel company based in Islington, north London.
Our ethos is to provide a personal, professional and knowledgeable service to customers that are seeking an exceptional client experience at great value with a company they can trust to deliver.
From luxury beach holidays and guided cultural explorations to active family holidays and independent fly-drives – we have the knowledge and expertise to provide a diverse range of inspiring holiday experiences.
Our small team of well-travelled consultants have a wide range of skills and experience, each with their own areas of specialism. We very much believe in working as a team to share our knowledge of hotels, local guides and experiences and it is not unusual to have the entire team discussing ideas for your holiday.
Our high level of repeat and referral business from loyal and satisfied customers is testament to our expertise and service. Find our more about What Our Customers Say.
Why Choose Real Holidays?
Unique & Flexible Holidays
We like our holidays to be as unique as you are, so all of our trips are completely tailor-made to your specific requirements. We aim to provide inspiring travel ideas and authentic experiences, taking you away from the well-trodden path. Our portfolio of destinations and trips is always evolving, and we pride ourselves in a flexible approach to your travel needs - whatever they may be.
First-Hand Knowledge
We research hotels and guides personally so we know if they are right for our customers, and our team have years of first-hand experience of a diverse range of holiday types and destinations.
Personal Service
We provide a truly personal service, building long-standing relationships and really getting to know our customers. With a high level of attention to detail and professionalism, you can rely on us to look after you before, during and after your holiday.
Honesty & Integrity
We pride ourselves on our honesty and integrity. We care about our customers and will not sell a holiday which is not right for you.
Value for Money
We offer exceptional levels of knowledge and service at a fair price. We don’t promise to be the cheapest but are always competitive, and believe the value we offer is second to none.
