Not Just Travel

Tips for booking your BEST holiday yet!!👀👇 This is what I LOVE doing! Expert Knowledge 📚 Access to insider tips, hidden gems, and the best local experiences that only a seasoned professional can provide. Time Saver ⏳ Forget hours of research and planning. Your consultant handles all the details, freeing you up to focus on the fun stuff. Exclusive Deals 💼 Benefit from special rates, upgrades, and exclusive offers that aren’t available to the general public. A WhatsApp Away 📞 Peace of mind knowing you have support before, during, and after your trip, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Ready to make your dream holiday a reality? 🏝️ Contact me today! ☎️01491 733030 or 📲07500 785254 #Travel #HolidayPlanning #TravelConsultant #Vacation #Wanderlust #TravelSmart

Have you ever been away on holiday and found yourself in a situation when your flight has been canc

Have you ever been away on holiday and found yourself in a situation when your flight has been cancelled and your only option has been to SIT and WAIT? Not a great way to end a relaxing vacation! This is exactly what happened to a client of mine. She was travelling back from the Maldives, via Dubai during the time of those dreadful floods and her flight was cancelled. The difference is that she didn’t get to Dubai and have to “SIT and WAIT”. Here’s what happened, because of booking her trip with a Personal Travel Consultant: • As soon as confirmation of the cancelled flight came through, we were on the phone. My client was still in The Maldives at this point. • I advised her to board her flight to Dubai and assured her I would have something sorted by the time she arrived at Dubai International Airport. • As promised, while she was in-flight, I arranged for her and her fiancé to be on the next available flight, which was the following day. I also booked them into a hotel in Dubai for the night. • By the time she touched down, all the arrangements were made, she just had to pick up her bags and enjoy an evening in Dubai. • There was no extra cost for the amended flight and additional accommodation. If you’ve ever wondered what benefit there is to using a personal travel consultant, this is an excellent example. What’s more, she didn’t pay any more for her vacation than she would have done if she’d booked the same holiday direct. As a side note, she loved the experience of Dubai so much that she has since booked a trip there (through me of course!) If you’re wondering where to go on your next vacation, just get in touch and I’ll find the ideal holiday personally selected just for you. Call or WhatsApp me on 07500 785254.

During my cruise last week, I was introduced to Perfect Day @ CocoCay, a private island in the Baha

During my cruise last week, I was introduced to Perfect Day @ CocoCay, a private island in the Bahamas owned by Royal Caribbean Group. But why did you go there, as you were on a Celebrity cruise? I hear you ask 😊. Well, Celebrity Cruises are part of the Royal Caribbean group and since April this year, both Celebrity Reflection & Celebrity Beyond have added this incredible island to their itineraries. CocoCay is just “the perfect” day out for families and couples. Whether you’re looking for a day of chillaxing, a beach party, a few drinks at the swim-up bar, or the thrill of the waterpark. It’s all there for the taking. Here’s how a perfect day at CocoCay could look: • Start by exploring everything the island has to offer, there are some stunning white sandy beaches. • Spend a bit of time at the waterpark and perhaps experience the zipline, or even the helium balloon. • Enjoy a refreshment at the Oasis swim-up bar. • Take a spot of lunch at one of the many eateries. • Perhaps finish the day by letting loose at the ultimate beach party on the Hideaway Beach (just for adults). It really is a fantastic day out but before you go, it’s worth looking at what’s available, many of the experiences are complimentary but some do come at a charge. To find out more, click on the link below: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cococay-cruises #CocoCay #PerfectDayAtCocoCay #IslandParadise #BeachVibes #CelebrityCruises

Thanks to #CelebrityCruises for introducing me to their magnificent ship Reflection last week. It was a truly unforgettable experience. The entire staff & crew provided exemplary service & hospitality from the moment I stepped onboard. I would particularly like to thank Leon Hand Celebrity Cruises & Matt Alderton for hosting us onboard and providing fantastic training along the way. Here’s what I learned to expect every time you sail with Celebrity Cruises: • A professional, prompt & courteous service from a team that clearly love their jobs and take pride in ensuring their guests have a truly enjoyable experience. • Comfortable, well-appointed cabins – my stateroom was impeccably cleaned each day and provided all the comforts I could want. • An exceptional dining experience – whether you just want to grab something quick at the buffet or perhaps take your time at the included table service restaurant or go for luxury in one of the speciality restaurants onboard. • Excellent leisure facilities including the spa, fitness centre, pools & hot tubs. • Fantastic entertainment including live music, theatre shows, comedy& guest entertainers. Watch this space for more information and deals on Celebrity Cruises. #CelebrityCruises #CelebrityRefelection #OceanAdvenjtures #LuxuryCruises #CruiseVacation

Melting in Miami today 🥵🥵 Loving this cruise with Celebrity Reflection - after visiting West Key a

Melting in Miami today 🥵🥵 Loving this cruise with Celebrity Reflection - after visiting West Key and CocoCay, Bahamas, we're now in Miami and boy IT IS HOT! The beach you can see in the video is South Beach. #MiamiHeat #CelebrityReflection #WestKey #CocoCay #Bahamas #SouthBeach #cruise #CelebrityCruises

Why would you want to visit The Florida Keys? Perhaps it's because of the quirky vibe? Or maybe

Why would you want to visit The Florida Keys? Perhaps it's because of the quirky vibe? Or maybe it's the stunning beaches? Or, simply because, you were lucky enough to arrive there on the magnificent Celebrity Reflection! Whatever the reason you go to the Florida Keys, you won't be disappointed. #FloridaKeys #familyvacation #celebrityreflection #celebritycruises #cruiselife #keywest

How do you know you are on a cool cruise line??

When the lead singer of the gig tonight is the ships captain and Metallica’s Enter Sandman, Hey Jude, Hotel California & Sweet Child O’Mine are on the set list!! #celebrity cruise

Welcome to Key West, Florida Keys. I arrived here on the magnificent Celebrity Reflection yesterda

Welcome to Key West, Florida Keys. I arrived here on the magnificent Celebrity Reflection yesterday and what a destination it is. Something I love about cruising is that you get a little taste of different places and can decide if it's somewhere you'd like to come back to. Well, I have to say, Key West is a cracking place, with lovely shops, bars, restaurants, beaches, and just a great vibe. In the words of the big A - I'll be back! It really is a little slice of paradise nestled in the heart of the Florida Keys. I would not only wholeheartedly recommend cruising here with Celebrity, I would also suggest a holiday based here. #KeyWest #FloridaKeys #CelebrityReflection #cruise #paradise #travel #destination #KeyWestVibes #tropicalparadise #CelebrityCruises

This week is “Business Trip” week - all in the name of research for my lovely clients. And, what b

This week is “Business Trip” week - all in the name of research for my lovely clients. And, what better way to ensure I’m providing a comprehensive review on cruising, than to take a trip to Florida onboard the outstanding ship Celebrity Reflection. Yes, I know, it’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it 😊 Here’s a snapshot of what I’ve learnt about this luxurious, elegant cruise liner so far: • The design is contemporary, stylish and elegant throughout. • There is a vast range of staterooms and suites, some with spacious balconies and all with upscale amenities. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit their preferences and budget. • World class dining – Celebrity is known for its exceptional culinary offerings and trust me Celebrity Reflection DOES NOT disappoint. • Fantastic entertainment and activities for all the family, including Broadway-style shows and live music performances. • Family friendly amenities with supervised youth programs and dedicated teen lounges (enter if you dare!) Here’s a few snaps that I’ve taken, I’ll be back with more information throughout the week, to help you decide if this might be the ship for you. #CelebrityReflection #CruiseLife #LuxuryTravel #SailAway #CruiseShip #FamilyCruise

This week is “Business Trip” week - all in the name of research for my lovely clients. And, what b

This week is “Business Trip” week - all in the name of research for my lovely clients. And, what better way to ensure I’m providing a comprehensive review on cruising, than to take a trip to Florida onboard the outstanding ship Celebrity Reflection. Yes, I know, it’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it 😊 Here’s a snapshot of what I’ve learnt about this luxurious, elegant cruise liner so far: • The design is contemporary, stylish and elegant throughout. • There is a vast range of staterooms and suites, some with spacious balconies and all with upscale amenities. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit their preferences and budget. • World class dining – Celebrity is known for its exceptional culinary offerings and trust me Celebrity Reflection DOES NOT disappoint. • Fantastic entertainment and activities for all the family, including Broadway-style shows and live music performances. • Family friendly amenities with supervised youth programs and dedicated teen lounges (enter if you dare!) Here’s a few snaps that I’ve taken, I’ll be back with more information throughout the week, to help you decide if this might be the ship for you. #CelebrityReflection #CruiseLife #LuxuryTravel #SailAway #CruiseShip #FamilyCruise

Have you ever been blown away by how beautiful a beach is? It could be somewhere in the Indian Ocea

Have you ever been blown away by how beautiful a beach is? It could be somewhere in the Indian Ocean, Australia, The Caribbean, or perhaps the good old UK. Wherever it is, there is something quite magical about sitting on the beach listening to the waves lapping on the shore. I have many favourites but ones that immediately spring to mind would be (perhaps predictably) in The Maldives and Mauritius. In 2022 I took the family to Siyam World and Olhuveli Beach Spa and the beaches were quite simply stunning. I was also privileged to go on a “business trip” to check out the Beachcomber Resorts in Mauritius, and again the beaches were something else. However, if I were to pick 3 beaches I haven’t visited, but know about, I’d choose: Matira Beach, Bora Bora – renowned for its picture-perfect stretch of soft white sand fringed by swaying palm trees. Superb for snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs with an abundance of tropical fish. Whitehaven Beach, Australia – known as one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, with dazzling white sand and brilliant turquoise waters. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles – on the island of LaDigue, it is somewhat different from your average beach, with unusual granite rock formations, shallow lagoons, and powdery pink sands. For those who would prefer to not trek across the other side of the world, there are some stunning beaches in the UK. For example, Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland; Woolacombe Beach, Devon; Rhossili Bay, Wales; and one of my favourites, Mudeford in Dorset. What’s the most amazing beach you’ve visited – I’d love to hear your recommendations. #BeachParadise #TropicalGetaway #BeachLife #SunSandSea #TurquoiseWaters

I predict a riot - of reds, oranges, purple, brown, and yellows, a true masterpiece of nature. Wher

I predict a riot - of reds, oranges, purple, brown, and yellows, a true masterpiece of nature. Where? New England in autumn. Whether you drive along the byways, hike through the forests, or just stroll through some of the quaint towns, you will find breathtaking colours at every turn. New England in the fall is quite simply stunning – it’s a beautiful part of the world at any time but during the autumn, you’ll be in for quite a treat. You can explore picture-perfect hamlets like Woodstock, Vermont, and Kennebunkport. Visit Maine with its scenic harbour and cozy cafes and find yourself a rustic lodge, seaside cottage, or charming inn. However, if you like the sound of this but would like someone to do all the planning for you, we have a great offer departing on 16th October 2024. This is for a 14-night New England Road Trip for just £2,642pp. The road trip starts in Boston and takes you to Kennebunkport, Jackson, Stowe, Stockbridge, Newport, and Falmouth. It includes flights from LHR, car hire, accommodation for 14 nights in a range of 3- and 4-star hotels, and is based on 2 adults sharing. The trip is subject to availability – Ts and Cs apply. If you’d like to read more about it, just click on the link below: https://alexharding.notjusttravel.com/offers/new-england-autumn-road-trip #NewEnglandRoadTrip #ScenicDrives #AutumnAdventure #ExploreNewEngland #RoadTripUSA

Hitting the pause button on work. for a short break away, can be just as beneficial as taking a lon

Hitting the pause button on work. for a short break away, can be just as beneficial as taking a long holiday. After all, we all need to recharge both mentally and physically. Here are a few suggestions for getting away from it all for 3 or 4 nights. Florence, Italy – a real Italian gem and often overlooked for the more popular Rome. If you like your Renaissance art and architecture, Florence will be a dream come true. There’s the Cathedral (Duomo) that dominates the city’s skyline – you can climb to the top and see the most amazing views of the city. And, the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge across the Arno River. Also, let’s not forget, you’re in Italy, which can only mean, pizza, pasta and ICECREAM! Budapest, Hungary – immerse yourself in stunning architecture, strolling along the banks of the Danube. Or, take a river cruise and see the beauty from the river. When you’re all done with sightseeing, there are the famous thermal baths for you to indulge in. Edinburgh, Scotland – if you’re looking for a vibrant cultural scene, you don’t need to go any further than the UK. Visit the historic castle, hike up to Arthur’s Seat, and tour the spooky underground vaults. If theatre, arts, and comedy is your thing, visit in August for the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Check out the city deals on our website and WOW app. You will find one for a 4* break in Budapest for 3 nights for only £222pp!! – take a look by clicking the link below: https://alexharding.notjusttravel.com/offers/4-budapest-city-break-with-extra-50-off All deals are subject to availability / Ts and Cs apply. If you’d like to get away for a short break, just give me a call or WhatsApp 07500 785254 #CityBreak #WeekendEscape #ExploreTheCity #CityAdventures #HolidayOffer #ShortBreaks

“Mauritius was made first and then Heaven” – Mark Twain. I have to say, he hit the nail on the hea

“Mauritius was made first and then Heaven” – Mark Twain. I have to say, he hit the nail on the head! It’s a picturesque paradise, nestled in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. With mesmerizing landscapes, crystal-clear waters, secluded coves, dramatic waterfalls and a feast of culinary delights. If it’s on your bucket list, I recommend you check out The Beachcomber Resorts, featured on my website: https://alexharding.notjusttravel.com/beachcomber-mauritius Beachcomber was Mauritius first hotel company and has hand-picked the finest locations around the island. Unlocking idyllic sunsets and pristine beaches for all their guests. There are 8 luxurious 4- and 5-star resorts to choose from - for weddings, honeymoons, family holidays and even golfing retreats. All offer superb hospitality, exquisite cuisine, luxury spas and breathtaking natural beauty. What’s more, the resorts make a luxury tropical holiday more affordable than you might think. I have experienced the Beachcomber Resorts and can give you an informed decision on which resort I think would be best suited for your holiday preferences. To find out more either click on the link provided or give me a shout on 07500 785254. #MauritiusEscape #IslandGetaway #TropicalParadise #BeachcomberExperience #BeachcomberResorts

Have you downloaded the Not Just Travel WOW App yet? If not, you’re missing some great deals. Here

Have you downloaded the Not Just Travel WOW App yet? If not, you’re missing some great deals. Here’s a few of my favourites: Disney World Florida – FREE Dining and Drinks AND £300 off per booking - for selected packages in 2025. This means you can live out your Disney dream without paying a dollar for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks or refreshments. Deluxe Maldives with FREE room upgrade – a saving of £2700! This is with an all-inclusive stay at 5* Sun Siyam World. I took the family here last year so can give you a first-hand recommendation on this one! Japan North to South – as seen on BBC One’s Race Across the World – from £3,799. You will follow the footsteps of this year’s contestants with this sensational Japan North to South Itinerary. By downloading the app, you will be able to browse through the different categories including: All Inclusive, Multi-Centre, Beach, City Breaks, Latest Deals, and Cruise. Great to just flick through when you’re having a coffee or sat on the train. The app is exclusively invite only and downloadable by clicking one of the links below: https://apps.apple.com/in/app/wow-travel/id1658768025 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.travel.app.travel_app When you register, please enter my Agent Code – AL000213. Not only will you have access to sensational deals specially negotiated with top holiday brands, I will be on hand to help whenever you need me. If you’re looking for your next holiday, don’t miss out, download now. #TravelApp #TravelWithEase #ExploreAnywhere #AdventureAwaits #TripPlanner #FamilyVacation

Sometimes we all deserve to be spoilt! Today I’m going to tell you about somewhere extra special,

Sometimes we all deserve to be spoilt! Today I’m going to tell you about somewhere extra special, that has all those luxurious touches. A place of pristine beauty that offers tranquillity, seclusion, and breathtaking views of the ocean. That place is called Ayada Maldives, a luxurious resort located on a stunning private island. The perfect place to celebrate a special birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or even to get married. It is one of my favourite luxury resorts to recommend, and one I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed with. Whether you book to stay in one of their Garden Villas or Sunset Ocean Suites, you will have the perfect elegantly designed retreat, to relax amongst the lush greenery of this island. The resort offers an array of activities to cater for everyone. Whether you want to be active and take part in the water sports and yoga classes, or just want to be pampered in the luxurious spa and rejuvenate with the range of treatments and massages – it’s all there for the taking. Overall, Ayada Maldives offers a blend of luxury, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, making it an idyllic retreat for those seeking an unforgettable vacation in paradise. Tempted? Call or WhatsApp me on 07500 785254, it may well be more affordable than you think. #LuxuryResort #AyadaMaldives #DreamDestination #LuxuryTravel #OverwaterVillas #SecludedRetreat #Paradise #SpecialOccasion #Honeymoon #WeddingVenue

What about a wildlife adventure followed by 5-star beach relaxation? I’m talking about a Tanzania and Zanzibar combo. Your adventure will begin in Tanzania, a country renowned for its vast wilderness areas, offering one of the best safari experiences in the world. You will take a light aircraft flight across golden savannahs and snaking rivers into the heart of Nyerere National Park; cruise along the river at sunset, watching hippos and crocodiles bask in the fading light; step into the wilderness on bush walks and game drives, encountering Masai giraffes, majestic lions, and herds of buffalo. In short, Nyerere National Park is a pristine wilderness teaming with life, offering a rare opportunity to experience Africa’s natural splendour on an epic scale. After several nights of experiencing the incredible animals of the savannah, it’s time for some 5-star luxury in laid-back Zanzibar. Zanzibar is a tropical paradise, nestled in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. It is a place of pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, beauty and charm. We currently have an offer for a Tanzania Safari and Beach Adventure, departing on 1st November 2024. The trip is for 12 days for an incredible £5080pp. This is subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. If you’d like more information, either give me a shout or click on the link below: https://alexharding.notjusttravel.com/offers/tanzania-safari-beach-adventure #SafariAndSand #WildlifeAndWaves #BushToBeach #BeachSafariAdventure #SafariSunSea

What does your dream holiday look like? Are you someone who loves to sit on the beach with a cold drink in one hand and a book in the other? Or a person who craves adventure and learning about new cultures? There’s no right or wrong answer – we’re all individuals with our own preferences. Perhaps you’d like a bit of both – some time to chill and get your breath back, then a bit of travelling around. Whatever your ideal trip is, it’s out there for the taking, but sometimes it’s difficult to sift through all the different options. Not only is it time consuming, but it can also get very confusing – just when you think you’ve found your dream trip, you find several mediocre or even bad reviews which make you question the whole thing. When you use a personal travel consultant, they will get to know your likes, dislikes, and travel style. Meaning they can pull together an itinerary crafted uniquely for you – this could include hidden gems and experiences you may not find through online searching. What’s more, it’s a cost-effective option. Yeap, using a travel consultant doesn’t make your holiday more expensive! In fact, with their access to special rates, it can save you money in the long run. Building a relationship with a travel consultant means they become more attuned to your travel wishes and can anticipate your needs in future trips. So, what are you waiting for, let’s start talking about your dream holiday – call me or WhatsApp on 07500 785254. #TravelExpertise #TravelMadeEasy #PersonalTravelConsultant #StressFreeTravel #DreamHoliday

I watched an interesting story on the news last week about the increase in the number of people who holiday alone. These weren’t just single people, but individuals who were travelling solo for a number of reasons, for example: · Ticking off items from their own personal bucket list. · Having different interests to their partners and wanting the freedom and flexibility to do exactly what they wish. · Needing to have time to reflect, perhaps on a yoga retreat, or just somewhere peaceful to be alone. Listening to one of the ladies who was interviewed made me look at solo travel in a completely different way. Are there places you long to see, or things you’d love to do but don’t do them? Either because: a) You are single and worried about travelling alone. Or. b) Your partner doesn’t have the same dream destination that you do. There are so many options for solo travel these days. For example, you could join a singles escorted holiday, where you would share your passion with like-minded people. There are also a lot of cruises that fully cater for people travelling alone. If you’d like to find out more, give me a shout by calling 07500 785254 and if you’re looking for inspiration for places to go, just click on the link below: https://alexharding.notjusttravel.com/blog/inspiration #SoloAdventures #WanderSolo #SoloJourney #SoloTraveler #OnMyOwnAdventure #IndependentTravel