Sandra Dowling Travel - NJT - Swadlincote

  • Home
  • Sandra Dowling Travel - NJT - Swadlincote

Sandra Dowling Travel - NJT - Swadlincote Personal travel consultant - helping you plan your perfect holiday time and again
(3)

Just wrapped up 9 incredible days exploring Japan! 🇯🇵 From slurping authentic ramen in Osaka to finding peace in Kyoto's...
05/11/2024

Just wrapped up 9 incredible days exploring Japan! 🇯🇵

From slurping authentic ramen in Osaka to finding peace in Kyoto's temples, and experiencing Tokyo's electric energy - what an adventure!
Highlights: Osaka Castle, hidden kissaten cafes, Kyoto's geisha district, that magical bamboo forest in Arashiyama, and an unexpected peaceful escape to Nikko's botanical gardens. Plus, the FOOD! 🍜✨
Want all the details, including our favourite hidden spots and travel tips? Check out my latest blog post! https://sandradowlingtravel.com/blog

📍 Nikko, Japan - Day 9 (Our Last Full Day!)Today we swapped Tokyo's concrete jungle for the real thing! Headed to Nikko ...
31/10/2024

📍 Nikko, Japan - Day 9 (Our Last Full Day!)

Today we swapped Tokyo's concrete jungle for the real thing! Headed to Nikko National Park... though getting there was a bit of an adventure! Pro travel tip: book the express train in advance unless you fancy a scenic 4-hour journey through the Japanese countryside (oops! 😅). At least we learned our lesson and booked the return trip! 🚂
Sometimes travel mistakes lead to the best memories though - watching rural Japan roll by through the train window was pretty special.
Nikko is absolutely stunning - while most people head straight for the famous temples and shrines, we took the path less travelled to the botanical gardens. What a gem! Unlike the manicured gardens we're used to, this place has a wonderful wild beauty about it. Best part? We practically had it all to ourselves! The perfect peaceful ending to our Japanese adventure. 🌿
Can't believe this is our last full day in Japan - what a journey it's been! ✨

📍 Tokyo, Japan - Day 8Made our pilgrimage to the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing today - you know, that iconic intersec...
30/10/2024

📍 Tokyo, Japan - Day 8
Made our pilgrimage to the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing today - you know, that iconic intersection you've seen in every Tokyo movie ever! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

It's honestly mesmerizing watching this organised chaos in action - up to 3,000 people crossing at once from all directions, yet somehow nobody bumps into each other! Watched the tourists stopping mid-crossing for that classic photo. I was more worried about getting to the other side unscathed 😂

The energy here is electric - massive video screens on the buildings, music pumping from stores, and the most fascinating mix of people. Spent hours just wandering the colourful backstreets of Shibuya, watching fashion-forward locals mix with wide-eyed tourists. Tokyo street style is something else!

Wrapped up the day at this fantastic little wine bar close to the hotel - the perfect spot to rest our feet and indulge in some delicious tapas. ✨🍷

📍 Tokyo, Japan - Day 7All aboard the bullet train! 🚅 Treated ourselves to the Green Car experience from Kyoto to Tokyo a...
30/10/2024

📍 Tokyo, Japan - Day 7
All aboard the bullet train! 🚅 Treated ourselves to the Green Car experience from Kyoto to Tokyo and honestly? Best decision ever! Super spacious seats, peaceful atmosphere, and watching the Japanese countryside zip by at 320km/h in total comfort - now this is how to travel!
Finally made it to the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo! Staying near the historic Asakusa area and couldn't resist exploring our neighbourhood. Wandered down Hoppy Street with its row of old-school izakayas and street food stalls.
The massive Senso-ji Temple dominates the area - those enormous red lanterns and that five-story pagoda are even more impressive in person! The shopping street leading up to the temple (Nakamise) was perfect for a spot of retail therapy.

In the evening we caught a traditional dance performance at Tokyo Tower! The dancers were incredible - such dramatic movements and intense energy. There's something so special about watching these ancient art forms being kept alive in the shadow of this modern icon! 💃

Love how Tokyo mixes the ultra-modern with the deeply traditional - can't wait to explore more! ✨

📍 Kyoto, Japan - Day 6Early bird catches the worm... or in our case, a slightly less crowded bamboo forest! Made it to A...
28/10/2024

📍 Kyoto, Japan - Day 6
Early bird catches the worm... or in our case, a slightly less crowded bamboo forest! Made it to Arashiyama by 8:30am, and even then people were starting to pour in. But wow - those towering bamboo stalks stretching up to the sky, morning light filtering through... just magical! 🎋
Wandered into Tenryu-ji Temple's gardens and found ourselves mesmerized by Sogenchi Teien - watching koi fish glide beneath the surface of the pond while the landscape stretches out before you. Can only imagine how stunning it must be when the maples turn red! 🍁
Pro tip: the viewpoints above the bamboo forest are worth the steep climb! Hardly anyone makes the trek up, so we finally found that peaceful moment we were looking for. Spent hours just exploring the quieter paths - sometimes the best discoveries are just off the tourist trail!
Afternoon took us to the famous 1000 Torii Gates. Yes, it's stunning and yes, it's packed! But we escaped the crowds to find the most amazing local lunch spot - £3.50 for perfect shrimp fried rice and miso soup. These humble places often serve the best food! 🍚
But dinner... oh dinner! Found this tiny French-inspired restaurant with just 16 seats. One man show - the owner cooks, serves, and cleans with this amazing sense of calm and precision. Five courses of pure artistry on a plate. Watching him work was like watching a carefully choreographed dance. Sometimes the best restaurants are the ones you could walk right past! ✨

📍 Kyoto, Japan - Day 5What a day immersing ourselves in the heart and soul of traditional Japan! Joined a small group wa...
27/10/2024

📍 Kyoto, Japan - Day 5
What a day immersing ourselves in the heart and soul of traditional Japan! Joined a small group walking tour that brought Kyoto's fascinating history to life. 🏯
Wandered through the enchanting Gion Shirakawa district, where geishas still hurry along narrow stone-paved streets between ancient wooden buildings. It feels like stepping back in time!
The massive Chion-in Temple was breathtaking - those giant entrance gates! 😮 Our guide shared so much about Buddhism and the temple's significance as one of Japan's most important Buddhist sites.
Climbed up to Hisashi-yama where we were transported back to the time of emperors and samurai warriors. The stories of ancient Japan are just incredible! Then on to the stunning Kiyomizu-dera temple with its famous wooden terrace - those views over Kyoto! 🍁
Highlight of the day was definitely the traditional tea ceremony. Learned all about the beautiful ritual of matcha preparation - every movement has meaning, from how you whisk the tea to how you present the cup to your guest. Such a meditative experience! 🍵
Ended the day with what turned out to be a FEAST of sushi! Our eyes were definitely bigger than our stomachs but everything was so fresh and beautiful we couldn't resist! 🍣

📍 Kyoto, Japan - Day 4New city, new adventures! Started our day in Osaka with a peaceful breakfast by the river before s...
26/10/2024

📍 Kyoto, Japan - Day 4
New city, new adventures! Started our day in Osaka with a peaceful breakfast by the river before saying goodbye to the city that's treated us so well. Then hopped on the train to Kyoto - the ancient capital of Japan and heart of Japanese Buddhism. 🚅
Dropped our bags and headed straight for the famous Nishiki Market, nicknamed "Kyoto's Kitchen"! This covered arcade is a feast for all the senses - centuries-old food vendors, the most incredible array of pickles I've ever seen, beautifully crafted knives, and some pretty interesting delicacies (hello, prawns on a stick! 🍱)
For dinner, we stumbled upon the most fascinating fusion spot - a Japanese-Italian restaurant where East truly meets West. Think ramen noodles meets al dente pasta, and Japanese ingredients giving classic Italian dishes a whole new life. Who knew soy sauce and parmesan could be such good friends? 🍝🇯🇵
Can't wait to explore more of this historic city. Already feeling the different vibe here compared to Osaka - there's such a sense of tradition in the air and a whole load more tourists! ✨

📍 Japan - Day 3Sometimes the best days are when you stumble upon an unexpected gem! We hopped on a quick 30-minute train...
25/10/2024

📍 Japan - Day 3
Sometimes the best days are when you stumble upon an unexpected gem! We hopped on a quick 30-minute train from Osaka to Kobe today, and while most people head there for the famous beef, we discovered something completely different: the magical Nunobiki Herb Gardens! 🌿
Picture this: gliding up Mount Maya in a cable car, watching the city shrink beneath us, before stepping into what feels like a secret paradise. Twelve different garden areas cascade down the mountainside, each one more enchanting than the last. The brilliant design means you can take the steps if you're feeling energetic, or gentle pathways if you prefer a more leisurely pace, all accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs
Had the loveliest afternoon tea at The Veranda - sipping perfectly brewed tea and nibbling on cake while gazing out over Kobe. That view! 😍
Got totally lost (in the best way) exploring the Glasshouse with its collection of tropical plants, and couldn't resist some retail therapy at View Rest Home - picked up some garden-made teas and fragrances that smell absolutely divine! The Fragrance Museum was such an unexpected delight too.
We had grand plans to explore more of Kobe, but honestly? This place cast its spell on us and we happily spent the whole day here. Sometimes the best travel moments come when you just let a place draw you in completely! ✨
Back in Osaka, ended the perfect day with one of my favorite foods - a Poke Bowl! Found this hidden gem called Scales just minutes from our hotel. Great ambience and the fresh bowls were absolutely delicious. Japan keeps delivering these wonderful little discoveries! 🍜

📍 Osaka, Japan - Day 2Started our morning in the perfect way by stopping at a traditional Kissaten (an old school Japane...
24/10/2024

📍 Osaka, Japan - Day 2
Started our morning in the perfect way by stopping at a traditional Kissaten (an old school Japanese coffee house). We had a toasted sandwich and cinnamon coffee and a good dose of hospitality. The owner pulled out books for us to get some ideas of what we should be doing in Osaka, it was a wonderful experience!

Explored the city by joining a walking tour today that took us to the magnificent Osaka Castle - those massive stone walls are incredible up close, and the golden details on the castle literally sparkle in the sunlight! 🏯
Made our way up to the observation deck at Abeno Harukas (Japan's tallest building!) for some breathtaking city views. Then wandered through Tsuruhashi Market in Osaka's vibrant Korean quarter - the smell of grilled yakitori, Korean BBQ, and fresh seafood was everywhere! 🍖
The sensory overload that is Dotonbori was next on the tour. Those giant 3D signs along the canal, especially the famous Glico running man, are even more impressive in person.
Wrapped up the tour in the retro vibes of Shinsekai district right under the Tsutenkaku Tower. Such a mix of old school Japan and modern energy

In the evening we discovered Osaka's craft beer scene! Found two incredible spots where Stephen was in his element (fellow real ale enthusiasts will understand 😉). We sampled some amazing local brews paired with delicious bar snacks. Stephen even scored a craft beer map of the city - his perfect souvenir! 🍺

Feet are tired but my heart is full!✨

Day 1 in JapanArrived at 1pm in to Kansai Airport in Osaka and after an efficient if not lengthy procedure at passport c...
23/10/2024

Day 1 in Japan
Arrived at 1pm in to Kansai Airport in Osaka and after an efficient if not lengthy procedure at passport control and customs we made our way to the hotel by train.
Train travel is really easy here so we didn’t even consider a taxi.
After checkin we had a much needed bite to eat from the local 711 and caught up on a bit of sleep before we headed out for a walk into the city of Tokyo Osaka.
We paid a visit to the shopping arcade DAIMARU SHINSAIBASHI and attached Parco and wow what an experience with 10 floors covering eateries, designer outlets, gifts and a whole floor dedicated Japanese pop culture we meandered for a couple of hours until we were feeling it was time to eat.
There are so many restaurants and bars and with only some menus in English the Google Translate App was a god send. We chose a Yakitori Gappo 日歩(がっぽ) and with the help of our server and our photo menu we chose a few dishes to share all washed down with a local beer. It was so good and a steal at £18 for both of us.
All in all a good first night in Osaka

Tomorrow I’ll let you know how our walking tour went

20/10/2024

Wedding Event with a Difference at The Chocolate Factory in Derby DE1 2QD

🎌 Big news, friends! I'm off to Japan for two weeks! 🇯🇵✈️Can you believe it? This travel consultant is finally going to ...
18/10/2024

🎌 Big news, friends! I'm off to Japan for two weeks! 🇯🇵✈️
Can you believe it? This travel consultant is finally going to experience the Land of the Rising Sun firsthand! 🌅 I'm beyond excited to explore Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. It's going to be a whirlwind of tea 🫖sushi 🍣, temples ⛩️, and tech 📱!
On the itinerary:
🍜 Slurping ramen in Osaka
🍵 Experiencing a tea ceremony in Kyoto
🗼 Gazing at the Tokyo skyline
I'd love your help making this trip unforgettable!
👉 Been to Japan? Share your must-see spots!
👉 Know any hidden gems?
👉 What's that one thing I absolutely can't miss?
Drop your tips in the comments or shoot me a message. I'll be eternally grateful.
Stay tuned for daily updates, photos, and probably way too many food pics. Who's excited to travel vicariously through me? 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️

FAMILY EASTER HOLIDAY IN SINGAPORE FROM £5,819Sentosa Island is an action-packed resort island for the entire family. Wi...
09/10/2024

FAMILY EASTER HOLIDAY IN SINGAPORE FROM £5,819

Sentosa Island is an action-packed resort island for the entire family. With beaches, theme parks, water parks, museums and family-friendly attractions including Universal Studios Singapore, located inside the Resorts World complex.

The main attractions of Singapore including world class shopping and dining, the famed Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Zoo are easily reached by public transport.

Village Hotel Sentosa is located within walking distance of the Resorts World complex and keeps kids in mind from the get-go with their own dedicated check in counter and welcome kit tailored to their age (Deluxe Family Room only). The Pool Deck is incredibly family-friendly with slides, water features and a lazy river. Retreat to the Pamukkale Pool for beautiful sunset views on the Turkish-style terraces. Dining is just as delicious, with Native Kitchen serving Singaporean classics.

Your stay here is in a family room with two interconnecting bedrooms and two bathrooms with plenty of space for the entire family and can take families of up to four people of any age.

VILLAGE HOTEL SENTOSA 4*

• 7nts in a Family Room

• Daily Breakfast

• Private Transfers

FROM £5,819 PER FAMILY
Based on 16th April 2025 departure

Family price is based on 2 Adults & 2 Children aged 2-11 years.

Family price with older children from £5,929

(Based on Heathrow departures).
Please call us for other configurations.

Fly from London Heathrow with Etihad from £5,819
Fly from Birmingham with Turkish Airlines from £6,039
Fly from Manchester with Turkish Airlines from £6,165
Fly from Edinburgh or Glasgow with British Airways from £6,349
Fly from Newcastle with British AIrways from £6,835
Fly from Dublin with Turkish Airlines from £7,185

Upgrade to a Family Deluxe Room from £169 per family

STAY LONGER - 10nts from £7,779 per family (Based on Heathrow flights)

For alternative dates, departure airports, airlines or durations or any other pricing queries please call 017917607510
Terms and conditions apply

FAMILY ALL INCLUSIVE ANTIGUA SUMMER HOLIDAY FROM £7,299Royalton Antigua is a modern resort where there’s something for e...
08/10/2024

FAMILY ALL INCLUSIVE ANTIGUA SUMMER HOLIDAY FROM £7,299

Royalton Antigua is a modern resort where there’s something for everyone and almost everything’s included.

This plush and modern all-inclusive family resort sits along a curve of sand lapped by the calm waters of St. John's Deep Bay. It has everything you’d expect from a mega beach resort, including a spa, kids' clubs, and a bedazzlement of dining venues. Your days will be busy here if you want them to be. A roster of daily activities means no one gets bored, from sandcastle building to pool games, cooking classes, and dance lessons. Get competitive on the tennis courts, try a fitness class, or slink off to the hydrotherapy pools at the spa. Then again, you could simply relax and allow the servers to bring icy drinks to your poolside lounger.

ROYALTON ANTIGUA - AN AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT 4*

• 7nts in a Luxury Junior Suite

• All Inclusive

• Shared Transfers

FROM £7,299 PER FAMILY
Based on selected departures in August 2025

Fly from London Gatwick with British Airways from £7,299 per family

Flights from other regional airports may be available but may require an overnight in London and re-check-in at Gatwick. Please call for details.

Upgrade to Private Transfers from £125 per family
Upgrade to a Luxury Suite Bay View from £350 per family
Upgrade to a Luxury Junior Suite Diamond Club from £840 per family

STAY LONGER - 10nts from £8,899 - 14nts from £11,269

Family price is based on 2 adults and 2 children aged 2-11 years. Families with older children, 1 adults & 2 children aged 12-17 years from £8,139.

For alternative dates, departure airports, airlines or durations or any other pricing queries please call 07917607510
Terms and Conditions apply

KURAMATHI MALDIVES OCEANFRONT POOL VILLA WITH FREE ALL INCLUSIVE UPGRADE FROM £3,209Set in Rasdhoo Atoll, Kuramathi Mald...
08/10/2024

KURAMATHI MALDIVES OCEANFRONT POOL VILLA WITH FREE ALL INCLUSIVE UPGRADE FROM £3,209

Set in Rasdhoo Atoll, Kuramathi Maldives is an island resort offering a naturally Maldivian holiday experience with unique twists to suit everyone. Whether you are a couple on a romantic getaway or a family seeking to enjoy quality time together, Kuramathi has something for you. You can indulge in sensual spa therapies, spend an afternoon exploring the vibrant house reef, go on culinary adventures, and many other exciting activities. There is something for everyone.

One of the first Maldives island resorts to welcome guests, Kuramathi is an island of choice offering a range of villas, numerous dining experiences, diverse facilities, and a welcoming service that the Maldives is known for. Located 56 kilometres west from Male’ International Airport, Kuramathi is about 1.8km long. Guest villas are scattered around lush gardens, facing secluded areas of long beaches, or poised over water. Many areas of the island remain untouched, inviting guests to leisurely stroll along deserted white sand beaches or through virgin vegetation.

Travelife Gold certified since 2012 for its commitment to responsible tourism and sustainability, this multi award-winning island really is the island of options.

This offer is based on a stay in a Pool Villa, perched above the beach and just moments from the calm waters of the Indian Ocean. Your stay here includes one night free and a complimentary upgrade from Full Board to All Inclusive. This gives you a great selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at the island's bars and all meals in your allocated buffet restaurant. You also have the use of snorkelling equipment during your stay as well as a visit to a local island.

There is the option to upgrade further to the Select All Inclusive plan, which gives you access to the resort's 9 A La Carte dining venues.

KURAMATHI MALDIVES 4*

• 7nts in a Pool Villa

• All Inclusive (Free upgrade from Full Board)

• Speedboat Transfers

From £3,209 per person
Based on selected departures in May 2025.

SAVE UP TO £1,665 PER COUPLE

Fly from London Heathrow with Qatar Airways from £3,209pp
Fly from Manchester with Qatar Airways from £3,399pp
Fly from Dublin with Qatar Airways from £3,409pp
Fly from Glasgow or Edinburgh with British Airways from £3,449pp
Fly from Birmingham with Emirates from £3,519pp
Fly from Newcastle with Emirates from £3,549pp

Upgrade to Select All Inclusive from £525pp

Upgrade to Return Seaplane Transfers from £217pp

STAY LONGER - 10nts from £4,379pp - 14nts from £5,565pp

For alternative dates, departure airports, airlines or durations call me in 07917607510

04/10/2024

I’ll be here for the next 3 days along with loads of great wedding suppliers. fayre

🇬🇷😍INTRODUCING The 5-Star ACRO SUITES – A Wellbeing Resort where each Suite has its own Private Pool. Guests can immerse...
01/10/2024

🇬🇷😍INTRODUCING The 5-Star ACRO SUITES – A Wellbeing Resort where each Suite has its own Private Pool. Guests can immerse themselves in the tranquil environment and indulge in the ultimate wellness experience. Book now to discover this luxurious retreat and embark on a journey of rejuvenation and peace. 2025 From £1,403pp😍🇬🇷

🎉Special Offer FREE UPGRADE From Bed & Breakfast to Half Board. Book By 7/10/24🎉

💎5* Acro Suites – A Wellbeing Resort, Aghia Pelagia, Crete
💎7 Nights FREE Upgrade to Half Board
💎Sea View Waves Suite with Private Pool & Garden
💎Transfers & Checked Bags Included

✈️Gatwick 22/4/25 £1,403pp
✈️Bristol 23/4/25 £1,497pp
✈️Manchester 26/4/25 £1,543pp
✈️Edinburgh 23/4/25 £1,557pp
✈️Birmingham 28/4/25 £1,558pp
✈️Newcastle 22/4/25 £1,664pp
*Based on 2 sharing, subject to availability & price change.

🥂Acro Suites is designed to gently restore body and mind, becoming a unique destination for relaxation, recreation, and eco-living. Offering sensory experiences to its guests, Acro Suites focuses on inner peace and restoring harmony in a luxurious setting. The name "Acro" originates from the ancient Greek word "akros/akron," meaning "on the edge," perfectly capturing the essence of this wellness retreat in Crete. Nestled on the edge of a cliff and overlooking the sea, Acro Suites is a hidden paradise featuring private pools and stunning views. The resort's architecture embraces organic, bohemian, and contemporary design, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding natural beauty.
Based on 2 people sharing
Terms and conditions apply

10 NIGHTS ADULTS ONLY ALL INCLUSIVE MAURITIUS FROM £1,969PPBacking a stretch of coral beach, this relaxed all-inclusive ...
01/10/2024

10 NIGHTS ADULTS ONLY ALL INCLUSIVE MAURITIUS FROM £1,969PP

Backing a stretch of coral beach, this relaxed all-inclusive resort is known for its welcoming service.

From the moment you see the perfectly framed view as you arrive into the lobby you can appreciate the fantastic beachfront setting and chilled-out and friendly atmosphere of this east-coast resort. The focal point is the large infinity pool which is just steps away from the sands of the sweeping beach; the walk along the beach towards Belle Mare is an enjoyable way to while away a couple of hours. A trip here wouldn’t be complete without a spa treatment to the sound of the waves in the oceanfront palapa, or a trip out onto the lagoon on a kayak or Laser dingy if you're looking for a romantic interlude.

4* AMBRE RESORT - ADULTS ONLY

• 10nts in a Superior garden room

• All Inclusive

• Group Transfers

From £1,969 per person
Based on 6th May 2025

Fly London Gatwick from £1,969pp

Fly Birmingham from £2,039pp

Fly Manchester from £2,149pp

Fly Newcastle from £2,039pp

Fly Glasgow from £2,039pp
Based on 2 people sharing
Terms and conditions apply

For alternative dates, departure airports, airlines or durations or any other prices WhatsApp me

Address


Opening Hours

Monday 10:00 - 20:00
Tuesday 10:00 - 20:00
Wednesday 10:00 - 20:00
Thursday 10:00 - 20:00
Friday 09:00 - 17:00
Saturday 10:00 - 14:00

Telephone

+447917607510

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Sandra Dowling Travel - NJT - Swadlincote posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Sandra Dowling Travel - NJT - Swadlincote:

Videos

Shortcuts

  • Address
  • Telephone
  • Opening Hours
  • Alerts
  • Contact The Business
  • Videos
  • Claim ownership or report listing
  • Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?

Share