Charley Robinson - Travel Counsellor

Charley Robinson - Travel Counsellor Personal Travel Expert and Concierge
Contact me for assistance with arranging your special holidays

๐ƒ๐ข๐ฌ๐œ๐จ๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐š๐ซ๐›๐š๐๐จ๐ฌ ๐•๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐š ๐ž๐ฌ๐œ๐š๐ฉ๐žOne of the best-loved Caribbean destinations, Barbados is most often associated with ...
18/12/2024

๐ƒ๐ข๐ฌ๐œ๐จ๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐š๐ซ๐›๐š๐๐จ๐ฌ ๐•๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐š ๐ž๐ฌ๐œ๐š๐ฉ๐ž

One of the best-loved Caribbean destinations, Barbados is most often associated with luxury hotels and resorts โ€“ of which it has some of the best. But itโ€™s also a wonderful place for a villa holiday, with lots of choices to suit everyone from couples to extended families and groups of friends.

Villa holidays give you more space and more flexibility, with the likes of fully fitted kitchens, private pools, gardens, and even staff to cater to your every whim. Theyโ€™re especially ideal for intimate groups, families, and generally anyone who wants the privacy and comforts of a home-from-home along with personalised attention. To inspire your next getaway, Iโ€™ve picked out one of my favourite Barbados villas.

๐‘จ๐’‘๐’†๐’” ๐‘ฏ๐’Š๐’๐’ ๐‘ฉ๐’‚๐’“๐’ƒ๐’‚๐’…๐’๐’”
Uniquely overlooking both the east and west coasts of this gorgeous island, Apes Hill gives you the pleasures of a hotel combined with the privacy of your own home, with villas set on a resort with a strong community feel. Its 475 acres are perched 330-metres above the sea, offering breathtaking views of deep, winding gullies, coral rock formations, sand dunes, and white-capped breakers.

Apes Hill is renowned for its golf course, but it also offers other outdoor pursuits, including padel tennis, hiking along nature trails, and cycling. Youโ€™re also free to simply relax by your secluded private pool or in the spa, or you can opt for blissful beach days and thrilling water sports.

Villas at Apes Hill are elegant one-or two-storey sanctuaries designed to cocoon you in comfort, while the laidback 20th Hole restaurant is a cosy spot in which to refuel on delicious dishes based on local produce. Youโ€™re also only minutes from historic Holetown with its tempting restaurants, galleries, museums, and picture-perfect beaches.

Get in touch if you're considering a Barbados holiday.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

15/12/2024

For some further Norway inspiration, this beautiful video has been put together by the team I work with in country - it's an incredible introduction to the stunning scenery and fun adventures offered there.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

๐„๐ฌ๐œ๐š๐ฉ๐ž ๐ญ๐จ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฐ๐ž๐ ๐ข๐š๐ง ๐…๐ฃ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ฌNorway is the country that's currently probably top of my travel bucket list for 2025 - an...
15/12/2024

๐„๐ฌ๐œ๐š๐ฉ๐ž ๐ญ๐จ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฐ๐ž๐ ๐ข๐š๐ง ๐…๐ฃ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ฌ

Norway is the country that's currently probably top of my travel bucket list for 2025 - and I've been working on a couple of quotes for there recently for clients too. Here is one of my favourite properties, located around the beautiful Sognefjord area.

~Bestebakken๐Ÿซถ๐Ÿฝ

Located in the cute village of Hafslo you can find Bestebakken! This place is a perfect mix of comfort and luxury surrounded by stunning nature. This charming hotel has historical rooms, cosy common areas, and amazing views of the mountains and lakes๐Ÿ”๏ธ You can even sleep in glass houses surrounded by cute alpacas๐Ÿฆ™

Bestebakken Hotel is great for both relaxation and adventure. In the summer, you can hike, bike, and explore the scenic area surrounding Hafslo. The nearby Sognefjord is perfect for kayaking, boating, and just taking in the scenic views๐Ÿ›ถ

Whether you're looking for an outdoor adventure or a peaceful mountain escape, Bestebakken Hotel offers a unique experience in one of Norway's most beautiful regions.

Get in touch to plan your Norway adventure.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

14/12/2024

Yellowstone is one of the most famous national parks in the USA. Itโ€™s loved for its spectacular and unique scenery, which embraces everything from volcanic features to shimmering glaciers.

A favourite destination for many years, and especially for those who find the Great Outdoors to be their greatest source of relaxation, recharge, and inspiration, it has a renewed popularity thanks to the "set-jetting" trend and the wildly popular Paramount series set in its vast expanses.

Immerse yourself in the spirit of classic Americana with breathtaking nature and a stunning ranch hotel. The air is crisp, the landscapes are awe-inspiring, and the possibilities for exploration are endless.

Yellowstone is no ordinary destination. Itโ€™s a place where nature's beauty and wonder are on full display. The park itself is a geological marvel, home to diverse wildlife, stunning geysers, and breathtaking landscapes. Established in 1872, Yellowstone is the worldโ€™s first national park and spans over 2.2 million acres. This expansive wilderness offers visitors the chance to connect with nature in the most profound way.

Contact me today to plan your adventure there.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

๐—ฃ๐—ฎ๐—ธ๐—ถ๐˜€๐˜๐—ฎ๐—ป: ๐—›๐—ถ๐—ธ๐—ฒ ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—ž๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ธ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—บ ๐— ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ป๐˜๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—ป๐˜€How incredible does this small-group adventure tour look? Trek through a relativel...
13/12/2024

๐—ฃ๐—ฎ๐—ธ๐—ถ๐˜€๐˜๐—ฎ๐—ป: ๐—›๐—ถ๐—ธ๐—ฒ ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—ž๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ธ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—บ ๐— ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ป๐˜๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—ป๐˜€

How incredible does this small-group adventure tour look? Trek through a relatively undiscovered and beautiful part of the world staying in local hotels and serviced campsites along the way. This is an active tour for anyone truly looking to explore somewhere new and exciting!

For centuries, deep within the Baltistan mountains, the Thallay La Trail served as the only link between the ancient kingdoms of Khaplu and Shigar. Now, with modern roads bypassing it, the trail is a peaceful escape, mostly visited by shepherds and adventurous trekkers seeking hidden beauty. On this nine-day active adventure, step back in time as you explore remote mountain villages, meeting locals who have lived this life for generations. Trek past shimmering glaciers and crystal-clear streams, and experience mornings surrounded by grazing yak and goat herds at your campsite. As evening falls, sip tea with your crew, watching the sun dip behind towering peaks. Every day on this journey reveals a new wonder of this extraordinary valley, shared with the company of friendly local porters.

From ยฃ1,879 per person (excluding flights - these can be added).

Contact me for further details.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

12/12/2024

Escape to paradise with my brand-new Honeymoon printed brochure ๐ŸŒโœจ. Discover a world of romance across four captivating chapters - Relax and Unwind, Luxurious Escapes, Honeymoon Explorers, and Romantic Retreats. Whether youโ€™re dreaming of an island-hopping cruise around the Seychelles or a short romantic break in Rome, I've got the perfect getaway tailored just for you. ๐Ÿ’•โœˆ๏ธ
๏ปฟ
๏ปฟWant to start planning your dream honeymoon? Contact me today for more information or to request your own copy of our brochure. ๐Ÿ“–๐ŸŒธ

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

๐ƒ๐ข๐ฌ๐œ๐จ๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ ๐ˆ๐œ๐จ๐ง๐ข๐œ ๐‹๐š๐ค๐ž๐ฌ ๐š๐ง๐ ๐๐ž๐š๐ฎ๐ญ๐ข๐Ÿ๐ฎ๐ฅ ๐‚๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐ž ๐จ๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ˆ๐ญ๐š๐ฅ๐ข๐š๐ง ๐‘๐จ๐š๐ ๐“๐ซ๐ข๐ฉImagine an Italian escape that combines the ser...
11/12/2024

๐ƒ๐ข๐ฌ๐œ๐จ๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ ๐ˆ๐œ๐จ๐ง๐ข๐œ ๐‹๐š๐ค๐ž๐ฌ ๐š๐ง๐ ๐๐ž๐š๐ฎ๐ญ๐ข๐Ÿ๐ฎ๐ฅ ๐‚๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ซ๐ฒ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐ž ๐จ๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ˆ๐ญ๐š๐ฅ๐ข๐š๐ง ๐‘๐จ๐š๐ ๐“๐ซ๐ข๐ฉ

Imagine an Italian escape that combines the serene beauty of shimmering lakes with the rolling hills of a world-renowned wine region. This eight-night itinerary is perfect for countryside lovers drawn to tranquil landscapes, charming villages, and the freedom to explore on foot or by car.

๐˜ผ ๐™ฅ๐™ž๐™˜๐™ฉ๐™ช๐™ง๐™š-๐™ฅ๐™š๐™ง๐™›๐™š๐™˜๐™ฉ ๐™จ๐™ฉ๐™–๐™ง๐™ฉ ๐™ž๐™ฃ ๐™‡๐™–๐™ ๐™š ๐˜พ๐™ค๐™ข๐™ค
Your adventure begins in the stunning landscapes of Lake Como. Nestled deep within the Italian Alps, this jewel is renowned for its mirror-like waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. Wander along cobbled streets in villages like Bellagio and Varenna, take a leisurely boat ride across the water, or get active with water sports, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and even sailing.

Lake Como is perfect for relaxing strolls along the shore, exploring centuries-old churches, and indulging in lakeside dining while savouring legendary Italian hospitality. To ensure you soak in every moment, accommodation here includes a room with a view of the lake.

๐˜ผ ๐™ฉ๐™ง๐™–๐™ฃ๐™ฆ๐™ช๐™ž๐™ก ๐™š๐™จ๐™˜๐™–๐™ฅ๐™š ๐™ž๐™ฃ ๐™‡๐™–๐™ ๐™š ๐™‚๐™–๐™ง๐™™๐™–
Next, youโ€™ll move on to the equally enchanting Lake Garda. This is the largest lake in Italy and offers an exciting mix of activities that appeal to adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking ultimate relaxation. Take time to discover Sirmione, known for its ancient Roman ruins and the impressive Scaliger Castle, itโ€™s also renowned for its hiking and biking trails that wind through the picturesque landscape.

Families can enjoy amusement parks like Gardaland and Caneva World, while those looking to unwind can visit the natural hot springs or lakeside beaches. Just like at Lake Como, your stay includes a room with a breathtaking lake view so you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Garda.

๐˜ผ ๐™Ÿ๐™ค๐™ช๐™ง๐™ฃ๐™š๐™ฎ ๐™ž๐™ฃ๐™ฉ๐™ค ๐™ฉ๐™๐™š ๐™ฉ๐™ž๐™ข๐™š๐™ก๐™š๐™จ๐™จ ๐™—๐™š๐™–๐™ช๐™ฉ๐™ฎ ๐™ค๐™› ๐™๐™ช๐™จ๐™˜๐™–๐™ฃ๐™ฎ
After five nights, youโ€™ll transition into the golden heart of Tuscany, the ultimate destination to explore the beauty of the countryside by taking scenic drives or bike rides through vineyards and olive groves, with stops at quaint towns like San Gimignano and Montepulciano. Spend your afternoons indulging in wine tastings at world-famous vineyards or take time to relax in Tuscany's renowned thermal spas.

Explore Tuscanyโ€™s culinary traditions with immersive cooking classes, where youโ€™ll master the art of crafting fresh pasta and classic dishes like ribollita and pappa al pomodoro. After an exciting day of exploration, you can head back to your stunning Melia Hotel located in the heart of Tuscany to relax.

This itinerary can be tweaked and tailored to your requirements - get in touch now to plan your perfect Italian adventure.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

10/12/2024

Europe's stunning ski resorts offer more than just snow-capped peaks and thrilling runs. Whether you're a seasoned skier or just starting out, these popular ski destinations promise an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

๐‘ฐ๐’•๐’‚๐’๐’š - ๐‘ฏ๐’๐’•๐’†๐’ ๐‘ซ๐’– ๐‘ช๐’๐’
Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Hotel Du Col is a haven for skiers seeking both luxury and adventure. Imagine waking up to the breathtaking view of snow-covered mountains, right from your room. With its long ski season and exceptional ski conditions, you can enjoy well-groomed slopes that cater to all levels. Not a skier? No worries! Hotel Du Col offers a variety of activities, including snowshoeing and spa treatments, making it the perfect winter retreat.

๐‘ญ๐’“๐’‚๐’๐’„๐’† - ๐‘ช๐’๐’–๐’ƒ ๐‘ด๐’†๐’… ๐‘ฝ๐’‚๐’ ๐‘ป๐’‰๐’๐’“๐’†๐’๐’” ๐‘บ๐’†๐’๐’”๐’‚๐’•๐’Š๐’๐’๐’”
France's Club Med Val Thorens Sensations is where adrenaline meets elegance. Located in the largest and highest ski area in the world, prepare for challenging slopes and a lively aprรจs-ski scene. The hotel itself is a busy hub, offering everything from gourmet dining to wellness treatments, and is a quick five minutes from the closest ski lift. If you're looking to take a break from the slopes, try your hand at ice climbing or explore the picturesque village of Val Thorens that is on your doorstep.

๐‘จ๐’–๐’”๐’•๐’“๐’Š๐’‚ - ๐‘ฌ๐’…๐’†๐’๐’˜๐’†๐’Š๐’”๐’” & ๐‘ฎ๐’–๐’“๐’ˆ๐’
For a truly Alpine experience, head to Edelweiss & Gurgl in Austria. Known for its charming Tyrolean architecture, this resort offers pristine ski conditions with its high-altitude location ensuring snow reliability. The scenery here is nothing short of magical, with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. After a day of skiing, unwind with some traditional Austrian cuisine or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the enchanting winter landscape.

๐‘ฉ๐’–๐’๐’ˆ๐’‚๐’“๐’Š๐’‚ - ๐‘ฏ๐’๐’•๐’†๐’ ๐‘ฐ๐’ˆ๐’๐’Š๐’Œ๐’‚
If youโ€™re seeking an affordable yet incredible ski holiday, Hotel Iglika in Bulgaria is the place to be. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent service, the resort provides a diverse range of slopes suited for both beginners and experts. The scenic beauty of the Rila Mountains adds to the charm, offering stunning vistas as you glide down the slopes. Off the piste, you can explore local Bulgarian culture with visits to nearby villages or indulge in delicious traditional meals.

๐‘ต๐’๐’“๐’˜๐’‚๐’š - ๐‘บ๐’Œ๐’Š๐‘บ๐’•๐’‚๐’“ ๐‘ณ๐’๐’…๐’ˆ๐’† ๐‘ป๐’“๐’š๐’”๐’Š๐’
Experience the magic of Norway's largest ski resort, SkiStar Lodge Trysil. Renowned for its family-friendly environment and variety of slopes, it's perfect for skiers of all ages. The long ski season ensures ample time to enjoy the powdery snow and explore the beautiful, forested trails. In addition to skiing, the resort offers activities like snowmobiling for those looking to diversify their adventure. The lodge itself is a cosy retreat, with facilities that promise relaxation after an action-packed day.

๐Ÿ“ ๐Œ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ-๐•๐ข๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ ๐ƒ๐ž๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ ๐Ÿ๐ŸŽ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ“With a new year edging ever closer, thereโ€™s no better time to start thinking ahead to ...
09/12/2024

๐Ÿ“ ๐Œ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ-๐•๐ข๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ ๐ƒ๐ž๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ ๐Ÿ๐ŸŽ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ“

With a new year edging ever closer, thereโ€™s no better time to start thinking ahead to where your future getaways will take you. Picture this: a year filled with exploration, discovery, and unforgettable experiences, whether you're a seasoned traveller searching for the next big thing or someone looking to take that first step into the world of adventure. Here are my top must-visit destinations for 2025 โ€“ have your wish lists at the readyโ€ฆ

๐‘ฒ๐’Š๐’Š ๐‘ท๐’†๐’๐’Š๐’๐’”๐’–๐’๐’‚, ๐‘ฑ๐’‚๐’‘๐’‚๐’
I wrote about it on a more recent Facebook post - whilst the well-known hotspots of Japan such as Tokyo and Kyoto will always feature highly on any travel-loverโ€™s hit list, itโ€™s the countryโ€™s spiritual heart that has caught our attention thanks to its lush forests, ancient temples, and serene coastal views. The Kii Peninsula is a place where tradition meets tranquillity, offering visitors a chance to walk ancient pilgrimage routes and soak in natural hot springs. Found in a quiet corner of Japanโ€™s Honshu Island, its prefectures (Mie, Nara, and Wakayama) provide some of the most stunning scenery that can be explored at a leisurely pace.

I recommend: Discover the historic Kumano Kodo trails, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which spans a whopping 190 miles, and experience the spiritual allure of Japan's sacred mountains, hidden waterfalls, and grand shrines.

๐‘ป๐’“๐’š๐’”๐’Š๐’, ๐‘ต๐’๐’“๐’˜๐’‚๐’š
If youโ€™re looking for a winter wonderland that looks like something out of a storybook, look no further. Trysil is Norway's largest ski destination and is perfect for adventure seekers craving snowy slopes and cosy cabins. Offering 69 slopes for all ages and abilities, the incredible snow conditions here mean itโ€™s a great choice for those looking to ski in peace thanks to the relatively uncrowded pistes and long ski season. Close to the Swedish border and only a few hours from Oslo, itโ€™s easy to get to yet feels like another world entirely.

I recommend: Beyond skiing, enjoy snowshoeing through the pristine forests or relax under the Northern Lights at a traditional Norwegian sauna. In the evening, Trysil has some amazing apres-ski options, from pubs to live music events.

๐‘ผ๐’ˆ๐’‚๐’๐’…๐’‚, ๐‘ฌ๐’‚๐’”๐’• ๐‘จ๐’‡๐’“๐’Š๐’„๐’‚
With its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, Uganda is an under-appreciated destination for nature lovers, but 2025 looks set to be the year that traditional safari travellers start to take note. Home to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda is best known for gorilla trekking, as the wilderness here is home to half the worldโ€™s mountain gorilla population, so it promises an unforgettable encounter with nature whenever you choose to visit. There are also savannahs and wetlands to explore if you want to venture further.

I recommend: As well as securing a spot on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, make sure you allocate time to explore the vibrant ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

๐‘พ๐’š๐’๐’Ž๐’Š๐’๐’ˆ, ๐‘ผ๐‘บ๐‘จ
Itโ€™s never been cooler to be a cowboy, from the resurgence of country music outside the US to the popularity of the TV show Yellowstone, make 2025 the year you live the rancher fantasy out in the wilds of the West. From the majestic Grand Tetons to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, Wyoming is a playground for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Get ready to eat your meals around a campfire, sleep under the stars, and find the perfect pair of cowboy boots that are both comfortable enough to ride a horse in and run rings around the locals while line dancing.

I recommend: Make the journey to Yellowstone National Park to witness the eruption of Old Faithful and hike through the stunning mountain trails of Grand Teton National Park that lead to epic gorges and jaw-dropping alpine lakes.

๐‘ฏ๐’ ๐‘ช๐’‰๐’Š ๐‘ด๐’Š๐’๐’‰ ๐‘ช๐’Š๐’•๐’š, ๐‘ฝ๐’Š๐’†๐’•๐’๐’‚๐’Ž
This bustling city has long been a popular destination for adventurous travellers and is a hub of culture, history, and culinary delight. Next year, the country celebrates 50 years of national reunification, so itโ€™s the perfect time to explore its beautifully chaotic streets. Expect plenty of events, exhibitions, and celebrations commemorating this wonderful milestone throughout the year, and donโ€™t miss out on the cityโ€™s impressive shopping, second only to the delicious food that visitors rave about long after they return home.

I recommend: Savour the flavours of Vietnam with a street food tour, either on foot or the back of a bike, and sample traditional favourites and speciality dishes such as phแปŸ, bรบn chแบฃ, and bรกnh xรจo.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

๐ƒ๐ž๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐–๐ž๐๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฌ!Did you know that I can help plan and book your dream wedding abroad? I'm actually planning my own ...
08/12/2024

๐ƒ๐ž๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐–๐ž๐๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฌ!

Did you know that I can help plan and book your dream wedding abroad? I'm actually planning my own destination wedding at the moment! Here is a pick of some of the more popular destinations for weddings to give any bride-to-be's some inspiration and ideas.

๐‘ช๐’š๐’‘๐’“๐’–๐’”
A variety of hotels and venues are available to suit all types of budgets. There are a lot of all-inclusive hotels available which are popular for couples and guests alike. Some even let the wedding party use the all-inclusive drinks package for the wedding day!

๐‘ท๐’๐’“๐’•๐’–๐’ˆ๐’‚๐’
Portugal offers stunning hotels with a high standard of food and great venues to choose from, many with lovely views. Portugal is a great family destination with great beaches and different accommodations to suit all budgets. Portugal is great for large wedding parties, and of course, low-cost flights are available!

๐‘ฐ๐’•๐’‚๐’๐’š
Italy has some of the most stunning views to offer whilst couples say their vows, and offers unique venues with a real wow factor. Many are rustic and beautiful, so not much decoration is needed here meaning couples can keep it nice and simple! Many places can also offer weekend stays for guests so you donโ€™t have to commit to a weekโ€™s holiday.

๐‘ด๐’‚๐’–๐’“๐’Š๐’•๐’Š๐’–๐’”
Mauritius has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the Indian Ocean, so 'toes in the sand' weddings are a must here! I can book some of the island's finest hotels and many offer exceptional value wedding packages. Mauritius is ideal for smaller wedding parties or just the couple themselves and perfect for a nice laid-back, high-quality ceremony. Mauritius also benefits from easy legalities.

๐‘บ๐’• ๐‘ณ๐’–๐’„๐’Š๐’‚
Great sandy beaches, luxury hotels on offer for weddings, great for relaxed weddings. St Lucia offers very easy legalities so if you have a last-minute wedding to arrange and you want it abroad, St Lucia can cater to this!

๐‘บ๐’‚๐’๐’•๐’๐’“๐’Š๐’๐’Š
Santorini offers stunning white-washed hotels and Venus with breathtaking views of the Caldera. Its stunning sunsets are an unrivalled photo opportunity!

๐’๐’‚๐’๐’•๐’†
Zante is great for couples who donโ€™t want to spend a great amount of money on their wedding abroad. It offers some very laid-back options, such as a casual beach ceremony followed by a barbeque and meze-style reception. Zante is also great for families, with a good choice of accommodation to suit all budgets

๐‘ด๐’‚๐’๐’•๐’‚
Malta offers some unique and wow factor venues, with great value wedding packages to match. Malta is especially good for church weddings, and ideal for families or large wedding parties.

๐‘ฉ๐’‚๐’“๐’ƒ๐’‚๐’…๐’๐’”
Barbados offers some stunning hotels and beaches, with luxury family or adult-only hotels to choose from and very easy legalities. The locals are extremely friendly and with Barbados being such a small island, you can explore the whole island over a couple of days. There's good nightlife available outside the hotels if guests want this from their stay.

๐‘ช๐’“๐’๐’‚๐’•๐’Š๐’‚
Croatia offers some stunning hotels and venues with fantastic views. It's a very good alternative to Italy, and great for families.

๐‘น๐’‰๐’๐’…๐’†๐’”
Rhodes has a variety of hotels and venues to offer for all budgets. Rhodes can offer all-inclusive hotels and accommodations to suit all budgets, ages, and tastes. Rhodes is also a good wedding option for couples on a budget, as it's not too expensive.

๐‘จ๐’๐’•๐’Š๐’ˆ๐’–๐’‚
Antigua offers some of the most gorgeous beaches and luxury hotels. We have low price wedding packages to offer here and Antigua is ideal for smaller wedding parties or just the couple themselves.

๐‘ต๐’†๐’˜ ๐’€๐’๐’“๐’Œ
A New York City wedding is ideal for smaller wedding parties or just the couple themselves. Couples who go here tend to want a no-fuss wedding ceremony and reception set in this famous city. New York offers nice and simple legalities. Great photo opportunities here!

Today is 'Small Business Saturday' - please help me grow my small business by practising the following steps... Thank yo...
07/12/2024

Today is 'Small Business Saturday' - please help me grow my small business by practising the following steps...

Thank you for all your support ๐Ÿ–ค

๐†๐ซ๐š๐ง ๐‚๐š๐ง๐š๐ซ๐ข๐š ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ ๐…๐จ๐จ๐๐ข๐ž๐ฌJust a four-hour flight from the UK and blessed with year-round sunshine, the third-largest of t...
06/12/2024

๐†๐ซ๐š๐ง ๐‚๐š๐ง๐š๐ซ๐ข๐š ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ ๐…๐จ๐จ๐๐ข๐ž๐ฌ

Just a four-hour flight from the UK and blessed with year-round sunshine, the third-largest of the ever-popular Canary Islands lures with its golden-sand beaches, dramatic mountain landscapes, and atmospheric cities, towns and villages including the capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Itโ€™s also a fabulous destination for foodies, with wonderful cuisine, wine and rum to sample.

Family-run fincas in Gran Canaria grow everything from tomatoes and potatoes to bananas and coffee. The cheese is great too, and Canarian honey (an ingredient in the famous rum) can be tasted at the farms themselves.

~๐‘ป๐’‰๐’† ๐‘ฎ๐’“๐’‚๐’ ๐‘ช๐’‚๐’๐’‚๐’“๐’Š๐’‚ ๐‘พ๐’Š๐’๐’† ๐‘น๐’๐’–๐’•๐’†~
The only certified Spanish wine route outside mainland Spain, La Ruta del Vino de Gran Canaria is a stunning journey through the landscapes and ways of life of inland Gran Canaria, with just over 50 wineries, restaurants, wine cellars and estates, cheese factories and traditional family-run bochinches welcoming visitors with open arms. See as few or as many as you like by hiring a car and enjoying the freedom to discover them at whim.

~๐‘ญ๐’๐’๐’… ๐‘ฏ๐’Š๐’ˆ๐’‰๐’๐’Š๐’ˆ๐’‰๐’•๐’” ๐’๐’‡ ๐‘ฎ๐’“๐’‚๐’ ๐‘ช๐’‚๐’๐’‚๐’“๐’Š๐’‚~
The north is a prime spot for sampling authentic local cuisine and drink, including the islandโ€™s signature honey rum at the Arehuas rum factory โ€“ the oldest rum distillery in Europe. Coffee, banana and other tropical fruit plantations dot this gorgeous landscape, and there are lot of places to stop off for wine tastings or to see award-winning local cheese makers in action.

Sample local tapas in Las Palmasโ€™ Puerto Market for the ultimate authentic experience, and enjoy an almost bewildering choice of restaurants and bars with open-air terraces all around the city, including those lining gorgeous 4km Las Canteras Beach (named one of Spainโ€™s Top 10 Beaches by TripAdvisor) and those of Vegueta (which has its own tapas route every Thursday).

Dotted all over Gran Canaria, unpretentious local tavernas are great places to sample homemade dishes based on seasonal local ingredients, many with garden terraces and some located in family farmhouses. On the coast, seafood is naturally prevalent, while inland the onus is on meat, including rabbit and goat. Donโ€™t miss local recipes including papas arrugadas (wrinkled Canarian potatoes) with mojo sauce, gofio escaldado (a fine gofio-flour purรฉe served with toppings and chopped onions) and potaje (chickpea) stew.

Catch by local fishermen includes sardines (sardinas), mackerel (caballa), whitebait (longorones) and horse mackerel (chicharros), which appear regularly on menu boards of the islandโ€™s many fish restaurants. These little fish in turn attract tuna: look for signs for fresh bonito or atun. Something else to keep an eye out for is pescado de barquillo, small fish such as striped or pink bream, combers, parrot fish and red mullet tossed in flour and grilled or deep-fried, often priced by weight. Squid and octopus are also sometimes caught locally.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

Looking for an ACTIVE family holiday in 2025?Neilson Holidays offer fully-inclusive and active holidays specifically aim...
05/12/2024

Looking for an ACTIVE family holiday in 2025?

Neilson Holidays offer fully-inclusive and active holidays specifically aimed at families who like to keep busy.

With seven different beachfront resorts across Greece, Croatia and Sardinia, each holiday includes more than 20 different activities and up to 55 hours of free tuition per week. Kids Clubs for anyone aged 2 and above are included too, so children can try new activities from kayaking to sailing, all whilst making new friends.

Neilson are currently offering Early Bird prices on their 2025 departures, so NOW is an excellent time to start planning a stay with them. Prices start from ยฃ709 per person, and the Early Bird prices end at midnight on 10th December.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

โญUK Hot Tub Breaks โญNestled amidst the rolling hills and breath-taking beauty of the Peak District National Park, Rivend...
04/12/2024

โญUK Hot Tub Breaks โญ

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and breath-taking beauty of the Peak District National Park, Rivendale Lodge Retreat offers a luxurious escape for those longing for adventure, relaxation, or simply a change of scenery. With its stylish lodges and unique treehouses, itโ€™s a haven for families, couples, or friends yearning to reconnect with nature. Whether youโ€™re exploring the charm of nearby Ashbourne or stepping out into endless walking trails, Rivendale Lodge Retreat provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.

โ€ข From cosy lodges to one-of-a-kind treehouses, every accommodation is designed with style, warmth, and top-notch facilities in mind. Spend the festive season unwinding in a private hot tub* after a day walking and exploring the great outdoors whilst creating memories that will last a lifetime.

โ€ข Discover scenic walking and cycling trails straight from the lodgeโ€™s doorstep. Whether itโ€™s trekking to the top of Mam Tor for panoramic views, cycling the Tissington Trail, or even trying your hand at climbing, the natural beauty of the Peak District awaits.

โ€ข Bring your furry friend along for the adventure! Rivendale is dog friendly and offers a dog-wash on site, so muddy paws are never a problem after wandering the many pet-friendly paths in the surrounding countryside.

โ€ข Venture to Ashbourne, a historic market town brimming with cobbled streets, boutique shops, and charming cafes. For a family day out, head to Dovedale for a picturesque picnic or enjoy fishing and water sports at nearby Carsington Water.

3 nights in a lodge (self-catering basis) start from ยฃ359 per person, based on two people shared a lodge, availability based on 20th December 2024.

*Not all lodges include hot tubs - contact me for prices and information on individual options.

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

03/12/2024

Ready to unlock personalised holiday inspiration from me? ๐Ÿ™Œ

Update your preferences in the myTC app and explore a world of travel content crafted just for you. From relaxing in Thailand to vibrant city breaks, I can tailor your emails to suit your preferences.

Send me a quick message for information on how to download the myTC app (if you haven't got access already).

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

๐…๐ข๐ฏ๐ž ๐จ๐Ÿ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐›๐ž๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ง๐ž ๐ž๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ž๐ซ๐ข๐ž๐ง๐œ๐ž๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง ๐’๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ๐ก ๐€๐Ÿ๐ซ๐ข๐œ๐šUnashamedly taking inspiration from friend-of-TC Gary Barlowโ€™s Wine Tou...
28/11/2024

๐…๐ข๐ฏ๐ž ๐จ๐Ÿ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐›๐ž๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ง๐ž ๐ž๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ž๐ซ๐ข๐ž๐ง๐œ๐ž๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง ๐’๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ๐ก ๐€๐Ÿ๐ซ๐ข๐œ๐š

Unashamedly taking inspiration from friend-of-TC Gary Barlowโ€™s Wine Tour: South Africa gracing our screens this month, I thought Iโ€™d take a look at the very best wine experiences in the country.

๐‘Š๐‘–๐‘›๐‘’ ๐‘ก๐‘Ž๐‘ ๐‘ก๐‘–๐‘›๐‘” ๐‘Ž๐‘ก ๐‘†๐‘ก๐‘’๐‘’๐‘›๐‘๐‘’๐‘Ÿ๐‘” ๐น๐‘Ž๐‘Ÿ๐‘š, ๐ถ๐‘œ๐‘›๐‘ ๐‘ก๐‘Ž๐‘›๐‘ก๐‘–๐‘Ž
Thereโ€™s plenty of distraction for guests of the Capeโ€™s first registered farm. Thereโ€™s an 18-hole golf course, two acclaimed restaurants, a swimming pool, and a garden spa accompanying the estateโ€™s boutique hotel, which combines villas with bedrooms in Steenbergโ€™s 17th-century manor house. Even so, tastings here are particularly popular; focused on sauvignon blancs, merlots, and sparkling cap classique, these usually take place in or beside Bistro Sixteen82โ€™s double-volume barn, surrounded by vineyard and mountain vistas.

๐‘‡โ„Ž๐‘’ ๐น๐‘Ÿ๐‘Ž๐‘›๐‘ ๐‘โ„Žโ„Ž๐‘œ๐‘’๐‘˜ ๐‘Š๐‘–๐‘›๐‘’ ๐‘‡๐‘Ÿ๐‘Ž๐‘š, ๐น๐‘Ÿ๐‘Ž๐‘›๐‘ ๐‘โ„Žโ„Ž๐‘œ๐‘’๐‘˜
On the beloved Wine Tramโ€™s Hop-on Hop-off Experience, you can disembark for cellar tours, tastings, lunch, or a scenic stroll through the next vineyard before recommencing your journey. Using double-decker trams and open-top buses, there are five different lines โ€“ I recommend the red, blue, or pink โ€“ serving a curated selection of up to six estates in different Franschhoek Valley corners. Youโ€™ll depart from either the Franschhoek or Groot Drakenstein terminal, where you can grab a New Orleans-style beignet pastry before you start sipping.

๐‘‡๐‘Ž๐‘ ๐‘ก๐‘–๐‘›๐‘” ๐‘…๐‘œ๐‘œ๐‘š & ๐‘Š๐‘–๐‘›๐‘’๐‘š๐‘Ž๐‘˜๐‘’๐‘Ÿ'๐‘  ๐ฟ๐‘ข๐‘›๐‘โ„Ž ๐‘Ž๐‘ก ๐‘…๐‘ข๐‘ ๐‘ก & ๐‘‰๐‘Ÿ๐‘’๐‘‘๐‘’, ๐‘†๐‘ก๐‘’๐‘™๐‘™๐‘’๐‘›๐‘๐‘œ๐‘ ๐‘โ„Ž
Photogenically perched on the Helderberg peakโ€™s lower slopes, with views of Table Mountain, Rust en Vrede is chiefly focused on cabernet sauvignon, syrah, and merlot grapes. Eighteenth-century Cape Dutch buildings boasting National Monument status dot its vineyards, including an old winery thatโ€™s become a restaurant. After sessions in the tasting room and perhaps an informal cellar tour (available on request), sit down to a winemakerโ€™s lunch โ€“ simple set menus involving either steak or salmon alongside a glass of nectar.

๐‘…๐‘ข๐‘๐‘’๐‘Ÿ๐‘ก & ๐‘…๐‘œ๐‘กโ„Ž๐‘โ„Ž๐‘–๐‘™๐‘‘ ๐‘Š๐‘–๐‘›๐‘’ ๐‘ƒ๐‘Ž๐‘–๐‘Ÿ๐‘–๐‘›๐‘” ๐ฟ๐‘ข๐‘›๐‘โ„Ž, ๐น๐‘Ÿ๐‘Ž๐‘›๐‘ ๐‘โ„Žโ„Ž๐‘œ๐‘’๐‘˜
Fredericksburg, another ancient French Huguenot farm set spectacularly below the 1,399m Simonsberg, is now home to Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons. Instead of a standard tasting experience, opt for a wine-pairing lunch in which the brandโ€™s three South African offerings โ€“ the Baroness Nadine Chardonnay, Classique, and Baron Edmond โ€“ are carefully united with elevated dishes. Those might be lamb cutlets accompanied by coconut chutney, broccoli, and a rich jus, or a Valrhona chocolate mousse alongside blackberry sorbet.

๐‘‡๐‘Ž๐‘ ๐‘ก๐‘–๐‘›๐‘” ๐‘…๐‘œ๐‘œ๐‘š ๐‘Ž๐‘ก ๐ฟ๐‘Ž๐‘›๐‘ง๐‘’๐‘Ÿ๐‘Ž๐‘, ๐ฝ๐‘œ๐‘›๐‘˜๐‘’๐‘Ÿ๐‘ โ„Ž๐‘œ๐‘’๐‘˜
Complimentary for guests of its 53 classy rooms, tastings at this heritage farm involve a fascinating history lesson. Back in 1961, Lanzerac was the first South African vineyard to use pinotage on a label, three decades after Professor Abraham Izak Perold had successfully crossed pinot noir and hermitage to create the countryโ€™s own grape variety; a leading pinotage is, of course, part of the experience. In the gorgeous Jonkershoek valley, Lanzerac also supplies three diverse dining options, a spa, a good gym, three pools, and complimentary shuttles to Stellenbosch.

Get in touch to plan your wine escape in South Africa ๐Ÿท

๐Ÿ“ง [email protected]
๐Ÿ“ž 07878 672038
โญ๏ธ 5* rating on Trust Pilot
โœ”๏ธ 100% financial package protection and ATOL cover

Address

Wells

Opening Hours

Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+447878672038

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Charley Robinson - Travel Counsellor 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 Charley Robinson - Travel Counsellor:

Videos

Share

Category