Freedom Travel

16/09/2024

🚢 Sailing on the Sun Princess: Aoife’s Work Trip Adventure
Aoife recently had the amazing opportunity to sail aboard the Sun Princess as part of a work trip to explore and experience the ship firsthand. Her goal? To gather all the details so she can share a genuine, informed perspective with clients.
The Sun Princess, part of Princess Cruises, is known for its luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and a variety of onboard entertainment options. Aoife explored every aspect—from the elegant staterooms to the gourmet dining experiences, spa, and live performances. The ship's stunning design and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect getaway for both relaxation and adventure.
What really stood out to Aoife was the impeccable service and the wide range of activities available for guests of all ages. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a family, the Sun Princess offers something for everyone. Aoife’s firsthand experience ensures she can give personalized recommendations and insights, making sure clients get the best from their Sun Princess cruise.
Safe to say, the Sun Princess has won her seal of approval!

13/09/2024

🚢 Set Sail on the Norwegian Dawn! 🌍
The Norwegian Dawn is a vibrant cruise ship that offers a fun and flexible experience for travelers of all ages. Refurbished in 2016, it combines modern comfort with a wide range of activities and dining options.
What to Expect Onboard:
1. Comfortable Accommodations: From cozy cabins to luxurious suites, there’s something for every traveler. Family suites and interconnecting staterooms are perfect for groups.
2. Diverse Dining: Enjoy a variety of over a dozen dining options, from gourmet restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse to casual eats at O'Sheehan's. Freestyle Dining means no fixed schedules—dine when and where you like!
3. Endless Entertainment: Catch Broadway-style shows, hit the casino, enjoy live music, or dance the night away. There’s always something happening!
4. Relaxation and Wellness: Unwind at the Mandara Spa, lounge by the pool, or stay active at the fitness center.
5. Family Fun: Kids and teens will love the Splash Academy, dedicated teen clubs, and a variety of games and sports.
6. Exciting Destinations: Sail to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, New England, and beyond with itineraries offering diverse and exciting ports of call.
Why Choose Norwegian Dawn?
Perfect for a lively, flexible cruise experience, the Norwegian Dawn is ideal for families, couples, or friends looking to explore the world in comfort and style. 🌊
Ready for adventure? Let the Norwegian Dawn be your gateway to unforgettable destinations!

13/09/2024

🌍✨ Get ready for an epic Mediterranean journey aboard the Norwegian Dawn! Departing on October 27th, this incredible cruise takes you through some of the most breathtaking destinations in Europe. 🇬🇷 Start in Piraeus and sail to the stunning Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini, then continue to Italy with stops in Messina, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Livorno (Florence/Pisa). 🇮🇹 The adventure doesn't stop there—enjoy the charm of Cannes in the French Riviera before ending your voyage in the vibrant city of Barcelona. 🌅🛳️ With world-class dining, entertainment, and luxury onboard, this is the Mediterranean cruise of a lifetime!

12/09/2024

Our recent family holiday was, without a doubt, the best one we've ever had. A huge thank you to Freedom Travel, especially Sharon, for their exceptional service from start to finish. We shared our holiday wishlist with her—ideally a cruise that offered hiking, adventure, relaxation, and a touch of luxury. Sharon took our needs into account, understanding we were a family of five adults with specific requirements.

We chose a Norwegian Fjord cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, and WOW! This trip exceeded all our expectations. The cruise offered something for everyone, from breathtaking hikes in the Fjords and riding one of Europe’s tallest cable cars to exploring Norway's most scenic towns. Onboard, we lounged in the sun, sipped cocktails, sang karaoke, enjoyed silent discos, participated in quiz nights, and indulged in fabulous food and drinks.

Although we had a minor hiccup with our airport transfer (another family mistakenly took our taxi), one quick call to Freedom Travel, and it was resolved in minutes. Their attention to detail and customer care were second to none. We can't recommend Freedom Travel enough and are already dreaming up our next adventure. Sharon, get ready—we’ll be back!

12/09/2024

🚢🌊 Set sail on the ultimate Mediterranean adventure with MSC World Europa! This cutting-edge ship is cruising through the stunning Western Med, offering stops at iconic destinations like Barcelona, Marseille, and Naples. 🌅✨ Explore historic cities, soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, and indulge in world-class cuisine both on board and onshore. With its innovative design, luxurious amenities, and endless entertainment options, MSC World Europa is redefining the cruise experience. 🌟 Ready to discover the Mediterranean in style? Book your spot today!

11/09/2024

🚢✨ Experience the magic of France with AmaWaterways' Paris & Normandy River Cruise! 🇫🇷🌸 Sail along the picturesque Seine River and immerse yourself in the romance of Paris, the rich history of Normandy, and the beauty of charming French villages. Explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, stroll through Monet’s gardens in Giverny, and visit the historic D-Day beaches. Onboard, enjoy luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining, and personalized service. 🍷🌷 This 7-night journey is the perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation. Ready to embark on a voyage of a lifetime?

10/09/2024

Find out how Cormac got on while cruising with MSC in our weekly newsletter.
Sign up today to keep in the loop of whats going on.

https://mailchi.mp/freedomtravel.ie/4-mini-holidays-for-the-price-of-1

09/09/2024

🚢✨ Dreaming of a winter escape? The MSC Opera is setting sail for a stunning Canary Islands cruise this December! 🌴🌊 Picture yourself basking in the warm sun, exploring volcanic landscapes, and enjoying the vibrant culture of islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote. With luxurious amenities, world-class dining, and entertainment on board, this cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. 🌅✨ Don’t miss your chance to make unforgettable memories this holiday season!

06/09/2024

25/08/2024

Greece is a dream destination for so many reasons! Here are the best reasons to visit, including its vibrant festivals:
Rich History & Culture - From the ancient ruins of Athens to the iconic temples and museums, Greece is a treasure trove of history and culture.
Stunning Beaches - Greece is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, from the turquoise waters of Mykonos to the dramatic cliffs of Navagio Beach in Zakynthos.
Delicious Cuisine - Greek food is a highlight, with mouth-watering dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, fresh seafood, and, of course, endless mezze.
Lively Festivals - Experience Greek culture at its best with festivals like the Athens & Epidaurus Festival for theater and music, the Apokries Carnival with vibrant parades, and the Easter Celebrations, which are some of the most significant in the Orthodox calendar.
Breathtaking Islands - The Greek islands, from Santorini’s iconic sunsets to the unspoiled charm of Paros, offer unique beauty and a chance to unwind.
Adventure & Nature - Whether it’s hiking in the rugged mountains of Crete, sailing through the Aegean, or exploring the otherworldly rock formations of Meteora, Greece is perfect for adventure seekers.
Warm Hospitality - The Greek concept of "philoxenia" means you’ll be welcomed with open arms wherever you go, making your visit even more memorable.
With all of this and more, Greece is a destination that offers something for every traveler!

24/08/2024

From sun-soaked beach escapes to cultural city breaks, Greece offers every type of holiday you can dream of! 🏖️🌅 Explore ancient ruins in Athens, sail through the stunning Greek islands, or unwind with a wellness retreat on a tranquil beach. Whether it's a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or an action-packed trip filled with hiking and water sports, Greece has something for everyone. Discover vibrant cities, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes—all in one amazing destination!

Here are the top 5 places to visit in Greece:
Santorini - Famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters, Santorini is a must-visit for breathtaking views and romantic vibes.
Athens - The cradle of Western civilization, Athens is home to iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and ancient ruins that tell the story of Greece’s rich history.
Mykonos - Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and charming streets, Mykonos offers a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement.
Crete - Greece's largest island, Crete, boasts stunning landscapes, ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos, and beautiful beaches, making it a diverse destination.
Meteora - A unique UNESCO World Heritage site, Meteora features monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, offering spiritual serenity and awe-inspiring views.
These destinations capture the essence of Greece's beauty, history, and culture!

🇬🇷✨

23/08/2024

23/08/2024

Dreaming of a Greek getaway? 🌞✈️ Good news—direct flights from Dublin to Greece are here! Whether you're craving the history of Athens, the stunning beaches of Crete, or the charm of the Greek islands, you can now reach your destination hassle-free with non-stop flights. Skip the layovers and dive straight into your next adventure. Book your tickets and get ready to explore all that Greece has to offer! 🇬🇷

22/08/2024

Discover the endless possibilities of holidays in Greece! Whether you're seeking a sun-soaked beach getaway on the stunning islands of Mykonos or Santorini, a cultural journey through ancient ruins in Athens, or an adventure-packed escape hiking the mountains of Crete, Greece has something for every traveler. From relaxing wellness retreats and romantic honeymoons to vibrant city breaks and family-friendly vacations, each region offers unique experiences. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore charming villages, indulge in delicious local cuisine, or sail through the Aegean Sea—Greece truly has it all!

22/08/2024

Please see below some recommendations for Rethymno.

The Fortezza
This is a beautiful old castle I believe it’s 3-5 EUR entry, with stunning views of the ocean and the city. Highly recommend! You can enter Fortezza into google maps for directions through the old town, make sure to bring sunscreen!

Sunset Cruise. Link: https://shorturl.at/zQxQN

The Old Town There are shops after shops and the old town is very big, you’ll be able to spend hours exploring and find some beautiful streets.
Bee Coffeecomb is a beautiful little café/restaurant on the main strip of rethymno. They do fantastic pancakes if you’re a fan of these and some lovely lunch sandwiches.. the atmosphere is beautiful with many flowers and a pink color scheme throughout. It’s fabulous.

Melina Café is a lovely place for lunch after visiting the Fortezza, it offers a lovely view of rethymno as its higher up and definitely a great place to relax.
Palazzino di corina restaurant is a must! Amazing value and truly fantastic food. They offer traditional Greek meals and it’s a lovely place to sit and enjoy a late dinner.

There is also electric scooter and bike hire available around the main streets if you’d like to explore further.

I also highly recommend the bus tour and they also have a little street train tour with a guide that explains the history of rethymno.

And finally; I cannot say enough about the beach of rethymno it’s truly gorgeous.

22/08/2024

Greece is a captivating destination, and many travel agencies and airlines frequently offer enticing deals to attract visitors. These offers often include discounted flights, all-inclusive vacation packages, and special rates on accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Seasonal promotions are particularly common, with significant savings during the shoulder seasons (spring and autum) when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are smaller. Cruise packages through the Greek islands, guided tours of historic sites, and adventure trips focusing on activities like hiking or sailing are also frequently discounted. With a bit of planning, travelers can take advantage of these offers to enjoy an unforgettable experience in Greece at a reduced cost.

22/08/2024

Why Are They Charging Tourist Taxes?

Economic Reasons: Greece implemented the tourist tax to help improve its economy, particularly following the financial crisis. The revenue from these taxes contributes to local infrastructure, services, and the preservation of tourist destinations.
Tourism Impact: As Greece is a popular tourist destination, the influx of visitors can strain public resources. Tourist taxes help ensure that these areas remain well-maintained and can continue to accommodate visitors without burdening the local population.
Fairness: The idea is that those who benefit from the tourism infrastructure (i.e., tourists) contribute to its upkeep.

While tourist taxes might seem like an inconvenience, they play a crucial role in supporting Greece’s tourism infrastructure and economy. Being aware of these charges ahead of time can help avoid any surprises and ensure a smooth travel experience.

07/08/2024

Here are some great offers from MSC Cruises.

What I love about cruising is that it gives you the opportunity to visit so many different destinations while only unpacking once.
What I don’t like about cruising is the fact you have to leave the place when sometimes I have just fallen head over heels in love with it.

Take for example Corsica when myself and a friend nearly missed the cruise ship departing because we were so mesmerized with city of Ajaccio the birthplace of Napoleon, we had found a beautiful little bar that served the most delicious tapas with an amazing red wine that felt like velvet, we got lost in time.

But but between here and also the port of Kotor in Montenegro where I bought myself a beautiful ring to remind me of my travels these are places, I have already returned to Kotor the second time and Ajaccio is still on my list.

I refer to cruising like a tapa of countries you get a taste of them all and then you get to decide which ones you would like to return to.

05/08/2024

New York City is an excellent honeymoon choice for several reasons:
Romantic Landmarks
Central Park, Empire State Building, Top of the Rock: Perfect for romantic strolls, picnics, and breathtaking views.
Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square: Must-visit spots for memorable experiences.
Luxury Accommodations
High-End Hotels: Stay at The Plaza, The Ritz-Carlton, or Mandarin Oriental for top-notch service, lavish rooms, and spectacular city views.
World-Class Dining
Michelin-Starred Restaurants: Enjoy fine dining at Le Bernardin, Daniel, or Per Se.
Diverse Cuisines: Explore Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem for varied culinary experiences.
Broadway Shows
Theater Magic: Experience world-famous productions like "The Phantom of the Opera" or "Hamilton."
Cultural Experiences
Museums and Galleries: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, and the American Museum of Natural History for enriching cultural experiences.
Shopping
Retail Paradise: Shop luxury boutiques on Fifth Avenue and trendy stores in SoHo for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Vibrant Nightlife
Evening Entertainment: Enjoy chic rooftop bars, speakeasies, nightclubs, and jazz lounges with stunning skyline views and live music.
Proximity to Other Destinations
Day Trips: Easily visit the Hamptons, Niagara Falls, or the Hudson Valley for additional variety.
With its blend of romance, luxury, culture, and excitement, New York City offers an unparalleled honeymoon experience.

01/08/2024

Just had the most amazing honeymoon in New York City! From breathtaking views atop the Empire State Building to romantic strolls in Central Park, NYC has it all. Delicious dining, Broadway shows, and luxury accommodations made our trip unforgettable. Highly recommend the Big Apple for your next romantic getaway! 🍎❤️

31/07/2024

🌍✨ Dreaming of a honeymoon? Here's a guide to the best places to visit at different times of the year! 🌸🎉
🌸 Spring: Cherry Blossoms in Japan Experience the ethereal beauty of sakura season. Wander through blooming parks in Tokyo or Kyoto and immerse yourselves in the magic of cherry blossoms. Perfect for a romantic stroll! 🌸🇯🇵
🌞 Summer: Santorini, Greece Bask in the sun on the iconic white and blue landscapes of Santorini. Enjoy stunning sunsets, crystal-clear waters, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Ideal for beach lovers and sun seekers! 🏖️🇬🇷
🍂 Autumn: Tuscany, Italy Fall in love with the picturesque countryside of Tuscany. Sip on world-renowned wines, explore charming villages, and relish the vibrant autumn colors. A haven for wine enthusiasts and romantics! 🍷🇮🇹
❄️ Winter: Northern Lights in Iceland Witness the breathtaking Northern Lights in the icy wonderland of Iceland. Snuggle up in cozy cabins, explore ice caves, and soak in geothermal hot springs. Perfect for adventure and nature lovers! ❄️🇮🇸
🎉 Anytime: Carnival in Rio de Janeiro Dance to the rhythm of Samba at the world-famous Carnival in Rio. Enjoy vibrant parades, dazzling costumes, and the infectious energy of Brazil's biggest party. A must for fun-loving couples! 🎶🇧🇷
No matter the season, there's a perfect destination waiting to make your honeymoon unforgettable. Where will your love story take you? 💑✈️

4o

29/07/2024

Thailand where to start ok so here goes this is me Ciara talking now from personal experience.

So Thailand ive visited twice now the first time taking in Bangkok and Phuket for 10 nights and the second time for 6 weeks i know i love my job. So what can i share with you that will give you an idea of how much i absolotly fell in love with this country.

First of all is the people, the welcome you get from the people would melt your hearth they are so humble they are always smiling. Thats why Thailand is known as the land of smiles. So now that you feel welcomed to this beautiful country you want to feel relaxed and for the first time last Christmas i got my first proper Thai Massage in Thailand and omg wow i didnt realize that you actually had to wear like a pj set they give you that took me by suprise so did the fact they litterly walked all over me, but i still floated out of the place. Another thing to mention is that if you are getting massages on the street salons they can cost as little as €6 for an hour! and no i didnt miss an extra 0 on the end of that you see it righ only 6.00 for an hour long massage. 5 or 6 of the equivalant in Ireland would pay for your plane ticket over.

The food wow for the street vendors where you are sitting with the locals eating chicken pad thai for €1.50 to the fancy resturants that server the most delicious food to the luxury resturants where if you have to ask the price you probably shouldnt be in there.

Then the shopping omg !!!

29/07/2024

Cancun, Mexico: A Quick Overview

1. Stunning Beaches and Crystal-Clear Waters
2. Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment:
3. Rich Culture and Activities:

Best Time to Visit Cancun:
Dry Season (December to April): This period offers pleasant weather with warm temperatures and low humidity, ideal for beach activities and exploring.
Shoulder Seasons (May and November): These months provide a good balance between weather and crowd sizes. You might encounter some rain, but it’s often brief and does not overshadow the experience.
Wet Season (June to October): Characterized by higher humidity and more frequent rain, this season can be hot and stormy, but it also means fewer tourists and lower prices.

Ciara has stayed in The Secrets The Vive and loved the resturants and the views are incredible.

28/07/2024

Here are some tips for planning a perfect honeymoon

1. Plan Together but Leave Room for Spontaneity

While planning your honeymoon together ensures that both partners’ interests are considered, it's important to leave some room for spontaneous activities. Discuss your must-see attractions and experiences, but also allow for unplanned moments where you can explore or relax together. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from the unexpected.

2. Balance Adventure with Relaxation

Striking a balance between adventure and relaxation can make your honeymoon truly special. Incorporate a mix of activities, such as exploring local culture, trying new sports, or going on nature hikes, with downtime for spa treatments, beach lounging, or cozy evenings in. This balance helps you create lasting memories while also giving you time to unwind and connect.

3. Capture the Moments but Stay Present = put down your phone for a while and absorb where you both are.

Taking photos and videos is a great way to preserve your honeymoon memories, but don’t let it take over your experience. Make a conscious effort to stay present and enjoy each moment without constantly reaching for your phone or camera. Set specific times to take pictures and then focus on fully immersing yourselves in the experience. This way, you'll have beautiful memories both in your mind and on film. Dont forget to get them printed and put them up on the wall just to remind yous how much you love each other.

27/07/2024

Married life should never start with aguments we want you to start it in a state of bliss and you know how we are going to help you do this …? you guessed it we are going to help you plan one of the most special holidays in your life your Honeymoon.

Now you could be thinking im already married and congratulations on that and sticking together. So here is another idea, why not celebrate it all over again with a second honeymoon maybe to celebrate the fact your stuck each other for god knows how many years 😀😍 you deserve it.

Anyway this next week will bring you some stories picked up along the way and a few ideas of where to go and we would absoloutly love to hear where you went on yours.

Lets start at looking at the Maldives one of our team isnt that long back from and she described it as a slice of heaven. Also do you know its really easy to combine it with Sri Lanka to give you both Culture and relaxation.

When not to go is during the monsoon season which is typically from May to October but dont worry there still clear skies between the short heavy bursts of rain. Note this time of year the prices are better value every grey cloud has a silver lining.

Contact us to find out more call Isabel on 016060000 or email [email protected]

.explores

08/07/2024

Who's up for a game of guess which seat. I travel a lot solo and the best thing doing this with Ryanair is that I save money on pre booking the seats because I honestly don't care where I sit.

But but I have tested this a few times as in a lot of times and you'll see this flight departs in less then 24 hours and a lot of the premium seats are still available. The last two times I got the emerging exit row. The later I leave it to check in the better chance of getting the yellow ones 😆

BUT WORD OF ⚠️ WARNING
you need to do it outside 3 hours before you fly or you'll have to check in at the airport and then that gets expensive 😅

So what do you think

YELLOW
NAVY
BLUE
????

08/07/2024

Can you guess what the top destination is for irish holiday makers this year?