Karen Moore - Travel Counsellors

03/09/2024

The open-air museum, Old Village Sirogojno, Serbia

Tuesday Travels!

I'm continuing my travels around the Western Balkans and country number two on my trip was Serbia. The open-air museum "Staro selo" (the Old Village) in Sirogojno portrays traditional village architecture and life of the Zlatibor region. My group had a guided tour to learn more about rural life in Serbia over the years and then we stayed overnight in little cottages that were dotted around the forest. It was such a unique experience and myself and my fellow travellers enjoyed our time here.

02/09/2024

Celebrity Apex® sails from Southampton in Summer 2024 and 2025. Onboard, you will enjoy unique dining experiences, innovative spaces, stunning views and world-class entertainment. Ashore, you can explore diverse destinations from the Norwegian Fjords to the Mediterranean.

Contact me to find out more:

Tel 0161 268 8521
Email [email protected]

01/09/2024

Where To Go When - September

31/08/2024

We've been nominated for the Best National Travel Retailer in the British Travel Awards 2024.

Vote for Travel Counsellors before 29th September 2024 and enter for a chance to win!

👉 https://britishtravelawards.com/btaform.php?nomLink=156

30/08/2024

Nikšićko Pivo, Montenegro

Foodie Friday!

Nikšićko Pivo, brewed with natural ingredients and pure mountain water, is the number one quality beer in the former Yugoslavia. Trebjesa Brewery, based in Nikšić, is the largest brewery in Montenegro and is owned by Molson Coors. I enjoyed this cold, refreshing beer after a hike around the Black Lake in Durmitor National Park.

29/08/2024

Djurdjevic Tara Bridge, Tara River, Montenegro

The Djurdjevic Tara Bridge is a picturesque bridge situated over the Tara River canyon. The bridge was constructed on the eve of World War II in order to provide a crossing point over the second largest canyon in the world. It comprises five arches and measures 365 metres long. The views from the bridge were stunning.

28/08/2024

Countryside near Zabljak, Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

I stayed in the small town of Zabljak in the National Park. In the winter, from December to March, it’s a major ski resort, while in summer it's popular for hiking, rafting and other active pursuits. The scenery in the area was very picturesque and not at all what I was expecting.

27/08/2024

Crno Jezero (Black Lake), Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Tuesday Travels!

This week I'm further inland in northwest Montenegro and exploring Durmitor National Park which is part of the Dinaric Alps. This is the Black Lake – a gorgeous glacial lake with deep blue water and surrounded by dark pines and firs. The scenery is reminiscent of the Canadian Rockies. I walked from nearby Zabjlak and then took a circular route around the lake. A few of us then ventured into the lake for a swim. I was a bit of a light weight and went for a paddle rather than a full-on swim (it wasn't hot enough for me!)

26/08/2024

Happy Bank Holiday Monday!

Contact me to book your next holiday

Tel 0161 268 8521
Email [email protected]
Web https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/karen.moore/

25/08/2024

Starting in the first half of 2025, passengers travelling from a number of countries, including the UK, will need an ETIAS travel authorisation to enter 30 EU countries.

24/08/2024

Offer - Autumn Break in Somerset

https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/Offers/An-autumn-escape-in-Somerset

23/08/2024

Burek, Montenegro

Foodie Friday!

I enjoyed lots of delicious food during my time in Montenegro. Burek (also, borek or byrek) is a popular pastry found all across the Balkan region. When you’re busy exploring the beautiful towns, cities and countryside, it’s a very tasty (and transportable) option. Find a bench somewhere, tuck in and enjoy. It’s basically filo pastry filed with various different fillings including cheese, meat, potato, spinach, apple…. in fact, almost anything.

22/08/2024

Moraca Monastery, Kolasin, Montenegro

This is one of the most famous monasteries in Montenegro. It’s a Serbian Orthodox monastery, located in the valley of the Moraca river in Kolasin. It was founded in 1252 and is one of the best-known medieval monuments in the country. The surrounding gardens and grounds were lovely and it was a very peaceful and contemplative place.

21/08/2024

Lake Skadar National Park, Montenegro

I stayed overnight in Virpazar, a small fishing village on the shore of Lake Skadar, and our boat trip started from here. The freshwater lake is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in Europe – home to over 270 species of bird. It’s perhaps most famous as one of the few nesting sites in the world of the rare and endangered Dalmatian Pelican. The lake is also home to more than 48 species of fish.

20/08/2024

Lake Skadar National Park, Montenegro

Tuesday Travels!

This week I’m still in Montenegro and I’ve now travelled inland, away from the coast. My small group of fellow travellers and I visited Lake Skadar - the largest lake in Southern Europe. Also called Lake Scutari, Lake Shkodër and Lake Shkodra, it lies on the border of Albania and Montenegro. We took a small boat and spent several hours travelling across the lake, spotting wildlife. The scenery was gorgeous and it was very peaceful. It was a hot, sunny day so we took the opportunity to dive into the water to cool off. It was lovely to swim and float around surrounded by dramatic mountains.

19/08/2024

Offer - The magic of Switzerland by rail

Take in Switzerland, a land of enchanting landscapes and breathtaking vistas, on an unforgettable five-night rail holiday. With glaciers to cross, two iconic trains to ride, and endless mountains, this incredible journey is one not to be missed.

18/08/2024

On Monday I was one of a small group of travel agents who were invited onto the Holland America Line ship, Rotterdam, while she was docked in Liverpool for the day.

It was a fantastic opportunity to see and experience a ship first hand. I loved having a good nosey around and seeing all the different decks and the various spaces and facilities available for passengers. There are lots of restaurants and bars to choose from and it looked like you could easily find a quiet space to relax if that’s what you were looking for. I was able to go into two different cabin types on the ship which will be useful in the future when talking to potential customers. I also enjoyed a very nice lunch in the Pinnacle restaurant. During the day the group heard from the marketing team at Holland America Line about how they are different to other cruise lines and why we should recommend them to our customers who are considering a cruise.

Holland America Line focus on the destinations they visit, they appeal to foodies and music lovers, those that appreciate and value good service and those who wish to travel on a smaller size ship. Rotterdam has capacity for 2,650 passengers which is a reasonable size with plenty of facilities and services, without being overwhelmingly large. To compare, the largest cruise ship in the world, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, can accommodate 7,600 passengers!

The cruise line is particularly well known for their sailings to Alaska. In fact, they’ve been visiting there for 75 years, which is before Alaska was Alaska! They have local, on the ground knowledge too so you can arrange a pre or post cruise stay and explore Yukon as part of your Alaskan cruise.

The ship is based in Europe during the summer months, sailing from Rotterdam to places such as the UK, the Norwegian Fjords etc. And in the winter, she sails around the Caribbean. And if you fancy a cruise but would prefer not to fly to the embarkation (start) point, they will be sailing from Dover in both 2025 and 2026.

I have been on several ships to date - Virgin Voyages, P&O, MSC, Royal Caribbean and now Holland America Line. They are all very different and are suitable for different people. Holland America Line are a more traditional cruise line, in terms of design and décor and I would say they appeal to an older audience who appreciate good value and service.

If any of this sounds of interest, please get in touch to find out more about how I can help you and book the cruise that is right for you.

17/08/2024

Anyone else watching (and loving) the new series of Celebrity Race Across The World? It started this week and features four teams - more info below. Their journey started in Belem in Brazil (on the edge of the Amazon) and they'll end in the Andes in Chile. An epic adventure!

It's on Wednesday evenings on BBC One.

Our familiar faces will say goodbye to lavish transport, smartphones and bank cards and instead must rely on their skills, cunning and ingenuity as well as the kindness of strangers

16/08/2024

Ice cream, Budva, Montenegro

Foodie Friday!

It wouldn’t be a holiday without an ice cream! This was my first ice cream of my recent holiday in the Western Balkans. I chose a very refreshing berry flavour gelato and enjoyed it while looking out across the harbour in beautiful Budva.

15/08/2024

Sveti Stefan, near Budva, Montenegro

This is the gorgeous view by Sveti Stefan which is a few kilometres south of Budva in Montenegro. The scenery along the Budva Riviera is stunning – the rocky coastline, lush green vegetation and crystal-clear blue seas.

14/08/2024

Stari Grad, Budva, Montenegro

I loved mooching around the streets of the medieval old town in Budva – it’s a bit like a miniature Dubrovnik! It’s one of the oldest settlements along the Adriatic, dating back around 2,500 years. This view shows the nearest beach, with the Stari Grad as a backdrop.

13/08/2024

Mogren beach, Budva, Montenegro

Tuesday Travels!

Budva is one of the best beach destinations in Montenegro. The coastline along the Adriatic is gorgeous. I walked a little way from the old town (past the ballerina statue) to Mogren beach, a small cove with golden pebbles. It was very popular with locals and visitors alike. I enjoyed watching life go by, sunbathing and cooling off by taking a dip in the sea.

12/08/2024

Today is World Elephant Day, a day dedicated to these majestic creatures. There's nothing quite like seeing elephants in their natural habitat, an experience that will stay with you forever.

Contact me today if you'd like me to make this dream come true for you.

11/08/2024

The wonders of the US national parks!

This itinerary includes four nights in Yellowstone, which became the world's first national park in 1872. With car hire included, this road trip allows you to combine breath taking nature with stays in game lodges, cosy inns and hotels that immerse you in the spirit of classic Americana.

Yellowstone is one of the most famous national parks in the USA. It’s loved for its spectacular and unique scenery, which embraces everything from volcanic features to shimmering glaciers. Our 14-night journey, including four nights in Yellowstone, can be tailored entirely to your needs and wishes...

10/08/2024

Discover hidden gems and tranquil retreats across Europe without the hustle and bustle. From the sun-kissed shores of Malta to the romantic vineyards of Bordeaux, our curated post-summer getaways promise unforgettable experiences.

With my expertise and guidance, you’ll enjoy a seamless, stress-free adventure. I care more than anybody else, ensuring every detail is tailored just for you.

Ready to explore? Contact me today to start planning your perfect escape!

09/08/2024

Dobrota, Kotor Bay, Montenegro

This was early morning looking out across Kotor Bay from Dobrota, a town within easy walking distance of historic Kotor along the shore. The Bay of Kotor, also known as the Boka, is a winding bay of the Adriatic Sea in southwestern Montenegro. It is also the southernmost part of the historical region of Dalmatia.

08/08/2024

Our Lady of the Rocks, Perast, Kotor Bay, Montenegro

The Island Gospa od Skrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks) is one of two gorgeous islands in the bay of Kotor across from Perast. I took a boat trip from Kotor to the Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rocks - the only building on the islet. According to legend, the islet was made over the centuries by the seamen who kept an ancient oath after finding the icon of Madonna and Child on the rock in the sea in 1452.

07/08/2024

Kotor Stari Grad, Kotor, Montenegro

The well preserved medieval walled town of Kotor sits at the foot of Mt. Lovćen in a secluded part of the Bay of Kotor. I loved mooching around Stari Grad, the Old Town, and exploring little squares and quiet side streets.

06/08/2024

View from Kotor Fortress, Kotor, Montenegro

Tuesday Travels!

This week I’m in Europe and exploring the Western Balkans. I’ve recently returned from exploring four countries that formed part of the former Yugoslavia. First stop was Montenegro and the beautiful medieval city of Kotor. This was the view from the ‘top’ – a very steep climb up 1,350 steps above the Old Town to Kotor Fortress and part of the City Walls. The view across the whole city and the Bay of Kotor with the mountains surrounding was fantastic and totally worth the effort!

05/08/2024

Offer - Sail along the mighty Mekong and explore both Cambodia and Vietnam

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Southeast Asia on this incredible itinerary, taking in the sights of Vietnam and Cambodia. You’ll sail along the mighty Mekong River, visiting charming floating villages and peaceful temples, with epic landscapes on either side. From towering mountain...