Timeless Pacific Coast Highway California

Kate Mpofu • May 5, 2024

California's Pacific Coast Highway NEVER Goes Out of Fashion...Here's Why.

California has long been, and remains, one of the top self drive holidays to do in the States, or perhaps even the World. So off I went and booked a hire car (brand new white Mustang arrived at the airport) and explored Pacific Coast Highway for myself, from North to South.

Arriving into San Francisco after a long flight, I flaked out at an airport motel and tried to recuperate from the jet lag. I have to admit, I find it so much harder going West and it took me several days to actually sleep through the night. If any city can keep you entertained and wide awake it's San Fran, with an uber cool art scene and funky bars and clubs. It's a great “walkable” city and as with any city, I just love getting lost. You see so much more. So I got lost twice, walked for miles but saw parts of the city probably no tourist does. Union Square is fascinating, and I sat in the cafe, drank coffee (skinny flat white, I was even down with the lingo) and just people watched. Homeless people ranted and raved, tourists were snap happy with cameras and designer clad Americans went about their lives and I was in holiday heaven absorbing it all. From there I walked to China Town, yet more crazy hustle and bustle and weird and wonderful “gifts” for sale, all the way down to Fisherman's Wharf with it's stunning views over Alcatraz. I didn't have nearly enough time to get the boat over, which was actually very busy anyway and I should have booked, which I'm disappointed about to this day. Don't make my mistake – book before you go! And of course, no city tour is complete without a hop on, hop off bus tour which I took out to Golden Gate Bridge and past the city's parks and back around all the places I had just walked from. My approach to city tours is to not have a plan; see where you end up. It' so much more exciting.
Mustang PCH

After a whistle stop tour of San Fran, off I drove down to Monterey and Carmel: gorgeous little quaint seaside towns that are well worth a visit and stop off on the journey South (or North, depending on where you're driving from!) About 15 minutes drive from Carmel town is Carmel Valley Ranch, a large luxury gated resort with suites looking out over the lush green valley and activities in abundance. They get incredibly busy during peak summer months with American families taking up the tennis, kids club, swimming pools, treks and other great activities all organised with families in mind. I loved the evening s'mores by the fire after dinner and the staff are great at getting the kids involved and letting parents have some down time. It's a fantastic option for couples or families making the drive down the coast and the perfect place to stop for a day or two.

 

Onwards the following day took me through Pismo Beach, Big Sur and eventually stopping in Santa Barbara at Four Seasons The Biltmore. For those used to holidaying in the States you will know that they are fascinated by the old buildings and architecture we have in the UK but this property has it's own heritage and has been converted into a stunning resort directly in front of Butterfly Beach. My room had a wrap around balcony looking right out to sea and over towards the beach club which is free for hotel guests to use. Cottages behind the main building are perfect for travelling families too with lots of private garden space, and some can connect with another room for an accompanying nanny if preferred. Santa Barbara town is a very short drive away and is genuinely one of the prettiest I have seen outside of Spain or Italy. It has Italian style architecture and bespoke little stores, plus great eateries as well as international department stores and I could have happily stayed another night or two.  

Santa Barbara

I would say unfortunately, I headed off the next day but the following morning took me on a coffee fuelled drive further down the coast to Santa Monica to stay at the infamous, Shutters on the Beach. The reputation of this hotel goes before it and as such, it's long been on my list of places to stay. Perfectly positioned on Santa Monica beach, just along from Pier 39 and boasting boardwalk cafes and restaurants. This hotel is grand and imposing, whilst being comforting and cosy on the inside. Rooms are designed with warmth and a “home from home” beach house vibe, with some looking directly out to see and others overlooking the sidewalks. Sun drenched days on the beach are followed by lively nights in Santa Monica and although it's a very short drive from LA, it's worth staying out on the beach for an alternative LA experience before heading downtown.

 

There are so many choices of hotels to choose from in LA itself that it can become confusing but if you are a first timer, Beverly Wilshire is a prime choice. The name is world renowned but they haven't rested on their laurels. Service, product and position is impeccable and although hotels of this calibre can be pretentious at times, Beverly Wilshire couldn't be friendlier or more welcoming. I have to be honest and say that other people had given me varying advice about LA: some loved the city and some would never go back. I genuinely think a lot of the opinion you have is due to where you stay. Don't go downtown in you're new to LA. As with any downtown, it can be intimidating. Hollywood, as glizty and exciting as it is, would also not be for me. You can go and visit during the day and spend hours watching the world go by, but you don't need to stay there. Beverly Wilshire is at the bottom of Rodeo Drive, walking distance to restaurants and cafes and accessible to the rest of the city too. LA is vast: you need a car or to take a tour so make sure you need to choose your base carefully. I personally loved LA, in fact it was one of the highlights of my trip. There is something special and exciting and I will definitely be going back.

 

After a couple of days exploring all that LA has to offer – including Rodeo Drive too many times to mention – I headed South once again via Newport Beach for a quick spot of lunch. There are so many great beaches within an hour of LA: Huntington, Laguna, Newport to name but a few, and all offer that chilled out American seaside vibe which is the perfect contrast after being in such a vast city. I wanted to end in San Diego but found an absolute gem of a resort about 30 mins before arriving in San Diego: Rancho Valencia.

Rodeo Drive

Rancho Valencia is a sprawling gates resort in the hills just an hour's drive from the beaches in an area called Rancho Sante Fe. It has so much to offer, you could spend far more than the 2 nights that I did. First, it's an internationally renowned tennis resort. I did take a lesson, having never been a sports enthusiast and I even left the court thinking I could be a pro which is entirely down to the skills of the instructor, I have since discovered! The resort had been recently renovated when I visited, and by a designer who clearly loved the resort. The original casitas which spread throughout the resort (you really need a car or hire a buggy) haven't been altered so original red tinged brickwork with established gardens hide any evidence of renovation. Inside the casitas is another story. Every single mod con including state of the art coffee machines, fire places, surround sound TV's with DVDs, lighting...you name it, it's got it. The space is endless but the two real treats:

1. The outdoor garden complete with fire for your own private s'mores; plunge pool jacuzzi and yet more space, completely enclosed by the casita walls offering privacy and romance in abundance, and

2. The bathroom is out of this world. The size yet again impresses, with separate bath, separate walk in show, his and hers sinks and even then there is space to have a party in there! The real treat sounds ludicrous, but it's the toilet. I've never been excited about a toilet, I promise you this isn't a fetish. But when you walk in the cubicle and the seat goes up automatically, to have puffs of air freshener go off whilst sitting, and remote control options for oscillating, front, rear and even a drying option was just ridiculous. Did I mention the warmed seat?

The resort has stunning restaurants, a great bar for winding down in the evening and being just 30 mins outside of San Diego means the city is there if you want it.

 

At this point, I was certain the trip couldn't get any better, but when I jetted off from San Diego to Los Cabos a couple of days later, I discovered that there is another resort to love just as much.

 

Cabo has become a mecca for the stars and celebrities looking for some sun and is so easily combined with California. It has a taste of true Mexico, almost from a film set and of course with the influx of tourists are the vast choice of apartments and hotels to choose from. I discovered before heading out there that the Cabo Corridor is where most of the nightlife was found and as I was looking for more of a relaxing end to my holiday, I opted for Cabo San Lucas: slightly further south, perched on the tip of the Baja peninsula - Capella Pedregal.

 

Capella are becoming a world class brand of hotels worldwide for their service and “tailored” experience: no check in or check out times because your holiday should be on your time; a personal assistance contacts you two weeks prior to arrival to organise any last minute extras for your stay and of course the personal service from all staff that you would expect in any luxury hotel.

 

Driving just out of the town and heading towards a mountain side, you discover a lantern-lit tunnel etched out of the mountain with a view at the other end that could have been painted on: crystal blue water, clear blue skies and an attentive welcoming committee. This is the grand entrance to Capella Pedregal. Every single room is ocean facing and has an infinity plunge pool on the terrace looking straight out to see. During out winter months it's a prime location for whale watching and as such, binoculars or telescopes are provided in every room. Mexican appetisers are provided in the room on arrival with tortilla chips and dips, cerviche (delicious!) and of course, Mexican beer. A bottle of tequila is even provided in the room for your stay. I was incredibly lucky and upgraded on arrival to a two bedroom ocean view suite that had more space than I knew what to do with, infact I only used one wing; a large lap pool with access directly to the beach, 3 separate sun terraces and my own waiter who came from the main bar every half an hour to bring skewered fruit, nibbles and any drinks my heart desired.

For food lovers, cuisine is exquisite in all restaurants but noted in every good guide book worldwide, and rightly so, is El Farallon. Carved into the cliff and candle lit each evening; this is a sea food restaurant where you choose your fish and pay by weight, with a choice of starters and sides. Truly one of the most romantic settings I have ever seen and outside guests can book. In fact, even as a guest it's worth booking as it's so popular and you absolutely don't want to miss out!

The only down side was that I only had two nights before heading back to the airport and you could easily spend 7 nights or more in this heavenly retreat by the sea.

 

Whether you're going to California or any other major US city, Cabo is accessible by numerous flights so can easily be added on and offers an authentic alternative to the American beach resorts which can be very crowded, especially in summer months.

 

Cabo San Lucas

To book your own US self drive adventure, contact Kate via email on info@worldwidetravelsolutions.co.uk


Kate x

Tops Tips for Hassle Free Travelling

By Kate Mpofu • April 14, 2025
If you're someone who finds the attention from street vendors, souvenir sellers, or persistent guides a bit overwhelming when travelling, don’t let that stop you from exploring amazing destinations. With a few simple strategies, you can travel confidently and enjoy your trip stress-free. Here are our top tips for a smooth and enjoyable holiday: 1. Walk with Confidence Looking unsure or holding a map in plain sight can attract attention from touts and opportunists. Walk with purpose, even if you’re not entirely sure where you're going. If you're approached by persistent sellers or guides, stop, smile, and politely but firmly say you’re not interested. A clear “no, thank you” is often the most effective approach. 2. Embrace Cultural Differences in Communication Every country has its own style of interaction. In some places, people may stand closer, touch your arm when talking, or ask questions that might feel personal—like your age, job, or marital status. These aren’t meant to offend—they’re simply signs of curiosity and friendliness. 3. Dress Respectfully for the Region In many cultures, especially more conservative ones, dressing modestly helps you blend in and avoid unwanted attention. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious or rural areas. 4. Secure Your Valuables The less you carry, the less you have to worry about. Leave your passport, spare credit cards, and other non-essential valuables in your hotel safe. Carry just what you need in a money belt or a crossbody bag that zips securely. 5. Be Wary of “Free” Gifts Be cautious if a stranger offers you a bracelet, a flower, or an unsolicited “tour.” Often, these come with a catch and can lead to awkward demands for payment. A polite refusal is your best defence. 6. Avoid Vague Responses Like “Maybe Later” Saying “maybe tomorrow” can sound like a commitment in many cultures. If you’re not interested, it’s better to say “no, thank you” kindly but firmly. Even better? Learn the phrase in the local language—it’s often appreciated and more effective. 7. Learn to Haggle with a Smile In many parts of the world, bargaining is not just accepted—it’s expected. The key is to do it respectfully. Offer what you believe is a fair price, and always keep it light-hearted. 8. Understand the Tipping Culture Tipping practices vary widely. In some countries, a small tip is customary; in others, it's not expected at all. Do some quick research before you travel so you’re not caught off guard. And remember—tip for great service, not because you’re pressured into it. Being aware, respectful, and open-minded can transform your travel experience. With the right approach, you'll enjoy richer encounters and smoother adventures—no matter where in the world your journey takes you. Sharon & Kate x

The Truth About Travel Homeworking: How to Succeed and What to Avoid

By Kate Mpofu • March 11, 2025
The UK travel industry offers a unique opportunity for those looking to work independently while enjoying the benefits of a thriving sector. Becoming a travel homeworker can be an incredibly rewarding career move, providing flexibility , unlimited earning potential , and access to industry perks. However, success in this field requires careful planning, the right support network, and an awareness of potential pitfalls. Setting Yourself Up for Success Starting out as a travel homeworker involves more than just a passion for travel—it requires a solid foundation . First, choosing the right homeworking group or consortium is crucial. Different companies offer varied commission structures, support levels, booking systems, and marketing assistance. Some specialise in luxury, cruise, or tailor-made travel, while others focus on mass-market package holidays. Understanding your niche and aligning yourself with a company that supports your goals can make a huge difference in your success. Initial training is another key factor. Even those with prior travel industry experience need to familiarise themselves with supplier booking systems, legal requirements, and the nuances of selling holidays as a homeworker. Many reputable homeworking groups provide structured training programmes that cover sales techniques, customer service, and industry regulations. Equally important is ongoing professional development—regular training sessions, supplier updates, and networking events help agents stay competitive and knowledgeable. The Benefits of Being a Travel Homeworker One of the greatest advantages of being a UK-based travel homeworker is the strong sense of community within the industry. Many homeworking groups foster a supportive environment through online forums, training events, and networking opportunities, helping agents share knowledge and advice. Earnings potential is another major draw. With commission-based income, agents are rewarded for their sales efforts, and experienced agents can build a strong client base that generates repeat business. Many suppliers also offer generous booking incentives, providing additional rewards for high sales performance. One of the biggest perks of working in travel is the opportunity to experience destinations first-hand. Educational FAM (familiarisation) trips allow agents to visit resorts, cruise ships, and key destinations to improve their product knowledge—often at a heavily discounted rate or even free of charge. These trips are invaluable, as first-hand experience boosts sales confidence and helps to build trust with clients. Pitfalls to Avoid While the homeworking model offers fantastic benefits, there are risks to be aware of. The travel industry has seen an increase in MLM (multi-level marketing) schemes disguised as travel agencies. These require members to recruit others rather than focusing on genuine holiday sales, often resulting in financial losses. Legitimate homeworking groups do not require agents to recruit others to earn money—success is based on selling travel, not bringing in new members. Scams are another area of concern. Some companies promise ‘quick and easy’ earnings with little to no training or require agents to pay for costly membership fees without providing proper support. Researching a company’s reputation, checking industry accreditations (such as ABTA and ATOL), and reading reviews from existing agents can help avoid falling into these traps. Training is another critical factor. While it may be tempting to join a company offering minimal training with the promise of instant commissions, this can lead to costly mistakes. Working with a company that provides expert-led training ensures that homeworkers understand complex booking processes, industry regulations, and how to provide the best service to clients. Is Homeworking Right for You? Being a travel homeworker requires self-motivation, dedication, and a willingness to continually learn and adapt. Those who invest time in training, build strong relationships with suppliers and customers, and align themselves with a reputable homeworking group can create a profitable and fulfilling career. With the right approach, travel homeworking offers freedom, financial rewards, and incredible experiences—but success depends on making informed choices and avoiding common pitfalls. Are you ready to explore the idea of homeworking? Contact me at kate@worldwidetravelsolutions.co.uk for an informal and confidential discussion on everything we can offer to support you to succeed. Kate x

Tobago: The Perfect Haven for Solo Travellers

By Kate Mpofu • March 11, 2025
Embarking on a solo adventure can be both exhilarating and transformative, offering the freedom to explore at one's own pace and the opportunity for personal growth. For those seeking such an experience, Tobago emerges as an ideal destination, seamlessly blending natural beauty, cultural richness, and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to solo travellers. Safety and Welcoming Atmosphere One of the foremost considerations for solo travellers is safety. Tobago stands out in this regard, boasting a reputation for being one of the safer Caribbean islands. The local community is known for its warmth and hospitality, making it easy for visitors to feel at home. Whether wandering through bustling markets or relaxing on secluded beaches, solo adventurers can navigate the island with confidence and ease. Diverse Natural Landscapes Tobago's compact size belies the vast array of natural wonders it offers. The island is home to the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. This lush expanse provides numerous hiking trails, such as the renowned Gilpin Trace, where travellers can immerse themselves in rich biodiversity, spotting endemic bird species and vibrant flora. For those drawn to the sea, Tobago's coastline is dotted with pristine beaches like Englishman's Bay, a secluded crescent-shaped haven perfect for tranquil reflection and relaxation. Adventure and Activities For solo travellers seeking adventure, Tobago does not disappoint. The island's clear, warm waters are ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling, revealing vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Additionally, the island's varied terrain offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even horseback riding along the shore. These activities not only provide thrilling experiences but also facilitate connections with fellow travellers and locals alike. Cultural Richness and Local Experiences Tobago's rich cultural tapestry is a treasure trove for those eager to delve into local traditions and history. Exploring villages such as Charlotteville offers insights into the island's fishing heritage and provides a chance to engage with artisans and craftsmen. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in Tobago's diverse cuisine, sampling dishes at local eateries and experiencing the island's vibrant street food scene. Festivals and events throughout the year further showcase Tobago's cultural vibrancy, offering solo travellers authentic and immersive experiences. Affordability and Accessibility Travelling solo often necessitates mindful budgeting, and Tobago caters well to this need. The island offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to eco-lodges nestled in nature. Dining can be both affordable and delectable, with numerous local establishments serving fresh, flavourful meals. Additionally, Tobago's accessibility, with direct flights from major cities, ensures that solo travellers can reach this Caribbean gem without undue hassle. Opportunities for Reflection and Connection Solo travel is as much about introspection as it is about exploration. Tobago's serene environments, such as the tranquil beaches and secluded waterfalls, provide perfect settings for personal reflection. Moreover, the island's community-oriented culture encourages meaningful interactions, allowing solo travellers to forge connections that enrich their journeys. Tobago encapsulates the essence of an ideal solo travel destination, offering a harmonious blend of safety, natural beauty, cultural depth, and affordability. Its welcoming atmosphere and diverse experiences ensure that solo adventurers can craft a journey that resonates with their personal aspirations, making Tobago not just a destination, but a memorable chapter in their travel narratives. For help in organising your next trip to Tobago, please contact us on info@worldwidetravelsolutions.co.uk Sharon & Kate x

6 Reasons Why You Should Try A Cruise Holiday

By Kate Mpofu • February 26, 2025
Not sure if cruise holidays are for you but keen to find out? We’ve got 6 reasons for you to consider why cruise holidays might be ideal for you! Read on to discover the benefits of cruising, and if you find yourself saying ‘that sounds like a bit of me’, then you’ll know it’s time to take the plunge. Multiple destinations in one holiday When you don’t know which Canary, Caribbean, or Greek island to visit, why restrict yourself to just one? The be auty of cruise holidays is that you usually get to visit an average of 5 different ports of call on a typical 7-day itinerary. Prefer the idea of visiting different countries on the same holiday? That’s also possible! There are plenty of itineraries to choose from. Value for Money Despite what you may think, cruise holidays are superb value for money once you consider all of the amenities, entertainment and activities included on board. In some cases, even land-based excursions and transportation is included too! Range of amenities/entertainment/activities on board From ziplining, sky diving and surf simulators to educational guest lecturers, west-end shows, parties, workshops and themed gala nights, cruise ships have all that a land-based resort would have, if not more! No matter the age group you’re travelling with, you’ll never be bored sailing at sea. No-fly cruise options With several cruise terminals located across the UK including Ireland, Scotland, Southampton and various ports in between, there are plenty of no-fly cruise options for you to consider. So, whether you’re travelling on a budget and are looking to remove the flight cost from the equation or simply don’t like flying, the perfect cruise holiday for you is just a booking away! Stress-free Usually, such extensive itineraries require a lot of planning. With cruise holidays, all of the transportation between each destination, accommodation and having to unpack and repack over and over again is all taken care of – all you have to do is remember your cabin number! Meet new people Cruising holidays always have a sense of community, making it very easy to meet people and make new friends – especially on smaller ships. Some cruise companies even provide solo occupancy and arrange social events specifically for the solo cruisers to mingle. Ready for your first cruise adventure? We know deciding on your first ever cruise holiday can be daunting, but we’re here to assist you every step of the way to ensure you find the right cruise line for you. Get in touch with us today so we can find our your cruise style – we’re confident we will find the perfect match for you! Sharon & Kate x info@worldwidetravelsolutions.co.uk

Discover the Secrets of the Caribbean

By Kate Mpofu • December 15, 2024
Barbados: Beaches, History, and Cuisine Butterfly Beach Hotel’s Tranquil Retreat For a serene stay, the Butterfly Beach Hotel on the south coast offers unbeatable access to white sandy beaches and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. Its location makes it perfect for snorkelling, while nearby Oistins Fish Fry is a must-visit for fresh seafood and lively island vibes. Discover the Historic Garrison Area Barbados is steeped in history, and the UNESCO-listed Garrison area near Bridgetown showcases its colonial past. Explore George Washington House , where the future US president stayed, and wander the lush grounds of the Savannah. Harrison’s Cave and Animal Flower Cave Barbados’ natural beauty extends underground at Harrison’s Cave, a network of limestone caverns filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. For a coastal contrast, visit Animal Flower Cave , where tidal pools and sea anemones create a natural wonderland. Rum and Local Cuisine Barbados is the birthplace of rum, and a visit to Mount Gay Distillery is a rite of passage for any traveller. Pair your rum tasting with local dishes like flying fish and cou-cou, or sweet treats like Bajan coconut bread. Insider Travel Tips for UK Visitors Try Local Transport for Unique Adventures Skip the taxis and tour buses when exploring smaller towns and islands. Opt for shared minibuses (known as "route taxis" in Barbados) or water taxis, particularly in Grenada and St. Kitts. These local transport modes offer a chance to interact with residents and often pass through scenic routes missed by standard tours. Explore Hidden Snorkelling Spots While popular beaches attract crowds, lesser-known snorkelling gems often remain quiet. For example, Pinney’s Beach in Nevis and Smugglers Cove in Barbados are excellent spots for spotting tropical fish and sea turtles. In Grenada, Dragon Bay is a tranquil alternative to Grand Anse. Don’t Miss Local Festivals Check the local calendar for smaller, less-publicised festivals. In Grenada, the Chocolate Festival in May celebrates the island’s cocoa culture with plantation tours and tastings. In Nevis, the Mango and Food Festival (held annually in July) showcases dishes inspired by the island’s abundant mango varieties. Of course, the islands big Carnivals are also well worth visiting. Embrace the Slow Travel Philosophy Island time is a real thing, and rushing to tick off attractions can detract from the Caribbean vibe. Plan for downtime—whether sipping rum punch on Butterfly Beach or reading a book in a hammock in Nevis—to truly immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere. Taste the Local Breakfast Traditions Step away from your resort breakfast buffet and enjoy local morning treats. In Barbados, try salt bread sandwiches filled with fried fish or cheese. Grenada’s oil-down, a hearty one-pot meal, is perfect fuel for a day of exploration. In St. Kitts and Nevis, fresh-baked coconut bread paired with local fruit is a must. Island-Hop Like a Pro If you’re planning to explore more than one island, consider small local airlines or ferry services. For example, ferries connect St. Kitts and Nevis frequently, while charter boats in Grenada offer day trips to nearby Carriacou or Petite Martinique. Respect Nature’s Rhythms Remember that some activities, like turtle nesting in Barbados or whale watching off Grenada, depend on the season. Research wildlife calendars to make the most of your trip, as catching these natural spectacles is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Sample the Rum Like a Connoisseur Each Caribbean island has its unique rum tradition. Skip the cocktails and try sipping rums neat. For example, Mount Gay in Barbados and River Antoine in Grenada offer varieties with distinct notes that locals treasure. For help is organising your own trip to the Caribbean, it's a destination we are hugely passionate about and have some fantastic preferential deals. Please email us on info@worldwidetravelsolutions.co.uk and we will be happy to help. Sharon & Kate x

10 Warm Winter Getaways You’ve Probably Never Heard Of (But Should Visit)

By Kate Mpofu • December 9, 2024
Winter doesn’t have to mean braving the cold. From November to March, there are hidden destinations where the sun shines year-round, offering the perfect escape. These lesser-known gems combine natural beauty, cultural intrigue, and warmer climates, making them ideal for off-the-beaten-path adventures. 1. Salalah, Oman Tucked in Oman’s Dhofar region, Salalah boasts a balmy climate even in winter. Known for its lush landscapes and coconut-fringed beaches, the area is perfect for exploring waterfalls, frankincense markets, and archaeological sites. Tip : Visit the Al Baleed Archaeological Park and take a sunset stroll along Al Mughsail Beach. 2. Ambergris Caye, Belize Ambergris Caye is a haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The Belize Barrier Reef offers vibrant marine life, while the island’s laid-back vibe is perfect for unwinding in warm weather. Tip : Explore Shark Ray Alley to swim with nurse sharks and stingrays. 3. Koh Lanta, Thailand A quieter alternative to Thailand’s bustling islands, Koh Lanta is known for its relaxed vibe and stunning beaches. Explore hidden caves, kayak through mangroves, or simply soak up the sunshine on its golden shores. Tip: Hire a scooter to easily explore the island’s secluded beaches and local villages. 4. Lamu Island, Kenya This UNESCO World Heritage Site off Kenya’s coast is a tranquil escape with its blend of Swahili culture, charming architecture, and pristine beaches. Wander Lamu Old Town’s narrow streets or take a dhow boat ride at sunset. Tip : Stay in a traditional Swahili house for an authentic experience. 5. Masoala Peninsula, Madagascar This remote paradise is home to diverse wildlife and untouched rainforests. The combination of warm beaches and lush greenery makes it an idyllic winter escape. Tip : Plan a guided trek to spot the elusive aye-aye lemur and enjoy snorkelling in the surrounding marine reserves.

How To More Than Double Your Annual Leave in 2025

By Kate Mpofu • December 5, 2024
If you're looking to make the most of your holidays in 2025, there's a clever way to stretch your annual leave and enjoy up to 65 days off work. With a bit of planning and smart use of bank holidays, you can turn your standard allowance into extended breaks for relaxation or adventure. Here’s how to do it. In England and Wales, there are eight public bank holidays each year. These include seasonal celebrations like Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Easter, as well as national observances such as the early May and late August bank holidays. By strategically booking annual leave around these dates, you can enjoy longer breaks while using fewer leave days. New Year’s Break Turn New Year’s Day into a five-day break by booking 2 and 3 January (Thursday and Friday), giving you time off from 1 January to 5 January using just two days of annual leave. Easter Holiday Book 14 to 17 April (Monday to Thursday) and 22 to 25 April (Tuesday to Friday). This provides a 16-day holiday from 12 April (Saturday) to 27 April (Sunday) by using only eight days of leave. May Day Getaway Stretch the May Day holiday into a nine-day break by booking 6 to 9 May (Tuesday to Friday). This covers 3 May (Saturday) to 11 May (Sunday) with just four days of leave. Spring Bank Holiday Escape Take advantage of the Spring Bank Holiday for a nine-day break by booking 27 to 30 May (Tuesday to Friday). You’ll enjoy time off from 24 May (Saturday) to 1 June (Sunday) while using only four leave days. Summer Holiday Create another nine-day stretch in late summer by booking 26 to 29 August (Tuesday to Friday). This gives you time off from 23 August (Saturday) to 31 August (Sunday) using only four leave days. Christmas and New Year’s Festivities Enjoy an eight-day holiday by booking 29 to 31 December (Monday to Wednesday). This combines Christmas and New Year’s bank holidays for time off from 25 December to 1 January 2026 with just three leave days. By carefully planning around these dates, you can use 25 days of annual leave to enjoy 65 days off in total. This means more time for holidays, rest, or quality moments with loved ones. To make the most of this opportunity, it’s important to book early, especially for popular periods like Easter and Christmas, which tend to fill up quickly. Taking regular breaks from work is vital for your wellbeing. Longer holidays allow you to fully recharge, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories. By maximising your annual leave, you’re giving yourself the gift of time – something we all need more of. So, grab your calendar, start planning, and make 2025 a year to remember. Whether it’s sandy beaches, mountain hikes, or simply relaxing at home, the possibilities are endless when you plan wisely, and we would be delighted to help you plan your getaway to enjoy your time off to the max. Sharon & Kate x

A Postcard from Reykjavik

By Kate Mpofu • November 13, 2024
Can you believe we finally made it to Reykjavik?! I have wanted to come for so long, as you know, and it has not disappointed. I was surprised at the journey time from the airport but when we arrived we were waist high in snow and ice so it's not exactly a quick bus journey to the city. We are staying right on the edge of the city which is walking distance to all the Christmas markets, and the inner city cobbled streets, with beautifully decorated shops selling all sorts of lovely sweet treats, souvenirs and bits and pieces. It's so festive! We booked the Northern Lights trip for the first night, but we didn't get to go unfortunately as it was cloudy (apparently this is common and they just put you on the next night tour instead). We went on the next night instead and didn't see the lights but it was gorgeous nonetheless. We did the whale watching trip that day. I should have checked the weather first! It would have been amazing if it was calmer waters but there were weather warnings, and I spent most of the time being sick - how embarrassing! Being pregnant definitely didn't help me :( I will remember for next time! It's our last day today and we are headed to the Blue Lagoon which looks amazing. It's a bit of a drive out of the city so we decided to do it en route to the airport. The weather is perfect for it - icy cold and the waters are so warm and great for the body apparently. It will be the perfect way to end the trip. I will definitely be coming back one day to do the tours in the rest of the country and not just Reykjavik - there is so much to see and do. Maybe we can come together? See you soon, Kate x

A Postcard from Brazil

By Kate Mpofu • November 13, 2024
Last week I landed in Rio - there's something really exciting about being here. I wish you were here. If you ever come I would highly recommend the cable car ride to Sugar Loaf Mountain as well as exploring Ipanema and Copacabana beach. After a couple of days here I travelled by road and boat to Isla Grande which is a tropical island with no cars, a perfect escapism with beautiful white sandy beaches and nature trails. It was so gorgeous! I also spent some time in Paraty which is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and has tropical forests, waterfalls and mountains. I was so pleased I went. However, the absolute highlight of my trip has been Iguassu Falls. It is on the border of Argentina and I explored the falls from both sides. It is truly spectacular and the photos don't do it justice at all but I have included some so you can see what I mean. Such a stunning country, I will definitely be back. Maybe you can join me next time!? Sharon x
EES and ETIAS Upcoming Changes

Upcoming Changes for UK Travellers to Europe: What You Need To Know

By Kate Mpofu • September 29, 2024
As the UK’s relationship with the EU has shifted post-Brexit, there are some upcoming changes that UK travellers should be aware of when planning trips to Europe in 2024 and 2025, onwards. Two significant systems will be introduced by the European Union that will affect entry requirements, aiming to enhance security and streamline border processes for non-EU travellers, including those from the UK.
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