Archives: Answers

Shore excursions are an excellent way to see the highlights of a port without the pressure of doing all the research yourself in advance.

Going on a ship-organised tour also alleviates the stress of having to keep track of time, as the tour will guarantee you get back to the ship before sail away time.

The ship will have its preferred tour operators and it’s well worth considering those as options, but also look at independent tours, which can work out cheaper, or provide a greater breadth of options, as you can join passengers from other ships, or even book a private tour just for you.

If you want a relaxed day in port at your own pace, you can also get off the ship without a shore excursion in pretty much any port. Go and grab a coffee alongside the marina or mooch around the local shops!

One notable exception to this is if your ship ports in St Petersburg, Russia – unless you have your own Russian Visa, you’ll need to stay with the ship’s tour guide.

Tour guides are mainly recommended to people who travel individually, not to mention the fact that it is rather cumbersome to schedule one’s travel plans alone. These guides not only ensure an organized timetable but also, assist in managing one’s finances effectively. On top of that, tour guides are usually experts in their field, which means, they are widely aware of the right destinations for travelers. Traveling alone or in a team of two, on the other hand, satisfies one’s desire to have that adrenaline rush. A simple trek to a base camp could prove to be a challenging but at the same time, an exhilarating experience. In short, it all comes down to what excites you the most. If you are someone who takes fun in discovering and exploring the terrain as they move, then a tour guide would likely take that fun out of your journey. However, it is equally significant to understand that, while a great journey does not require a roadmap, one must have all the essentials required for mountainous terrains, be it the Alps, Andes, or the Himalayas.

Adventure holidays are designed to get the blood pumping and will send your teens back to school with so many great stories to impress their friends.

The key to planning a successful adventure holiday for teens is to plan options into the itinerary. They might be all gung-ho about base jumping now, but come the morning of, that bravado is likely to have somewhat evaporated.

Exciting water activities are popular options with teens, such as banana boating and white-water rafting for the adrenaline junkies, or kayaking and snorkeling for a more chilled-out adventure. If you’d feel more comfortable in a controlled environment, plan a day to a water park for the same thrills.

Whilst your teens can’t yet drive on the road, there’s no reason they can’t put some miles on the clock on an off-road track. Search for go-kart race tracks near where you’re staying… and prepare to get competitive!

Adventure doesn’t need to be full of powerful engines and gadgetry either. Engage your inner explorer and go on an old-school camping trip. Your teens will be able to learn how to pitch a tent, start a campfire and cook on the BBQ. Campsites are also really sociable spaces, so your teens are sure to make new friends too.

A honeymoon in the Maldives offers the quintessential mix of everything synonymous with romantic escapism. Private islands with uber-luxury resorts, secluded white sandy beaches, azure blue waters that look like they have been airbrushed and enhanced on photoshop, and private villas that are designed to offer privacy even when outside. 

In truth, there are many destinations in the world that would be perfect for a honeymoon and on par with the Maldives that are also exotic, luxurious, secluded, and that offer high levels of privacy. But these destinations are either very far away (e.g. South Pacific Islands) or they are very expensive offering the same experience as a Maldives Honeymoon for a lot more money. 

The biggest driver of bookings for honeymoons in the Maldives from the UK is the fact that there are hundreds of resorts and plenty of flight options from the UK to get you there. This is a destination you can get to relatively quickly with airlines such as British Airways flying direct to the Maldives in just over 10 hours. Even if you fly to the Maldives via a third country, your flight time will only be a little over 12 hours. 

The allure of a Maldives honeymoon is the fact that it really is an escape from the world. Once you arrive on your private island, you are literally stuck there for the duration of your stay. Every resort occupies its own island and is surrounded by vast spans of the Indian Ocean between islands. The privacy and intimacy this offers make it perfect for lovers and newlywed couples.  There are no towns or cities nearby, no attractions you can visit or excursions you can book- it is just you and your partner. The only time you will see any people will be if you make use of one of the communal pools, or dine at one of the restaurants. Even if you choose to go for water activity, snorkelling or diving, it will be you and your partner with the addition of a guide (if required). 

Many honeymooners will never leave their private villa making use of the in-villa dining and the private pool and beach attached to their villa. You can head to the spa for a couples massage, but many resorts will even offer this service within the privacy of your villa. A honeymoon in the Maldives will cut you off from the world and that provides the ultimate catalyst to relax, destress, and only enjoy the company of your spouse. 

Some of the larger islands in the Maldives are able to offer private sections of their island’s beach or within the tropical forestry at the center of the island for private candlelight dinners at night with no risk of intrusion from any other guest. 

So to answer your question- if you live in the UK then a honeymoon in the Maldives probably is the best choice of destination because of the privacy, luxury, and incredible natural beauty. 

Here are 6 amazing islands that’s worth the visit for your next trip to Southeast Asia. The islands in Asia are spectacular, most of them look like tropical paradise mixed with unique local culture. If you’re seeking to adventure out of the hustle and bustle of Asia’s big cities, visit these beautiful Asian islands, from Indonesia and Malaysia to Vietnam and the Philippines. 

1. Bali, Indonesia- An island filled with Balinese ancient Hinduism culture and stunning ocean views. Beach clubs on cliffs, hillside rice paddies, floating temples by the lake, and many more attractions to be discovered.
2. Langkawi, Malaysia- An island so famous for its duty-free shopping, exquisite beaches, and pristine rainforests. It’s the perfect destination for couples and groups of friends.
3. Redang, Malaysia- If you love snorkeling and diving in clear blue water, then this is the place to visit! A chance to witness beautiful marine creatures within the shores of your hotel.
4. Penang, Malaysia- A tourist destination popular for serving authentic Malaysian delicacies, paradise-like hotels, and beautiful beaches.
5. Palawan, the Philippines- This island serves exceptional white sand beaches, preserved coral reefs, and turquoise waters. Island hopping here is also the top-rated activity among many tourists.
6. Phu Quoc, Vietnam- Explore the traditional villages, nature parks, romantic sunsets by the beach which makes it the ideal holiday destination for nature lovers.

Europe is brimming over with romantic destinations – all very worthy locations for a gorgeous proposal.

If you’re not shy of proposing in front of a large crowd, the Trevi Fountain in Rome is a popular spot for proposals. You’ll probably be rewarded with a hearty round of applause, and there’ll be plenty of people able to take a picture for you to capture the moment.

For something a little quieter, and off the beaten track, Odessa in Ukraine is something of a Paris of the East. Book a hotel in the Old Town and head down to the Opera House and waterfront in an evening. Lights strung across the walkway between the trees make for a magical setting.

A picture-perfect proposal can be captured in Santorini, Greece, amidst the blue and white buildings and stunning sea.

Also on the seafront, many call Venice the city of love and even gush that it’s the most romantic city in Europe. Linked by bridges over canals, and emerging onto the Piazza San Marco, it is sure to set exactly the right mood for a YES.

Or for something more inland, consider Prague, which truly is a city of beauty. Perhaps the 15th Century Charles Bridge might be the right location for you to pop the question?

Wherever you choose, good luck!

Vietnam’s winding coastline is teeming with white sand beaches and the iconic blue waters of Southeast Asia. If you plan to visit Vietnam during the months of May-October, you can’t miss Vietnam’s most famous attraction, Ha Long Bay. There are several beaches within the bay to choose from, but the most stunning is Ti Top Island. Not only is Ti Top less touristy than other beaches in Ha Long Bay, but it ensures breathtaking views of the limestone mountains and clear, blue waters. Travelers can explore Ha Long Bay at any time during the year, but it is important to note that temperatures in northern Vietnam do drop significantly during the winter. 

As you head down the coast, you will encounter an endless number of beach towns between central and southern Vietnam. For an urban beach experience, visit the city of Da Nang. Rows of palm trees and sunbathers give the city a California feel. If you are looking to escape the tourist scene, Qui Nhon is an up-and-coming beach town a bit off the beaten track but no less beautiful. 

As southern Vietnam ventures into the Gulf of Thailand, the beaches become significantly more tropical. Two of the most famous beaches are Khem Beach and Sao Beach on Phu Quoc Island. They are recognized as some of the world’s best beaches because of their snow-white sand and bright blue water. Many of Vietnam’s most luxurious resorts are located on Phu Quoc Island in addition to new developments. Travelers can drive from one end of the island to the other in under an hour, allowing guests to explore the scenic mountains, tropical jungle, and various beaches across the island. 

If mountains, cities, and jungle aren’t enough to satisfy your taste, head to Mui Ne for a bit of an adrenaline rush. Spend the day four-wheeling up and down the red and white sand dunes before heading to one of Mui Ne’s beaches. The coastline is clean with vibrant fishing boats scattered about the beaches and sea. 

Regardless of which beach you choose, you are guaranteed to have the experience of a lifetime in Vietnam!

Without a doubt, if you’re picking where to go by the number of rides, go to Walt Disney World in Orlando. The global capital of theme parks!

Disney World is divided into four parks, the largest of which is Magic Kingdom with 23 rides. The other three Disney parks in Orlando feature 9 rides each.

Magic Kingdom is the most popular theme park in the world, and with rides such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain, it’s clear to see why.

With 23 rides, there’s such a great variety of themes and styles in Magic Kingdom, from dark rides (Peter Pan’s Flight is great) to water rides (Jungle Cruise is a laugh, with amazing theming). Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Haunted Mansion, and then chill out Under The Sea with the Little Mermaid.

Next door at EPCOT, there are a number of themed rides that connect favorite Disney tales with a world showcase of countries. The new Frozen-themed water ride is really popular.

Of course, if you’re in Orlando, there’s no need to limit your trip to just Disney. Check out the Universal parks and explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including rollercoasters, a journey on the Hogwarts Express, and even get to try butterbeer in Hogsmeade Village.

When it comes to taking the kids on a road trip, think about activities you can enjoy on the way.

The freedom of the open road won’t have the same appeal to a 6 year old, but stopping off at lots of exciting attractions will keep the kids excited for the duration of the trip.

When on the move, prepare carefully with snacks and toilet breaks to keep the whole family happy, and throw in some super active activities – like water sports  or a theme park – so that the kids will be able to sleep through longer stretches of driving.

To make a road trip even more exciting for children, consider renting a funky campervan so that they can have their toys out the whole time and you won’t have the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. 

Also, invite another family to join you so that the kids can share the excitement with their friends every time you stop off somewhere.

For destinations, choose from attraction-rich routes, like driving through Los Angeles to arrive at Disneyland, or if you’re a musical family, check out Memphis, Tennessee, and the home of Elvis Presley.

In Europe, pick a warm country so that you can always jump out of the car whenever the back seat wriggling starts.

Greece is an exciting option as you’ll keep swapping your car for a boat as you hop between the islands.

Southern Italy also offers a great combination of destinations for kids and adults alike – check out Sardinia for an irresistible balance of sun, sea, sand, and family-friendly adventure.

The Camino is one of the safest trips you can take as a solo female traveler in my opinion. There are many pilgrims traveling this route which leads to a wonderful sense of community (and safety). With the route being so well marked even if you don’t have the guidebook – although recommended, it is possible to complete without it. I loved staying in the Pilgrim’s hostels as you get to know fellow travelers and when walking you can choose to walk with the people you meet along the way or continue in solitude. Pilgrims often meet at cafes to take breaks and chat about where they are coming from, why they are walking or lessons learned along the way!

Don’t be afraid to ask fellow pilgrims to have dinner together too! Depending on the time of year there are festivals along the Portuguese route as well, which makes for a great evening after a day of walking! Get a flower crown from a street vendor, a mug of tinto, and enjoy sunsets with new friends over the water listening to live music! While there are many people traveling along the route and you have as much opportunity to be with other people as you choose, it is also perfectly acceptable to walk alone with your thoughts and take everything you need for yourself from your Camino. Whether you are an advanced traveler or a beginner getting their feet wet with experience, Camino de Santiago has something for everyone and I can’t recommend it enough!