Lisa recently enjoyed an amazing holiday to Vietnam. She was there to visit her son, who currently lives there, but before doing that her and her husband, John, and daughter, Charlotte, spent a fantastic 10 days travelling around Vietnam, discovering all that the country has to offer and seeing the sights. Here is her story and some of the highlights of the trip.
HANOI, VIETNAM
‘We flew overnight from Manchester, via Doha, an amazing airport with a park in the middle of it!
On arrival in Hanoi, our private guide met us and took us to our hotel, Hotel de L’Opera.
Our room was ready for us on arrival, even though it was early morning, so we had a couple of hours sleep and then went out to explore Hanoi.
Although I have visited before, I needed to remind myself how to cross the road in Vietnam. Basically, the cars and scooters don’t stop for you, even on crossings, you just have to walk across and they go round you! A bit scary at first but it is surprising how quickly you get used to it. Just don’t try it when you get back to England!
We enjoyed a walk around the lake in the centre of Hanoi, our first Hanoi Beer along with the Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls for lunch.
The afternoon was spent travelling around the city on the Hop on Hop
Pho
off bus. A great way to see a new city, though we just stayed on it all the way round. This was a new attraction since I last visited a few years ago and I can already see how tourism has developed here in the last few years.
The next day, our private guide took us to several attractions in the city including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, The Temple of Literature and The Museum of Ethnology.
In the evening, he came back to the hotel to escort us around the city to sample the street foods on offer. As it was a Friday evening the city was very lively and we also experienced some of the weekend night life.
NINH BINH, VIETNAM
Early next morning, we set off on our 2 hour journey to Ninh Binh. This is often known as an inland Halong Bay with it’s amazing scenery of sheer limestone mountains rising up beside the river.
Ninh Bin
We had a couple of days here, enjoying the scenery, the River boat (Sampan) rides, cycling around the countryside and just relaxing a little after the hustle and bustle of Hanoi.
HALONG BAY, VIETNAM
From Ninh Binh, we then had a 3 hour journey across to Halong Bay. Here we boarded our beautiful boat ‘Orchid Trendy’ and settled into our luxurious cabin with large bathroom, with a full sized bath in the window.
We enjoyed a lovely buffet lunch whilst we set sail into the amazing bay (Lan Ha Bay, next to Halong Bay) and enjoyed the fantastic scenery of limestone rock formations coming out of the water. There were only about 30 guests on board so it felt very exclusive. Some of the guests enjoyed an excursion into a cave that afternoon but we just stayed up on deck enjoying the sunshine and the gorgeous scenery.
After Happy Hour at the bar up on deck along with a cookery lesson – how to make Vietnamese Spring Rolls, we went down for a lovely 3-course dinner. After dinner there was the option to go squid fishing or sit back on deck for a nightcap before an early night as we had an early start the next morning.
Halong Bay
We decided against the 5.30am start for the Tai Chi session up on deck before breakfast. However, we were still up for a 6.45am breakfast so that we could go kayaking after breakfast, before we set sail again.
After kayaking there was more food – an early brunch before disembarking and being transported back to the port. Here our guide was waiting for us to transport us back to Hanoi Airport for our next flight.
HOI AN, VIETNAM
It was just a short 1 hour flight down to Da Nang, where we were met by another guide and transported to our lovely beachside hotel in Hoi An, The Boutique Hoi An Resort.
Coconut Boats in Hoi An
It was lovely to have a couple of days chilling by the pool in the beautiful sunshine in Hoi An.
Hoi An
However, we also did a half day Vespa Tour whilst there, which was brilliant. Riding pillion on our own Vespa with driver, we rode around the countryside, visiting some amazing attractions such as a Coffee producer, a boat builder and local villages. At the end of the excursion we enjoyed a traditional Vietnamese lunch in a riverside restaurant.
We also caught a taxi to a local spot where we enjoyed ‘Coconut Boat’ rides, which was an experience.
In the evening, we caught the hotel shuttle bus into Hoi An where there were lots of shops, market stalls, bars and restaurants. When it got dark the river was lit up with traditional Chinese lanterns and boats and there was a very busy vibe to the town. It was an amazing experience.
HAI PHONG CITY, VIETNAM
The last part of our trip involved a flight back up to Haiphong, where our son is currently living. Although we stayed in a hotel, we lived a bit more like a local here. Haighong isn’t a tourist city and westerners were quite a rare sight.
On the Sunday we caught the bus from the city centre to the coast. When got on a ferry across to Cat Ba Island , which is a lovely tourist destination. Here we hired scooters for about £2.50 for the day and toured around the island. We visited a national park and hiked up to a beautiful view point with amazing views across the bay.
Cat Ba Island
All in all, we had an amazing trip and I would highly recommend Vietnam to anybody who is considering it. It is a very safe destination and everybody is so friendly. It is a very cheap destination once you are there.
If it is your first visit then I would highly recommend either booking on a small group tour or arranging to have a guide with you for a lot of your trip. This just means that you don’t miss anything and you get help with things like crossing the road 😂.’
For more information on Vietnam please contact Lisa on 01706 250006 or email [email protected] and she would be more than happy to give you more information
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Lake Garda & Venice
/0 Comments/in General /by Nicola HeatonPoiano Resort, Lake Garda
Nicola and her family enjoyed their summer holiday at Poiano Resort, Lake Garda this August
The resort has amazing views of the lake and offers great facilities including an Olympic-sized swimming pool.
The hotel runs a free shuttle bus into Garda frequently throughout the day/evening.
Garda is one of the main resorts at the southern end of Italy’s largest lake. You can walk along the picturesque lakeside promenade to Bardolino and Lazise
A pleasant and relaxing way to explore Lake Garda is by boat, you can either travel rapidly from one place to another on board a hydrofoil or catamaran or enjoy the peace and quiet of the lake on one of the slower pleasure boats.
Lake Garda
There are many restaurants and bars to choose from, along with cobbled streets lined with shops .
The cuisine of Lake Garda is based on the use of local fresh local products – pasta, risotto, meat, fish and desserts you are spoiled for choice which deciding what to eat.
From Garda you can easily travel around using the buses that run from the main bus station in Garda .
Verona
We visited the beautiful city of Verona for the day by bus.
We spent the day wondering round the city , and of course visited the famous Romeo and Juliet balcony.
Juliette’s balcony
Venice
We also visited Venice for the day, there is lots to see in this beautiful unique city – Rialto bridge and St Marks square are not to be missed .
We really enjoyed our Gondola ride along the scenic waterways.
Venice Canal
Gardaland and Caneva waterpark are also great family days out and easily accessible from Garda.
I would highly recommend a holiday to Lake Garda , there is so much to do and see , we had an amazing family holiday here .
By Nicola Heaton, Chic Boutique Travel
Emma’s Mediterranean Cruise on P&O Arvia
/0 Comments/in General /by Lisa MousleyHaving got married in March, we decided to take a Mediterranean Cruise on board P&O’s Arvia as our honeymoon, later in the year.
Cruise Ports
The ports we visited included La Coruna, Barcelona, Alicante, Marseille and Cadiz.
I loved all of the ports – Marseille for the authentic French windy streets.
The hustle and bustle of busy Barcelona and its colourful markets.
Cadiz really surprised me and was one of my favourite places. An old city full of architecture. We spent the day just walking through the narrow streets, taking in the sites and drinking coffee in the pavement cafes.
P&O Cruise Ship – Arvia
Arvia was a huge ship.
During the day, when not in port, we relaxed by the pool. There are hot tubs all over the decks so you could relax and watch the dolphins swim by close to the ship.
There is plenty happening on board, with enough to keep you occupied all day and night, if you wanted it. From the Aqua zone, Splash Valley, the on-deck Sports Arena and mini golf to the spa, nightclub, and much more.
The food is amazing and there is lots of choice. From the 6th Street Diner, where you can get breakfast, lunch and dinner, through to Sindhu, where the menu is inspired by India’s diverse regional
specialities.
The evening shows were amazing, something different every night from West End style shows, comedy acts, singers, and acrobats!
All in all, I would highly recommend a Mediterranean Cruise and in particular, P&O.
Click here to read Emma’s blog on her Caribbean Cruise
Written by Emma Holden , Chic Boutique Travel
Top Ten Things to do in Madeira
/0 Comments/in Adventure Travel, General /by Lisa MousleyTOP TEN THINGS TO DO IN MADEIRA
Madeira is a beautiful Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean, known for its stunning natural landscapes, mild climate, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Madeira:
Levada Walks:
Visit Funchal:
Madeira’s capital city, Funchal, offers a mix of historical and modern attractions. Explore the Old Town (Zona Velha) where there are many bars and restaurants to sample, visit the Sé Cathedral, and enjoy the vibrant markets.
One of Madeira’s most remarkable attractions is undoubtedly the Monte Toboggan Rides. Dating back to 1850, these wicker basket toboggans were originally a fast mode of transport for those wishing to travel to Funchal. Today, the adrenaline-pumping experience can be enjoyed by visitors to the island. Be prepared, though, as the high-speed journey through winding streets is not for the faint-hearted!
3.Monte Palace Tropical Garden:
Discover the beautifully landscaped gardens of Monte Palace, home to exotic plants, art collections, and panoramic views of Funchal.
Exotic plants, peacocks and spectacular garden displays cover the grounds at Monte Palace Tropical Garden. This unique Madeira attraction has a fascinating history. In the 18th century, the English Consul Charles Murray bought the property and transformed it into a beautiful estate. Near the end of the 19th century, some of the wealthiest families in Madeira lived in magnificent estates such as this. Years later, the estate was purchased and transformed into a palace-like residence named the Monte Palace Hotel. When the buyer, Alfredo Guilherme Rodrigues, passed away, the estate was transformed into the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens.
The gardens are filled with exotic flora and fauna, grand sculptures and art installations. Discover the full history of the estate at Monte Palace Museum within the grounds and look out for some unusual wildlife roaming freely.
4.Reid’s Palace Afternoon Tea:
Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea at the historic Reid’s Palace hotel, known for its stunning cliffside location and excellent service.
Surrounded by lush subtropical gardens, Reid’s Palace perches above picture-perfect Funchal Harbour. They have welcomed guests for 130 years and you can enjoy gorgeous panoramic views, innovative cuisine and the superb service of a bygone era—you may never want to leave.
5.Laurissilva Forest:
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed forest is home to ancient laurel trees and endemic species. Hiking in this ancient forest is a unique experience.
6.Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo:
Hike to the summit of these two peaks for incredible panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain. The sunrise and sunset views are particularly stunning.
7.Dolphin and Whale Watching:
Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and whales in the surrounding waters. Madeira is a prime location for marine life observation.
8.Madeira Wine Cellars:
Madeira wine is a fortified wine native to the islands. Dating back to the Age of Exploration from the 15th to 18th century, the wine was made when Madeira was a standard port of call for ships heading to the New World or East Indies.
Whether you prefer your wine dry or sweet, Madeira wine is a must-try when visiting Funchal.
Visit one of the many wine cellars in Funchal and taste the famous Madeira wine. Learn about the wine-making process and its history. I very much enjoyed visiting Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal.
9.Porto Moniz Natural Pools:
Relax in the natural swimming pools created by volcanic rocks and the ocean’s tides. It’s a unique and refreshing experience.
10.Cabo Girão Skywalk:
Experience the thrill of walking on the glass-floored viewing platform at Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for breathtaking views of the coastline.
The cliffs of Cabo Girao, just outside Funchal, are some of the highest in Europe. So, what better way to appreciate the view than by wandering over a glass platform jutting out over the water? The skywalk is certainly not for the faint-hearted, however, the views are spectacular. After taking in the scenery, ride the cable car down the face of the cliff to the terrace fields at the bottom. Further still, this attraction is completely free to visit.
These are just a few of the many attractions and activities you can enjoy on the beautiful island of Madeira.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to relax in a stunning setting, Madeira has something to offer everyone.
If you get chance, I highly recommend you give it a try.
For more information on Madeira click here
By Lisa Mousley
Alison’s Brilliant Bali Holiday
/0 Comments/in General /by Lisa Mousley50th Birthday Bali Holiday!
We had planned to take a holiday to Bali in 2020 for my husband’s 50th birthday, but, due to Covid, we had to cancel. Three years later, and for another big birthday, we finally got there, and it was well worth waiting for.
Here is a review of my trip.
DUBAI
We started the celebrations by having a couple of nights stopover in Dubai on the outbound journey.
Arriving in Dubai after a 7 hour flight with Emirates, we then had a short private transfer to the Amwaj Rotana hotel, located on the start of The Walk in Jumeriah resort.
There were plenty of bars, shops and restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the hotel and just a 5-minute walk to the beach.
The views over the city from our room were amazing.
Alison & Blue in Dubai
On our second day in Dubai we took a 20-minute taxi ride to the Adventure Waterpark located at the Atlantis The Palm hotel, which is the world’s largest waterpark. There are endless activities
to keep you busy from Shark Lagoon/Dolphin Experiences, over 105 slides, Aquarium Tours, and a lovely sandy beach to relax on if it all gets too hectic. We had a great day here as a family.
Dubai Aquaventure Waterpark
BALI
From Dubai we flew direct to Denpasar Airport on the beautiful Island of Bali.
The first 3 days were spent at the Sol by Melia Benoa Hotel directly on the beach in Nusa Dua. This hotel has a calm relaxing feel with lush gardens.
Here there is plenty to do including hiring bikes, water sports, jet skis and paragliding. In the evenings there is light entertainment with local Balinese Dancers and singers.
Ubud, Bali
After our relaxing time in Nusa Dua we took a private transfer to Ubud, about an hour’s drive away. Ubud is situated inland amongst the rice paddie fields
Ubud is a great area to visit. There is a lot to see and do with a great local market, plenty of chilled bars and reasonably priced restaurants.
Although, be aware of the mopeds on the roads that always have the right of way!
Our home for the next 4 days was in a 2 bedroomed villa with pool at the Ubud Wana Resort & Spa, right next to the Monkey Forest. These Monkeys are very cheeky indeed. Be careful not to leave your bag unattended as they will take whatever they like. They particularly like to steal everyone’s sunglasses and hats!
Bali Zoo
This was an amazing opportunity to have our breakfast early in the morning with the Orangutans. We were picked up from our hotel at 7am and transferred to the zoo which took about an hour. The breakfast provided an extensive range of foods from an egg station-any egg you could wish for, to sweet treats, to chicken and Noodles!
They had two Orangutans, one of which had recently had a baby so to get so close to them was a brilliant experience.
Baby Orangutans at Bali Zoo
Other animals around us were parrots, an anteater, porcupines, and rabbits!
Next was Elephant Mud Fun. This was an amazing interactive 2 hour experience with the Elephants. We learnt all about the Asia Elephants, getting to put mud on them to keep them cool, having lots of photos taken with them and brushing all the mud off. They are particularly proud to have a new baby that was 18 months old. He joined us in the mud fun. It was a day that I will treasure the most and remember for the rest of my life.
The following day we enjoyed a full day tour. First we took in the breath taking views at Wanagiri Hidden Hills for some Instagram pictures and then onto Banyumala Twin Waterfalls.
Alison on swing at Beratan Lake
We stopped for lunch at Beratan Lake, again enjoying fabulous views.
The whole trip took about 8 hours and we had our own private, local driver for the duration.
I didn’t really want to leave Ubud as it was amazing. I could have spent longer here.
LEGIAN/SEMINYAK, BALI
After leaving Ubud, we travelled to our final destination on the edge of the resort of Legian/Seminyak. We stayed for the remaining 7 nights at the stunning hotel Astagina Hotel Resort & Spa in a spacious 2 bedroomed suite on bed and breakfast.
Double Six Beach was just an 8 minute walk from our hotel and had plenty of shops, bars and restaurants to choose from. This area is quite lively if you want that. As a family we preferred to go down to the beach to watch the amazing sunset and relax on the many coloured bean bags and just watch the world go by.
Double-Six Beach
Whilst in Legion, we enjoyed a day trip to Uluwata. This was about an hour’s drive from Legian.
We visited Pandawa Beach for an hour then went onto Uluwatu Temple, which has stunning dramatic cliff views and was home to more mischievous Monkeys!
Pendang Beach was our next stop. This beach has a lively atmosphere with lots of surfers and again some naughty Monkeys. In the evening, we went for a lovely meal on Jimbaran Beach. We enjoyed great Seafood, good service and another beautiful sunset. They also treated us to a firework display to celebrate our final evening.
All in all, it was an unbelievable family holiday. I would highly recommend anybody to visit Bali and would be more than happy to discuss it with you further if you are thinking of going yourself.
Butterworth Family Sunset Photo
Please do get in touch – 01706 250006 or email me on [email protected]
https://www.cbttravel.co.uk/contact/
LISA’S AMAZING VIETNAM EXPERIENCE
/0 Comments/in General /by Lisa MousleyLisa recently enjoyed an amazing holiday to Vietnam. She was there to visit her son, who currently lives there, but before doing that her and her husband, John, and daughter, Charlotte, spent a fantastic 10 days travelling around Vietnam, discovering all that the country has to offer and seeing the sights. Here is her story and some of the highlights of the trip.
HANOI, VIETNAM
‘We flew overnight from Manchester, via Doha, an amazing airport with a park in the middle of it!
On arrival in Hanoi, our private guide met us and took us to our hotel, Hotel de L’Opera.
Our room was ready for us on arrival, even though it was early morning, so we had a couple of hours sleep and then went out to explore Hanoi.
Although I have visited before, I needed to remind myself how to cross the road in Vietnam. Basically, the cars and scooters don’t stop for you, even on crossings, you just have to walk across and they go round you! A bit scary at first but it is surprising how quickly you get used to it. Just don’t try it when you get back to England!
We enjoyed a walk around the lake in the centre of Hanoi, our first Hanoi Beer along with the Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls for lunch.
The afternoon was spent travelling around the city on the Hop on Hop
Pho
off bus. A great way to see a new city, though we just stayed on it all the way round. This was a new attraction since I last visited a few years ago and I can already see how tourism has developed here in the last few years.
The next day, our private guide took us to several attractions in the city including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, The Temple of Literature and The Museum of Ethnology.
In the evening, he came back to the hotel to escort us around the city to sample the street foods on offer. As it was a Friday evening the city was very lively and we also experienced some of the weekend night life.
NINH BINH, VIETNAM
Early next morning, we set off on our 2 hour journey to Ninh Binh. This is often known as an inland Halong Bay with it’s amazing scenery of sheer limestone mountains rising up beside the river.
Ninh Bin
We had a couple of days here, enjoying the scenery, the River boat (Sampan) rides, cycling around the countryside and just relaxing a little after the hustle and bustle of Hanoi.
HALONG BAY, VIETNAM
From Ninh Binh, we then had a 3 hour journey across to Halong Bay. Here we boarded our beautiful boat ‘Orchid Trendy’ and settled into our luxurious cabin with large bathroom, with a full sized bath in the window.
We enjoyed a lovely buffet lunch whilst we set sail into the amazing bay (Lan Ha Bay, next to Halong Bay) and enjoyed the fantastic scenery of limestone rock formations coming out of the water. There were only about 30 guests on board so it felt very exclusive. Some of the guests enjoyed an excursion into a cave that afternoon but we just stayed up on deck enjoying the sunshine and the gorgeous scenery.
After Happy Hour at the bar up on deck along with a cookery lesson – how to make Vietnamese Spring Rolls, we went down for a lovely 3-course dinner. After dinner there was the option to go squid fishing or sit back on deck for a nightcap before an early night as we had an early start the next morning.
Halong Bay
We decided against the 5.30am start for the Tai Chi session up on deck before breakfast. However, we were still up for a 6.45am breakfast so that we could go kayaking after breakfast, before we set sail again.
After kayaking there was more food – an early brunch before disembarking and being transported back to the port. Here our guide was waiting for us to transport us back to Hanoi Airport for our next flight.
HOI AN, VIETNAM
It was just a short 1 hour flight down to Da Nang, where we were met by another guide and transported to our lovely beachside hotel in Hoi An, The Boutique Hoi An Resort.
Coconut Boats in Hoi An
It was lovely to have a couple of days chilling by the pool in the beautiful sunshine in Hoi An.
Hoi An
However, we also did a half day Vespa Tour whilst there, which was brilliant. Riding pillion on our own Vespa with driver, we rode around the countryside, visiting some amazing attractions such as a Coffee producer, a boat builder and local villages. At the end of the excursion we enjoyed a traditional Vietnamese lunch in a riverside restaurant.
We also caught a taxi to a local spot where we enjoyed ‘Coconut Boat’ rides, which was an experience.
In the evening, we caught the hotel shuttle bus into Hoi An where there were lots of shops, market stalls, bars and restaurants. When it got dark the river was lit up with traditional Chinese lanterns and boats and there was a very busy vibe to the town. It was an amazing experience.
HAI PHONG CITY, VIETNAM
The last part of our trip involved a flight back up to Haiphong, where our son is currently living. Although we stayed in a hotel, we lived a bit more like a local here. Haighong isn’t a tourist city and westerners were quite a rare sight.
On the Sunday we caught the bus from the city centre to the coast. When got on a ferry across to Cat Ba Island , which is a lovely tourist destination. Here we hired scooters for about £2.50 for the day and toured around the island. We visited a national park and hiked up to a beautiful view point with amazing views across the bay.
Cat Ba Island
All in all, we had an amazing trip and I would highly recommend Vietnam to anybody who is considering it. It is a very safe destination and everybody is so friendly. It is a very cheap destination once you are there.
If it is your first visit then I would highly recommend either booking on a small group tour or arranging to have a guide with you for a lot of your trip. This just means that you don’t miss anything and you get help with things like crossing the road 😂.’
For more information on Vietnam please contact Lisa on 01706 250006 or email [email protected] and she would be more than happy to give you more information
Check out our special offers page – Special Offers
Touring Austria with Inghams:
/0 Comments/in General /by Lisa MousleySensational scenery and charming details
We caught up with Inghams’ own Julie Franklin, Head of Agency Sales who recently returned from a wonderful week in Austria, wisely having done a twin-centre holiday visiting both Saalbach and Zell am See. In our blog, Julie shares the highlights of her trip with us, which we think will give you lots of inspiration for a fantastic mountainous holiday destination!
Travelling as a group of girlfriends who all enjoy the outdoors but have different ideas for a holiday, this Austrian summer adventure managed to tick the boxes for all involved, and it’s not difficult to understand why. From enchanting emerald lakes hidden between marvellous mountains to charmingly picturesque towns and cities, Austria is the ideal destination for any outdoor enthusiast wanting to revitalise the mind and body while connecting with nature. What’s not to like?
Without further ado, let’s walk you through Julie’s amazing trip and everything the girls got up to in Austria. Be warned, there’s a strong likelihood that by the time you finish reading, you’ll want to book your own holiday here as soon as possible!
RESORT CARD
A real added-value feature of this holiday was the personalised ‘Joker’ resort card (free with the Inghams package), as it ended up saving the girls a fortune, giving them each access to the buses, the chairlifts and gondolas, as well as various attractions which were either completely free or had reduced entrances. Like Julie, we are rather partial to a bargain when we see one!
HOTEL SAALBACHER HOF, SAALBACH
Staying at the fabulous Hotel Saalbacher Hof in Saalbach, Julie and friends were perfectly placed in the charming centre of this traditional resort, complete with a relaxing outdoor pool located in the hotel’s stunning gardens which Julia described as a perfect way to spend the day when they weren’t out exploring all that Saalbach has to offer.
Not knowing the area themselves at all, the girls appreciated the ‘resort ramble’ from the local representative, which was essentially a guided tour of the resort, highlighting the history of the various landmarks in Saalbach and pointing out places of interest. As well as how to get around, chairlifts locations to get up into the mountains and more, proving a most helpful introduction to the local area and irrefutably saving the group lots of time figuring things out for themselves.
HINTERGLEMM
For a lovely way to start the holiday and ease into the local area, Julie recommends a leisurely and scenic 45-minute walk along the Saalach riverside to Hinterglemm, the next resort along. As well as taking in the scenery, you’ll stumble across a charming wood-carving workshop where you can wander around and buy interesting pieces along the way to Hinterglemm. Upon arriving in Hinterglemm itself, the group enjoyed what Julie describes as the most “fantastic iced coffee and handmade ice cream” in the family-run Miksch Café Schleckena. A quaint location all year round, Hinterglemm is known for being Austria’s biggest ski resort for the winter and has an array of options for hiking in the summer, as well as horseback riding and even mountain climbing, depending on how adventurous you are feeling.
TALSCHLUSSWEG
You can also take the local bus to a place called Talschlussweg for free using the resort card, to then jump on the Noddy Train (otherwise known as End of the Valley Train – also free with the resort card) to the park area, which is perfect for adults and children alike, with high ropes, zip lines, tree top walks, and fabulous walks to mountain restaurants with stunning views.
SAALBACH
There are 2 chairlifts from the resort in Saalbach, and Julie opted to take the Schattberg X-press up the mountain purely for the views. Needless to say, they weren’t left disappointed. Julie adds; “A day pass on the chairlifts would usually cost €30, so the fact we could go up for free meant that simply going up for the view alone was more than justified.”
HOTEL TIROLERHOF, ZELL AM SEE
After a few glorious days in Saalbach, the group headed to Zell am See on a free, 30-minute transfer bus, taking further advantage of their resort card.
Staying at the picturesque Hotel Tirolerhof which Julie describes as “a fabulous spa”, the girls were delighted to be so close, to not only the centre of Zell, but also to the stunning lake, providing breath-taking views from the indoor pool and spa areas. Julie points out that “clothing is not an option in the spas, so you will need to have an open mind”. But with such incredible views, various steam rooms and saunas, the girls could think of nowhere they would rather be to chill out and relax.
Using the resort card once more, Julie and the girls booked one of the guided walks that took them up in a gondola to start with, a chairlift and then walked along a track on what Julie says “felt like we were at the top of the world!” And one of the best things about this guided walking tour is that the girls all had different abilities. So whilst some walked ahead a little faster and others took a slower pace, it didn’t disrupt the walk or take away from the experience at all – each of them loved it. To end the walk on a high, the girls were rewarded with delicious food and a Radler at Franzl restaurant with unbeatable views.
No visit to an Austrian lake resort is complete without taking a dip in the lake itself! This hotel also gives free access to the lido, so the girls enjoyed a swim and a bit of time to chill. We can’t imagine there being anything like a swim in a lake surrounded by mountains.
TOP TIPS WHEN TAKING A HOLIDAY TO THE MOUNTAINS
FIND OUT MORE
We hope we’ve shown you some insight into mountain holidays and what’s on offer in Austria with Inghams. Whether you’re planning on travelling as a group of friends, with the family, as a couple, or flying solo, contact us today to discuss and start planning your trip.
Telephone – 01706 250006
Email – [email protected]
My Time in Venice by Emma
/0 Comments/in Blog, General, Italy /by Lisa MousleyVenice Short Break
Venice really is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. There really is something extremely charming and romantic about the city.
Getting to Venice
After arriving at Marco Polo Airport, we walked a short distance to where we caught the water bus into Venice and got off at the closest stop to our hotel. There are no cars on the island so the main way to get around is water buses/ taxis or walking 😊.
Our hotel was in a great position around 5 minutes from the Rialto bridge. Our room was very authentic, the perfect start to our holiday!
Venice Gondola
What to Do in Venice
We were eager to get out and explore this amazing city as soon as we arrived.
The stunning alleyways and canals are just something else. We decided to experience a Gondola Ride straight away and this did not disappoint. It is definitely a must do! We paid €60 total for this and worth every penny, as we sailed along the Grand Canal taking in the breath-taking picturesque views.
We walked for miles and miles exploring the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Dodges Palace. There is so much history on this island and over 200 stunning churches.
Venice Canal
There are islands off Venice which are easily accessible from the water buses or private water taxis so we took a trip over to Murano where we watched them make the vases and glass ornaments. Really interesting to see how these are made. A stunning little place!
What to Eat in Venice
The Venetian food is out of this world. We tried out all the local delights from fresh pastries and biscuits, Gelato, Pizza, Seafood, pasta and so much more. It is definitely worth getting away from the main tourist areas and going off the beaten track slightly for this – What to Eat and drink in Venice
Venetian Food & Drink
Venetian Food & Drink
Day Trip to Verona
One day we decided to do a day trip to Verona. We took a train from Venice to Verona which was a 1.5 hour train ride and €18 return trip. There we visited Juliet’s Balcony which was just magical. It really was everything I wanted it to be!
We wandered the streets of Verona, exploring the small alleyways. It is also a great city for shopping and we visited a local market. A pretty city and definitely worth a visit.
Emma & Phil
All in all, I really fell in love with Venice and can’t wait to visit again to explore the rest of this beautiful city.
For offers to Venice and other Italian Cities check out our special offers page.
By Emma White
Chic Boutique Travel
01706 250006
Undiscovered Tenerife
/0 Comments/in Tenerife /by Lisa MousleyUNDISCOVERED TENERIFE
It goes without saying that Tenerife is a destination for sun, sea and sand.
With amazing resorts and lively bars, beachfront restaurants and sunsets to die for, it makes for a pretty special holiday. That’s what we know Tenerife for best, so we’re here to tell you more about undiscovered Tenerife. Its beautiful scenery, friendly culture, high levels of sustainability and its exciting gastronomy scene has a lot to boast about and shouldn’t go unmissed. So, if you fancy doing something a little different on your next holiday, Tenerife could be your answer…
EXPLORE AND ADVENTURE
When it comes to exploring, you’re spoilt for choice on a Tenerife holiday. Get off-the-beaten-track and you’re in for a real treat, as there’s a whole array of hikes and treks on offer. There’s so many to choose from, but we’ve selected a couple of our favourite routes that will offer mighty views!
There are lots of easy walking trails in Tenerife that’ll show you forests, ravines, volcanic landscapes and the beautiful coastline. One of our favourites is the Santiago del Teide to Masca hike in the Teno Mountains, which is perfect for those looking to spend a morning or afternoon appreciating the lush and rugged landscapes of the island. Classed as ‘easy’, this point-to-point trail showcases the magnificent Teno Mountains – a walking route that some revisit again and again. Highlights include the unbeatable views through the mountains to the small town of Masca and Mirador de Cruz de Hilda lookout point and its panoramic views of the surrounding area plus gorgeous palm trees and shrubbery. There’s a café here too, so you can take some time to sit back and enjoy the impressive views.
Or perhaps you’re an avid hiker and looking for a real challenge?
If so, then Route 040 could be the trek for you. This is a landmark hike starting and ending on ground level at the sandy shores of Socorro beach, taking you through to the highest point in Spain – peaking at 3,718 meters high! At the top, you’ll be amazed as you look down onto the clouds. Whilst this isn’t a trek for the faint hearted, the beauty of the trail will reward you for those hard-earned steps (and of course, the fact that you completed it is a reward in itself)!
It’s the beauty of this challenging trail that attracts so many to give it a go each year – don’t miss the protected landscape of Los Campeches, Tigaiga and Ruiz in Los Realejos and the Natural Park of Corona Forestal as you go – the perfect places for a pit stop!
Oh, and when we say it’s not the faint hearted, we mean it! The whole trek covers a total of 27.7 kilometres, meaning that average completion time is around 12 hours. If you’re feeling super brave and fancy running the route, then it’ll take you around 4 to 6 hours.
SUSTAINABLE TENERIFE
This is a destination where sustainability comes high on the list of priorities. From a dedicated walking festival demonstrating the variety and richness of the landscapes and nature, and initiatives to release turtles back to the sea to ‘Respect the Mountains’ – conservation for natural spaces including path cleaning and removing debris from the surface of the sea.
Tenerife is also one of the few destinations in the world to certify the boats who offer whale watching carry the “Blue Boat” flag. This symbol certifies their professional authorisation to carry out the activity and ensures that the staff on board know all about these lovely mammals and can help visitors to understand their behaviour.
Lots of effort goes in to make sure that Tenerife is a destination that does its bit for the planet.
So much so, that Tenerife has recently been recognised as a Biosphere Sustainable Destination for its efforts and contribution to sustainability and has joined 32 other destinations in achieving a Biosphere Certification, as well as a Whale Heritage Destination for its sustainable whale watching operations and protection of the oceans and marine life. Well done, Tenerife!
On a holiday here, there’s plenty of sustainable activities on offer, including those mentioned above, and much more, so you can help with the great cause.
TENERIFE’S FOOD SCENE
It goes without saying that we all enjoy eating out on holiday, right? Well, you’ll be in for a real treat in Tenerife, as it’s not short of a restaurant or two. Whether you head to the well-known hot spots or prefer to discover somewhere off the tourist trail, there’s a couple of things that you just have to try!
Papas Arrugadas (otherwise known as Wrinkled Potatoes) is popular with the locals. Boiled in lots of sea salt water for around 30 minutes, they’re then roasted so that the skin wrinkles and creates a crusting of salt. Although simple, spuds grown in Tenerife are packed full of flavour thanks to the rich volcanic soil. You’ll find these tasty morsels in many restaurants in Tenerife – so be sure to give them a try.
Fish is a staple on most small islands, and Tenerife is no exception. Fishermen deliver all-manner of fresh fish to restaurants on a daily basis, including sardine, pollock, grouper and many more so you’ll have the latest catch that evening. If you’re looking for something super authentic, give Atún en adobo (marinated tuna) a try – it’s marinated with herbs and spices overnight before frying – and is delicious!
You’ll not struggle to find wonderful fish in Tenerife’s restaurants, from seafront spots with a relaxing atmosphere to those centred in the hustle and bustle of it all, you’ll not be disappointed.
And not forgetting the wines! Some may say that Tenerife’s best kept secret is its wine. There are a few wonderful wineries to choose from, including Bodegas Monje and Bodega Reveron, where you can try some of the island’s gorgeous dry and acidic whites and smooth reds.
ALL YEAR-ROUND SUN
And finally, what we love about Tenerife is its mild winters and hot summers. So, whether you’re looking to escape the dark winter months or prefer to get away in the summer, the weather will be kind to you in Tenerife!
CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE
We’re on hand to package together the perfect Tenerife holiday – so whether you would like to find out more, get some expert advice, or you’re ready to book your next holiday, get in touch with us by email, calling or booking an appointment, and we’ll do all of the hard work for you.
Count On Us, Your Local Travel Agent
/0 Comments/in General /by Lisa MousleyYOU CAN COUNT ON US, YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT
With so much choice and a variety of online booking platforms available, many people ask us how travel agents are still in high demand. But, with specialist expertise, an unbeatable, personal service and up to date knowledge of the ever-changing covid-19 rules – we can offer something that online providers can’t. Let us tell you more…
IMPARTIAL ADVICE AND PERSONAL RECOMMENATIONS
It’s our job to know the destinations we sell inside out and will have had face to face training on destinations and resorts that we sell to you. Or even better, we’ve often been lucky enough to experience the resorts and destinations first-hand so that we can provide you with our very own experiences and recommendations. We’ll also take the time to listen to your needs so that together, we’ll find the perfect holiday for you and your travel party.
YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS WITH US
We value each and every one of our customers, and don’t just consider ourselves as your local travel agent. Your health and safety are our top priority, which is why we’re keeping up to date with testing advice and will help you make sense of travel testing requirements to your chosen destination. We’re also in the know of the latest travel regulations – and should your booking be impacted, we’ll be in touch straight away to talk you through your options, whether you’re at home or in-resort. Whatever you decide, you’re in safe hands with us.
1,000’S OF HOLIDAY OFFERS AVAILABLE FOR 2021 AND BEYOND
We have access to 1,000’s of great value holiday offers – so whether you’re looking for a city break in Europe, a tour of South America or a luxurious getaway in the Maldives, we’re on hand to find the right holiday at the best price. Not only that, but we only work with reputable tour operators, so you can sit back and relax knowing that everything is being taken care of.
STOP DREAMING, START BOOKING!
We’re sure that we’ll all agree that 2020 was a difficult year. But with a new year, brings a new start – and we for one hope that it will include more holidays than we saw last year! So, whenever you’re ready, we’re here to book that long-awaiting break that you deserve and give you something to look forward to.
Get in touch with us today, and we’ll get to work in finding you that perfect break https://www.cbttravel.co.uk
[email protected]
Tel 01706 250006
HOLIDAYS ON THE HORIZON AGAIN
/0 Comments/in General /by Lisa MousleyIt’s no doubt that the last few months have been a strange time for us all, but now normality’s nearing, we hope that the latter half of the year can provide some hope and excitement after much unexpected change, whether that be seeing loved ones again, heading to your favourite restaurant or jetting off onto a well-deserved holiday.
NO ONE KNOWS TRAVEL LIKE WE DO
With planes flying through the skies once more, we’re delighted that summer 2020 has begun, bringing us an air of excitement and freedom that we’d forgotten not so long ago. But booking a holiday right now may seem like a minefield; what countries are safe? Will I need to quarantine? Will my travel insurance be valid, you may ask?
Booking your holiday is often half of the fun, and as experienced travel professionals, we’re keeping up to date with the ins and outs of travel rules so that we can answer your questions or concerns with confidence and clarity. That just leaves you to sit back, relax and look forward to your holiday!
BRINGING YOU PEACE OF MIND
We don’t just see ourselves as your local travel agent; we really care about our customers. Health and safety are just as important to us as the holiday itself, which is why we’re keeping our finger on the pulse to make sure we’re the first to know of any travel changes. Should amended regulations impact your booking, whether you’re home or in-resort, we’ll be in touch to talk you through your options so you can make a decision that’s right for you. Whatever you decide, you’re in safe hands with us.
ADAPTING TO THE ‘NEW NORM’
One thing’s for sure, we’ve come a long way over the last few months and the excitement around making plans again is something we can all share. Granted, we’ve all had to adapt and will continue to do so – and there are no exceptions when on holiday. Whilst resorts are open and welcoming us again, you may notice some changes; be prepared for face masks, social distancing and less guests for the time being – but rest assured that fun is still on the agenda! Resorts are going the extra mile to make sure that facilities are open safely so that you can enjoy your break just like before.
Plus, we’ll be with you throughout your whole booking journey, giving you the latest rules on your chosen resort, so there will be no hidden surprises when you arrive.
BACK ON THE HIGH-STREET
The ease of just ‘popping in’ with travel questions has returned, and we for one are thrilled! In our eyes, there’s nothing quite like a friendly face to put your mind at ease. Whether it be a current travel query, a booking amendment or you’d like to sit down and chat about where to travel to this year or next, we’re all ears. So, if you’re on the high-street, pop in and say hello. We’d love to see you.
WE’RE READY WHEN YOU ARE
Whilst we’re adapting to our new idea of ‘norm’, we understand that travelling isn’t at the top of everyone’s to-do list just yet. When you’re ready, we’ll be on-hand to give you the latest travel advice and find that long-awaited holiday you’ll very much deserve!
We’re very much open, so any questions about upcoming holidays or future travel, we would love to hear from you. Visit us in-store, give us a call or pop us an email and we’ll be in touch with all the information you need.