23 August 2023

Embarking on an unforgettable journey, we set out to explore the untamed beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Our trustworthy motorhome carries us from Calgary, via the awe-inspiring Icefields Parkway, as we venture into Jasper National Park, a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven of crystal-clear lakes. Our hike near the Valley of the Five Lakes in Jasper National Park gifted us a remarkable encounter with nature - a majestic black bear peacefully exploring its habitat. Upon realizing our presence, the bear quickly scampered away. Exploring Jasper was an unforgettable adventure that left us in awe of Canada's natural wonders. The rugged beauty of Maligne Canyon, with its mesmerizing waterfalls and towering limestone walls, truly took our breath away. Pyramid Lake and Patricia Lake offered serene reflections of the surrounding mountains, a paradise for kayaking and relaxation. An unexpected encounter with nature's royalty - a pair of majestic grizzly bears - marked a fitting finale to our day. As the sun set on our final evening in Jasper, we watched from the comfort of our motorhome, an experience that captured the wild beauty of this incredible wilderness. Leaving behind the rugged wilderness of Jasper, we drive onward to Banff National Park, a land of enchanting vistas and charming towns. A hike up Tunnel Mountain rewards us with sweeping panoramas of Banff's surroundings, while the Banff Gondola takes us to new heights, treating us to breathtaking sunsets over the Rockies. Embarking on the Rocky Mountaineer's two-day epic train journey from Banff to Vancouver, we embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime passage through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, all while comfortably settled into the luxurious GoldLeaf coach's glass-domed carriage. The breathtaking panoramic views of towering peaks, dense forests, and meandering rivers were complemented by gourmet meals that transformed the experience into a remarkable culinary journey. Engaging commentary breathed life into the landscapes, transitioning from rugged mountains to coastal vistas. Approaching Vancouver, the seamless blend of natural beauty and the elegance of the train left us in awe. Stepping off the train, enriched by the memories of this extraordinary voyage with a hotel stay in between, we carried the essence of both wilderness and luxury, where every aspect, including dining, had elevated the journey to an unforgettable level. Arriving in Vancouver, the coastal city welcomes us with its vibrant energy. A seaplane flight offers a unique perspective of the city's skyline, while a virtual flight at FlyOver Canada whisks us over the nation's iconic landscapes. Strolling along False Creek, we soak in waterfront views and the bustling atmosphere, hopping on ferries that crisscross the creek, connecting the city's vibrant neighbourhoods. Vancouver's rich culture is best savoured at its local breweries. From hoppy ales to smooth, silky stouts, we explore the city's craft beer scene, indulging in its dynamic flavours and warm ambiance. As we chat with the passionate brewers and fellow beer enthusiasts, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind each brew and the sense of community that thrives in these vibrant establishments. Venturing southward, our journey takes us by train from Vancouver to Portland, Oregon. Along the way, the unexpected sight of Mount St. Helens in the distance has added a breathtaking touch to our journey. Our visit to one of Portland's many food truck hubs was a gastronomic journey that left a lasting impression. Immersed in a lively array of mobile kitchens, often tucked into quirky neighborhoods, we indulged in a variety of culinary delights that would give any restaurant a run for it's money. The city's commitment to both creativity and community shone through in the inviting atmosphere and pleasant interactions between vendors and locals. No visit to this region would be complete without witnessing the stunning beauty of Multnomah Falls, nestled within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The powerful cascade of water against the backdrop of lush greenery leaves us in awe of nature's majesty. As our journey comes to an end, I invite you to continue the conversation. If you're inspired by our adventure through the Canadian Rockies, the vibrant streets of Vancouver, the culinary delights of Portland, and the tranquil beauty of the Columbia River Gorge, I'd love to hear from you. Whether you have questions about our itinerary, seek personalized recommendations for your own trip, or simply want to share your travel stories, feel free to get in touch. Your curiosity is always welcome..... For more information, insights, or to connect with me directly, don't hesitate to reach out: Email - eoin.walsh@travelcounsellors.com Phone - 01 5155969

23 February 2022

Rome, the Eternal City…… Home to Julius Caesar, the Roman Empire, the majestic Colosseum, and some of the world’s best cuisine. I’m a huge fan of city breaks but I’m not overly keen on overcrowded tourism. That’s why I took the opportunity to visit Rome recently when there were less tourists than usual due to the pandemic. Rome is absolutely steeped in history, and this is evident from the moment you arrive. From the ruins of ancient Rome to the Circus Maximus, you really get a feeling of going back in time. I was also blessed with some fantastic guides who were engaging and had a real passion for exploring this fascinating city. The Vatican Museum and the Borghese Gallery were a couple of highlights for me. I was equally impressed with the remarkable Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. Rome has so much to offer that you can get carried away with yourself, so even the most enthusiastic sightseer should take some time to relax and enjoy some of the more leisurely activities. Enjoy a sunset expresso at the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi or take a stroll along the winding River Tiber. Across the river is Trastevere, a colourful bohemian district bustling with local charm. With artisan shops, gastro restaurants, wine-bars, and brewpubs, it’s ideal to spend the evening after a long day sightseeing. All roads lead to Rome…… With four daily flights from Dublin and a wide range of hotel options, you could be enjoying a tiramisu before you know it!

14 February 2020

Let me tell you about the Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana Spa and Wellness Resort in the Dominican Republic. From the moment I arrived at this fabulous Caribbean resort, I could feel the sense of relation and luxury. So much so that I feel compelled to share my experience with you! Upon arrival we were greeted with smiles, soothing background music and a cool facecloth. Windy wooden walkways zigzag throughout the tropical gardens, linking all sections of the resort. The décor has a back-to-nature feel with thatched roofs, palm trees and treehouse-type Suites. With only 51 Suites, the resort felt intimate and peaceful. Luckily, we were upgraded to an Oceanside Suite which was only a stones-throw from the beach. The room was rustic, yet elegant and featured hardwood floors, stone bathroom with a walk-in shower. French doors open out to the outdoor terrace which featured day beds and a swim-up lazy river. One of the most impressive aspects of this resort is the restaurants and the quality of the cuisine. The chefs use fresh, locally sourced, organic ingredients to conjure up the most delicious meals you can ever imagine. The resort features four gourmet Al-a-carte restaurants including Italian, European Fusion and Caribbean cuisine. If you’re a foodie, I can highly recommend this All-Inclusive resort. The staff at the Zoëtry couldn’t be more friendly and helpful. They regularly check in with the guests to insure everything is going smoothly. They will book and make suggestions for activities and spa treatments. The bar tenders are fantastic at making sure everyone is looked after and enjoying their stay. The pool and beach areas are perfect for relaxing, reading a book or going for a swim. If it’s a special occasion or you just want to arrive in style, it’s possible to take a helicopter from the airport to the resort. Landing on the beach would be a great way to start your holiday! The Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana is perfect for a honeymoon, anniversary or special occasion. Or if you just need to get away from it all, it’s the perfect resort to relax, recharge and rejuvenate. Please get in touch for more information on The Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana, I'd be delighted to help you enjoy this resort as much as I did.

17 May 2018

Aloha! When the opportunity arose to travel to Hawaii it felt like I had won the lottery. It was my first time travelling business class and Virgin Atlantic more than impressed me. Upon arrival I was greeted in classic Hawaiian style with Orchid Leis placed over my head! Within no time I was driving up the scenic Honoapiilani highway in a rental car. Paddle boarders and surfers dotted the sparkling shoreline before I finally arrived at my destination, the Hyatt Regency Maui. This resort certainly has a lot to offer. Equally suitable for families, friends or couples, the Hyatt is set upon 40 acres of pristine beach and gardens. I was pleasantly surprised by the array of wildlife throughout the resort including penguins, flamingos, macaws, and white and black swans. But by far the main attraction and highlight of this fine resort, is Ka'anapali beach. After sunset, a buffet dinner and a couple of Mai Tais, I was invited to the famous Lu'au. Drums of the Pacific Lu’au is a journey through traditional Polynesian dance and culture. One of the highlights on the island is the stunning Hana Coast. As I travelled along the scenic route I encountered some dramatic landscapes including lush rain-forest, black sand beaches and incredible waterfalls. After 11 hours on the road I arrived at the amazing Hotel Wailea and treated myself to a couple of well-deserved beers. With a champagne breakfast and some poolside refreshments I quickly settled in to the magical retreat. Designed specifically for couples, the peaceful retreat is nestled within a lush tropical hillside perched 300 feet above the sea. Spoilt with a sunset dinner and incredible service, the Hotel Wailea ticked all the boxes and was very hard to leave. After a brief trip to the beach the following morning, I was on my way to my next adventure. The Molokai Voyage is a two-island helicopter experience. The next 55 minutes was truly breath-taking and difficult to describe in words (see images above!) Untouched by man, Mokokai is one of wettest places on earth. After flying over the coral reefs between the islands, the helicopter flew into a lush volcano crater and we were suddenly surrounded by dozens of waterfalls - Spectacular! The Big island was next, where I travelled to the summit of Mauna Kea as part of a small group tour. Mauna Kea is the world’s tallest mountain, rising more than 32,000 feet (9,754 meters) from the ocean floor to its summit. The road climbs 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) above sea level. Once at the summit, we experienced a spectacular sunset above the clouds with views of Haleakala on Maui, Mauna Loa and Hualalai. Mauna Kea’s summit is also home to a world-class array of telescopes. After sunset, you will descend to 9,000-foot elevation for a special stargazing show from a very informative astronomer. Wrapped warm in provided Arctic parkas, we enjoyed hot beverages and cookies while marvelling at the brilliance of the Hawaiian night sky. After a truly unique experience, I returned to my hotel in Kailua-Kona. Hawaii is full of myths and legends. On the big island it's hard to ignore the presence of Pele, the fire Goddess. It is said that if you remove her lava rocks from her island home, you will be cursed until these are returned. To this day, thousands of pieces of lava rock are mailed back to the island from travellers all over the who insist they've suffered bad luck and misfortune as a result. It took me 2 hours to drive from Kona to Volcano House Hotel which is located in Volcano National Park. From the hotel's bay windows, I could see the volcanic ash billowing from the massive crater. At sunset, I cycled to the observatory which is at higher ground, so I could get a better look at the lava. As it got darker I could see the red glow of the lava in the distance. It was only when I looked through the telescope I realized what was going on down there. The lava lake was incredible (think Bowzers Castle from Mario!) Only five of these exist in the world and I felt very privileged to have witnessed this. A trip to Hawaii wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Honolulu's famous Waikiki Beach and the postcard perfect beach did not disappoint. After a couple of hours in amongst the waves I made my way towards the department stores that run parallel to the beach. As it was my last day I picked some new clothes to bring home from this wonderful trip. I met some colleagues for dinner and cocktails to discuss the last few days. We all agreed that Hawaii is a special place that everyone should experience at least once in their lives. Although disappointed to be going home, after nine days on three different islands it still feels like I had won the lottery, Aloha!

23 May 2018

When I received an invitation to a friends’ wedding near Lisbon, I immediately began researching possible destinations for a short break after the wedding. I eventually stumbled upon the Azores as a possible destination. I’ll be honest, I didn’t even know where they were or what they were! I soon found out that the Azores Islands are about a two-hour flight from mainland Portugal and is Europe’s best kept secret. There are nine major islands in the archipelago so decided to book a flight to Sao Miguel, the largest one. There’s a huge amount of activities to enjoy such as: Whale watching, Hiking, Horse Riding, Cycling, Golf, Paragliding, Surfing and Scuba-Diving. After a wonderful few days at the wedding and a night in Lisbon, I was on my way with some friends in tow. We had booked a fantastic apartment in Ponta Delgada, which is the main town on the island. In the morning we strolled through town to grab some breakfast and pick up our rental car. Everyone spoke a little bit of English and seemed really friendly. We noticed a popular swimming spot down by the pier which became our morning ritual before heading off to explore the island. Our adventure began when we left town and began driving towards Sete Cidadas lagoon. One thing that you can’t ignore are the abundance of purple hydrangeas that line the roads no matter which way you drive. We turned a corner and out of nowhere a massive eagle appeared on the road in front of us, munching on a bit of road kill! Luckily our feathered friend managed to avoid our vehicle as we continued on driving up the windy roads. Reaching the viewpoint above the lagoon was a sight to behold. The crater lagoon is split by a bridge which gives the appearance of two lakes, one blue and one green. The natural beauty of this area is incredible, and we decided to explore the area by foot and mountain bikes. Over the next couple of days, we visited many of the islands geothermal lakes and pools. Furnas is a typical Azorean village with white buildings and decorated churches. However, what it’s famous for are the hot springs and the amazing Terra Nostra gardens. Within the gardens, we found a massive geothermal pool filled with pleasantly warm orange water. We drove a short distance to admire the Caldeiras das Furnas. This was a multiple of boiling and bubbling mud springs as well as mini-geysers. We visited another bunch of hot springs called Caldeira Velha. The water temperature is around 25 degrees which is basically a natural jacuzzi filled by a hot waterfall, amazing!! In the evenings we strolled around Ponta Delgada exploring the local restaurants and bars. Coming to a remote island in the middle of the Atlantic I was a bit sceptical regarding the quality of the food, but I was pleasantly surprised. We managed to find somewhere new and delicious to enjoy every evening and at very reasonable prices. There’s quite a few laid-back bars to enjoy after a long day of discovery and activities. Raiz Bar overlooks the city gates, has a great atmosphere, live bands and fantastic cocktails. In a well-connected world where more and more people travel every day, it’s very hard to find a place with such unspoiled natural beauty and at the same time affordable, safe and friendly. I really think it’s a destination that will become more popular over the next few years. Take my advice and beat the crowds, book it now!!

05 July 2017

Cuba was always a destination I wanted to visit ever since I was a kid. I managed to convince a friend of mine that we should go because of his fondness of cigars. Cuba is the largest and most interesting island in the Caribbean. We decided to go at the end of April the weather is dry and hot. The plan was to spend 2 weeks in Cuba and check out as much as we could in that time frame. Upon arrival, we took a transfer from the airport to our hotel in Havana. We stayed in a fabulous hotel called Iberostar Parque Central. The location couldn’t have been better as we were right in the centre of the old town. We took a tour in one of classic cars from 50’s and took in the sights and sounds of city. After a few days in Havana we rented a car for our road trip. The first stop was Santa Clara which is famous for the Cuban Revolution. We visited the Che Guevara Mausoleum which is the resting place for the famous revolutionary leader. There is massive bronze statue which is adjacent to the Museo Historico de la Revolucion. It really gives you a great incite to the history of the country. We also visited a cigar factory and bought some Cohibas to show off when we got home. The next stop on the road trip was Trinidad which is in the south of the island. Known as pearl of the south, this was my favourite place by far. The cobblestone streets and live Cuban music in the main square gave it real character. As we walked down the street in the evenings, locals would invite us in to their homes for dinner. After plenty of delicious food and a few mojitos we ended up in an underground nightclub which was actually in a cave! We rented bikes and cycled to the beach to go snorkelling in the warm Caribbean Sea.