09 October 2019

Deciding whether to travel long or short haul can be a tricky decision. You’re wondering which destination offers the best in whatever type of holiday you fancy.

Maybe you’re looking for the most immaculate beach or the most delicious food and want to know whether you should stay in Europe or venture further afield. To help you out, we’ve picked our favourite long and short-haul destinations for different types of trip.

09 October 2019

Hoping to head off for a little sunshine as the autumn weather creeps in? From India to the USA, here are 6 of our favourite places to escape to for some October sunshine!

09 October 2019

California welcomes visitors from across the world for a variety of different reasons. Some visit for the stunning weather, some for the delicious food, while others visit to bask in the laid-back atmosphere and soak up the cool vibes. Whatever your reason for visiting, we’ve got a few tips to make your time there extra special.

09 October 2019

Discover Peru’s extraordinary heritage, ably supported by a magnificent coastline boasting idyllic beaches and world-beating surf.

17 September 2019

California is often the epicentre of any hot new trends and when it comes to food, that’s no different.

Given North America’s position at the forefront of western culture, it’s no surprise that the food scene is constantly evolving and emanating outwards for the rest of us to follow.

Let’s take a look at some of the food trends that took off within ‘the Golden State’.

17 September 2019

From soaring over jungles to climbing the peaks of mountains, here are 10 breathtaking cable cars journeys to add to your travel wish list!

17 September 2019

Just moments away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Los Angeles, the beautiful beach community of Santa Monica offers the perfect base to explore the delights of Southern California. With its iconic pier, famous Ferris wheel, twinkly carousels and mile upon mile of soft sands, Santa Monica effortlessly combines seaside charm with some big city sophistication.

27 September 2019

Food and Dining options are a massive part of cruising and when at sea you want a variety of choice that will cater to your every want and need. The Celebrity Edge offers dining with a difference, as it has 29 restaurants, cafes, bars and lounges. The Edge has something for everyone and with so much to choose from here is our top 5 dining experiences on Edge.

11 September 2019

A combination of international influences and a strong commitment to local heritage has created an intriguing blend of old and new in Abu Dhabi, making it one of the Middle East’s most desirable holiday destinations. Add to that fantastic year-round weather, and it becomes clear why Abu Dhabi is a holiday hotspot. If you’re thinking of making the Emirati capital your next destination, here’s a selection of our favourite cultural experiences that you’ll be able to enjoy.

11 September 2019

India is one of the world’s oldest civilisations, with a rich cultural legacy for you to explore. Unique experiences await as you take in the sights, sounds and smells of intriguing India…

16 October 2019

Home to breath-taking scenery, a wealth of world-famous attractions, awe-inspiring views, an incredible entertainment scene and some of the world’s best beaches, California has so many amazing sights to see and destinations to explore that you might begin to wonder if there is actually anything that you can’t see or do here.

11 September 2019

Latin America spans from Argentina to Mexico and takes in the Amazon rainforest, pristine Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and the beautifully dramatic Andes mountains. The vast and varied region encapsulates a plethora of stunning views across untouched natural environments teeming with unique exotic wildlife.

To prepare you for your next wildlife spotting trip, we’ve complied a list of the must-see wildlife of Latin America.

02 September 2019

Famed for plentiful powder, immaculate slopes and spacious tree-lined runs, there’s nothing quite like the ski resorts of Canada. Add to all of this, stunning national park scenery, superb service and a warm and friendly vibe, and you’ve got all the right ingredients for an unforgettable ski holiday.

Whether you’re an experienced skier, thrill-seeking snowboarder or it’s your first time on the slopes, here are five of the best destinations that Canada has to offer.

02 September 2019

The Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Central Park - with so many incredible landmarks to visit, New York City should be on everyone's travel wish list, and with so much to do and so many sights to see, it’s a destination that everyone should visit at least once. A trip during the festive season means everything feels just that little bit more magical, so take a look at just some of our favourite things to do in NYC at Christmas time. 

02 September 2019

From munching on lobster rolls on the harbourside after whale-watching off Boston to tucking into traditional Louisiana po' boys while exploring the fascinating streets of New Orleans, foodies love the USA for good reason. We’ve shared some of our favourite places to eat around this vast country – and some of our top recommendations for things to eat in each.

02 September 2019

As summer starts drawing to a close, many of us are ready for one final escape before winter sets in. And as school terms start again and the crowds leave the beaches, we think September is a perfect month to get out and explore! From Europe to Australia, here are some of our favourite destinations to visit in September. 

05 September 2019

With summertime officially in swing, festival season is upon us! If you didn't get tickets to the sold-out Electric Picnic, fear not, we’ve rounded up some of the best festivals around the world.

15 August 2019

If you’re seeking a snow adventure to banish those winter blues, join us as we explore some of the best destinations that can offer you a winter wonderland.

15 August 2019

Lapland Santa breaks are becoming hugely popular among parents looking to give their children a truly magical festive experience and a pre-Christmas (or even post-Christmas) treat while experiencing all kinds of new and exciting activities in the great outdoors – an outdoors the likes of which you’ll likely never have seen before, with knee-deep snow and naturally sparkling pine trees.

23 August 2019

Treat your kids to sun, sea and sand and find the family getaway of a lifetime by staying at one of the luxurious Gran Meliá hotels dotted across the landscapes and islands of Spain, a destination renowned for its beaches, culture and fun activities!

02 August 2019

Disney’s ‘live-action’ retelling of The Lion King has hit cinemas – and it’s been a mega hit, stampeding to number one and breaking box office records around the world.
If the recent resurfacing of Simba and the great circle of life has sparked aspirations of seeing majestic animals such as lions, elephants, rhinos and zebras first-hand rather than on a cinema screen, then safari is calling you.

02 August 2019

Looking to book a getaway before the end of the summer? Whether it’s cultural events, natural occurrences or simply good weather that you’re looking for, there are plenty of places to choose from all over the world. We’ve put together a list of 6 amazing and exciting worldwide destinations which encompass everything from festivals, nature and guaranteed sun for you to discover and enjoy.

02 August 2019

There’s little as exhilarating as spotting wildlife roaming near you. And seeing animals in their natural habitat is absolutely breathtaking. Read on to discover six unforgettable animal encounters across the world. Seeing these majestic, and often endangered, animals in the wild is truly an experience you won’t forget.

02 August 2019

One of the very best things about travelling with your family is discovering a whole new world for each of you. And, what better type of holiday than one full of new wildlife and natural beauty? You can explore both fascinating destinations and the incredible animals who live there!

24 July 2019

Here at Travel Counsellors, we are extremely excited to announce our 2019 TC Ted competition with a special sustainable twist. Travelling with TC Ted this summer could win you a family ticket for either Dublin Zoo or Fota Wildlife park. As you may know, we’re extremely passionate about protecting the places we send our customers to and this summer we want you to help us achieve this.

24 July 2019

Since 1990, G Adventures have positioned themselves as trailblazers of responsible tourism. Alongside their non-profit partner, the Planeterra Foundation, they have established travel practises and philosophies that make the world a better place to explore. The latest step in G Adventures’ commitment to sustainable travel is the introduction of The Ripple Score. 

24 July 2019

Located on the breath-taking island of Koh Racha Yai, just twelve miles south of Phuket, The Racha is one of Thailand’s most stunning hideaways.

With an ethos that luxury doesn’t have to come at a price for the environment, The Racha is also a champion of responsible and sustainable travel - seamlessly blending the best environmental practices with the highest standards of indulgence.

24 July 2019

Founded in 2001, Elephant Hills is a unique concept offering interactive experiences with the majestic elephants of Thailand, without compromising their welfare. Proud winners of an incredible array of awards, Elephant Hills pride themselves on being both responsible and ethical.

24 July 2019

Committed to sustainable travel, Hurtigruten operate in some of the world’s most pristine and vulnerable natural landscapes. This is a responsibility taken seriously, which is why Hurtigruten educate their guests on how to reduce their environmental footprint.

Building on their passion, competence and heritage, Hurtigruten are determined to make a difference. This is why, when you book your expedition cruise with Hurtigruten, you’ll always experience the highest levels of environmental awareness.

24 July 2019

Our recent customer survey showed that you’re as passionate as we are about responsible travel. For us, it means working to ensure tourism brings greater benefits for local people and economies in destinations, offering positive choices which are not harmful to people, animals or the environment.

24 July 2019

Making the decision to go solo on your travels may be daunting at first, but when done right it can be a truly rewarding experience that will test your limits, take you out of your comfort zone and perhaps ultimately even change your life.

24 July 2019

Earlier this year, UNESCO updated their list of World Heritage Sites, adding fascinating sites such as the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco architecture of Mumbai, the ancient port city of Qalhat, Oman and Fanjingshan in China’s Wuling Mountains. While their extensive list features a vast amount of cultural riches, some miss the cut. Here is a selection of our favourite places that haven't made the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

19 July 2019

This week marks 50 years since the Apollo 11 Moon Landing (Sat 20 July) when man first stepped foot on the moon, and in between staring skywards with dreams of other planets and universes, we started wondering ‘what are the best hotels for sleeping beneath a starry sky?’.

Here are a few ideas that sprang to mind…

18 July 2019

When the sun is shining and the mercury rises, one of the best ways to cool off is with a scoop of ice cream. To celebrate the tasty dairy treat, the third Sunday of July is World Ice Cream Day (21^st in 2019), when everyone on the planet unites in their love for ice cream.

04 October 2019

Costa Rica is a diverse land of tropical rainforests, smoking volcanoes and pristine coastlines. This compact country boasts some of the most diverse wildlife on the planet, from leatherback turtles, to dolphins and whales, and all types of tropical bird species.

19 July 2019

A new year means plenty of opportunity for new places to travel to, experiences and sights. Why wait any longer for the getaway you’ve always dreamed of? We’re asking you to challenge your Travel Counsellor to go to the extreme for you and create an itinerary like no other for your next escape.

15 July 2019

With a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, lush forests and the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean, together with a world-renowned ski resort just down the road, a Vancouver winter offers plenty for all types of traveller to enjoy.

15 July 2019

Our passion for being personal comes out in every holiday we book for our 450,000 annual customers, including family holidays. And with parents being among the most time-pressed people on Earth, we know just how difficult it can be to find enough hours in the day to pin down the right holiday for your family at the right price. That’s where we come in – whether you need a relaxing all-inclusive or a one-in-a-lifetime trip, we have the knowledge and the personal experience to guide you to the very best option.

15 July 2019

Fancy exploring coastal paths with beautiful ocean views? Breathing in pristine air up in the mountains? We've chosen 6 of our favourite walking holiday destinations from around the world to inspire you to pull on those walking boots!

15 July 2019

It is said that travel is food for the soul, and Indonesia’s string of idyllic islands make it a perfect getaway for those looking for wellness, relaxation and romance. With the second longest coastline in the world, you’ll be spoilt for choice of secluded bays, oceanfront spas and gorgeous sunsets. Inland, uncover dense rainforests brimming with wildlife, towering volcanoes, and rich cultural experiences that truly make it a once-in-a-lifetime destination…although we’re sure you’ll be back! 

10 July 2019

This week sees the world’s cycling elite line up for the 106^th Tour de France (Sat 6^th July) and there’s plenty reason to be excited as British reigning champion Geraint Thomas sets out to defend his title and retain the ultimate prize in cycling.

10 July 2019

In an era where new movies are making increasingly greater use of computer-generated imagery, it’s sometimes easy to forget that places in some of our favourite films are real places open to the public. 

This got us thinking: ‘Where are the must-see places for any movie buff?’. Here’s what we came up with…

10 July 2019

From Buddhist temples to Mayan ruins, many of our hand-picked tours will help you explore some of the most iconic civilisations and destinations on Earth and to help you get to know them and their peoples more intimately. Don’t forget that Travel Counsellors can tailor-make your holiday to add on cultural excursions to suit you and your interests, using local companies and guides for the full insider experience.

10 July 2019

Responsible travel and sustainable tourism is something that we really care about at Travel Counsellors, which is why we work with international charity, The Travel Foundation, to ensure that tourism brings greater benefits for local people and the environment, and to help us leave a better world for future generations to enjoy and explore.

25 June 2019

Famous for its stunning white-sand beaches and shimmering turquoise waters, as well as being the home of Bob Marley and reggae music, Jamaica is a truly wonderful holiday destination. Together with a cheerful vibe, more family-friendly attractions than the rest of the Caribbean put together, and a wealth of high-end resorts offering an impressive array of activities for all ages, beautiful Jamaica offers the perfect family holiday experience.

25 June 2019

Indonesia’s position along the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’ make its incredibly diverse landscape a hub of activity for adventurous travellers, looking for something beyond the beach. To add to this, its close proximity of thousands of islands makes it easy to visit multiple destinations, each offering something different, in one trip.

25 June 2019

We’re passionate about the restorative benefits of all holidays, but a growth in wellness-break bookings this year has encouraged us to showcase some of our hotels and resorts boosting mind, body and soul through activities, meditation, outstanding spa treatments or simply offering the opportunity to get away from it all.  

25 June 2019

Why not transform your long-haul trip into a twin-centre adventure with our favourite stopover destinations across Asia and the Middle East? Breaking up flight times and experiencing an exciting new city, what’s not to love? Here are just some of the stopover destinations you could try…

26 June 2019

A land of untouched wilderness landscapes, wonderful wildlife, majestic mountains, shimmering lakes and vibrant cities, beautiful Canada is home to a wealth of exciting activities and unique experiences.

Here are eight epic things that should definitely be on your list when you visit this vast and diverse country.

26 June 2019

While Europe has some of the world’s most fantastic stretches of coastline, not all summer holidays on the continent must involve sand and sunbathing. When the sunshine arrives, many of Europe’s major cities come out to play, giving travellers the perfect opportunity to explore these great destinations.

08 July 2019

Spirituality means different things to different people, but something that most will agree with is that feeling spiritual concerns the human spirit or soul being at ease. There are many places across the world that inspire such feelings, so we’ve picked out a selection of our favourite spiritual destinations, which are perfect for your next adventure.

17 May 2019

The Greek islands are the perfect place for all-round family fun in the sun, and with a wide variety of sightseeing opportunities, activities and attractions there really is something for everyone.

30 April 2019

With all the beautiful weather we’ve had over the long Easter weekend, you’re probably beginning to dream of summer holidays in warmer climes, where you can feel the sun on your skin and make some memories to cherish.

If you’re planning a July getaway, here’s our pick of some top holiday destinations that you should definitely consider.

26 June 2019

A summer break is a grand opportunity to jazz up your Instagram with some envy-inducing shots, be it idyllic golden beaches, super luxurious hotels or drollworthy cuisine.

One way to elevate your social media feed above everything else out there is to feature leftfield locations, unlikely to appear on the radars of other users. So, we’ve scrolled around the globe for some of the lesser-known but highly Instagrammable locations you could jet off to this summer.

30 April 2019

Straddling the River Danube which divides the city into two parts – green and hilly Buda and the urban centre of Pest – Hungary’s capital has so much to offer visitors. Whether you are into rest and relaxation, a keen historian or you’re simply looking for a new European city to discover, why not give Budapest a try? Here is our recommendation of what you can see and do on a three-day trip to this Eastern European marvel.

06 August 2019

Undoubtedly one of Canada’s finest cities, vibrant Vancouver will delight all types of traveller; whatever kind of holiday you’re looking for. A coastal gem that effortlessly combines the excitement and energy of a cosmopolitan city with the invigorating appeal of the great outdoors, beautiful Vancouver has all the right ingredients for an exciting and unique getaway.

Home to eclectic neighbourhoods, an incredible foodie scene, a plethora of world-class attractions and exciting outdoor activities, Vancouver offers an unforgettable mix of urban chic and natural beauty. 

15 May 2019

The USA is vast, stretching for some 2,680 miles coast to coast. It’s not surprising, then, that the USA covers an incredibly diverse natural environment – matched by the diversity of America’s culture and history. Whatever you want from your holiday, you can find it in the USA.

15 May 2019

From world-class ski resorts in the northern island of Hokkaido with its snow-covered mountains to idyllic golden sub-tropical beaches in southern Okinawa, there really is something for everyone in Japan.

15 May 2019

Picture the enchanting countries of Vietnam and Cambodia. Are you soaking up the incredible history and culture of the vibrant capital cities? Discovering the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat? Cruising the emerald-green waters of Halong Bay in a traditional junk? Perhaps you're relaxing on the gorgeous beaches or trekking through the lush landscape.

15 May 2019

So much more than just a quick stopover, Dubai is a destination that offers rich culinary, shopping and cultural experiences suited to everyone. Take a look at our destination guide to find out more

27 March 2019

27 March marks World Theatre Day,  the one day a year when the world can celebrate the importance and significance of the theatre, highlighting the art form’s value to anyone who hasn’t realised or underestimated its potential for economic growth.

26 June 2019

2019 is the year when some of Disney’s most-loved animated films literally come to life. March 29 sees Tim Burton’s live-action version of Dumbo grasp its lucky feather and fly into cinemas with real-life remakes of Aladdin and The Lion King set to follow on May 24 and July 19 respectively.

This multi-billion dollar live-action project may be a recent thing but Disney’s enchanted worlds have never been just a bunch of drawings on a screen; many of the locations from these timeless movies are based on actual locations that you can visit in real life.

27 March 2019

Festivals are a big thing in Southeast Asia, and chances are good that a trip to this region will coincide with some form of celebration. Here’s a selection of some of the biggest and most important festivals in the region, which we recommend attending.

27 March 2019

Everyone likes to tick off the biggest and best attractions when they go away, but sometimes, you can’t help the feeling that it would be more special without the queues and crowds. Putting an exclusive slant on your holiday is easier than you think, so we’re highlighting some of the ways you can do just that.

04 March 2019

Our favourite books can often inspire our travels, can't they? We lose ourselves in the pages of our best-loved reads and dream of visiting the exotic and far-off destinations. Take a peek at some of our favourite travel-inspired reads!

04 March 2019

We all have our favourite pancake fillings for Pancake Tuesday, whether it is a savoury option, more traditional lemon and sugar or maybe something a little more extravagant like chocolate spread and banana. As the annual occasion is here we thought we would share with you the favourite pancake fillings and toppings of some of our Travel Counsellors and the destinations in which you can enjoy them.

02 August 2019

Travel is something that can get us excited, put a smile on our faces and live life to the fullest, and our Travel Counsellors are always trying to make our customers’ holidays a positive experience. However, according to a study, there are some destinations that are more satisfied than others.

04 March 2019

From the Piton Mountains to a sumptuous shoreline, Saint Lucia is a destination which has a welcoming personality and delights the senses. Full of awe-inspiring scenery and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, it is a popular port of call for cruise ships and also attracts a crowd looking for elegant luxury in breathtaking surroundings.

21 February 2019

With a near infinite amount of cruise destinations to choose from throughout the year, it’s hard to believe that there are still corners of the world left largely unexplored when navigating the seas. Cruise lines and luxury cruise specialists are increasingly adding some of these little-known cruise destinations to their expanding itinerary lists, ensuring there is no better time to pick a cruise offering equally outstanding untouched wonders and memorable experiences when compared to more famous ports of call.

21 February 2019

If you want a quick break, yet you’re yearning for far-flung lands, why not try a short long-haul break? Whether it’s four nights in the Big Apple or six days in Singapore, here are some of our favourite long-haul destinations that you can visit in under a week.

21 February 2019

‘Life is a highway, I want to ride it all night long’ sang Tom Cochrane on his 1991 hit. While the idea of a long-haul holiday usually consists of lots of relaxing and casual sightseeing, Mr Cochrane’s desire to ride the highway into the small hours will resonate with many travellers who fancy the idea of hopping behind the wheel of a car and having the freedom to stop off or divert their route as they like.

21 February 2019

Anyone who loves fashion should try to experience a shopping holiday at least once, so we’ve compiled our top destinations to head to when you’re in need of some high-end retail therapy, from the fashion districts of Milan to the malls of Dubai.

31 January 2019

Dining your way through countries and cities easily becomes a travel highlight for many and leave you hungry for more experiences, so we’ve picked out our top foodie experiences for you to try in 2019.

31 January 2019

31 January 2019

The United States of America is a vast country and some people set aside a sizable chunk of the year to make sure they get around to seeing all it has to offer. With literally hundreds of cities to choose from, we’ve picked out our favourite Stateside city break spots.

31 January 2019

Challenge your Travel Counsellor to take you on the holiday of a lifetime in South America this year. 

17 January 2019

Our passion for being personal is evident in every trip we book for our customers, including cruise holidays.  Our Travel Counsellors have their fingers on the pulse of this rapidly evolving industry and can share with you all you need to know when it comes to new and classic sailings, new ships and older favourites, the best destinations and the most tempting promotions. This is true whether you choose ocean cruising, a luxury cruise, river cruising, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure aboard an expedition cruise.

17 January 2019

With so much to do and enjoy onboard Celebrity Edge, we have narrowed down our favourite experiences, so you can make the most of your time on board.

17 January 2019

Blending trendy streets with traditional gardens and historical relics with contemporary art, Japan is the ideal place for an unforgettable, culture-filled escape. Immerse yourself in this incredible destination, packed with ancient capitals and modern metropolises, and take the opportunity to immerse yourself in a range of traditional Japanese experiences. Here is a selection of our favourite ones that we’re sure you’ll adore.

17 January 2019

The United States of America is incredibly vast with almost every landscape imaginable. On a journey through the States, you can easily discover snowy mountains, deserts and forests in a single trip. And then there are the beaches – take a look at our top picks of them in America.

09 January 2019

Founded in 2001, Elephant Hills is a unique concept offering interactive experiences with the majestic elephants of Thailand without compromising their welfare. Proud winners of the Thailand Green Excellence Award Winners for the past four years, Elephant Hills pride themselves on being responsible and ethical.

09 January 2019

A journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer is much more than just a train ride through the Canadian Rockies. It’s the key to unlocking a hidden world of shifting landscapes and unparalleled beauty. Sit back, relax and enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery which unfolds outside your glass-dome window.

19 July 2019

A new year means plenty of opportunity for new places to travel to, experiences and sights. Why wait any longer for the getaway you’ve always dreamed of? We’re asking you to challenge your Travel Counsellor to go to the extreme for you and create an itinerary like no other for your next escape.

09 January 2019

Sri Lanka’s Wildlife Department makes concerted efforts to ensure that its magnificent wildlife is protected and threats against the animals are minimised, so for those looking to travel responsibly, this island nation is the perfect place to visit.