16 July 2025

OK If ever there was a destination to really gush about?! For me, it's The Maldives! The picture-perfect overwater villas jutting out over that turquoise water and the white sand? I always thought these photos must be filtered? Well the good news is that they look just as good in real life, it really is heaven on earth and one of the most beautiful places ever! I’ve been lucky enough not just to visit Maldives but along with Thailand and Bali it’s the honeymoon destination I’ve booked the most in my career as a Travel Consultant. Some travel agencies will only have a select number of properties they work with but here at Travel Counsellors we’re lucky to have priority access to the over 100+ resorts there so I can really match you with the perfect spot for a dreamy Maldives honeymoon (or holiday). Huvafen Fushi was the first resort I ever stayed at. Having spent 5 days walking the beautiful Somerset countryside at Glastonbury Festival in England, I was excited to get there to relax and rest my weary legs. A tough life that year! After our short speedboat transfer, we were lucky enough to be staying in a Sunset Deluxe Ocean Villa with a 3-tiered deck and private infinity pool with steps down to the crystal-clear reef where stingrays and other colourful friends swam around the lagoon. The underwater spa was divine. This is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience (or maybe twice or thrice?), honeymoon, special birthday and wedding anniversary heaven. <br><br> Since that first visit to the Maldives, two has became four - and on our recent anniversary trip in July 2025, we had our best holiday yet. We spent 12 nights across three very different resorts, each with its own vibe and each one proving that the Maldives isn’t just for honeymoons or couples (though it’s still unbeatable for that too). Here's a short rundown of where we stayed: <b>Sun Siyam Iru Fushi</b> – A more traditional, laid-back island. We stayed in a Beach Villa which was incredibly spacious, though the resort is currently in the middle of a gradual renovation. The island is so beautiful, the snorkelling is excellent, and the staff - especially our butler Zaeen - were so kind and attentive. It's peaceful and quiet, perfect if you're looking to unwind. I'd call it a solid four-star experience for now, but one with five-star potential once the renovations are complete. <b>Siyam World</b> – This wonderful island is a game-changer since it opened in 2021. It's full of energy, yet with peaceful romantic parts and is perfect for couples, families or friends looking for a fun, all-inclusive Maldives holiday with a twist. Our Lagoon Villa had a slide into the sea (which we looooved), the food was excellent, and there were so many things to do - from dolphin cruises to floating breakfasts to beach bars and adult-only areas for couples. You could easily spend two weeks here and never run out of things to enjoy. <b>Huvafen Fushi</b> – The one that started it all for me, and it's still just WOW - a timeless Maldives classic. This time, we checked into a two-bedroom Ocean Pavilion and it was pure magic - private pool, with the sun shining on us all day, and ultra-personalised service. It’s a small island with just 44 villas, so it feels exclusive and romantic, perfect for honeymoons or a grown-up escape. I always recommend going half board - the à la carte dining is exceptional. For me, this is the quintessential luxury Maldives experience. <br><br> The cocktails and food are always fantastic in the Maldives and I’ve never received a single complaint about the resorts there. Strolling along perfect beaches, snorkelling from the villa, sunbathing, reading, eating and drinking - you don't have to do much except make the most of relaxing of your own slice of paradise. But if you’re adventure seekers you may think Maldives is not for you but I bet I can find a resort you’ll love! Water slides? Dolphin Spotting? Paragliding? Scuba diving? Underwater spas? Jet skiing? The Maldives for me is the perfect romantic honeymoon destination but what a lot of people don't know is that it's actually a fantastic beach holiday for families and friends too with many resorts catering from different kinds of holidaymakers... paradise is for everyone! I’m just back yet plotting my next visit... Ready to start planning a trip to the Maldives? <br><br> <a href="https://outlook.office.com/book/KazTravelCounsellorsTheHoneymoonGuide1@travelcounsellorsdirectory.onmicrosoft.com/"><b>Book an appointment to chat</b></a><br>or<br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Maldives%20Enquiry"><b>Email me to find out more!</b></a><br>

09 February 2025

Planning a trip? How exciting! If you're wondering how things work with me, here's everything you need to know. These are the questions I’m asked most often: <br> <b>Who exactly are Travel Counsellors?</b> Travel Counsellors is a multi-award-winning company of more than 1,900 independent travel consultants worldwide. We’re licensed and bonded with the Irish Aviation Authority (and ATOL protected in the UK). Our Irish HQ has been based in Cork for over 20 years! </br> <b>What kind of trips do you book?</b> While I’m known for planning honeymoons, I work with clients on all kinds of incredible travel experiences - from relaxed beach breaks to big adventures and everything in between. <b>Here are just some of the trips I can help you plan:</b><br> Luxury Beach Holidays and All-Inclusive Escapes<br> Safari Travel<br> Cruise Travel - Ocean, River and Expedition Cruising<br> Rail Travel<br> Adventure Travel<br> Solo Trips<br> Group Travel<br> Stylish Family Holidays<br> Big Birthday or Anniversary Celebrations<br> Retirement Trips and “finally doing it” getaways<br> Luxury City Breaks<br> Whether you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails in the Caribbean, gliding through the fjords of Norway, seeing the Great Migration in Tanzania - I can help you make it happen. <br> <b>How do we get started?</b> Start by booking a complimentary 'no pressure' telephone or video call (which can last anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes). We can have a chat and explore your ideas and you can ask me anything. <br> <b>What happens after the call?</b> If you’re excited to move forward, I charge a <b>fully redeemable</b> €75 planning deposit. This allows me to dedicate time to creating detailed, tailor-made itineraries for you and provide unlimited adjustments if necessary until your trip is perfect for you. Once you book, the €75 is credited to your trip, making the planning service effectively complimentary as part of your holiday package. <br> <b>Why do you charge a planning deposit?</b> The kind of trips I plan take time, care, and thoughtful expertise. Every itinerary I design is tailor-made to you and is created with your travel style, budget and goals in mind - not a generic package pulled from a brochure. While I understand that committing to a small deposit might not suit everyone, this deposit reflects the exclusive, detailed and personal attention I provide for you from the outset. You're never passed from pillar to post and I’m with you from that first call until you get home. <b>You’ll receive:</b><br> Personalised detailed itineraries<br> Unlimited tweaks until it feels perfect for you<br> Honest, unbiased advice from start to finish<br> Access to our brilliant myTC app to manage everything in one place Once your booking is confirmed, I’ll make sure you have everything you need - not just the flights and hotels, but all the helpful little extras too. All your documents are stored in one easy-to-access place with myTC. I’ll also send you my personal packing lists and pre departure checklists that you won't get anywhere else. I'll help with things like visa and insurance advice, and tips to make sure nothing gets missed - from plug adaptors to airport lounges to restaurant reservations. I’m here to help you feel organised, excited, and stress-free - right up to departure day. You’ll have my direct number, and our 24/7 helpline is available when you're abroad. After all, travel is fraught with unknowns but Travel Counsellors is here for you before, during and after your trip. And remember, this deposit is fully redeemable against your booking - it’s a win-win! <br> <b>Have you planned trips to my destination?</b> Most likely, yes! In fact, I’ve spent over 15 years planning travel to over 90 countries (and been to almost half that myself!). From China to Greece, the Maldives to California - I’ve worked with clients planning every type of trip you can think of. No plan is too audacious - whether it's an Arctic or Antarctica cruise, hiking in Bhutan, a road trip in Namibia or island hopping in French Polynesia, I've got you covered. But while I know a lot, I don't know everything about everywhere! So where I don't know something, I draw on relationships with local experts, partners across the globe and colleagues who've been to every corner of the world, ensuring your plans are seamless and spectacular. If I don't know, I can certainly find out easily! <br> <b>Ok, it sounds good! What’s next?</b> If you're ready for me to plan something amazing, let’s start with that chat! Click below to book a call. If you don't find a time that suits just let me know (I can chat at weekends or evenings, too). Or, if you just want to know more, don't hesitate to drop me a line, I'd love to hear from you!<br><br> <a href="https://www.thehoneymoonguide.co/appointment"><b>Book a call</b></a><br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Website%20Travel%20Enquiry"><b>Email me</b></a><br> Happy Travel Planning x

06 January 2025

It’s honeymoon planning time - yay! Congratulations! If you're wondering how it all works with me, here's everything you need to know. These are the questions I’m asked most often: <br> <b>Who exactly are Travel Counsellors?</b> Travel Counsellors is a multi-award-winning company of more than 1,900 independent travel consultants worldwide. We’re licensed and bonded with the Irish Aviation Authority (and ATOL protected in the UK). Our Irish HQ has been based in Cork for over 20 years! <br> <b>How do we get started?</b> Couples will start by booking a complimentary telephone or video call (which can last anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes). We can have a chat and discuss ideas. You can ask me anything and pick my brain about all things honeymoon! <br> <b>What happens after the call?</b> If you’re excited to move forward, I charge a <b>fully redeemable</b> €75 planning deposit. This allows me to dedicate time to creating a detailed, tailor-made honeymoon itineraries for you and provide unlimited adjustments if necessary until your trip is perfect for you. Once you book, the €75 is credited to your trip, making the planning service effectively complimentary as part of your honeymoon package. <br> <b>Why do you charge a planning deposit?</b> Planning a honeymoon is one of the most exciting parts of your wedding journey and it deserves time, care, and thoughtful expertise. While I understand that committing to a small deposit might not suit every couple, this deposit reflects the exclusive, detailed and personal attention I provide for you from the outset. Every honeymoon I design is tailor-made to you - not a generic package pulled from a brochure as I think your honeymoon deserves more! You're never passed from pillar to post and I’m with you from that first call until you get home. <b>You’ll receive:</b><br> Personalised detailed itineraries<br> Unlimited tweaks until it feels perfect for you<br> Honest, unbiased advice from start to finish<br> Access to our brilliant myTC app to manage everything in one place Once your honeymoon is confirmed, I’ll make sure you have everything you need - not just the flights and hotels, but all the helpful little extras too. All your honeymoon documents are stored in one easy-to-access place with myTC. I’ll also send you my personal packing lists and honeymoon checklists that you won't get anywhere else. I'll help with the less glam bits like visa and insurance advice, and tips to make sure nothing gets missed - from plug adaptors to airport lounges to restaurant reservations. I’m here to help you feel organised, excited, and stress-free - right up to departure day. You’ll have my direct number, and our 24/7 helpline is available when you're abroad. After all, travel is fraught with unknowns but Travel Counsellors is here for you before, during and after your trip. And remember, this deposit is fully redeemable against your booking - it’s a win-win! <br> <b>Have you planned trips to my dream destination?</b> Most likely, yes, I've arranged hundreds of honeymoons! In fact, I’ve spent over 15 years planning travel to over 90 countries (and been to almost half that myself!). I’ve been to many of the planet's most loved honeymoon destinations - Maldives and Mexico, Santorini and Seychelles, The Amalfi Coast, Thailand, California, Mauritius and more. I love off-the-beaten-track destinations, too. Namibia, Bhutan, Chile, French Polynesia? I’ve got you covered. But while I know a lot, I don't know everything about everywhere! So where I don't know something, I draw on relationships with local experts, partners across the globe and colleagues who've been to every corner of the world, ensuring your honeymoon plans are seamless and spectacular. If I don't know, I can certainly find out easily! <br> <b>How much do honeymoons cost?</b> It depends on several factors - the destination, the length of your stay, the style of accommodation, the activities you choose to include, the season you travel and how soon you book. For example, a week-long stay in a resort in the Maldives costs significantly more than a similar duration at a boutique hotel in Bali. To give you an estimate, I would need to know a bit more about your preferences, desired destinations, and travel style. I'll work with you to create a wow honeymoon that maximises your ideal budget. You’ll always get honest feedback and advice - I’ll tell you if something isn’t worth it. But I know you’re eager to get some figures - typically my couples spend anywhere from €6,000 to €30,000 per couple. - €6000 might cover a cute Bali honeymoon package or an all-inclusive honeymoon in Mexico. - €30,000 might cover an ultra luxurious honeymoon in Africa with Gorilla Trekking and the Great Migration and business class flights or maybe a week in the most lavish honeymoon resorts in the Maldives. For inspiration, check out <a href="https://www.travelcounsellors.ie/karen.pugh/#tailloredOffers"><b>my personalised offers</b></a> - these are based on itineraries I’ve created recently! <br> <b>When should we start planning and booking our honeymoon?</b> The earlier, the better for sure. Many couples start planning their honeymoon 10 to 12 months before the wedding especially if travelling during peak time or to popular destinations. Whether it’s for this year or further down the line, drop me a line whenever you’re ready to start planning. I often start talking to couples 2 years before the big day! <b>Planning early means:</b><br> You’ll get the best choice of flights and accommodation<br> There’s more time to spread out payments<br> You can take advantage of early booking offers and deals That said, if you’re booking last-minute, don’t panic - I can still help! I’ve planned incredible honeymoons at short notice, too. But the sooner we chat, the more options we’ll have. <br> <b>Ok, we’re in! What’s next?</b> Yay! Planning a wedding takes a lot of work - let me make the honeymoon part easy and exciting. Let’s start with that complimentary chat! Click below to book a call. If you don't find a time that suits just let me know ( I can chat at weekends or evenings, too). Or, if you just want to know more, don't hesitate to drop me a line, I'd love to hear from you!<br><br> <a href="https://www.thehoneymoonguide.co/appointment"><b>Book a call</b></a><br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Honeymoon%20Enquiry"><b>Email me</b></a><br> Happy Honeymoon Planning x

08 November 2024

Because sometimes in life only a 5* adults-only all inclusive will do! I was lucky enough to spend a week in one of the gorgeous Secrets Resorts on the Riviera Maya between the famous Cancun and its smaller neighbour Playa Del Carmen. The beach was just so beautiful and the warm Caribbean Sea lapping at our feet - I was in heaven. As food is a big part of holidays for me, the multiple choices of restaurants was a big plus for us and the swim up bar was perfect. One of the days the chef set up a BBQ on the beach with the freshest grilled seafood for lunch and the waiter dropped drinks so we didn't have to leave our sun loungers. The worst part about the all inclusive bliss in Mexico? It can be extremely difficult to tear yourself away from the resort but exploring the Yucatan Peninsula is a must! With so much to do including beautiful Tulum and fascinating Chichén Itzá which is a complex of Mayan ruins. Its pyramid, known as El Castillo dominates the ancient city, which thrived from around 600 A.D. The colourful town Valladolid is so beautiful too. You can shop the day and dance the night away in Cancun and some of the smaller towns. Swim in cenotes, visit Pink lakes and even go island hopping. While a resort break in Mexico with a US or Canadian city tagged on (New York, Miami & Toronto to name a few) is one of my most requested honeymoons, exploring other parts of Mexico is possible too! San Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca, Mexico City or the Baja California peninsula are worth considering. Or even an option to split your stay between a resort and a boutique hotel in Isla Holbox or Tulum? The great thing about Secrets Resorts and their sister resorts is that they are always on a beautiful stretch of beach and the quality of the all-inclusive is amongst the best in the world. So many restaurants to choose from in each resort and the drinks are from premium brands. They have a resort to suit everyone from lively Secrets The Vine in Cancun to quieter Secrets Maroma and Secrets Akumal and new spots like Secrets Moxché and Secrets Tulum. They have resorts all over the Caribbean & Central America including (Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Costa Rica to name a few) & and even closer to home in Spain! Ready to start planning a trip to Mexico? <br><br> <a href="https://outlook.office.com/book/KazTravelCounsellorsTheHoneymoonGuide1@travelcounsellorsdirectory.onmicrosoft.com/"><b>Book an appointment to chat</b></a><br>or<br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Mexico%20Enquiry"><b>Email me to find out more!</b></a><br>

08 November 2024

I’m a big kid, I confess! I absolutely love theme parks and water parks. Disneyland California, Disneyland Paris Paris, Walt Disney World Florida? Yes I’ve been to them all. Universal Islands of Adventure? Yes, that one too. Orlando is hard to beat! I like to stay on International Drive as I love the access to the shops and restaurants along this long thoroughfare but a local home / villa with your own pool, staying in Disney itself or some of the affordable resorts that have popped in Universal are fantastic options too. The I-Ride trolley is so handy and with regular shuttles, we barely took a taxi or needed car hire (although this very much depends on where you’re staying!). For most a first time visit it’s difficult to fit in all that Orlando has to offer and with new parks and rides opening all the time there is always somewhere new to explore. I recommend 1 day = 1 park to really make the most of your time and just remember that running around a theme park all day is tiring so plan for some days for relaxing, too! Being a bit of a former HP obsessive and a Star Wars fan, Orlando is my jam - it's my own self-contained fantasyland. One of the most common questions I get is what park tickets to buy? There are multiple options so I recommend having a rough idea of what parks you want to visit and I can help you choose the most appropriate ticket for you. Orlando is so easy to add on to a USA itinerary or maybe you'd like to experience a Caribbean cruise or a road trip in Florida? Ready to start planning a trip to Orlando? <br><br> <a href="https://outlook.office.com/book/KazTravelCounsellorsTheHoneymoonGuide1@travelcounsellorsdirectory.onmicrosoft.com/"><b>Book an appointment to chat</b></a><br>or<br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Orlando%20Enquiry"><b>Email me to find out more!</b></a><br>

08 November 2024

The best of the best of the best. I’m obsessed with Thailand forever! From backpacking to getting engaged there and family trips - I've experienced Thailand from all different points of view! It's wonderful for backpacking but it's even more wonderful to book one of its many very affordable luxury hotels. It's my favourite all-round destination with something for absolutely everyone and such amazing value, I could talk about it all day long... Bangkok is somewhere that people have heard either terrible or great things about and I always say go and make up your own mind, it’s such an exciting city, full of interesting and fun things to see and do including some of the world's best city hotels, great shopping in malls and markets (including the fascinating floating market) and seeing the city sights such as the Grand Palace. Seeing the numerous temples such as Wat Pho by Tuk-Tuk are a must. And that's before we mention the food, fine dining Michelin star to street hawkers rustling you up cheap and tasty dishes. All of this is possible before you consider seeing what's outside of the city at Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya. From the gorgeous markets and temples of Chiang Mai to beautiful national parks with waterfalls, rural villages and incredible scenery - the north is all go-go-go. You can visit an elephant sanctuary, have fun haggling for gorgeous silks, and go to the best cooking schools (essential!). Travel to the Burmese & Laos border area, known as the Golden Triangle. You can also use this area as jump off to take a boat down the Mekong to Laos one of the most incredible journeys ever (see my blog on Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia) or fly out of Chiang Rai / Mai down to the islands for some R & R. It's such a contrast to the beaches with its own style of cuisine and way of life. A few days to sample the northern delights is all you need and you won't regret it. Perfect beaches, incredible food, relaxing massages, optional nightlife - the perfect island life. There isn't enough space to run through all the different islands but a general rule of thumb if you are visiting during January - August, stick to East Coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan for example) and from November to April stick to west coast (Phuket, Ko Phi Phi to name a few). Depending how long you have, I'd recommend island hopping and some of my favourite places are Khao Lak, Ko Lanta / Krabi, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai & the eternal favourite Phi Phi Islands. Whether you want secluded romance or wild beach parties, I can help you choose the right islands, there is a Thai beach resort for every taste! I'm a certified Thailand specialist and would love to talk to you about the perfect Thailand trip. I promise there is the perfect travel experience awaiting you in the Land of Smiles. Le'ts explore one of my favourite destinations! Ready to start planning a trip to Thailand? <br><br> <a href="https://outlook.office.com/book/KazTravelCounsellorsTheHoneymoonGuide1@travelcounsellorsdirectory.onmicrosoft.com/"><b>Book an appointment to chat</b></a><br>or<br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Thailand%20Enquiry"><b>Email me to find out more!</b></a><br>

08 November 2024

Greece is the perfect European honeymoon destination yet Athens is probably its most underrated capital city! While it may not have the grandeur of Paris or Rome, it really is a gem. The first time we went, we stayed at a little boutique hotel in Psyrri. We only had two full days, so we did the sightseeing hop-on hop-off tour to take in the ancient (and not so ancient) sights of this incredible city. The view from the Acropolis was stunning (I’d recommend getting there early to beat the cruise ship crowds, as the sun is rising). The shops of Monastiraki are worth a look with a mixture of tourist tack and wonderful antique shops. Plaka’s small cobbled streets are so pretty. There's so many rooftop bars (I had about 10 on my shortlist) and so so many restaurants (one highlight was Lithos, delicious authentic Greek cooking). I’d certainly recommend visiting outside of the hot mid-summer months, though. From the Game of Thrones vibes of the UNESCO-listed Rhodes Old Town to catamaran tours around Santorini and sipping on cocktails in Little Venice in Mykonos, I don’t think I’ll ever get bored of visiting Greece (or talking about it!) I’ve seen Santorini from cruise ships but one of the best travel decisions I’ve ever made though is to spend a full week on Santorini a couple of years ago, we really got under the skin of the place and it’s a beautiful island despite the crowds. But only a short ferry ride away you’ll find lesser visited spots like Folegandros and Sifnos. From Milos to Hydra, Crete to Corfu, there are so many islands to explore, drop me a line and let’s find the perfect one for you. Ready to start planning a trip to Greece? <br><br> <a href="https://outlook.office.com/book/KazTravelCounsellorsTheHoneymoonGuide1@travelcounsellorsdirectory.onmicrosoft.com/"><b>Book an appointment to chat</b></a><br>or<br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Greece%20Enquiry"><b>Email me to find out more!</b></a><br>

08 November 2024

California is definitely my favourite US state and I’ve been lucky to visit a few times. Each time is up there with my all time favourite trips! It’s where I spent some of my honeymoon, too! Start in San Francisco and then hire a car to take the famous Pacific Coast's Highway 1 to Los Angeles, Santa Monica & Disney and beyond! Where to start with San Francisco, there is so much to do. I always include the hop-on-hop-off bus tour which has a few routes but includes the fascinating and often booked out trip to Alcatraz. If you can, get tickets for the Alcatraz evening tour, my clients rave about it. I love the interesting neighbourhoods like Castro and Haight-Ashbury and iconic sites like Golden Gate Bridge, Plus the restaurant scene is the best and 3-4 days often isn't enough for my long list of places to eat. Take a drive to the lovely wine region of Napa and inland to Yosemite National Park if you’ve more time. Immediately down the coast is Monterey/Carmel with its lovely Mexican architecture. The last time we were up early and straight to the Big Sur, parts of which are often closed due to rock fall and landslides but it wasn’t when we were there. It's just WOW! The scenery is glorious. We had lunch at the wonderful Nepenthe and my highlight was the McWay Falls look out in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. I really fell in love with Big Sur, there is something magical & mystical about those forests. The redwoods start to turn into palm trees as you drive south and although many people will stop at Cambria for the night, the last time we decided to go a little further to Pismo Beach where we had the most amazing seafood for dinner and did some shopping. The next stop was Santa Barbara and I could have stayed an extra couple in both of these with their Southern Cali vibe, endless palm trees and sunshine! In Los Angeles, I love a pit stop at the Griffith Observatory in the Hollywood Hills for those iconic LA / Hollywood sign views. You could stop for a night and do Universal Studios Hollywood or keep driving to Anaheim for Disneyland California, you need a couple of days to do both parks, we had a great time at the happiest place on earth. I’d usually finish up by dropping the car back and having a few nights in Santa Monica, relaxing by this wonderful city beach. I absolutely love LA, and have previously stayed at the Mondrian in West Hollywood which is another fun area especially for nightlife. It is important to stay in the right area and Santa Monica is definitely at the top of my list with its proximity to the airport (avoiding the awful traffic!) & ocean, incredible restaurant scene and more palm trees! If you have more time you can drive down to San Diego or across to Joshua Tree National Park and on to Las Vegas. The most incredible scenery and beaches, delicious food, endless shopping opportunities and something new every single day. California is the perfect companion to a multi destination Hawaii honeymoon and holiday. You can also fly to Bora Bora and French Polynesia or back via Florida for a Caribbean Cruise or even hop down to Mexico - Cancun or Cabo is a great add on to a California road trip. Ready to start planning a trip to California? <br><br> <a href="https://outlook.office.com/book/KazTravelCounsellorsTheHoneymoonGuide1@travelcounsellorsdirectory.onmicrosoft.com/"><b>Book an appointment to chat</b></a><br>or<br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=California%20Enquiry"><b>Email me to find out more!</b></a><br>

08 November 2024

The Seychelles will leave you speechless. This dreamy archipelago had been on my bucket list for as long as I've worked in travel. I still daydream about my island hopping trip there not long after the pandemic restrictions were lifted. We started off in Mahé, the main island and home to the tiny capital Victoria. Our few days here were filled with sun, snorkels and sunscreen. We loved the livelier Beau Vallon beach. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling right off the shore - swimming alongside the marine life that decorates the ocean floor. Beau Vallon had some great restaurants, too. ...And then there was Petite Anse. The ocean waves crashing against shores at the Four Seasons Seychelles. The short stroll down to the bay is a slice of heaven. No filter needed! Our island hopping adventure started with a ferry to Praslin, where we hired a car to navigate the tiny ring road around the island and to seek out the island's secluded beaches. Early mornings at Anse Lazio — rated one of the best beaches in the world — were surreal, with barely a soul in sight, just pristine sands and azure waters as far as the eye could see. The ancient palms of Vallée de Mai was like a mystic rainforest escape where legend has it, the original Garden of Eden once existed. One of the days - we splashed out and chartered a boat and small crew to allow us to explore hidden corners of the sea at our own pace. We stopped at Curieuse and St. Pierre, we encountered giant tortoises and snorkelling in waters so clear, you'd think they were made of glass. We had a whole deserted island beach to ourselves. This may well have been one of my favourite days ever. La Digue is really not to be missed - a world where time has stood still and everyone gets around on bicycles. Heaven. We cycled through lush L'Union Estate Park to reach Anse Source D'Argent, one of the most photographed beaches in the world, famed for its towering granite boulders and soft white sands. The postcard-perfect view that seemed to leap straight out of a travel magazine. Being one of the world’s most famous beaches, it gets a little busy so I strongly recommend staying on La Digue to beat the day trippers! Seychelles is an incredibly special destination. It’s a mood, it’s a vibe, a tropical state of mind! Let's plan a trip for you to paradise! Ready to start planning a trip to Seychelles? <br><br> <a href="https://outlook.office.com/book/KazTravelCounsellorsTheHoneymoonGuide1@travelcounsellorsdirectory.onmicrosoft.com/"><b>Book an appointment to chat</b></a><br>or<br> <a href="mailto:karen.p@mytc.com?subject=Seychelles%20Enquiry"><b>Email me to find out more!</b></a><br>