The calm and affluence of our hotel did not prepare us for what lay ahead when the following day saw us on a tour of Old Delhi.  This included a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Chandni Chowk where shops, bazaars and temples jumble side by side in a crowded mass of variety, colour and humanity.

Our decision, along with our friends Colin and Clair, to holiday in India had been taken many months before and had been meticulously planned by Journeys a la Carte and TransIndus in conjunction with ourselves.  Possible to get only a flavour of this vast sub-continent in the space of two weeks we opted to see some of the landmarks for which the Country is renowned but at the same time to explore places that were not quite so familiar.  Thus in addition to the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur we were to venture into the western region of Rajasthan and the Thar Desert.

The entire journey was to be by road and so it was on Monday morning that our minibus awaited us driven by Hanuman who was to be our driver throughout our holiday.  At this point it must be said that driving in India is not for the faint hearted.  It requires 360 degree concentration as ones’ vehicle is liable to be attacked from any direction by a disparate array of vehicular transport.  The rule seems to be to point your vehicle in the general direction in which you wish to travel, look for a gap and go for it, regardless of which side of the road it may be!  Outside the main towns a variety of animals are also a familiar obstacle.  Cows, water buffalo, sheep, dogs, camels are all capable of taking to the road and are seemingly unmoved by the man made machines dodging around them.  Our Hanuman however was man enough for the task and ably transported us to our destinations on time and in one piece and deserved a medal in the process.

At each of our destinations we were met by a guide arranged by TransIndus.  So the jovial Soresh who had looked after us in Delhi gave way to the diminutive Monica at Agra who was to take us to the Taj Mahal.  Although the day was sadly misty this magnificent monument of devotion more than lived up to the magic of its physical beauty.
We sat on The Bench for photos!   From Agra on to Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan. It has been called the Pink City since 1876 when its buildings were painted pink – the colour of welcome – in honour of a visit by the then Prince of Wales.  Amber Fort just outside the City is a must to see.  Perched high above a gorge it can be accessed in the mornings on elephant back, up a long ramp that winds up the hillside.  Nothing like arriving in style.

Our second evening in Jaipur was arranged by TransIndus to be spent at the home of an Indian family.  We were welcomed by mother Joghi, a military widow and primary school teacher, and son Hanuveer, a graduate at an Indian university hoping to take his Masters at Cardiff University, and  joined as the evening progressed by Joghi’s 14 year old daughter and by her aged mother.  Conversation flowed easily as we were shown around their simple but tasteful home and during dinner in their courtyard, warmed by the glow of braziers of wood.  We learned a lot about their life and culture.   A fascinating evening.

From Jaipur we progressed further into Rajasthan to the desert towns of Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.  Since Agra the weather had been glorious and we were looking forward to our two nights of tented accommodation in the desert near Jaisalmer to unwind from the sightseeing and travelling we had experienced so far.  We were not to be disappointed.  Relaxing by an infinity pool as the sun went down in the late afternoon and pre-dinner drinks before a blazing log fire in the sand helped us unwind, until eventually retreating to our warm 5 star tents and the surprise hot water bottles that awaited us.  Hadn’t had one of those for years.  Lovely!

We journeyed on.  Jaisalmer was a golden treasure set in the sands of the Thar desert, its buildings of carved ochre sandstone housing the ancient havelis or warehouses that prospered on the caravan routes that crossed the desert from China to the west.  Jodhpur next, home to Meherangarh Fort perhaps the most impressive of Rajasthan’s citadels as it looms over the blue dwellings of the city below.  It was here we visited a nearby village where the local ladies dressed us in the vibrant coloured clothes that epitomise the style of the region.

As we progressed to our final destination of Udaipur we moved out of the flat and arid west into more lush conditions of arable land irrigated by ox powered water wheels. We tried our hand at steering these beasts much to the amusement of their owner.  Udaipur is the location of the Lake Palace Hotel of James Bond fame and is noted for its gardens and lakes.  It also gave us the opportunity for a final shopping expedition in the teeming bazaars of the town centre.  Shopping had been a feature of the holiday taking advantage of the beautiful handmade garments and souvenirs on offer at bargain prices.

And so after a fabulous holiday wintry weather awaited us back in the UK.

We almost wished we had not gone – then we could go again!  I am sure we will at some stage.

Journey’s are thrilled to announce that for the 3rd time we have been voted as the Best Travel Agent by readers of the Guardian and Observer.

Against strong competition from national companies our personal service has once again earned us recognition and we thank everyone who voted for us.

Click on the link above to read Margaret’s article from the Uttoxeter Voice

I have sent many clients to Canada during my time with Journeys and was thrilled when I was given the opportunity to spend a week in Western Canada in the famous Rocky Mountains and Vancouver. 

After a 9 hour direct flight to the ‘Stampede City’ of Calgary we took a scenic transfer through the foothills of the Rockies to the resort town of Banff where we spent 2 nights at the Fox Hotel and Suites, a new centrally located hotel, designed to capture the natural environment of its surroundings with it’s rundle rock stonework and on site hot pools.

Banff is one of Canada’s most popular destinations known for its mountainous surroundings and hot springs. It is a destination for outdoor sports and features extensive hiking, biking and skiing areas within the area.

Canada has the most National Parks in the world and my first full day was spent exploring the highlights of Banff National Park which included Bow Falls, Lake Minnewanka and Vermillion Lakes before we arrived at Sulphur Mountain where we took the 8 minute ride on the Banff Gondola.  Being on the peak of Sulphur Mountain allowed us to get some of the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

We also had the opportunity to visit the famous deluxe Chateau style Banff Springs, a famous historical hotel, renowned for its “million dollar view” of theBow Valley.

Heading from Banff we took the Icefields Parkway to Jasper, one of the most beautiful drives in the world stretching 232km through two national parks.  This drive is famous for visiting emerald coloured mountain lakes and ancient glaciers.  We had also entered “Bear Country”, so all eyes on the bus were peeled looking for the magnificent Grizzly and Brown Bears that are so frequently spotted in the area.  Unfortunately the weather was not on our side and we were caught in the first snow fall of the winter in the area so the bears were hiding deep in the forests….. a bonus of the weather though  was being able to see the area covered in snow – absolutely spectacular !

 My highlight of the Icefields Parkway Drive was visiting Canada’s most famous and most photographed lake ;Lake Louise and getting the opportunity to step onto the majestic Athabasca Glacier.  The exciting 55 minute snow coach journey meant we could access a tongue of the Icefields Glaciers and step onto ice over 400 years old.

On arrival in Jasper we spent the night at the Jasper Park Lodge, a beautiful resort with unique cabins in the grounds positioned to view the nearby lake and wildlife.  Similar to Banff, Jasper is famous for its summer adventure opportunities, from golf, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking and white water rafting to name a few.  Winter activities are also in abundance at the nearby Marmot Basin.

Our next two days were full of anticipation as we were boarding the famous Rocky Mountaineer Train, a world class travel experience, operating different routes through the Canadian Rockies – our journey was taking us from Jasper to Vancouver known as the “Journey through the Clouds” 

Heading from Jasper highlights of the first day included the Yellowhead Pass, Mount Robson – the highest peak in the mountains, Moose River and the Fraser River.  We were lucky to experience the Goldleaf service, in my opinion an absolute must. 

Goldleaf features included luxurious seating in an elevated dome putting us right in the middle of the spectacular scenery, impeccable service and interesting on board commentary and superb food throughout the whole journey.  The train stops in Kamloops where all passengers spend one night in a hotel. On arrival at the hotel my luggage (which had travelled separately) was already in my room, another Goldleaf advantage.

The following day our journey continued to the coastal city of Vancouver, the carriages from the “Kicking Horse” service from Calgary joined the train; this was the final train of the season, so overall there were 26 carriages travelling down towards the Pacific Ocean.  Scenery along this section of the journey was focused on the Canyons of the Fraser River, more green and lush and less dramatic peaks as we reached our final destination.

Vancouver is a great city and definitely not to be missed.  We stayed in the Waterfront area with superb views over the 3 mountains that surround the city. Everywhere within Vancouver is easily reached by foot so we were able to walk to cosmopolitan Robson Street, historical Gastown and the “trendy” Yaletown area without any difficulty.

Whilst in Vancouver we also visited the Aquarium, great if you are travelling with children, Stanley Park which is a lovely area for walking or cycling, The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Cliff Walk – not for the faint hearted!,  and a stop on Grouse Mountain which is Vancouver’s most visited attraction.

Having experienced this area of Canada I can understand why so many clients have enjoyed their trips that we have organised for them. 

If Western Canada is not on your “wish list” I would recommend you add it to it!! …… If you are thinking of travelling there please give me a call !

As soon as we arrived at the new Island of Niyama, in the southern Dhaalu Atoll, reached by seaplane, we were greeted by a sea of smiling faces who welcomed us and whisked us off to our homes for 2 nights. 

Mine was a new and very fresh modern water studio, packed full of the latest gadgets and gizmos including an Espresso machine, Ipad, and a mini bar to die for.  There was also a full sized fridge stocked with everything you could wish for should you be feeling a bit peckish ! .  I had just enough time to quickly explore the room, take in the breathtaking view, and change into something more fitting for a walk around the Island.
 
Niyama has a very chic feel to it, from the trendy bar (complete with DJ) on the top deck overlooking the pool to the underwater nightclub for the super cool.   

All of the latest gaming products for younger, and not so young, guests are also available.  We had an afternoon of rain and just had to sample the Wii and PS3 games on huge screens in Active, a great place to escape the odd shower or the hot sunshine.
 
Dining at Niyama is varied, and all excellent.  There is the all day dining at Epicure for International cuisine, a deli for ‘grab n go’ snacks,  Edge an exclusive overwater restaurant (only accessible by boat), and my favourite  Tribal .  This is a very different dining experience for the Maldives, mixing Africa, Asia and South America in a modern campfire setting with outdoor kitchen, where you are encouraged to learn about the food as well as enjoy eating it.
 
We enjoyed 2 lovely days here before heading back to Male by floatplane, and then taking a 30 minute speedboat transfer to Huvafen Fushi in the North Male Atoll.
 
The Island, small, and just re-opened after a refurbishment immediately blew me away.  As soon as we stepped off the boat onto the perfect white sand there was an instant feeling of relaxation.  With its established vegetation it manages to make a small island feel spacious, but at the same time feel intimate and private.  I popped my shoes into my bag and didn’t need them again until we left.  The staff were welcoming, friendly, and so attentive.
 
I have to tell you about my room  as we were lucky enough to be able to experience the Ocean Pavillion’s – Wow!  - Two buildings on stilts, way out to sea at the end of a private jetty, each with two bedrooms, full kitchen, dining room, lounge with indoor/outdoor pool, bar (not mini) and a double sun deck with pool jacuzzi and an array of day beds.  The view ……. just ocean.  Definitely fit for a star. 

I would have been more than happy with one of the gorgeous, well equipped, beach villas.  To step out of your front door right onto the white sand,  and then into the turquoise ocean was idyllic and if that’s not enough there is a plunge pool in a  private courtyard alongside your own outdoor shower.
 
Food here is top class with everything from Lobster in the overwater restaurant  Salt  to pizza from their own ovens on the beach.
 
The highlight here for me was the underwater spa room.  Imagine having a massage whilst surrounded by marine life….. simply magical.  The experience continued after the treatment as we sipped fruit tea, on a huge white leather bed, with all manner of fish swimming by.

All too soon it was time to put my shoes on and step back onto the speedboat.  I have so many photos and memories which I would love to share.  I will have no hesitation in recommending either of the two Islands, Niyama or Huvafen Fushi, each with something special to offer.

Sega dancers and refreshing cocktails greeted us on arrival before we were whisked off  to the Shandrani Resort and Spa .  The Shandrani is an all inclusive resort, ideal for families. The “all inclusive package” is particularly special (it even includes champagne by the glass !) The wide choice of dining opportunities includes a Thai and an Indian restaurant. It was lovely to dress in saris for the Indian evening.

Casela wildlife park is a great attraction on the island .  Activities for everyone !!  Quad biking around the park was great fun and allowed us to get up close to some of the wildlife -  including zebras and ostriches. Next we had to face our fears and took part in the zip lining challenge. I was a little apprehensive at first but it turned out to be one of the best moments of the trip!.

After two great days at the Shandrani we were taken by helicopter to the Royal Palm Hotel which certainly lives up to its billing as Beachcomber’s Premium Hotel . A truly luxurious, very peaceful retreat, ideal for honeymooners or
perhaps the more mature. Service is superb – within a day of arriving the staff will know you by name, your favourite drink and your dining preferences.
The hotel has just 84 rooms and the decor is a mixture of contemporary and traditional style. If a helicopter transfer isn’t your style you can choose to travel by Rolls Royce!

Next on to Troux Aux Biches Resort. Newly opened – with a choice of six restaurants – this large hotel in set in spacious grounds and has been completely refurbished. It is set out in crescents around pools leading across beautiful gardens to the golden sandy beach. Guests can travel around by “buggy”. Staff are
very attentive and the Childrens’ Club is very well equipped.  so the property is ideal for families with children of all ages..

We enjoyed a barbecue on the beach, a sunset cruise ( some beautiful photo opportunities) and a ‘car rally’ around the island – visiting superb beaches, the lively Grand Baie area and the capital, Port Louis. The rally ended at the Paradis Hotel
and Golf Club where we spent our final 2 nights in Mauritius.

The family orientated Paradis hotel is in very close proximity to the peaceful, romantic Dinarobin Golf and Spa, where we enjoyed a fabulous meal dining at the Saveurs de Iles restaurant – recognised as one of the best on the island. The nice thing about the Paradis and the Dinarobin is you can dine at restaurants in both hotels giving a wide selection of dining experiences with completely different atmospheres. There are many facilities on offer at both of the resorts – yoga, pilates
and gym are complimentary and a great range of watersports – we managed to fit in a golf lesson!

Our final evening in Mauritius was a very glamorous occasion, we were taken by boat to the Ravanne restaurant at the Paradis where we enjoyed a champagne reception and dined beneath the stars.

A perfect end to a perfect trip.

A truly unique holiday destination, which offers not only fantastic skiing opportunities with excellent, reliable snow conditions, high quality accommodation and few lift queues but also many incredible activities, from the chance to see the stunning northern lights, to driving your own husky team. A place of magical escapism, Lapland is only a short distance from the UK.

Despite the freezing temperatures the guides always made sure everyone was kept warm with additional thermal clothing.

Please call Mel to arrange your own Arctic Adventure.

The live final of the AITO Agents’ Mastermind Challenge 2011 competition also took place at the conference which saw four finalists compete for the title of the most knowledgeable AITO Agent in the UK . The exciting finale saw our Mel win the coveted prize.

We offer an excellent range of singing and holidays for music lovers. 

Nothing beats experiencing music in situ where it belongs together with the food and ambience and the local people.  We offer tours from SONGLiNes who have special musical experiences offering private concerts, jam sessions and meetings with musicians and instrument-makers.  2012 destinations include Brazil, Malaysia, India and Morocco. 

Authentic singing adventures offer holidays staying in locally run hotels with an authentic feel with the opportunity to sing in a variety of settings…  from churches in Greece, beside the sea in Cuba or in the Abruzzo Mountains.  There’s even the possibility to join in with local choirs. 

Music Festivals on offer include Ischia, Leipzig, New York and Buxton.  We can even book you to a Music Festival at sea.

Of course it’s not all about music there will be time for other activities … sightseeing, exploring or just relaxing and enjoying the company of others.