The last thing you want as you set out on a long awaited holiday or important business trip is the stress and hassle of the airport.
The more you have to wait, to queue, to organise, and navigate your way around even a familiar airport, the less time and the less energy you have to focus on the important things – your holiday, friends, family or work.
Upgrade your travel experience and leave the usual airport stresses behind.
The airport experience in a class of its own
Get that personal attention and expedite your way through all the usual check-in, security and immigration formalities.
Take the stress and worry out of air travel from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart with the following core services:
o Arrival Meet&Assist o Departure Meet&Assist o Flight Connections o The Elite Collection of VVIP Terminals o Airport By Design Bespoke Arrangements o Executive Lounges o Luxury Car Services
Arrival Meet & Assist
Your Fastrack VIP assistant will personally welcome you at the gate as you disembark the aircraft with a personalised signboard **.
As soon as you arrive they will assist and expedite you as quickly as possible through all immigration and security formalities*, using priority channels where available, and onwards to baggage reclaim.
Assistance is provided with the collection of baggage before you are escorted to your ground transportation getting you quickly on your way.
*Although all processes are expedited where permitted for the clients convenience, all airline , border and security control protocols must be observed. ** Meeting point may vary depending on location
Departure Meet & Assist
Your Fastrack VIP assistant will personally contact you or your driver to introduce themselves prior to your arrival and finalise the meeting arrangements. **
As soon as you arrive they will assist and expedite you as quickly as possible through all check-in, VIP bag-drop, immigration and security formalities*, using priority channels where available.
Whether visiting an executive lounge or relaxing in the departure area, they will accompany you, assisting with any shopping or dining recommendations along the way.
Leaving you to relax , they will return to escort you to the gate in time for departure.
*Although all processes are expedited where permitted for the clients convenience, all airline , border and security control protocols must be observed. ** Meeting point may vary depending on location
Flight Connections
Your Fastrack VIP assistant will welcome you at the gate as you disembark the aircraft with a personalised signboard.**
Whether you have a long or short transfer, your assistant will expedite you as quickly as possible through all transfer formalities.
Changing terminals ? Need to recheck-in ?
They will be with you every step of the way ensuring a swift journey between your arrival and departure gate.
*Although all processes are expedited where permitted for the clients convenience, all airline , border and security control protocols must be observed. ** Meeting point may vary depending on location
The Fastrack Elite Collection
Selected with the most discerning traveller in mind the FT Elite Collection showcases the very best in luxury airport services. Available at selected locations regardless of ticket class, Elite services bring the private jet style experience to guests using commercial flights.
Elite services are exclusive VVIP luxurious services undertaken away from the main airport terminal in a separate VIP suite.
Offering the highest level of personal service, relax in the comfort of the VIP suite while all your travel formalities and bags are taken care . Travel in style with a tarmac transfer between the aircraft and the VIP suite via luxury private car.
Airports By Design
Whether you have a complex itinerary, a band on tour or VVIP guests requiring a private terminal our Airports By Design team are here to help.
The team know the importance of efficiency discretion, privacy and exclusivity. They are experienced in handling the needs of many famous individuals, groups and government agencies, both inside and outside the UK.
Drawing on their expert knowledge and extensive network they can tailor make a bespoke service to suit your individual needs across the globe.
Executive Lounges
Escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport and leave the crowded, noisy departure terminals behind with carefully chosen partner executive lounges.*
Whether you want to just relax into a comfortable chair, celebrate in style or find a quiet corner to work they have just the space for you.
Relax and recharge your batteries in calm and tranquil surroundings whilst indulging in an enticing selection of complimentary hot and cold food and drink.
* Lounges available when booked in conjunction with a Meet & Assist Service
Luxury Car Services
The perfect addition to any package, Fastrack VIP also offer end to end transport options both in the UK and overseas.
Ranging from an executive limousine to a minibus, their private transfer services are a cost effective solution when travelling to and from the airport.
Featuring a world-class fleet of late model vehicles consisting typically of Mercedes E-Class, S-Class and V-Class , all driven by certified professional chauffeurs.
* Available when booked in conjunction with a Meet & Assist Service
Service Additions *
We are delighted to offer a range of services that compliment the core Meet and Assist services, to include:
o Luggage porters o VAT refund assistance o Electric buggies o Baggage forwarding o Personal Shopping o Unaccompanied young person assistance
* Available at selected airports when booked in conjunction with a Meet & Assist Service
For more information contact us on 02921 283143 or paula@worldexplorerholidays.co.uk
Services only available for customers who have holidays booked with us!
The resumption of international travel will be possible from 17th May 2021 in accordance with the UK Government’s traffic light system. The list of countries will be reviewed every 3 weeks. Note these restrictions apply to England only at this time.
GREEN: There are 12 countries or territories under this category. Of these, 4 have direct non-stop air links to England. Restrictions may still apply to enter these countries so please check the FCDO website for the exact requirements: GIBRALTAR ICELAND ISRAEL PORTUGAL
AMBER: Most European countries and North America are under this category which requires home quarantine on return. In fact, any country not on the green or red lists is considered amber.
RED: This category allows entry from UK citizens & residents only and requires a mandatory hotel quarantine on return. New additions to this list are: MALDIVES NEPAL TURKEY
BEFORE returning home:
Complete a passenger locator form
Take a COVID-19 test – lateral flow
Book and pay for a day 2 COVID-19 test
Book and pay for a day 8 COVID-19 test
Book and pay for a quarantine hotel package
Lateral flow test (antigen test) taken overseas must be certified. You can’t arrive at border control and just tell them you tested negative. You can also take a PCR test but obviously these are a higher cost usually.
ON arrival home:
Quarantine at home for 10 days
Quarantine in a managed hotel for 10 days
Take a COVID-19 test on or before day 2
Option to test and release on day 5
Take a COVID-19 test on or after day 8
Green countries: no quarantine required prior to your 2 day test result. The test is a precaution given low risk of green countries, balancing risk with allowing people to get back to work. You can quarantine if you feel it is appropriate.
TRANSIT: If you return from a green country but have visited or transited through an Amber or Red country in the 10 days before returning home, the rules for these countries apply.
REFUNDS: If you have booked and paid the full balance for a Package Holiday (flight + accommodation), you are likely to qualify for a full refund if your destination is Red and you are due to travel within two weeks. Outside of this period or for Amber countries, in most cases, you can either choose to travel or rebook for an alternative date or destination. Check your options with your tour operator or travel agent.
INSURANCE: Currently we are hearing mixed information about insurance coverage outside green list countries. Please check with your insurer that you are covered for travel to your destination. If you are travelling to a country the FCDO has advised can be travelled to then you should be covered but it can vary by supplier. Not being an insurance expert and with so many different providers, I would always advise you to check with your insurance that your insurance coverage is comprehensive for your trip.
Regular updates will follow – I have read the rules so you don’t have to! If you have any questions, please get in touch. I am happy to try and help even if you do not currently have a booking with me.
ABTA L3832
Contact Paula at: paula@worldexplorerholidays.co.uk
It’s a great time to book a holiday to Thailand right now. Hotels and resorts are lowering prices to tempt travellers back. If you usually go to Spain, you may find that a trip to the picturesque beaches of Thailand are now within in your price range. Below we give you a glimpse of what the main resorts have to offer. Visit in November to March for the Dry Season which is cooler. Take care if you are visiting the Andaman Coast as their Dry Season is slightly earlier.
Phuket, Thailand’s most popular beach destination in the Andaman Sea, is the largest of all the islands in Thailand. While Phuket features elegant Sino- Portuguese style buildings in the old town, it also offers a thrilling, vibrant nightlife around Patong beach. With its myriad emerald green limestone karsts (a landscape formed from the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum) rising out of the water, the Andaman Sea is iconic Thailand. Off the coast are a host of islands making the area perfect for island hopping.
Khao Lak is most famous for its 25 km of beautiful beaches. Young families and romantics will particularly enjoy the relaxed vibe, but still find a buzz around Nang Thong beach. Three national parks are within day trip distance, with attractions like waterfalls, wildlife and Buddhist shrines. Experienced divers need not look further, as it’s the nearest departure point to the world-class dive sites of the Similan and Surin Islands, Myanmar Banks and the Mergui Archipelago.
The Gulf of Thailand’s most well-known island is Koh Samui. As the largest island in its archipelago, Koh Samui offers great choice and is a good base for visiting the surrounding Ang Thong National Marine Park – a snorkelling and kayaking paradise. Best known for its white sand beaches, jungles, intimate boutique luxury hotels and effervescent nightlife, you can also take a 4×4 vehicle up into the mountains.
Chiang Mai is often described as the country’s cultural capital and is the jumping-off point for sports such as hiking, biking and white-water rafting. Also known as the Rose of the North, we highly recommend visiting in February for the Chaing Mai flower festival. Elephant reserves, an array of ancient temples, unique northern-style cuisine and hotels truly give a new perspective on what world-class service means.
Hua Hin is recommended for quiet beaches, culture, history and total indulgence. It is most famous for being the holiday destination of choice for the Thai royal family. Culture lovers can see the ornate royal waiting room at the station, the Khao Luang cave temple, hilltop cultural park Phra Nakhorn Kiri and two palaces. The notorious Bridge over the River Kwai built by allied prisoners of war at Kanchanaburi is a great day trip and closer to Hua Hin than Bangkok.
Couples who love the urban experience will be delighted to discover The City of Angels. Bangkok offers an amazing blend of old and new, from traditional Thai culture and heritage to modern high-tech conveniences and experiences. The Grand Palace is a must-see attraction, famed for the Emerald Buddha and golden architecture. no visit to Bangkok would be complete without a major shopping spree.
Get in touch for your next dream Thailand holiday! Contact us on 02921283143
Among the 3000 inhabited islands of Greece,there is a small group of seven, known as the Eptianissa or Ionian Islands, located just off the western seaboard.
It is not surprising that one of the world’s most enduring and romantic epic stories, Homer’s Iliad, is centered on these captivating landscapes of rugged mountains, green hills and the ever present turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.
Over the centuries these islands have developed their own culture and identity, partly through their periodic occupation by foreign powers such as the Venetians, the Turks and the British, but also as a result of their rich natural environment and the intimate association of their inhabitants to the land and the surrounding sea.
Each island is unique unto itself, varying not only form the rest of Greece but from its neighbours. The islands are Kefalonia, Ithaka, Lefkada, Corfu, Paxos, Meganisi, Parga, Skopelos, Alonissos, Skiathos & Pelion. Here’s some information on three of these beautiful islands.
Kefalonia
Home of Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays, Kefalonia is the largest, most varied of the seven Ionian islands. It’s easy to understand why so many visitors return year after year, as there really is something for everyone; dramatic mountains, stunning coastline, green valleys, secluded bays, havens of solitude and some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Ithaka
Ithaka is virtually two separate islands, split in two by a narrow hill ridge at Aetos. The north has superb beaches, interesting walks and the timeless small fishing harbour of Kioni. The south boasts the port of Vathy, one of the most idyllic seafront settings in Greece. The west coast of Ithaka is rough and ragged, while the east is typified by rolling hills and farmland.
Lefkada
Known as the White Island, Lefkada is wild in the west, with perfect beaches, a turquoise sea and rugged mountains above fertile eastern valleys. Inland, flower strewn hill villages nestle in lush, green pine forests. The rural tradition of centuries lives on in unspoilt villages amongst vineyards and olive groves.
Get in touch with us for your next Ionian Island dream holiday!
With pubs being closed for months and beer festivals across Europe cancelled for 2020, if like us you are hankering after some great craft beers then why not plan a blow out in 2021. During lockdown we’ve taken part in a number of great virtual beer events, but its just not the same as being amongst like minded people enjoying a pint.
We’ve found some great tours for 2021 which are sure to wet the appetite of any beer enthusiast.
BREW NEW ENGLAND – 13 NIGHT NEW ENGLAND BREWERIES TOUR
Quench your thirst and your appetite on this tastings tour of New England’s micro breweries and venues featuring favourite local fare!
You will visit Boston, the coastal villages of Bar Harbor and Cape Cod as well as the mountains of New Hampshire and Vermont, have the chance to visit Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream factory and the Cider Mill at Cold Hollow.
Explore Jamaica Plain to tour and taste the finest beer in America, Samuel Adams. Samuel Adams Boston Lager® is an excellent example of the fundamentals of a great beer, offering a full, rich flavour that is both balanced and complex. While visiting the brewery, you may get the chance to taste some of Samuel Adams Specialty and hard to find beers such as Imperial Pilsner, Triple Bock, Millenium, and Utopias.
Tour the Redhook Ale Brewing Company. The first Redhook Ale was modelled after spicy Belgian ales and was affectionately referred to as “banana beer” because of its banana-like flavour. Eventually, Redhook starting making the beer that would become its flagship: ESB, styled after the “extra special bitters” familiar to British beer drinkers.
Try a Smuttynose Brew also brewed in Portsmouth. You might want to try its’ Old Brown Dog, cited as a classic example of the “American Brown Ale” style of beer. Or try Smuttynose Pumpkin Ale, their homage to the craft and heritage of America’s brewers.
There are many highlights to experience in Vermont, amongst which the Rock Art Brewery, and Magic Hat Brewing Co. At Rock Art Brewery, they’ll suggest the perfect food accompaniments for all the beers, from their Whitetail Ale to the Double Smoked Porter and Midnight Madness. Take a tour of the Magic Hat “Artifactory” and taste some of their ever changing beers on tap, many to suit the season.
Visit Cisco Brewers, not just a brewery boasting craft brews, it’s also the Triple Eight Distillery, serving up Triple Eight Vodkas, Hurricane Rum, Gale Force Gin and Notch (“not scotch” single malt whiskey) and it’s Nantucket Vineyards which offers a number of varietals.
Credit: Frontier America
MUNICH BEER NOT FESTIVAL
If the thought of being amongst thousands of revellers at the annual beer festival isn’t your cup of beer then why not take a long weekend outside the beer festival season.
Fly out to Munich for a 3 night stay and combine it with an exceptional brewery tour and evening at a traditional brauhaus.
Join a behind-the-scenes excursion to a Munich Brewery. Indulge in some of the finest amber ales known to man and learn how they are made in the city that claims to be the beer capital of the world!
With a rich heritage of breweries, beer gardens and beer festivals – are you spotting a theme yet? – Munich is known as the ‘city of beer’.
And what better way of getting to grips with this local passion than by exploring one of the local breweries? Go behind the scenes to see the fascinating production process in action.
Then listen closely as experienced master brewers provide you with fascinating information about the beer which is still brewed according to the original Bavarian ‘Order of Purity’, Europe‘s oldest food law.
After the guided tour, you are invited to enjoy a little snack and, of course, a beer sampler.
Pass by Munich’s beautifully illuminated monuments, fountains, and buildings on the way to the famous Hofbräuhaus where you will be treated to a Bavarian style evening with music, show and dinner.
This atmospheric tavern, situated in the heart of the city, is a must-visit for all visitors and the itinerary includes a mouth-watering meal of classic Germanic fare.
Appetites sated, you will be driven through the former artists’ quarter-Schwabing and on to the Olympic Grounds where you can ascend the Olympic Tower to enjoy the marvellous view of the city by night.
BEER & BATTLEFIELDS
If you are interested in history as well as Beer, why not combine a visit to battlefield sites from both WW1 and WW2 with visits to a selection of the best breweries, many of which were affected by the conflicts and whose beers were drunk by the troops.
This coach tour takes you to Ypres by coach and during the journey the tour guide will discuss beer recommendations.
Take a look at life behind the front and discuss the famous estaminets where soldiers got to drink the local beer themselves during the war. In Poperinghe you will visit Talbot House and their Behind the Lines museum. You will also look at the subject of those ‘Shot at Dawn’ and visit the Death Cells. Lunchtime in Poperinghe is followed by a visit to the Hop Museum to look at the whole history of this in the Flanders region, and enjoy a tasting of a Hommelbier. You then move on to see the St. Bernardus Brewery at Watou near Poperinghe, a village where soldiers were billeted in WW1.
Start at the Bierkasteel Van Honsebrouck at Kortrijk, then travel up to Diksmuide to see where the Belgium Army was fighting during the Great War and see the fascinating Trenches of Death which snaked along the Yser Canal: a place where two armies opposed each other over a short stretch of water. After lunch at Hooge Crater Café, with time to explore the museum, you then go into Ypres and visit the Kasematten Brewery in the ramparts close to where the Wipers Times was published in 1916.
No trip to the Belgian battlefields would be complete without visting the site of the Battle of Flanders in 1940 and the Retreat to Dunkirk following the fortunes of the British Expeditionary Force, including the Wormhoudt Massacre site. After lunch at St. Omer you visit the Brasserie Thiriez in Esquelbecq, a French brewery frequented in the ‘phoney war’ by British Troops.
Credit: Leger
If you are interested in any of these ideas then get in touch and we can make it happen.
After our 12th visit to Disney, I thought it would be a great idea to share tips for new visitors to the parks. Going to Disney can be daunting the first time, even for a spreadsheet planner like me. You want it to be perfect for your family, so attempt to plan it in minute detail, often with no idea where to start. Here are our top 10 tips to get you started.
Know which way to turn in the parks When entering the parks, most people turn right for some unknown reason. If you go the right way, you will undoubtedly get on rides quicker. That’s straight on for Seven Dwarves and Big Thunder Railroad in Magic Kingdom and left for Avatar and N’aavi River in Animal Kingdom and Toy Story World and Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood studios all covered. It does not seem to work the same in Epcot because of the lower number of rides, so you will just have to check when you get there which has the lowest queues or get your Fast Passes in advance. This takes me nicely on to the next two points.
Download the My Disney Experience App This is invaluable and you get free Wi-Fi in the parks so will not use up your data allowance. You will be able to see queue lengths, get fast passes, order food ready to pick up, get the times for the parades and more.
Get your fast passes in advance Even if you do not know what you will be doing each day, put a rough plan together and get your fast passes online before you go. If you are staying at a Disney Hotel you can book these 60 days in advance and if not then 30 days in advance. It does mean that the most popular rides tend to go early to people staying at Disney hotels, usually Avatar, Star Wars and Toy Story rides. In Epcot and Hollywood Studios you can only hold a fast pass for one big ride so visit more than once and ride a different one each time. If you do not end up using your fast passes, cancel them before they are due to expire. It helps people out who might want that pass on the day.
Bring your own costumes If you intend to do Bibiddi-Bobbidi Boutique, bring your own costumes for the kids. The experience is amazing but costume prices are on top and it is already an expensive activity.
Bring a water bottle Parks have water filling stations dotted around. Do not pay for expensive bottles of water when you can get it free. Use the money for snacks or mementos instead. We recommend Dole Whips – yum!
Mobile order If you want to be efficient with your time then use the Disney app to mobile order your food. This will save you from the long lines at food counters and give you more time to spend doing fun things. Not all food outlets offer this service, our favourites are: Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Columbia Harbour House at Magic Kingdom.
Book your character dining in advance If there is a must do character-dining spot your kids really want to go to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Cinderella’s Castle dining experience with the princesses can sell out fast. If it has sold out then you can also book Aarhus in Epcot to see Elsa and Anna, in our opinion this is better value as well. For any dining in the parks it pays to book ahead. Don’t forget to cancel in advance if you can’t attend or you may get charged depending on the restaurant.
Go in the evening to Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios The parks tend to be quieter in the evening and we find it much more enchanting at night. Everything is lit up and the night parades and fireworks are spectacular. You also get the benefit of missing the afternoon showers and it being cooler. So laze by the pool in the day or visit another attraction, and then go out for a night of fun in the parks.
Watch the shows Do not try to cram all the rides into your first day at each park, spread it out. Disney puts on some amazing shows and generally, the queues are much easier. Fill the time in between your fast passes watching parades or other entertainment spots. Our favourites are Fantasmic in Hollywood Studios, The Lion King in Animal Kingdom, Voices of Liberty in Epcot and Happily Ever After in Magic Kingdom. You can get details of times for all the shows in the app or each park produces a times guide which you can pick up at the entrance.
Take a break Visiting Disney Parks every day can be tiring. Make sure to take time out to relax and see the other sights Florida has to offer. We recommend Gatorland and Kennedy Space Centre for alternative days out.
My personal service includes pre-departure letters from Mickey for children, recommended daily itineraries, fast pass booking, excursion booking and on vacation help if needed. If you would like me to organize your perfect Disney Holiday, get in touch on 02921 283143 or email me on paula@worldexplorerholidays.co.uk.
Niseko is set against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Yotei and the area has some of the island’s highest and most reliable snowfall. With over 48km. of ski runs, there are slopes for all levels. What attracts people to Niseko is the quality and reliability of the snow, which is light and dry. The runs are spread out around the mountain, providing skiing conditions from morning to dusk, but if you want to ski at night, night runs are well lit.
As well as Skiing and Snowboarding, guests of Niseko can take part in Snowmobiling, Snow Rafting, Snow Tubing and Snow Shoeing. You can also experience the local Onsen, naturally occurring volcanic hot springs, to relax you after a day on the slopes.
I recommend Niseko as a ski holiday destination with a difference.
Tip: Visitors who purchase the Niseko All Mountain lift pass can make use of all of the area’s 38 lifts and easily explore all four areas.
You can fly to Sapporo from London Heathrow for a two-week Christmas and New Year getaway from £688.
I recommend the 5* Westin Rusutsu Resort for those seeking a more luxurious getaway, whilst those looking to get away from it all could consider the Forest Hideaway for peace and isolation. For a more traditional and slope side experience I recommend Moiwa Lodge, offering great value for money and fantastic hospitality.
Many hotels are already sold out for the Christmas period, so if you want to book our advice is to book soon!
SUN: THAILAND
TEMPLE AT HUA HIN
If you are looking for sun then Thailand is an ideal location with great weather all around the country. Temperatures are comfortable, without being too hot or too cold. Although Christmas is not celebrated in Thailand, you can find plenty of Christmas references in malls and Thai people love the sentiment and decorations.
For the ultimate holiday, I suggest a two-centre stay, either starting in Bangkok to take advantage of Christmas shopping in its many malls, then on to the beach to relax over Christmas and the New Year or start at the beach and see the New Year in Bangkok.
Thailand is a diverse country and can offer something for everyone, so whether you want to party until the early hours, find peace and tranquillity at the beach or explore the natural beauty of jungles or Islands, you can find it here.
Bangkok is a modern, exciting and sophisticated city whilst retaining its cultural heritage. Catch a tuk tuk through the bustling streets or a longtail boat through the floating markets, see the wondrous golden temples or visit the many modern malls. In our opinion, Thai food is one of the best in the world and you can experience everything from street food to Michelin star gourmet dining here.
Our favourite beach destination is Koh Samui because of its tropical relaxed atmosphere. The island has some of the world’s best beaches and is covered with coconut plantations, giving it a truly tropical vibe. For a completely relaxing escape I recommend staying in Bo Phut or Lamai. For something a little livelier, the main resort of Chaweng has markets, local restaurants and lively nightlife. If you like diving then you may prefer to stay on Koh Tao, a top-class diving destination with an abundant shallow and deep-water coral reef.
If Tropical rainforests are more your style, you can find both tradition and luxury in Ubud. Set amongst terraced rice paddies and rainforests, Ubud is renowned as a location for health and well-being. Here you can relax amongst the greenery, take yoga classes, Thai massage or simply relax by the pool. There is plenty to see and do here such as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and Ubud Palace.
Tip: If you would like to see elephants, monkeys or other animals during your holiday, ensure to visit a reputable animal sanctuary so that you can be sure the animals are treated well.
You can fly to Bangkok from most UK airports. A two week Christmas and New Year getaway flying on 19th December direct will cost you from £1,278 or indirect from £601 flying from London airports. Indirect flights from Manchester are available from £673.
I recommend the 4* Riva Suraya Bangkok for its central riverside location and beautiful interior, in Koh Samui we recommend the 5* Villa Labaron for the beach front location, intimate design and 5 star value for money. For perfect diving opportunities in Koh Tao I recommend 4* Ban’s Diving Resort for its focus on diving facilities, fantastic views and its in-house conservation centre. Bans is a great location for both professional divers and those wanting to dive for fun.
FAMILY FUN: HAWAII
KAUI
If you are looking for a holiday with a difference for your family this Christmas then you may not have considered Hawaii. There are two things most children love, the beach and Disney. Rather than go the traditional Orlando route, which is also a great Christmas holiday, why not try something different with the magic of the Hawaiian Islands. A tropical paradise, fantastic culture and plenty to see and do for all the family we think you will remember Christmas in Hawaii for years to come.
Hawaii celebrates Christmas with a traditional Hawaiian twist, think flowers on Christmas trees and Santa in a short-sleeved Santa suit. Take brunch in the morning then go to the beach for the rest of the day and finish off with a sunset catamaran cruise. You can also experience the Honolulu City Lights display.
For families, the Aulani Disney Resort is a must as a one-week stay. Too much Disney for grown-ups can be too much of a good thing. Aulani has everything you need to make Christmas special for your children. Your kids can get involved in Character Experiences, Kids Clubs, Beach Parties, Fireside storytelling, Hawaiian makeovers and more, there are also specific activities for tweens and teens. Do not think you will be stuck in the resort, because Aulani offers some great excursions to help you explore the Island. Take one of the many boat excursions offered and perhaps see some Dolphins, take a tour of the island, visit the island of Kaua’i or take a trip to the Pearl Harbour, you will not be lost for things to do and see.
Tip: Book now! Hawaii is a popular destination for Christmas and New Year. Hotels and flights are more expensive the longer you leave it and can be booked up a year in advance.
A two-week Christmas and New Year getaway flying on 19th December from London Heathrow will cost from £1,222 via Incheon Airport in South Korea. Make sure to check the entertainment available at Incheon including crafts for kids, concerts, exhibitions and other entertainment spaces. It is the most family friendly airport we have visited.
I recommend a week at the Aulani Disney Resort and Spa, Oahu over the Christmas holidays for its child friendly focus and it’s a Disney resort so your kids will be spoilt rotten. I recommend following this with New Year at the 4* Outrigger Reef Hotel Waikiki Beach Resort, which still has great facilities for children, is right on the beach and also has a more adult feel for parents to get their grown up holiday fix.
ADULTS ONLY: BELIZE
CAY CAULKER
Belize is a great place to escape the winter blues, having some of the best winter weather on the planet. There are highs of around 80F (27C) and lots of sunshine during the Christmas period. Belize also celebrates Christmas in a traditional way so you will hear carols being played in all the cafes and bars and drummers on the street drumming out Christmas tunes.
Belize is a country of two halves, having fantastic beaches but also tropical jungle escapes. I recommend the Cayo region, which is easily accessible from Belize City and is home to beautiful and remote jungle. Visit its underground cave networks and for a piece of history, the Mayan sites such as Caracol and Xunantunich. You can also experience many adventure activities such as caving, mountain biking and kayaking.
For beaches, visit the islands of Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker. Ambergris Caye is more developed and has a large selection of hotels, bars and restaurants. If you are interested in snorkeling, the reef is closest to the shore here, only a 5-minute boat ride. Caye Caulker is less developed and closer to the better-known dive sites, such as the Blue Hole. For a more romantic and isolated getaway you could consider one of the private island resorts.
Tip: If you are staying on the islands make sure you consider the boat times for the transfer to the islands in relation to your flight arrival time. You may need to arrange an overnight stay in Belize City and catch the morning transfer.
You can fly to Belize for Christmas and New Year from London Heathrow, Manchester or Edinburgh indirect from £1,182 per person.
I recommend the Costa Blu Adults only Beach Resort on Ambergris Caye for the fantastic sea views, spa treatments and beach hammocks. In Caye Caulker, although not specifically adult only we recommend Dream Cabanas for its beach chic style, access to the Belize Barrier Reef and more adult focused amenities. For that personal and private stay we recommend the Yok Ha Belize Resort on a 3-acre island Waterfoot Caye surrounded by the Caribbean Sea about 8 miles off the coast of Dangriga, the cultural capital of Belize. I recommend Yok Ha Belize for its exquisite food, island location and diving facilities. If a tropical jungle getaway is more your style then I recommend the Hidden Valley Inn for its exclusive access to Butterfly falls, its extensive private nature reserve trails and romantic experiences on offer such as candlelit dinners, fireside reading, cocktails by the pool, couples spa treatments or your own private Estate Cottage
CITY LIFE: NEW YORK
MANHATTAN
If you think New York is for a weekend then think again. If you are worrying about spending the whole Christmas period in New York and finding enough to do, covering the 12 days of Christmas is a breeze. In fact, this article will struggle to cover everything you could do during your visit, but let’s try it and watch out for our Christmas in New York blog later in the year for more tips and ideas.
The iconic Christmas view of New York is the Christmas Tree at the Rockefeller Centre and there is so much more to do in this area. Why not skate at the Rockerfeller Ice Rink or take a sunset view of the city from the Top of the Rock. In my opinion the view is far superior to The Empire State Building because you get the same view plus the Empire State Building. Shopping is a must when you visit New York and you can stock up on Christmas goodies not only in the traditional areas such as 5th Avenue and Macy’s, but why not take a trip down to Soho, NoLita, Lower East Side or Greenwich Village for boutique and quirky stores.
You could watch a show on Broadway or off Broadway every night and still not see every show. For alternative entertainment, try Radio Music City Hall to see the Rockettes in their Christmas Spectacular, Laugh at one of the Countless Comedy Clubs, sing your heart out at the many bars with Live Music, get soulful at a gospel brunch or chill out at one of the iconic Jazz Clubs. For a festive extravaganza take a tour to Dyker Heights to see the crazy madness of holiday displays or visit one of the many Christmas Markets dotted around the city.
For a more traditional visit take in the sights of Central Park, stopping for a hot toddy at Tavern on the Green before partaking in or watching the skaters on the iconic ice rink. From here you get a good view of the Plaza Hotel, famous for appearing in Home Alone 2. There is a great food hall below the hotel, where you can sip wine and devour fresh Macarons. Although traditional, I don’t personally recommend taking a horse and carriage ride through Central Park. Recent incidents with horses have been cause for some concern for me personally as an animal lover.
There are far too many museums to list here, but I do recommend the Met, especially with children as they offer a great kids tour. I also recommend MoMa, The Children’s Museum of Art, New Museum in Bowery and The Colour Factory in Soho. I also recommend paying your respects at the 9/11 memorial and museum which we found haunting but so worth it.
If you really want to see the ball drop on New Year’s Eve, prepare to camp out from 8am, because it is hectic. Alternatively, you can do what we did and get a hotel right on Times Square, take binoculars and ask for a Times Square view room. We managed to see Lady Gaga quite well from our room and it is a great option if you have small children who won’t be able to stay up until midnight.
Tip: Plan your stay to make sure you see everything you want to and book tickets for special events in advance. The exception is Broadway tickets which you can book on the day from TKTS on Times Square if you aren’t fussy what you see. We got great front row tickets for Chicago 30 minutes before the performance.
You can fly to New York from most UK airports and prices from London Heathrow direct on 23rd December, returning 2nd January cost from £536. If you visit over New Year only, there are some great deals currently from London Heathrow direct on 30th December returning on 5th January from £277.
I recommend The Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott for its central location, closeness to Macy’s for those Christmas buys and closeness to sights without being on top of them. If you want to stay in Times Square itself for those crazy New Year celebrations, we recommend the New York Marriott Marquis for its quality of service, views of Times Square and rooftop bar. For downtown hotels I recommend The Standard East Village for its quirky vibe and great bar or the Broome Hotel in Soho for its boutique feel and great location.
If you are interested in any of these holiday suggestions, please contact me on 02921 283143 or email paula@worldexplorerholidays.co.uk. Keep up to date on our blogs by liking and following us on Facebook. You can also follow us on Instagram @worldexplorerholiday and twitter @worldexplorerh1.
All prices quoted are accurate as of the date of this blog, but are liable to change.
If you like me are looking forward to your next holiday, but not the crowds, then maybe you need to consider a more isolated location. You still want the facilities available but you don’t want to be sharing your space with thousands of other people. With that in mind, I’ve put together my top five locations for those of you looking for a secluded exotic retreat.
1. Go off grid in Greece
Greece is one of my favourite locations. Great food, beautiful turquoise seas and you can be there within 4 hours. My favourite memory is sitting listening to the Cicadas in the olive trees, drinking a glass of wine and eating olives; simple pleasures.
You can find many great locations for seclusion in Greece, but my favourite is Ithaca. An island off the western coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea, Ithaca is the legendary home of Odysseus. It is only approximately. 14 miles from top to bottom and 4 miles wide, so really easy to explore. Great for hiking and walking, you can explore the many villages and coves of the island. Unlike many Greek Islands, Ithaca is abundant with lush plants and flowers due to the high rain levels during the winter.
For a secluded beach take a 20 minute walk from the capital to Loutsa, one of the only sandy beaches on the island and in my opinion the prettiest. Beautiful views of the capital, a small bar and sunbeds. Watch the sun go down as you sip on a Mythos.
You can also island hop to Kefalonia from here if you want a two centre holiday.
Best time to travel is June to July as August gets busy with visitors from Athens.
2. Unwind in Ubud
Whilst the crowds head for the beach in Bali, head inland to Ubud instead. Surrounded by tropical jungles and the sound of monkeys, this is a true paradise. There are many boutique hotels situated with views over the tree top canopies or the rice fields offering stunning vistas.
One of the best in our opinion is the Puri Wulandari Boutique Resort. You can sit looking out at pure calm and tranquility across the treetops. Treat yourself to a traditional massage in the spa or a Balinese theatre performance in one of the local villages.
Whilst here, visit Ubud Monkey Forest and Taman Saraswati Temple (Water Palace). Enjoy panoramic views while walking through rice fields and local villages. If you are feeling adventurous take a swing ride over the forest.
Best time to visit is June-September when days are sunny and nights are a bit cooler and if you really want the beach then try a two centre.
3. Mellow out in the Maldives
A somewhat obvious choice, but the Maldives still has the pull for anyone wanting a secluded beach based holiday. Pay for an overwater bungalow and enjoy snorkelling straight from your accommodation whenever you want. Most resorts offer either over water or beach bungalows which allows you to truly get away from it all. Your own personal piece of paradise. You can even arrange for a waters edge dinner for two, just one of the reasons the Maldive is a firm favourite with couples.
If you love sand, swimming and watersports then the Maldives is for you. Some of our lucky customers swiped bargain rates at the amazing Filitheyo Island Resort earlier this month. The reef is bursting with aquatic life including fish, reef sharks and rays and the infinity-edge swimming pool adjacent to the sea, complete with a swim-up bar, is the perfect vantage point to relax.
As one of our most popular destinations for returning customers we often have deals advertised so keep a look out.
4. Big game in Botswana
This is definitely on our bucket list. If you can afford a private small group safari then we’d recommend doing this, however you can still have a great safari experience without a private tour, by picking the right location with the right facilities.
Tuli Lodge in The Northern Tuli Game Reserve is a real find. With only 11 elegant suites, nestled in amongst the shade of the properties trees, it is a perfect choice for a secluded safari holiday.
With 48 large mammal species incorporating approximately 20,000 animals on the reserve, you are guaranteed to see a wide variety of game. You are (almost) guaranteed sightings of elephants here. Either go out on an organised safari or hole up in one of the on property hides with your drinks and snacks for a more personal experience.
An experience of a lifetime we will definitely be booking for ourselves in the near future.
5. Chill out in Costa Rica
As an ethical agent, this is another of our bucket list locations. Costa Rica offers a great choice for those of you looking for eco friendly locations. Don’t forget to offset your flight using our offsetting tool on our website.
Costa Rica has some great beaches, but it’s the abundance of wildlife and scenery of the tropical rainforest that we recommend customers to experience. There are so many great eco friendly lodges that we couldn’t possibly pick one, but you can guarantee something that will suit every type of visitor. For complete seclusion then the Nicuesa Lodge, which is only accessible by boat or the community spirited Hotel La Quinta Sarapiqui where you can get involved in Eco friendly activities such as tree planting, a chocolate tour or visit a local school.
This is a soul cleansing experience you will never forget.
If you are interested in any of these holiday suggestions, please contact me on 02921 283143 or email paula@worldexplorerholidays.co.uk. Keep up to date on our blogs by liking and following us on Facebook. You can also follow us on Instagram @worldexplorerholiday and twitter @worldexplorerh1.
GREEN: There are 12 countries or territories under this category. Of these, 4 have direct non-stop air links to England. Restrictions may still apply to enter these countries so please check the FCDO website for the exact requirements:
GIBRALTAR 
ICELAND 
ISRAEL 
PORTUGAL
AMBER: Most European countries and North America are under this category which requires home quarantine on return. In fact, any country not on the green or red lists is considered amber.
RED: This category allows entry from UK citizens & residents only and requires a mandatory hotel quarantine on return. New additions to this list are: 
MALDIVES 
NEPAL 
TURKEY
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Regular updates will follow – I have read the rules so you don’t have to! If you have any questions, please get in touch. I am happy to try and help even if you do not currently have a booking with me. 
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World Explorer Holidays 