25 October 2024

I was lucky enough, along with 35 fellow Travel Counsellors, to win a spot onboard Scarlet Lady for a weeklong sailing on the Med. I embarked in Barcelona, before docking in Toulon, Civitavecchia, Corsica, Ibiza, and heading back to Barcelona. I had cruised once previously, a short two-night cruise from Sydney Harbour, out to sea and back again, so I was very intrigued about a weeklong voyage, and it did not disappoint. Bag drop and check in at Barcelona was very easy, well communicated and lots of staff available to help. Virgin have a great app, which you can access before your trip to choose a check in time, the earlier the better to avoid any queues. My check in was straight forward, taking thirty minutes from bag drop to getting to my room. Modern Design Once onboard, I was immediately struck by the décor of the ship. Scarlet Lady is a new ship, with her inaugural sail in 2021. With sleek, modern designs, every corner of this ship feels like stepping into a luxury hotel. Scarlet Lady is also eco-conscious, she’s equipped with state-of-the-art energy efficiency systems, a ban on single-use plastics, and a commitment to reducing environmental impact while at sea. I stayed in a sea view central room with terrace, which felt like a chic hotel room. High-tech features include a tablet to control the lighting, temperature, and TV, adding a convenient, modern touch. The ensuite bathroom has a walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead and quality toiletries. I had a private balcony with ocean views, complete with a hammock for a truly relaxing space to watch the sea. Entertainment The superb entertainment on board was evident from Day 1 with free-flowing champagne at the sail away party, where guests all gathered on the top deck, entertained by DJ Tash. The party continued into the night, with a PJ party, where guests could change into their PJs to dance the night away. The entertainment team on board are fantastic. Some of the areas that I visited: • The Red Room: A transformative space that hosts everything from drag shows to modern circus performances. I attended Diva Bingo, a two-hour long show, full of laughter and fun. Although I didn’t win, I had the most enjoyable afternoon. • The Manor: A two-story nightclub inspired by Virgin’s iconic musical roots, perfect for dancing the night away. Some great DJs and live acts. • Scarlet Night: This signature themed party transforms the entire ship into a vibrant, red-hued wonderland, filled with surprises at every turn. There was karaoke, circus performances and pool entertainment which lasted until the early hours, quite the spectacle. If this isn’t your thing, there is also live music in different areas throughout the ship, The Dock and The Roundabout. There are pop quizzes & board games in the social area, Art classes, health and wellness talks, star gazing – Virgin really thought of something for every age and interest. Dining Virgin Voyages do not follow the traditional cruise buffets. Instead, there’s more than 20 onboard dining options with no additional cost, and no main dining room. From Michelin-star chefs to street food-inspired bites. Highlights for me include: • The Wake: A stunning, sophisticated restaurant offering premium seafood and steak in a sophisticated ambiance. I had a three-course breakfast and a fabulous evening meal here, I think it may have been the first time I’ve eaten prawns for breakfast ‘starter’, finished with a layered crepe cake for breakfast dessert. • The Test Kitchen: One of the most unique aspects of the Test Kitchen is that it’s not just about the food, but also the culinary journey. Throughout the meal, chefs come out to explain each course, sharing insights about the ingredients, preparation techniques, and inspirations behind the dish - this makes it a highly immersive experience. My meal contained mushroom pate, asparagus with cashew nuts, scallops, beef and blue cheese ice cream. • Razzle Dazzle: This trendy, plant-forward restaurant has a rebellious spirit, serving both vegan and indulgent comfort food. Expect surprises like "Impossible burgers" alongside unicorn-coloured cocktails. • Gunbae: For fans of interactive dining, this lively Korean BBQ spot brings friends together over sizzling grills and games. It was the perfect restaurant for our group on the first night of our cruise. • Bento Baby: Located in the Galley, I loved the grab and go fruit boxes in morning which had the perfect amount of fruit, granola and yoghurt; quite the contrast to my three-course breakfast at the Wake. All of the speciality’s restaurants can be booked on the App, before boarding. If you have any issues, guest services are available onboard to help with reservations. Reservations also crop up during the week, I was able to eat in all of the specialities on board. Wellness If relaxation is on your agenda, Scarlet Lady has you covered. The ship’s Redemption Spa is a retreat, offering everything from massages to mud rooms and even a hydrotherapy pool. I spent a sea day relaxing in the Thermal suite, watching the waves out the window in the sauna. For those looking to workout, the ship boasts high-end fitness facilities, including: • B-Complex Gym: Cardio machines and weight training • The Athletic Club: A fun, outdoor space with a boxing ring, basketball court, and even a playful set of oversized hammocks for post-workout lounging. There is daily yoga, spin classes, and even sunrise meditation sessions on deck. I hadn’t done a spin class in years and managed two in the week, I loved them and what a setting I had, watching the sunrise over the sea. The HIIT class was epic also, I only managed one of these, as having not gymed in some time, I needed some R&R by the pool to recover after this class. Lastly, there’s a running track on the top deck, 250 metres and a lovely space to get away from it all, whether walking or running. Scarlet Lady was designed for the modern traveller, she’s bold, luxurious, and unapologetically different from traditional cruise ships. If you’ve ever dreamed of a cruise experience that combines adventure, indulgence, and style, then hop aboard and discover what makes this ship a game-changer. Get in touch to discuss your Voyage options.

24 July 2024

Australia is a huge country; it can prove quite overwhelming when planning a trip Down Under. I've added a suggested itinerary below for the East Coast of Australia, which can be comfortably completed in three weeks. Melbourne (5 nights) City Exploration: Spend a few days in Melbourne visiting key attractions like Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, Royal Botanic Gardens, Eureka Skydeck and Southbank. Join a laneway and coffee tour to explore quirky lanes like Degraves Street, sample local coffee, and view street art, a significant part of Melbourne’s culture. Great Ocean Road: Drive the iconic Great Ocean Road to Port Campbell, stopping at surfing towns, Otway National Park, and viewpoints along the way. Don’t miss a helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles. Mornington Peninsula: From Port Campbell, travel back to Queenscliff and take the car ferry to Sorrento. Relax in the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs or take coastal hikes. On your return to Melbourne, stop at Brighton Beach to see the colourful beach huts and city views. Sporting Events: Check out the sports schedule for events like AFL, NRL, the Australian Open, surf championships at Bells Beach, or Formula 1. Sydney (5 nights) Bondi to Coogee Walk: Enjoy spectacular coastal scenery, beaches, and cafes. Sydney CBD: Visit attractions like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Botanic Gardens, St Mary’s Cathedral, Australian Museum, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or head for dinner in the Westfield 360 revolving tower. Eastern Suburbs: Visit Watson’s Bay for beach time at Camp Cove, breakfast at Dunbar House, or dinner at Doyles. Or head to Rose Bay to catch a sea plane flight over Sydney Harbour. Northern beaches: Consider a trip to Taronga Zoo or Manly – a ferry ride from Circular comes highly recommended. Further afield: Palm Beach for some beautiful beaches and restaurants or Hunter Valley for the best wine tasting experience. Hamilton Island (4 nights) Gateway to Great Barrier Reef: Hamilton island is known for luxury accommodations and access to the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and reef cruises. Whitehaven Beach: Famous for its pristine white silica sand and clear waters. There’s a huge choice of tours available from Whitehaven inlet morning trips to sunset sailing tours around the Whitsunday islands. Noosa (4 nights) Noosa is my favourite place in Australia, a beautiful coastal town in Queensland with stunning beaches, national parks, and a laid-back atmosphere. Noosa National Park: Explore walking trails with coastal views, wildlife, and scenic spots like Hell's Gates and Tea Tree Bay. Hastings Street: The heart of Noosa, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, great for shopping, dining, and people-watching. Noosa Main Beach: Perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Festivals: Check out events like the Noosa Festival of Surfing, Noosa Food & Wine Festival, and Noosa Triathlon Multi-Sport Festival. Drive to Brisbane: A scenic journey through the Sunshine Coast with stops at Australia Zoo and Glass House Mountains. Brisbane (3 nights) City Exploration: Discover the vibrant culture and attractions of Brisbane. Visit South Bank Parklands, Brisbane City Hall, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Queen St Mall, and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA). Enjoy dining and entertainment at Eagle Street Pier and take a river cruise for a scenic view of the city. Moreton Island: Catch a ferry to Moreton Island, located off the coast of Brisbane, It’s a stunning destination known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and range of activities. The Gabba: Watch a sporting event at Brisbane’s premier sports stadium. Further afield: Byron Bay or Gold Coast. Having lived in Sydney for 10 years, I love sending my clients to the dreamland, which is Australia. All itineraries are tailor made to suit individual specific needs. Get in touch and let’s start planning your trip to Oz.

29 February 2024

Take a trip through South Island New Zealand with me! Here's my 8th day Itinerary. Day 1: Upon arrival in Christchurch, we travelled through Arthur’s Pass to reach Franz Josef. After a lengthy drive, we stopped at Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools, which offered a superb place to relax and rejuvenate in nature. A night's stay at Rainforest Retreat set us up for the adventures to come. Day 2: Early the next morning, we embarked on an exhilarating glacier hike in Franz Josef. Our adventure included navigating ice formations, crafting stairs from the ice, and immersing ourselves in the breathtaking scenery. This experience ranks among the best I've ever had. For those seeking more adventure, heli-hiking and various tour options are also available. Day 3: Our day in Wanaka was spent exploring its natural wonders. We climbed mountains, admired the serene lake, and visited attractions such as the outdoor maze and sculpture gallery of Puzzling World with an evening at their quirky Cinema Paradiso. Day 4-5: Upon reaching Queenstown, we rented bikes to cycle along the picturesque lakefront. We indulged in the renowned Fergburger for lunch and later ascended to the mountain's summit via gondola. The best views in the region are found here, spread out in a spectacular panorama with breath-taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peak. We had dinner at Skyline's Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, and returned back down the mountain via gondola, although a luge is also an option. Skiing is possible during certain seasons. For thrill-seekers, options abound in Queenstown, from skydiving and paragliding to white water rafting, providing an adrenaline-fueled day of excitement. Day 6: Our journey took us to Milford Sound, although the drive from Queenstown was lengthy. Along the way, we marvelled at Lake Gunn and Mirror Lakes before embarking on a scenic cruise around Milford Sound. While time-consuming, this experience offered unparalleled beauty. Day 7: A night at Lake Tekapo treated mesmerising views, field purple and pink lupin Flowers. We enjoyed relaxing in outdoor serenity at Tekapo Hot Springs, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Day 8: Before departing, we took the opportunity to explore Christchurch, soaking in its unique charm and bidding farewell to New Zealand's captivating landscapes. Overall, our journey through New Zealand was reminiscent of Ireland, with endless sights and photo opportunities awaiting at every turn. Get in contact today to start planning your New Zealand escape!

29 February 2024

I was privileged to call Sydney home for a decade, I'm excited to share my ideal day in the Eastern suburbs. Here are my top 5 suggestions! 1. Start at Centennial Parklands: Begin your day with a walk around the expansive Centennial Parklands. Enjoy the many trails, ponds, and greenery spanning 470 acres. No visit to the park is complete without strolling along the tree-lined track at Busby's Pond, my favourite place in Sydney. I always grabbed a delicious mocha from Green Bean Café, Clovelly Rd, for the walk. Tell Catherine and Andy that Dee says Hi… if you’re lucky enough to get there. 2. Brunch at Bake Bar: Head to Bake Bar on Frenchman's Road for a delicious brunch. Indulge in their famous breakie bowl, or choose from their many delectables. 3. Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk: Spend the day exploring the Eastern suburbs beaches. Start at Coogee Beach, embark on the 6km scenic coastal walk towards Bondi Beach, stopping at Gordon's Bay, Clovelly, Bronte, and Tamarama along the way. Enjoy the stunning views and maybe even take a dip in the refreshing ocean waters, or snorkelling at Clovelly. You’ll be spoilt for choice of restaurants along the way. 4. Bondi Icebergs: Take a break at Bondi Icebergs, where you can people-watch, grab a drink, or even swim in the iconic 50-meter pool overlooking Bondi Beach. It's a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere and admire the breathtaking views. 5. Dinner at Brown Sugar: Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at Brown Sugar in Bondi. Don't miss their famous fish pie, a favourite dish of mine. With plenty of dining options and bars in Bondi, you can unwind and reminisce on your magical day in the East. If you are looking to experience the best of Sydney, I’d be delighted to share my tips and recommendations!

29 February 2024

In September 2022, my two friends and I finally checked Sorrento off our bucket list, finding it to be the perfect escape for three busy moms in dire need of a break. We revelled in three nights of pure bliss amidst an idyllic backdrop of breath-taking views, captivating sunsets, delectable cuisine, and uninterrupted relaxation. Our journey commenced with a flight from Dublin to Naples, followed by a swift private transfer to Sorrento, a mere hour's journey away. Our accommodation nestled us in the heart of Sorrento, just a stone's throw from iconic landmarks like “Sedil Dominova” and a few steps from the sea, as well as central hubs of Piazza Tasso and Piazza Lauro. Venturing into the charming narrow streets lined with an array of shops, we stumbled upon Limonoro, renowned for its signature limoncello and tantalising chocolates. The warm hospitality extended by the staff, coupled with generous samples, transformed our visit into an unforgettable experience. The limoncello and pistachio foyaten were delicious. Our lunchtime escapade led us to Misaki Sushi, where we savoured mouthwatering sushi while basking in the lively ambiance of the nearby streets. A haven for sushi enthusiasts, it was a delight not to be missed. We spent a leisurely afternoon at Peter’s beach. With chairs on the pontoon rather than the sandy shore, we relished the opportunity to swim in the clear, deep waters. It's advisable to secure reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons. It provided a tranquil respite from our excursions and served as the ideal spot for unwinding in Sorrento. Evenings were pleasantly spent at the Vista Sky Bar, atop Sunset Hotel Mediterraneo, offering unparalleled sunset views, followed by a superb dinner at Fuoro51, where attentive and friendly staff ensured a memorable dining experience. We embarked on a boat trip to Positano and Amalfi, where the scenic journey to picturesque Positano left us with a lasting impression. Basking in the serenity of Marina Grande beach, we marvelled at the beautiful views and meandered through the quaint streets of the town. While not entirely accessible for some due to numerous steps, it offered a captivating glimpse into coastal life. In Amalfi, we savoured a delectable lunch at Donna Stella, following a scenic stroll through winding streets to discover this hidden culinary gem nestled amidst lemon trees—a testament to authentic family-run pizzerias. Passing by the majestic Amalfi Cathedral, we soaked in the vibrant ambiance as tourists and locals alike revelled in the afternoon sun. A brief tour of the cathedral added to the richness of our experience. Wrapping up our Amalfi adventure, we made a pit stop at Marina Grande for refreshing drinks and some beachside relaxation. A few places that we didn’t manage to fit in on this trip were Capri, a tour of Pompeii, plenty more to explore on a return trip. Our visit to Sorrento and its enchanting surroundings offered an effortless blend of activities and relaxation, catering to diverse preferences. If Sorrento is on your wishlist, feel free to reach out—I’d be delighted to share more about our unforgettable journey.