06 June 2024

We jetted off to Rovaniemi the end of November 2024, which is the capital of Finnish Lapland, located right on the Arctic Circle. And which of course is the "official" hometown of Santa Claus. We rented a car for 6 nights as transfers can be very expensive in Lapland. When we arrived, we drove into the city centre of Rovaniemi to a shopping centre to pick up so groceries for our trip. The shopping centre had so many different shops including a supermarket, which was great. We explored a little around the city as out check in wasn’t until 4pm. We Stayed in the Santa Claus holiday village in a cabin for 3 nights which was so magically. We have everything on our doorstep and the log cabin was just the perfect size for the 3 of us. It was really cosy and warm. The outside of every cabin had its very own Christmas tree and they all looked so beautiful. It was -10 most days we were there but when you are kitted out correctly you don’t really feel the cold at all. We did so much in Santa Claus village, we met Santa Claus in person! The office is open every day of the year, offering a unique opportunity to chat with Santa and take photos at an additional charge. A highlight of the village is the Arctic Circle line, which runs through the area. Visitors can cross the line and receive a certificate to bring home with you. Santa Claus Main Post Office is also here where you can send postcards and letters with a special Arctic Circle postmark. You can also see letters sent to Santa from children all around the world. While in SCHV we also went on a 2.5k Reindeer Ride, a husky tour which included a 4KM Huskey ride which was amazing, and our daughter absolutely loved every minute of it. Eabha was free into all of these activities as she was under 3 years. Santa Claus Village is located about 8 kilometres from Rovaniemi city centre which is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi. It is open every day of the year, though specific attractions may have varying hours, especially during off-peak seasons. While entry to the village is free, some activities and attractions require tickets or reservations, especially during peak times. Santa Claus Village offers a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Finnish Lapland. We also visited Santa Park which is a short distance from Santa Claus village. Santa Park is an indoor Christmas themed park which I personally think is suited for younger kids. We met Santa Claus himself there in a cozy, festively decorated office where we chatted with Santa and took some photos. They also have an Elf School where we learned all the Elves secrets and earned a special diploma after mastering the art of being an elf. In the Gingerbread Bakery we got to decorate our own gingerbread cookies under the guidance of Mrs. Gingerbread which we all really enjoyed. In Santa’s workshop we watched elves work making toys and preparing for Christmas which my daughter loved. There is also a Magic Train which we had to go on twice that took us through the enchanting scenery, including the elves’ toy factory and Santa’s secret cavern. We also got to watch an Elf Show which is on at certain times of the day, but I have to say it’s a really entertaining live performance by the elves that are singing, dancing, and doing acrobatics. In the workshop Eabha got to create your own Christmas decorations to take home which was so nice. After an amazing few hours, we heading back to our cabin and ate dinner in Restaurant Gallis which is up at the Glass Igloo resort in Santa Claus village and I have to say the food was amazing. I had made a reservation for this the week before we arrived as it can book up easily during peak season. The following day we drove up north to LEVI for 3 nights which is a 2 hour (very remote) drive but really beautiful. Levi is a ski resort, but you can also see and do almost everything you can do in Rovaniemi like visit Santa etc. We stayed in the Break Sokos Hotel Levi which couldn’t be in a better location, right beside restaurants and shops and only a 2 minute walk to the ski slope. We mostly relaxed in Levi and played in the snow as Eabha was just obsessed with the snow and her sleigh (which we bought in the supermarket). One thing we really enjoyed in Levi was Water world Levi which is an indoor waterpark that also has a pool and 2 jacuzzies outside that are heated. There was also a lovely play area there too which we visited every day. I also have to mention Campfire Barista which is at the bottom of the ski slope in Levi. The Barista shared stories and information about the local culture, nature, and traditions, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Along with coffee, you can buy traditional Finnish snacks, such as buns, biscuits, or other local delicacies. We toasted homemade marshmallows on the fire and made smores out of them which were delicious. For more information about Lapland, please do get in touch. I absolutely love to talk about Lapland and happy to help you book the most magically holiday whether it be as a couple, family, or solo traveller.

03 May 2024

I had the opportunity to visit the magnificent Club Med Magna, an all-inclusive resort that has to be one of the best I have being to for families and active couples. The Club Med in Marbella is undoubtedly the greatest place to go when visiting the surrounding or discover Andalusia. It offers a wide range of activities that allow you to spend time with your loved ones as well as enjoy activities on your own or as a couple. On arrival we got our wristbands which act as your room key and if you want to buy anything in resort. The food selection has to be one of its greatest advantages. With a French heritage, the food is exceptional and plays a vital role in showcasing the regional flavours and cuisine. If you're active, there is a lot of activities to choose from. I got to play Padel tennis which I really enjoyed but not only that I decided to try flying trapeze which really pushed my limits but I have to say I absolutely loved every minute of each activity. Club Med offers fitness classes for all levels along with group lessons in golf, tennis, padel, trapeze, swimming, fitness, and archery. They also organise tournaments throughout the week so you can compete with others which I also took part in and even though we lost every game it is was still so much fun. Families are the focus of the resort, there is a family fun zone, shallow paddling pools, and an amazing kids club which accept babies from 4 months up to 17yrs. They offer activities for every age including a family circus, mini club med shows (open April to early November) and so much more. They have a little stage in the kids club for kids to perform on too which I thought was so cool. I have a little lady who would love that. Each evening there is a different theme which you will find on the ClubMed app before you arrive which really helped me when I was packing. While we were there, we had a cappuccino night where everyone was dressed in beige, browns and Kaki green colours. Evening entertainment includes silent discos, Karaoke, live music and so much more to keep you entertained. In Club Med sun resorts, kids under 6 stay free and in Club Med ski resorts, kids under 4 stay free. With activities for all ages, kid-friendly dining options, family-friendly rooms, and extensive kids’ clubs, Club Med takes pride in its family-friendly approach and strives to make it simple for families to get together on holidays. We also did and excursion from the resort which was well worth the almost 3-hour transfer. We visited Granada & Alhambra which was really amazing. I honestly couldn’t get over how beautiful Granada is and we had an amazing guide to tell us about the history behind Alhambra which was so interesting. Granada is home to the palace and fortress complex known as the Alhambra. Not only is it one of the most well-known Islamic architectural monuments, but it is also one of the best-preserved palaces in the historical Islamic world. Not to mention, it has some outstanding examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture. To top off our trip i got upgraded to business class on the way home. We were flying with Aer Lingus and I actually would have loved if the journey was a bit longer as I loved putting my seat into a bed with the massage mode on and getting to relax on a lovely flight after an amazing trip. If you have any questions about ClubMed or would like to get a quote please get in touch. Emma

20 November 2023

One of my favourite holiday destinations has to be Dubai, I have been there a couple of times and each time I find something new to do. I have been to Abu Dhabi twice but this time I am going to talk about my stay in the Emirates palace which was definitely ‘Luxury at its finest. We checked in for 2 nights to the "Palace by the Sea," which it is often referred to as. Emirates Palace is more than just a hotel, it is a true palace. Its golden domes and beautiful details, creates an immediate sense of awe as you approach the property. The hotel boasts a variety of guest rooms and suites, each designed to offer the highest level of comfort and luxury. We stayed in a Deluxe Garden view King room with a balcony. It exceeded our expectations. We ate in Mezzaluna which is Italian restaurant on both nights which was a dining experience with a journey of Flavours & world-class cuisine. The Emirates Palace offers not one, but two spectacular swimming pools, including a lavish infinity pool that seems to merge with the sea. The private beach is a paradise and water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like kayaking and snorkelling. Overall whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, a lavish family vacation, or a memorable destination for an event or celebration, the Emirates Palace will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the art of hospitality in the Arabian Gulf. When we arrived in Dubai, we checked into The Atlantis for 5 nights. Situated on the Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai's most iconic man-made islands. This remarkable resort and entertainment complex has redefined luxury and leisure in Dubai, offering a captivating blend of world-class accommodation, thrilling attractions, and unforgettable experiences. The Atlantis waterpark Aqua Adventure is home to one of the largest and most impressive waterparks in the region. With heart-pounding water slides, river rides, and an exhilarating zipline that takes you through a shark-infested lagoon, this waterpark offers excitement for all ages. Do not miss the iconic Leap of Faith slide, which plunges you through a clear tunnel in a shark-filled pool. Guest rooms, suites, and distinctive underwater suites with jaw-dropping views of the aquatic life are among amazing options available at Atlantis, Dubai. We had a fantastic view of the Arabian Sea from our Ocean King accommodation. The resort boasts a diverse range of dining options, from celebrity chef restaurants to casual eateries. Enjoy world-class cuisine at Nobu by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Savour Mediterranean Flavours at Ronda Locatelli by Chef Giorgio Locatelli, or indulge in an underwater dining experience at Ossiano, where you can dine surrounded by marine life. Atlantis, Dubai is not just a place for relaxation, it is also a hub for entertainment. Nasimi Beach hosts beach parties and international DJs. There was a concert at Nasimi Beach featuring Robin Schulz, Rudimental, and other incredible performers while we were visiting, and it was an incredible experience. Atlantis, Dubai offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for an exhilarating experience at the waterpark, fine dining at restaurants, discovering aquatic life, or just relaxing. Travellers from all over the world are obsessed with this remarkable location, which leaves them with priceless memories that Dubai has to offer. Consider making Atlantis, Dubai your home away from home when organising your upcoming trip to this vibrant city and be ready for an amazing journey right in the middle of the Arabian Gulf which I am happy to help with during every part of your stay.

20 November 2023

In the heart of the Mexican Caribbean lies Cancún, a resort town that is the very essence of paradise. From its beautiful waters to its immaculate white sand beaches, Cancún is a tropical haven promising adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Cancún's beaches are undoubtedly the town's most appealing attraction. Turquoise waters crashing onto pristine white sands is hard to resist. I stayed in the Hard Rock Hotel and from the minute I stepped into the lobby of Hard Rock Hotel Cancún I knew I was in for a treat. Located in the heart of Cancún's Hotel Zone, with the sparkling Caribbean Sea as its backdrop, this resort leaves no stone unturned in providing unmatched luxury with a subtle touch of signature Hard Rock aesthetics. Each room offers panoramic ocean or lagoon views, encouraging you to soak in Cancún's scenic beauty. One of the major highlights of Hard Rock Hotel Cancún is the culinary journey it offers. With five restaurants serving everything from Brazilian, Asian, Italian, Mexican to international cuisine, there is a plate for every palate. During our trip to Cancún we took a day trip to Chichen Itza & a beautiful Cenote which really was one of the most memorable places we have been. We just loved it. During our 2.5-hour journey we stopped at a Mayan village where we got an understanding of the roots of the captivating Mayan civilization, a visit to an authentic Mayan village offers an unrivalled first-hand cultural experience. Unmarred by the bustle of modern lifestyle, these villages showed me simplicity, community spirit and a deep connection to nature. While walking through the village, we were greeted with a traditional Mayan meal a pot of simmering cochinita pibil - a slow-roasted pork dish made with a mix of native spices. The taste of this home-cooked meal, served with warm tortillas and pickled onions, is an experience in itself. We then arrived at Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza stands as a testament to the architectural and astronomical brilliance of the ancient Mayan civilization. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it is an essential visit for travellers seeking a brush with history and culture. As you wander, you encounter the Great Ball Court, the largest and most impressive of its kind in the Americas. It is remarkable not only for its size but also the acoustics – clap from one end of the ball court, and you will hear the sound echo back distinctly seven times. One of the most famous cenotes is the 'Sacred Cenote’ in Chichen Itza. Also known as 'Cenote Sagrado', it was significant to the Mayan people for religious ceremonies and believed to be a gateway to the afterlife. We then took a short bus journey to a Cenote which completely took our breath away. There is a shop and changing area there. There are life jackets available if you are not a strong swimmer (like me) The Cenote is like a magical underground swimming hole that make you feel as if you are stepping into another world. The crystal-clear waters offer a visibility that sometimes exceeds fifty meters, casting a magic vibe. After the most amazing day we got our bus journey back to our hotel. For any of you that would be interested in visiting Cancún please feel free to contact me and I would be happy to help organise and plan your journey.

13 October 2023

I have always wanted to travel business class and explore Singapore so in November 2019 I did both. Firstly, when we booked business class tickets with Emirates, we had a Chauffeur pick us up in Mullingar. He arrived early and was so helpful and friendly. He dropped us off at Terminal 2 and we had our bags checked in and through security in less than 10 minutes. We then headed to The East Lounge at Dublin Airport where there were lovely healthy options for breakfast and drinks which was all complementary. We boarded the plane and were greeted with glasses of champagne or orange juice and hot towels. We had a 3-hour layover in Dubai where we got to use the Emirates Business class lounge where we got to have private showers and grab a bite to eat before we headed on the Airbus A380 to Singapore. Our seats were more than just seats; they are spacious private suites. They can be converted into fully flat beds, ensuring a good night's sleep during long-haul flights. The legroom and generous personal space make it easy to work or relax. The menu onboard is created by gourmet chefs, offering a range of international and regional dishes. Whether we were in the mood for a five-course meal or a light snack, the dining options are extensive and customizable. During our flight we could enjoy access to the onboard lounge where you can enjoy a drink, or simply relax and take in the scenery. It is an excellent way to break up the journey on long-haul flights. So, we then landed in Singapore and got our transfer to our first hotel Grand Park City Hall which we stayed at for 3 nights. I picked this one as it was in a suitable location for exploring the city. You had to download an app on your phone which acted as the room key and controlled many functions in the room also which was cool. Our hotel was close to a lot of main attractions in Singapore e.g., Clark Quay, China town, Marina Bay, and Gardens by the bay and the MRT. You have endless shopping and food options within a 10-minute walk. Singapore's reputation as one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the world is well-deserved. The city boasts an array of lush parks, botanical gardens, and the stunning Gardens by the Bay, a testament to the nation's commitment to green spaces and sustainability. After all the sightseeing we checked into the Marina Bay Sands for our final 2 night's stay. Its three 55-story towers are connected by a breath-taking rooftop sky park, which has become an iconic symbol of the city. We knew we had to stay in this hotel when we would come to Singapore. The views from the pool are amazing, it makes you never want to leave. Our room was a garden view room, and it was just dreamy. The rooms provide guests with panoramic views of either the city or the bay, with spacious interiors and world-class amenities. Staying at MBS is an experience in itself. The hotel has an Observation deck, Art science museum, Casino and there is a shopping mall 200 metres away. On our last day we visited Universal Studios in Sentosa which was so much fun. Whether you are a traveller seeking adventure or simply curious about the world, Singapore is a place that deserves a spot on your bucket list. With its unique blend of cultures, impressive architecture, and pristine landscapes, Singapore continues to captivate the hearts and minds of those who visit. If you need help arranging your exciting trip to Singapore, please feel free to contact me.