18 September 2023

Join me on an exhilarating journey to Malaysia, without a shadow of a doubt, my favourite country. Malaysia blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. This travel blog recounts my unforgettable experiences, starting with an awe inspiring visit to the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur. From exploring vibrant night markets to savouring delectable cuisine and encountering exotic wildlife, the trip offers a kaleidoscope of experiences. So fasten your seatbelts, as we embark on an adventure with the wonderful Emirates Airlines to discover the wonders of Malaysia. Our journey begins in Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital of Malaysia. After a comfortable flight on the double-decker A380 via Dubai, I found myself standing at the base of the awe-inspiring Petronas Towers. Ascending to the observation deck, ears popping in a lift that goes so quick your tummy flips, I marvelled at the 360-degree panoramic views of this amazing city below. As night fell, I ventured into the vibrant Jalan Alor foot street night market, immersing myself in the lively atmosphere and sampling a variety of tantalizing street food, some of which I would dare to ask what they are or where they came from. The blend of aromas, colours, and sounds created an unforgettable sensory experience. Indulging in the opulence of the Mandarin Oriental, our hotel suite so big it took me 15 minutes to find my wife. The service is impeccable and the food truly out of this world. From the moment I arrived, the hotel's attention to detail and warm hospitality made me feel like royalty. But as all good things come to an end, we bid farewell to Kuala Lumpur, and I embarked on a short flight to Penang, where I checked into the iconic Eastern and Oriental Hotel. A true blast from Malaysia's colonial past – the valets even wear the traditional pith helmets from the times of the Raj. This breathtaking property is reminiscent of the legendary Raffles Hotel, exuding old-world charm and elegance. Penang offered more than just historical landmarks, as I embarked on an adventure to witness Malaysia's incredible biodiversity. A trip to the Penang National Park led me to encounter awe-inspiring Komodo dragons up close. The experience of observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat was truly humbling. Additionally, I embarked on a boat trip to explore the mysterious caves inhabited by vampire bats. As I ventured deeper into the cave, the sight of thousands of bats hanging from the ceiling was both eerie and fascinating. No trip to Malaysia is complete without indulging in its diverse culinary offerings. In Penang, I had the unique opportunity to pick my own live fish from a local market and have it prepared for dinner at a charming seafood restaurant. The freshness and flavours of the seafood were simply unparalleled, leaving my taste buds in a state of pure bliss. However, having looked my 4lb lobster square in the eyes, I did feel a few pangs of guilt as I slathered him in garlic butter. My final destination was the enchanting island of Langkawi where I checked into the mind blowing 5-star Datai. Nestled amidst lush rainforests and overlooking pristine beaches, the hotel offered impeccable service and amazing panoramic views. However, nature had a surprise in store for me, as mischievous monkeys decided to pay a visit to my room via an open window and had ransacked the minibar. Although their antics caused a bit of chaos, it was a memorable encounter that certainly added a touch of adventure to my stay. Are you ready to embark on your own extraordinary adventure through Malaysia? Let Travel Counsellors be your trusted guide. With their impeccable service and full bonding, you can rest assured that every aspect of your trip will be seamlessly organized and fully bonded and protected. From experiencing the awe-inspiring Petronas Towers to indulging in the vibrant night markets, encountering exotic wildlife, and luxuriating in opulent accommodations, Travel Counsellors will curate a personalized itinerary that exceeds your expectations. Don't wait any longer—book your dream trip with Travel Counsellors and create memories that will last a lifetime. Your Malaysian adventure awaits!

18 September 2023

Join me on a thrilling and picturesque journey down South Africa's famed Garden Route. This enchanting road trip will take us through idyllic coastal towns, natural wonders, and magnificent landscapes. With a self-drive itinerary and stays at luxurious 5-star hotels, get ready for a fun-filled and upbeat adventure that will leave you in awe. So buckle up and let's hit the road to explore the wonders of Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Port Elizabeth, Plettenberg Bay, and Durban. My journey begins in the amazing Mossel Bay, where I check into the exquisite African Oceans Manor on the Beach. This gorgeous 5-star hotel offers stunning ocean views and a tranquil atmosphere. I spend my days exploring the pristine beaches, indulging in water sports, or simply relaxing by the pool. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse and the fascinating Bartholomeu Dias Museum Complex, where you can delve into the region's rich maritime history. Next on my itinerary is George, the gateway to countless outdoor adventures. I make my way to the renowned Fancourt Hotel, a truly marvellous 5-star resort known for its world-class golf courses and elegant amenities. I tee off amidst breath taking landscapes, take a thrilling hike along the Outeniqua Mountains, or simply unwind in the hotel's spa. Fancourt Hotel offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, allowing me to create unforgettable memories. Continuing my journey, I arrive in the sunning coastal town of Knysna and check into the charming Candlewood Lodge. This boutique 5-star hotel offers a serene setting and personalized service. I explore the iconic Knysna Heads, take a leisurely boat cruise along the lagoon, or venture into the nearby forests for a peaceful hike. Candlewood Lodge provides a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, making me feel right at home in this beautiful coastal town. Continuing my adventure, I reach the breath taking shores of Plettenberg Bay. My luxurious 5-star hotel provides a perfect retreat. I explore the golden beaches, go whale-watching during the migration season, or visit the nearby Robberg Nature Reserve for stunning coastal hikes. With a vibrant culinary scene, I indulge in fresh seafood delicacies and local wines. For the adventurous, I try my hand at surfing or kiteboarding. Plettenberg Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Finally I head down to Port Elizabeth, a really vibrant city on the Eastern Cape. Here, I stay at the elegant Isango Gate Hotel, a 5-star property offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. I explore the city's rich history, visit the iconic Donkin Reserve, and enjoy the amazing Sardinia bay beach . Port Elizabeth serves as a gateway to the nearby Addo Elephant National Park, where I have the incredible opportunity to observe majestic elephants in their natural habitat. The work they do at the nature reserve is truly incredible and I will never forget feeding an orphaned baby elephant The Garden Route road trip, with its top quality, diverse range of accommodations and captivating destinations, leaves an indelible mark on my heart. From coastal oases to natural wonders, this joyous adventure showcases the best of South Africa. Embrace the freedom of the open road and create memories that will last a lifetime. I would really love to help you put together a fabulous holiday in South Africa - it truly is a magical place. Drop me a line today and let’s make it happen!

18 September 2023

G'day, fellow adventurers! Prepare to be whisked away on an extraordinary journey that will take you from the iconic Raffles Hotel in Singapore to the captivating landscapes of Australia. Along the way, we'll make a delightful detour to Bangkok, indulge in mouth-watering prawns, and experience the epitome of luxury with a Rolls Royce chauffeur. Buckle up and let's dive into this incredible travel tale! Our adventure commences at the legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore, where history and charm converge. As we step foot into the hallowed halls, we can't help but imagine the tales of yesteryears. The Long Bar beckons, and with a Singapore Sling in hand, we immerse ourselves in the ambiance of a bygone era. Peanut shells crunch beneath our feet, and laughter fills the air, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. While the Queen's bed might have been overbooked, we can't help but feel a regal connection as we lay our heads on the softest pillow we’ve ever felt. The travel gods smiled on us and we were upgraded by Qantas to first class between Singapore and Sydney and the free champagne at altitude really knocked me for six as I’m not a big drinker and as we carried our bags through to waiting taxi all I was thinking was why did we book the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb as the very first thing we did when we arrived !— Will my wobbly legs make it to the top? Will I need a mid-climb snack to settle my queasy stomach? The climb leader gives you a reassuring smile, but you're not sure if it's genuine or a sign they've seen this scenario one too many times. As I begin the ascent, the creaking of the bridge seems to match the groans escaping my mouth. Each step felt like a personal challenge, my head pounding in rhythm. The panoramic views stretch out before you, but you're too busy focusing on not tripping over your own feet to appreciate them fully. You catch glimpses of fellow climbers giving you sympathetic looks, probably wondering if you'll make it or become a cautionary tale of hangover mishaps. But fear not, brave soul! As I reach the summit, the hangover fog begins to lift, and a surge of accomplishment rushes through my veins' did it! I conquered the bridge, despite the odds stacked against me. And hey, if anyone asks, I can proudly say I climbed it with a throbbing headache and a touch of nervousness. It's a tale of triumph over adversity, or maybe just a reminder to pace yourself next time. Either way, it's a memory that will have me laughing and shaking my head in disbelief—hangover and all. From Sydney we venture into the heart of Australia's Red Centre, where the magnificent Longitude 131 awaits. Surrounded by the vastness of the outback, we're captivated by the raw beauty that unfolds before our eyes. The Sound of Silence dinner becomes a highlight of our trip as we indulge in a delectable kangaroo fillet, savouring the unique flavours of Australian cuisine. The evening's star gazing talk proves to be a cosy affair, as sleep overtakes me, only to be awoken by the sound of laughter from fellow stargazers. It appears that my snoring symphony had provided unexpected entertainment for all. Leaving the Red Centre behind, we journey northward to Darwin. At the enchanting Mindil Beach Casino Resort, we wake up to the tranquil sounds of chirping birds and a breath taking sunrise. The day unfolds with a sumptuous breakfast and a sense of adventure. In a moment of daring, I decide to take a plunge into the thrilling world of Crocosaurus Cove. Little did I know that signing up for the "Cage of Death" would push my adrenaline to the limit. As I come face to face with a formidable crocodile, my rush of blood quickly transforms into a mix of excitement and trepidation. Leaving the Northern Territory, we jet off to the vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand. Here, we find ourselves at the luxurious Peninsula Hotel, where opulence knows no bounds. From the moment we arrive, we're treated like royalty, with the hotel's Rolls Royce chauffeuring us around the city in style. As we explore the bustling streets, we stumble upon a hidden gem in the Chatuchak night market - With out any doubt these were the best tiger prawns we've ever tasted. Succulent, flavourful, and cooked to perfection over charcoal , these prawns leave an indelible mark on our taste buds after two days of bliss in Bangkok, we bid farewell to Thailand and embark on our final flight back home. So, fellow explorers, Please hit me up if you're looking to book a similar trip as I'd really love to be on service ! May your travels be filled with delightful detours, culinary delights, and unforgettable encounters. Embrace the thrill of the unknown, savour every experience, and cherish the moments that make your journey uniquely yours. Until our paths cross again, keep exploring and revelling in the magic this world has to offer. Safe travels!