20 November 2024

The Basque Country, located in northern Spain, is a region that captivates visitors with its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. This guide will take you through some of the most remarkable destinations in the Basque Country: San Sebastian, Vitoria-Gasteiz, La Guardia, and Bilbao. San Sebastián: A Culinary and Coastal Paradise Make your way to San Sebastián, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and world-class cuisine. La Concha Beach, with its golden sands and clear waters, is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. For a panoramic view of the city, hike up Monte Igueldo or Monte Urgull. San Sebastián is also a gastronomic haven, boasting several Michelin-starred restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try pintxos in the Parte Vieja (Old Town), where each bar offers its own unique take on these delicious small bites. Vitoria-Gasteiz: The Green Capital Start your journey in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country. Known for its green spaces and sustainable urban planning, this city offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Stroll through the medieval old town, where you can visit the impressive Cathedral of Santa María and the charming Plaza de la Virgen Blanca. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the city’s numerous parks, such as the Florida Park and the Green Belt, which encircles the city with lush greenery. La Guardia: A Taste of Rioja Alavesa Next, head to La Guardia, a picturesque town in the heart of the Rioja Alavesa wine region. This medieval town is famous for its underground wine cellars, which date back to the 16th century. Take a guided tour of these cellars and sample some of the finest wines the region has to offer. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved architecture, including the Church of Santa María de los Reyes, known for its stunning Gothic façade. Bilbao: A Modern Metropolis with a Rich Heritage Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends the old with the new. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture designed by Frank Gehry. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Explore the Casco Viejo (Old Town), where you can visit the bustling Ribera Market and the historic Santiago Cathedral. Bilbao is also renowned for its culinary scene, so be sure to indulge in some pintxos at one of the many bars and restaurants. Whilst my visit was a whistle stop trip over 4 days, it didn't feel rushed - we were guests of the Spanish Tourist Board and they were keen for us to see as much as possible. This itinerary could easily be spread over 7-10 nights at a relaxing pace and still have some time to add some more activities. Please get in touch if you're planning a trip, I would be delighted to help you put it together!

15 August 2024

We surprised the kids with our destination at Dublin Airport! We were off to Disneyland Paris to meet their favourite characters; Darth Vader and Elsa! Air France took care of our checked luggage, we experienced FastTrack and didn’t have to wait too long to board. The take-off, flight and landing were very smooth. We were greeted by our transfer in arrivals, and it took us approximately 40 minutes to reach our accommodation at Villages Nature Paris. Location Disneyland Paris is a magical holiday destination with two Parks filled with endless attractions, restaurants, and shops for Guests of all ages. Villages Nature Paris is served by a bus to/from Disneyland Paris for a very small fare and only 6km from the resort. What I Loved Witnessing the pure joy on our children's faces as they encountered their beloved Disney characters was a priceless moment during our trip. Meeting Darth Vader in person and experiencing the Star Wars simulator added an extra layer of excitement and wonder. The Storybook Land Canal Boats allowed us to embark on a enchanting journey through miniature landscapes, creating cherished memories. Activities & Places to See • Disney Illuminations is a breath-taking night-time spectacular that transforms Sleeping Beauty Castle into a dazzling canvas of light, colour, and enchanting projections. The show takes place in front of the iconic castle, creating a magical backdrop. • Take an intergalactic journey on Hyperspace Mountain, a Star Wars-themed roller coaster that propels you into the heart of a space battle. The exhilarating ride is a must for fans of the galaxy far, far away. • The Main Street Parade at Disneyland Paris is a magical procession that brings beloved Disney characters to life on enchanting floats. The parade takes place along Main Street, U.S.A., creating a wonderful vibrant atmosphere. • Keep an eye out for scheduled meet-and-greet sessions where you can interact with characters, take photos, and collect autographs. Shopping You can shop your heart out at Disneyland with a variety of stores to explore. Start at Main Street Emporium and World of Disney for all things Disney, from clothes to souvenirs. Check out themed spots like Agrabah Bazaar for unique souvenirs and The Disney Gallery for artsy Disney things. Whether you're into Star Wars or Pixar, there's a store for you, making shopping at Disneyland a fun experience for everyone. Food & Bars With 8 dining options available at Villages Nature Paris (Center Parcs) and the onsite supermarket, there's plenty of choice. As our holiday revolved around Disneyland, we opted for a self-catering apartment which allowed us use the on-site supermarket for breakfast and dinner, and afforded us the option to make our own lunches/snacks/drinks to take to Disneyland. Disneyland Paris offers a plethora of dining choices, including themed restaurants, Agrabah souks, street vendors, cowboy saloons, and well-known establishments like Planet Hollywood. The diverse culinary options cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.

05 June 2024

In today's globally interconnected world, business travel is more common than ever. For companies committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that LGBTQ+ team members feel safe and supported while travelling is paramount. Here are five practical tips for businesses aiming to support their LGBTQIA+ employees when they’re travelling for work – whether close to home or on the other side of the world. 1. Incorporate LGBTQ+ provisions into your travel risk management policy Your travel risk management (TRM) policy should explicitly address the unique challenges that LGBTQ+ travellers may face. This policy isn't just a document - it's a proactive measure that underscores your company's commitment to their safety and wellbeing. 2. Partner with a Travel Management Company that can offer 24/7 support Selecting the right travel management company (TMC) can be a game-changer. A TMC that provides round-the-clock assistance and understands the nuances of LGBTQ+ travel can alleviate many of the associated risks and stresses. 3. Equip travellers with the right technology Access to the right technology can significantly enhance travel experiences, making it easier for LGBTQ+ employees to stay informed and secure. 4. Consider alternative travel options For some destinations, travel may pose higher risks for LGBTQ+ employees. In such cases, consider alternative options to ensure their safety and peace of mind. 5. Seek feedback from travellers Feedback is crucial in improving travel policies and practices. Engaging directly with your employees will provide valuable insights into their experiences and how you can better support them. Supporting LGBTQ+ business travellers goes beyond compliance - it reflects a company's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and employee wellbeing. By incorporating these five tips, businesses can create a safer and more supportive travel environment for all employees, fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect. If you're looking to enhance your company's travel policies and support systems, consider partnering with Travel Counsellors for Business. With our expertise and dedication to personalised service, we can help ensure that every journey is safe, secure, and inclusive – while being tailored to the unique needs of each individual traveller. Get in touch and be safe in the knowledge that your travellers will be looked after.

18 April 2024

When it comes to maximizing savings on your corporate travel policy, here are some strategic steps you can take: 1. Plan Ahead: Schedule trips well in advance whenever possible. Last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive. By planning ahead, you can secure better rates on flights, accommodations, and other travel essentials. 2. Leverage Negotiated Rates: By working with Travel Counsellors, you have our buying power to obtain negotiated special rates with airlines, hotels, and car rental companies. These negotiated rates can significantly reduce your overall travel costs. 3. Use a Travel Management Company (TMC): Partnering with Travel Counsellors as your TMC, gives you access to industry discounts, consolidated booking tools, and personalized service. A dedicated TMC can help you navigate complex itineraries and find cost-effective options. 4. Implement Travel Policies: Establish clear travel policies for your employees. Define guidelines for booking class, preferred airlines, hotel categories, and expense limits. Enforce these policies consistently to avoid unnecessary expenses. At Travel Counsellors, we can assist with implementing your policy. 5. Monitor Expenses: Regularly review travel expenses and identify areas where savings can be made. Look for patterns, such as frequent high-cost routes or excessive spending on specific services. Adjust your policies accordingly. 6. Use Virtual Meetings: We know better than anyone, that in person meetings are effective, however whenever feasible, opt for virtual meetings instead of physical travel. Video conferencing tools can save time, money, and reduce your spend, not to mention reducing your carbon footprint. 7. Explore Corporate Travel Cards: Corporate credit cards designed for travel often come with perks like rewards points, discounts, and expense tracking features. Utilize these cards to streamline expenses and earn benefits.