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Inverewe Gardens Scotland

Looking to visit Inverewe Gardens Scotland? Great – it’s an amazing place and it is well worth a visit. In this article you will find details of what is where at Inverewe plus some photographs to give you and idea of what there is to see, although it will of course change depending on the seasons. Inverewe Gardens Scotland Location Inverewe Gardens Scotland is located at; Poolewe Achnasheen IV22 2LG (Like many Highland postcodes it is actually quite a long way from Achnasheen so bear that in mind!) Telephone: 01445 712952 Table of Contents Travelling from Inverness to Inverewe Gardens ScotlandTravelling… Read More »Inverewe Gardens Scotland

Dog Friendly Cottages Inverness – Fab Stays With Furry Friends

Table of Contents Looking for dog friendly cottages Inverness?Dog Friendly Cottages Inverness1 Bedroomed Property in the Heart of the City Beside the River NessDog Friendly Cottages Inverness2 Double Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Quiet Location & Enclosed GardenDog Friendly Cottages Inverness5 Bedrooms, BBQ Hut & Hot Tub – Holiday Heaven!Dog Friendly Cottages Inverness5 Bedrooms, BBQ Hut & Hot Tub – Holiday Heaven!Dog Friendly Cottages Inverness7 Bedroomed River Lodge with Ample Grounds & Amazing Facilities Looking for dog friendly cottages Inverness? Great – then this post is for you! I’ve handpicked a selection of houses, cottages and apartments around the Inverness area which… Read More »Dog Friendly Cottages Inverness – Fab Stays With Furry Friends

Lodges with Hot Tubs Inverness – Bubbly Blissful Super Stays

Well you are in the right place! In this article you will find some great lodges with hot tubs in and around Inverness. Inverness is a great base for a stay in the Highlands, giving you great access to all the attractions that the Highlands has to offer. For now let’s get cracking finding you a great lodge with a hot tub to stay in. Table of Contents Lodges with Hot Tubs InvernessLuxury Lodge For 2 In the Heart of the CityLodges with Hot Tubs InvernessAmazing Hot Tubs Views & BBQ Hut As Well As a Super Sleek Lodge for… Read More »Lodges with Hot Tubs Inverness – Bubbly Blissful Super Stays

Holiday Cottages Inverness – Fab Stays In the Heart of the City

Are you looking for holiday cottages Inverness? Cottages close to the action? Great then this is just the right place for you Check out this guide to holiday cottages Inverness, including information on what’s nearby and the area the holiday cottage is in to help you find your perfect stay. All the holiday cottages in this article include heating, towels and linen because who wants to be cold and doing the washing on holiday! All the properties in this holiday cottages Inverness post also include free WIFI throughout. (These properties are all dog free properties) Table of Contents Holiday Cottages… Read More »Holiday Cottages Inverness – Fab Stays In the Heart of the City

Hilton Aberdeen Teca – Airport and City Hotel

Looking for a real guest review of the Hilton Aberdeen Teca? Check out this review, including a video tour of a bedroom, from a 1 night stay in July 2021 Included in the review are details of the car parking, facilities and getting to the Hilton Aberdeen Teca. Table of Contents Hilton Aberdeen TECA LocationGetting to the Hilton Aberdeen TECAParking at the Hilton Aberdeen TECAGetting from the Car Park to the Hilton Aberdeen Teca HotelArriving at the Hilton Aberdeen Teca Hotel & Checking In Hilton Aberdeen TECA Location The Hilton Aberdeen TECA is located as follows; East Burn Road Aberdeen… Read More »Hilton Aberdeen Teca – Airport and City Hotel

7 Year Long Travel Insurance Golden Rules For Peace of Mind

Looking for Year long travel insurance? Having travelled professionally for over 30 years and taken many groups overseas in my role as a coach holiday Tour Manager I have seen how important it is to have travel insurance that is there when you need it. Here are my top tips, learned through dealing with many different insurance claims with guests, on what you need to know. This article is aimed at year long travel insurance but most of the items apply to any travel insurance. Table of Contents Year Long Travel Insurance Golden Rule Number 1Declare All Your Existing Health… Read More »7 Year Long Travel Insurance Golden Rules For Peace of Mind

Green List Travel 2021 – What You Really Need to Know

Want to know more about green list travel 2021 options? Want to understand more about travel during Covid19? Want to learn what things to consider before booking your travel? Well that’s fab news because you are in the right place! In this article I am going to talk you through some of things you need to consider before booking your travel, help you understand some of the potential risks and complications and help you to avoid any unnecessary complications. Table of Contents Green List Travel 2021 – What Does This Actually Mean?Green List Travel 2021 – What Countries are On… Read More »Green List Travel 2021 – What You Really Need to Know

Duncansby Stacks Walk – Fab Views & Stacks of Seabirds

Looking to visit Duncansby Stacks? Want to know how to reach it and what is there? Great. Then check out my review of summer 2021 visit to Duncansby Stacks including pictures and a video of this fantastic, dramatic clifftop walk. Table of Contents Looking to do the Duncansby Stacks Walk?Getting to Duncansby Stacks WalkWalking at Duncansby HeadDuncansby Stacks WalkContinuing to First Stack of Duncansby Stacks Looking to do the Duncansby Stacks Walk? The location of Duncansby Stacks is at Duncansby head, to the East of John O’Groats. Getting to Duncansby Stacks Walk Duncansby Stacks are located to the East of… Read More »Duncansby Stacks Walk – Fab Views & Stacks of Seabirds

Lonsdale House Bowness – A Quirky, Fun & Great Stay

Are you looking for somewhere to stay in Bowness on Windemere? If so check out this review of Lonsdale House Bowness, a great hotel located just at the top of the main street in Bowness, within easy reach of all the attractions. Table of Contents Londsdale House Bowness – A Great StayLocation of Lonsdale House BownessArriving at the Lonsdale House BownessTake Care When Booking Lonsdale House Bowness!Lonsdale House Bowness – What I Liked Londsdale House Bowness – A Great Stay A very memorable stay with lots of laughs and a gorgeous four poster attic room Due to attending a training… Read More »Lonsdale House Bowness – A Quirky, Fun & Great Stay

Great Wick Self Catering Property – On NC500

Table of Contents Looking for a Wick Self Catering Property?Pre-Arrival Information Wick Self Catering StayArriving at Wick Self Catering PropertyStaying at Wick Self Catering Holiday PropertyThings To Note About Staying in Wick Self Catering Holiday Let Looking for a Wick Self Catering Property? Looking to stay in Wick? Looking for a self catering property? Why not consider this great 2 double bedroomed apartment with free parking, fully equipped kitchen, all linen and towels, great lounge with Neflix and Freeview on the TV within a 10 minute walk of Wick High Street? It’s also right on the NC500 route! Sound interesting?… Read More »Great Wick Self Catering Property – On NC500

Fabulous Forres Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Table of Contents Looking for a Forres self catering holiday cottage?Forres Self Catering Cottage – Booking Wee GemForres Self Catering – Pre-Arrival InformationArriving at A Wee Gem Forres Self Catering Holiday CottageWee Gem Forres Holiday Cottage Facilities Looking for a Forres self catering holiday cottage? Dog friendly? Rural countryside location? Easy access to Forres? Surrounded by wildlife with walks on the doorstep? Great! Then check out my review of a Wee Gem, a fabulous Forres self catering holiday cottage just 3.5 miles from Forres itself. Here is everything you need to know including a video tour of the inside of… Read More »Fabulous Forres Self Catering Holiday Cottage

Hotel Sol E Mar Albufeira – Fab Hotel With Amazing Location

Are you looking for a great hotel in Albufeira? Right on the beach? With great facilities? Well fab. You are in the right place. Check out my review of a 4 night stay at this lovely beachfront hotel. Table of Contents Hotel Sol E Mar Albufeira – 4 Night StayGetting to the Hotel Sol E Mar AlbufeiraArriving at the Hotel Sol E Mar, AlbufeiraRooms at the Hotel Sol E Mar, AlbufeiraFacilities at the Hotel Sol E Mar, Albufeira Hotel Sol E Mar Albufeira – 4 Night Stay We chose the Hotel Sol E Mar Albufeira because we liked the location – right on… Read More »Hotel Sol E Mar Albufeira – Fab Hotel With Amazing Location

Vidamar Resort Algarve – Fantastic Resort Hotel in Fab Location

Are you looking for a great resort styled hotel with everything in one place? Then check out my review of a 3 night stay at the Vidamar Resort Algarve. It’s a lovely hotel, with great rooms, plus spa facilities, beach access and a choice of restaurants. Table of Contents  Vidamar Resort AlgarveArrival at the VidaMar Resort AlgarveRooms at the VidaMar Resort AlgarveFacilities at the VidaMar Resort AlgarveProfessional Traveller Summary of Vidamar Resort Algarve  Vidamar Resort Algarve I stayed at the Vidamar Resort Algarve with a holiday group that I was taking on a trip through Portugal. I was the group Tour Manager and… Read More »Vidamar Resort Algarve – Fantastic Resort Hotel in Fab Location

Vilamoura Holiday – 2 Great Hotels & Things To D

Are you considering a Vilamoura holiday? Well that’s great to hear – it’s a lovely destination. Check out this post which includes things to do in Vilamoura and reviews of two lovely hotels in Vilamoura as well. A Vilamoura holiday is a great idea – it’s a quieter resort than it’s nearby neighbour Albufeira with a little more greenery and space around it. It’s a great base for exploring everything the Algarve region has to offer and it is within easy reach of Faro airport. Keep reading to check out my review of two Vilamoura hotels plus things to do… Read More »Vilamoura Holiday – 2 Great Hotels & Things To D

Village Hotel, Solihull – 3 Night Stay Review Including Video

Looking to stay at the Village Hotel Solihull? It’s in a great location for Birmingham airport and has a restaurant, coffee shop, gym and spa as well. Check out this review of a 3 night stay. I chose to stay at the Village Hotel Solihull for 3 nights because I was on a leisure trip and I wanted to stay somewhere where I could easily get to and from Birmingham Airport. My flights to the Scottish Highlands were to and from Birmingham Airport with Flybe (these flights are now operated by Loganair). Table of Contents Getting to the Village Hotel… Read More »Village Hotel, Solihull – 3 Night Stay Review Including Video

Ibis Birmingham New Street – What It’s Like & What’s Nearby

Are you looking for a hotel within easy access of Birmingham New Street station? Are you looking for a city centre hotel with parking nearby? Want to be close to the Birmingham Hippodrome, the Chinese Quarter, the Bullring market? Well the Ibis Birmingham New Street is in a great location for you. Check out my review of a one night stay in March 2019. Table of Contents Getting to the Ibis Birmingham New Street StationArriving at the Ibis Birmingham New Street HotelMy Room at the Ibis Birmingham New StreetIbis Birmingham New Street Review – What I LikedIbis Birmingham New Street… Read More »Ibis Birmingham New Street – What It’s Like & What’s Nearby

Ibis Birmingham Airport – Budget Hotel Review

Are you looking for a good budget priced hotel? This Ibis Birmingham Airport is located just across from the terminal. It’s just a short walk away and has great prices available. Check out my review of a one night stay. Table of Contents Ibis Birmingham AirportGetting to the Ibis Birmingham AirportChecking In At The Ibis Birmingham AirportMy Hotel Room at the Ibis Birmingham AirportIbis Birmingham Airport – What I Liked Ibis Birmingham Airport I stayed at the Ibis Budget Birmingham for one night, a Sunday, in February 2020. This was the 3rd hotel I stayed in during my trip and… Read More »Ibis Birmingham Airport – Budget Hotel Review

Sofitel London Gatwick – Great Hotel for Layovers & Overnights

Are you looking for a handily located Gatwick hotel? The Sofitel London Gatwick is linked by a walkway to the North Terminal. It’s super convenient and great for an overnight stay. It’s also great for layovers or even to relax in the lounge area. Table of Contents Sofitel London GatwickThings I Liked About the Sofitel London GatwickThings I Liked Less About the Sofitel London GatwickFAQ’s about Sofitel London GatwickWant to Stay at the Sofitel London Gatwick? Sofitel London Gatwick I have stayed at the Sofitel London Gatwick number of times. It is one of my favourite Gatwick hotels. I have… Read More »Sofitel London Gatwick – Great Hotel for Layovers & Overnights

Courtyard by Marriott Inverness – Great Hotel Next to the Airport

Are you looking for a great hotel right beside Inverness airport? The Courtyard by Marriott Inverness is located just a few steps from Inverness airport. It’s a lovely modern hotel with front facing rooms having views of the runway. Check out my review of a 1 night stay below. In December 2020 I stayed for one night at the new Courtyard by Marriott, Inverness Airport, more commonly known at the Inverness airport hotel. This is a new hotel which opened in March 2020. It’s great for Inverness to have an airport hotel, although there are plenty of hotels in Inverness which is… Read More »Courtyard by Marriott Inverness – Great Hotel Next to the Airport

Suitel Bosphorus Taksim – 3 Night Stay Review Solo Female Stay

Looking to stay in Istanbul? Check out my review of the Suitel Bosphorus Taksim. I booked a stay at the Suitel Bosphorus Taksim for 4 nights in late October 2019/early November 2019. It was my first visit to Istanbul, a city I had wanted to visit for a long time. The pictures on the internet looked nice and the location looked handy for the things I wanted to visit, as well as for public transport connections from Taksim Square. Table of Contents Arriving Suitel Bosphorus TaksimHotel Room at the Suitel Bosphorus TaksimHotel Dining at the Suitel Bosphorus TaksimA Very Odd… Read More »Suitel Bosphorus Taksim – 3 Night Stay Review Solo Female Stay

Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel – Fab Airport Hotel With Restaurant

Are you looking to stay beside Sabiha Gokcen airport? Check out my review of the ISG Sabiha Gokcen Airport hotel – it’s a lovely hotel, with great rooms and just a short shuttle (free) ride to the airport. The Sabiha Gokcen Airport hotel is actually an onsite hotel called the  ISG Airport Hotel. I stayed for one night in early November 2019 as I was flying out the next day from Sabiha Gokcen to Baku. Table of Contents Getting to the Sabiha Gokcen Airport HotelArriving Sabiha Gokcen Airport HotelMy Hotel Room at the Sabiha Gokcen Airport HotelHotel Facilities at the… Read More »Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel – Fab Airport Hotel With Restaurant

The Top 4 Coach Holiday Myths Busted!

Have you ever considered a coach holiday? There are many coach holiday myths about this type of holiday. Having spent 25 years taking coach holidays all over the world as a Tour Manager I’m here to help bust some of the most common coach holiday myths. Let’s get busting. Table of Contents Coach Holiday Myths – Let’s Get Busting!No 1 of Coach Holiday Myths – Only for Really Old People!No 2 of Coach Holiday Myths – They Aren’t Active HolidaysNo. 3 of Coach Holiday Myths – They are Cheap & NastyNo. 4 of Coach Holiday Myths – Guests Are Not… Read More »The Top 4 Coach Holiday Myths Busted!

10 Important Things To Know Before Visiting the Highlands

Are you planning on visiting the Highlands? If so, great, and great choice by the way. I’ve been lucky enough to live in the Highlands of Scotland for coming up on 20 years and I still absolutely love it. There is always something new to see, a new delight, a new surprise – I’ve never lived anywhere like it. If you want to find out a bit more about what the Scottish Highlands are like then check out my page which includes more about what makes up the Highlands, what there is, what there isn’t and what it is like… Read More »10 Important Things To Know Before Visiting the Highlands

What a Coach Holiday Tour Manager Really Does – It’s Alot!

Ever wondered what a coach holiday tour manager does? Well this article is an in depth look at the role based on my 25 year experience of being a coach holiday Tour Manager for various coach holiday companies. Firstly, let’s just clarify some language. Tour Manager, Tour Director, Program Director – these all generally describe a similar sort of role. A Cruise Escort is something else as is a Tour Guide. More on those roles later. For now let’s find out more about one of the most varied roles that I think it is possible to have. Table of Contents… Read More »What a Coach Holiday Tour Manager Really Does – It’s Alot!

Loch Ness Tour – Fab Views, Cute Cafes & A Great Drive

Thinking of visiting Loch Ness? Why not drive the complete way round it on this circular easy one day Loch Ness tour. Most people have heard of Loch Ness. It’s one of the most visited places in the Scottish Highlands. What many people who visit the area don’t know is that the Eastern side of Loch Ness is much less visited than the Western side but the views are stunning, plus there are plenty of things to see so it is well worth a visit. Here is an itinerary for your own Loch Ness Tour – a beautiful circular drive… Read More »Loch Ness Tour – Fab Views, Cute Cafes & A Great Drive

Highland Coach Holiday – A Great Way to Discover the Highlands

Looking for a Highland coach holiday? One which is based in Inverness with trips out? A Highland coach holiday which you can join by plane, train or drive yourself? Great – because SAGA have a new holiday for 2021 called the ‘Scottish Highlands Escape’. Having spent 25 years taking tours all over the world as a coach holiday Tour Manager I’m a bit of a coach holiday expert. Here is my detailed review of the Scottish Highlands Escape itinerary with practical information to help you get the most from this trip I have also lived in the Highlands and guided… Read More »Highland Coach Holiday – A Great Way to Discover the Highlands

Coach Holiday Trends – Exciting Changes For the Future

Interested in coach holidays? Want to learn about some exciting coach holiday trends? I’ve spent over 25 years working as a coach holiday Tour Manager, taking coach holidays all over the world. It’s a great way to travel and it’s an industry that is always changing and adapting. Coach holiday trends have been hugely impacted by Covid19 and it looks like it will have some continuing impacts, certainly for 2021 and 2022. Coach holidays have been really hard hit by the travel restrictions, social distancing and group gathering restrictions and it looks like it will be some time before they… Read More »Coach Holiday Trends – Exciting Changes For the Future

10 Coach Holiday Hacks – For An Even Better Trip

Looking for some coach holiday hacks to help you have an even better trip? I have learned a few coach holiday hacks over my 25 year career as a Tour Manager taking holidays all over the world. This list of coach holiday hacks is made up of things that I have learned myself, I’ve learned from guests and the little differences between coach holidays and other types of holiday. Over time experienced guests generally learn these coach holiday hacks for themselves but here’s my list to give you a shortcut to an even better holiday experience. So let’s jump in… Read More »10 Coach Holiday Hacks – For An Even Better Trip

Coach Holiday Company Differences – 4 Things To Consider

Every considered coach holiday company differences when thinking of booking? There are big differences between smaller and larger coach holidays and these can have an impact on all aspects of the coach holiday experience. In this article I look at 4 main coach holiday company differences you consider when choosing a coach holiday company. Table of Contents Coach Holiday Company Differences Number 1 Designing New HolidaysCoach Holiday Company Differences Number 2 Operating Coach HolidaysCoach Holiday Company Differences Number 3 On Tour SupportCoach Holiday Company Differences Number 4Post TourIn Summary; Coach Holiday Company Differences Number 1 Designing New Holidays There are… Read More »Coach Holiday Company Differences – 4 Things To Consider

6 Reasons Why You Should Avoid a Coach Holiday (Or Not!)

Ever thought about a coach holiday? Heard lots of reasons why you should avoid a coach holiday? In this article I want to discuss some of the most common issues I have experienced over my 25 year career as a coach holiday tour manager. Instead of encouraging you to avoid a coach holiday completely, I want to share ways to avoid these common problems and help you to find your perfect trip. Table of Contents 1. Avoid a Coach Holiday If You Don’t Like Other People!2. Avoid a Coach Holiday If You Suffer From Travel Sickness3. Avoid a Coach Holiday… Read More »6 Reasons Why You Should Avoid a Coach Holiday (Or Not!)

12 Happy Travel Hacks To Leave a Trail of Beautiful Smiles

Do you like to enjoy happy travel? Do you want to leave a little trail of smiles wherever you go and spread a bit of love and positivity? Then check out this list of happy travel hacks! Table of Contents Happy Travel Hacks 1Learn a Few Words of the Local LanguageHappy Travel Hacks Number 2Take Some Little Gifts From HomeHappy Travel Hacks Number 3Spread Good Manners and PolitnessHappy Travel Hacks Number 4Tip Your Guides and DriversHappy Travel Hacks Number 5Buy Local Happy Travel Hacks 1 Learn a Few Words of the Local Language Taking a bit of time to learn… Read More »12 Happy Travel Hacks To Leave a Trail of Beautiful Smiles

6 Amazing Flight Hacks for Cheap Deals To Great Places

Are you looking for flight hacks to find cheap flights? Great – I’ve got a list of them right here! Table of Contents Fab Flight Hacks for Finding Bargains Number 1 of Flight HacksSearch Everywhere from Starting AirportNumber 2 of Flight HacksSkyscanner Reverse SearchNumber 3 of Flight HacksSkyscanner Hub Airport SearchesNumber 4 of Flight HacksKayak Explore Budget Search Fab Flight Hacks for Finding Bargains Who doesn’t love a travel bargain! Travelling more and spending less is a great way to make your travel budget stretch to the absolute maximum. Finding a cheap flight is a great way to kick off… Read More »6 Amazing Flight Hacks for Cheap Deals To Great Places

Getting to The Highlands – By Plane, Train or Automobile!

In this article I am going to share the different ways of getting to the Highlands, via planes, trains and automobiles (great film if you haven’t seen it!). Of course Covid19 changes have meant reduced services, and we are all unable to travel at the minute but this is to help you plan how to visit the Highlands if it’s somewhere on your bucket list when we can all get travelling again. Table of Contents Getting to the Highlands – FlightsGetting to the Highlands with British AirwaysGetting to the Highlands with EasyjetGetting to the Highlands with LoganairGetting to the Highlands… Read More »Getting to The Highlands – By Plane, Train or Automobile!

Coach Trip Terminology – What’s An Orientation Tour?

Heard the phrase ‘orientation tour’ and not sure what it means? Well this article on coach trip terminology explains why these types of tours are sometimes a feature of coach holidays and what you need to consider when you see them in the holiday information. Coach Trip Terminology – What is An Orientation Tour? An orientation tour is likely to be a tour led by the Tour Manager who is with the group and not by a local guide. As a Tour Manager taking groups I am not legally allowed to guide tours of places that I am visiting with… Read More »Coach Trip Terminology – What’s An Orientation Tour?

Coach Trips – 10 Things You Absolutely Need to Know Before You Book

Having spent 25 years taking coach tour trips all over the world, as a Tour Manager, I have seen my guests experience all sorts of problems and issues. Many of those issues could have been prevented completely – saving guests money and frustration as a result. This list is based on the 10 most common issues I’ve seen guests experience and coach trips and how you can easily avoid the same issues. It’s all about knowing what to ask, look for or consider before you get to booking any coach trips, ensuring that the one you book is perfect for you.… Read More »Coach Trips – 10 Things You Absolutely Need to Know Before You Book

Australia Tours – 4 Top Tours Compared Side by Side

Table of Contents Are you looking for Australia Tours?Australia Tours – A Wonderful Option To Cover Alot in this Amazing CountryAustralia Tours ComparisonAustralia Tours – SAGA Australian AdventureAustralia Tours – Titan Best of AustraliaLeger – Uncover AustraliaAustralia Tours Itinerary Comparisons Are you looking for Australia Tours? Considering the trip of a lifetime to this wonderful country? Great! Then I have something that might help finding your perfect tour a little easier. I’ve compared Australia tours from 4 of the biggest operators, giving you detailed information on their itinerary to help you find which tour might suit you best. Tour itineraries… Read More »Australia Tours – 4 Top Tours Compared Side by Side

Inverness Airport Hotel – Great Location & Runway Views

Looking to stay at the Inverness airport hotel? Great. It’s a lovely hotel and just a very short walk to the airport terminal building. Check out this review of a 1 night stay shortly after the hotel reopened after Covid19 restrictions eased. In December 2020 I stayed for one night at the new Inverness airport hotel. This is a new hotel which opened in March 2020. It’s great for Inverness to have an airport hotel, although there are plenty of hotels in Inverness which is not far away. Covid19 Restrictions At the time of staying the Highlands was in Tier… Read More »Inverness Airport Hotel – Great Location & Runway Views

Easyjet Baggage Changes – Feb 2021 All You Need to Know

Want to know about Easyjet baggage rules? They all changed in early 2021. Here is everything you need to know about what you can take and what it will cost. Table of Contents Easyjet Baggage Changes – What Changed?Don’t Have a Easyjet Baggage PanicEasyjet Baggage – How Can You Manage?Easyjet Baggage with Upfront or Extra Legroom SeatsEasyjet Baggage Sizes – The Updated Rules Easyjet Baggage Changes – What Changed? From the 10th of February 20201 Easyjet changed it’s luggage policy so that the amount of luggage and what size it is depends on your ticket. Whatever type of ticket you… Read More »Easyjet Baggage Changes – Feb 2021 All You Need to Know

9 Tried and Tested Easy Travel Packing Hacks

Are you looking for some packing hacks to help you travel with just what you need? I’ve been travelling professionally for 30 years, I’ve learned lots about packing – mostly the hard way! Let me share with you my 9 Packing Hacks to shortcut you to happy packing! So let’s jump into my list of packing hacks to help you travel more lightly on your next trip, but also ensure you have everything you need. Table of Contents 9 Packing Hacks to Help You Travel SmarterNumber 1 of Packing HacksNumber 2 of Packing HacksNumber 3 of Packing HacksNumber 4 of… Read More »9 Tried and Tested Easy Travel Packing Hacks

Fabulous Newton Stewart Holiday Cottage Right Beside River Cree

Looking for a Newton Stewart holiday cottage? Great – it’s a gorgeous place to visit. Check out the review of a super cute holiday cottage right beside the River Cree. I’ve also covered things to do in the area and some alternative holiday accommodation available locally. Table of Contents Review of Week Long Stay in Newton Stewart Holiday CottageNewton Stewart – The Town ItselfNewton Stewart Holiday Cottage – Minnow CottageTrips Out from Newton StewartWigtown and Isle of Whithorn Review of Week Long Stay in Newton Stewart Holiday Cottage In November 2020 I spent a lovely week in a Newton Stewart… Read More »Fabulous Newton Stewart Holiday Cottage Right Beside River Cree

Azores Island Hopping

Are you looking for an Azores island hopping holiday? Do you want inside tips and information about the itinerary from someone who has been? Great! You are in the exactly the right place. I have taken 5 or 6 British groups on holidays to the Azores and it is somewhere I really enjoy visiting. If you haven’t already read it I would recommend my Azores Holidays Guide . This gives you a detailed overview of the main hotels, the main places visited, excursions and much more – it’s everything you need to know about the Azores, what to see and… Read More »Azores Island Hopping

Chaotic Coach Holiday Group Arrival – A Negative First Impression

A coach holiday group arrival can often be stressful – for hotel staff, for guests and for Tour Managers! For guests the check in experience can colour their view of their stay at the hotel. This case study relates to a coach holiday group arrival at a UK hotel in 2019, and gives an idea of the impact a badly organised check in can have on a coach holiday group. Background to Coach Holiday Group Arrival We had left our hotel at 8am that morning, made two comfort stops and had a 3 hour stop for lunch which included a… Read More »Chaotic Coach Holiday Group Arrival – A Negative First Impression

9 Reasons To Choose A Coach Holiday

Considering a coach holiday? Here are 9 reasons to choose a coach holiday, based on my 25 year career as a coach holiday Tour Manager. Here is a list of the top 9 things my guests have told me about the reasons that made them choose a coach holiday. Table of Contents 1. Alot Included In A Coach Holiday2. There Is A Tour Director3. The Itinerary is Planned4. The Tour Covers A Great Deal5. Choose a Coach Holiday for a Buffet of Experiences 1. Alot Included In A Coach Holiday If you have done your research and got all your… Read More »9 Reasons To Choose A Coach Holiday

Azores Holidays – A Great Hidden But Accessible Gem

Things to Visit in Ponta Delgada Gruta Do Carvao If you want to get inside of a lava tube you can do this quite easily by visiting this cave. It is in what seems to be an odd location because now a road has been built nearby. You visit this cave with a guide who gives an explanation of what you are seeing. I have had a few guests do this and they enjoyed it, saying it took no more than 45 minutes. Some took a local bus and walked and some walked from the hotel to the upper part… Read More »Azores Holidays – A Great Hidden But Accessible Gem

Coach Holidays and Covid19 – Potential Holiday Impacts

Do you want to understand more about coach holidays and Covid19 impacts? As the travel industry as a whole has been severaly impacted by Covid19 let’s look at coach holidays and Covid19 impacts – as there may be some things you hadn’t considered. Airlines have already been promoting what they are going to do to keep their travellers safe, introducing everything from compulsory face masks, to extra cleaning as well as removing onboard bistro services, cash payments and much more. Airports have also been introducing measures such as temperature checks, more use of online and ticketless travel and revised queuing… Read More »Coach Holidays and Covid19 – Potential Holiday Impacts

Reelig Glen – A Magical & Easy Circular Walk With Fab Views

Looking to visit Reelig Glen? This is a fantastic walk with everything you could wish for – a riverside walk, a grotto, amazing trees and a couple of waterfalls too. It’s spectacular in any season. Getting to Reelig Glen Reelig Glen is easily reach from the A862. This is the road that runs between Inverness and Beauly. If you are heading from Beauly towards Inverness you head out of Beauly, cross of the river (the bridge with the traffic lights) and continue along the main road (passing a right turn for the A833). After passing this turn the road opens… Read More »Reelig Glen – A Magical & Easy Circular Walk With Fab Views

The Scottish Highlands – A Stunning Destination Anytime of Year

Looking to visit the Scottish Highlands? It’s a wonderful destination anytime of year, whatever the weather. Just the name – the Scottish Highlands – conjures up thoughts of mountains, lochs, monsters and mists and rightly so. I’ve been lucky enough to have lived in the Scottish Highlands for 17 years and I have loved every minute of it. Here’s my overview on why the Scottish Highlands is a fantastic place to visit. Table of Contents The Scottish Highlands LocationThe Scottish Highlands PopulationLife in the The Scottish HighlandsThe Scottish Highlands Through the SeasonsThe Scottish Highlands Parks and Reserves The Scottish Highlands… Read More »The Scottish Highlands – A Stunning Destination Anytime of Year

Plodda Falls – A Beautiful Circular Walk With Dramatic Falls

Looking to visit Plodda Falls? Check out all you need to know about this fantastic circular walk. It’s got huge trees, dramatic falls and cakes. Table of Contents Plodda Falls – Drama, History and a Cake Shed! Route to Plodda FallsWalking To Plodda FallsPlodda Falls Tall TreesPlodda Falls – Getting to the Falls Themselves Plodda Falls – Drama, History and a Cake Shed! Despite having lived in the Scottish Highlands for around 15 years and being a real fan of waterfalls I had never realised Plodda Falls was so nearby. Of course I had explored the lovely Glen Affric area… Read More »Plodda Falls – A Beautiful Circular Walk With Dramatic Falls

Inverness Hotel Deals – Find Your Perfect Stay at a Great Price

Are you looking great Inverness hotel deals? Looking for a locals guide to help you find the best hotel for your stay? Want to find the best price quickly and easily? Then yippee you are in the right place. I’ve been in the Highlands for 17 years and I’ve stayed at most of the hotels in this article. So let’s get cracking. Table of Contents Inverness Hotel Deals – Quick Video By Me (The Professional Traveller!)Inverness Hotel Deals – Hotels Beside the River NessInverness Hotel Deals – Hotels in the City CentreInverness Hotel Deals – Hotels Within 1 Mile of the… Read More »Inverness Hotel Deals – Find Your Perfect Stay at a Great Price

Stunning Scenery on This Scottish Highlands Road Trip

Looking for a Scottish Highlands Road Trip? Having lived in the Highlands for 18 years I never tire of a Scottish Highlands road trip. This itinerary can be done in 1 or 2 days from Inverness, Dingwall or Strathpeffer. It takes in part of the NC500 route but also includes a much less visited, but no less stunning part of the Highlands. This Scottish Highlands road trip is a circular tour taking in Gairloch on the West Coast. Table of Contents Scottish Highlands Road Trip – RouteScottish Highlands Road TripTarviesScottish Highlands Road TripBlack Water FallsScottish Highlands Road TripCorrieshalloch GorgeScottish Highlands… Read More »Stunning Scenery on This Scottish Highlands Road Trip

16 Inverness Activities – Fun Things To Do & Places to Visit

Are you looking for ideas for Inverness activities? Well I’ve got 16 of my favourite Inverness activities and places to visit right here to help you. Let’s get started! (At the time of writing Covid19 is still impacting travel so it’s always best to double check the current rules in advance) PS – This list of Inverness activities contains some places to eat as well, because in my family we consider eating an activity Table of Contents Inverness Activities – 1River Ness Circular River WalkInverness Activities – 2Explore Ness IslandsInverness Activities – 3Have Fun At Bught ParkInverness Activities –… Read More »16 Inverness Activities – Fun Things To Do & Places to Visit

10 Reasons To Love Gatwick Airport – Family Friendly & Good Hotels

Are you going to be travelling through Gatwick Airport? Are you staying over? Great – it’s a lovely airport. Here are 10 reasons to love Gatwick airport! Table of Contents 10 Reasons to Love Gatwick AirportReason 1 – Onsite Hotels10 Reasons to Love Gatwick AirportReason – On Campus Hotels10 Reasons to Love Gatwick AirportReason 3 – Easy Shuttle Between Transfers10 Reasons to Love Gatwick AirportReason 4 – Marks and Spencer’s Food Shop On Site10 Reasons to Love Gatwick AirportReason 5 – Family Friendly Security (with lanyards) and Fast Track SecurityConclusionWant to Stay at Gatwick Airport? 10 Reasons to Love Gatwick… Read More »10 Reasons To Love Gatwick Airport – Family Friendly & Good Hotels

Birmingham Break with Vintage Cinema & Coffin Museum – Bostin!

Considering a Birmingham city break? Want to know a bit more about what this city has to offer? Great! Then check out this review of a weekend trip to Birmingham with details of things to do and places to visit. Table of Contents Getting to Birmingham City Break from the HighlandsBirmingham City BreakTravelling from Birmingham AirportBirmingham City BreakWhat I Did and Where I Ate Getting to Birmingham City Break from the Highlands I flew from Inverness to Birmingham. There used to be a regular service operated by Flybe. There is a service between Inverness and Birmingham which is now operated… Read More »Birmingham Break with Vintage Cinema & Coffin Museum – Bostin!

Village Hotel Aberdeen – Resort Hotel in Aberdeen Outskirts

Are you looking for a nice hotel located out of Aberdeen city centre? Somewhere with plenty of free parking and easy access? The Village Hotel Aberdeen is ideal for you if this is the case. Check out this one night review. (Please note that our stay was in the very early days of Covid19 restrictions being lifted, just enough to allow domestic travel. As such most of the hotel services were reduced.) Table of Contents Village Hotel Aberdeen – Pre ArrivalVillage Hotel Aberdeen – LocationVillage Hotel Aberdeen – ArrivalVillage Hotel Aberdeen – Room FacilitiesVillage Hotel Aberdeen – Covid19 Hotel Stay… Read More »Village Hotel Aberdeen – Resort Hotel in Aberdeen Outskirts

Impress Your Fellow Flyers with This Simple Plane Seat Flight Hack!

Want to impress your fellow flyers? This simple plane seat flight hack is something I often get asked to show others! Very Easy Plane Seat Flight Hack As someone who has flown I am sure you will know remember how awkward it can be to get in and out of the plane seat, as the armrests get in the way. This applies whether on short or longer haul flights. It can make getting in and out of your plane seat a bit tricky, leading to some awkward leaning and grabbing, especially when you are trying to get out of your… Read More »Impress Your Fellow Flyers with This Simple Plane Seat Flight Hack!

8 Mobile Phone Travel Hacks To Save You Time & Money

Looking for some tried and tested mobile phone travel hacks? These are all the things related to mobile phones that I use, have or do! Table of Contents Mobile Phone Travel Hacks by The Professional TravellerMobile Phone Travel Hacks 1Take a Super Long Power LeadMobile Phone Travel Hacks 2 AroundMe – My Absolute Favourite Travel AppMobile Phone Travel Hacks 3Google TranslateMobile Phone Travel Hacks 4Ticketless Travel AppsMobile Phone Travel Hacks 5Calm Mobile Phone Travel Hacks by The Professional Traveller I can barely remember travelling without a mobile phone, having had one now for so many years. Thankfully the bills are… Read More »8 Mobile Phone Travel Hacks To Save You Time & Money

Airport Lounge Pass – Membership vs Pay as You Go

The Professional Traveller • Jul 27, 2020 Table of Contents Airport Lounge Pass – Membership SchemesAirport Lounge Pass Access ComparisonNo1 Lounge Gatwick North TerminalPriority Pass Membership Levels Airport Lounge Pass – Membership Schemes If you are looking at whether you should buy an airport lounge pass you are in the right place. To work out whether buying a airport lounge pass is worth it you need to think about how often you might be using airport lounges, after deciding of course that you want to use them at all! If you haven’t checked it out already there is a very… Read More »Airport Lounge Pass – Membership vs Pay as You Go

Grasmere Lake District – A Little Gem With Lots to Enjoy

Looking to visit Grasmere Lake District? It’s a super cute village with some interesting places to visit and lovely views. Check out my guide to what to see and do. Table of Contents Grasmere Lake District – What To See and DoGrasmere Lake District – The VillageGrasmere Lake District – Walking into the Village from the Swan HotelGrasmere Lake District – Barneys NewsboxGrasmere Lake District – Sam Read Books Grasmere Lake District – What To See and Do I have been lucky enough to visit Grasmere Lake District several times with groups over 2019 and I have to say it’s… Read More »Grasmere Lake District – A Little Gem With Lots to Enjoy

Travel Sickness Hacks – To Help You Travel More Comfortably

Do you suffer from travel sickness? Despite being a Professional Traveller I have suffered from travel sickness my whole life Here are my tried and tested travel sickness hacks that help me Table of Contents Tips from a Lifelong Travel Sickness SuffererTravel Sickness – Car SicknessTravel Sickness – Sea SicknessTravel Sickness – Coach SicknessTravel Sickness FAQs Tips from a Lifelong Travel Sickness Sufferer I get travel sick, which might seem odd given I have spent 30 years of my life getting paid to travel. Infact I get the full house when it comes to travel sickness – car sick,… Read More »Travel Sickness Hacks – To Help You Travel More Comfortably

10 Tips for Nervous Flyers – To Help You Fly More Easily

I’m one of those nervous flyers. I have been for many years. The fear can build up and sometimes feel overwhelming. I’m sharing 10 tips for nervous flyers based on things that have worked for me. Table of Contents Tips for Nervous Flyers – Tip 1Fly Without Fear BookTips for Nervous Flyers – Tip 2Choosing My Own SeatTips for Nervous Flyers – Tip 3Airport Lounge AccessTips for Nervous Flyers – Tip 4Having Bits and BobsTips for Nervous Flyers – Tip 5InFlight Entertainment Tips for Nervous Flyers – Tip 1 Fly Without Fear Book I found reading this book, written by… Read More »10 Tips for Nervous Flyers – To Help You Fly More Easily

Istanbul City Break – What It Was Like As Solo Female (Challenging!)

Thinking of taking an Istanbul city break? If so check out my guide based on a stay near Taksim Square and using public transport. Here is my review of a 3 night stay that I took, travelling on my own as a solo female. Table of Contents Istanbul City BreakGetting To Istanbul From InvernessIstanbul City BreakArriving At Istanbul Airport (Ataturk) – Airport Code ISTIstanbul City BreakGetting from Istanbul Airport to Taksim SquareIstanbul City BreakMy Hotel in Istanbul – The Suitel Istanbul City BreakTaksim SquareIstanbul FAQsIstanbul Airport FAQs Istanbul City Break Getting To Istanbul From Inverness I booked my outward and… Read More »Istanbul City Break – What It Was Like As Solo Female (Challenging!)

Travel Earplugs – An Absolute Travel Essential

Travel Earplugs – Don’t Go Anywhere Without Them! Looking to find some great travel earplugs? I’ve tested loads and they are an absolute essential when I travel. Check out my recommended travel earplugs below! As a Tour Manager I have come to appreciate and need my sleep much more over the years as I grow a bit older. Gone are the days when I could party all night, nip back for a shower and then go out on tour for the day! Now one of my travel essentials are travel earplugs because hotels can be surprisingly noisy places. Noise can… Read More »Travel Earplugs – An Absolute Travel Essential

Cheap Hotels Near Gatwick – Real Reviews of 5 Gatwick Hotels

Looking for cheap hotels near Gatwick? Great then this post is for you. Below you will find details of 5 cheap hotels near Gatwick, 4 on site and 1 off site all of which I have stayed in while travelling as a Tour Manager for holiday companies. At the bottom of the page you will find some FAQs regarding Gatwick Airport. Table of Contents Cheap Hotels Near GatwickDirectly Connected Via Walkway to North Terminal The Super SofitelCheap Hotels Near GatwickStandard and Deluxe Cabins from 4 Hours Or More At YotelAirCheap Hotels Near GatwickDay Use Rooms, Capsule Rooms & Spectacular Runway… Read More »Cheap Hotels Near Gatwick – Real Reviews of 5 Gatwick Hotels

Inverness Airport Lounge – One of the Best & Super Friendly

Looking to use Inverness airport lounge? It’s a regular stop for me and a great way to start a flight. Check out this guide to the facilities available at Inverness Airport lounge. Table of Contents Inverness Airport Lounge LocationInverness Airport Lounge FacilitiesInverness Airport Lounge Toilet FacilitiesUsing Inverness Airport LoungeDelayed Flights and Inverness Airport Lounge Inverness Airport Lounge Location Inverness airport lounge, operated by Aspire, is located through security. It is closest to Gate Number 3 and opposite the Stag and Thistle bar. You access the lounge through a set of double doors. There is a small desk in the entrance… Read More »Inverness Airport Lounge – One of the Best & Super Friendly

12 Self Catering Holiday Tips – To Have An Even Better Holiday

Looking for some tips to help you get even more out of your self catering holiday? Tried and tested self catering holiday tips based on experience? Great – well here are the 12 tips we use on our family self catering holidays. Table of Contents 12 Self Catering Holiday TipsSelf Catering Holiday Tips For Before You Book Your HolidaySelf Catering Holiday Tips When Booking Your HolidaySelf Catering Holiday Tips For Before You TravelSelf Catering Holiday Tips – Things To Take With YouSelf Catering Holiday Tips For The First EveningSelf Catering Holiday Tips For the First Morning 12 Self Catering Holiday… Read More »12 Self Catering Holiday Tips – To Have An Even Better Holiday

Cheap Hotel Hacks – 4 Easy Tips and Tricks To Bag A Bargain

Love getting a good hotel and paying less for it? Great – so do I! Check out my list of cheap hotel hacks for some easy ways to stretch your budget to the max. Cheap Hotel Hacks 1 Travel Out of Season to Find The Best Prices This is top of the list of my cheap hotel hacks as it’s my number one tip. Travelling out of the normal season, which is generally April to September, is a great way to find cheaper hotel deals. It’s a simple matter of supply and demand and it can mean there are plenty… Read More »Cheap Hotel Hacks – 4 Easy Tips and Tricks To Bag A Bargain

Cheap Airport Lounges – Find The Cheapest Rate For You

Table of Contents Looking For Cheap Airport Lounges?Cheap Airport LoungesAirport Lounge Membership SchemesCheap Airport LoungesFor UK And Europe Lounge AccessCheap Airport LoungesAccess With Bank Accounts and Credit Card MembershipsCheap Airport Lounges – Which Is Best For You? Looking For Cheap Airport Lounges? Take the quick quiz above to find out the cheapest way for you to gain access to an airport lounge. You may want to just jump into my guide to airport lounge membership schemes and how to find which scheme is right for you. Cheap Airport Lounges Airport Lounge Membership Schemes Cheap Airport Lounges with Priority Pass Best… Read More »Cheap Airport Lounges – Find The Cheapest Rate For You