Real Travel Tips From Our Team Member’s Incredible South African Safari

My Canadian Adventure: 7 Days, 5 Cities, Endless Memories

Our Carly from the Cleveleys shop swapped the Fylde Coast breeze for the scorching sands of Dubai...

As a 35-year-old woman with a love for quirky spots, beautiful views, and making memories over great food, Budapest had long been on my travel wish list — and wow, it did not disappoint. My partner and I just returned from a whirlwind 3-night city break in this magical city, and I honestly feel like I need a week to recover… not because I’m tired, but because I already have a case of the Buda Blues. Let me take you through the unforgettable highlights. Day 1: Fear of Heights & Peanuts on the Floor We began our trip a little out of the ordinary — with a ride on the Zugliget Chair Lift. It's a peaceful, slow ascent through the Buda Hills, and at the top, we hiked to the Elizabeth Lookout Tower. Now, I’ll admit — I’m terrified of heights. Climbing those narrow stone stairs to the top had my heart racing, but the panoramic views made it all worth it. You could see all of Budapest stretched out like a painting — it was honestly breathtaking. After making our way back down, we headed straight for one of the city's most iconic landmarks: the Chain Bridge. It’s not only stunning to look at, but it’s also such a romantic walk. In fact, we brought a padlock with us and attached it to the bridge as a little memory of our trip — a small but meaningful gesture to leave a piece of us in the city. I’d read about couples doing it and couldn’t resist. It was such a special moment, just standing there with the Danube flowing beneath us. Then it was off to For Sale Pub — a place where chaos and charm meet. Rustic wooden beams, dim lighting, and tables piled high with peanuts you’re actually meant to throw on the floor (yes, really). I ordered the chicken schnitzel with chips, which hit the spot perfectly. You can also write a note and pin it to the walls or ceiling, so we did just that — and spent a while reading through the hundreds of notes left by travelers from years gone by. It was like flipping through a time capsule of Budapest memories. Next up, cocktail time at Tiki Bar Budapest. Think underground island vibes, fun glassware, and a menu that doesn’t hold back.". Their cocktails are wild — beautifully decorated, boozy, and potent and every drink feels like a mini holiday." You can even buy the cups your drinks come in, from skulls to pineapples. I didn’t, but I was very tempted. To top off the night, we headed to 360 Bar, perched high above the city on Andrássy Avenue. It’s a rooftop with serious wow-factor. The domes (used during winter) were gone since the summer season was beginning, but the views were still insane. It’s on the pricier side for drinks, but the view more than makes up for it.

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Tucked away in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai was once a hidden gem, known only to the more adventurous travellers willing to venture off the usual tourist trail.  While Bangkok and the islands grabbed the spotlight, Chiang Mai quietly built a reputation for its breath-taking landscapes, rich culture, and laid-back charm. Today, more people are discovering just how special this city is — yet it still holds onto its authentic heart and peaceful vibe, offering a perfect mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. Here are our reasons why you will fall in love with it it: Cool, Comfortable Weather Thanks to its mountain location and less hustle and bustle than Bangkok, Chiang Mai enjoys much cooler and more pleasant weather. From October to February, daytime temperatures hover around 25°C, and evenings can dip to a refreshing 10°C. Even in the hotter months, the evenings stay cooler than Bangkok. If you fancy escaping the city heat even more, check out Vespa Adventures’ Chiang Mai Countryside Adventure – it's the perfect rural getaway! Yi Peng Lantern Festival If you can plan your visit for November's full moon, you’re in for something truly magical. Chiang Mai lights up for the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals, where thousands of glowing lanterns are released into the sky and floated on the rivers. It’s a breath taking sight and one of Thailand’s most unforgettable experiences. A City Rich in History and Culture Chiang Mai is over 700 years old and home to more than 300 temples! Highlights include the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain overlooking the city. Exploring hidden temples, tasting traditional food, and wandering local neighbourhoods is a fantastic way to dive into the city's fascinating history. Meet Gentle Giants at Elephant Sanctuaries The mountains around Chiang Mai are home to some amazing ethical elephant sanctuaries, where you can spend time with rescued elephants. You’ll get the chance to feed them, walk alongside them, and learn about their stories – a heartwarming and unforgettable experience. Trekking to Hill Tribe Villages Love a good adventure? Set off on a trek to visit the hill tribes in northern Thailand. Hike through beautiful landscapes, meet the Karen, Akha, and Hmong communities, and learn about their traditional ways of life. Popular trekking spots include Mae Hong Son and Doi Inthanon. Incredible Traditional Food Chiang Mai’s food scene is unreal! From creamy khao soi curry noodles to spicy som tam (papaya salad) and grilled meats, the city is a food lover’s paradise. Hot Springs and Waterfalls Need some downtime? Head about an hour out of the city to San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. Relax in the natural hot pools, enjoy a picnic in the gardens, and let the world drift away. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a few busy days of exploring. Affordable Shopping and Nightlife Chiang Mai is a shopper’s dream, offering handmade goods, clothes, souvenirs, and more at bargain prices compared to Bangkok. The night markets are especially lively – head to the Gate Market for delicious street food and great shopping. Whether you’re chasing culture, craving adventure, or simply looking to relax and soak in beautiful surroundings, Chiang Mai has it all — without the crowds and chaos of Thailand’s bigger cities. From its rich history and vibrant festivals to its delicious food and unforgettable experiences, this city is the perfect place to truly connect with the heart of Thailand. Ready to discover the magic of Chiang Mai for yourself.. contact our experts to help you starting planning.

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Staying in Midtown – The Perfect Location If you're looking for a fantastic location out of the hustle and bustle but still within walking distance of key attractions, staying near Lexington Avenue and Grand Central Terminal in Midtown is ideal. I stayed at The Renwick Hotel, which was beautiful and quirky, with an art-themed style. The little touches, like the paintbrush 'Do Not Disturb' sign, made it extra special. Rooms were spacious with huge beds, and while there were no in-room tea or coffee facilities, free tea and coffee were available downstairs in the morning. You can also fill up your reusable water bottle from the gym. Staff were lovely and incredibly helpful. Just keep in mind resort fees were around $40 per night, and the refundable deposit was higher than expected, but it was refunded within two days of returning home. Top Tips for Exploring NYC Grand Central Terminal: Stick to the main terminal and avoid the restrooms. Times Square: Visit early morning when jet lag wakes you up—between 5:30-6:00 AM in winter is perfect for empty, crowd-free photos. Planning is Key: NYC is huge and involves a lot of walking. Plan your days in advance to avoid unnecessary backtracking. Hudson Yards & The High Line: A must-visit! Walk the High Line for stunning views, and near the end, you'll find Little Island, a quirky, free floating park on the Hudson River. This spot is beautiful year-round, but in Spring & Summer, it’s even more vibrant. There are also toilets available on-site. Toilet Finder App: Finding toilets in NYC can be tricky, so download a toilet finder app to save time. Many fast-food places require a code, meaning you have to buy something to use the toilet. Brooklyn & Dumbo – Sunrise Views & Foodie Gems Walk the Brooklyn Bridge for sunrise – fewer crowds, stunning views! Once over the bridge, explore Dumbo and grab breakfast at Time Out Market or a nearby cute coffee shop. Visit Pebble Beach for great city skyline views. Chinatown: Stop by Tasty Dumpling for affordable and delicious dumplings and dim sum. Try Mei Lai Wah’s famous Pineapple Bun—there's no pineapple in it, but it’s incredible! Foodie Highlights Medium Rare Steakhouse: Serves just Steak! A prix fixe menu ($34.95) offering steak, fries, and their famous sauce—includes bread, butter, and salad. They also have plenty of dessert options which the Sundae and Apple pie are supposed to be delicious. Amazing service and incredible food it's one you should add to your list. Highly recommended! Best Pizza Spots: Check out $1.50 Pizza, L’Industrie, Joe’s Pizza, and Mama’s Too for delicious, affordable slices. Sote Coffee Roasters (Upper West Side) – An independent coffee shop near Central Park, perfect for a warm break. Unique NYC Experiences Roosevelt Island: A must-do at sunrise or sunset. I would spend half a day here in order to see the whole island. This is where you can see a memorial and the ruins of a former Smallpox Hospital from 1854 and the statue of President Roosevelt. NYC Ferries: Instead of expensive boat tours, take a $4.50 NYC ferry or the FREE Staten Island Ferry for unbeatable city views, including the Statue of Liberty. Make sure you stay on the right side for the best views including the wonderful statue of liberty again all for FREE. Avoid scammers outside—you don’t need to buy a ticket! Summit One Vanderbilt: One of the best observation decks in NYC—Very immersive & fun. The bar at the top has great views and a Cafe for drinks and food at reasonable prices too. One of my most favourite experiences I've ever done and I have done both Empire state and Rockefeller. Hudson Yards: An experience called The Vessel: A unique experience, bookable on-site for a small fee. Central Park: Visit at sunrise for a peaceful experience—especially on a Sunday morning when locals are out walking their dogs. The park is huge, so plan multiple visits. Why Visit NYC in Winter? I loved experiencing New York in winter! It was cold (often below freezing), but layer up and wear comfy shoes, and you’ll be fine. Snow is possible, so check the forecast and pack accordingly. The best part? Fewer crowds, no long queues, and a more relaxing experience in one of the world’s busiest cities. New York City is unforgettable, and visiting in the off-season gave me the chance to enjoy it without the usual chaos. If you’re thinking about a winter trip, I highly recommend it! If you need any help, advice, or to get started on your New York adventure, pop in or give us a call.