Late Summer Escape Inspiration
Emma Macfarlane • July 29, 2026
A cultural city break or a tranquil escape to the Mediterranean? Here are some ideas for late summer escapes
Aria, Budapest
‘Queen of the Danube’, the Hungarian capital is a majestic city, with Gothic architecture, grand boulevards and elegant coffee houses. The stylish Aria hotel is in an excellent location, near St. Stephen's Basilica and the State Opera House. It has 49 luxurious rooms, a bar and restaurant, a spa and indoor swimming pool. Evan highly recommends a walking tour with an expert guide to delve into Hungary's rich artistic and musical heritage.
SPECIAL OFFER: 4 nights for the price of 3 all year - price from £1,339 per person, saving up to £190
Includes return flights, return private car transfers, accommodation including breakfast and a three-hour private walking tour
Le Domaine du Mas de Pierre, Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Located just outside Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Le Mas de Pierre is one of the finest hotels in the South of France. A member of Relais & Châteaux, it has 76 rooms with private terraces or balconies, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and an excellent restaurant. Take a guided tour to take in the charming old town, with its lively restaurants and enormous open-air market. The Chagall Museum and the Musée Matisse are also well worth visiting – we can book tickets for your before you go.
3 night price from £1,525 per person
Includes return flights, accommodation including breakfast and car hire. An additional city tax of €42.21 per person (approx. £38) is payable locally
Carrig House, Kerry
For those seeking cooler climates, what about a short break to Ireland? Just south-west of Cork, you will find picturesque coastal scenery, colourful fishing villages and the famous Ring of Kerry. This charming restored Victorian manor house has just 16 lakeview rooms, four acres of gardens and plenty of comfortable lounges to enjoy afternoon tea. Why not consider a tailor-made holiday combining Kerry with Cork, Dublin or Limerick?
3 night price from £1,179 per person
Includes return flights, accommodation with breakfast and car hire.
Electra Palace, Thessaloniki
One of the oldest cities in Europe, Thessaloniki: a fascinating port town with well-preserved Byzantine ruins. The Electra Palace is in an ideal location overlooking Aristotelous Square and close to the Archaeological Museum. Its 130 rooms are elegantly decorated, and there is a rooftop restaurant with sea views as well as two swimming pools. Michael would be delighted to create a longer, tailor-made itinerary combining Athens, Santorini or other Greek islands, all of which can be easily reached via regional flights.
4 night price from £1,059 per person
Includes return flights, return private car transfers and accommodation including breakfast. An additional Climate Resilience Tax of €30 per person (approx. £25) is payable locally.
Herdade de Malhadinha Nova, Alentejo
Alentejo is a region of beautiful countryside, with ancient olive groves, vineyards, and historic small towns. Just two hours from Lisbon, the Soares family have created a stylish rural retreat and modern winery, with a Green Michelin-starred restaurant. The rooms, suites and villas are spread across six buildings with swimming pools and a spa. For a fascinating cultural excursion, Tom encourages you to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Evora to see the Roman Temple of Diana (1h 30m drive) or the mosque-church in Mertola (50 minute drive).
3 night price from £1,589 per person
Includes return flights to Faro, car hire (private transfers available on request), accommodation including breakfast, a welcome drink and tour of the property and wine-tasting.
Corallo, Sorrento
Sorrento's charming streets, lively piazzas and authentic restaurants have attracted discerning travellers since the 19th century. The Corallo sits on a cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples and provides a tranquil oasis close to the town centre. There are 51 rooms with private balconies, an infinity pool and an excellent restaurant, as well as a complimentary shuttle to Piazza Lauro. With Naples just an hour's drive away and nearby ferries connecting to Amalfi, Positano, Capri and Ischia, this an ideal base to explore the Amalfi Coast.
5 night price from £2,498 per person
Includes return flights, return private car transfers and accommodation including breakfast. An additional tourist tax of €25 euros per person (approx. £21) is payable locally.
To find out more, pop in and see us or get in touch.
When we started planning our week in Lake Bled, Slovenia, the brief was simple: somewhere beautiful, somewhere active and somewhere that would keep two energetic older teenagers/young adults entertained. We wanted adventure, fresh air and experiences we would all remember - but we also wanted time to slow down, switch off and enjoy being together as a family. Lake Bled turned out to be exactly what we were looking for. The journey there couldn’t have been easier. Just 30 minutes from Ljubljana Airport, we were soon driving through stunning alpine scenery, with mountains rising around us and glimpses of the famous turquoise lake appearing through the trees. It felt like we had arrived somewhere truly special. Our home for the week was Pension Mayer , a lovely family-run guesthouse that was the perfect base for our adventures. It was beautifully maintained with an alpine feel, potted geraniums on the balconies and was comfortable, welcoming and within walking distance of the lake. Breakfast was plentiful and served in the pretty gardens each morning. After busy days exploring, it was a pleasure to come back to somewhere relaxed and friendly. The guest house also offered bikes that we could borrow – something we took full advantage of! Our Week of Adventure One of the things we loved most about Lake Bled was that every day could be different. There was always something to do but never any pressure to rush. We quickly discovered that the best way to appreciate the lake was from the water. We hired paddleboards and spent time gently making our way across the lake, taking in those famous views of Bled Island and the church sitting perfectly in the middle. It was peaceful, beautiful and one of those moments where you have to remind yourself to put the camera away and simply enjoy being there. We also took a small wooden boat out on the water. As a family of rowers we were keen even though our only option was a wooden skiff type rowing boat. There was plenty of laughter, some pretty good steering and a definite reminder that teamwork is important, even if there was a battle for the oars! Still, we made it around the lake and over the explore Bled Island and created another great family memory. Legend has it that if you ring the wishing bell in the church at the top of Bled Island, your wish will come true. Flying Through the Trees One of the absolute highlights of the week was our zipline adventure . Zipline Dolinka offers the longest zipline in Europe – 7 ziplines, 4km of skyline and 2.5 hours of adventure. Zipline Dolinka is an exceptional organisation with young, professional and personable guides who made the adventure even more fun. It the perfect activity for those looking for a little adrenaline and excitement. Flying through the forest with the stunning views of Lake Bled and the surrounding mountains stretching out below was unforgettable. There was a real sense of adventure, and it was one of those experiences that had everyone smiling afterwards — even those who were slightly nervous beforehand! Racing Down the Mountain Of course, no family adventure would be complete without a little competition! We headed to Straža Bled for some tobogganing, where we raced down the hillside overlooking the lake. The views were spectacular — although I suspect everyone was more focused on beating each other down the track! It was great fun and proof that you are never too old to enjoy a bit of adrenaline and a little bit of friendly rivalry. Exploring on Two Feet and Two Wheels Lake Bled is a wonderful place for walking and cycling. We spent time cycling around the lake, stopping whenever we fancied to enjoy the views, take photos or simply sit and watch the world go by. Walking became part of our daily routine too. Whether it was wandering into town, exploring paths around the lake or heading out into the surrounding countryside, the scenery was always breathtaking. The mountains, forests and fresh alpine air made every walk feel like a mini adventure. One of our favourite excursions was th e Vintgar Gorge . Just a short distance from Lake Bled, this spectacular natural wonder is a must-visit. Walking along the wooden walkways above the crystal-clear river, surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls and lush green forest, felt like stepping into another world. It was one of those places where everyone — teenagers included — stopped talking for a moment and simply took it all in. Discovering Slovenian Traditions It wasn’t just the scenery and activities that made the trip special. We also enjoyed experiencing some local culture, including watching traditional Slovenian dancers perform. The music, costumes and energy gave us a wonderful insight into the country’s heritage and reminded us that travel is about connecting with places and people, not just ticking off attractions. The Moments Between the Adventures Although the zipline, paddleboarding, cycling and tobogganing were fantastic, some of our favourite memories came from the quieter moments. Evenings back at Pension Mayer often involved nothing more complicated than sitting together, chatting about the day and playing cards. With teenagers, those moments where everyone is genuinely present and engaged are precious. There was laughter, a bit of competitive arguing (all very friendly, of course!) and plenty of stories from the day’s adventures. Why We Loved Lake Bled Lake Bled gave us exactly what we hoped for: adventure, beautiful scenery, culture and time together as a family. It was a place where we could spend the morning cycling, the afternoon paddleboarding, the evening enjoying many of the plentiful and excellent restaurants in Bled. For families with active teenagers, it is hard to think of a better destination. There is enough excitement to keep everyone happy, enough natural beauty to make parents fall in love with it and enough peaceful moments to remind you that sometimes the best part of a holiday is simply being together. We left Lake Bled with tired legs, hundreds of photos and a collection of memories that will stay with us for a very long time.
Fancy an authentic Spanish break? Looking for the perfect mix of culture, architecture, coastline, relaxation and sightseeing? Then why not try something a little different and head to the charming northern town of Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife. Just over an hour’s transfer from Tenerife South Airport, Puerto de la Cruz is a magical blend of old and new. Wander through its historic streets, browse the lovely independent shops and enjoy delicious meals in the many traditional restaurants and cafés. It feels wonderfully Spanish and offers a completely different experience to the island’s busier southern resorts. I recently spent three amazing nights at the newly renovated five-star Gran Hotel Taoro, and it truly exceeded my expectations. Dating back to 1890, this magnificent building was Spain’s first grand hotel and has welcomed royalty, dignitaries and famous guests throughout its remarkable history. Following a meticulous restoration, the hotel has been transformed into one of the finest properties in Tenerife – if not the whole Canary Islands. Located just a short walk from the old town, it occupies an elevated position with spectacular views, making it the perfect place to unwind beside one of its two beautiful heated swimming pools. The hotel is mainly adult-focused, creating a wonderfully peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The contemporary rooms have been thoughtfully designed with every modern comfort in mind. It’s the little details that impressed me most, from the elegant décor to practical touches such as charging points inside the room safe. During my stay, I was fortunate enough to explore some of northern Tenerife’s most beautiful villages, including Garachico and La Orotava. I honestly hadn’t realised Tenerife was home to such picturesque places. As we visited on a Sunday, we watched local families leaving church before gathering in the shaded squares beneath the beautiful jacaranda trees to enjoy coffee and conversation. It was such a lovely atmosphere and felt incredibly authentic. If you’ve already visited Spain’s major cities and are looking for somewhere that offers genuine Spanish charm, fascinating history and a luxurious hotel where you can truly relax, Puerto de la Cruz could be just the destination. I’d recommend a three or four-night stay, giving you plenty of time to soak up the sunshine, explore the local sights and experience a different side of Tenerife. Even better, with the Gran Hotel Taoro currently offering attractive soft-opening rates, there’s never been a better time to discover this hidden gem. Want to know more? Get in touch with Karen or pop into the office in Claygate .
A couple of weekends ago, we decided it was time for a change of scenery. We wanted a destination with reliable sunshine, fantastic food and the opportunity to add another European city to our list. Lisbon quickly rose to the top of the shortlist. Having visited the Portuguese capital twice before on work trips, I already knew it had all the ingredients for a great weekend away – and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Arriving in Lisbon One thing worth mentioning immediately is passport control. Since the introduction of new biometric checks for UK travellers entering the EU, stories of long queues have become common. Thankfully, our experience was quite the opposite. We joined the queue and were through in around 20 minutes, with fingerprinting and biometric photographs completed quickly and efficiently. We had booked our trip as an easyJet Holiday package and our transfer driver was waiting for us when we arrived. Around 30 minutes later, we were checking into the excellent Lisboa Pessoa Hotel, perfectly positioned on the edge of the Bairro Alto and Chiado districts. The four-star hotel proved to be an excellent choice. It offers comfortable rooms, a lovely rooftop bar with views across the city and a very good restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. That said, Lisbon is blessed with so many fantastic restaurants that bed and breakfast is probably all you’ll need. As we had taken a later flight we didn’t arrive until around 9pm, so after settling in it was time to rest and prepare for our first full day exploring. A Walking Tour: The Best Way to Start The following morning, I had booked a walking tour of Lisbon – something I have come to regard as one of the best ways to get your bearings in a new city. It’s a tip I picked up from one of our partner operators, Kirker Holidays, who regularly recommend guided walks at the start of a trip. You don’t need to commit to an expensive four-hour private tour either. We opted for a relaxed two-hour “Get to Know Lisbon” walk, which cost around £30 per person. Our small group explored the historic streets of the old town while our guide shared stories, local history and useful insider tips. One particularly valuable piece of advice involved Lisbon’s metro and railway stations. In some locations, taking an escalator up or down and exiting from a different entrance can transport you to an entirely different level of the city, saving your legs from some of Lisbon’s famously steep hills. Trust me – you’ll appreciate every shortcut you can find. Exploring the City After our tour, we stopped for lunch just off Praça do Comércio. Despite being in one of the city’s most popular tourist areas, we found prices surprisingly reasonable. The afternoon was spent wandering through Lisbon’s streets and discovering hidden corners, one of the highlights being Livraria Bertrand in Chiado. Founded in 1732, it holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest operating bookshop. Visitors can browse the shelves as normal, but one particularly nice touch is that any book purchased can be stamped to show it was bought at this historic store – a lovely souvenir for book lovers. Dinner at Time Out Market During our walking tour, our guide recommended the Time Out Market, so that evening we headed back there for dinner. We chose Pap’Açorda, located on the first floor, which had been recommended to us and served an excellent meal. However, if I were visiting again, I would probably do things slightly differently. The real appeal of the market lies downstairs, where dozens of food stalls showcase some of Lisbon’s best chefs and restaurants under one roof. The atmosphere is lively and informal, and the communal seating area allows everyone to choose exactly what they fancy. Looking back, we wish we had embraced the full food market experience. Castles, Custard Tarts and Monasteries The next morning, before the day became too hot, we tackled the climb to Castelo de São Jorge. The castle offers spectacular views across Lisbon’s rooftops and the River Tagus and is well worth a visit. Entry is included with the Lisboa Card, which quickly proved its value during our stay. For around €30, the card includes free or discounted entry to many attractions as well as unlimited use of public transport, making it a worthwhile investment if you plan to explore the city properly. Later that afternoon, we caught a bus to Belém to visit the original home of the famous Pastel de Nata. The bakery where it all began remains one of Lisbon’s biggest attractions, and it’s easy to see why once you taste one fresh from the oven. Just a short walk away is the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, another landmark included with the Lisboa Card and one of Lisbon’s architectural highlights. Final Thoughts Lisbon is everything you could want from a city break: beautiful architecture, fascinating history, excellent food and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Even after a long weekend, it felt like we had only scratched the surface. We didn’t even manage to take the short train journey to Cascais, which simply gives us another reason to return. If you’re looking for a European escape that combines culture, cuisine and sunshine, Lisbon should be very high on your list. I‘d love to chat more about it so do get in touch! Martyn
Few destinations are more iconic than the Galápagos Islands, where Lindblad Expeditions brought the very first group of citizen explorers more than 50 years ago. Sail among the varied landscapes of this magical archipelago to encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, playful penguins, and charismatic sea lions, all unfazed by your presence. With multiple ways to explore on land and at sea, including hikes, photo walks, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkelling, every day reveals new discoveries interpreted by a team of expert local guides. National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions have launched two brand new extended itineraries - the 13-day Epic Galápagos Escape departing from November 2026 and the 17-day Ultimate Galápagos launching in January 2027. Designed for travellers seeking a more immersive Galápagos experience, these new extended journeys combine multiple itineraries into one seamless expedition, offering access to more islands, landscapes, wildlife habitats and visitor sites than ever before. With the opportunity to explore up to twice as many islands, guests can enjoy a deeper understanding of the archipelago’s extraordinary diversity at a more relaxed pace, with greater flexibility and time for exploration. These longer expeditions also increase the chances of rare wildlife encounters across a variety of ecosystems, creating an unforgettable way to experience the full wonder of the Galápagos. Travelling with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions means going beyond the ordinary. With a fleet of more than 20 purpose-built expedition ships, guests can explore some of the world’s most remote destinations alongside expert guides, naturalists and specialists with decades of experience. Selected departures are joined by National Geographic photographers and certified photo instructors, while daily recaps and real-time insights from onboard experts create a rich and immersive experience both on and off the ship. From hands-on conservation initiatives and locally inspired cuisine to educational programmes for young explorers and support for artisan communities around the world, every journey is designed to deepen connections with the places visited and the people who call them home. Get in touch to find out more.
It starts with a conversation with us
Jennie has just returned from Madeira and a stay at the iconic Reid’s Palace. This is what she had to say. Opened in 1891 and now part of the Belmond portfolio, this renowned five-star hotel combines timeless elegance with exceptional service. Perched on a dramatic clifftop overlooking Funchal, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic, along with beautifully maintained gardens, original architectural features, and three swimming pools. One of the highlights of our stay was the hotel’s famous afternoon tea, served on the terrace with panoramic views across the bay - an experience made even more special as we watched cruise ships arrive and depart. The hotel’s rich history adds to its charm; notable guests such as Winston Churchill have stayed here, and the complimentary guided tours of the property and gardens provide fascinating insights into its heritage and diverse plant life. During our visit, we made the most of what Madeira has to offer. We explored the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, enjoyed a memorable boat trip spotting whales and dolphins, and took the cable car up to Monte before experiencing the famous toboggan ride back down. We also spent time visiting the local market, dining at excellent restaurants, and strolling through the charming streets of Funchal. Overall, Madeira exceeded our expectations, and I would highly recommend it as a destination. Reid's Palace in particular stands out as a truly exceptional place to stay, offering a perfect combination of location, history, comfort, and outstanding hospitality. For more information, get in touch with Jennie. .
Tucked deep within the vast Kalahari Basin lies one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders: the Okavango Delta. This iconic wetland, shimmering like an oasis in a country that is nearly 80% arid, is the beating heart of Botswana’s wilderness. Fed by rains that fall over 1,000 km away in central Africa, the delta spills life into the desert, sustaining an astonishing diversity of wildlife and creating one of the most sought after safari destinations on Earth. A Landscape Untouched by Time The Okavango Delta is a place where nature still calls the shots. Its peaceful channels, papyrus-lined waterways, and remote islands feel almost untouched by human hands. This is wild Africa in its purest form - a sanctuary where ecosystems thrive as they have for millennia. During the wet season, the surrounding plains burst into lush grazing, drawing large mammals away from the delta. As winter approaches and the grasses thin, the wildlife returns in dramatic numbers. This seasonal ebb and flow creates some of the most spectacular game viewing anywhere on the continent. A Wildlife Haven Like No Other From the deep marshes to the dry island outcrops, the Okavango offers an unmatched variety of species in a single journey: • Hippos wallowing in quiet lagoons • Water birds in dazzling abundance • Rare water-adapted antelope like the sitatunga • Elephants, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs roaming the islands Botswana’s commitment to conservation has ensured that this biodiversity remains intact. With over 1,000 plant species, more than 400 bird species, and a thriving population of iconic mammals, the delta is a living testament to what protected wilderness can achieve. One of the most inspiring conservation stories is the return of the White Rhino. Once wiped out from this region, they were reintroduced in 2001 - and today, they are breeding once again. Botswana: A Country Devoted to Conservation Botswana stands as one of Africa’s last true wilderness strongholds. An impressive 35% of the country is dedicated to conservation - one of the highest proportions in the world. This commitment has preserved vast landscapes like the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and the Moremi Game Reserve. Chobe alone is home to an estimated 70,000 elephants, the largest concentration on the continent. Watching these giants migrate across the plains—sometimes covering up to 200 km - is one of Africa’s great wildlife spectacles. The Classic Botswana Safari: 7 Days of Pure Adventure Destinations: Chobe National Park | Okavango Delta | Moremi Game Reserve Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights Itinerary Highlights • Glide silently through the Okavango’s channels on a traditional mokoro • Witness enormous elephant herds in Chobe National Park • Enjoy exclusive big game viewing in pristine wilderness • Fly between remote lodges in true Out of Africa style This itinerary can begin or end in Maun or Kasane, and it’s flexible - extend it, shorten it, or focus on just two regions if time is tight. When to Go April and May are fair, June and July are good. The late dry season (August - September) is particularly magical, with wildlife congregating around shrinking water sources and the delta at its most accessible. For more information, get in touch .
If you’re craving that first warm glow of the year, spring is the perfect moment to slip away for a few days of sunshine. From the subtropical landscapes of Tenerife to the serene shores of Menorca, we’ve handpicked six destinations, with the help of our friend at Kirker, that shine brightest at this time of year. Whether you’re after culture, coastlines or complete tranquillity, we can help you find the perfect fit. 🌿 Son Vell ★★★★★ — Menorca A beautifully restored 18th‑century sandstone manor, Son Vell feels like stepping into a peaceful Menorcan dream. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and olive groves, its 34 rooms and suites are dotted across historic estate buildings, decorated in soft tones and antique furnishings. With two excellent restaurants and Ciutadella just 20 minutes away, it’s a refined rural retreat. Offer: 4 nights for the price of 3 (16 April – 10 June) From: £1,639 per person (saving £410) San Roque ★★★★ Superior — Tenerife Tucked away in the charming northern town of Garachico, San Roque is a world apart from Tenerife’s busier southern resorts. This 18th‑century former residence has been transformed into a stylish boutique hideaway with just 20 contemporary rooms, a heated outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, and an excellent restaurant. From: £998 per person for 3 nights Domes Miramare ★★★★★ Deluxe — Corfu This adults‑only, design‑forward resort sits among lush gardens and olive trees that lead down to a peaceful pebble beach. Just 20 minutes from Corfu Old Town, Domes Miramare offers 182 elegant rooms and suites—many with Ionian Sea views, and some with private pools or jacuzzis. Three restaurants serve Mediterranean, Greek, and Corfiot flavours. From: £1,058 per person for 3 nights Farol ★★★★ Deluxe — Cascais Cascais, just 15 miles from Lisbon, blends coastal charm with a lively atmosphere. Farol Hotel captures that spirit perfectly: a strikingly modern property set within a 19th‑century mansion perched above the Atlantic. Its 33 monochrome‑styled rooms—many with ocean‑view balconies—pair beautifully with the hotel’s Mediterranean restaurant and sushi bar. From: £828 per person for 3 nights Hotel Casa Palacio Maria Luisa ★★★★★ — Jerez In the heart of Jerez, this grand former residence has been lovingly restored into a 21‑room boutique hotel that radiates Andalusian elegance. It’s the ideal base for exploring the region’s pueblos blancos and world‑famous sherry bodegas. A rooftop pool and serene garden offer a peaceful escape from the city’s vibrant streets. From: £998 per person for 3 nights Parador de La Palma ★★★★ — La Palma For those seeking a quieter Canary Island experience, La Palma is a gem. The Parador sits just 10 minutes from both the airport and Santa Cruz, offering traditional Canarian architecture—whitewashed walls, red‑tiled roofs, wooden balconies—and sweeping Atlantic views. All 70 rooms have private balconies overlooking the sea or gardens, and the pool is perfectly positioned for sunset watching. From: £896 per person for 3 nights Give us a ring or pop in and see us in Claygate to chat about your next holiday.
If you are still contemplating where to go this summer, this might help. With the help of our friends at Audley Travel, we have compiled an overview of where to travel in June. Peru - June is Peru at its finest, so securing plans early is essential. With the rains fading in May, the country turns brilliantly green under warm, clear days, while high-altitude nights stay refreshingly cool. It’s an ideal moment for trekking the Inca Trail. Throughout the month, you’ll find a series of festivals across the country, which builds up to Inti Raymi. Held just after the summer solstice, it’s a celebration dedicated to Inti, the benevolent Inca sun god. Uganda - June is one of Uganda’s standout months. The second dry season is just beginning, so rain is rare, yet the landscape remains lush from the recent showers. Roads are at their best too, making the journey into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest far smoother. Bwindi is one of very few places in the world you can track highly endangered mountain gorillas, and June provides some of the best conditions for hiking to see them. You can also head to Kibale Forest National Park to see habituated groups of chimpanzees. Zanzibar - June is a superb moment to experience Zanzibar. The long rains have eased, leaving only the odd light shower that keeps crowds pleasantly sparse. You get wide, white beaches, warm breezes and mostly blue skies with space to enjoy them. It’s also an inviting time to wander Stone Town, visit spice farms, explore Jozani Forest in search of red colobus monkeys or head out on a dhow to spot dolphins. You might combine a stay here with a safari on Tanzania’s mainland, where the parks and reserves are at their greenest, birdwatching is excellent and animals are in prime health. Greece - Across Greece’s mainland and islands, June is an exceptional time to visit. Everything is fully open and the temperatures start to rise, but the real heat doesn’t set in for another month or so. You’ll be able to enjoy pleasantly warm temperatures without the summer throngs, either in the cities or on the beaches. June is also when many festivals take place across the country. For example, the Athens and Epidaurus Festival showcases theatrical performances in both cities. It’s a chance to see ancient Greek plays performed in ancient venues, including the Theatre of Epidaurus. Mauritius - June is especially appealing in Mauritius. The island’s subtropical warmth is gentler now, with fewer visitors and pleasantly less‑humid days - perfect for lingering on its white‑sand beaches. It’s also an inviting moment to explore offshore islets and snorkelling spots, particularly on a private boat tour. The Chamarel Mountains, in the south, see the occasional burst of rain, which keeps them green. You can take a private tour through this verdant region to see the sugarcane fields, tea plantations, and national parks there. Malaysia - June is an excellent moment to explore Malaysia’s east coast. Whilst the capital and west remain year‑round options, the islands here are in the heart of their dry season. Diving conditions off Tioman, Redang and the Perhentians are at their clearest, with hot, dry weather and superb visibility. You might start off with a few days in Kuala Lumpur, where you can take a walking tour to sample the street food. Then you could visit the Sultan’s Palace in Kuala Terengganu, before ending with a few days on the beaches of Tioman. Where will you choose? If you are still looking for inspiration, pop in and see us in Claygate or get in touch .
Canada is close to our hearts here at Greenstar Travel and a country which we know extremely well. This time, we are focusing on British Columbia, a region of diverse abundance - a kaleidoscope of terrain, cultures and adventures coming together to create something truly super, natural. Giant mountain ranges, merging into lush rainforests, spilling onto endless coastlines, feeding life into bustling cities. This vast and ever-changing landscape is shaped by nature in every sense. Here, countless adventures emerge. One day begins ascending a mountain peak, before dropping into a vibrant city full of culture then stopping to breathe on a sandy beach to take in the sunset. Another day may find you hiking a trail that has been followed for millennia, weaving through an old-growth forest and winding along a rocky coastline, where waves break and a storm rolls in over the horizon. For those curious at heart, who crave connection with nature, British Columbia is a world full of natural wonder. Rainforest to Rockies Rainforest to Rockies is the quintessential Canadian journey along ever-changing landscapes from Vancouver on the Pacific Coast to the Canadian Rockies. Experience rugged shorelines, lush rainforests, sophisticated cities, fertile valleys, arid desert, golden grasslands, and towering mountains as you make your way from sea to sky, by road, rail or trail. This trip is packed with adventure. It’s an invitation to find tucked-away places, see wildlife in its natural habitat, and meet welcoming locals and diverse cultures along the way. The Great Wilderness Journey into The Great Wilderness, the northernmost area of British Columbia where adventures await curious wanderers. Here, travellers will discover the extraordinary in glaciated valleys and lava beds, magnificent mountains and thundering waterways. It’s a place where history is sacred and legends linger, passed down through generations of Indigenous Peoples who have stewarded the land for millennia. The Infinite Coast The Infinite coast is the journey along the dramatic Pacific edge of Canada where ocean, land, and forest intertwine, shaping a landscape in constant motion. The Pacific’s tides carve deep into the shore, rainforests rise from the mist, and mountains stand tall against wind and waves. Here, nature’s power is felt in every moment—paddling waters where whales may surface, sailing past cliffs shaped by storms, or trekking through shadowy forests where the trees seem to breathe. Over 50 First Nations steward this coastline, preserving traditions woven into land and sea, while sharing their knowledge with visitors. To travel The Infinite Coast is to move with its energy, shaped by the Pacific’s relentless pull. Nature’s Heartland n Nature’s Heartland, the land doesn’t just hold stories—it tells them. The Fraser River weaves through canyons and plateaus, shaping both the terrain and the lives connected to it. As the river flows, so do the experiences—riding horseback along timeworn trails, rafting whitewater bends, moving through landscapes still shared with caribou, wild horses, and circling eagles. That deep connection runs through generations. Indigenous Peoples continue to care for this land, sharing knowledge passed down through stories, art, and tradition. Ranchers and artisans follow seasonal rhythms, shaped by the same forces. Here, history lives in the landscape, and nature continues to weave past and present into new stories. Valleys and Vineyards Valleys & Vineyards invites you to experience a land of lush valleys, cooling lakes, and quiet rejuvenation. Rooted in tradition and sustainability, this area is home to the Seven Generations Pledge—a commitment to preserve lands for future generations, inspired by Indigenous philosophy. Golden hills and life-giving waters meet vineyards, where award-winning wines and farm-to-table dining celebrate the land’s generosity. Here, adventure flows at your pace—paddle tranquil waters, cycle scenic trails, or wander along sunlit paths. Nature and culture intertwine, offering moments to reflect, connect, and savour. Gather with friends, share laughter, and celebrate being at one with the land. This is where souls are nourished. Wildlife in British Columbia Where to start? The province of British Columbia will enthral you with its diversity of wildlife viewing due to the variety of landscapes. Just to whet your appetite here are ideas: Victoria: 3 resident pods of Orca inhabit the waters around Victoria and sometimes a pod of transient Orca can be seen. Humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sea lions, sea otters and a myriad of sea birds can be seen including bald eagles. Tofino : specific excursions can be taken to view whales (mainly Pacific Gray) and other marine wildlife while, at low tide, you can enjoy a black bear viewing tour. The bears come to the shoreline in search of their favourite food, rock crabs, but they’re also over-turning rocks looking for clams and other molluscs. Telegraph Cove : the area of Johnstone Strait is recognised as one of the world’s best areas for Orca viewing but there’s also a good chance of seeing Humpback as well as other marine wildlife. Campbell River : whale watching excursions operate from here to Johnstone Strait and full day excursions travel to Bute or Knight Inlet looking for grizzly bear during September & October. Grizzly Bear Viewing Lodges : offering multi-day packages there are some amazing lodges in remote areas specifically aimed at Grizzly Bear viewing. For example, Knight Inlet Lodge (spring to late August mum & cub viewing while late August to mid-October it is viewing bears feasting on salmon), Farewell Harbour Lodge (bears and whales) and Great Bear Lodge. There’s also Spirit Bear Lodge looking, as the name suggests, for the elusive Spirit Bear (Kermode bear) which is a black bear with a double-recessive gene which gives the bear a creamy coloured fur. On the mainland there are also bear viewing lodges such as Tweedsmuir and Wild Bear Lodge. Whistler offers a great chance of seeing black bear as the area is home to around 80 bears, and they can often be seen on the ski slopes feeding on wildflowers, clover and grass. As you can tell, British Columbia offers amazing viewing opportunities for bears, whales and other marine wildlife. For bear viewing there are day excursions or lodges for multi-day viewing. Whale watching can be by boat, zodiac or even kayak! Rocky Mountaineer Board the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer for ‘one of the most spectacular train trips in the world’ on their two and three-day all-daylight journeys. This is rail travel at its finest, offering stunning scenery of British Columbia and Alberta as you follow historic train routes constructed over 100 years ago. Sit back, relax, and enjoy breathtaking views of forests, deep canyons, winding rivers, majestic mountain ranges and glacier-fed lakes. Butchart Gardens Explore these wonderful themed gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada, at your own pace; visit the Japanese, Rose, Sunken and Italian Gardens to marvel at the various displays. Includes shuttle service from outside the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Sea to Sky Whistler Village Tour By coach, travel along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler and, on arrival, you’ll have around 4 hours free time. Your excursion also includes highlights such as Shannon Falls, the 3rd highest waterfall in British Columbia and the Sea to Sky Gondola which gives spectacular views of Howe Sound. Black Bear Viewing in Whistler Enjoy an off-road black bear viewing by Land Rover accompanied by a professional nature guide. Starting in late April, black bears emerge from hibernation and begin to feed on the new spring growth of grasses. Take in the majestic panoramic views of the Coastal Mountain Range while keeping a watch out for bears, deer and even coyotes that call this area home. Discover British Columbia's incredible wildlife on an amazing 12 day adventure. Click here for more information or get in touch .
