Making sense of it all

Martyn Fisher • April 20, 2021

Whilst we aim to bring you up to date travel inspiration and to send you dreaming of that next holiday spot, it is also important, as your travel professional, that we help you make sense of the current UK Government and what the guidance around international travel looks like.

Below we have aimed to explain, simply, the findings of the Global Travel Taskforce report released earlier this month.  Here you will find the most relevant details (as we understand them) that will affect the restart of international travel.

We are of course, here to help, guide and advise so do get in touch with any questions.

Q:  When will international travel resume?

A:  17 th May is the earliest date that international travel will resume without having to provide a valid reason for leaving the country.  On this date it will no longer be illegal to travel and there will no longer be a requirement to complete a ‘permission to travel’ form.

Q: Where can I go from 17th May?

A: This is not currently clear however it is expected that a traffic light system will be implemented. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has indicated it could be 2 or 3 weeks before any decisions will be published. We are staying abreast of these announcements.

Q: What does the traffic light system mean?

A:  Once international travel resumes, the expected traffic light system will be implemented meaning that destination countries will be classified as green, amber or red with the addition of a ‘green watchlist’.

Green  – Arrivals will need to take a pre-departure test as well as a PCR test on or before day 2 of their arrival back into the UK.  The pre-departure test is likely to be a lateral flow test.  Travellers will not need to quarantine on their return to the UK (unless they receive a positive test result) or be required to take any additional tests.  This will positively reduce the costs of testing and the overall cost of their holiday.

Amber  – Arrivals will need to quarantine for a period of ten days and take a pre-departure test as well as two PCR tests.  There will be the option of a ‘early release’ test to end self-isolation on day 5.

Red  – Arrivals will be subject to restrictions currently in place for “red list” countries which are detailed in the table below.

Green watchlist  – To give passengers more certainty when travelling, a “green watchlist” will be introduced to help identify countries most at risk of moving from green to amber and to provide more assurances to travellers. Those countries on the ‘green watchlist” will be kept under constant review with a particular focus on variants of concern in relevant countries.

Q:  What about cruising? 

A: The UK Government has indicated that domestic and international cruises will resume alongside the wider restart of international travel, in line with the “traffic light” system.

Q:  How will the UK Government/scientists decide which countries are on which list?

A: 4 Key factors will be included in the assessment of which list a country falls into:

  1.  The percentage of that country’s population that has been vaccinated.
  2.  The rate of infection in that country.
  3.  The predominance of variants of concern in that country.
  4.  That country’s access to reliable scientific data.

Q:  Where can I get a PCR test and how much will it cost?

A: The cost and availability of PCR tests in the UK compared to the cost and availability in other countries is currently facing much criticism and scrutiny.  The UK Government has advised that they are working with the private sector to increase availability and drive the cost of testing down.

If you have a holiday booked with Greenstar Travel and it is necessary for you to take a PCR test, we will provide you with a list of facilities where you can book these before departure.  If you book with us we are able to offer a discount on PCR tests through Randox Toxicology, one of the UK Government approved suppliers.

​Q: Will I need a ‘vaccine passport’?

A: The UK will play a leading role in the development of international standards around a digital travel certification system. The Department for Transport is working across UK Government to consider the role vaccine passports could play in easing outbound travel to those countries which have certification systems in place.

The UK Government is also continuing to work towards developing a workable system that would facilitate travel certification for inbound international travel.

Q: How often will the restrictions be reviewed?

A: Restrictions will be formally reviewed on the 28th June to take account of the domestic and international health picture and to see whether current measures could be rolled back. Further formal reviews will take place at points no later than 31st July and 1st October.

Q: Will I still need to complete a passenger locator form (PLF)?

A: The UK Government has announced plans to digitise the PLF integrating it into the UK border control system and enabling checks to take place at e-gates by Autumn 2021. This is the ensure the UK’s borders remain safe and efficient once the numbers of passengers travelling through borders increase.

Q:  What is the best way to ensure that I am fully informed and my holiday is fully protected?

A: Book with us.  We only book and work with ATOL protected tour operators. We are ABTA members and agent members of AITO so your holiday will be fully bonded and financially protected.  We will always provide you with honest and impartial advice and expert guidance and advice from the moment you make an initial enquiry to the moment you return home.

 “International travel is vital – it boosts businesses and underpins the UK economy – but more than that, it brings people together, connects families who have been kept apart, and allows us to explore new horizons.

“The framework announced today will help allow us to reopen travel safely and sustainably, ensure we protect our hard-won achievements on the vaccine roll out and offer peace of mind to both passengers and industry as we begin to take trips abroad once again.”

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps

Correct at time of publication – 20 th April 2021

 

 

 

 

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By Emma Macfarlane June 24, 2026
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.
By Emma Macfarlane June 10, 2026
It starts with a conversation with us
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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. .
By Emma Macfarlane March 19, 2026
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 .
By Emma Macfarlane March 18, 2026
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.
By Emma Macfarlane February 23, 2026
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 .
By Emma Macfarlane February 18, 2026
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 .
By Emma Macfarlane January 28, 2026
Slovenia may be a small country but it has an extraordinary amount to offer and a stunning sense of scale - a place where Alpine peaks, vineyard covered hills, shimmering lakes and a short stretch of Adriatic coastline all sit within easy reach of one another. Its compact size means you can wander through medieval streets in the morning, hike a mountain trail after lunch and sip wine in a sun drenched valley by evening, all without feeling rushed. A landscape shaped by nature The country’s natural beauty is its greatest calling card. The Julian Alps dominate the northwest, home to Triglav National Park and some of Europe’s most rewarding hiking routes. Lake Bled, with its fairytale island church and clifftop castle, is the iconic image of Slovenia, while nearby Lake Bohinj offers a quieter, more rugged alternative surrounded by forest and towering peaks. The Soča Valley, with its emerald green river, draws kayakers, rafters and photographers from around the world. Culture, history and characterful towns Slovenia’s towns and cities are rich in charm and history. Ljubljana, the capital, is a delight - leafy, walkable and full of elegant bridges, riverside cafés and colourful architecture shaped by the famous architect Jože Plečnik. Coastal Piran brings a touch of Venetian romance with its narrow lanes and terracotta rooftops, while Ptuj, the country’s oldest town, offers medieval streets, ancient wine cellars and a hilltop castle with sweeping views. Throughout the country, folk traditions, festivals and regional crafts remain an important part of daily life. A rising star in European gastronomy Slovenia’s food scene has blossomed in recent years, blending Alpine heartiness, Mediterranean freshness and Balkan spice. Expect seasonal, locally sourced dishes, from wild mushrooms and freshwater fish to artisanal cheeses and honey. The wine regions - particularly Goriška Brda, Vipava Valley and Podravje - produce excellent whites and increasingly notable reds, often enjoyed in family run wineries where hospitality feels genuinely personal. Adventure, wellness and the great outdoors For active travellers, Slovenia offers endless possibilities: hiking, cycling, canyoning, skiing in winter and exploring vast cave systems such as Postojna and the UNESCO listed Škocjan Caves. Those seeking relaxation will find natural thermal spas, peaceful lakeside retreats and quiet countryside hideaways perfect for switching off. A destination that feels both undiscovered and effortless What makes Slovenia especially appealing is how easy it is to explore. Distances are short, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming, and the country’s commitment to sustainability is evident everywhere - from pristine national parks to eco friendly hotels and farm stays. It’s a place that feels both refreshingly unspoilt and wonderfully accessible. This piece was inspired by our colleagues at Just Slovenia .
By Emma Macfarlane November 25, 2025
Few places celebrate natural diversity quite like Gran Canaria. On this extraordinary Canary Island, you can journey from rugged northern coastlines through lush laurel forests, across ancient volcanic craters, and up into the dramatic central mountains. Continue south and you’ll descend through fragrant pine woods and deep ravines until you finally reach golden dunes and desert-like landscapes. To help you make the most of this visual treasure trove, here are the best locations for stunning photographs. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Perched on the northeast coast, Las Palmas isn’t just the island’s capital - it’s also the largest city in the entire archipelago. Its famous beach, Las Canteras, stretches for kilometres and offers varied scenes: palm-lined sands and colourful fishing boats in the north and surfers carving through misty waves in the south. Wander into the historic Vegueta district and you’ll find cobbled streets framed by elegant Gothic and Renaissance architecture. At its heart stands the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the oldest church in the Canaries, dating back to 1500. Nearby, the ornate Casa de Colón—where Christopher Columbus stopped in 1492—now hosts a museum dedicated to his voyages. Tip: Don’t leave without trying the delicious tapas served throughout the old quarter. Agaete Natural Pools On the northwest coast, the tiny fishing village of Puerto de Las Nieves charms visitors with its blue-and-white Canarian houses and relaxed seafront promenade, the Paseo de los Poetas. Follow the walkway to reach Las Salinas, a series of natural lava-formed pools once used to harvest sea salt. Today, the pools offer a unique and exhilarating place to swim. Rock barriers soften the force of the Atlantic waves, and volcanic tunnels connect the three pools. Flat sunbathing areas and the striking backdrop of pine-covered mountains make this a favourite spot for photographers. Tip: Warm up after your dip with caldo de pescado, the local fish soup. Mirador del Balcón A scenic drive along the west coast’s GC-200 highway—passing the rainbow-coloured rocks of Los Azulejos—leads to the breathtaking Mirador del Balcón. This dramatic viewpoint juts out from 400-metre-high cliffs, giving you panoramic views over the Atlantic. On clear days, you can see north toward Puerto de Las Nieves and south toward the serrated “Dragon’s Tail” cliffs. Inland lie the green valleys of La Arena and La Aldea de San Nicolás, while the distant silhouette of Mount Teide on Tenerife floats on the horizon. Tip: Arrive at sunset—this viewpoint is famous for unforgettable golden-hour shots. Roque Nublo & Roque Bentayga At the island’s centre, the towering monolith of Roque Nublo rises to 1,813 metres and is one of the world’s tallest free-standing rocks. Once a sacred site for the Guanches—the island’s original inhabitants—it offers spectacular views of Pozo de las Nieves, Gran Canaria’s highest peak, and the equally significant Roque Bentayga. Roque Bentayga, at 1,404 metres, served as a natural fortress. Its cliffs hide ancient granaries, ceremonial caves, and wall paintings left by generations of Guanche communities. A steep but rewarding path leads to the almogarén, a ceremonial site where the interplay of sunlight and shadow creates a mystical atmosphere. Tip: During the solstice, a single sunbeam illuminates a carved stone circle—an ancient astronomical marker. Maspalomas Dunes At Gran Canaria’s southernmost point lies the spectacular Maspalomas Dunes, a 404-hectare protected reserve of rolling golden sand. This unusual mix of desert, beach, palm groves, and freshwater lagoon was shaped by sand blown from the ocean floor during the last Ice Age. Though close to popular resorts like Playa del Inglés and Meloneras, the dunes offer plenty of peaceful, untouched corners—especially if you’re willing to wander deeper into the reserve. When the wind clears the footprints, the dunes become a photographer’s dreamscape. Tip: Visit at dawn for magical light and beautifully textured sand. Puerto de Mogán At the far southwest of the island, Puerto de Mogán combines a tranquil fishing harbour, a stylish yacht marina, and a sheltered family-friendly beach. The village spills down a steep valley, its crisp white buildings contrasting beautifully with the rugged mountains behind. Charming pedestrian streets bloom with bougainvillea, while canals connecting the marina to the port have earned the village the nickname “The Venice of the Canaries.” With quaint bridges, waterfront promenades, and excellent seafood restaurants, it’s an idyllic place for evening photography. Tip: Visit on Friday mornings for the lively open-air market along the fishermen’s quay. To plan your Canary Islands trip, do get in touch .
By Emma Macfarlane October 16, 2025
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Madeira and stayed at the stunning 5-star Savoy Palace. Perfectly located in the heart of Funchal, the hotel offers easy access to the island’s many restaurants, bars, shops and markets. The Savoy boasts a magnificent outdoor pool, spacious and inviting - and warm enough for a refreshing dip even on the afternoon of 3rd October, a true testament to Madeira’s mild year-round climate. Guests can also enjoy the luxurious spa, indoor pool and a rooftop infinity pool with panoramic views. On the top floor, there’s a lively bar that stays open late, complete with a live DJ on Fridays -the perfect spot to unwind as the sun sets. Many people think Madeira is just for the older generation but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The island now appeals to all ages, offering walking trails, zip lines and plenty of adventure activities, designed for a younger crowd. Perched in the Atlantic, Madeira blends dramatic scenery with timeless charm. Begin your journey in Funchal, the island’s vibrant capital, where cobbled streets lead to colourful markets and beautiful harbour views. A visit to Blandy’s Wine Lodge is a must - home to the island’s famous Madeira wine, aged to perfection in fragrant oak barrels. From the old town, soar skyward on the Funchal Cable Car, gliding over terracotta rooftops and lush valleys to the Monte Palace Gardens, a tranquil haven of exotic plants and serene koi ponds. For a dash of excitement, take the traditional toboggan ride - a thrilling descent back to the city in a wicker sled expertly guided by white-clad carreiros. Funchal even hosts a Christmas Market starting in early December. So why freeze in Germany when you could be enjoying mid-20s temperatures under the Madeiran sun? Madeira captivates with its perfect blend of elegance, adventure, and old-world spirit — an island as exhilarating as it is enchanting. Get in touch with Martyn - he'll be happy to quote you some fantastic offers for the coming months!