Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

#TravelTuesday - One of our fave places to visit on a USA fly drive holiday - Death Valley National Park.

2025-10-07T15:23:00.001+01:00

#TravelTuesday - One of our fave places to visit on a USA 🇺🇸 fly drive holiday - Death Valley National Park.

Classic USA road-trip 🚗 country, Death Valley National Park is harsh and barren yet full of natural beauty and stunning vistas, with the lowest point in the US along with the highest temperatures ever recorded. Furnace Creek 🥵 is at the heart of the park, with points such as Zabriskie Point and Mosaic Canyon offering spectacular scenery.

As you head north from Death Valley the altitude increases and the temperatures drop, heading towards the massive Sierra Nevada mountains. To the south, the Mojave National Preserve is the epitome of ‘middle of nowhere’, dotted with Joshua trees, volcanic cones and desert wildlife.

This region of the USA offers diverse landscapes and stunning scenery - beware of seriously high temperatures in the summer, but for a few days of open spaces and desert scenery, include Death Valley in to your driving itinerary.

We have some great USA fly drive holiday options - https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/death_valley_holidays.html
#USA ##Holidays #FlyDrive #escapeworldwide

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

#TravelTuesday - Mauritius is a perfect holiday destination, with some stunning beaches and so much more!

2025-09-30T13:28:00.000+01:00

#TravelTuesday - Mauritius 🇲🇺 is a perfect holiday destination. With glorious beaches and great hotels, it's a perfect place to do nothing.

The resort areas of Flic En Flac and Grande Baie offer a range of markets, bars and restaurants, while the west coast offers dolphin spotting opportunities and the east coast at Ile Aux Cerfs is great for water sports. Golf courses are plentiful, while the interior is lush and scenic - take a day trip in to the hills. It's also a great family destination, with many hotels having excellent kids clubs.

Though there's also plenty to do if just lounging on a beach 🏖 isn't your thing, such as the beautiful Botanical Gardens and some 'very unusual' shopping!

We have some great holiday options to Mauritius & beyond: https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/indian_ocean/mauritius.html

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

We ❤️ Singapore and think a visit to the Long Bar at Raffles for a famous Singapore Sling is a must!

2025-09-23T11:13:00.000+01:00

#TravelTuesday - We ❤️ Singapore and think a visit to the Long Bar at Raffles for a famous Singapore Sling is a must!

Here’s our take on this world-famous cocktail – fruity, refreshing, and perfect for dreaming of your next trip to Singapore! 🇸🇬🌴

Why not try one? 👇”

🍹 Classic Singapore Sling–Style Cocktail
(inspired by the original, but not the official Raffles recipe)
Ingredients:
• 25ml Gin
• 25ml Cherry Brandy (or Cherry Liqueur)
• 10ml Cointreau (optional)
• 10ml Benedictine (optional)
• 80ml Pineapple Juice
• 15ml Lime Juice
• A dash of Grenadine
• A dash of Angostura Bitters

Method:
1. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well until chilled.
3. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a slice of pineapple 🍍 and a cherry 🍒.

Then enjoy and start planning your trip to Singapore:
https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/far_east/singapore_holidays.html
#singaporesling #cocktailtime #TravelInspiration #singapore #Holidays

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Discover Bangkok: Thailand’s City of Contrasts

2025-09-22T13:14:00.002+01:00

Discover Bangkok: Thailand’s City of Contrasts

Bangkok in Thailand is a city that never fails to surprise. Known as the “City of Angels,” Thailand’s capital is a vibrant mix of tradition and modernity, where golden temples sit alongside futuristic skyscrapers, and bustling street markets thrive just steps away from luxury shopping malls. Whether you’re visiting for a short stopover or planning a longer stay, Bangkok offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveller.

Temples & Traditions

No trip to Bangkok is complete without exploring its dazzling temples. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) are must-sees, showcasing Thailand’s rich history and intricate craftsmanship. Nearby, Wat Pho is home to the famous Reclining Buddha and is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. For a riverside experience, take a boat across the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, which glitters beautifully at sunset.

Street Food Heaven

Bangkok is often called the street food capital of the world – and for good reason. From sizzling pad thai and spicy papaya salad to mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream, the flavours are bold, fresh, and unforgettable, the food is simply amazing! Head to Yaowarat Road in Chinatown for a true foodie adventure, or explore the night markets where locals gather for late-night bites.

Shopping & Nightlife

If shopping is on your list, Bangkok won’t disappoint. Browse high-end brands at Siam Paragon, discover quirky finds at Chatuchak Weekend Market, or pick up souvenirs at floating markets just outside the city. As the sun sets, Bangkok transforms into a city of lights. Rooftop bars like Sky Bar at Lebua offer panoramic views, while lively night markets and entertainment districts keep the energy going well into the night.

A Gateway to Thailand

Bangkok is more than just a destination – it’s the perfect starting point for exploring Thailand. From here, you can easily connect to the beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, the cultural treasures of Chiang Mai, or even embark on a river cruise along the Chao Phraya.

✨ Travel Tip: Bangkok can be busy and overwhelming at first, so plan a mix of sightseeing and downtime. A traditional Thai massage or a sunset river cruise is the perfect way to recharge. Though we tend to find a nice cold Singha beers does the trip too!

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Majestic elephants on safari on the Masai Mara in Kenya.

2025-09-17T13:01:00.001+01:00

A safari in Kenya makes for an amazing holiday or honeymoon.......

2025-09-02T16:25:00.005+01:00

Kenya is truly home to the greatest wildlife show on earth, and a safari holiday or honeymoon here will take your breath away.

Kenya is home to an array of national parks and game reserves, each with its own characteristics. The Masai Mara is perhaps the most famous along with Amboseli and Samburu, while lesser-visited areas such as Meru and Shaba are just as rewarding.

One of our fave parks has to be the Masai Mara which is one of the world's most enthralling wildlife theatres. The reserve plays host to countless species, including the 'big five' (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) and the incredible spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration.

The Reserve borders Tanzania and is the prime place to view the famous wildebeest migration. The Mara River running north to south through the reserve separates the west from the east. The area has an amazing concentration of wildlife, particularly when the migratory wildebeest and zebras are grazing on the lush plains from June to October.

Surrounding the Masai Mara National Reserve are a number of private conservancies of varying sizes owned by Masai communities. Some of the conservancies place limits on the number of beds and restrict access to only guests of the lodges and camps. Combining a few different areas will really show the diversity of the landscapes and wildlife, and will give you a truly African experience!

We have some great safari holiday options:

https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/safari/kenya_holidays.html

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Beautiful Phi Phi in Thailand.....

2025-02-13T13:10:00.000+00:00

Beautiful Phi Phi

Phi Phi in Thailand is a simply stunning destination and well worth spending a few days chilling in this island paradise.

The Phi Phi Islands are famed for their stunning beauty, soft white sands, towering sea cliffs and swaying palms. True island paradise, spend a few days here relaxing in to the laid back atmosphere. It has a great, chillout vibe so well worth staying a few days.

The smaller island of Koh Phi Phi Leh can be visited for its excellent snorkelling, while the hotels and other facilities are located on the larger Koh Phi Phi Don, with superb seafood and a relaxed vibe, with a variety of local, small bars and restaurants. The islands are within a marine national park to protect their natural beauty.

Phi Phi combines really well with both Phuket and Krabi as it's only a relatively short speedboat ride away, so it’s easy to spend time in both the main resort and the islands. Including other areas of Thailand such as Bangkok or Chiang Mai in to an itinerary is also easy.

Thailand has so many amazing beach destinations and one of our faves is Phi Phi, we love it!!

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

https://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Amazing Elephant Hills, Khao Sok National Park in Thailand

2019-11-14T13:11:00.001+00:00

We have some great holiday ideas to this amazing part of Thailand - http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/thailand/elephant_hills_khao_sok_national_park.html

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays

http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Cruise and stay with Escape Worldwide ⛴🛳

2019-08-13T14:06:00.001+01:00

Cruises are amongst the most popular types of holidays at the moment, effortlessly taking you to different destinations throughout your trip - without the need to keep packing & unpacking! Settle in to your ship and wait for the world come to you, ideally with a good book and a gin & tonic.

At Escape Worldwide we tend to focus on Cruise & Stay Holidays, with the cruise as part of your trip but with a whole load more included too. Invariably you’ve flown to your departure port, so rather than heading straight from the airport to the port we’ll include a few days to explore the destination - places such as Singapore, New Orleans, Cape Town, and Dubai deserve more time than just passing through. After you’ve disembarked we can take you on to another location to round off your trip - a beach resort, perhaps, or another city. Fly onwards from Singapore to Bali or Phuket, take a train from New Orleans to Memphis, pick up a rental car as you return to Cape Town and head to the Winelands, or transfer to the beaches of Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah from the port at Dubai.

Cruise ships and cruise lines vary enormously, so it’s vital to make sure you’re on board a ship that’s going to suit you. There’s been a plethora of mega-ships launched in recent years, with anything up to 2750 cabins onboard - perfect if you want a huge array of dining options, round the clock entertainment and more leisure activities than you can cope with. If the thought of a mega-ship terrifies you then there are options that are altogether more personal & boutique in style, with fine dining & intimate entertainment, often focusing on smaller ports.

From family-friendly to adult-only, terribly British to truly international, great value to simply luxurious, there’s a huge variety of cruise ships, cruise lines and destinations available.

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

The stunning Indian Ocean.....Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles and more! 😎🏖☀

2019-08-06T16:22:00.000+01:00

The islands of the Indian Ocean are surprisingly varied, ranging from cultural melting pots to dots on the horizon - it’s important to pick the right one for you! The gorgeous islands of the Maldives are probably the most beautiful beach destination we’ve ever been to - picture postcard stuff, and then some! Each resort is an island in its own right, and as you can't really get off your island it’s important to make sure that your resort is ideal for you.

The Maldives is perfect for relaxation and gentle activity - if it’s sightseeing and culture you’re after, you’re in the wrong place! Water based activities are popular - if you want decent snorkelling and diving (it’s world-class here) then look for an island with a house reef, or if you prefer to potter in the shallows with a good book and a glass of sauvignon blanc (we’re definitely the latter!) then you need an island with a lagoon. Some resorts come with hefty price tags, so it’s important to get things right!

Beautiful Mauritius is a great option if you like to get away from it all, but still with a few things to see and do outside of your hotel - it’s a larger island with more to it than just beautiful beaches. We love colourful Port Louis, the small capital which has great markets and a local feel, and the nearby Pamplemousses Gardens are a must for anyone with an interest in local flora. Combine Mauritius with the likes of Dubai or Cape Town for something a little different.

The tiny islands of the Seychelles are spread over a vast area, and are truly in the middle of nowhere. Tiny Mahe is the main island and where most visitors head to, but for us a spot of island hopping is essential. Take the ferry to nearby Praslin or a short flight to the likes of Silhouette island or La Digue. It’s a very relaxed part of the world where the emphasis is on the environment - All Inclusive hotels aren’t really found here to encourage you to explore and use local restaurants.

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

We adore South Africa......

2019-06-07T12:07:00.000+01:00

We ADORE South Africa! It really has to be one of the most spectacular countries on the planet, with dramatic scenery at every turn - add in fabulous wildlife, great cities, a lovely climate (rarely too hot, rarely too cold) and some of the best food & wine (we’re easily swayed!) anywhere, and it’s easy to see why South Africa is one of our favourite places!

All South Africa trips should take in CapeTown at some point - talk about an incredible city! The setting is stunning, with Table Mountain as its backdrop, plus there’s loads to see and do. We love the hop-on hop-off buses that will take you to all of the main sights, including the beaches of Camps Bay and the seals of Hout Bay. Be sure to head down to the Cape Peninsula – dramatic scenery, incredible flora & fauna, and all just a short drive form the city. South Africa is perfect for a Fly-Drive holiday, or we can also arrange an Escorted Tour, or just a few days in a couple of locations with transfers included if you prefer not to drive. Driving is easy, though, and this is where South Africa really comes in to its own.

One of the most famous drives is the classic Garden Route, but there are many ways to take in this area - we love including a bit of the Karoo region with its barren landscapes and quirky towns. And don’t get us started on the Winelands – anywhere that has a hop-on hop-off tram for wine tasting is top of our list!

South Africa is also home to some excellent wildlife too, with Kruger National Park leading the way plus numerous private game reserves offering easy game viewing coupled with impressive accommodation options - anyone for safari tents with private plunge pools?! All in all it’s the diversity and natural beauty that makes South Africa so special - plus it’s great value for money, and did we mention the wine?! It’s a big country so don't try to do too much in one go, but we’re sure that you’ll be planning your return trip to take in another area of the Country before you’ve even got home!

Escape Worldwide
Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Our Top Trips in 2018 - Mark in Australia

2019-02-20T12:55:00.000+00:00

We're continuing our look back at our teams travels this week - Mark visited Australia on an epic three-state trip, starting in Sydney, moving to Victoria and driving most of the Queensland Coast in a campervan - here's a quick look at the highlights of his Aussie adventure. . . .

Starting in Sydney

The first time I visited Australia was 27 years ago as an 18-year old backpacker, but I'm always excited to go back - it's one of the most diverse, incredible countries on the planet. As with many visits Down Under I started in Sydney, which is a very easy city to get to grips with - for me, if you stay anywhere between Central Station and Circular Quay you can't go too far wrong, and it's such as easy place to explore. I stayed right in the middle of Sydney at the Grace Hotel, which has pretty much everything you want to see within a 20 minute walk - I took in the Sydney Tower Eye, Darling Harbour and the amazing Sydney Opera House, all on foot.

One of my highlights of my stay in Sydney was a trip to the fabulous Taronga Zoo , located across the harbour from the city centre - one of the best aspects of a visit here is the journey, taking a ferry from under the Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House - spectacular! The zoo itself is home to a superb array of animals, with plenty of indigenous Australian wildlife - a great place to start an Aussie adventure!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

Melbourne & Victoria

A quick flight took me from Sydney to Melbourne, which is such a likeable city - OK so there's no iconic Opera House or Harbour Bridge, but it's all about the lifestyle here, with superb restaurants and funky bars, amazing wines & beers, and fresh local produce. I stayed close to the excellent Queen Victoria Market at the City Tempo Apartments - staying in an apartment for a few days if you're on a longer trip is a great idea as they come with handy laundry facilities! I spent a great few days enjoying Melbourne - including a fair few beers at my new favourite Victoria pub, the quirky Ponyfish Island, in the middle of the Yarra River!

Victoria is one of the best Australian states for exploring by car, with a landscape that changes constantly and not quite the epic distances of some of the larger states. It's a very easy drive down to Lorne, for example, which is the start of the iconic Great Ocean Road, one of the world's most famous drives - spend a few days heading along the coast to Warrnambool to take in the stunning scenery, before looping back inland to the gorgeous Grampians National Park.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

Driving through Queensland

Back in 1991 I spent 6 months in Queensland, working in a supermarket on the Gold Coast and camping throughout the state, so I've always had a soft spot for this part of the country. This time I decided to hire a campervan and drive from Cairns in the north all the way down to Surfers Paradise in the south - almost 2000 km, and I only had a week! A campervan is a great way to explore the more rural areas of Australia, although it's not always the cheapest way of doing it - but pulling up at a beachside park and cracking open a beer to watch the sun set is truly special.

From Cairns I took a day trip out to the Great Barrier Reef, which is a 'must do' for any visitor - I'm not a great swimmer and certainly not a diver, so I travelled to Quicksilver's platform at Agincourt Reef, which caters brilliantly to everyone from qualified divers to those who don't even want to get their feet wet - underwater viewing rooms, submarines, easy snorkelling and advanced diving are all available here - I even took a helicopter trip over the Reef, which was just amazing!

As you travel through Queensland you can see the landscape changing from the tropical north to the sugar cane plantations further south - you really get a sense of just how big Australia is! Highlights for me included the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands (OK, so the weather was having an off day and the world's most beautiful beach - Whitehaven - was in torrential rain!) and a return trip to the Gold Coast, to catch up with old friends. Lots of Brits have connections to Australia, so it's a great excuse to visit the country to pop in on old friends!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

I'm a huge fan of Australia and this trip was packed with highlights and memories - for me it's one of the best countries anywhere for a driving adventure, and I'm already planning my next visit!

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Karen in New York, Miami & Las Vegas

2019-02-05T09:36:00.000+00:00

We're having a look back at some of our favourite travels from last year - Karen headed to the USA, visiting New York, Miami and Las Vegas, on an action-packed trip. Here's a quick look at the highlights of her visit State-side . . . .

The Big Apple

I've been to various parts of the States before, but this was my first trip to New York - it's one of those cities that's so well known on TV and in films that you kind of feel that you know it already, so it did feel like I was on a movie set at times - or at least in an episode of Friends!

I chose to stay close to Penn station as I was taking the train to my next destination - the Wyndham New Yorker is in such a handy location, plus I love the Art Deco feel of the place. I used the hop-on hop-off buses quite a bit - what a great way to get around and to take in all the main sights - plus I took a cruise out towards the Statue of Liberty, which was fab! There's so much to see and do that you could go back time and time again and see new things, but as this was my first trip to the Big Apple there were some basics I wanted to do - the Empire State Building, Central Park and One World Trade Center were top of my list.

I also wanted to catch some sport and take in a bit of nightlife, but being short of time I tried to combined the two - being an avid Liverpool fan I managed to watch one of their matches at the fantastic Carragher's Bar in Midtown Manhattan, but given the time difference the match started at 8 am so the 'nightlife' aspect didn't quite work out. Still, it's beer o'clock somewhere in the world - and at least the Reds won!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

Heading to Miami

I then took the train from New York to Miami - we book a lot of holidays with trains in the US but not normally this route as it's around 30 hours, but as I was travelling with my husband and he's a train nut, I didn't really have the choice! Thankfully it was great fun - we had a fab little cabin - and it was fascinating to see the US countryside pass by. If you're interested in travelling by train in the US just give me a call and I can tell you all about it!

I love Miami - I hadn't expected it to be quite so entertaining! It has to be one of the best places for people-watching I've ever been to - anywhere! We spent an enjoyable few days just watching the world go by in South Beach - Miamians love to see and be seen, so we took a seat in a bar with a view and sat back to take it all in! I was lucky enough to stay at the iconic Fontainebleu Hotel, a gorgeous Art Deco property set right on the beach - it's a resort in itself so there was barely any need to leave, but with so much going on in Miami we took the opportunity to explore. It's an amazing place, and the architecture in South Beach is fabulous - a great place for a lazy day of mooching (and people-watching!)

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

Viva Las Vegas!

I also visited Las Vegas, a city that's been on my wish list for some time - and I wasn't disappointed! What an incredible place - such a buzz! I was treated to a stay at the new-look Park MGM (if it's good enough for Lady Gaga's residency then it will suit me just fine!) and as it's in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip the location is perfect for taking in this incredible city - it really is like nowhere else I've ever been to!

One of my highlights of my stay in Vegas was taking a hot air balloon ride over the city and Red Rock Canyon - seeing Vegas from the peaceful surrounds of a balloon was really magical, and as you drift away from the city and in to the stunning scenery close by, you start to see a different side to Nevada - Las Vegas makes a great place to start or end a driving trip through Nevada, Arizona & California, rather than just being a party town in the desert (although my big night out at Hakkasan Club at the MGM Grand was a bit on the legendary side and would have been worth the trip to Vegas on it's own!)

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

My USA trip finished with a helicopter flight over The Strip - what a way to finish an amazing itinerary!

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Our Top Trips in 2018 - Darren in Bali & Java

2019-01-13T10:50:00.000+00:00

As 2019 gets underway we've been having a look back at our favourite trips of 2018 - we love to travel at Escape Worldwide, and one of Darren's favourite trips last year (there were many to choose from!) was to Indonesia, taking in the islands of Bali and Java. Here's a quick look at his highlights . . . .

TheBeaches of Bali

I've been to Bali a number of times over the years, but this time I also visited a totally new place for me, the neighbouring island of Java. On Bali I based myself in the lively resort of Seminyak - probably my favourite part of the island - but explored all the main resorts. When I say 'explored' I actually mean 'bar-crawled' - there's no better way to get to know a place!

Seminyak has a real buzz to it, with loads of restaurants and bars, but it's not as lively as Kuta. For me the reason I love Seminyak is for sunsets - grab a beanbag on the beach and a cold Bintang beer, and watch the sun set in spectacular style. The next evening I headed down to Jimbaran, towards the south of the island, which has a very different feel - it's much more relaxed than Seminyak, with a glorious stretch of beach and loads of local seafood restaurants dotted along the shore. For a few Pounds I had an incredible meal, with my feet in the sand sitting under the stars.

My final stop was in Sanur, on the east coast - so no spectacular sunsets - but for me this resort is ideal if you like a buzz, but not too late night partying. There's a string of places to eat and drink along the beach footpath, with low prices and plenty of choice. I had a fabulous meal at Cafe Bamboo, set right on the beach. All of Bali's beach resorts are very different so it's important to get the right one for you - if you're not sure which, just ask me!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

ExploringInland - Ubud

For me Bali really becomes special as you head away from the coastal resorts and start to explore the interior a little - this is where you really start to see the uniqueness of the island's culture, and the beauty of its scenery. I drove through the countryside passing through small villages, many of which were gearing up for a festival that evening - there's always something to celebrate on Bali! On the way up to Bali there's a string of small villages, each of which specialises in a particular craft - woodwork in Mas, wind chimes in Sukawati and silver jewellery in Celuk. I'm not allowed to buy any crafts on my trips any more (I got banned after an incident with a giraffe carving in Kenya) but it's a great place to window shop!

Ubud itself is a small town in the hills, but the Ubud 'area' takes in gorgeous scenery of rice terraces and river gorges of the surrounding countryside. The town is packed with restaurants, shops and galleries, but for me it was the tranquility of the countryside that really stood out. I visited the friendly Wapa Di Ume Resort, set just outside the town itself and surrounded by beautiful scenery - as soon as you arrive you feel relaxed (the food here is amazing!) There are plenty of hotels in this area, and a few days away from the coast will really show you a different side to the island.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

Stunning,fascinating Java

For me the highlight of this trip was Java, an incredibly diverse island of stunning scenery, energetic cities and an incredible history. I travelled overland from Bali to Yogyakarta in Central Java, travelling via Mount Bromo on the way.

Mount Bromo is an active volcano and probably the most spectacular place I've ever been - although to do it justice you have to see the mountain as the sun rises, so it involves a 3 am start (after an 11 hour drive to get there!) Mount Bromo smoulders away and is one of three volcanoes standing in the vast crater that's 10 km across. After sunrise I climbed up to the rim of the volcano itself (seemed like a good idea at the time!), at which point you can really feel the ferocity of it.

From Mount Bromo it was another epic journey through Java to the city of Yogyakarta, the heart of the island and a city rich in culture & history. Yogya is fascinating, but for me the highlights were just outside the city - two phenomenal temple complexes that really took my breath away! Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist monument and it straddles a whole hillside, with its 500 or more Buddha statues gazing serenely over the surrounding countryside. Nearby is Prambaban, one of the largest Hindu temples in South East Asia, with the 1200 year old structures telling stories of their era.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

I've been to Bali a number of times before but it's such a vibrant island and there's always somewhere new to discover. Java came as a bit of a surprise, and I'd say that it was my highlight of the year. Including Yogyakarta in an itinerary is surprisingly straightforward and I'd highly recommend it to anyone!

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Escape Worldwide's Top 5 for Romance!

2018-11-07T13:44:00.000+00:00

TOP 5 ROMANCE

Add a little romance to your life with our top 5 romantic destinations.

LIGHT A SKY LANTERN ON THE BEACH IN THAILAND

Traditional sky lanterns are launched across Thailand for celebrations and to bring good luck, and there’s no better way to mark a special occasion than to launch your own lantern in to the night sky. Made out of rice paper and a bamboo frame, the lanterns can drift for miles in a breeze before gently returning to the ground once the candle has gone out. The most popular time to launch a sky lantern is during the Loi Krathong festival in November, but lanterns are available in most beach resorts year-round – our suggestion would be to head for Krabi, and watch your lantern rise above a backdrop of island and outcrops of Phang Nga Bay.

HOT AIR BALLOON OVER THE MASAI MARA, KENYA

A safari is a special travel experience, and a balloon ride over the plains of Africa is truly something else – a real ‘once in a lifetime’ experience when the romance of travel goes in to overdrive. Your hot air balloon will take off as the sun rises over the Masai Mara, and you’ll glide just above tree height as the animals below start to stir. Drift silently with the breeze and see zebra, hippo, elephant, lion and a myriad of other creatures, undisturbed by your presence. As you land you’ll be greeted with a glass of bubbly and breakfast in the bush - the perfect setting to pop the question, perhaps!

PRIVATE DINING AT THE SIX SENSES NINH VAN BAY, VIETNAM

On a remote peninsula only accessible by boat from the Vietnamese mainland, Ninh Van Bay is home to the gorgeous Six Senses, the Country’s most exclusive resort and one of the most romantic settings imaginable. If you can drag yourself away from your beautiful villa with its own private pool and magnificent views across the bay, take a longtail boat around to the hotels private beach at Bai Nho, where you can have the place to yourself – apart from your own chef and butler to prepare and serve your dinner, of course. Quite possibly the most romantic meal you’ll ever have – the Vietnamese tiger prawns are to die for!

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY IN HAVANA

The home of salsa and rumba, Cuba is an island with a passion for dance, where you’ll hear music at every turn. Spend a few days exploring its vibrant capital, Havana, and immerse yourself in the beat of the City. Take your dance partner to the Casa De La Musica in the Miramar district of Havana to see how the experts do it, or take a class to improve your own skills. Otherwise, sit back with a cool Mojito and watch the world go by from the pavement café at the Hotel Inglaterra, a Havana institution.

ESCAPE THE CROWDS ON THE BEACHES OF ZANZIBAR

There are few places to get away from it all these days, but the beautiful island of Zanzibar has a few hidden gems that are perfect for a romantic retreat. Tucked away on the southwest coast, Fumba beach is peaceful and relaxed, where the only crowds you’re likely to see are of dolphins and turtles. On the east coast, Pongwe beach is picture-postcard perfect, where a crescent of the whitest sand is backed by swaying palm trees, with hammocks strung between the trees. Both beaches have simple accommodation with few mod-cons – it’s just you and your other half!

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Miami and the Florida Keys..... Darren loves it!

2018-07-05T17:32:00.000+01:00

Away from the theme parks of Orlando, Florida’s far south holds a wealth of interest and something a little out of the ordinary. Darren picked up a car in Miami and headed through the Florida Keys to Key West.

Miami acts as the main gateway to southern Florida, and as one of the coolest cities in the US it’s a great place to start a trip. Most of the action takes place in Miami Beach rather than downtown, and Collins Avenue is really at the heart of things. Miami Beach Historic District is home to the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world, with many of the buildings now turned in to hotels and clubs. Coined ‘Millionaires Row’, Collins Avenue is the place to be and be seen in Miami.

From Miami it’s only a little over 50 miles until you leave the mainland and hit the Florida Keys, a chain of picture-postcard coral cays that run over 100 miles southwest to Key West. The first town you’ll hit is Key Largo, a world away from the bright lights and glamour of Miami, and the contrast is one of the town’s appeals. Key Largo is a sleepy affair in comparison to her northern neighbour, where the pace of life is slower and the atmosphere is altogether more relaxed. This is one of the best locations in the US for deep sea fishing, and diving is also popular.

Driving in Florida is easy, with spacious roads that are well signposted, and it’s easy to slip in to a relaxed pace as you travel through the Keys. Miami itself is like many large cities in the US and can experience terrible congestion, so it’s best not to rely on a car here, but the journey following Highway 1 south from Miami to the Keys and through the islands towards Key West is a real pleasure. One of the highlights is Seven Mile Bridge, spanning one of the longest gaps in the islands roughly half way down the Keys. The original bridge dates back to 1909, and once a year in April the main bridge is closed for a few hours to allow for the annual Seven Mile Bridge fun run to take place. The views from the bridge are superb.

As you travel through the Florida Keys be sure to stop regularly, and randomly, wherever takes your fancy. There are plenty of excellent locations for snorkeling and diving, hire a boat at one of the marinas and take to the water, or just chill on the beach for a while. It’s easy to follow the main highway through the Keys, but getting off the highway to explore the islands turns the journey in to an adventure.

At the very end of the Florida Keys is the town of Key West, the southernmost point in continental USA and one that is closer to Havana in Cuba than Miami. The town has a relaxed feel year-round but really comes to life in the winter months, when the tropical climate attracts the jetset crowd from around the US. The trendy set from Miami make Key West their winter party hangout, and it’s an ideal place to chill out for a few days after travelling through the Keys. The Old Town of Key West is a major draw, with buildings dating back to the 1880’s and an air of history that’s perfectly charming. Look out for the birthplace of Pan Am, the airline which started here back in 1927 for mail delivery between Key West and Havana.

While many visitors to Florida head to the theme parks of Orlando, the southern part of the state is home to some fascinating corners, and the drive from Miami to Key West is a great way to get a little off the beaten track.

Don’t miss…Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, a historic landmark and one of the most famous bars in the US - a great place for a cool beer on a hot day

Don’t miss…head to one of the numerous shopping centres in the Miami area to grab yourself a bargain – clothes and electronics are popular

One to avoid…parking in Miami is an expensive business, with valet parking being anything up to $60 a day - collect your car after your stay here and head out of town

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Driving Holidays.... a great way to holiday

2018-06-12T09:19:00.000+01:00

A driving holiday is a superb way to really get to know a destination, and many countries are well suited to this style of holiday. Darren shares some of his favourites.

The USA is one of the most popular self-drive destinations and there are a myriad of routes and itineraries you can consider, from the theme parks and beaches of Florida, the volcanoes and coastline of the Hawaiian Islands or the classic Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles. One of the most popular itineraries combines the states of Nevada and California, taking in Las Vegas, San Francisco and LA, plus a host of other locations in between. From Vegas it’s only a short drive to the Grand Canyon, albeit in the wrong direction, while the route through to San Francisco will take you via Death Valley and Yosemite National Parks. Then follow the Californian coast south to LA, stopping in the likes of Monterey, Carmel and Santa Barbara en route.

If you want to combine your transport and your accommodation, then hiring a motorhome is a great option, and New Zealand is one of the best destinations to do this. Motorhomes accommodate between two and six passengers so are great for couples or families, and come complete with shower and flush toilet, decent cooking facilities and often a built-in barbecue! New Zealand offers drivers good quality, quiet roads and is crammed full of interest, especially for the outdoor enthusiast – be sure to allow yourself enough time to do it justice. South Island is far quieter than North Island and is home to the most spectacular countryside, while North island has cosmopolitan towns and more historic interest. The combination of both islands, linked by ferry across the often-choppy Cook Strait, will give you a truly memorable trip. There aren’t many places in the world where snow-capped mountains and glaciers are so close to the coast, where you can see geysers bubbling and where bungee jumping is almost a national sport.

For something a little bit different why not head to Cuba, where the lack of public transport means having your own wheels really comes in to its own. Roads are quiet here so driving is fairly straightforward, and the Country is crammed with interest, but there are a few tips to ensure your trip runs smoothly. There’s a lack of signposts so get hold of a decent map before you leave home as local maps tend to be poor. Plan your journey to avoid driving after dark, as street lights are gloomy or non-existent. Try not to cover too much distance at any one time – getting stuck behind a donkey and cart is a common occurrence, and can really slow you down! Most importantly, take a phrasebook, plenty of patience and a sense of humour – things never run as expected in Cuba, and that’s part of the charm of this wonderful country.

South Africa is one of our favourite driving destinations, with spectacular scenery, loads of interest, great food and superb wine – it’s also extremely good value for money when you get there. The ‘Garden Route’ is a classic drive along the Country’s south coast from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, taking in a number of national parks, attractive towns and a stunning coastline. The detour to the lighthouse at Cape Agulhas, Africa’s most southerly point and where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, is well worthwhile, while the Cape of Good Hope is a rugged and dramatic coast dotted with beautiful beaches, but with an icy-cold sea. Park up for a few days in the winelands area around Stellenbosch to sample a Chenin Blanc or two!

Wherever you decide to explore on a driving holiday, take a sense of adventure with you as it’s often the best way to really get off the beaten track and to truly experience a destination away from the tourist crowds.

Top tip…Check out any local laws or driving customs that are different to the UK such as speed limits or give way rules before leaving home. For example, in South Africa you’re obliged to move over in to a special hard shoulder when being overtaken on certain roads.

Top tip…where possible, plan your itinerary to collect your vehicle in a quieter location to give you the chance to get used to the local style of driving on quieter roads. For example, start a New Zealand itinerary in peaceful Christchurch rather than more hectic Auckland.

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Amazing Havana in Cuba....

2018-05-30T09:27:00.000+01:00

RETRO - HAVANA

The Cuban capital Havana is a captivating mix of intriguing history and faded glamour, with a decidedly retro feel. Mark spent a long weekend discovering the charms of the City.

Havana is an extraordinary city that’s packed with interest, and one that makes a great destination for a long weekend with a difference or as part of a wider trip to Cuba. 500 years of history has left the City with an incredible array of buildings from various architectural styles, while the last 50 years or so has changed its character again. Lose yourself in the backstreets of Old Havana, watch the waves crash on the Malecón, Havana’s seafront promenade, and take in the nightlife of Vedado - ideally with a cold mojito in your hand.

A great place to start exploring is at Parque Central, a tree-lined square that marks the start of Old Havana where men sit under the shade of the trees to discuss the latest goings on in the world of baseball, a Cuban obsession. The square is surrounded by a series of historic buildings including the neoclassical Hotel Inglaterra, dating back to 1875, and the Gran Teatro de La Habana, a stunning building that’s home to the Cuban National Ballet. Just to the south is the Capitolio Nacional, the seat of Government until the Cuban Revolution in 1959, and a perfect place for visitors to Havana to appreciate the City’s neoclassical architecture.

From Parque Central walk along Calle Obispo (Bishop Street) in to the heart of Old Havana. The cobbled streets here date back almost 500 years, and this particular street is dotted with historic buildings that are now home to boutique hotels and lively bars. Calle Obispo leads in to Plaza De Armas, one of Havana’s most important and prettiest squares and one that’s been restored in recent years. Any visitor to Havana will notice that many of the City’s historic buildings are crumbling, but an ongoing restoration scheme is breathing new life in to these areas. It’s then a short hop to the Catedral de San Cristóbal de la Habana, a Havana landmark noted for its unequal towers and fine baroque architecture. Plaza de la Catedral is a great place for a spot of lunch – check out the Restaurant El Patio’s grilled fish and sublime mojitos!

Havana’s diverse history is also reflected in its places to stay, with hotels dating from various eras in the City’s history. Old Havana is dotted with quirky hotels that were formerly merchant’s houses, such as the Hotel Florida on Calle Obispo, a beautiful property centered around an internal courtyard. Perhaps Havana’s most renowned hotel is the Hotel Nacional De Cuba, dating from 1930 and reflecting the era’s Art Deco architecture. The hotel welcomed Hollywood legends in its heyday including Marlon Brando, Ava Gardner and Frank Sinatra, and today is a great place to soak up the City’s retro atmosphere.

A great way to really experience Havana is to rent a classic American car for an afternoon – you’ll need a driver too as the cars tend to be held together by a wing and a prayer (or at least a piece of rope and a roll of sellotape!) as spare parts haven’t been available for years, but it’s quite an experience. Cruise along the Malecón to the Plaza de la Revolución, the heart of revolutionary Havana that saw Fidel Castro address huge crowds. Today, the square is dominated by the famous Che Guevara image on the side of a government building.

Even in a short trip, Havana’s charms will grab you immediately. Recent reforms have given Havana a new burst of life, and things are changing quickly so visit soon to experience one of the world’s truly unique capitals.

Don’t miss…drinks at the terrace bar at the Hotel Inglaterra – the service can be typically Cuban (slow), but it’s a great spot to watch the world go by.

Don’t miss…dining at a paladar, a local restaurant often housed in private houses, where some of the best food in Cuba is served in an informal setting.

One to avoid…keep an eye out for crumbling buildings, potholed pavements and even badly pitched baseballs when exploring the city, to avoid any unexpected injuries.

We have some fantastic trips to Cuba including magical Havana - http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/cuba/index.html

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Family Safaris.. a truly amazing experience for both young and old!

2018-05-17T16:43:00.001+01:00

An African safari may not be the kind of holiday that first springs to mind as a family-friendly option, but a safari can be the perfect trip for a family to share adventures and experiences of a lifetime.

A safari is a holiday with a difference, for both adults and kids alike. Spending time in the national parks and game reserves of Africa is as much an adventure as a holiday, and one that is action-packed and exciting, fun and educational in equal measure. East Africa is one of the best areas for a family safari, with Kenya and Tanzania offering easily accessible game parks that are home to a huge variety of wildlife including the famed ‘Big 5’, plus family-friendly accommodation and good value for money too.

Seeing animals in their natural environment is something that all kids will relish. Standing on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve watching a tower of giraffes on the opposite bank as they majestically stoop down to drink is a magical sight, and then a few minutes later you may be hurtling through the bush in search of lion on the prowl. Next stop is a pod of hippos wallowing in the river, making their extraordinary noise that sounds like playful laughter, belying the fact they’re one of the most dangerous animals you’ll encounter – albeit from a safe distance. After a relaxing afternoon around the camp’s pool, head out with your guide in search of more big game, as this area is home to a huge variety of wildlife including all three big cats as well as elephant, buffalo, zebra, crocodile and a huge variety of birdlife.

Many safari lodges and camps offer activities geared up especially for kids, so they can learn about the surrounding area and its wildlife in a fun manner, often with Masai tribesmen sharing their wealth of knowledge. The Mara Intrepids Camp on Kenya’s Masai Mara arranges different programmes of activities for different ages of kids, teaching them about the park, its wildlife and the environment in general. Masai naturalists will show them how to track wildlife from their dung, how plants are used and some basic survival skills in the wild. There’s even an obstacle course so kids can see what the wildlife has to go through!

School summer holidays are probably the best time for a safari in Kenya as the annual migration tends to be in full swing on the Masai Mara, with a few million extra wildebeest, zebra and other grazers making the plains their temporary home as they journey across from the neighbouring Serengeti. While the chances of catching the very moment when huge herds of animals spectacularly attempt to cross the Mara River are limited, visiting the Mara at this time of year leaves most visitors overwhelmed with the sheer quantity and variety of wildlife they see. By the October Half Term the migration tends to be on the move again, so a safari at this time of year should still give you plenty of activity in both Kenya and Tanzania. The annual migration only affects certain animals, and is unique to the Masai Mara and Serengeti, with other game parks unaffected as wildlife tends to be resident in these areas year-round. Christmas and the February Half Term have an emphasis on wildlife activity across the border in Tanzania, and while Easter tends to see more showers, it can be a surprisingly good value time to visit either country.

With a huge amount of wildlife activity year-round, visiting East Africa on a safari holiday at any time of year will be a rewarding, action-packed experience, and one that parents and kids alike will remember forever.

Top Tip…If you’re travelling with younger children arrange to have a vehicle to yourselves, so you can tailor the pace to suit your group. Consider travelling between parks by light aircraft to reduce travel times.

Top Tip …Combining two or three national parks will give you the widest cross section of wildlife, as each park is home to different animals. Take a guidebook or wildlife chart with you, so the kids can tick off the different animals as you go along.

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Honeymoons...... something special

2018-05-01T12:28:00.000+01:00

As the wedding season approaches, we take a look at some of their most popular destinations for honeymooners.

If your idea of the ultimate romantic honeymoon is to be alone with just the love of your life, then look no further than the Maldives. Hundreds of tiny islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a stunningly beautiful destination where romance comes easily. Lazy days on the beach, beautiful sunsets and understated service are the order of the day here – forget sightseeing and partying! Resorts do vary quite considerably, and as you can’t really leave your island once you’re there its important to get the right one for you. Larger islands tend to offer a range of facilities and more of a village feel, ideal for those who like a little more activity, while some islands are little more than a dot on the horizon, perfect for a real get-away-from-it-all. From the moment you land at the airport, the beauty and romance of the Maldives really does take your breath away.

For a longhaul honeymoon that won’t break the bank – and for a destination that’s fantastic at including extra touches to turn a holiday in to a honeymoon – Thailand is hard to beat. It’s a great value destination anyway and one that’s awash with stylish, quality hotels, but it’s easy to make your budget go a long way in Thailand. Keep an eye out for hotels that will offer complimentary touches such as room upgrades and spa treatments to help celebrate your honeymoon. Thailand excels at world-class hotels where the service is second to none, plus there’s a really good range of hotels that will give you high standards at a great price – pool villas are a bit of a Thai speciality, where your individual villa comes complete with your very own swimming pool, and they can sometimes cost little more than a standard room. With plenty of flight options and competitive hotel prices, Thailand tops the ranks for unbeatable honeymoon value for money, but without compromising on standards.

Many honeymooners look for a holiday that will give them memories of a lifetime, and one of the most popular options for this style of trip is a safari in Africa. Spend a few days exploring the game parks of East or Southern Africa before hitting one of the glorious beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline, hopefully spotting the ‘Big 5’ on the way. Kenya is at its best from July to October when the annual migration is in full swing, when millions of wildebeest, zebra and other animals head to the Masai Mara to create the greatest wildlife show on earth. The East African coastline also boasts some of the world’s best beaches, where recent hotel openings have raised standards too, or perhaps head further afield to the likes of Mauritius or the Seychelles.

A honeymoon is a once in a lifetime holiday, and with so many destinations to choose from, the hardest decision for many couples may be knowing where to start!

Top Tip…if you’re tied to departures dates – perhaps a Sunday evening departure for a Saturday wedding – consider a destination served by multiple airlines to give you flight flexibility. Dubai, the Far East and the Indian Ocean lead the way.

Top Tip…take a copy of your wedding certificate with you, as some hotels will include freebies for honeymooners such as room upgrades but they may ask for proof! Generally, travelling within 6 months of getting married will class as a honeymoon.

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

China....one of Darrens favourite destinations

2018-04-17T09:44:00.000+01:00

Darren loves China and has been a couple of times, let him guide you on how to make the most of this amazing destination:

China is one of the most fascinating destinations imaginable, with incredible history, stunning scenery and a modern twist. For the first-time visitor, there’s a list of “must see” highlights that are on most people’s agendas, but there’s so much to see that you could spend months touring the Country and still have only scratched the surface.

Shanghai and Beijing are by far the two most important cities in the Country and are the main gateways to China, and both have a wealth of interest – Beijing is a real assault on the senses so it’s often easier to start a trip to China in Shanghai, which has a more western-orientated outlook. Take a stroll along the Bund, Shanghai’s waterfront boulevard, where the art deco and neoclassical buildings of the colonial era now house the city’s most exclusive boutiques and innovative restaurants, and the view across to the futuristic skyline of Pudong, Shanghai’s new financial heart, is just spectacular. Take the super-fast elevator to the world’s second highest viewing platform at the 492m-high Shanghai World Financial Centre for views back across to the old city.

Beijing itself packs more interest in to one city than most entire countries do, with the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven leading the way. Explore the hutong, Beijing’s old streets that have escaped the city’s rapid development, where a more traditional way of life can be seen. Outside of the city centre, various stretches of the Great Wall of China can be accessed – some sections receive hundreds of thousands of visitors a day and can be choked with domestic tourists, so it’s worth travelling a little further to a slightly more peaceful section to really appreciate it.

Modern-day China is just as fascinating as its past, and the contrast between ancient and modern is most apparent in the big cities such as Beijing, where the Country’s economic rise in recent years is startling. International luxury brands from Prada to Ferrari have really made their mark, with designer shops rubbing shoulders with traditional markets and trendy bars replacing old-world teahouses.

The friendliness of the Chinese becomes more apparent as you get a little off the beaten track, and many visitors end up enjoying the lesser-known places more than the headline locations. In Sichuan province, the small riverside town of Leshan is a friendly place to spend a day or two, and has a major draw in the shape of the Grand Buddha, the world’s largest Buddha statue. Take in some of the teahouses that Sichuan is renowned for and sample local delicacies such as sour cabbage fish soup and Sichuan hotpot – be warned, Sichuan food packs a fiery punch!

China can be quite a daunting destination to deal with, as little English is spoken away from the main tourist areas and communicating can be difficult. Unless you’re familiar with written Chinese characters or can manage a few words of Mandarin, simple things like reading street signs or menus is just about impossible. The Chinese are a very resourceful bunch, however, and have embraced technology to communicate with overseas visitors – be prepared to order food and drinks via a translation app on a mobile phone! Travelling as part of a tour group is by far the most straightforward way to deal with day to day China, where a guide will navigate around the language, the streets and the vast numbers of domestic visitors that the major sites receive.

Many people see a visit to China being for history buffs and culture vultures, and while there’s a huge amount to keep them entertained, the Country offers such a wealth of interest and a real contrast of images that really engage you, it’s hard not to fall in love with the place.

Don’t miss…the world’s fastest train, the Maglev, connecting Shanghai airport to the city centre in around 7 minutes – travel faster than a Formula One car at over 260 mph.

Top Tip…take a business card from each hotel you stay in – taxi drivers rarely speak English, so if you have the name of your hotel written down you’ll be able to find your way back again.

One to avoid…being scammed in to attending an extortionate tea ceremony by con artists targeting visitors in Tiananmen Square, the Bund and other main areas. Don’t be fooled by over-friendly students wanting to practise their English, who want to take you for tea!

We have some amazing holidays to China - http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/far_east/china_holidays.html

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

We love Hawaii.....it's a long way but worth it!

2018-04-11T16:15:00.001+01:00

We love Hawaii, it’s a very long way to Hawaii, so once you’re there it’s worth taking in more than one of the six magical islands that are open to visitors. First stop for many is the island of Oahu, spending most of their time in and around Honolulu and Waikiki, but to get a true taste of Hawaii you’ll need to head over to one of the other islands.

Don’t dismiss Oahu as being just the high rise hotels of Waikiki Beach – it’s true, Waikiki is wall to wall hotels crammed in to a fairly average stretch of beach, but there’s something about the place that’s a little intoxicating, with great restaurants, relaxed bars and quality shopping, beautiful sunsets and a stunning setting - no trip to Hawaii would be complete until you’ve been to Waikiki!

Elsewhere on the Island there’s plenty of interest. Honolulu itself has been voted the most liveable city in the US and it’s easy to see why – it’s fairly small and easy to get around, plus it has a near-perfect climate and it’s full of interest. Fans of ‘Hawaii Five-0’ will recognise buildings such as the Ali’iolani Hale (used as Five-O Headquarters) with the statue of King Kamehameha just outside, while the Aloha Tower gives great views over the downtown and harbourfront areas.

Just outside Honolulu is Pearl Harbor, site of one of the most important events in World War II. The Arizona Memorial and its visitor centre are particularly moving, while the USS Bowfin submarine is really interesting, if a little claustrophobic.

Further afield on Oahu (although you could easily drive the whole island in a day) leave the city behind and take in some of the Island’s incredible scenery. The North Shore has become one of the world’s most famous surfing venues, while the east coast is dominated by dramatic scenery that’s been used in films such as ‘Jurassic Park’ and on TV in ‘Lost’.

Oahu is very much the American side of Hawaii, but as it’s only been the 50th state of the US since 1959 it’s easy to see a more traditional side of things, where connections to Polynesian neighbours such as Tahiti and Fiji are more obvious than those to the US mainland. The island of Maui is perhaps the most beautiful in the archipelago, with stunning beaches and a dramatic volcanic interior, while tiny Kaui has some of the most varied landscapes imaginable on such a small island. Our favourite is Big Island, for its laid-back pace of life, stunning coastline and dramatic scenery dominated by volcanoes.

As its name suggests, Big Island is the biggest of all of the Hawaiian Islands, and a few days with a car will allow you to explore away from the beaches. The island is dominated by Mauna Kea, the highest mountain in the Pacific, one of the best locations in the world for star-gazing – the clear air above the clouds away from light pollution means the summit of the often snow-capped peak is home to a number of the world’s leading high-tech telescopes. A visitor centre at 9,000 feet is easy to reach by car, but if you’re heading higher take a breather here to avoid altitude sickness!

Big Island’s number one attraction, however, is Volcano National Park, a dramatic, unpredictable place of bubbling lava and steaming craters, where eruptions have been continuous since 1983. Certain parts of the park become off-limits as activity starts up, but at the moment visitors can walk along the floor of Kilauea Iki Crater, see the plumes of smoke from the Halema’uma’u Crater and take the Chain of Craters Road to see where the lava flows have made it to the sea. Dramatic, exciting and unnerving all at the same time!

Finish off your Hawaiian adventure on the beaches of the Kona coast, where the relaxed resort of Kailua seems a million miles from hedonistic Waikiki. The area is famed for its Kona coffee, but our top tip is the local beers from the Kona Brewing Company – brewery tours are free, or just relax in the brewery gardens with a cool Longboard lager or a Castaway IPA as the sun sets on another perfect day in paradise.

Don’t miss…The Big Kahuna breakfast at the Cheeseburger in Paradise diner, where the kitsch Hawaiian décor and great views of Waikiki Beach combine.

Don’t miss…Take a helicopter over Volcanoes National Park to see the latest eruption from the sky – the brave (or stupid) can opt for a ‘no doors’ flight!

One to avoid…Lunch. Portions tend to be huge, so if you managed breakfast (with a side of pancakes) and are heading for dinner, we’d skip lunch entirely!

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

The Beautiful Indian Ocean island of Mauritius

2018-03-28T16:23:00.000+01:00

The beautiful Indian Ocean island of Mauritius is a melting pot of people and cultures, and is one of the world’s most exotic destinations. Karen loves the destination.

The island of Mauritius seems like just a small dot on the map hundreds of miles off the African coast, but as soon as you arrive you’ll find out there’s a surprising amount to it, and while Mauritius may be seen to many as a place to soak up the sun and relax on the beach, there’s plenty more to see and do. Golf is hugely popular here with a range of excellent courses, the most spectacular of which is probably the Bernhard Langer course on Ile Aux Cerfs, a beautiful island just off-shore. Take a quad bike through the sugar cane plantations, go diving on the coral barrier reef that encircles most of the 200 mile coastline, learn to cook creole-style or be pampered in an award-winning spa.

Mauritius offers some of the world’s best hotels, with properties such as Shangri-La's Le Touessrok and Le Saint Géran being world renowned for their spectacular settings, superb facilities including excellent spas and golf courses, and immaculate service. Elsewhere on the Island, however, Mauritius has been clever to introduce a range of hotels that still offer good standards but with a more affordable price tag. Properties such as the Preskil Beach Resort and the Veranda Pointe Aux Biches offer a more informal option that still includes friendly service and great facilities, while the value for money is unbeatable. Stay close to Grand Baie on the north coast if you like to get out of your hotel to try different restaurants and bars, head for the east coast for some of the most beautiful beaches imaginable, or to the south coast to chill out completely.

For a special trip such as a honeymoon Mauritius is ideal, plus it’s very much a family-friendly destination too, and many of the hotels have some of the best facilities for kids that you’re likely to find anywhere. Full activity programmes and well equipped kid’s clubs means that the younger members of any group will be more than entertained.

Away from the beaches there’s a beautiful interior that’s dominated by jagged peaks and sugar cane plantations. For a fairly small island there’s a lot of scenery crammed in, with the southwest tip at Le Morne being amongst the most spectacular areas. Here, the flat-topped Le Morne Mountain dominates, seemingly rising straight out of the Indian Ocean. The best way to see the area is from the ocean itself, so take a trip on a catamaran for an excellent view and a cooling sea breeze. Travelling across the island via the main road you’ll see the sugar cane plantations all around you, and as they cover up to 90% of the Island it’s no surprise that rum is produced – and consumed – in large quantities here.

The small but inviting capital of Port Louis is definitely worth a visit, with plenty to see, an interesting history and some of the Island’s best shopping – try to allow yourself half a day to get a good feel for it. Start your exploration at the Champ De Mars racecourse, the second oldest horse track in the world, before walking through the streets of the old town and popping in to the St Louis Cathedral and the colourful Central Market on your way to the newly developed waterfront area, with its mix of restaurants, bars and shops.

For most visitors to Mauritius, though, it’s all about the beaches, and with such a beautiful coastline where the white sands are backed by lush vegetation and beautiful mountains, it’s easy to see why.

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Christines stay in stunning Koh Phangan in Thailand....not all about Full Moon Parties

2018-02-20T15:04:00.000+00:00

Thailand is one of our fav destinations, home to fascination culture, scenery, beaches, people and food. Thailand has plenty of island paradises and one of our favourites is Koh Phangan. Christine spent a few days here and loved it!

'I was on a trip around Thailand and spent some time on Thailand east coast. Koh Phangan, just to the north of Koh Samui, is renowned for its monthly Full Moon parties, but away from the partying there’s a beautiful island that makes a perfect hideaway destination.

Adjacent to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is reached by boat from her neighbour, taking around 90 minutes in total to travel from the main areas of Koh Samui to the resorts of Koh Phangan. Koh Samui airport has regular flight connections from around Thailand.

With over half the Island being a national park there’s plenty to explore with a hilly interior and coastline dotted with fishing villages, plus it’s a great spot for diving too. Koh Phangan makes an ideal destination for total relaxation, and twins perfectly with nearby Koh Samui.

I spent a few days exploring the island and have to say it I found it to be a great island to chillout and get away from it all. If you're a party animal, then schedule your stay on the island to coincide with one of the Half or Full Moon parties, personally they sound all too lively for me!

Escape Worldwide can offer plenty of holiday ideas to Koh Phangan. Combining Koh Phangan and Koh Samui is easy, and we’d recommend at least a night on Koh Samui before visiting Koh Phangan.

There are some stunning resorts on the island and I was fortunate enough to stay at the stunning Santhiya Koh Phangan which is set on a stunning beach, with good quality accommodation and a couple of stunning swimming pools!

Koh Phangan is well worth a stay for a few nights and also including Bangkok in to your itinerary is easy, while other areas of Thailand such as Chiang Mai and Phuket are possible, via Samui.

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk

Karen's Leopard on Safari in Kenya

2018-02-13T08:21:00.000+00:00

We love Kenya here at Escape Worldwide and Karen is a massive fan:

'I was lucky enough, again, to spend two nights on safari on the amazing Masai Mara in Kenya recently and every game drive you go on is a different experience, you always see something new, as even if it’s the same animal they are doing something different.

This time we saw a leopard, one of the cats I have never seen so I was very excited! Usually people see them up a tree keeping out of the way, but this one was just wandering in an out of the trees and it was amazing. It wasn’t bothered by us sitting in the safari vehicle watching him – in fact, he was showing off a bit and quite enjoying himself! I had to remember to stop taking photos and just sit back and watch the show – quite difficult to be honest!

Although we saw elephants, cheetah, giraffe and all sorts of other things, this was definitely the highlight of the trip, and for some of my fellow passengers with me it was their first time on safari so they were incredibly lucky. I was staying at the Ashnil Mara Camp which is extremely well located on the Masai Mara and has a fire pit which we all sat round after dinner with a glass of beer or two - a great place to discuss the day’s game drives!

Safaris really are one of the best experiences I have had, watching these amazing creatures in their own environment, doing all they can to survive and look after their children at the same time, is awesome.
I simply love Kenya and a safari here is a truly magical and memorable experience.'

Want to see your very own leopard, then checkout the great range of safaris we have available to this amazing part of the world: http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk/safari/kenya_holidays.html

Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk