Travel Explorer Magazine (AUTUMN/WINTER 2016 EDITION)

friendly Jardines de Nivaria; there are certain
parts of the island that suit our discerning clients
very well indeed. We even know a few fantastic
restaurants. Our colleague Lisa has a strong
connection with the island as her brother lives and
works there managing one of the top restaurants
offering quality Italian dining as Oliver found out
last year. The islands natural beauty should not be
overlooked and a drive from Costa Adeje across the
interior via Mt. Teide is a must for the first timer.
Watch as the scenery changes before your very
eyes; from vast lunar landscapes to lush tropical
forests, end your journey in the north at Puerto de
la Cruz. Time should also be spent in the capital
Santa Cruz in the North East. Regulars to the island
may be interested to learn that the Jardines de
Nivaria has recently renovated its ‘comfort rooms’
and re-modelled the restaurant area while its A
La Carte restaurant has moved to a new location.
The Iberostar Salome (luxury, smaller section of
the Iberostar Anthelia) has recently refurbished its
rooms and the Ritz Carlton Abama has new 1 and 2
bedroom family suites on offer.
Nathan updated us recently on Lanzarote following
his visit with his wife Kelly and 3-year-old Harry.
They stayed at the Princesa Yaiza, a resort firmly
on the list of family friendly properties. Whilst a
large resort, it has beautiful gardens and handy
access to one of the best beaches on the island. The
restaurants and children’s facilities are of a very
high standard and it definitely ticks all the boxes
for a relaxing family break this winter. Lanzarote
itself, like Tenerife has attractions away from the
resorts including Timanfaya National Park with its
volcano and walking trails. Nathan explored some
lovely traditional villages on his journey around
the island and the stylish marina at Playa Blanca is
worth a stroll in the evening.
Gran Canaria has increased in popularity over the
past few years after we discovered a real wonderful
gem of a hotel. We have sent a host of our top
clients and all have returned with glowing reports.
Also on the island, the Hotel Reina Isabel is a
well-established property which has had a major
refurbishment this summer. It will be a completely
transformed hotel for this winter season. Located
across from Las Canteras beach this is a great
opportunity to stay near Las Palmas.
In the summer we arranged a comprehensive
tailor made trip for a family to Morocco. Perfect
for a winter break with pleasant temperatures but
not too hot, you could take in a quick short break
to Marrakech which offers excellent value for
money, even in 5* accommodation. For a longer
trip we would recommend a few nights in the Atlas
Mountains; Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot is
great for an elegant stay or Kasbah Turandot for
something a little more authentic. On the coast,
Essaouira offers beach hotels with kasbah’s and
souks to explore too.
The exciting news in Malta is the major
refurbishment of the Phoenicia, Malta’s historic
art deco hotel, now managed by Campbell Gray
hotels. Located in Valletta, this iconic property
has undergone a much needed upgrade, it will be
exciting to see the finished product!
Nicola Brereton
Joined RB: February 2016
Looking ahead to Spring...
Spring is a beautiful time to travel. Resorts
& Cities are generally quieter (away from the
Bank Holidays) and prices can be lower.
I recently visited Montenegro and was really
taken aback by its natural beauty and high
standard of accommodation. You can fly
to Montenegro direct or choose to drive
from Dubrovnik. You could even combine
Montenegro and Croatia to create a twocentre
holiday, an increasingly popular
option.
Clare Buckley
Joined RB: April 2016
My top tips for Winter Family Holidays...
It can be stressful going on holiday with the
little ones in tow. Relax knowing that we
have children too and can appreciate the
requirements you have! Different resorts
and hotels have varying ideas on the needs of
families, it is important therefore to ensure
you choose the right one best suited to your
requirements. Your first holiday together for
example, may require more assistance to a
family with older, walking and exploring
toddlers! Luckily we are here to help so do
not hesitate to ask, we’ve been there!
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