Anita Harris - Travel Counsellor

Supporting local communities

I often get asked by clients how they can support local communities when they travel.

My top tips would be -

- Eat Local - check out local cafes and restaurants, or try street food.

- Buy Handmade Goods: Shop at local markets for unique, handcrafted items.

- Choose Ethical Tours : Book with companies that hire local guides and use eco-friendly practices.

- Donate to good causes : If you have time, look for local charities or community projects to support - for instance some restaurants might have their cooking book.

- Use Local Transport - in many countries you can get their number and use them for future journeys.

- Reduce Waste: Bring reusable items like a water bottle and avoid plastic to minimise your environmental footprint.

- Cash as a thankyou - in many places, tips are essential to local workers.

- Engage with Locals: Whether it's joining a local class or chatting with shopkeepers, connecting with people helps support their culture and economy.

I'll share some examples over the weeks but I wanted to highlight a restaurant that we went to in Siem Reap in July. It's called Haven and they say 'Where helping tastes good'

HAVEN is a social enterprise and a training restaurant for vulnerable young adults from shelters, as well as underprivileged young adults from very poor rural areas. By teaching quality work skills and important life skills, Haven helps to empower young people by preparing them for employment and by helping them in their personal development, creating safe and independent futures.

It was our favourite place to eat during our time there (as you can tell from the day and night photos) - the food was so good and everyone so welcoming - it is definitely worth a visit.

If you would like to discuss your next trip and what you are looking for out of the adventure do get in touch - I can help you find what works for you.

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

#

One for the shortlist.

Crystal Waters - a hidden gem on the Greek island of Lefkada, known for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters. Nestled in the picturesque village of Nikiana, this luxury retreat boasts stunning island and water views. The resort offers great hospitality, delicious gastronomy, and meticulous attention to detail.

The island offers a perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility, with beautiful beaches like Porto Katsiki and secluded coves that make it an ideal escape. Unlike more tourist-heavy spots, Lefkada remains peaceful and relatively uncrowded, yet easy to reach via a causeway from the mainland.

Beyond the beaches, the island features charming villages, lush landscapes, and scenic hiking trails. Local tavernas serve fresh seafood and Mediterranean specialties, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

In a nutshell, Crystal Waters Lefkada feels like a place where you can leave behind the distractions of daily life and reconnect with the simple pleasures: stunning views, refreshing swims, delicious food, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes time feel like it slows down.

If you'd like to have a chat about this property just give me a call or send me an email.

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

Did you know that I have access to over 600,000 hotels?

That means that no matter what you are looking for I'll be sure to find something that suits you - whether it's something simple but close to the action, a little boutique with amazing food, a countryside retreat with a great spa, a family favourite close to a water park or a dreamy beachside escape your travel dreams can be taken care off.

So if you're looking but not finding much inspiration get in touch - I'll do that hard searching for you - all you have to do is pack.

Why not pop over to my web page to find out more about me - and even more inspiration.

https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/anita.harris/

Tel - 028 7077 0015
mytc.com

#

“Gift experiences, not things”

I couldn't agree more and if being a travel counsellor has taught me anything, it’s that the memories made and the experiences had together are priceless. My daughter asked for a trip on her last birthday (like mother, like daughter) and we still talk about it!

I also see it every single time clients come home raving about their vacations.

If you’re thinking of gifting travel instead of things this year, here are 4 trip ideas to put under the tree for your loved ones.

A weekend spa break in a French chateau.
A week indulging in your favourite passions - be it horse riding, photography or cookery I can find the perfect break for you.
A cruise with the family with slides included!
Something ticked off the bucket list

What trip would you put under the tree for your loved ones? Your secret’s safe with me!

Let's chat if you want to give the gift of travel - I can get it all booked up or if you want to stay flexible then a gift voucher is the perfect solution. Either way it's one thing ticked off the list!

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

Spring is in the air

I know - we may have a way to go but perhaps something in the diary might give you something to count down to - apart from counting down to the appearance of the 'Big man' that is!

Perhaps put Croatia on the list with a stay at the Amadria Park Hotel Ivan?

4* Amadria Park Hotel Ivan, Solaris, Split Area
7 Nights Standard Room, Room Only
Transfers & Checked Bags Included
Upgrade to Half Board from £61pp per night

✈️Gatwick 23/4/25 £601 pp
✈️Bristol 17/4/25 £648 pp
✈️Manchester 24/4/25 £677 pp
✈️Birmingham 24/4/25 £725 pp
✈️Leeds Bradford 28/5/25 £770 pp
✈️Glasgow 28/5/25 £796 pp
*Based on 2 sharing, subject to availability & price change.

Treat yourself to unparalleled rejuvenation at the Mediterranean Spa & Wellness center, just steps away from your accommodation. The spa features an indoor pool complex, gym, sauna, and a full range of spa services available to book. Enjoy a refreshing drink by the outdoor saltwater pool before unwinding with local live music in the lively lobby bar. Families are welcome and children have access to their own playground as well as a kids club so you can take some me time. Enjoy tasting local and international flavours at the hotel restaurant along with a glass of Croatian wine, or soak in the gorgeous views of the Mediterranean on the terrace at the champagne bar.

For a must-try authentic experience, discover the region’s rich culinary heritage with a visit to Dalmatian Ethno Village - a living museum that brings the charm of the Dalmatian culture to life with is hands-on experiences.

There is also a waterpark nearby with slides, a lazy river, waterfalls and a kids zone and fortress.

Let's talk about your next trip

Tel - 028 7077 0015
[email protected]

Fondu by the Lake - there's still time to book

4 night pre Christmas break - £447pp

Geneva might slip under the radar as a pre Christmas break but you would be pleasantly surprised to discover the city alive with festive fun. Think magical Christmas Markets (where the scent of mulled wine, Swiss chocolates, and raclette cheese fills the air) , the Festival of lights, Ice Skating, traditional performances, excursions to Mont Saleve, not to mention the great Christmas shopping opportunities.

Why not plan a 4 day break - for this example I've looked at flights out of Belfast but as always I can look at other airports.

My hotel pick is the Ruby Claire Hotel - a stone's throw from Lac Léman and the city’s historic heart.

4 nights | Depart 15th December 24 | Room only | hand luggage only | £447 pp. | based on 2 sharing
subject to availability and subject to change.

Let's chat - I can also book for next year if you're a planner.

Tel - 028 7077 0015
[email protected]

Escape to the Algarve this Easter

I know I've said this before but having something to look forward is known to boost your mood. I love getting away at Easter - the temperatures aren't as hot as in the summer so you can take the opportunity to explore - maybe even hire a car?

For a family this could tick all the boxes. The NH Marina Portimao Resort is in a prime location in the renowned picturesque Algarve. Located in Praia da Rocha, this hotel has all you need on-site for a fantastic break along with plenty to do in the local area.

Being next to Portimao Marina, you'll find there's plenty of opportunity to catch a sea-view and admire scenic beauty. Take a stroll at your leisure as the waves lap nearby. If you're of an active nature, participate in some watersports or head out for a round of golf at the nearby course as the sun sets.

With shops, restaurants and entertainment in close proximity you won't be short of choice.

7 nights from £599 pp - based on 2 adults and 2 children
* Family Room with Marina View, Bed and Breakfast
* 16th Apr 2025
* Flying from Belfast International
* 23kg bags, Shared transfer

Let's talk about getting something in the diary for 2025 - I can't believe I'm writing this!

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

Rockies Winter Wonderland

This 9 day carefully crafted escorted tour of the Canadian Rockies is truly magical - seeing the snow and ice bringing this spectacular landscape to life. The adventure begins in Calgary, and heads straight to the UNESCO listed Banff National Park. Here the Banff Gondola cable car ride takes you to the top of Sulphur Mountain for unrivalled views of Banff - a sight that will astound and delight. You'll also be taken on a horse-drawn sleigh ride followed by a relaxing visit to Banff's natural hot springs. The adventure continues with a journey to Jasper National Park followed by a trip to the picture-perfect Lake Louise - a sight made all the more perfect as you'll be staying at the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel, which is situated right on the shore of the lake itself.

Steeped in history, this iconic hotel has sat on the shores of Lake Louise for over 100 years, surrounded by rugged mountains and the mighty Victoria Glacier. Originally a one-storey log cabin, the hotel has evolved over the years to become a luxurious mountain resort you won't want to leave.

What's included -

Return flights from Heathrow with Air Canada
7 nights in hotels plus 1 night in flight
5 meals : 5 breakfasts and welcome drink
Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

From - £2,449.00 pp

Departures from - Feb 2024 - Feb 2025

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

Tranquil bliss

On our last visit to Thailand we took a few shared taxi buses to get around and we met this lovely couple who had just left Ko Yao Noi. I'd asked where they had stayed and they said Cape Kudu. We didn't quite make it last visit as time did not permit but after their review it is very high on my list - and possibly yours now?

Cape Kudu Hotel is on sleepy Koh Yao Noi and is just heavenly. It's halfway between Phuket and Krabi so easily twinned with a stay at either.

The decor is ocean inspired - simple and laid back with classic colours of white and blue and textures of wood, stone and linen. There's a relaxed restaurant, great little cafe and a cocktail bar so you can sit back and watch those wonderful sunsets. The cafe is the same as the Kantary cafe at Cape Panwa on Phuket and I can recommend.

Coconut farms, rock climbing, cookery classes, deserted beaches and dazzling dive sites beckon in between. Don't miss a trip to nearby Koh Hong in the hotel’s long-tailed boat – you’ll feel like you’re the first ones to discover the island’s unspoiled beaches. Staff can also take you on an island-hopping adventure if you’re reluctant to return to dry land...

As if that wasn’t soul-soothing enough, there’s also a peaceful spa that dishes up traditional Thai massages, Indian head massages, reflexology rituals and more.

Why not discover a calmer you at Cape Kudu Hotel.

Let's talk if you'd like a bespoke itinerary for Thailand - perhaps with some of the lesser known islands included.

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

Broken record

This broken record over here can’t tell you enough about the importance of getting travel insurance for your trip.

It's essential to get it as soon as you book to be sure you are covered should anything happen before you trip starts and you have to cancel (subject to insurers terms and conditions).

Even if you have an annual policy make sure that you check you are covered for the holiday you are taking and also whether you need to declare any pre existing conditions. Some have limits on durations and especially check if you are going on a cruise or taking part in any winter sports for instance.

I'll remind you when you book but consider this another friendly nudge.

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

Swoon worthy IKOS

IKOS have become synonymous with unconditional luxury - all are beachfront escapes, designed with relaxation and discovery in mind. Elegantly designed suites and stylish restaurants are dotted throughout the manicured gardens, with pristine beaches, clear waters, tranquil poolsides and elegant bars waiting to be explored.

Framed by fragrant woodland and situated on more than 420m of sandy beach, the deluxe Ikos Odisia resort boasts wonderful views of Corfu’s Ionian coast. Ideal for families, couples and friends, guests will be able to enjoy the beach or alternatively take a dip in Ikos Odisia’s 10 heated swimming pools.

You are invited to indulge in the luxurious all-inclusive experience such as dining at a la carte restaurants with Michelin-starred menus, taking advantage of the 24-hour room service with its extensive selection of breakfast, day and night dining options, sampling beauty products by Anne Semonin Paris and much more (further details below in the All Inclusive section).

Water sports, bike trails, yoga and tennis are just a few activities available. For those who wish to pamper themselves there is a wide selection of wellness options to choose from.

Take advantage of Ikos Resorts’ Local Drive Adventure experience with your very own Tesla Car and explore the surroundings of Ikos Odisia, including Corfu’s historic centre, a UNESCO world heritage site with neoclassical influence, explore the famous alleyways of Campiello or travel along the coast and discover the peak of the island on the eastern side of town.

Why not let summer linger a little longer and plan an escape for next October.

£1610 pp | Flights from Gatwick on 6th October | Staying in a Double Room | All Inclusive Plus | 15kg hold bags | Private Transfer |Includes £100 off - Book before 1.11.24 for offer

Get in touch for other dates and airports.

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015

Single parent travel guide

As some of you know I'm a single mum and from the start I really hoped that she would share my love of travel. She does! With a few years of travelling as a single parent under my belt I thought I'd share with you some of my top tips - the last one (but maybe it should be the first) is just do it - everything is doable!

https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/anita.harris/Profile-Blog/Singleparenttravel

Get in touch if you'd like some advice about your next trip - I'd be happy to help.

Pic from when penguin used to have to appear in every pic - this time we were in Hong Kong for the weekend.

I blame the Durrells!

Corfu - it's just one of those islands that you can imagine hiring an open top car and driving round with the wind in your air - failing that just relaxing with family -creating memories.

Stay 7 nights in August at The Lena Mare Boutique hotel from £1062pp. It's a lovely little boutique hotel in Acharavi - about 700 metres from the beach. For those seeking relaxation the hotel has a spa and there is also a gym for the more energetic.

It would be a perfect family holiday so this is based on school holiday time - this time leaving from Belfast but 'other dates and airports are available'

Depart Belfast 12th August | B&B | 7nights | Check in bags and seats included. | Senior Suite Garden View | £1062 pp

Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply

[email protected]
Tel - 028 7077 0015