Holiday in Thailand

From the temples and street food to the pristine beaches and luxury hotels, you’ve got every excuse for a holiday to Thailand.

The land of smiles

Thailand is known as the land of smiles, thanks to the welcoming nature of the Thai people. But there’s so much more to the country than friendly faces. In fact, it’s impossible to sum up Thailand in a nutshell, because every part is different.

Bangkok

Mixed in with the religious landmarks is one of the world’s most hectic capitals. Bangkok is a strobe-like city, where motorways have 12 lanes, markets have upward of 15,000 stalls, and restaurants are so concentrated, you’ll never be more than 50 metres away from one.

Beaches and islands

Then there’s the coast. In the Krabi province alone, there are 150 kilometres’ worth of beaches, many of which are backed by photogenic rock formations. In the Khao Lak area, the sands get swallowed up by national parks a few hundred metres from the shoreline. In Phuket, meanwhile, there’s a real mix. While the crowdless beaches in Mai Khao let you live incognito for a while, the ones in Patong invite you to a permanent party.

Multi-Centre holidays to Thailand

Settling on just one spot is no easy feat in this kaleidoscopic country. That’s why we’ve hand picked a selection of choices, which let you tick off two or more places in one trip. They pair up Bangkok with beach resorts, like Phuket and Khao Lak. Our Multi-Centre tours, meanwhile, cover off even more, from traditional Chiang Mai in the north to the picturesque Phi Phi Islands in the south.

Travel to Sicily with All World Journeys - Bespoke Travel Agency

Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, is just off the "toe" of Italy's "boot." Its rich history is reflected in sites like the Valley of the Temples, the well-preserved ruins of 7 monumental, Doric-style Greek temples, and in the Byzantine mosaics at the Cappella Palatina, a former royal chapel in capital city Palermo. On Sicily’s eastern edge is Mount Etna, one of Europe’s highest active volcanoes.

Taormina is a hilltop town on the east coast of Sicily. It sits near Mount Etna, an active volcano with trails leading to the summit. The town is known for the Teatro Antico di Taormina, an ancient Greco-­Roman theatre still used today. Near the theatre, cliffs drop to the sea forming coves with sandy beaches. A narrow stretch of sand connects to Isola Bella, a tiny island and nature reserve.

Mount Etna is an active stratovolcano on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, in the Metropolitan City of Catania, between the cities of Messina and Catania. It lies above the convergent plate margin between the African Plate and the Eurasian Plate.

To book or for any advise do contact us at discover@allworldjourneys.com

My recent trip to stunning Santorini - A must visit

The contrasting rocky headlands and volcanic beaches create a visually exciting landscape on Santorini. This iconic Greek island is home to distinctive architecture, brilliant blue-domed churches and steep volcanic cliffs dropping into turquoise blue depths.

On the mountainous side of the island you will find ancient archaeological sites, superb vineyards and romantic hideaways. The other – charming beaches, glistening sea and a surprisingly vibrant nocturnal scene. It’s perhaps this delightful variety that makes Santorini attractive to so many people, from adventurous culture lovers to families seeking sunshine and relaxation. Also, don’t miss a trip over to Nea Kameni volcano, where you can submerge and relax in the natural hot springs – a truly delightful experience

Places to visit

Oia

A picturesque town on the north west tip of the island, Oia is famous for its beautiful blue-domed churches. The town is ideally located to view the spectacular sunsets on the western side, but beware it gets very busy around this time of day. Like most of Santorini’s villages, the beautiful whitewashed houses are carved directly into the cliff-face, with a path winding down to the former fishing village of Ammoudi below. You can find delightful little boutiques here, selling crafty gifts and trinkets.

Fira

The largest town on Santorini, 900 feet above the coastline, is a bustling metropolis during the summer months. Take a stroll through the shopping district, with boutiques and craft shops in abundance. Stop off at a friendly taverna and have a glass of the local wine and bite to eat. There are excellent bakeries in Fira selling delicious sweets and pastries, and you should definitely try the melitinia, a sweet cheese pastry. You will find all the best nightlife in Fira, so look out for clubs as they are often tucked away.

Kamari

Kamari is a cosmopolitan beach resort, on the southeast of the island, ideal for families looking for a relaxing seaside break. Lying under the guard of Mesa Vouno mountain, this long stretch of beach offers a different style to the villages above. The promenade has some great bars, shops and restaurants, and some lively nightlife too. Redevelopment of Kamari started in 1956, after an earthquake all but flattened the town. As an old fishing village, the tavernas serve mouth-watering grilled fish and seafood, a staple in the Aegean.

Imerovigli

Known for its tranquillity, and for its sublime sunsets, Imerovigli will take your breath away. Whitewashed buildings dot the landscape and beautiful churches dominate the skyline. There is an air of luxury and some of our best hotels are in Imerovigli, like the Iconic Santorini. The highest part of the island, it commands spectacular views of the volcano and the rest of the island. Nearby Skaros Rock was once the governing force of Santorini, but now is just an impressive but deserted castle.

Perissa & Perivelos

These adjoined seaside resorts are perfect for those looking for a bit more nightlife. Both beaches have bars, loungers and lifeguards, as well as black sand and midnight blue depths. The nightlife here is more akin to Mykonos, rather than the sleepy villages among the mountains of Santorini. At night you will see the transformation with cocktail bars, restaurants and clubs coming to life. The stunning blue-domed Church of Timiou Stavrou can be found in Perissa Square, which is well worth a visit.

Akrotiri & Megalochori

Alongside the spellbinding ancient ruins at Akrotiri there is a quaint little village boasting some of the best views in Santorini. In the medieval period, Akrotiri was one of five fortified towns and the castle here is a great place to visit, although it was damaged in the earthquake of 1956. Further along the coast towards Fira, you will find Megalochori, where vineyards dominate the landscape. The centre square is a meeting place for locals, to drink fine wine and play backgammon in the afternoon sun.

Should you need assistance with booking a holiday to Santorini do contact us directly discover@allworldjourneys.com or contact us on +447824099686
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10 markets you must visit in London

1. PORTOBELLO ROAD 

While perhaps best known for its famed antiques market, Portobello Road in Notting Hill is a true haven for fans of fashion from bygone eras. Whether it’s second-hand Chanel, pre-loved Burberry or kitschy cocktail jewels, you’re likely to spot something among the endless stalls of goodies that stretch the entire length of the road and beyond. While you’re in the area, it would be rude not to pop into vintage treasure trove.

2. BOROUGH MARKET

Food fans are guaranteed a good time at Borough Market, born in 1014. One of London’s largest food markets, it’s bursting at the seams with gourmet goodies from around the world to take home or devour on the spot, such as Ibérico ham from Brindisa, piping hot pastry from Pieminister or Bread Ahead’s legendary jam doughnuts. A friend in the market recommends heading by for around 3.30pm, when you’re more likely to pick up discounts and encounter jollier traders as things start to wind down for the day.

3. COLUMBIA ROAD FLOWER MARKET

Part of the reason it takes so long to edge down Columbia Road on a Sunday morning is the fact that people regularly stop in their tracks to take photographs, causing rather a pile-up. You can’t blame them – the flower market is undeniably picturesque, not only for its rainbow of colourful flora but also its charming boutiques behind pretty 19th-century shop fronts. Head here to snag bunches of fresh peonies, Cornish daffodils and tulips, and gawp at people lugging giant pot plants home with them, often in rather ingenious ways.

4. BILLINGSGATE FISH MARKET

Trade customers and dedicated foodies brave an eye-wateringly early start to visit Billingsgate, the largest fish market in the UK, and once the largest in the world. Open from 4am-8am from Tuesday to Saturday and crammed to the gills with all manner of fresh seafood, it’s as much an experience as an opportunity to shop. Lap up the banter from the traders or spy exotic fish varieties from around the globe (150+ species are sold here). For an insider’s introduction to the market, the on-site Billingsgate Seafood School offers tours.

5. BROADWAY MARKET

A playground for the creative types who have settled in Hackney en masse over the past decade or so, Broadway Market is a lively place in which to spend a Saturday afternoon. It’s rammed with international food stalls, purveyors of vintage and vinyl, and opportunities to rub shoulders with the area’s style-conscious population as they sip flat whites and chat on the pavement, dogs in tow. We advise fuelling the perusing and people-watching with a strong coffee from Climpson & Sons, and popping in to the canalside Market Café for a spritz when you’re done.

6. CAMDEN MARKET

Camden Market – actually comprised of six different sites – has historically been a beacon for London’s nonconformists, from punks in the Seventies when the market first opened, to grunge devotees, rockers and hippies. Despite its present-day popularity, it still maintains a somewhat independent spirit, thanks to its banning of chain stores in Stables Market, which means that its large numbers of traders mainly sell handmade, Fairtrade crafts and vegan food. It also remains a hotspot for kinky club and fetish wear.

7. MALTBY STREET MARKET

For an opportunity to indulge with joyful abandon, you can’t beat Maltby Street. Lined up opposite a row of handsome railway arches, you’ll find street food stalls serving up shamelessly calorific delicacies, and crowds of cheery punters, beakers of G&T or vermouth in hand, waiting to get their fill. On our last visit, fare included oozing cheese toasties, fluffy naan breads piled with fresh toppings, and intensely chocolatey brownies. The permanent venues under the arches are always bustling, too, like the diminutive Bar Tozino, a fantastic spot for an aperitif.

8. SPITALFIELDS MARKET

Set under a striking steel and glass Victorian roof, Spitalfields Market draws crowds for its vibrant mix of independent traders selling an eclectic selection of wares. From hammam towels to antique maps, you’re sure to uncover an inspiring find. You’d be wise to pay a visit to Walconcept – a stall run by the always impeccably-dressed Waliou, whose selection of vintage scarves and ties can’t be beaten.

9. DOVER STREET MARKET

DSM is not your traditional market. In fact, the word ‘traditional’ has no place here at all. Inspired by the cult Kensington Market – a home for London subcultures that closed in the ’90s – this gender-fluid, multi-brand space by Comme des Garçons’ Rei Kawakubo pushes boundaries in all directions. Not least because it looks like one big art installation – featured designers are given the freedom to arrange their areas within the store as they see fit, resulting in endless strange and beautiful displays. With a gleeful mix of high and low price points, you’ll find established brands including Gucci and Balenciaga alongside pieces by rising stars such as Stefan Cooke and Marine Serre. In January and July DSM undergoes its seasonal changeover, where the entire place gets a new look. This is a prime time to visit, with exclusive products and treats from the top-floor Rose Bakery.

10. BRICK LANE MARKET

Brick Lane, the vibrant artery of Shoreditch, really comes into its own on market Sundays. Traders line the street with blankets spread with vintage china, decorative knick knacks and furniture, and alongside the odd inevitable bit of tat you’re likely to find a treasure. Head towards the imposing Old Truman Brewery for the Vintage Market, where you can browse homewares and memorabilia, clothing and accessories from the Twenties to the Nineties. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, visit the Sunday Upmarket’s huge food hall.

For bespoke tours, sightseeing, VIP travel or expert advise to contact us at discover@allworldjourneys.com

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Amazing Thailand

From the temples and street food to the pristine beaches and luxury hotels, you’ve got every excuse for a holiday to Thailand.

The land of smiles

Thailand is known as the land of smiles, thanks to the welcoming nature of the Thai people. But there’s so much more to the country than friendly faces. In fact, it’s impossible to sum up Thailand in a nutshell, because every part is different.

Bangkok

Mixed in with the religious landmarks is one of the world’s most hectic capitals. Bangkok is a strobe-like city, where motorways have 12 lanes, markets have upward of 15,000 stalls, and restaurants are so concentrated, you’ll never be more than 50 metres away from one.

Beaches and islands

Then there’s the coast. In the Krabi province alone, there are 150 kilometres’ worth of beaches, many of which are backed by photogenic rock formations. In the Khao Lak area, the sands get swallowed up by national parks a few hundred metres from the shoreline. In Phuket, meanwhile, there’s a real mix. While the crowdless beaches in Mai Khao let you live incognito for a while, the ones in Patong invite you to a permanent party.

Multi-Centre holidays to Thailand

Settling on just one spot is no easy feat in this kaleidoscopic country. That’s why we’ve hand picked a selection of choices, which let you tick off two or more places in one trip. They pair up Bangkok with beach resorts, like Phuket and Khao Lak. Our Multi-Centre tours, meanwhile, cover off even more, from traditional Chiang Mai in the north to the picturesque Phi Phi Islands in the south.

Inside the Forbidden City

Picturesque Vis Island

Of all the inhabited Croatian islands, Vis is the furthest from the coast and the most enigmatic. It spent much of its recent history serving as a Yugoslav military base, cut off from foreign visitors from the 1950s right up until 1989. This isolation preserved the island from development and drove much of the population to move elsewhere in search of work, leaving it underpopulated for many years.

No nightlife, no package tourists, no big hotels, no fuss, no hubbub; Vis Island so epitomized Mediterranean life that it was chosen as the filming location for Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! For several months in early autumn 2017 Hollywood descended upon the island, hiring locals as extras and using the old stone towns of Vis and Komiza as a backdrop for their musical.

The most stunning beach on the island and perhaps in all of Croatia is Stiniva beach.

For more information, contact us at discover@allworldjourneys.com  

Thinking of Gran Canaria for your next break?

Gran Canaria is the third largest island in the Canaries’ archipelago, but accounts for almost half the population. It lives up to its cliché as a continent in miniature, with a dramatic variation of terrain, ranging from the green and leafy north to the mountainous interior and desert south. To glean a sense of this impenetrable quality, head to the centre, where the sheer drama of the mountains more resembles the Tibetan highlands than a relatively small island.

All World Journeys recommends the following hotels

Bohemia Suites & Spa

Playa del Ingles    

Centrally located and a 10 minute stroll from the beach, the adult only, boutique hotel Bohemia Suites & Spa.

H10 Playa Meloneras Palace

Costa Meloneras    

Situated in an enviable location by the ocean and close to the Maspalomas Golf Club.

Hotel Santa Catalina

Las Palmas    

Hotel Santa Catalina is ideally situated within a sub-tropical garden area of Las Palmas which is known as Cuidad Jardin (The Garden City).

Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort & Thalasso

Costa Meloneras    

Situated between the sandy beach of Meloneras and golden dunes of Maspalomas.

To assist with all your needs, contact us at All World Journeys. 

E-mail discover@allworldjourney.com

Telephone +447 824 099 676