Hops Travel

Escape to Greece

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 11:07:00 GMT

Wow! What a crazy year, I’m sure we are all ready to start seeing some different scenery! I definitely needed an escape so booked to the Greek islands, I picked Greece as the numbers had been low. I chose a small resort as I wanted a relaxed break with a beautiful beach and some small tavernas.

The flight from Manchester was great, the airport was extremely well organised and smooth with various shops

and bars open. Masks needed to be worn on the flight but I felt very relaxed and safe throughout. Due to the low numbers and extra measures its probably the best airport experience I’d had!

While in Corfù masks only need to be on public transport and in shops. Social distancing was taken very seriously, but the atmosphere was lovely. The Greeks are such a friendly nation and they are doing as much as they can to make you feel welcome, and more importantly safe.

We hired a car for a few days and toured the island visiting some gorgeous beaches and then spent days on the beach. In the evenings we sat outside on the hotel terrace and went to the nearby tavernas.

For anyone that is considering visiting Greece, based on my experience I couldn’t recommend it enough!

The Deep South

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 15:32:00 GMT

My love for Elvis Presley and Country music combined made this my dream holiday.
My first stop was Nashville, a beautiful clean City, with great restaurants and amazing atmosphere. Country and rock music in every bar. I also had the pleasure of watching a show at the grand Ole Opry, and visiting RCA Studio B, they have recordings of Elvis rehearsals, including his old piano and guitars.

Driving down to Memphis was easy and felt very safe, this old bustling city was such a different contrast to Nashville, we took the old tram to BB-kings, a great night with blues music and good deep southern food.

We visited Sun studios, there is where Elvis was discovered and cut his first record, on the outskirts in the Ghetto.

We then drove down to New Orleans, passing old plantation houses and the Mississippi.

New Orleans was a wonder. Trams, steamboats and wonderful old buildings in the French quarter. Jazz music can be found in venues but properly need to be checked first and the bars are quite small If you are interested in these places and share my love of Elvis, country music or just amazing places , pop in to Hops or give me a call . I’m excited to talk about my experience.

Bucket List Travel to India

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 11:29:00 GMT

This year I finally ticked the Taj Mahal off my bucket list and it was everything I thought it would be,

India isn’t for everyone, but for me was a wonderful chaotic and charming experience. I toured the north and was wowed by the history and extravagance of the palaces. My favourite place was Jaipur, top tip stay at a hotel where you get a view of the Lake Palace, it gives you a wonderful feeling of space and there is a market nearby to grab some souvenirs. The Amber fort is breathtaking and the guide made it come alive with all the stories of the family that had lived and ruled there.

Next stop was Agra where we were up early to visit the Taj at 0530. On any other holiday this would have been a disastrous time to get up but we were through the queues within ten minutes and what a fabulous thing to see. The light changes as the sun rises, It’s beautiful and I loved the fact that the Indian people were dressed in their best to see it, it all added to the atmosphere. The ‘diana bench’ was always busy but we managed to find space and just take in the view.

The guide was amazing and told us the love story attached and all the techniques which made it so special. I loved the north and the two things I mention are a small part of what I saw, I then flew into the southern region of Kerala, which was a completely different vibe, this is mainly scenery and wildlife. We began in Cochin and saw the European side of India, where there were catholic churches and Jewish temples. We stayed in the jungle and went elephant trekking, I saw eagles and cormorants and spent the night on a private houseboat, sailing through the famous Keralan backwaters.

I spent the final part of my stay at Marari beach resort just to reflect and relax.

My top tip for this trip is wherever possible have a private guide and driver, this meant we skipped queues and was parked so much nearer. Allow for the fact that the tour is exhausting and the days and distances are long.

Mel

10 Must do’s in NYC

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 12:40:00 GMT

10 things you must do in New York

I have recently spent three days in New York. I wanted to do as much as possible in the short space of time that I had. Coming back feeling like I have seen the majority of New York and all the exiting things that this amazing city has to offer.

New York city pass. You can get one of these from one day up until 2 weeks. This gives you access to all the major attractions from the 911 museum to the Empire State Building. It gives you access each attraction once, also get fast track to each attraction. A must do is The Ride a fun filled bus tour which is such an amazing experience.
Don’t get a transfer or taxi from the airports, a train and the sub way is very easy. Both have a free air train to a central station with direct links to Penn Station. I have done this to both airport and its around £15 return journey.
Make sure you have your walking shoes. The best way to see New York is by walking, whether it’s a stroll in central park or visiting Times Square, Grand Central or the Library. Hit the streets and take in all the sights.
The 911 Memorial and Museum. While you’re in New York this is a must do. We used our city pass to get into the museum make sure you go early in the day, you have queue to get the next available entrance time in to the museum. I would suggest doing the Museum first then have a wonder around the memorial. Very close to the museum is the pub called O’hara’s this is where all the fireman went to drink, as a sign of respect the firemen that go to the pub leave their badges.
Ellen’s Stardust diner is a must do. Just off Times Square this is a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat with a difference. The up and coming Broadway performers are the waiters & waitresses and they all take the opportunity to impress the diners with all the Broadway big songs as you dine. It brings the whole restaurant to life, it’s a fun filled activity to do for all the family.
Dumbo and Brooklyn. This felt like a very up and coming part of the city, with a hip vibe. We took the metro from Penn Station all the way to Brooklyn, very easy and only cost $2.75. Take a wonder down to the East river. From here you get a fantastic view of the Wall street district and Brooklyn Bridge. We stopped at Time out Market for a drink this gave us one of the best views of the city and Brooklyn Bridge.
Walking across Brooklyn Bridge by night. We stopped over in Brooklyn and watched the sun set then headed to the bridge. One of the best sights in New York by far, just to get the view of the city and to say that you have done it.
The Empire State Building. We did this by day, but I am sure it’s equally as breath taking by night. The building takes you through a museum regarding the history of the Empire State. Then you enter the elevator to take you up to the 86 ^th floor where you have the most phenomenal view of the city. From Central Park all the way to the Statue of Liberty and everything in between.
Walking trough Central Park. Some would say the most photographed park in history. You can walk from 5 ^th avenue all the way to the trump ice skating rink and up The Lake. You could even stop for a coffee in The Boat house. We walked up to the Bluestone upper east side café for breakfast and it was fantastic.
Times Square the heart of it all, when I first arrived in Times Square all you can do is look up in amazement. You have street performers, $1 hot dogs, Police on horseback, Yellow cabs and the bright lights of Times Square. You will be blown away the moment you step foot in times square.

This amazing city has so much to do you will never feel like you have done it all. Wherever you turn there is something amazing to see and do. If you’re looking at planning your next city break to New York, why not give me a call or pop into the office for all you need to know.

The Amazing EDGE

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 15:48:00 GMT

After my recent visit on Celebrity’s newest ship in Barcelona the EDGE & absolutely falling in love with this new class of ship, setting a new standard of luxury!

Between the indoor & outdoor areas the Edge has so many more amazing spaces & different areas. You embark the ship directly onto the atrium, The Grand , located at the heart of the ship! It has energy that draws everyone to it morning, noon & night. A Martini Bar which dazzles with the waiters mixing the most delicious cocktails – be sure to try the Banana Split Martini!

Have a fun dining experience in the Le Petit Chef restaurant featured onboard the Edge where you wouldn’t believe what’s happening on your dinner plate – A tiny chef who could fit into the palm of your hand is projected onto each expertly placed table setting, creates each course of your meal & then when he’s finished, waiters bring out the real thing Exactly how the chefs prepared!

The Main dining area’s have been rethought when Celebrity designed the edge, there is now not only one but FOUR complimentary main dining restaurants, each with a distinctive design & ambience inspired by specific region of the world – the Normandie, Tuscan, Cosmopolitan & Cyprus. Each restaurant features the same mouthwatering menu which changes nightly – but each offers different ambience & a selection of exclusive regionally inspired dishes & drinks. You can still choose traditional early or late dining time with the same table & waiter every evening, or take the Select dining plus option – allowing you to dine when & where you like each evening – My personal favourite.

Eden is the most unique space on the ship, it transports you through Eden itself! They invite you to indulge every sense in transformative atmosphere that changes from “chillful” mornings to “playful” afternoons to “sinful” evenings. It has 3 levels of experiences completely wrapped in glass looking out in to the ocean. The nature inspired food was mouthwatering – Eden really will amaze everyone who enters & it.

The Celebrity Edge has the New Infinite Veranda Staterooms these give you more space in the cabin where at a touch of a button you can open up your window. However I fell in love with the Sky Suite – If its within your budget I would definitely upgrade! The bed faces the large spacious balcony – who would not want to wake up in the morning & watch the sunrise from your bed?

Book on the Celebrity Edge or Apex & you will not be disappointed!

Marie’s City Break in Barcelona

Sat, 05 Oct 2019 11:36:00 GMT

What a beautiful City , with so much to offer .

We stayed at the Silken Ramblas hotel , a perfect location for this bustling , cultured city.

The Ramblas is full of fabulous al fresco restaurants , designer shops , street entertainers, with the hidden gems of Gaudi Architecture all around. My favourite area of the Ramblas is Plaça Reial , a great place to enjoy Tapas, Sangria and watch the world go by .

This is a city that you can even enjoy a day at the Beach , and the cool clubs around the area .

Things I highly recommend to do is see the grand Familia Sagrada , take the cable car to Montjuic mountain for amazing views of the city , and of course view the work of Gaudi at the Park Guell.

Why not pop in to Hops and I can plan an amazing weekend for you to a City that never sleeps.

Lisa’s Visit to China

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 09:39:00 GMT

No other country in the world I have visited compares to China. The Culture is so distinct. My curiosity attracted me to experience their amazing culture & explore the country. While I dislike the pollution of the big cities, the countryside & the food are incredible! It’s a fascinating country – but it was quite the culture shock! I would definitely recommend taking it is a tour for a stress-free trip! Whilst I planned the whole trip independently, the language barrier was the first big hurdle to overcome as a foreigner travelling to china – taking a tour you would have your very own local guide!

I visited Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu & Shanghai. I had so many highlights during my trip but I was blown away with trekking & camping on Great wall of China, waking up in the morning was one of the best mornings I have ever experienced!

We started our trip with 4 nights in Bejing! Whilst in Beijing I visited Tiananmen Square & the Forbidden City. We took a rickshaw tour through the Hutongs – the traditional alleys of Beijing. Experienced the food market with scorpions on sticks, although I didn’t eat any! We spent a night on the Great Wall of China, we trekked up 7km to the wall, put up tents in the watch tower, watched the sunset, lit a camp fire & heard nothing but wildlife, in the morning we woke early to watch the sunrise before trekking back down – it was incredible!

Then we took on overnight train from Bejing to Xian, in the deluxe soft sleeper where the 4 of us shared! – it was interesting but we took wine & a pack of cards, & was settled in for the evening.

The main reason we visited Xi’an was for the obvious, the Teracotta Army, to see 8000 life size statures of soldiers is amazing!

The food was my favourite in Xi’an & so cheap! The noodles & hotpots you can try are so tasty – For a sensory overload check out the Muslim quarter for street food.

After 3 nights in Xi’an we took the High Speed Train to Chengdu, to see the Panda’s! Chengdu is the base of giant panda breeding & possibly the only time I have seen a panda in their natural habitat, this is a research centre so unlike a zoo they don’t concentrate on displaying the animals. We spent 2 nights in Chengdu & then headed to Shanghai for 3 nights.

We went to a quaint little water village – known as the Venice of the East – about 30 minutes out from Shanghai city by train. It was like a different world compared to the city, like we went back in time. In the city we also went to the Bund & to one of the best rooftop bars I’ve ever been to Vue Bar at the Hyatt.

If you are looking for an experience of a lifetime – China is packed with sights & experiences – it should be a must be on your holiday list!

Top tips

Keep a business card from your hotel to show taxi drivers or incase you get lost while exploring.
Chinese government censors all media to the internet so you can’t access social media, Facebook/Whatsapp, look at buying a VPN for your phone before leaving so you will still be able to contact your loved ones.
Outside the main cities like Beijing & Shanghai, the locals are not used to seeing Westerners, you might find that people stare at you & maybe even take pictures of you, with or without asking! Smile!

Lucy’s Saga Discovery Ship Visit

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 15:38:00 GMT

Saga Cruises,

I have recently returned from The Brand New Saga Cruise Ship – Spirit of Discovery.

From Embarkation to the first WOW when you step onboard, it really took my breath away.

This being Sagas’s first self built cruise ship, they hadn’t missed a trick.

Kick back and relax in the cosy sofas on the grassed area, covered from the wind, grab a book or a lovely cocktail from their all inclusive menu.

Take afternoon tea on deck 5 surrounded by the grandeur of the central atrium.

When it’s time to explore your cabin, you really feel like this is the ship that keeps on giving. From the Spacious balconies to the added extras of the luxury Spa Products and blankets for the cooler evenings they even have binoculars, Dressing Gowns and Slippers are as standard. Plus the Tea and Coffee making facilities in the cabin with fresh milk being put in your cabin whilst you’re out for your evening meal.

Every cabin has a balcony onboard this ship. This makes for more areas for you to explore as there is so much more room, not taken by inside cabins. It only holds 1000 passengers this becomes apparent with the high level of service received whilst onboard. Sagas Spirit of Discovery is sailing from Dover Port Uk, Included in the prices you will receive Home Pick up, All Inclusive and an amazing Cruise as standard.

Silversea – Understated Luxury

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 11:35:00 GMT

It was the ultimate relaxation holiday from the moment that we arrived at Manhattan Cruise Terminal. Nothing was ever too much trouble. It was my first time in New York and within five minutes of leaving the hustle and bustle of Times Square, we were at the ship where the relaxation could really begin.

We set sail, passing the Statue of Liberty, which was an unforgettable experience. With Silversea having relatively small ships, you can go further into the ports of call meaning that you get even more memorable experiences.

The food on Silver Spirit was outstanding. Our favourite restaurant was Silver Note; a very intimate jazz restaurant with outstanding food and service. They always have live music, creating a fantastic fun atmosphere. If you prefer something more traditional, then you will not be stuck for options, as there are seven other restaurants to choose from.

The staff really deserves a special mention as they made our trip extra special. With every suite having its own butler, who is there to fulfill your every need, nothing is ever too much trouble. With there almost being a 1:1 staff to passenger ratio, you get the ultimate service. It isn’t uncommon for the pool butler to remember your favourite drink or for a waiter to remember your name. All of these small things and the staff constantly going the extra mile make you feel so relaxed and at ease.

All of the ports that we visited did not disappoint. They lived up to every one of our expectations. The first was Bermuda. The island has so many British touches; it just feels like you’re at home but in paradise. We docked right alongside the high street of Hamilton, with its colourful buildings and colonial charm- it really was unforgettable. We enjoyed our time there sat at the back of the ship, overlooking the view at La Trazza. It was bliss.

Then on to St Barts- what an amazing little town! The harbour is very small so we had to take a tender in, but was most definitely worth it. If shopping is your thing, this is the place for you! Once you’re on land, a vast array of shops are right at your fingertips from Ralph Lauren to local, traditional boutiques. It has something for everyone! You can also take a stroll around the harbour to make the most of and take in the Caribbean atmosphere.

The final stage of our trip brought us to Barbados. With our flight being in the evening, we went for a long, relaxing lunch at the infamous Sandy Lane Hotel. It was the perfect way to end an once-in-a-lifetime trip!

If you are looking for the ultimate cruising holiday, relaxing in luxury with the best food and drink that there is to offer and visiting some of the world’s most desirable resorts, then there is no doubt that Silversea is the one for you.