Canada Captured - Through Rubie’s Lens

Why We Loved Cruising on Marella Explorer 2 - A relaxed, adults only cruise that made a first timer fall in love with cruising. If you’re thinking about a cruise but want something easy, relaxed and genuinely all inclusive, Marella Cruises is often where we suggest starting, especially for couples or first-time cruisers. We recently sailed on Marella Explorer 2, the adults only ship in the Marella fleet, and visited Palma, Civitavecchia (Rome), Naples, Palermo, Olbia and Ajaccio. One of us had never cruised before, so choosing the right ship really mattered. Here’s why Marella Explorer 2 completely won us over and why we recommend it so often. Why Marella Explorer 2 Is Ideal for First-Time Cruisers - If you’ve never cruised before, the biggest worry we hear is: “Will it feel too formal, overwhelming or complicated?” That’s exactly why we chose Marella. • All-inclusive as standard, meals, drinks and entertainment included • Adults only, no kids’ clubs, no busy family areas • Relaxed dress code, smart casual, not stuffy or formal For my husband, who’d never cruised, this made a huge difference. There was no pressure to dress up every night, no worrying about extra costs adding up, and no feeling of being “out of place”. Cabins & Service: Comfortable and Thoughtfully Done We booked an inside cabin on Deck 12, which suited us perfectly. It was spotless, well laid out, and had everything we needed. If you plan to spend your days exploring ports and enjoying the ship, an inside cabin works brilliantly and keeps the overall cruise cost down. The service really stood out. Our cabin steward was friendly, attentive and remembered our names throughout the cruise. It’s small touches like that which make Marella feel personal rather than mass-market. Life On Board: What We Loved Most Entertainment The evening shows were genuinely impressive, polished, varied and full of energy. Think West End style performances at sea, not cheesy cruise clichés. The theatre was always buzzing and it quickly became part of our nightly routine. Relaxation Sea days were made for slowing down. We spent time in the Jacuzzis, lounged on deck, and treated ourselves in the spa. If you’re tempted, the hot stone massage and facial are well worth it. Dining The main restaurant offered plenty of choice, but the speciality restaurants really elevated the experience. The Chinese restaurant was a standout and absolutely worth booking. Drinks While Marella is already all inclusive, we upgraded to the premium drinks package and were glad we did. Better spirits, upgraded wines, and bottled water included daily made it feel like a proper holiday upgrade rather than an add on. Shore Excursions: One Tip We Always Give Marella’s excursions can be booked in advance or once onboard, but popular trips do sell out quickly, especially in ports like Rome and Naples. Our advice (and something we tell clients all the time): If there’s an excursion you really want, book it early. That said, Marella also makes it easy to explore independently if you prefer a bit more freedom. Would We Cruise with Marella Again? Without hesitation, yes!!! Marella Explorer 2 is perfect if you want: • A relaxed, adults only atmosphere • Clear, upfront pricing with no surprises • Great service without formality • A cruise that feels easy, even if it’s your first And the biggest win? My husband is now completely converted to cruising. Thinking About a Marella Cruise? If you’re wondering whether Marella Explorer 2 or another Marella ship is right for you, that’s where speaking to a real person helps. We’ll always talk you through: • Which ship suits your travel style • Cabin options (and where you can save money) • Best itineraries and sailing dates Pop us a message, give us a call, or visit us in store, we’ll help you choose the right cruise, not just the headline deal.

If you’ve ever dreamed of powder-soft beaches, clear turquoise waters and total switch-off, the Maldives probably sits high on your wish list. But with hundreds of islands and resorts to choose from, knowing where to start, and what really makes one island different from another, can feel overwhelming. That’s where expert planning makes all the difference. To help you decide whether the Maldives is right for you, we’re sharing what you need to know, along with a closer look at one of our favourite resorts: Kuramathi Maldives. Why the Maldives is so special? The Maldives isn’t just another beach destination it’s completely unique. Each resort sits on its own private island, meaning: No crowds or busy resorts, a true sense of escape and privacy, b eaches that wrap around the entire island and i ncredible marine life right off the shore. It’s ideal for: h oneymoons and anniversaries c ouples wanting rest, space and quality time, f amilies looking for something special without the chaos. U nlike some long-haul destinations, the Maldives is all about slowing down. Life revolves around the ocean, barefoot dining and choosing how active or relaxed you want to be. Spotlight on Kuramathi Maldives - Kuramathi is one of the Maldives’ larger islands, which gives it a big advantage, space and choice. W hat we love about Kuramathi is the long, natural sandbank that’s perfect for sunset walks, a wide variety of villas from beachfront to iconic water villas, s everal swimming pools spread across the island, o ne of the best house reefs for snorkelling and d ining is another standout. With multiple restaurants and bars, guests can enjoy everything from casual beach grills to fine dining, without feeling like they’re eating in the same place every night. Who Kuramathi is perfect for? Kuramathi suits travellers who want a balance, not just lying on a sunbed all day (unless that’s your plan!). It’s ideal for: H oneymooners wanting romance with options, c ouples who like activities as well as relaxation, f amilies wanting space, flexibility and excellent facilities. B ecause the island is larger, it never feels cramped, even when the resort is busy. When to go to the Maldives - The Maldives is a year-round destination, but timing can make a difference. Best weather: November to April Great value periods: May to October Typical stay: 7–10 nights Flights usually route via the Middle East, followed by a scenic seaplane or speedboat transfer — often a highlight in itself and a true “holiday starts now” moment. Why booking with experts matters - A Maldives holiday isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right island, villa type, dining plan and transfer can completely change the experience. T hat’s why we work closely with trusted partners like Kuoni, known for their quality, attention to detail and exceptional Indian Ocean expertise. When you book with us, you benefit from: p ersonal holiday planning, h onest advice based on real experience and a n award-winning concierge service from start to finish. Thinking about the Maldives? If the Maldives is on your wish list, we’d love to help you plan it properly — without overwhelm. 📍 Visit us in-store or 
📅 Book a personal appointment to talk through your options A holiday like this deserves to be done right.🌴

Day 1 – The Adventure Begins The buzz of excitement was real as I made my way down to Manchester Airport for my very first guided tour. I couldn’t wait to meet the group I’d be exploring Morocco with! A few nerves crept in as I approached the terminal, but they quickly vanished thanks to a warm welcome from a lovely Wendy Wu associate. We kicked things off in style with access to the airport lounge — the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a bite, and start getting to know my fellow travelers before our flight to Marrakesh. Day 2 – Marrakesh Magic After a smooth arrival and a restful night, we dove straight into the vibrant culture of Marrakesh. Our morning began in the stunning Majorelle Gardens, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent — a tranquil oasis of vivid blues, exotic plants, and peaceful fountains. From there, we ventured into the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where snake charmers, sizzling food stalls, and cheeky market vendors selling “real fake Ralph Laurens” brought the city to life. Hidden gems awaited us too — from a centuries-old communal bakery to a master woodcarver’s workshop. The day ended with a delicious traditional Moroccan dinner and a surprise performance of local dance! Day 3 – Casablanca & Rabat Wonders After a hearty breakfast, we headed to Casablanca to visit the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque. Its sheer scale and intricate design were breathtaking. Our guide gave us fascinating insights into local customs and rituals. In Rabat, we explored the historic Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. The day wrapped up with a sunset dinner at Dar Zellij — a gorgeous seafront restaurant that served up unforgettable views and flavours. Day 4 – High-Speed Thrills & Coastal Beauty This was the day I’d been most excited for — a ride on Morocco’s high-speed train from Rabat to Tangier! Reaching speeds of 320kph (200mph), it was a thrilling experience, especially on a double-decker train. We explored the legendary Hercules Caves and admired the dramatic coastline at Cap Spartel, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic. Then it was off to the mountains and the famous blue town of Chefchaouen, where we enjoyed a private Hadra performance and another delicious meal. Day 5 – Roman Ruins & Ice Cream Wins A morning stroll through Chefchaouen’s winding blue streets was picture-perfect — made even better by three scoops of pistachio ice cream! We then visited Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins, guided by a local expert who brought history to life. With temperatures soaring to 38°C, we were grateful for the air-conditioned bus as we made our way to Fez. Day 6 – Cooking, Crafting & Camaraderie This turned out to be my favourite day of the trip. We explored Fez’s ancient Medina, gathering ingredients for a rooftop cooking class. Our chef channeled his inner Gordon Ramsay — shouting, laughing, and keeping us on our toes. “Yes, Chef!” echoed around the kitchen as we cooked up a storm. The result? The best meal I’ve ever had. Later, we got hands-on at a pottery and mosaic workshop, crafting clay pots and drink coasters (mine still gets daily use!). That evening, we celebrated our new friendships with drinks at a local bar — a perfect end to a perfect day. Day 7 – Farewell Feast in Marrakesh Our final day took us back to Marrakesh for a farewell dinner to remember. A three-course meal, live music, fire dancers, and flowing wine made for a night of laughter, storytelling, and celebration of an unforgettable week. Day 8 – Homeward Bound We flew back to Manchester, full of memories and new friendships. This trip confirmed it for me — guided tours are the way forward. The experiences, the people, the seamless planning… it was everything I could’ve hoped for and more. Fancy your own Moroccan adventure? If this sounds like your kind of trip, I’d love to help you plan it! Just get in touch and mention my name — Greg — and I’ll make sure your Moroccan Odyssey is just as magical.

After my first escorted tour earlier this year, I was excited about my trip to Morocco with Exodus Adventure Tours. Who are Exodus? With 50 years of experience in adventure touring, they started in February 1974 when two men planned and operated an expedition through the rugged hinterland of central Afghanistan, travelling to the remote and fabled Minaret of Jam. From there, Exodus took off with trips to Kathmandu and an incredible 39-week journey from London to Bali! Through the 70s, 80s, and 90s, Exodus expanded, becoming a unique adventure touring company, tackling the Far East, South America, and Africa. Today, Exodus hosts 30,000 travellers annually, offering 350 small-group trips across nearly 100 countries. From cycling and hiking to wildlife, culture, expeditions, and family adventures, their top destinations include Italy, Costa Rica, Vietnam, and Jordan. Exodus is strongly committed to sustainability and giving back to communities. In 2019, they established the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation to fund innovative, sustainable, tourism-related projects. I was lucky enough to visit one of the projects and villages funded by the foundation, which became one of my favourite memories from Morocco! A Week of Adventure in Morocco My fun-packed week began with a short direct flight from Manchester to Morocco—just three and a half hours. (Who says you need long-haul flights for winter sun? 😉) We arrived in Marrakech late and headed straight to the hotel for an early night, ready to start our journey the next morning. The Atlas Mountains and Ait Benhaddou Our first full day took us into the Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass—the highest in Morocco—before arriving at our hotel. From there, our local guide, Mohammed, took us to visit the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many will recognise it as the backdrop for several Hollywood films, including Gladiator (2000). Mohammed, who grew up in the Kasbah, had even worked as an extra in some of these films! Later in the week, we also visited the Atlas Film Studios, home to sets and props from films like Cleopatra, Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and more. We were even told Michael B. Jordan and Samuel L. Jackson might have been there that day! A Night in the Sahara This was the day I was most excited about—camping under the stars in the Sahara! We started with a drive to a hotel on the desert’s edge, followed by a two-hour camel ride to a camp surrounded by nothing but sand. We were greeted with mint tea (a staple everywhere in Morocco!) and shown around the camp. I avoided looking too closely at first to keep it a surprise and was delighted by the cosy huts, beautifully arranged firepit, and beanbags nestled among the dunes. Dinner was traditional tagine, and we gathered under the stars as locals played drums and sang. The next morning, we climbed a sand dune to watch the sunrise. Though slightly cloudy, the view was breathtaking—a true highlight. Sitting atop the dune in peaceful silence, surrounded by an orange and red sky, was unforgettable. Zagora and the Draa Valley After a camel ride back and a coach journey to Zagora, we spent a relaxing afternoon by the pool and exploring the local village. Known as the "Gateway to the Sahara," Zagora is in the Draa Valley, home to the world’s largest palm grove with millions of trees. The next morning, we visited Tamegroute, a nearby village famous for its green pottery. I watched the artisans at work and picked up a beautiful souvenir. We also visited the ancient Islamic library housed in a zawiya. A Village in the Atlas Mountains We hiked for about an hour into the Atlas Mountains to stay in a village supported by the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation. Following the devastating 2023 earthquake, which tragically claimed nearly 3,000 lives, the foundation donated £25,000 to help rebuild the community. Established in 2019, the project had already funded a hammam, which we were able to experience—a welcome treat after hours on a camel and hiking. We stayed in a guesthouse with a terrace offering stunning mountain views. The next morning, we visited the local school, which has five classes. Although I can’t share photos of the children, their smiles left a lasting impression. The school, visibly affected by the earthquake, is undergoing improvements thanks to donations, including plans for new toilets and better water infrastructure. Visiting the school was my favourite part of the trip. Marrakech Our final stop was Marrakech, a vibrant and colourful city that felt worlds apart from the peaceful, less populated places we’d visited earlier. Checking into a traditional riad, we had free time to explore the bustling Medina and its market square, alive with fruit stalls, juice vendors, and shops selling everything from clothing to "original fakes." I even discovered a knack for bartering! Dinner was at a rooftop restaurant, where I indulged in a very Moroccan cheeseburger and chips. 😅 Afterwards, we relaxed with cocktails at a rooftop bar—a perfect end to a busy week. The next morning, a local guide took us on a tour of Marrakech, including the palace, before we had more time to explore on our own. The Grand Finale On our last night, we dressed up for a gala dinner at a 5-star hotel outside the city to celebrate 50 years of Exodus. With 50 travel agents, local guides, and the Exodus team, we reflected on an incredible week in Morocco. Why I Love Touring Touring has become my favourite way to travel. It allows you to explore the world in unique ways, offering experiences you couldn’t have on your own. From camping in the Sahara to visiting remote villages, this trip to Morocco was truly unforgettable.

Discover the Joy of Walking Holidays – Your Way! At Beverley Travel, we work closely with Inghams who specialise in walking holidays across Europe, who believe in walking holidays, but with a twist. Their flexible stay-and-walk holidays give you the freedom to explore at your own pace—no set itineraries, no pressure to follow a rigid schedule. Simply choose your base, unpack, and let the adventure begin! Freedom to Explore on Your Terms Whether you're an experienced walker or just beginning to appreciate the joys of a gentle ramble, these holidays are designed to suit all levels of walking enthusiasts. With Inghams, you'll start and finish your walk each day in your resort, meaning no multiple overnight stays, no heavy backpack, and no hassle. You can focus entirely on soaking in the scenery, discovering new paths, and unwinding. The Best Walking Destinations Across Europe We’ve handpicked 76 stunning resorts in 8 incredible countries across Europe, including Andorra, Austria, France, Italy, Madeira, Slovenia, Switzerland, and, for 2025, we’re excited to introduce Norway as a new walking destination. From the alpine beauty of Austria to the sun-kissed landscapes of Madeira, our destinations are chosen to offer you some of the best walking experiences Europe has to offer. Everything Taken Care Of, So You Can Just Enjoy From arranging your travel and accommodation to providing local insights and expert recommendations, we take care of all the details. With local Inghams representatives available in many of our resorts, you’ll always have access to insider tips on the best walks, secret spots, and top lunch recommendations. And if you prefer a guided experience, we offer expert-led walks in selected destinations. These exclusive walks, included in your holiday, give you the chance to explore breathtaking landscapes with a knowledgeable guide by your side. Family Walking Holidays with a Dash of Adventure Our walking holidays are perfect for families looking to bond in the great outdoors. Together, you can explore scenic trails, climb to summit playgrounds for some thrilling fun, or burn off energy in tree-top adventures and bike parks. For school holidays, we have something special to offer: our Kids Fly Free deal. Children up to 17 years old can travel for free with every full-fare adult passenger (18+) on selected routes during the May half-term and throughout July and August 2025. Now that’s a family adventure you don’t want to miss! Why Choose Us for Your Walking Holiday? Flexible Itineraries: No set routes, just choose your base and explore on your terms. Wide Range of Destinations: 76 resorts across 8 countries, with Norway joining in 2025. Expert Advice: Local representatives provide insider tips and exclusive walks led by experts. Family Friendly: Adventure-packed options for families . Ready to Explore? Start planning your next walking holiday today! Whether you’re after a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family escape, we’ve got the perfect destination waiting for you. For more information or to book your next holiday, enquire on the form below.

Kelly and Karl along with some of our amazing travel partners have just returned from our annual Cruise Conference on board Ambassador Cruise lines Ambience ship

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