My Atlas Private Travel

06/06/2026

Some trips are wonderful. A few stay with you long after you’ve come home.

My recent visit to the Galápagos was definitely the latter.

Of course, the wildlife was extraordinary - giant tortoises wandering past at breakfast, swimming alongside sea lions, sea turtles and Galápagos penguins, and countless moments that felt almost surreal.

What surprised me most, however, was how much deeper the experience went.

The best travel experiences don’t just show you a destination; they help you understand it. Through exceptional guiding, thoughtful planning and the opportunity to stay on land rather than simply pass through, I came away with a genuine appreciation for the islands’ history, ecosystems, conservation challenges and unique character.

I also learnt that I am apparently incapable of seeing a giant tortoise without pointing excitedly and immediately wanting to tell everyone about it.

A huge thank you to everyone who made the trip so memorable. I came home with far too many photos, a serious penguin obsession, and a much deeper understanding of why people fall so completely in love with these islands.

The Galápagos had been on my bucket list for years.

Somehow, it still exceeded every expectation. 🐢

If it’s on yours too, I’d be very happy to chat about it.

Www.myatlasprivatetravel.com

+44 (0) 07730 567127

04/06/2026

Along Lake Atitlán, each village brings Maya heritage to life through language, textiles, and ancestral flavours, all set against breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes. 🌋 🌄

Read more, then reach out to plan a trip that pairs lakeside adventure with meaningful cultural encounters.

📷: Luis García

04/06/2026

A little shout out to all the wonderful guides out there!

One of the things that can truly make or break a trip is the people guiding you through it. From knowing the perfect time to beat the crowds for the best photos, to finding the most incredible snorkelling and dive spots, their knowledge shapes every experience in ways most people don’t even realise.

But more than that, staying on land in the Galápagos really allowed us to feel connected to the people, the culture, and the country itself. The conversations, the shared stories, the camaraderie between the crew, it all made the experience feel so much more personal and meaningful.

In the Galápagos especially, guides go through incredibly rigorous training in conservation, wildlife, ecology, safety, and environmental education, and it really shows. Their passion and respect for these islands made the experience even more special.

The best guides don’t just show you a destination - they completely change the way you experience it.

28/05/2026

Set on a reimagined sheep farm turned luxury lodge, Eleven Deplar Farm is made for travellers who want big days and beautiful nights, featuring puffin-filled cliffs and heli-accessed adventures. 🏔️🍷

Read the five reasons this off-grid escape is worth a visit, then reach out to plan your adventure in Iceland’s north.

Island-sourced meals, a swim-up bar in a geothermal pool, and heli-hiking on Iceland’s northern Troll Peninsula.

28/05/2026

On my recent trip to Quito, I was lucky enough to be one of the first guests at Ilaló Sky House, and it’s exactly the sort of property I’m always looking to uncover for clients looking for something a little more special & unique.

Located just outside Quito, only around 20 minutes from the city centre and roughly 30 minutes from the airport, the house sits on the slopes of the dormant Ilaló Volcano with incredible views across the valleys and back towards the city. One of my favourite parts was simply watching the landscape constantly change from up above, with clouds rolling through and Quito sparkling in the distance at night.

This is not a traditional hotel stay at all. Huge windows framing the views, warm interiors, incredible artwork, open living spaces and outdoor terraces all designed for slowing down and properly switching off. There’s even a resident llama wandering around the grounds.

I also loved how ideal it felt after a long-haul flight, somewhere peaceful to properly acclimatise before exploring Quito, heading deeper into Ecuador or continuing onwards to the Galápagos.

A real highlight for me was the private dining experience with the neighbouring Relais & Châteaux team, which added another layer to the overall experience and made the stay feel even more special.

For families, groups or clients wanting privacy, space and a stay that feels completely different from a standard luxury hotel, I honestly think this is a fantastic option.

If you'd like to discuss Ecuador itineraries or enquire about booking Ilaló Sky House, feel free to get in touch.

28/05/2026

From grand lakeside glamour to sailing the Greek islands and Turkish Riviera, here’s 5 ways we’re cooling down this summer.

To start planning your trip, whether by lake, river or sea, send me a message.