http://chantalmaftah.inteletravel.uk/

Globetrotting with Chantal, 3 Musbury Close, Sturminster Newton (2025)

27/03/2025

Pad Thai…..Thailand’s Iconic Stir-Fried Noodles!!

Pad Thai is one of Thailand’s most famous dishes that is loved for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors.
This stir-fried noodle dish features rice noodles tossed with eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, and crushed peanuts, all coated in a flavorful tamarind-based sauce. A squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of chili flakes add the perfect finishing touch!

Originally popularized in the 1930s as part of a national identity campaign, Pad Thai has since become a global favorite, found in street stalls and high-end restaurants alike.
Whether enjoyed from a bustling Bangkok street vendor or in a cozy restaurant, this dish offers an unforgettable taste of Thailand 😋

Have you tried Pad Thai? What’s your favorite version? 🍜🇹🇭

27/03/2025

So I know this offer is nothing to do with my present subject of SE Asia BUT I just had to post this!
This is sheer luxury and can you imagine what a wonderful trip this would be!

🌒 Witness a Total Solar Eclipse on Board Celebrity Apex in La Coruna, Spain! 🌒

Imagine experiencing this breathtaking event from the Iconic Suite onboard Celebrity Apex, our most luxurious and spacious suite in the fleet! Positioned high above the bridge, the Iconic Suites offer sweeping panoramic views from front to back.

✨ Iconic Suite Highlights:
Size: A lavish 1,892 square feet, plus over 689 square feet of outdoor space!

Outdoor Oasis: Private hot tub, stylish furnishings, and a covered double daybed.

Luxurious Bedrooms: Two bedrooms with king-sized Cashmere™ Collection beds.

Bathrooms: Two full bathrooms featuring a shower, whirlpool tub, and top-tier amenities.

Perfect for Entertaining: Space for six guests, plus an in-suite personal retreat host pantry!

Exclusive Services and Amenities:

📞 Contact your butler wherever you are with Butler Chat

🌍 Destination Experience Specialist to assist with your excursions

🚗 Suite-to-car es**rt by your butler for Private Journeys

🏖️ Shore excursion departure lounge just for suite guests

🛁 Premium Celebrity bath amenities

🍽️ Updated Luminae menu with new Daniel Boulud signature dishes

🛌 Complimentary Extend Your Stay program

🌊 Complimentary access to SEA Thermal Suite and Persian Garden

🧺 Complimentary daily laundry and unlimited pressing

🥂 Personalize your complimentary minibar

👗 Exclusive sleepwear

🍴 Complimentary specialty dining, including lunch

🍾 Premium Drinks Package

📞 Premium Wifi

💰 Total Cost: £1️⃣7️⃣,9️⃣9️⃣9️⃣ per person!
🇮🇪 price from Dublin €1️⃣9️⃣,4️⃣0️⃣5️⃣pp

🚨 Only ONE suite left on this once-in-a-lifetime sailing! 🚨

🗓️ Cruise Dates: 1st August 2026 - 14 nights
🇬🇧 Sailing from Southampton

📍 Southampton
📍 Relax at Sea
📍 Porto (Leixoes), Portugal
📍 Lisbon, Portugal
📍 Relax at Sea
📍 Palma De Mallorca, Spain
📍 Barcelona, Spain
📍 Ibiza, Spain
📍 Relax at Sea
📍 Malaga, Spain
📍 Relax at Sea
🌒 La Coruna (Solar Eclipse!), Spain
📍 Bilbao, Spain
📍 Relax at Sea
📍 Southampton

🌟 Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Book your suite now and indulge in the ultimate luxury at sea! 🌊✨

*Based on 4 sharing
Subject to availability as only 1 left!
T&C’s apply

TO BOOK
📩 Comment below
📱 Message me
☎️ Call or WhatsApp me 07455557855
📧 Email me [email protected]
Https://chantalmaftah.inteletravel.uk

Chantal Maftah at Globetrotting with Chantal is an Independent Travel Advisor affiliated with Inteletravel UK , ABTA membership P7384. Inteletravel UK are appointed agents of our ATOL-protected suppliers.

26/03/2025

Destination Guide – Spotlight Bangkok, Thailand:
Best Things to Do in 48 Hours!

Bangkok is a vibrant city where ancient temples meet modern skyscrapers, offering incredible street food, rich cultural experiences, and exciting nightlife.
If you only have 48 hours then here’s how to make the most of it!

⸻

Day 1: Cultural & Historical Landmarks

Morning
1. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
• One of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, the Grand Palace is home to the revered Emerald Buddha.
• Tip: Arrive early (8:30 AM) to avoid crowds and wear modest clothing.
2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
• Just a short walk from the Grand Palace, Wat Pho houses a massive 46-meter-long reclining Buddha.
• Bonus: Get a traditional Thai massage at the temple’s massage school.

Afternoon
3. Lunch at Thipsamai or Raan Jay Fai (famous for Michelin-starred Thai street food)
• Thipsamai: Legendary for its Pad Thai.
• Raan Jay Fai: Try the crab omelet (but expect a wait).
4. Chao Phraya River & Longtail Boat Ride
• Hop on a longtail boat and cruise through Bangkok’s canals (“klongs”) to see traditional stilt houses.
5. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
• One of Bangkok’s most beautiful temples, known for its stunning riverside location and intricate porcelain details.
• Tip: Visit around sunset for breathtaking views.

Evening
6. Dinner & Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
• Vertigo (Banyan Tree) or Sky Bar (Lebua State Tower) – Both offer spectacular views of the city.
7. Night Market – Jodd Fairs or Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
• Jodd Fairs: A trendy market with delicious street food.
• Chinatown: A foodie’s paradise with incredible seafood and traditional snacks.

⸻

Day 2: Local Experiences & Shopping

Morning
1. Chatuchak Weekend Market (if visiting on Sat/Sun)
• A massive market with over 8,000 stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, antiques, and food.
• Alternative (on weekdays): Visit Or Tor Kor Market for fresh tropical fruits.
2. Jim Thompson House (for culture lovers)
• A beautifully preserved traditional Thai house showcasing silk trader Jim Thompson’s art collection.

Afternoon
3. Lunch at a Riverside Café (The Never Ending Summer or Supanniga Eating Room)
• Enjoy Thai cuisine with a scenic river view.
4. Explore Bangkok’s Malls (Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, or ICONSIAM)
• Siam Paragon: Luxury brands and high-end shopping.
• CentralWorld: A massive mall with local and international brands.
• ICONSIAM: A mix of shopping, dining, and an indoor floating market.

Evening
5. Asiatique The Riverfront (for a relaxed end to your trip)
• A mix of a night market, riverfront dining, and entertainment.
6. Experience Bangkok’s Nightlife (Optional)
• Khao San Road: Backpacker hub with bars and live music.
• Soi Cowboy: Famous for neon lights and go-go bars.
• Chinatown bars: Try the trendy hidden speakeasies.

⸻

Bonus Tips for Bangkok
• Getting Around: Use the BTS Skytrain, MRT, and Grab taxis to avoid traffic.
• Currency: Thai Baht (THB); cash is preferred in markets and street stalls.
• Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering.

This 48-hour itinerary ensures you experience Bangkok’s cultural gems, culinary delights and a lively atmosphere!
Let me know if you need more personalized recommendations!

25/03/2025

If you’re booking flights, Tuesdays are often the best day to find deals! Airlines typically release discounts on Monday nights and then by Tuesday afternoon the competitors are adjusting their prices which leads to better fares! Try searching for flights early in the morning for the best availability.
Traveling mid-week (especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) can also save you money (not just on flights ) but accommodation too since these days typically have lower demand.
If your schedule is flexible then consider flying or checking into hotels on a Tuesday to snag better deals and avoid crowds!

Photo of my new hand luggage suitcase for tax 😂

24/03/2025

💡 Monday Motivation…….Start Where You Are!

A new week means a new opportunity to chase your dreams, set new goals and create the life you want. Whether it’s taking a small step toward a big goal or simply choosing a positive mindset, every action counts!

Stay focused, stay inspired, and remember—great things happen when you step outside your comfort zone.
Let’s make this week amazing! 💪✨

What’s one goal you’re working on this week?
Comment below! ⬇️

23/03/2025

Here at the Marriott Hotel for a wedding fair with Tina

21/03/2025

So in view of what has happened today at Heathrow which luckily is rare but can happen anywhere I thought I’d write about the benefits of having a Independent Travel Agent (ITA) like myself in a situation like this ☺️
So for a lot of people that booked online either through the usual search engines or similar sites today they would have had great difficulty in contacting the right people to sort out your flights/holiday mainly because they would have been inundated and also because it’s impossible to contact some of the companies! 🫣
If you booked through myself and one of my suppliers I would have already first thing been in contact with the supplier and reorganising your flights/holidays and/or getting regular updates.
You wouldn’t have to be doing any of the stressful/frantic phone calls in panic mode as I would already have been on the case doing my best to try and sort things out.
Yes booking through me does sometime cost a little bit extra more than that online search engine but you will be better protected, more looked after and available 24/7 if necessary…..think of me as your personal travel concierge!
So next time you want to book flights/holidays/cruises and everything else inbetween then come to me……😁
Globetrotting with Chantal

19/03/2025

“Winning Wednesday: Every journey starts with a dream—make today the day you plan your next adventure! ✈️ ”

11/03/2025

🌊✨ Explore Southeast Asia on a 12-Night Cruise! ✨🌊

🗓️ Flying Out: 13th January 2026

🗓️ Sailing Date: 15th January 2026

💰 Total Cost: £3️⃣4️⃣8️⃣6️⃣per person (from London Heathrow)

🚢 Sailing Onboard: Celebrity Millennium (Outside Stateroom)

🏨 Pre-Cruise Stay: 2 nights at Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, Bali

💰 Cruise Includes: Drinks, Tips, and WiFi

🗺️ Itinerary:

Benoa, Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

Lombok, Indonesia 🇮🇩

Celukan Bawang, Indonesia 🇮🇩

At Sea 🌊

At Sea 🌊

Port Klang, Malaysia 🇲🇾

Penang, Malaysia 🇲🇾

Penang, Malaysia 🇲🇾

Langkawi, Malaysia 🇲🇾

Phuket, Thailand 🇹🇭

Phuket, Thailand 🇹🇭

At Sea 🌊

Singapore, Singapore 🇸🇬

Set sail on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of Southeast Asia! Begin with a luxurious 2-night stay at the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa in Bali, and then experience the beauty of Bali, the charm of Malaysia, the paradise of Thailand, and the modern marvels of Singapore, all from the comfort of your outside stateroom on the Celebrity Millennium. Enjoy the added convenience of included drinks, tips, and WiFi throughout your cruise.

To book or for a quote 👇🏻

📩 Comment below
📱 Message me
☎️ Call or WhatsApp me 07455557855
📧 Https://chantalgrenier.inteletravel

Chantal Maftah at Globetrotting with Chantal is an Independent Travel Advisor affiliated with InteleTravel UK & ABTA membership P7384.
InteleTravel UK are appointed agents of our ATOL-protected suppliers.

10/03/2025

“Southeast Asia is full of incredible destinations! 🌏✨
If you could visit just ONE country from this region, which would it be?

🇹🇭 Thailand – Beaches, temples, and street food heaven!
🇮🇩 Indonesia – Bali, volcanoes, and stunning nature!
🇻🇳 Vietnam – Rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and pho!
🇵🇭 Philippines – 7,000+ islands of paradise!
🇲🇾 Malaysia – A mix of cultures, cities, and rainforests!
🇸🇬 Singapore – A futuristic city with amazing food!
🇲🇲 Myanmar – Ancient temples and unique traditions!
🇰🇭 Cambodia – Home of Angkor Wat and warm hospitality!
🇱🇦 Laos – Laid-back vibes and stunning nature!
🇧🇳 Brunei – A hidden gem with royal heritage!
🇹🇱 Timor-Leste – Untouched beaches and diving spots!

Drop your vote below and tell us WHY it’s your top pick! 🌍👇”

08/03/2025

Today is a Destination Guide to………Bali, Indonesia!

Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” is a dream destination known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage.
Whether you’re looking to surf world-class waves, explore spiritual landmarks, or immerse yourself in Balinese traditions, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.

⸻

Best Beaches in Bali

1. Kuta Beach
• Best for: Surfing & Nightlife
• Why Visit: Famous for its golden sands and rolling waves, Kuta Beach is ideal for beginner surfers and those seeking vibrant nightlife.

2. Seminyak Beach
• Best for: Luxury & Sunsets
• Why Visit: Lined with upscale beach clubs and fine-dining restaurants, Seminyak Beach offers a stylish seaside experience with breathtaking sunsets.

3. Nusa Dua Beach
• Best for: Families & Relaxation
• Why Visit: With crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, this beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and resort-style relaxation.

4. Padang Padang Beach
• Best for: Hidden Paradise & Surfing
• Why Visit: A small but stunning cove, this beach gained fame from the movie Eat, Pray, Love and is a favorite among surfers.

5. Amed Beach
• Best for: Snorkeling & Diving
• Why Visit: Known for its black volcanic sand and rich marine life, Amed Beach is a top spot for snorkeling and diving near shipwrecks.

⸻

Must-Visit Temples in Bali

1. Tanah Lot Temple
• Why Visit: Perched on a rock formation in the sea, this iconic temple is best visited at sunset for a truly magical view.

2. Uluwatu Temple
• Why Visit: Sitting on a cliff 70 meters above the ocean, Uluwatu Temple offers dramatic views and nightly Kecak fire dance performances.

3. Besakih Temple (Mother Temple)
• Why Visit: The largest and holiest temple in Bali, located on the slopes of Mount Agung.

4. Tirta Empul Temple
• Why Visit: Famous for its sacred water purification pools, where visitors can partake in a traditional cleansing ritual.

5. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave Temple)
• Why Visit: An ancient archaeological site with a mysterious cave, Hindu shrines, and lush surroundings.

⸻

Cultural Experiences in Bali

1. Watch a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance
• Where: Ubud, Uluwatu, and various cultural centers
• Why: Witness captivating dances like the Barong, Legong, and Kecak fire dance, which tell mythical stories through movement and music.

2. Explore Ubud’s Art and Handicrafts
• Where: Ubud Art Market, Celuk (silversmith village), and Mas (wood carving village)
• Why: Discover exquisite handmade crafts, from intricate silver jewelry to traditional paintings and sculptures.

3. Participate in a Balinese Cooking Class
• Where: Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu
• Why: Learn how to make authentic Balinese dishes like Nasi Goreng, Satay, and Lawar using fresh local ingredients.

4. Experience a Traditional Balinese Healing Ceremony
• Where: Various wellness centers and traditional Balinese healers
• Why: Try age-old healing techniques, including energy cleansing, herbal remedies, and sound healing.

5. Celebrate a Balinese Festival
• Notable Festivals:
• Nyepi (Balinese New Year) – A day of silence, meditation, and self-reflection.
• Galungan & Kuningan – A celebration of good over evil, with beautifully decorated bamboo poles lining the streets.
• Odalan – A temple anniversary festival featuring processions, offerings, and performances.

⸻

Final Tips for Visiting Bali
• Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season) for sunny days and ideal beach weather.
• Getting Around: Rent a scooter, hire a driver, or use ride-hailing apps like Grab for convenient travel.
• Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples, never touch someone’s head, and use both hands when giving or receiving something.
• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Bali is a paradise offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and spirituality. Whether you’re basking on its pristine beaches, exploring its sacred temples, or immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, this island is sure to leave you enchanted.

Do you have any recommendations for accommodation and/or local food spots? If so please comment below!

07/03/2025

Traveling to Southeast Asia can be an amazing experience, but it helps to be prepared. Here are five top tips:

1. Pack Light & Smart

The weather is generally hot and humid so pack light, breathable clothing. A rain jacket or poncho is also useful since sudden downpours are common…..especially if in the rainy season.
Don’t forget essentials like a power adapter (many countries use different plug types), insect repellent & sunscreen.

2. Be Mindful of Health & Safety

Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Street food is delicious but choose vendors with high turnover for freshness. Carry basic medicines for common travel issues like food poisoning, dehydration, or colds.

3. Use Local Transport & Apps

Taxis can be expensive or unreliable in some places, so use apps like Grab (popular in many SE Asian countries) for rides. Renting a scooter is an option but requires caution due to traffic conditions. Public transport is usually affordable and efficient.

4. Respect Local Culture & Customs

Different countries have different traditions—learn basic etiquette. For example, in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, it’s disrespectful to touch someone’s head or point your feet at people or sacred objects. Always dress modestly when visiting temples.

5. Stay Aware of Scams

Tourist scams exist…..from overcharging taxis to fake tour operators. Research common scams before you go. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering deals that seem too good to be true. Always negotiate prices beforehand when shopping in markets.
If possible book transport and excursions before you travel.

05/03/2025

Does anybody know what SE Asian this dish is?

Nasi Goreng (fried rice) is traditionally an Indonesian dish but is served in many ther places including Singapore & Malaysia.
It’s made with simple ingredients and can be whipped up in minutes!
In Bali for eg where I lived for 4 months back in the ‘90s
You could find it everywhere & it cost very little. I used to request mine with no chilli and a fried egg on top.
I used to eat mine any time of the day and I particularly loved it for breakfast!
This is the one dish I’m so looking forward to eating again when I go back to Bali later this year!
I have tried making it here at home but just doesn’t quite taste the same as made in a hot pan on the street!

Comment below 👇🏻 if you have tasted Nasi Goreng and if you love 👍🏻 or hate 👎🏻 it!

05/03/2025

“I need a six-month holiday…….. twice a year.”

04/03/2025

Off to see my mummy and daddy!
Was hoping to find sunshine but lots of rain forecast 🤣
I don’t mind……lots of quotes to do this week inc a weeks trip to Malta!
Best thing about being an Independent Travel Agent……I can work from anywhere in the world!! 🌍
If you fancy being able to do the same as me then give me a shout……if I can do it then anybody can!!

04/03/2025

Adventure is worthwhile in itself.” — Amelia Earhart

03/03/2025

So this month I am going to highlight and talk about South East Asia!

Southeast Asia is a vibrant and diverse region, offering everything from pristine beaches and lush jungles to bustling cities and ancient temples. Travelers can explore the breathtaking islands of Thailand and the Philippines, trek through the rice terraces of Vietnam and Indonesia, or immerse themselves in the rich history of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.
The region is also a paradise for food lovers, with mouthwatering street food in Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler!

Who on here has been? Comment below!

Globetrotting with Chantal

27/03/2025

27/03/2025

26/03/2025

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24/03/2025

23/03/2025

21/03/2025

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10/03/2025

08/03/2025

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