Designer Travel by Esther

20/08/2025

| CLIENT FEEDBACK |
Many of my lovely clients are returning home from their summer adventures and I feel so grateful when they take the time to share feedback like this.

Safaris are such a unique style of trip, often a once in a lifetime experience and I never underestimate the responsibility that comes with planning them. They are an investment in memories, in moments and in something truly extraordinary!

To hear that I have helped create an experience that exceeded expectations means the world to me. 💜

If a safari is on your wish list, I would love to help make it a reality for you too.

14/08/2025

| AMAZING ANSE CHASTANET |
We are now staying at the iconic Anse Chastanet hotel, a truly unique spot in Saint Lucia. It was created by an architect who fell in love with the UNESCO World Heritage Pitons and wanted every guest to enjoy that incredible view. His dream was to build an open-air hotel that blended seamlessly with nature and his passion for sustainability is felt in every corner.

Ninety two percent of the food is grown right here on the estate. Most of the staff live in the local community and many have been here for over 30 years. Every piece of art and woodwork has been created by local artists and craftsmen, adding to the authentic feel of the place.

There is so much to do here that you could easily fill a week. We have already tried jungle biking, snorkelling, art classes, a sunset sailing cruise, pickleball and a blissful spa treatment.

It will be hard to say goodbye to this little slice of paradise. For a truly authentic Saint Lucian escape, Anse Chastanet is perfection. If you would like to know more, just drop me a message.

09/08/2025

| WITH LOVE FROM SAINT LUCIA |
Earlier this year I attended a Caribbean showcase event for work and was lucky enough to win the top prize, a luxury stay in beautiful Saint Lucia!

I last visited over 15 years ago and it’s every bit as breathtaking as I remembered. This time it’s even more special as I get to share it with the kids.

We’re staying at Cap Maison, a family-owned luxury boutique hotel in the north of the island. Perched on the cliff edge, it feels more like an intimate Caribbean home than a hotel. The food here is a incredible, fine dining at The Cliff draws diners from all over and The Naked Fisherman on the beach is the perfect spot for laid-back lunches and rustic dinners.

Our suite is spread over three storeys with an incredible roof terrace and sweeping ocean views.

So many pinch-me moments… and feeling very grateful to be here. 💙

30/07/2025

| THE PERFECT DAY WITH TEENS IN KALKAN, TURKEY |
How to spend the perfect day in Kalkan, with teens…

Of course, you don’t have to fit this all into one day, but the images below are just a few of my favourite things to do..

I was there last year with my teenager and my 9-year-old daughter and they both absolutely loved it. We stayed at the gorgeous, family-run Kalkan Regency, which has such a warm and welcoming feel.

These are some of my favourite things to do with teens in Kalkan;

✔ Lazy boat trips on the turquoise coast
✔ Take a water-taxi to a local beach club for the day
✔ Exploring the winding cobbled streets and little boutiques
✔A long lunch at one of the pretty harbour restaurants
✔A Cocktail in one of the many rooftop bars
✔ Sunset views you’ll never forget

I’ve got a few clients heading there this year and I just know they’ll fall in love with it too. If you’d like me to plan something similar for you for next year, just drop me a message.
📲07737 262584
📩[email protected]
🔒ABTA/ATOL Bonded
⭐5* Reviews https://designertravel.co.uk/travel-expert/estherward/

29/07/2025

| NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC JOURNEY TO COSTA RICA |
14 days from £3,179pp – flights included

Costa Rica is one of the most unforgettable and diverse destinations I’ve ever visited. This incredible National Geographic and G Adventures tour is perfect for couples, solo travellers or families with older children who want to really immerse themselves in everything this amazing country has to offer.

A quarter of Costa Rica is protected by national parks and wildlife refuges, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This journey takes you from the Caribbean coast to the Pacific, with moments you’ll never forget.

| TRIP HIGHLIGHTS |
🌱 Help restore the cloud forest at the Monteverde Institute with a tree-planting project supported by National Geographic
🐢 Meet researchers at the Sea Turtle Conservancy in Tortuguero and learn about vital conservation work
🌮 Learn how to make traditional tortillas with Doña Mara in her family home and enjoy a delicious Casado lunch
🏖 Relax on the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio and soak up the true “pura vida” lifestyle

✔Departs 15 December 2025
✔Includes all hotels, some meals, transport and touring
✔Heathrow from £3,179pp
✔Manchester from £3,299pp
✔No single supplements when sharing or secure your own room from £1,289
✔Kids over 12 years old, welcome with parents

This is an incredible small group adventure with unique National Geographic experiences included.

Message me if you’d like to secure your place as this one will sell quickly
📲07737 262584
📩[email protected]
🔒ABTA/ATOL Bonded
⭐5* Reviews https://designertravel.co.uk/travel-expert/estherward/

24/07/2025

| WELLNESS RE-SET RETREAT |
Feel like you need a proper reset? This is more than just a holiday. It’s time out to refocus, recharge and return home feeling like the best version of you.

Set in the peaceful hills of Costa Blanca, this six-night retreat is ideal if you're looking to feel lighter, clearer and full of fresh energy.

| WHAT TO EXPECT |
✔Your own private luxury suite (with no single supplement)
✔Daily classes including yoga, pilates and body sculpt
✔A choice between a gentle detox meal plan or a deeper juice cleanse
✔Guided beach circuit training and scenic coastal hikes
✔Evening wind-down with yoga nidra and meditation
✔Nutrition workshop to help support your wellbeing long after you return
✔Free time to relax by the pool or explore the stunning surroundings

📍 Costa Blanca, Spain
📅 10 September 2025
✈️ Including flights from:
✔Luton from £2,099 per person
✔Manchester from £2,149 per person
✔Prices based on one adult in a private suite.
✔Transfers available from €45 each way (shared) or €140 private.

If your mind and body are ready for a proper break, pop me a message and I’ll get you booked in.
📲07737 262584
📩[email protected]
🔒ABTA/ATOL Bonded
⭐5* Reviews https://designertravel.co.uk/travel-expert/estherward/

23/07/2025

| NEW IKOS – FAMILY OF 4 OFFER |
£7999 Kids School Holidays 2026

If you love the idea of luxury without the formality, Ikos might just be your dream match. This stunning resort in beautiful Kissamos Bay has everything you need for a sun-soaked escape with style and ease.

Think Michelin-starred menus, dreamy sea views and a brand of all-inclusive that really delivers. Their version of 'Unconditional Luxury' means almost everything is taken care of, from cocktails by the pool to à la carte dining and even local experiences beyond the resort.

There’s a real sense of freedom here. Eight heated pools including dedicated family zones, a peaceful beach setting and waiter service that brings your drinks straight to your sunbed. So, you can fully unwind without lifting a finger.

This is relaxed, effortless luxury designed for families who want space, comfort and a touch of magic.

| OFFER INCLUDES |
✔7 nights from £7,999 for a family of 4 (2 adults & 2 kids (2-11)
✔Junior Suite with Pool View
✔All Inclusive Plus
✔Private transfers and luggage included

Fly from:
📍Luton 27 July 2026 from £7,999
📍Manchester 21 July 2026 from £7,999
📍Gatwick 29 July 2026 from £8,499

Ready to escape to Crete with the family in complete comfort? Pop me a message and I’ll handle the rest.

📲07737 262584
📩[email protected]
🔒ABTA/ATOL Bonded
⭐5* Reviews - https://designertravel.co.uk/travel-expert/estherward/

22/07/2025

| TRAVEL INSURANCE UPDATE |
Planning to travel while taking weight loss injections?

I wanted to share some recent information that you may be aware of already,
Kara Gammell, from comparison website MoneySuperMarket, has advised:

"If you're prescribed these drugs for obesity, diabetes or any other condition, it's essential to declare both the medication and the underlying health issue when buying your policy. Failing to do so could invalidate your cover - even if your claim has nothing to do with the treatment."

She also highlights:
"Insurers don't distinguish between NHS and private prescriptions - if you're taking it, they need to know. The fact that it wasn't prescribed through your GP doesn't exempt you from disclosure."

Even if you got the medication privately or without a prescription, you still need to declare it when buying travel insurance.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) warns: "If any prescription medicine is taken without approval from a doctor, especially if it may have side effects that could lead to complications, this could void your cover and cause issues should you need to make a claim."

The Association of British Travel Agents has also advised ITV News that it is always wise to check with the FCDO travel advice to see if there are any restrictions in place when taking medications into the country you are visiting.

Not all countries have given the green light to the same weight-loss medications as the UK, and airport authorities might raise questions about any drugs they discover, particularly if they're not sanctioned in their nation.

Be honest and transparent with your insurer -it could save you from a rejected claim later. Please contact your Travel insurers for more details.

I recently renewed my Travel Insurance and requested a printout from my doctors of my medical history, as it is easy to forget the odd test or prescription and insurers will have access to this if you make a claim. Even if your medical claim is un-related, your policy could be invalid if you have not declared everything (usually within the last 2 years).

16/07/2025

| MOUNTAINS & BEACH VIBES – MAURITIUS TWIN CENTRE |
10 NIGHTS FROM £2,539pp | ADULTS ONLY | JUNE 2026 DEPARTURES

Mauritius might be famous for its dreamy beaches, but there’s so much more to explore! 💚 This gorgeous twin-centre escape gives you the best of both worlds with lush green mountains and idyllic beachfront relaxation. Perfect for couples craving something a little different

| 3 Nights at Lakaz Chamarel |
Tucked away in the heart of the island’s Black River Gorges National Park, this boutique mountain lodge is full of soul, stories and serious serenity. Think forest hikes, ocean views, homegrown fruit trees, and your own spa treats with a coconut scrub and back massage included.

| 7 Nights at Veranda Paul et Virginie |
Then it’s off to the beach for pure adults-only bliss. This romantic hotel near Grand Gaube oozes charm, infinity pools, catamaran cruises, beachfront dinners and a peaceful cove setting that’s all about relax, recharge, repeat.

✅ Flights with Emirates
✅ Private transfers
✅ Full Board Plus at Lakaz Chamarel
✅ All Inclusive at Veranda Paul et Virginie
✅ Spa treatment + extras included!

From just £2,539pp flying from Gatwick
Stansted from £2,535pp | Birmingham from £2,605pp
Based on selected June 2026 departures

Fancy a mountain meets beach escape with a boutique twist? Pop me a message and I’ll talk you through the details!

📲07737 262584
📩[email protected]
🔒ABTA/ATOL Bonded
⭐5* Reviews

04/07/2025

| NYC ROOM WITH A VIEW | HAPPY 4TH OF JULY 🇺🇸 |
My lovely client just sent me this pic of the amazing view from their room of Central Park NY. This wasn’t the view they were supposed to get, but I contacted the hotel a few weeks ago to put in a special request for a Park view and they totally delivered! The travel industry is built on strong relationships, collaboration and support and I am always very grateful when these partnerships pay off.

This is what I do as standard for all my clients and whilst extra special requests are subject to availability, that never stops me trying! People will always look after people, so don’t rely on a faceless website to do this for you.

02/07/2025

| BRAND NEW - IKOS KISSAMOS FROM £1999PP |
On SALE now!

The hottest new property from the amazing Ikos Resorts opens on the 30th April 2026, with 7 night holidays starting from just £1999pp.

Positioned along the breath-taking northwest coast of Crete, west of Chania, this new resort will set the standard for immersive luxury in one of the Mediterranean’s most beloved destinations. Surrounded by 53 acres of gardens and a sweeping sandy beach, Ikos Kissamos is more than a resort, it’s a celebration of natural beauty, cultural heritage and world-class service.

Price based on 2 adults sharing a Promo Double Room with Garden View for 7 nights on All Inclusive basis. Private transfers included. Based on 2nd October 2026.

✔Gatwick from £2219 Per Person
✔Manchester from £1999 Per Person
✔Birmingham from £2140 Per Person
✔Leeds Bradford from £2089 Per Person
✔Stansted from £2059 Per Person

For more details on this new resort, you can reach me on:
📲07737 262584
📩[email protected]
🔒ABTA/ATOL Bonded
⭐5* Reviews

01/07/2025

| ARE YOU A SAVVY TRAVELLER? |
In a world full of pop-up "travel agents" and too good to be true deals, it's more important than ever to be informed, confident and protected when booking a holiday!

That’s why I’m thrilled to share our Savvy Traveller flipbook, packed with practical tips, helpful checklists and honest advice to make sure your holiday is not just amazing, but safe and secure too.

✔What to check before you book?
✔Does your agent have a company email address not a gmail?
✔Spotting red flags & scams!
✔Travel protection including ATOL & ABTA
✔Common-sense reminders that save time and money

Whether you’re booking with me or just want to be a smarter traveller, this free guide is for YOU.

Take a look: https://simplebooklet.com/savvytravellervideo

Because being savvy is always in style!

If you want help organising a holiday with a Travel Professional, you can reach me on:
📲07737 262584
📩[email protected]
🔒 ABTA/ATOL Bonded
🏡Based in Maidenhead
⭐5* Reviews

Savvy Traveller video : simplebooklet.com