DESTINATIONS
I am lucky enough to have travelled the world but there are some areas I know inside out. I have lived and worked in Australia and it remains a passion of mine! I have visited every state and territory on the mainland and called the glorious state of Western Australia my home. I was delighted to be awarded "Premier Aussie Specialist" by Tourism Australia. Only a select group of agents receive this status, recognising a passion and level of expert knowledge about Australia. There are less than 100 in the whole UK, and I am currently the only one in Surrey!
Whilst living in Australia, I was able to travel around New Zealand and was wowed by its jaw-dropping scenery and how much variety it had to offer travellers from alpine scenery to fjords matching any in Scandinavia, not to mention the delicious food and wines.
I have travelled extensively throughout South East Asia for both work and pleasure and its charms have drawn me back over and over again with its ancient temples, warm smiles and balmy weather. I have also visited India throughout my life and whether it's the unforgettable Taj Mahal, the bustling markets of Jaipur or the peaceful backwaters of Kerala, there is something for everyone. The islands of the Indian Ocean are another favourite and it's difficult to choose which resort in Mauritius or the Maldives wins my vote as the best.
Travelling west, the Caribbean and North America have provided a great contrast to Asia and Down Under. I have family in the States so have regularly visited New England but also loved the Californian coast and the majesty of the Grand Canyon. The laidback vibe of the Caribbean islands is difficult to beat but I especially enjoyed the great food and resorts of Barbados and island-hopping around the British Virgin Islands.
With Europe right on our doorstep, it's a go-to summer holiday destination for me. My most recent holiday was in Crete, my last 'big' birthday was celebrated in Puglia and I also loved the sandy beaches of Corsica. The Continent has so much to offer and there is still so much more to explore!
FAVOURITE BEACH
This one is a tough one! Do I choose Cottesloe in Western Australia where the sun dramatically sets over the Indian Ocean or the clear warm waters off the coast of Vietnam? I will go for the wide stretch of powdery white sand at the Belmond Maroma Beach in Mexico. The coastline has the second largest barrier reef after Australia and the beach itself is extremely inviting with comfy loungers and picture perfect vistas. Bliss!
FAVOURITE HOTEL
For the relaxed, friendly but impeccable service, the style and quality and above all the location, I pick qualia in the heart of the Australian Whitsundays with the Great Barrier Reef right on your doorstep. The resort embeds itself seamlessly into the native Australian flora and fauna while offering every modern comfort. I didn't want to leave the Windward Pavilion's private plunge pool and it's stunning views but was lured by the irresistible draws of the Reef and a sunset catamaran ride with playful whales breaching on the horizon. Magical!
FAVOURITE HOLIDAY
This has to be my honeymoon! We celebrated in Sicily, twinning the town and beach of Taormina and Taormina Mare in the shadow of Mount Etna. We especially loved Captain Vincenzo's boat trip to the Blue Grotto and all the delicious food and wine to savour. I was really happy with the stunning coastlines and September sunshine, while my husband's desire to explore was satisfied with time in Palermo and visiting the ancient ruins at Agrigento. Such unforgettable memories of our "luna di miele"!