A warm welcome As the summer comes to an end and we approach the colder climates in Wimbledon, we’d like to present you some of the best inspiration for your autumn & winter travel plans. Over the summer our team have been travelling extensively to Australia, Sri Lanka and Thailand to name a few. We have some inspiring in-store destination events coming up from September to December, including the Caribbean, Ski, and a focus on one of our favourite destinations – Australia. When you’re next passing through the village stop by and say hello, we’d love to chat to you about your plans for this winter or even next summer. Whatever the winter season has planned for you remember "Life is short and the world is wide.” In this issue 20 Tales from the Outback 18 The Great Barrier Reef Going off the beaten track in the Northern Territory & Western Australia. Exploring Australia’s eastern coast on board Celebrity Edge®. 0203 907 1100 info@swordstravel.co.uk Mark & Stuart Swords www.swordstravel.co.uk 22 Bangkok to BaliM 24 Grand Designs Regent Seven Seas Cruises sets the measure of ultimate luxury in Southeast Asia. Majestic villas made for celebration in Corfu, Corsica and Turkey for 2025. 26 Inclusive Privacy Prestige villa living with all-inclusive luxury resort facilities at Ikos Andalusia. 14 Zambia & Malawi The ultimate green safari. Game viewing at its very best. 16 Costa Rica The country that pioneered ecotourism is a wonderland of natural sights. 38a High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5BY 10 Piste Perfect A perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in Thailand & Vietnam. Our review of the in-places to ski this winter in the Alps and further afield. A long standing family favourite on Saint Lucia in the Caribbean. 6 Eastern Escapes 8 Family-Centric Bliss 12 In the Lap of Luxury A magical family short break to Christmas Chalets in Lapland. 8 12 20 26 Front cover: The spectacle of the Northern Lights from the privacy of your private glass igloo at Iglut Levin, Finland.
Serving up the best holidays Your award-winning Wimbledon Village travel experts Come and visit us at our conveniently situated travel lounge in the heart of Wimbledon Village. We are located at the top of the Village opposite the Rose & Crown Pub in the popular pedestrian triangle where the Sunday market takes place.
4 Just checked out... We share with you some of our recent journeys. My trip to Sri Lanka was a whirlwind of incredible experiences, from exploring ancient sites and wildlife safaris to indulging in wellness treatments and enjoying some of the best food I’ve ever had. Sri Lanka truly offers something for everyone, and with its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and ridiculously perfect beaches, it’s a destination not to be missed. If you’re a foodie, this island is a must-visit, with flavours that are as vibrant and diverse as its scenery. During the course of my trip I stayed at five amazing properties: The Wallawwa (near Columbo), a beautiful heritage property surrounded by gardens. Water Garden Sigiriya, an adventurer’s paradise perfect for exploring the Cultural Triangle. Santani Wellness Resort, Kandy, a sanctuary offering an array of wellness programmes. Kumu Beach, a boutique hotel with a sustainable ethos and just 12 oceanfront rooms. Fort Bazaar, a boutique hotel nestled within the ancient fort walls of the historic town of Galle. A Whirlwind of Incredible Experiences Sri Lanka Located on the east coast of Mauritius, the Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is the epitome of five-star luxury. The resort is set over an expansive 26 hectares, offering villa-style accommodations that are both private and indulgent. Each villa comes with its own pool, and with options ranging from one to five bedrooms, there’s something to suit every family size. What truly sets the villas apart is the thoughtful inclusion of bikes for all ages - complete with stabilisers and baby seats - which made exploring the resort so much fun for our entire family. Having visited numerous resorts across Mauritius, I can confidently say that the Four Seasons’ kids club is the best we’ve encountered. What made it exceptional wasn’t just the range of activities, but the fact that there were always plenty of kids participating, which created a lively and engaging atmosphere. The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita Mauritius Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024
Discover the magic of Australia from the bustle of downtown Sydney to the wilds of Northern Territory. www.swordstravel.co.uk Diary of events Having just returned from this incredible luxury hotel, Mandarin Oriental Bodrum is certainly one to add to your wish list! With sweeping panoramic views over the blue Aegean Sea, edging Bodrum’s Paradise Bay. The views as you step into paradise are just beautiful, and you will certainly capture some amazing holiday memories. It was my first time visiting Turkey and I’m already planning a return trip! The location of the hotel is around 40 minutes from the airport and a 15 minute water taxi from the hotel into the new city of Bodrum. The hotel can arrange a traditional gullet tour. This was my highlight, sailing along the crystal blue waters and visiting hidden bays for a snorkel & swim. I feel this luxury hotel suits all customer types from families to couples and multi-generational families. Talk to me about the best room option for your stay. Mandarin Oriental Bodrum Bodrum, Turkey Australia Monday, 30th Sept 2024, 6.30pm - 8pm Full reports can be viewed online at: An opportunity to learn about some of our favourite Caribbean hotels as well as luxury cruising. Caribbean Thursday, 31st Oct 2024, 6.30pm - 8pm Join us for an evening of Africa inspiration as we discover some of the best spots for your next trip. Africa Thursday, 28th Nov 2024, 6.30pm - 8pm Meet our friends from Club Med and discover their all-inclusive ski resorts, situated in some of the most breathtaking mountain locations worldwide. Ski Day Sunday, 1st Dec 2024, All Day Walk-in Event 10am - 3pm (coinciding with Christmas in the Village) Scan the QR code to book your preferred events here or visit online at: Our evening showcase events are an informal opportunity for our clients to find out more about holiday destinations around the world. Enjoy drinks and canapes as you view and listen to informative presentations by colleagues from the luxury travel industry in the relaxed spaces of our Wimbledon Village premises. www.swordstravel.co.uk/events
6 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 Eastern Escapes A perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in Thailand & Vietnam Thailand and Vietnam are the perfect pairing for those looking to blend relaxation with a little adventure. Think golden temples, stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultures – all with the luxury touches that make a holiday truly special. Whether you're after the laid-back island life in Thailand or exploring Vietnam's bustling street food scene, these destinations offer something for everyone. It’s about more than just sightseeing; it’s about creating experiences that stick with you long after you’ve left – from a private cruise in Ha Long Bay to a sunset cocktail on a secluded beach. If you’re after a trip that’s both inspiring and indulgent, this is it.
7 For further details call 0203 907 1100 | “A twin-centre holiday in Thailand and Vietnam offers the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Thailand's vibrant cities and beaches, paired with Vietnam's history and breathtaking landscapes, as well as incredible street food and gourmet dining experiences in both countries make it one of my favourite destinations. Let’s discuss your perfect multi-centre itinerary!” Call Carla to find out more on 0203 907 1100 Thailand gives you the best of both worlds – breathtaking beaches and unforgettable cultural experiences. Start with island-hopping around Koh Samui or Phuket, where you can spend the day soaking up the sun or exploring hidden coves by boat. Then, switch gears and dive into the country's rich history with a visit to Bangkok’s temples or the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Wherever you go, you’ll be met with incredible service, luxury accommodations, and a warm, welcoming vibe that makes Thailand an easy destination to love. Thailand Beach Bliss & Cultural Highlights Vietnam is where stunning landscapes meet authentic local experiences. A cruise through Ha Long Bay is a must – picture sailing between towering limestone islands with nothing but the sound of the water around you. Back on land, the energy of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City will sweep you up in its vibrant street life. And if you’re a foodie, this is your paradise. Take a cooking class with a local chef, learn how to make the iconic pho, and enjoy fresh dishes that are packed with flavour. Vietnam is a destination that offers real, authentic connections to the culture, all wrapped up in beautiful settings. Vietnam Scenic Wonders & Culinary Adventures
8 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 Family-Centric Bliss Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences, Saint Lucia Located on the northwest coast of Saint Lucia close to the capital town of Castries and set back from the ocean in expansive tropical gardens with views over Labrelotte Bay, Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences is a relaxed, laidback Mediterranean-style Caribbean retreat that equally offers lots of opportunities for being active and making the most of its beachside location. There is a superb range of accommodation. 220 Rooms, Suites and Villas cascade down the hillside with wonderful views out to sea. The Ocean Point Residences offer the best in comfort including private butler service. The villas vary from one through to four-bedrooms and have either private plunge pools or swimming pools. There are five à la carte restaurants serving a variety of cuisines from around the world. Facilities are plentiful, with four swimming pools including two shallow pools for young children and access to a long, white-sand beach. The well-equipped gym and plush spa have some great additional touches, such as a juice bar and a herb garden. Sheltered Labrelotte Bay offers the ideal conditions for water sports. Finally, the best news is that the resort offers a very attractive all-inclusive package that covers meals and drinks in all the restaurants and a range of water sports, including some motorised options, making this one of the most enticing full service luxury resorts in the Caribbean. Family Treats Windjammer Landing has long been a top choice for families, with its spacious accommodation, abundant children’s activities and breathtaking surroundings. Activities include island tours and, if your family is the sort that wants to climb a volcano, or zip-line through a rainforest canopy, then this is the ideal tropical holiday to stimulate energetic kids. Satisfy their urge for sweet things by joining in a chocolate-making course at one of the many plantations. Exhausted adults can seek respite after a hard days fun at the luxurious spa!
9 For further details call 0203 907 1100 | Ocean Point Residences The latest addition to the range of villas at Windjammer Landing are the oceanfront Ocean Point Residences. These 3-bedroom properties are very snazzy, modernist affairs, directly above the beach and with private infinity pools. “A gem of a resort and one of the friendliest, informal resorts I have been to. Fantastic restaurants, extensive accommodation options and a perfectly located beachside bar to enjoy one of the best sunset spots on the island and enough activity to keep everyone happy. Tip: Choose all inclusive ” Call Kate to find out more on 0203 907 1100
10 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 Piste Perfect Get ready to hit the slopes this winter - Europe or North America? Val D’Isère, France With almost 100 years of skiing history, Val d’Isère is a true classic of the French Alps – one that everybody should visit at least once. Staying here will allow you to discover the mecca that is the stunning 300km Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area. Sitting at 1850m, there’s a sophisticated atmosphere with plenty of upmarket restaurants and bars, including a couple of Michelin-starred gems. Val d’Isère is one of the best resorts in the Alps for 5-star luxury hotels such as Hotel Le Yule, as well as upmarket self-catering residences like Residence Chalet Skadi. Andermatt, Switzerland Andermatt is one of Switzerland’s great classic resorts. All the things we love are here – spectacular mountain scenery, high snow sure ski slopes and an authentic traditional resort, complete with historic bars and restaurants around a cobbled main street. Thanks to huge investment, Andermatt has transformed into an unrivalled winter sports mecca. The first stage of the development was the construction of a 5star luxury hotel, The Chedi Andermatt, one of our favourite hotels in the Alps. Main image courtesy of Whistler Tourism / Ben Girardi
Perhaps the most prestigious Colorado ski destination there is, Aspen Snowmass has been wowing visitors with its elegant historic town, breathtaking winter scenery and abundance of unbelievable ski terrain for years. The ski area is spread across four unique peaks: Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Snowmass and Aspen Highlands. Snowmass is the largest of the four Aspen mountains, and a popular choice among families thanks to its gorgeous groomed runs, awardwinning ski school and ski-in/ski-out resort base. The slopeside Crestwood condos in Snowmass come highly recommended for families, whilst the Limelight Hotel Aspen is a firm favourite with Ski Independence. “Val D’Isère is one of my favourite spots in the Alps because I know the snow is so reliable! Super high, and combined with nearby Tignes there is over 300km of piste alongside some of the best off piste opportunities in Europe.” Call Ian to find out more on 0203 907 1100 Aspen Snowmass, USA 11 For further details call 0203 907 1100 | Ski Independence are passionate about creating exceptional holidays. Whatever you’re looking to get out of your ski experience, the Ski Independence team use their extensive expertise to create the perfect itinerary for each and every customer. So that could be everything from the choice of hotel or suite property, finding flights that fit your preferred schedule, booking executive transfers, recommending the best ski school options or making restaurant reservations. Europe's ski resorts offer the convenience of a short-haul journey, packed with easy to reach resorts and just a few hours' flight-time from the UK. This means you'll get that extra time to enjoy the slopes when compared with the longer journey to Canada or the USA. The Alps also have some seriously impressive scenery to ski amongst. Famous peaks like the Matterhorn (Switzerland), Mont Blanc (France) or The Dolomites (Italy) are sure to stop you in your tracks with their natural beauty. If you’re an advanced skier looking for new challenges, then North America should be on your wish list. Both Canada and the USA are home to a new world of skiing opportunities and slopes for you to discover, with spacious runs of the lightest, powdery snow, and next to no lift queues. One key highlight of skiing in North America is the lengthy ski seasons. A longer ski season means that planning an early or late season trip is a surer proposition, especially when booking an Easter school holiday break.
Frozen Narnia landscapes – all beguiling frost-tipped conifers and snow-dusted hills – demand exploration by all who visit them. Such is the magical environment created in Finnish Lapland on the edge of the Arctic Circle, where reindeers roam, and Father Christmas is but a sleigh ride away! But what these vistas keep secret is that it isn’t just the outdoors that are utterly enchanting. Childhood dreams are fulfilled in Lapland’s Christmas Chalets, the cosy family nook where life is in an eternal festive state. Time here takes you away from the crowds for an experience as enchanting as any child, or parent for that matter, would wish for. You’d be hard pressed to find a more magical place for the family to spend a few days before (or after) Christmas. In the Lap of Luxury A magical family short break to Christmas Chalets in Lapland “The beauty of the country and the wide variety of activities make Lapland a fabulous destination for all ages, creating precious memories to last a lifetime. The added comfort of enjoying luxury accommodation with a private chef, makes it even more magical!“ Call Dani to find out more on 0203 907 1100 12 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024
Overview YOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE BUT EXCLUSIVE 3 NIGHTS / 4 DAYS WINTER ADVENTURE YOUR BESPOKE PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Return flights from Heathrow to Rovaniemi with Finnair. • 3 nights accommodation in Christmas Chalets. • A guide on hand and Northern Lights alerts. • All transfers by VIP Mercedes (refreshments onboard). • Winter outer clothing for your stay. • All meals cooked and served by a private chef. • Snacks and fruits available in the chalet at all times. • Soft drinks, daily house wine and welcome drinks . • Daily house-keeping and toiletries. • Private snowmobile adventure in the wilderness. • Snowshoeing in the wilderness. • Husky sledding adventure in the wilderness. • Gingerbread baking and snow lantern making. • Visit to local reindeer farm and reindeer sleigh ride. • Private meeting with Santa Claus at his secret hut with presents. • Visit to local handicraft workshop. • Fast Track service at London Heathrow airport, including kerbside greeting, assistance with check-in and baggage, priority security lane access (where available) and escort to the gate in time for departure. 13 For further details call 0203 907 1100 |
Are you looking for your holiday to have a positive impact, not just on you but on the communities, wildlife and environments you visit? Green Safaris is a pioneer in sustainable travel, offering luxury, tailor-made journeys to two of the most spectacular countries in Africa: Zambia and Malawi. Its carefully selected properties work tirelessly to protect Africa’s delicate ecosystems and its eco-conscious experiences range from game drives in Zambia’s first ever electric Landrover to e-mountain bike tours in Kafue National Park and walking safaris in the luscious Luangwa Valley. The itinerary on the facing page gives a taste of what’s possible, from standing in the spray of Victoria Falls to gazing across the Busanga Plains from your very own nest in the treetops. To book, or to tailor this trip to your own precise requirements, give our team a call today on 0203 907 1100. 14 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 Zambia & Malawi The Ultimate Green Safari
Fly overnight from London via Johannesburg to Livingstone in Zambia, where you’ll be met and transferred to Tongabezi Lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from Victoria Falls. Spend the next day marvelling at ‘the smoke that thunders’ (as the locals call the falls) before enjoying a sunset cruise and a romantic sampan dinner in the middle of the Zambezi. Days 1-3 Victoria Falls Take a light aircraft flight from Livingstone via Lusaka to Central Kafue and check in for two nights at Ila Safari Lodge, whose eco-luxe safari pods offer breathtaking views of the bush and Kafue River. Enjoy a short game drive in Zambia’s first ever electric Landrover, then explore further the next day in search of lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and a wide range of antelope. Days 4-5 Central Kafue Kafue is the largest park in Zambia, covering everything from riverine bush and woodland to vast open plains. See a different side to the park with a two-night stay at Chisa Busanga Camp, whose elevated rooms (inspired by the nests of weaver birds) offer wonderful views of the plains, and of the elephants that often wander beneath the rooms. Your stay includes an ecofriendly e-mountain bike safari. Days 6-8 Kafue National Park South Luangwa is the jewel in Zambia’s crown and where walking safaris were first pioneered. Creeping up on a herd of buffalo or lying by a riverbank watching elephants bathe is a spine-tingling experience that makes vehicle safaris seem dull by comparison. You’ll get to enjoy both game drives and bush walks during a three-night stay at Shawa Luangwa Camp, in an area especially known for its leopards. Days 9-11 South Luangwa NP End your adventure with a three-night stay at boutique lodge Kaya Maya on the white sandy beaches of Likoma Island in the heart of Lake Malawi. Kayaking, snorkelling and relaxing by the lake is a wonderful way to see out your holiday. Fly home via Lilongwe and Johannesburg on day 15. Days 12-16 Lake Malawi 15 For further details call 0203 907 1100 |
Costa Rica Small but mighty, a holiday to Costa Rica has the sort of scenery that drops jaws. Here, you can seamlessly travel between pristine rainforests, steaming hot springs and smouldering volcanoes to idyllic remote beaches. This stunning diversity of landscapes and ecosystems makes for one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. As a premier wildlife destination in Latin America, you'll even have monkeys, sloths, giant turtles, and a vast array of bird species joining you on any experience. Costa Rica is perfectly set up for adventure lovers too, with rapids, rafts and ziplines seemingly slung across every canyon, along with top quality lodges that have been pioneers of eco-tourism in the region. The country that pioneered ecotourism 16 “Costa Rica is one the most exciting places I’ve been to and a must visit for any adventure loving family! From tubing along rivers and ziplining through the clouds to wildlife boat tours and relaxing on the beach, it has it all!” Call Hollie to find out more on 0203 907 1100 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024
As the adventure capital of the Americas there is no shortage of ways to plunge into Costa Rica’s wildlife and beautiful surroundings. In Monteverde cloud forest meet hummingbirds, spider monkeys, howler monkeys and threetoed sloths. The rope bridges and walkways tied between the treetops offer a rare chance to get a little closer to the animals. So if you're looking for a Costa Rican wildlife holiday, then this is definitely a must see. Always fancied getting up close to a volcano? Follow hiking trails up and around the foothills of Arenal, once Costa Rica’s most active volcano, before soaking your weary feet in volcanic hot springs. For yet more of a soaking, head to the Pacuare River to go white water rafting down the deep river gorge – you’ll be plummeting through lush primary rainforest, although you’ll not have much time to take in the view as you tackle the swirling rapids. Adventure in Costa Rica 17 For further details call 0203 907 1100 | Arenal hanging bridge Three-toed Sloth, Puerto Viejo Manuel Antonio Beach, Puntarenas Arenal Volcano Flying Resplendent Quetzal
20 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 18 The Great Barrier Reef Exploring Australia’s eastern coast on board Celebrity Edge® For the ultimate adventure charting the world’s largest reef why not spend 11 nights on board Celebrity Edge® as you journey in a colourful loop from Sydney to the northern reaches of the Great Barrier Reef and back along the Gold Coast of Eastern Australia. Witness extraordinary marine and onshore natural wonders as you cruise in true luxury on a vessel that has defined a turning point in luxury cruise ship design. From the Magic CarpetSM to the private plunge pools in their Edge® Villas, Celebrity Cruises have created the most refined ship at sea. In combination with a landside tour of mainland Australia this will certainly be a highlight of any extended holiday ‘Down Under’.
“An unforgettable moment was dining at Le Grand Bistro Le Petit Chef - A dining experience like no other with a show projected onto my table as I dined. Another highlight was the Magic carpet, a moving deck, extending above the sea, my favourite place for watching sunset sipping a cocktail.” Call Leanne to find out more on 0203 907 1100 19 For further details call 0203 907 1100 | Snorkeling on the reef Baron Gorge National Park, Port Douglas, Queensland Rainforest, Cairns, Sydney - At Sea - Willis Island - Port Douglas - Yorkeys Knob (Cairns) - Airlie Beach, Queensland - At Sea - Brisbane - At Sea - Sydney Book either Iconic Suites or Edge Villas and experience revolutionary new classes of suite which are draped elegantly over two floors to create your very own floating apartment. Cutting edge cuisine created by Michelin Star chef Cornelius Gallagher and 29 different restaurants to choose from. Barrier Reef Celebrity Edge® 12 Days departing 21st Oct 2025 5 ports of call 4 days at sea 1 overnight at Yorkeys Knob Round Trip
20 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 Tales from the Outback On this trip we flew from Perth to Kununarra in the northeast of WA and started our journey at the renowned El Questro Homestead (part of Luxury Lodges of Australia). The Homestead is a fully inclusive experience including all food, drinks, and pretty much all your activities. On our first day at El Questro we were lucky enough to have a talk from a local Aboriginal family who talked about the history and their elders experiences, and the history of Aboriginal culture. After a good night’s sleep, it was an early start for our private charter flight out to the infamous Bungle Bungle Range. These incredible mountain ranges are in the heart of the Purnululu national park and were formed over 360 million years ago. This experience really gets you into the heart of the Kimberley. The opening of this national park surprisingly only dates back to the 1980’s but is high on most people’s list to visit whilst touring Australia. Western Australia & Northern Territory by Mark Swords A private flight transfer from El Questro took us to Bullo River Station, a working cattle station in the Northern Territory. When I say working cattle station, please do not think you are sleeping in the stables, this wonderful place is also part of Luxury Lodges of Australia. Set in over 400,000 acres, here you get that true outback experience. Whether it’s a day filled with dust, sweat and the exhilaration of station life or spent exploring stunning landscapes and waterfalls, swimming in remote waterholes, fishing for barramundi and discovering Aboriginal rock art and wildlife, the Bullo River experience is unlike any other. The final part of our stay was spent visiting the famous Kakadu National Park. Cruise on the stunning Yellow Water Billabong to spot crocodiles and wildlife in their natural habitat, including millions of migratory birds who in part call the park’s wetlands home. Not only is Kakadu spectacular, but you can feel yourself come alive among the lush rainforests, rocky gorges, serene swimming pools and the oldest Aboriginal rock art in the world. Most people on their first trips to Australia tend to explore the wellknown itineraries such as city, rock, and reef. However as this was my fourth time in Australia, I really wanted to get to the core of the outback experience and explore Western Australia and Northern Territory, which have always been on my list of “must dos.” Western Australia Northern Territory El Questro Homestead Bullo River Station Kakadu NP PERTH WESTERN AUSTRALIA NORTHERN TERRITORY DARWIN SYDNEY
El Questro Homestead, WA The pool at Bullo River Station, Northern Territory Delicious bush tucker! A sunset moment in the Kimberley Exploring the gorges of Purnululu NP 21 The Bloodwoods, Bungle Bungle Range Call Mark to find out more on 0203 907 1100
“Thailand and Indonesia are the perfect countries to explore by ship with their countless, magical islands, and Regent Seven Seas has the ships to enable you to do so in total luxury.” Call Ian to find out more on 0203 907 1100 22 Bangkok to Bali Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 Regent Seven Seas Cruises sets the measure of ultimate luxury in Southeast Asia Southeast Asia is a destination filled to the brim with sensational food, tranquil temples, bustling cities and beautiful landscapes. The backdrops will never cease to amaze as you travel in incomparable luxury with Regent Seven Seas. Over 14 magical nights you will visit the culture rich countries of Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Java (Indonesia) and finally, the tranquil island of Bali (Indonesia). Take advantage of Regent Seven Seas unlimited excursion opportunities to get truly immersed in landscapes wrapped in rainforests, edged by golden sands, crowned by volcanoes, and studded with the ruins of lost civilisations. Truly, a voyage to remember.
23 Embrace amazing opportunities in each port of call with more than 4,500 Included & Unlimited Shore Excursions across every region of the world. Why not combine your cruise with pre- and postcruise land arrangements to extend your trip. A FREE 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay is already included on all reservations for Concierge Suites and higher categories. Bangkok to Bali Discovery Seven Seas Explorer® 14 Nights departing 28th November 2025 with up to 50 shore excursions included: Bangkok - Koh Samui - Ho Chi Minh City - Nha Trang - Singapore - Jakarta - Semarang - Surabaya - Bali Savour the world’s finest cuisines and expertly paired wines in sophisticated venues where ever-changing ocean views invite you to linger just a little bit longer. For further details call 0203 907 1100 | The Regent Experience on Seven Seas Explorer® Unlimited Shore Excursions Seven Seas Explorer® is a luxurious and wellappointed vessel that welcomes 750 guests to enjoy her elegant design and carefully curated itineraries. The luxury of ample space makes for superb comfort and a high crew-to-passenger ratio ensures top-tier personalised service. Exquisite Dining Experiences Cruise & Stay
24 Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 The House @ Bella Mare, Corfu, Greece Perfect for a multi-generational get-together (14 persons) This stunning contemporary villa with panoramic views across Avlaki Bay offers luxury living on a grand scale. Here, on the verdant hillside above the Bella Mare Hotel, you can enjoy all the delights of a private home with the freedom to access the facilities of the lovely Bella Mare beachfront hotel whenever you please. With five beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms on the ground floor and a further two en-suite bedrooms* in the basement, there is plenty of room to spread out. The luxurious living area leads out onto a spacious veranda, and a magnificent 30-metre pool running the full length of the villa is surrounded by an expansive terrace. The House @ Bella Mare is a rare find; offering spacious, high-end luxury a stone’s throw from one of the loveliest beaches in this fashionable north east corner of Corfu. It is an enticing proposition for extended families and groups of friends looking for an exclusive retreat in this spectacular location. *Recommended for teenagers and nannies.
Could this be the ultimate Corsican villa for a group? With six en-suite bedrooms spread over three floors, sublime views and a stunning location, it’s a cracker of a property for friends or a multi-generation gathering, guaranteed to make any celebratory occasion even more special. The outdoor space feels almost like another vast room, perfectly equipped with a heated swimming pool, shaded dining table for 12 and plenty of loungers. Relaxing by the pool or chatting long over lunch, your eye is drawn to the horizon and the mesmerising turquoise blue of St Cyprien Bay, just a five-minute drive away. Grand Designs Majestic villas made for celebration in Corfu, Corsica and Turkey Are you looking for the ideal holiday villa to celebrate a multigenerational family reunion or entertain a group of friends? If so, then there are a number of key criteria to consider. Perhaps, the elder generation want their own annexe. Certainly, you will want large communal spaces to bring everyone together as well as a great pool and mesmerising views, all conveniently located in the most beautiful locations in the Mediterranean. With this in mind we are pleased to present our readers with some superb contenders for your next villa experience. “I love the flexibility and the privacy of a villa holiday. Relaxing by the pool in the day, BBQ in the evening and the choice to head out and explore the local surroundings.” Call Mark to find out more on 0203 907 1100 Villa Nuciola, Corsica Sophisticated style (sleeps 12) For further details call 0203 907 1100 | 25 Villa Canim lies in prestigious Komurluk, the most desirable and conveniently-located part of Kalkan. Sitting just above the Palm Beach club, the villa is well known locally for its stunning, completely unobstructed views over the harbour to Snake and Mouse islands: a breathtaking backdrop for indulgent afternoons by the infinity pool and warm starry nights on the terrace.The design is as practical as it is beautiful, made up of a three-storey main house and an attached, self-contained annexe, ideal if some of your party would like a little extra space and privacy. Villa Canim, Kalkan, Turkey Unique and understated luxury (sleeps 12)
Swords Travel Magazine | Autumn / Winter 2024 Inclusive Privacy Prestige villa living with all-inclusive luxury resort facilities Ikos resorts embrace the notion of feeling at home in a truly upscale and all-inclusive fashion. At Ikos Andalusia, in the fashionable environs of Estepona and Marbella, this ethos has been elevated to new heights with the recent addition of state-of-the-art, stand-alone villas for the most discerning customers looking for privacy with all the benefits of an all-inclusive five star luxury resort. At Swords Travel we believe that the appeal of private villas within the framework of a full service resort offers the perfect combination of privacy and convenience for the ideal family or group holiday. Certainly, you will be impressed at Ikos Andalusia with the sophisticated design and quality of both the resort itself and your personal spaces, the amazing cuisine (whether in resort or at selected local restaurants), and the extensive facilities that are all part of the premium all inclusive offering.In fact, the Ikos "Unconditional Luxury" delivers all of this in the most refined, relaxing and fun way. 26 Ultimate Luxury - Deluxe 4-bedroom Villas Set to redefine luxury for families and groups, the Deluxe Four Bedroom Villas at Ikos Andalusia are a first for the Ikos brand, and have been built to blend seamlessly into the landscape, with both direct access through pathways to the Deluxe Collection areas, as well as standing within easy reach of the resort’s unrivalled facilities and restaurants. Each villa - complete with private pool, gym and garden - embraces the Mediterranean spirit, decorated with neutral colours and natural materials to promote a calming atmosphere, juxtaposing the beautiful planted greenery around the villa entrances, terraces and gardens. Sleeping up to eight people, the elegant villas are perfect for families or groups of friends looking for the ultimate hideaway in a spacious haven.
27 Inset image: Address Beach Resort, Dubai Marina Ikos Andalusia offers a Dine-Out programme that allows guests to eat at local restaurants at no extra cost. The programme provides a chance to experience the Costa del Sol's culinary culture and hospitality, with options including authentic meals in Marbella and quaint eateries in Estepona's Old Town. Ikos Andalusia also has eight a la carte restaurants with Michelin-starred menus, a wine cellar with 300 international and local labels, and a Flavours international buffet restaurant. All restaurants offer children's menus and baby food upon request. Eat-in at the Resort or Dine-Out Locally “Having your own villa inside a resort hotel is such a huge benefit. Plenty of space, access to fine dining, but the opportunity to escape away from the main areas back to your own private retreat… Bliss!” Call Zoe to find out more on 0203 907 1100 For further details call 0203 907 1100 |
Over the last seven years, Swords Travel has picked up no less than 22 awards, both from industry players and consumer groups. We’re immensely proud of these accolades, which range from UK Luxury Agency of the Year and Independent Agency of the Year to Merton’s Best Small Business. Having our hard work recognised is a wonderful feeling, but yet more important to us is the positive feedback we receive from our clients themselves. So while they may not involve a glittering awards ceremony, our high levels of repeat business and customer satisfaction are our proudest achievements to date. your local, multi award-winning independent travel agent 0203 907 1100 info@swordstravel.co.uk www.swordstravel.co.uk 38a High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5BY
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