LOUISA
After working in Ultimate’s Escorted Tours team for 6 years, organising and leading small group trips to countries worldwide, I thought it was time for a change. Although I still lead trips for Ultimate, (my next being Sri Lanka in March, if you want to book a spot!) I’ve now moved into the Australasia team, selling tailor-made holidays to Australia and New Zealand. It’s an amazing region with so much variety, from fascinating native wildlife to adrenaline-fuelled adventure. Solitaire Lodge outside Rotorua in New Zealand is a good place to start, with incredibly attentive hosts and lots of activities to enjoy right on the doorstep.
MY FAVOURITE LODGE
Solitaire Lodge outside Rotorua in New Zealand. The food is out of this world. There are also so many activities you can do from there and the owners are very attentive. It feels as though you’re being looked after in someone’s home.
MY MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
With a considerable lack of training, I ran a marathon around Bagan in Myanmar – probably one of the more stupid ideas I’ve ever had, but then again, it was also one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had. Beginning at dawn – watching the hundreds of hot air balloons rise around the temples was just magical. The thing that really spurred me on to the finish line was the Burmese children who would sit on the edge cheering you on.
MY TOP TIPS
- Invest in a good camera. Although phone’s have evolved so much, taking pictures of things far away is always a bit tricky and you end up with a very grainy photo. A camera with a good lens is a game changer!
- Buy everything you want to buy, as you may not necessarily see it again on your travels and don’t settle for the first price, have a go at haggling, it’s amazing how much they come down to.
- Relax! things go wrong and don’t always go to plan. There’s nothing you can do, so you’ve just got to accept it and go with the flow.
- You’re not necessarily going to go back to that destination, so embrace every opportunity you can.
- Even though you’re on holiday and meant to be relaxing, wake up early and fill in as much as you can into your day otherwise you may miss out
- Keep a diary of where you are and what you do. Friends will always ask you for tips and tricks when you get home.
LOUISA’S TRAVEL JOURNAL
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