Discovering Malaria-Free Lodges with Bianca

Africa– they say it captures your heart, and its so true. I was fortunate enough to visit South Africa on my honeymoon in 2010, which led us to the Kruger National Park and then to Mauritius. Fast forward 14 years, and I had the privilege of returning (while celebrating my wedding anniversary) with my almost-teenager this time!


My journey led us to two renowned game reserves: Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa's Northwest province and Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg district. Both offer sightings of the Big Five and a wealth of captivating wildlife experiences.


Madikwe Safari Lodge - Lelapa


"Lelapa" the Setswana word for "family," warmly invites you and your loved ones to enjoy the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve and promises an experience designed for the whole family. The accommodation is ideal with a spacious open-plan bedroom and bathroom, along with a separate cosy sleeping area for children. Our ranger, Byron, was exceptional with our daughter, sharing fascinating bush facts that greatly enriched her experience.

The camp's relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere and exceptional service make you feel at ease while being surrounded by the thrilling adventures of the game reserve. The watering hole located near the swimming pool is a captivating spot where time seems to slip away. One afternoon, as we lounged by the pool, a herd of elephants made an appearance. We were spellbound for about 45 minutes watching these majestic creatures, and were even luckier to witness their playful babies joining in the water. It was a mesmerizing experience for my daughter, who was completely captivated (and happily off her phone!).

The food was so good catering really well for families with plenty of options to suit everyone. Of course being in South Africa the choice of wines were very appealing too! They have a fantastic kids eco-house the perfect place for children to learn about conservation at Madikwe and enjoy arts & crafts, jewellery making and much more. Whilst the kids enjoy themselves here parents can relax in the outdoor lounge area or take a nose in the lodges gift shop. There is also a gym & spa if you are feeling energetic or want to relax even more! 

Ekuthuleni Lodge, Welgevonden Game Reserve 


After spending three incredible nights in Madikwe, our journey took us east to the Waterberg district. We stayed for two nights at the captivating Ekuthleni Lodge, which was a stark contrast from our previous stop as it is completely isolated from other lodges, offering a more private experience with even less vehicles around. This game reserve is smaller than Madikwe, making it easier to spot certain animals like rhinos. We had memorable sightings of elephants and an unforgettable encounter with a lion and lioness - the lioness came so close to our truck that I could feel my own heartbeat racing! The lodge itself was charming and felt like a welcoming home. The cuisine was exquisite, and they took excellent care of our daughter. With an age restriction of under 12's, the lodge has a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for couples or honeymooners. There was a small pool overlooking the plains and even the option for in-room massages, adding to the overall relaxation and luxury.

Fairlawns Hotel & Spa, Sandton Johannesburg 


Our last evening was spent in Sandton, Johannesburg, approximately 25 minutes away from the airport. Having this final night here was truly delightful as we could unwind, relish more delectable cuisine and wines, and indulge in some time at the Spa and pool. Following five nights on safari with those early wake-up calls (around 5:30 am!), you genuinely crave a day of relaxation. Another possibility would be to extend your trip to a beach destination like Mauritius or Mozambique. However, if time doesn't allow, I highly recommend ending your journey with a night of leisure. We enjoyed two Spa treatments, had a sushi lunch, and savoured a three-course meal at their fine dining restaurant. To our surprise, the bill turned out to be very reasonable considering all that we experienced! One of the reasons why SA is such a popular choice. 

It is true to say I absolutely adored my second trip to Africa, it certainly leaves you wanting to return for more! We work with some incredible specialists in Africa, so if you have never been or wish to return we can certainly help plan the perfect experience for you. 

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Easter Skiing? Go High in Tignes & Val d’Isère

By Tracy Felstead • December 4, 2025
Why choose High Altitude at Easter By April, many lower resorts in the Alps are battling slushy afternoons, patchy pistes, and closed valley runs. But Tignes and Val d’Isère form the legendary Espace Killy ski area , where top lifts reach around 3,400–3,450 metres . Thanks to glaciers like the Grande Motte in Tignes and the Pissaillas in Val d’Isère, skiers can still carve crisp turns long after other resorts have packed away their season. More altitude means: Reliable snow cover on upper pistes Longer season , often until early May Cooler temperatures up top , preserving conditions Tignes Altitude advantage : The main villages of Tignes Le Lac and Val Claret sit at about 2,100 metres , higher than most Alpine resorts. Add in the Grande Motte glacier (3,456 m), and you’ve got some of the most dependable snow in Europe. What to expect : Great snow quality in the mornings, even on lower runs. Softening/slush on sunny afternoons down at village level. Superb high-altitude cruising on reds and blues above Val Claret. Family-friendly base with ski-in/ski-out convenience.  If your main priority is snow security , Tignes often edges out Val d’Isère thanks to its higher base.

From Chill Beaches to Bangkok Buzz: Bianca's Thai Adventure

By Tracy Felstead • December 4, 2025
Thailand – The “Land of Smiles” Thailand has come a long way from its days as a well-kept secret among backpackers. Today, it’s one of Southeast Asia’s most accessible and welcoming destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Often called the Land of Smiles, Thailand is celebrated not only for its breath taking beauty but also for the warmth and friendliness that greets you everywhere you go. From energetic city streets and unforgettable cuisine to white-sand beaches and jungles thick with tropical greenery, Thailand offers a little bit of everything. And last month, I was lucky enough to return. It had been 16 years since my first visit, but the moment I arrived, I was reminded exactly why this place captured my heart the first time around. Thailand still manages to surprise, delight, and completely draw you in! 

Tracy Explores the Seychelles Island You’ve Probably Never Heard Of…

By Tracy Felstead • August 21, 2025
It might surprise you to know that the Seychelles were completely uninhabited until the late 18th century. With no indigenous population, everyone here has roots from somewhere else Africa, Europe, Asia, and that blend of cultures has created something truly special. Seychellois Creole (Seselwa), a soft, French-based language, is spoken alongside English and French, and this diversity shines through in the islands’ music, dance, food, and everyday warmth. But what really sets Seychelles apart isn’t just the vibrant culture or the picture postcard-perfect beaches, it’s how fiercely this place protects its wild beauty. Nearly half of the entire land area is preserved as national parks or nature reserves, and unlike in other destinations where nature is often curated for aesthetics, here it's left untouched, sea grass is left to grow, coral is allowed to thrive, and wildlife leads the way. You’ll find giant tortoises, rare birds, pristine reefs, and forests you can hike through without fear, no snakes, no poisonous insects, just pure, unspoiled nature. It’s one of the few places where wild still feels safe. Peaceful, stable, and deeply respectful of its land, Seychelles is more than just beautiful, it’s grounded, and it’s real.

Stunning St. Lucia: Tracy’s Travel Notes & Top Tips

By Tracy Felstead • July 5, 2025
It has been over 20 years since my last visit to St. Lucia, a family holiday with my two young sons. Coming back, I was reminded why I loved it so much. The island is stunning, with a real variety of landscapes, friendly locals, and a vibrant culture that blends British, French, and Caribbean influences. It’s not just about the beaches (though they are beautiful). St. Lucia offers everything from volcano visits and rainforest hikes to chocolate-making, rum tastings, and relaxing by the sea. The range of hotels is impressive too, stylish stays in some of the most scenic spots I’ve seen. Whether you're here for a few nights or a full adventure, St. Lucia truly has something for everyone, and it’s even better the second time around.

Fan of "The Durrells"? This is the perfect trip for you!

By Tracy Felstead • June 5, 2025
"Durrells in Corfu" is a captivating British TV series based on Gerald Durrell's trilogy. Set in the Greek island of Corfu, it follows the adventures of the eccentric Durrell family. With stunning scenery and heart warming storylines, this show has captured viewers worldwide. If you haven't watched then I highly recommend the series, but even better why not take a trip there! This month I have been lucky enough to visit Corfu with CV Villas, my trip kicked off with a visit to the Grecotel Corfu Imperial Hotel. A truly stunning hotel nestled on its own private peninsula in Kommeno Bay. It's super chill and secluded but just a quick 20-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Corfu Town, and even closer to Gouvia and Dassia. The hotel has four Blue Flag beaches - sandy ones mixed with shingle - so you've got options galore for soaking up the sun or trying out some water sports. A pool area that was huge, so ideal for families! Plus, there are five top-notch restaurants on-site. All in all, this 5-star gem offers a classic and elegant style hotel with warm service despite it's size. They also offer everything from rooms for 2 up to huge private villas (with pools) overlooking the bay!

Sailing with Soul: Tracy Explores the Magic of Sea Cloud

By Tracy Felstead • May 15, 2025
There are luxury cruises—and then there's Sea Cloud. I recently had the chance to experience this extraordinary ship, and it was far more than a voyage, it was an adventure. If you're curious about what sets Sea Cloud Cruises apart, I will share the highlights of a journey that exceeded every expectation. The story begins in 1931, when cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post commissioned what was then the largest private sailing yacht in the world. With golden swan-shaped taps, marble fireplaces, and French antiques, Sea Cloud was a floating expression of elegance and ambition. Nearly a century later, that same spirit lives on—both in the original ship and in her graceful sister, Sea Cloud II.

A Guide to Chasing New Horizons in 2025 & beyond

By Tracy Felstead • April 2, 2025
For devoted travellers, there’s nothing more exciting than planning the next adventure. As proud Virtuoso travel advisors, The Travel Concept has access to insider knowledge from Virtuoso’s global network of travel experts and industry contacts. We’ve gathered their top recommendations for on-the-rise, get-there-first destinations that deserve a place on your 2025 or 2026 itinerary. Whether it’s heli-skiing South America’s wild slopes, diving the Technicolor reefs of West Papua, or exploring southern Italy by train, now is the time to start planning. (That 12-casita private island in Zanzibar and 22-passenger Peruvian riverboat won’t stay available for long.) Let this guide inspire your next unforgettable journey.

Fall in Love with France: Find Out Why It Could Be Your Next Escape

By Tracy Felstead • January 24, 2025
France is a country which continues to draw millions of visitor s with its palpable charm, beautiful countryside, coastline, world-renowned cuisine and architecture. There is a treasure trove of destinations worth visiting across France with each region possessing its own unique landscapes and ambience. Whether you want to see the stunning 16th century chateau de Monbazillac in the Dordogne, storing 6000 bottles of wine in its cellars; the vibrant, Provencal lavender fields at the Abbaye de Sénanque; the white wine route running through the Loire Valley; or the rising medieval walls of Carcassonne – the list is endless! Take a look at our recommendations, which include a beach hotel, a touring holiday, and a special interest holiday, all curated by Expressions Holidays, our trusted partner with first-hand expertise of this destination.
A black and white monkey is hanging from a tree branch.

Costa Rica

By Tracy Felstead • December 16, 2024
Welcome to Costa Rica, the happiest place on Earth! From the moment I arrived, I could feel the warmth—not just from the sunshine, but from the people, who seem to radiate a natural joy that’s contagious. This small, beautiful country is brimming with lush rainforests, unspoiled beaches, and an astonishing variety of wildlife, making every day an adventure and a feast for the senses. Costa Rica is famous for its commitment to preserving its natural treasures, leading the way in eco-tourism and sustainability. It’s one of the few places where you can explore untouched rainforests in the morning, lounge on a deserted beach by afternoon, and still have time for an adrenaline-filled adventure, zip-lining through the jungle canopy, white-water rafting, or surfing on world-class waves. But what really captures the essence of Costa Rica is the spirit of 'Pura Vida' meaning Pure Life, you will see it everywhere! It’s more than just a phrase; it’s a way of life that reflects the Costa Rican outlook, one that’s about embracing life’s simple pleasures, connecting with nature, and savouring the moment. Whether it’s chatting with locals, marvelling at a sunset, or getting lost in the beauty, Costa Rica has a way of grounding you, of making you feel more alive. For me, this country is pure magic - here's a snapshot of what we got up to....

Top 5 Reasons to River Cruise

By Tracy Felstead • November 22, 2024
Here are five great reasons why a river cruise could be the perfect choice for your next holiday: All-inclusive Many river cruise lines offer comprehensive packages that cover everything from flights and transfers to excursions and gratuities. Enjoy chef-prepared meals, complimentary drinks, and immersive experiences without any extra costs. Dock in city centres Unpack once and explore multiple iconic cities without the hassle of long coach trips. River cruises dock right in the heart of cities, giving you the freedom to join guided tours or venture out on your own to discover local landmarks. No seasickness Experience smooth sailing along tranquil waterways with minimal risk of motion sickness compared to ocean cruises. Scenic views Marvel at picturesque sights like riverside villages, iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, or natural wonders like the Iron Gates from the comfort of your ship's Sun Deck while sipping on a glass of wine. Intimate cruising experience With fewer than 200 guests on board and an exceptional guest-to-staff ratio, river cruises offer a personalised and intimate environment where you can quickly connect with fellow travellers. We’re thrilled to share a short 20-minute video, created especially for you by AmaWaterways. In this video, you’ll discover: Why river cruising is one of the most luxurious and relaxing ways to travel. What makes AmaWaterways the leader in luxury river cruising. A sneak peek into their elegant ships, stunning destinations, and award-winning service.