Michael Gillies Travel

08/06/2024

🌍✨ Explore the World with Jules Verne! ✨🌍

Ready for an adventure like no other? Discover Jules Verne, the travel company that's redefining exploration and setting new standards in personalized travel experiences. 🌟

🔹 Tried and Trusted 🔹
Our passion for innovation and exploration is backed by multi award-winning service, loved by our loyal repeat travelers. At Jules Verne, we’re small enough to be flexible and large enough to be groundbreaking, putting you at the heart of everything we do.

🔹 Personal Touch 🔹
Imagine having a Personal Travel Expert from your first enquiry to the end of your holiday. That's the Jules Verne promise! Our dedicated team offers 24-hour access, ensuring you receive personalized advice and assistance throughout your journey.

🔹 Honest Pricing 🔹
With Jules Verne, what you see is what you get. We believe in clear, honest pricing with no hidden extras. Our exceptional value for money means you can focus on enjoying your trip, not worrying about unexpected costs.

🔹 Fully Protected 🔹
Travel with peace of mind knowing all our tours are ATOL, ABTA, and IATA bonded, ensuring 100% financial protection. Your money is safe and secure with Jules Verne.

🔹 Small Groups, Big Benefits 🔹
Experience the unique charm of small group travel with an average group size of 10-16. Enjoy individual service, avoid large coach queues, and delve deeper into local cultures. With Jules Verne, you’re not just a tourist – you’re a traveler.

📚 Introducing Our New Brochure: WORLDWIDE COLLECTION 📚
We’re delighted to present the first in our new collection of brochures! Featuring the best of our Worldwide Collection, explore small group tours and specialist cruises to the most amazing places across Asia, Africa, North Africa & the Middle East, and the Americas.

From wildlife encounters to Grand Tours, our Worldwide Collection will ignite the inner explorer in you. Whether you’re keen on the Mayan ruins in South America or the temples along the Mekong River in Laos, the adventure starts here!

Join us and see why our guests and peers recognize us for our professionalism and exceptional service. With Jules Verne, your satisfaction is our priority, and every journey is a personal adventure.

Visit Jules Verne to start your journey today! 🌐✈️🚢

08/06/2024

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟

Iberostar Hotels and Resorts is thrilled to partner with Chef Irini Tzortzoglou, the 2019 UK MasterChef winner, to elevate dining at our newly refurbished 5-star Iberostar Selection Creta Marine hotel! 🌊🏨

Located in the charming village of Panormo, Crete, our hotel has undergone extensive renovations. With new and refurbished rooms, sugar-cube bungalows, and refreshed common areas, it offers a perfect blend of comfort and authentic Greek charm amidst lush gardens and stunning Mediterranean views. 🌿🏖️

Chef Irini introduces a menu at Vegghera Cretan Tavern, featuring fresh, seasonal delights sourced from local producers. Her dishes blend traditional Cretan cuisine with contemporary twists, promising an unforgettable gastronomic experience. 🍽️✨

Irini shares, "I'm thrilled to partner with Iberostar to bring the authentic flavours of my home island to Creta Marine’s guests. Our culinary heritage is deeply rooted in tradition, and I am excited to showcase Cretan cuisine with modern twists."

After the launch at Creta Marine, a selection of Irini’s dishes will also be featured at the Kyknos Greek restaurant in Iberostar Selection Albufera Park, Mallorca. 🌟

Join us and indulge in the authentic flavours of Crete, crafted by Chef Irini Tzortzoglou. 🍴🌍

23/05/2024

The very lovely and talented Genevieve White. ✍️

10/04/2024

🌍✨ Got a go-to travel spot? We’re all about discovering new favourites and revisiting the ones we love. Drop your top destination in the comments, and let's get inspired by each other's travel picks! 🛄🛤️

08/04/2024

🚢✨ Set sail on an extraordinary adventure with Silversea in summer 2025!

From the charming coasts of the UK and Ireland to the stunning landscapes of Norway and Sweden, the Silver Wind expedition ship is your gateway to exploring some of the most remote and breathtaking destinations in the British Isles and beyond. Departing from Portsmouth and Dublin, choose from 10 meticulously crafted expedition cruises that promise a blend of luxury an

With Silversea's seamless door-to-door service, embark on a journey that starts from £5,250 per person for a nine-night cruise from Dublin to Copenhagen in July 2025. Ready for an expedition voyage that's close to home yet worlds away? 🌍💼

06/04/2024

Dive into the surreal blues of Iceland's Blue Lagoon 💦✨

A geothermal marvel nestled in a lava field, where steam meets sky, and relaxation is written in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Whether you're basking in the serene glow of the lagoon, indulging in a silica mud mask, or sipping on a cocktail at the in-water bar, every moment here promises a blend of luxury and natural wonder. Ready to immerse yourself in the healing embrace of Iceland's most iconic spa? Pack your bags because adventure and rejuvenation await at the Blue Lagoon. 🌬️🧖‍♂️ "

04/04/2024

Dive into the heart of the Mediterranean with a Sardinia road trip 🚗💙. Imagine winding through emerald coasts and ancient ruins and sampling the island's rich culinary heritage. With every turn, unlock secluded beaches and connect with the soulful locals. Sardinia offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, tailor your adventure, and immerse in unparalleled natural beauty. It’s more than a trip; it’s a journey into a world of enchanting landscapes, historical wonders, and tranquil escapes. Make unforgettable memories under the Sardinian sun. Why wait? Discover the magic of Sardinia now. 🌊🌿

19/03/2024

Did you know that last year, British visitors to Spain were splashing out 12% more cash than pre-pandemic despite trimming their length of holidays by 5%? 🌞⏳

It's a whirlwind romance with shorter stays but bigger adventures! Even though the number of Brits heading to Spain dipped slightly, those who did lived it up, contributing a cool €19,946m of Spain's dazzling €108 billion tourist revenue. 🎉💰

And get this - while soaking up the Spanish sun, Brits were spending 23% more per day, making every moment count. Yet, the shift is clear; summer holidays are evolving, with a noticeable drop in the' peak season' rush and a rise in exploring Spain's northern treasures, which saw a 23% spike in visitors. 🌄🍇

Spain's not resting on its laurels either, eyeing up strategies to charm the more mature, high-spending traveller with a taste for the finer things in life like gastronomy, culture, and swanky city breaks. 🍽️🎭 And, with a luxury boost in accommodations, 42% of new hotels opened were in the plush four- and five-star categories. 🏨✨

What's your take on this trend of spending more but staying for shorter durations? Would you rather have a brief, lavish getaway or a longer, more budget-conscious trip? Drop your thoughts below! 🗨️💬✈️

19/03/2024

🎉🔥 Discover the spellbinding La Patum de Berga festival! 🐉✨ Held annually during Corpus Christi (late May or early June), this UNESCO-celebrated event, just a stone's throw from Barcelona, showcases over 600 years of Catalan tradition. Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere as Berga's streets burst into life with dance, fire, and legendary creatures. Don't miss the exhilarating "Salt de Plens," a true testament to the festival's vibrant blend of danger and devotion. A perfect cultural escape near Barcelona, it's an unforgettable celebration of community and heritage. Save the date! 💥🇪🇸

19/03/2024

Experience the Culinary Delights of Crete, Greece 🍇🍯🍽️

Discover the vibrant food scene of Crete, the largest Greek island, where Mediterranean cuisine comes to life in an array of comforting yet fresh dishes. From cities to countryside, here are five must-try culinary experiences:

1. Honey and Horseback Riding in Fourni Valley🐴🍯
Ride through olive groves and quaint villages at sunset, stopping to taste exquisite Greek honey from local beekeepers—a genuine Cretan adventure.

2. Modern Cretan Gastronomy at Peskesi🍴✨
In Heraklion's lively centre, Peskesi offers a contemporary take on traditional Cretan dishes, emphasizing a sustainable 'farm to table' approach. Don't miss their acclaimed smoked sausage!

3. Winery Tour at Agelakis Winery🍷
Explore Crete's burgeoning wine scene, which has a history dating back to the Minoan period. Enjoy a tasting at the PGI-certified Agelakis Winery in Thrapsano village and learn the story behind their 'Cornelia' wine.

4. Traditional Dishes in Local Taverns 🥘🏠
Indulge in authentic Greek meals at local taverns, where family recipes are served with love. Highlights include:

- Platanos Tavern in Fourni Valley: Enjoy traditional dishes in a welcoming setting.
- Likastos Tavern in Archanes: Savor unique tomato fritters and doughnut balls.
- Stou Sterou in Hersonissos: Experience a medley of home-cooked Cretan food featuring an unforgettable octopus dish.

5. Olive Oil Tasting Experience 🌿🫒
At the Kokolakis Family Olive Mill in Limnes, participate in olive oil tasting under the guidance of a sommelier and chef from Cretan Ark. Discover how different olive oils can enhance the flavours of your meals.

Have you visited Crete before? Let me know? 👇

18/03/2024

🌞🏖️ Discover Costa Dorada This Summer! 🏖️🌞

Why the Costa Dorada should be your next holiday destination:

1️⃣ Historical Gems: Dive into history with Tarragona's UNESCO sites, like the ancient seaside amphitheatre and the stunning Poblet Monastery. 🏛️

2️⃣ Stunning Beaches: Golden sands await! From La Pineda Platja's lengthy shores to Cambril's Blue Flag beaches, there's a spot for every beach lover. 🌊

3️⃣ Exciting Attractions: Thrill-seekers rejoice at PortAventura World and Aquopolis for non-stop fun and adventure. 🎢💦

4️⃣ Catalan Culture: Experience the unique tradition of castells, or human towers, a sight to behold and a testament to community strength. 🏰

5️⃣ Remarkable Reus: Explore the hometown of Gaudí, marvel at the modernist architecture, and sip on the local favourite, vermouth. 🍷

6️⃣ Natural Beauty: Hike through Montsant Natural Park or wander the botanical gardens of Parc Samà, immersing yourself in the stunning natural scenery. 🌲🌺

7️⃣ Scenic Cycling Trails: Pedal through picturesque paths along the coast or challenge yourself on the La Mussara Route. 🚴‍♂️

8️⃣ Delicious Dishes: Savor the flavours of the coast with fresh seafood and traditional Catalan cuisine. 🦐🥘

9️⃣ Tasty Tipples: Embark on a wine tour and taste the exquisite DO wines of the region. 🍇🍷

🔟 Fantastic Views: Capture the beauty of Salou through its panoramic viewpoints, perfect for those sunset snaps. 📸

Ready for a summer to remember? Costa Dorada offers everything from serene beaches to thrilling theme parks and rich cultural experiences. Don't wait; explore the golden coast this summer!

18/03/2024

Direct Flights from the UK to Cuba Set to Take Off This May ✈️🌍

Exciting news for travel enthusiasts and cultural explorers! 🌟 The Ministry of Tourism for Cuba has recently made a groundbreaking announcement that could transform the way we journey to the Caribbean island. 🏝️ Beginning in May, new direct flights from the UK to Cuba are poised to lift off, connecting Manchester and Gatwick to the vibrant shores of Cayo Coco and Holguin. 🛫

The inaugural flight is scheduled to depart from Gatwick to Cayo Coco on 5 May, marking a significant milestone in travel between the two countries. 📅 This will be followed by a weekly service from Manchester to Holguin, commencing on 10 May, ensuring that adventure-seekers and beach lovers have ample opportunity to explore the rich heritage and pristine landscapes of Cuba. 🌺🏖️

This development comes as a breath of fresh air, especially after TUI, announced last November its decision to suspend sales to Cuba. 🚫✈️ This decision had previously left a void, eliminating the sole direct flight option from Manchester to Varadero. However, with the introduction of these new flights, the connection between the UK and Cuba is not just being restored; it's being reimagined. 🌐➡️🇨🇺

Scheduled for a year with the possibility of extension, these flights are not just a temporary measure but a hopeful glance towards a sustained connection between the UK and Cuba. 📆✨ This initiative has generated considerable buzz and optimism among travellers and industry insiders alike. Alan Meadows, the Business Development Manager for Simply Cuba, highlighted the promising nature of this news but reminded eager travellers that official confirmation is still pending. 🎉🔍

Manchester Airport has already scheduled two charter flights for May, signifying a strong start to this new venture. 🎊 While Gatwick's response is still awaited, the enthusiasm surrounding these developments suggests a bright future for UK-Cuba travel relations.

07/03/2024

Why is it in life that you have Maldives taste on a Middlesbrough budget?🤔

06/03/2024

Happy birthday 🥳

05/03/2024

I’m definitely up for this 👍

🇬🇧 Would you like to wake up on a place like this? 🌅✨ In Madeira Islands you can find a wide variety of accommodation, always with the guarantee of the best hospitality. 😍

🇵🇹 Gostarias de acordar num lugar como este? 🌅✨ Na Madeira podes encontrar uma grande variedade de alojamentos, sempre com a garantia da melhor hospitalidade. 😍

📸

05/03/2024

✈️ Where is everyone planning their holiday this year?

05/03/2024

🌟 Unwind in Luxury: Discover the Enchantment of Domes of Elounda, Crete 🌊

Immerse yourself in unparalleled luxury at Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection, nestled in Crete. Inspired by the UNESCO World Heritage site, Spinalonga Island, this five-star haven offers the elite Haute Living Selection, complete with a dedicated concierge and an exclusive lounge brimming with unlimited 🍷 drinks and gourmet snacks 🧀. Revel in the resort's tranquil ambience, savour authentic Cretan cuisine 🍽️, and lounge on a private beach shaded by olive trees 🌳. Designed for discerning travellers, Domes of Elounda promises a stay filled with indulgence and memorable moments. Embark on a 7-night luxury escape starting at £1,845. ✨

Located on Crete's beautiful Elounda Bay, opposite Spinalonga, Domes of Elounda offers ultra-luxurious all-suite and villas accommodations with private balconies boasting fantastic Sea views. Unwind by the pools or at the Soma Spa. Feast on authentic Cretan cuisine at the waterfront restaurants. Let...

04/03/2024

British airways or virgin Atlantic, which do you prefer? ✈️