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. 🌊🌿

02/04/2024

From the sun-kissed shores where the surf meets serenity to the lush hinterland that whispers of adventure, Byron Bay is a tale of transformation 🌊🍃

Once a haven for surfers and hippies, today it blends its spirited past with a luxurious present, offering everything from epic surf breaks to tranquil yoga retreats, award-winning eateries, to craft breweries. Whether you're drawn by the allure of its wellness culture, the rustic charm of its hinterland, or the endless summer vibes on its beaches, Byron remains a coastal paradise for all 🏄‍♂️🧘‍♀️🍹 High season or low, sunrise at the lighthouse or sunset cocktails, every moment here is a chance to dive into the heart of life's pleasures. Ready to explore the most easterly point of mainland Australia in style? 🌅✨

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.

12/03/2024

✨ Dive into the heart of luxury at Esencia Mansion, Yucatán, Mexico! 🌴 Nestled within the lush Hotel Esencia grounds, this 12,000-square-foot villa is your ultra-exclusive tropical retreat. Located perfectly between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, near the pristine Xpu-Ha cove, it’s where luxury meets nature. 🌊

Crafted by Hollywood’s own Kevin Wendle with design maestro Giancarlo Valle, this space is all about lavish entertaining. With four bedrooms accommodating up to eight guests, the mansion features a stunning indoor-outdoor living area, a chic wet bar for your aperitivos, and a majestic suite with a private pool plus an exquisite crema Maya marble bathtub. 🛁

Experience unique leisure with a 20-seat screening room and an exotic jungle-themed speakeasy, artfully decorated by Humberto Ramirez. Outside, relax by the poolside sunbeds under a traditional palapa, adorned with Marcel Dzama’s captivating tilework depicting local wildlife. 🐢

Step out to explore oceanfront cabanas, savor delicacies at three onsite restaurants, and immerse in the beauty of the Esencia estate. Starting at £9,000 per night, your unforgettable escape awaits. Book now at hotelesencia.com 🌺

08/03/2024

“Ever imagined waking up in a bamboo wonderland? 🌿💤

Veluvana Bali invites you to escape the ordinary and dive into an adventure where eco-friendly luxury meets the serene beauty of Bali. From the moment the sun kisses the Sidemen hills to the enchanting nights under a star-lit sky, every detail here is designed for your ultimate joy. 🌄✨ Sustainable, magical, and waiting just for you. Dare to explore?

07/03/2024

Ibiza isn’t just the go-to spot for all-nighters and beach club hopping. There’s a quieter, sun-soaked side waiting to be discovered. For those ready to swap dance floors for soft sands.

07/03/2024

Step into the heart of creativity at 🌿🏡. Just a stone’s throw from the buzz of Galle Fort, Sri Lanka, this gem was Kerry Hill’s labor of love - transforming a 19th-century plantation into a stunning 5-bedroom retreat amidst 16 acres of lush greenery. 🎨🌴

Think titanium shines, concrete coolness, and a dash of Sri Lankan flair. It’s like chilling in an art gallery, but with all the homey vibes. From wooden temple friezes to cozy deep armchairs, every corner tells a story. 🛋️✨

And let’s talk about the eats! Chef Duminda’s got your taste buds covered with his culinary wizardry - think the fluffiest traditional breakfasts and bananas flambé to die for. 🍳🍌 Plus, sunset BBQs that’ll have you and the fireflies dancing till dawn. 💃🌌

Kerry’s legacy? A dreamy estate where peacocks strut and the pool mirrors the sky, all kept alive by his sons and a welcoming crew. It’s a slice of paradise that keeps on giving. Dive into ’s best-kept secret and let the magic of Armitage Hill sweep you off your feet. 🦚

07/03/2024

Escape to the edge of paradise 🌴✨ , Lord Howe Island, Australia - where luxury meets adventure. Nestled between Sydney and New Zealand, discover a world of vertiginous cliffs, acid blue lagoons, and beaches that spiral into volcanic peaks 🌊🏝️. With only 380 locals and a cap of 400 visitors, exclusivity is redefined here. 🚫🔒

Launched in 2020 by Tim Maxwell and Cécile Denis, Island House offers twin villas surrounded by ancient forests, private patios, and copper tubs for tranquil twilight soaks 🛁✨. Indulge in fresh sashimi and yakitori by our in-house chefs 🍣🍢, and embark on adventures with our high-spec gear 🚣‍♂️🥾.

End your day at the world’s most remote microbrewery 🍺🌳, right in our backyard. Island House is not just a stay; it’s an exclusive escape into nature’s untouched beauty.

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

Horseshoe bend in Arizona 📸

04/03/2024

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

01/03/2024

Sailing ahead with innovation and unparalleled experiences 🚢

Virgin Voyages has clinched the prestigious title of Best Premium Cruise Company at the Globe Travel Awards. This accolade celebrates Virgin Voyages' commitment to redefining the cruise experience, offering travellers a taste of luxury with their adult-only voyages that blend high-end design, unique onboard entertainment, and gourmet culinary adventures. Their dedication to sustainability and creating a yacht-like experience, with all the glamour and none of the stuffiness, has truly set them apart in the industry. Winning this award underscores Virgin Voyages' position at the forefront of premium cruising, promising an unforgettable journey across the seas. 🚢✨

Have you cruised with Virgin Voyages before?

01/03/2024

🌴✨ Discover the 12 Unmissable Gems of Saint Lucia! ✨🌴

1. **Soar Through the Canopy** - Experience the thrill of Rainforest Ziplining, where adventure meets nature. 🌳🚀
2. **Wander in Wonder** - Diamond Botanical Gardens, a kaleidoscope of flora and fauna awaits. 🌺🍃
3. **Conquer the Peaks** - Hiking the Pitons offers breathtaking views you can't find anywhere else. ⛰️👀
4. **Dive Into Beauty** - Snorkelling the Pitons, where the underwater world comes alive. 🐠💦
5. **Stroll with Scenery** - Tet Paul Nature Trail, for panoramic views that'll steal your breath away. 🌄🚶
6. **Bathe in Bliss** - New Jerusalem Mineral Baths, your natural spa retreat. 🛁✨
7. **Embrace Nature’s Spa** - Sulphur Springs, dive into the world's only drive-in volcano. 🌋🛁
8. **Chase Waterfalls** - Explore the cascading beauty of Saint Lucia's waterfalls. 🌊🍃
9. **Paddle Paradise** - Kayaking in the Caribbean Sea, where every stroke is a new discovery. 🛶🌊
10. **Underwater Wonderland** - Anse Chastanet snorkelling, explore the vibrant marine life. 🐟🐠
11. **Roll Through Nature** - Segway nature trail, glide through the landscapes with ease. 🛴🌿
12. **Walk Underwater** - Sea trek adventure, a unique journey beneath the waves. 🚶‍♂️🐚

From the heights of the Pitons to the depths of the sea, Saint Lucia offers a world of adventure and tranquillity. Who's ready to explore these unmissable experiences? 🏝️🌞

01/03/2024

🏖️ Drumroll, please... 🥁

The TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards have spoken, and Praia da Falésia in the stunning Algarve, Portugal, has clinched the title of the world's best beach! 🌍✨ With its breathtaking red cliffs, miles of powdery soft sand, and perfect conditions for those sun-kissed strolls, it's no wonder this beach is topping the charts. Whether you're a fan of dramatic landscapes or just in search of that perfect beach day, Praia da Falésia is the place to be. Who's ready to add this gem to their travel bucket list? 📝✈️

29/02/2024

🌍✈️ Ways To protect Your Holiday! Here's How: ✈️🌍

Research is Key: Before locking in that dream holiday, ensure the company's credibility with a thorough online search. 🕵️‍♂️💻

Payment Protection: Opt for credit card payments when booking online for added security. 💳🔒

Accreditation Assurance: Look for the ATOL logo or ABTA membership to confirm the company’s legitimacy. 🛡️✅

Strong Passwords: Craft a robust password using three random words for your email and use 2-step verification where available. 🔐🧠

Suspicious? Stay Sharp: Beware of too-good-to-be-true deals in unexpected emails or messages. Forward suspicious emails to [email protected]. 🚩📧

Personal Info Privacy: Only provide mandatory details when making online purchases, and try not to create an account unless necessary. 🕵️‍♀️💼

Reality Check Deals: If a holiday deal seems unrealistically good, think twice. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is. 🤔💭

Stay Informed: For more tips and to ensure your holiday is protected, visit ATOL and ABTA's official websites. 📚🔍

And remember, if you suspect you've fallen victim to fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud or Police Scotland. Keep your holiday plans secure, and enjoy peace of mind as you travel! 🏖️🌐

Learn more: https://www.abta.com/news/dont-lose-out-flying-out-action-fraud-urge-holiday-makers-watch-out-fraudsters-online

Sun seekers looking to book their summer getaway are being warned to look out for fraudulent deals, as new data released today shows victims lost a staggering £12.3 million to holiday fraud last year.

29/02/2024

🌆 Why make ARRIVE Memphis your go-to hotel?

Perfect for city lovers, this chic spot sits snug in the vibrant South Main district, offering more than just a stay - it's your ticket to the city's soul 🎶. Step out and find yourself steps away from the profound National Civil Rights Museum, or take a short stroll to soak in the historical ambience at I Am a Man Plaza and the legendary vibes of Earnestine & Hazel’s bar. But wait, there’s more! Kickstart your day with a scrumptious breakfast pastry or a delightful hand pie right from Hustle & Dough in the lobby. And for those travelling with pets 🐾, you'll find the spacious elevators and hallways a breeze for moving around. Don't just visit Memphis, experience it with ARRIVE Memphis as your base. Ready to explore the heart of Memphis with ease and style? stay now! 🌟

A neighborhood hotel in the heart of Memphis. 62 guest rooms, an all-day bakery with coffee and cocktails, a shuffleboard bar, and a poker room.