Our Perfect Winter Getaway

Nestled at the foot of the Pirin Mountains in Bulgaria, Bansko Ski Resort offers a delightful blend of world-class skiing, charming Old Town culture, and vibrant après-ski activities. This winter wonderland was the perfect destination for our week-long adventure, filled with exhilarating slopes, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences.

Arrival and First Impressions

We arrived in Bansko on a crisp winter afternoon, greeted by stunning snow-capped peaks and a cozy alpine atmosphere. After checking into our charming chalet-style hotel, we took a stroll around Bansko’s quaint Old Town. With its cobblestone streets, traditional Bulgarian houses, and inviting taverns, the town has a unique charm that immediately captivated us. For our first evening, we dined at a local mehana (tavern) where we enjoyed hearty Bulgarian dishes and listened to live folk music, setting the tone for a fantastic week ahead.

Hitting the Slopes

Our first full day in Bansko was all about skiing! The resort is known for its well-maintained slopes and diverse terrain, suitable for all skill levels. We started the day at the gondola station, which whisked us up to the main ski area, Banderishka Polyana. From there, we explored a variety of runs, from the wide, gentle blues ideal for beginners to the challenging reds and blacks that kept the more experienced members of our group entertained. The snow was perfect, and the views of the Pirin Mountains were simply breath-taking.

Ski Lessons and Fun on the Slopes

To make the most of our time on the mountain, we decided to take a morning ski lesson. The instructors in Bansko are friendly and professional, offering excellent tips to improve our technique. Even as intermediates, we found the lessons incredibly helpful, and it boosted our confidence on the steeper slopes. The afternoon was spent skiing down our favourite runs and enjoying a hot chocolate break at one of the many cosy mountain cafes.

Exploring Bansko’s Old Town

After a few days skiing, we decided to take a break and explore more of Bansko’s cultural side. We wandered through the narrow streets of the Old Town, visiting landmarks like the Holy Trinity Church and the Velyanov House, a well-preserved example of Bulgarian National Revival architecture. We also stopped by the local market, where we picked up some handmade souvenirs and sampled delicious Bulgarian snacks.

Spa Day and Relaxation

After an action-packed few days, we treated ourselves to a relaxing day at one of Bansko’s many spas. Many hotels in Bansko have fantastic spa facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs, perfect for soothing sore muscles after days on the slopes. We indulged in a rejuvenating massage and spent the afternoon lounging by the pool, unwinding before our final day of adventure.

Last Day on the Slopes and Farewell Dinner

For our last day, we wanted to make the most of the slopes. We revisited our favourite runs and took in the stunning mountain views one last time. In the evening, we celebrated our incredible week in Bansko with a farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant. We feasted on traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa (a savory pastry) and kavarma (a delicious meat stew), reflecting on the unforgettable memories we had made during our stay.

Why We Loved Bansko Ski Resort

Bansko Ski Resort exceeded all our expectations, offering a perfect mix of excellent skiing, rich culture, and vibrant après-ski activities. The affordability of the resort is a huge plus, making it accessible for travellers on a budget without compromising on quality. The friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty make Bansko a fantastic winter destination for skiers and non-skiers alike.

Final Thoughts: Plan Your Bansko Adventure

Whether you’re an experienced skier looking for new challenges or a beginner eager to hit the slopes for the first time, Bansko has something for everyone. With its charming Old Town, lively après-ski scene, and beautiful mountain scenery, it’s the perfect place for a winter getaway. We can’t wait to return to Bansko and relive the magic all over again!

Egypt is a land where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes, offering travelers a unique blend of adventure and culture. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the tranquil waters of the Nile, Egypt is a destination that captivates the imagination and soul.

Start your journey in Cairo, where the bustling streets lead you to world-renowned landmarks like the Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum, home to treasures of the pharaohs. Then, take a cruise down the Nile River, passing by the timeless temples of Luxor and Karnak, where every stone tells a story of a civilization that shaped the world.

For those seeking sun and sea, the Red Sea coast offers some of the best diving in the world. Places like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are perfect for exploring vibrant coral reefs or simply relaxing on sandy beaches.

Whether you’re wandering through ancient tombs, sailing on the Nile, or soaking up the sun by the Red Sea, Egypt is a place where every moment feels like a step back in time. It’s a journey through history, culture, and natural beauty—an adventure you’ll never forget.

A Perfect Yuletide Adventure: Hamburg, Rotterdam, Blankenberge and Bruges.

As avid Christmas enthusiasts, we could hardly contain our excitement for the ultimate holiday adventure: a Christmas market cruise on the luxurious MSC Euribia! This holiday cruise was truly one for the books. Our festive journey whisked us away to the magical destinations of Hamburg, Rotterdam, Blankenberge and Bruges, where we soaked up the holiday cheer, indulged in scrumptious local cuisine, and marveled at picture-perfect sights. Staying in an Aurea balcony suite, our cruise travel experience was as cozy as it was enchanting. Here are some of the unforgettable highlights from our Christmas market cruise!

Hamburg: A Winter Wonderland

Our first stop was the festive city of Hamburg, where the Christmas markets were in full swing and bursting with holiday cheer. At the historic Rathausmarkt, twinkling lights illuminated the night, and the delightful aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine filled the air. As we wandered through the market, we were enchanted by the vibrant holiday atmosphere and the charming stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and mouthwatering treats. To top it all off, a steaming cup of hot chocolate was the perfect finishing touch to this magical experience.

Rotterdam: A Culinary Haven

Next, our Christmas market cruise took us to the vibrant city of Rotterdam, where the festive market was a true gastronomic delight. Michael dived into a variety of Dutch croquettes, savoring their crispy exterior and creamy interior with every bite. Meanwhile, I couldn’t resist the traditional Dutch Oliebollen. These scrumptious doughnuts, dusted with powdered sugar, were the ultimate treat for the chilly weather. I actually had four of them!! The lively ambiance of the city, paired with the delectable food, made our visit to Rotterdam an unforgettable holiday experience.

Blankenberge: A Seaside Splendour

Next on our stops, was the charming seaside town of Blankenberge, and it was nothing short of magical! The seaside town was transformed into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and festive decorations at every turn. The Christmas market was brimming with local crafts, holiday treats, and delightful souvenirs. We strolled along the beach, soaking in the festive atmosphere while sipping on warm mulled wine and nibbling on Belgian chocolates. The enchanting blend of coastal beauty and holiday spirit made our visit to Blankenberge an unforgettable highlight of our Christmas travel adventure! This would be a great place to visit in the summer!

Bruges: A Day in Fairy-Tale Splendor

Our final stop on this Christmas market cruise was none other than the enchanting city of Bruges. Having visited Bruges many times before, it has firmly become one of our favorite destinations of all. Renowned for its medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets, Bruges always feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The Christmas market, set against the backdrop of historic buildings, was truly magical. We spent the day wandering through the market, sampling delectable Belgian chocolates, eating our body weight in waffles, and admiring the intricate lacework that Bruges is famous for. This picturesque city was the perfect finale to our festive holiday adventure. I could have stayed for a week quite happily. We will definitely visit again.

MSC Euribia: Luxury and Comfort

Throughout our Christmas market cruise, MSC Euribia was our luxurious floating retreat. Our Aurea balcony suite offered breathtaking ocean views and unmatched comfort. Onboard amenities, from the indulgent spa to the gourmet dining options, made our time on the ship just as enjoyable as our onshore adventures. The Aurea experience, with its exclusive perks and attentive service, made our cruise truly special and unforgettable.

If you’d like to experience a Christmas cruise, contact us and we’ll get you on your way!!

Ahoy, fellow adventurers! Prepare to set sail on a Nordic odyssey like no other, as we delve into our unforgettable journey aboard the magnificent P&O Iona cruise ship. Our voyage? A thrilling exploration of Norway’s majestic fjords, with stops at the charming ports of Stavanger, Olden, Alesund, and Haugesund, and scenic sails past the breathtaking Innvikfjorden and Nordfjord.

Our first port of call was the vibrant city of Stavanger, where quaint cobblestone streets and historic wooden houses awaited us. We wandered through the picturesque Old Town, marveling at its quaint charm and stopping to sample local delicacies at bustling cafes. Don’t miss the chance to hike to the iconic Pulpit Rock for panoramic views that will take your breath away!

Next up: Olden, a hidden gem nestled at the head of the majestic Nordfjord. Here, we embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime excursion to the Briksdal Glacier, a shimmering blue marvel nestled amidst towering mountains. The journey to the glacier was a feast for the senses, with cascading waterfalls, lush green valleys, and alpine meadows painting a picture-perfect backdrop.

In Alesund, we were greeted by the city’s unique Art Nouveau architecture and rich maritime heritage. Climb the 418 steps to the top of Aksla Hill for panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands, or explore the fascinating exhibits at the Aalesunds Museum. And be sure to indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants – it’s an experience not to be missed!

As we sailed past the breathtaking Innvikfjorden and Nordfjord, we found ourselves utterly captivated by the sheer beauty of Norway’s natural landscape. Towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and serene blue waters stretched as far as the eye could see, leaving me in awe of the power and majesty of Mother Nature.

Our final port of call was the charming town of Haugesund, where Viking history comes to life. We explored the fascinating exhibits at the Nordvegen History Centre, and strolled along the picturesque waterfront promenade. And don’t forget to raise a toast to your adventures with a glass of locally brewed Viking beer – Skål!

As our voyage drew to a close and we sailed back to England, we couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore Norway’s fjords aboard P&O Iona. It was a journey filled with unforgettable experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and moments of pure joy – a true Nordic adventure that will stay with us forever.

So to anyone considering a cruise to Norway’s fjords aboard the P&O Iona, we say this: seize the opportunity, embark on the adventure of a lifetime, and prepare to be utterly captivated by the beauty of Norway’s natural wonders. Fair winds and following seas, fellow travelers!!🚢✨

If you’d like information on cruise ideas, get in touch and we’ll share some ideas with you.

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