The dawn of a new year marks the beginning of fresh adventures, and the burning question on everyone’s minds is, “Where should I go and when?” Well, fear not, because Laura Bartlett, our intrepid founder, has got you covered in the latest episode of House of Coco TV!
January’s Jewel: Nairobi
In the first instalment of “Where to go and when in 2024,” Laura Bartlett takes us on an exhilarating journey to the ultimate destination for those seeking the extraordinary—Nairobi! As much of the world grapples with winter, Nairobi extends a warm embrace, boasting an average temperature of 23°. It’s the perfect escape from the chill, setting the stage for a month of unforgettable adventures.
Nairobi National Park: Where Urban Meets Wild
The real gem of January is Nairobi National Park, just a stone’s throw away from the city. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring spectacle as the park comes alive with an incredible array of wildlife. Picture the thrill of spotting black rhinos, majestic lions, and playful giraffes, all against the backdrop of Nairobi’s modern skyline. It’s not just a safari; it’s a unique blend of urban and wild. Nairobi stands as the only place on Earth where you can witness the harmony of nature and city life in one frame.
More Than a Trip, It’s a Journey
A visit to Nairobi transcends the typical travel experience; it’s a journey into the heart of a city that knows how to craft memories. From vibrant markets to cultural hotspots, Nairobi offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Join the Conversation
Have you considered adding Nairobi to your bucket list, or have you already experienced its magic?
Share your thoughts in the comments section of the House of Coco TV episode on Instagram.
Join Laura Bartlett as she explores a reggae-infused retreat at Landal Dylan Coastal Resort, Wales…
As the weekend sun dipped below the horizon, my friends and I arrived at Landal Dylan Coastal Resort in Wales, eager to indulge in a unique escape. Our Friday night kicked off with a soulful reggae welcome at Milk Wood House’s restaurant, where a talented singer serenaded us as we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner.
The ambiance was set against a backdrop of a serene sunset, casting a warm glow over our first night.The restaurant and bar boast stunning views of the River Taf, making our delightful meal even more memorable.
Our lodge at Landal Dylan Coastal Resort was nothing short of spectacular. The well-lit, modern lodge provided breathtaking views from both the private terrace and hot tub. Fully equipped for self-sufficiency, they ensured optimum comfort throughout our stay.
Being a teetotaller, I was pleasantly surprised when my friends decided to embrace the spirit of our Welsh retreat by opting for 0% fizz, effortlessly aligning with my sober preferences. With our glasses filled with the non-alcoholic effervescence, we embarked on a journey into the enchanting night.
Our chosen post dinner haven for the evening was the open-air hot tub, strategically positioned to provide a front-row seat to the celestial spectacle above. Under the moon’s gentle glow, the atmosphere transformed into a realm of magic and peacefulness. The moonlight danced upon the water’s surface, casting a silver sheen that accentuated the natural beauty of our surroundings.
It was a night where time stood still, and the ordinary became extraordinary under the celestial canopy. In those magical hours, Landal Dylan Coastal Resort became more than just a destination; it became a sacred space where the moonlit memories forged a connection that would linger in our hearts long after the weekend had passed.
In this tranquil setting, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the landscape and the soft caress of the evening breeze, we found solace in each other’s company. Conversations flowed effortlessly, fuelled by the shared warmth of the hot tub and the serenity of the moonlit night. We reminisced about moments long past, exchanged stories, and revelled in the simple pleasure of being present in that moment.
The next day unfolded with a journey into luxury at the spa, where we were captivated by the state-of-the-art facilities. Milk Wood House offered an unrivalled experience, from herbal steam saunas to Roman baths and an indoor infinity pool. The spa’s ambiance was rejuvenating, providing the perfect escape.
The spa, with its seaweed-based ishga treatments and outdoor hydrotherapy pool, was a true oasis of calm. The resort’s indoor swimming pool and a fully-equipped gym added to the allure. State-of-the-art equipment motivated us to embark on fitness goals before a second night in the hot tub taking in the views for one final time.
Waking up in luxury very quickly became a routine, with the north side showcasing green hills and the south side offering an extended coastline view. The resort’s commitment to providing an unforgettable getaway was evident in every detail.
Landal Dylan Coastal Resort was more than a destination; it was an immersive experience, blending relaxation, entertainment, and stunning scenery. So, whether you’re a fan of reggae beats, a spa enthusiast, or a fitness buff, this Welsh retreat promises an unforgettable and diverse getaway.
As someone who has spent 14 glorious months on the sober side of life, I’ve discovered that the world of travel and gastronomy is evolving, embracing a new era where the clink of a glass isn’t the only soundtrack to a memorable staycation.
There was a time when a glass of fizz was as rudimentary to a good holiday as a bucket and spade, but quietly bubbling for many years, the low- and no-alcohol hotel scene is now making its way to the fore, with trend-leading properties creating booze-free offerings that feel like seamless parts of the luxury experience, rather than an afterthought, better communicated in hushed tones as you lean over the bar so as not to be heard by other guests or staff.
Recent research paints a clear picture: a significant number of adults are choosing to explore the world of no and low-alcohol options. With 29% of pub visits and 37% of restaurant meals involving zero alcohol consumption, the movement is real, and it’s gaining momentum. The allure of Dry January has transcended into a year-round commitment for many, leading to an increased demand for sophisticated alcohol-free offerings.
Enter Grantley Hall in Yorkshire, a sprawling five-star retreat that seamlessly integrates the art of non-alcoholic indulgence into its Michelin-starred restaurant experience led by the culinary maestro, Shaun Rankin. I recently embarked on a gastronomic escapade at this grand establishment, where every dish was paired not with the usual suspects but with a thoughtfully curated selection of alcohol-free beverages.
Grantley Hall’s foray into the non-alcoholic wine pairing realm, introduced in late 2022, has been nothing short of a triumph. In a world where the non-alcoholic movement is paving the way, fine-dining restaurants are recognising the importance of ensuring every guest, regardless of their beverage choices, experiences a dining extravaganza.
Across tasting menus and fine dining options, Grantley Hall has created non-alcoholic drink pairings that offer guests an equally tantalising journey. These pairings, ever-evolving just like the seasonal menu, highlight different taste profiles using the finest ingredients, some sourced directly from the hotel’s own kitchen garden.
For instance, the current pairing for the fish course, featuring turbot, caviar, cabbage, dill, and lemon verbena, is a harmonious infusion of apple, duchess grey, and lemon verbena. Each sip complements the delectable dish, proving that a Dry January or a sober staycation doesn’t mean compromising on sophistication or flavour.
So, if you find yourself yearning for a sober staycation, Grantley Hall welcomes you into a world where indulgence knows no bounds, and every sip is a celebration of refined tastes. Cheers to Dry January and the evolving landscape of luxurious, alcohol-free experiences!
Embark on a solo adventure with our founder, Laura Bartlett, as she unveils her tried and tested top 3 destinations perfect for solo female travellers. Drawing from her extensive travels to over 40 countries, Laura shares her insights on places around the world that are not only breathtaking but also exceptionally well-suited for those seeking the liberating experience of solo exploration.
🌍 Discovering the Perfect Destinations
In this latest House of Coco TV installment, Laura Bartlett takes us on a journey to her top 3 solo travel destinations, each carefully chosen based on her personal experiences and love for independent exploration.
Switzerland: A Repeated Haven for Solo Travellers
Topping the list without a shadow of a doubt is Switzerland, a country Laura has visited an impressive 10 times! Renowned for its safety, Switzerland offers a myriad of activities, from hiking to indulging in spas or hitting the slopes for skiing. Solo female travellers will find themselves spoiled for choice in this enchanting country.
Paris: The City of Self-Love
While often called the city of love, for Laura, Paris holds a special place as the city of self-love. With six visits under her belt, Laura shares magical experiences from people watching in charming cafes to witnessing the Eiffel Tower in all its glory during sunrise. As a major city, Paris ensures safety and offers an abundance of activities for solo travelers.
Istanbul: The Hidden Gem for Solo Exploration
Istanbul might not be an obvious choice, but Laura recently returned from this cosmopolitan gem and was pleasantly surprised by its beauty, safety, and diverse offerings. From the breathtaking scenery to the unique experience of straddling two continents in one day (Asia to Europe), Istanbul provides an unforgettable adventure for solo female travellers.
✨ Join the Conversation: Share Your Destinations!
We invite you to join the conversation by sharing your top solo travel destinations in the comments. What places have captured your heart during solo exploration? Let’s build a community of passionate explorers and inspire each other to embark on new and exciting adventures.
Stay tuned for more exclusive travel insights from House of Coco TV as we continue to redefine the solo travel experience. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Instagram for a front-row seat to the world of wanderlust with Laura Bartlett! 🌟
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway for literary lovers? Lauren Kate Hughes may just have found it in the Warwickshire countryside…
For literary fans, you’d be hard-pushed to find a destination more ideal than picturesque Warwickshire. Billesley Manor Hotel and Spa, nestled in the countryside of this charming county, offers a grand country house retreat that is steeped in history, with Shakespeare’s Stratford-Upon-Avon just three miles away.
The hotel itself has all the hallmarks of a romantic period manor house with its sprawling grounds that feature an 11th-century church and an ornate topiary garden inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. It’s a particularly cosy place to go in the winter – wrap up warm and explore the grounds, safe in the knowledge of the cosy interiors that await back at the hotel.
Inside, the architecture stays true to its Tudor roots with original features and wood panelling. The elegant restaurant has retained its old-world charm; dining here feels like stepping back in time. It’s a refreshingly authentic property; Shakespeare wrote As You Like It on the premises and is thought to have married Anne Hathaway in the adjoining All Saints Church.
We visited Billesley Manor and Spa on a wintery weekend. Approaching the grand driveway, the impressive manor house looked warm and inviting, with twinkling lights adorning the trees outside. On our arrival, the welcome was just as warm, with friendly front-of-house staff who made us feel at home.
Now at this point, you may think that Billesley Manor is a tad… old-fashioned, but it’s quite the opposite. The property has had a lavish £5.6 million refurbishment, adding luxury touches to this 16th-century hotel.
It’s old-world charm meets top-notch amenities, complete with a relaxing spa area where guests can unwind after a long day’s sightseeing. We lazed by the pool reading idly and excitedly chatting about our evening of theatre ahead – the perfect place to unwind.
A visit to the Stuart restaurant should be on your list for a mini-break at Billesley Manor and Spa, with its impeccably presented dishes and friendly service. I sampled the cured salmon, which came adorned with edible flowers, followed by crispy trout on a bed of creamy mushrooms and fresh greens.
The parmesan potatoes also deserve a moment of appreciation. Afterwards, the snug-like bar is the perfect place to enjoy a nightcap. billesleymanor.com
What to do
Watch a play at the Royal Shakespeare Company
At the top of the list is a visit to the Royal Shakespeare Company, where you can watch a play in one of the country’s most iconic theatres. We braved the rain and ventured into Stratford-Upon-Avon, where the historic theatre takes pride of place in the centre of the bustling town. The beauty of Stratford is that it’s so small it’s easy to get around on foot, so you can walk from several charming pubs and restaurants to the theatre.
We were lucky enough to catch Cowbois in the Swan Theatre, which provided a raucous and surprising evening with its contemporary take on a western from Charlie Josephine. The play depicts a saloon bar in an isolated town, populated with only women (along with the town sheriff) whose husbands joined a gold rush months earlier and haven’t been heard from since.
Then Jack arrives, a handsome outlaw looking for refuge who subverts gender norms, and turns things on their head, making the townspeople question notions around their own identities. Fuelled by strong performances and some great vocal talent, it was a highly enjoyable evening.
Forthcoming shows in Stratford-Upon-Avon include the classic Shakespearean comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Ben and Imo, a powerful new historical play.
The Royal Shakespeare Company also offers shows in London at the iconic Barbican Theatre. Current productions in London include My Neighbour Totoro and Hamnet. You can find out more on the Royal Shakespeare Company website.
Enjoy Stratford’s classic pubs
You know the kind of quintessential British pubs you long for in a world of chain pubs, with roaring fires and friendly faces behind the bar? Stratford-Upon-Avon has them in abundance. Perhaps the most iconic is the Dirty Duck, situated right next to the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre, the walls are adorned with pictures of the actors who’ve performed at the theatre over the years.
The One Elm offers warming pub classics in a cosy setting; the perfect place to enjoy dinner before a show. If you fancy a spot by the river, Cox’s Yard is a lovely spot to watch the swans glide by.
Take a walk from Stratford to Shottery
The walk from Stratford to Shottery, the small village where Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is the focal point, offers quaint countryside views peppered with thatched roof cottages and pretty pubs. Take the walk along Scholars Lane and then follow the path across to Shottery. The whole circuit only takes an hour so it’s an ideal morning stroll.
In our latest House of Coco TV episode, Laura Bartlett, our fearless founder, shares her top 5 tips for solo female travelers. Drawing from her extensive globetrotting experiences, Laura’s insights aim to empower and guide those venturing into the liberating world of solo travel.
🎥 Insights from the Episode:
Safety First: Reflecting on Home Habits
Prioritize safety by applying the same common-sense principles abroad as you would at home. If it’s not something you’d do in your hometown, reconsider it in a foreign setting. Putting safety first ensures a secure and enjoyable solo travel experience.
Share Your Whereabouts: Stay Connected
Always let someone know where you are! Drop a pin or share your location with a friend to ensure someone is aware of your whereabouts. This simple yet effective tip adds an extra layer of security to solo adventures.
Solo Staycation: A Gentle Push Outside Your Comfort Zone
For first-time solo travellers, consider trying a staycation in a local hotel. This provides a gentle push outside your comfort zone, allowing you to acclimate to solo travel while still enjoying the familiarity of a local setting.
Confidence Over Others’ Opinions: Embrace Your Independence
Don’t worry about what others think. Traveling alone may create a feeling of being observed, but most people are likely admiring your confidence. Embrace independence without letting external perceptions hold you back.
Always Be Prepared: Travel with a Portable Charger
Stay connected wherever your solo adventures take you by carrying a portable charger. Ensure a flat phone battery doesn’t hinder your plans, and stay prepared for any situation.
✨ The Liberating Essence of Solo Travel
Laura concludes by highlighting the liberating nature of solo travel. Despite safety concerns, fear, or lack of confidence, traveling solo is a transformative and soul-enriching experience. We encourage you to embrace the opportunity to learn more about yourself and explore the diverse flavours the world has to offer.
👀 Stay Tuned for More: Top Destinations for Solo Travellers
In the upcoming House of Coco TV episode, we will delve into the top destinations for solo travellers. Don’t miss the chance to discover the next exciting adventure as House of Coco TV continues to redefine the solo travel experience. Stay tuned!
Our adventure traveller and face-your-fears ambassador, Penny Lee Brown, finally faced her fears of the sea in gloriously relaxing Costa Rica. After many failed attempts at surfing in storm-battered Blighty, all it really took was one onsetting panic attack, a group of caring souls with good vibes, and a micro-dose of Pura Vida to get her up and smiling.
Micro-dosing Pura Vida Helped Me Surf, by Penny Lee Brown.
Firstly, “Pura vida” is a Costa Rican saying that encapsulates the essence of a simple, positive, and care free life, literally translated to “pure life” or “simple life,” it embodies a philosophy of embracing joy, gratitude, and optimism.
A couple of years ago, lacking some of the above during a time when life felt like a series of one-day chapters, I wrote an article titled ‘Feel The Fear, Do The Things.’
In that piece, I delved into the importance of facing our fears head-on. However, one fear continued to elude my conquering… the fear of the sea. Not just sharks and faceless sea monsters, I’m referring to the overwhelming sensation of losing control, being battered by waves, and struggling for breath amid the chaos of the surf.
Feel The Fear, Do The Things
Reflecting on the way I’m able to vividly describe the fear, it’s no wonder I hesitated. Those daunting images flew around and around in my mind whenever I thought about trying again.
My fear of the sea doesn’t extend to messing around in the waves, swimming a fair bit out, but enough that if something were to graze my leg I could quickly swim, screaming, back to shore (unless the monster eats me, of course).
Well… if you’ve got this far, dear reader, I sense you’re invested in finding out if I did it or not.
So, here’s the great news, I eventually confronted that fear!
It wasn’t easy. Salty tears were shed into saltier sea, on the beach, and onto the shoulders of the beautiful empathetic souls that were with me, with an impending panic attack lurking. Already struggling to breathe I didn’t think I could. But, I did it!
Costa Rica deserves the credit, specifically the renowned Santa Teresa Beach. The tranquil ambiance of our address for the week, Nantipa- A Tico Beach Experience, and the infectious energy from my surf instructor, Pablo (legend) played pivotal roles in this triumphant moment.
Nestled on the captivating Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa emerges as the ultimate haven for wave enthusiasts, drawing surf aficionados from around the world. Maintaining a sweet little hippy vibe, this Pacific gem caters to both novices and seasoned pros, offering pristine sandy stretches at Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen, ideal canvases for whatever your surf day looks like.
For the laid back maestros, the nearby breaks of Mal País and Mar Azul are your playgrounds, offering challenging waves that dance to their own mesmerising rhythm. Amidst the rhythmic crashes, Santa Teresa encapsulates the spirit of Pura Vida living, where every swell is the start of a good story, and every ride becomes a sun-soaked adventure.
If you’re going to do it, my advice would be to make sure your instructor knows you’re scared. Tell them what you’re scared of and they’ll make you feel at ease. Actually, I’m not even sure if all instructors would, but I wholeheartedly recommend that if you’re on a trip to Costa Rica in 2024, put your trust in the instructors organised by Nantipa.
In fact, go ahead and just book your stay at Nantipa to live the dream for a few days. The villas and bungalows are nothing short of stunning, providing a private oasis with stylish decor that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings. It felt like living in a Pinterest board, complete with dreamy sunsets and the soothing melody of waves just outside the window.
Nantipa’s beachfront, a sandy strip right outside your door, invites you to relax on the beds with a book, test the cocktails (purely for research purposes, of course), or stroll along the shoreline looking beautiful. The beachfront service is impeccable, allowing you to chill in a hammock and soak in the Pura Vida vibes.
After a day of surfing, horse-riding, shopping, or pretending-not-to-be-scared-of-the-sea-for-a-casual-swim, Nantipa offers the ultimate Costa Rican beach luxury with the guilt-free environmentally friendly ethos.
And yes, my dreams came true when I stood up on that surfboard! After tears, panic, and a stern pep talk, I did it. At the wave’s end, I jumped off, threw my arms into the air, and screamed with a mix of laughter and tears—finally conquering that lingering fear.
Just like my tears, the fear was but a drop in the ocean compared to the pride and joy I felt (still feel) for doing that.
Thank you, Nantipa, you absolute babe.
Hotel Nantipa (prices approx, conversion rate as of Jan ’24)
Nanku Suite – from £312 per night including breakfast
Manti Bungalow – from £355 per night including breakfast
Ninta Beachfront Bungalow – from £411 per night including breakfast
3-bedroom Beachfront Villa – from £1,263 per night
If you haven’t heard of renowned Colombian chef, Juan Manuel Barrientos, you will very soon. He is affectionately known as ‘Juanma’ by locals and at the very young age of 40 is already the founder of a hospitality group that includes restaurants and hotel across the Americas. He was named one of the 50 best chefs in Latin America and there is no doubt you will see his empire extending into Europe in the not-too-distant future.
His original restaurant is based in Medellín. It is now situated inside his boutique El Cielo Hotel. You can appreciate his popularity with a visit to his fabulously inventive restaurant there. With an open kitchen, you can see all the staff in action. They are all dressed in white lab coats with hair nets and meticulously beavering away at their workstations. You can be excused for thinking you’ve walked into the world of Willy Wonka and his chocolate factory.
Their tasting menu includes more than 15 courses or ‘moments’ as they like to call them in the restaurant. They like to create a sense of mystery with their menu. If you look online, you’ll find a long list of mostly single words, which don’t describe the ingredients of the dish. They are in fact, different regions of Colombia and your gastronomic journey at El Cielo is a whirlwind tour of the different regions of the country. What is important to note is this tasting menu is only available at the Medellín branch. If you visit their Michelin-starred restaurants in Miami or Washington DC, only some of the highlights might be on their menu.
The moments are designed to stimulate your senses. The restaurant is well-known for its choco-therapy, so for one course, you’ll be crushing a chocolate truffle ball with your hands. Then you will be enjoying the delights without the use of cutlery. It will bring back innocent childhood memories when dining was less rigid and formal.
This is also the case for another course, where diners are offered edible balloons with helium inside. That is the cue for a chorus of Donald Duck voices reverberating around the restaurant. What makes their concept so successful is they take the seriousness out of fine dining and with every course, they bring a heartfelt smile to everyone’s faces.
Although not advertised on their website, they do cater for dietary requirements. They can readily prep for a vegetarian version of the tasting menu. For example, when they present locally cured charcuterie, they can offer smoked peppers instead.
Dishes are nevertheless always exquisitely presented. The “tree of life” is a case in point, it’s a crunchy canopy of yucca bread presented in a tree trunk structure that made it resemble a bonsai tree.
You might have thought the “tree of life” would represent the Amazonas course. Instead, it is the fish course that contained arapaima. It is the largest freshwater fish in the world and is found in the Amazon River. The dish is presented with burning charcoal and you do wonder whether it is intentional to represent the long-suffering rainforest. The Arapaima has a rather firm texture reminiscent of cod. Another seafood course is the Cartagena-inspired sausage course that is made with crab meat and white fish.
If you are a meat lover, your main course will be paradise. It’s a confit duck served with a peach sauce along with a duck reduction sauce. It’s a surprise you see a lot of menus offering duck and orange but rarely see duck and peach paired together.
The meal is also interactive. For one of the dessert courses, you are a paleontologist looking for an ammonite, as you brush away the edible powder to reveal your dessert. History is never far away from your experience. With the petit fours, it is presented alongside a replica of the Muisca raft, which is the most famous artefact from the Gold Museum in Bogota.
Coffee is an integral part of the Colombian dining experience. The cafetal course includes the use of liquid nitrogen before your coffee is served to resemble the misty conditions of the coffee-growing regions of Colombia.
Throughout the meal, the kitchen excels in showing its mastery of molecular gastronomy. The full experience generally takes at least 3 hours, so make sure you plan either a full afternoon or evening for your meal. ‘El Cielo’ means heaven in Spanish and you will be in gastronomic heaven by the end of your meal.
For more information on the restaurant, please visit –
There’s something absolutely magical about a girl’s trip. Going out somewhere special with your favorite ladies where you can dress up, head out onto the down, and enjoy all the best about being a woman, is something to celebrate! Of course, as we get older, planning a big group trip just gets harder. Your friends may be in different income brackets, and you may have scheduling conflicts, and the like. To help you ease your way through all those challenges like a pro, however, all you need is this guide:
· Consider Booking a Condo All Together
One of the best ways to boost your trip experience and, in many cases, save money is to skip the individual or doubled-up hotel rooms and pool your money together for a villa or condo. Maui vacation rentals can work out significantly cheaper for the group if you all stay in the same place, without sacrificing one bit of luxury.
Not only will you save money, but getting ready will immediately be so much more fun. You can also start your day with a delicious homemade breakfast and coffee from your condo’s kitchen, and then enjoy it out on the balcony with your best friends.
That kitchen will come in handy if you want to have aperitifs, pre-drinks, or other pre-party fun before you head out for a day at the beach or a night on the town.
· Make Time for a Spa Day
No girl’s trip is complete without some sort of spa day. While a massage or manicure is always welcome, if you want to stick together, you’ll actually be better off just using the spa facilities at a hotel. You can usually get a day pass even if you aren’t guests, so you have your pick of the litter. This way, you can swim, enjoy the saunas, do hot/cold therapy, and just relax poolside in a luxury stay, at a fraction of the cost.
· How to Take Your Beach Experience to the Next Level
At least one beach day is essential when you go to Hawaii. In fact, you may find that beach-hopping is a highlight during your trip. Rather than just finding a spot in the sand and working on your tan, take your day to the next level. You can sign up for surfing lessons, participate in a volleyball tournament, rent jet skis, and more. If you aren’t too keen on spending your time directly on the sand, you may be able to rent a small boat to explore the coast on your own.
· See Something Magical Together
Hawaii, for many, is all about the luxury island experience, but some of the best experiences you can have in Hawaii require a little work. That’s why you should consider going on a trek or taking a tour to see some of Hawaii’s magical destinations. This may be going to a hidden waterfall, seeing sunrise at the summit of one of the volcanoes, or getting up close to a live volcano. These adventures are great for girl’s trips, since they’re fun and adventurous, and you can get some pretty spectacular photos while you’re at it.
As you gear up for your much-anticipated vacation in 2024, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of choosing destinations and packing your bags. However, amidst all the planning and anticipation, one essential aspect often gets overlooked: travel insurance.
Beyond this crucial step, there are several other holiday essentials that can help ensure a smooth and memorable vacation. In this article, we’ll explore why travel insurance should be your first consideration and then delve into a list of vacation must-haves to make your 2024 trip truly unforgettable.
The Benefits of Travel Insurance
Before we dive into other essential items for your vacation, let’s emphasize the importance of travel insurance. While it may not be the most glamorous part of trip planning, it is undoubtedly the most practical and responsible one. Here’s why:
Financial Protection: One of the main benefits of travel insurance is the financial security it provides in case of unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies. It can cover non-refundable expenses and medical bills, saving you from significant financial losses.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have comprehensive travel insurance in place can alleviate stress and anxiety. Whether it’s a missed flight connection or a sudden illness, you can relax, knowing that you’re covered.
Emergency Assistance: Travel insurance often includes access to a 24/7 helpline for emergencies. Whether you need medical advice or assistance with lost documents, help is just a phone call away.
Trip Interruption Coverage: If your vacation is cut short due to unexpected events like a family emergency or natural disaster, travel insurance can reimburse you for the unused portion of your trip.
Coverage for Personal Belongings: In case your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged, travel insurance can cover the cost of replacing your belongings, ensuring your vacation continues without major disruptions.
Now that we’ve emphasized the importance of travel insurance let’s move on to the other holiday essentials that will enhance your 2024 vacation experience.
Travel-Friendly Backpack
Investing in a quality travel backpack is a smart choice. It’s versatile, lightweight, and designed for easy access to your essentials. Look for a backpack with secure compartments for your passport, wallet, water bottle, and other essentials. With this handy companion, you’ll be ready for any adventure that comes your way.
Universal Power Adapter
In a world where electronic devices are essential travel companions, a universal power adapter is a must. It ensures that you can charge your phone, camera, and other gadgets no matter where you are in the world. Make sure to choose one with multiple USB ports to keep all your devices powered up simultaneously.
Portable First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere. Packing a compact first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications is a wise precaution. It can be a lifesaver in minor medical emergencies and provide peace of mind during your travels.
Lightweight Rain Jacket
Weather can be unpredictable, and you don’t want rain to ruin your plans. A lightweight, waterproof rain jacket that can easily fit into your backpack ensures you stay dry and comfortable while exploring new destinations.
Travel-Sized Toiletries
Opt for travel-sized toiletries to save space and weight in your luggage. Many brands offer mini versions of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and toothpaste, making it easy to maintain your hygiene routines while on the go.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Long flights, noisy accommodations, and bustling city streets can be overwhelming. Noise-canceling headphones provide an oasis of tranquility, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation to the fullest. They’re particularly useful for reducing airplane cabin noise, making your journey more comfortable.
Travel Pillow and Eye Mask
Comfort during travel is essential for feeling refreshed upon arrival. A travel pillow and eye mask are valuable companions for long flights or bus rides. They ensure you can catch up on sleep, arriving at your destination feeling well-rested and ready to explore.
Travel Documents Organizer
Keep all your important documents, such as passports, visas, boarding passes, and travel insurance details, organized in a dedicated travel documents organizer. This will help you avoid frantic searches and ensure smooth transitions through airports and border control.
Multi-Purpose Travel Towel
A compact, quick-drying travel towel can be a game-changer. Whether you’re hitting the beach or need a clean towel after a spontaneous swim, this versatile accessory will prove its worth time and again.
Local Currency and Cash Card
While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some local currency as well. Having a cash card with a small amount of money loaded can be helpful in places with limited card payment options.
In conclusion, as you plan your vacation for 2024, make sure to prioritize the purchase of travel insurance, recognizing the many benefits it offers in terms of financial protection, peace of mind, and emergency assistance.
Additionally, packing these essential items can significantly enhance your travel experience, ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience throughout your journey. With these holiday essentials in tow, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure in the year ahead.
