Author Archives: Philly Baines

Things to know before contacting a travel company

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When it comes to family holidays – especially with teenagers in tow – we often tend to choose destinations fairly close to home. It’s what we’ve always done, it’s what we know, it’s what we’re used to. However, the fateful transition from child to ‘Kevin the teenager’ is a big moment in a parent’s life.

Whilst your kids might not live up to the moody stereotype, the concept of a summer holiday to France, Spain or (heaven forbid) Devon can spark dismay amongst the younger members of your family. Either they’re too old for that kind of trip or their classmates have gone somewhere more ‘cool’ and their expectations are higher than ever. A bit cheeky some may say, but given today’s family options, they may have a point.



How to avoid hidden extra costs on holiday

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The build up to a holiday is incredibly exciting. However, if you don’t have your wits about you, you can be hit with some unexpected costs that really take the shine off all that anticipation. This article aims to empower you to minimise the hit to your wallet of those extra expenses that might pop up in your preparation for travelling. Here are our 9 top things to look out for:



Interview with a Burmese Guide

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Thinking of heading overseas this summer? You’re not alone. Despite the weakened pound, finder.com/uk has forecast that Brits will be taking more than 15 million trips abroad this summer alone. The travel bug might not be diminished in travellers, but there are still concerns over what Brexit has done to the value of the pound. And these aren’t invalid concerns – on average, the pound has fallen by 11.95% across 44 of the 48 countries that Brits travel to, which means you’re likely to be paying a little extra when transferring your pounds over to a foreign currency.



Bali’s best beaches

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With white sand and volcanic black shores, tropical palms, colourful Hindu culture, mouthwatering food and stunning landscapes Bali is a fantastic destination for a holiday. (Not to mention some of the amazing flight deals to be had to boot; it can be a surprisingly economical place to visit!)

Ultimately Bali’s beaches are a key magnet that attracts travellers’ attention worldwide. The question then beckons, which one is the best for you? In this blog, ETG’s very own Bali beach enthusiast, James Wilmshurst, passes on his top suggestions for prospective travellers:



How to plan a family holiday on a budget

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We know expenditure can be really important when travelling as a family (many of us at Experience Travel Group go to Asia with young children ourselves). Whether you face the holiday budget conundrum on an annual basis or, if this is the first time you’re planning an all-out dream holiday to Asia, there are ways to make sure you stay within budget. Let us share a few tricks of the trade with you.



Things to do in Indonesia

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The renowned writer Elizabeth Pisani once said Indonesia is the ‘biggest invisible thing on earth’, and in a way, we think she’s right. Whenever a trip to the country is thought of, it’s most likely Bali springs to mind. Many people don’t even know it’s just one of 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia. There’s so much on offer, so to help inspire you with some ideas, here’s a list by our award-winning travel experts on things to do whilst visiting.



Business Class Flights for Economy prices: BA – a case study

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Business class flights for economy prices are a holy grail in travel. Whilst we can provide a general guide as to how to achieve this, a step-by-step specific case study is always useful. Using British Airways as an example, here we provide 5 steps to getting business class flights for economy prices with the airline. It’s easy once you know how.



Why family adventure holidays are crucial

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Holidays are often described as ‘a luxury.’ However, the reality is that they play a big role in helping us to relax, broaden our minds and to grow as people. Adventure holidays are particularly effective when it comes to overcoming challenges and pushing boundaries – and when you’re doing this together as a family the positive impact is huge.



Why you should take your family abroad on holiday

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The ‘staycation’ has become a trending term when it comes to holidays – staying put over the summer months or choosing a spot that’s a drive away, rather than overseas. There are some benefits to staying within the UK’s shores, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, there’s really nothing like a family holiday overseas when it comes to creating bonds and making memories.



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A travel guide to Himachal Pradesh, India

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Deep, plunging valleys and looming mountain ranges that are breathtaking and heart-stopping all the same, Himachal Pradesh is a heavenly abode that none can forget once visited. Treacherous trekking routes and magical rivers along with quiet monasteries and relaxing resorts, there is so much to explore in Himachal Pradesh that you just can’t get enough of it. Whether it’s exploring quaint hill stations of attempting the impossible through paragliding, here’s a handy guide to take you through the roller coaster that is Himachal Pradesh.



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Liz’s top 5 Sri Lankan family experiences

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Liz Edwards, Associate Editor of the Sunday Times Travel Magazine and AITO travel writer of the year, went to Sri Lanka en famille with Experience Travel Group. We helped her with arrangements, incorporating the highlights with a twist and organising explorations off-the-beaten-path. From whizzing along characterful backstreets in a tuk tuk, to meeting monkeys that call grand Buddhist temples their home, to spotting elephants on safari, here she shares her top 5 experiences she’d recommend to other families.



Tipping guidelines for Indonesia

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Tipping is fairly common practice in tourist hotspots in Indonesia, particularly Bali. Base salaries are often quite low so any tokens of appreciation for service will be gratefully received. You’ll notice tipping is not common amongst local people and is very much an import from western culture. If you feel though people should be rewarded for good service, it’s a nice token of appreciation.



Tipping guidelines for Thailand

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Tipping isn’t common practise in Thailand. If you notice a group of locals, you’ll rather rarely see them tip at a restaurant for example. On the other hand, small tokens of appreciation for top notch service will be much appreciated. You’ll also notice in touristy places that tips are a given and 10% is added to your overall bill, so don’t be too surprised by this.



Is it safe to travel to India in 2017?

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An enchanting country, Vietnam is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, captivating culture and dazzling natural landscapes. Although Vietnam has become a major tourist destination since the late 1990s, there is still a prominent sense of the unknown, which is why we consider it useful to share our intimate knowledge with you and help you stay safe while travelling.



Catching up with Kuching

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Nigel Tisdall, renowned travel writer and photographer, recently visited Kuching with Experience Travel Group. From exploring the riches of nearby Bako National Park, to discovering the English Brooke family’s legacy in Kuching itself, to climbing the lush (albeit steep!) Mt Serumbu, here he recounts his best experiences.



Malaysia’s hidden gem: Suka Suka Homestay

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Co-founder of Experience Travel Group, Tom Armstrong, discovered the hidden riches of Malaysia. On an in-depth research trip, he found some fantastic experiences you could include in your holiday, the Suka Suka Homestay is but one example. Here he reviews his time with Aziz and family, the hosts – I hope you’ll feel inspired.