Travel Diaries

Stepping aboard Explora 1, the flagship vessel of the Explora Journeys fleet, is like entering a world of unparalleled luxury and sophistication. From the moment you cross the gangway, you're enveloped in an atmosphere of modern elegance that sets the tone for an extraordinary voyage. First Impressions: A Grand Welcome The heart of the ship, the impressive central bar, immediately catches your eye. Its striking design and inviting ambiance serve as a focal point, drawing you into the ship's refined look. Suites: Your Home at Sea The Oceanview Terrace suites are a revelation in cruising accommodation. Exceeding all expectations, these luxurious retreats offer: • A spacious bathroom with premium amenities • A walk-in wardrobe for ample storage • A superb king-size bed. • A comfortable living area for relaxation • A private terrace complete with a daybed, table, and chairs It's the little touches that truly elevate the experience. Each suite comes equipped with a Dyson hairdryer, a welcome bottle of champagne, and a fully stocked minibar. Perhaps most impressively, you're assigned a dedicated suite host to ensure every aspect of your stay is perfect. Dining: A Culinary Journey Explora 1 boasts six fantastic dining options, each one offering its own extraordinary culinary journey. First up is the Emporium Marketplace, which totally redefines the classic cruise buffet - where you can enjoy a wide range of fresh, high-quality dishes in a stylish setting. You’ll find everything from sushi to made-to-order pasta, and trust me, the seafood stations are a highlight! If you’re into Asian cuisine, you can’t miss Sakura. This place serves up some seriously tasty pan-Asian dishes, and many say it’s got the best sushi at sea. The lobster pad Thai is a must-try! Overall, dining on Explora 1 is an experience that’s all about enjoying great food in a refined, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or indulging in a multi-course meal, you’re in for a treat! Outdoor Spaces: Luxury Under the Sun The outdoor areas of Explora 1 rival those of high-end hotels. With four distinct pool areas, an indoor pool, and 64 private cabanas, there's a perfect spot for every mood and preference. • The Atoll Pool offers a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere • The Astern Pool & Bar provides a seaside escape with unparalleled views • The indoor pool ensures swimming and relaxation regardless of weather conditions No matter which area you choose, the attentive hosts are always nearby, ready to top up your glass and cater to your every need. The Explora Difference This is the new standard in luxury cruising. It combines the best elements of a boutique resort with the adventure of ocean travel, creating an experience that's truly unique in the world of cruising. From the moment you step onboard to the second you disembark, you're treated to a level of luxury, service, and attention to detail that's simply unmatched. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or new to ocean voyages, Explora Journeys promises an unforgettable experience that will redefine your expectations of luxury cruising.

Are you dreaming of a Mediterranean getaway that blends both luxury and relaxation? Then look no further than Sardinia, an enchanting Italian island boasting pristine beaches, rich culture, untouched nature, and striking scenery. To take you deeper into this captivating destination and uncover what makes it so special, we asked Gary Boyd, from Oasis Portfolio, […] The post Sardinia’s Secret Sanctuaries appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Unlock a hidden world of unparalleled beauty and join us on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Alaska. Nicky Thornton from our Head Office in Lisburn recounts her recent adventure on an Alaskan Cruise in June aboard the luxurious Holland America Koningsdam. From the picturesque city of Vancouver to the awe-inspiring Glacier Bay, […] The post Cruising into the Last Frontier appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Dubai, a destination renowned for its luxury and glamour, has become popular amongst discerning travellers who are seeking a taste of opulence. However, with such a lavish portfolio of holiday options available, the question becomes, how do I choose something different? Well, we have the answer – Atlantis The Royal. Lynn Jamison, the Oasis Travel […] The post Live like royalty at Atlantis The Royal appeared first on Oasis Travel.

If you’re looking for a truly unique and luxurious travel experience, the SeaDream 1 yacht might just be the perfect fit. Our Portfolio Manager Julie-Anne Vaughan recently boarded this lavish vessel for a stunning journey through the Caribbean, where she enjoyed a selection of breath taking and renowned ports, from the pristine beaches of Saint […] The post It’s yachting, not cruising! appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Antarctica, the last unspoiled wilderness on earth, has always captured the imagination of adventurers and explorers. Recently, Mark Davidson from Oasis Portfolio, had the privilege of joining Quark Expeditions’ ‘World Explorer’ on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage to this magnificent continent. Read on as Mark shares his insights, experiences, and reflections from this unforgettable journey. The journey […] The post A Voyage to the Last Frontier: Exploring Antarctica with Oasis Portfolio appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Gary Boyd enjoys an enticing taste of the Dark Continent with specialist tour operator Africa Collection and the excellent Desert & Delta Safaris. There’s nothing quite like starting a holiday on a high note and there are few high points more dramatic or exciting than Victoria Falls. Known by local tribesman as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ (the Smoke […] The post Falling for Africa appeared first on Oasis Travel.

I was first introduced to Silversea on my Honeymoon 15 years ago and have been fortunate enough to sail with them many times since. Having not been on a cruise ship for nearly 2 years, you can imagine my excitement when I was given the opportunity to join a small fam trip onboard Silver Moon […] The post To the Moon and Back: Julie-Anne’s experience onboard Silver Moon appeared first on Oasis Travel.

OASIS PORTFOLIO, the high-end element of Northern Ireland’s largest independent travel agency, Oasis Travel, has been named as the UK’s best luxury travel retail business. Oasis Travel Managing Director Sandra Corkin picked up the award for Luxury Travel Retail Business of the Year at the influential TTG Luxury Travel Awards, a glittering gala occasion held […] The post Oasis Travel’s Portfolio scoops top industry prize appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Angela Taylor from Oasis Travel’s Belfast Howard Street office jets into paradise as guest of Getabed and Turkish Airlines As long-haul destinations have grown in popularity an increasing number of travellers are opting to break their journeys with a swift stop in a mid-way destination. It adds a different dimension to a vacation and, as […] The post Magic Carpet Contrasts, From Istanbul To Mauritius appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Go West, young man! Our wannabe cowboy Gary Boyd got a taste for The Great Outdoors and western adventure when he travelled to the amazing Resort at Paws Up in Montana as guest of Azure Luxury Collection. Stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, Montana is famous for its stunning unspoilt scenery and […] The post Magnificent Montana appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Close your eyes … relax … and think of a paradise island. You’re probably conjuring up an image remarkably like real-life Mauritius. This wonderful Indian Ocean destination, known for its beaches, lagoons and reefs, is the perfect embodiment of fantasy paradise as Mark Davidson from our Howard Street (Belfast) Portfolio Suite recently discovered when he […] The post Paradise Awaits In Mauritius appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Kate Gilliland flew into the US capitol recently to get a taste of life in the fast lane and discovered a surprisingly relaxed vibe in a city that’s now her new favourite American destination. Travelling as guest of British Airways, Blue Insurance and Laser Travel she also discovered the benefits of being well organised in […] The post Washington DC’s Capitol Attractions appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Wish you were here? Of course you do! Sometimes the perfect holiday is all about getting off the beaten track and discovering an idyllic location known only to locals and a well-briefed smattering of travel magazine editors. Sometimes it’s just about having fun. And if fun is on your agenda, then there are few resorts […] The post To Benidorm with Love appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Alison Hamilton joins a star-studded cast at the naming ceremony for the fabulous new MSC Bellissima. When I try to choose some stunning little detail to illustrate the sense of style that permeates the new MSC Bellissima I have to admit I’m stumped. There are so many wonderful facets to this ship, that I just […] The post I name this ship… appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Adventure is on the itinerary for Peter Johnston as he explores the exotic cities of Marrakech and Essaouira as guest of Intrepid Travel. Irresistibly exotic, Morocco has long been a powerful draw for travellers with a taste for adventure. Its cities and resort promise a thrilling contrast to Western life, and the reality more than […] The post Dare to be different appeared first on Oasis Travel.

The world’s most anticipated cruise ship has finally taken to the ocean as the stunning, game-changing, Celebrity Edge sailed graciously into the new home of modern luxury – T25 Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Some of the cruise team at Oasis Travel have already enjoyed the privilege of attending previews and reveals about the amazing […] The post Edging ahead: Sail like a celebrity with ultimate cruising appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Ready to swap the winter blues for the blue skies and seas of the Caribbean? Angela Taylor from our Howard Street branch did just that recently as she visited St Kitts & Nevis as the (very privileged!) guest of Azure Collection … and it was luxury all the way The Caribbean is of course hugely […] The post Pier into Paradise appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Mark Davidson revels in the understated luxury of one of the island’s favourite hotels, the ultra-charming Belmond La Residencia, a jewel of ‘the other Mallorca’. Set in the town of Deià, nestling in the Tramuntana Mountain Range in Western Majorca, Belmond La Residencia has long been a favourite of those who know a thing or two […] The post Magnificent Mallorca appeared first on Oasis Travel.

African adventure beckons for Jennifer Ford from The Portfolio Suite as she visits the southernmost tip of the Dark Continent as a guest of Africa Collection, checking out some stunning hotels and picking up insightful advice for travelers who have The Garden Route of South Africa in their sights. The first thing to think about […] The post From Wine to Wildlife, Gardens to Gastronomy appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Jill McBurney from Oasis Travel in Bangor gets a taste of Dubai as a guest of MSC Cruises and Emirates. When it comes to escapist breaks, Dubai is very much front of mind.  Its great weather guarantee, fantastic hotels, stunning setting and general good value make this exotic destination a firm favourite with all sorts of […] The post Dubai: Where Dramatic Desert Meets Sensational Skylines appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Mark Davidson from Oasis Travel in Howard Street fell under the spell of the magical island of Sardinia when he visited as guest of the superbly stylish Azure Collection. The stunning Costa Smerelda on the northern shores of the enchanting island of Sardinia has long been a favourite destination of the Jet Set and no […] The post Ciao, Sardinia … and Arrivederci! appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Melanie Tomlinson explores the lovely island of Jersey as a guest of Travel Solutions If you love to travel but hate the faff, there are few destinations to match Jersey.  Easy and fast to get to … manageable size to explore … no language barrier … great climate … an island famous for its wonderful […] The post The Cream of the Channel Islands appeared first on Oasis Travel.

Melanie Tomlinson from our Holywood branch hot-foots it to the sun-kissed ‘spice isle’ of Grenada in the Caribbean, travelling with The Inspiring Travel Company and Virgin Atlantic Spice crops have been at the heart of Granada’s culture and economy for more than a hundred years, (the nutmeg even features on the national flag), but these days […] The post Spice it up in Grenada appeared first on Oasis Travel.