Posts Tagged ‘agent’
Christmas and New Year 2024/25
From everyone at Osprey Holidays, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! If you wish to get in touch please contact us on 0131 243 8098 and find our festive opening hours below:
Amy & Nicki visit the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival came to a final close on the 25th August, an international event held across the month of August where music and the arts are celebrated. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is held during the Fringe festival and encompasses the best of military talent, alongside performances from an international cast.
Our Short Break Specialists Amy and Nicki were lucky enough to attend and they had an absolute blast!
Amy – “What a way to bring in the Edinburgh Fringe this year! As a local, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo isn’t something that I knew much about or felt the need to see. However, my mind has changed completely, I absolutely loved the whole experience! It’s a show for everybody with beautiful dancing, classic songs and of course the exceptional performances from the Military Forces. It really is something completely unique. I don’t know if it’s the sound of the bagpipes that got to me, but I felt very proud of my city for showcasing something so special. If you have the fortune of coming to Edinburgh during August, you must see the Tattoo!”
Being an Edinburgh based company, we couldn’t be prouder of our home town. The Tattoo truly is spectacular and we would recommend it to anyone visiting our magical city. This year we were delighted to assist so many of our clients in creating lasting memories in Edinburgh and securing them seats at this unforgettable show.
Nicki – “If you’re lucky enough to visit Edinburgh in August, you must include a trip to the Royal Military Tattoo. The show is set against the impressive backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, with performers from around the world coming together to create an awe-inspiring extravaganza. The 2024 theme was ‘journeys’ – taking you through the different centuries and decades with stunning performances from bagpipers, dancers and soldiers. The Swiss Guards are always the highlight as they bang their drums with such precision. The Lone Piper on top of the Castle is the perfect conclusion to a spectacular night.”
Next year is the 75th anniversary, and we’re looking forward to helping our clients create some more amazing festival memories! Tickets aren’t on sale just yet, but if you’re interested in attending next year’s show let us know on 0131 243 8098 or email [email protected] and we’ll take note of your interest and notify you when tickets become available.
If you’re interested in a trip to Edinburgh, give the team a call on 0131 243 8098 or send us an email.
Our Fabrewlous Winner – Hollie!
Congratulations to Hollie from Spa Travel in Wetherby!
After making a booking with Osprey Holidays over June/July and entering via email, Hollie’s entry was chosen at random. She has won herself a new Nespresso Gran Lattissima coffee machine from everyone here at Osprey Holidays!
Hollie: “thank you so so much, can’t wait to get home and start using it – one of the best parts of my day is my morning coffee so what a treat and perfect gift for me this is!”
At Osprey Holidays our agent partnerships are incredibly important to us and we always aim to provide you with exceptional service, expert knowledge, and full flexibility.
Our caffeinators competition was run for all of our UK travel agents who made a booking over June and July. We would like to thank everybody for their bookings and entries!
Keep an eye out for exciting new special offers and check out our current incentives including our free Lisbon walking tour and August special offers.
FREE Lisbon Walking Tour with Every Lisbon Booking
Our Short Break Specialist Nicki had a fantastic time on her FAM trip to Lisbon. To read more about her visit, head to our blog and find out what she got up to! In celebration of this amazing city, we are offering a FREE Best of Lisbon Guided Walking Tour for every booking made in August and September.
Famous for its vibrancy and unique blend of rich history, Lisbon has many a charming street to explore with stunning architecture and picturesque viewpoints. For the foodies out there, it’s a feast for the eyes with a culinary scene offering everything from pastéis de nata to succulent fresh seafood.
Take a look at our Lisbon properties, carefully selected by the Osprey team to ensure we provide only the best quality accommodation.
All bookings made must include a minimum of flights and accommodation with a minimum stay of 2 nights.
Terms and Conditions
- The offer is applicable to any new Lisbon bookings confirmed between 1st August 2024 – 30th September 2024.
- The booking must include a minimum of flights and accommodation.
- The booking must be a minimum stay of 2 nights.
- The tour must be requested at the time of booking and is subject to availability. We will inform you prior to booking if the tour is not available on your selected dates.
- The tour is non-transferable and non-refundable, and resale is prohibited.
- In the unlikely event that the tour needs to be cancelled by a local supplier, no refund shall be given.
- The tour is complimentary and non-commissionable.
- The offer is open to all agents working within the UK travel industry and direct clients.
- In addition to these terms, Osprey Holidays Terms and Conditions apply.
Living It Up In Lisbon
Day 1
I was recently invited by the Portuguese Tourist Board to visit Lisbon for a 3 day showcase exploring the city and meeting various suppliers alongside other travel professionals from Europe and North America. It was my first time in Portugal and I was excited to visit one of Europe’s most picturesque capitals!
After a smooth 3 hour flight I arrived into Lisbon and after a quick transfer, got to the 5* Montebelo Vista Alegre Chiado Hotel, a centrally located boutique hotel in the Chiado District. I arrived a few days earlier and had the opportunity to visit our hotels first hand and see why Lisbon is so popular.
Lisbon is so small and easy to navigate but flat shoes are essential for the infamous 7 hills and cobbles! I headed up to the main boulevard – Avenida da Liberdade where most of our hotels are situated. The popular Lisboa Plaza and Heritage Avenida Liberdade were both beautiful boutique hotels and centrally located. The stunning 5* H10 One Palacio da Anunciada – a beautiful restored 16th Century Palace set in the Baixa District and the historic Avenida Palace Hotel were a great introduction to my first day.
My evening was spent by the River Tagus enjoying a local meal – Bacalhau – dried salted cod served with potatoes washed down with a lovely local wine.
Day 2
After a huge breakfast of fresh fruit and eggs benedict I headed out for a full day of hotel visits. Walking up the Avenida da Liberdade, you couldn’t help be enticed by all the designer shops located off both sides of the leafy promenade. Lisbon is renowned for revered art and trending fashion and the city didn’t disappoint.
It was a day of contrasts visiting the 4* H10 Duque de Loule, a beautiful boutique hotel with a carefully preserved 18th century façade. The Marques de Pombal, a majestic traditional hotel located on the Avenida da Liberdade was a delight as well.
After an espresso and a Pastel De Nata (a famous Portuguese custard tart), I set off to see some more of our 3 and 4* properties. The 3* 7 Hotel is a popular and great-value hotel in the Baixa District. The Browns Hotel Group has a stunning collection of boutique hotels all centrally located nearby the Santa Justa Elevator. Browns Central is a beautiful 4* property with each room individually designed. Browns Boutique Hotel – a 3* property and book lovers paradise – with many coffee table books to enjoy. Browns Downtown is a beautiful 3-star hotel ideally situated only 150 metres from Lisbon’s popular MUDE Design and Fashion Museum.
That evening I met the rest of the Fam Group and we all enjoyed a beautiful meal organised by our hotel and met our hosts from the Tourist Board.
Day 3
We were taken to the beautiful Palacio Conde D’obidos for a morning of presentations at the Showcase Meeting. We met various hotel and tour suppliers and enjoyed a beautiful buffet lunch overlooking the River Tagus. It was great to meet some of our trade suppliers and make new connections. We had a few hours to explore after the meeting and we headed up to the Belem District to see the imposing Jeronimos Monastery and to enjoy the varied street entertainment nearby.
That evening we were treated to a traditional Portuguese meal of sardines and cod fish in the historical Alfama area – Lisbon’s oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood. Afterwards we listened to some fados music at St Georges Castle – Traditional Portuguese songs, also known as Fado, which speaks of life, struggle and passion. The genre originated in Portugal in the early 1800’s.
Day 4
Just 30 minutes away from Lisbon you find Mafra, Sintra and Cascais. Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Cascais is a picturesque old fishing village with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. We visited Mafra National Palace Convent – designed in Baroque style, it covers an area of 38,000m2 with 1200 rooms, 4700 doors and windows and 156 staircases. We then continued onto Sintra. It’s the perfect fusion between natural richness and magnificence of its monuments, a passionate town that has inspired artiest and writers world over.
After a delicious lunch at the Café Paris in Sintra we headed off to Cabo Da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe’s mainland for stunning views across the ocean. Returning to Lisboa, we visited Cascais and Estoril, two popular beachside resorts which are often popular for a twin-centre holiday. That evening we had a farewell dinner at the amazing Cervejaria Trindade restaurant and reflected on our amazing time spent here in Portugal.
Day 5
As my return flight wasn’t until the evening I went along to enjoy the City Highlights Guided Walking Tour.
We explored the tight cobbled lanes of Lisbon’s atmospheric Alfama quarter, admired the architecture of the Baixa district and strolled through the elegant Chiado neighbourhood. We also passed notable landmarks, such as Rossio Square, Lisbon Cathedral and the Elevador de Santa Justa and enjoyed views across Lisbon and the Tagus River. This was a great 3 hour tour and I would highly recommend it!
After a later lunch I explored Feira da Ladra, Lisbon’s flea market held beside the impressive Santa Engracia church boasting a great variety of clothes and trinket stalls. After an afternoon of shopping and more exploring it was time to head to the airport for my flight back to Edinburgh.
Lisbon did not disappoint. It was an amazing city rich in culture, history, art, fashion and fabulous food and drink. Alongside great hospitality it was a perfect mix and a city to enjoy and definitely revisit.
To find out more about Nicki’s visit to Lisbon or if you’re interested in a similar trip,
give the team a call on 0131 243 8098 or send us an email.
Win a Luxury Nespresso Coffee Machine
Osprey Holidays are giving one lucky coffee lover the chance to win a luxury NESPRESSO Gran Lattissima Coffee Machine, worth over £350. This fantastic coffee maker will give you a real taste of Italy from the comfort of your own home (or the workplace, if you feel generous enough to share!).
How to Enter
To be entered into the prize draw, all you need to do is make a booking with us over June/July and email Marketing with your booking reference. For every booking made with us, agents will receive 1 entry – the more bookings you make, the more entries you will receive! Any Italian booking made will receive a double entry.
Send your booking reference number in an email titled ‘Win Coffee Machine’ to [email protected] by Saturday 27th July. All bookings made between Monday 17th June and Saturday 27th July will qualify and be in with the chance of winning.
Good Luck!
T&C’s
- The competition is open to all agents working within the UK travel industry.
- The winner will be selected by random from all qualifying entries within 7 days of the closing date.
- The winner must agree to participate in any publicity required with competition and prize. Osprey Holidays have the right to use the winner’s names, images and personal details for advertising and promotional purposes in connection with the prize in all chosen media without notice and without the need to make payment to the winner for such.
- The prize will be chosen by Osprey Holidays and is subject to availability. An equivalent prize of similar model will be sourced if the prize specified is not available. The prize is not transferable, negotiable or redeemable in cash.
Amy’s Adventure in Belfast & Derry
I was lucky enough to be invited on a FAM trip hosted by Tourism Ireland and what an adventure it was!
Day 1:
I arrived at Belfast City Airport where I was met by a transfer to take me straight to the Titanic Museum. I wandered back into the past and learned about the industrial city in the late 19th Century, the lives lost during its construction and when the ship was fatally hit by the iceberg. It was a very moving experience, one I didn’t expect to feel quite so affected by, but when faced with the list of survivors compared to those lost, I would be surprised if anyone didn’t at least have a lump in their throat.
Afterwards, we headed up to the city of Derry/Londonderry to meet with the rest of the group and had a beautiful lunch at the Stitch & Weave restaurant, located in the newly renovated Ebrington Square. There are lots of exciting new things coming to this part of Derry which should continue to bring what was an old army barracks to life, whilst preserving it’s importance to Derry’s history.
We took a walk across The Peace Bridge and headed to The Tower Museum, spending some time at the ‘Derry Girls’ Exhibition and seeing the iconic Spice Girls costumes that made the show what it was! Definitely worth a visit!
From there we met with a real life ‘Derry Girl’, Charlene from Martin McCrossan Tours who took us on a walking tour of Derry’s city walls, talking so passionately about her heritage and painting a clear picture of what the city was like during the troubles. She was also a fan of Derry Girls so made many references to different filming locations which made the tour even better!
We stayed in the beautiful Ebrington Square Hotel and Spa, a new luxury spa hotel. This is definitely going to be a firm favourite with the tourists this year, it’s in an excellent location with lovely restaurants within short walking distance accompanied by views of the River Foyle.
After a quick freshen up we headed to the Walled City Brewery for Dinner and Beer sampling. All beer is themed around the city and its culture which adds that extra touch of charm to the experience.
Myself and a few others headed across The Peace Bridge to The City Hotel for a drinks reception, followed by some live music at Derry’s most iconic pub Peadar O’Donnells and it did not disappoint! The Guinness was flowing and the atmosphere was certainly welcoming, you would expect nothing less!
Day 2:
It was another early start for me as we headed down to the Bogside to visit the new Peacemakers Museum, opening in approximately July/August 2024 which takes you on a journey from the start of The Troubles and the long journey to peace in Derry. I can’t wait to go back and visit when it officially opens!
Even though the sun wasn’t shining we hopped onboard a speed boat provided by Foyle Adventures and took it for a ride down the River Foyle! It was a brilliant experience, however next time I will make sure I pack my waterproofs as you may just get splashed…
To warm ourselves up we had a lovely lunch at the Bishops Gate Hotel located in the heart of Derry, before setting off to Belfast for the remainder of the trip.
Once we arrived, we met with a tour guide James from DC Tours who showed us around the centre of Belfast. He discussed its history and gave his own experiences of The Troubles which really brought the tour to life. I love to hear about personal experiences especially when it is so hard to imagine life ever being this way in the not so distant past.
We checked in to our hotel for the night, a lovely new hotel centred around sustainability and supporting local businesses which was apparent in every detail. It was right in the centre next to all the shops, bars and restaurants so it certainly ticks all the boxes for location!
We took a short walk to the Home Restaurant in Belfast for dinner, a Michelin star restaurant and the food was absolutely stunning! We couldn’t go to Belfast and not have a drink in the most famous pub there – The Crown! Its décor is so well preserved and it’s really maintained its character and charm for tourists and locals to enjoy for many years to come.
Day 3:
On our final day we headed out on a Street Art Walking Tour of Belfast. This showcased amazing artwork done by locals and artists who have travelled from all over just to make their mark on the city! Here are some of my favourites –
Afterwards we headed to Waterman House Cookery School located in the Cathedral Quarter to learn how to make some of the more traditional dishes Northern Ireland had to offer! I love to cook so this was right up my street! We made Guinness Bread followed by a Seafood Chowder, finishing off with a traditional Irish Lamb Stew and Champ which was gorgeous. Even though I am not a huge seafood fan I really enjoyed the Chowder!
We then said our goodbyes and I hopped back on my short flight to Edinburgh, with the intention of returning very soon!
To find out more about Amy’s visit to Belfast & Derry or if you’re interested in a similar trip,
give the team a call on 0131 243 8098 or send us an email.
Two In One: Shona Explores Paris & Val d’Isere
I was lucky enough to attend a fabulous FAM trip hosted by Experimental Group. Experimental are currently in the midst of an exciting new project building the new Experimental Chalet Val d’Isere, which is due to open at the end of the year. For all ski related enquiries, our sister company, Ski Independence are on hand to help create the perfect ski holiday for your clients.
Day 1
After a smooth flight to Paris Beauvais airport, I hopped on a bus and arrived at Porte Maillot. From there I took the metro to the first hotel I was staying in, Experimental’s Hotel des Grands Boulevards. Wow, what a place! The hotel was marvellous and I was greeted with a warm smile by the friendly reception staff. As I was handed a set of real keys to my room, I already started to feel right at home.
After dropping my bags, I strolled along the beautiful Parisian streets and visited a selection of our fabulous featured hotels:
- 5-star Parister Hotel
- 4-star Hotel Crayon Rouge
- 4-star Hotel Le Milie Rose
Once I had rendezvoused with the rest of the lovely agents in the group, we wandered around and saw some iconic Paris sites and headed back to the hotel to freshen up for dinner at the hotel. The restaurant has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, offering a great selection of dishes and unique cocktails made with ingredients from their very own on-site garden!
Day 2
Off to an early start, we had a fabulous continental breakfast with plenty of pastries and had a tour of the hotel. Afterwards, we were treated to a superb food tour run by Through Eternity Tours, which included wine, French onion soup, galettes, chocolate and a lot of cheese!
Very happy and our bellies full, we took the scenic route back to our next hotel – The Grand Pigalle Hotel, a smaller, yet equally sophisticated slice of Paris. The Grand Pigalle hotel had a classically Parisian feel, with chic bedrooms and an elegant interior. My room had a beautiful balcony, perfect for a coffee and watching the world go by in the mornings.
In the evening, we had dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Frenchie Pigalle, restaurant of the one-starred chef Gregory Marchand. The waiting staff were incredibly professional and knowledgeable, offering a description of each dish we had and the food was just to die for!
Day 3
After a blissful sleep in the comfiest beds, we had another delightful breakfast and were all feeling very excited for the journey ahead to Val d’Isere. Experimental will soon be opening new accommodation in Val d’Isere, which will be replacing the current L’Aigle Des Neiges.
We set off to Gare de Lyon and had a very easy journey to Chambery, before being picked up by our transfer to take us to our next accommodation.
When we arrived, snow was gently falling down around us. The resort of Val d’Isere is stunning, surrounded by cosy looking lodges and picturesque mountain backdrops. We stayed in the Chalet Marco Polo, which was absolutely breathtaking. Kitted out with a swimming pool, hot tub, games room and gym, it was a dream!
As the construction works of the new accommodation are still ongoing, we were taken on a tour of the showroom, which was mocked up to replicate one of the rooms at Experimental Chalet Val d’Isere. Equipped with hard hats and welly boots, we visualized what the accommodation will look like.
We were given a presentation from the Val d’Isere Tourist Office and afterwards treated to a mixology class by one of Experimental’s specialist mixologists. We had a private dinner which consisted of a spectacular 3-course meal, which was also to die for!
If you want to find out more about ski holidays with Ski Independence, visit our dedicated travel agent pages here. If you’re already registered with Osprey, that means you’re also registered with Ski Independence, and you can enquire today.
Day 4
After a wonderful breakfast with views of the mountains and gently falling snowflakes, we set off on our final activity – snowshoeing. I had never done this before and it was a great opportunity to get on the slopes and see the Alps in all their glory!
Sadly it was time to say goodbye, and after an incredible 4 days we packed our bags and headed to Geneva airport. The entire experience was the perfect mix of city sightseeing with a glorious alpine setting, and a fair few laughs along the way!
‘Til we meet again!
To find out more about Shona’s trip to Paris & Val d’Isere or if you’re interested in a similar trip,
give the team a call on 0131 243 8098 or send us an email.
Daria Visits Venice
I was lucky enough to explore the iconic city of Venice and meet some of our lovely new and existing partners. I arrived at Venice Marco Polo Airport early in the morning and took a bus no. 5 to Piazzale Roma and then a Vaporetto (water bus) no. 2 to San Marco. This is the quickest way to get to Venice by public transport, but I’d recommend taking an Alilaguna water bus (blue line) instead. It takes slightly longer, but it’s a direct water bus from the airport to Venice city centre so it’s much more comfortable, especially if you’re travelling with luggage.
I checked-in at the 4-star Hotel Kette where I was treated to a Superior Room with a Canal View. This elegant hotel is in a perfect location and is just a 5 minute walk from St Mark’s Square. It’s situated on a quiet side street, yet it’s still right in the heart of the city with amazing attractions on your doorstep. The interior is decorated in classic Venetian style with dark wood, Murano glass, marble floor and charming, traditional guest rooms. The hotel staff were incredibly friendly and helpful which made my stay all the more special!
After a quick break, I headed out to visit some of our featured hotels. I have to admit that I was slightly concerned about getting lost in the narrow streets and bridges of Venice… but it’s actually a very easy city to get around! Its a lot smaller than I had thought, so it was super easy to wander around.
On day 1 and 2 of my trip, I visited the following hotels:
- 5-star Baglioni Hotel Luna
- 5-star Hotel Metropole
- 4-star Hotel Kette
- 4-star Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal
- 4-star Hotel Ai Reali
- 4-star Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione
- 4-star Hotel Savoia & Jolanda
- 3-star Unahotels Hotel Ala Venezia
- 3-star Hotel Firenze
- 3-star Hotel Flora
After the site visits on day 2, I treated myself to some mouthwatering gelatos at Gelateria Paolin dal 1760, and it didn’t disappoint! With outdoor seating, it’s perfect for sunbathing and watching the world go by while you enjoy your lunch or gelato.
In the evening, I strolled along the canals to Ponte dell’Accademia bridge and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and watched the sun setting behind the buildings of Venice, it was truly unforgettable.
On day 3, I headed to St Mark’s Square for a guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. A guided tour is a great option to load yourself with historical information you wouldn’t hear otherwise and to bypass the entrance queues. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and informative and the tour itself was absolutely fantastic.
After the tour, I had a tasty lunch by the Grand Canal, then went back to the hotel to collect my luggage and headed back to the airport after a wonderful adventure.
The city is packed full of charm, I really fell in love with it. From its rich history and beautiful architecture to its picturesque bridges and canals at every turn. My best advice would be to just wander…and no matter which street you go down, you’ll always discover something incredible.
To find out more about my visit to Venice or if you’re interested in a similar trip,
give the team a call on 0131 243 8098 or send us an email.
Spring into Amsterdam!
Amsterdam has a unique charm at any time of year, but it really comes into its own during the spring months. Experience the wonderful canals of Amsterdam and vibrant flower markets which colour the entire city!
Amsterdam is an exciting destination brimming with culture, world-class museums and historical gems. On a typical spring day in Amsterdam, tables and chairs appear on the pavements and squares, and the sun glistens off the canals, whilst market stalls overflow with an array of colourful blooms. What’s amazing about this city is that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an intimate boutique hotel such as the Hotel Estherea or a peaceful, family friendly one like the Owl Hotel. This is also true for what’s on offer in Amsterdam – continue reading to find out what you can do in this beautiful city this spring!
Blooming Lovely
From 21 March to 12 May, the Keukenhof Gardens are in full bloom, with 800 varieties of tulips covering over 32 hectares and various themed gardens and sculptures, it’s a sight you can’t miss. Just 30-minutes from Amsterdam, tours to the gardens depart several times each day from the city centre. Our tour package to visit the bulb fields can be added onto any Amsterdam package which includes return transfers and some free time to roam around – a day well spent in Spring!
Cruising Around
No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise where you can truly see local life unfold before you and the fragrance from the springtime flowers trace your journey. Explore this lively city from another perspective and relax as you cruise the UNESCO canal district of merchant’s houses, fascinating façades and historic landmarks.
Quintessentially Dutch
The best way to experience the beauty of spring is to get out into the countryside! Visit some of the Netherland’s most charming villages on the Marken, Volendam & Windmills tour, including the windmill village of Zaanse Schans and perhaps try some Dutch cheese in Volendam. Alternatively visit the miniature town of Madurodam and the famous pottery town of Delft as part of the Grand Holland tour.
Relaxing Outdoors
For relaxing days in Amsterdam take a visit to the magical Vondelpark made up of vast, lush greenery, ponds, footbridges and winding footpaths. On a warm spring day, the park evokes a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll, or how about cycling through on a hired bike like the locals? Your love for Amsterdam will surely blossom with so much to see and do, especially in the springtime.
To find out more about Amsterdam or any of our other 60 destinations call our City Break Specialists on 0131 243 8098 or request a tailor-made itinerary online.
