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Hong Kong / China trip

My son planned to marry in China and asked me to arrange the trip. The task which involved booking flights, hotels and transfers in Hong Kong and China for 5 people was rather daunting and a friend recommended Lucy Williams from Travel Counsellors. Lucy provided an excellent personalised service and nothing was too much trouble. She handled the booking and arrangements extremely efficiently and was always available to advise and assist. The myTC app was very helpful and the payment system easy to use. Thank you Lucy for your friendly expertise in arranging the trip of a lifetime.

Date of experience : 04 April 2024

Michelle Hyland.

Michelle Hyland. We recently booked and completed a trip to Thailand which Michelle organised for us. The process was easy from planning through to travelling and Michelle was only a WhatsApp away and regularly ensured we were getting on okay with our travels. We will 100% use Michelle again for future big holidays.

Date of experience : 25 February 2024

Highly Recommend Sheila Sparkes to organise your holiday

We were recommended Sheila Sparkes by a friend as we need help with arranging a holiday to Japan in 2025. Sheila made sure she knew exactly what we wanted to get from our holiday and what our expectations were. Sheila came up with a number of options for us to choose from which covered our ultimate wish list and within budget. Sheila has taken all the stress out organising a holiday like this and she definitely knows her stuff. Sheila has kept in contact with us and provided all relevant information and nothing was too much trouble. I will be recommending Sheila to our friends and family.

Date of experience : 27 April 2024

Kay Halton, our personal TA!

Kay Halton has arranged all our holidays for the last few years, and I wouldn’t even consider having our holidays booked by anyone else. Every trip has been one to remember for all the right reasons. She is always happy to go the extra mile to make sure every detail is perfect, and is only ever a call or message away if anything needs changing, adding, etc. A fantastic ambassador for the Travel Councillors company!

Date of experience : 09 September 2023

Claire Calladine helped us book a v special skiing trip

We booked a special skiing holiday to Val Thorens for my 40th birthday via MyTC Claire Calladine who went above and beyond our expectations and thought of every little detail. Claire even organised a complimentary bottle of wine in our room for my birthday which was so thoughtful. Claire was so attentive while we were away and even organised our boarding passes for us. It felt like we had our own personal PA. We will continue to book our future holidays via Claire as she provided 5 star service.

Date of experience : 03 February 2024

I’ve booked a few holidays now with my…

I’ve booked a few holidays now with my travel consultant Emma Glover and she’s been absolutely amazing! Not only has she found us some fab places we haven’t looked at, she’s also been super helpful with the booking process and my slow decision making! We had a bad experience with a big tour company a few years and I would never look back! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her .

Date of experience : 03 May 2024

Our travel counsellor Dawn Broome is…

Our travel counsellor Dawn Broome is amazing she knows our family inside out, she has been booking our holidays for the last 24 years and now is booking for my children and my grandchildren. Dawn is always professional and more than capable, she just knows what we need and want. Dawn is always on hand to help and if and when things get tough she is on hand to sort things out. From a broken foot to an extra trip new adventure.

Thank you Travel Counsellors

Thank you Travel Counsellors, especially Nick Webster. He found us a fabulous hotel where we wanted to go. All the stress is taken away as TC do all the work from booking, airport checking in online and even writing the luggage labels ! I would never book with anyone else again. Get peace of mind if anything should go wrong. TC will sort it quickly and efficiently.

Date of experience : 18 March 2024

Have used Dean McMackin numerous times…

Have used Dean McMackin numerous times in the last 3 years and couldn't recommend enough. Dean took all the usual pre holiday stress away. Dean has recently found us the perfect holiday , within budget and flight times that are ideal. Can't stress enough how helpful Dean has been and how amazing he is at his job!

Thanks Emma Whiteman

Having previously been a firm online booker, Emma Whiteman has booked a few trips for us now and all amazing.. just come back from stunning Sorrento… was a surprise Christmas pressie from my husband and from finding out to the end of the trip everything was amazing! The transfers from the airport were slick and efficient with our driver happily pointing out places of interest. The hotel Emma recommended was just lovely and in a fantastic location. She checked to make sure we were there and all was good and even had a little welcome note from her on arrival. Just the best personal service and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to anyone! Thanks Emma

Date of experience : 25 April 2024

we started going to mandy around 3…

we started going to mandy around 3 years ago now and we wouldnt use anyone else anymore..she works tirelessly to provide you with the holiday you want and she goes above and beyond to make things happen every time..we would avdise anyone and everyone to giveher a go..nothing is too much for her..thank you terry hall.

Date of experience : 05 May 2024

Karen Thornton

Karen is amazing at what she does! I’ve booked several holidays with her and wouldn’t go anywhere else now. She is knowledgeable, friendly and professional and every detail is planned to perfection. I would highly recommend her services.

Date of experience : 13 April 2024

Our travel agent is Trina Crozier

Our travel agent is Trina Crozier. We have booked with her 2 years on a row. Trina makes the whole process run smoothly with no stress. Trina has definitely gone the extra mile. She has answered questions out of hours when she didn't have to. She has also given me advice and information, that I wouldn't even have thought to source. Trina Crozier was recommended to me by a friend. I have also recommended Trina to others. She is a professional at what she does.

Date of experience : 04 May 2024

I have booked many holidays through…

I have booked many holidays through Dean and every single time it has been stress free from the get go. Dean has always gone above and beyond for our family and special occasion holidays. The service is impeccable. I will never book with anyone else. Thank you for all the personal touches, time and work you have put into our holidays. Cannot recommend you enough

Date of experience : 05 November 2023

A Great Garden Trip to Marrakech

A Great Garden Trip to Marrakech! Elliot organised a wonderful group trip for us with an emphasis on visiting the various types of gardens in Marrakech. There was at least one garden I know I wouldn't have found on my own, and having a tour guide/transport arranged really took the stress out of a trip to a new country.

A new era of travel

I’ve used my wonderful TC since 2022 and she goes above and beyond for every holiday that I’ve booked. She is with us every step of the way, from enquiry until the moment we get home. She is passionate and knowledgeable and offers so much more than a high street travel agent ever could. Getting time to know you personally and giving personalised support.

Date of experience : 01 May 2024

Dianne is fab

Dianne is fab! She put all her efforts into creating the most amazing honeymoon to the Maldives and I was blown away with how attentive she was, the amazing contacts and deals she has and just how special our honeymoon was. She’s so personable, no pressure tactics and just puts all her energy into finding exactly what you want.

Date of experience : 15 December 2023

Excellent travel agent

Dianne was great at helping us find the best deal for our holiday. I had specific requirements and Dianne took those on board saving us time and money. She’s so approachable and its been good to find a travel agent who balances friendliness with being skilled and professional.

Date of experience : 16 February 2024

Helene Kirkham - Simply The Best

Helene Kirkham has been our Travel Counsellor for many years. She always goes the extra mile in finding the best deals. Her warm professional friendly approach is exemplary. Quite simply THE BEST!!!

Date of experience : 29 April 2024

Lindsay Garner Top TCMy Travel Counsellor Lindsay Garner is…

My Travel Counsellor Lindsay Garner is just amazing. Nothing is too much trouble, all my recent trips to Europe have been smooth as silk. I felt she is travelling with me to ensure I reach my destinations. Rolls Royce service from a top class TC. Wouldn't use anyone else now.

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• United Arab Emirates

Enjoy an extraordinary Mediterranean trip

Choosing between Mykonos, Crete, and Zante for an authentic Mediterranean getaway is a delightful dilemma, especially when the Exclusive Collection by Louis Hotels elevates the decision-making process with its stunning selection of five-star getaways in Greece. To help in your search for unparalleled luxury, we've highlighted some of our top picks that promise an experience nothing short of extraordinary.

Mykonos Theoxenia

Drenched in history and Greek soul, this extraordinary hideaway occupies a landmark 1960s building by post-modern architect Aris Konstantinidis and was the island’s very first five-star hotel. Now a member of Design Hotels, it’s protected by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Timeless in design, with a distinctly Cycladic feel, the Theoxenia is the essence of Aegean chic – all soft, sculptural furnishings, organic linens, and natural tones with warm accents of wood and terracotta. Rooms range from cosy cocoons to two-bedroom suites, some with private pools, and some in seafront locations.

Mykonos Theoxenia’s spa is the place for pampering massages and other mood-enhancing treatments, while Apanemi restaurant beckons with its signature dishes and degustation menus by award-winning French and Greek chefs who have worked in Michelin-starred establishments.

Once in Mykonos

Formerly a well-known villa, this is another oasis of luxury just above gorgeous Ornos Beach just ten minutes from lively Mykonos Town. Chic, pared-back, and flooded with Mediterranean light, its rooms and suites include swim-out options along with a number with their very own outdoor Jacuzzi, plunge pool, or swimming pool.

Infinity Restaurant with its beach views provides classic Mediterranean recipes with a modern twist. The Greek breakfasts are also a treat, while in the evenings, Infinity Bar offers golden sunset views accompanied by signature cocktails.

There’s also a fabulous spa with cutting-edge treatments using products from around the world, including Omorovicza, which harnesses the healing powers of Hungary’s thermal waters.

King Jason Zante

Set to open on June 29, 2024, the brand new King Jason in Zante promises to be a haven of luxury and relaxation. Nestled in a picturesque location, this addition to the Louis Hotels collection is perfect for those seeking an exclusive escape. With its state-of-the-art amenities, elegant design, and focus on providing a serene atmosphere, it's poised to become a sought-after destination.

Prepare to have your sensed revitalized by the crisp sea air, vivified by the Ionian light, calmed by the silvery enveloping stillness of ancient olive groves, compelling you to slow down as you enter the exclusive, floating world of King Jason Zante.

Asterion Suites & Spa, Chania

Morning yoga, spa treatments using traditional Cretan favourites such as aloe vera, and Cretan breakfasts featuring local yoghurt with honey, fresh herbs and seeds, Cretan cold cuts, and island cheeses such as spicy Mirotiri, make this adults-only retreat a standout choice on this popular island.

On a serene sandy beach with views of an island nature reserve, it’s beautifully placed for exploring Chania with its 14th-century Venetian Harbour. You’ll also want to relax in your minimalist room or suite with its natural materials and earthy colours; some come with a private pool or swim-up access.

Delicious dining comes in the main restaurant with its Cretan and global dishes using local produce or in the à la carte 35° restaurant with its innovative takes on traditional Cretan recipes.

To book your luxury Mykonos, Crete, or Cyprus holiday with Louis Hotels, call your Travel Counsellor today.

Our must-visit European cities

Yearning for a brief escape that promises to enchant, refresh, and invigorate? Europe’s mosaic of cultures, history, and breathtaking landscapes offers some of the most spectacular weekend getaways and short breaks for a whole host of travellers. Here's our curated list of top European cities that need to be on your radar this year.

Unveil the ultimate tropical escape at Coco Bodu Hithi Resort

Ideal for those looking for an authentic Maldivian feel to their tropical island escape in this gorgeous part of the world, this intimate hideaway of villas on a teardrop-shaped island in the North Malé Atoll offers unique curated experiences as part of its boutique luxury experience.

Explore the enchanting wonders of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a stunning tropical paradise, where every corner unveils a new treasure waiting to be discovered. Vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes meet to create an enchanting tapestry of wonders. From pristine beaches to lush tea plantations, ancient temples to wildlife-rich national parks, Sri Lanka beckons with a promise of unforgettable experiences and soul-stirring encounters making it a destination like no other.

Helene Kirkham

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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