Unforgettable Escapes
The Wedding Edition is captivated by unique travel stories. Could you elaborate on the inspiration behind founding Turquoise Holiday Company and how your personal experiences shaped the company’s ethos?
In my early travels, it was the moments that pushed me out of my comfort zone that stood out – not necessarily the most expensive, but the off-the-beaten-track and impromptu experiences. A chance encounter in the Australian outback and similar moments in Fiji and New Zealand inspired the establishment of Turquoise. We aimed to guide travelers toward unique honeymoon experiences with local expertise, going beyond conventional advice while staying within budget. Living in New Zealand further shaped our ethos, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance and the impact of people, places, and local knowledge on a journey.
Pioneering Destinations:
Turquoise Holiday Company is renowned for its exceptional honeymoon offerings. Could you share some of the most intriguing off-the-beaten-track destinations that have become favourites for honeymooners seeking something extraordinary?
When it comes to crafting exceptional honeymoon experiences, Turquoise Holiday Company has become synonymous with uncovering enchanting destinations that dance off the beaten path. It’s about discovering those tucked-away corners of the world that resonate with the hearts of adventurous honeymooners seeking something truly extraordinary.
Imagine Taha’a in French Polynesia, a place of serene beauty that often goes unnoticed in the shadow of its more famous neighbor, Bora Bora. Here, amidst turquoise waters and coral-fringed shores, lies a hidden treasure trove—a sanctuary of pearl farms, vanilla plantations, and the charming Vahine Island. Taha’a is an invitation to explore the untouched, offering couples an affordable alternative and a chance to create cherished moments in a secluded paradise.
Our journey through Africa takes us to the outskirts, where the rhythm of the wild beats in harmony with intimacy. Rather than the well-trodden safari routes, we recommend destinations like Hemingway’s Ol Seki in the Naboisho conservancy. It’s a canvas of unfiltered savannah beauty, a less crowded yet captivating safari experience that unveils the true essence of the wilderness. Here, the call of the wild is a whispered secret, an intimate connection with nature away from the conventional safari trails.
And then, in the Maldives, where luxury meets seclusion, we guide honeymooners to places like Six Senses, accessible through the quaint island of Laamu. It’s a journey that transcends the ordinary, where exclusivity thrives, and privacy becomes an art form. Imagine private villas suspended over the crystalline waters, a haven of serenity and intimacy, a setting where the ebb and flow of the waves compose a symphony exclusively for you.
These off-the-beaten-track destinations narrate tales of seclusion, beckoning honeymooners to step into a world where the ordinary dissolves, and romance is painted with the hues of enchantment. At the Turquoise Holiday Company, we take pride in revealing these hidden gems, ensuring that your journey into love is not just extraordinary but a dreamy chapter etched in the canvas of memory.
Exclusive Experiences:
In the realm of luxury travel, exclusivity is paramount. Could you highlight some of the most exclusive and private experiences curated for Turquoise clients, ensuring their honeymoon is nothing short of extraordinary?
In the realm of luxury travel, our commitment at the Turquoise Holiday Company is to curate exclusive and private experiences that transcend the ordinary, ensuring our clients’ honeymoons are nothing short of extraordinary.
Set aside budget considerations, and let’s embark on an exquisite journey to destinations that redefine exclusivity. Picture Bora Bora, where the pinnacle of luxury unveils itself at the Brando Hotel. Nestled in this tropical haven, once owned by Marlon Brando himself, the Brando Hotel epitomizes exclusivity, offering our clients the ultimate in secluded luxury. It’s a haven where pristine beaches meet unparalleled privacy, creating an intimate backdrop for an unforgettable honeymoon experience.
Now, let’s transport ourselves to the untamed beauty of Africa, where exclusivity takes on a whole new meaning. Imagine flying by private plane to a safari camp or retreat in Kenya—a journey that transcends conventional travel. With a personal guide accompanying you throughout, every moment becomes a curated masterpiece. This is more than just a safari; it’s an immersive adventure, a connection with the heart of the wilderness, and a truly remarkable experience that lingers in the memories of our clients.
At the Turquoise Holiday Company, we believe in crafting moments that go beyond expectations. These exclusive experiences are designed to be the crowning jewels of your honeymoon, where luxury meets authenticity…
Travel Trends and Tastes:
Turquoise Holiday Company stays ahead of travel trends. What emerging trends in honeymoon travel do you observe, and how does Turquoise ensure it creates unforgettable experiences?
There’s a growing trend among honeymooners for wellness, combining outdoor adventure with luxury. Clients seek unique elements like train journeys, boutique stays, or glamping as part of their safari experience. The popularity of “minimoons,” postponing the main honeymoon for a more affordable shoulder season, has risen significantly. Turquoise advises on practical aspects like choosing overnight flights for affordability and considering new flight routes for unique experiences.
Memorable Moments:
Every journey has its memorable moments. Could you share a standout story from a Turquoise holiday where the experience surpassed even your expectations and left a lasting impression on you as the founder?
Two standout moments come to mind. In Mozambique’s southern park, staying at ‘Santorini Mozambique’ on the mainland cliffs provided breathtaking turquoise views. Venturing to a remote island for sand dune climbing, we unexpectedly encountered dugongs, making the experience truly jaw-dropping. Another memorable instance was at Birkenhead House, South Africa, the original beach retreat. While on a walk, we were treated to the sight of migrating whales up close and the intimate experience of smelling their breath—an unforgettable moment.
Hidden Gems:
The Wedding Edition readers love discovering hidden gems. Could you recommend lesser-known destinations or accommodations perfect for those seeking a more intimate and unique travel experience?
One hidden gem is Fanjove Island in southern Tanzania, an off-the-beaten-path destination perfect for combining with a Safari. Chena Huts in Sri Lanka offers an accessible and unique safari experience, followed by a flight to the Maldives. Combining Cambodia’s temples in Angkor Wat with a desert island experience like Koh Rong is another gem for those seeking something extraordinary.
Responsible Travel:
Sustainable travel is a growing priority. How does Turquoise Holiday Company integrate sustainability and responsible travel practices, and are there standout eco-friendly destinations you recommend?
Sustainability is an expectation for our honeymooners. All our safari lodges adhere to strong environmental policies, eliminating single-use plastics. We focus on family-run establishments with a commitment to the local community, supporting initiatives such as coral reef replanting in the Maldives and educational programs in local schools. Turquoise believes in traveling better, emphasising local stories, and leaving a positive impact.
Favourite Personal Escapes:
As founders immersed in the world of travel, what are your favourite off-the-beaten-track destinations that have left a profound impact on you?
Lizard Island in Queensland, Australia holds a special place in our hearts. The pristine beaches and a surprise engagement (experience for me!) make it a hidden gem that encapsulates the luxury and uniqueness Turquoise aims to deliver. The track where Captain Cook got stuck, sunset point overlooking coves, and exploring secret coves by boat added to the enchantment.
For more details go to: www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk
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