Looking for some holiday inspiration? The team of experts at Carrier have sent The Cheshire Magazine postcards from their favourite holiday destinations

Caroline Hutchinson - Travel Boutique Manager

Anguilla

The British island of Anguilla has some of the most incredible beaches I have ever seen. My favourite is Meads Bay, where the sand is white and powdery soft and the water so clear and blue that it took my breath away. The island has a certain sophistication and authentic charm, exuding a laid back atmosphere that makes it impossible not to unwind. Without a doubt Anguilla has some of the best food in the Caribbean, with over 100 restaurants to choose from. There’s everything from refined hotel restaurants to relaxed beach shacks serving freshly made fish tacos. Besides feasting, Anguilla offers typically Caribbean activities; beach and water sports, fishing, snorkelling and diving. Carrier can also arrange a private yacht charter to explore the island’s bays and secluded beaches.

Alison Logan - Travel Boutique Superviser

Barbados

A holiday to Barbados wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous coastal town of Oistins, where Friday night fish fries bring locals and visitors together. The aromas and flavours are simply wonderful - not to be missed! One of my favourite experiences is visiting the Mount Gay Visitor Centre in Bridgetown and learning about the fascinating history behind the island’s iconic ‘rum that invented rum’.

My ultimate favourite hotel on the island is the iconic Sandy Lane with seamless service, the staff are always one step ahead, taking care of everything and anything you may need. After a long day, treat yourself to a signature full body massage, so you begin your evening feeling completely revitalised. Dine in the open air beachfront restaurant Bajan Blue, where you can handpick any meat or seafood and Chef Dales barbecues it to perfection for you. Don’t forget to take the shuttle to Sandy Lane’s famous golf course, it’s worth a visit even if you aren’t really a fan of golf, as the views are just incredible.

Jessica Read - Private Client Manager

The Maldives

It’s hard to resist the charm of the Maldives, however there is so much more than white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Six Senses Laamu is my dream destination and is a great choice for couples and families alike. Having been four times I just can’t get enough. It really is a luxurious bubble of tropical perfection, with its jewel-like coral reefs, rustic-chic style accommodations and eco-friendly ethos which echoes throughout. You’ll discover a serene atmosphere and impeccable service; your butler will feel more like a personal friend by the end of your time here.

Enormous beach villas offer the ultimate in privacy with direct access to the beach, whilst over-water villas boast uninterrupted views out to the ocean and an experience like no other (my personal favourite). Exemplary service, exquisite food and fabulous amenities exceed all expectations when travelling to this destination; from the first hello to the final farewell, you’ll want for nothing.

Merridith Lewis-George - Bespoke Travel Partner

The Seychelles

The Seychelles islands are a true tropical paradise surrounded by the beautiful Indian Ocean. For me, it’s the perfect place to run away to from your daily routine and let yourself loose in the sunshine. The Seychelles offers a combination of seclusion and exclusivity unmatched by anwhere else in the world.

My favourite hotel would have be North Island - the ultimate Island luxury hide away offering the crème de la crème of services. It’s no surprise that celebrities such as Prince William and Duchess Kate have stayed here!

I would recommend the Seychelles to anyone as it really does tick so many boxes. From the warm and friendly welcome of the Seychellois people and the rich culture to the authentic food, there’s so much to love about this part of the world.

Irina Safaryan - Bespoke Travel Partner

Antigua

I am not the kind of person who spends the duration of their holiday sunbathing on the beach or relaxing in the pool. Whilst I love beautiful beaches, chic hotels and the easy-going Caribbean outlook on life, there’s something even more important that I look for in a holiday; Antigua guarantees adventure! Snorkelling, dining at a local Antiguan house and Jeep Safaris are just some of the activities that can be experienced.

The highlight of my trip and the perfect place to take in a spectacular sunset is set at the southern-most tip of Antigua, Shirley Heights, which offers a breath-taking view over the whole of English Harbour. For an atmosphere like no other, visit late afternoon on a Sunday when, at 4pm, an afternoon party kicks off and carries on late into the night.

Sarah Bowers - Bespoke Travel Partner

New York

New York is such a vibrant city with so much to see and do. I spent four nights here and saw all of the major attractions. The highlights for me were watching the sun go down from the top of the iconic Empire State building, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge to admire the Manhattan skyline and watching the Broadway Show Pretty Woman.

I would also definitely recommend spending several hours unwinding in Central park, take a picnic with you and just watch the world unfold – there is always something going on. We stayed for four nights before travelling directly to Antigua for some R&R in the Caribbean sunshine – a great combination.

Carrie Whiston - Bespoke Travel Partner

Canouan

Mandarin Oriental in the Grenadines is a perfectly matched twin for Barbados, reached by a short charter or private jet transfer. Designed with both families and couples in mind, it’s a treasured tropical island hideaway combining classic Caribbean charm and pioneering technology. Canouan is the Arawakan Indian word for ‘island of tortoises’ and it quickly became apparent why when we spotted so many tortoises parading around the island. At just five miles in size, it’s a small island with a surprisingly large number of natural assets and attractions including the Caribbean’s largest living coral reef, an 18-hole championship golf course and a 17th-century Anglican church that was brought over stone by stone from Canterbury and is now used for weddings and special events. My lasting memory is the idyllic, secluded powder white beaches, acres of untouched lush tropical terrain and the breathtaking views while watching the sunrise during an early breakfast.

Andrea Redwood - Bespoke Travel Partner

Africa

From the moment I landed at the airstrip, my adrenaline started pumping in anticipation of what lay ahead. Just the drive to the camp was action packed; leaping springbok, a majestic Serengeti giraffe methodically stripping the fresh leaves off the prickly acacia trees and a pod of hippos wallowing in a muddy pool. There is nothing like the sunrise on safari; waking up to the sounds of the bush coming alive, eager for the day ahead. My ultimate highlight; being met by a Maasai warrier who walked me to breakfast while i listened to the roar of the distant lions.

Francesca Hoyes - Bespoke Travel Partner

Vietnam

My favourite destination is Vietnam for so many reasons. The best thing about Vietnam is that you can combine city and beach so easily. I would suggest spending a few nights in Hanoi to thoroughly explore the old town before travelling down to Hoi An for a relaxing beach stay. Finish in the capital of Ho Chi Minh for a cosmopolitan city break. One of my favourite memories is experiencing a street food tour on the back of a vespa! I think there is an itinerary to suit any kind of holiday-maker in Vietnam, it is a must-visit!

Amanda Doherty - Bespoke Travel Partner

Bali & Singapore

One of my most treasured trips was to Singapore and Bali. I enjoyed visiting the Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, which comes alive at night with an exhilarating display of lights and sound. There’s a vast variety of places to eat, from simple street food accompanied by friendly locals, to fine-dining. The whole vibe was enthralling. Then, it’s just a short flight to beautiful Bali. Here I was stunned by the difference between the volcanic beaches and the mountain rainforest in Ubud, where you can find ease in a yoga class while making the most of the stunning views of rice fields and jungle. There is so much to do, from white water rafting and cultural visits to temples.

If you have been inspired for your next adventure…

Book an appointment in our Alderley Edge boutique,

or get in touch to arrange a personal consultation privately in your home Carrier.

Carrier

31 London Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire SK9 7JT

t: 0161 826 2585 e: enquiry@carrier.co.uk w: carrier.co.uk

Visit Website

The Cheshire Magazine luxury lifestyle and Blue Bay Travel.gif

Hungry for more?

Read up on the latest news, delicious eats, travel treats and seasonal style trends in FEATURES, or browse a curated selection of our FEATURED PRODUCTS, meander through our guide to the finest things to do in Cheshire and beyond in WHATS ON or partake in our COMPETITIONS.

About The CHESHIRE Magazine

We are the definitive guide to luxury lifestyle in the North West. Latest news, delicious eats, travel treats and seasonal style trends. The Cheshire Magazine is the largest luxury lifestyle title for the North West of England, dropping directly through the letterboxes of VIP subscribers from the Wirral to Greater Manchester plus all the villages and towns in between and digitally available as a subscription in print and digital on issuu.com worldwide. We specialise in connecting luxury brands to likeminded consumers.

If you are interested on how you can partner with The CHESHIRE Magazine, read more about us. Or get in touch to find out more about marketing, featuring or partnering with the Cheshire Magazine in print or online.