When it comes to your holiday, a little planning goes a long way. Recently, we’ve noticed a pattern of both last-minute and long-term bookings, which we’ve named the Concertina Effect. But why are people booking so far in advance? Our co-founder, Tom Barber, thinks ‘anticication’ has something to do with it: ‘in uncertain times, planning something joyful far ahead becomes an act of hope’. Whether admiring cherry blossoms in Japan, celebrating the Holi festival in India, cruising down the Nile on the Steam Ship Sudan, or spotting gorillas in Uganda, some holidays require extra attention.
6th October 2025 - Travel Inspiration
Every year, the same story plays out: employees in the UK let holiday days go to waste. One recent survey found that 65% of UK workers don’t use up their allowance – and a whopping 17% leave five or more days unclaimed. Another source concurs: in 2023, 61% of workers reported not using all of their annual leave. This is all especially galling when you compare us to our European neighbours. Across the EU, the average entitlement (including public holidays) is about 34 days per year, whereas in the UK, many of us are left with just 28 days.
29th September 2025 - Travel Inspiration
Wedding anniversaries are all about celebrating love, and here at Original Travel, we believe the best way to do that is on holiday. We understand that every couple is different, so whether you two are after bucket-list adventures in Norway or total relaxation in South Africa, we’ve got you covered. Ready to mark the occasion? Read on for our comprehensive list of the best anniversary holidays… First Anniversary:
23rd September 2025 - Travel Inspiration
A holiday to Norway in May is all about good food and even better views. Enjoy the flourishing landscapes and quieter hiking trails before the busy summer crowds. Sample fresh seafood in Bergen and celebrate Norway’s National Day, or delve into Trondheim’s music scene at the city’s annual Jazz Festival. For outdoor lovers, Lofoten awaits. Embark on a sea eagle safari, kayak through the fjords or marvel at the Midnight Sun.
1st September 2025 - Norway Travel Inspiration
Need an escape from the winter blues? Europe’s got you covered. You might have heard the term ‘Eurosummer’ floating around recently, but don’t be fooled – the continent’s incredible diversity means it offers an array of wonderful winter destinations too, from snowy Sweden to vibrant Vienna. So, whether you’re looking to peruse the Christmas markets, get stuck into skiing or simply swap drizzly days for warmer weather,
25th August 2025 - Travel Inspiration
With its iconic landmarks, stunning scenery and famously delicious cuisine, Italy has long ranked as one of our all-time favourite destinations. This Mediterranean marvel is often thought of as a summer spot, but plan your trip to Italy in May and you’ll be rewarded with warm weather, fewer crowds, springtime festivals and scrumptious seasonal food. Have we piqued your interest? Read on for our top five reasons to visit Italy in May… For the weather For fewer crowds For springtime festivities For outdoor activities For the food For the weather Italy,
18th August 2025 - Italy Travel Inspiration
Big changes are on the horizon for Kenya safaris, particularly in the Maasai Mara Reserve. But fear not, we think this is for the best. From reducing visitor numbers to pausing new lodge developments, these improvements will prevent overcrowding and enhance the Mara’s exclusivity. With landscapes as varied as its wildlife, it’s no wonder Kenya holidays are synonymous with safari adventures, and these changes will make them all the more special.
6th August 2025 - Kenya Travel Inspiration
Japan is world-renowned for its spectacular scenery – and it’s easy to see why. From shimmering lakes and cascading waterfalls to lush forests and majestic mountains, its natural beauty is truly something to behold. So, whether you’re looking to cycle through the lush pine trees at Amanohashidate or relax on the white-sand beaches of the Amaharashi Coast, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our shortlist of the most unmissable Japanese landscapes… Amanohashidate Sandbar,
28th July 2025 - Japan Travel Inspiration
Norway might be most famous for its cinematic landscapes, but its cities are chock-full of charm too. Whether you’d rather hang out in the cool capital, venture beyond the Arctic Circle or tuck into freshly caught seafood on the coast, we’ve rounded up the best cities in Norway for every eventuality. From Alesund’s Art Nouveau architecture to Bergen’s fantastic fjords, read on to discover which Norwegian cities should be on your travel radar… 1.
21st July 2025 - Norway Travel Inspiration
From snow-capped mountains and delicate cherry blossoms to thatched cottages and intricate temples, Japan’s villages are truly breathtaking. In fact, the country takes so much pride in its pretty villages that it established the ‘Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan’ in 2005 to preserve Japanese heritage and natural beauty. While it would be impossible for us to mention all 61 places on their list, we’ve narrowed it down to our favourite five.
14th July 2025 - Japan Travel Inspiration
Our Australasia expert, Meg, recently visited the far-flung, fantastical New Zealand during winter and returned a shoulder-season enthusiast. Here's what she had to say... New Zealand is one of those bucket-list, once-in-a-lifetime trips for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. When you’re travelling that far, you want the trip to be spectacular – but high-season crowds can often spoil the fun. Precious time can be spent in queues and traffic, only to arrive and find that you're sharing the most serene and scenic spots with hundreds of other selfie-snapping tourists.
10th July 2025 - New Zealand Travel Inspiration
People tend to think of Norway as either a summer or winter destination, but September sits quietly in between – still warm enough for hiking and exploring, but with a chill in the air that brings with it beautiful autumnal scenery. The reasons for a September Norway holiday don’t end there, though. Make a beeline to Oslo for festivals aplenty, head west on a scenic seven-hour journey on the Bergen Railway or marvel at the unfolding colourful landscapes aboard a coastal cruise.
7th July 2025 - Norway Travel Inspiration
Dodge the summer surge and enjoy a holiday to Italy in September. Scale the dramatic Dolomites in the refreshing autumn air, raise your glass in the Tuscan hills during grape harvest season or immerse yourself in Venice’s flamboyant festivities. If it’s thinning crowds you’re after, head south to Puglia’s charming coastal towns, or for sun-drenched sandy beaches, Sicily has your name written all over it.
16th June 2025 - Italy Travel Inspiration
Europe is a treasure trove of distinctive and diverse landscapes, cultural curiosities and world-class architecture. It just so happens that this is all tremendously photogenic (and great for the 'gram). From dramatic glacial rock formations to pristine pastel beaches, get your cameras ready to capture some of the continent's most majestic views. Read on for our roundup of the best views in Europe… 1.
13th June 2025 - Travel Inspiration
Ah, the Algarve: a veritable treasure trove of sun-kissed beaches, charming architecture and postcard-pretty landscapes. While this gorgeous region in southern Portugal is sometimes considered a tad touristy, there is far more to the Algarve than just sangria and sunbathing. With a coastline spanning almost 100 miles, a rich and varied culture and historical site aplenty, there’s an abundance of things to do in the Algarve.
11th June 2025 - Portugal Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
