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Loose Ends

Morocco

We chose to include Morocco as one of the countries we wanted to specialise in because it combines spectacular scenery with an intriguing culture and is one of those places which conjures up images of exotic cities and markets, mountainous areas that invite exploration and an unspoilt coast. We have selected a number of properties which we have enjoyed staying in ourselves and which our clients like because they represent a genuine Moroccan experience. The collection includes our favourite two Riads in Marrakech and an unusual townhouse in coastal Essaouira together with a chance to stay in a country auberge in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.

Caribbean

I hope it isn't too much of a cliché to say we've chosen our havens in the Caribbean as places where you can slow down and relax with wonderful tropical scenery and beautiful sea and sand. The spice island of Grenada is one of the most diverse in the Caribbean with palm tree fringed beaches in the south, waterfalls hidden away in the rainforests of the National Park in the centre and the plantation houses in the north, not forgetting the extremely pretty capital of St George's. The island is the perfect place to unwind and our favourite spot is Petit Bacaye, a collection of six cottages right on the beach and ideal for families or couples.

For many visitors Jamaica still represents that Caribbean ideal of a spectacular mountainous and forested interior, plantation houses, palm fringed beaches and a fascinating cultural mix that makes this such an exciting island. Port Antonio in the sleepier far east is a small town dominated by the Blue Mountains behind it, and well placed for some of the best beaches and walking on the island. Here the small eco friendly Mocking Bird Hotel is set in a riot of a tropical garden in the foothills overlooking the port. Barbara and Shireen who run the hotel share a sense of responsibility to the community with a desire to make sure their guests are extremely well looked after.

Turkey

We have been sending our clients to the Aegean harbour town of Kalkan for longer than I care to remember. The attraction has been the old town with its cobbled streets, harbour-side restaurants and bars, but also as a great base for exploring the Lycian coast and visiting historical sites.

While the town has become a more sophisticated tourist destination over the years, and it has certainly grown with the building of new hotels and private villas, its enviable position and views still make it a favourite with Real Holidays. In more recent years we have been asked by previous visitors for accommodation in the village of Islamar, twenty minutes or so inland from Kalkan as you drive towards the Taurus mountains, which allows easy access to the town and harbour but a much quieter and more authentic base. A great advantage is that it is several degrees cooler up in the hills than down on the coast.