A life in Travel

Our founder, Henrietta Loyd, a renowned travel expert, shares a handful of the destinations she has loved over the years and why they’re so special.

Cuba

I first visited Cuba with a friend who lives in Miami, some 11 years ago. It fast became one of my all-time favourite destinations and I have now been five times. Havana is a mix of Caribbean culture, music, mojitos, ballet, dance, contemporary art, and just has the most sensational overall vibe. Cuba has had a very tough time with sanctions imposed by the US. When I was there last year, this was evident in the many shortages I witnessed, however the resilience and the pride the citizens feel in their country is admirable. Trinidad, which is about a six-hour drive from Havana, is a charming colonial town with cobblestone streets and music on every corner – it’s a must visit. The food (which has a terrible reputation) has improved, and I am heartened that we seem to be sending many more clients there again, all of whom are returning as captivated as I am.

Nepal

A stay at The Happy House, owned by the wonderful Ang Tshering Lama, was a visit I will never forget. This traditional Sherpa house (which was a base for Sir Edmund Hillary) is in the village of Phaplu, and is truly a home from home. It is welcoming, warm and always filled with delicious food prepared by the one and only Mingma, supported by a wonderful staff that seem to smile all the time. Indeed, I was enchanted by all the Nepalese people I met during my stay. Our days were spent trekking, visiting several important Tibetan monasteries, doing yoga in the morning and evenings, enjoying wonderful massages in a cosy yurt and being immersed in a constant sense of calm. Camping on the lower slopes of Solu Khumbu and waking up to see Everest in the distance is etched in my mind forever. Next stop for 2024 is Mongolia, where Ang moves his whole operation for the months of July and August.

Jordan

When I first visited Jordan with friends some nine years ago, I knew at once that we had to add it to our roster of destinations. My stay in Jordan sparked an enduring love of the Middle East, that includes Lebanon and Israel. Petra needs no introduction – it is as phenomenal as one would expect, and seeing the Treasury for the first time is a hugely moving experience. Jerash and Umm Quis are two sites north of Amman that are essential to any visit. Up at Umm Quis, one looks over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, both of which are incredible. However, I think my heart lies in Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon and for its link with T.E Lawrence, the original Laurence of Arabia. We always stay in a wonderful, tented camp hidden behind a dune and free from any artificial light. It is magical.

Turks and Caicos; Pine Cay

This unknown gem of an island is privately owned by a group of approximately 35 individuals and now sits under the prestigious Relais & Chateau umbrella known to any travel expert. After an extensive refurbishment, it recently opened its fabulous Club House, which feels very homely and welcoming, with a boutique hotel or house party vibe. I am friends with of one of the owners and visited in October 2022; it is truly an unspoilt peace of paradise. The pace is fabulously Caribbean – relaxed and informal – and there’s miles of unspoilt beach, with no crowds. There is bone fishing, snorkelling, kayaking, walking and birding on the property, with scuba diving easily arranged from nearby Providenciales. The food is delicious and plentiful, and the cocktails deserve a mention, too!