Our Journal Entries
Click on the picture to move direct to the entry or take a leisurely scroll through the family behind A Trio Travels.
January 2025
Paris - A whirlwind adventure!
From the moment we arrived, the city worked its magic, gifting us with moments that will be treasured forever.
December end 2024
Paris is nearly upon us!
From honeymoon memories to family adventures—join us as we prepare to rediscover the magic of Paris!
December 2024
The Lapland Adventure is here!
With bags packed and excitement in overdrive we head off for the adventure of a lifetime!
November 2024
The countdown to Lapland begins.
The anticipation is real in our house right now. With just a couple of weeks to go, we’re all buzzing.......
September 2024
Paris is booked!
A Trio Travels is born; learn more about why we are doing this/
August 2024
Nestled along Turkey's stunning Turquoise Coast, Kalkan welcomed us with its charming streets, crystal-clear waters, and incredible hospitality.
Easter Egypt 2024
This April, we traded spring showers for sunshine and embarked on a last-minute adventure to Sharm El Sheikh, staying at the fabulous Coral Sea Holiday Resort
Paris 2025
A Whirlwind Adventure
We’re back from Paris, and what a trip it was—epic in every sense! From the moment we arrived, the city worked its magic, gifting us with moments that will be treasured forever.
Our base for the adventure was the Hotel Melia La Défense, and it was incredible. One of the highlights was watching Sienna’s face light up as the Eiffel Tower sparkled through our bedroom window—an unforgettable memory etched in our hearts. Our room included access to The Level, an exclusive lounge offering complimentary drinks, snacks, and sweets. It became our haven after busy days, with Sienna relishing the endless supply of gummy bears.
We explored Paris with a mix of walking and navigating the Metro, soaking up iconic sights like Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Versailles. We also made stops at Galeries Lafayette and discovered countless gems along the way. One special moment was watching Sienna and Emma share a quiet cuddle on the steps of the Sacré-Cœur, basking in the sunshine while a busker strummed out a rather questionable rendition of Wonderwall. Despite the tune, it was one of those timeless moments that remind you why you travel.
The real magic of Paris for us, though, wasn’t just in the landmarks but in the quieter, more authentic experiences. Wandering through less crowded streets, stumbling upon cozy cafes and local restaurants, and discovering the city’s dual personality—its bustling tourist hotspots and its quieter, more relaxed soul. We quickly learned that timing is everything in Paris; arriving ten minutes earlier could mean snagging the perfect table rather than missing out altogether.
Sienna, ever adaptable, embraced every new experience with ease. She navigated the Metro like a seasoned pro (impressive for a Devon girl!) and took the city’s whirlwind pace in stride. By the time we returned home, she was thoroughly exhausted but filled with stories and memories of her Parisian adventure.
One standout experience was celebrating a birthday with a perfume-making course. It was surprisingly fun and far more than a simple keepsake—we each left with a 50ml bottle of our own signature scent. Not just a souvenir, these perfumes have become part of our daily lives, evoking memories of Paris with every spritz.
Paris was everything we hoped for: frantic, exhausting, peaceful, and utterly unforgettable. It gave us moments of pure joy, the chance to reconnect over a glass of wine, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Thank you, Paris—you’ve left us enchanted. We’ll be back for more!
December end 2024
Paris: A New Year’s Adventure with Sienna
The excitement is building again as we prepare for our next adventure—Paris! This trip has been on the horizon for months, but as it was originally our “cover story” for Lapland, it hasn’t gotten the attention it deserves—until now. With just days to go, we’re in full-on (slightly panicked) planning mode, and the thrill of exploring the City of Light is finally sinking in.
Paris holds a special place in our hearts. Our last visit was 11 years ago, during our honeymoon—a romantic whirlwind of wine, cheese, and late-night strolls along the Seine. This time, Paris will feel a little different, with Sienna in tow. But if there’s one thing we’ve learned from traveling as a family, it’s that seeing the world through her eyes makes every destination even more magical.
Planning Paris with a 7-Year-Old
Traveling with Sienna means crafting a balance between classic Parisian experiences and kid-friendly adventures. While the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame will still be on the list, we’re also planning visits to places like the Jardin des Plantes and the carousel at the base of Montmartre—spots that will capture her imagination as much as ours.
We’ve also been brushing up on our French basics to help Sienna feel part of the adventure. Hearing her practice “bonjour” and “merci” has been adorable, and we can’t wait to see her light up when she orders her first croissant in a real Parisian café!
Revisiting Paris, Rediscovering the Magic
While this trip won’t include the late-night wine bars of our honeymoon, it’s going to be just as special—perhaps even more so. We’ll be seeing Paris not just as travelers, but as parents, sharing this beautiful city with Sienna for the first time. We’re excited to introduce her to the sights, the culture, and, of course, the food! (She’s already very enthusiastic about crêpes and macarons.)
From family-friendly museums to simply wandering the streets of Montmartre, we’re looking forward to experiencing Paris in a whole new way. And, who knows? Maybe we’ll even sneak in a little romance while she marvels at the lights of the Eiffel Tower.
The Countdown is On
As we finalize our plans and pack our bags, the anticipation is building. This trip may have started as a clever ruse to keep Lapland a secret, but it’s quickly becoming something truly special in its own right. Paris with Sienna will be a new kind of adventure, one filled with family memories and moments we’ll cherish forever.
Stay tuned for updates, photos, and plenty of Parisian magic. À bientôt, Paris!
December 2024
Lapland Adventure: A Winter Wonderland Escape
So, the day finally arrived! With suitcases packed and anticipation high, we hopped in the car for a quick blast up the M5 to Bristol Airport. Our destination? Rovaniemi, Finland, the enchanting home of snow, reindeer, and the magic of the Arctic Circle.
The excitement reached new heights as our flight descended, and the children caught sight of the snow-covered landscape below. The sheer joy (and uproar) on the plane brought one of our trio to tears—it was a moment we’ll never forget.
Arriving in a Winter Wonderland
After landing, we picked up our hire car and set out on the icy roads to Korvala Cabins, a charming collection of wooden cottages nestled beside a frozen lake. Along the way, we had a near miss with some road-crossing wild reindeer—our first encounter with Finland’s iconic animals!
Korvalan Kestikievari was everything we’d hoped for and more. Cozy, remote, and surrounded by snow-draped forests, it felt like stepping into a fairytale. We couldn’t resist venturing onto the frozen lake for a quick snowball fight before settling into our snug bunks for the night.
Day 1: Huskies, Enchanting Clouds, and Magic in the Snow
Our first full day was nothing short of magical. The morning was spent wandering through the untouched forest, where we spotted reindeer tracks and marveled at the pristine beauty of the snow-covered landscape. The highlight? A visit to Jaana’s Siberian Husky team—nearly 70 strong!
We learned about the history of these remarkable dogs and their vital role in this Arctic environment. From the sprightly youngsters to the cherished retirees, it was clear these dogs are deeply loved and cared for.
Although unseasonably low snowfall meant we couldn’t try the 8km self-drive sledding experience, Jaana and her team went above and beyond to give us an unforgettable ride through the snowy trails. Sienna was thrilled to meet and remember her favorites—Pepper, Peanut, and bouncy Bo!
The day’s wonder didn’t stop there. We were treated to a rare sighting of Mother of Pearl clouds, shimmering iridescent hues that are rarer than the Northern Lights. Finland was already stealing our hearts!
Day 2: Skiing, Santa Claus, and the Northern Lights
None of us had skied before, but we gave it a go at Ounasvaara Ski Resort. In just 90 minutes, Becky had us confidently skiing down the nursery slopes. We may not be Olympic-ready, but we’ve caught the skiing bug and are already planning our next snowy adventure.
A fantastic lunch at The Bull Bar and Grill in Rovaniemi fueled us up for the afternoon, where we explored the famous Santa Claus Village. Between meeting Santa, sliding down icy chutes at Snowman World, and sipping drinks in the Ice Bar, it was a truly magical experience.
Back at Korvala, we ended the night gathered around the grill house fire by the lake, toasting marshmallows and hoping for a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. Just as we were about to call it a night, the skies briefly shimmered with eerie green hues—a fleeting but unforgettable encounter with the Northern Lights.
Day 3: Sauna and Ice Dipping – A Finnish Tradition
After the excitement of the previous day, we embraced a slower pace. We explored the snowy surroundings with some cross-country skiing and ice skating before indulging in one of Finland’s most iconic traditions: the sauna and ice dip.
Jaana guided us through the ritual, explaining how saunas are central to Finnish life. Heated to the core, we braved the plunge into the frozen lake (yes, naked!)—an exhilarating experience that left us refreshed and invigorated. Even Paul, who usually avoids cold water, took the plunge and lived to tell the tale!
Day 4: Farewell to Lapland
Our last day was a bittersweet goodbye to this Arctic wonderland. With temperatures plunging to -17.5°C (and even -20°C on a short hike!), we got a final taste of Finland’s raw, brutal beauty before heading back to Rovaniemi for our flight home.
By evening, we were back in the UK, enjoying a warm curry but already longing for the crisp air and snowy magic of Lapland.
Final Thoughts
Lapland exceeded all our expectations. From husky sledding to Santa’s Village, rare cloud sightings to traditional saunas, every moment was filled with wonder and joy. A huge thank you to Jaana and Korvalan Kestikievari for their hospitality—we can’t wait to return, perhaps in February for a truly snow-filled experience.
Lapland has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we’re already dreaming of our next adventure in this magical corner of the world. If you’ve ever considered a trip to the Arctic Circle, don’t wait—it’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.
November 24 Update:
The Countdown to Lapland Begins
The anticipation is real in our house right now. With just a couple of weeks to go, we’re all buzzing—well, Paul and I are! Sienna has absolutely no idea what’s in store for her. Keeping this secret has been both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially as we’ve been watching and waiting for the snow to arrive in Rovaniemi. Every day, we’re checking updates and crossing our fingers for a fresh blanket of white magic before we land.
The preparation is in full swing, and we’ve been sneaky about it! Sienna thinks we’re just prepping for a very cold Paris in January, but little does she know she’s getting ready for the most magical adventure of her life. Between choosing the coziest thermal layers and scouting out the fluffiest socks, we’ve been careful not to give anything away.
The Secret is Safe (So Far!)
Paul and I have been bursting to tell her, especially when she casually mentions how much she’d love to visit “somewhere snowy.” She has no idea her dream is about to come true—and that makes the wait all the more special. We’ve started dropping subtle hints to build her curiosity without revealing too much. Let’s just say, when we do the big reveal, it’s going to be priceless.
The Lapland Dream Taking Shape
While the snow is still hiding from us here at home, it’s making its way to Lapland! We’ve been dreaming about the itinerary and all the amazing things we have planned. From gliding across the snowy wilderness behind a team of huskies to meeting Santa himself, every detail feels like stepping into a storybook.
And then there’s Korvala Log Cabins, our cozy retreat in the Finnish wilderness. Just imagining us curled up by the fire after a day of adventures is enough to give us all the warm fuzzies. The thought of waking up to snow-draped trees outside our window is making this countdown so much harder!
Packing, Planning, and Patience
We’re in full-on planning mode now, making sure everything is ready for our winter wonderland escape. Packing for Lapland is a bit of a challenge (how many layers is too many layers?), but we’re determined to make sure we’re prepared for all the snowy fun. From toasty mittens to waterproof boots, we’re covering all the bases.
The hardest part? Keeping Sienna occupied while we secretly strategize! Between wrapping up work projects, organizing travel logistics, and double-checking all the details, we’re juggling a lot behind the scenes. But it’ll all be worth it when we see her face light up.
The Magic is Almost Here
This November, it’s all about anticipation. We’re cherishing these moments of quiet excitement before the whirlwind of our big adventure. The magic of Lapland is waiting for us, and we’re counting down the days until we get to share it with Sienna—and all of you!
Keep an eye on our socials for more updates as we inch closer to the big day. Whether it’s tips for packing, glimpses of our preparations, or the final surprise reveal, we can’t wait to take you along for the ride.
The snow, the magic, and the memories are just around the corner. Here’s to a November filled with anticipation and a December we’ll never forget!
With love,
Emma, Paul, and (still unsuspecting) Sienna
The Trio Behind A Trio Travels
October 2024
Surprise Adventure to Lapland – A Magical Birthday Trip for Sienna!
The countdown is on, and we can hardly contain our excitement! This December, we’re whisking our daughter, Sienna, away on a birthday trip she’ll never forget. It's a surprise – and a big one! In a few short weeks, we’ll be heading to Lapland, the land of snow, reindeer, and magic, to celebrate Sienna’s birthday in true fairytale style.
Why Lapland?
Sienna’s birthday is in early December, and what better way to mark such a special occasion than with an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Christmas magic? Lapland is a place we’ve always dreamed of visiting, especially during the holiday season. From husky sled rides through snowy forests to meeting Santa himself, we knew it would be the perfect destination for a magical family escape.
A Last-Minute Surprise
We’ll be honest – we booked the trip a bit late, and finding accommodation was a bit of a challenge. But sometimes, the best adventures come from the unexpected! After scouring options, we finally settled on a wonderful spot: Korvala Log Cabins. The cabins are cozy and secluded, tucked away in the beautiful Finnish Lapland wilderness. It’s a bit remote, but we love the idea of being off the beaten path – it’s going to make the experience even more special.
Sure, it means we’ll be without the usual amenities and conveniences, but for us, that’s part of the charm. We're all about embracing the adventure, and we think Sienna will love the idea of being tucked away in a snow-covered cabin, surrounded by nature and animals.
Keeping the Secret
The hardest part so far has definitely been keeping it all a secret from Sienna. She’s a little travel enthusiast in the making, and she’s already hinted at wanting to go somewhere snowy, but we’ve had to be super sneaky! We’ve been quietly preparing her for the trip without spilling the beans. That means carefully choosing winter apparel without giving anything away—snow boots, warm jackets, mittens, hats, and plenty of layers. We can’t wait to see her face when she realizes where we’re headed!
We’ll be packing up our snow gear and keeping everything hush-hush until we’re ready to reveal the surprise. The look on her face when she finally finds out is going to be priceless!
The Adventure Awaits
Once we arrive, the fun is just beginning! Here’s what we’ve got lined up for our snowy adventure in Lapland:
Husky Sledding: We’re so excited to try husky sledding through the snowy forests. Sienna is going to love this – we can already picture her face as we glide through the winter landscape with the huskies leading the way.
Reindeer Rides: Lapland wouldn’t be complete without meeting Santa’s reindeer! We’ll get to experience a traditional reindeer sleigh ride – another bucket-list moment crossed off.
Meeting Santa: And of course, no trip to Lapland is complete without a visit to Santa Claus Village! We’ll be heading to meet the man himself, hand over Sienna’s Christmas wish list, and enjoy the magic of the North Pole. We can’t wait to see her eyes light up when she meets Santa in person!
Snow Fun: Whether it's building snowmen, snowball fights, or just playing in the snow, we’re going to make the most of every moment in the frosty winter wonderland.
Sharing the Journey
We want to take you along with us on this adventure! We’ll be sharing the journey on our socials, so make sure you’re following us on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and, of course, Sienna’s big surprise reveal.
As we try to keep the secret under wraps, we’ll also be sharing tips on how to pack for a snowy adventure, what to do in Lapland, and the best experiences to have with kids in the region. We hope to inspire some of you to book your own Lapland adventure – or just enjoy the magic of the season with us!
The Magic of Lapland
In the end, this trip is about making memories as a family. We’re beyond excited for Sienna to experience the magic of Lapland, and we’re sure this will be a birthday she’ll never forget. From the thrill of husky rides to the wonder of meeting Santa, Lapland is truly a place where dreams come true. We can’t wait to share it all with you!
Here’s to an adventure full of laughter, snow, and unforgettable moments!
Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to takeoff – and, of course, to see Sienna’s reaction when the surprise is finally revealed!
With excitement,
Emma, Paul, and Sienna
The Trio Behind A Trio Travels
September 24
Paris is booked!
Its been 11 years since Emma and I visited Paris as the first leg of a month long honeymoon and finally we are returning. This time plus one with Sienna coming along as well.
Emma's birthday is early January and that unfortunately means no one is up for anything, especially if they are in those early days of "yeah, I'll do dry January".
This year the school term falls just right meaning we can enjoy a post new year long weekend in Paris without Sienna missing any school days.
Paul is stalker of Sky Scanner, regularly looking for sneaky cheap flights or attempting to piece together a chain of bargain flights to far away destinations. Thanks to his weird hobby we have landed flights from Bristol for less than a train fare to London!
It still amazes me how cheap flights are compared to rail. How is it actually cheaper to put a plane in the air than it is to run a train. The mind boggles.
Anyway, Paris is on! We will share hotels and experiences that we will aim to book through the exclusive travel platform we have access to, and of course try to take you on the journey with us.
Bon nuit
Emma, Paul, and Sienna
The Trio Behind A Trio Travels
September 24
A Trio Travels is Born!
Why We Started A Trio Travels
Like so many others, Emma and I (Paul) have had great jobs and stable careers. But there’s always been something missing – the sense that life should be more than just the daily routine of commuting, working, and waiting for the weekend. The idea of working 9-to-5 until retirement felt unappealing, to say the least. We wanted more for ourselves, and more importantly, for our daughter, Sienna.
We wanted to find a way to combine our love for travel with our need for financial freedom. After a lot of thought, planning, and dreaming, A Trio Travels was born.
Our mission is simple: we want to help others experience the world while creating the flexibility to live life on their own terms. Whether it's a short spa retreat, a tropical getaway, or a grand adventure, we believe that everyone deserves to travel without limits – and that includes financial limits.
We look forward to sharing more on this journey
Emma, Paul, and Sienna
The Trio Behind A Trio Travels
August 2024
Two Weeks in Kalkan: A Family Getaway to Remember
This past trip to Kalkan was everything we hoped it would be—and more. Nestled along Turkey's stunning Turquoise Coast, Kalkan welcomed us with its charming streets, crystal-clear waters, and incredible hospitality. For two unforgettable weeks, we made Villa Allesta our home and filled our days with adventure, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones.
Our Villa: A Slice of Paradise
Villa Allesta was a dream. This five-bedroom beauty offered the perfect blend of luxury and comfort, with stylish decor, a sparkling pool, and a view that took our breath away every single day. Watching the sun dip into the horizon from our terrace quickly became a cherished evening ritual. The villa was more than just a place to stay—it was our sanctuary, and it made coming "home" after each day of adventure all the more special.
Exploring and Indulging
Kalkan's food scene is legendary, and we made it our mission to sample as much as possible! From traditional Turkish dishes to fresh seafood and mouthwatering desserts, the local restaurants delivered on every level. Each meal felt like a celebration, especially when shared with family and friends.
We also made time for some thrilling excursions, starting with a visit to Gizlikent Şelalesi, where we stood under the waterfall and soaked up the refreshing mist. It was an exhilarating experience, and the natural beauty of the area left us speechless.
Another highlight was rafting through Saklıkent Gorge. The icy water and towering canyon walls made for an unforgettable adventure. It was the perfect mix of adrenaline and fun, and we were all buzzing with excitement by the end of the day.
A Day in Kastelorizo
One of the most magical days was our trip to the Greek island of Kastelorizo. We explored its charming harbor, soaked in the vibrant atmosphere, and capped it off with a swim in the Blue Cave. The water there was like nothing we've ever seen—an electric shade of blue that seemed almost unreal. It was exhausting, but so worth it.
Relaxation and Good Times
Of course, no trip to Kalkan would be complete without plenty of beach time. We spent lazy afternoons at Lures Beach Club, where we sipped cocktails, swam in the sea, and enjoyed the laid-back vibe. And for the ultimate in relaxation, we took a sunset boat trip—a magical experience that gave us a front-row seat to nature’s evening show.
The second week of our trip was made even more special when friends joined us. With more hands to toast and laughter to share, the wine consumption certainly went up! The villa’s expansive spaces were perfect for hosting, and the late nights chatting under the stars will remain some of our favorite memories.
Kalkan’s Beaches and Beyond
Kalkan’s beaches were a dream come true, each offering its own unique charm. Whether it was lounging on soft sand or diving into turquoise waters, every moment spent by the sea felt like a postcard come to life.
Until Next Time, Kalkan
As the days melted away, we realized just how special this place is. Kalkan has a way of weaving itself into your heart with its beauty, warmth, and endless adventures. We left with our hearts full and a unanimous agreement: this won’t be our last trip to Kalkan.
For now, we’re back home, reminiscing about our time at Villa Allesta, the delicious meals, the laughter with friends, and the magical experiences we shared as a family. Thank you, Kalkan, for the memories—we can’t wait to make more.
With love,
Emma, Paul, and Sienna
The Trio Behind A Trio Travels
April 2024 - Egypt
Seven Days by the Red Sea: Our Relaxing Escape to Sharm El Sheikh
This April, we traded spring showers for sunshine and embarked on a last-minute adventure to Sharm El Sheikh, staying at the fabulous Coral Sea Holiday Resort. It was Sienna’s first trip to Egypt, and at just six years old, she took to the Red Sea like a natural. From snorkeling adventures to poolside fun, it was a week of perfect weather, great food, and pure relaxation—exactly what we needed!
A Swim-Up Suite and Endless Fun
One of the highlights of our trip was the decision to upgrade to a swim-up pool room—a little luxury that didn’t break the bank but made all the difference. Having a pool right outside our door was a dream, especially for Sienna. She spent hours splashing around, showing off her snorkeling skills, and diving down to retrieve toys like a pro. The convenience of being able to dip into the water any time we wanted, paired with the nearby beach access, made every day feel like an adventure.
Perfect Weather, Perfect Vibes
The weather was flawless, with temperatures hovering just shy of 30°C each day. Warm sun, cool breezes, and no need for jackets—it was the ideal setting for unwinding. Whether lounging by the pool, exploring the vibrant coral reefs, or taking leisurely strolls along the beach, we felt like we’d escaped to paradise.
Culinary Delights at Coral Sea
We’ve been to Egypt a few times before, and while we’ve always enjoyed our trips, the food has sometimes been hit or miss. Not this time! The food at Coral Sea Holiday Resort was exceptional—fresh, flavorful, and varied. From breakfast spreads that satisfied every craving to themed dinners that brought something new each night, we were thoroughly impressed. Best of all, we had no tummy troubles, which is always a win when traveling!
Exploring Soho Square
We couldn’t resist a little venture out, and Soho Square proved to be a delightful surprise. Gone are the days of the old Sharm El Sheikh experience with constant hassling and hard sells. Soho Square was clean, modern, and refreshingly low-pressure. We enjoyed browsing the shops, soaking in the atmosphere, and picking up a few keepsakes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
A Red Sea Natural
Sienna, our little adventurer, truly shone on this trip. Already a proficient snorkeler, she was thrilled to explore the underwater world of the Red Sea. The shallow reefs just off the beach offered a kaleidoscope of marine life, and she couldn’t get enough of diving down to point out colorful fish and coral. It was heartwarming to see her so excited and engaged with nature—she’s already talking about when we can go back for more!
Relaxation on a Budget
This trip was everything we needed: low-stress, family-friendly, and easy on the wallet. With summer still on the horizon, we wanted a break that wouldn’t eat into our main holiday budget, and Sharm El Sheikh delivered in spades. The combination of a great deal, incredible weather, and an outstanding resort made for a holiday that felt indulgent yet entirely practical.
Until Next Time, Egypt
As our week in Egypt came to an end, we left with sun-kissed skin, full hearts, and plenty of stories to share. Sharm El Sheikh and the Coral Sea Holiday Resort gave us the perfect balance of relaxation and fun, and it’s safe to say this won’t be our last visit. For now, we’re holding on to the memories of snorkels, sunsets, and swim-up poolside bliss until our next adventure.
With love,
Emma, Paul, and Sienna
The Trio Behind A Trio Travels
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