I flew on Qatar the award-winning Airline (Airline of the year 2017). It was great to experience their impressive business class cabin, the crew were attentive and the service was constant! Even before heading off to bed - a quick night cap at biggest bar in the sky (A380 only) was much needed. The bed was comfortable and each seat has direct aisle access.
Also a big thank you to amazing host from Qatar Airlines, Sally from Canberra you passionate for everything Qatar and what great airline to represent.
I spent 3 nights in Wales - on arrival in Doha we were met by the amazing Stella from Wales Tourism, which was our guide for the 3 nights. On arrival into Cardiff – Qatar’s new direct route from Doha on their spacious Boeing 787 aircraft, we were whisked away for high tea at The Vale Resort, in the Conservatory overlooking the resort – this was a great place for those golfing addicts out there – although golfing isn’t my thing!
Then it was off to St. Fagans National Museum of History. This is one of Europe’s leading open-air museums, and one of Wales’ most popular heritage attractions. Then it was time to check into host hotel while in Cardiff, The Hilton – a 4 star city center hotel, perfectly situated, being close to both Cardiff Castle and National Museum.
The next day I spent exploring the buzzing and cosmopolitan capital city! We started the day off with a walking tour with the delightful Sian from Loving
Welsh Food who introduced the group to our Welsh signature foods, our producers and some iconic landmarks along the way.
We did a tour of Cardiff Castle to gain a glimpse into 2000 years of history!
This was followed by a visit to the National Museum Cardiff. This is the home of Wales national art, natural history and geology collections, and temporary exhibitions.
Then it as onto Cardiff Bay - we had a short tour of the area, followed by a
boat trip - one of the best ways to explore Cardiff! We were dropped off at the charming Victorian seaside town of Penarth. Then we had dinner at the award winning James Sommerin Restaurant, were James explained the dishes and the wonderful Welsh produce that he works with. This was a unique dining experience in a Michelin star venue.
After nice sleep at the Hilton – the next day was all about beautiful countryside, showcasing castles, distilleries, Brecon Beacons and canals. It started off with a tour of the majestic Caerphilly Castle, a 13th century medieval fortification that was constructed by Gilbert de Clare as part of his campaign to conquer Glamorgan. Then we headed to Welsh Mining Experience. We begun the underground journey and follow in the footsteps of the miners who once worked at the Lewis Merthyr Colliery, right here in the heart of the Rhondda Valley. We then had high tea at Llechwen Hall – a charming boutique property with stunning views of the Cynon Valley – a great place to stay of couples or if you are planning a wedding in Wales.
Then we were on our way to Penderyn for a tour of this award-winning single malt whisky distillery in the foothills of the magnificent Brecon Beacons. I am more Gin drinker but they sold gin too – and couldn’t resist so bought a couple of bottles! We headed a bit deeper into this National Park and meet the Call of the Wild team for some serious activity of cannoning with this experienced award-winning activity company. I cannot believe I did it but in the end was great fun – I might have slipped over a couple of times. It was then off to dinner at Laguna Restaurant Park Plaza. The award-winning Laguna Kitchen Bar is situated in the city center within Park Plaza Hotel Cardiff and famed for serving classic British cuisine with a twist of Welsh character, this was the best meal while in Wales and a must when coming to Cardiff.
Our final day in Wales - after checking out of the hotel we departed and made our way to the beautiful Welsh coastline for the last morning. Our destination was the Glamorgan Heritage Coast and Dunraven Bay, Southerndown, for a guided tour from the local Wardens. The views were stunning and we saw the spot where the oldest dinosaur in Wales was recently found. Next stop was Royal Mint Experience. This is the only place in the world where you can watch the United Kingdom’s coins being made. Experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of thousands of glistening new coins, hot off the press. I even had the opportunity to strike my own coin.
Then it was off to London where we had 2 nights at the 5 Star May Fair Hotel – but visited several other hotels while in London that I will be recommending to my clients next time they are in town!
There is never enough time when in London – but would recommend at least 3-4 days in Cardiff to explore everything the city has on offer!