Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury

Sailing into Inspiration: Lynn’s CLIA River Conference Adventure

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 09:20:42 GMT

At Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury , we believe the best travel advice comes from real experiences. That’s why when Lynn had the chance to attend the CLIA River Conference in Budapest , she jumped at it. It was her first time at such an event, and it gave her an incredible insight into the world of river cruising something she’s now so excited to share with you.

My First CLIA River Conference Experience:

“ This was my very first CLIA River Conference, and I learnt so much about the world of river cruising, including discovering suppliers I hadn’t even heard of before!

I flew out from Manchester with Ryanair who I have to say had the loveliest cabin crew and returned with Jet2. The flights were smooth, quick, and the perfect way to begin and end my trip.

A Gorgeous Stay in the Heart of Budapest:

We stayed at the gorgeous 5* Budapest Marriott Hotel, which was right in the heart of the city. The views of the River Danube were spectacular, and the surroundings were vibrant and full of life. It’s an ideal base for anyone looking to stay in Budapest before or after a cruise.

Incredible Learning Opportunities at the Conference:

The conference itself was an incredible learning opportunity. Hosted at the Marriott, we took part in a River Cruise Masterclass, inspiring business sessions, a bustling trade fair, and breakout workshops on how to sell to customers and close the deal. Every session was packed with valuable insights.

Exploring River Cruise Ships Up Close:

One of the real highlights was the chance to tour and even stay overnight on different river cruise ships. From TUI to AmaWaterways, Scenic, and Viva, each vessel offered its own unique style, charm, and hospitality. Experiencing them firsthand was invaluable, and it really showed the variety of river cruise options available to travellers.

A Taste of Budapest:

Despite such a busy schedule , I still managed to enjoy a little taste of Budapest itself. With an hour to spare before my flight, I wandered through the city using Google Maps and found a bakery famous for its almond croissants. As I walked past the beautiful architecture and winding stree ts, I realised how special it was to steal even a small moment to connect with the city.

Reflections on the CLIA River Conference:

Looking back, attending the CLIA River Conference was more than just an educational trip it was inspiring. It gave me an appreciation for the magic of river cruising: intimate journeys, stunning destinations, and warm hospitality on the water.

If you’ve ever considered a river cruise, I can wholeheartedly say it’s an unforgettable way to travel and I’d love to help you find the perfect one for you.”

Ready to experience the beauty of river cruising for yourself?

Whether it’s sailing through Europe’s storybook towns or discovering hidden gems along the waterways, I can help plan a journey that’s perfect for you. Get in touch today and let’s turn your river cruise dreams into reality.

Email me: lynn.wright@worldchoicetravel.co.uk
Call me: 01743 246 959
Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury

31 August 25 – Our event of the year is back!

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 06:21:06 GMT

Discover More at the 2025 Worldchoice Travel Show

�� Sunday 31st August 2025

�� 11am–3pm

�� The Albrighton Hall Hotel, Ellesmere Rd, Albrighton, Shrewsbury SY4 3AG,

Get ready for a day of inspiration, expert insight, and exclusive travel deals at this year’s Worldchoice Travel Show!

Join our expert team and over 10 top names in travel for an unforgettable event packed with ideas, offers, and expert advice to help you plan your perfect getaway. Whether you're dreaming of a luxury cruise, a once-in-a-lifetime tour, or a sunny beach escape, this is your chance to turn travel dreams into reality for less!

What to expect?

Exclusive Discounts

Attending the show will secure you exclusive access to a host of dazzling discounts !

Book Your Next Trip

Mark the start of your next adventure as there will be opportunities to secure your next getaway on the day.

Charity Raffle

Enter our charity prize draw in aid or Lingen Davies for your chance to win dozens of prizes.

Meet Industry Experts

Explore the possibilities with lots of industry experts ready to help you secure your next holiday at unbeatable prices. From cruises to bucket-list tours, you’ll be able to find exactly what you’re looking for with expert guidance.

Discovery Sessions

Join us at our 4 different Discovery Sessions running alongside our main event where handpicked travel experts take you on a deep dive, offering insider knowledge and unveiling their secrets behind unforgettable experiences. Ask questions, gather tips, and get personalised advice to shape your future holiday with the following 4 providers.

Small Ship Sailings with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

11:30 - 12:00

Experience the joy of cruising with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. Learn about their innovative approach to cruising, from their fleet of small ships and onboard entertainment to diverse itineraries and excursions. Sailing onboard a smaller ship enables guests to venture to the furthest reaches of Norway’s lesser-known fjords, through narrow waterways and canals and to the very heart of some of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Explore the World with W endy Wu Tours

1 2:15 - 12: 45

Join the experts from Wendy Wu Tours for an inspiring session on the art of guided touring across Asia and beyond. As the UK’s leading specialist in escorted tours to China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and South America, Wendy Wu is renowned for immersive itineraries, exceptional value, and expert local guides who bring every destination to life.

Discover the Wonders of Canada with Prestige Travel

13:00 - 13:30

Join Prestige Travel as they showcase their incredible holidays across Canada. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to vibrant cities like Vancouver and Toronto, learn about tailor-made itineraries, iconic rail journeys, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you’re dreaming of a summer adventure or a snowy escape, this session will help you plan the perfect Canadian getaway.

No-Fly Cruising with Ambassador Cruise Line

13:45 - 14:15

Set sail from the UK and discover the world without the hassle of airports. In this session, learn how Ambassador Cruise Line is redefining no-fly cruising for British travellers, offering exceptional value, warm service, and a classic cruising experience.

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to explore Europe and beyond, this session will show you why Ambassador is the perfect start to your next adventure, right from your doorstep.

Sign up to join our Discovery Sessions

Spaces are limited at each of our Discovery Sessions so ensure to sign up below to guarantee your seat at as many of the above as you like.

We hope to see you there!

�� Sunday 31st August 2025

�� 11am–3pm

��The Albrighton Hall Hotel, Ellesmere Rd, Albrighton, Shrewsbury SY4 3AG,

01 September 24 – Embark On A Journey Of Discovery!

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 16:11:00 GMT

Join us and over 10 travel industry leaders at our Worldchoice Travel Show. Explore new ways to travel and uncover your ideal getaway at an unbeatable price!

As a guest at our show, you’ll have exclusive access to discounts and special offers. Whether you are ready to book your dream escape, looking for inspiration to try something new, or planning to return to a cherished destination, our event is your perfect chance to secure your next holiday for less.

Sunday 1st of September 24
11am - 3pm
Mercure Shrewsbury Albrighton Hall Hotel

What to expect?

Discovery Sessions

Adventures with APT

11:30 - 12:00

Plan an adventure to suit you. No matter how you picture your dream holiday, APT can make it a reality. You can choose to travel with everything taken care of, in all-inclusive luxury, and with the highest standards of service with APT Luxury. Or you can choose to discover all the must-see sights, stay in premium accommodation, and have the added flexibility to make independent discoveries with APT Travelmarvel.

Touring with Newmarket Holidays

12:15 - 12:45

Newmarket Holidays are a multi award winning, truly independent Touring operator with over 40 years of experience. Discover your Wish List destination from UK & Ireland, Safari adventures, Music tours of the States to Wimbledon Tennis Breaks, at Newmarket they have it all.

River Cruising with Riviera Travel

13:00 - 13:30

Uncover Riviera Travel’s incredible European River Cruises, perfect for those looking to explore multiple of the continent’s picturesque cities and landscapes in one trip. Experience the charm of European destinations, learn about the luxurious accommodations, and discover the unique excursions that make river cruising with Riviera Travel a memorable adventure.

Small Ship Sailings with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

13:45 - 14:15

The Ultimate Guide to Cape Verde

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:55:00 GMT

Our Travel Consultant Lynn went on a 4-night educational trip with Tui and RIU in March 2024, exploring some of their hotels in Sal, Cape Verde.

“Cape Verde lies to the west coast of Africa and is an arrangement of 10 islands. Relatively unknown and a melting pot of cultures, originally discovered by the Portuguese, you can see the African and Portuguese influences in the architecture and music, fashion and food. The best time to go is between November and June, although it is an all-year-round destination.

Cape Verde in a Snapshot

Top Attractions and Things To Do

Spot Loggerhead Turtles In August

Cape Verde is the third largest nesting site for loggerhead turtles on Boa Vista and Sal between July and October. August is the main month for observations.

Relax in Salt Lakes

Sal means salt – and that is where the island gets its name from, that is why you can float at the Pedra da Lume Salt Lakes – which is on the crater of an extinct volcano.

Explore Neighbouring Islands

Island hopping by flight or ferry (very laid back) – book this for the middle of your holiday as they don’t always go – and there may be delays due to winds or excessive heat.

Embark on a 4x4 Adventure

Get picked up from your hotel in a covered off roader for a 4×4 excursion: The Secrets of Sal Island tour with Petra da Lume Salt Lake.

We were driven around the island, stopping off at the desert mirage sands of Terra Boa –an optical phenomenon in which hot rays of light reflect distant objects and the sky creates the illusion of a desert lake.

The Buracona Lagoon and Murdeira Bay – our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the history and life of the Island, and a joy to listen to.

Soaking up the laid-back vibes of the west coast fishing village of Palmeira, we saw fish being caught and village paintings on the side of homes and businesses.

Where to stay

The RIU Funana

A 24-hour all-inclusive hotel fun for all hotel, the RUI Funana is 300m from the closest beach . There are several boutiques and shops in the reception area. There’s a Gym, Spa/Wellness Centre, Sports bar, RIU Land Kids Club, 4 restaurants, 7 bars, Wi-Fi and 5 adapted rooms for wheelchair users on the ground floor. The only place not accessible is the Discotheque which has 30 steps to climb.

Pack something white for the RIU White Party (or Neon for the alternative Friday nights). The party was full of energy, entertainm ent, music and bucket loads of fun all in the open air. Guests from other selected hotels also have access to this evening.

The RIU Cabo Verde Hotel

The RIU Cabo Verde hotel is a 24 hour all inclusive, 5* Adult only hotel . The hotel is full when we visit, but it still feels very quiet. They have a Cappuccino shop, 4 restaurants, 7 bars, 3 pools, a boutique/shop and free Wi-Fi throughout.

Rooms have a mini bar which is regularly refilled and a liquor dispenser. The Hotel is fully accessible, you can ask for help from the hotel to get to the beach. There is direct access to the beach .

The RIU Palace Santa Maria

The RIU Palace Santa Maria an all-inclusive hotel built in 2020, with swim-up rooms at the end of each block. All areas in the hotel are accessible with 6 adapted wheelchair rooms. There are 6 annexes over the grounds and 6 restaurants : Italian, Japanese, Fusion and Grill. 8 swimming pools, 6 bars, free Wi-Fi, kids club, a gym and wellness centre, daily sports and entertainment. Rooms have a regularly filled mini-bar and liquor optic dispensers. The waterpark is open 9am-5pm, 6 days a week and generally closed on a Sunday. There’s a 24-hour sports bar , which can be used for late arrivals with food and drink available.

This hotel is 2km from Santa Maria, around 25 mins to get to the town’s bars and restaurants.

Robinson Cabo Verde

Robinson Cabo Verde is an adults-only hotel with a wellness and fitness vibe . The hotel has a rooftop gym looking across to the beach in the distance. There’s a lovely beach bar with bean bags and a place to watch the kites flying.

Renowned for its well-being/well-eating hotel, opening in 2019, followed by a grand opening in 2021. They have rooms looking into and outside of the resort and 5 suites are sea view. There is an entertainment programme daytime and evening. All of the hotel is accessible apart from the beach which is a couple of steps. Aquafit/Zumba and sports activities are readily available.

Find the Cape Verde holiday for you

The Island of Sal, Cape Verde is a simple place, no high-rise buildings, bustling traffic or well-known brands/makes or shopping malls. Everyone you meet is polite, cheerful and eager to make you have the best stay. There was always an abundance of fresh food, cooked in front of you.

If you are feeling inspired to soak up some sunshine in Cape Verde, come and visit me in store and we can plan the perfect package for you.”

Lynn Wright , Senior Travel Consultan t

Explorer

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:14:00 GMT

The post Explorer first appeared on Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury .

The post Explorer appeared first on Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury .

The Cruise Collection

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 14:40:00 GMT

The post The Cruise Collection first appeared on Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury .

The post The Cruise Collection appeared first on Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury .

Smaller Ships With Imaginative Itineraries

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 10:01:00 GMT

We are hosting a cruise event with the experts from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines on the 4th of October, we would love to see you there!

Embark on a journey of discovery and uncover Fred. Olsen’s remarkable bespoke itineraries, sailing to remote destinations off the beaten track. Whether you’re an experienced cruise enthusiast or a curious traveller seeking new horizons, this event promises to inspire your next great adventure!

The Fred. Olsen Way

With a legacy spanning decades, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has honed the art of delivering exceptional voyages. Onboard their intimate, smaller vessels, guests get to visit destinations larger ships can’t reach and enjoy a friendly intimate atmosphere onboard.

Fred. Olsen’s meticulously curated itineraries are tailored to provide immersive encounters at each destination, avoiding the crowds, highlighting hidden gems and authentic experiences.

There are exceptional opportunities for guests who are adventuring alone to meet like-minded people and make new friends. They offer welcome drinks parties, solo traveller meetings, shore tours, and group excursions, making them a leading choice for solo travellers as well as friends and couples.

If you’re looking to learn more about the Fred. Olsen way of cruising, this event is the perfect opportunity!

Register and confirm your space below

Wednesday 4th October 2023
12:30pm
The Haydn Room, Theatre Severn, Frankwell Quay, Frankwell, Shrewsbury, SY3 8FT.

Cruise & Rail

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 14:01:00 GMT

The post Cruise & Rail first appeared on Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury .

The post Cruise & Rail appeared first on Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury .

France & Spain Onboard Sky Princess

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 09:44:00 GMT

Lynn & Steve have recently returned from a 7 night cruise down to France and Spain, taking in Le Verdon, Bilbao and La Coruna with 3 days on board the Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess.

A few days before we left home, a day 2 test kit was ordered and using the test reference number, we completed our online (PLF) Passenger Locator Form.

A pre-embarkation COVID test was undertaken at the Mayflower terminal, 2 minutes’ drive from where we were joining the Sky Princess. The test centre was brilliant, friendly staff and extremely swift service, and we stayed in our car the whole time. Within half an hour we received the test results – in the form of a text informing us we were both negative.

Having driven down to Southampton the car was booked in with CPS where you drive to the terminal, hand over your keys (with a few checks on your car) and walk the short distance (1 minute) to drop your bags off at the conveyor-belt. At this point an area was set aside for passengers awaiting their test result.

Once in the terminal, we queued for a few minutes for check in, they checked our passports, COVID pass and PLF, then we were issued with a Medallion. You are able to wear this around your neck or if you want to “bling” it up – you could buy a bracelet, necklace for it to go in. This would be used as our room key/proof of ID when getting on/off the ship and also to order drinks/shopping on the ship.

Because of COVID safety demonstrations aboard were done on the TV in our room and once completed, you visited the Muster station to check in, where they could see if you had watched the safety video.

This cruise would see us taking in 3 ports. At each of the ports, we got off and took the coach transfers to the towns we were visiting, but decided not to book any excursions. So, a walk around a small seaside village in France called Soulac-Sur-Mer, Bilbao, taking in the Guggenheim museum and surrounding areas and then La Coruna, where we were able to just walk around the port and the local shops.

Breakfasts consisted of a variety of foods, continental, full cooked breakfasts, porridge, granola, smoothies, cereals, pastries and much more.

During the week, we made use of many of the restaurants on board, including Estrella & Cielo two of the free main dining restaurants, Crown Grill and A five course trattoria menu at Sabattini’s – which were lovely. Sat and listened to the piano playing.

Pulled pork ciabattas by the pool from The Salty Dog and complimentary Ice Cream from Swirls. We tried many cocktails as these were part of the drinks package we had paid extra for.

We enjoyed using the Gym/fitness suite, taking part in quizzes, Zumba, line dancing, and joined in presentations made by the Fitness centre and the culinary department.

We had two “dress to impress” evenings where most people were dressed in their finery.

We watched films on the big screen on the Saturday afternoon whilst sunbathing on deck. By far one of the best parts of the cruise was the entertainment, we were wowed by Xcite the Band (all the way from Trinidad and Tobago). They had everyone up singing, dancing (with their masks on) as all of the venues, apart from restaurants were sip & re-cover.

The shows included, Singing, Dancing, a Ventriloquist and a Comedian – all were brilliant and from West end shows, or of a similar calibre.

Every evening, you would have an itinerary left on your bed informing you of the port we would be docking at the following morning and the entertainment that would be available if you were on board.

Sherwin, our steward kept our suite clean, making sure bins were emptied and tea and coffee replenished.

All in all a great experience.

Bank Holiday Weekend in the Isle of Man

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 09:19:00 GMT

Lynn & I decided on a last minute getaway to the Isle of Man for the August bank holiday.

With regards to the travel restrictions, we had to apply for a Vaccination Exemption from the Isle of Man government website. This is a simple form to complete free of charge online. Authority was granted within 24 hours (although they can take up to 3 days).

Then, within 48 hours of arrival on the island, passengers have to complete a landing form confirming they haven’t had COVID-19 symptoms. Again, free of charge and an email confirmation is sent immediately.

We parked our car at the Liverpool ONE car park (which is a short walk from the ferry terminal) and travelled on foot passengers aboard Isle of Man Steam Packet catamaran “Manannan”. Crossing time is around 2 hours 45 minutes.

We booked ourselves in the 4 star Claremont Hotel which is easily walkable along the promenade from the ferry port in Douglas. The hotel was excellent, with good food and friendly staff.

For getting around the island we would highly recommend purchasing a Go Explorer Pass.

There are different duration passes depending on your length of stay. We bought the 3 day passes which proved great value and much cheaper than separate travel tickets. The passes can be bought from the ferry terminal on arrival.

We travelled extensively – on the Manx Electric Railway, the Snaefell Mountain Railway and the Isle of Man Steam Railway. The explorer pass also covers the bus network too.

Douglas itself has a long promenade, we visited Laxey, home of the Worlds’ largest working water wheel. We reached the summit of Snaefell Mountain. Other towns worth a visit are Port Erin, Ramsey and Castletown. And who knew, the BeeGees were from the Isle of Man!

All in all, the weekend was tiring as we visited so many places – but it was a great experience, and we loved every minute.

Greek Islands Cruise with Royal Caribbean

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 12:03:00 GMT

I decided to take my eldest daughter Becky on a 7 night cruise around the Greek Islands.

My treat, as we’ve both worked long hours outside of our day jobs volunteering at our local COVID-19 vaccination centre in Shrewsbury.

The pre-cruise information we received was excellent. The cruise departed from Limassol, Cyprus so we needed to complete a Cyprus Flight Pass each which was straight forward. We have both been double jabbed.

The airport process at Manchester was smooth and the flight went without a hitch. On arrival in Larnaca, we were transferred to Limassol port where we took our rapid PCR tests. The results took 20 minutes and soon enough we were settling into our balcony cabin. The cruise itself was incredible. The food was always excellent, the staff were amazing and so welcoming, and the entertainment was first-rate.

The ports of call were Piraeus (for Athens), Mykonos, Santorini, Crete and Rhodes. We spent time exploring each place. The weather was great too – uninterrupted sunshine every day. We did have to take a further COVID-19 test prior to returning into Cyprus and we completed the mandatory Passenger Locator Forms for re-entering the UK.

On arrival back into Limassol, we had a few spare hours before our flight so Royal provided a complimentary tour around Limassol and Lefkara (a village on the southern slopes of the Troodos mountains).

The return flight to Manchester was on time and comfortable and the arrival process was really very easy. With Cyprus currently being on the Amber List, we have now sent off our Day 2 to release tests off and no quarantine is required.

This adventure turned out to be so special and something, we wouldn’t hesitate in repeating.

Thanks so much to Royal Caribbean for looking after us so “Royally”.

We’ll be b ack!

Worldchoice Travel Shrewsbury

Sailing into Inspiration: Lynn’s CLIA River Conference Adventure

My First CLIA River Conference Experience:

A Gorgeous Stay in the Heart of Budapest:

Incredible Learning Opportunities at the Conference:

Exploring River Cruise Ships Up Close:

A Taste of Budapest:

Reflections on the CLIA River Conference:

31 August 25 – Our event of the year is back!

Discover More at the 2025 Worldchoice Travel Show

What to expect?

Exclusive Discounts

Book Your Next Trip

Charity Raffle

Meet Industry Experts

Discovery Sessions

Small Ship Sailings with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

11:30 - 12:00

Explore the World with W endy Wu Tours

1 2:15 - 12: 45

Discover the Wonders of Canada with Prestige Travel

﻿ 13:00 - 13:30

No-Fly Cruising with Ambassador Cruise Line

13:45 - 14:15

Sign up to join our Discovery Sessions

We hope to see you there!

01 September 24 – Embark On A Journey Of Discovery!

What to expect?

Discovery Sessions

The Ultimate Guide to Cape Verde

Cape Verde in a Snapshot

Top Attractions and Things To Do

Where to stay

Find the Cape Verde holiday for you

Explorer

The Cruise Collection

Smaller Ships With Imaginative Itineraries

The Fred. Olsen Way

Register and confirm your space below​

Cruise & Rail

France & Spain Onboard Sky Princess

Bank Holiday Weekend in the Isle of Man

Greek Islands Cruise with Royal Caribbean

13:00 - 13:30

Register and confirm your space below