Thank you to our wonderful clients, partners, and friends for your trust, collaboration and continued support.

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At Dream Escape, our guides are the heart of every client experience. We believe the magic of a destination isn’t just found in its landscapes and landmarks, but in the people who bring those stories to life. That’s why our guiding philosophy is built around excellence, consistency and meticulous curation.

1. Handpicked by Experts at the Top of Their Game

Every guide we work with is personally selected and vetted by our Client Relationship Managers and in-house Blue Badge Guides Sally Strange (based in London) and Rosie Peattie (based in Scotland) – two of the most respected and experienced professionals in the industry. Their discerning standards ensure we only partner with guides who demonstrate:

• Exceptional knowledge and storytelling
• Warmth, charisma, and the ability to connect with guests of all ages
• Professionalism, discretion, and sensitivity to VIP expectations
• A deep passion for their region and its culture

2. A Consistent Dream Escape Standard – No Matter Who the Guide Is

While Sally has become a firm favourite, we want advisors to feel complete confidence that every Dream Escape guest receives the same elevated experience – even when Sally isn’t personally guiding.

Every guide we work with embodies the “Dream Escape standard”:

• Warm, highly tailored engagement
• Flexibility and sensitivity to family dynamics and multigenerational needs
• Insider access and knowledge you can’t Google
• Flawless professionalism, presentation, and attention to detail

Clients should feel the difference immediately – whether they’re exploring with Sally or Rosie or another member of their handpicked team.

3. A Unified Team, Not a Roster of Individuals

Our guides don’t operate in isolation. They are part of a collaborative, well-supported Dream Escape family. Before hosting any Brownell clients, they receive:

• Full briefings
• Context on client preferences and expectations
• Destination-specific coordination
• Ongoing guidance from Sally and Rosie

This structure means all guests experience a seamless, polished journey that feels consistent across regions and personalities.

4. Story-led, Human-led, and Always Bespoke

We champion immersive storytelling, not scripted touring.
Each guide creates atmosphere, emotion, and connection – shaping experiences around the client’s interests, pace, and energy.

Whether it’s a multigenerational family seeking warmth and fun, or discerning travellers wanting deeper cultural insights, our guides adapt effortlessly.

5. Reassurance for Advisors

We know your trust is invaluable. Our promise to advisors is simple:

“When you book with Dream Escape, you’re not booking a guide – you’re booking an entire guiding philosophy. One that guarantees the same exceptional standard, no matter who leads the tour.”

“We would like to recognize the contributions from our incredible guides, and our Coach Driver. Anne and David were our guardian angels throughout the bulk of the trip. Anne’s unsurpassed knowledge, energy, and patience with a very diversified group, added so much to our trip. We were so privileged to have her as part of our family. Likewise, David’s caring attention to our every need…. made our travels so much easier.”

(Clients of Leslie Wilde – Valerie Wilson Travel)

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Dream Escape’s 20th anniversary was more than a milestone, it was a celebration of two decades spent crafting unforgettable journeys, building trusted partnerships, and sharing the rich stories and landscapes that make the UK & Ireland so extraordinary. To honour this moment, we welcomed a select group of our esteemed partners and VIP travel advisors to Scotland for an immersive celebration spanning three remarkable locations: Gleneagles, The Fife Arms, and Aldourie Castle.

Over several unforgettable days, we curated a journey that blended Scottish heritage, refined luxury, and the experiential magic that lies at the heart of Dream Escape.

Gleneagles: Beginning in Iconic Scottish Style

Our celebration commenced at Gleneagles, the legendary Scottish estate set amid Perthshire’s rolling countryside. As a long‑standing Dream Escape partner, Gleneagles provided the perfect setting to begin our anniversary journey in classic Scottish fashion.

Guests experienced the estate’s signature blend of adventure and relaxation, exhilarating off‑road driving, timeless country pursuits, and moments of tranquillity in the award‑winning spa. Scotland’s famed hospitality was on full display, setting a warm and spirited tone for the days ahead.

The Fife Arms: Art, Culture, and Highland Warmth

The next chapter took us to The Fife Arms in Braemar, a place where history, creativity, and Highland character come together in unique harmony. This treasured Dream Escape partner offered our guests a world‑class collection of fine art and antiques, inspiring interiors, and the welcoming charm of a true Highland retreat.

Our time here included scenic walks through the Cairngorms to a local bothy, immersive cultural encounters, and an opportunity to savour the hotel’s locally inspired culinary excellence. Every detail, from the décor to the dining, contributed to a stay rich in atmosphere and meaning.

Aldourie Castle: A Fairy-Tale Setting on Loch Ness

Our main event was held at the enchanting Aldourie Castle, set on the storied shores of Loch Ness. For several unforgettable days, the castle became our home, an idyllic backdrop for celebrating Dream Escape’s 20‑year legacy.

With our specialist events division, Dream Event, every moment was thoughtfully designed to blend elegance with intimacy. Guests enjoyed a beautifully curated programme that showcased the best of Scottish tradition, craftsmanship, and natural beauty.

Immersive Experiences That Brought Scotland to Life

Throughout the celebration, we ensured that our guests didn’t just see Scotland , they felt it.

From private whisky tastings and authentic cultural interactions to wild swimming in the clear waters of Loch Ness, high‑energy RIB adventures, and hands‑on activities like falconry and floristry, each experience was chosen to inspire connection: with place, with people, and with the spirit of Scotland.

Two Decades of Excellence & a Future of Possibility

As we reflect on 20 years of Dream Escape, this celebration stands as a heartfelt thank you to the partners, advisors, and friends who have walked alongside us. Their trust, collaboration, and shared passion for transformative travel experiences have shaped our journey, and will continue to guide our vision for the future.

Scotland provided the perfect stage for our anniversary, reminding us why we do what we do: to create moments of wonder, connection, and meaning through tailor‑made travel.

Here’s to the next chapter, and to many more extraordinary journeys together.

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The Group was led by Emer Mortell and Ann McFerran from Rebecca Recommends and accompanied by Dream Escape Client Relationship Managers and Blue Bade Guides, Rosie Peattie and Sally Strange.

Starting in Edinburgh the group stayed in the fabulous 100 Princes Street. Managing director Malcolm Hendry was on hand to welcome the group. Later he joined the group, resplendent in a kilt, and addressed the haggis with a piper in tow. This was followed by whisky tasting and a delicious meal enjoyed by all.

The next day started with clear blue skies for a Pre-opening Private Tour of Edinburgh Castle. It was a rare privilege to see this iconic landmark without the crowds and a fascinating insight into it’s history and turbulent past. This was followed by a historical walking tour of the upper part of The Royal Mile led by Dream Escape Blue Badge Guide Rosie, who educated the group on everything Edinburgh and how we entertain clients on the Royal Mile.

The following day it was an early start for the drive north which meant the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunrise. Breakfast at Ballingtaggart Farm provided time to stretch the legs enjoy the farm grounds, kitchen garden, visit the lovely hens and enjoy the views of the sweeping Perthshire countryside. The food was delicious, and the room was toasty warm with wood burning stove. Owner and Executive Chef Chris Rowley was a very charming host and answered lots of questions and the expereince was much enjoyed by all.

After some amazing photos stops, the group arrived at The Torridon to a very warm welcome with all the fires burning and a lovely peaceful feeling after a busy day. There were drinks in bar joined by Torridon Owner, Dan Rose-Bristow. A Lovely dinner followed in main dining room with GM Ross Aitcheson and Commercial Manager, Alan Patterson .

The next day the group enjoyed Torridon activities. Roxanne from Elite Falconry gave a fabulous display with white tailed eagle, owl and red kite. Afternoon tea was served in the library followed by Rock Rose Gin Masterclass. This was a fabulous experience with lovely personalised labels for bottles of eveyone’s home made concoctions.

An award winning local accordionist played during pre-dinner drinks and the evening meal which was a delicious Fine Dining Taster menu with pairings of champagne, red wine and whisky, created by the head chef.

The group loved everything about The Torridon. and departed under dramatic skies and stunning scenery.

Next on the agenda was a tour of Cawdor Castle which was opened privately for the Fam group. An excellent tour with Graham the Manager which was knowledgeable, fun and interesting. The group walked through the grounds to Cawdor Tavern for delicious meal cooked by the new chef.

A quick stop at the fascinating Clava Cairns for the Outlander fans and a stop at Culloden before arriving at our final destination, the stunnung, Aldourie Castle. After a tour of the castle, a settle in and relax, the group enjoyed pre dinner coctails in the great hall and family style dinner in The Stebbings.

The next day some of the group chose a leisurely start with yoga in the Hayloft, while other brave souls dipped their toes into Loch Ness with some wild swimming. The fire on the beach and fabulous surrounds managed to take the edge off the chill slightly!

Next there was a Wildland conservation talk and estate garden and tour followed by an exhilarating RIB tour of Loch ness and a light lunch at the boat house with Haydn the chef and Head Gardener John. Afterwards we enjoyed a wander through woods and walled garden with Head Gardener ending at The Orangerie.

Here the group demonstrated their crafting skills with a Garden floral class. This was a lovely relaxing experience where everyone learned the 5 ‘F’s of flower arranging and created their very own masterpieces!

The evening started with Champagne and canapes in the Drawing Room and dinner in the Castle Dining Room joined by Hospitality Manager, Lavinia Turner and Kerry Morrison, Guest Relations Manager. A lovely touch was the flower arrangements from the earlier masterclass which were all on display in the dining room

A lovely surprise and real treat at end of a perfect Scottish castle evening was a ‘Beating Retreat’ performed on the castle lawn with the pipers coming inside for photos afterwards. A fitting end to the perfect Scotland showcase.

After a leisurely breakfast in the Lairds room the group reluctantly said good bye to new found friends, Aldourie Castle and this stunning corner of Scotland.

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Congratulations to David and the entire team who are working hard to consistently deliver exceptional experiences to our Clients.

Click HERE to read more

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Travelers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit United Kingdom from 8 January 2025 onwards for Tourism, Business, or Transit. Travelers don’t require an eTA if visiting United Kingdom before 8 January 2025. Beginning 27 November 2024, travellers can submit an eTA application online. Once the application is approved, travellers receive their eTA confirmation electronically. An eTA is electronically linked to a passport and valid for up to 2 years for multiple entries. If travellers receive a new passport, they must apply for a new eTA. The application of eTAs is fully the individual traveller’s responsibility.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta

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This issue is packed full of inspirational travel ideas to discover every corner of the UK and Ireland. We will take you to the islands or Ireland, uncover the magic of London’s diverse and eclectic ‘villages’. and visit the magnificent, historic Cawdor Castle.

As always, our dedicated Travel Design team are ready to assist you every step of the way with integrity and expertise. Whether you are seeking a relaxing retreat in Ireland or an exclusive artisan experience in Scotland, we are committed to weaving together creativity, innovation and excellence to curate the perfect travel adventure for you or your clients.

Happy Reading!

David, Holly and the Dream Escape team

Read the Autumn/Winter Edition HERE

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“Thank you for an amazing FAM-I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Dream Escape Team. Everything was lovely and the time together was magical.”

Dream Escape recently hosted a Travel Experts Pre-Summit FAM trip with our partners at The Newt in Somerset and Maybourne Hotels. We had a fabulous week and showed a great group of agents what we can offer in London and beyond!

The group started off at The Newt in Somerset where they stayed for 2 nights and were treated to exceptional hospitality and blessed with wonderful weather. They spent time exploring the gardens and the beautiful grounds and all the experiences on offer there.

On Thursday the group headed into London and were welcomed at the iconic Claridges with a Traditional Afternoon Tea.

Friday was Dream Escape’s chance to shine with a day of exclusive activities planned for the group.

Accompanied by Dream Escape Blue Badge Guide and Client Relationship Manager, Sally Strange and Head of Travel Design, Kirsty Hoskins the group left the Connaught by private coach to travel into the heart of Chelsea for a privately Guided Tour at the Royal Hospital Chelsea by a Chelsea Pensioner.

This very special visit led them through the 330-year-old Royal Hospital Chelsea, its stories, and collections. Conducted personally by one of the Chelsea Pensioners, the tour transported participants from the dawn of Restoration England through to the Napoleonic Wars and into the austerity of two World Wars.  

They experienced the Royal Hospital, designed by Sir Christopher Wren through the eyes of one of its iconic residents, discovered Nell Gwynn’s rumoured role in its establishment, and learnt about the military titan who lay in state in the Great Hall, hearing fascinating stories of resident’s past and present.

After this, the group boarded a private luxury boat from Cadogan Pier in Chelsea for a leisurely cruise along the River Thames with Sally will pointing out key places of interest and regaling the group with many of her fascinating stories!

The afternoon involved a Street Art Experience in the East End. The group were introduced to a street artist who took them to his unique workshop. His encyclopaedic knowledge of the street-art scene – from the techniques to the artists themselves – makes him a first-class guide around this complex, deeply creative subculture. The group learnt all about paint-adorned walls, taking in everything from full-wall murals to tiny tags, discovering layer by layer, who the key artists are and what techniques they use to create the ever[1]evolving, art-lined backdrop.

After a return to the hotels the group were treated to finale dinner at ABC Kitchen at the Emory hosted by the Patrick and Maybourne Group.

This was a fabulous showcase of the unique private experiences Dream Escape can offer in the capital and demonstrate how a Dream Escape guide is an essential ingredient to make the most of a trip to London

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Wherever you are, enjoy the glory of the summer months in UK & Ireland with Dream Escape Magazine.

Happy reading!

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