Lorraine Simpson: Episode 2 of “What’s on Your Post-Pandemic Bucket List?” will make your travel dreams come true
So, as you know, I just launched my new TV show, “What’s on Your Post-Pandemic Bucket List?” in late September, and now Episode 2 is out and it’s already getting rave great reviews from audiences around the world.
I launched the show to help get the travel industry moving again and also to get consumers thinking about where they will travel next after we’ve all been in lockdown mode for the last seven-or-so-months.
The good news, as you will see in my new episode, is that you can start travelling now and a large number of tropical destinations have all the right guidelines in place for tourists on the COVID-19 testing, insurance, and safety fronts.
That’s right, the pandemic may have clipped our wings, but our dreams can still be real. My new show, made in a pandemic, is a homage to the places we dream of, and now your dreams can come true, thanks to the efforts of airlines and tropical destinations opening their doors to travellers for longer stays.
First, let’s go off the beaten path to Casa Loma, Toronto
Casa Loma (Spanish for Hill House) is definitely one of the prime locations to visit in Toronto, and it’s even better when they lock me in it! I must say, this castle, built over 100 years ago, is an architectural marvel – inside and out. It used to be the residence of financier Sir Henry Pellatt and was designed by E.J Lennox. Construction began in 1911 and was completed three years later.
I had the opportunity with my film crew to explore the castle and its secret passageways, winding stairways, and I leaned more about the mysterious 800-foot tunnel below the 64,700 sq. ft. residence with seven floors. I was blown away with all its amazing rooms that told a story – the Billiards Room, The Conservatory, the Great Hall, Library, and Sir Henry’s Study, to name a few.
If you live in Ontario or Canada, or anywhere in the world for that matter, Casa Loma is a must to add to your post-pandemic bucket list. Trust me, a visit here will make you appreciate history and gothic-revival-style architecture.
Ireland’s Ashford Castle is our next stop
The next place I report on in my new show is Ashford Castle in West Ireland. This locale is for sure on my bucket list and will be on yours too once you see the show.
Shane Brett, who is a sales executive for Ashford Castle, was my tour guide, and yes, I just love an Irish accent (had to throw that in there).
Shane was a wealth of information and he also highlights why everyone should visit Ireland: it’s full of history, amazing scenery, breathtaking architecture, and yes, Guinness Beer!
While in Ireland, I also met up with the world oyster shucking champion, Michael Moran at Moran’s Oyster Cottage. He’s a great guy and has a great sense of humour. While in Ireland you will want to stop in and meet him; I am glad I did during this show!
Even better, my show also gives viewers an inside look at Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. Ciara McClements talks about the four seasons of weather all one day, and she reveals its beauty and why her hometown is a big lure for tourists from around the world. The scenery is absolutely stunning with the rough waves hitting the rocky cliffs that seem to go for miles and miles. Lots of history and really neat architecture here too, and the people are down to earth and friendly – you may never want to leave.
Tahiti has lots to offer tropical vacation enthusiasts, and luxury honeymoon seekers
After Ireland we headed to Tahiti where the temps were much warmer.
The Islands of Tahiti are filled with beauty, intrigue, culture, and stunning landscapes. And if you haven’t had the chance to venture off to this locale in the South Pacific, then you really should add it to your post-pandemic bucket list. Trust me – it’s worth the trip on every level.
Some quick facts that will impress you: This is the location where first over-water bungalow was invented to protect the coral reef, and the Tahitian islands are almost the size of Europe. Neat, eh!
I even came here on my honeymoon 35 years ago and I had the chance to sail on a Windstar Ship around the islands. It was one of the most spectacular memories for me to this very day and I tell everyone to visit this amazing destination where people are friendly and where you are always surrounded by bright blue water, palm trees, and good eats.
Antigua and Barbuda: 365 beaches, so that’s one for every day of the year
If you want sun and fun and a place to work remotely during a pandemic, then add Antigua and Barbuda to your travel bucket list.
I was thrilled to have the opportunity to interview Prime Minister, The Honourable Gaston Browne, who told me that his country was the first to open in the Caribbean after a long lockdown.
Antigua and Barbuda have had incredibly low COVID-19 numbers. You also need to test negative before arriving, so this way you know you are safer.
There are direct flights from the UK, USA, and Canada to Antigua and Barbuda, so this is a great place to bring the family together without having to worry about quarantining. How about this locale for a Holiday trip? Sign me up!
The country is also offering extended stays for tourists and professionals alike, so you can feel like you live here for a little while – and that’s a good thing. There are lots of hotels to stay at and they have good deals, along with condos and apartments, all close to the beach.
Don’t touch that dial, more episodes coming!
My new TV show is fun to film and while most interviews are done on Zoom, it gives viewers a true inside look at amazing destinations where they can now travel.
I am telling everyone to get travelling again.
Airports, airlines, and hotels are safe and many countries in the Caribbean have low COVID numbers, and they are even testing travellers on arrival or before departure. Airlines and many countries are also offering COVID-19 insurance, so explore your options and don’t be shy, get packing your bags now!
Don’t let a pandemic scare you away form booking a trip and getting on a plane. Wear a mask, wash your hands, and follow the rules – that’s my advice.
Stay tuned, I have more episodes coming right up.
If you have any ideas for my show, or want to be featured, then contact me today and let’s discuss new opportunities together. I am here to help you and to help give the travel industry a big reboot!
