JollyDays Supported Holidays

Monkey World; Ape Rescue Centre - Dorset

How lucky were we getting to spend 2 fabulous days at Monkey World! Everyone was presented with an adoption certificate of our very own primate. We couldn't wait to see them in real life!

We started our day with the Woolly Monkeys—graceful, intelligent creatures rarely found in captivity due to their complex health needs. Monkey World is the only sanctuary in Europe successfully breeding healthy Woollies and watching them leap through the trees with such agility and strength was a breathtaking sight. Next, we attended the Small Monkey Keeper Talk. Here, we met tiny but mighty primates like Marmosets, Tamarins, Capuchins, and Spider Monkeys, many of whom had been rescued from the UK pet trade.

The stories were deeply moving—many of the monkeys had spent years in solitary cages, malnourished and neglected. Now, thanks to Monkey World, they were living vibrant, social lives in custom-built enclosures. Watching them play, groom, and explore their environment was both heart-warming and inspiring. The keepers were passionate and informative, and we had the chance to ask plenty of questions.

As the sun beamed down, we wandered through the sanctuary and spent time watching the playful, charismatic Chimpanzees. Their expressive faces and social behaviours were mesmerising. We all managed to spot our animals all full of energy and charm!

Everyone woke up full of excitement for today’s nostalgic journey aboard a heritage steam train from Swanage to Norden Station. The moment we stepped onto the platform at Swanage Station, it felt like stepping back in time. The scent of coal smoke and the sound of the steam whistle set the scene perfectly. We found our seats in a charming vintage carriage and began our scenic journey through the Dorset countryside, passing fields, forests, and postcard-perfect villages. As the train chugged past the ruins of Corfe Castle, silhouetted against the hills.

Then we were off to one of Dorset’s most impressive attractions: the Tank Museum in Bovington. This colossal museum houses over 300 tanks from 28 nations—the largest and most significant collection of armoured vehicles in the world. We started with the powerful Trench Experience, where we walked through life-sized WWI trench reconstructions. From recruitment office to the front lines, we saw, heard, and even smelled what soldiers would have experienced. Gunfire echoed through the maze-like paths, making it all feel incredibly real. We climbed inside tanks and marvelled at their size and complexity. It was amazing to be able to admire a stunning collection of wartime medals and learn about the bravery behind each one.

It was off for a day of creativity and coastal charm—our destination: SandWorld in Weymouth. From the moment we stepped inside, we were blown away. The towering, intricately detailed sand sculptures were truly works of art—some standing several metres tall! Masterpieces from the world’s best sand artists brought famous characters to life before our eyes. We marvelled at Simba and Mufasa from The Lion King, a soaring Dumbo, an ancient Egyptian prince, and even long-extinct sea creatures from over 83 million years ago. The craftsmanship was spellbinding—delicate facial expressions, swirling patterns, and textures you wouldn’t believe had all been sculpted from just sand and water.

Inspired by what we’d seen, we then headed to the creative area, where we made our own sand art. We left feeling very proud of our artistic flair!

Cyprus Sun

From the minute we stepped off the plane we were hit with that warm holiday sunshine! The smiles on our faces said it all as we pulled up to our hotel. With its impressive setting right on the shore, we were warmly welcomed by the friendly hotel staff.

Towels laid out, sun cream applied, and loungers positioned just right — we settled in beside the pool. With the crashing waves of the sea to our left, the sparkling pool in front, and our friends all around, we began to relax completely. We spent the entire morning like this, sipping drinks, taking part in aqua aerobics, and joining in with poolside games and activities.

We all agreed we could certainly get used to this!

Our location couldn't be better! We literally stepped out of the hotel and were right on the beach. The stunning turquoise water and soft, clear sands made for a beautiful photo — and an even better swim. We just loved this place!

You would always find us on the strip exploring what music and shows were on. Our favourite was the popular Sphinx Bar, a well-known local venue for its lively atmosphere and nightly tribute acts. From energetic tributes to ABBA to Rod Stewart all complete with all the classic hits and crowd-pleasing choreography we danced the night away!

We hired cars ready for a tour of the coastline. Our first stop was the Sea Caves, a stunning natural formation carved by the waves. The crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock arches made it a picture-perfect start. From there, we drove to the lively Ayia Napa Harbour. Next on our tour was Larnaca, where we visited the famous Salt Lake and viewed the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque from outside. Salt Lake was a fascinating sight where it forms when seawater enters the basin during winter and then evaporates in the heat, leaving behind a shimmering crust of salt.

It was time for our day on the water! From the top deck, we had panoramic views of the turquoise Mediterranean. It was absolutely breathtaking. We cruised past the Cape Greco caves, the East Point lighthouse, and the mythical Blue Lagoon, where the colours of the sea were so vivid it looked like a painting. The boat stopped twice for swimming