Based in Worthing

Trudy Charles

It's Nice To Meet You

Hello, my name is Trudy. I am a Travel Counsellor living in Goring-by-sea with my husband and two children Alexie and Delilah.

I have worked in the travel industry now for over 20 years. I started out straight from school as an apprentice for Lunn Poly, rocking their fabulous tartan uniform! Since then I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in all things travel. I have worked for independent agents and tour operators and have gained invaluable insight into how to get the best from the industry.

Having most recently worked 10 years for a luxury tour operator, I have been lucky enough to have visited many high-end hotels across Europe. This first-hand knowledge puts me in an ideal position to be able to recommend the right hotel to suit my clients needs. I have travelled to some beautiful destinations in Europe including many parts of Italy, Greece and Croatia. I honeymooned in Kenya and have also visited many parts of Northern Africa.

The best thing for me about being a Travel Counsellor is that I get to use my passion for travel along with my experience to help others find what is right for them. Everyone’s idea of the perfect holiday is unique, and I love nothing more than getting to know my clients needs and helping them to find the right holiday for them.

I will be with you from initial enquiry, to booking and will be on hand to help with anything you need until you return from your trip. You can be reassured that I am only a phone call away.

I would love to hear from you so please pick up the phone and give me a call or message me so I can find out more about what you have in mind for your next trip.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

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My Blog

I absolutely live and breathe travel and I love to write about my experiences! Please take a look through my posts - you might find your own holiday inspiration.

First Time Family Ski

24 February 2024

We took our first family skiing holiday this Half Term. My husband has skied before but over 20 years ago, and the girls and I were complete beginners. We chose Arinsal in Andorra as our destination as it is perfect for beginners. Andorra does not have it’s own airport so you need to fly into France or Spain. We decided to fly into Barcelona and tagged on a 3-night stay in Barcelona first (read my previous blog for info on this!) From Barcelona, the best value transfer is via the Andbus which can be caught from downtown Barcelona or the airport. It is a 3-4 hour drive depending on traffic but the coach is very comfortable. It is also a scenic drive so the time passed quickly. We booked the Xalet Verdu Hotel which is just a 5-minute walk to the gondola. We arrived in Andorra late afternoon so decided to pick up our equipment straight away so we would be ready to start skiing the next morning. So after quickly dropping off our luggage we took our first gondola up the mountain. Although the hotel offered free lockers for ski equipment, we decided to pay to hire a locker at the top. I would highly recommend this as it was so nice not having to lug our equipment around each time! Being the start of half term the queue to collect equipment was busy but the staff were excellent, and we had everything we needed safely stowed away ready for our first trip. The Xalet Verdu hotel is a 3* hotel in Arinsal. It had a very homely feel, not luxurious by any means but very warm and welcoming. The family room had two extra beds for the girls and was extremely spacious. It had views to the gardens from one side and over the mountains on the other. The bathroom was also large and had a full-size bath which was very much needed after a day on the slopes. The water was also always hot which was lovely. We all agreed the staff and the food were what made this hotel so special. The restaurant staff were warm and welcoming and nothing was too much trouble. Breakfast was buffet style, plentiful with delicious fresh pastries and hot/cold food which varied from day to day. For the evening meal you have a buffet starter which again was different each day. You then then pick from one of 3 main meals and 3 desserts which is served to your table. The quality of food was far above 3* standards and we were all very impressed. The meals were quite adult – not a chicken nugget in site so if you have fussy eaters, they might struggle with the mains but they can always fill up on the buffet starters if needed. Normally for first time skiers, I would recommend booking the ski school as then the children can learn along side children their own age and ability. As our youngest has some speech issues, we decided to opt for private lessons. Our instructor was brilliant, she had lived in Andorra most of her life and had plenty of local knowledge. She was brilliant with the kids and managed to adapt our lessons to suit our levels well. We pre-booked 4 x 2 hour lessons which I think was the perfect amount. Our day would start with an early play around on the nursery slopes, followed by a 2 hour lesson, lunch and then then more fun just the 4 of us. The snow wasn’t great this year for advanced skiers but for our level, it was fine. You could also use the lift pass to head to neighbouring Pal if you wanted more variety. The girls and my husband definitely took to skiing more than I did – I do think the younger you learn the easier it is! The last 2 days we had to ourselves and we had a great mix of chill time and fun on the slopes before catching the early bus back to Barcelona on the last day. Overall I would highly recommend Andorra and the Xalet Verdu hotel – especially for families and beginners. We had a wonderful time. Top Tips for First Time Family Ski – Buy your ski clothing on marketplace or ebay the summer before as this was the cheapest way to get good quality clothes without buying brand new. Pre-book lifts passes, ski equipment, lockers and ski-school before you travel – especially when travelling at peak times. Layer your clothing – some days it reached 15 degrees on the top of the slopes, and we were often skiing in t-shirts! Sun cream and goggles are a must – I did see a lot of red faces towards the end of the week! Book a locker near the slopes to save lugging equipment everywhere Go with an open mind, prepare for your children to be way better than you are and overall embrace the experience – the memories we made on this trip were priceless.

Barcelona with Children

23 February 2024

This was the first time taking my girls on a City Break so we were not sure what to expect. If you are in the same position then please just go for it! We had such an wonderful time and would do it again in a heartbeat. We travelled straight from school so had a late arrival into Barcelona. Because of this we decided to treat ourselves to a private transfer rather than faffing around with public transport. From touchdown, through security and bag collection we were in our transfer car within 30 minutes! We booked our stay at the Petit Palace Boqueria Gardens, located on a pedestrian street just off Las Ramblas. The lobby was lovely and modern with fresh flowers and I immediately knew it was going to be a lovely stay. The receptionist greeted us warmly and gave us plenty of local information including restaurant recommendations. We headed to our family room which was very spacious with bunk beds for the children. We had booked breakfast at the hotel, which was a little pricey, but our girls love a good breakfast buffet and we wanted to make sure they filled up before the days ahead! Breakfast was excellent with a huge choice of freshly made pastries, cereals, fruit and the usual continental bits. Also, a small, cooked section so plenty of choice. Most importantly good coffee! Before travelling, we had investigated travel options. If we needed transport from the airport, the Hola Barcelona Card would have been perfect as it included airport transfers, along with all bus and metro lines. As we didn’t need the airport transfers, we opted instead for a T-Mobilitat card. This gave us each 10 uses over 3 days on any bus or metro service across Barcelona. On our first day we had pre-booked tickets to visit La Sagrada Familia. We took the bus as we wanted to see a little of the city on route and we were dropped off a couple of minutes’ walk away. The first view of La Sagrada Familia was breathtaking. We were a little early for a slot so took some time to take in the views from the outside. When it was time for out slot, we used our mobile to listen to the audio guide which pointed out key things to look for. The three of us were blown away by the architecture. It didn’t feel too crowded at all and there was plenty of seating to sit and take it all in. We decided not to pay the extra to head up the towers. Looking at the stairs I am glad we didn't as I am claustrophobic and the girls would have struggled with the steps. After this we took a leisurely walk through the city. Barcelona’s streets are in a grid system, so it is easy to navigate. There are also lots of little play areas dotted around which is great for when the little ones have gotten bored. We visited the chocolate museum which is something the girls really wanted to do. I wouldn't pay the entrance fee of €22 again as the museum part was not as exciting as we hoped. The girls did enjoy spending their pocket money on the gorgeous chocolates in the shop though so if we went again, would just go to the shop. After a quick stop for Cinnamon buns at Demasie we headed back to the hotel for a pit stop. That evening we took the girls to a local Tapas restaurant the hotel had recommended. This was our one extravagant meal, so I ordered us around 10 dishes for the 4 of us and we had a big blow out along with a large jug of sangria! It cost just over €100 for the 4 of us which I think was good value considering the amount of food we ordered and the drinks. After our meal we took a stroll around Las Ramblas and then headed back to sleep off all the food! Day 2 we headed to Park Guell as we had heard it is best to go early to avoid the crowds. Parts of the park are free but if you want to see the Gaudi Architecture you need to visit the paid section. We had pre-booked entry tickets again. I would recommend taking some time at the beginning to check the layout. We went straight in and spent a lot of time wondering aimlessly and think we might have missed a few bits! There was a nice play park which the girls enjoyed and the views over Barcelona were spectacular. I would imagine in the summer you could spend a whole day here just wondering and maybe enjoying a picnic. The main spots around the park’s buildings did get very crowded though and I can imagine high season being even worse. Still, great place for the children to burn off energy. After Park Guell we headed over to the Science Museum. For the children I think this was their highlight. We had recently visited the science museum in London and my youngest did get a little bored so I didn’t know how this would go down, but she loved it. It is way more interactive that our museum with numerous activities for the children. They also have an indoor tropical garden area which is full of animals and great fun to walk around. Children are free and adults only pay Children are free and adults only pay €6 each so an absolute bargain, especially considering what we paid for the chocolate museum. I would say this is a must when travelling with children to Barcelona. Our final stop of the day was to the Boqueria Market. We decided not to have a proper meal that evening as we wanted to wonder around the market and try a variety of local specialities. Between us we ate empanadas, taco’s, seafood, patatas bravas, chocolate strawberries and ice cream! We happened to have times our trip to coincide with the local carnival so after leaving the market we wondered over to the cathedral where they had a stage set up with local performances going on. We caught site of the ‘Correfoc’ which is a Catalan tradition where adults and children dress up as devils and monsters and parade setting off firecrackers and sparklers which was spectacular! A great ending to our visit. Before travelling I had heard that Barcelona at times was unsafe and crime rates high but honestly, we felt very safe. We took the usual precautions you take when visiting a large city and kept valuables at the hotel, but the locals were wonderful. Everyone seemed happy and helpful, and it was a real joy. Plenty of children around both local and tourists and we felt welcome everywhere we went. The transportation is also very easy to navigate. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend families visit Barcelona and it has certainly opened us up to the idea of taking the children on more city breaks in the future.

Your Invitation to Explore the World Again

23 June 2020

Your Invitation to Explore the World Again To all my wonderful clients As the world is now starting to re-open, I wanted to take this opportunity to invite you to re-start your travel adventures with me. I would love to know how you are all feeling about travelling again. Is there a special place you would like to visit? Where is the first place you want to go? We all lead such busy lives and if this lockdown has taught me anything it is to slow down. To appreciate the quality time with my family and stop trying to cram so much into every day. For me that is what travel is all about. Spending quality time with the people I love the most and discovering new places, creating new memories, and having new adventures together. I wonder what travel means to all of you What have you all missed most about travel? This year I am hoping to take a UK break with my family including my nieces who I have not been able to see in nearly 3 months now. As for next year, we are really hoping to be able to take the children to Florida. We are all huge theme park fans and at what will be 9&5 I think my girls are the perfect age where the magic is all still very real, but they will be old enough to appreciate it. Keeping it all shhhhhh though as it will be a big secret for them! The travel industry has been hit extremely hard during this pandemic. Not only are we not getting any new business in, but we have had to refund the vast majority of what we had booked. Can you imagine if every clothes shop that closed also had to refund their last 6 months of sales? Having said that, I think moving forward, this crisis will see a return to many people booking through more reputable agents. One of the biggest complaints I have seen by people regarding their travel bookings is the lack of communication. Particularly those who booked themselves online, they just have not been able to speak to anyone. My clients did not have that concern. I have reached out to every client I had with bookings this year. They have all been kept fully updated with their options and I have guided them through every step of the way. I always answer my phone and they know they have a personal contact from start to finish. For future travel bookings, I am up to date with all new procedures and policies put in place by airports and airlines so I can safely guide you through your next trip. I can contact hotels on your behalf with any questions you might have. I can offer full financial protection for your bookings and even have the option of booking one of our flexible promise holidays which will give you full flexibility on your booking. So once again, thank you to each and everyone of you for your custom. I appreciate you sticking with me over this difficult time and I cannot wait to speak to you again to book your next adventure wherever that might be! Speak soon and Stay Safe Trudy

My Big Fat Greek Holiday

13 August 2019

I certainly plunged into the deep end on my first trip to Greece. Athens in the middle of August isn’t for everyone and I must admit climbing up to the Acropolis in the near 40-degree heat was hard going. And you would think that being shaken awake in the early hours by an earthquake would have put me off forever! However, this trip was the beginning of my love affair with Greece. Since this first trip to Greece I have been back more times than I can remember. Each time I set foot on Greek soil I feel I have come home. Here are just a handful of the reasons I always return to Greece… Greek food My goodness it’s phenomenal! Greek salads which are fresh, simple and covered in deliciously salty feta cheese and olives. Rich, creamy Moussaka, different in every eatery as each family seems to have their own unique recipe. And of course, the humble Greek kebab or Gyros. Usually made with pork or chicken stuffed into a light fluffy pitta stuffed with salad, tzatziki and chips! The Scenery Each area I have visited in Greece has its own stunning scenery. Top of the list must be Santorini. On one side of the island the towns cling to cliff edges above an underwater caldera, the whitewashed buildings being some of the most widely photographed areas of Greece. The other side of the island you will find stunning black volcanic sand beaches. Every area of Greece I have visited has shown me different types of beauty. Zakynthos experiences large amounts of rainfall in the winter so is one of the few areas in Greece that I have visited to have lush green areas in the centre and of course the legendary shipwreck beach. Greek Frappe Ok so you may think it is extreme to write a whole section on what is effectively an iced coffee but for me, that first Frappe I have when I come to Greece (ideally with the sound of Zorba the Greek playing from a nearby restaurant!) is the moment I feel at my most peaceful! In typical Greek style this drink was discovered accidentally by a Nescafe rep and is now sold in almost every food and drink outlet across Greece. Versatility There really is something for everyone in Greece. If you want culture, history and sightseeing Greece has it covered. If you want high end luxury hotels, for adults or families there are plenty to choose from. If you are looking for a great priced break with the family, then there are a huge range of excellent value apartments. Or even if you want a place with to go with your friends for some great nightlife there an abundance of lively resorts to choose from. So, although there are many places in the world I still want to visit, I know that I will continue to return to Greece whenever the opportunity arises.

My customer stories

Sent by Sara Woodcock

Trudy is brilliant and I frequently recommend her to my friends! She is so patient and helpful. I will keep using her service as she just takes the stress out of booking holidays…

Sent by Maricel Champion

Very supportive and quick response

Sent by Jane Denney

I've used Trudy for a few years to sort out all my holidays and she is amazing, Finding me the best places to go , always there to answer all my questions, sorts it out quickly when things don't go to plan, I recommend her to all my friends , and love her little goodie box she gives you before you go away such a lovely touch.

Sent by Amie Brown

I received nothing but perfect treatment from Trudy, Charles really fast responses and no question was to much , always answering my questions and worry The information provided included everything I needed to know and have best given the best deals for us as a family and taken the stress of not having to do it all myself. I would always use Trudy travel counsellors into the future

Sent by Alexander Greenwood

We asked Trudy for an unusual destination in Italy and with in an hour she came up with the perfect package

Sent by Elizabeth Marsh

Wonderful service, always very prompt with a reply to emails. We are really looking forward to our holiday in May.

Sent by Charlene Stirton

Have already recommended Trudy to friends and family. Excellent service provided. Answers all questions. Puts my mind at ease. Booked several holidays. Extremely satisfied with service provided and will continue to use in future

Sent by Charlene Stirton

Trudy was always on hand to answer any question. Great service. Have booked again through her for next year.

Sent by Catherine Goff

Fantastic service, incredible patience would not hesitate to recommend to anyone

Sent by Vanessa Horstead

Trudy listened to our brief and found our holiday after the second email. Thank you Trudy I will be using you again and I can highly recommend you and have.

Sent by Maureen Smith

Trudy was always available & happy to answer any questions I had. Her email response was extremely quick & helpful. I would definitely recommend her services.

Sent by Rosalind Charles

Very helpful in setting up apps, sending information regularly, and Responding to any Questions that i had made booking first Cruise very easy experience

Sent by Emma Graham

Trudy was very helpful in finding us a holiday to meet all of our needs. We had to change the dates we were available a couple of times due to our dog sitter, but Trudy was more than happy to respond to the changes. She kept us informed of details throughout the search process, and responded to questions extremely promptly.

Sent by Emma Graham

Trudy was very helpful in finding us a holiday to meet all of our needs. We had to change the dates we were available a couple of times due to our dog sitter, but Trudy was more than happy to respond to the changes. She kept us informed of details throughout the search process, and responded to questions extremely promptly.

Sent by Andreas Draganis

Trudy so far has been extremely helpful and has provided good information and options that suit our requirements. She has responded to all of our enquiries in a timely manner and wouldn't hesitate to use her services again or recommend her to family and friends

Sent by Sue Chandler

Trudy was very helpful and informative

Sent by Chris Harris

Trudy gives us an amazing service and we have already recommended her to others

Sent by Jane Denney

I found Trudy very friendly and helpful, even when we had to change our plans it was no problem, looking forward to getting away, she took all the stress out of finding somewhere would definitely recommend her.

Sent by Chloe Steadman

Trudy was amazing from start to finish, she got back to me very promptly and has put together my dream honeymoon! Would definitely recommend Trudy to anyone!

Sent by Alexander Greenwood

Not being sure what sort of holiday we were after Trudy gave us a number of options and we are looking forward to the holiday we chose.

Sent by Anna Taylor

Trudy was excellent. I told her what we were looking for and she came up with some great options. When I asked her to find me a few more, she did it quickly and has been helpful with any of my questions about our destination.

Sent by Deborah Pacey

Using Trudy saved me a lot of time & effort researching hotels & flights. I will definitely be using her again & will recommend her to my friends & family.

Sent by Amber Purdy

Great service, prompt answers to all my questions no matter how small, always seemed happy to help and very appreciable, highly recommended thank you Trudy

Sent by Christopher Harris

Trudy went the “extra mile” to help and find us what we wanted. Super service!

Sent by Kim Charles

Very helpful, plenty of choice , Always on hand to answer questions .

Sent by Hazel Luck

Trudy was very helpful, professional and informative when booking my holiday, I would never consider booking with any one else.