Emma Vipond
My expertise
I'm based in
Ickenham
It's Nice To Meet You
Welcome, I'm Emma, your personal Travel Counsellor based in Ickenham, Middlesex.
My love of travel really took off at university, when I spent my student loan on an Interrailing adventure around Europe. Since then I've never looked back! I've visited over 50 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Barbados, St Lucia, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Peru, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Canada, Tanzania, India, Iceland and Lapland and many countries in Europe.
I can book any type of travel from city breaks, cruise, activity holidays and beach breaks to long-haul multi centre holidays. My real passion and expertise lies with adventure and touring, whether you prefer to travel as part of a small group of like‑minded people or on a completely independent journey, this style of travel is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in a destination’s culture, traditions, food, nature and wildlife, whilst giving something back to local communities. I'm also an expert in expedition cruise, which is becoming increasingly popular and allows you to reach places that are completely inaccessible by land.
I have access to award-winning technology, our 24hr Duty Office and a wide range of trusted suppliers and you can rest assured that your holiday will be 100% financially protected.
I offer completely independent travel advice and take the time to get to know you as an individual, building a genuine relationship so that I can create a tailor-made holiday that's carefully crafted around you. Unlike high street travel agents, you can contact me in the evenings and at weekends at a time that suits you and I'll always on hand to help should your holiday not go to plan.
So whether you are dreaming of a weekend away in the UK or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, please get in touch to see what I can create for you. I will do my best to take the stress out of planning and booking your holiday, leaving you free to look forward to valuable time away with your loved ones.
Travel guides
Explore my guides and blogs
Educational Trip to Barbados
Back in 2024 I was invited on an educational trip to Barbados courtesy of the Barbados tourist board and Travel Weekly, travelling in a small group of fellow travel agents. The trip was originally planned for June, but an unseasonal hurricane meant that it had to be postponed until September. The aim was simple: to experience the island exactly as my clients would, so I could return home with fres
05 May 2026 5 min read
A Short Road Trip Through Central Portugal & The Alentejo
If you love the idea of a Portuguese road trip that combines historic cities, dramatic Atlantic coastline, characterful hotels, traditional food and wine, and even a little golf, this route through Central Portugal, the the Alentejo is perfect for a long weekend or a relaxed short break.
16 Apr 2026 5 min read
Our Family Group Adventure Through Vietnam
Sometimes the best trips begin with a change of plan.
15 Apr 2026 5 min read
Costa Rica - My Small Group Adventure
Costa Rica has long been on my personal travel wish list: a country of cloud forests, volcanoes, sloths, toucans and those iconic Pacific sunsets. Recently I joined a 7 night small group tour of Costa Rica with Intrepid Travel, and it turned out to be the perfect way to experience the country’s nature, culture and pura vida spirit.
04 Feb 2026 5 min read
A City Break in Vancouver
A city where mountains meet the ocean, wildlife roams city parks, and every day promises new discoveries—Vancouver captivated me from the first moment. Recently, I spent five unforgettable days exploring this West Coast gem, immersing myself in its festive spirit, vibrant culture, and premium experiences. Here’s a glimpse into my journey, and just a hint of what I can create for your next tailor-m
06 Jan 2026 5 min read
Sailing the Rhine with Tauck: A Journey Through Europe’s Heart
I recently had the incredible opportunity to join a group of fellow travel agents on a 5* Tauck river cruise, sailing down the Rhine River from Amsterdam to Basel aboard the elegant Inspire. From start to finish, it was a seamless blend of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments.
21 Oct 2025 5 min read
Swiss Family Adventure
Ever wondered what it’s like to chase mountains, swim in turquoise lakes, and eat your body weight in cheese—all in one week? This summer, we did exactly that on a whirlwind family trip through Switzerland. From Lucerne’s sparkling lake to the dizzying heights of the Schilthorn, from Bond-inspired adventures to Gruyère’s cheesy delights, here’s the story of our unforgettable Swiss adventure. This
12 Oct 2025 5 min read
Hiking Through the Dolomites With Exodus Adventure Travels
Last week I swapped my desk for hiking boots and joined a group of travel agents on a 7-night adventure through the Dolomites with Exodus Adventure Travels - and wow, what a trip! There were 13 of us in total: four Canadians, seven Brits, one Italian, and one American. I met up with the UK crew at Heathrow, and after a quick round of “so what do you sell?” introductions, we hopped on a flight to V
12 Oct 2025 5 min read
Tour of the Golden Triangle
Having recently returned from a guided tour of the Golden Triangle in India, I wanted to share my experience and the benefits of travelling as part of a group. It can be a bit daunting travelling to a country like India. Delhi is particularly crazy with its traffic and noise and even crossing the road is tricky! Group tours are fantastic for solo travellers, and by solo I don't doesn't just mean
07 Feb 2025 5 min read
Scottish Family Adventure (Part Three) - Oban
The journey from the Isle of Skye to our final destination, the seaside town of Oban took approximately 4 hours. We arrived at our accommodation, a two-bedroom lodge on the outskirts, around mid-afternoon. We headed into town for supplies and to take a stroll along the promenade. Oban has lots to offer by way of activities and attractions for tourists ranging from a tour of the distillery to a vis
08 Nov 2019 5 min read
Scottish Family Adventure (Part Two) - The Isle of Skye
The route from Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway to the Isle of Skye took us along the shores of Loch Lomond and through the mountains and ski resort of Glencoe. Although it was a long journey - 8 hours in total - we were rewarded with some of the most stunning scenery we have ever seen. We drove through Fort William, with its backdrop of Ben Nevis, before crossing the Skye bridge over to Sk
08 Nov 2019 5 min read
Scottish Family Adventure (Part One) - Dumfries and Galloway
I love a staycation, so with 18 days of the Easter school holidays before us, my partner Kevin and I decided to take our two boys William, aged 9 and James, aged 7 on a road trip through Scotland. Now you may be thinking that planning any sort of trip that involves long car journeys with young children is utter madness however armed with a weeks’ worth of snacks and various digital devices we set
08 Nov 2019 5 min read
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Why use a Travel Counsellor
Let's plan your dream trip together
Tailor-made for you
Your holiday isn’t just a trip away. It’s a longed-for escape, time to reconnect with loved ones, or a dream adventure you never thought possible. That’s why I take the time to truly get to know you and understand your hopes and expectations, then use my experience, connections and passion for the destination to create a trip that makes those dreams a reality.
Personalised service. Always
When you plan a holiday with me, you’ll be given my personal mobile number from the very first call. I’ll listen to your thoughts and ideas like I would a friend and arrange accommodation, activities, and flights that are all personalised to you. And I’ll share my personal tips and recommendations, so you can experience the true beauty of each destination.
Stress-free travel, and more time for what matters most
I believe your time away should be stress-free, easy, and seamless from start to finish. So, I take care of all the details for you - from ATOL protection, insurance, and flexible payments to access to the myTC app, which keeps everything in one place.
Support when it matters most
If the unexpected happens, you can rest easy, knowing that I’ll handle any last-minute changes, flight cancellations, or disruptions before you even pick up the phone. So you always feel happy, carefree, and ready to make the most of every moment.
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