Gemma Pauley
My expertise
I'm based in
Isleham
It's Nice To Meet You
Hi, I’m Gemma, an independent Travel Counsellor based on the boarder of rural Suffolk/Cambridgeshire.
Travel has always had my heart. It all began with a solo adventure to Australia and New Zealand a life-changing journey that showed me how powerful and unforgettable travel can be. Since then, I’ve built over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, helping people turn their dream getaways into real-life adventures.
Whether it’s a luxury honeymoon, a family escape, or a once-in-a-lifetime journey, I offer a completely personal, one-to-one travel service. I’ll take the time to get to know you – your style, your must-haves, and even your “definitely-not-that” list – so I can design a trip that’s perfectly tailored to you. No generic packages here – just thoughtful, bespoke travel planning with expert advice every step of the way.
From boutique B&Bs and world-class hotels to immersive tours and hidden gems, I’ll build your trip with care and attention to detail. With full financial protection through ATOL and the Travel Counsellors Trust, you can book with complete peace of mind.
I’ve been lucky to visit a variety of incredible places – from road-tripping around New Zealand in a camper van to learning to cook in Vietnam, and even snowshoeing through the forests of Quebec. Each of these experiences has given me a deeper understanding of what makes travel truly special, and I use that insight to help shape meaningful journeys for my clients.
I believe that travel should be a force for good. As travellers, we have a wonderful opportunity to give back to the communities we visit – whether that’s by supporting locally owned businesses, respecting cultures, or choosing experiences that have a positive impact. Travel has the power to create positive change. That’s why I work with trusted, like-minded destination specialists who focus on supporting local communities and sustainable tourism. It means your holiday not only offers authentic, enriching experiences – it also helps support the people who make each place so special.
Holidays are about more than just flights and hotels – they’re about memories that last a lifetime. Whether you know exactly what you want or you’re just starting to dream, I’m here to help you plan a trip that’s everything you hoped for – and more.
So please get in touch and let me help you plan your next getaway. I'll be there every step of the way to ensure your journey is seamless and memorable, making it an extraordinary travel experience. Your dream holiday is just a conversation away, and I'm here to turn it into a reality.
Reviews
What my customers say
This was the third trip we have had planned for us by Gemma Pauley. This time we went to New York. As usual it all went really well, we loved the hotel she suggested and the activities she booked. She is always there to answer questions and sort out any issues. Will definitely book with her again when we decide on where to go next!
Helen Fisher
BILLERICAY
27/05/2026
Had the most relaxing holiday possible. From departing our home to returning 12 days later, the organisation, planning and assistance given by Gemma Pauley was second to none. We are now planning our next journey with Gemma again. What would I want to change?
Michael Flanagan
Cambridge
27/05/2026
We used Gemma Pauley of Travel Counsellors to book our Florida holiday and were not disappointed. From start to finish Gemma was there to help and guide us, which she did excellently. Even when there were one or two issues whilst we were away, Gemma was on hand - despite the time difference or the day of the week - to help rectify those issues positively. I'd highly recommend Gemma and would use her again.
Simon West
Cambridge
27/05/2026
Gemma Pauley dealt with our requirements perfectly. We had several possible trips to consider and she provided all the alternatives clearly. This enabled us to decide on the ideal trip for us. She took all the stress out the arrangements and everything went according to plan. Thanks a million Gemma.
Nigel Brewer
Bedford
27/05/2026
I would highly recommend travel counsellors to organise your entire trip. I booked a very last minute trip to Turkey with my travel counsellor, Gemma. She was professional, quick, easy-going, and approachable with any question or issue I had. The couple of issues I had (not related to Travel Counsellor), Gemma dealt with promptly and professionally. I felt safe in her hands and will definitely be contacting Gemma to organise my next holiday.
Sahira Hanif
Leamington Spa
27/05/2026
Scouts, Explorers and Young Leaders from the Newmarket District went on an adventure to Kandersteg International Scout Centre in August, and Gemma Pauley took care of our coach to the airport and our flights to Zurich (and the return journey). She was incredibly helpful and attentive, and it was reassuring to know that she was on hand to help if we needed it.
Jun Thompson
Newmarket
27/05/2026
Just home from another trip booked with Gemma Pauley from Travel Counsellors. (Our second this year) First class personal service, friendly, happy to book the level of accommodation you want and/or make very useful suggestions to enhance your holiday experience. Also Gemma got us good prices on flights which is always useful. Can't recommend Gemma enough, nothing is too much trouble for her to sort out for you. Have recommended her to friends who are equally delighted.
Dawn Creek
cambridge
27/05/2026
Our trip was so well organised. I didn’t need to do anything myself, just check on my TC app where everything was stored and available. Gemma always takes our preferences into consideration. It’s a wonderful service.
Julie Bentley
Birmingham
27/05/2026
Gemma is a fantastic travel agent, she always books us amazing trips, we’ve recently got back from Sicily and she had sorted everything out so our trip was perfect. She is always available to help with anything you need. I’d highly recommend her.
Charlotte Way
Newmarket
27/05/2026
Gemma (Pauley) listened to our wishes for this trip of a lifetime to Canada. She very quickly presented us with an initial plan which we were able to tweak within constraints of train timetables. She provided an excellent service before, during and after our trip. I will definitely use her expertise again and recommend her service to others.
Julie Saunders
Bedford
27/05/2026
From the outset I was extremely impressed by our counsellor, Gemma Pauley. We had an initial chat via Teams where she listened to our needs and requests for a holiday plan, and she then presented a potential plan to us a few days later. Gemma planned a once in a lifetime train trip across Canada from Vancouver to Halifax over a three week period and ensured that we experienced the very best that the country has to offer. It was a truly amazing trip. We were kept informed via WhatsApp about any tweaks that needed to be made and once we had returned, Gemma was keen to hear about our experience so that she could use it to help other clients. It was a fabulous holiday and I wouldn't hesitate to make Gemma my first port of call for any future holidays - she has been fantastic. Thank you!
Joanna Rex
bedford
27/05/2026
Gemma and Matt were discovered by us at a wedding fair, and they booked our honeymoon for us, and found us some amazing options to choose from. We had an amazing time and they took all the stress away from booking. We will use them for all future trips!!
Emma Harvey
Chatteris
27/05/2026
We love booking through travel councillors Our agent is Gemma Pauley she’s wonderful. We’ve just returned from a trip to New York With some of a family . Gemma arranged everything even the check in all the strain and worry was taken away . Transfers from airport to hotel perfect Our location great as was accommodation. I can absolutely recommend using Gemma we’ve done it a few times now . Even if you don’t know where you want to go Gemma will give you ideas sending options . To whatever Budget you can afford . brilliant service Thankyou Gemma .
Sandra Carter
Needham Market
27/05/2026
Gemma understands the type of hotel we like and never fails to deliver. Everything is organised perfectly and the app gives us all the information we need.
Julie Bentley
BIRMINGHAM
27/05/2026
The trip was planned to take in a family wedding and was seamless. Our trip advisor Gemma Pauley TC took care of flights, connections and hotels to make the whole experience sublime. We would thoroughly recommend TC for their professional and personal approach.
Richard Leaver
Scottish Borders
27/05/2026
I travel with 100% confidence when booking via Gemma Pauley. My relationship with Gemma has developed over many years and from the moment I first met Gemma she has provided me with such an amazing service (surpassing any other travel provider I have used in the past). Each 'big' adventure, I will contact Gemma and ask her thoughts as her experience, knowledge and skill provides a base for my planning. Once I have made some basic requests, Gemma will create the detail and follow up with valuable and useful information.
Helen Heath
Brisbane, Australia
27/05/2026
I used Gemma Pauley to book the most fantastic group tour to India's Golden Triangle. It was a TC hosted tour led by Elliott Rouse. Being a lone female traveller I was a bit nervous but there was absolutely no need. I felt completely safe, comfortable and totally included at all times. Gemma and Elliott are both amazing being so helpful every step of the way. I would 100% recommend using Travel Counsellors for all travel requirements. They are the best.
Jackie Bye
Cambridge
27/05/2026
Just back from last minute trip to new zealand thank you Gemma Pauley & Matt Carter, for organising and finding a great price and answering all my questions, great response everytime. Both amazing when flights got cancelled to Dubai , stayed in touch all the time with updates & found alternative flights at a point when i thought i wasnt going to make the wedding of my nephew. You kept me calm and got the flights for me , i appreciated your messages when i arrived and returned its all these personal touches that i would highly recommend and definetly use again. Thank you i had an amazing time x
Celia Maclean
Earith
27/05/2026
Gemma was absolutely brilliant, explained everything very clearly as I hadn't flown for 15 years.
Nigel Edwards
Leamington Spa
27/05/2026
Gemma pulled out all the stops when our Dubai flight was cancelled. Offered options to cancel with refund/defer or change flight. All organised seamlessly.
Gill Routhorn
northampton
27/05/2026
Gemma Pauley carried out an amazing job of arranging our holiday from flights, river cruise and hotels. Everything of the trip went smoothly and to plan. Highly recommend.
Cheryl Caldecoat
Cambridge
27/05/2026
Gemma Pauley booked absolutely everything for us for our trip to Japan including being in the right seats to see Mount Fuji. She kept in touch even while we were there. Highly recommend
Carina Watson
Kent
27/05/2026
Gemma worked with Carina and myself to make our holiday arrangements exactly what we wanted. The trip included 4 flights 4 bullet trains, 4 hotels, 4 pick-ups; from the airport to our hotel in Tokyo, our hotel in Osaka to the airport and to and from the airport to our hotel in Seoul. It all worked out perfectly. Our hotels were all located near to the stations in Japan and we used public transport all the time to get around Japan. It was a brilliant holiday!!
Jacqui Watson
Ashford
27/05/2026
I have just returned from a very successful one month holiday with my brother to Australia via Singapore, all of which was organised by Gemma Pauley, Gemma has arranged several of my previous long haul trips for me and the booking process has always been very efficient and well costed. Any problems arising while abroad have always been quickly solved. This time, all accommodation and the hire car was of the expected standard and all flights ran according to plan which was ideal considering the current challenges with all kinds of travel. We particularly enjoyed our day trip to the Blue Mountains from Sydney - knowledgeable guide and excellent lunch. Thanks again Gemma.
Mary Holland
Cambridge
27/05/2026
Gemma Pauley helped us plan our second holiday with her. And as per the first time, she was absolutely great! We had a really easy going discussion about what we wanted to do in New Zealand, and made a plan that we both reviewed. Gemma helped us with what works well, what our options are and sorted all of our glorious accomodation. The help and the reassurance Gemma gave us was priceless and her knowledge was so on point and brilliant! We would 100% recommend Gemma to help book the big holidays! We definitely will be using her expertise again :) thank you Gemma for making another great holiday for us!
Hannah GRimshaw
spalding
11/06/2025
Newmarket attention to detail for the Puglia tour was better than anticipated. The hotel was excellent, rooms were very clean and up to date.Food was good quality Italian cuisine. The main benefit was the tour manager Luca who without his knowledge the visits would have lacked detail. So thanks to Gemma Pauley we had a great holiday
Anthony Rogers
Peterbrorough
11/06/2025
This was the third trip we have had planned for us by Gemma Pauley. This time we went to New York. As usual it all went really well, we loved the hotel she suggested and the activities she booked. She is always there to answer questions and sort out any issues. Will definitely book with her again when we decide on where to go next!
Helen Fisher
Essex
11/06/2025
Gemma did it again, put a great holiday together for me, with great hotels in great locations and easy travelling.
Denise Pride
Cambridge
11/06/2025
Really helpful travel advice, very personalised to what we want. Still really reasonably priced considering how tailored it is to us
Sophie Purbrick
Ellesmere Port, Cheshire
11/06/2025
Great service for a varied and complicated set of requirements.
Nigel Brewer
Bedford
11/06/2025
Superb holiday to Dubai arranged by Gemma Pauley. Brilliant attention to detail made the whole trip stress free. Gemma has arranged a few holidays for us now and I can't recommend her highly enough.
Lesley Hoyle
Ely
08/05/2025
Gemma always goes above and beyond for her clients. I wouldn’t book a holiday anywhere else as you don’t get that personal service
Lindsay Pipe
Mildenhall
25/04/2025
Gemma is always very helpful and patient. Very knowledgeable, all the things i need when finding the right holiday
Denise Pride
Cambridge
25/04/2025
Gemma is lovely she is very accommodating of all your needs and listens to what you say
Rosemary Painter
Peterborough
25/04/2025
Gemma was so supportive and efficient in making our booing for us
Caroline Jones
Ely
25/04/2025
We couldn’t recommend Gemma enough! She was very quick to get back to us and provide us with our quotes. She listened to what we wanted and delivered everything and more.
Tara Burton
PETERBOROUGH
25/04/2025
We have just returned from a family holiday to Disney World Florida. When I first looked at this trip, I found it all very overwhelming and so I turned to Gemma Pauley for her assistance. She booked the whole thing for me, flights, park tickets, transfers and advised on all paperwork/visas that needed sorting. This way I knew everything was in hand and had piece of mind which is so important when travelling as family with young children!! I will definitely be using Gemma again!!
Claire Fetherstonhaugh
Newmarket
25/04/2025
Gemma is efficient, thorough and communicative. Everything you want in a travel counsellor
Julie Bentley
Bonville
25/04/2025
Gemma from travel counsellors arranged our trip to the Indian triangle and a few days relaxation in goa. The flights, itinerary and hotel were arranged for us, gemma even came to our house to help with our visas. Everything went very smoothly and stress free, a lovely lady from the local office came to see us to make sure we were OK and had any questions, we had the most amazing time with fantastic driver and guides, would definitely recommend travel counsellors if you are planning your next big adventure.
Janice Doyel
Cambridge
25/04/2025
We have used Gemma a number of time, she is our first call when thinking of going away. She has never let us down always provides a first class service.
David Jacobs
Bedford
25/04/2025
Have already recommended her to many friends and I know they have then recommended them to their friends. She always goes the extra mile to make sure our trips are exactly what we need.
Pam Russell
Bedford
25/04/2025
Always prompt at responding to emails and happy to give all options available. Very thorough with information. Would highly recommend!
Emma Mackenzie
Bury St Edmunds
25/04/2025
Gemma is knowledgeable, listens to what we would and wouldn’t like, gave us a great range of options and was very organised and punctual. Thank you so much!
Emma Harvey
Chatteris
25/04/2025
Gemma has arranged some amazing holidays for us and we are always recommending her to friends. She is very patient with us when we continually change our minds and gives excellent advice
Pam Russell
Bedford
03/07/2019
Brilliant service as always
James Palmer
Newmarket
12/06/2019
I want to thank you for all your hard work and efficiency in organising our trip. I am really looking forward to the trip now. I will recommend your services to friends for sure.
Julie Bentley
Birmingham
02/06/2019
Gemma has been amazing from the first day I met her at the wedding fair to when she came to our house to talk through our itinary and what we wanted out of our Honeymoon. She, unlike some others put together an amazing itinary with everything that we wanted. She has been very helpful with the big and little things. I would highly recommend Gemma x
Laura Newman
Bury St Edmunds
02/06/2019
Very professional and efficient. Excellent help and guidance.
Stephen Szkornik
Burwell
02/06/2019
Gemma is polite, helpful and reliable.
Steph Rolfe
Bury St Edmunds
02/06/2019
I have recommended Gemma several times.
Helen Heath
Cambridge
02/06/2019
Gemma is always helpful and responds quickly and efficiently to any queries or questions. She always approaches an isuue from a customer perspective.
Lawrence Weaver
Ely
02/06/2019
She was very helpful to someone who had given up on the internet finding the info I needed! So now we are looking forward to our holiday. Many thanks.
Gloria Kiteley
Newmarket
02/06/2019
Gemma is so thoughtful and helpful, and considers every detail that might contribute to us having the perfect break. The more she gets to know us, the better able she is to tailor the ideal holiday, and to the amount of money we have to spend at that time! We cannot recommend her services enough - talk about making life a reassuring breeze, with a comforting e-smile! ??????
Sara Bannister
York
02/06/2019
Lovely and efficient and knowledgeable service. We hope the Vietnam holiday lives up to our expectations
Geoffrey Routhorn
Northampton
02/06/2019
We have already recommended Gemma to several friends
Suzanne Favell
Cambridge
02/06/2019
Gemma made it so easy and everything done quickly. We shall use her again
Janet Blair
Newmarket
19/09/2018
Very knowledgeable and efficient thank you
Lorna McGeoch
Ashford
19/09/2018
Gemma has booked some holidays for us long haul in the past and we were always happy with the service, this time it was a short haul holiday, she listened to what we wanted and gave us 3 options, all fitted our brief. In the end we chose the Rhodes option, and the hotel and resort did not disappoint. Gemma provides an excellent service, I didn't even need to write on my luggage tags it was all done and sent to me. I would be very pleased to recommend Gemma to anyone she is like a human search engine, but with the personal touch that is missing from these type of sites.
Julie Maskell
SELBY
18/09/2018
Nothing is too much trouble, really helpful
Marion Rolph
Newmarket
18/09/2018
Gemma is amazing and her responsiveness to emails is great. I would highly recommend her to others
Julie Sparrow
Ely
18/09/2018
Always a pleasure to deal with Gemma.
Alison Burden
Huntingdon
18/09/2018
Great service! Thanks gemma.
Lesley Pipe
Dullingham
18/09/2018
Gemma found us flights and accommodation based on our requirements. She has been professional and responsive to all our enquiries and requests.
Joanna Griffiths
Ely
20/06/2018
Gemma has been highly professional when arranging our trip and went that extra mile to sort out a query with our holiday. I have every confidence in Gemma and would recommend her to anybody who is looking to book a holiday.
Lesley Cockerton
Isleham
20/06/2018
Gemma is committed to getting what the client wants.
Lawrence Weaver
Haddenham
20/06/2018
Nothing is too much trouble.Extremely friendly,helpful and aware of customers concerns. Deals with customers concerns swiftly and very professionally. Follows up to check satisfaction and contentment. Will be a credit to the company.
Roy Staddon
Ely
20/06/2018
Gemma is very helpful and fully flexible to my changeable needs. She goes the 'extra mile' when needed to deliver the best result. My travel often involves more than one destination and Gemma works her magic to find the best flight connections, transfers and most appropriate accommodation to make my travels memorable and practical.
Helen Heath
Cambridge
20/06/2018
Amazing service. Amazing holiday. Can’t recommend enough to book a holiday with Gemma. Personal service from start to finish!
Gemma Hussey
Newmarket
20/06/2018
Gemma has been really great right from the start.She got me exactly what I asked for under the budget that I gave her. As it was a group booking it can be a bit overwhelming but Gemma got it all done and answered all my questions quickly and efficiently.I would recommend Gemma to anyone looking to book a holiday as I found her professional very knowledgeable and always on the other end of the phone with a quick direct answer to my many questions.
Keith Brown
Isleham
20/06/2018
Gemma is very knowledgeable and understood our needs and requests. She was also able to offer us plenty of options covering many bases.
Simon Philpott
STRATFORD UPON AVON,
20/06/2018
Very helpful, not easy organising 20 blokes for a weekend away
Daniel Stackhouse
Isleham
20/06/2018
I contacted Gemma to book a trip away. She listened to what I wanted, answered my questions, then sent me a couple of flights and made my booking. The booking process was very easy and I know she is at the end of a phone should I need her. I would certainly recommend her to others.
Stephanie Rolfe
Bury St Edmunds
16/01/2018
We contacted Gemma to tailor make our China tour. By using her wealth of knowledge, she came up with a great itinerary that included all of our requests but also some places that we had not considered. She always answers any type of communication promptly in a professional and friendly manner, We wouldn't use anyone else apart from Gemma!
Emma Stedman
Chelmsford
02/01/2018
Great personal service with all the options and cost implications shown. Making the right choices was easy
Robert Buckley
Clithroe
16/10/2017
Fantastic service. Excellent options given and very adaptable to our requirements
Lorna Adam
Bury St Edmunds
16/10/2017
Following a brilliant initial conversation with Gemma, discussing exactly what I was looking to achieve from my trip, Gemma researched and pulled together a great proposal for my trip to South America and South East Asia. Being a bit of a novice at all this, Gemma completely understood my specific requirements (a pain free booking process) and arranged me the exact journey I wanted to achieve and more! Gemma's experience and knowledge of world wide arrangements and various operators has made the whole process for me so much easier. I would (and have already) recommend Gemma for anyone's travels needs. Thank you Gemma!
Hannah Grosvenor
Newmarket
21/09/2017
I was referred to Gemma by a friend and I'm so glad we booked our honeymoon to Australia with her. Her knowledge was fantastic and the recommendations on where to go were brilliant. The amazing trips to the Great Barrier Reef and the Sydney Bridge climb made our trip. Knowing Gemma was there really put my mind at rest and I have booked my next trip to New York with her. Thank you Gemma
Kiri Cockerton
Isleham
21/09/2017
From initial enquiry to finally returning to the UK, Gemma’s bubbly personality made it a pleasure to book our special trip to Thailand. Her knowledge was excellent she recommended places she felt we would like having listened to what we wanted to do and she was spot-on. Gemma endeavoured to get the best prices for our trip as we were travelling at peak time and she gave us options of places to stay so we could choose what suited us best. In all she understood what we wanted from our holiday and then took all the legwork out of doing it ourselves. We would certainly use Gemma again her knowledge after many years in the industry was so helpful.
Janice Booth
Newmarket
01/09/2017
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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.
Get in touch
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Let me inspire you
Stay inspired with my insider tips, hidden gems, and dream-worthy itineraries until you're ready to make them real
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Gemma Pauley