13 March 2023

Wildcard Wednesday Anyone else been watching Channel 5's 'Secrets of the Worlds most expensive Cruise Ship'?. Just wow, it looks amazing! It has inspired me to concentrate on Luxury for this weeks posts, so keep your eyes pealed if you are looking at truly treating yourself soon. The Regent Seven Sea's 'Splendor' is the focus of the show, and you will have seen what thought and special touches have gone into the essence of the Ship. At this level of Luxury its the service and inclusions that make the difference. And that will start with my service! If you haven't cruised before I know it can be a bit daunting, with so many cruise lines, they each have their own ships, different cabin types, some include drinks, wifi and gratuities, most don't. You can get flights included, on board credit to spend. Gala dinners, or casual dinners - the options are endless - and that is before you have thought about the destination! Luckily you are in safe hands with me, whether its a complete luxury trip like this, or a more cost effective affair, just let me know a few key details and I will do the legwork for you. Speak soon Wildcard Wednesday

13 March 2023

Solo Travel Sundays For this weeks solo travel special I am recommending a holiday for all the artists out there - get away from it all and delve into your passion of Art. You will be travelling with plenty of like-minded people to share your experience and memories with, whether you are a skilled artist, or always fancied a different way to getaway from it all. You will be heading to a beautiful town in Portugal for a week, and taking in the sites with a trained guide and art tutor. It sounds really chilled to me. What a chance to fully recharge your batteries. 5 days of painting tuition A room of your own Return flights Airport transfers Breakfast everyday 6 lunches 5 dinners with 1/2 bottle of wine each night Ferry to local islands with lunch included Return flights and Transfers An expert host sharing their knowledge A chance to meet fellow travellers Freedom to explore All this for just over £1100. I love stumbling on trips like this, as I know this is a lot of peoples perfect trip! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

08 March 2023

Family Friendly Friday Large, multi generational family want to go on holiday? Are you in charge of planning it, because you are the 'sensible one'? Or because you did it once and now its always your job? It can be a right headache to sort out what with: - lots of different requirements from all the family members - lots of different room types/configurations to consider - lots of different child ages - some family members say they are 'not picky' but you have know them long enough to question this - and finally lots of different budgets to adhere to.. Gosh so much to think about... I have done a lot of large group bookings recently, so wanted to let you know I can help with this too! Here's my top tip just send it all over to me and then maybe open a bottle of something or run a bath, you have gained so much time! Don't trawl through the internet wasting your precious hours/days on end - let me do that! I will find some great options for you after listening to exactly what requirements you and everyone else has. And get this - you still get the brownie points for arranging a great holiday for everyone! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

08 March 2023

Throwback Thursday This week for Throwback Thursday, I am focussing on ME.. and why to book with me! So here’s some pictures some of my travels, and some notes all about me. So reasons to book with me: - One of the reasons is because I am very well travelled, which is what I am demonstrating here in my weekly post. I love Asia, America, Australia, and if I haven’t been, I will most likely have booked a client there or at least quoted it and done the necessary research. - Which leads me on to my next reason – I have worked in the industry for 8 years. So my knowledge is vast, and ever growing. - I specialise is multi centre trips – the difficult stuff you don’t want the stress of putting together yourself - Also I can book pretty much everything – when I was a Flight centre I was a bit restricted in what I could book for you, certain destinations, hotels, suppliers etc. At Travel Counsellors I can book everything, from package holiday with TUI, to a luxury cruise, to the tailormade trips I mentioned above! I want it all! - I understand your trip is extremely personal to you, whether its your first holiday as a couple/family or a trip to meet friend and you haven’t flown solo before, or if you are returning somewhere for the 100th time! Every single trip matters – you will never be ‘just a number’ to me! - You are fully financially protected when booking with me, and you have the global buying power of booking with Travel Counsellors, as well as the ?? 24/7 support from me, especially while you are away! - Travel Counsellors' 'motto' is 'with us... its personal' I mean, I have never worked for a company that puts it customers first, as in truly does that, a lot have claimed to.. but not quite hitting the mark. Which is why we have 5??'s on Trust pilot! - Side note - we were the top rated travel agency by Martin Lewis DURING the height of the pandemic! - My Sister, has just passed her training to become Virgin Cabin Crew, so if you book virgin with me I will see what she can do for you! - Industry Leading Software with our 'myTC' App where you can see your quotes and bookings, manage your payments and documents all in one places And Ultimately I just really appreciate it :) 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Wildcard Wednesday Hey guys, time for my weekly instalment of 'Wildcard Wednesday'! If you are looking for a slightly different holiday, then please consider Iceland. It is a truly magical place and when you catch the right time you may even see the stunning phenomena of the Northern lights. The great thing is there are a few ways to do the trip. Firstly, staying in Reykjavik centre and having day trips out to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon and of course chasing the lights, as well as whale watching - among others! I have done this trip myself and is there is an art to fitting all the day trips in, so let me know if this is your preferred option and I will arrange it. Secondly, you can hire a car and explore as you go, there is only one main road around the island, so it is hard to get stuck. You can still stay in the capital, but this way you can experience other parts of the island and see the rural rugged landscape in your own time! Let me know your preference and I can build your ideal trip around you! Flight time: 2h 30m Best time to go: Summer for the weather, however to see the Northern lights Sept - March as the nights are longer. 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Solo Travel Sunday For my USA special this week I have found an amazing company who specialise in Solo travel, you are part of a group tour, but you all instantly have something in common - a love for travel! As you travel along America's east coast, from Boston to Washington DC, you'll make amazing discoveries and enjoy exciting experiences as the history of the USA is brought to life. You'll follow the famous Freedom Trail in Boston and step back in time at Plimouth Plantation before arriving in New York. A two-night stay gives you plenty of time to discover the city's sights before you move on to Philadelphia, the USA's original capital. Next, you'll visit America's oldest Amish settlement in Lancaster County, then head to Washington DC for a tour of its iconic landmarks and monuments. 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Family Friendly Friday Did you know there are SIX Disney Parks across the world? Not just the ones in Orlando and Paris? You also have: Tokyo, Hong Kong, China, and California! The one in Cali is actually the original, just outside of Hollywood itself, where the films were made too! I have had a few clients this year ask about Disney in Orlando, which during school holidays, is more expensive than in previous years. (Be Warned) So I wanted to offer an alternative - why not attached Disney on to a larger trip, such as a road trip in California, something for everyone - the beaches, the scenery and the adventure! I can build you a trip that makes the most of your time off, but also incorporates the biggest desires of your trip, to bond as a family and see more of the world. This is what I do - and I love it. So please get in touch and let me make your dream trip a reality! Thanks for reading x Flight time: 13h 40m Best time to go: Spring and Autumn 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Throwback Thursday Looking for a Valentines gift? Proposal spot? I got you! Keeping in line with my USA theme, today I am looking back at my time in New York. I went back in 2013 but also when I was 18 on a school trip! If you haven't been and are unsure of the hype, yes places can be 'over rated', and some people say 'its just a big city'. But it really is so much more than that, its the bustle, and the famous scenery, you feel like you have been there a hundred times, just from the TV and film you have watched. It is one if my favourite Cities in the USA and I know you will love it. The good thing is its not too far, there's loads or direct flights from the UK and you can go as boujee or budget friendly as you like. You are not going to New York to not 'do' New York, so I always recommend booking your site seeing and day trips before you go. I have some hints and tips around that. OMG I haven't even mentioned the FOOD, I mean anything you want - anything - there will be somewhere to get it. From the iconic Pizza slice, to the cake bakeries that look like mini artworks, to the waffles for breakfast. It really has it all! This is on many of your bucket lists, so please get in touch to find out costs and the activities you can do. Flight time: 8h Best time to go: Spring and Winter (but anytime really!) 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Wildcard Wednesday Time for another post for some holiday inspiration - this time adventure! I am focusing on the USA this week, and what's more 'out the box' than heading to ranches and riding horses in cowboy land, driving through National Parks, experiencing Yellowstone? What an experience. Now I have done some research in to this and have found a great way to do it is to hire a RV (campervan) and go an explore the country properly. This is something we all have to do at some point, great for couples, families, and groups of friends! See my pictures for an idea of the Camper size which includes: - 2 double beds, and you don't have to fold it away in the day - a single bed (which is a dining area by day) - shower and toilet - instructions on how to best use the facilities - full fridge and freezer, in fact a whole kitchen area. - insurance the only thing not included are: - fuel - campsite fees - food/drink etc - some local fees/taxes in a few destinations This also is an inexpensive way of experiencing this part of the world too! For 14 nights over THIS May half term it equates to just £1400pp, based on 2 adults 2 children. Which is fantastic value, as I am sure you can agree! Flight Time: 12h 20m Best time to go: Spring or Autumn, but you can go anytime of year, depending on where in the US you want to do. Send me a message for more deal details! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Solo Travel Sunday This week you will have seen I have been focussing on Wellness, which is an easy one for solo travel.... This one I am super excited to introduce! Ever heard of 'The Body Holiday'? They have the amazing Mantra of: 'Give Us Your Body for a Week, and We’ll Give You Back Your Mind' Wow wow wow! Here you will truly relax and potentially walk away as a new person. This amazing place is not exclusively for solo travellers, it is also popular with groups of friends as well as solo travellers. Children are also permitted, but only over 13 years so this is an adult focussed environment. However in September this year they have 'September Solos' so this would be an amazing opportunity to meet some like minded people, or just get away and truly reset your spirit. The Body holiday is All inclusive as standard which includes: - All food and drinks (including all smoothies, alcohol and afternoon tea!) - Daily 50 minutes spa treatment - Yoga/Meditation/Pilates/Stress Management Classes - A Body Science consultation - All activities (ie Fitness classes, Hikes, Cycling, water sports, scuba diving (!), Dance classes and lots more!) - Stunning Facilities, like a Secluded Beach, Tree house for yoga, three pools and of course a fantastic Spa. I mean the list is endless, but if all of this is a little overwhelming, it is still a luxury All inclusive holiday in the Caribbean, you can get as involved as you want to - no pressure! Flight time: 12h 15m Best time to go: Dec - April If you are looking for something closer to home... I have already covered a great option for solo travellers in my last 'Wildcard Wednesday' post for a trip in the UK so take a look! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Family Friendly Friday Some may think 'Wellness' and 'family' don't go together. I have found some amazing resorts which either; ?? Specialise in Spa/wellness for adults and have a fantastic kids club or ?? Specialise in Wellness for kids as well as adults. What amazing way to bond as a family! Get in touch for more info! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Throwback Thursday Continuing my Wellness theme this week, I am going to mention a trip I was lucky enough to go on to Santa Monica, CA. This trip was with several other travel agents and we were taken round the sites to get a feel for the place, as well as some amazing hotels too! The reason this is my Wellness throwback is whilst I was there I distinctly remember how important wellness was there, and this flows through to the rest of California. The healthy food and drink options, the cycling trips, muscle beach and we even had a yoga session whilst there. I mean we have all seen the movies where they are constantly running down Venice beach! A Lot of the time for the USA, we tend to think of huge portions and greasy burgers??, but I believe California was one of the first places to make a point of being heathier and working on improving your mind, body and soul. We visited a fully vegan restaurant, which now sounds normal, but in 2017, it was few and far between to find! If you want to know more please get in touch with any questions Flight time: 11h Best time to go: December - Spring and Autumn 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

16 February 2023

Wildcard Wednesday This week on Wildcard Wednesday, for all those thinking that I only book abroad trips... here is a UK trip that I think looks amazing! Looking for a UK wellness trip? Then look no further! Glamping has taking an massive increase in recent years. As well as looking after your mind, body and soul. This inspiring trip combines both, as a well needed getaway. Great for groups of friends (Hen do options available) or for a solo trip to getaway from it all. As featured in National Geographic Traveller’s Go Wild in the Country, please see the Wild Wellness trip! This is 4 days of natural wellness, zero-hassle and all this included: -Immerse yourself in nature to escape your daily stresses -3 nights accommodation in beautifully-appointed Persian Alachighs tents -Daily yoga class focused on mindfulness, meditation and breath -Stand up paddleboarding on the beautiful waterways of the River Wye -Foraging to forge a deeper connection with nature -Storytelling around the campfire -Stargazing under the dark Welsh sky -Simple, wholesome food provided every day, all your meals included -Car parking for the duration of your stay -Professional local guide -Voluntary trail clean in association with Trash Free Trails -1 native tree planted in their own woodland Let me know if you want the dates and prices for this, or if you are looking for anything like this, UK trips, Wellness trips - UK or further afield. 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

07 February 2023

Solo Travel Sunday Female only special! I get a few clients asking me about female only trips, and I always recommend a group tour - this is quite up and coming and female only trips are getting more and more popular. My one to highlight this week is to see the awe inspiring Machu Picchu and see the wonder that is Peru, land of the Llamas (this guy made me chuckle!) ??, and the amazing city of Cusco - truly memorable. I can see the benefits of this trip being female only, as you are all there to spur each other on on the hike, as well as the fact you are camping on the Inca Trail, and can go at your own pace. Take a look at this link, this is not including flight costs, but I can make it a ATOL secure package for you by including the best flight options. https://www.intrepidtravel.com/.../peru-womens-expedition... With roughly one departure a month you can go at any time of year! the Inca trail is closed for upkeep in part of February, this is also the wettest time to go. Best months are from May - October. However there are only so many Inca trail passes given per month, for preservation so this is definitely NOT a trip to book last minute! If I cannot get you an Inca trail pass, then there are other treks offered such as the Lares Trek, but this doesn't end at Machu Picchu so you have to get the train from Cusco instead. If you are interested in other female only travel, please let me know and I will sort it! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

07 February 2023

Family Friendly Friday Looking for a family holiday to remember, come to me to think outside the box for your family getaway. One option that is amazing for Kids is the amazing Elephant Hills*. Here you can have 1 to 3 nights in a luxury camp, and the rainforest camp is a floating one with your own kayaks to explore the lake! You can feed and wash the elephants (rescued from captivity) by day and jungle trek by morning and night. All in the safety of a stunning National Park. Some of you that may have already heard of Elephant Hills, may not know that there is now a new one opening up in Chiang Mai! Which is very exciting, so if you have even been before and know how amazing it is, then you can now head back and get a different experience! This is such a fantastic experience to include on trip of a lifetime over to Asia. Elephant Hills is in Thailand, but can be added on to a Beach holiday in Phuket, a trip through Malaysia or even a stopover one the way from from Australia/New Zealand. whatever you fancy. Top tip - make sure you book early as it does sell out due to limited spaces. *Minimum age for Elephant Hills is 4 years. Is this on your bucket list? If not, it should be!

07 February 2023

Throwback Thursday G'day all - Happy Australia Day! I thought I would use this weeks Throwback Thursday to celebrate Australia. I have been to a lot of Australia, firstly in 2009 with the family, then when I was travelling I was there for about 6 weeks, and again in 2018! From Scuba diving with Sharks in the Melbourne aquarium, seeing the Vivid Festival in Sydney, glamping in Byron Bay (and wild camping near Darwin!) Feeding Kangaroos and seeing the Broncos in Brisbane, taking in the beauty of the Whitsundays, Scuba Diving in the Great Barrier reef - and Sky diving over it! Just to name a few. I have a handful of amazing friends over there and it holds some amazing memories for me. Today always makes me miss these people. If you haven't been to Australia - I know it is a long way, but I rarely hear of people only going once! Even clients who say 'this is the last time'... It has a certain something that is hard to put your finger on, but I think it is the over all relaxed nature that draws me back again and again. Any way, that's my experience of Australia - let me know yours 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

07 February 2023

Wildcard Wednesday This weeks Wildcard I am heating it up a bit, but keeping it in Europe. I think we are all a little intrigued by Montenegro, it appears to be an untouched gem - similar to its neighbour Croatia, but with gorgeous beaches. As it is not yet consumed by 'package holiday providers' I would recommend going to experience it sooner rather than later and I can help with that. Also it can be a cheaper alternative to your usual European beach holidays! I was looking at a beach trip in Montenegro, but as it really is so close to Croatia, I started thinking about maybe doing an active island hopping trip in Croatia, then having a chill in the stunning beaches of Montenegro? Or the other way round and hike around the inland of Montenegro and then chill on an island in Croatia? Or if you have other ideas I am happy to help piece your perfect trip together! Throw it at me and we will get it just right! It has well and truly made it to my travel list! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

07 February 2023

Solo Travel Sunday So for my next weekly update I will be specialising in a Solo traveling. This is something I am passionate about after travelling on my own for 5 months a few years back. So many people said 'you can't do that on your own!' Well I did it! Best thing I have ever done Someone asked my dad 'are you going to let her go on her own?! Aren't you worried something will happen to her?!' and my dads response was 'she could go to the pub over the road and get caught up in something terrible, so she may as well see the world at the same time!' Thanks Dad! So I say, get going, and don't look back! There are several trips out there that I would recommend for a solo traveller, as well as female only trips - check back in next week for more info on this - or message me if you cant wait. Many are with the likes of Intrepid or G adventures, I have been on plenty, and sold many more of these trips and I think you will love them. All over the planet, from 2/3 days to 60+ days, depending on where/what you want to do. Each tour providing a different way to travel and see and learn about the world. As well as meeting life long friends with your travel mates, as you all instantly have something in common! TRAVEL FRIEND For now I will just share one for now - Turkey uncovered. Turkey fascinates me, there is more history there than in so many other places on the planet, and going via a tour like this would make it easy, safe and so affordable! https://www.intrepidtravel.com/.../turkey-uncovered-144576 If you have the travel bug, talk to me i just love talking about travel and inspiring people to GO, whether you book through me or not, I just wanna hear about it. 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

07 February 2023

Family Friendly Friday Hey everyone, so continuing the theme of my weekly content, I would like to focus on your family beach getaways and winter sun and some very handy top tips to keep prices down! ?? see below ?? Unfortunately the days are gone of a 'last minute deal' it is all about booking as far in advance as possible, as quite frankly the good ones go very quickly. I have clients who have been back to the same hotel year in year out, and finding themselves without their usual trip because they have left it too late. But it is not all bad news! I have been quoting a lot of Easter trips to Europe recently which are coming in better costed than expected, particularly in comparison to the summer holidays of the same standard. Our top 3 winter sun destinations are currently Tenerife, Barbados and Dubai, so let me know if you are on the hunt and we will try and snap something up! Also some top tips to keep prices down: - Travel before the baby is 2 years (on the date of return) this jumps from about 20% of an adult fare to a child's price which is about 80% of an adult fare. - Travel before your child is 12 years (on the date of return) this jumps to a full adult price - particularly long haul. - Travel slightly outside of school holidays (dependant on the schools rules of course) and make the most of 'teacher training days' - Look for 'free child places' - only available on package holidays (which I can book too for you!) - Try to all stay in one room, if you can cope with sleeping in the same room. - Being slightly away from the beach can save ££££ - we all love the thought of wandering from the pool to the beach, but the beach front properties are not cheap! - potentially look for a lower standard hotel than you would usually go for and opt for a room upgrade to make it more comfortable. - avoid 'to good to be true offers' there are lots of scams out there. - start thinking about October half term and next Christmas NOW! These are handy tips for families - and anyone really, but the main one is BOOK EARLY. Having said that if you are struggling for a Feb half term/ Easter break or May half term holiday please let me now and I will be happy to help! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 Jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

07 February 2023

Throwback Thursday So from now on, on a Thursday I will be sharing photos of my own trips. As most of you know I am relatively well travelled and I believe you will agree it always helps when I have been to a place that my clients are enquiring about. So here are two places that are excellent as a twin centre holiday - Singapore and Bali. This was within my first month of travelling back in 2014 (can't believe it has been that long!) when I experienced both of these magical places. In Singapore I went up to the observation desk at the Marina Bay Sands, I went to the Cloud Forest and the National Orchid Garden, and had a night on Clarke Quay - and I was only there for 40 hours! It is super easy to have a break in Singapore on the way to Bali, or they way back. It is a great city, and if you haven't experienced Asia, or a City in Asia this is a great gateway into Asia. In Bali, I made the mistake of staying the busy area of Kuta, (this was before I was a travel agent and didn't know any better). It did not represent the best of Bali, however on a trip on the back of a guides moped, I went to Ubud, Monkey Forest and to a traditional dance show. The Culture is wonderful here, and the history! Bali is truly beautiful, I am sure we have all seen the inspiring images of the Bali Swing, the lush green Rice Padi's and the infinity pools to die for, not to mention the amazing beaches and sunsets! Please also remember that Bali is just one tiny island in the whole of Indonesia, so if you want to explore further I am happy to help get this together for you also. Flight time: 12h 50m Best time to go: May - September This is a great alternative to your 'usual' school summer holidays. 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

07 February 2023

Wildcard Wednesday So I have decided to create multiple weekly themed posts to gain some consistency, and you can start to learn what to expect from me on here. Today is Wildcard Wednesday, and if you have received a quote from me, chances are I have given you a 'Wildcard option'. This is something a little different to what you may have asked for, but using my expertise along with learning more about you as the client I have thought further into it and provided something you may love! I have had a number of people take me up on this option, for many reasons, like: - It shows I care about your holiday - Pushes the boundaries - Thinking outside the box - Sometimes you don't want to think, and people like new places suggested - Better Value - Shows how much more of a trip you can get by making a few small changes. Anyway - this week is about Cruising the Norwegian Fjords, the beauty you will see on this trip is like no other. Just look at these photos. There is a Cruise line to fit any budget, from luxury to working boats, regardless this will be a trip you never forget. There are options to depart from the UK, or fly first. I have quoted this recently for a client and it comes in more cost friendly than I initially thought, from just £599pp! Best time to Travel: June to August Flight time: 2 hours Let me know if this is your Wildcard, or if you have other trips in mind, OR if you just want me to work some magic! 07514 369905 or 01244 490002 jessica.ball@travelcounsellors.com journey_with_jess_tc https://www.instagram.com/journey_with_jess_tc/ https://www.facebook.com/JessicaBallTravelCounsellors/

13 April 2021

Where to start? Well firstly, my first time experiencing Songkran I would say was the best day of my life.. and I am not even exaggerating. I mean a can of Chang beer in one hand and a water gun in the other.. need I say more? It is all about fun, and water of course! It’s the biggest water fight in the world (I am guessing) spanning not only the whole of Thailand but also Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and more! It is the Buddhist new year, using water on Buddha statues to wash away the any bad luck from the year before. Then splashing water on others and yourself in order to bring longevity, good health and prosperity. I have been lucky enough to experience Songkran twice, once in 2014 where I was in Bangkok and Ko Chang, and again in 2016 when I was in Bangkok and then Chang Mai and also Mandalay in Myanmar. The festival officially is the 13th – 15th April every year, however the build up usually starts on the 10th/11th, so you can move around and experience different ways of celebrating. Bangkok – this is where it all starts, officially at the temple of Wat Pho, who started it all! This gigantic city, already bustling with nightlife and culture becomes one big soaking wet family! Everyone spreading joy, whether you are a tourist or a local you feel so welcome. Chang Mai – this is a walled city, much like Chester but it also has a moat, making this feel like a more natural place for a water fight than a major city like Bangkok. People drive around the square shaped city in open cars/tuk tuks and buses ready to splash and be splashed. People also walk around the whole thing, along the way we saw many live shows on huge stages, cheering the water fights on! Mandalay – Similar to Chang Mai, as it is also around a square city but they are much more surprised to see western faces and will actively seek you out to splash you, calling ‘Mingalaba’ (hello) after you. The live music left more like stumbling upon a festival every 400 yards, everyone having an amazing party! Overall I am certain you will enjoy this, it is fun for all ages, I forgot to mention I was with my grandma the first year, you may see her in the back of the photo of me trying to sit in a freezer full of ice. Top tips: • Don’t scrimp on your water gun. • Establish where you can keep topping your water gun up – you run out quicker than you think! • Everything you own will get soaking wet, do not be under the illusion that you will be careful with your phone, get a watertight bag and leave it well alone! • Pay with coins, notes are not easy to negotiate when wet. • Enjoy! You will make some great friends, even if you never see them again, they will have made your day and vice versa. • If you are travelling onwards be mindful of road closures from as early as 10am. It is New year so a lot of locals are on holiday from work, this may mean no massages/cooking course/bus drivers.