02 June 2020

We’ve all seen the rainbows, little glimmers of hope peeking out of windows, painted on stones and shooting across the sky on a few recent occasions. A rainbow feels like the perfect symbol to unite us during these unusual and disorientating times. Not only are they joyful and hopeful, but by its very nature a rainbow symbolises a time of reflection that many of us have experienced. In such a short space of time, how much has changed. It is likely all our lives will move in a new direction in some way or another. Of course, it is my business to wonder how we will view travel and what we will be feeling and booking once confidence returns. I think we will be cautious and more selective in our holiday choices. The patterns will have changed, like we all have! We have all paused, looked at what is important, and I feel our travel habits will reflect this. There will be many who will choose to venture much closer to home, seeking open spaces, healthy pursuits, giving more consideration to mental well-being. Many of us will take our downtime as an opportunity to spend time with our nearest and dearest. Slow down a bit, relax more and enjoy the people around us. I also feel the luxury of travel is something many of us have taken for granted. When something is taken away we can then truly appreciate what we had. Those that have put off the big trip to see family or are waiting to fulfil a lifelong dream or have trips of a lifetime on hold, may realise we can never take anything for granted. Something that we can do ‘anytime’ no longer feels true. My prediction is that we probably will travel less but make every trip that we take really count. We will try to do the things we have always wanted to do with the people we love the most. We will be changed but wiser and enjoy our precious free time much more. I hope you are all staying safe and doing ok. Please reach out if there is anything I can help you with.

02 June 2020

I am lucky to be part of an incredible, caring company and I can genuinely say my over-riding feelings are of unity, comradeship, grit and determination in these extraordinary times. During periods of adversity in the travel industry - airlines failing, corona virus, political uncertainty - it is time for committed travel consultants like me to shine! Over the years the travel industry has been thrown a whole host of challenges; from supplier failures, ash clouds and drones to Brexit and viruses! Despite the obvious challenges these throw up, I believe it is the time for travel agents to buckle down and do the job they love with even more vigour. In the past weeks there have been last minute changes to Foreign Office advice and visa applications, airline failures, cancellations and amendments. Here at Travel Counsellors each holiday and unique circumstance has been dealt with by people who know and care for their customers and, with the support of an incredible head office team I honestly feel you are in the safest hands. Top Tips 1 - Book with a trusted travel agent with solid financial protection. 2 - Purchase travel insurance as soon as you’ve booked (if you book then there is an adverse change to Foreign Office advice, you’ll not get insurance to cover it). 3- Speak to you travel agent if you have concerns, you may be able to find a solution together. 4 – Get ahead of the game and look at your 2021 holidays now. There is likely to be a huge rush of bookings once confidence is restored. Whether you have booked with me or not I am here to support you. Please drop me a line if you are concerned about travelling or unsure how to go about amending or cancelling a trip. Or of course, if you have any future travel plans, I’d love to hear from you.

15 December 2019

Some of the most exciting and memorable holiday itineraries I work on include an element of train travel and there are so many incredible options to consider in every corner of the globe. There are some iconic trains which appear on many a wish list, offering unique experiences in some of the most beautiful parts of the world. The Rocky Mountaineer has a luxurious glass domed carriage and winds through the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. Two epic trains in Australia showcase the vastness and beauty of the country. The Indian Pacific connects the West Coast with the East and the Ghan from North to South. Two sublime and truly memorable journeys. Achieve an incredible vantage point on a scenic railway trip. Appreciate the drama of the Himalayan foothills and travel to a remote hill station aboard the toy train from Kalka to Shimla. Why not ride the Trans Alpine Express across New Zealand’s Southern Alps or experience some of Mexico’s most dramatic scenery along the Copper Canyon Railroad? If it’s opulence you are looking for then there are many luxury trains offering once in a lifetime indulgence. Travelling aboard the elegant Venice Simplon Orient Express on an overnight trip from London to Venice is one of the most famous luxury train experiences. South Africa hosts the Blue Train, traversing almost 1000 miles from Pretoria Cape Town on a two-night trip. The Maharajas Express is one of the most popular luxury trains in India offering an amalgamation of style, grandeur and lavish luxury. Travel is very much about gaining a true insight into different cultures, experiencing something unique. Train travel can be a perfect way to view real life; from riding the legendary Trans-Siberian Express, the longest railway line in the world, to exploring Japan aboard the world class super sleek network of bullet trains. Don’t forget trains can simply be a wonderful way to just travel from A to B. Whether it be in Europe, Canada or the USA travelling from city to city aboard a train can enhance an itinerary and make it extra special. I would absolutely love to hear from you if you have any questions, travel plans or just looking for some inspiration. Merry Christmas and thank you for your business and support this year!

22 October 2019

If you’re like me, you’ll like your comforts on holiday but also long for a real adventure; experiences which capture the imagination and create lasting memories. Here’s an option where you can have both a high standard of service and an exciting, exhilarating holiday. Why not unlock your adventurous spirit and set sail on a magical tall ship voyage? Sailing aboard one of Star Clippers’ magnificent tall ships is truly magical. From setting sail and watching thousands of square feet of sail unfurl, to the relaxed atmosphere, great food and high standard of service provided by an attentive crew. Star Clippers offer inspiring voyages around the globe with an ever-expanding portfolio. From Thailand’s stunning coastline and Indonesia’s emerald waters as well to the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Passengers are welcome to get involved in the day to day sailing of the ship, pulling the ropes, climbing to the crow’s nest, navigation. But it’s all down to what you can manage and how much you fancy doing. All sailings are full board and free water sports are included including kayaking, wind surfing and snorkelling. Mikael C. Krafft, CEO and President of Star Clippers states his vision. ‘For more than 25 years, Star Clippers has offered guests a unique way to see favourite destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and Southeast Asia through a different lens. Approaching remote ports on board a sailing vessel evokes an excitement I imagine early explorers must have felt, but with all the comfort and amenities of a modern ship. We believe that travelling in comfort and style doesn’t mean sacrificing the opportunity for real adventure, and vice versa.’ If you’d like to find out more and perhaps build a voyage into a longer itinerary drop me a line. You might be surprised at what great value these wonderful trips can be. Also watch out for the newest member of the fleet coming soon!

16 July 2019

Western Australia’s Kimberley region lies across the top of the country and is one of the last true wildernesses left on the planet. With spectacular landscapes, pristine coastline, world class wildlife spotting and an abundance of indigenous history and culture it is a fascinating and exciting destination to explore. The wet and dry season characterise the landscape here and the best time to visit is between March and November with low rainfall and temperatures in the region of 28-34 Celsius. The rocky landscapes of the Kimberley are among the oldest on Earth aged at more than two billion years, littered with up to 60,000-year-old aboriginal rock art. Broome is the main access point into the area and from here you can visit the coast which boasts the largest and most diverse dinosaur footprints in the world described as the ‘cretaceous equivalent of the Serengeti’. The coastline also homes Camden Sound, one of the largest Humpback whale birthing zones in the world between June and September. The Sound extends to the Prince Regent River where you can spot powerful salt water crocodiles. The ocean and water ways are a bird lovers delight, spot sea turtles and Dugongs, fish for the mighty barramundi, dive some of the greatest dive spots in the world! The Bungle Bungle ranges found in the Purnululu National Park are not to be missed. These striped, beehive shaped domes lay undiscovered until 1983, earning world heritage status twenty years later. Other highlights include the 260ft tall King George Falls and the Gibb River Road for those looking for a true outback adventure. There are many ways to visit the region and travel styles to suit all tastes and budgets. I can design self-drive itineraries and recommend the best escorted touring. Cruising the ocean and waterways of this region is an incredible way to see experience it. There are a handful of cruise operators who have been granted access to this slice of paradise and there are some wonderful options to choose from. Having spent a few months working in this area I know it well. Drop me a line for more information about the Kimberley, or any trip you have planned, and I will be delighted to hear from you.

09 April 2019

Warm sun, fresh crisp air, colour creeping back into lives. Glorious Spring is back, and I love it! It’s not just about how beautiful things are during Spring, it’s also how this season makes us feel. Happy, motivated, hopeful, excited about the rest of the year. If I could replicate a perfect Spring day 365 times, I’d trade a cold, wet Winter and an uncomfortably hot Summer in an instant. Here are some of my top travel destinations for kindred spirits out there. Europe has so many fabulous destinations which are truly magnificent in Spring. Daylight is returning to Norway and with-it life is emerging, rivers are gathering pace, the green hills contrast the snow-capped peaks. A Norwegian spring cruise (March-May) is heaven for lovers of fresh clean air, scenery and a cosy retreat when it’s just a little bit nippy! Spring has not really sprung until the bulbs have burst into life and colour is dotted around us again. Any gardeners amongst you, or just lovers of beautiful things must take a trip to Amsterdam in Spring. The city is fabulous, and colour is bursting from every window box and available space. No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a visit to Keukenhof Tulip gardens (end of March to May), the greatest flower show on Earth. A trip to the Canadian Rockies in Spring is such a treat (April-May). The mountains will still be snow covered, everything is fresh, new and stunning. You’ll avoid the heat of the Summer and it’s also generally regarded as the best time for wildlife spotting. To extend this wonderful season even further take a Spring trip to the Southern hemisphere. South Africa has to be on the top of a list (September – October). With bright, clear days, dramatic scenery, famously beautiful Spring flowers and the best chances to view mighty whales, what’s not to love? Timing is everything when you travel; get it wrong and dreams can turn into nightmares. Get it right and your perfect destination is just a flight away. Whether you’re a heat lover, a snow chaser, a wildlife enthusiast or a city sightseer, get in touch and let me help you get it right.

08 December 2018

Job satisfaction is pretty much guaranteed when you have fabulous customers like mine. I always encourage feedback and absolutely love hearing about the adventures I have worked hard to create. Whether it's chatting on the phone or reading an email, I listen, take action if necessary and learn more inside knowledge, hints and tips each and every time. As part of a larger South American Adventure, my intrepid clients Rene and Terry visited the Galápagos Islands. They are wonderful people who bubble with enthusiasm and have a true passion for life. Turns out Terry is also a very talented artist and he has turned his Galapagos experiences into an amazing comic strip. Feedback in comic strip form is a first for me and I really wanted to share!

16 October 2018

Being a mum of two gives me the chance to see life through the eyes of a child again. There is nothing my son loves more than making a den and his excitement is infectious. Whether he’s under the bed, in a tent in the garden or just sitting under a blanket with a torch my three-year-old is in his element. Once we grow up can we still appreciate the joy of a den? Travel is changing, the destination is not always the deciding factor when we book our next holiday. We are looking to enhance our experiences, find quirky - sometimes inspiring - accommodation. Something with a bit of childhood magic. I’ve picked a few sensational destinations where you can find the ultimate, grown-up den. A winter activity holiday is going to be jam-packed full of excitement during the day but with short daylight hours, why let the adventures set with the sun? Imagine watching the snow fall or see the awe-inspiring Northern lights while warm and cosy in a ‘Scandi-chic’ glass-roofed Igloo. If the underwater world is your playground of choice the Maldives could make you the most glamorous castaway. Dine in a fully submerged restaurant or watch the fish beneath your feet through glass floors or partly submerged rooms. Later this year, the richest adventure seekers can stay in the first ever underwater bungalow. Enough to make your inner child scream with delight. Ask any den expert under 10 and they will confidently tell you the best dens are always in the trees. South Africa is home to many boutique properties and lots of unique ones at that. One of my favourites offers five-star luxury stilted huts nestled in the forest canopy. Once you tap into this sort of property it’s incredible what you can find. Something to suit every interest. Star gaze from a glass roofed pod in the Atacama Desert, stay in properties created within natural caves, built out of ice, a hobbit house or a yurt. Why stick with four walls when you can sit under a blanket with a torch!

09 August 2018

For those of you who have come across small group adventure travel you’ll probably already be hooked. For those of you who haven’t I’d like to introduce you to it and explain why I think it’s so fantastic, surprising and worth exploring. Wildlife encounters, cycling and walking holidays, cultural tours, polar voyages, winter activity adventures, food lovers’ itineraries, photography trips, the list goes on. There is something which will appeal to all ages and abilities, fitness levels and special interests. Joining a small group means you can travel respectfully and non-intrusively. On average you can expect 12-16 people, plus a fully qualified, experienced local leader who keeps you safe, takes care of the logistics and give you a local’s insight and knowledge. They bring the trips alive and are full of tips and chats you just can’t find in guidebooks. If you’re on your own, you’ll be glad to know that around half of the travellers book solo at no extra charge. You can choose to pay a single room supplement, which is usually very reasonable or share a room with one other person of the same gender. So many of us share the same desire; a yearning to discover new experiences and come home with a true understanding of the place we visited. Adventure travel gives you the opportunity to see a destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track, delving into local traditions, cultures, food and lifestyles. With exciting itineraries and outstanding service, you can meet, dine and stay with local people, sleep in authentic accommodation and travel to must-see destinations with other like-minded people. I’ve sent hundreds of clients away on incredible group adventures and been lucky enough to travel many times this way myself. By coming to me you’ll get the added benefit of my experience, but you’ll pay no extra. Any loyalty discounts and direct promotions are always applied and if you have not booked with me before I’d like to offer an additional £25 per person discount. Please feel free to drop me a line if you are a seasoned group tripper or just want a chat to find out more.

15 June 2018

Like many amongst you, I’ve always had the travel bug and have been lucky enough to travel far and wide and see some of the most beautiful places on Earth. From the pristine rainforests of Belize to the turquoise waters of the Australian Barrier Reef. The remote islands of the Seychelles to the drama of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The desire to see beautiful places and stunning scenery keeps me travelling to different corners of our lovely planet but it doesn’t stop me appreciating the little piece of paradise we are so lucky to live in. I still regularly pinch myself when I’m out and about, especially at this lovely time of the year. My young family have curbed my long-haul adventures for now, but it hasn’t stopped my passion to travel and see amazing places. Last month we actually took a holiday half a mile away from home and had some family time in our very own Ladram Bay. It was a brilliant break, and such a pretty cove. Proof that we don’t always have to travel far to find what we are after. With many years of experience arranging long haul itineraries, this is where my passion lies but since becoming my own boss and family life shifting my focus I am really enjoying helping clients wanting to holiday closer to home. Discovering more about our UK breaks and finding so many incredible experiences to be enjoyed right here on our doorstep. You may be looking for a cottage for a family get together or a luxury spa break perhaps? Maybe a family holiday with plenty for the children to do is what you’re after or to get away from everything on a narrowboat? I’ve recently seen a brilliant cruise around the British Isles which looked fabulous or how about the white sands of Jersey, or a walking holiday. Whether it be far flung or just a stone’s throw, let me help find the perfect break.

03 April 2018

Working as a travel agent is such a varied job. It has its challenging times; most recently ‘the Beast from the East’ froze the country and disrupted travel plans. Its times like these when people are glad to have someone to call and more importantly to help! It has its very rewarding times; organising the perfect anniversary trip or honeymoon and receiving amazing feedback makes the job extra special (check out my webpage for some of my most recent testimonials). It also has its fun times. Working for myself as an independent travel agent means the enquires I receive are rarely the same and I explore the world every week researching the perfect trips for my intrepid customers. I thought I’d set a little challenge of my own inspired by my most recent enquires. How many can you answer? 1. If there was heating in this hotel the hotel would disappear. Which hotel am I? 2. Where did ‘Lonesome George’ never find his true love? 3. Roti for lunch on the Isle of Spice, where am I? 4. Famous Inca city - perfect for a marmalade sandwich? 5. You’ll find the Eiffel Tower, an Egyptian Pyramid and St Mark’s Square all on which road? 6. In which city would you find the Newlands sports ground? 7. Where can I spend my Dong? 8. Ordering a tipple in Raffles, what will it be? 9. Pic 1 - Where am I? 10. Pic 2 - What am I? Email me your answers for a chance to win a travel guide to the country of your choice. Little travel gift for the first five runners up too. Good Luck!

18 February 2018

Long haul travel can be exhausting! Many of us dream of travelling to the far-flung corners of the planet, for incredible adventures or family reunions, but the thought of travelling huge distances can be very daunting. There are lots of tips and tricks I use to make journeys easier and enjoyable. Flight times play a huge part in reducing jet lag or the stress of travelling with a young family, airline choice is incredibly important of course and if funds allow; upgrading your flights may be worth looking at. But for me, making the most out of your chosen route is the best way to make a trip not just more bearable but so much more exciting! Flying via Dubai? See the city sights on your outbound journey and head out into the desert on your return staying in a fabulous property for a truly Arabian experience. In under an hour you can drive to Abu Dhabi and stay a few nights or head north for some fantastic beach resorts if the city is not your thing. Kuala Lumpur is a great city to explore. From here you could transfer quickly and cheaply to a gorgeous Malaysian beach. It is just as easy to include Borneo into your travel plans. If you’d rather travel by road visit Malacca which was once one of the busiest trading posts in Asia, or the picturesque Cameron Highlands. Bangkok and Singapore are jump off points for anywhere in Asia and adding extra flights into your flight itinerary does not increase the cost considerably. Take a quick side trip to one of Thailand’s beaches or see the temples of Angkor in Cambodia? Flying to New York? Stop in Iceland en route. A short stop to see Niagara Falls on your way to Western Canada, Why not? If you have a few extra days to spare or maybe a few weeks make the most of them and break your journey up at the same time. Discover how to make the most out of your flights with a trip which works for you. Call me!

01 January 2018

Top safari and beach holidays A safari holiday is the trip of dreams for the adventure seeker, the wildlife enthusiasts and the lovers of the great outdoors. Being up close to some of the world’s most magnificent creatures in their natural habitats is an adrenaline rush, a privilege and often a very moving experience. Making the most of such a trip involves considerable effort however. Animals can perform at their best at the most unsociable times, hang out in quite rough areas and have a habit of keeping you waiting! Any hardship you encounter is rewarded ten-fold with a glimpse of a gorilla in the dense jungle, watching the chaos that unfolds as the first wildebeest dares enter the crocodile infested river or when you witness a pride of lions on a hunt. But it’s tiring (in a good way). Combine it with time to reflect and relax while making the most of the exciting part of the world you have chosen to explore. Here’s a few of my top safari and beach combinations, one of my favourite subjects! You are spoilt for choice in Africa. A Kenyan safari is easily combined with a stay on the Kenyan coast or for something extra special the Seychelles? Try northern Tanzania for the ultimate migration and finish off with a trip out to Zanzibar, the isle of spice. Selous Game reserve in southern Tanzania is wild and remote. Why not combine this with Mozambique? South Africa is malaria free and with so much to offer, easily twinned with Mauritius. Head away from Africa for alternatives. Search for leopard in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka. A perfect opportunity to tag on a bit of Maldivian paradise. Explore Ranthambore National Park, India on the lookout for the majestic tiger and relax in laid back Kerala on the Southern Indian shores. For wildlife overload including caimans, giant otters and jaguars, how about the Brazilian Pantanal? Choose from Rio’s lively beaches to deserted white sand shores. For more inspiration or help putting your ideas into practice, drop me a line!

06 September 2017

In an age of internet searches and online deals, if we trawl endless booking engines and review sites we can be experts in anything, right? Let’s face it, Google can pretty much answer anything we ask with more information than we can possibly hope for. But are we asking the right questions? You discover the perfect hotel, but will the internet let you know that next door is a building site? You find the most amazing price, but will you find yourself sat under an umbrella in the middle of the rainy season? You spot a last-minute deal but have you thought to check visa requirements, foreign office advice, passport validity, immunisations needed? And what about all the destinations and exciting trips you didn’t even consider looking for? For me it’s not what you can find online but what you can miss out on. You deserve to have every aspect of your holiday cared for from the excitement of planning to being welcomed home. This is where a human comes in! I have over 15 years of experience as an adventure travel specialist, a long haul, bespoke travel agent and a first and business class consultant. I now run my own business and I’m happily based in the lovely village of Colaton Raleigh. My ambition to see the world has taken to me to over 50 countries so far. It is experience which helps me help you. Working from home means my office hours are flexible. My clients benefit because I am available outside of normal working hours. I am there for you, backed up by a national professional team which keeps a round-the-clock watch on global issues. With access to many thousands of travel suppliers, flights and accommodation options, you can benefit from more choice, great prices and a holiday which has your individual needs and preferences carefully considered. We are one step ahead and working for you. Whatever you have planned, I have the knowledge, enthusiasm and most importantly, the resources, to make it happen. Like Google, but better!