John Picken
My expertise
I'm based in
Northumberland
It's Nice To Meet You
Hi, my name is John and I am a Travel Counsellor based in Blyth on the beautiful Northumberland coast.
Are you looking forward to a holiday but don’t want the stress of researching locations, hotels, and flights yourself? Worried about whether those online reviews are reliable or if you’ve missed something important in your itinerary? Do you dream of a trip tailored entirely to you, so you can simply relax and enjoy the experience?
If so, you’ve come to the right place. My mission is to provide a completely personal service – from your very first enquiry right through to the moment you return home – so all you need to do is pack your bags and have the time of your life. I’ll take care of everything: researching and planning, securing the best arrangements, thinking through the little details that make a big difference, and being there whenever you need me.
As a vegan myself, I understand how challenging it can be to travel with specific dietary requirements – especially when hotels or destinations aren’t set up for them. That’s why I can create holidays that take the stress out of finding suitable dining options, whether that’s securing vegan-friendly hotels, arranging restaurant recommendations, or building itineraries that celebrate plant-based cuisine.
I also believe travel should have a positive impact, both on you and the world around you. I can help you choose options that support local communities, promote ethical wildlife experiences, and reduce environmental impact – so your holiday is not only memorable for you, but also meaningful for the people and places you visit.
My own travel experiences span from childhood holidays in the UK to multi-destination adventures in South East Asia and beyond. I believe every holiday – whether big or small, hot or cold, adventurous or relaxing – should be special. By taking the time to talk with you at a time that suits you, I’ll design a trip that reflects what truly matters to you, filled with the kind of moments you’ll look back on fondly for years to come.
Alongside my personal expertise, I have access to a global network of fellow Travel Counsellors and local specialists, so wherever you want to go, I can handcraft a quote packed with hidden gems and authentic experiences. You’ll also have the reassurance of 24/7 support from both myself and our Duty Office, plus complete financial protection through ATOL and the unique Travel Counsellors Trust Fund.
So, whether you already have a destination in mind or are looking for inspiration, the first step to your most memorable, worry-free holiday is just a phone call away.
Your perfect holiday, designed around you – your tastes, your values, and your way of travelling.
Travel guides
Explore my guides and blogs
Golf, Coffee, and Travel Plans at Newbiggin
Exciting News!
29 Sept 2025 5 min read
How to holiday more often.
In Praise of the Long Weekend We all love that big, two-week holiday — sunshine, relaxation, and a break from the everyday. But what if you could capture that holiday feeling more than once a year? That’s where the long weekend comes in. Shorter breaks offer some great benefits and they’re easier to fit in-to busy lives. ? More frequent escapes – affordable and accessible ? Maximise annual leav
08 Aug 2025 5 min read
Travelling as a vegan ( or the culinary curious )
I’m sure everyone has noticed that there are many more food options in the UK for those that want a plant based diet. However, eating this way when on holiday can be full of challenges, with hotels catering for the majority, language barriers and differing food cultures, to name but a few. However there are ways of making it less of an issue so that you can concentrate on enjoying your holiday, w
16 May 2025 5 min read
Reviews
What my customers say
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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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