Kate Rouse – Luxury Travel Specialist & Bespoke Itinerary Expert

I always knew I wanted to travel. Perhaps it was growing up in a small Warwickshire village that felt like the middle of nowhere, but the bright lights of the world called to me from an early age. At 17, I convinced my somewhat bemused parents that working for British Airways on a YTS scheme (showing my age here!) was the best decision I could make. And I was right.

Sure, Birmingham Airport in the 80s was more “hut in a field” than glamorous international hub, but I didn’t care. I was in my uniform, working in travel, and I never looked back. That first step with BA led to hotels, then to overseas roles, and before I knew it, I was living and working in some of the world’s most fascinating places—Spain, Cyprus, Dubai, Cairo, Aruba, and most recently, Portugal, where I spent 15 years. While most people dream of retiring abroad, I did things in reverse—building a career across the globe before returning to the UK to be closer to family, friends, and to launch my Travel Counsellors franchise.

Experience That Travels

Decades of international experience have given me an insider’s perspective on luxury travel—the highs, the hidden gems, the unexpected hurdles. I understand what truly happens when you step off a plane in a new country, and why careful planning and attention to detail can mean the difference between a trip and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My approach is simple: you relax, I do the worrying. It’s in my DNA. While I am naturally optimistic, I am also a worst-case-scenario planner, ensuring every trip has a Plan B, so you never have to think about it.

That’s why Travel Counsellors was a perfect fit for me. Their ‘No ifs, no buts, 100% financial protection’ gives my clients complete peace of mind. Who wants to travel and worry? Not on my watch.

Luxury, Bespoke & Beyond

My expertise lies in bespoke, high-end travel, with a particular love for crafting complex itineraries that become treasured memories. I specialise in multi-generational trips, ensuring that everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, has a seamless and unforgettable experience. Having run an exclusive events and catering company in Portugal, I know first-hand what it takes to deliver five-star service to discerning clients and how the smallest details elevate a holiday from great to exceptional.

Cruising the World

I love cruising. It’s one of the most extraordinary ways to travel, and I’ve had the privilege of working on and experiencing cruises across the globe. Whether it’s the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or the Norwegian fjords, I know how to match you with the perfect ship and itinerary.

And then there’s Egypt—a destination that holds a special place in my heart. If you do just one thing in your lifetime, make it a Nile cruise. Egypt is a contradiction—busy, chaotic, and overwhelming, yet utterly spellbinding, steeped in mystery and history that takes your breath away. Imagine drifting along the Nile, watching temples glow at sunset, or floating in a hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings as the sun rises—it’s magic. And I know exactly how to make it your magic.

Let’s Plan Your Next Adventure

Luxury travel should be exciting, seamless, and stress-free—and that’s exactly what I deliver. Whether it’s a bespoke itinerary, an exclusive cruise, or a multi-generational escape, I take the time to craft trips that are uniquely yours. And with the backing of Travel Counsellors’ exceptional service and financial protection, you can book with total confidence.

I look forward to plotting and planning your next adventure. Let’s make it extraordinary.