Leanne Rudd

My expertise

Australia
New Zealand
South Africa
Adventure Travel
Ski
Ocean Cruise
River Cruise
Tailor-made travel

I'm based in

Stockport

Available for new enquiries

Escape the Everyday, Explore the World

Hello, I’m Leanne, the owner of Travel By Leanne Ltd and an independent Travel Counsellor based in Hazel Grove, Stockport, where I live with my boyfriend, Richard, and our black Labrador, Jasper.

Travel has been at the heart of my life since 2002, when I set off on a year‑long round‑the‑world adventure with a friend from university. We began in vibrant Rio de Janeiro and finished in bustling Bangkok 12 months later, working our way across South America, New Zealand, Fiji, Australia and South East Asia. That journey ignited a lifelong passion for exploring the world and helping others do the same.

My travel career has taken me from the slopes to the high street: I started as a holiday rep, spending ski seasons in Austria, Andorra and Finland, before becoming a travel consultant in London, a round‑the‑world specialist in Kensington and then general manager of a busy travel agency in Manchester. I love arranging both leisure and corporate trips and, most of all, building long‑term relationships with my customers. I genuinely care about every itinerary I design and truly believe that “the world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page”.

With 66 countries visited (and counting), my first‑hand experience and industry knowledge will be invaluable to your plans. I will take the time to really get to know you, your travel style and your wish list, then create a selection of tailored quotes just for you. From the big picture to the tiniest detail, I will take care of everything so that you can simply relax and look forward to unforgettable memories and a completely stress‑free experience.

When you book with me, you will enjoy the peace of mind that comes with Travel Counsellors’ unique financial trust, which protects every single penny of your booking. No other travel company offers this exact level of financial protection. You will also benefit from our 24/7 emergency assistance: no chatbots, just real people ready to help whenever you need it.

So, what are you waiting for? Whether you are dreaming of a cruise, round‑the‑world flights, a ski escape, a luxury beach break or a bucket‑list safari (to name just a few), give me a call, drop me an email or send me a WhatsApp and let’s arrange a time to chat all things travel.

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Explore my guides and blogs

Italian Lakes - the Lake District on Steroids

Italy

Active Holidays

Tailor-made travel

Culture & History

Italian Lakes - the Lake District on Steroids

This summer, Richard and I swapped our usual UK lakes for something a little more… Italian. Think mountain-backed waters, colourful villages, endless spritzes and some truly unforgettable views.

23 Oct 2026 5   min read

Western Australia: Wine, Wildlife and the Most Incredible Coastline

Australia

Adventure Travel

Beach

River Cruise

Tailor-made travel

Western Australia: Wine, Wildlife and the Most Incredible Coastline

In April 2023, Richard and I had a fabulous holiday in Western Australia. It was my third visit to Perth: once as a backpacker, another time to visit my uncle while he was working out there, and this time for a holiday that blended city luxury, coast hugging road trips and time with friends. If you are dreaming of big skies, Indian Ocean sunsets and a relaxed pace of life, Western Australia is a

17 Sept 2026 7   min read

From Pokémon to Pagodas: An Ultimate Japan Family Itinerary

Japan

Adventure Travel

Private Tours

Train Travel

Families

Multi-Generational Travel

From Pokémon to Pagodas: An Ultimate Japan Family Itinerary

Japan is one of those places that captures children’s imaginations as much as adults’. Neon skylines, bullet trains, temples, theme parks and incredible food all in one trip. Planning it with kids can feel a little overwhelming, but it really does not have to be. With the right route, you can mix Pokémon and theme parks with peaceful temples, moving history and time to slow down in the mountains.

02 Jun 2026 3   min read

Easter at Sea: My Virgin Voyages Cruise from Puerto Rico to New York

Couples

Groups

LGBTQ+ Friendly

British Virgin Islands

Dominican Republic

United States

Easter at Sea: My Virgin Voyages Cruise from Puerto Rico to New York

It was a cold, dark January day and I was craving the sun, so I set out to find a cruise in the Caribbean. Having always wanted to experience Virgin Voyages, I was excited to find a sailing that was not only over Easter but also included my birthday. It was a trip that blended Caribbean sunshine with cool coastal cities, lazy sea days with late night parties, and some very memorable birthday cele

23 Apr 2026 13   min read

My First-Timer’s Journey Through India: Colour, Culture & Unexpected Calm

My First-Timer’s Journey Through India: Colour, Culture & Unexpected Calm

India had been on my wish list for years, but I will be honest: I felt a little daunted. The crowds, the chaos, the infamous “Delhi belly” – I had heard all the stories. In the end I chose a small, organised group tour so I could experience India’s highlights with the reassurance of having everything taken care of. What followed was one of the most vibrant, enriching trips I have ever taken.

18 Mar 2026 6   min read

From Carnival to the Amazon: My Ultimate Brazil Itinerary

From Carnival to the Amazon: My Ultimate Brazil Itinerary

Brazil is not a place you simply “tick off”. It is a country you feel: the beat of the drums in Rio de Janeiro, the roar of Iguazu Falls, the hush of the Amazon Rainforest at sunrise and the rhythms of Salvador’s streets. For clients who want to experience the very best of Brazil in one seamless trip, I have created a 23-day itinerary for February and March 2026 that weaves together iconic cities

21 Jan 2026 10   min read

Cruising the Eastern Mediterranean on NCL Viva

Cruising the Eastern Mediterranean on NCL Viva

Looking for the perfect Eastern Mediterranean cruise? Richard and I recently sailed aboard the Norwegian Viva, visiting iconic destinations like Istanbul, Alexandria, Santorini, Mykonos, and more. From incredible food and entertainment to friendly faces and historic ports, this cruise was everything we hoped for, and more.

22 Oct 2025 3   min read

Barbados - November 2024: Sunsets, Cricket & Caribbean Magic

Barbados - November 2024: Sunsets, Cricket & Caribbean Magic

My November 2024 escape to Barbados was one for the books—sun-drenched days, thrilling cricket, rich island culture, and a few unforgettable surprises along the way. Whether lounging on beaches, sipping rum cocktails, or cheering on England, this trip was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Where I Stayed: Coconut Court & Sea Breeze My holiday started at the charming Coconut Court Beach

02 May 2025 2   min read

A tour of Colombia

A tour of Colombia

We visited Colombia in November 2018 and joined a small group tour operated by Intrepid. The group had a variety of ages and nationalities and was expertly led by a Colombian lady called Katarina. We flew Manchester to Cartegena with KLM via Amsterdam and our first adventure in the country was to a local clothes store to buy Richard something to wear since his suitcase didn’t arrive with us! Luck

11 Aug 2024 3   min read

P&O cruise to Northern Spain and France

P&O cruise to Northern Spain and France

We fancied a different holiday for May half term with the teenagers so we opted for a cruise with P&O sailing from Southampton. It was the children’s first cruise and they really enjoyed it. We were delayed boarding due to the ship needing a deep clean after a break out of Norovirus on the previous sailing, but that worked well for us as it meant we could watch the FA Cup final in a Southampton

15 Jul 2024 3   min read

My first 6 months as a Travel Counsellor

My first 6 months as a Travel Counsellor

Time flies when you’re having fun and my first 6 months as a Travel Counsellor have certainly been that. From attending the amazing annual conference in November with guest speakers such as Louis Theroux and Fearne Cotton and to the whistlestop visit to Paris where I experienced the 5-star luxury of a Uniworld river cruise. I’ve made over £500k of sales and see no reason why I can’t hit £1million

09 Apr 2024 3   min read

Singapore Stopover

Singapore Stopover

On our way to Western Australia we stopped off in Singapore for 3 nights. It’s a fabulous city any time of year as it has a tropical climate but we were there in April. We stayed in 2 different hotels which are next door to each other, so when we checked out of The Quincy, we simply crossed the courtyard into the Vibe Hotel. These hotels are walking distance to Orchard Road and a plethora of shop

18 Dec 2023 3   min read

A Finnish Winter Wonderland

A Finnish Winter Wonderland

I spent November to March in Ruka; a ski resort in Finland just 30 minutes south of the Arctic Circle. It’s a perfect winter wonderland and a great place to enjoy the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). There isn’t much daylight in the winter months, usually around 3-5 hours, so the slopes are floodlit allowing full days of skiing or snowboarding. Once a week the slopes are open until 11pm and th

30 Oct 2023 3   min read

What my customers say

What a pleasure to get such patient, kind professional help and guidance from my Travel Agent Leanne Rudd. I have complex travel arrangements which once again were dealt with so efficiently by Leanne. I can not recommend her more highly.

Lothar Fulde

London

I have received an excellent personal service from Leanne on numerous occasions . She is always on hand to give the best advice and options and follows up with incredible service and information on all bookings.

Joanne Harrison

Derbyshire

Leanne always makes sure my travel is stress free

Val Fernandes

London

Leanne has been looking after me and my family for years. Leanne knows what I like and I can always trust her to get me the best deals.

Sally Brennan

Bakewell

Leanne is excellent. She responds very quickly to queries and organises things super efficiently.

David Wood

Durham

Leanne and team from Travel Counsellors provide me with accurate flight options, quick response time and additional information needed for my travel plans.

Laurence Davies

Cape Town

Leanne is very professional, but friendly and easy to chat to about any holiday requirements. I would absolutely recommend Leanne.

Brenda Bruce

Stockport

Fantastic, responsive service!

James Finn

London

I started working with Leanne with my current company, I'm now moving to another company and I already got the MD to commit to using Leanne's services. Enough said.

John McMillan

Edinburgh

Fast, efficient service, lots of choice and matched our requirements perfectly. Would have no hesitation at all to highly recommend Leanne.

David Moore

Stockport

Leanne is very efficient and I would highly recommend her.

James Harrison

Chester

We have been using Leanne for a number of years (with a small break whilst had our daughter) and once again she did not disappoint. Found exactly what we were looking for. All our family already go to Leanne when we need a holiday and always gets it on the money.

Jenna Gadd

Bristol

We have been using Leanne for a number of years (with a small break whilst had our daughter) and once again she did not disappoint. Found exactly what we were looking for. All our family already go to Leanne when we need a holiday and always gets it on the money.

Jenna Gadd

Bristol

We found Leanne’s advice really helpful in building an exciting trip. We really enjoyed the process of doing this together to create a bespoke holiday instead of simply following what has been done before.

Paula Low

Stockport

If you would like to book a holiday just call Leanne, she will sort everything. I would not use anybody to book my holiday but Leanne.

Robert Blake

Wiltshire

Leanne is a wonderful travel assistant. She is patient, kind and very professional. A real pleasure to work with.

Lothar Fulde

London

If you would like to book a holiday just call Leanne, she will sort everything. I would not use anybody to book my holiday but Leanne.

Bob Blake

Wiltshire

Personalised service and best solution.

Ross Dickson

Preston

Leanne was very helpful and efficient and was lovely to work with.

Julia Jordan

Stockport

Flawless support system, just top rank people.

Pauline Fowler

Norwich

You made things do easy for me when choosing my holiday. Thank you so much.

Edward Douglas

Poynton

Leanne has been extremely helpful and responsive to all my queries and did everything she could to get us the best value holiday.

Lucy C

Guernsey

We recently booked our holiday to Cavtat, Croatia with Leanne Rudd at Travel Counsellors, and we couldn't be happier with the service we received. We certainly weren't the easiest customers—we changed our minds several times and kept asking for different options—but throughout the whole process, Leanne remained incredibly patient, professional, and supportive. Nothing ever seemed like too much trouble, and she was always happy to help us find the right holiday. Leanne took the time to understand exactly what we wanted and found us the perfect trip. Her communication was excellent, and she made the entire booking process completely stress-free. It was reassuring to know that every detail was taken care of, allowing us to simply relax and look forward to our holiday.

Toni Macnaught

Grimsby

Leanne was very quick to respond to my questions, it takes the pressure off me to find the right flights with multiple stops. Thank you for your support.

Tilly Read

London

Leanne makes organising travel plans SO easy and smooth. She's efficient, knowledgeable, well connected and friendly. 100% recommend to anyone booking a holiday.

Liz & Laura T

Cheshire

We have had an amazing experience booking our honeymoon! Everything was so straight forward and all our requests were met😁 Thank you so much!

Charlotte Hancock

Wolverhampton

Excellent service, Leanne has been fabulous.

Gaye Flexen

London

Highly recommend, very professional and knowledgeable and nothing is too much trouble for Leanne to make sure you have a perfect holiday/trip.

Debbie Richards

Bristol

Leanne helped us create the holiday of a lifetime to St Lucia to celebrate two significant birthdays, and we couldn't be happier with the experience. From the very beginning, Leanne was incredibly patient, attentive and understanding of exactly what we were looking for. We changed our minds and refined our plans several times, yet nothing was ever too much trouble. She went back to the drawing board on numerous occasions to ensure every detail was just right, and her commitment to finding the perfect solution for us never wavered. What really sets Leanne apart is her knowledge, professionalism and genuine passion for creating exceptional holidays. She took all of the stress, uncertainty and hours of research off our shoulders, whilst providing invaluable insight into destinations, resorts and options we would never have considered ourselves. Thanks to Leanne, we ended up with the perfect holiday, tailored exactly to our needs and expectations. I would recommend her services without hesitation to anyone looking for expert guidance and outstanding personal service. She made the entire process effortless and enjoyable, and we are incredibly grateful for everything she did for us.

Stuart Slater

St Albans

Leanne was a huge help with organising our trip to Barcelona. From our first enquiry to booking our break it was stress free and straightforward. We would definitely recommend Travel Counsellors to friends and family.

Paul Durkin

Stockport

Discover the world with me

Lake Iseo

Lake Iseo

Swimming with the ducks on Lake Iseo

29 Aug 2026

Colletto AgriBio Relais

Colletto AgriBio Relais

Our farm stay near Lake Iseo. Beautiful Italian countryside

29 Aug 2026

Villa Porta Colmegna

Villa Porta Colmegna

The beautiful setting on Lake Maggiore of Villa Porta Colmegna

25 Aug 2026

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore

Just look at these vistas over Lake Maggiore

25 Aug 2026

Ship tour of Oceania Insignia

Ship tour of Oceania Insignia

In June 2026 I did a ship tour of Oceania Insignia as part of the CLIA Cruise Conference.

10 Jun 2026

Test Kitchen

Test Kitchen

One of the dining experiences on Virgin Voyages

23 Apr 2026

NCL Viva

NCL Viva

A drive by of the ship

22 Oct 2025

Walking along a Rottnest Island beach

Walking along a Rottnest Island beach

Empty beaches, true nature, peace and quiet

28 Apr 2023

Additional offers

More destinations to enjoy

Let's plan your dream trip together

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Give me a call

Let’s talk through your ideas, no pressure.

0161 334 0106

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Finding your match...

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.