Rachel Shayler
I'm based in
Northumberland
It's Nice To Meet You
Hello and welcome, my name is Rachel and I love nothing more than making your travel dreams come true. I live in rural Northumberland with my young family and our chocolate labrador. Always happy to chat travel…over the phone or we can have a cuppa.
I got the travel bug from a young age and have worked as an agent and also overseas. I have travelled extensively, including New York, Mauritius, Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, Europe and ski but if I was pinned down to one or two favourites there is something very special about the Indian Ocean and Italy.
Travel Counsellors is unique. We’re all about putting our customer at the heart of everything. I take care of every detail so you get to enjoy every moment. Dietary requirements, additional needs, mobility issues, a special anniversary, a bucket list experience. I’m here to take care of it all through the booking stage and during your holiday too.
I now see travel through the lens of family life and would love to help you make incredible memories with your children. But I am passionate about making travel accessible for everyone, whatever your age and interests. If there’s somewhere you’ve dreamed of going let’s make that happen. Life is too short. Be bold, be adventurous, try something new. I will be there in the wings to make it happen for you.
Travel guides
Explore my guides and blogs
Changes to ESTAs
We have been advised that U.S. Customs and Border Protection are cancelling previously approved ESTA applications where the photo that is required as part of the application process is a picture of a traveller's passport photo.
28 Jan 2026 5 min read
Book your holiday in advance, or last minute. Which is best?
When you are planning your main family holiday, one of the biggest questions is simple: Do you grab your spot early, or hold out for a last‑minute bargain? Here is a short, honest guide from a family point of view, to help you decide what fits you best.
14 Jan 2026 5 min read
Set Sail on a River Cruise: The Effortless Way to Explore Iconic Destinations
Have you ever dreamed of waking up each morning in the heart of a new city or village, with centuries of history, vibrant markets and stunning scenery just steps from your cabin? A river cruise might be exactly what you’re looking for.
11 Nov 2025 5 min read
Lesser Known Italian Lakes
Here are five lesser-known Italian lakes that deserve a spot on your travel map — each with its own unique vibe, ideal for different kinds of travellers. 1. Lago di Mergozzo Tucked away just west of the much-larger Lago Maggiore, Lago di Mergozzo is a small sub-alpine lake famed for its crystal-clear waters and gentle atmosphere. Why visit: Because it feels quiet and unspoilt, yet still accessib
04 Nov 2025 5 min read
Best Family Ski Resorts in Bulgaria: Affordable Winter Fun for All Ages
Looking for an affordable family ski holiday? Bulgaria is one of Europe’s best-value ski destinations and could be just the answer to squeezing in an extra holiday, or trying skiing for the first time, without breaking the bank. It combines modern resorts, friendly ski schools, and budget-friendly prices. Now that we have a flight Newcastle to Sofia December to February, here’s a quick guide to th
20 Oct 2025 5 min read
Why Visit the Channel Islands Instead of Going Abroad?
When planning a holiday, it’s easy to dream of hopping on a plane to somewhere far away — but what if your next great escape was right on your doorstep? The Channel Islands — a cluster of small islands between England and France, including Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, Herm, and Alderney — offer the perfect blend of British comfort and continental charm. And now, getting there is easier than ever. Blue
20 Oct 2025 5 min read
Autumn in Japan: When and where to see the best Fall colours
Japan’s autumn foliage season is one of the country’s most breathtaking natural spectacles — and the estimated best viewing dates for red maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees have just been announced! Each year, the koyo season (autumn leaf season) begins in the cooler regions of northern Hokkaido, where vibrant hues start to appear as early as late September. From there, the wave of color slowly
18 Oct 2025 5 min read
Lake Garda vs Lake Como. Two beautiful Italian lakes but which one is calling your name?
When planning a trip to northern Italy, one question pops up again and again: Lake Garda or Lake Como? Both lakes are breathtaking, surrounded by mountains and charming villages that feel straight out of an Italian postcard. But their personalities couldn’t be more different — one adventurous and sun-soaked, the other elegant and romantic. Let’s explore the key differences between Lake Garda and
17 Oct 2025 5 min read
Why Book with me? I’m great in a Crisis!
Why book with a Travel Counsellor instead of sorting your trip yourself? You’re a grown adult. I’m absolutely sure you’re capable. But do you have the experience, training, contacts? What if something went wrong? Where would you turn? Recently my client, a solo traveller, booked the trip of a lifetime with me, to Vietnam. She wanted to see the sights, enjoy foodie experiences and meet up with a
05 Jun 2025 5 min read
Exciting new routes from Newcastle Airport
Newcastle Airport are opening up some very exciting routes for this year and next. May has seen the introduction of Copenhagen, the Channel Islands and Berlin. From May 2026 Easyjet are introducing three new planes to Newcastle and we're waiting to find out the routes they'll bring us, but for now we know we will also be able to fly directly to... Palermo; Sicily is a great summer destination for
22 May 2025 5 min read
5 of the most stylish cities in the world
Fashion and travel have always gone hand in hand. Some cities aren’t just style capitals—they practically breathe fashion. Whether it's the chic café culture of Paris or the bold streetwear in London, these cities set trends not just during their epic fashion weeks but every single day through the effortlessly cool sense of style of their residents and the recognisable architecture of their neighb
13 Mar 2025 5 min read
How to reduce carbon emissions when you travel
28th January was International Reducing CO2 Emissions Day and, as Travel Counsellors, we feel that it is our responsibility to ensure all our customers know how to make lower carbon choices when travelling. To help you with this, I’ve gathered my top tips for reducing the carbon footprint of your next trip. Swap flights for rail; Opting for the train in place of flying can cut your emissions by a
04 Mar 2025 5 min read
Explore Four Seasons Koh Samui, the setting of The White Lotus
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, the Four Seasons Koh Samui Resort is a laidback and luxurious hideaway that acts as the location for the new, highly anticipated season of ‘The White Lotus’. With sweeping views of the sea and the island's lush interior, this resort's commitment to offering an unrivalled experience is evident in its melding of traditional Thai architecture with a contemporary sense
03 Mar 2025 5 min read
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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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