Sarah Bolton

My expertise

Australia
New Zealand
Thailand
Canada
Expedition Cruise
Ocean Cruise
River Cruise
Safari

I'm based in

Totton

Available for new enquiries

It's Nice To Meet You

Welcome to my personal webpage at Travel Counsellors. As a bit of background, I have been in the travel industry in various sectors for over 30 years, and have had my own business for over 18 years of that! Previous positions have included overseas sailing instructor, holiday rep, corporate/VIP flight attendant, cabin crew manager, cruise product manager as well as long-haul and cruise sales. All of which have given me a broad knowledge of travel as a whole.

Having spent several of my childhood years in East Africa, I've had the travel bug from an early age, and have travelled extensively worldwide throughout my life. I've also been fortunate enough to live and work in Sweden, Bahrain and New Zealand.

My specialist areas of expertise are cruising, Australia/New Zealand, Africa and tailor-made long-haul itineraries, as well as honeymoons. However, I am able to book all types of holiday arrangements worldwide. I am an accredited specialist for Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Tahiti, the Caribbean, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, South Africa and Namibia, as endorsed by the relevant tourism authorities.

I am also one of only a few Masters with CLIA (previously known as Association of Cruise Experts), and have this year won the CLIA Cruise Master award at the national Agent Achievement Awards. Previously I have been awarded "Cruise Expert of the Year" for UK & Ireland by a panel of leading industry executives, and been shortlisted for the Cruise Master award for the last 4 years! I have also been nominated for, and awarded, various other national cruise awards, including River Cruise Ambassador. As a cruise specialist I cruise every year and visit as many ships as possible to familiarise myself with the different products on offer - in the last few years I have either cruised with or visited ships belonging to all of the major cruise lines.

Working from my office at home without the distractions and limitations of the high street, and the impersonality and noise of a call centre, I am available at a time that suits you. I offer exceptional customer service to ensure each and every trip exceeds your expectations. I will give a bespoke personal service when arranging your holiday requirements, whether it be a package or a detailed tailor-made itinerary.

If you would like regular updates of my special offers, please do get in touch.

I look forward to hearing from you and helping to plan your dream trip.

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Explore my guides and blogs

Top Tips for Zanzibar

Top Tips for Zanzibar

Located off the east coast of Africa, and part of Tanzania, the island of Zanzibar is one of my favourite destinations. I was brought up in Kenya & Tanzania as a child and have fond memories of visiting Zanzibar on holiday. Recently I returned as an adult and here are my top tips: 1. Combine with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania for a truly magical experience 2. Do a multi-centre by combining a st

15 Aug 2020 2   min read

Alaska stay & cruise days 13-16

Alaska stay & cruise days 13-16

Day 13: KETCHIKAN Sadly the final day in Alaska, before we headed down to Canada. Another beautiful day sailing into Ketchikan. We were the 2nd ship into port, but ended up being busy with 4 ships! Today’s excursion was another boat cruise - this time the Misty Fjords Wilderness Adventure. I’d been a little bit concerned that after all the magnificent trips I’d done that this would be sligh

12 Jul 2019 4   min read

Alaska stay & cruise days 10-12

Alaska stay & cruise days 10-12

Day 10: Juneau The largest port on our itinerary so far - although most shops seem to be tourist jewellery traps! I did manage to find a nice T-shirt though! Perfect port if you’re a cruise ship geek - apart from us there was also Golden Princess & Star Princess (both Princess Cruises) & MS Noordam (Holland America Line). Today I did another ship’s excursion called “Mendenhall Glacier & Whal

12 Jul 2019 5   min read

Alaska stay & cruise days 6-9

Alaska stay & cruise days 6-9

Day 6: Joining Azamara Quest Up most of the night to experience midsummers night in Alaska. Took photographs at 10pm, midnight, 4am, 5.30am (ship coming in!) - all in daylight. Packed in the morning and headed over to Zudys for a coffee before the hotel shuttle took me to the cruise terminal. A very quick and easy process here as only one ship in at a time in Seward as a whole, and as Azamara s

12 Jul 2019 5   min read

Alaska stay & cruise days 1-5

Alaska stay & cruise days 1-5

2 nights Anchorage, 3 nights Seward & 10 nights Alaska cruise on Azamara Quest from Seward to Vancouver Day 1: Anchorage Landing into Anchorage gave me my first glimpse of the stunning scenery and backdrop of the mountains. I stayed in an area of downtown called Ship Creek which is situated on the salmon river, popular with local fishermen. In order to get myself into the right time zone (9

12 Jul 2019 6   min read

Guide to cruising - what to do when you first get on board

Guide to cruising - what to do when you first get on board

You’ve booked your cruise, and are all excited when you get on board. So, what should you do first? Here’s my top tips for things to do in the first couple of hours: Personally I try to get to the port in good time so that I can be one of the first on board. Please note however that some cruise lines, especially those with large ships, stagger the boarding process and you are given a check-in tim

03 May 2019 4   min read

Belmond Afloat in France luxury barge cruising

Belmond Afloat in France luxury barge cruising

Have you ever considered meandering along the waterways of southern France on a luxury barge, converted from an original working boat? No? Nor had I until I was invited to travel with Belmond on one of their “Afloat in France” barges on the River Saone. This is one of those rare products that unless you know of it already you wouldn’t know to ask for it – something truly special and once experienc

14 Jul 2017 5   min read

Sensational South Africa

Sensational South Africa

In June I was part of a small group of Travel Counsellors to be hosted by Africa Collection on a wonderful educational trip to South Africa and Mauritius. We flew into Johannesburg with Virgin Atlantic, and transferred to our own privately chartered light aircraft for the 50 minute flight to Madikwe East airstrip. You can drive to Madikwe Game Reserve, but this takes 4.5 hours, so flying is the

23 Jul 2015 5   min read

Istanbul

Istanbul

Istanbul is the ultimate “East meets West” city, spanning both Europe and Asia. Many cruises start/end in Istanbul, and cruise lines have realised that this fascinating city deserves some time spent there, and therefore now include an overnight in port. However I would also recommend that you extend your stay pre- or post-cruise in order to make the most of this wonderful place, as there is so muc

19 Jun 2015 5   min read

Cruise: how to choose your cabin

Cruise: how to choose your cabin

1. Type: Firstly decide on whether you are looking for an inside, ocean view, balcony cabin or suite. Take into consideration the size of the cabin, whether you might be claustrophobic, prefer a view (can check the weather when you wake up, and see the world go by), would like your own balcony to sit out on and get fresh air, whether you require entertaining space, space for a large family, conci

19 Jun 2015 6   min read

Croatia, Montenegro & Venice cruise on Azamara Quest - the cruise

Croatia, Montenegro & Venice cruise on Azamara Quest - the cruise

I travelled on my own on this holiday – Azamara is great for solo travellers due to the following reasons: Single supplements as low as 25% on selected cruises Small ships so more opportunity to get to know other guests and crew Officers and crew go out of their way to look after people on their own Special events for solo travellers e.g. hosted lunches and dinners. The lunch I attended was

23 Jul 2014 7   min read

Croatia, Montenegro & Venice cruise on Azamara Quest - the itinerary

Croatia, Montenegro & Venice cruise on Azamara Quest - the itinerary

For my personal holiday this summer I did a back to back cruise 14 night cruise on Azamara Quest. Itinerary: Athens – Chania, Crete – Day at sea – Kotor, Montenegro – Dubrovnik, Croatia – Korcula, Croatia – Venice (2 days) – Zadar, Croatia - Split, Croatia (overnight in port) – Hvar, Croatia (overnight in port) – Kotor, Montenegro – Dubrovnik, Croatia – Venice (overnight in port) Ports of cal

23 Jul 2014 6   min read

Baltic Cruise on Azamara Quest - the ship

Baltic Cruise on Azamara Quest - the ship

Each year I try to get away over my birthday - last year was Prague, and this year I did a Baltic cruise on-board one of my favourite cruise ships, the Azamara Quest. The itinerary started in Stockholm and ended in Copenhagen. It included calls at Helsinki, St Petersburg, Tallinn, Kiel, Warnemunde and Travemunde. The Azamara Quest is a premium ship which is small, with a relaxed style, refined

13 Apr 2014 3   min read

Baltic Cruise on Azamara Quest - the itinerary

Baltic Cruise on Azamara Quest - the itinerary

Stockholm: This was our embarkation port, and we overnighted here before sailing the next afternoon. This is something Azamara is good at - allowing a couple of days in some ports, and sailing late at night to allow you to go ashore in the evening if you wish. Having been to Stockholm a couple of times before, I took the hop-on hop-off bus round the city. It is a great way to see everything in

11 Sept 2013 4   min read

Marrakech and Atlas Mts

Marrakech and Atlas Mts

II decided I needed a break at the end of the year, and chose Morocco as somewhere close to home that I wanted to explore. Morocco has culture, scenery and clear distinctions between the old town medina in Marrakech, the new Palmeraie area, and the beautiful mountains. I knew of several places I wanted to see, and ended up staying in three places over four nights - hardly a relaxing holiday!

20 Dec 2012 4   min read

Niagara, Toronto & Ottawa - Ontario, Canada

Niagara, Toronto & Ottawa - Ontario, Canada

Many people visit the east coast of Canada as part of a multi-centre holiday and, quite often, will visit the Niagara Falls region as a daytrip from Toronto. On my trip we went purely to Ontario and we stayed in Niagara, Toronto and Ottawa. Having flown into Toronto we transferred to Niagara, and checked into the Sheraton on the Falls hotel into a Falls view room – it’s definitely worth upgradi

12 Nov 2012 4   min read

Paris weekend

Paris weekend

It was recently my friend’s birthday and, as she had never been to Paris, she decided that she just had to visit the French capital before she hit the big 40! We decided to go for two nights and make it a long weekend. The Eurostar train service makes these sorts of trips very easy and manageable, with comfortable trains running frequently. We stayed at the lovely boutique hotel, Hotel Littre

08 Nov 2012 4   min read

Dusit Thani Maldives

Dusit Thani Maldives

I have just returned from 2 1/2 days at the Dusit Thani (yes I know - far too short!), and had the most amazing time. I am lucky enough to have experienced many luxury hotels both in the Maldives and around the world, and fell in love with this place. Recently opened, in February 2012, the Dusit Thani, situated in the Baa Atoll, is a perfect blend of Thai and Maldivian hospitality. It's a wonderfu

04 Oct 2012 3   min read

Going solo in Prague

Going solo in Prague

For my birthday I decided to visit Prague for 5 days - somewhere I'd always wanted to go. Travelling anywhere alone can be a little bit daunting but I had no trouble at all, and felt safe and welcome wherever I went. I chose a boutique hotel, the Archibald at Charles Bridge, having done hours of research, and am so glad that I did as it was the perfect choice in the perfect location. The hote

31 Jul 2012 4   min read

Maldives

Maldives

Recently I was lucky enough to be invited to go on an educational trip to the Maldives. With the Maldives being a popular destination for honeymoons, anniversaries and luxury exotic holidays, it was a wonderful opportunity to see some of the islands for myself, and see what the different hotels have to offer. We visited a total of 8 properties, and did in-depth "site inspections" of each one, to

18 May 2009 4   min read

Launch of cruiseship Celebrity Solstice

Launch of cruiseship Celebrity Solstice

The launch of a cruiseship is always a special occasion, but this time was the first one I'd attended in the US. Firstly I was very surprised just how close Port Everglades cruise terminal is to both Fort Lauderdale airport and good hotels in the area for pre and post cruise stays. Even flying in and out of Miami airport, as we did, was an easy 40 minute taxi journey. Solstice is the newest s

18 Dec 2008 4   min read

Northern Lights, Norway

Northern Lights, Norway

HURTIGRUTEN'S MS TROLLFJORD TROMSO - KIRKENES This year saw a chance to tick off another thing on my list of things to see/do in my lifetime - seeing the Northern Lights! You may have seen the TV programme earlier this year with Joanna Lumley fulfilling her dream of seeing them, and being awestruck at the sight - well, it happened to me too. There is never any guarantee of seeing the Northern

16 Dec 2008 4   min read

Perth + APT Western Wildflowers Wilderness tour

Perth + APT Western Wildflowers Wilderness tour

As one of the Australian Tourist Board's Premier agent I aim to visit Australia every year, and try to see and do things that I haven't covered before. My sister and her family live in Perth, and therefore Perth is normally always included in my trips, and this year was no exception. This October I took my dad with me (mum had been over for 2 months earlier in the year for the birth of her 3rd g

16 Dec 2008 4   min read

What my customers say

Sarah is everything you want in a travel consultant but rarely get. She's patient, professional, and prompt, and what sets her apart is her genuine determination to ensure you have the best possible experience. When a holiday goes flawlessly, you're simply grateful. The real test comes when something goes wrong, and your plans are upended by "life" getting in the way. That's when you want Sarah in your corner, and it's in those moments you understand what "going above and beyond" truly means. She wins awards for a reason. If I were writing Sarah's scorecard, it would read: 10/10 - simply outstanding. And that's all I can say.

Blair Anderson

Stockport

I have already recommended Sarah to 2 friends and would definitely recommend to more. Friendly, personable, knowledgeable, great communication skills, prompt response, 100% satisfied with the service Sarah provided.

K Montagu

Yarmouth

Fantastic and proactive service. Sarah provides great support and we always use her knowledge when we are planning our trips. Would highly recommend

Paul Maddison

Sidmouth

Very pleased with the help and guidance with our first cruise and all the various flights it entailed. We would recommend Travel Counsellor, Sarah Bolton to our friends, so much so we have booked another cruise for next year.

Christine Cozens

Brentwood

This is my first time booking with Sarah. It’s been seamless and will definitely be booking again. Will also recommend my friends to Sarah

Kerry Dodman

Leven

Sarah has a wealth of knowledge which she uses really well. Communication is timely, clear and efficient. Absolutely fills the gaps we might innocently leave booing independently.

Paul Simpson

Mablethorpe

Sarah is a wealth of knowledge and replies in a swift professional manner. Nothing seems to be too much trouble. We always have an amazing experience when we contact her.

Ivan Gardiner

Sowerby Bridge

The in depth and personal care, plus the deep knowledge, is what sets Sarah apart from other agencies we have used.

Terence Poulton

London

Sarah is very approachable, making herself available outside of normal office hours. She is knowledgeable and helps to formulate our holiday plans. We feel very safe in her capable hands and nothing is too much trouble. A pleasure to deal with her and we will continue to do so for as many years as we are travelling.

Paul Maddison

Sidmouth

Sarah has been very helpful with past cruises, and helped out a couple of times when I had a problem, once when we were on a cruise in the Caribbean . I carry a few of Sarah's cards which I pass on to others when recommending Sarah.

Richard Lomas

Abingdon

We found Sarah Bolton very helpful, courteous and above all very patient with small changes we made to our itinerary in respect of our first cruise and accompanying package.

Christine Cozens

Brentwood

I'd like to say how helpful Sarah has been to me as a solo traveller on choosing the right cruise for me and has been very swift in her replies to my emails.

Anne Hothersall-Jackson

Guildford

Very professional. Easy to speak with (so so important). We felt like we were the only customers as Sarah’s attention to detail was such. Since booking the cruise have joined a few Facebook pages where it is very evident that folks who book direct don’t have that benefit. So glad we chose Sarah (via recommendation and not disappointed)

Loraine Brown

Basildon

Sarah is very friendly and professional. She listened carefully to my needs and took them into consideration when recommending holidays to suit. She was also patient in explaining some of the nuances of cruise booking which is a new experience for me.

Simon Boddy

Lymington

From start to finish, Sarah demonstrated exceptional professionalism, knowledge, and dedication to making our journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Sarah’s attention to detail and commitment to our satisfaction were evident throughout the entire process. Her expertise made all the difference, and we couldn't have asked for a better experience. We highly recommend Sarah’s services to anyone looking to plan their next trip.

Sean Moseby

Southampton

Sarah was amazing, gave so much choice for what we were looking for, and understood exactly what we wanted. Would recommend 100%.

Helen Rabbets

Cambridgeshire

The service received is exceptional. Sarah, has been very helpful, informative and offered a fantastic holiday itinerary. Any queries have been quickly answered and clarified. Thank you Sarah, really looking forward to our amazing trip.

Nicola Hale

Chelmsford

Knowledgeable and friendly. Without Sarah’s help I doubt we could’ve put together this dream vacation.

Steven Armstrgon

Redcar

Sarah provides excellent and courteous service. I am looking forward to working with her on all of our future travel bookings.

Margo Murray

Port Washington

Sarah provides consistently good advice, swift service and great support from the start of the booking process right through the whole trip.

Christopher Coleman

Market Drayton

We previously used an experienced Travel Agent who has now retired, Sarah has more than filled that space. She is attentive and alert to any communications, she is proactive in suggesting alternatives and seeking options out that others would simply ignore. She is clearly very knowledgable, understanding and efficient. We have looked long and hard to try and find such a professional in this field, she is clearly well deserving of her many accolades and awards.

Bohdan Ciapa

Saddleworth

Sarah has always gone that extra mile to ensure we have a great holiday experience and all our holiday requirements are met.

George Slocombe

Barry

Sarah gives a truly personal service and she makes the booking process very easy. We have the utmost confidence in the advice she gives.

Angela Horton

Sutton Coldfield

Fantastic, friendly, knowledgeable and reliable service from Sarah

Paul Maddison

Sidmouth

Sarah gives us a truly personal and professional service - we feel confident and supported all the way.

Sarah Dye

Attleborough

Sarah is quick to respond, efficient and gives us choices and advice on travel arrangements.

moira Luff

Sawbridgeworth

I have heard Gary Bainbridge speak very highly of you on his YouTube channel for years. Now that I have experienced your helpfulness and professionalism, I would definitely recommend Travel Counsellors and Sarah Bolton personally.

Alice Boyles

USA

Our inaugural cruise, arranged by Sarah Bolton, was a seamless experience due to her invaluable guidance and support throughout the process. Despite being unfamiliar with the intricacies and documentation involved, Sarah adeptly navigated us through each stage, offering her profound insights and vast expertise within the cruising sector to address our myriad of inquiries. As a result, we have confidently entrusted Sarah with our upcoming cruise arrangements and unequivocally endorse her as a preeminent agent for those seeking exceptional service.

Blair Anderson

Stockport

Sarah was easy to deal with and with quick response times

Paul Tomlinson

Totton

Very quick response, and quick to make the bookings and send through the documents

Stephen Nye

Brixham

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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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