Based in Macclesfield

Sonia Brobbin

Available for new enquiries

It's Nice To Meet You

Hi

Firstly - No business is too big or too small

Booking a holiday with me isn't a simple transaction.
I create the perfect bespoke trip to suit your needs. I listen and learn about you and ensure that all/most of your boxes a ticked.
You are provided with an excellent service from the minute we speak. Every holiday has to be the best.

I have 27 years experience in the travel industry. I have a huge amount of product knowledge, whether you are looking for a beach ,touring or active holiday I know what I am talking about. From high end luxury to a simple self catering apartment.. plus if you have no idea, even better I love a challenge

Few facts about me

My Favourite Touring Destination - India
My Favourite Exotic Beach Destination - Seychelles
My Favourite " close to home" Destination - Tenerife
My Favourite City - Vancouver
My Favourite Skiing Trip - Whistler, Canada

Places I have been

Mauritius, Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Seychelles
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman
Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Cambodia
Australia and New Zealand
Canada (west) and America ( various)
Barbados, Antigua, St Lucia , St Kitts and Nevis and Mexico
Morocco and Egypt
Cyprus, Greece (Crete, Rhodes, Zante) Turkey, Spain, All Canaries, All Balearics, Portugal. France (Chamonix) and Switzerland (Interlaken) Skiing

Simon , husband and son Hector love going on holiday, I appreciate families needs to ensure that everybody has a great time and we all know that happy children makes the holiday more pleasurable.
We also enjoy time away as a couple , so a short break away is something I enjoy putting together. Uts really important that those parent have the convenience.
We love dining out, we enjoy red wine, we love motorsports ( Formula 1, British GT etc) we also like to keep fit on our holiday, and I enjoy a good spa! plus most importantly a great children's club to balance the happiness :)

If you can relate to me and think I can help you then please do contact me for help.
01625 836540 / 07872992723
sonia.brobbin@travelcounsellors.com

Sonia

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Contact Me

Whatever your holiday needs I'm here to help you, so simply give me a call or send me an email with your contact details on and I can get things started for you:

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My Blog

I absolutely live and breathe travel and I love to write about my experiences! Please take a look through my posts - you might find your own holiday inspiration.

City Break to Palma Majorca

23 July 2018

My trip to Palma was perfect, three nights at the delightful Gran Melia Victoria. Palma is a great city and positioned right on the seafront/marina only 20 minutes from the airport. One side you have the cruise port and the other end you have old town and the Cathedral, walking the distance will take you 30 minutes along the promenade. Our hotel was over towards the cruise port, had the most spectacular views of the harbour and towards the Cathedral, always book a room with sea view. Our Deluxe Room Side Sea View room was small, but it had everything we needed to have a comfortable stay. The hotel boosts one of the best restaurants and bars in Palma, elevated so you can see all the fancy boats and old town in the distance, we really enjoyed a cocktail before dinner. Also has a good size pool, a small spa with sauna and steam room and they’ve position the gym overlooking the pool to make you feel guilty after a lunch at their pool bar. I would rate the hotel as 4/5*. Every day we ventured out, we walked for miles browsing around the old town, the small arty markets selling quality and fake goods then across the street you have the designer shops Louis Vitton, Hugo Boss and more. We really enjoyed getting lost as we stumbled on quirky little bars serving traditional Spanish tapas, narrow streets teamed with bright flowers and balconies you could jump between. The cathedral is a must, lots of climbing and walking, visit early as its gets extremely hot, such an impressive building. We dined at some great places and would highly recommend: Bahia Mediterraneo Il Paradiso Restaurant Ritzi Palma Arallo Tapas I hope you have enjoyed reading my blog and if you need help please do contact me for more information 01625 836540

Family Holiday to the Gran Bahia Del Duque

20 June 2018

June is not the month to be travelling to the Canaries really as it’s a winter destination and can be very hot in summer. I went against all my thoughts and booked to stay for a week at the 5* Luxury Gran Bahia Del Duque. I got a great deal and the weather was great, a mixture of sunshine and overcast which was perfect for us a family. Very quiet though. Upon arrival we were greeted by lots of friendly staff. We entered high up looking down to the resort, and the lobby was impressive and very welcoming. We checked in after our welcome drink and then were escorted to our interconnecting deluxe rooms which were in the main building. The rooms are nice but in need of updating. You can also stay in the Casa Ducales or Las Villas which offer a different style of accommodation and are more exclusive. After a 15-minute walk around the hotel we soon grasped that the hotel catered for all. There’s a choice of pools with 2 heated, great dining choice, a sports bar, a piano bar, a beach bar and having direct access onto the promenade/beach was fabulous. Whether you go left or right you have lots of restaurants to choose from and a nice walk. Favourite Restaurants La Brasserie & Beach Club in the hotel Torres El Mirador and La Nonna - just outside of the hotel on the promenade La Vieja - La Caleta ( 5 minute cab ride or 25 minute walk) Monte Christos - Fanabe Tips - Have your breakfast on the terrace rather than inside at El Bernegal as the views are just perfect (but don't leave your food open as the birds will feast!) Turn right and keep walking until you reach a Costa Caleta beach bar - great for a sunset cocktail! Don't be disappointed - book your restaurants (some are not always open every night) and avoid a coach transfer - a private taxi is much better. I hope this is helpful and if you wish to book or enquire do contact me 01625 836 540

Weekend at the Ritz Carlton Abama Tenerife

02 January 2018

Two weeks before Christmas I jetted off to the island of Tenerife for three nights. I have stayed at a lot of hotels in Tenerife but the Ritz Carlton Abama was the only one missing. We arrived after a quick flight on EasyJet which was very good and on time. The sun was shining, and the temperature was 24 degrees. A 25-minute journey and we reached our hotel. The entrance was grand, very clean and well thought out, with no queues and there was such a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, we arrived high up with views swooping down to the ocean. We were greeted with a choice of beverages; champagne please! We checked in and were escorted to our gorgeous suite overlooking the resort. We arranged a tour of the resort to find our feet. I find sometimes when you’re visiting somewhere new a tour is always good so at least you know or have an idea of where your heading. The hotel had a real Arabic feeling. I felt like I was in a small village with small walk ways, arches, carved signs, cobbled areas and a huge pond full of the biggest gold fish I’ve ever seen. All I could smell was the grill - lush! To give you an idea of the layout, we arrived on the third floor in the main building called the Citadel which housed rooms and suites and overlooked the main pool. There is also a small children pool. The hotel is built on a slope, as you look down towards the ocean there are rows of villas and tagor villas. These have slightly different decor within but are nestled away having that exclusivity. Amongst the villas were plenty of small pools, very quiet and perfect for a rest after a game of golf on their 18-hole championship golf course. Beyond the villas we got to the very end of the hotel where there is another pool and the El Mirador restaurant which has incredible views (the salt crusted sea bass is yum!) You also have a lift down to the beach which isn’t private, but the hotel has a dedicated area. The water was so clear, and the sand was a sandy colour, not the black volcanic sand that Tenerife is famous for. The Ritz Carlton Abama is a large property. Walking around is easy but for those with walking difficulties you have the option to take a golf cart. (You even get your own or have access to one if you stay in the villas) or they have a funny looking train that runs every 30 minutes from reception to different parts of the hotel. The facilities are endless with lots of activities, great children’s/teen club, great spa and you are spoilt for choice of cuisine. Most of the restaurants are in the main building. I would always pre-book before you go especially in high season. If you are on half board there are restrictions on plates you choose. I dined at Txoko, El Mirador, La Veranda (breakfast) and Los Chozos over the course of the three days and all of them were excellent. We also went for lunch to the nearby town of San Juan, five minutes by taxi. Nice, not luxury but simple and local. Overall I can honestly say that I was delighted and this is by far one of the best hotels in Tenerife. You cannot walk out from the hotel, but you are spoilt for choice on facilities so there’s no need to leave. If you are a keen golfer and don’t wish to travel far then this is perfect. For more information I have added a few videos of the resort to my Facebook page or contact me for further help.

Abu Dhabi

02 November 2017

When the UK weather takes a turn for the worst, you immediately think hot, beach direct flights/short flights – Canaries! Well how about Abu Dhabi? It took 6.5 hours direct on Etihad in which was superb, the product on board is fantastic whether you travel in economy or business class. The staff was attentive and made us feel comfortable from check in to arriving. The entertainment system is excellent and kept my 2 young children happy. Including in my service is arrival meet and greet, you are simply met from the aircraft and escorted through Immigration, assisted with bags and handed over to your driver. I stayed at the delightful Ritz Carlton Grand Canal, such a great hotel with plenty on offer for all. Located on the canal and right opposite the Grand Mosque which is stunning day and night. The rooms and suites are lovely, it’s a big hotel having approx. 400 rooms, but it never felt overcrowded in any way. The rooms are modern contemporary, not really designed to suit the country but lovely and comfortable. They also have garden houses surrounding the hotel which are private and offer more bedrooms to suit a larger family. Personally, I would always stay in the main hotel. The pool area is fantastic and so much space, great for adults and children and overlooking the canal which was great. I could sit and enjoy the heat have a coffee in peace whilst my children played. The hotel has plenty of dining options to suit all, they also have an ice cream parlour which so much choice and delicious. Situated right next to the hotel is the Venetian Village teaming with restaurants and nightlife. Steak, Japanese, Arabic, Indian, Spanish – so much choice! A must is the Sundowner Tour, starting with an exciting safari in the sand dunes followed by meal and drinks in a traditional camp, watching a belly dancer, riding the camels, henna tattooing, trying on the traditional cloths, plus you get to sand ski which is hard but brilliant. A city tour is great, as you get to see different parts of Abu Dhabi, the date market, the fish market, the royal residences, Yas Island - home to Formula One, karting, cycling round the circuit – so much to do for adults and children. Whilst I was there I visited the Yas Viceroy, Emirates Palace, St Regis Abu Dhabi and the Shangri La - all fabulous hotels and located in different parts of Abu Dhabi. Each hotel has something different to offer. I dined at Atayeb at the Yas Viceroy overlooking the Formula One Circuit – amazing and if you're too hot they have A/C units outside – winner! Try something different - Abu Dhabi is a great place and such great value for money. Contact me for more information on 01625 836540

Winter Ski

22 August 2017

Skiing is one of the most enjoyable sports I have ever done, not only do you have the challenge of mastering the sport, it's when you conquer the parallel ski, how to stop and turn around and go backwards without even knowing how you did that!! Honestly the satisfaction you get especially when you have skiied from the top of the mountain to the bottom and made it in one piece WITHOUT FALLING is unbelievable. “The race is on." The view from the chairlift is incredible and once you're at the top, stop and take a breath, pose for a picture, it's surprisingly hot even though you are stood on metres of snow. The blue skies, happy faces and most importantly that glass (bottle) of wine or hot chocolate you get to have at the end of the day. Skiing is not hard work, it's one of the most fun filled holidays I have ever been on and would recommend it to anybody looking for something new to master and have plenty of laughs. I can help with your next venture and having started from the beginning and now can ski “ok” I can relate to what you want. NOW is the time to be booking you next holiday on the slopes. France, Austria and Canada are my favourite places to visit for this sport, endless hotels, lodges and chalets to choose from and plenty of slopes catering to all standards. Skiing can be for a family, children can ski from as young a 3-4 ideally or a bunch of friends looking for fun weekend away from the norm. Contact me for help and advice 01625 836 540

Dubai “ A different world”

19 August 2017

To summarise my visits, I first travelled there in 2000 and have been back 11 times. Sheikh Zayed Road the Abu Dhabi – Dubai link was complete and many buildings were starting to take shape. Dubai was creating a skyline like no other and their vision to attract tourism was impressive. Almost unbelievable. There are so many parts to Dubai, Deira and Dubai Creek, Downtown Dubai, The Marina, Jumeirah Beach, Jebel Ali, The Desert, The World and the famous Palm. All very different and home to luxurious hotels and impressive architecture. People from all over the world would visit and reside there and enjoy the lush lifestyle available. Villas and apartments bought, businesses would open- Dubai is now on the map and a huge competitor in all sorts of industries. Dubai is now a great hub for the rest of the world only 7 hours from the UK and operating from regional airports in the UK. Emirates offer a superb product and has the biggest passenger aircraft in the world. The A380. My favorite property is the One & Only Royal Mirage, made up of 3 hotels (Palace, Arabian Court, and Residence) all excellent and positioned right on Jumeirah beach next to the marina and entrance to the Palm, lots of dining options and bursting with that Arabic flavors and décor. Also, great value for money especially when they offer complimentary half board. The sister hotel the One & Only the Palm just across the water which can be regarded as the best hotel in Dubai, modern with an Arabian twist and much smaller and sophisticated, designed to accommodate those who do not wish to entertain the busy life of Dubai or have been before. The Burj Al Arab probably the most famous hotel in Dubai, designed like a sail and is known for its elaborate décor, this hotel is Dubai’s vision in one place ( 7*) like nothing else, however, it is not for everybody. If you like to be pampered an experience that lush lifestyle in just a few days and looking for something to remember then this is for you. The Jumeirah Beach Hotel looks like a wave with views of the Burj Al Arab, one of the first hotels to be built-in Dubai, very busy and family orientated. The Madinat Jumeirah hold 3 hotels is also unusual, quite romantic actually, built like a village set around waterways and has large modern souk. You also have fun large hotels like the Atlantis the Palm set right out at the end of the Palm, plenty going on here. Aqua venture the most thrilling water park in Dubai and you can swim with the dolphins, fun packed holiday with great accommodation, perfect for families. Shopping is excellent, take in the local souks and be tempted by the gold, silver and Arabic spices. Enjoy the Bateaux Dubai and cruise along Dubai Creek, visit the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa at 828m, watch the fountains dance from downtown Dubai, afternoon tea at the iconic Burj Al Arab, ride out to the desert and be driven across the sand dunes in your 4x4, have dinner under the stars at the local camp and watch a belly dancer perform, take a camel ride or sand ski the huge dunes yourself. Endless options this is just a few to mention. Sample it yourself and contact me for a quote – 01625 836540

Gran Canaria Puerto Mogan

11 September 2017

My family and I have just returned from Gran Canaria, I've been to many places on the island, but there was something very nice about Puerto Mogan. A small resort with back streets resembling a traditional Italian village, beautiful flowers, low rise white buildings all housing apartments, boutiques and small restaurants, there is a small beach and harbour which has about 50 boats docked. We had the choice of some great cuisine, excellent wines including Amarone which is my favorite and reasonably priced. We stayed at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Mogan which is a 10-15 minute walk from the town centre, a very easy stroll, the town is well looked after however, you can see signs they want to enhance the resort to attract more tourist. It took 45 minutes from the airport and mainly motorway, I would always recommend a private taxi as the journey time is shorter and convenient, you do pass a lot of resorts on the route which could delay your arrival time if travelling by coach. The Radisson Blu is the newest hotel built, modern and contemporary in style. The rooms are very nice and extremely comfortable for a family of 4 and air conditioned. 2 evening restaurants with plans for more, an international buffet style and Filini’s Al a Carte Italian restaurant which was great. 3 lunch options including Filini’s. Lots of facilities, luxury Spa, tennis, rock climbing, running track, 3 pools: - freshwater pool which is regarded as the quiet area which offers a BBQ Grill (only open for lunch), a saltwater pool and a children pool with lots of activities, also a Jacuzzi for the adults and children from what I saw. The staff were friendly and all spoke lots of various languages. The animation team was full of excitement and captured the children’s attention instantly which was great. The evening entertainment was also good fun, a disco for the children early and normally a live band/singer on afterward till 1030-11ish, the ambiance was enjoyable. Overall, we had a great holiday and would go back with my family soon. If you fancy a family holiday or some Winter Sun then contact me for more information.

Thailand - a country full of surprises

20 June 2017

Thailand is a country that always impresses, no matter how many times you visit. I started my journey in Bangkok, staying at the luxury Mandarin Oriental for a couple of nights. Positioned right on Chao Phraya river and not far from places of interest, it was perfect. My Superior River View Room was high, modern and comfortable and on a clear day the views were great. I spent a full day visiting the city of Bangkok, which included the Grand Palace, the markets, floating markets and much more. I was exhausted, but it was such a great day and what a better way to finish than having dinner right on the banks of the fast-flowing Chao Phraya River. Cheers, with my Singha beer! With seven days to go, there was a perfect journey ahead, knowing that visiting Bangkok first before heading to the island network is what most would do on their first trip to Thailand. Starting with Koh Samui, containing a handful of great luxury hotels all very different from the last. First on the list is the rustic Six Senses Koh Samui, incorporating large villas, pool and stunning views, alongside a great spa, followed by the Four Seasons and what a great position, the hotel is built on a slope, giving everybody the chance to view the emerald ocean. The beach is soft sanded and the sea is calm and full of underwater life, lunch here at the Cocorum on the beach was amazing; what cocktail did I have to go with my fish of the day caught an hour prior? Mai Thai, perfect! A quick tour of Tongsai Bay and one of the oldest and most established hotels in Koh Samui. "Sawadee Ka" that inviting Thai charm greeted by every member staff you pass by, just lovely! This was a good choice of accommodation and superb value for money. We also spent a night partying in Chaweng, which is not for the faint hearted and worlds apart considering we went from a luxury hotel's signature cocktail to a bucket of blue stuff with five straws; me? I had a large glass of red wine and had a great night, even if my curfew was 11pm! It was an early start in the morning as we were off to Phuket! Phuket’s airport is much bigger than Koh Samui and has more than two luggage belts. I was met at the airport and drove an hour-and-a-half straight to Khao Lak, one of my favourite parts of Thailand. I stayed at the Sarojin Khao Lak which is situated on the beach amongst other hotels, and comprising of three rooms types; Garden Pavilion, Pool Pavilion and a Suite. There are a couple of restaurants as well as themed evenings, and we happened to land on barbecue night. I met mainly honeymooners from all over the world, all sharing stories of their adventures in Thailand – they were so friendly and created happy recent memories. My favourite day was a cooking trip where we had the opportunity to row the creek, before stopping at a market to pick up our ingredients on a list provided by the hotel. After experiencing lots of fauna and the sights and smells of Thailand, I couldn't wait to start cooking. We were met by three chefs’ hats and aprons, three cooking tables, three staff members and a table set for three, and we were ready to go! It was an amazing experience, also included a trip see the elephants. Phuket has lots of great areas, some busier than others. There are some fabulous hotels, with Trisara being a personal favourite. I ordered room service as I had eaten far too much Thai food and we arrived late. The Amanpuri is also highly recommended, total luxury and set on a stunning beach. The Banyan Tree Phuket and the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa are both great for families, if you fancy heading out and about Phuket town is quite nice, always check the local area before you choose your hotel, this is something I can help you with. Finishing off with a relaxing two night stay at one of the leading hotels of the world, the Rayavadee Krabi. After settling in and taking in the service, pavilions, food, drinks, pool, and beaches, I realised this was a spectacular property and in an ideal location should you a desire a trip to the neighbouring islands. This hotel is suitable for everyone and rests not too far from Krabi town. I also had a sneaky peak at the Ritz Carlton Phulay Bay, which looks great for honeymoons and couples - you could get a “Hangover” here. Thailand has something for everybody and is easy to get to from all parts of the UK. If you like the sound of a holiday to Thailand and want to find out more, do contact me to discuss in more detail.

India - wow!

20 June 2017

My journey started when I was told, “Great news - how do you fancy a trip to India, in six weeks?" Yes please! Fantastic - another destination to add to my portfolio. Fast forward six weeks, I arrived into Delhi, having just completed a 10 hour flight with British Airways in Club World. 6’6 flat beds, luxury products and a silver service - perfect. I was ushered through immigration and customs, avoided the very friendly guys/porters wanting to help me with my luggage for a tip, and was driven straight to the delightful Imperial Delhi where I stayed for two nights. It was hot! My Heritage room was large, colonial style, and a very comfortable night sleep, the hotel was in a great position and oozing character and designer shops. Perfect! My tour of this amazing city started in Old and finished in New Delhi. I fought my way through crowds on a rickshaw observing their way of life, so many people, so many smiles, such a busy place and full of energy, I saw children playing cricket on the grass verges, ambassador cars for the VIPs flying past, new buildings and very old ruined buildings, a man cooking on the roadside covering the narrow streets with smoke. Great! Anything goes. I then caught the train to Agra - it was way oversold but hey who needs a ticket when you can ride on the roof. I had a seat in the air conditioned cabin - executive class! I visited the Taj Mahal with a private guide; walking around this amazing structure is surreal, the history and respect everybody has is remarkable. I had the most amazing view from my balcony at the Oberoi Amarvilas, just seeing and hearing the chimes made it worth the trip. One night is plenty here. Note: The Taj Mahal does not open to tourists on a Friday. After further sightseeing of Agra Fort and Fathepur Sikri, we then spent a further seven nights touring Rajasthan, and three nights in Ranthambhore in a luxury tent at Vanyavilas exploring the National Park which is home to tigers, jaguars and samber deer. Next was a visit to Alwar which is located in the countryside. I had two nights at the luxurious Amanbagh in a pool pavilion - it's a peaceful sanctuary and great to unwind after the hustle and bustle. Then on to the pink city - Jaipur, a vibrant colourful city, so busy and home to Amber Fort built in the 1500s. I took an elephant ride to the entrance and had a private guide walking us around the impressive Fortress Palace. I stayed at the Rambagh Palace for two nights which is just simply stunning; beautiful gardens, high ceilings, large rooms and all very unique in style. Afternoon tea here was a delight. On the last day, in the morning before our flight back to Delhi, I went shopping - what an experience. I made so many purchases, there are so many shops - it's just incredible. To summarise, India was never a first thought of mine but now I have been I simply love the country. Since my trip I have been back several times to different parts including Khajuraho Varanasi, Madhya Pradesh (tiger country), Mumbai, Kerala and Goa.

My customer stories

Sent by Anna Nuttall

Sonia Brobbin has been great. So easy to book with - hardly took any time at all - and very reasonably priced. It's a competitive market and we all like to think we can get a good deal ourselves, but Sonia has found the perfect break, as per our goal having clearly listened to what we wanted - and we are really looking forward to going. It gives us real peace of mind to know that Sonia is looking after us. I would definitely (and have!) recommend her to friends and family without hesitation.

Sent by Linda Davies

Sonia has been great understanding our needs and provided valuable information from her own experience. Looking forward to a great holiday with the backup that we have someone to call if there are any unexpected problems.

Sent by Nicholas Culley

Sonia is always very helpful and efficient - great service all the time.

Sent by Janine Newbury

Sonia was fantastic, really helpful and very knowledgeable. I would definitely book with her again!

Sent by Andrew Hulme

A truly excellent, professional and experienced operator. Sonia now acts for 3 generations of my family. Top girl.

Sent by Jan Colclough

Fantastic service... knowledgeable and definitely thought of things I hadn't. I quite simply would not book another trip without asking Sonia to help! A massive round of applause from me! Thanks

Sent by Susan Brady

Sonia was very professional and went to great lengths to help us. We will go back to Sonia in the future for more holiday help

Sent by Julie Evans

Faultless service and Sonia went above and beyond to call the hotel to ensure that it would meet our expectations! Thanks you!

Sent by Gary Brown

Excellent service, found me a sea view room when there appeared to be none available, would definitely use again. 10/10

Sent by Joanna Wood

Sonia was absolutely fantastic from start to finish, and even sent us a thankyou card for the booking and to wish us a happy holiday. What a lovely touch and we will be using her again.

Sent by Sarah Brady

Sonia was able to find a resort that I had unheard of at a very reasonable price., Very happy customer.

Sent by Haydn Mayfield

Just like to say thanks again, we all had an amazing first family holiday and will be in contact soon to sort out our next one.