Joanne Kent Travel Counsellor

15/08/2024

Just booked -

13 nights for repeat clients who love the laid back vibe at this 4* resort in St Lucia.

They’ll be jetting off in Business Class in January to escape the winter blues…the perfect time for Caribbean warmth and clear blue skies.

Who else is thinking ahead to 2025 holidays? Now is a great time to book to get the best availability and airfares with just a deposit to pay upfront.

11/08/2024

Disney Fever -

When it comes to holiday experiences that the kids will remember forever, Disney delivers every time!

Photos have landed in my What’s App this morning from this gorgeous family who have ended a 3-week road trip through Europe with two magical days .

They stayed in the recently renovated Disneyland Hotel located within the parks and offering the benefit of an extra hour in the parks exclusively for guests and the chance to meet the Princesses in person 💕

Why book through me? It’s the same price as booking online, I take care of all the details and you get some special personalised Disney treats too.

Thanks so much for the photos .

05/08/2024

Golden Girl!

I’ve been a bit quiet on here lately because, truthfully, I’ve gone Olympics obsessed! And tonight’s gold by .hodgkinson was the icing on the cake 🙌💪

I didn’t really need another reason to love Paris but they’ve definitely delivered on the Olympics front. I only wish I’d made it out there to watch in person.

If LA’s Olympics are calling, let’s make it happen and turn it into a trip of a lifetime 🏅

29/07/2024

19/07/2024

Client photos incoming from Sri Lanka 💕

The family are currently on Leg 3 staying on the East Coast, an area which has a lot less development and tourism than the West Coast with beautiful wide beaches and shallow, clear sea.

It’s also not affected by the Monsoon season which hits the West of Sri Lanka from May - November, making it the ideal beach stopover for a school holidays trip.

11/07/2024

Blue skies and happy smiles .

My gorgeous Goddaughter and her family are currently away in Greece on their second holiday booked with me this year…and there’s one more to go 💕

Thank you for the photos

09/07/2024

On a soggy summer’s evening, holiday planning is the best medicine 😎

I’m lucky to have created some incredible, bucket list trips for my clients and the new ‘Handcrafted by Travel Counsellors’ campaign offers a deep dive into our most immersive travel experiences.

Anything is possible…you tell me the dream and I’ll make it happen.

Talk to me today about your next ‘Handcrafted’ adventure. We have a lovely new brochure of ideas available too…let me know if you’d like a copy 👇

T: 01483 651056
E: [email protected]

17/06/2024

Just booked ✨

For the past couple of weeks I’ve been working with the loveliest family to design an incredible tour across Sri Lanka and today we hit the ‘book’ button!

In case you hadn’t noticed (!!), Sri Lanka is my hotspot for 2024 and I’m not alone…everyone wants to visit right now 💕

The tour is taking them to the finest hotels this Indian Subcontinent island has to offer, finishing up here at the ultra cool boutique hotel . Experiences include white water rafting, zip wires, tea plantation tours, safaris, whale watching and more.

Having visited twice this year, I know the country inside out and tailor every itinerary to suit my clients. No two journeys are ever the same but they’re all equally amazing.

T: 01483 651056
E: [email protected]

12/06/2024

Could this be love?

Feeling the love for Jamaica today with a fab offer from .

Nestled into the hillside on its very own private peninsula with incredible sea views. Laidback charm meets uber-chic luxury.

Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 in Pineapple house or villa plus 25% off SPA from now until 19th December 2024.

09/06/2024

Gorgeous afternoon spent at West Wittering today with , capturing some snaps of the kids. We got lucky with the weather too 🙏

Finished the day with a yummy seafood dinner .

Perfect Sunday 🥰

08/06/2024

Travelling with kids is hard work and expensive. I get it.

I’ve been travelling overseas with my kiddies since they were babies and had my fair share of challenges and “is it really worth it?” moments.

But, in my opinion, it’s ALWAYS worth it. And if you think about the long-term benefits of immersing kids in travel from an early age, it’s actually an amazing investment 🙌

There’s so many plus points but here are a few for starters:

* See the world around them
* Experience new cultures
* Taste different cuisines
* Listen to and learn new languages
* Improve geography
* Experience aviation in action
* Meet people from all different backgrounds
* Gain confidence
* Build resilience
* Improve patience
* And perhaps most importantly…enjoy special family bonding time away from the hustle of home.

So go ahead and book a trip. It doesn’t need to cost the earth or even be far away. Start small and build up to the bigger trips. One day you’ll look back and be so grateful you did 🙏

07/06/2024

Kalkan, Turkey -

A few scenic snaps from my client’s half-term holiday to Kalkan.

A group of 9 booked a private hillside villa with gorgeous views and within a stone’s throw of Kalkan town for a 70th family celebration.

They all fell in love with the area, its rooftop, high-end restaurants, cobbled lanes, boat trips, beach clubs and nearby sight-seeing attractions.

04/06/2024

Maldives Offer ✨

If you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime trip or honeymoon to the Maldives, read on 👇

The hugely popular Robinson Crusoe island of .lankanfushi is currently offering a free upgrade to half-board for all stays until 19th December 2024.

No news, no shoes is the only rule at this resort where relaxation is taken seriously. Mr Friday’s, a tranquil spa and delicious dining on tap are all part of the Gili experience.

The offer -

From £11,700 for two people sharing.

* Return economy direct flights with BA from London Heathrow

* 7 nights in a Villa Suite on a half-board basis

* Speedboat transfers

Based on travel from 25th November - 3rd December 2024.

Dates, durations and departure airports can all be tailored to you.

Price correct at time of posting. Subject to availability.

T: 01483 651056
E: [email protected]

31/05/2024

This is what holidays are made of -

Happy memories being made by my lovely clients who are back at the fabulous this week for the second year running.

A gorgeous group of 17 including grandparents, parents, kiddies and tots all enjoying the fun, laid-back vibe of this Fethiye resort 🥰

Multi-generational holidays are hugely popular right now, with families wanting to spend precious time together away from the hustle of home life.

29/05/2024

Amalfi anniversary -

Photos incoming from the Amalfi coast where my gorgeous clients spent their 13th wedding anniversary staying at the swanky .

Spectacular views, delicious dining .praiano and , and a private boat trip to Capri completed their special stay 👌

Thank you for booking your holidays with me 🙏

27/05/2024

Meet Sugee -

Heading home today after another fabulous time in Sri Lanka.

I couldn’t leave without a special mention for our tour guide, Sugee, who has made our trip so wonderful with his Buddhist ‘thought of the day’, wealth of knowledge, sense of humour and kind heart.

I’ve said it before but it really is the people who make Sri Lanka. Everyone you meet has a warm, genuine smile and sincerity that comes from a kind heart.

This is a country I know I’ll return to time and again. And it’s not often I say that with so many places to see in the world.

If you’ve not yet been, you need to put it on your bucket-list. I’ve covered a huge amount of the country this year so give me a call and I’ll advise on how to experience Sri Lanka to the max.

Back at my desk tomorrow.

T: 01483 651056

25/05/2024

Hill Country, Sri Lanka -

Two tea-filled days spent in Sri Lanka’s famous hill country…the area known for its world-renowned tea plantations, factories and British-inspired high tea experiences.

Despite the rain (it’s Monsoon season), the train journey and tea lived up to the hype and are absolutely worth the travel time.

Top tip: book second class seats on the train. You’ll meet the locals and get the best pictures 👌

Heading over to the west coast and Colombo now for our final few days before home.

23/05/2024

Dambulla + Kandy

Day 3 in Sri Lanka has taken us from Sigiriya to the magical Dambulla Cave Temple, a passing visit to a spice garden in Matale and ending in the cultural city of Kandy.

I’ve seen a LOT of temples in my time but Dambulla stole a piece of my heart. A truly sacred and special place that’s a must-do during a stay here.

Next, I stocked up on turmeric (my miracle anti-inflammation medicine) and enjoyed a brief shoulder massage at a local spice garden. The Sri Lankans are big on natural medicine and there’s a lot to be learned from their knowledge and the overall health of the population here.

Kandy’s weather wasn’t on our side this afternoon and we got soaked during a Monsoon downpour which cut our sightseeing a little short, but we did get a glimpse into the traditions of the Vivek Festival as local dancers and elephants prepped for a celebratory parade at the Temple of the Tooth.

Tomorrow brings a trip on the infamous train ride from Kandy to the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya 🚂

22/05/2024

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka -

What a day! Today started with a 4am wake up call and a climb up the 1200 steps to the top of Sigiriya Rock at sunrise. And boy was it worth it for the view…a life highlight for sure 💕

Next stop was a nature walk and viper snake spotting followed by an afternoon safari to see my favourite animal en masse 🐘

Love, love, love this beautiful country, its people and my job 🙏

17/05/2024

Lanzarote was the first overseas holiday I went on. Aged five, I can still remember building a donkey in the sand with my cousins and riding the warm waves. I didn’t care that the sand was brown and the sea wasn’t azure blue. To me, this was the stuff of childhood dreams 🥰

A few years ago we returned to the island, to create some memories with our own kids. We stayed in a rustic finca in the middle of a vineyard with rolling views, and spent our days touring the lesser-known beaches, towns and sights of Lanzarote, mesmerised by the moon-like, volcanic landscape along the way. It felt other-worldly and the kids loved it.

If you steer clear of the ‘package holiday’ areas, there’s authentic charm, artistic history and tasty Canarian cuisine in abundance.

For a similar hotel experience head to the , an artist’s residence turned boutique hotel set in sun-kissed Lanzarote countryside.

Lingering is made art form, thanks to ravishing, rustic rooms and suites, all-day dining, elegant salons, and alfresco terraces. You’ll have to leave the kids behind though, this one’s adult only!

Thinking about a trip to the sunny Canaries? ☀️ Give me a call, I’d love to help.

T: 01483 651056

13/05/2024

Flying with a toddler doesn’t have to give you the fear. A bit of pre-travel prep will help to keep toddler tantrums at bay.

Save this post and tag someone you know who’s planning a trip with toddlers.

10/05/2024

My week in pictures -

This week has been a bit bonkers and the mum juggle has reached new heights! 🤣

Hubby’s been up in Yorkshire and has today landed in Mozambique for the week, so I’m flying solo at home prepping my daughter for her SATS next week and trying to remember what sports kit the kids need on which day 🤯

Meanwhile, I’ve been keeping busy (and distracted!) with all your lovely enquiries, consultations, follow-ups, check-ins and reservations.

01. Proposal for a large group luxury villa enquiry for Puglia

02. Amalfi Coast restaurant recommendations

03. Consultation for a wellness focused trip to Sri Lanka & Maldives.

04. Recommendations for excursions, sightseeing and restaurants in Philadelphia and Washington DC

05. Multiple European summer holiday bookings, including Disneyland Paris and Croatia

06. Catch up calls with clients who have just returned from Mexico

07. Christmas and Easter skiing enquiries

Today I’m taking the day off for morning yoga followed by lunch and a large glass of wine 🍷

Happy Friday everyone!

09/05/2024

Unmissable offer alert ✨

Oman, with its beautiful wadis, awe-inspiring landscape and authentic Middle Eastern culture, is a destination very much on my wish list.

Stay this September from £1,345pp! This is SUCH a good offer.

Wander through the cascading water gardens of this elegant resort and try an authentic Omani cookery experience or take a refreshing dip in the longest pool in the Middle East.

A Leading Hotel of the World, The Chedi Muscat offers a sophisticated and peaceful retreat for those dreaming of being close to the iconic sights, whilst experiencing a luxurious resort oasis.

Book by 31 May 2024 to get 30% off accommodation costs, a free upgrade from a Deluxe Club Room to a Chedi Club Suite, complimentary early check-in and late check-out and 50% off the half board supplement.
Price includes:

• Return economy flights
• 5 nights in the Chedi Club Suite
• Bed & breakfast
• Daily seasonal fresh fruits
• Complimentary minibar beverages, replenished daily
• Exclusive access to The Club Lounge
• Daily coffee/tea and fruits served in The Club Lounge throughout the day (9:00am – 8 00pm)
• Daily high tea served in The Club Lounge (3:00 pm – 5:00 pm)
• Daily cocktails & canapés served in The Club Lounge (6:00 pm – 7:30 pm)
• Daily laundry service (excluding dry cleaning), up to 15 pieces
• Private transfers in Muscat
• Departs 17 September 2024 ** other dates on request

• Book by 31 May 2024

Prices start from £1,345 per person

AND UPGRADE TO HALF BOARD FOR ONLY £261pp

08/05/2024

Lofty mountains meet secluded bay 💕

For an incredible, soul-enriching journey covering the highlights and hidden treasures of Vietnam, I’ve got you covered.

I’ll create a bespoke itinerary completely tailored to you and your holiday style.

Contact //
01483 651056
[email protected]

07/05/2024

“Hi Jo,

Just a text to say we are having an incredible time, everything is perfect. Here are some photos, feel free to use as you want. We can’t fault anything so thanks again for all your help.”

Matt, West Sussex

Sani Resort

06/05/2024

Settling in at Sani -

My clients have arrived and are embracing the 5* luxury at Porto Sani for the week.

Still one of my all-time favourite European resorts, there’s SO much to do here and the service, food and facilities are 👌

DM me to find out more. I’ve stayed here with my own family and can wax lyrical about why it’s a must-visit destination 🥰

04/05/2024

When your clients say the sweetest things 🥰

02/05/2024

May half term -

Let’s face it, the weather is not playing ball in the UK (again!) 🙄

If you’re wishing you’d booked a family trip away for May half term, it’s not too late.

This contemporary villa in Puglia ticks all the boxes for a family-friendly holiday. Private yet a few hundred metres from local restaurants and a supermarket, glorious beaches and the seaside town of Torre Vado is a short drive away.

Now with up to 30% off selected stays.

DM me for further details. I can book flights, villa, car hire, excursions, restaurants and more. All you have to do is pack and relax 🙏

29/04/2024

Just booked ✨

Last week a lovely new client came to me with a holiday brief for the summer.

Must-haves included:

* A luxury villa for 9 guests
* Access to a cultural city
* Less than 3 hours flight from London
* Lovely local restaurants and shops
* Sea swimming on the doorstep
* Freedom for 5 teenagers

With very specific dates and limited availability, it wasn’t easy finding the perfect place…it took a LOT of searching before I found suitable options to recommend.

This contemporary 3-floor villa complete with gym and sauna is located right on the water’s edge of a marina, on one of Croatia’s prettiest islands.

From here you can sit and watch the world go by from the terrace. There’s an abundance of seafood restaurants and boutique shops to explore, crystal clear seas to swim in and the teenagers can island hop by ferry across to Split and Hvar for city shopping, cafes and bars.

All within 2.5 hours flight from London plus private speedboat transfers 💕

25/04/2024

Biarritz, France 🇫🇷

Half ritzy coastal resort, half summer surfer’s hang-out, the seaside resort of Biarritz has been a favourite beach getaway since the days of Napoléon III.

The jewel of France’s Atlantic Coast, art deco glamour meets seaside charm here attracting well-heeled couples, families and golfers in swathes.

Surf, swim, shop or simply basque in the summer sun, there’s a little something for everyone.

Here are my top three hotels in and around Biarritz -




anglet

To book a summer stay here with the full holiday experience and none of the hassle, DM or call me 👇

T: 01483 651056