David Bishop - Travel Counsellor

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David Bishop - Travel Counsellor

I've 18 years experience in the travel industry and specialise in long haul luxury travel.
(4)

I've 14 years experience in the travel industry and specialise in long haul luxury travel but can advise on any destination for your next adventure.

15/11/2024

Who likes Cheese?

Yeah me too both romantic but mainly French!!

This post is the former and properly made my day when my client sent this to me the other day.

I knew from the first enquiry that he was going to propose and totally got his nervousness now he'd committed to it but couldn't tell a soul apart from some random travel agent.

Have a read and see if an Internet robot will help you in the way I did for these love birds?

"I booked a fairly unique trip to Kansas City for a concert as a surprise trip for my girlfriend. Having never flown to that part of America, and with very little to go on online, I contacted David having had him recommended by a friend.

David was so friendly, eager to help and interested in what my hopes for the trip were. He wasn't simply interested in booking things on my behalf, but in our background and our interests in order to fully exhaust all options that would be open to us.

He took what he needed from the initial consultation and came back so quickly a few hours later with a wide variety of options. We had various time constraints that needed to be considered, which he worked in brilliantly.

With David's immeasurable help, my girlfriend and I had the most incredible trip, fully taking advantage of where we visited because of how personally David managed our trip.

I cannot thank him enough for all he's done. I initially didn't realise that Travel Counsellors were so much more than travel agents or brokers. The way he listened to our needs and worked them in without hesitation led to the holiday of a lifetime. David somehow remained patient with me panicking because it all seemed too simple. All in all, 6 flights, 3 cities, 4 airports and 2 hotels in a week went without any delays or issues.

The trip was marked by our engagement, one which has been the best story to tell, and I couldn't have done it without David's professional and personable guidance and expertise."

If you want to receive award winning service like the above then get in touch.

Working with a travel professional should be your automatic response to spending a good chunk of your disposable income each year so what are you waiting for? Busy season is just around the corner so get ahead of the crowd and let's get you away somewhere incredible*

*engagement not mandatory

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

11/11/2024

Norway thoughts.

Well back in blighty after a week and a bit traversing the coast of Norway.

What an experience and really enjoyed it, certainly wasn't without it's challenges and elements I'd likely change if I do it again, and battling a hurricane was something I'll likely not forget, but a truly unique and incredible experience.

Food as expected was superb (especially the puddings) and changed every few days as we moved into different regions and the menu matched what was a local speciality.

Staff on board Havila Capella were also really great and very relaxed so while they were supremely professional they were also game for a laugh and had a really fun relationship with many of them.

The destination was just stunning and especially our trip into Geraingerfjord was just stunning, but also the lofoten islands and our cruise down to Alta were also highlights for me.

We did see the Northern lights...
all be it I don't really count it, as wasn't really the best visual if I'm honest and I'm not bothered about ticking boxes with these things, so hope one day I'll finally see them.

But all in all a great trip and really enjoyed the journey, adventure and being in some truly remote places on earth!!

Thanks again to Matthew Valentine for the opportunity and I look forward to finding the right clients for Havila and the journey north or south, as there are some parts which will suit some clients and not others and that's really why you should trust your travel to someone that's been!!

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

07/11/2024

Hurricane alert!

Sometimes when we travel to the extreme parts of the world we are met with extreme weather.

There is a hurricane due to hit land in a few hours to the north and west of us, so for safety the captain has decided to abort the last leg of the journey and head south to "calmer" waters.

We miss going around the cape and also our 4x4 trip which I'm genuinely gutted about but we'll be safe which is all that matters.

Was funny to be able to help some travellers out with protocol for amendments to their bookings on board even though they had not booked with me....hurricane travel expert will add to my travel expert, travel agent,travel counsellor line I reckon!

Anyway pray for me on the 7 hour bus ride.....I hate long bus rides!!

06/11/2024

I know awe inspiring isn't it.....well OK so my first viewing ever of the Northern lights was a little underwhelming, and clearly I need a better camera, but was still really cool to see them a bit.

We crossed over the arctic circle yesterday on our way to the Lofoten islands, a truly magical place with towering peaks coming straight out of the dark icy waters surrounding us.

We visited the longest viking house in the world at Lofotr Viking Museum and ate a hearty feast washed down with mead (well some did I flipping hate mead) but we were taught about the viking way of life, their gods, their customs, their music and their travelling.

Was a fun night and finished off with a mulled wine back on board as we sailed to Trollfjordyr.

Stops today will include Tromso for the afternoon and then we'll be cruising up and over the very top of Norway and hopefully better viewings of the Northern lights.

Having an amazing time onboard Havila Voyages Capella and looking forward to more adventures to come....but for now the gym....and trying to run on a treadmill while the boats swaying is a new experience. Wish me luck 🤣

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

04/11/2024

When I visit places I always like to give a balanced and transparent observation!

I think sometimes pictures speak louder than words. As you can see almost too much fun was had in wet Trondheim.

We had a few hours this morning and my highlight today has arrived as I'm having a beer and about to go to the fine dining experience, so things are looking up.

Tomorrow night is the viking feast...
So I would imagine there may be more smiles and raucous behaviour. Watch this space for more entertaining posts....

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

03/11/2024

Norway - Havila Cruise - Day 2

Geirangerfjord.

So today we did our first excursion from the ship to the world unesco heritage site if Geirangerfjord.

A truly beautiful 3 hour cruise down the western Fjords of Norway before the clouds lifted and we arrived in the Geirangerfjord.

A truy stunning place and reminded me of travels in New Zealand with towering peaks, incredible waterfalls and beautiful flora and fauna.

Loving our experience with Havila Voyages so far and looking forward to some more gourmet food and drink after a long day being a tourist.

If you've ever considered a trip to the wilder parts of the world get In touch as expedition cruising is right up my street!!

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

01/11/2024

Bergen!!!

Apologies for the wind interference but doing that once in a busy street is embarrassing enough so hope you can get the gist in amongst the wind flurries.

A beautiful little town, hugging the sea and surrounded by gorgeous mountains, what's not to enjoy?

Have just wandered the streets popping past some glorious history in regards to the mercantile activities of the locals, Scandinavian church's (very different to anything in the UK that's for sure) and just gazing out at the bobbing fishing boats waiting for the winds to die down and go out again for another haul.

I've been also very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the hospitality here with some incredible restaurants, lovely bars and some quirky little bistros and cocktail establishments....will maybe frequent later on...for research purposes!!

Starting our Voyage with Havila Kystruten tomorrow and honestly can't wait for yhe rugged coastline, breathtaking vistas, incredible food and unpronounceable Ports!!

Thanks to Havila Voyages for the opportunity to experience such wonderful product.

If you've ever thought about discovering a different way to travel then get in touch and I'll be happy to discuss my experience.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

30/10/2024

In a few days time I'm off on an adventure in search of the Northern lights (yes I know everyone and their dog has seen them in the UK...but I didnt) and to venture further north than I've ever been before.

I'll be leaving on Saturday from Bergen to Kirkenes and navigating the majority of the Norwegian coastline before stopping in the arctic north and the border with Russia.

I love expedition cruises and with Havila Voyages I'll be traversing the Fjords as the locals do, stopping in numerous ports, passing by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls and generally freezing my proverbials off. Can't wait!!

We've booked some curious excursions too, and will be visiting a Unesco heritage Fjord, eating at a Viking feast and finally racing around the arctic tundra on ATVs. Brilliant!

One of the things I'm most looking forward is to the food, it's always locally sourced from each and every port they stop in, so whether its king crab and reindeer in the north (sorry Sven) or Norwegian Cod and Cloudberries further south I can't wait to try things that I've never eaten before and combinations which will be very interesting indeed.

I'll be posting as often as I can to give you a sense of the journey and what to expect and experience, so here is praying for good weather, calm seas and a bar bill that won't require me to sell a kidney.....

If you've any questions about the voyage please message below or contact me directly. I will be working while away so if you do need to get hold of me I'll be around but my response times will be reduced from normal. I'll have cover in place if it's more urgent.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

21/10/2024

After a busy couple of weeks visiting Barcelona, cruising the Med and also popping down to London a couple of times, I'm now back in the office to get back to the coal face.

Lots of enquiries on the desk and many for 2025 and beyond.

And it got me thinking, where are you thinking of going for 2025?

Will it be a dream trip?

A new destination?

A new route or hotel you've not stayed in?

With new opportunities popping up around every corner trusting a travel agent to work their magic and send you away somewhere fabulous Is a must.

From newly refurbished hotels like the Thalassa hotel in Cyrpus, to brand new cruise ships like Allura of Oceania Cruises, to new routes like Virgin Atlantic to Toronto as an example, the world is your oyster.

And as someone wise once said, if life is a book, those who don't travel only read one page.

Let's get reading people and get you away to some amazing experiences.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

14/10/2024

Just returned from an absolutely superb trip on Virgin Voyages

I totally feel I have my Mo-Jo back which is mainly down to the superb legendary like comrades in arms who shared this experience with me.

You know who you are!!

Lots of dancing, laughing, crying and a few drinks here or there.

Amazing food. 😁
Rocking music. 🤠
Dubious kareoke. 🥳
Interesting destinations. 🤔
But best of all incredible support and fun from my fellow Travel Counsellors 🥰

If you've ever wanted to know what all the noise is surrounding Virgin Voyages then get in touch and i'll let you know first hand. Incredible.

[email protected]
0131 5163920

09/10/2024

When in Rome?

So today we've docked at Civitecchia the port for Rome.

After some slightly rocky motion yesterday its a welcome stop to actually get some dry land.

Because we missed out on the port yesterday ill be going back to Ajaccio tomorrow which is a welcome treat.

Really enjoying the amazing service, food and entertainment onboard.

Now to explore Italia.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

04/10/2024

Barcelona!!!!
is it only me who can't see or say that word without channelling Freddie mercury?

Anyway I'm off to Catalonia today for a wonderful two days of exploring one of the best European cities on earth.
I'm planning on exploring/getting lost in Barrrio Gothica, eating lots of tapas and fundamentally just gawping in awe at the World renowned architecture of the genius that is Gaudi.

If I can find my way out of the Gothic quarter I'll be boarding Virgin Voyages and cruising around the Med to ports such as Toulon, Rome and Ibiza. Lucky me....but it's obviously a work trip so I'll be making sure I'm learning every miniscule detail of the cocktail menu for you.....my valued clients.

You are welcome.

So I'll be posting at various times so any questions you may have just message directly or comment below.

I'm very excited indeed.

If you do need assistance while I'm away "researching" then I've got an award winning cover in place so you'll be in safe hands.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

25/09/2024

September is often a time for travel agents to get offered familiarisation or education trips.....the miserable pursuit of travelling the world on your behalf to educate ourselves on destination and product....not all heroes wear capes people!!

At the moment I have numerous colleagues out in India, some exploring all that G Adventures offers in the Golden Triangle and some who are enjoying the absolute luxury of the Oberoi Hotels & Resorts hospitality.

When I was in India a few years ago I was also able to take advantage of both suppliers on my own holiday, getting into the bones of the country with G travelling through Delhi, Agra, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Puskar (and it's bonkers camel festival) and Jaipur. Oberoi showed me the absolute delights of Lord Kitcheners residence at Wildflower Hall in the mountain town of Shimla, while also dining at the exquisite Oberoi Udaivillas in Udaipur.

Combining these experiences gave me an absolute breadth of knowledge to understand that a truly exceptional experience doesn't need to follow the same path at all points.

I've sent hundreds of clients to Incredible India and my colleagues experiences now are whetting my appetite to go back and do another stupid pose on the Diana bench at the Taj Mahal.

Get in touch if you've ever thought about going to this wonderfully diverse country and I'll build the perfect tailormmade trip to suit.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

17/09/2024

£5m in sales so far.

When I first started to consider setting up and running my own business, I remember jotting down, almost random figures about what I hoped to achieve in year 1, year 2 etc, fair to say I couldn't have imagined ever putting down £5m in the time I've been at Travel Counsellors.

So firstly a massive thank you to each and everyone of you who support me by booking your holidays and work journeys.

Secondly to anyone who had referred me to anyone else, it really is the best way for me to grow and scale my business, about 70% of that £5m has come from referrals, so must be doing something right?

And thirdly thank you to anyone whose just supported me over the years from family to friends and anyone else whose just stood up and been there for me, it's meant the world traversing a very challenging few years of my life recently.

Lastly by supporting me, I like to give back too, and so over the years I've been able to donate thousands to Children's Hospices Across Scotland so it's a real win win all round and is easily the best thing I achieve each month when I tot the bookings up and donate.

I've big plans for the future though and so won't be resting on my laurels just yet, so watch this space!! Exciting times ahead.

And if you want to plan your next holiday or work trip and wonder why people have spent £5m with me.....then get in touch and I'll show you a better more supported way of arranging your journeys of discovery.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

14/09/2024

Oceania Cruises are one of the best if not the best for cuisine on board their vessels.

Their epicurean experiences are unique and offer voyagers the best of the worlds food to delve into and explore while visiting some truly unique destinations.

I've included a few of their amazing sailings but they go everywhere so if the attached doesn't suit let me know and I'll be able to find a cruising that suits.

There are some great sales on till the end of the month so If you are struggling for motivation as to what to do and where to go for 2025, sit back and relax and let me send you on a cruise with a difference.

o Up to 55% off selected 2025 sailings with fares starting at £1,584pp (cruise only) for our Tahitian Legends sailing onboard Nautica, departing 5 Feb 2025!

TOP 5 EXOTIC SAILINGS:

1) Africa Navigator, 26 days onboard Nautica

Cape Town to Barcelona - 22 May 2025

Fares from £4,120pp

2) Springtime in Asia – 14 days onboard Regatta

Taipei to Kyoto – 24 April 2025

Fares from £2,388pp

3) Polynesian Seascapes 20 days onboard Insignia

Auckland to Papeete – 28 May 2025

Fares from £3,195pp

4) Australasian Adventure, 20 days onboard Insignia

Taipei to Perth – 14 April 2025

Fares from £3,234pp

5) Eternal Eastern Empires, 18 days onboard Riviera

Hong Kong to Tokyo – 27 January 2025

Fares from £3,888pp

Get in touch to find out more and let me taliormake your holiday to suit you, not just transact and give you something off the shelf.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

13/09/2024

Where shall I go on my jolly holidays I hear you cry?

There are too many options?

How can I choose?

Who will save me from the never ending misery of searching reviews and trying to work out If they are genuine or not?

Well fear not helpless traveller....I am here to assist!!

For many in many industries and God forbid linkedin is full of em....claiming to be the best and actually backing it up are often fairly disparate relevances.

I pride myself in having been to many many places....test me I bet I've been....and also in taking time out of my busy week to educate myself on properties/suppliers and operators to make sure I'm top of the pops for my clients.

As an example of this I've just finished the very lengthy and indepth Jumeirah beacon training program. Where I am an accredited expert in all things Jumeirah group.....but they are only in Dubai I hear you cry....oh no no no....one of the most luxurious properties in Majorca is a Jumeirah or you can even stay in one in London if you wish....or what about relaxing in Capri or Bali? also an option!

So my point simply is don't trust your luxury travel plans to the Internet or high street and someone bashing keys at you.
I take time to know where will suit, and WHY!! 5* hotels vary dramatically in what they offer and for one traveller one type will work for another could be the worst experience, so get in touch and let me send you away on luxury journeys of discovery and take the stress, strain and drudgery of Internet search engines.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

11/09/2024

Being at Travel Counsellors has honestly changed my life, and for the better in the most part.

It's stressful running your own business, but the wins and the joy when you succeed and its all on the back of your hard work and dedication is so rewarding.

The November conference is arriving swiftly and in 2016 I reacted to a post like this and got the train down to Manchester to see what the fuss was about.
After 3 minutes of listening to our CEO Steve Byrne I was trying to find a pen to sign up.

It was an awesome experience and I couldn't believe so many could be involved in such a caring, supportive and successful company, if I'm honest I did think it was a cult....but I soon got past that after we'd slaughtered the goat.....that's a joke!

But also since having almost 7 years of incredible experiences I am also a very proud mentor, and having supported over 14 individuals, I have two currently working through their first year, and so I wanted to include some words from them as new starts as to how they have found the experience. Don't take my word for it......

Jill Ritchie - Dunfermline - TC for 3 months
"Travel Counsellors truly does offer that sought after work life balance. Doing a job I love around family commitments"

Suzi Glossy Travel counsellors - Your Personal Travel Expert - Milton Keynes - TC for 6 months
" Travel Counsellors has been an incredibly warm, friendly and supportive since the very first phone call, TC is a community of passionate professional people who pride themselves on personal service"

Both of these wonderful Travel Counsellors started, and had that obvious fear and trepidation that anyone would feel about starting their businesses, both with support from me and their families/friends and networks have started superbly and are now on a path to success and a better work life balance with a better lifestyle to boot. Also they have cleared almost £400k in sales between them in that time......I guarantee neither would have thought that was possible when they started.

So if you have ever thought about working for yourself and want to hear more, feel free to get in touch and I'd be happy to have a frank and honest chat about it, as I've no incentive to get you to be a TC unless its right for you, its a big jump and isn't for everyone, but if you have that fire inside you that says I just might be able to do it, or what if todays the day I take control of my future, then let me know and I can get an invite for you to come down to the discovery day at conference. We have others on if the conference doesn't suit, but its immense for sure and highly recommended to get a feel for what we are about!

And if you really are a glutton for punishment I can always be your mentor too*....... * you can have someone else its not compulsory 😎

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

10/09/2024

Travel to Venice is always an exploration.

Winding through alleyways, traversing little bridges to walk into piazzas that don't seem to be where you thought they were.

Staying at one of the most celebrated hotels in Venice allows you to gain your composure and relax before embarking on another journey of discovery.

The Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel is every inch the iconic hideaway.
exquisite antiques and local artifacts whisk you back in time, while Michelin starred gastronomy, charming staff and the only Olympic inspired swimming pool in the city off modern sophistication.

The special air of romance is what sets the hotel apart from the rest.

The 81st Venice Film Festival has just finished and the hotel offered a welcome respite from the glare of the paparazzi, so who do you want to rub shoulders with while having a night cap at Bar Gabbiano for the 82nd offering?

So if you are thinking of a truly special holiday which will live forever in the memory, get in touch and I'll open your eyes to a world of luxurious opportunity.

[email protected]
0131 516 3920

Address

4 Lang Rigg, South Queensferry
Edinburgh
EH309WN

Telephone

+441315163920

Website

http://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/david.bishop

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Norway thoughts. Well back in blighty after a week and a bit traversing the coast of Norway. What an experience and really enjoyed it, certainly wasn't without it's challenges and elements I'd likely change if I do it again, and battling a hurricane was something I'll likely not forget, but a truly unique and incredible experience. Food as expected was superb (especially the puddings) and changed every few days as we moved into different regions and the menu matched what was a local speciality. Staff on board Havila Capella were also really great and very relaxed so while they were supremely professional they were also game for a laugh and had a really fun relationship with many of them. The destination was just stunning and especially our trip into Geraingerfjord was just stunning, but also the lofoten islands and our cruise down to Alta were also highlights for me. We did see the Northern lights... all be it I don't really count it, as wasn't really the best visual if I'm honest and I'm not bothered about ticking boxes with these things, so hope one day I'll finally see them. But all in all a great trip and really enjoyed the journey, adventure and being in some truly remote places on earth!! Thanks again to Matthew Valentine for the opportunity and I look forward to finding the right clients for Havila and the journey north or south, as there are some parts which will suit some clients and not others and that's really why you should trust your travel to someone that's been!! [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #havilavoyages #Norway #havila #arcticcruise #adventurenorth #bergen #tromso #trondheim #alta #kirkenes #lofotenislands #travelcounsellors #davidbishoptc

Hurricane alert! Sometimes when we travel to the extreme parts of the world we are met with extreme weather. There is a hurricane due to hit land in a few hours to the north and west of us, so for safety the captain has decided to abort the last leg of the journey and head south to "calmer" waters. We miss going around the cape and also our 4x4 trip which I'm genuinely gutted about but we'll be safe which is all that matters. Was funny to be able to help some travellers out with protocol for amendments to their bookings on board even though they had not booked with me....hurricane travel expert will add to my travel expert, travel agent,travel counsellor line I reckon! Anyway pray for me on the 7 hour bus ride.....I hate long bus rides!! #havilavoyages #Norway #alta #hurricane #safetyfirst #bus #travelcounsellors #travelexpert #travelagent #hurricanetravelexpert #davidbishoptc

Norway - Havila Cruise - Day 2 Geirangerfjord. So today we did our first excursion from the ship to the world unesco heritage site if Geirangerfjord. A truly beautiful 3 hour cruise down the western Fjords of Norway before the clouds lifted and we arrived in the Geirangerfjord. A truy stunning place and reminded me of travels in New Zealand with towering peaks, incredible waterfalls and beautiful flora and fauna. Loving our experience with Havila Voyages so far and looking forward to some more gourmet food and drink after a long day being a tourist. If you've ever considered a trip to the wilder parts of the world get In touch as expedition cruising is right up my street!! [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #unesco #Norway #geirangerfjord #travelcounsellors #Fjords #havila #havilavoyages #travelexpert #expeditioncruise #explore #davidbishoptc

Bergen!!! Apologies for the wind interference but doing that once in a busy street is embarrassing enough so hope you can get the gist in amongst the wind flurries. A beautiful little town, hugging the sea and surrounded by gorgeous mountains, what's not to enjoy? Have just wandered the streets popping past some glorious history in regards to the mercantile activities of the locals, Scandinavian church's (very different to anything in the UK that's for sure) and just gazing out at the bobbing fishing boats waiting for the winds to die down and go out again for another haul. I've been also very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the hospitality here with some incredible restaurants, lovely bars and some quirky little bistros and cocktail establishments....will maybe frequent later on...for research purposes!! Starting our Voyage with Havila Kystruten tomorrow and honestly can't wait for yhe rugged coastline, breathtaking vistas, incredible food and unpronounceable Ports!! Thanks to Havila Voyages for the opportunity to experience such wonderful product. If you've ever thought about discovering a different way to travel then get in touch and I'll be happy to discuss my experience. [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #Norway #bergen #visitnorway #havilavoyages #havila #voyagenorth #northernlights #kirkenes #travelcounsellors #travelexpert #travelconcierge #davidbishoptc

When in Rome? So today we've docked at Civitecchia the port for Rome. After some slightly rocky motion yesterday its a welcome stop to actually get some dry land. Because we missed out on the port yesterday ill be going back to Ajaccio tomorrow which is a welcome treat. Really enjoying the amazing service, food and entertainment onboard. Now to explore Italia. [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #virginvoyages #travelcounsellors #davidbishoptc

Barcelona!!!! is it only me who can't see or say that word without channelling Freddie mercury? Anyway I'm off to Catalonia today for a wonderful two days of exploring one of the best European cities on earth. I'm planning on exploring/getting lost in Barrrio Gothica, eating lots of tapas and fundamentally just gawping in awe at the World renowned architecture of the genius that is Gaudi. If I can find my way out of the Gothic quarter I'll be boarding Virgin Voyages and cruising around the Med to ports such as Toulon, Rome and Ibiza. Lucky me....but it's obviously a work trip so I'll be making sure I'm learning every miniscule detail of the cocktail menu for you.....my valued clients. You are welcome. So I'll be posting at various times so any questions you may have just message directly or comment below. I'm very excited indeed. If you do need assistance while I'm away "researching" then I've got an award winning cover in place so you'll be in safe hands. [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #virginvoyages #luxurycruise #Barcelona #exploretheworld #travelagent #travelcounsellors #travelexpert #cocktails

£5m in sales so far. When I first started to consider setting up and running my own business, I remember jotting down, almost random figures about what I hoped to achieve in year 1, year 2 etc, fair to say I couldn't have imagined ever putting down £5m in the time I've been at Travel Counsellors. So firstly a massive thank you to each and everyone of you who support me by booking your holidays and work journeys. Secondly to anyone who had referred me to anyone else, it really is the best way for me to grow and scale my business, about 70% of that £5m has come from referrals, so must be doing something right? And thirdly thank you to anyone whose just supported me over the years from family to friends and anyone else whose just stood up and been there for me, it's meant the world traversing a very challenging few years of my life recently. Lastly by supporting me, I like to give back too, and so over the years I've been able to donate thousands to Children's Hospices Across Scotland so it's a real win win all round and is easily the best thing I achieve each month when I tot the bookings up and donate. I've big plans for the future though and so won't be resting on my laurels just yet, so watch this space!! Exciting times ahead. And if you want to plan your next holiday or work trip and wonder why people have spent £5m with me.....then get in touch and I'll show you a better more supported way of arranging your journeys of discovery. [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #travelcounsellors #businessowner #sales #travelagent #travelexpert #travelcounsellor #luxurytravel #corporatetravel #support #tcfamily #withusitspersonal #referrals #repeatclients #loyalty #davidbishoptc

Travel to Venice is always an exploration. Winding through alleyways, traversing little bridges to walk into piazzas that don't seem to be where you thought they were. Staying at one of the most celebrated hotels in Venice allows you to gain your composure and relax before embarking on another journey of discovery. The Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel is every inch the iconic hideaway. exquisite antiques and local artifacts whisk you back in time, while Michelin starred gastronomy, charming staff and the only Olympic inspired swimming pool in the city off modern sophistication. The special air of romance is what sets the hotel apart from the rest. The 81st Venice Film Festival has just finished and the hotel offered a welcome respite from the glare of the paparazzi, so who do you want to rub shoulders with while having a night cap at Bar Gabbiano for the 82nd offering? So if you are thinking of a truly special holiday which will live forever in the memory, get in touch and I'll open your eyes to a world of luxurious opportunity. [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #belmond #HotelCipriani #TheArtofBelmond #luxurytravel #conciergetravel #travelagent #travelexpert #venice #venezia #travelcounsellors #withusitspersonal #davidbishoptc

This week I'm showcasing some of the truly exquisite and glorious properties that I have available for my clients. Combining fabulous offers with the likes of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic I can create luxury journeys of discovery, fulfilment, indulgence and rejuvenation. Maroma, A Belmond Hotel is a hotel unique in Mexico. At Maroma, feel the energy of the jungle - a welcoming labyrinth of pristine wilderness - leading you to the heart of the Riviera Maya. The hotel is a space of enchanting, natural refinement, where ancient mysteries meet modern revelations and joyful exhilaration balances with the deepest peace. My clients know I have direct access to some of the most incredible properties the world over and with relationships worked on for over 20 years I know those who work in these hotels to maximise the experience my clients get. Your relaxation should not be a transaction, I'm here to fully offer you an immersive and replenishing holiday that matches all that you need and in Maroma, A Belmond Hotel recently my clients found this out directly. So if you are looking to take advantage of discounted business class seats to the far flung corners of the planet, get in touch and let me tailor your experience to you. [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #belmond #TheArtofBelmond #luxurytravel #conciergetravel #travelagent #travelexpert #maroma #rivieramaya #travelcounsellors #withusitspersonal #davidbishoptc

Sometimes you miss what's on your doorstep when you are staring further afield? Today I met up with Susan Reid who educated me on the beautiful properties she represents in her exclusive use property portfolio. We travelled from the banks of the River tay to the rolling hills around Aberfeldy to the rugged beauty of the breadalbane and the trossachs before a jaunt to the bonnie banks of Loch lomond. Scotland is where I choose to live and is simply because after having travelled the world it's still one of the most beautiful places I've been. These properties are perfect for numerous get togethers and with hotel prices in Edinburgh and St Andrews rising greatly over recent weeks booking out somewhere with numerous bedrooms and ample space may actually work out far better value. So if you are planning a family get together, a work retreat or away day or just simply want to get away from it all and enjoy a luxury property in a stunning setting then get in touch and I'll be happy to tailor a bespoke offering for you and yours... and If you like Golf, check out HAWKSWOOD HOUSE LIMITED with its own driving range and chipping areas. Perfect for getting your eye in before you tee off at the old course in St Andrews. Also I know a Michelin starred restaurant around the corner too....well would be rude not too!! [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #Scotland #visitscotland #exclusiveuse #luxuryhomestay #luxuryscotland #luxurycottage #golf #Scottishgolf #standrews #lochlomond #trossachs #killin #davidbishoptc #awayday #workretreat #corporatetravel #travelcounsellors

Yesterday I took time out of the business to educate and improve my knowledge on some wonderful properties in Greece. The Mar-bella collection which consists of three very different hotels, 2 in Corfu and one just over the water on the mainland. Luxury personified with adults only in some properties, full family focus in others and a more subtle blend in one if you want to take your kids away but don't want thousands of screaming kids at the pool each day. It's these subtle differences which I choose to educate myself on each week so I'm prepped with the latest most upto date information. I also visited both of the corfu properties in April this year but with a refurbishment I need the latest information. The ability to eat out at local tavernas on the all inclusive package is a nice touch too. I also learnt about the Lindos Grand, a beautiful property in Rhodes which is renowned for its culinary offering and superb location just round the corner from Lindos old town, offering great value in a great location. Yes you can Google these properties and book online but do you have the managers email address and the relationship with the hotels to know that when you book a lower room category at one specific hotel there is a good chance of an upgrade? nope? well I do! So don't trust your well earned holiday time to a transaction let me tailor your trip to your specific needs, we all want different things from our holidays so let me find the perfect one for you. [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #Greece #marbellacollection #lindosgrand #luxurytravel #luxuryholidays #summer25 #winter24 #travelcounsellors #travelexpert #davidbishoptc

I know you can read.....but the British Airways sale is now on!! Most of us know about the lunacy that is the January sales in all walks of life, but especially travel. But what alot of people don't realise is that during September and October, there is also a secondary busy season with offers and deals galore. Discounts are available in all cabins but not on all routes, so myself and my team are here to filter through the options and find the best value options for your holidays of discovery and work trips of plenty. In numerous scenarios I've saved clients thousands on packages, or used the saving to upgrade the trip and enjoy some luxury on a longhair flight. I'm not here to take an order I'm here to find the perfect journey for you and yours. So if your planning a trip or indeed just thinking about it, get in touch and let me inspire you to somewhere amazing for less than it will be when the sale ends in October!! [email protected] 0131 516 3920 #travelcounsellors #Britishairways #exploretheworld #traveldeals #holiday #luxuryholiday #davidbishoptc #travelexpert #travelconcierge #luxuryjourneys