Gemma Pauley - Travel Counsellors

23/09/2024

🌿🐘 Elephant Hills: A Truly Unmissable Thailand Experience 🏞️✨

Combining the camp idea of African national parks with the Thai tropical rainforest, Elephant Hills are Thailand’s first luxury tented jungle camps and highly recommended

Tucked away in the jungle of Khao Sok National Park are the Elephant Camp and floating Lake Camp. Both are within easy reach of numerous beach resorts, making it easy to take a detour into the wilderness. In addition, the Bush Camp Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand provides another option for those in search of soft adventure. Set in a remote area beside the Ping River, the Bush Camp gives you a taste of Northern Thailand’s fascinating nature and culture 😍

Choose from 2-4 day soft adventure tours which all include a variety of activities, such as simple forest walks or lengthy treks, scenic canoe or longtail boat trips.

The highlight of any stay at Elephant Hills is the unforgettable Elephant Experience, where you ethically interact with these majestic beasts. You’ll get up close with these gentle giants, watch them enjoy an extensive bath, before preparing and feeding them one of their daily meals. The elephants are then released back into their large free-roaming park area, where you can watch them play, interact and graze in their natural habitat 🐘

With animal welfare and conservation at the heart of what they do, Elephant Hills has received numerous awards and accolades from worldwide associations such as Global Spirit and National Geographic.

Want to find out more about Elephant Hills? get in touch to see how you can add this experience to your Thailand holiday

[email protected]
01638 778560

19/09/2024

Who’s tuning into Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby this evening at 8pm? You won’t want to miss this week if Cappadocia is on your travel wish list.

This week features the Argos Hotel, which consists of nine mansions cascading down this hillside along with caves, tunnels, and former monastic sites. You’ll be inspired by this luxurious hotel, which has been delicately shaped by wind, snow and rain for over thousands of years.

Let me personalise your trip to Cappadocia to fit your requirements perfectly. I’ll craft an exceptional itinerary for Cappadocia just for you.

Ready to start planning? Contact me today

16/09/2024

Planning your 2025 adventures already? 🌍✈️

Let me show you how to magically stretch 26 days of annual leave into an incredible 56 days of travel! 📅✨ As your Travel Counsellor, I'm here to handle the details, from destination tips to travel hacks, so you can focus on soaking up the sun and experiences with absolute confidence. 😉

Ready to explore like never before? Contact me today to see how I can make your travel dreams a reality! 



15/09/2024

Hong Kong offers a myriad of possibilities and experiences. Go from ancient temples to glistening skyscrapers, dip into bustling city markets before decamping to seaside villages, and conquer mountain trails before exploring neon-lit streetscapes! 🤩

I recommend staying at least 3 nights in order to see the main attractions or stretch to a 4 or 5 night stay to also explore outlying islands and uncover off-the-beaten tracks treats!

Alternatively, as Hong Kong is a major hub, it's easy to combine with other great Asian or Middle Eastern destinations! ✈️

14/09/2024

Hop on board and sail through Belgium and the Netherlands this April! 🌼Think stunning floral displays at Keukenhof Gardens, exploring the charming streets of Amsterdam and Bruges, and even a visit to some poignant war sites. It's the perfect spring escape! 🌟 🚢

8 DAYS FROM £1999PP

(Based on 01/04/25)

Other departures available in April 2025

AT A GLANCE

• Free Superior drinks package
• 7 nights on board a five-star ship
• Return flights & transfers
• 8 visits & tours
• Full board dining
• Complimentary on-board tea & coffee
• Free on-board Wi-Fi
• Expert Riviera Cruise Director & Concierge
• All port charges & airport taxes
• Checked luggage

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival in Amsterdam
Day 2 – Amsterdam & Hoorn
Day 3 – Arnhem
Day 4 – Antwerp
Day 5 – Bruges
Day 6 – Ghent & Ypres
Day 7 – Keukenhof & Amsterdam
Day 8 – Return home

Experiencing a river cruise is a great way to enjoy these fabulous destinations at a relaxed pace.

Get in touch for more information

13/09/2024

Incorporating the best wildlife experiences in two fantastic countries, Uganda and Rwanda.

🦍 Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Discovery 🦍
📌10 Day Tour
📌Various dept dates in 2025

The stand out highlight of this trip is the once in a lifetime chance to experience the ultimate wildlife encounter, witnessing mountain gorilla in their natural habitat in Bwindi National Park, Uganda. The chance to come face to face with these majestic primates and observe them in their habitat while they eat, play and rest is a unique and unforgettable experience.

But there is a lot more to just the gorilla trek… You will spend a couple of days in Lake Mburo National Park, home to giraffe, zebra (the only place in Uganda to see zebra), impala and fantastic birding opportunities. You will also go out on a walking safari, an optional boat safari and a night safari. Lake Mburo National Park is the best place in Uganda to see the leopard, especially during night game drives – around 70% of our groups spot leopard. The lodge in Lake Mburo National Park is built on an outcrop offering great views of the park.

There is a waterhole beneath the dining area where zebra, warthog, impala and bushbuck congregate to drink. The bedrooms are located either in spacious cottages which are dotted around the hill, all offering wonderful views. It’s an absolute gem of a property.

Another highlight is Volcano National Park in Rwanda where you will go in search of endangered golden monkeys. Golden monkeys live in troops of around 100, led by an alpha male. It is thought there are only around 4,000 golden monkey left. Volcano National Park is also a stunning location in its own right with rolling hills and deep river gorges, dense forests and an active volcanic range.

The tour ends in the modern capital of Rwanda, Kigali. With a tour of the city, including a stop at Mt Kigali for scenic views across the city.

I am so excited about this trip and am sure anyone who loves wildlife will definitely want to know more.

12/09/2024

I love seeing clients photos. Chris and Roy took their granddaughters on a cruise to Norway. They had such a fun time, enjoyed the scenery, the girls loved the infinity pool and Chris the cocktails!!!

12/09/2024

Who’s watching Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby tonight? ✨

If Shanghai is on your bucket list, you won't want to miss this. Be inspired by the luxurious InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, the world's first 'underground' hotel! Where natural landscapes and artificial design combine, this hotel is a sight to behold.

From guided bike adventures to beautiful temples and modern architecture, I can personalise your Shanghai adventure to fit your requirements perfectly, and craft an exceptional itinerary just for you.

Ready to start planning? Contact me today

27/08/2024

✨THE ISLAND HOP OF DREAMS FROM ONLY £2055 PP✨
🥂Mykonos - Paros- Santorini 🥂
💎4* Mr & Mrs White Myknos, 5 Nights, B&B, Double Room
💎3* Pnoi Hotel Paros, 4 Nights, B&B, Sea View Double
💎5* La Mer Deluxe Hotel and Spa, Santorini, 3 Nights, B&B, Sea View
⛵️Flights, Accommodation, all transfers. ferries & Luggage included. *Price based on 2 adults sharing. Departing Manchester 10th May 25 ⛵️

🇬🇷 MYKONOS 🇬🇷
Mykonos is one of the most cosmopolitan of the Greek islands; a favourite among sophisticated travellers and a stunning choice for your next holiday.
Mykonos holidays provide some of the best beach days in the Aegean Sea: just one of its many claims to fame. Mykonos is instantly recognisable for its superb sandy beaches, immaculately whitewashed cube houses, churches topped with striking blue domes and 16th-century windmills. Elegant boutiques, high-quality shopping and flamboyant nightlife have made it a thrilling destination, and a favourite for those who like their getaways to have a bit of VIP style.
🇬🇷 PAROS 🇬🇷
Paros is the secret charmer. It’s green, beautiful and relaxing and Cycladic down to its white-painted houses, blue-domed churches and pretty blue tables and chairs perched on quaysides.
It has 40 beaches, lots of water sports, an aqua park beside the sea, resorts to chill-out in, tranquil villages, trendy bars and boutique-like shops, a bustling main port with a picturesque old town, lots of lovely tavernas and lively nightlife.
🇬🇷 SANTORINI 🇬🇷
Renowned for spectacular sunsets, stunning beaches, and volcanic beauty, incredible Santorini curves around a giant, breathtaking lagoon in the Cyclades Islands.
Imagine a relaxing getaway on an island of idyllic whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, perfect blue skies, and the most incredible sunsets, and you'll be picturing a holiday in Santorini.

If you fancy Greek island hoping get in touch

23/08/2024

🌟🌟BE QUICK FANTASTIC MAURITIUS OFFER - £5995 FAMILY OF 4🌟🌟

Create unforgettable family memories during May half term with the ultimate adventure at Victoria Beachcomber, Mauritius. Enjoy 7 all-inclusive nights from just £5,995 per family! 🌴✨

This family-friendly resort has something for all ages to enjoy, from the wide range of activities available at the complimentary beachfront kids club to the complimentary teens club, ideal for keeping boredom at bay. Create memories together and find a new sporting passion as you choose from the vast array of free land and water sports, or venture outside the resort for an excursion to discover the delights of Mauritius together as a family.

Price includes: ✅

Based on 2 adults & 2 children (U/12)

🌴 7 nights in a Deluxe Room

🌴 Return economy flights

🌴 All inclusive

🌴 A choice of free land & water sports

🌴 Free kids club

🌴 Private transfers in Mauritius

🌴 Departs 24 May 2025 – half term

🌴 Book by 30 September 2024

Departure airports:

✈️GATWICK £5,995 per family (Air Mauritius – Direct)

✈️HEATHROW £6,085 per family (Emirates via Dubai)

✈️STANSTED £6,395 per family (Emirates via Dubai)

‼️SAVE £782 PER FAMILY‼️

This offer won't be around for long so get in touch quickly

21/08/2024

😍 ⛰️ Experience the stunning Norwegian Fjords on board the equally stunning Celebrity Apex! ⛰️ 😍

🗓️ 10th May 2025
🚢 7 nights on board Celebrity Apex
⚓️ Sailing from Southampton

✨ Balcony from £1️⃣2️⃣9️⃣9️⃣pp❗️

💵 Includes $200 on board spending money 💵

🥂 📱 Upgrade to All Included for unlimited classic drinks & WIFI for £59pppd

💙 Southampton, UK
💙 Relax at sea
💙 Nordfjordeid Norway
💙 Flam, Norway
💙 Geiranger, Norway
💙 Relax at sea
💙 Bruges (Zeebrugge) Belgium
💙 Southampton, UK

🤩 With experiences you won’t find anywhere else at sea, Nothing Comes Close to a Celebrity Cruise 🛳

I got to experience Celebrity Cruises with my mum in May and highly recommend this trip.

Get in touch for more info

20/08/2024

From the stunning Swiss Alps to the Alaskan glaciers, our world is packed with breathtaking natural wonders waiting to be explored! Combine these natural spectacles with magnificent architecture and rich historical sites, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable adventure.

Get in touch with me today and let me plan the perfect trip for you! 🌍✨


19/08/2024

MOTORHOME AROUND NEW ZEALAND

With 10% off the daily vehicle hire rate for Apollo & Maui motorhomes, there has never been a better time to hit the open road

MY NZ MUST DO'S:
🐛Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
🎤Experience a traditional Māori hangi and concert
🧖‍♀️Take a soak in the pools at Polynesia Spa
🚶🏽‍♀️Take a guided Art Deco walk in Napier
🏤Visit Te Papa - NZ national museum
⛴️Cruise the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry
🍷Enjoy wine-tasting at one of the Marlborough’s regions wineries
🌿Explore the Abel Tasman National Park
🚢Cruise the tranquil Milford Sound

Get in touch to discuss your road trip around New Zealand

14/08/2024

Celebrating 7 amazing years at Travel Counsellors 🛫🌍 Best decision I ever made. Thank you to all my incredible clients who made this journey possible. Here's to many more adventures together! ✈️✨

12/08/2024

🐘🌍 **Happy World Elephant Day!** 🌍🐘

Today, we celebrate one of the most magnificent creatures on our planet—the elephant! These gentle giants symbolize strength, loyalty, and the beauty of the natural world.

But they need our help. Elephants face many threats, from habitat loss to poaching. This , let’s come together to protect and preserve these incredible animals for future generations.

Let’s protect and cherish these incredible creatures by exploring responsibly and supporting conservation efforts.

08/08/2024

Loved helping Michelle's client experience Thailand

01/08/2024

Wow how is it August already. July went by in a flash. I got to experience the new Silver Ray ship with Silversea which was an amazing experience.

I've booked some fab holidays including
A family trip to Thailand
Flights to Perth for Christmas
Group of friends to Crete
Fly drive around California

Whilst quoting and booking your holidays I have also been helping customers out with cancelled flights, changing accommodation due to the wildfires in Jasper and supporting a client with their ESTA.

I would love to help you with your travel plans please get in touch with your holiday ideas

[email protected]

27/07/2024

Not the best start to my weekend. Woke up at 5am to see my customers flight to Orlando had been cancelled. As you can imagine peak time travelling to the states and flights were all full. Working with our duty office they are now flying tomorrow via New York. Flights rebooked, hotels and transfers changed all before 8am

This is why you should book with someone who cares. Imagine arriving at the airport kids in tow and your flight is cancelled, and having to sort alternative options. How stressful would that be.

My customers can relax knowing I have sorted everything out for them, yes they lose a day but still have a fab holiday to look forward to.

So when booking holidays think about who is there for you when things go wrong, because if you book with me I really look after you and take all the stresses away.

12/07/2024

Amazing news to wake up to this morning. I am so proud to work as a Travel Counsellor

We’ve done it again! We’ve been named best ‘Homeworking Agency of the Year - Large Agency’ at the Travel Weekly UK Agent Achievement Awards – which celebrates excellence in the travel industry 🎉

This award, voted for by our valued supplier partners, is a testament to the comprehensive support we give to our independent business owners, our world-class technology which enables them to be their best, and our supportive, caring community.

Congratulations to all the other winners 🏆

08/07/2024

Singapore, a city in nature 🌳

Enjoy the best of both worlds in Singapore: nature and urban living.

Green wonders are never more than a few steps away with the first one being in the Jewel Changi Airport! A stunning waterfall sits in the core of the world's best transport hub! This lush green sanctuary is home to more than 2,000 trees and 10,000 shrubs!

Gardens by the Bay are another iconic tourist attraction where nature blooms! Covering a total of 101 hectares, it comprises of three waterfront gardens: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden and Bay Central Garden! Spend some time exploring the cooled conservatories that are home to unusual plants from around the world or swing by the OCBC Skyway for spectacular views!

Singapore has so much to offer, its great as a stopover but don't dismiss it as a destination on its own.

There is so much to see and do you won't be disappointed

[email protected]

06/07/2024

If you’re hungry to explore beyond your norm, discover different cultures, or (re)awaken your sense of curiosity, I can tailor-make these destinations for you.

From journeys by luxury rail or expedition cruise to exclusive exploration of the Earth's most beautiful landscapes, these holidays will open your eyes, change your perspective, and leave you feeling all the richer for it.

Find out how I can tailor-make your next adventure
https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/handcrafted?selecteduser=Gemma.pauley

25/06/2024

We've been nominated for the Best National Travel Retailer in the British Travel Awards 2024 🙌��

You can vote for us by clicking on the link below. This will mean the world to us at Travel Counsellors to be recognised for our hard work and dedication.

👉 https://britishtravelawards.com/btaform.php?nomLink=156

24/06/2024

My customer Debbie and Scott just back from their honeymoon in Tenerife.

Here are a few words from them...

My first experience of using a travel counsellor, Gemma was faultless, I would highly recommend. She listened to what we wanted and provided a selection of options within budget. A few months prior, we found out the hotel was doing building work, without hesitation Gemma found alternative options. 2 weeks before we received our documents, and had been checked in for both flights. This took so much pressure off with it being our honeymoon there was so much other stuff to think about.
Thank you very much for sorting our honeymoon it was fantastic and we could have asked for anything more.

I'm so pleased you had the best time

14/06/2024

I have the most wonderful customers and getting feedback like this makes my day. It even got a mention on TCTV our weekly internal show. Getting feed back always puts a massive smile on my face. Thank you to all my customers who continue to support my business I really appreciate all of you