Daragh Hanafin - Travel Counsellors

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Daragh Hanafin - Travel Counsellors

Let me arrange the holiday of your dreams for you. My page will share travel inspiration and wonderful offers. Daragh

Financially protected by Travel Counsellors Financial Trust and ATOL protected. Hello and welcome to my page, I’m Daragh, originally from County Wicklow in Ireland, now based in Sudbury, Suffolk. Joining Travel Counsellors after more than 13 years of working in luxury retail, I’m very service orientated, so it’s all about you… My goal is to ensure that you have a fantastic experience, from our ver

y first conversation, right up to your return home and then starting all over again with your next booking. After all, they say the best way to beat the holiday blues is to start planning your next trip! Your time is precious, so let me do the work for you. There are no budgets too big or too small, so whether you want a multi city luxury tour, a relaxing cruise, a magical honeymoon, a memory making family adventure or even a weekend long city break, I’d be thrilled to tailor you the perfect travel experience. Every itinerary can be made completely bespoke to fit your needs and budgets, from flights and hotels, car-hire and transfers to unforgettable excursions. I’m here to take care of each and every detail of your booking, and I’m available at a time that best suits your needs, 24hrs a day, 7 days a week. Booking a trip through a Travel Counsellor also gives you the peace of mind of booking through someone who is financially protected by the Travel Counsellors Financial Trust and ATOL protected. This is just one of the many reasons we have a world-leading 96% customer satisfaction rate. My passion for travel started at an early age, and I’ve been extremely fortunate to travel for both work and pleasure over the years, experiencing some wonderful holidays and trips in far flung and exotic places all around the world. From shopping in the bright lights of New York City to marvelling at majestic Orangutans in Borneo’s Forests, diving in India’s Andaman Islands to skiing in the spectacular Alps, experiencing the magic of a family trip to Disney World or touring tea plantations in Sri Lanka, Travel Counsellor's knowledge and experience can help you get the very best out of each and every trip.

24/06/2025

Hear me out. That honeymoon, that once-in-a-lifetime adventure, that big birthday trip… they deserve more than hours of scrolling, guesswork and hoping for the best.

When you book with me, you’re not just getting a nice holiday, you’re getting an stress-free, fully protected, tailor-made experience crafted with care.

✅ Everything’s financially protected (ATOL & more)
✅ I use trusted, handpicked suppliers around the world
✅ You get me, your own personal travel expert on hand throughout
✅ And if I happen to be catching a few hours of sleep (four or five, max!😉) you’ll still have 24/7 support from my brilliant backup team who’ll step in until I wake up
✅ You’re benefiting from real insider knowledge and contacts
✅ And most importantly, it’s all built around you

Behind the fun and excitement, there’s a whole lot going on behind the scenes, safety, security, logistics, backup plans, but all you need to do is turn up and enjoy.

So if you’re planning a honeymoon, a big celebration, or the kind of trip you’ll talk about for years… don’t go it alone. That’s what I’m here for.

My inbox is always open. Let’s get planning.

23/06/2025

Malaysia is a personal favourite of mine, a dazzling blend of vibrant cultures, lush rainforests, and glittering cityscapes.

From the buzzing street food stalls of Kuala Lumpur to the tranquil tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands and the paradise beaches of Langkawi, it’s a destination full of contrast and colour.

Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a taste of something truly different, Malaysia delivers it all with warmth, flavour, and unforgettable charm.

3 Reasons to visit Malaysia

1. Tropical Islands & Beaches - Malaysia is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking beaches and islands. Think powdery white sands, warm turquoise waters, and swaying palms.
Langkawi offers laid-back luxury and stunning sunsets, while the Perhentian and Tioman Islands are perfect for snorkelling, diving, or simply switching off.
It’s pure tropical bliss, without the crowds.

2. Adventure & Nature - From jungle treks to mountain climbs, Malaysia is made for adventure. Hike through the steamy rainforests of Borneo in search of wild orangutans, or take on the challenge of Mount Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia’s highest peaks.
Whether it’s diving with turtles, exploring hidden caves, or ziplining through the treetops, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences.

3. A Year-Round Destination - The beauty of Malaysia is that there’s always a perfect spot to visit, no matter the time of year.
The west coast (like Langkawi and Penang) is ideal from November to April, while the east coast (including the Perhentian Islands) shines from April to October.
With expert advice, (who me 😉) it’s easy to plan around the weather and make the most of your time in paradise.

Whether you’re after island bliss, jungle adventures, or just need a sunshine-filled escape, Malaysia has you covered, all year round.

Ready to start planning? I’m waiting for your call!

22/06/2025

Escape to beachfront paradise in Aruba

7 nights from £2,199 per person based on 2 sharing

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba offers an enchanting escape where relaxation and island exploration intertwine perfectly. Set just moments from Palm Beach, this tranquil haven is the ideal retreat for those seeking an intimate and stylish getaway. Staying in a Coco Casita room promises comfort, charm, and a soul-soothing connection to nature, making every moment unforgettable.

• The Coco Casita rooms are your own slice of paradise, featuring stylish Caribbean-inspired décor, private patios with hammocks, and outdoor showers under a canopy of stars.

• Step outside and you’re just a short stroll from the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Palm Beach. Whether you’re unwinding on the white sands or trying your hand at snorkelling or paddle boarding, the Caribbean coast is yours to explore.

• Discover local flavours at the charming nearby eateries, from beachside shacks serving freshly grilled seafood to stylish restaurants offering world-class cuisine. Your Coco Casita is also equipped with a fully stocked kitchenette, perfect for preparing a laid-back breakfast to enjoy amidst the lush surroundings.

• Wander through Aruba’s rugged landscapes, from the serene oasis of Arikok National Park to the natural pools hidden away in rocky coves. Return to the hotel for a peaceful dip in the pools or a yoga session to rejuvenate body and mind.

What’s included:
• 7 nights at Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba, Aruba
• Coco Casita; room only basis
• Flights from London Heathrow on 17/09/2025; with private transfers

Terms and Conditions

Subject to availability. Please give me a call for further details. Price based on 2 adults sharing. Prices are correct at the time of posting. Offers are subject to change. I can advise on travel insurance at the time of booking.

20/06/2025

Because sometimes, a few days away is all you need.
A change of scene, a splash of luxury, and a bit of “you” time.

Think:
Long lunches in Lisbon
Rooftop spas in Budapest
Gallery hopping in Paris
Historic sites in Rome

Whether you’ve got 48 hours or a long weekend, I’ll find the perfect escape, planned around you, with zero hassle.

Go on… treat yourself.
Where are we off to next?

19/06/2025

Croatia & Montenegro: Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik & Kotor
14 nights from £3,250pp (based on 2 adults sharing)

Get ready to fall in love with the shimmering Adriatic on this 14-night coastal escape through Croatia and Montenegro. From ancient cities and island charm to cascading waterfalls and Venetian fortresses, this journey blends culture, history and jaw-dropping scenery with luxurious stays along the way.

Your journey includes:
• 3 nights at Royal Suites, Split – Explore Split’s Roman roots, stroll the vibrant Riva promenade, and enjoy a full-day tour to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-listed natural wonder of turquoise lakes and tumbling waterfalls.
• 4 nights at Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, Hvar – Step into island life on chic Hvar. Discover its charming Old Town, visit Stari Grad (one of Europe’s oldest towns), and soak up the views from Fortica Fortress.
• 4 nights at Dubrovnik Palace, Dubrovnik – Walk the famed city walls of Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Day trip to Ston & Korčula for wine tasting, ancient saltworks, and island charm.
• 3 nights at Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro, Kotor (Montenegro) – Finish in enchanting Kotor, a fjord-like bay steeped in history. Climb to San Giovanni Fortress for sweeping views and explore its cobbled streets and Venetian palaces.

Flights, Ferries & all transfers included

This is an unforgettable Adriatic adventure, the perfect mix of coastal glamour, cultural discovery and relaxed luxury.

Message me to start planning your Croatian escape today.

Terms & Conditions: Subject to availability. Prices correct at time of posting. Based on 2 adults sharing. Offers subject to change. Flights, ferries, transfers and accommodation included. Travel insurance available on request.

18/06/2025

What makes Croatia so special is the variety packed into one trip, you can explore Roman ruins in the morning, island-hop in the afternoon, and dine by the sea as the sun sets.

3 Must see locations in Croatia

1. Island-Hopping - Croatia’s coastline is dotted with over a thousand islands, each with its own character and charm. From the glamour of Hvar to the laid-back vibe of Vis or the medieval beauty of Korčula, island-hopping here is as scenic as it is effortless.
Sail between hidden coves, snorkel in quiet bays, and enjoy long lunches in picturesque harbours, it’s the perfect way to see Croatia at a slower, more indulgent pace.

2. Waterfalls at Krka National Park - While most national parks are strictly look-but-don’t-touch, Krka invites you to dive in.
After walking through lush forests and past a series of cascading falls, you can take a refreshing swim in the clear pools beneath them, an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature. It’s one of the few places in Europe where you can swim beneath a waterfall in a protected park.

3. Visit Istria - Istria, in the north of Croatia, feels like a hidden world of its own, full of rolling vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns.
Explore places like Motovun and Grožnjan, where cobbled streets lead to sweeping views, local artists sell their work, and the scent of truffles fills the air.
It’s a quieter, rustic side of Croatia that offers rich food, warm hospitality, and a slower pace that’s easy to fall in love with.

And if you still want more, Croatia has plenty up its sleeve, from wandering ancient Roman ruins in Split to watching the sunset to the sound of the Sea Organ in Zadar, or even taking a boat into the glowing Blue Cave.

Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure or something a little different, Croatia delivers in every way.

Are you ready to experience it for yourself?

17/06/2025

People often ask me what the best holiday I’ve ever taken is, which makes sense, given my line of work! I’ve been incredibly lucky to visit some amazing places, and truthfully, it’s hard to compare them. Each one is special in its own way.

But, if I had to choose one, it would be Peru. Without question.

From the buzzing streets and incredible food scene in Lima, to the raw, breathtaking wildlife of the Amazon rainforest (we saw giant river otters!!), this trip just had everything.

We marvelled at Machu Picchu, a truly deserving Wonder of the World, wandered the through the cobbled streets of Cusco, the former Inca capital, and gazed in awe at the mysterious Nazca Lines in the Peruvian desert.

We visited Lake Titicaca and met the people who live on the floating reed islands, and we (partially!) climbed Rainbow Mountain, 5,000 metres above sea level, and so worth every breathless step.

We travelled by plane, car, boat, bus, horse and train, and the train was something else, complete with white tablecloths, a three-course meal with views of the Andes and llamas rolling by.

It ticked every box for me: buzzing cities, great food, rich culture, amazing scenery, incredible wildlife, some beach time, and truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We even made some lovely friends on that trip who we still meet up with now.

Everyone’s idea of a perfect holiday is different, my job is to help you find yours, every single time. So, where are you off to next?

16/06/2025

Croatia is where crystal-clear waters meet ancient walled cities, and every corner feels like a postcard.

From sailing between sun-soaked islands to exploring historic Dubrovnik and tasting local wine by the Adriatic, it’s a perfect mix of relaxation, culture and adventure.

Whether you’re into beach days, buzzing cities or hidden coves, Croatia delivers it all, with effortless charm.

3 Reasons to visit Croatia

1. Adriatic Coastline - Croatia’s coastline is one of Europe’s most breathtaking, a mix of crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, pebbled beaches, and dramatic cliffs. Whether you’re sailing between islands, lounging by the sea, or enjoying a cocktail at a beach club, the views are endlessly beautiful and the water is some of the clearest you’ll ever see.

2. Historic Cities - Croatia’s cities are full of character and charm.
Dubrovnik’s iconic stone walls and sea views are just the beginning, you’ll also find Roman ruins in Split, Venetian elegance in Rovinj, and UNESCO-listed gems in almost every region. There’s a real sense of history everywhere you go, but it’s always lively, welcoming, and full of atmosphere.

3. Accessible Luxury - From sleek boutique hotels and cliffside villas to private yacht charters and gourmet food experiences, Croatia offers luxury that often comes at a more accessible price than many of its Mediterranean neighbours.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy a premium holiday without the premium price tag.

Whether you’re wandering ancient streets, sailing into the sunset, or sipping wine by the sea, Croatia has that effortless mix of beauty, charm and laid-back luxury.
It’s the kind of place you’ll fall in love with, and want to return to again and again.

Are you ready to start your love story with Croatia?

15/06/2025

An all-inclusive holiday to the Maldives

7 nights from £9,765 based on a family of 4

Perfectly located in the magical Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is an eco-conscious sanctuary of stunning lagoons, pristine white beaches, and family-friendly adventures. A stay here is like a true castaway experience, with a house reef teeming with life and lush areas on the island’s interior where you can wander amongst the palm trees listening for local birdsong.

• You will be staying in a magnificent beachfront villa with direct access to the white, powdery shores. Each villa has been designed with families in mind, offering expansive spaces, private pools, and thoughtful touches that ensure a seamless blend of comfort and luxury for everyone.

• There are plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained. From engaging storytelling sessions to hands-on cultural activities and outdoor adventures across the island’s stunning landscape, such as the family foraging experience, there’s something for curious explorers of all ages.

• Enjoy family feasts at Turquoise, with its all-day dining options featuring global cuisine, or indulge in The Riviera’s seafood delights by the water. For a memory-filled treat, speak to your Travel Counsellor about an exclusive dining experience on the beach.

• Explore the spectacular underwater world through family-friendly snorkelling tours around the island or charter a private sunset cruise as you scan the waves for playful dolphins. For land-based fun, cycling trails across the island offer an exciting way to discover its picturesque beauty together.

What’s included:
• 7 nights at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, Maldives
• Beach Villa; all-inclusive basis
• Flights from London Heathrow on 20/08/2025; with seaplane transfers

Terms and Conditions

Subject to availability. Please give me a call for further details. Price based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Prices are correct at the time of posting. Offers are subject to change. I can advise on travel insurance at the time of booking.

13/06/2025

That dream destination you keep thinking about?
The one that gives you butterflies just imagining it?
Whether it’s sunrise at Machu Picchu, a food tour through Japan, cruising past glaciers in Antarctica or sleeping under the stars in the Namibian desert, I can help make it happen.

Life’s too short to leave the big adventures for ‘someday’.
Let’s tick off that bucket list, with style, comfort and zero stress (because I’ll handle all the planning!).

Where’s next on your list?
Let’s talk…

12/06/2025

Uganda: Chimpanzees, Gorillas & the Great Wildlife Journey
11 nights from £23,480pp (based on 2 adults sharing)

Step into the heart of Africa on this truly unforgettable Ugandan safari adventure. From the thundering Murchison Falls to misty mountain forests, you’ll encounter some of the world’s most iconic wildlife, including chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions, and the elusive mountain gorilla.

Your journey includes:
• 1 night at Entebbe Forest Lodge – Ease into Uganda with a peaceful stay in a forest cabin near the shores of Lake Victoria.
• 3 nights at Nile Safari Lodge, Murchison Falls – Stay in luxury bandas overlooking the Nile. Enjoy thrilling game drives and a boat cruise to the powerful Murchison Falls.
• 2 nights at Kibale Forest Camp – Discover chimpanzees and explore lush rainforests on foot. Stay in safari tents nestled within the forest.
• 2 nights at Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Queen Elizabeth National Park – Spot lions lounging in fig trees and elephants by the river, all from a beautifully remote tented camp.
• 3 nights at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi – Perched high above the forest, your stone cottage offers sweeping views and access to the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking.

Includes domestic flights within Uganda, park fees, full-board meals, and select beverages throughout.

Chimp trekking, game drives, river safaris and gorilla trekking – all in one epic journey.

This is the ultimate East African adventure for those craving raw beauty, rare wildlife, and luxurious lodges immersed in nature.

Message me to start planning your dream safari today.

Terms & Conditions: Subject to availability. Prices correct at time of posting. Based on 2 adults sharing. Flights to Uganda not included. Travel insurance available upon request.

11/06/2025

Uganda offers the kind of travel experiences you just don’t get anywhere else, from locking eyes with a wild mountain gorilla in the misty forest to cruising past hippos at sunset on the Nile. It’s raw, real, and completely unforgettable.

3 Must See Locations in Uganda

1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - This is one of the most powerful wildlife encounters you can have anywhere in the world.
Trek through thick jungle with expert guides, listening for clues and spotting signs, until you come face to face with a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Watching their behaviour up close, in complete silence, is humbling, emotional, and completely unforgettable.

2. Visit the Source of the Nile - Jinja is known as Uganda’s adventure capital, and it’s here that the mighty Nile River begins its epic journey from Lake Victoria. Whether you’re white-water rafting down rapids, gliding across calm waters on a sunset cruise, or soaking up the lively riverside atmosphere, this place offers a brilliant mix of natural beauty, culture, and adrenaline.

3. Shoebill Spotting in Mabamba Swamp - For something truly unusual, take a guided canoe trip through the Mabamba wetlands in search of the shoebill stork, a rare and almost prehistoric-looking bird found in very few places on Earth.
Gliding quietly through the reeds as mist rises off the water is an experience in itself, and spotting a shoebill in the wild feels like discovering a real-life dinosaur.

And if that’s not enough, Uganda still has more surprises up its sleeve, like tracking golden monkeys in the misty Virunga mountains, spotting tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, meeting the Batwa pygmies who once lived deep in the forest, or floating above the savannah on a sunrise hot air balloon safari.

This is a destination that delivers the unexpected, wild, authentic, and truly one of a kind.
Are you ready to discover Uganda?

Address

Great Cornard, Sudbury
Suffolk

Telephone

+447979382410

Website

https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/daragh.hanafin/

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