Independent travel expert here to help find you the perfect holiday! Please get in touch to start pl
📣I'VE MOVED!
Thank you for visiting my travel page!
If you're looking for a travel specialist to help you plan and book your next holiday, I have relocated my business page and you can now find me here 👉 Amanda Rudham, Travel Counsellors
Please follow the link above to find all my latest travel news, offers and inspiration.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Amanda
☎️ 01244 456160
🌐 https://tinyurl.com/AmandaRudham
📧 [email protected]
Named one of the Best New Cruise Ships & Itineraries in the World in the Condé Nast Traveller Hot List 2020, the state-of-the-art Celebrity Flora® is the first ship of its kind to have been designed and built specifically with the thrilling destination of the Galapagos islands in mind.
https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/gb/leisure/explore/discover-the-galapagos-with-celebrity-cruises?selecteduser=jon.downes
Take a look at the awards we have won in the last 5 years. I'm very proud to be part of Travel Counsellors. When you are ready to travel again, I will be here for you.
NEW! Disney Magic at Sea sailings go on sale Friday 30 April.
We have now confirmed our itineraries departing on select dates from Liverpool, Southampton, Newcastle and London Tilbury aboard the Disney Magic.
Our new staycation sailings – exclusive to UK residents – invite you to embark on a brand-new magical Disney experience.
To find out more visit https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/gb/leisure/explore/new-uk-staycations-with-disney-magic-at-sea/jon.downes
Available to UK residents only. Select ports on select dates. Subject to availability, health and safety requirements and government approval. Conditions apply.
UK Cruise All Inclusive Staycation
🌈Healthcare workers can save up to 50% on these prices!!
MSC have announced they will be operating a number of short breaks and 7 night sailings around the British Isles in 2021.
MSC Virtuosa is a state of the art ship offering something for everyone and this summer UK residents and their families of all ages can experience this incredible next generation beauty.
With amazing facilities including:
10 Restaurants 🥘
21 Bars 🥂
5 swimming pools 🏊♀️
945 seated theatre 🎭
Aqua park
XD cinema 🎟
Gym 👟
Spa
And so much more........
With prices starting at £499 for a 4 night cruise and 7 nights from £849. Prices include Premium drinks package and gratuities it’s a fantastic All Inclusive experience.
The enhanced Yacht Club experience offers something special offering private accommodation, panoramic lounge speciality gourmet restaurant and private pool and sun deck. Great for spoiling yourselves.
On sale now with sailings from the end of May these are sure to be very popular and will sell out fast.
Please note for peace of mind MSC are offering flexible booking conditions.
Don't hesitate to get in touch to start planning your next cruise.
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Put the sound on...this is beautiful
The events of the past year have taught us many things, including the fact that being able to spend quality time with family and friends has never felt so important.
We’ve missed exploring the world with the people that mean the most to us and as we look forward, I’ll keep your wellbeing at the heart of everything I do.
I hope you enjoy reliving your travel memories with us as you watch our film, and when you’re ready to travel again I’ll be here for you, both for trips around the UK, and to distant shores.
Sri Lanka - Private Tour
Discover stunning scenery, wildlife, golden beaches, lush rainforests, history and culture on this incredible ten-night tour. We can also create a tailor-made trip to suit you.
🗓Travel on 1 Mar 2022
✈️Return flights from London Heathrow
✔2nts stay in Habarana Village by Cinnamon
🛏Superior room, Bed & Breakfast
✔2nts stay in Cinnamon Citadel, Kandy
🛏Superior room, Bed & Breakfast
✔2nts stay in The Blackpool, Nuwara Eliya
🛏Deluxe room, Bed & Breakfast
✔2nts stay in Big Game by Eco Team,Yala
🛏Tented camps, Half Board
✔2nts stay in Amari Galle
🛏Deluxe ocean view, Bed & Breakfast
✔Entrance fees to
•Sigiriya Rock Fortress
•Minneriya National Park & 1 Jeep Safari
•The Temple of the Tooth Relic
•Tea Factory and Plantation
•Yala National Park & 1 Jeep Safari
•Whale Watching in Mirissa
•Stilt Fishermen in Koggala
Deposit £150pp
From only £1845pp
✈️London Heathrow fr£1845pp
✈️Birmingham fr£1949pp
✈️Newcastle fr£1965pp
✈️Glasgow fr£1965pp
Travel Counsellors provide full financial protection, expert advice, personal service, in resort support and 24/7 Duty Office to assist before, during and even after your travels.
Don't hesitate to get in touch for a tailor-made quote to start planning your next adventure.
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Happy Easter folks! 🐰
Enjoy the Easter weekend 😎🐰☀️
Here in the UK - only this summer! Introducing Disney Magic at Sea. New 2, 3 and limited 4 night staycation sailings into pure Disney storytelling.
Booking begins this month for sailings in Summer 2021! To pre-register your interest, please contact me today as these unique experiences will be extremely popular
📧[email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Cunard returns this summer with a collection of thirteen new itineraries on board Queen Elizabeth, exclusively for UK guests.
Sailing from July through to October, these voyages will range from 3 to 12 nights and will sail directly from Southampton and back.
You can absorb the beauty of Britain’s ever-changing coastline with scenic sailings, explore sparkling cities on UK shores, or embark on the perfect summertime journey, spending seven nights at sea, sailing wherever the sun shines brightest.
Below is a small selection of what will be available. Please contact me for more details.
Don't forget the clocks go forward one hour tonight which signals the start of British Summer Time.
We can finally look forward to lighter nights and the promise of warmer weather.
Have a great weekend folks! 😎
Vancouver & Whistler
I've recently booked a Canadian honeymoon for my very happy clients combining a 3 night break in the iconic city of Vancouver with a 10 night ski trip in the stunning resort of Whistler.
My clients love to ski but wanted to combine the trip with a city break to make it extra special. Why not have the best of both worlds and make your honeymoon a multi-centre holiday.
⭐ Flights direct with Air Canada
⭐ Private Airport Transfers
⭐ Pan Pacific Hotel, Vancouver
⭐️ 3 nights in a Deluxe Room
⭐ Car Hire or Private Transfers
⭐ Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler
⭐️ 10 nights in a Deluxe Studio Suite
⭐ Ski Hire & Lift Passes
⭐ From £3290 per person
⭐️ Depart 12th Jan 2022
⭐️ Deposit £250 per person
Travel Counsellors provide full financial protection, expert advice, personal service, in resort support and 24/7 Duty Office to assist before, during and even after your travels.
Don't hesitate to get in touch for a tailor-made quote to start planning your next adventure.
📧[email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Did you know I can help with everything including flights, hotels, villas, transfers, car hire, excursions and travel insurance.
I also provide expert advice on the latest travel restrictions, visas, vaccinations and entry requirements to keep you safe and well.
Take advantage of exclusive benefits including full financial protection, flexible booking options, personal service, expert advice and a 24/7 duty office to assist you before, during and even after your travels.
Travel Counsellors are a global network of travel professionals which means I have access to the very latest first hand knowledge on your favorite destinations, so if I haven’t been there myself, I know someone who has!
When you’re ready to start planning your next escape, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
📧[email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
We all like to receive good feedback and I'm proud of my customer reviews. Don’t just take my word for it, take a look for yourself. You can view all my reviews on my website link below but here's a few highlights to get you started...
"I always score Jon 10 out of 10 as he does a fantastic job looking after all the details - big or small- for us when booking holidays for us. We have had a Summer holiday in Rhodes and 2 ski holidays booked by Jon. When we can travel again we will be contacting him again!" Helen Moon
"Jon was responsive, helpful, supportive and friendly. He was patient yet responded in a very timely manner. Friendly and overall I felt he was putting out needs and wishes first, along with sharing details of suppliers and plenty of details. Thank you" Laura Rossignoli
"Brilliant service, very friendly and very fast at responding with ideas and quotations! Thanks very much Jon!" Ben Jones
"Jon has just organised an amazing holiday in Sri Lanka . Everything was done to last detail we couldn’t recommend him highly enough and will definitely be using him again .. top service. Thank you! " James Mackenzie
"Jon arranged a fantastic holiday for my wife and myself. We spent time in Vietnam and Cambodia in both hotels and on a Mekon river cruise followed on by two days in Bangkok and a further weeks beach holiday in Hau Hin in Thailand. The great thing is that all the hotels were good, they also expected us (always a worry when so far from home) and all the transfers worked and took place according to time. The secret for success was attention to detail by Jon and we would certainly look at him for any future holiday" Charles Smeaton
"Jon is such a lovely helpful man. This is the second holiday we have booked with him. He looked after us so well on our first trip, we really don't want to book elsewhere anymore. Fabulous service and really lovely guy." Ronnie Kershaw
"We always use Jon for all our travel arrangements, he is always very helpful, reliable and organised. " Elizabeth Kerley
Visit my website for more reviews, inspiration, travel blogs and expert travel advice.
https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
**Vietnam escorted tour**
Spend eight days in Vietnam discovering the highlights and traditions of this colourful country. Take part in enriching local encounters as your tour leader shows you the soul of this diverse pocket of Asia.
Get lost in the districts of Hanoi, cruise past the limestone karsts of Halong Bay, discover the colonial charm of Hoi An, and navigate the winding streets and chaotic traffic of Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnam is sure to surprise, delight and excite, so discover places of eternal beauty that have also played crucial roles in history.
📆 Advertised Date: Jan 20th - 28th 2022 (More dates available throughout 2022)
What's Included?
🍜 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
🛺 Transport: Boat, Plane, Private minibus
⛺ Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights), Overnight Boat (1 night)
👩🍳 Other Activities:
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Hanoi - Welcome Dinner
Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
Hanoi - Hat Xam performance
Halong Bay - Tai Chi
Hanoi - Temple of Literature
Hanoi - Koto Restaurant lunch
Hanoi - One Pillar Pagoda
Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Complex: Ho Chi Minh, Stilt House and Museum
Hoi An - Good Afternoon Amaravati
Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels
Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace
Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
Ho Chi Minh City - Notre Dame Cathedral
Ho Chi Minh City - City tour
⭐ Premium Inclusions
Arrival airport transfer
Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
Luggage transfer
Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
24/7 on-ground support
Other Information:
Min Age: 15 (No Max)
Max Group Size: 12
Physical Rating: 2/5
With Flights From:
✈ London Gatwick £1,931pp | Dep: £200pp
✈ Manchester £1,969pp | Dep: £200pp
✈ Edinburgh £1,943pp | Dep: £200pp
✈ Birmingham £1,943pp | Dep: £200pp
✈ Newcastle £2,075pp | Dep: £200pp
✈ Cardiff £2,469pp | Dep: £200pp
✈ Belfast £2,041pp | Dep: £200pp
✈ Dublin €2,541pp | Dep: €1,255pp
*Prices above are based on twin/ double share. Solo travellers have the option to share with someone of the same gender. For those wanting their own room, a single supplement of £180 / €205 is available.
Intrepid escorted tours are a trusted partner of Travel Counsellors.
Travel Counsellors provide full financial protection, expert advice, personal service, in resort support and 24/7 Duty Office to assist before, during and even after your travels.
If you prefer a longer, more relaxed tour there are 15 day options too, ask me for more details.
If a small group tour isn't for you, I can create a tailor-made Vietnam holiday just for you, don't hesitate to get in touch.
📧[email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Today we celebrate International Day of Happiness. As the world faces unprecedented challenges, our wellbeing matters more than ever. Let’s all take action to be happier and kinder, together.
Morocco twin-centre
⭐️ Palais Sebban, Marrakech, 3 nights on bed & breakfast
⭐️ Kasbah Angour, Atlas Mountains, 4 nights on bed & breakfast
⭐️ Private transfers included
⭐️ Depart 6 October 2021
⭐️ ATOL protected
✈️ Gatwick from £799pp
✈️ Manchester from £879pp
£150pp deposit
Subject to availability, based on 2 adults sharing. Don’t hesitate to get in touch for more information.
📧[email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Happy Mother’s Day ❤️
Visit Iceland to see the Northern Lights
⭐Flights from Manchester to Reykjavik
⭐3 nights Hotel with breakfast
⭐Transfers throughout
⭐From £885 per person
Includes excursions:
⭐Northern Lights Cruise
⭐Golden Circle Classic Tour
⭐Blue Lagoon entrance
Includes local expert guides for a truly authentic experience.
Day 1
The Blue Lagoon is considered one of the New Wonders of the World. Enjoy a relaxing visit in the geothermal waters rich with three active ingredients – Silica, Algae & Minerals.
The Northern Lights cruise will depart in the evening allow you to embark on a mission to see the Northern Lights, which are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful celestial displays found in nature.
Day 2
Enjoy a full day visiting 3 of Iceland’s most popular attractions. Today you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Þingvellir National Park, follow in the footsteps of Vikings when walking down the lava canyon where the American and Eurasian Continents have dramatically pulled apart. Watch the infamous Geysir erupting, home of the one-and-only original geyser and Iceland’s most iconic natural attraction. Walk down to Gullfoss Waterfall which is a magnificent sight to behold. All this in under 8 hours!
Day 3
At leisure in Reykjavik - spend the day exploring this beautiful city or take advantage of the many additional excursions that Iceland has to offer.
Day 4
Return to the UK
Other departure airports available. Don't hesitate to get in touch for more details or a tailor-made itinerary.
☎️ 0151 348 1612
📧 [email protected]
Confidence is growing in booking holidays again as many of us start planning our next adventure.
I’ve been busy helping clients with a wide range of holidays for later in 2021 and into 2022 including UK Staycations for the Summer, Greek islands for later in the Summer, Iceland and the Northern Lights for November, Dubai and The Maldives for Christmas and Ski trips for Feb half term 2022.
Where will your next holiday escape be?
Thailand Family Holiday including Elephant Hills 🐘
10 nights Family of 4 total price from £3999 total saving up to £875!!
Check these travel dates, includes Spring Half Term👇
🗓 1st May - 15th June 2022
✈️ fly from Manchester or Heathrow with Singapore Airlines
🏨 3nts 4* Briza Beach Resort, Khao Lak
🛌 Family Garden Room
🍽 bed & breakfast
🏕 2nts 4* Jungle Safari, Elephant Hills, Khao Sok National Park
⛺️ Luxury Tent
🍽 Full Board
Activities all included at Elephant Hills:
🐘Elephant Experience: Feeding and interacting with Asia’s largest land animal.
🛶 Canoe Safari down the Sok River
🍉Visit a local market in Takhun to experience Thailand’s rural lifestyle.
🌊 Boat Trip. Sightseeing in a traditional longtail boat on Cheow Larn Lake.
🍜Lunch and free time at the Rainforest Camp.
🛶 Self paddle canoes are available to explore the lake.
🎥 Evening Activities: movie presentation, dance performances and cooking demonstration
🌴Jungle trekking
🏨 5nts 4* Centara Karon Resort, Phuket
🛌 Deluxe at the Lagoon Room
🍽 Bed & Breakfast
🚙 transfers included
Book by 31 March 2021 with £400 per family deposit
Prices are based on 2 adults sharing with 2 children aged 4 - 11 yrs*, subject to availability and our advance registration policy
*minimum child age at Elephant Hills is 4 years
Please don't hesitate to get in touch for a personalised quotation.
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
UK Staycation in Weymouth
Sitting beside the harbour of Brewers Quay in Weymouth is Smugglers Cottage, a contemporary property in the heart of the town, close to the popular Weymouth Beach. This three-storey cottage is ideal for a couple or small family looking for a stylish abode close to the picturesque Dorset coast.
What’s included:
• 7 nights at Smugglers Cottage, Dorset
• Self-catering
• Departing 21/08/21
• Sleep up to 4 people
7 nights from £1,955 per cottage
https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/Offers/Seaside-Cottage-in-Dorset?selecteduser=jon.downes
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Luxury all-inclusive Caribbean
⭐️ Galley Bay Resort & Spa, Antigua
⭐️ Deluxe Beachfront Suite
⭐️ All-inclusive
⭐️ Depart 10 June 2022, 7 nights
⭐️ Heathrow flights with Virgin Atlantic
⭐️ Private transfers
⭐️ Adults only 5 star resort
⭐️ £2599 per person
⭐️ Deposit £125 per person
Treat yourself to an authentic Caribbean getaway at the Adults-Only Galley Bay Resort & Spa in Antigua. Set between one of the best beaches on the island and acres of lush tropical gardens, this All-Inclusive boutique resort delights guests with a refined, yet unpretentious atmosphere. Ideal for couples and newlyweds seeking a romantic getaway, both adventure and tranquility are on the menu at this award-winning tropical paradise.
Don't hesitate to get in touch for more information on this or any other luxury Caribbean escape.
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
All-Inclusive at Ikos Oceana, Halkidiki
This magnificent all-inclusive resort with stunning sea views, golden beaches and top-notch kids’ and teen clubs is the perfect family getaway destination.
Lagoon-style pools and fun evening entertainment will tempt you to stay on site, but nearby vineyards and charming villages allow a glimpse into traditional Greek style and culture.
Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions on travel restrictions over the summer and beyond.
https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/Offers/Lavish-allinclusive-in-Halkidiki?selecteduser=jon.downes
⭐️ 7 nights at Ikos Oceania, Halkidiki
⭐️ Double Room, Ultra all-inclusive
⭐️ Fly easyJet from London Luton
⭐️ Depart 1 July 2021
⭐️ Private transfers
⭐️ Save 15% on ultra-all-inclusive
7 nights from £1,489 per person
Book by 31/03/2021
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Happy World Book Day 😊
Homeschooling, zoom calls and the same four walls have been the order of the day for some time now and what we really need is an escape. A chance to spend time together doing the things that we love and will look back on fondly in years to come; no matter whether that's in the UK, Europe or further afield.
That’s why I’ve pulled together the places that put family connection at the fore and included the top recommendations from the Travel Counsellors community, so that when you feel safe to travel, your family can enjoy the quality time you deserve.
https://travelcounsellors.foleon.com/magazine/family/quality-time/?t=90602
🎄❄️Lapland Holidays on sale!❄️🎄
For the ultimate family trip of a lifetime, whisk your little ones away on a festive adventure to Finland to Santa's home and experience a world of magic.
Filled with endless festive fun in a magical snow-covered landscape, taking a trip to Lapland will be a Christmas holiday you and your family will never forget! But be quick, it is definitely no surprise that availability sells out unbelievably fast.
Due to unprecedented demand there is limited availability left for December 2021 but you can now book well ahead for December 2022!
Book for December 2022 now with a deposit of £150 per person and the final balance won't be due until September 2022.
Customers with a 'myTC' account can use their app to pay their balance in flexible instalments if they wish.
Don't hesitate to get in touch for more information.
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Did you know Travel Counsellors are a trusted travel partner of Jet2 so I can book their holidays too!
In fact, we work with hundreds of trusted travel partners so the choice is huge and we can always find you the perfect holiday.
Save yourself time and benefit from full financial protection, expert advice and personal service at a time to suit you.
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0151 348 1612
🌐 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jon.downes
Hello March! Spring is in the air and I feel optimistic about the future. Travel is picking up again and I have new enquiries for holidays as customers plan trips for later in 2021 and into 2022. Stay safe and well everyone 😎
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What will your Summer story be?
What if you could combine the beauty of the wilderness with the ultimate in luxury? That's exactly what world-renowned rail company Rocky Mountaineer offer onboard GoldLeaf Service. Take a look at this brilliant video and don't hesitate to get in touch to start planning your breathtaking journey through Western Canada.
Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?
Hi, my name is Jon and I’m a personal travel consultant based in Chester.
I provide a professional, bespoke holiday planning and advice service and I’m backed by Travel Counsellors who provide access to state of the art booking systems, IT and Commercial teams. Everything I book is 100% financially protected.
I come with over 20 years travel industry experience and I’ve been lucky to have travelled the world extensively, both independently and with my work.
So, what can I help you with?
Tailor-made Itineraries * Beach Holidays * City Breaks * Family Holidays * Ski Holidays *Cruises *Safari * Weddings & Honeymoons * Luxury Escapes * European Getaways * Flights * Hotels * Villas * Car Hire * UK Holidays * Travel Insurance
I have access to an extensive range of vetted suppliers so I can build an itinerary to suit your personal taste and budget. Allow me to take away the stress of organising your travel arrangements and rest assured that you have chosen a Travel Counsellor who not only strives for excellent customer care, but will always go that extra mile to ensure you have the perfect holiday.
What are the benefits of having your own Travel Counsellor?
Save yourself time: I have direct access to an extensive range of vetted suppliers around the world so I can easily search all the airlines, hotels and other travel products to find the holiday that best fits your requirements. Save yourself the time and hassle and allow me to do the work for you.
Financial Protection: Travel Counsellors provide full financial protected against supplier failure, so if the airline or hotel ceases trading, then your money is fully protected. The internet and other travel providers don’t always offer the same level of protection.
Personal service: It will always be me that deals with your holiday or travel arrangements. If you ring a call centre or book on the internet, it will be someone different each time who may not care as much. We make it a personal one-to-one experience.
Always available at a time to suit you: You will have my direct phone number, mobile and email address so if you need to get in touch at any time you can, at a time to suit you, whether it’s in the evening or at the weekend. I’m also available when you are away on your holiday and our customer support team are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Give me a call or send me an email and I’ll be happy to arrange your perfect holiday.
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page” – St Augustine
