Jo Shayler Holidays

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Jo Shayler Holidays

My name is Jo Shayler and I'm an independent travel expert at Travel Counsellors. I'm Jo, and I want you to go away.

Sorry, I'll rephrase: I know and love travel, and I want to share. Great places, lovely people, new cultures - these are the rewards for a lifelong love of exploring, during which time I have forged connections with brilliant people at the best places.

I have lived in Geneva, Durban, Stockholm and Milan, and speak four languages. My career in travel began in the 90s and I've been an independent

travel expert with Holidaysplease since 2011. In 2021, I was proud to receive the ultimate accolade as the UK & Ireland’s Top Travel Agent along with being voted the UK’s Top Home-Based Agent at the TTG Travel Industry Awards. The North Essex coast is my current happy place.

30/01/2025

Introducing The Little Shore Hotel in Khao Lak, Thailand 🇹🇭

A short hop and a skip from the fabulous Elephant Hills and therefore a great place to regroup following the adventures with Nelly and her jungle friends 🐘🏞️

Annie was keen to show off her room-tour skills and hereby presents her private pool suite which was thoughtfully upgraded on arrival to include a "spare room for somebody who might annoy somebody else" 🤣 I usually call it the 'snore room'.

Our winter months are a great time to head east and you'll get a very decent level of lux in return for your buck too. Book at least 6 months in advance for the best hotel choices.

JST x

26/01/2025

“I’m not eating that foreign muck…” are not words that you’ll ever hear uttered by this inquisitive travel agent. 🧐

Khunjul is an explosive combination of cinnamon bark, galangal, cardamom, cloves, madder root, white pepper, mace, dry ginger and red chillis. It’s often referred to (euphemistically) as Moroccan spicy tea and there is no ill that it can not cure 👨‍⚕️

As you will see in the below clip it nearly took my head off! 🤯🤣

https://youtube.com/shorts/tKJJZcIGEl8?si=n7KjJWxz-GebCRQ_

I’ll try anything once… I just might not try it again 😉

JST x

23/01/2025

Just like a skinny chef, a static travel agent should be approached with caution. 😘

For my first departure in 2024 I was invited to stay with the legendary Constantinou Bros in Paphos where I thoroughly inspected all four of their beachfront establishments.

First up...

What?: Asimina Suites Hotel

Where?: Paphos, Cyprus 🇨🇾

When?: April until end October 🌞

Why?: 5 star, beachfront, adults-only opulence with exemplary service and first class eats

Perfect for?: Avoiding children during your precious and hard-earned down-time

How much?: from around £1000 per person for 5 nights with flights, private transfers and breakfast 💫

Yamas 🥗 🦑 🥙 🍢🥂

JST X

19/01/2025

Very few holiday enquiries warm the cockles of my heart in the way that a birthday, wedding, anniversary or honeymoon do. 🥰

With eons of experience under my belt I am skilled in extracting the maximum amount of lux from your precious hard-earned💰

Some hotel groups and operators, such as Beachcomber Tours, include hefty discounts on accommodation for such occasions… and then ice that cake with a choice of complimentary experiences whilst in resort. Sparkling wine with a welcome note on arrival are of course standard.

Mark and Jane recently celebrated 40 years of wedded bliss at the idyllic Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa and multiple husband-points were gained as a result 😉

https://bit.ly/3VOqsPR

All holidays are occasions worthy of celebration but if you’re planning to get hitched, have been successfully joined for several years (in a row!) or have a big birthday in the offing do get in touch. I add complimentary airport lounge passes and security fast-track to help see you off in style. 😎

JST x

12/01/2025

Deborah's father had a hankering for a bit of Hobie Cat Sailing in the South Pacific... sounds like a reasonable ask doesn't it? 🧐

It was tougher than you'd think to identify the perfect Fijian escape to enable this but the fabulous Tokoriki Island in the Mamanuca Islands delivered the goods and then some. 🌞

https://bit.ly/4ggl5Rh

"Jo perfectly delivered on a very specific brief for my octogenarian dad... In an oversubscribed industry, this travel agent’s success speaks volumes." - thank you Deborah 🥰

05/01/2025

I’m a few days late to the party (unlike me) but a very HAPPY NEW YEAR to each and every one of you. 🥳🎉

I hereby officially declare Jo Shayler Holidays powered by Travel Counsellors back in the saddle and working hard to make your holiday dreams a reality. (Terms and conditions apply 🥸)

In the aftermath of the festive season we all need a little something to look forwards to which is why this is the busiest booking period of the year (*cracks knuckles*). 💪

If you feel the need for some inspiration you’re in luck, my latest newsletter has just dropped and has been created for this very purpose. ⬇️👀

https://bit.ly/4fLJXzA

Drop me a line at [email protected] with your initial enquiry and we can take it from there, be it by phone, email, text, whatsapp or carrier pigeon. 🕊️

Love from JST x

21/12/2024

Dearest loyal followers and fans 🥰

This year I've decided to forgo my usual silly elf's hat and recorded festive message in favour of a static image which clearly shows me living my best life in Lapland 😎

Many of you are currently sunning yourselves in far balmier climes and I resent it not one jot... 🥸 I like nothing better than receiving your sunny holiday snaps whilst I slog away under a steely-grey sky 😜

The busiest booking time in the travel calendar approaches so don't forget to get ahead of the crowds and drop me a line with your travel aspirations for 2025, 2026 and 2027, all of which are now available.

https://bit.ly/405rBVM

Have a super Christmas break.

Love JST x

14/12/2024

Let’s talk about solo travel! 🧐

There’s been a big shift in how we are living our lives, with fewer marriages and births and more women landing top jobs. 💪 We have more independence and fewer ties to the home—and this isn’t just a passing trend; it’s been building for a while.

The idea that solo travel means being single, widowed, or divorced (and somehow sad about it) is way off the mark. The truth? It’s a brilliant story about people grabbing life with both hands and making the most of their opportunities. 🙌

What's more, you have me to hold your hand every step of the way 😇

Don't take my word for it, take Marilyn's!

https://bit.ly/4eUMjws

With Christmas and the busiest booking period in travel fast-approaching Jo Shayler-Tarrant could do with some ‘solo travel’ of her own… just don’t tell the husband! 😎

01/12/2024

🏉🏏 Where the World Meets Adventure and Sport! 🦘🌿

Australia and New Zealand aren't just bucket-list destinations for jaw-dropping landscapes, bustling cities, and unbeatable coastlines—they’re also the ultimate arenas for next year’s biggest sporting showdowns!

In this blog I dive into the vibrant cultures, hidden gems, and iconic sights of these two incredible nations, all while soaking up the excitement of their sporting fever.

Cute endemic species snaps included... because I felt like it! 🥰

Tag along if you’re ready to explore, cheer, and live it up Down Under and across the ditch. 🌏✈️

https://bit.ly/4dZOddX

13/11/2024

🇲🇦 5 night/ 6 day Private Moroccan Adventure from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert. 🇲🇦

As a frequent visitor to Marrakech I jumped on my invitation to join Not In The Guidebooks for their 5 night private tour through the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert with enormous glee!

From £1245 per person, including:

• Flights
• A choice of standard, comfort or luxury accommodation
• 2 nights with breakfast in Marrakech
• 1 night, dinner and breakfast in Ait Ben Haddou
• 1 night, dinner and breakfast in Erg Chebbi Desert
• 1 night, dinner and breakfast in Ouarzazate
• Private minibus with A/C, English-speaking driver/guide, at your disposal
• (Ethical) Camel ride in the desert of Merzouga to reach the camp or 4 x 4 jeep alternative

If you have more time I'd highly recommend adding a night at Todra Gorge and an additional night in the desert to break up the travel time. 😎

My pictures don't do it justice but if you'd like to learn more about this entirely authentic and immersive journey please do get in touch.

P.S. No animals were harmed during this experience 😘 Morocco has laws in place to ensure that the camels are well looked after and I witnessed the care conditions with my own (very critical) eyes 👀 🐪

08/11/2024

My Moroccan Odyssey, part one: Sofitel Palais Imperial, Marrakech 🥰

Before embarking on a three day escapade to the Mergouza Desert with Not In The Guidebooks I wanted to drop in on my dear friend Romayssa at Sofitel Palais Imperial for a pre-trek injection of glamour 💋

Given the central location, a short walk from Jemaa Fna and the super hip Hivernage district, this oasis of Moroccan charm and calm is a balm for the soul. 🧘

It's rare to find a big brand hotel which reflects and embraces a country's culture and personality with such commitment. 🙌

Sofitel Palais Imperial has all the style and elegance of La Mamounia but without the eyewatering price tag and is a perfect base for a 3 night city break in the Red City. 🇲🇦

You heard it here first 😘💪

24/10/2024

Previously scuppered by the pesky pandemic and subsequent life events, Ann and Chip's holiday to the Maldives with Tony and Jackie had been years in the planning.

A few weeks before departure life threw yet another of its curveballs at them, once again forcing a tricky decision to cancel.

Tony and Jackie decided to bravely (😘) soldier on and head to Atmosphere Kanifushi without them...
.. so on receiving the fabulous, if rather last-minute, news that they would after all be able to join them in paradise, we decided to keep it a secret 🙊 🤐

A heartwarming tale of lifelong friendship, holiday besties and joyful surprises at LGW's North Terminal 💖 🥳

Happy holidays folks. Always a pleasure.

JST
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Introducing The Little Shore Hotel in Khao Lak, Thailand 🇹🇭 A short hop and a skip from the fabulous Elephant Hills and therefore a great place to regroup following the adventures with Nelly and her jungle friends 🐘🏞️ Annie was keen to show off her room-tour skills and hereby presents her private pool suite which was thoughtfully upgraded on arrival to include a "spare room for somebody who might annoy somebody else" 🤣 I usually call it the 'snore room'. Our winter months are a great time to head east and you'll get a very decent level of lux in return for your buck too. Book at least 6 months in advance for the best hotel choices. JST x #TheLittleShore #khaolak #elephanthills #thailand

Asimina Suites Hotel

Just like a skinny chef, a static travel agent should be approached with caution. 😘 For my first departure in 2024 I was invited to stay with the legendary Constantinou Bros in Paphos where I thoroughly inspected all four of their beachfront establishments. First up... What?: Asimina Suites Hotel Where?: Paphos, Cyprus 🇨🇾 When?: April until end October 🌞 Why?: 5 star, beachfront, adults-only opulence with exemplary service and first class eats Perfect for?: Avoiding children during your precious and hard-earned down-time How much?: from around £1000 per person for 5 nights with flights, private transfers and breakfast 💫 Yamas 🥗 🦑 🥙 🍢🥂 JST X #constantinoubroshotels #Paphos #asiminasuites

My Moroccan Odyssey, part one: Sofitel Palais Imperial, Marrakech 🥰 Before embarking on a three day escapade to the Mergouza Desert with Not In The Guidebooks I wanted to drop in on my dear friend Romayssa at Sofitel Palais Imperial for a pre-trek injection of glamour 💋 Given the central location, a short walk from Jemaa Fna and the super hip Hivernage district, this oasis of Moroccan charm and calm is a balm for the soul. 🧘 It's rare to find a big brand hotel which reflects and embraces a country's culture and personality with such commitment. 🙌 Sofitel Palais Imperial has all the style and elegance of La Mamounia but without the eyewatering price tag and is a perfect base for a 3 night city break in the Red City. 🇲🇦 You heard it here first 😘💪

Previously scuppered by the pesky pandemic and subsequent life events, Ann and Chip's holiday to the Maldives with Tony and Jackie had been years in the planning. A few weeks before departure life threw yet another of its curveballs at them, once again forcing a tricky decision to cancel. Tony and Jackie decided to bravely (😘) soldier on and head to Atmosphere Kanifushi without them... ... so on receiving the fabulous, if rather last-minute, news that they would after all be able to join them in paradise, we decided to keep it a secret 🙊 🤐 A heartwarming tale of lifelong friendship, holiday besties and joyful surprises at LGW's North Terminal 💖 🥳 Happy holidays folks. Always a pleasure. JST X

It's finally happening, and the pre-launch nerves are kicking in! 🎧 Here’s a sneak peek of I Want You To Go Away – my brand-new podcast where I sit down with Fay Swinton-Berry, my trusty travel companion and long-suffering friend, to chat all things travel. ✈️ We’re sharing quirky moments, hidden gems, and, of course, some of the ridiculous mishaps we’ve encountered along the way. Our first episode tackles a subject close to many hearts: hotel gripes. Granted, they’re First World problems, but that doesn’t mean they don’t grind our gears! This is just the beginning! The full episode drops on International Podcast Day, 30th September. Stay tuned for links and subscription details! We had a blast recording this, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Go easy on us folks: I won’t be quitting my day job anytime soon, I promise 😘 #IWantYouToGoAway #joshaylerholidays #travelpodcast #InternationalPodcastDay #mintyhighway

Time to squeeze in some long-overdue supplier-schmoozing hosted by House of Kooser at the legendary St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London. One of my favourite buildings in London, this Grade I listed structure still boasts the original ticket booking office (now a sumptuous bar), suites with a direct view of the departure platforms, and, rather less prestigiously, the famous staircase featured in the Spice Girls Wannabe music vid. A-zig-a-zig aahh. 🚆🧳 Seat to Suite ↔️ Suite to Seat 🧳🚆 If you book a suite at the hotel before/ after travel by Eurostar you'll be collected from your train seat, checked in and escorted to your suite, and vice versa. Sadly I had to make my way home on the 2018h Greater Anglia out of Liverpool Street and kip in my own bed... but maybe next time 😘 #RenaissanceStPancras #marriottbonvoy #Eurostar #houseofkooser

Never let it be said that I don't like the sound of my own voice 😘 #podcast #joshaylerholidays #luxurytravel

Q: How did I miss International Beach Day at the weekend? 🌏 A: I was at the beach, obvs! 🐋 12 years ago I ditched the Big Smoke for the north east coast of Essex and its huge sandy beaches remain one of my happiest places to be. The Caribbean and Indian Ocean can be so tediously predictable by comparison 😉 I am fortunate to have lounged upon many an exotic sandy shore in my brief time on this planet, but as the great British summer comes to an underwhelming anti-climax, I’m choosing to celebrate all things beach with a montage of this season’s best bits. 👌 🏊‍♂️🧘 Happy belated Beach Day. ⛱️ #eastcoastyoga #eastcoast5 #frintononsea #waltononthenaze #NationalBeachDay

Jo Shayler Holidays top tip 😎 When staying at the finest adults-only all-inclusive hotel in Ibiza, don't leave the best bit 'til last 🌟 Epic Travel Agent fail! 🤭 TRS Ibiza Hotel you were FAB-U-LOUS 😍💋 #TRSIbizaHotel #PalladiumHotelGroup #ibiza #mintyhighway

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