Guest Blog
2 minute read
This month I would love to introduce you to a true professional in the travel industry. Julie Batchelor has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field and in this blog, she will be giving you a few examples of some wonderful places to visit.
Julie Batchelor, your Brilliant Travel Specialist
Don’t you just love the Sun on your face, the sand between your toes and making many happy memories?
Since I was 13 years old on my first holiday abroad to Salou, I got the travel bug and decided to join the Travel Industry when I left school. With over 16 years of experience and now running my own business as a Personal Travel Specialist, I’ve had the luxury of enjoying many happy holidays as well as travelling to destinations with work on Educational trips. I’ll share with you some of the best destinations I’ve travelled to.
Some of my favourites
One of the best experiences I had was a trip to Australia. I travelled to Melbourne, Sydney and Port Douglas. We spent the day at the Great Barrier Reef, which was just simply amazing. We went on a submarine and snorkelled, swimming with all the different species of fish and seeing lovely coral. We visited animal parks and even got to hold a Koala Bear. Something I’ll never forget and even bought the picture to take home.
Another trip was to Hawaii with a stop off at Los Angeles and Las Vegas for a few days each way. Each destination was so different. We stayed in Hollywood and following in the famous shoes of the stars. The bright lights of Las Vegas were great. We visited many hotels – seeing the world-famous Bellagio Fountains and even went on a Gondola at the Venetian hotel. And, of course, spent a few dollars gambling. Took a helicopter ride to the Grand Canyon then flew over the strip at sunset which was stunning. We stayed in Waikiki Beach in Ohau, which looks just like it does on the TV. The beaches are out of this world, people are so friendly and even tried some surfing and went to visit the Pearl Harbour site. Our highlight was a sunset cruise, which was so romantic!
What an incredible sight! 
The night lights of Las vegas
Treat the family
Last year, I treated my daughter to her dream holiday with a week in Orlando and a week in Mexico. She always wanted to swim with the dolphins, so we decided to do the full swim package including photos to share the memories.
I loved Aruba in the Caribbean which I travelled to for a few days with work for a Travel Industry conference. The sea was as clear as I’ve ever seen, hotels were out of this world with lovely small boutique style hotels to big all-inclusive 5* properties. Known as the Happy Island – it certainly delivered!
Not all holidays have been long-haul. I have a 14 year-old daughter and have travelled extensively across the Med/Europe.
My favourite beach holidays have been to Majorca and Menorca. I’ve been several times to both Islands. Majorca has quiet, scenic resorts to busier resorts such as Santa Ponsa or Magalluf. It has something to attract everyone. Menorca, is more relaxed, beaches out of this world and so easy to drive around and really escape.
Orlando 
Aruba
Ever tried All-Inclusive?
I have really enjoyed the All-inclusive concept over the years. It has become so popular with everything included – Food, drink, kids club, sports facilities, entertainment and loads more. This means you require limited spending money as you pay for everything up-front.
However, there is nothing better than getting out and about on holiday and really experiencing local food, culture and what is on offer in the country you are travelling to. I have enjoyed staying in European holiday parks, self-catering. Hiring a car or self-drive and really exploring the local area. Loved Lake Garda – Bella Italia campsite which has a great location on the lake and very central. Whilst I also love La Croix du Vieux Pont not too far from Paris and Disneyland Paris Resort.
Italy 
Beautiful beaches of Aruba
So why don’t you get in touch for a personalised, reliable service that takes the stress away from you? Wherever you decide, there is a world just waiting to be explored!
Julie Batchelor Brilliant Travel
www.JBBrillianttravel.co.uk