Mike

With over twelve years of experience in the tourism industry, working with major tour operators and guiding thousands of travellers throughout Great Britain, Ireland, Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East, I have gained extensive travel experience across these regions. Before my career in tourism, I spent over twenty-five years as an expatriate, living and working in countries such as Saudi Arabia, West Africa, and Southern Africa. My broad international experience has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of diverse cultures and landscapes. I find inspiration in exploring new cultures and tasting regional cuisines. When I travel internationally, I engage with local traditions, build genuine connections, and embrace each destination’s distinctive food. My travels have included, but are not limited to, river cruises, mountain adventures, tours throughout Europe, swimming in the Dead Sea, discovering Ireland’s vibrant cultures, and visiting ancient Japanese temples. Every trip has expanded my outlook and deepened my appreciation of worldwide diversity. One of my most unforgettable adventures unfolded whilst working in Saudi Arabia. Accompanied by a pair of like-minded colleagues, we unexpectedly discovered ancient wells that had been dug over 3,000 years ago. These wells once formed a crucial part of the Silk Route, stretching from China all the way to Venice. As we explored further, we encountered an archaeological excavation revealing the remains of a Christian church, which had last been used around 1,500 years ago. Witnessing history come alive in such a tangible way was both awe-inspiring and deeply humbling. Travel, for me, is a continual source of inspiration. Every journey broadens my perspective and leaves a lasting impression, reminding me of the power of cultural exchange and the joy of new discoveries. Having led over 200 tours across three continents, I have accumulated a wealth of practical experience as an International Tour Leader. This has given me invaluable insights into guiding groups through a diverse range of destinations, including the ancient temples of Japan, the vibrant cities of Italy, and the untamed landscapes of Africa. Drawing upon these years of first-hand experience, I am now focused on using my expertise as a travel advisor. My dedication lies in helping clients plan holidays that are both memorable and inspiring. My goal is to share the knowledge gained from my travels with my clients, advising them and creating holiday itineraries in a cost-effective manner. I specialise in crafting personalised travel plans that fuse local knowledge with insider tips, ensuring that each journey is unique and budget-friendly. I'm thrilled to work with Travelovin and look forward to helping plan your next trip abroad.

When creating travel itineraries, I review clients' needs such as age, gender, budget, and physical abilities. I tailor trips based on preferences like destination type, group size, board options, and desired experiences. I also consider whether they want activities included in the total price and factor in trip length and destination. Crafting travel itineraries is a bit like being a detective with a suitcase—every clue matters! Before I set foot on the planning treadmill, I put on my imaginary monocle and try to deduce everything from your favourite snack to your tolerance for enthusiastic ziplining. Age, gender, budget, and even how gracefully you can hike up Mount Everest (or just the local hill) are weighed with the precision of a seasoned juggler. I’ve planned adventures for solo explorers who prefer quiet beaches, raucous groups determined to out-shout parrots in rainforests, and families looking for the perfect mix of sun, fun, and good Wi-Fi. There’s always a twist: Do you want every activity bundled into one neat price, or do you prefer surprise expenses that pop up like unexpected monkeys? And of course, trip length and where you’re heading play the starring roles in this theatrical production—I promise, no drama unless you ask for it!