It's no coincidence that January is a popular time to book a holiday. The festive season is over and we need something to look forward to under these grey winter skies. 

Planning those two weeks, or longer if you fancy an adventure, is easier said than done. There's so much choice and the way we book has changed too. Not many of us flick through those glossy brochures, pick our destination and head off to the high street travel agent anymore. Instead, we are encouraged to plan it all ourseleves, foraging for the best deals on the internet. 

Personally, I like an expert to take care of things. Thankfully we can have the best of both worlds in the form of an independent travel agent. Travel Counsellors is a great example of this. With Travel Counsellors, there's a real person, working for you, taking on board all your requirements, finding the best deals and you are protected should anything unexpected happen. It's like having a 'personal shopper' finding you your ideal holiday.

KUKShades has collaborated with a local Travel Counsellor and I must say I'm really impressed by the service they offer. My local Travel Counsellor is Claire Walker. She's lovely! She can book you anything from your honeymoon, family holiday, luxery retreat or weekend break. Anything you want, she'll work hard to find it for you.

Here's the link to her profile: www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/claire.walker

There's also a growing number of independent agents working for themselves. Through the Small Business Sunday network I discovered Travel With Jules. Jules Croucher is an expert at those big, wild adventures. So if you fancy a safari or driving Route 66, she's your lady. Jules is also ATOL protected, so you can book with confidence.

Here's the link to her website: www.travelwithjules.co.uk

If you are lucky enough to get away this year, have fun and don't forget to come back to KUKShades for all your holiday essentials!

Safe travels,

Candice xx