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0800 954 0068
Fleur Blanford
-
Senior Travel Consultant

What is your favourite thing about your job?

I love discussing the expectations of clients holidays and matching their requirements - then hearing all about their trip when they return.

Where would you like to visit next?

To take a self-drive car tour of Cuba. Having had plans spoiled by the pandemic this is still to do. From the vibrant and eclectic city of Havana to the beaches of Varadero, UNESCO World Heritage sights and National Parks it would be the most fascinating of places to visit and travel around.

What is your dream holiday destination?

Trekking in Nepal or Patagonia. Walking and mountains being passions, this would tick all the boxes. The drama of these destinations and their wildness would be just incredible to experience on foot with the support of the wonderful local Sherpas and guides.

What has been your favourite holiday, which you have booked for a customer, that you would love to take yourself?

Skiing in Canada. Being a keen skier this would be a departure from the wonderful slopes of Italy or France, but would be the most fantastic destination offering a totally different ski experience.

What were your favourite childhood holidays?

The opportunities for affordable travel when I was growing up were far, far less than they are now so we tended to stay in the UK. Norfolk Broads holidays were always a favourite and we once went to Oostende in Belgium - very glamorous! Although perhaps we didn't go far, it was always an adventure and the thrill of the journey itself was every bit as exciting as the destination. That joy of travel, however modest it was at that time has stayed with me since.

What are the first three things in your case?

1) Running trainers (the joy of running abroad in the early mornings is quite wonderful - especially in cities where you can see them come to life and you pass through the streets)

2) Local travel guide (in print - to make notes, highlight pages)

3) Travel binoculars (to see beyond the immediate)

Fleur

's Top Tips

1) Understand where you are going and try to learn a little about the local life and people and, it all possible a few local words.

2) Take your patience with you and be calm if things don't always go quite to plan - especially if you are going a little off the beaten track.

3) Have really good travel insurance to give you total piece of mind. Chances are you won't need it but in the worst case, you know you are in the best possible hands to help you resolve anything your adventure decides to throw at you.

Fleur

's Cruise Tips

1) Choose your ship and your itinerary wisely. With the huge choice now available you have literally a World of choice. That's where the experts at Fred. Olsen can really help to make sure you make the best possible decision.

2) Don't forget there are river cruises as well as sea cruises. The boats are smaller and there are plenty of options if you prefer a more active holiday.

3) If you really want to explore - consider the expedition cruising such as to the Artic and Antarctica. Some even have helipads and submarines for the ultimate in exploration.

My Favourite Memory

Greece! The most beautiful destination with literally everything. Beaches, mountains and stunning scenery. Whether it's the mainland or discovering any one of the multitude of varied islands (or several of them) there are opportunities for the most amazing walking and every watersport under the sun. The hospitality is the most genuine you will find anywhere and local cuisine is always quite delicious. Steeped in history and with an abundance of nature, Greece is the ideal destination for solo travelers, couples and families alike.

Find

Fleur

at...