The Professional Traveller

The Professional Traveller

The Professional Traveller – Bargain Trips I’ve Booked

£500 for 9 night trip to Baku and Istanbul (including 6 flights and all accommodations)

£250 for 4 night trip to Valencia including 4 flights and self-catering apartment with jacuzzi

£250 for 4 night stay in Vilamoura in a suite with half board

£250 for 4 night stay in Alicante in 4-star seaside hotel including 4 flights

£70 for year long travel insurance with a health condition and Covid cover

£180 for 3 night trip including flights to Riga staying in 2 bedroom apartment

£300 for 4 night half board trip to Monte Gordo including flights staying in a junior suite

Latest Testimonials

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Professional Traveller Podcast

Quick Links to Professional Traveller Resources

Latest Travel Inspiration Posts

• 
  Days Inn Lockerbie Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Days Inn Lockerbie 1. Days Inn Lockerbie Address The address of the hotel is; Roadchef Annandale Water, Lockerbie, DG11 1HD 2. Days Inn Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 0844 225 0789 3. Getting to the Days Inn Lockerbie Days Inn … Read more
• 
  Cairn Hotel Bathgate Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Cairn Hotel Bathgate 1. Cairn Hotel Bathgate Address The address of the hotel is; Blackburn Road, Bathgate, EH48 2EL 2. Cairn Hotel Bathgate Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 01506 633366 3. Getting to the Cairn Hotel Getting to the hotel … Read more
• 
  Travelodge Central Edinburgh Review And Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Travelodge Central Edinburgh 1. Travelodge Central Edinburgh Address The address of the hotel is; 33 St Marys Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TA 2. Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 0871 984 6137 3. Getting from Waverley Station to the Hotel The easiest … Read more
• 
  Holyrood Hotel Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click below to quickly find the best price for your stay at the Holyrood Hotel 1. Holyrood Hotel Address The address of the Holyrood Hotel is; 81 Holyrood Hotel, Edinburgh, EH8 8AU 2. Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 0131 528 8000 3. Getting from Edinburgh Waverley Station to the Holyrood Hotel … Read more
• 
  Lerwick Hotel Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Lerwick Hotel 1. Lerwick Hotel Address The address of the Lerwick Hotel is; 15 South Road, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 0PX 2. Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; +44 (1595) 692166 3. Getting from Sumburgh Airport to the Lerwick Hotel It is … Read more
• 
  Visit Shetland – A Stunning Destination Any Time of the Year
  Planning to Visit Shetland? Shetland is an amazing place to visit. It is very different from the rest of Scotland. It has its own very distinct culture, language, food, landscape, and history. There is a great deal to see and enjoy when visiting. Visit Shetland 2. Where Do You Fly From to Get To Shetland? There … Read more

Scottish Highlands

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  What’s the Difference Between an English Breakfast and a Scottish Breakfast? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
  Wondering About A Scottish Breakfast? This article was inspired after hearing a fellow guest ask the hotel staff for a full English breakfast. The only problem with that was we were in a hotel in Scotland! My nephew and I paused, waiting for the hotel staff to correct the guests, but they simply took their … Read more
• 
  What is the Best Way to See the Scottish Highlands? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
  See the Scottish Highlands by Train We are lucky to have several beautiful train routes in the Highlands. The first is probably the most famous, the West Highland Line. This runs from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh which overlooks the Isle of Skye. This railway was made more famous by Michael Palin who declared the … Read more
• 
  Planning a Highlands Holiday? – Here’s What to Pack 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
  highlands holiday post image
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  Is It Easy to Drive in the Scottish Highlands?
  If you are coming to the Scottish Highlands and planning on driving here are some things you need to know. The Scottish Highlands are a fantastic place to drive but it’s quite different from other parts of Scotland the UK. What It’s Like Drive in the Scottish Highlands? There aren’t any motorways in the Scottish … Read more
• 
  What’s Best Time of Year to Visit the Scottish Highlands?
  As someone who has lived in the Highlands for over 20 years any time of year is a great time to visit the Scottish Highlands as there is always something wonderful to see. Here are some things to help you decide when it’s the best time for you to visit. Here is what the weather … Read more
• 
  Foyers House Hotel Review – Helpful Things to Know
  Looking to stay at the Foyers House Hotel? Here is my review, including a video room tour, of a one night stay in November 2022. I was staying in Foyers because I was attending a photography course. My Overall Rating for the Foyers House Hotel – 😐 Price for Stay – 1 Night in November … Read more

Inverness

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  Loch Ness Boat Trips Reviewed – Find Your Favourite Easily 🦕
  Looking to go for a cruise on Loch Ness? Find your favourite from these reviews of Loch Ness boat trips. Loch Ness Boat Trips 2 Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch, nr Inverness Dochgarroch is a great spot to start a cruise from. There is a lovely visitor centre, An Talla, beside the Caledonian Canal. It has … Read more
• 
  Inverness Hotels with Pools – Compare Them All Easily 🏊
  Looking for Inverness hotels with pools? They are all right here so you can compare them quickly and easily and find your perfect stay. You will also find quick links to find the best prices available online so you book your stay too. Inverness Hotels with Pools – How Many Are There? Inverness Hotels with … Read more
• 
  6 Dog Friendly Cottages Inverness – Find Your Perfect Stay
  Looking for dog friendly cottages Inverness? Great – then this post is for you! I’ve handpicked a selection of houses, cottages and apartments around the Inverness area which are all pet friendly. They all include WIFI, linens and heating too. I’ve given a sense of the location of each property so get reading and find … Read more
• 
  5 Lodges with Hot Tubs Inverness: Find Your Tub Now
  Looking for some super cute lodges with hot tubs Inverness? Well, you are in the right place! Inverness is a great base for a stay in the Highlands, giving you great access to all the attractions that the Highlands has to offer. For now, let’s get cracking finding you a great lodge with a hot … Read more
• 
  Holiday Cottages Inverness – 21 Great Stays in the City
  Holiday Cottages Inverness So if you are looking for holiday cottages Inverness – then read on! Check out this guide to holiday cottages Inverness, including information on what’s nearby and the area the holiday cottage is in. All the holiday cottages in this article include heating, towels and linen because who wants to be cold … Read more
• 
  16 Loch Ness Things to Do – Makes a Great Day Trip
  Here are 16 Loch Ness things to do. If you want to you can make this list into a one day complete tour of Loch Ness – so I have included driving directions along the way. Nessie sightings not guaranteed! Loch Ness Things to Do 1. Visit Dores and the only Beach at Loch Ness … Read more

Invergordon Cruise Port

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  Cawdor Castle Shore Excursion from Invergordon Port 🚢
  Thinking of taking a Cawdor Castle shore excursion during your Invergordon port call? Here is all the practical information you need to decide if it’s the perfect excursion for you. Cawdor Castle Shore Excursion – Travel Times Cawdor Castle operates timed entry slots for groups. There may be more than 2 coaches from the ship … Read more
• 
  Loch Ness Cruise Shore Excursion from Invergordon Port 🚢
  Thinking of Taking a Loch Ness Cruise Shore Excursion from Invergordon Cruise Port? Here is all the information you need about the practicalities of this tour, so you can decide if it’s the perfect trip for you. Loch Ness Cruise Shore Excursion Generally, most Loch Ness Cruise shore excursions operate as a half-day tour from … Read more
• 
  Top Tips When Taking a Shore Excursion from Invergordon 🚢
  Are you coming to Invergordon cruise port? Thinking of taking a shore excursion from Invergordon? Here are my top tips to have an even better day in the Highlands. Shore Excursion from Invergordon Head the Right Way at the End of the Gangplank If you are taking a ship organised excursion then you need to … Read more
• 
  Urquhart Castle Shore Excursion from Invergordon Port 🚢
  Interested in taking an Urquhart Castle shore excursion from Invergordon cruise port? Want to know if it is suitable for you? Check out this guide for the practical information you need to decide. This guide is based on visiting Urquhart Castle on one of the ship’s excursion tours. Urquhart Castle Shore Excursion Visiting Urquhart Castle … Read more
• 
  Details of Which Cruise Lines Visit Invergordon Port 🚢
  Wondering which cruise lines visit Invergordon port? Invergordon receives visits from many different cruise lines. Below are highlighted some of the larger ships and cruise companies that visit. We have had other lines such as Disney visit in the past. Many of the ships that visit call into Invergordon several times during the year. The … Read more
• 
  Invergordon Cruise Ships – Are There Any Local Benefits? 🚢
  This article was inspired after hearing, yet again, that there are no benefits from Invergordon cruise ships. At a recent public meeting, there was mention of all the cruise ship guests ‘getting on buses’ and disappearing out of town. Having worked with cruise ships, as a dispatcher and a tour guide, I have a little … Read more

Travel Essentials

• 
  Best Compression Packing Cube Set – Saves Luggage Space
  Looking for A Compression Packing Cube Set? Why Do I Recommend This Compression Packing Cube? Currently £18.69 and free Amazon Prime delivery – why not get yours now? Compression Packing Cube Set If you want to reduce the size of the luggage you travel with then you need compression packing cubes. These cubes work exactly … Read more
• 
  Check Out The Best Packing Cubes for Travelling 🧳
  Looking for Packing Cubes? I’ve got two great recommendations here. I am going to start with a recommended regular packing cube and then a compression packing cube. Why Do I Recommend This Packing Cube for Travel? Currently £17.99 and free Amazon Prime delivery – why not get yours now? The Best Packing Cube for Travel … Read more
• 
  Book Light – Makes Reading Easy when Travelling
  Are you looking for a book light? This is the one that I use when travelling – it’s tiny but powerful. (This is one of my recommended travel gear items – find the rest of my Travel Essentials page) Why Do I Recommend This Book Light? Currently £10.98 on Amazon with free Amazon Prime delivery … Read more
• 
  Travel Probiotic – A Great Way To Stay Well When Travelling
  Are you looking for a travel probiotic? This is the brand that I use when I travel somewhere I think this might be helpful. Why Do I Recommend This Travel Probiotic? Currently £19.99 and free Amazon Prime delivery. Why not get yours now? The Best Travel Probiotic During my travels, I have often been in places where … Read more
• 
  Wired Earphones – Great Value and Great for Travelling
  Are you looking for a some wired earphones? Check out these earbud style ones which are good value with a good sound. Why Do I Recommend Wired Earphones? Currently £10.99 and free Prime delivery? Why not get yours now? The Best Wired Earphones Wired earphones are great to have when travelling. They are a backup in case … Read more
• 
  10 Travel Essentials You Need for a Great Trip
  Here are my 10 travel essentials based on years of travelling with thousands of travellers all over the world. During that time I have met all sorts of travellers, travelling on all types of holidays from budget to luxury ones. No matter what the holiday has cost I have seen guests across all types of … Read more

Travel More and Spend Less

• 
  How to Find Cheap Flights to Anywhere Really Easily
  Are you looking to find cheap flights to anywhere? Travelling on a budget and want to get the most from it? Great then read on and I will guide you step by step on how to find some great cheap flights. Find Cheap Flights to Anywhere Using Skyscanner Skyscanner is such a great tool for … Read more
• 
  6 Tried and Tested Ways to Travel Cheaper
  Looking for ways to travel cheaper? Check out these 6 top tips – they will all help get the most from your travel budget. Would You Like More Ways to Travel Cheaper? Then sign up for my free Ebook and get these tips plus another 40 all in one go! Travel Cheaper by Using a … Read more
• 
  Check Out the Best Time to Book Hotels and Bag Yourself a Bargain
  Read on for more information to help you find the best time to book hotels for the places you are planning on visiting. 1. Best Time to Book Hotels – What Season? When considering when is the best time to book hotels it can be really helpful to know when it is high season in … Read more
• 
  12 Happy Travel Hacks To Leave a Trail of Beautiful Smiles
  Do you like to enjoy happy travel? Do you want to leave a little trail of smiles wherever you go and spread a bit of love and positivity? Then check out this list of happy travel hacks! Happy Travel Hacks 1 1. Learn a Few Words of the Local Language Taking a bit of time … Read more
• 
  6 Amazing Flight Hacks for Cheap Deals To Great Places ✈
  Are you looking for flight hacks to find cheap flights? Great – I’ve got a list of them right here! Read on to find some great tips to help you save money. 1. Flight Hacks – Search Everywhere from Starting Airport The reason this is top of my list of flight hacks is that it … Read more
• 
  Easyjet Baggage – Everything You Need to Know About Fees🧳
  In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of EasyJet’s baggage policies. You will learn what you can bring, how to optimize your packing, and how to ensure a smooth check-in process. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to the skies, this guide is your passport to a hassle-free journey with EasyJet. … Read more

Airport Lounges

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  Dragon Pass Vs Priority Pass – Side by Side Comaprison
  Are you considering what type of airport lounge pass to use? This comparison of Dragon Pass Vs Priority Pass compares both schemes side by side so you can find the right option for you. If you are unsure if an airport lounge pass membership makes sense then check out my guide which gives you the … Read more
• 
  What Is Priority Pass? It’s An Airport Lounge Membership Scheme ✈
  Have you ever wondered – what is Priority Pass? Priority Pass is an airport lounge membership scheme that gives its members access to a huge network of airport lounges all over the world for a discounted rate. Priority Pass also gives members other benefits such as discounts at airports and on transfer services, hire cars. … Read more
• 
  Gatwick Priority Pass – Find Your Perfect Lounge ✈
  Planning on visiting Gatwick airport and want to know what your lounge options are? Check out this guide so you can choose the right lounge for you. Gatwick Priority Pass – North and South Terminals Gatwick Airport is divided into two terminals – North and South. They are connected by a regular shuttle that runs … Read more
• 
  How Much Does Priority Pass Cost? Here’s All The Details ✈
  Priority Pass cost depends on the level of membership you select. The level of membership you select depends on how much you plan to use Priority Pass. Here’s a guide to the levels of membership and the costings to help you decide which level of membership is best for you. Priority Pass Cost – 3 … Read more
• 
  What Are The Benefits of Priority Pass Airport Lounges? ✈
  Want to know more about the Priority Pass airport lounges? This article covers the membership benefits of the Priority Pass airport lounge membership scheme, plus some tips and questions to help you decide if it’s worth your while to join. What Are Priority Pass Airport Lounges? Priority Pass is a membership scheme that gives buyers … Read more
• 
  Are Airport Lounges Worth It? Here’s a Cost Comparison ✈
  Thinking of using an airport lounge? Trying to decide if it’s worth paying for or not? Airport lounges can be cheaper than eating and drinking in the public area of the airport, but that depends on how often you plan to use lounges, whether you buy access as you go or through a membership scheme, … Read more

Annual Travel Insurance

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  How Does Annual Travel Insurance Work? Guide and Tips
  Are you interested in an annual travel insurance policy? Not quite sure how this type of policy works? Check out this quick guide which will give a quick overview and some suggestions to get the most benefit. The details and information in this post are from my recommended travel insurance provider, Coverwise. They are who … Read more
• 
  What’s The Difference Between Single and Annual Travel Insurance?
  Have you ever wondered what the difference between single and annual travel insurance is? Do you want to find out which insurance will suit your travel plans best? You will find all the answers you need right here. Buying Single Trip and Annual Travel Insurance When it comes to purchasing a travel insurance policy you … Read more
• 
  Do I Need Travel Insurance? Here’s Why You Absolutely Do
  This is a question I get asked a lot. Having seen travel insurance swing into action in many countries around the world my answer would be yes – it’s just too risky to travel without it. If you are still asking yourself ‘do I need travel insurance?’ then read on. Do I Need Travel Insurance? … Read more
• 
  Does Holiday Annual Insurance Cover Cruise Ships? 🚢
  Planning on taking a cruise? Here are some things to consider to make sure your holiday annual insurance policy covers you. Thinking of getting a holiday annual insurance policy? Selecting Your Holiday Annual Insurance Policy If you haven’t bought your holiday annual insurance policy yet you need to ensure that all the countries and regions … Read more
• 
  What Does Annual Holiday Insurance Cover? 🧳
  What is Annual Holiday Insurance? What is the Difference Between Annual and Single Trip Holiday Insurance? Apart from the obvious in that a single trip policy only covers one trip the way the cover works is a little different. For annual holiday insurance, each person covered by the policy gets the level of coverage outlined … Read more
• 
  Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance – All You Need to Know
  Heard of annual multi trip travel insurance but not sure how it works? Well, read on because in this article I will cover everything you need to know. What is Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance? However many trips you take in a year you will always have travel insurance. Where Does Annual Multi Trip Travel … Read more

Coach Holidays

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  Touring Holidays to Italy – Find Your Perfect Trip Now 🚍
  Looking for touring holidays to Italy? Great – here you will find a comparison of all the Italian coach holidays available from the main coach holiday companies in the UK. Compare companies and tours and find your favourite trip quickly and easily. Touring Holidays to Italy with Saga Holidays Saga Holidays are for those aged … Read more
• 
  Coach Holiday Hand Luggage – Helpful Things to Know 🚍
  Planning on taking a coach holiday? Here are some tips to help you with your coach holiday hand luggage. Coach Holiday Hand Luggage – Size The overhead racks on coaches are much smaller than the overhead lockers/bins on planes. For most coaches, a small case that is 45x36x20cm is probably about as big as you … Read more
• 
  Coach Holiday Meals – Things to Know Before You Book 🚍
  Are you planning on taking a coach holiday? Don’t assume you know what the coach holiday meals will be like – read on for some examples and things to consider before you book. Coach Holiday Meals – What’s Included The website or brochure that you see before you make your booking should have details of … Read more
• What Are the Best Seats On a Coach Holiday? 🚍
  Wondering what the best seats on a coach are if you are planning on taking a coach holiday? It’s not always the front seat. Here are my tips to help you find your best seat. Best Seats on a Coach – Coach Holiday Seating Policies The first thing to mention before we talk about the … Read more
• 
  Optional and Included Coach Excursions – What Are They? 🚍
  Heard the term coach excursion and not sure what it means? Here’s all you need to know about a coach holiday excursion and the different types available. Coach Excursion – What Does It Mean? When you book a coach holiday you will be booking a package of things. This may include the following; Coach Excursion … Read more
• 
  Crossing the Channel by Ferry Or Tunnel on a Coach Holiday 🚍
  Check out this post if your coach holiday involves crossing the channel by ferry or by Eurotunnel and you want to know about the different ways of crossing the channel. Crossing the Channel by Ferry The ferry crossing from Dover takes 1.5 hours across the English Channel. The ferries are large with plenty of facilities … Read more

About Melanie

About the Professional Traveller

Work With Me

Azerbaijan Travel Inspiration

Istanbul Travel Inspiration

Portugal Travel Inspiration

Riga Travel Inspiration

Spain Travel Inspiration

Scotland Travel Inspiration

England Travel Inspiration

The Professional Traveller – How to Travel More and Spend Less

• 
  How to Find Cheap Flights to Anywhere Really Easily
  Are you looking to find cheap flights to anywhere? Travelling on a budget and want to get the most from it? Great then read on and I will guide you step by step on how to find some great cheap flights. Find Cheap Flights to Anywhere Using Skyscanner Skyscanner is such a great tool for … Read more
• 
  6 Tried and Tested Ways to Travel Cheaper
  Looking for ways to travel cheaper? Check out these 6 top tips – they will all help get the most from your travel budget. Would You Like More Ways to Travel Cheaper? Then sign up for my free Ebook and get these tips plus another 40 all in one go! Travel Cheaper by Using a … Read more
• 
  Check Out the Best Time to Book Hotels and Bag Yourself a Bargain
  Read on for more information to help you find the best time to book hotels for the places you are planning on visiting. 1. Best Time to Book Hotels – What Season? When considering when is the best time to book hotels it can be really helpful to know when it is high season in … Read more
• 
  12 Happy Travel Hacks To Leave a Trail of Beautiful Smiles
  Do you like to enjoy happy travel? Do you want to leave a little trail of smiles wherever you go and spread a bit of love and positivity? Then check out this list of happy travel hacks! Happy Travel Hacks 1 1. Learn a Few Words of the Local Language Taking a bit of time … Read more
• 
  6 Amazing Flight Hacks for Cheap Deals To Great Places ✈
  Are you looking for flight hacks to find cheap flights? Great – I’ve got a list of them right here! Read on to find some great tips to help you save money. 1. Flight Hacks – Search Everywhere from Starting Airport The reason this is top of my list of flight hacks is that it … Read more
• 
  Easyjet Baggage – Everything You Need to Know About Fees🧳
  In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of EasyJet’s baggage policies. You will learn what you can bring, how to optimize your packing, and how to ensure a smooth check-in process. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to the skies, this guide is your passport to a hassle-free journey with EasyJet. … Read more

The Professional Traveller – Travel Inspiration

• 
  Days Inn Lockerbie Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Days Inn Lockerbie 1. Days Inn Lockerbie Address The address of the hotel is; Roadchef Annandale Water, Lockerbie, DG11 1HD 2. Days Inn Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 0844 225 0789 3. Getting to the Days Inn Lockerbie Days Inn … Read more
• 
  Cairn Hotel Bathgate Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Cairn Hotel Bathgate 1. Cairn Hotel Bathgate Address The address of the hotel is; Blackburn Road, Bathgate, EH48 2EL 2. Cairn Hotel Bathgate Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 01506 633366 3. Getting to the Cairn Hotel Getting to the hotel … Read more
• 
  Travelodge Central Edinburgh Review And Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Travelodge Central Edinburgh 1. Travelodge Central Edinburgh Address The address of the hotel is; 33 St Marys Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TA 2. Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 0871 984 6137 3. Getting from Waverley Station to the Hotel The easiest … Read more
• 
  Holyrood Hotel Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click below to quickly find the best price for your stay at the Holyrood Hotel 1. Holyrood Hotel Address The address of the Holyrood Hotel is; 81 Holyrood Hotel, Edinburgh, EH8 8AU 2. Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; 0131 528 8000 3. Getting from Edinburgh Waverley Station to the Holyrood Hotel … Read more
• 
  Lerwick Hotel Review and Helpful Things to Know 🛏
  Click to get the best price for your stay at the Lerwick Hotel 1. Lerwick Hotel Address The address of the Lerwick Hotel is; 15 South Road, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 0PX 2. Phone Number The telephone number of the hotel is; +44 (1595) 692166 3. Getting from Sumburgh Airport to the Lerwick Hotel It is … Read more
• 
  Visit Shetland – A Stunning Destination Any Time of the Year
  Planning to Visit Shetland? Shetland is an amazing place to visit. It is very different from the rest of Scotland. It has its own very distinct culture, language, food, landscape, and history. There is a great deal to see and enjoy when visiting. Visit Shetland 2. Where Do You Fly From to Get To Shetland? There … Read more

The Professional Traveller – Travel Essentials

• 
  Best Compression Packing Cube Set – Saves Luggage Space
  Looking for A Compression Packing Cube Set? Why Do I Recommend This Compression Packing Cube? Currently £18.69 and free Amazon Prime delivery – why not get yours now? Compression Packing Cube Set If you want to reduce the size of the luggage you travel with then you need compression packing cubes. These cubes work exactly … Read more
• 
  Check Out The Best Packing Cubes for Travelling 🧳
  Looking for Packing Cubes? I’ve got two great recommendations here. I am going to start with a recommended regular packing cube and then a compression packing cube. Why Do I Recommend This Packing Cube for Travel? Currently £17.99 and free Amazon Prime delivery – why not get yours now? The Best Packing Cube for Travel … Read more
• 
  Book Light – Makes Reading Easy when Travelling
  Are you looking for a book light? This is the one that I use when travelling – it’s tiny but powerful. (This is one of my recommended travel gear items – find the rest of my Travel Essentials page) Why Do I Recommend This Book Light? Currently £10.98 on Amazon with free Amazon Prime delivery … Read more
• 
  Travel Probiotic – A Great Way To Stay Well When Travelling
  Are you looking for a travel probiotic? This is the brand that I use when I travel somewhere I think this might be helpful. Why Do I Recommend This Travel Probiotic? Currently £19.99 and free Amazon Prime delivery. Why not get yours now? The Best Travel Probiotic During my travels, I have often been in places where … Read more
• 
  Wired Earphones – Great Value and Great for Travelling
  Are you looking for a some wired earphones? Check out these earbud style ones which are good value with a good sound. Why Do I Recommend Wired Earphones? Currently £10.99 and free Prime delivery? Why not get yours now? The Best Wired Earphones Wired earphones are great to have when travelling. They are a backup in case … Read more
• 
  10 Travel Essentials You Need for a Great Trip
  Here are my 10 travel essentials based on years of travelling with thousands of travellers all over the world. During that time I have met all sorts of travellers, travelling on all types of holidays from budget to luxury ones. No matter what the holiday has cost I have seen guests across all types of … Read more

Definition of a Professional

engaged in a specified activity as one’s main paid occupation rather than as a pastime

The Professional Traveller – Latest Blog Articles

• 
  Dragon Pass Vs Priority Pass – Side by Side Comaprison
  Are you considering what type of airport lounge pass to use? This comparison of Dragon Pass Vs Priority Pass compares both schemes side by side so you can find the right option for you. If you are unsure if an airport lounge pass membership makes sense then check out my guide which gives you the … Read more
• 
  Cawdor Castle Shore Excursion from Invergordon Port 🚢
  Thinking of taking a Cawdor Castle shore excursion during your Invergordon port call? Here is all the practical information you need to decide if it’s the perfect excursion for you. Cawdor Castle Shore Excursion – Travel Times Cawdor Castle operates timed entry slots for groups. There may be more than 2 coaches from the ship … Read more
• 
  What Is Priority Pass? It’s An Airport Lounge Membership Scheme ✈
  Have you ever wondered – what is Priority Pass? Priority Pass is an airport lounge membership scheme that gives its members access to a huge network of airport lounges all over the world for a discounted rate. Priority Pass also gives members other benefits such as discounts at airports and on transfer services, hire cars. … Read more
• 
  Gatwick Priority Pass – Find Your Perfect Lounge ✈
  Planning on visiting Gatwick airport and want to know what your lounge options are? Check out this guide so you can choose the right lounge for you. Gatwick Priority Pass – North and South Terminals Gatwick Airport is divided into two terminals – North and South. They are connected by a regular shuttle that runs … Read more
• 
  How Much Does Priority Pass Cost? Here’s All The Details ✈
  Priority Pass cost depends on the level of membership you select. The level of membership you select depends on how much you plan to use Priority Pass. Here’s a guide to the levels of membership and the costings to help you decide which level of membership is best for you. Priority Pass Cost – 3 … Read more
• 
  What Are The Benefits of Priority Pass Airport Lounges? ✈
  Want to know more about the Priority Pass airport lounges? This article covers the membership benefits of the Priority Pass airport lounge membership scheme, plus some tips and questions to help you decide if it’s worth your while to join. What Are Priority Pass Airport Lounges? Priority Pass is a membership scheme that gives buyers … Read more

Professional Traveller

a person who is travelling or who often travels

What It’s Like to Be a Professional Traveller?

Travelling for work-related reasons is very different to travelling for leisure. In my early years of travel, I worked at a lot of exhibitions and events. This meant that whilst I travelled to the destination once there I generally travelled between the exhibition area and the hotel – many people who travel for business will tell you the same thing.

A growing trend in travel is for people travelling for work or business to extend their trip and do some personal travel. I have been lucky enough to do this a few times, staying over in Bangkok for several nights on my trips back from Australia for example. It looks like a travel trend that is going to continue!

Travelling as a Tour Manager taking coach holidays is very different. The role involves focussing on the guests and making sure they have a great time, rather than your personal sightseeing. Any free time is often taken up dealing with administration issues, sorting out problems or simply confirming all the details for the next leg of the journey. Sometimes I never left the hotel we were staying in as there always seemed to be more work to do and things to check!

That said when travelling with a great group this role doesn’t feel like work at all, more like travelling with a wonderful group of people who like to have fun.

Read more About Melanie

Read more About the Profesional Traveller

What Is a Professional Traveller?

I. Introduction
A. Definition of a Professional Traveller

The definition of a professional traveller is someone who gets paid to travel. Travel is their job, it is not part of their job. Many people travel in relation to their work (business travel) but travelling is not the focus of their work.

A professional traveller is someone whose job is travelling. They may work full-time or part-time – that doesn’t really matter.

There is a growing group of people referred to as ‘digital nomads’. These are people that are able to work from anywhere. They have remote work that they can do from anywhere in the world. Whilst this type of work does involve travelling, travelling is not the purpose so they wouldn’t be classed as professional travellers.

Someone who has a travel blog could be a professional traveller. They are able to work remotely while updating the blog, but they are travelling to get material and content for the blog.

Content creators such as social media influencers could be classed as professional travellers, but only if all their content relates to travel They are often paid by local tourism boards to create social media content. That means they are paid to travel to places.

Other examples of professional travellers would be tour guides, tour managers, cruise ship workers, and flight attendants. They are all paid to travel with groups and cruises.

(Read more about What It’s Really Like Having a Job That Travels the World)

(Read about the differences between Professional Travellers and Ordinary Travellers)

B. Benefits And Challenges of the Profession

The major benefit of getting paid to travel is just that – you are getting paid to travel. You are being paid to go to places where others pay to go.

The major challenge of getting paid to travel is that you are there to do some sort of work. It means that the demands of the job come first. This can mean that there is sometimes very little or no time at all to do any exploring on your own. This can mean that whilst you have visited a place you haven’t actually experienced it in any way.

Sometimes when travelling with groups I am so busy I don’t have time to even get out of the hotel.

It can also be quite lonely when travelling professionally – especially if you are doing something like my job as a Tour Manager. Whilst I am always travelling with a group I am not part of the group in the same way. I can’t actually do my job if I am. I certainly can’t spend time with people in the group that I really like, even if I want to. That would cause an uproar amongst other group members!

I have to remember that my guests came to experience the holiday, they didn’t book to come on holiday with me! That’s something that many Tour Managers find difficult to separate out.

I remember a guest asked me once why I never wore shorts while I was on holiday with them. I explained that it was because I wasn’t on holiday, I was working, obviously doing such a good job they didn’t realise how hard I was working!

II. Types of Professional Travellers
A. Adventure Travellers

Adventure travellers may be professional travellers if travel is their main focus. They may be travelling to experience different climates, conditions or experiences. They may be travelling to experience different challenges such as mountain climbing, walking, and hiking.

The focus of their trip is the activity they are taking part in but they have to travel to compete or take part in it.

B. Digital Nomads

As mentioned above digital nomads do travel and move around but unless they are travelling for work i.e. to create travel content they are not professional travellers. That said given they stay and work in one place for extended periods of time they often have a great insight into a destination, with a slightly different perspective from a regular traveller.

C. Tour Guides

Tour guides, tour managers, cruise escorts, and tour directors – are all professional travellers. They are all travelling to accompany groups on tours and holidays all over the world.

They have to travel to do their job. It can’t be done remotely.

Some tour guides specialise in a particular city, destination or country. That might mean that they only travel locally for example.

Some tour guides specialise in a subject area such as architecture, wildlife or history. This means they are travelling to share their specialist knowledge of an area or a subject.

D. Flight Attendants

Flight attendants are definitely professional travellers, although the benefits of being flight attendants are nowhere near as good as they used to be when they had longer layovers for example.

Flight attendants do get time to explore a destination and are great at packing plenty in during their time there. If you want some top tips about the places you are flying to then ask your flight crew!

E. Cruise Ship Workers

Cruise ship workers travel for extended periods of time – sometimes many months in one go. Whilst their job may not be related to travel directly – they could be part of the entertainment crew for example, they still have to travel for their work.

Cruise ship workers often spend a season travelling in one area of the world and get to know it very well.

As your cruise ship personnel for tips on places to go and things to do – the chances are they will have some great local suggestions.

F. Language Teachers Abroad

Many people use teaching languages abroad, for example teaching English, as a way to get paid for being overseas. The requirements for teaching time vary from job to job. This means there are opportunities for exploring when not working.

Teaching a language abroad is a great way to get a different experience of a destination and to learn a great deal about the local community and culture.

Whilst not necessarily professional travellers, this is a great way to save money on travel by working in a different country.

G. Volunteering Opportunities

There are many volunteering opportunities available to travellers. These offer a great way to experience a destination and give a local insight into the community.

However, those travelling to undertake volunteering roles are not necessarily professional travellers.

III. Qualifications for Professional Travellers
A. Education Requirements

There are no formal qualifications required for professional travellers. There may be specific training required for your travel role. For example, flight attendants will have to undertake specialised flight training before starting work.

B. Personality Traits Necessary for Success

To be a professional traveller you need to be flexible, and adaptable and get on with people. You also need resilience. Being calm under pressure is another great trait to have.

Travelling is unpredictable. Anything can happen and it often does. This can mean that the best-laid plans suddenly need changing. A professional traveller knows these things about travel and is prepared.

People skills are essential for anyone travelling professionally. That might be because you need to placate an angry customer, or because you need to find a way to solve a problem.

C . Technical and Language Skills Needed

Language skills are great if you want to be a professional traveller. You don’t have to be fluent but basic language skills are always going to be helpful.

D . Other Job-Related Qualifications That Can Be Beneficial

Some sort of first aid qualification could be beneficial if travelling professionally. This can be controversial for some travel companies though as it may make them liable for any harm caused.

Personally, I have always thought it would be more harmful to do nothing in a medical emergency.

Some adventure travel companies require their guides and drivers to have this training as they are often operating in remote areas a long way away from healthcare facilities.

IV . Financial Considerations for Professional Travellers

Travelling professionally is not always paid as highly as most people think. Most people think you are on holiday for a start! A few years back I worked as a cruise escort. The pay for each day was £45. Whilst my meals on the cruise ship were all included no drinks were so these all had to be paid for. The £45 also was gross, I had to pay my own tax and national insurance out of that as I was self-employed.

Given the working day started at breakfast and finished after dinner it wasn’t a great rate of pay. I didn’t dare work out the hourly equivalent as it would have been too depressing.

Being self-employed means you need to wait to get paid because you have to invoice. Most travel companies wait at least 30 days from the date of invoice to make payment.

A . Money Saving Tips While on the Road

It can be easy to spend money when travelling and before you know it your budget is gone. A great way to save money is to eat the way the locals do. This could be from street food stalls, from the local market, in the food courts or buying food from the supermarket.

Sometimes it can be difficult for a professional traveller to balance making money with spending money.

B . Earning Money While Travelling

Most professional travellers will be paid some sort of fee for travelling. Tour managers get paid a set rate per day with an allowance for expenses. Flight attendants get paid a fee per hour flying. Cruise ship workers get paid an amount per contract.

The travel industry uses many self-employed workers, especially in the tour guide and tour manager sector. This is to avoid the requirements of working hours directives and holiday pay.

If tour managers were paid for their time the income would be very different!

V . Strategies For Successful Professional Traveling

One of the most consistent issues I see when it comes to professional travelling is that travellers forget they are there to do a job. Travelling professionally is definitely not a holiday.

You are there to provide a service to people. In my role as a Tour Manager, my guests are on holiday but I am definitely working, and generally working very hard too.

A. How to Create an Online Presence as a Professional Traveller

Many professional travellers are creating travel content for their online presence, whether that be social media, a blog or a YouTube channel.

Many social media influencers are also creating travel photography content for their online presence too.

Some create digital guides to destinations. Some create content based on affiliate marketing. There are many variations of ways to earn an income online based on travel.

B. What To Do When Things Don’t Go According to Plan

Anyone who travels regularly knows that things happen. That could be weather, delays, diversions, strikes, or illnesses. Look what happened to travel during Covid19.

Staying calm in such situations can be difficult but it’s essential, otherwise, you can quickly become stressed and overwhelmed.

Being polite is also helpful. Often it is frustrating for everyone, not just the travellers when things don’t get to plan. Flight attendants might not be able to get home as they had hoped for example, or cruise ship personnel might not be able to meet their friends when a cruise port is missed.

C. Preparing Emotionally and Mentally for the Journey

It can be tempting when travelling professionally to plan lots of things in any spare time you might have. This can often lead to additional stress when things change or there is something that needs dealing with urgently.

My advice is to have some ideas of things you might want to do if you get some free time, but not to book anything if you can help it.

Just travelling is tiring and sometimes you just need to take some time to rest.

It can be tricky when travelling to allow enough time for this as it can feel that time is being wasted. It isn’t. Without time to rest properly, it is impossible to make the most of the travel experience itself – everything just becomes like hard work.

D. Creating Lasting Relationships with Local and Fellow Professional Travellers

Within whatever niche of professional travel you are in there is always a little network of fellow travellers to connect with. In my niche of Tour Managers, we often keep in touch with each other, comparing stories of tours and swopping experiences.

One company I work has a Tour Manager What’s App group for each destination where we can keep each other updated as to what is happening when travelling.

Sometimes travelling professionally requires visiting the same place a number of times. This can be a great way to build relationships with locals, which gives a great insight into a destination and culture.

One hotel I visited regularly used to let me take their dog for a walk. Another used to let me borrow their car when I wanted. Both are great local experiences.

E. Making Time for Self Care

Travelling can be tiring enough as it is. Combine that with working and you can have a recipe for disaster and very quick burnout.

Often when travelling professionally it seems there is no time to take care of yourself. This is often the case when travelling with a group of people that you are there to take care of – they come first.

However, an experienced professional traveller knows that they have to make time for self-care or they won’t be able to do their job. As a Tour Manager sometimes that means I have to take an early night to catch up on sleep, or it might mean an early morning walk or gym session before starting the day.

It also means making time to eat properly. This can be very difficult when travelling for work. Having snacks and drinks is one of the professional travel tips often learned the hard way, after a travel hold-up!

Conclusion

Travelling professionally can be a great way to see the world – perhaps a little bit less than you might expect due to work requirements though!

A calm head, polite manner and a good sense of humour will get you through most things when travel goes wrong (as it will at some point)

Making some time to rest will ensure you get the most out of your travel experience

The right values are more important than skills, which can be learned when travelling professionally

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