By Gilly Bachelor, Travel Expert

Every booking is personal to us—whether it’s a milestone birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or just a well-deserved beach break. But you might be surprised to learn that, more often than you’d think, we’re part of some truly life-changing moments.

Here are five stories that remind us why we do what we do:

  1. A Final Journey for Two –  few years ago, a gentleman approached us with a deeply personal request: to scatter his late wife’s ashes in South Africa’s Kruger National Park—a destination they had both visited many times. We worked with him to organise a respectful and meaningful trip that honoured their shared love for the wild. Two years later, he passed away. His family contacted us again—this time to fulfil his final wish: for his ashes to be taken back to South Africa and scattered. We’re honoured to make this happen and help reunite them in a place that meant so much to them both.
  2. Solo Travel with Dementia – one of our most uplifting stories comes from a solo female traveller living with dementia. Her dream was to go back to Madeira one last time. While her family had understandable concerns, we created a carefully supported itinerary that included private transfers, accessible hotel arrangements, and daily check-ins. With these plans in place, she was able to experience the freedom of travel again. She returned home smiling and full of stories. This trip showed us all that travel is still possible, even with complex needs, when the right care is in place.
  3. Seven Continents – when an incredible couple in their 80s told us they wanted to see all seven continents in the next few years, we didn’t hesitate. From cruising Antarctica and exploring Alaskan glaciers to traversing Canada by rail, they’ve ticked off more than most people dream of. Next up: Australia and Tasmania. And in 2026, they’re planning a 90-day adventure across Asia. Their energy, spirit, and love for life remind us that you’re never too old to chase a dream—or to start a new one.
  4. An Amazing Christmas Surprise –some grandparents don’t want to give toys or money at Christmas—they want to give memories. One family came to us with this exact idea, hoping to surprise their grandchildren with an unforgettable gift: a magical trip to Disneyland Paris. We helped arrange every detail, and the children had no idea until the big reveal on Christmas Day. Their faces lit up, and the trip became a memory the entire family will treasure forever.
  5. From Cruise-Caution to Cruise-Converts –cruising isn’t for everyone—or so one client thought. They’d never been on a cruise before and were full of nerves. But after a long chat and carefully picking the right itinerary, ship, and cabin for them, they gave it a try. Now? They’re hooked. They’ve since been on multiple cruises and are already planning the next one. Helping someone find a whole new way to explore the world is what makes our job so rewarding.

💖 More Than a Holiday

Behind every itinerary is a story—sometimes joyful, sometimes bittersweet, but always meaningful. These are the moments that make travel life-changing, and at Gilly Bachelor Travel Expert, we’re proud to be part of them.

If you are ready to write your next chapter, contact us!
📞 Call us on 01902 288104 or book an appointment here to start your journey.