Dream Destinations with Baldwins Travel

Saturday, 13 July 2024 00:00

Since opening in September 2023 in Haywards Heath, Baldwins Travel are connecting to the local community, and of course, booking dreamy holidays too! Sara Whatley reports

What is your dream holiday destination? Somewhere you can slip your toes into white sand, a wine tasting tour of Italy, or a backpacking adventure through South East Asia?

Now the question is, how do you make this dream a reality? Your first stop is Baldwins Travel in Haywards Heath. The company was established in 1895 by Mr Baldwin and son, Baldwins has been finding the perfect holiday match for their clients for 130 years.

I dropped into their bright and inspiring shop to talk to Managing Director, Nick Marks. “My family took the business over in 1991 – my father had been in the travel industry since he was 16. Our ethos is the same as it has ever been; we employ people who are passionate and knowledgeable about travel, and find our clients their perfect holiday. From a caravan to a six star cruise, we have it all.”

You will find 11 branches of Baldwins through Sussex, Kent, and one in the Midlands, and they are expanding with their new franchise arm of the business, The Travel Specialist. This is a homeworking model for franchisees to make their own, yet retain access to all of Baldwins connections. “If this sounds like a good work life for you, get in touch,” urged Nick.

Proudly independent Baldwins have access to every holiday and tour operator available. Staff are constantly training and learning about new destinations to make sure they are experts in their fields, and with a company paid holiday every year they can personally recommend hotels and destinations.

Voted the Best Travel Agency in London and the South East for over 10 years running, Nick puts this down to the amazing team they have. “It’s all about our passion, reputation and trust,” he said.

What many people don’t realise is that using a travel agency is actually no more expensive than booking online, and it gives you so much more besides. “You can call us in an emergency,” explained Branch Manager Pratibha, “and as all the staff here are seasoned professionals you benefit from their expertise when booking too.”

Baldwins are ABTA and ATOL bonded, which guarantees that if any aspect of your holiday gets cancelled you will be protected financially, and Nick also highly recommends paying the extra £18 or so for travel insurance, which can save you thousands in the long run.

“Solo travel is through the roof at the moment, as is sustainability – trains rather than planes, and eco hotels,” explained Nick. For further inspiration why not attend one of their ‘meet the expert’ days or evenings, or even better, their Holiday Inspirations Show at East Sussex National is on 22nd September, where you could even win a holiday!

With every holiday sold being bespoke, the world really is at your fingertips when you visit Baldwins in Haywards Heath.

Baldwins Travel Haywards Heath
24 The Orchards,
Haywards Heath RH16 3TH

www.baldwinstravel.co.uk

hh@baldwins-travel.co.uk

01444 473081

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