Denise Barnes at Hays Travel

Denise Barnes at Hays Travel Tailor made holidays with personal service from enquiry to return home ✈️
Cruise • Family • Bespoke travel

ABTA & ATOL protected | Access to 300+ suppliers

Travel isn't just about ticking destinations off a list—it's about experiences and memories that stay with you long after you return home. As a self-employed Personal Travel Consultant with Hays Travel, I bring my own love of adventure and wellbeing to help craft unforgettable journeys for others. From solo running tours to family holidays, business trips to cruise vacations, I’ve planned them all

. Having explored Norway and Mauritius on solo adrenaline-fueled adventures, raced through the scenic streets of Portugal, Palma, and Krakow with my running club, and carved fresh tracks on the slopes of Val-d'Isère and Andorra with friends, my travels have shaped my knowledge of unique destinations. I’ve also embraced the magic of the open sea, cruising to Boston, Halifax, and St. John, and experienced the festive charm of spending Christmas in New York. One of my most awe-inspiring journeys took me to Egypt, where I explored the fascinating Valley of the Kings, uncovering the rich history of ancient pharaohs. Whether you're seeking an exhilarating escapade or a restorative retreat, I’m dedicated to crafting tailor-made experiences that suit your individual travel aspirations. Let’s make your next journey extraordinary. Hays Travel are fully ABTA and ATOL bonded. All prices are correct at the time of posting but subject to availability and change. Terms and conditions apply to all posts. Prices are based on 2 adults.

17/06/2026

Carry-On Essentials

Pack a change of clothes and essentials in hand luggage.
If bags are delayed, you can still function on day one.

15/06/2026

🌿✨ Welcome to My Time Monday – a weekly check-in just for you.
This is your gentle reminder that rest is productive and your time matters.
🗓️ Make “My Time Monday” your weekly reset – and let’s start the week with intention, not overwhelm.
I’ll be fully online from tomorrow to help you plan that next escape when you’re ready. 🌍💛

13/06/2026

Packing List

Make a simple master packing list you reuse each trip.

It stops last-minute panic and forgotten items

12/06/2026

🚢 What people are booking right now... P&O Iona

If you've not been on Iona yourself, I can almost guarantee you know someone who has.

Over the last few weeks, one ship seems to keep appearing in conversations and enquiries: P&O Iona.

It's easy to see why.

As one of the UK's most popular cruise ships, Iona offers an incredible amount of choice onboard, whether you're travelling as a couple, a family or trying cruising for the first time.

Some of the reasons travellers are choosing Iona:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family friendly facilities, including dedicated children's clubs and activities

💑 Plenty of spaces for couples to relax, dine and enjoy an evening together

🍽️ A huge variety of restaurants, bars and dining experiences

🎭 Fantastic entertainment throughout the ship

🚢 Sailings directly from Southampton with no need to fly

🌊 Popular itineraries including the Norwegian Fjords, Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands

One of the things I hear time and again is how much there is to do onboard. Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere, somewhere to unwind with a sea view, or simply want plenty of choice during your holiday, Iona offers something for everyone.

It's also proving incredibly popular with first time cruisers thanks to its modern design, British feel and the convenience of sailing from the UK.

I'm always fascinated by the trends I see coming through, and right now Iona is definitely one of the ships generating the most interest.

👇 Have you sailed on Iona? If so, what's the one thing you'd tell someone who's thinking about booking?

📩 If you'd like to see what all the fuss is about, send me a message and I'll happily talk you through the options.

📞 Call or WhatsApp 01202 150761
📧 [email protected]

🚢🌊

11/06/2026

Stop waiting for the perfect time.

Use the holiday days. Book the trip. Watch the sunrise. Float in the sea. Make the memories.

The emails will still be there when you get back.

📩 Ready to start planning? Get in touch.

🥾 Looking for more than just sunshine?When people think of Greek islands, they often picture beautiful beaches and white...
09/06/2026

🥾 Looking for more than just sunshine?

When people think of Greek islands, they often picture beautiful beaches and whitewashed villages. Crete certainly has those, but it also offers so much more.

As the largest Greek island, Crete combines stunning coastlines with dramatic mountains, traditional villages, fascinating history and some of the best walking opportunities in the Mediterranean.

Some of the reasons Crete continues to be so popular:

🇬🇷 Authentic Greek culture and hospitality

🥾 Incredible hiking routes, including the famous Samaria Gorge

🏔️ Spectacular mountain scenery and coastal trails

🏖️ Beautiful beaches and hidden coves

🍽️ Fantastic local cuisine and fresh Mediterranean flavours

☀️ Long sunny days and plenty of opportunities to explore

What I particularly like about Crete is that it gives you options.

You can spend one day relaxing by the sea and the next discovering traditional villages, exploring archaeological sites or heading into the mountains for breathtaking views.

For those who enjoy a more active style of travel, Crete offers an ideal balance between adventure and relaxation. Fresh air, movement, sunshine and new experiences can leave you returning home feeling genuinely refreshed.

If your perfect holiday includes a little exploration alongside your beach time, Crete is definitely worth considering.

Have you visited Crete before? What was your favourite part of the island?

📩 Message me if you'd like to find out more about holidays to Crete.

📞 Call or WhatsApp 01202 150761
📧 [email protected]

🥾🇬🇷☀️🏔️🌊

🌊 Still one of the best value sunshine escapes... the Algarve continues to be one of the most requested destinations yea...
08/06/2026

🌊 Still one of the best value sunshine escapes... the Algarve continues to be one of the most requested destinations year after year.

And when you look at the coastline, it's not difficult to see why.

The Algarve offers far more than beautiful beaches. It's a destination that combines dramatic scenery, charming towns, fantastic food and opportunities to be as active or as relaxed as you choose.

Some of the reasons travellers love the Algarve:

🏖️ Miles of golden sandy beaches

🌊 Stunning rock formations and hidden coves

🥾 Spectacular coastal walking routes, including sections of the famous Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

🍽️ Fresh seafood, waterfront restaurants and traditional Portuguese charm

☀️ Warm sunshine and excellent value for money

One of the things that appeals to me about the Algarve is the variety. You can spend one day relaxing by the pool and the next exploring cliff top paths with incredible ocean views.

For those who enjoy a more active holiday, there are plenty of opportunities for walking, hiking, cycling and exploring some of Portugal's most beautiful coastal scenery. If slowing down is more your thing, you'll also find peaceful beaches, leisurely lunches and spectacular sunsets.

It's the sort of destination that allows you to holiday at your own pace.

Have you visited the Algarve before? If so, where would you recommend?

📩 Message me if you'd like me to check availability and prices for your preferred dates.

📞 Call or WhatsApp 01202 150761
📧 [email protected]

☀️🌊🥾🏖️🇵🇹

☀️ Everyone seems to be looking for a last minute escape right now...One destination that keeps appearing in my enquirie...
07/06/2026

☀️ Everyone seems to be looking for a last minute escape right now...

One destination that keeps appearing in my enquiries is Cala d'Or, and honestly, it's easy to see why.

If you're looking for a pre summer getaway before the peak season crowds arrive, Cala d'Or offers a fantastic mix of sunshine, beautiful scenery and a more relaxed atmosphere than some of Mallorca's larger resorts.

🏖️ Stunning sandy coves with crystal clear water
⛵ A stylish marina filled with restaurants, cafés and waterfront dining
🚶 Lovely coastal walks and easy evening strolls
🌊 Calm bays that are perfect for swimming and relaxing
🍹 Plenty of choice without feeling overly busy or nightlife focused

What I particularly like about Cala d'Or is that it feels a little more refined than some of the island's larger resorts. You can spend the day exploring hidden coves, enjoy lunch overlooking the marina and then watch the sunset with a drink by the water.

From a wellbeing perspective, this is the sort of destination that encourages you to slow down. Early morning walks, sea views, fresh air and time away from the daily routine can work wonders before the busy summer season arrives.

If you've been thinking about a last minute holiday, now is a great time to start looking as availability for the most popular dates is beginning to tighten.

📩 Send me a message and I'll happily see what's available for your dates and budget.

📞 Call or WhatsApp 01202 150761
📧 [email protected]

04/06/2026

Break Routine

A holiday breaks daily habits that can wear you down

New routines bring new energy when you return home

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Denise Barnes At Hays Travel
Poole

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