FRONTLINE
MATT AND ASHLEY PHILLIPS co-owners, The Travel Chaps, Lincoln
I am writing this while staring at the
unbelievable beauty of the Himalayan mountains, watching the sun set as the hustle and bustle of Indian life happens around me. Sounds like heaven? Well, it’s certainly closer to heaven at this altitude, let me tell you. The golden-hour light hitting the peaks is enough to make even the most seasoned traveller pause in silence. For anyone who follows our socials at Travel Chaps, or knows our journey, you’ll be aware we sell based on our personal experience. We don’t just look at maps; we put boots on the ground. And touring and adventure are always “top of the pops” for me (Ash).
IMMERSE YOURSELF There is something uniquely exhilarating about the rhythmic chaos of India that demands you dive in headfirst rather than watch from the sidelines. So far, we have seen the
architecture that inspired the Taj Mahal, taken a ‘toy train’ winding its way up into the clouds, and explored every narrow, vertical hillside of Shimla. The streets here tell a story of a complex past, blending colonial history with vibrant local traditions. Next up on the tour are
Dharamshala and Amritsar – two places I have dreamed of visiting for years. I can’t wait to witness
22 14 MAY 2026 AGENT
Touring holidays can be powerful – you aren’t worrying about the ‘how’ but focusing on the ‘wow’
the spiritual serenity of the Golden Temple and the peaceful influence of the Dalai Lama’s home. Fam trips are perfect for learning about a destination and product, getting vital first-hand experience of what clients can expect. But more than that, they allow you to truly feel a place – the culture, pace and tiny unscripted moments you simply can’t get from a glossy brochure or a mundane website. It’s the smell of street-side chai, the sound of temple bells and the kindness of strangers that truly define a trip. The guide we have is an absolute expert; he knows everything about anything! With a
guide like this, clients don’t need to stress over logistics, they just need to know when to turn up and the rest is seamless. I’ve been fortunate to experience Newmarket Holidays tours as a paying client quite a few times, and they have continued to impress. From the landscapes of Vietnam to the plains of Africa, from the soulful streets of Memphis to the heart of India, it’s touring perfection.
IN EXPERT HANDS What this trip has reinforced for me is just how powerful touring holidays can be. India is a destination that can feel overwhelming to plan independently, but when it’s packaged in a well-run, expertly guided tour, it becomes accessible and genuinely enjoyable. You aren't worrying about the ‘how’, you are focusing on the ‘wow’. Being able to return home with
real stories and insider tips means I can give my clients complete confidence when they’re booking. As we head into the final leg, I already know this is a tour I’ll be recommending time and time again. It makes you feel inspired, humbled and completely immersed in an unexpected side of India. And really, isn’t that what travel should be all about?
TAP INTO A TOUR DE FORCE
Touring holidays seem to be becoming one of the most valuable products agents can offer, and it’s easy to see why. With clients craving deeper,
more-meaningful experiences, escorted tours provide structure, safety and expert insight – without the stress of planning. One of the fastest-growing segments we’re seeing is solo female travellers. These clients are looking for experiences, safety and social connections, as well as adventure. Touring offers the perfect balance of independence and community, making it an ideal choice. This
presents a huge opportunity. By focusing a little more on touring, you’re not just offering a holiday – you’re providing reassurance, curated, expert-led experiences and exceptional value.
Tours are ideal for solo female clients
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M & Ashley att
Matt Ashley
Andrea Clare Helen diary diary
Andrea Clare H Sharon elen Sharon
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Matt & Ashley
Matt & Ashley
PICTURE: Shutterstock/frantic00
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