Claire Oliver
Owner & Luxury Travel Specialist
With over 35 years in travel, I’ve been lucky enough to explore the world and help others do the same. From white-water rafting in Borneo to dipping my toes in the Indian Ocean, every experience has shaped how I plan and personalise trips for my clients.
Whether it’s a dream wedding, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or just the perfect escape, I love getting to know what really matters to my clients and making it happen.
Travel should be exciting, effortless and completely tailored to you - and that’s exactly what I aim to deliver.
My background
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved travel - not just the destinations, but the stories, the experiences and the magic of helping people create their own incredible memories. There’s something so special about helping someone plan a trip they never imagined they could take.
Bristol born and bred, I started my career straight out of school, back when everything was done manually - no online bookings, just knowledge, instinct and a lot of problem-solving! I became one of the youngest managers at Baker Dolphin Travel before moving into training and NVQ assessments, where I helped shape the next generation of travel professionals. I later joined Miles Morgan Travel, setting up and running its online Dream Weddings and Honeymoons division before buying and rebranding that side of the business to Luxury Dream Holidays in 2018.
Travel isn’t just my job - it’s my passion, my hobby, and a huge part of my life. I love what I do, and I put everything into ensuring my clients have the very best experience. Your trip is as important to me as it is to you.
As an independent travel specialist, I work with a trusted network of global partners, offering unbiased advice, tailored recommendations and full financial protection - so you can book with total confidence.
Whether you’re dreaming of an adventure, a ski trip, a cruise or a once-in-a-lifetime wedding abroad, or simply need some inspiration, I’d love to help bring your perfect trip to life.
Where I've been
I’ve been incredibly lucky to explore some of the most beautiful and diverse places on earth, and every trip has shaped my understanding of what makes travel so special.
The Indian Ocean has always been close to my heart - Mauritius, the Seychelles and the Maldives are true paradises, with world-class hotels, stunning beaches and some of the warmest, most welcoming people I’ve ever met. I’ve been fortunate to stay at incredible places like Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury Mauritius, where the service and attention to detail are second to none and I can focus on my wellbeing.
The Caribbean is another favourite - the laid-back island vibes, crystal-clear waters, and the best rum punch you’ll ever taste!
Then there’s South Africa, a place that brings together everything I love - breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife and amazing food and wine. Seeing animals in their natural habitat - the way it’s meant to be - is something truly special.
From the buzzing cities of Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai to the diverse landscapes of Borneo and India, the cultural richness of Europe, and the remote beauty of the Isles of Scilly, every place I’ve visited has left its mark. And yet, there’s always more to explore...
My favourite places
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Mauritius & the Seychelles – Unparalleled luxury, stunning beaches, seafood to die for and the warmest hospitality.
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South Africa – A dream destination for wildlife lovers, offering breathtaking safaris and world-class wine. From the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch and the rich history of KwaZulu-Natal, it’s a country with something for everyone. An unforgettable journey that’s an emotional rollercoaster every time.
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India – The energy, the culture, the diversity - an experience like no other. My first journey through India in my early 20s was truly life changing. I had never encountered such a rich tapestry of contrasts and traditions, and I fell in love with it instantly. It’s a destination that stays with you.
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The Caribbean – Nothing beats the island lifestyle - relaxed, beautiful, and full of personality. Each island, big or small, has its own unique charm, and understanding these differences is key when matching the perfect destination to my customers’ needs.
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The Far East – A perfect balance of buzzing cities, tranquil beaches, unique experiences, and unforgettable food. It’s a true feast for the senses, and after just a few visits, I was hooked - left wanting to explore even more of this captivating region.
Where I want to go next
The list keeps growing! Next on my radar is...
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Japan - The culture, the contrast between old and new, and the incredible cuisine. I’d love to not only explore the big cities but also the serenity of the national parks, the stunning cherry blossoms and the traditional ceremonies of this exquisite destination.
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Latin America - I’d love to experience the vibrancy of Brazil, the history of Peru and the wildlife of the Galápagos and Costa Rica. I’ve not even scratched the surface of this beautiful region of the world. Of course, this would tick all my wildlife boxes, but I also want to explore the diversity these countries bring to the region and see what really makes them so special.
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Arctic/ Antarctica – To witness the raw, untouched beauty of these regions and (hopefully!) see the Northern Lights. To be alongside magical creatures and birdlife and to experience true expedition adventures.
My priorities when booking a holiday for a client
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Listening, first and foremost. Before I even start looking at options, I take the time to truly understand what a client wants.
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Honesty and communication. Travel should be exciting, never stressful - I make sure my clients are informed and supported every step of the way.
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Attention to detail. The little things make all the difference, from arranging private transfers to recommending hidden gems.
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Treating every trip as if it were my own. It’s not just about booking a holiday - it’s about making sure it’s perfect.
What I can't travel without
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My phone (for photos of course!)
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Binoculars (especially for wildlife trips!)
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A good book (preferably travel-related)
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A sturdy suitcase - I always pack it full of ‘just in case’ items!
My best piece of travel advice
Go and find your happy place. Explore as much as you can but give yourself time to truly immerse yourself in where you are.
When I'm not working...
When I’m not helping clients plan their next trip, you’ll probably find me:
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Out in nature, birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
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Cooking and getting the family together over a great meal.
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Enjoying theatre and dance, which were once a big part of my life. I also took part in many sports during my youth (though my hockey days are long behind me!). I love a big sporting event and the excitement and atmosphere it brings.