Porthcawl Travel

Manager

Sara Williams

I’ve been working in the travel industry since leaving school in 1995, so travel has been a huge part of my life for many years!

I’ve been incredibly lucky to visit some wonderful destinations over the years, gaining lots of valuable first-hand experience along the way. One of my career highlights was winning a trip to Australia in 2004 to attend the final of I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, sponsored that year by First Choice Holidays. 

The Maldives had always been my dream destination, and I’ve now been lucky enough to visit twice in recent years - and it certainly lived up to the dream!

Spain and Greece are my favourite European destinations, and South Africa is next on my travel list. I love helping others turn their travel dreams into unforgettable holidays!

Assistant Manager

Jodie Wellington

I’ve been part of the Porthcawl Travel team since the branch first opened in 2022, having worked alongside Sara and Claire for the past 25 years.

With a wealth of travel experience, I’ve been lucky enough to explore many wonderful destinations, with the Far East being one of my favourites. Since becoming a mum, my family holidays have mainly focused on Europe, with Turkey a firm favourite, alongside a recent trip to Hurghada, Egypt.

I recently got married in beautiful Cyprus, and I can honestly say it was the most incredible day! Having experienced it myself, I’d love to help you find the perfect destination and make planning your dream wedding abroad as easy and stress-free as possible.

One of my most memorable experiences was a Christmas Danube River cruise. I loved being able to dock close to the towns and Christmas markets, making it so easy and enjoyable to explore. The exceptional food on board was another highlight!

I love sharing my first-hand experiences and helping customers find their perfect holiday.

Senior Travel & Cruise Specialist

Claire Major

I’m incredibly proud to be celebrating 41 years as a travel agent this year. 37 of those were working in Bridgend and the last 4 years in Porthcawl Travel. Over the years it has been a pleasure arranging holidays all around the world for so many clients and I still love seeing the pleasure and excitement they get on booking day, from families and couples to groups and solo passengers.

I have been very lucky to experience many trips myself from my own family beach holidays with my children, touring holidays, cities and more recently river and ocean cruising.

Every holiday is exciting but some of my memorable highlights are touring north island New Zealand with an extension in Fiji, travelling on the Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver, helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies and visiting the Grand Canyon and cruising the Norwegian Fjords . 

Senior Travel & Cruise Specialist

Hayley Burnell

I’ve worked as a Travel Agent for 11 years, including the past four years as part of the Porthcawl Travel team since the branch first opened in 2022.

I’ve been incredibly lucky to turn my passion for travel into a career and have explored some amazing destinations including Thailand, India, Jordan, Costa Rica, the Caribbean and many beautiful parts of Europe.

I’m definitely not a “fly & flop” kind of holidayer - I love an escorted tour or a cruise! Cruising is a particular favourite of mine, and I’ve been lucky enough to experience a variety of cruise lines and ships. I love matching people with the perfect ship for their holiday.

I’ve also spent three seasons working in magical Lapland, creating unforgettable experiences for holidaymakers. I love sharing my first-hand experiences and helping people find their perfect holiday. My next adventure? Banff, Canada!

Senior Travel & Cruise Specialist

Karen Thomas

I have worked in travel for 21 years starting out with a tour operator and now enjoying the last 3 years as a travel agent with Porthcawl Travel. I enjoy helping people find their perfect holiday whether it’s a relaxing beach holiday, cruise or a bucket list tour.

My personal favorite destinations are Zante, Lanzarote and Cyprus. I also love a city break for plenty to see with good food and drink. I have also been lucky to visit and explore parts of Canada and the USA.

If you are planning your next adventure just get in touch I would love to help. 

Travel Specialist in Training

Keeley McNally

I’m a trainee at Porthcawl Travel with a growing passion for all things travel!

I’ve been lucky enough to explore some amazing destinations, including New York, Rome, Paris, Reykjavik and Austin TX, with plenty more on my travel wish list. I’m excited to continue expanding my experience and knowledge of destinations all around the world.

I’d love to hear about your favourite places and learn more about how you like to travel. Whether you’re looking for the perfect destination and accommodation, flights, activities or those little extras that make a holiday truly special, I’m here to help. I’m so excited to meet new people, share my passion for travel and help you plan your next adventure!