My fam trip with Travelsphere and Just You was incredibly beneficial and has significantly enhanced my understanding of touring holidays, both for couples and for solo travellers. Being quite new to travel, I didn’t feel I had a great knowledge of this holiday type, and so, having the opportunity to experience one of these tours first-hand was truly eye-opening. It allowed me to appreciate the sheer amount of value in touring, from the expertly designed itineraries to the knowledgeable, friendly tour manager and guide who made every destination come alive. 

Kirstie, our tour manager, stayed in the hotel with us and was with the group throughout. Ivan, our local guide, was so passionate about his country and this really did shine through. I genuinely believed that what he did not know about the country was not worth knowing. 

The standard of accommodation was consistently high; we stayed at the AX Odycy in Qawra. The hotel had a central location and a lovely adult-only rooftop pool that guests could experience during their free days. Every logistical detail was taken care of, which ensured a smooth, stress-free journey – something that many clients are looking for.

One of the standout aspects of the trip was witnessing how both brands meet the needs of their respective audiences. Travelsphere offers a warm and welcoming group experience that’s ideal for couples and friends travelling together, while Just You focuses exclusively on solo travellers, creating an environment that feels inclusive, sociable, and empowering. 

As a group, we were given information advising us of some differences between the two brands, for example Just You guests are guaranteed a room for sole occupancy and should they prefer to dine as part of a group, then there is always that option. There was a real sense of community on the tour, which contributed to a genuinely enjoyable experience. Everyone had the opportunity to connect and enjoy the destinations together, yet there was also room for personal time and space when needed.

There were many highlights across the five days, visiting Valletta, the Blue Grotto and Mdina, but I particularly enjoyed our time on Gozo – it has the perfect blend of natural beauty, history and charm. The food also made a good impression – the famous pea pasties, or pastizzi tal pizelli, were very tasty, as were the traditional farmhouse lunches, where we learnt about Malta’s rich olive oil heritage and how they make traditional Maltese cheese.

The programme also included a folklore dinner show, which featured local performers who told the story of Maltese history through dance. There was a little audience participation too, where some of us were chosen to join them on the dance floor.

The experience has not only enhanced my product knowledge but has also boosted my confidence in discussing and recommending touring to clients. I now feel equipped to answer a wide range of questions, knowing that I’ve seen it in action and understand the quality of holiday it can provide. It’s one thing to read about an itinerary on paper, but to live it adds an entirely new layer of credibility.

What struck me was the passion behind the delivery of each element of the tour. The tour managers were outstanding, going above and beyond to ensure every guest felt welcomed and valued. Their enthusiasm was contagious and helped to elevate the experience for everyone involved.

Overall, this trip has left me with a new-found confidence to actively promote and sell escorted touring. I can speak to clients knowing that I’m recommending a holiday type that delivers memorable, well-organised, and enriching experiences. It was a fantastic opportunity, full of insight, and one that I will draw upon often in my conversations with clients.

Since returning from the trip, I’ve found it has been mainly clients aged 50+ that have had a keener interest in touring holidays and who have been open to hearing more about them.