What we’re about
A really warm welcome to Travel Buddies!
We are a small independent company that specializes in bespoke group travel as we feel experiences are better shared and there is so much to gain from travelling together.
We started up in 2013 and have 4 groups in the UK which meet for social events, the chance to meet other members, get involved and talk travel.
We plan trips all over the world, from weekends away in Europe to long haul trips in far off destinations, and have had amazing experiences worldwide whilst making great new friends and sharing unforgettable moments together.
If its adventure that you crave, culture, relaxation or doing something completely different there are trips to suit every type of traveller and every budget.
We hope to see you at a meet up soon and look forward to travelling with you and making more unforgettable memories!
Featured event
Twinkling Lights & Alpine Delights of Montreux Christmas Markets.
Imagine a postcard-perfect Christmas where the festive glow of a traditional market meets the breathtaking natural beauty of the Swiss Alps and the tranquil waters of stunning Lake Geneva.. A three-night adventure to the Montreux Christmas Markets (Marché de Noël à Montreux) offers just that — a truly magical escape on the shores of Lake Geneva. This journey is more than just a trip; it's an immersion into a festive wonderland where every moment is filled with sparkle, charm, and unforgettable experiences.
The heart of the magic is the main market along the lakeside promenade. Wander through hundreds of illuminated chalets, each offering handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and Swiss treats. The main event, however, is the "Flying Santa" spectacle, where Santa Claus himself soars across the sky in his sleigh at set times each evening, a sight that delights both children and adults.
For an unparalleled experience, take a scenic cogwheel train from Montreux up to the summit of Rochers-de-Naye. At an altitude of over 2,000 meters, you can step into a real-life winter wonderland. This mountaintop is home to Santa's Grotto, where you can meet the man in red, if you so desire, in a stunning, snow-covered setting, surrounded by panoramic views of the Alps and the lake below.
Just a short distance from Montreux, the legendary Château de Chillon hosts a special Medieval Christmas Market on select weekends. Step back in time within the castle's ancient walls, where jesters and performers fill the courtyards, and artisans demonstrate their crafts. It's a unique opportunity to experience a different kind of festive tradition in one of Switzerland's most iconic historical sites.
Highlights include;
* The Montreux Noël Lakeside Market and the "Flying Santa"
* A High-Altitude Journey to Santa's Grotto & magnificent views over Lake Geneva & the Alps
* Medieval Charm at Château de Chillon
For the full itinerary please click on the link below.
Twinkling Lights & Alpine Delights of Montreux Christmas Markets.
What's Included
- 3 nights sharing a twin room at the J5, Hotels, Helvetie & La Brasserie
- Breakfast each morning
- Return airport transfers
- Travel Buddies host
- Montreux Riviera card
- Chillon Castle entrance tickets
What's not included
- Any additional entrance fees and public transport that you may use that is not listed above.
- Meals that are not included in the itinerary.
- Tips for the guides and drivers.
- International Flights
- 3 night tourist tax 7chf per night per person
Flight’s
You need to book your own flights and they are with British Airways Please wait until we give you the go ahead to book the flights, we really hope this will be in the next 24 hours so do keep an eye on your direct messages on Meet Up.
Flights are currently £98 and include a 10kg hand luggage.
If you would prefer to travel from an alternative UK airport or book a different flight, that is absolutely fine. Please let us know when you book. You will need to arrange your own hotel transfers.
Please see the full flight details in the link
COST
The price of the above tour is £649. All payments need to be made into the Protected Trust Services account held with HSBC:
A non refundable deposit of £100 If we haven’t received your deposit within 3 days of RSVP, your RSVP will be changed to "not going" and your space will be released. The balance of £549 needs to be paid by the 15th October. If you are having a room to yourself for the 3 nights the balance is £799,
Please note that the room type you choose (Sharing or solo room) will NOT be amendable.
PTS Air Travel Trust
Account number: 83664597
Sort Code: 40-40-14
Reference: 2T0086460 Your First and Last Name
Please note that we do not accept credit card
To learn more on how we protect your money, please visit:
Protected Trust Services
By paying a deposit you will be agreeing to the following cancellation policies:
Travel Buddies UK Limited Terms & Conditions
When you RSVP to a trip you will be asked the following questions please take a moment to fill in all of the answers.
What is your full name? What is your contact number? What is your email address? Do you know the travel buddy you wish to share a room with? Do you wish to have a room for yourself for a supplement of £150
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ.
By paying the deposit for this trip you are confirming that you are physically able to participate in all aspects of this trip unassisted.
Physical accessibility:
This tour is suitable for Travel Buddies with medium fitness & normal mobility. It involves full days of sightseeing, often on foot, and includes some climbing of stairs, and getting on and off buses. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
Visa Requirements
If you are traveling on a passport issued in the UK you will not need to apply for a visa for this trip.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is a mandatory requirement for travelling with Travel Buddies. Please ensure you are fully insured for all aspects of your trip. We would advise you to take out your travel insurance as soon as you have paid your deposit.
Upcoming events
26
- £2,199.00
14 Days Best of China Including 3 Nights 5* Yangtze River Cruise.
Location not specified yetJoin Travel Buddies as we head to China for an absolutely incredible journey over 14 nights.
- Walk on one of the seven wonders of the world. The Great Wall.
- Uncover the 8000 Terracotta warriors Buried beneath Xian
- 26 meals included including the Famous “Peking Duck”
- Spend 3 nights onboard a 5* river cruise on the Yangtze river with daily excursions included as we sail past the stunning 3 gorges.
- Walk on the world famous Glass Bridge and ride one of the world's highest outdoor elevator in Zhangjiajie
Please click on the link below to see the full itinerary
14 Days Best of China Including 3 Nights 5* Yangtze River Cruise.What's Included
- 9 nights staying at 3* and 4* Hotels throughout the tour
- 3 Nights onboard the cruise ship on a full board basis
- 26 meals included
- All transfers as listed above.
- English speaking guide throughout
- Travel Buddies host
- All tours and entrance fees as listed above
- One way train ticket
- Domestic flight Zhangjiajie-Shanghai including 20kg luggage
- Huangpu River Night Cruise
- Puppet Show
- Cable car ticket for Tianzi Mountain
- Elevator ticket for Bailongtianti
- Bottle of water each day
What's not included
- Entrance fees, transport fees and meals other than those listed above.
- Tips for the guide and driver. The recommended amount as a guide is around £5 per day for the guide and £3 for the driver.
- International Flights
You need to book your own flights and they are with Air China. Please wait until we give you the go ahead to book the flights. Below is the flight that Phil will be going on.
Flights are currently £680 and include checked luggage.
If you would prefer to travel from an alternative UK airport or book a different flight, that is absolutely fine. Please let us know when you book. (Please note that if you are arriving on different flights then you will need to arrange your own airport transfer to meet the group).
15/10/2025 - Depart London Heathrow 22.40 Arrive PEK Beijing Capital 15.25+1
Flight Number CA85629/10/2025 - Depart PVG Shanghai Pudong 02.15 - Arrive London Gatwick 06.55
Flight Number CA847COST
The price of the above tour is £2199. All payments need to be made into the Protected Trust Services account held with HSBC:A non refundable deposit of £800. If we haven’t received your deposit within 3 days of RSVP, your RSVP will be changed to "not going" and your space will be released. The balance of £1399 needs to be paid by the 23rd August 2025. If you are having a room to yourself for the 9 nights (not including River cruise element) the balance is £1599, If you are having a room to yourself for the 12 nights (including River cruise element) the balance is £1874.
Please note that the room type you choose (Sharing or solo room) will NOT be amendable.
Trustees of PTS Air Travel Trust
Account number: 83664597
Sort Code: 40-40-14
Reference: 2T0049999 Your First and Last NamePlease note that we do not accept credit card
To learn more on how we protect your money, please visit:
Protected Trust ServicesBy paying a deposit you will be agreeing to the following cancellation policies:
Travel Buddies UK Limited Terms & ConditionsWhen you RSVP to a trip you will be asked the following questions please take a moment to fill in all of the answers.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ.
By paying the deposit for this trip you are confirming that you are physically able to participate in all aspects of this trip unassisted.Physical accessibility:
This tour is suitable for Travel Buddies with a medium fitness & normal mobility. It involves full days of sightseeing, often on foot, and includes some climbing of stairs, and getting on and off coaches and boats. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.Visa Requirements
You will need a visa to enter China. If you’re 14 to 70 years old, you must apply for a visa online and then go in person to a visa for China application centre. Officials will take a scan of your fingerprints as part of your application. There are visa application centres in London, Manchester, Belfast and Edinburgh. If you’re aged 13 or under, or 71 or over, you do not have to attend in person.We really look forward to you joining us for this incredible trip.
6 attendees - £2,199.00
Brazil And Argentina: Buenos Aires, Rio De Janeiro, Iguazu Falls & IIha Grande
Heathrow Airport, Hounslow, GBPlease note that the flight lands in London Heathrow at 13.25 on the 19th of November and not as above this is due to the restrictions with the dates on Meet-up.
What a tour!
Over 15 days in total you can expect to……
Explore 2 of South America's most incredible capital cities, with guided tours that include Sugarloaf mountain, Christ the redeemer and the Balcony where Eva Peron addressed her people.
Tango and Samba the evenings away (or at least enjoy watching others do it, whilst sipping a nice chilled Cipriana).
Be a cowboy/cowgirl for the day on a Gaucho Ranch Tour.
Explore both the Argentinian side and the Brazilian side of the Iguazu falls.
Visit the Sambadrome and enjoy a backstage tour of the Carioca carnival.
Relax and explore the stunning tropical island paradise for 3 nights on Ilha Grande (big Island)
Please click on the link for the full itinerary.
Brazil And Argentina: Buenos Aires, Rio De Janeiro, Iguazu Falls & IIha GrandeWhat's Included
- 10 nights staying at 3 and 4 * Hotels
- 3 Nights in a Suite or Chalet on Ilha Grande
- 13 Breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
- All airport transfers
- Return bus and boat transfers to Ilha Grande
- Travel Buddies host
- Internal flight Buenos Aires- Personal item (purse, handbag, or backpack) up to 3 kilograms. Carry-on up to 8 kilograms and 15kg Luggage.
- Internal flight Iguassu Falls to Rio De Janeiro, 23kg Luggage
- Full day tour of both sides of the Iguazu Falls
- Full day Buenos Aires Highlights tour
- Full day Gaucho tour with lunch
- Full day Rio Highlights tour
- Samba carnival tour
- Favelas tour
What's not included
- Entrance fees, transport fees and meals other than those listed above.
- Flights
You need to book your own flights and they are with British Airways and Air Iberia. I would advise to book your flight as soon as possible after booking on to the trip as they are likely to rise the sooner we get to the date of departure. Below is the flight that Nigel will be going on.
There are also similar flights with different airlines, you can choose whichever suits you best as long as you are there to start the tour on the 6th November of April.
If you would prefer to travel from an alternative UK airport or book a different flight, that is absolutely fine. Please let us know when you book. You will need to arrange your own hotel transfers.
Outbound (Non Direct)
05/11/2025 - Depart London Heathrow 07.25 Arrive Madrid 10.55 Flight Number BA0458
Depart Madrid 12.00. Arrive Buenos Aires 20.35 Flight Number BA4255Inbound (Direct)
18/11/25 - Depart Rio De Janeiro 18.10. Arrive London Heathrow 08.25+1 Flight Number BA0248COST
The price of the above tour is £2199. All payments need to be made into the Protected Trust Services account held with HSBC:A non refundable deposit of £400. If we haven’t received your deposit within 3 days of RSVP, your RSVP will be changed to "not going" and your space will be released. The second payment of £799 needs to be paid by the 10th June 25. The balance payment of £1000 needs to be paid by the 30th September 25. If you are having a room to yourself the balance is £1400.
Trustees of PTS Air Travel Trust
Account number: 83664597
Sort Code: 40-40-14
Reference: 2T0051510 Your First and Last Name
Please note that we do not accept credit cardTo learn more on how we protect your money, please visit:
Protected Trust ServicesBy paying a deposit you will be agreeing to the following cancellation policies:
Travel Buddies UK Limited Terms & Conditions
When you RSVP to a trip you will be asked the following questions please take a moment to fill in all of the answers.What is your full name? What is your contact number? What is your email address? Do you know the travel buddy you wish to share a room with? Do you wish to have a room to yourself for a supplement of £400
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ.
By paying the deposit for this trip you are confirming that you are physically able to participate in all aspects of this trip unassisted.
Visa RequirementsTo enter Brazil a visa is not required when traveling on a British passport. Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date of arrival.
To enter Argentina a visa is not required when traveling on a British passport.We are really excited to have you join us.
16 attendees - £1,199.00
Helsinki, Tallinn & an Overnight Train to spend 2 nights deep in the Arctic.
Heathrow Airport, Hounslow, GBWhy not join us on a truly memorable 6 night Nordic adventure?
Imagine exploring Helsinki, Tallinn & Rovaniemi - incredible city vibes to the magical Artic Wilderness.We have planned quite a voyage, spending time discovering Helsinki's unique blend of sophisticated design, vibrant urban life, and serene coastal beauty. What a start to our Nordic experience.
And then, a completely different vibe as we step back in time and wander Tallinn's wonderfully preserved medieval Old Town, a really charming UNESCO gem just a short ferry ride across the Baltic Sea.
Finally, and the only fitting way to end a phenomenal adventure, we shall
drift into dreams aboard an overnight train as we journey deep into the Arctic wilderness - crossing the Artic Circle no less - waking to immerse ourselves in the serene tranquillity and natural beauty of the Vaattunki Wilderness Resort. Such diverse and captivating scenery, pure bliss, natural and stunning.Please click on the link below to see the full amazing itinerary
Helsinki, Tallinn & The Santa Claus Overnight Train to spend 2 nights in LaplandWhat's Included
- 3 nights accommodation at a 4* hotel in Helsinki
- Overnight sleeper train cabin ticket one way
- 2 nights at the Vaattunki resort in Rovanaeimi
- 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
- All hotel, train and airport transfers
- Bus tour of Helsinki
- 5D Cinema experience in Helsinki
- Return ferry ticket to Tallinn
What's not included
- Entrance fees, transport fees and meals other than those listed above.
- Tips for the guides
- International Flights
Flight’s
You need to book your own flights and they are with FinnAir.
Below is the flight that the tour leader will be going on.If you would prefer to travel from an alternative UK airport or book a different flight, that is absolutely fine. Please let us know when you book. You will need to arrange your own hotel transfers.Outbound Direct
09/11/2025 - Depart London Heathrow 10.20 Arrive Helsinki Vantaa 15.15
Flight Number AY1332Inbound Non Direct
15/11/2025 - Depart Rovaniemi 13.20 Arrive Helsinki Vantaa 14.40
Flight Number AY5421 hour 20 minutes Layover
Depart Helsinki Vantaa 16.00 Arrive London Heathrow 17.00
Flight Number AY1337COST
The price of the above tour is £1299. All payments need to be made into the Protected Trust Services account held with HSBC:
A non refundable deposit of £300. If we haven’t received your deposit within 3 days of RSVP, your RSVP will be changed to "not going" and your space will be released. The balance of £999 needs to be paid by the 25th September 2025. If you are having a room to yourself for the 5 nights the balance is £1254.Trustees of PTS Air Travel Trust
Account number: 83664597
Sort Code: 40-40-14
Reference: 2T0067138 Your First and Last Name
Please note that we do not accept credit cardTo learn more on how we protect your money, please visit:
Protected Trust ServicesBy paying a deposit you will be agreeing to the following cancellation policies:
Travel Buddies UK Limited Terms & ConditionsWhen you RSVP to a trip you will be asked the following questions please take a moment to fill in all of the answers.
What is your full name? What is your contact number? What is your email address? Do you know the travel buddy you wish to share a room with? Do you wish to have a room for yourself for a supplement of £255.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ.
By paying the deposit for this trip you are confirming that you are physically able to participate in all aspects of this trip unassisted.Physical accessibility:
This tour is suitable for Travel Buddies with medium fitness & normal mobility. It involves full days of sightseeing, often on foot, and includes some climbing of stairs, and getting on and off coaches and boats. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.Visa Requirements
You will not need a visa to enter Finland if you are traveling on a UK passport.We really look forward to having you join us.
6 attendees - £1,399.00
Vietnam Encompassed. 14 Incredible Nights
Location not specified yetJoin Travel Buddies as we head off to explore Vietnam on this 14 night adventure encompassing Ho Chi Minh City, The Mekong Delta, Hue, Hoi An, Hanoi and an overnight cruise in a Vietnamese junk boat in HaLong Bay. There are plenty of excursions included as well as free time to do as we please, relaxing, exploring further and getting the true feel of Vietnam.
Please click on the link to see the full itinerary
Vietnam Encompassed. 14 Incredible NightsWhat's Included
- 11 nights accommodation in 3* hotels
- One night in a cabin on board a junk boat in Halong Bay with all activities
- All ground transport
- 12 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 1 dinner.
- 2 internal flights. Ho Chi Minh-Hue & Hoi An-Hanoi
- 2 day Mekong river experience with all activities
- Ho Chi Minh City Street Food Tour
- Ho Chi Minh City day tour
- Co Chi Tunnels Tour
- Hue half day city tour
- My Son Holyland tour
What's not included
- Airport transfers if coming on a different flight from the one recommended above
- International Flights (please see below)
- Meals other than listed above
- Personal costs, transport and tips.
You need to book your own flights and they are with Vietnam Airlines and are currently from £719. I would advise to book your flight as soon as possible after booking on to the trip as they are likely to rise the sooner we get to the date of departure.
Please note that you are more than welcome to book your flight from an alternative airport in the UK. Prior to the trip we will give you the hotel information for the first hotel and you can meet the group there.
PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU WILL BE FLYING TO HO CHI MINH CITY BUT DEPARTING FROM HANOI
15/11/2025 (DIRECT)
Depart London Heathrow Terminal 4. 11.00 Arrive Ho Chi Minh City 06.05+1
Flight Number VN5028/11/2025 (NON DIRECT)
Depart Hanoi 20.00 Arrive London Heathrow 07.15+1
Layover of 2h 05m in Ho Chi Minh City
Flight Numbers VN263 and VN51COST
The price of the above tour is £1399 .All payments need to be made into the Protected Trust Services account held with HSBC:A non refundable deposit of £250 If we haven’t received your deposit within 3 days of RSVP, your RSVP will be changed to "not going" and your space will be released. The balance of £1149 needs to be paid by the 25th August 25 into the following business account. (if you are having a room to yourself the balance is £1399)
Trustees of PTS Air Travel Trust
Account number: 83664597
Sort Code: 40-40-14
Reference: 2T0051190 Your First and Last Name(Please note that we do not accept Credit Cards)
To learn more on how we protect your money, please visit [www.protectedtrustservices.com/travel/consumer-protection/By paying a deposit you will be agreeing to our cancellation policies and that you have read and agree to the Terms and Conditions
Travel Buddies Terms and ConditionsWhen you RSVP it is important that you answer all of the following questions.
What is your full name? What is your contact number? What is your email address? Do you know the travel buddy you wish to share a room with? Do you wish to have a room to yourself for a supplement of £250.
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ.
You are responsible for ensuring that you are covered by insurance for the trip and in particular all activities that you undertake outside of the Travel Buddies itinerary.
Vaccinations
Please see here to check if you need any vaccinations for this trip.You will need to have a minimum of 6 months validity left on your passport from the return date to the UK in order to be able to travel.
We really look forward to you joining us for this incredible trip.
7 attendees
Past events
299
