Escorted Holidays

For over 10 years, our Managing Director, Clare Dudley, has been curating and leading unforgettable journeys for like-minded travellers who enjoy exploring the world as part of a small, friendly group. With Clare’s expertise, care, and meticulous attention to detail, every holiday runs seamlessly—allowing you to relax, immerse yourself in the experience, and make the very most of your time away.

These special adventures have taken us across the globe—from a tour of Vietnam and Cambodia along the Mekong, to leisurely river cruises through Europe on the Douro, Seine, Saône, and River Po. We’ve embraced the open sea aboard a Star Clipper in Costa Rica, and enjoyed a short break in Tuscany to see Andrea Bocelli perform in his hometown.

Whenever possible, we also offer exclusive departures where the entire vessel is chartered for Ponders Travel guests. Recent examples include a private river safari through Southern Africa and a luxury yacht voyage along the Croatian coastline.

We take pride in making every trip truly unique, often including one-of-a-kind experiences—such as private dinners in charming Tuscan homes or exclusive shore excursions just for our group. These thoughtful touches create moments you’ll treasure forever.

Clare’s escorted departures are far from “just another group holiday.” They’re about creating memories filled with fun, laughter, and friendship—whether with familiar faces or new companions you’ll want to travel with again and again. If this sounds like your kind of travel, we’d love to hear from you. Our friendly team can share more details about upcoming adventures, and we’re always open to your ideas for future destinations!

My husband and I have now enjoyed three incredible escorted tours with Ponders, and we’ve already booked our fourth—we simply wouldn’t travel with anyone else.
Each trip has been completely unique and flawlessly organized. We’ve explored the natural wonders of Costa Rica, cruised in style aboard a luxurious super yacht in Croatia, and experienced the magic of Andrea Bocelli live in the Tuscan Hills—all unforgettable moments made possible by Ponders.
What makes these journeys truly special is Clare, who not only escorts the tours but is also the Managing Director. Her passion, attention to detail, and personal care for every guest creates a warm, friendly atmosphere and makes every trip feel effortlessly enjoyable.
From thoughtfully planned itineraries to high-quality accommodation, seamless travel, and a perfect balance of group activities and free time, everything is handled with professionalism, care, and a personal touch.
We can’t wait for our next adventure and would highly recommend Ponders to anyone looking for memorable, worry-free travel led by people who truly care.

Nikki & Keith

I had the good fortune to join a weeks cruise around beautiful Croatia on a luxury yacht hosted by Clare from Ponders Travel. Clare was warm, helpful and fun to be around and the trip was well organised and stress free. I would recommend joining any of her trips and hope to join one again myself very soon.

Suzanne (aged 54)

I am a single traveller and have joined Clare on many of her escorted trips.
I feel I have the best of both worlds on Clare’s escorted trips, peace of
mind that Clare has everything organised and the company of some lovely
people. The holidays have all been fun adventures with lots of variety. I
have been to places I wouldn’t have travelled to on my own. The escorted
trips give me the confidence to go on holiday on my own. Thank you Clare
and the team at Ponders.

Carol