Kay Willis
BRANCH MANAGER
I joined Newell’s Travel in Falmouth in September 1987 where I was selling Rail and Coach Tickets. After a couple of months, I moved over to the Redruth Branch to sell all aspects of travel.
After four years of working in Newell’s Travel, I took the chance to follow my dream and work abroad as a holiday representative. I did four seasons over two years and worked in Menorca, Madeira and Benidorm. Then, I had returned to Newell’s Travel in 1991 to manage the newly opened Hayle branch. Over the years we have moved premises three times but are we now loving our large modern shop in Copperhouse.
I have seen loads of changes throughout the years with technology improvements, country changes, world disasters, ash clouds and now the pandemic. In the early days, I used to sell lots of Yugotours holidays to former Yugoslavia – how times have changed!
My biggest passion is travel. I love how my job has allowed me to travel a lot so far, and I still have a wish list of places to visit. My first work travel experience was a Keycamp break to a caravan in Brittany.
Countries visited:
I loved France and Spain (especially the Balearics), and for Long Haul holidays you cannot beat the guaranteed sun of the Caribbean or Mexico.
Favourite destination:
The most exciting trip that I have ever been on was to Brisbane and Cairns in Australia. I also enjoyed staying a night in Singapore en route and loved learning how to scuba Dive in the Maldives.
I love walking the Cornish Coast, especially if there is a pub or restaurant to try out along the way. I feel so lucky to live within the area. I love spending time in my garden and seeing my bulbs come up every year. I also help out at our family garden centre and my daughter’s cafe in Lanner. Also, I have young nieces and nephews, and I enjoy taking them out and about to different parts of Cornwall on Sundays.
Last holiday:
My last holiday was to Madeira. Such a beautiful tropical island with stunning views and great all-year round climate.
I frequently visited lidos in the country and they were always a great location for walking, as well as had brilliant choices of restaurants.
Also, we went on cable cars, went on a garden tour, ands slid down a hill on a toboggan down to Funchal – a must!
Where next?
I am hoping to get to Canada and Alaska in the coming years. Las Vegas is a must-do visit too.
I also love to go on cruises and hope to get to the Norwegian Fjords. It is so lovely when you first board the cruise and get the opportunity to explore the luxurious floating hotel that you are staying.
Generally, I just enjoy planning where I would go next on holiday; it is so exciting!
Travel tip:
My travel tip is not to hesitate and just do it.
Life is short, so travel the world, have great experiences and make unforgettable memories!