Essex town to get first high street travel agency in 15 years

Holidaysplease is partnering with a local gift shop in a joint venture to relaunch the town's travel agency presence on its high street for the first-time in 15 years.Jo Shayler, a homeworker, will open Holidaysplease on Connaught at Frinton-on-sea (Essex) on August 25, in an outdoor area behind Great Danes on Connaught Avenue.This will be Frinton's first walk-in agency since Connaught Travel opened the same shop 15 years ago.Shayler will operate The Patio on a Wednesday by appointment only. The space is equipped with infrared lamps, a firepit and can be used to host client events.Shayler stated: The Patio provides a great environment to meet local people who are looking for personal travel advice. I'm a Frinton resident and am aware that there isn't a travel presence on the high streets.To give people the opportunity to meet me, I will be there one week.Shayler, who specializes in luxury beach getaways, honeymoons and weddings, says the idea was born after the two businesses realized that Frinton did not have a quality travel agency.Birgitte and Mike McLain, the Great Dane owners, were her first encounter. She has been taking care of their holidays ever since.In an effort to support another local business, the Great Dane owners offered the space for rent.Mike McLain stated: "The last 18 months have shown us the importance having a local presence built upon loyal clients and a personalized service. Jo shares the same passion for these values. One of the few positives from this crisis was the security and value of booking holidays through an accredited travel agent.It is a pleasure working with her. She listens to her clients, and she uses her industry knowledge and connections to make great decisions. This is a wonderful opportunity for Frinton, as they will be able to find a top-rated travel professional in their community. We look forward to welcoming her to The Patio.He said: Great Danes was on Connaught Avenue since 19 years. But, before us, it belonged to Connaught Travel. So it feels poetic that Holidaysplease on Connaught would be operating from the same address.Shayler will still work from home the six remaining days of the week.