Say hello to Emily, your go-to expert for all thing travel!

🧡 Location: Virtual Call Centre

🧡 Title: Virtual Call Centre Travel Consultant

🧡 Email: emily.hatt@hays-travel.co.uk

🧡 Phone: 08000983584

Hello, My name is Emily and I love to travel and help people book their dream destinations. 
 
With nearly 16 years of experience as a travel agent, I’ve had the pleasure of helping clients create unforgettable memories across both land-based and cruise holidays. My journey in the industry has taken me through both retail and virtual call centre roles, giving me a well-rounded perspective on delivering exceptional service. Travel is my passion, and I find real joy in bringing happiness to others by planning their perfect getaway. Over the years, my own travel style has evolved—from exciting girls’ trips and long-haul adventures to more recent family-friendly European holidays—giving me firsthand insight into a wide range of travel needs.

Japan is more than a cultural escape — it’s a vibrant blend of tradition, innovation, and soul. From serene temples and misty mountains to neon-lit cities and coastal retreats, Japan draws both seasoned travellers and curious explorers. Wander the historic streets of Kyoto, relax in an onsen in Hakone, or find peace beneath cherry blossoms in Nara. Whether you’re tasting sushi in Tokyo, hiking through ancient forests, or discovering hidden shrines, Japan offers unforgettable experiences wrapped in timeless beauty. Add in the warmth of Japanese hospitality, the rhythm of local festivals, and the deep cultural heritage woven into every moment, and you’ll find a destination that’s as inspiring as it is unforgettable.

Arrival and Osaka, In March 2011, just days after the tsunami struck Japan, I boarded a flight with uncertainty and emotion. The trip was meant to be a family celebration—my brother’s wedding in Onomichi—but it quickly became a journey of reflection and discovery. Our first stop was Osaka, a city bursting with energy, neon lights, and unforgettable street food. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and skewers of mystery meat filled our plates and hearts. At Osaka Castle Park, the cherry blossoms had just begun to bloom, and locals gathered for hanami picnics beneath the trees. Despite the recent tragedy, the atmosphere was calm, joyful, and full of quiet strength.

Hiroshima to Nara,In Hiroshima, the mood shifted to one of reflection. Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome offered a powerful reminder of resilience and hope. Cherry blossoms lined the rivers, softening the city’s heavy history with beauty. Kobe followed, offering sleek charm and the unforgettable taste of buttery Kobe beef, cooked right before our eyes. Then came Nara, a dreamlike town filled with temples, giant Buddhas, and bowing deer that wandered freely. We explored by bike, passing sakura trees in full bloom and quiet streets that felt timeless. Each place revealed a different side of Japan—its history, its elegance, and its enduring spirit.

Kyoto, Onomichi & Final Thoughts,In Kyoto, we stayed with my brother and experienced daily life—wandering through geisha districts, stumbling into an Irish pub, and enjoying a cream tea. One night, we drank warm sake with locals until everything felt fuzzy and wonderful. The highlight was the wedding in Onomichi, a peaceful hillside town overlooking the sea. It was the perfect setting for such a meaningful celebration, especially during a time of national healing. What stayed with me most wasn’t just the cherry blossoms or the food—it was the people. Their kindness, resilience, and quiet strength showed us that Japan knows how to rebuild, celebrate beauty, and welcome strangers with open hearts.