About Us
Welcome to Dearloves Travel
This is our window into the world of immersive, and unforgettable travel experiences. We are Karen and Mark Dearlove, a couple in our early 50s who have been passionate about exploring the world together for decades. With a shared history in the travel industry and a lifetime of wanderlust, we bring our own perspective to every destination we visit.
Our Story
Our journey as travel enthusiasts began back in the 1990s when we both worked in the travel industry—from travel agencies and airlines to airline systems. Those years gave us an insider’s view of the travel world, igniting a deep love for discovering new places and cultures. Life eventually led us into different industries, but our passion for travel never waned. Throughout the years, we’ve travelled extensively—first as a couple, then as a family with our children, and now as a pair rediscovering the freedom to explore as empty nesters.
For Mark, work has taken him across the globe, giving him unparalleled insights into the rhythms and nuances of travel. Together, we’ve navigated countless adventures, from five-star luxury escapes to humble stays that opened doors to extraordinary experiences. We believe travel isn’t just about where you stay, but about the memories you create along the way, and the people you make connections with.
Why We Started Dearloves Travel
We created Dearloves Travel to inspire travellers over 40 to move beyond package holidays and explore the incredible destinations the world has to offer. Our goal is to show that age and experience are assets, not barriers, to adventurous travel. There are so many amazing places people often overlook, and we want to encourage our readers to make the effort to discover them.
Through our travel blog, we aim to build a global catalogue of insightful guides that cover:
- Where to go, including both popular destinations and lesser-known gems.
- Where to stay, from boutique hotels to unique Airbnbs and occasional luxury splurges.
- What to do, with a focus on cultural and immersive experiences.
- What and where to eat, celebrating local cuisine.
- Pros and cons, offering honest, balanced reviews.
- Advice on all aspects of the end to end travel process from initial planning to making the most of your time in your destinations of choice.
We’re here to help those who might feel apprehensive about travelling to unfamiliar places, offering practical advice and insights that make travel more accessible and less daunting.
What We Share
At the heart of our travels are the connections we make with the people we meet along the way. We’ve found that often, it’s the individuals and their stories that leave the most lasting impressions. From sharing a meal with a local family to learning about traditions from artisans and guides, the people we encounter bring depth and meaning to every journey. Their warmth, wisdom, and generosity inspire us to see the world through new perspectives, reminding us that people often make places truly unforgettable.
Dearloves Travel is more than a blog; it’s our love letter to the world. Here, we chronicle our journeys to inspire fellow travellers who are seeking a mix of comfort and adventure. We provide insights from both a male and female perspective, offering a well-rounded take on each destination, experience, and accommodation.
We focus on:
- Amazing Stays: Five-star hotels, boutique accommodations, and memorable Airbnbs and homestays.
- Authentic Experiences: Immersing ourselves in local cultures, trying new cuisines, and getting to know the people.
- Practical Travel Resources: Honest reviews, tips for navigating destinations, and tools like our custom Notion Template to help with trip planning, packing, and booking.
Whether we’re indulging in a luxurious retreat or embracing the simplicity of a rustic hideaway, our goal is to show you that every travel experience has its own magic.
Why Follow Us?
If you’re a traveller who values meaningful experiences, appreciates the finer things in life but isn’t afraid to step off the beaten path, Dearloves Travel is for you. We’re here to share stories that resonate, advice that empowers, and photos that inspire wanderlust. Every journey we take is guided by curiosity, openness, and a desire to connect with the world around us.
Our content is designed for a diverse audience, from seasoned travellers to those just starting their adventures. While our perspectives are rooted in the needs and interests of travellers over 40, our tips and insights—from accessibility considerations to local recommendations—are valuable to all.
Join us as we explore new destinations, revisit old favourites, and uncover the extraordinary in the everyday. Through our blog, we hope to connect with like-minded travellers who, like us, see travel as a way to enrich life and create lasting memories.
Thank you for visiting Dearloves Travel. Let’s explore the world together, one adventure at a time.