A NEW take on the high street travel agents has moved into Beaminster.

Beyond Capricorn’s travel lounge has opened its doors and celebrated with guests at an evening of canapes and fizz.

Owner Jane Bartelings said: “When we moved to the area earlier this year and visited Beaminster, we instantly fell in love with the place.

“It is a hub of small, private, artisan shops, services and eateries. What it lacked was a place where people can plan their holidays.”

By coining the term ‘travel lounge’, Beyond Capricorn is trying to reach beyond the more traditional set up of a travel agent. There are no brochure racks or desks to talk to clients.

Mrs Bartelings said: “Our sense is that booking a holiday is not only an exciting moment, but also one which, potentially, requires a significant financial outlay.

“With that being the case, we believe that the initial consultation is part and parcel of the enjoyment and should form part of the relationship we build with our clients.”

The travel lounge is located in Beaminster’s Lynden Way, an arcade leading off the main town square.

Mrs Bartelings added: “We are encouraging clients to schedule an appointment, so we can provide relevant travel advice to each and every one.

“Naturally we welcome those who like to drop by and discuss their holiday plans too.

“Despite the ongoing challenges in Beaminster, following the attempted cashpoint raid, we remain confident clients will find us.”

Plans are underway to develop the service offering in such a way that clients don’t have to worry about any aspect of their holiday or how being away impacts on home life, including the garden, looking after animals or where to park at the airport.

The company will offer holidays from all of the main and well established UK holiday companies through their membership of the Travel Trust Association.

Beyond Capricorn also offers totally bespoke holiday arrangements to clients’ specific requirements.

The travel lounge will be open from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 1pm on Saturdays, or by appointment.

The company also offers home visits for clients that prefer to discuss their holiday options in the comfort of their own home, which is currently offered in an eight-mile radius of Beaminste