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Ready to Make Your Next Holiday Extra Special!

We've upgraded our services to ensure you get the help you need in lightning-quick time. Our team is ready to assist in any way we can. The easiest way to reach us is via live chat (check our opening times).

We've worked hard to make our services more flexible, with FLEXTRAS - when you book with Holiday Extras, you'll enjoy the most flexible terms available. Plus, we're continuing to enhance our app with innovative features like HEHA! - The Holiday Extras Holiday Assistant, making it easier and faster than ever to search, book, and save.

Thanks for choosing Holiday Extras. Wishing you happy travels!

Ray Vaughan

Director Chauntry


My journey so far


I first became involved with Holiday Extras (formerly The Apple Booking Company) in 1992, when I was tasked with designing and developing a cutting-edge booking system for their Parking, Hotel, and Insurance services. My brief was simple. As a high volume, low margin business my goal was to automate as many functions of the business as possible so that it could grow profitably and exponentially.

Two key early components of this transformation were the introduction of on-line card payments, quite a big thing in those days, and providing travel agents with an efficient electronic booking tool.

The system launched successfully in 1993 and quickly became a cornerstone of the business.

By 2000, the platform was transformed to allow consumers to also self-serve, thus becoming one of the first true e-commerce systems.

Today, the system processes a volume of transactions daily that far exceeds its original yearly capacity—testament to its forward-thinking architecture and scalability.

Over three decades, this system has remained a model for innovation and reliability, setting the foundation for my ongoing focus on developing transformative solutions in the travel and technology sectors.

Life before Holiday Extras


I began my I.T. journey in the early 1980s, initially as a COBOL programmer, where I played a pivotal role in modernizing financial operations for organizations such as the BBC and GlaxoSmithKline. By introducing computers and spreadsheet solutions into their accounting departments, I developed a strong foundation in financial systems and business processes.

This expertise opened doors to a position at a software firm specializing in accounting solutions, where I worked on critical modules including Sales Order Processing, Fixed Assets and Ledger systems. These experiences honed my technical skills and deepened my understanding of how software could streamline complex business operations.

In the late-1980s, I moved into the travel technology sector, designing and building reservation systems for a diverse array of clients. From tour operators to car hire companies and hotel groups, I gained extensive experience creating tailored solutions that addressed the unique needs of the travel and holiday industries. This period laid the groundwork for my long-standing commitment to innovation in travel technology.

With decades of experience in technology and travel, I remain dedicated to driving transformative solutions that empower businesses and elevate customer experiences. At Chauntry, I am proud to lead a team that continues to push boundaries and deliver exceptional results.


Life outside Holiday Extras


My career has afforded me the opportunity to travel extensively, immersing myself in diverse cultures and gaining unique insights into global business practices. Two locations, however, resonate on a personal level.


Dublin, where both of my parents were born, and which as a result, has many happy childhood memories for me. In more recent times my links with Dublin have been renewed as my eldest daughter graduated from Trinity College Dublin.


Ibiza, in contrast, represents a formative chapter of my professional and personal journey. In the 1980s, it was a hub of creativity, innovation and collaboration.Today, it serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing hard work with the joy of new experiences.


These destinations, though vastly different, highlight the importance of combining tradition and forward-thinking perspectives in both life and business.


My inspiration


I draw inspiration from my parents, who instilled in me strong core values, and from teachers who encouraged me to exceed expectations. These influences have shaped my leadership style and commitment to innovation, excellence, and integrity