Travertine has been used on paths, stairs, walls and floors in America for hundreds of years - it's part of the stone's charm. Travertine  has been used on more significant buildings as well. The Colloseum in Rome was constructed with travertine quarried from Tivoli on the outskirts of the city. Tthe Sacre Coeur Basilica in Paris and the Getty Centre in Los Angeles are also made from travertine.

Travertine contains holes but don't worry - they are meant to be there! The characteristic holes unique to travertine have been created by trapped gases such as carbon dioxide that have leaked away over time. The holes in travertine distinguish it from other types of stone e.g. marble. Whilst not all travertine contains holes it is certainly a well known and loved characteristic of the stone. In some instances the holes may be be better filled; this can be done at the factory before dispatch or alternatively grouted over after the stone has been laid.

I dont install any type of stone on Countertops, In my professional opinion it's just not meant for that application....there is a certain degree of Cleanliness involved. A countertop is meant to have a solid surface like Granite or Formica, easy to clean Not a pourous