A career break more than 25 years ago was spent taking a year to travel from Nairobi to Cape Town, which further fuelled Julia's enthusiasm to discover more of the world and led to the creation of a boutique travel company providing clients with bespoke, memorable and life enhancing trips.
“With extensive contacts around the world gathered from their years of travel, the G&T team continue to offer their clients creative itineraries that encourage them to spend their money in a way that delivers not only their brief, but also benefits the chosen destination.”
THREE QUESTIONS WITH JULIA
What is your top tip for getting under the skin of your clients?
“It may seem obvious, but showing empathy and listening to the nuances of their lives… as opposed to pigeon-holing! The majority of our clients are referrals so we usually have a little knowledge pre initial contact, but, good conversation about anything and everything is the way to get under the skin of your client and consequently tailoring the perfect itinerary for them.”
If you could have one feast in one restaurant right now, where would it be?
“I have eaten in many fabulous restaurants around the world. Although a passionate foodie, for me location and company are equally important contributors to how good and memorable a dining experience is, and all the better if you have had to walk or ski to get there! I would like to return to the dining room at Shakti 360° Leti to re-experience their fabulous array of the most delicious curries and accompaniments.”
What is the first thing you do when you check in to your accommodation?
“Take in the view! I go straight to the windows, terrace doors or balcony and explore any outside space available to me. Breathing, smelling and tasting the air of a new destination is the best way to make sense of the location.”
“I passionately believe that travel is an enormous privilege and the COVID years have only served to reaffirm this opinion. Nothing gives me more pleasure than heartfelt thanks from a client who has happily returned home, refreshed and recharged, having fully immersed themselves in a destination and culture previously unknown to them.”
– Julia Townsend