What kind of traveller are you?

I’m drawn to barefoot luxury and experiences that allow me to truly get under the skin of a destination. I appreciate comfort without pretension, meaningful encounters with local people, and places that feel both enriching and effortless.

As a mother to a 6-year-old, I also travel with her often, so I’m especially interested in destinations and experiences that are engaging, family-friendly, and memorable for us both.

What is your favourite destination? why?

Sri Lanka — I love the warmth of its people, the richness of its cuisine, the daily sunshine, and the natural beauty that defines this remarkable island.

Often celebrated for its beaches and tea plantations, Sri Lanka reveals far more to those who venture beyond the familiar paths. From the quiet character of Jaffna in the north to the historic charm of Galle Fort in the south, the island unfolds in layers — rewarding curiosity with deeply authentic experiences and a true sense of place.

Here are some of my highlights:

· Watching my daughters’s face light up at her very first elephant sighting.

· Sipping tea in the hill country as the mist rolls in

· Wandering through vibrant markets where strangers greet you like old friends

· Ending the day by the sea, with warm air, gentle waves and stunning pink sunsets.

What do you wish people knew about your favourite destination?

Sri Lanka isn’t just a destination; it’s a mood.

It’s the slow mornings with coconut roti, the sound of trains winding through the hills, the quiet temples, the unexpected waterfall at the end of a dusty road. The more gently you move through it, the more it gives back.

What is your favourite hotel? Why?

Living Heritage Koslanda has always been close to my heart. This 9-bedroom eco-luxury hotel is nestled in the scenic hill country of Sri Lanka. With strong sustainable credentials, the property sits within 80 acres of rewilded forest and is actively engaged in reforestation activities, operating both a tree nursery and seed bank. This unique property offers guests an immersive nature experience while championing environmental conservation and restoration in one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful regions. Perfect for families and couples alike. www.koslanda.com

What are your top 3 responsible travel tips?

1. Stay in thoughtfully selected accommodation that supports local communities and reflects the character of the destination.

2. Tread lightly — respect local cultures, wildlife, and natural environments. Slow down, learn the local norms, and aim to leave each place better than you found it.

3. Explore the Travel Matters campaign and its “Make Travel Matter” tips for simple ways to travel more consciously.

How do you Make Travel Matter while overseas?

I try to always get to know local people quickly and support small local businesses and from this you will discover a host of new experiences.

What do you want to see in the future in the travel industry?

I’d like to see a stronger shift toward truly sustainable accommodation — where eco-friendly design, renewable energy, and low-impact operations are not just a selling point, but a standard. This includes everything from reducing single-use plastics to supporting local conservation projects and communities in a meaningful, transparent way.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and who would you bring with you?

Japan – with my daughter. We visited for the first time in 2024, and it left such a lasting impression on us both. From the culture and cuisine to the natural beauty and sense of tradition, it’s an incredibly intriguing and inspiring country. There is still so much more for us to explore, and I would go back in a heartbeat to explore together some more.

Anything else you would like to add?

The travel industry ultimately depends on you — the traveller. As a travel company, we take great pride in promoting trusted partners who deliver truly memorable experiences. By choosing to travel consciously and support these businesses, you play a vital role in sustaining millions of livelihoods around the world.

Introducing our new Chief Operating Officer - Zoe