Welcoming Fiona, our newest Travel Advisor to the team!

What kind of traveller are you?

I’m very much the chief organiser — the person who loves having everything thoughtfully planned before setting off (no surprise this is my dream job!). When I travel, I’m happiest outdoors and active, whether that’s hiking through forests, cycling quiet backroads, or skiing across snowy landscapes. Since having children, it’s been incredible to bring them along on active experiences and see the world through their eyes. Some of my most memorable stays have been at rustic wilderness lodges where nature is the main attraction. I’m equally drawn to learning about local cultures, history, and wildlife, and I love destinations that offer both adventure and insight.

What is your favourite destination? why?

Canada has my heart. I first visited as a backpacker and was completely awestruck by the sheer scale of the scenery — the dramatic West Coast, the towering Rockies, and the thrill of spotting my first bear and moose. Years later, after spending ski seasons there, my love for the country only deepened. I’ve since stayed at a remote lodge in Hudson Bay where I saw polar bears, explored Ontario, Quebec and the Maritime regions, and each trip reminds me how endlessly diverse Canada is. It’s a place I could return to again and again and still discover something new.

What do you wish people knew about your favourite destination?

Two things: just how vast Canada truly is, and how exceptional it is for families. The size may seem obvious, but many travellers underestimate the variety of landscapes and cultures from coast to coast. You can visit charming Maritime villages in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, cross the sweeping plains of Manitoba, or immerse yourself in the mountains and ocean vistas of the Rockie and West Coast — all within one country. My top tip is to resist the urge to “do it all.” Instead, choose a region that aligns with your travel style. And for families, Canada is second to none — especially for adventurous travellers who love exploring the wilderness together.

What is your favourite hotel? Why?

Tutka Bay Lodge in Alaska is truly special. Perched on the edge of the vast Alaskan wilderness and accessible only by boat or floatplane, it has that rare combination of rustic charm and refined comfort. The food is outstanding, with local fish and produce at the heart of every meal, and the guides know the area intimately. Whether you’re kayaking, hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying yoga on the deck, the lodge offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. I also love the owners’ commitment to sustainability by keeping it to just six cabins, sourcing food responsibly, and conserving natural resources, which creates an experience that feels both immersive and environmentally thoughtful.

What are your top 3 responsible travel tips?

1. Respect the environment — treat every destination as you would your own home by recycling, reusing, and minimising waste.

2. Learn local initiatives — understand and support conservation efforts or community led environmental projects.

3. Slow down — stay longer in each place for a more immersive, meaningful experience rather than rushing through multiple stops.

How do you Make Travel Matter while overseas?

I seek out knowledgeable local guides who can share insights into cultural etiquette, conservation efforts, and community initiatives. Their expertise helps me travel more thoughtfully and support the places I visit.

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

I’d love to see a shift away from overconsumption — especially in hotels — and a reduced reliance on flights. More mindful, sustainable travel benefits both travellers and the destinations they cherish.

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

I would return to India with my family, who haven’t yet visited. When I last travelled there, I felt I only scratched the surface. India is vibrant, diverse, and full of contrasts — from the colour and energy of its bustling cities to the peaceful beauty of its countryside. I’d love for my husband and two sons to experience that richness for themselves.

Anything else you would like to add?

Some of my best memories have been made through travel. That’s why my goal as a Travel Advisor is to help people experience the world in a way that feels personal, meaningful, and aligned with their values, so they too can create lasting memories. Travel has an incredible ability to connect us with nature, culture, and one another, and I feel privileged to help others discover those moments.

Travel Matters