01

What is one destination that has inspired your creativity, and why? 

I live in it – London. Yes, it’s a cliché, but the more I travel, the more I appreciate the city I call home. Running a travel company, I have been to some extra ordinary places, but I still think if you want to be inspired, come to London. It’s such a unique place, from the people to the fashion, to its restaurant scene, its edgy, its innovative and it pulsates with excitement at every corner.

02

Can you share an unforgettable experience from your travels that left a lasting impression?

I have been lucky enough to have experienced some truly once-in-a- lifetime trips, from cruising on an explorer yacht through the Nordic Fjords to riding polo ponies in Argentina but the most unforgettable travel experience has to be visiting the Maldives. Again, I know it’s a cliché, but it was everything I had imagined but better, it is truly paradise on earth. So much so, it brought tears to my eyes, knowing that it is under threat from climate change. It had a profound effect on me and my drive to make travel more sustainable and the extreme importance we all must play in Conservation. 

03

Which season inspires you most in your work and why?

Summer. I love the sunshine and the long days. I am always uplifted by the blue skies, colourful gardens and the warm weather (even the hot weather) which suits me better than any other season. Everyone also seems to be happier, willing to socialise and there are always endless great events to attend.

04

What recent project or achievement are you most proud of, and how did it impact your business or clients?

Launching TJB Private Travel during covid and making it a profitable business. We are a spin off from TJB Super Yachts. TJB Private Travel was conceived to expand our products beyond just yacht holidays. We now offer our clients the full range of travel services from suites in 5-star hotels to the finest villas and chalets in the world. We launched this business during a very uncertain time and yet it has thankfully thrived.

05

What would a perfect, inspiring day in London look like for you?

Watching my son ride his pony in Ham on a sunny Sunday morning, then walking over to Petersham Nursery Restaurant for lunch followed by a dog walk along the river into Richmond town, stopping for an iced latte and ending the day with a drink at Bingham Riverhouse.

06

What is your go-to spot in London for an unforgettable experience?

If I am hosting visiting family and friends from abroad, I often take them to Mayfair’s Amazonico, they are always impressed by the atmosphere. It’s always buzzing, hosts live performances for some mid meal entertainment, has comfy seating and being selfish, I just like the food.

07

Is there a particular flower that holds special meaning or significance for you?

The Common Daisy always reminds me of my son when he was little. He would pick them for me when he would spot them in a field or a garden. I still have a few pressed in a book on my shelf. When I see Daisy’s sprouting up in places, I always think of him and how lucky I am and how special those moments were.

08

If you could send flowers to one person, who would it be and why?

My friend Danie who lives in Toronto, recently and suddenly lost her mother.  As we get older, losing a parent is expected of course, but she has held herself with such grace, dignity, and strength, it’s been truly inspiring. Through it all, she has still been a selfless and solid friend, I don’t think she knows just how amazing and special she is.

09

Is there a film or piece of art that resonates with your personal or professional philosophy?

“What? Like its hard?” Legally Blonde, 2003. I’m always working hard in the background, pretending like it’s all so easy. 

10

What book or author has influenced your career or perspective on life? 

An American science journalist, Brian Hayes. His book Infrastructure made me appreciate not just beauty in nature or art but also marvel at the mundane. We often overlook and or take for granted so many things, we lose our childlike wonder about how the world works but its our never-ending curiosity that truly enriches us as humans.