Louise

MEET LOUISE

Wanderlust has run through my veins ever since I caravanned around Europe with my family as a young child. I have since travelled to all four corners of the world, visiting dozens of countries and all habitable continents, staying in accommodation from beyond basic to lavishly luxurious.

My inner adrenaline junkie surfaced while attending university in the US and later while – twice – backpacking around the globe, which resulted in me trying everything from rap jumping to bungeeing and skydiving to white water rafting.

MY EXPERTISE

As a former journalist and lifestyle magazine editor, details are my thing. I’ve written articles about destinations from North America to the Middle East and I’m all about thorough researching, organising and meeting deadlines – super-useful in my role as travel coordinator!

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Trekking the Inca Trail, Peru. Extreme weather, altitude sickness, blisters and breathlessness were rife throughout this gruelling three-day hike – but all pain was forgotten the moment I arrived at the lost city of Machu Picchu just as the sun was rising above the horizon. Magical.

Topping the world’s tallest building, United Arab Emirates. While researching a travel feature on Dubai, I was lucky enough to be one of the first ever visitors to the half-mile-high Burj Khalifa – at almost three times the height of the Eiffel Tower, stepping onto the 360-degree observation deck was a real wow moment.

Soaking up the Iguazu Falls, Argentine-Brazilian border. Photos cannot do this stunning natural wonder justice. Nothing prepares you for the sheer scale of what is the largest waterfall system in the world – I’d happily forgo my pot of gold anytime to see the wondrous rainbows produced by these mind-blowing cascades on sunny days.

ON MY WISH LIST

Kenya: Seeing the fascinating yet endangered rhino in its natural habitat is a long-held dream. High on my bucket list is a stay at Saruni Rhino camp, which offers the chance to go tracking for this iconic species while also contributing to its protection.

Zanzibar: The Underwater Room at Kwanini, The Manta Resort on Pemba Island – where shoals of reef fish glide by as you drift off to sleep – is a whole new world. A marine dream of which even The Little Mermaid would be envious.

COUNTRIES I'VE VISITED

Argentina, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Dominican Republic, Fiji, The Gambia, Hong Kong (China), Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Thailand, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, the USA and at least a dozen European countries closer to home.

TOP TRAVEL TIPS

• Step off the beaten track – Some of the best places I’ve ever visited were those I found after intentionally straying onto the road less travelled.
• Standout luggage – Make your suitcase easily identifiable on the airport baggage carousel by tying a colourful ribbon around the handle or placing a sticker or three on the outside.
• Roll up your clothes – You’ll fit much more in your case. This may mean you struggle to stay within your baggage allowance, but you can always wear six extra layers of clothing on the plane.
• Eat like a local – The best eateries are often those frequented by local clientele, so look out for cafés and restaurants bustling with those who live nearby. Be open to trying new dishes and flavours.