Why We Make The A-grade With Condé Nast
Right, well, here we are again. Apparently, they haven't changed their minds yet. Five years on the trot, Condé Nast Traveler has deemed me a "Top Travel Specialist." One can only assume they're running low on other options, but I'll take it! Honestly, it’s rather splendid, and it gives me a big energy burst to keep dreaming up those ludicrously lovely travel adventures. Now the serious part...none of this would be possible without my absolutely brilliant team, the frankly rather marvelous clients who trust us with their travels, and those ever-so-helpful industry partners who don't mind when I occasionally call at some very odd hours. So, a massive thank you, from a slightly bewildered, but very grateful me. Now, where were we? Ah yes, planning your next escape...
Read on for why I really think we make the A-grade with Condé Nast.
J5Travel is nothing without the trust of our clients, and it is something we fight to earn every day. We focus on the relationship with our clients as much as the work that goes into the actual trips. Handing over your precious vacation time, not to mention a rather sizeable chunk of your savings, is no small thing. We understand that implicitly, and we treat every trip as if it were our own (though, frankly, I probably pack a few more biscuits than any of y'all).
2. Obsessive Attention to Detail
Now, some might call it "nitpicking", or even "being a touch difficult", but we prefer "obsessive attention to detail". From the perfect thread count on your Egyptian cotton sheets to ensuring the local guide knows your dietary restrictions, we leave absolutely nothing to chance. (Except, perhaps, the weather. We're still working on that one.)
3. Unearthing Hidden Gems (and Avoiding Tourist Traps)
Let's be honest, no one wants to spend their holiday elbow-to-elbow with hordes of tourists, queuing for overpriced trinkets or a bottle of water. We pride ourselves on unearthing those hidden gems, those little-known corners of the world where you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture. We are really good at suggesting destinations that will be quieter but will still enthrall (And yes, we've got a rather impressive list of pubs that are gloriously devoid of 'tourist menus.')
4. A Touch of Serendipity
While we meticulously plan every aspect of your journey, we also believe in leaving room for a touch of serendipity. Those unexpected encounters, those impromptu detours, those "happy accidents" – they're often the moments that make a trip truly unforgettable. (Though, rest assured, we've got a backup plan for when 'serendipity' involves a flat tire in the middle of nowhere.)
5. Personal Connections
I harp on about this topic whenever I get the chance...
It’s nowhere near just being about booking flights and hotels; it’s about building genuine connections. We’ve now spent years cultivating relationships with our clients, local guides, hoteliers, and, to be frank, a rather eccentric collection of characters who can open doors that others can’t. (And yes, we can probably arrange a private tour of that antique teapot collection you've always dreamed of - I believe it's in Conwy, Wales)
Ready to experience a vacation like no other with the J5 difference? We cannot wait to get started! Click HERE to get started.