Vishali | Best At Travel

Overview
FAQ
Recommendations

My journey in travel began at the age of seventeen when I was a YTS student in a small agency where we hand-wrote tickets - back in the days before advanced technology.

I loved talking to the clients about the holidays we offered in our brochures and hearing all about their exciting plans.

As I kept on growing and cementing my place in the industry, eventually becoming a Senior Travel Consultant, my love for my role only grew and I still enjoy talking to my clients about their holiday plans and helping them create something truly special.

Q&A with Our Expert Vishali

How many years have you worked in the travel industry?

31 years.

Which destination/s do you specialise in?

My areas of expertise include the Caribbean, Far East, Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

What's at the top of your bucket list?

I've always wanted to climb Mount Kilimanjaro!

Why do you love working in travel?

My favourite part about working in travel is making people's dreams come true. I also love being able to travel as part of my job and experiencing so many different places, cultures and especially cuisines as I love food.

Where would you describe as a secret gem?

The Blue Hole waterfalls in Jamaica is just magical. The water here is so vividly blue and surrounded by the island's emerald rainforest - it's just such a beautiful place to experience and perfect for a refreshing swim.

What was your most awe-inspiring moment?

I've had so many incredible experiences over the years, but one I'll never forget is visiting the Friends of the Asian Elephant Foundation in Thailand, which protects and cares for injured Asian elephants and helps rehabilitate them. They really look after the elephants here and give you the unforgettable opportunity to meet and feed them and hear the inspiring stories of how their conditions have improved since being there.

What's the one item you always take with you?

A camera. I really value being able to capture every amazing memory and be able to revisit them later on.

What's your top travel tip?

I'd recommend getting yourself a Monzo card as they can be used all over and give you the best rates. Also, be sure to immerse yourself in local cultures and try and get to know the locals, as this gives you the most authentic experience of a destination.

Biggest Blunder Abroad

When I was eleven, I went on a safari in Kenya and a wild bird decided to chase me and stole my sandal, which was never seen again! If you happen to travel to the Maasai Mara, keep a look out for it!

My Top Recommendations

What's your favourite destination and why?

I'd have to say Thailand: it offers everything from a vibrant culture and breathtaking beaches to delicious food and fantastic wildlife opportunities.

View DESTINATION

What's your best ever trip?

I'd have to say my visit to Blue Waters Resort & Spa in Antigua. It was my first ever visit to this stunning island, which is my favourite in the Caribbean, and that trip will always hold a special place in my heart as I travelled with 10 of my nearest and dearest and it was the last time we all travelled together.

View HOTEL

What's your favourite hotel?

TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao on Thailand's Yoh Yao Noi island. This luxury adults-only gem is easily one of the best properties I've stayed in over the years. It offers so many amazing experiences and boasts a truly breathtaking setting amongst Thailand's otherworldly limestone islands.