Q: What was it that inspired you to join the travel industry in the first place?
A: I’ve been surrounded by travel for as long as I can remember.
Born in Italy and moving to Australia at just three years old, my life has always been shaped by a deep connection to different cultures and global experiences.
Growing up, some of my most cherished memories were of large family gatherings, welcoming international visitors and frequent trips back to Europe to stay connected with loved ones.
Travel was part of our lifestyle, not just a holiday. My parents valued the importance of experiencing different cultures, believing it helped shape a more open-minded, respectful and globally aware outlook on life.
That early exposure had a lasting influence on me. It fostered a genuine curiosity about the world and an appreciation for meaningful, immersive travel experiences.
When it came time to choose a career path, the decision felt natural. Travel was already part of who I was and joining the industry allowed me to turn that lifelong passion into a career – helping others discover the world in a deeper, more enriching way.
Q: What is it about the travel industry that you enjoy the most?
A: After 27 years in the travel industry what I value most is the close-knit community that defines it.
Throughout my career I’ve had the privilege of working alongside outstanding colleagues who have become lifelong friends, while also building meaningful new relationships and connections along the way.
There’s a genuine sense of shared passion within this industry – an excitement about travel and creating experiences for others that brings people together.
In both the highs and the more challenging times, there is a strong culture of support, where people truly look after one another.
It’s a special industry to be part of and one I feel incredibly grateful to have built my career in – an industry driven by connection, curiosity and a genuine love for travelling the world.
Q: If you hadn’t gone into travel, what other career path might you have taken?
A: If I hadn’t pursued a career in travel I believe I would have been drawn to interior design.
I’ve always had a passion for creativity, particularly working with textures, tones and the way different elements come together to create a sense of place and atmosphere.
Interior design, much like travel, is about storytelling and curating an experience. It’s about understanding how people connect with spaces, how design can evoke emotion and how every detail contributes to a cohesive and memorable environment.
Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start a career in travel now?
A: My advice would be to stay inquisitive and ask plenty of questions. Travel is an industry best learned through experience, working hands-on, learning from colleagues and immersing yourself in destinations.
Be open to the journey, as your path will evolve and help you find your niche. With a willingness to learn and a genuine passion for people and cultures it can be an incredibly rewarding career.
Q: What’s the first thing you do when you start a new position?
A: I like to do a deep dive into the company, say hello to as many people as possible and spend time listening and observing, because you learn a lot before you say a word.
Q: How do you think the travel industry is looking at this moment in time?
A: I believe the industry is in a remarkable position right now – a true full-circle moment that has reinforced the value of a trusted travel advisor.
Travellers are venturing further off the beaten path than ever, both by land and sea, with a renewed appreciation for expert guidance and well-curated, meaningful experiences.
There is also a growing desire for deeper connection. Travellers are seeking immersive moments that bring them closer to local cultures and communities, creating journeys that feel both authentic and memorable.
Q: Who would you most like to sit next to on a plane, living or dead?
A: David Attenborough. It would be a dream to hear from him on global cultures, nature and humanity.
Q: What are some of your favourite spots around the world?
A: I loved Egypt, as I’ve always been passionate about ancient history. Visiting the Temple of Luxor by night was unforgettable – so surreal that it made me want to return and experience it all again.
I also love the small, charming towns dotted along the rivers in Germany and Austria – church bells, cobblestone streets and wonderful local produce at the markets.
Q: What is your best travel story?
A: Jordan taught me two things in one day: strangers can feel like family and silence can feel like magic.
By afternoon, we were being waved over by locals with smiles that lived in their eyes – no shared language, just genuine warmth. Kids appeared out of nowhere, babies were proudly introduced, tea was poured and suddenly we were part of something we didn’t expect but didn’t want to leave.
By night, we were in a Martian dome tent in Wadi Rum (above), surrounded by nothing but red sand and a sky showing off. No noise, no lights…just stars doing the absolute most.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about working with Cox & Kings?
A: What I’m most looking forward to is working closely with the AKTG team to bring the Cox & Kings product back to life for the Australia & NZ travel trade.
There’s a huge opportunity to reconnect with partners, refresh how we position the brand and drive strong, commercially meaningful growth together.
