Introducing the Travel Matters team! - Petra
Get to know our amazing team!
In celebration of gaining our B Corp certification, we would like to give you a peek behind the scenes and introduce our amazing team! This is our introduction series of our team members.
This week we would love to introduce our Communications Officer, Petra. She is a solo traveler and when she is abroad, she uses local transport and likes to get under the skin of a destination learning about different cultures and religions. She has currently visited more than 120 countries.
In our interview with Petra, she shared her insights and wisdom about everything travel related. Read further to get to know more about Petra!
What kind of traveller are you?
I tend to travel solo, using local transport and really like to get under the skin of a destination learning about different cultures and religions.
What is your favourite destination? why?
Not so much a destination but a region. I lived in Hong Kong for 3 years between 1987 - 90 and during that time travelled extensively in Asia, returning regularly to visit a new country in the region at least every other year. I've travelled extensively through India, from Rajasthan to Ranthambore National Park, enjoying chaotic markets and the hustle and bustle of the cities, sunrise over the Taj Mahal, exploring the backwaters of Kerala, trekking in the foothills of the Himalayas, and chilling on the beach in Goa.
More recently I visited Myanmar, easily one of the most beautiful and untouched countries in Asia and I hope that tourism will be able to return again soon. This year I spent a month in Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean with idyllic beaches, ancient ruins, sacred temples, verdant tea plantations, culture and wildlife
What do you wish people knew about your favourite destination?
Asia is easily one of the most welcoming destinations in the world, the people possess a warm and friendly nature reflected in persistent smiling faces and an eagerness to help. The food is also sensational! and the region is family-friendly and excellent value for money.
What are your top 3 responsible travel tips? *
Don't forget to bring a reusable shopping bag and water bottle
Hire a local guide
Choose a low carbon activity such as kayaking, cycling, horse riding, walking and swimming that allows you to get closer to nature.
How do you Make Travel Matter while overseas?
I try and always use sustainable accommodations and tour operators.
What do you want to see in the future in the travel industry?
People will continue to travel but rather than a significant number of small trips, people will travel for longer and more sustainably. Wellness travel will become increasingly popular, and nature and the environment will be at the forefront of a travelling experience.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and who would you bring with you?
One region I haven't yet travelled to are the stans - Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. I'm keen to see Samarkand one of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia and explore the best of the Silk Road, diving deep into the fascinating history, captivating landscapes and beautiful culture that is intertwined throughout this region. I'd bring with me one of my younger sisters who is as adventurous as I am!
Psst. Look out for our next posts as we introduce other members of the team!
