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Meet the Team

That sense of adventure to discover the world is at the heart of the Jules Verne team.

Meet the Team

We’re more than just a tour operator. We’re a small team of passionate human beings who care about the world and the people in it. There are less than 40 of us, but we have a big vision: to create unforgettable journeys that enrich the lives of our customers and the communities we visit. We are inspired by the adventurous spirit of Jules Verne, the French author who wrote about amazing voyages and incredible destinations. We share his curiosity, wonder and imagination, and we want to share them with you.

Management

Debboe O'Neill, General Manager

Debbie O'Neill

Managing Director

Favourite destination?
I've a real soft spot for the Amalfi Coast. I've travelled there many times and have some wonderful memories but memories aside, it's stunningly beautiful. Coupled with the colourful landscapes, delectable cuisines and breathtaking sunsets, it makes for a perfect holiday destination.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
A Royal Steamer Restored. Egypt is a magical destination and there is a very special energy in Luxor and Aswan. To experience the Upper Nile region on such a unique steamship... its like stepping back in time!

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
There are still so many destinations on my bucket list. I think probably Bhutan has to be right there at the top. The scenery and the people are beautiful. I understand that it's an incredibly special place and I'd just love to experience it.

Sales Team

Sam, Sales Manager

Sam

Sales Manager

Favourite destination?
Costa Rica blew me away! The abundence of wildlife, beaches, rainforest, waterways and cloud forest canopies is a nature-lovers dream. All of this combined with the infinite knowledge of our guides was just incredible.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Botswana Explorer. Having experienced an unforgettable safari in Kenya, I'd love to venture off the beaten track and experience the exclusivity of Pom Pom Island and all it has to offer.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Sri Lanka is definitely next on my list; it has so much to offer. I know I'd love the tea plantations and Yala National Park will be the perfect place to spot a leopard. The beaches look fantastic, as does the food and it would be the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Danielle, Senior Personal Travel Expert

Danielle

Sales Manager

Favourite destination?
The Land of Smiles - Thailand is my favourite destination. The mixture of ancient temples, tropical beaches and friendliness of locals is captivating. My first organised tour was to Thailand, with the knowledge of my guide and the company of like-minded travellers we embarked on a three week adventure that I will never forget.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Our Kingdoms of Arabia tour to Saudi Arabia is the pinnacle of discovering a new land, where few in the western world have had the opportunity to visit. Diving through the bustling souks in Riyadh to driving through the dunes of Nefud. I am inspired by the movement of the people in Saudi Arabia as they enter a new world, the thought of visiting a country steeped in history whilst a new focal point in their history is being crafted is enchanting.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Visiting Machu Picchu has been my ultimate dream since I can remember, although my bucket list grows daily! Our Grand tour of South America covers five countries and is so diverse - driving over the Andes, exploring the memorising Iguassu Falls and visiting the Christ the Redeemer would be breath-taking.

Debbie, Senior Personal Travel Expert

Debbie

Senior Personal Travel Expert

Favourite destination?
So many destinations and wonderful experiences it's hard to pick just one! Spotting the Big 5 on my first game drive in the Masai Mara. Cruising the Nile and the balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. Visiting Machu Picchu and sleeping in a room open to the jungle in the Amazon. Incredible India and experiencing The Golden Temple in Amritsar and wonderful Registan Square in Samarkand and fabulous Argentina from the Tango show in Buenos Aires, a helicopter ride in Ushuaia, a journey on the ‘End of the World Train’ and not forgetting the fabulous Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate. It was amazing.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
I would love to go back to Africa and see Victoria Falls and also experience our Gentle Giants tour to Uganda. To come face to face with the mighty mountain gorillas would be an incredible experience. 

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Costa Rica is currently top of my list! With its natural beauty and incredible diversity. This would be an unforgettable experience.

Tara, Personal Travel Expert

Tara

Personal Travel Expert

Favourite destination?
Each destination has something different and amazing to offer! That being said, so far Egypt would have to be my favourite due to the incredible mixture of old and new wonders. The centuries of fascinating history and the beautifully preserved sites are endless and inspire a constant feeling of awe. The cruise down the historical and stunning scenic Nile also provided a lovely relaxing contrast to the buzzing towns and sites. Definitely a bucket list destination for all and I am always itching to go back and explore more.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Our Antarctica tour seems absolutely incredible and the idea of cruising through the vast otherworldly landscape of ice masses and glacier water fascinates me. It provides an amazing opportunity to see some rare and unique wildlife, including my favourite animal - penguins! It really is such an exclusive special experience that very few have the chance to do and it will always be a dream for me.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
There are many countries I am so keen to get to but for the past few years, the top of my list has been Japan. The juxtaposition of such modernity and ingenuity, matched with the natural beauty and historical sites makes for such an eclectic mix that really draws me. I would love to delve into such a different culture and have always wanted to visit during cherry blossom season.

Greg, Personal Travel Expert

Greg

Personal Travel Expert

Favourite destination?
It has to be the Mediterranean. The azure blue waters surrounding Greece are my idea of heaven; sometimes you just can’t beat a relaxing European holiday in the sunshine. 

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Grand Tour of Indochina inspires me the most. The tour covers three amazing countries, each with its own differing cultures, traditions, and rich histories. I would love to sail on Ha Long Bay and take in the stunning scenery.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Japan is a country I want to experience at least once in my lifetime. It has such a unique culture and I am keen to learn more about its ancient traditions. The striking architecture, natural wonders and of course the delicious cuisine are all reasons I’d love to visit Japan.

Customer Experience

Jo, Head of Sales & Customer Experience

Joanna

Head of Operations

Favourite destination?
Japan, Borneo, Peru, India, Zimbabwe, Cuba... I just simply cannot pick a favourite! Each country has something special to offer, creating memories to last a lifetime. The fusion of culture, history and natural beauty provide the most unique experience.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Madagascar, The Lost World. Madagascar is a one-of-a-kind destination, a hidden paradise home to thousands of animal and plant species not found anywhere else in the world. Baobabs, lemurs, rainforest and desert offer incredible diversity waiting to be explored!

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
I'd love the chance to trek through Ugandas's forests in search of the rare mountain gorillas. Combining this with wildlife spotting in Uganda's National Parks would be an unforgettable experience!

Nikki, Customer Experience Manager

Nikki

Customer Experience Manager

Favourite destination?
Cruising in Croatia was a wonderful experience. Waking up every day to a different island, which each had their own beauty and personalities, was amazing.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
All of our Uzbekistan tours as our customer reviews and feedback are such a pleasure to read. The itineraries are amazing and the guides make the experience truly wonderful.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Kenya is at the top of my list for next year. I'm hoping I'll get the opportunity to see "The Big 5" among other wildlife. To experience this will be a dream come true.

Bernadette, Customer Experience Team

Bernadette

Senior Customer Experience Coordinator

Favourite destination?
Egypt - I have the best memories of being able to explore the country by cruising the Nile on the SS Misr. Not only was the scenery and sightseeing along the way amazing but the crew onboard are so attentive and lovely - they treat you like royalty! The people, food, culture and incredible history of the Ancient World make it such a unique place and by far one of my favourites.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
All of our India tours are inspiring to me. The country is fascinating and addictive - it's the type of place that you simply cannot only visit once. I've only been once on our Sikhs & Exiles tour and I frequently find myself craving a trip back to see another part of this amazing country.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
I've always wanted to do a safari and Robin Pope Safaris in Zambia and Malawi looks like a dream tour. The itinerary is so full and exciting and the accommodation looks incredible! It would certainly be a once in a lifetime experience.

Eliza, Customer Experience Team

Eliza

Customer Experience Advisor

Favourite destination?
Namibia has to be the most beautiful country I've been to. Dynamic sand dunes, incredible canyons, abundant wildlife; it's unlike anywhere else in the world. Sitting by a waterhole watching as literally hundreds of animals gather is a truly magical experience.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Our Splendours of Ecuador tour really intrigues me. It would be fascinating to see the unique wildlife of the Galapagos, the contrast of the Amazon, and all of the mountainous cities with their South American charm in between.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Antarctica has always been top of my bucket list. I love the idea of tranquilly cruising between icebergs and glaciers in such an unexplored and remote part of the world. Along with the chance of seeing all kinds of penguins, whales and so much more I think it would be a dream come true.

Ellie, Customer Experience Team

Ellie

Customer Experience Advisor

Favourite destination?
Visiting Mexico was certainly a wonderful and memorable experience. Being able to see the culture and history was truly amazing and not to mention the stunning beaches. The wildlife was one of a kind and the food was perfect.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Golden Road to Samarkand and Highlights of Uzbekistan inspire me simply because of the fabulous reviews that we receive from our clients. Not only is the country beautiful, but the local people also seem so unique and make you feel at home.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Since working at Jules Verne, Zambia and Uganda have reached the top of my bucket list. To have the opportunity to see the vast wildlife would be a dream and I love reading the amazing feedback we receive from our customers.

Leah, Customer Experience Advisor

Leah

Customer Experience Advisor

Favourite destination?
The most interesting place I have been lucky enough to visit is Iran, it is such a surprising and intriguing destination. The warmth of the people, wealth of history, the food and grand Persian architecture are just fantastic. It was heart warming to speak with the local people who are so welcoming and keen to show off Iran, offering a different perception of the Iran to what we see in the western media.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
I am inspired by all the places I have not yet been! I would love to visit Uganda and see the Gorillas up close in their natural habitat on our ‘Gentle Giants’. This tour gets such great feedback from our clients too. I’d also love to take our ‘Victoria Falls to the Okavango’ tour and combine wildlife spotting with a few days at the grand hotel overlooking Victoria Falls.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Having been lucky enough to travel around Svalbard in the Arctic in search of polar bears, I really want to travel South to Antarctica. I would love to experience the huge icebergs and glacial scenery and of course see the penguins! I can’t imagine how anything could top the serene feeling of floating in the stark white wilderness of the Arctic during the midnight sun but I imagine everything in Antarctica is on a much bigger scale! This would be a real bucket list, once in a lifetime trip.

Product

Andy

Andy

Head of Product

Favourite destination?
My most memorable travels have involved dramatic mountains and getting to know the inspiring people who live among them. Nowhere combines these interests better than Nepal – home to the tallest mountains, and widest smiles, in the world!

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
As a keen reader of Peter Hopkirk, I’ve always been fascinated by the Silk Road and the ‘foreign devils’ who plied their trade along it. I would love to compare perception with modern reality, on Jules Verne’s The Golden Road to Samarkand tour.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
The remote wilderness of Botswana has really captured my imagination in recent years. My dream trip would combine an ambitious paddle through the Okavango Delta by mokoro, with some overnight star gazing deep in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.

Thomas, Product Manager

Thomas

Product Manager

Favourite destination?
I would have to pick two places. Firstly Japan as it such a fascinating place where ancient traditions mix with modern life. Secondly Argentina and Brazil such diverse countries with the Cidade Maravilhosa, the awe-inspiring Iguassu Falls, energetic Salvador and Buenos Aires with its Latin passion.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
I like remote places and mountains and lakes so Patagonia to Cape Horn would be the ideal tour. I do also like to spend time in cities and the tour visits two capitals. Plus there are penguins which I adore.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
At the moment this would have to be the Arctic, so either Greenland or Svalbard. As I mentioned I like to discover remote places and I do like the cold weather.

Thea, Product Manager

Thea

Product Manager

Favourite destination?
I’m a real hispanophile so I’d choose Spain. The people are friendly and welcoming, food is great, a short flight from the UK, with every type of tourism you could wish for; cultural, beach, city breaks, museums, winter sun, shopping, nightlife, nature and even skiing.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Grand Tour of South America – I hope to visit all of these countries at some point in my lifetime, covering a vast region with huge differences in terms of landscape, culture and history, these countries are quite simply fascinating.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
India – I’ve always wanted to visit the Taj Mahal, spot tigers in the National Parks, enjoy the authentic food and check out the beaches in Goa and Kerala. I think I’d start with the ‘Golden Triangle’ to get a taste for India and keep on returning.

Camilla, Product Executive

Camilla

Product Executive

Favourite destination?
My goal is to experience the whole world but Tanzania is my favourite so far.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Botswana Explorer, Robin Pope Safaris, Serengeti and the Secret Migration and Wild Masai Mara. I can't pick just one as they were all incredible and where I had the most memorable wildlife encounters.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Uganda, Costa Rica and Svalbard. As an amateur wildlife photographer I have been dreaming of photographing gorillas, sloths and polar bears.

Marissa, Product Executive

Marissa

Product Executive

Favourite destination?
It’s impossible to have a favourite destination, so if I can I’d pick two at least! For me, Sri Lanka is one of the most special places you can visit. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean and home to stunning beaches, green hillsides, ancient temples and wildlife-filled national parks. I had so many amazing experiences, from climbing to the top of Sigiriya Rock and being blown away by the views and lush jungle beneath me; to the exciting encounters with herds of elephants and other wildlife on safari; or taking the epic train journey through the hill country and just embracing the beautiful nature and landscapes! In contrast, Uzbekistan is the hidden gem of Central Asia. It offers the most unique mix of stunning architecture, rich history and vibrant culture. This landlocked country has medieval cities, ancient Silk Road trading routes, ornate mosques and madrassas and diverse landscapes. And the warm hospitality of the Uzbek people was the highlight of my visit to this fascinating country.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Any of our Egypt cruises! A combination of relaxation and adventure awaits, as you sail on the timeless Nile and go ashore to unravel the treasures in the past. Egypt is so unique and rich in culture and history, which is evident at the ancient sites and museums. Currently, it's our top selling destination and it certainly opens an opportunity for inspiration.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
I do love nature and have been to the Amazon, on the Peruvian side really ignited the desire to explore destinations blessed with nature and wildlife. Costa Rica boasts an incredible array of diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, towering mountains, lush rainforests and active volcanoes. It would definitely be the trip of a lifetime for me!

Izzy, Personal Travel Expert

Izzy

Product Executive

Favourite destination?
My favourite destination that I have visited so far would have to be Portugal. Seeing the culture through the local people is simply unbeatable. Being able to experience the fast pace of the cities and also having the option to slow down and relax in the hills of the Douro valley is my idea of perfection.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
The Golden Road to Samarkand has captivated me since I first read the itinerary! Being able to work so closely with our local agents and hearing their pure joy and excitement surrounding their country is so inspiring and contagious. Reading all of the fabulous reviews, and hearing my colleagues travel stories of being there always brings a smile to my face!

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Where to start! I feel like my bucket list grows every day, but at the moment Costa Rica is at the top of my list. To see all of the different nature and wildlife, as well as meeting local people would definitely be a dream come true, as Costa Rica is one of the bigger reasons I decided to get into travel.

Marketing

Abbey, Business Development & Communications Manager

Abbey

Business Development Manager

Favourite destination?
Africa is home to many iconic wonders, from spectacular safaris and Winelands, pristine golden sand beaches to life along the Nile, Africa has it all. Once you visit you will never be the same.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
The Tale of the Tiger. India’s Golden Triangle encompasses historic Old Delhi, Agra’s Red Fort and Taj Mahal, as well as pink palaces of Jaipur; combining that with a jeep safari in Ranthambore to look out for tigers, makes for a trip of a lifetime. With expert local guides and rangers you can truly immerse yourself in your surroundings.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Antarctica. To be able to visit and witness some of the last remaining truly unexplored areas of the world, is at the top of my bucket list. The pristine blue waters, between cracking icebergs and flows, reminding you of the power of mother nature.

Melissa, Marketing Executive

Melissa

Marketing Team Leader

Favourite destination?
Sri Lanka is by far my most favourite destination. The warmth and friendly nature of its people combined with timeless ruins, fine landscapes, relaxing beaches and an abundance of wildlife makes it one of the most special places I have been lucky enough to visit.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Cape Winelands and the Garden Route. The natural beauty of the Garden Route showcases some of the most striking parts of the Western and Eastern Capes offering a ravishing road trip!

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is top of my current bucket list. One of the most well-known safari destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that I've heard is unforgettable; I would love to witness nature’s most remarkable event - the Great Migration. 

Caroline, Marketing Coordinator

Caroline

Senior Digital Marketing Executive

Favourite destination?
Staying in the Khao Sok Rainforest in Thailand, where flora and fauna have remained largely untouched. Experiencing the incredible natural landscapes, having breakfast while monkeys play, listening to the variety and diversity of animal calls and watching elephants in the wild was breathtaking.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Mughals, Mystics and Mountains. Pakistan is a diverse and beautiful country, offering untouched natural beauty and remarkable mountain landscapes. I'd love to venture off the beaten track and discover the culture and traditions of this country.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Antarctica, as I have always been fascinated by this landscape so different from our own. Witnessing the jaw-dropping landscapes, the incredible wildlife, including whales & penguins, and gigantic icebergs of this unexplored land has always been a dream.

Laura, Marketing Coordinator

Laura

Senior Content Marketing Executive

Favourite destination?
Indochina is the most fascinating and exciting place I have ever visited. Laos in particular will always have a special place in my heart. The people are so friendly and welcoming and the landscapes are truly breath taking.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
A Royal Steamer Restored. There is no better way to explore the iconic temples and tombs of Egypt than by sailing down the Nile aboard the luxurious SS Misr. 

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Japan is top of my list at the moment. It's such an eclectic country, the perfect mix of ancient sites, lively modern cities and tranquil scenery. I would especially love to visit in the spring to see the beautiful cherry blossom in full bloom.

Serra, Designer

Serra

Senior Designer

Favourite destination?
Italy. I never get bored of the great food, beautiful scenery and architecture. The icing on the cake for me are the fascinating historical sites.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Legends and Empires. I love to explore different cultures and historical sites, and one day I hope to travel as much of the Silk Route as possible.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
A wildlife adventure. Either the big open spaces of an African safari or a jungle exploration in Costa Rica.

Commercial

Laura, Commerical Team

Laura

Head of Partnerships

Favourite destination?
At the very centre of modern civilization, on the western shore of central Lake Como sits the most delightful village of Menaggio, and the Grand Hotel. My absolute favourite place; imagine waking to gaze out upon the most serene of lakes, with the morning sunlight reflecting across to Bellagio, surrounded by mountains, knowing you will be feasting on the most exquisite food and wine, in the best of company.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Mughuls, Mystics & Mountains: Pakistan is blessed with abundant natural and historical riches. Remarkable mountain landscapes are set against a backdrop of desert forts, barely changed since Mughal times. Visiting Lahore, where Emperors once held court, the remnants of the Buddist civilisation at Taxila, the scenic, isolated region of Skardu and alpine lakes at Kachura, and the Hunza Valley, where the mountains are as big as the hearts of the people that live here, tucked away in the rugged north with its own rhythm, culture and tradition, and the most incredible hospitality.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Uzbekistan: We speak daily with so many well-travelled individuals and I have yet to hear anything but absolutely glowing reviews on travel to Uzbekistan. Always one for an adventure, I can only imagine it is akin to being transported back through the centuries with a chance to explore the eastern bazaars and tea houses of the ancient Silk Route. I would love a chance to explore the region; from metropolitan Tashkent to old Khiva’s towers and cupolas, across the Kyzylkum Desert to beautiful Bukhara and exotic Samarkand. And with so many other 'Stans close by, I think I have talked myself into this one!

Carmel, Commerical Team

Carmel

Senior Air Executive

Favourite destination?
Having just experienced an amazing trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, I would have to say Cambodia is my favourite destination. The Temples were truly mesmerising -the food was superb and the people so interesting and friendly - left wanting to go back and explore more!

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Grand Tour of Costa Rica. Everyone who has been there always reports back that it is an amazing place. There is a real mix of volcanoes, mountains rainforests and exotic wildlife, beaches and exceptional biodiversity. Pura Vida really appeals to me - Pura Vida” is an expression in Costa Rica that translates to “the pure life” or more colloquially, “it’s all good.” Costa Ricans will sometimes use phrase instead of “nice to meet you” or “thanks” or even “don’t worry about it.” It has now come to represent the mindset of a nation that tends to be content, peaceful, and easygoing with one another. Bliss!

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
India. It is such a popular destination with our customers, and somewhere I have yet to visit. Our new tour India North to South appeals to me as you get to experience the busy North and the more tranquil South all in one trip!

Nita, Commerical Team

Nita

Air Product Co-ordinator

Favourite destination?
Croatia captivates me with its stunning Adriatic coastline, historic cities like Dubrovnik, delicious cuisine, and welcoming locals. Its blend of natural beauty and rich culture makes it my favourite destination.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most? 
The Wild Masai Mara is definitely the one for me. I love the outdoors! So four nights in the Governors' Camp and looking at the spectacular views has my name written all over it! This is an immersive experience amid the rich diversity of wildlife in this game reserve, where lions laze and gazelles graze. For me, the Wild Masai Mara is a must-visit destination.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Vietnam holds a special place at the top of my bucket list for its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene landscapes of Ha Long Bay, its rich heritage and welcoming people make it a must-visit destination for me.

Product & Sales Support

Heather, Product & Sales Support Co-ordinator

Heather

Senior Product & Sales Support Co-ordinator

Favourite destination?
I have been to India a few times and each time fall in love with it more. Its hard not to get immersed in the culture, way of life and fascinating sights of the country.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Definitely it would be Serengeti & the Secret Migration. The Lodges all look absolutely incredible and the tour gets you so amongst the animals - I don't think you could get any closer! It just looks magical.

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
On my bucket list is to go to South America and the Galapagos Islands. So much to see and countries to explore and then to go to the protected islands to see there stunning beauty would just be amazing!

Janine, Product & Sales Support Co-ordinator

Janine

Product & Sales Support Co-ordinator

Favourite destination?
Masai Mara for the beautiful experience of seeing nature at its best and another way of life. Thailand to experience so many different things in one trip the islands, the snorkeling, the people - it was amazing.

Which Jules Verne tour inspires you most?
Lord of the Glens. Sometimes it can be a case we don't realise what we have on our own doorstep and this trip involves beauty and amazing sights that are not thousands of miles away but so inspiring and exciting to see and steeped in so much History. Plus I would love to go on the Hogwarts Express!

Which destination tops your current bucket list?
Australia has always been the one place I absolutely want to visit, amazing sights and vastness in size. To cllimb the sydney Harbour Bridge to see the Opera House and wildlife like no other. Japan would be another on top of my list. It is is such a unique place like nowhere else.