MEET ANYA CLARKE – LUXURY TRAVEL DIRECTOR & PERSONAL TRAVEL EXPERT
With a passion for creating seamless, high-end travel experiences, Anya has built a reputation for turning travel plans into perfectly executed journeys. From premium-cabin business trips to bespoke escapes in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations, she combines meticulous organisation with a truly personal touch. We asked her a few questions to find out more about her world and how she helps her clients travel better.
What does a Travel Director actually do, and how do you help clients plan their trips?
In short, I make luxury travel effortless. My clients come to me with ideas, sometimes as simple as “we need a few days away” or “I’ve got a business trip coming up,” and I turn that into a fully planned, seamless experience. From securing premium-cabin flights and exceptional accommodation to tailoring every detail around their preferences, I handle everything. My goal is for them to feel completely taken care of, whether it’s a short corporate trip or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
How are you different from booking online or through a typical travel agency?
The biggest difference is that I genuinely care about the person behind the booking. When you search online, you get a thousand options, but no one to say, this hotel actually fits your style or that connection isn’t worth the stress.
With big travel companies, clients can often feel like just another booking reference, passed between different people. With me, it’s personal. I’m your consistent point of contact from start to finish, available whenever you need me, and I take the time to understand how you like to travel. Because I’m independent, I can book with any supplier or hotel I trust, not just the ones tied to a large network.
Over time, many clients have become almost like friends. We’ve built long-standing relationships where I know their preferences, habits, and the little details that make each trip effortless. It’s personal service in every sense of the word, delivered to the highest standard.
What kinds of trips do you specialise in?
I plan everything from luxury business travel to bespoke leisure holidays and family getaways. My clients might be flying first or business class to New York for meetings one week and relaxing in a private villa in the Maldives the next, and I love that mix. What connects all the trips I plan is the attention to detail and the level of service. I work with trusted partners around the world, so whether it’s a villa in Tuscany, a city stay in Tokyo, or a private safari lodge, my clients know they’re in exceptional hands.
Can you share an example of a memorable trip you’ve planned?
It’s so hard to pinpoint a single memorable trip because I’ve planned so many unique, high-end experiences over the years. A few that come to mind include arranging unforgettable honeymoons, like a safari in Africa followed by a seamless hop to the Seychelles, or a luxury journey through New Zealand, where the client stayed in some of the most beautiful, remote lodges with bespoke excursions built around them.
Beyond holidays, I also work closely with clients in their professional lives, helping them reach important meetings or events smoothly. In some cases, it almost feels like becoming part of their team, for example arranging premium travel and accommodation for TV or film shoots, or securing villas and hotels for the filming itself. Every trip, no matter the purpose, is about making sure everything runs perfectly and always with a touch of luxury.
Why do you think having a trusted travel expert matters in today’s world?
Travel has become more complicated than ever, with different rules, connections, and choices. It’s easy to spend hours researching only to end up more confused than when you started. That’s where I come in. My clients don’t have to worry about logistics, small print, or the what-ifs. They just tell me what they want out of their trip, and I take care of the rest, saving them time, money, and a lot of stress. My role is to make sure every journey feels effortless, considered, and completely tailored to them.
What’s your top tip for anyone planning their next holiday?
Be clear about what you want from your time away. Most people start with a destination, but I always say start with a feeling. Do you want to feel relaxed, inspired, adventurous, or spoiled? Once you know that, it’s much easier to find the right place. And, of course, work with someone who knows how to make it happen with the right balance of comfort, exclusivity, and experience.
What inspired you to become a travel expert?
Honestly, I fell into it, but it’s the kind of career that keeps you hooked once you start. I love how every day is different, and every client brings a new challenge or story. There’s something very rewarding about using your knowledge and connections to create something that someone else will remember for the rest of their life. I also love that it gives me the opportunity to explore the same destinations and experiences my clients do. It means I’m constantly learning and building on my knowledge so I can serve them even better next time. Travel never stands still, and neither do I.
To start planning your next exceptional trip, whether for business or leisure, get in touch with Anya Clark at anya.clark@zenithblack.co.uk
Partnered with Zenith Black
