INDIE OF THE MONTH
INDIE OF THE MONTH
LUXURY TRAVEL Cambridge
Peak travel season is upon us, but planning a trip – or even picking a destination – can be overwhelming. That’s where Cambridge Luxury Travel comes in
WORDS BY KATIE KASPERSON
R eady for your next adventure? Cambridge Luxury Travel is a specialist in – you guessed it – luxury travel, including family holidays, honeymoons, cruises and private villas, helping customers create tailor-made trips without fuss. Whether you’re itching to see Monaco, Morocco or Indonesia, this ABTA-certified agency has more than 20 years of collective experience and in excess of 40 countries in its back pocket. “There are a lot of misconceptions about luxury travel,” says founder and Cambridge local Lauren Marques. “To some it means over-the-top opulence, but in recent years there has been a shift. Luxury travel is now more about exclusivity and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.” Lauren possesses a lifetime love for travelling, having lived and worked in five countries, as well as on a luxury cruise ship. Her combined experience and enthusiasm make for excellent service and impartial travel advice. “I don’t just sell holidays,” she assures. “I offer a totally bespoke service for each and every client. This means taking time to get to know people and finding out their needs to perfectly match them with the right vacation.” Lauren is chock-full of insider tips and hidden gems, helping customers get the most from each destination. More
than that, she adds ‘little enhancements to exceed people’s expectations and make them feel special’. Recently, she had clients return from honeymoon in the Caribbean: “Because I had taken the time to get to know them, I found out they were both passionate about rum,” explains Lauren. “I arranged a private rum distillery tour and tasting, and had a special bottle delivered to their room. They were thrilled.” Anyone who’s planned a holiday from start to finish knows the attention it requires. Keeping track of hotel bookings, train tickets and flight information can be a pain, distracting from the relaxation that travellers often desire. “Most of my clients are busy and don’t have the time needed to plan holidays, so effectively I work as a travel PA, ensuring everything is meticulously planned and organised for all their annual vacations,” says Lauren. “All they have to do is turn up and enjoy.” Cambridge Luxury Travel plans each trip to the last detail and offers 24-hour emergency support if things go wrong. Though, with its long list of industry contacts, regional familiarity and up-to- date knowledge of the latest openings, it’s hard to see how anything could. Destinations can go in and out of style, with some enjoying a movie-driven moment (think Call Me By Your Name ’s
northern Italy or Before Sunrise ’s Vienna), while others like London, Paris and Rome are a mainstay on most people’s bucket lists. Thanks to Lauren’s extensive travel experience, there aren’t many locations she hasn’t been to herself. “My list of favourites grows weekly, but as anyone that knows me will tell you I am completely obsessed with the Seychelles islands!” Cruises are also one of her specialities, although they’re often misrepresented in the media. “There are so many different cruise lines these days, and there really is something to suit everyone,” Lauren explains. “It’s not as stuffy and formal as people might think.” If you’re still torn on a place, pop over to Cambridge Luxury Travel’s blog for the team’s favourite spots, best-kept secrets and seasonal round-ups. You’re sure to come away feeling inspired. Head to cambridgeluxurytravel.com for more information. Email: hello@cambridgeluxurytravel.com Tel: 01268 441 992 @cambridgeluxurytravel
SUNNIER CLIMES Stay in stunning
locations courtesy of Lauren
Marques of Cambridge Luxury Travel
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK AUGUST 2023 61
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