“I love challenging itineraries,” says Thea at Jamison Plaza Travel Associates. “Putting all the pieces of a holiday plan together with my clients is like a puzzle for me - I enjoy it!”
Thea has many talents to offer her clients. She speaks German and Indonesian, holds a Bachelor of Business Majoring in Tourism and Hotel Management, and has over 20 years experience on the job.
“My many years as a travel advisor have enabled me to meet so many wonderful people, become a part of their lives and the many milestones that travel creates and celebrates,” she says. One of my most memorable clients? “I helped a local family bring their adoptive children to Australia from Africa. We have become lifelong friends and now our children go to school together.”
Thea is a destination specialist when it comes to Africa, Asia, Europe and North America. She’s also an All-Inclusive Holiday Specialist, Premium Airfare Specialist and River Cruising Specialist.
To add to that, she’s a Rail Specialist too. She believes train journeys are “one of life’s simplest pleasures”. “Watching the world go by from a comfortable seat in a scenic train carriage is a different and relaxing way to see a country.”
Having travelled to over 54 countries - including Peru, Morocco, Egypt, Botswana, South Africa, Vietnam, Spain, Canada and the Maldives - she’s never short on inspiration and advice. “Switzerland is my second home and absolute passion,” she says. “The alps and lakes, the delicious cheese and chocolate, the scenic train journeys. I love sharing Swiss travels with others as part of my role.”
Spending time in a rural community in India also left a lasting impression on Thea. “It was a humble reminder that family, health and education are so valuable, and to be grateful for all the opportunities living in Australia provides us with.”
She loves travelling Australia too. “Visiting Australia's Red Centre for the first time reminded me just how beautiful and spiritual our country really is. My sunrise base camp walk with the Anangu as they shared sacred stories was so special - everyone needs to do it once.”
Experience
20 Years
Countries visited
54 Countries
Get to know me
What are your favourite destinations to visit and why?
Switzerland is my second home - I love the people, the food, the organisation and efficiency, the stunning landscapes, the snow and of course there has to be cheese and chocolate :)
River cruises are another firm favourite of mine - the ease of unpacking once and being able to step off the ship to wander the cobbled streets of charming towns along the way each day is just so easy. Excellent service, quality facilities, and delicious meals on board round out the value of the experience.
What is the most amazing experience you have created for a client?
The most special moments for me are where I am taking care of my clients for milestone events in their lives. Reunions, surprises, family get-togethers and long anticipated travels are the kind of trips I love being involved in. Most recently I looked after my valued clients going to the UK in anticipation of the birth of their first grandchild. Their updates showing how quickly she is growing are so sweet and I am always looking forward to the next instalment.
Why do you love travel? Tell us what it means to you?
Travel provides us with opportunities to explore, learn and grow. Be it trying a new cuisine, visiting a new museum or gallery, reuniting with friends and family or putting on your walking shoes to stroll the roads in a new town - it is all fascinating. Whether returning to somewhere you know well or choosing somewhere new, there are always fascinating options to explore. Travel has expanded my world exponentially and been the catalyst to so many amazing experiences - for that, I am incredibly grateful.
How do you go above and beyond for your clients?
I am genuinely interested and invested in why my clients are traveling, and how best to assist them achieve their travel goals. In my 18+ years in the travel industry, I have created many lifelong relationships by building trust and the rapport needed to have really honest conversations that ensure I make the very best recommendations. I treasure these friendships and always look forward to caring for my clients to the very best of my ability.
Send Thea a message
OUR OFFICE
Jamison Plaza Travel Associates
As leaders in the luxury travel space, our all-female team would love to welcome you to the Jamison Plaza Travel Associates office, nestled in the suburb of Macquarie near Canberra. Curating unrivalled one of a kind journeys is what we do best - walk with us through those elusive doorways to unlock the secrets of your ultimate travel destinations.
Meet the team
