Huw Davies: Founder, Corinium Travel

Opening & Origins

You founded Corinium Travel with a clear point of view: travel beyond the ordinary. What was missing from the travel landscape that you felt compelled to create yourself?

I wanted to create a blank canvas for travel and be in a position where I could assist any type of client with exciting and unique trips to anywhere in the world underpinned by service which is not available digitally etc.

Looking back to your early career in travel, were there defining moments or mentors that shaped how you approach service, detail, and trust today?

Yes. I worked for a villa rental company in the South France and a lot of our clients were UHNW where I learnt that looking after people (both clients and suppliers) was the key to success.

How has your own curiosity – for food, wine, culture, and people, influenced the way you design experiences for clients?

I use those passions to create uniqueness in the trip. For example I have a regular ski client who I book all their lunches for. I know this aspect of the trip is so important.

Building a Brand with Depth

Corinium Travel is known for discretion, personal service, and deeply tailored itineraries. What does “luxury” mean to you in today’s travel landscape?

Luxury is a state of mind. Not having to think about anything whilst on holiday as it has all been arranged for you is key and when problems arise, sort them quickly and efficiently.

As an independent founder, how have you balanced growth with staying true to the values and intimacy that define Corinium?

Evolving my own experiences but keeping the values of why I started Corinium Travel alive.
 
What lessons have you learned about leadership from running your own business that you couldn’t have learned anywhere else?

Having to be both business focused and have empathy is tough and needs continuous reflection.
 

Inclusion, Access & Expanding the Definition of Service

You’ve actively chosen to serve travellers with disabilities, working closely with the Inclu Travel team. What prompted that decision?

One of my core values / reasons for starting Corinium Travel was to assist anyone (see above) and I love to help people in life in general.

How has acquiring new knowledge around accessible travel changed the way you think about itinerary design, problem-solving, and client care?

Its been and continues to be very interesting.

What would you say to other elite advisors who may feel unsure about stepping into this space?

Don’t be scared or nervous about helping people. Professional travel designers all have the experience to do it. Be open to learning.

Do you see inclusive travel not just as a responsibility, but as an opportunity to serve a previously overlooked and loyal client base?

Yes definitely.

Recognition & Industry Perspective

You were voted Most Admired Partner by your peers at 360 Private Travel – an accolade that speaks volumes. What did that recognition mean to you personally?

Thank you. I felt very grateful and extremely humble particularly in the company of my fellow 360 partners who I believe are some of the most experienced travel professionals in the industry.

How important is community, collaboration, and peer respect within the private travel advisory space?

I think its invaluable. There are few industries where one never stops learning. Travel is one and learning from peers is the best way.
 
What distinguishes advisors who thrive long-term from those who struggle in an increasingly competitive market?

Probably trying to create unique ideas, finding a niche but also being able to adapt.

The Future of Tailor-Made Travel

How do you see the role of the travel advisor evolving over the next five to ten years?

I think the demand for travel advisors is going to increase as it becomes harder for clients to navigate travel networks in the shadow of AI where honesty and transparency will prevail.

What excites you most right now – destinations, client trends, or new ways of working?

Destinations. I love how destinations adapt to external factors.

If Corinium Travel were starting today, what would you do exactly the same – and what would you do differently?

Well I probably wouldn’t start a travel business 4 months before a global pandemic!

Personal Reflection

What keeps you inspired when the industry feels noisy or transactional?

Constantly learning and evolving.

How do you define success at this stage of your career?

Happy clients.
 
What’s one belief about luxury travel that you think needs rethinking?

The number of global trade events which in my view is unnecessary and hypocritic when it comes to our carbon footprint.

Quick Fire

Window seat or aisle and why?

Window. Love the world from the air.

Best trip you’ve ever taken… that you didn’t plan for a client?

A week exploring Tasmania.

Favourite “I can’t believe this is my job” travel moment?

Bluebird Ski day.

If Corinium Travel had a soundtrack, what’s the opening track?

Probably something like Born to run by the Boss.

Travel trend you quietly roll your eyes at?

Short trips. Take it slowly.

Champagne before noon: acceptable or encouraged?

Encouraged. I’m old school.

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