Published 28th Jun. 2021
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Original Travel Turns 10!
Once upon a time... Our story began back in 2003; a classic 'three friends in a spare bedroom' scenario. The three co-founders Alastair Poulain, Nick Newbury and Tom Barber spotted a niche in the travel industry for high quality short breaks requiring minimal time off work but offering maximum experience. Using their knowledge and passion for travel, the three came up with a portfolio of action-packed long weekends to original destinations, and The Big Short Break was born.
What we've achieved
Hungry to grow, Original Travel went on to launch a successful long-haul portfolio; a range of original family holidays and has published even two books; The Big Short Break and Dive in Style. In addition we've joined forces with the wonderful Tim Best Travel and Simoon Travel teams, launched Original Diving and a home-grown UK travel arm and in the process won a number of highly regarded travel awards. Best of all, though, is that warm and fuzzy feeling we get from the knowledge that we have made a lot of people, from rockstars to royalty and everyone in between, very happy with their precious holidays.
Happy Birthday!
To celebrate our 10 year anniversary we've compiled ten blogs; each a '10 best...' or '10 most...' theme. Clever, no? The blogs will share with you some of the things we've enjoyed, done, learnt and experienced over the past ten years. We hope you enjoy them, and a big warm thank you to all of you have helped us get where we are today. First up? The 10 Best Big Short Breaks. We hope you enjoy them!
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Meet Jean-Francois Rial, CEO of Voyageurs du Monde – the French tour operator that’s been Original Travel’s parent company since 2017. A passionate advocate for sustainable travel, he’s been proposing ways for the industry to play its part in protecting the planet. Off the clock, he also runs an organic vegetable farm in France’s Orne region, proving that even CEOs can get their hands dirty. Intrigued by the people shaping the future of travel?
27th April 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Just stepped off the Shinkansen, explored the vibrant streets of Tokyo and had your fill of ramen? Then you’ll know Japan is dazzling, and a little hectic at times. That’s where temples come in – and with over 150,000 sacred sites across the country, you’ll see signs for otera (temple) and jinja (shrine), everywhere. Follow them and find peaceful pavilions, meet resident deer bowing for a biscuit or two and even tiptoe through ninja hideouts filled with secret rooms.
27th April 2026 - Japan Travel Inspiration
Introducing travel heroes: individuals who inspire us with their innovation, dedication and creativity within the travel industry. These are people who embody the Original Travel mission and values in their work and who deserve a moment in the spotlight. Developed from our Original Traveller feature, read on as we celebrate our favourite global champions of sustainability, cultural heritage and conservation.
20th April 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
