Charlotte Boswell-Hallihan

Product Executive

Having been inspired by my parents from a young age, I have always loved to travel and explore exciting new places, cultures and cuisines. I have been fortunate enough to extensively visit Southeast Asia, Central America, Europe and New Zealand, as well as living and working in both Mexico and Australia. Some favourite experiences so far include safari sundowners in South Africa, glacier hiking in New Zealand and snorkelling with sharks in Belize.

As my role requires me to be well-versed with all the destinations we offer, I don’t tend to specialise in one particular area of the world, but through my personal travels I like to think I have good experience with Southeast Asia, Central America, Europe and Oceania.

How many years have you worked in travel and how did you get into the industry?

After returning from my first backpacking trip in 2012, I applied for a job at the adventure travel company that I booked my round-the-world flights with and became a Travel Expert in their Covent Garden store. After a year and a half selling backpacking trips, I moved to the Product & Marketing department where I found my calling and have worked in that area ever since, joining Pettitts Travel in 2018.

What do you do outside of travelling or whilst travelling?

Food and drink is a big part of my life and I love incorporating this when I am travelling. From wine tasting in the Cape Winelands to learning a new recipe during a Mexican cooking class or just spending a few hours in a speakeasy bar in Prague, I always ensure to include a foodie experience whilst on holiday. I also love being in or around water, whether its snorkelling, kayaking or a boat trip, I am usually at my happiest then!

How many countries have you visited to date?

I have visited 40 countries to date, meaning there’s still a lot to go!

What are your top three destination recommendations?

One of my all-time favourite destinations is Komodo National Park located in Indonesia. This beautiful archipelago is best explored by spending a few nights on board a sailboat where you wake up at sunrise overlooking the crystal clear waters with no one else in sight. It is a great destination for exploring the amazing underwater world as well as visiting the spectacular islands and witnessing the infamous Komodo dragon. South Africa is another of my favourite countries – a great destination for wildlife, culture and beautiful scenery with a great food and drink scene. For somewhere closer to home, the Greek Islands are magical, in particular Paros, Santorini and Milos in the Cyclades.

And the best-kept travel experiences or locations you’ve discovered along the way?

Instead of seeing the wonderful penguins of Cape Town from Boulders Beach which can become very busy, I would recommend taking a kayaking tour from Simon’s Town, something that not many people do. Not only do you stop at remote coves that you cannot access by foot to see these feathery creatures up close, we also experienced about five penguins swimming and jumping alongside our kayak, a memory I will never forget. If you are in a busy city or location, I would recommend waking up at sunrise to head out and explore whilst it’s quiet. Seeing Santorini’s blue domes or Florence’s historical landmarks before the crowds arrive is a magnificent experience and is also a great time of day for photography and people-free photos.

What do you listen to or read when you’re travelling?

As a recent kindle convert, I enjoy reading as much as I want on holidays without worrying about running out of books/how heavy they make my suitcase! When not out and about sightseeing, I enjoy a good thriller or crime novel whilst relaxing around the pool.

Can you speak any other languages?

I studied Spanish at school and university, but after many years of not practicing regularly I am a little rusty! When on holiday I do enjoy learning a few words of the local language and find this a great way of immersing yourself in the culture.

Where is next on your wish list and why?

After falling in love with the people, wildlife and landscapes of South Africa, exploring more of southern Africa is currently on my wish list with Victoria Falls and Namibia at the top. Other destinations I hope to visit in the not too far future include Sri Lanka and Colombia.

Any words of wisdom or to tips for travellers?

Always do a little research on the destination you are visiting. Blogs and social media are great tools to seek out what to do, the best restaurants and bars and any hidden gems. Some museums and sites become very busy in high season too so you may need to buy online tickets beforehand. I would also recommend packing some toiletries and spare clothes in your hand luggage in case you fall victim to a lost suitcase!