Helen Howard
How many years have you worked in travel and how did you get into the industry?
6 years. I wanted a career change and travel is such an intrinsic part of my life that it was the obvious choice. I have the privilege to create memorable holidays for people who really want to experience a country. And travel too!
What do you do outside of travelling or whilst travelling?
Anything to do with the natural world does it for me - whether seeing a brightly coloured species of bird for the first time, hiking in spectacular landscapes or snorkelling in clear seas. I find history and culture fascinating, meeting people to learn about day-to-day life, seeing magnificent architecture and I do love wandering through a market!
How many countries have you visited to date?
50 exactly!
What are your top three destination recommendations?
South India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.
And the best-kept travel secret locations/experiences you’ve discovered along the way?
Only a couple of hours from Agra there's a place to experience rural India, with decaying old havelis (townhouses), traditional farming, little temples and where the rare gharial (fish-eating crocodile) can be seen (from the safety of a small boat!). It's worlds away from the bustling city of Agra. In Mumbai there's a street full of shops selling spices. Here Mumbaikers select the ingredients for each family's unique spice blend; bay leaves, dried red chillis, cumin, fenugreek, coriander seeds, and many many more. Once chosen the spices are dried-fried in huge pans over wood-fires, then pounded into powder. It's a cacophony of colour, sound and delicious aromas and fascinating to experience.
What do you listen or read/interest to when you’re travelling?
I pick out podcasts that give me a history lesson, for example after visiting Galle I learnt more about the Dutch East India Company. Or listen to music from the area, eg. qawwali music to take me back to Old Delhi.
Can you speak any other languages?
Other than Spanish and French (and that's at a very basic level) I always learn a few key phrases when going somewhere new.
Where is next on your wish list and why?
Oh, my list changes all the time! India draws me back time and time again - the country is so diverse and beguiling.
Any disaster stories/near misses on your travels?
I've been incredibly lucky and throughout all my travels I've not anything more than a puncture! And even then that just gave us an opportunity to meet people in the remote Australian outback!
Any words of wisdom or to tips for travellers?
Go! As there may not always be the chance to do so. Planning well is wise but the best part of travel involves the unexpected so embrace spontaneous opportunities! Some countries warrant a second visit (and a third, fourth...). For example, you can make multiple trips to India and experience completely different cultures/food etc. Taking time to really get under the skin of a place - I prefer to spend more time in less places. Asking for advice! It's great to chat with an expert as you may end up doing things you weren't even aware existed!
