We caught up with Claire Murphy from Curated Travel to learn what she loves most about her job and how she helps make every trip whether it's a weekend getaway, a sports adventure or a last-minute dream holiday extra special and completely stress-free.

Tell us a little about yourself and Curated Travel?

Travel has always been in my blood; it’s more than just a profession; it’s a lifelong passion. I got my first job in travel with American Airlines 29 years ago, and from the moment I stepped into the fast-paced world of aviation, I was hooked on the buzz of the airport. Since then, I’ve never looked back. I’m always on countdown for my next trip because I truly believe that everyone should experience the world beyond where they live. Travel is an education in itself. As a parent, I’ve always strived to show my children history, geography, art, cuisine and culture by taking them to destinations rather than just reading about them in books. For me, travel isn’t just about going on holiday; it’s about creating lifelong memories and giving my children experiences that shape them into independent, well-rounded adults.

I have been part of Independent Travel Experts, a division of The Travel Network Group Consortium, for seven years. This gives me the perfect flexibility and freedom to run my business while ensuring my clients have access to the most trusted suppliers, along with full financial protection and industry-leading insurance.

With Curated Travel, my goal is to take the stress out of planning and create unforgettable, tailor-made experiences that go beyond expectations. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime expedition, a luxury cruise, or a bespoke adventure, I believe travel should be immersive, seamless, and truly special.

What services do you offer?

I offer a highly personalised travel service that goes beyond what you’ll find online.

• Personalised Service – Every trip is tailored to you, from handpicking the right destinations to arranging the little extras that make your journey unique.

• Expert Research & Planning – I take care of everything, from finding the best options to creating tailor-made itineraries, saving you time and effort.

• Independent & Trusted – As an independent agent, I have access to over 100 trusted travel suppliers, allowing me to find the best experiences at the best value.

• Financial Protection – Every booking is fully protected, giving you complete peace of mind.

• Dedicated Support – Unlike booking online, I’m on hand before, during, and after your trip to provide assistance whenever needed as well as a 24/7 emergency support line.

• Bespoke Itineraries & Special Touches – Whether it’s a luxury getaway, an adventure-packed tour, or a bucket-list trip, I ensure every detail is taken care of.

• Extras to Enhance Your Trip – I can arrange airport lounges, fast track, car parking, car hire, transfers, attraction tickets, excursions, pre and post stay hotels to make your journey even smoother.

I primarily focus on leisure travel, but I also work within the professional sports sector supporting player care services with travel arrangements as well as looking after several businesses managing all their travel arrangements as well. I work very closely with another Wentworth Lifestyle Brand - Premier Relocation handling both their client travel needs as well as their own business travel.

What differentiates you from your competitors?

I don’t just book travel, I create experiences that are tailored to each clients dreams and needs. I offer a highly personalised service with insider knowledge, seamless planning, and added special touches that make a trip truly unforgettable. From exclusive access to experiences not found online to working closely with trusted travel partners, I ensure that every journey is curated to perfection. My diverse expertise allows me to provide unique, bespoke options that go beyond the ordinary.

Are there any particular areas you specialise in?

Yes! My key areas of expertise include:

• Ocean & River Cruise Travel – Ocean Cruises take you to a destination. River Cruises take you through a destination (an excellent alternative to a city break!)

• Touring & Adventure Travel – From immersive cultural experiences to high-adrenaline adventures.

• Solo Travel – I love helping solo travellers find the perfect trips tailored to their needs. (You don't have to be single to travel solo!)

• Sporting & Special Interest Travel – I arrange travel for those looking to combine their passions with their holidays. Whether it’s following a favourite sports team, attending a world-class music or cultural event, exploring historical sites, or enjoying a food and wine experience, I help my clients create unique and meaningful trips centred around what they love.

How do you see the world of travel has changed over the last 5 years?

The travel industry has evolved significantly over the last five years, with one of the biggest shifts being the way people now prioritise experiences over just taking a holiday. Many feel they’ve missed out on travel whether due to personal commitments or global events and now there’s a real sense of wanting to make up for lost time. Travel has become more experience driven, with a growing demand for personalised, meaningful trips rather than just traditional holidays or ticking a destination off the list.  Solo travel has also surged, with more people embracing the freedom of independent exploration.

In the post-pandemic world, flexibility and reliability have become key, with clients valuing expert advice and seamless support more than ever. The rise of AI and digital tools has transformed how we plan and book travel, but at the heart of it, human expertise remains invaluable for creating truly exceptional journeys.

What is your favourite place you have visited and where would you like to visit?

One of my favourite places is Northern Finland in the Arctic. Snowmobiling across frozen lakes, reaching the peaceful borders of Finland, Norway, and Sweden, and experiencing the sheer wilderness is an unforgettable thrill.

Lisbon also holds a special place in my heart as it’s the home of my ancestors, naturally Portugal is my favourite country and I love to get back there as often as possible.

As for my travel goals, my wish list destination is very long! I seem to add to it every day but some of the places at the top of my dream destinations include exploring Bali, Borneo, and Costa Rica. Top of my cruise list would be sailing around the South Pacific and taking a Panama Canal cruise. I’d also love to experience a safari from a river cruise perspective and I've always wanted to celebrate New Year in two different countries by flying across the international date line!

What do you most love about your job?

What I love most is turning a holiday into an experience, something truly personal and meaningful. Travel isn’t just about booking a destination; it’s about understanding the why behind it. Anybody can book the where, but the why is what really matters.

When I get to the heart of why someone wants to travel somewhere, that’s where my personal expertise comes in. Are they revisiting a place tied to a special memory? Are they seeking adventure, indulgence, or sheer relaxation? What emotions do they want to feel, and what memories do they want to create? Even when it comes to luxury, everyone has a different idea of what luxury is to them, some see it as five-star opulence, while for others, it’s about exclusivity, privacy, or unique experiences.

I love asking these questions because that’s what transforms a trip into something unforgettable. Travel is such an important part of life, it inspires, connects, and rejuvenates us. Seeing my clients return home with incredible memories, knowing I’ve played a part in making that happen, is the most rewarding part of what I do.

Curated Travel is a Wentworth Lifestyle Partner