I have always wanted to be the type of person who had experienced things in their life, had stories to tell. I’ve been lucky enough to travel Southeast Asia extensively, amassing heaps of stories along the way.
I was one of the first tourists to return to Thailand after Covid-19. A unique trip which because the tourists hadn’t returned, I had all the usually busy places to myself. I love seeing places that feel undiscovered — the feeling that you have found a place which hasn’t yet made it onto everyone else’s itinerary.
I am eager to help you discover your own stories, give you insights into experiences that not many others have had. Having worked in some of the best hotels in the world, I know how important all the small details are; together we can use these small details to design your ideal trip.
Q&A with Jake
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
Growing up in a small Yorkshire village I didn’t have many different cuisines on my food palate. When I first started traveling this was the thing which most scared me. With no knowledge of Asian food at all I just decided to start ordering what I saw the locals eating. My favorite by a mile is Pad Krapow, a dish which isn’t massively known outside the country but which is a firm local Thai favourite. You need no details because at first, I had none, just trust me and order it. Ask for ‘a little spicy’ would be my only advice.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
It would be my first experience of a beach in Koh Kood. I can clearly remember my girlfriend and I just looking around in awe as we walked out. We ran straight into the sea but were both speechless whilst looking at all the beauty surrounding us. I am not usually a man that is lost for words, but on this occasion I'd never seen an island or beach as beautiful in all my life. The feeling of finding a place I'd never even heard anyone mention before and which was so untouched, will remain with me forever.
Which book, film or artwork captures Thailand the most?
I have visited the Bridge over the River Kwai on a few occasions and have always had an interest in the Second World War particularly. After initially watching the movie and visiting parts of the Death Railway, I was gifted a book called ‘The Forgotten Highlander’. I can easily say this is the best book I have ever read. I could literally not put this autobiography down. Following the journey of author Alistair Urquhart, this incredible story follows his journey as a POW in Thailand. A captivating story with many different parts to it, well worth a read (and a visit).