Our Story

Founder William Burton led several well-known travel companies before launching Awesome Experiences in July 2017. He felt that booking the sort of awesome trips he wanted to take in his limited time out of the office took far more time and effort than really necessary. If he did it himself it took a lot of time in research and booking to create something really awesome. And if he used a 'tailor-made' travel company they always started with a standard itinerary and it took hours of negotiation and copious emails to turn this into the trip he really wanted. Especially when it came to doing something really different such as adding some exhilarating activities, getting behind the scenes access, or finding specialist guides. And everything extra he added had a totally disproportionate effect on the price.

So, he took the challenge of creating a company to build truly awesome trips to spectacular places that were designed to meet the needs of people like him without requiring a lot of bespoking, and bookable straight off the screen. These included all the highlights, plus exciting activities, and unique access to special events, concerts and festivals, as well as expert private guides to museums and galleries, private transfers, and truly authentic local experiences. He then added options to refine trips by adding extra activities or extension nights so it was easy to book your ideal trip without all the phone calls and emails - and Awesome Experiences was born…

Our team

Led by William, the team has around 100 years' combined experience of designing spectacular trips, and has journeyed right across the Globe in search of adventure. Together, we know all about flight timetables, seamless transfers, health and safety, and sourcing the best and most cost-effective suppliers – but the one thing that really unites us is our passion for discovering new cultures and corners of the globe. Here are some of our key members:

William - Founder / Chief Executive

Your favourite getaway so far?

I have done so many of these trips myself that I loved- which is why I created this company- but if I was to single out one it would probably be Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda which was incredible. The sheer size of these creatures is amazing and you get staggeringly close to these gentle giants. We do offer this trip in Rwanda, but personally if I had more time I would probably do our Uganda gorilla experience as you get to do a full safari as well - and I might well do just that!

Where’s next?

I’ve actually just booked one of our 3 night Viennese Balls in Austria, but my main holiday plan is to experience our Head to Toe Chile; it is one of the few major Latin American countries I have never experienced and both the Atacama Desert (complete with stargazing) and hiking the glaciers of Patagonia sounds awesome. I also like wine so the time around Santiago will be welcome - and I may tag on our trip to see the incredible stone heads of Easter Island. Maybe I will see Suzanne there as I see she plans to go there too!

Sara - Head of Product

Your favourite getaway so far?

California and Western USA – having a young family has meant holidays have mainly centered around the pool and beach in recent years, but our first family adventure holiday to California ticked all the boxes and was an amazing experience. Everywhere we visited was a highlight; the bright lights of Las Vegas, the sheer expanse and awesomeness of the Grand Canyon, the fun of Disney, cycling and people watching on Venice Beach and the cool chilled beach vibe of San Diego.

Where’s next?

A safari is top of the list for our next family adventure. With two animal loving children our Family Safari Adventure in Zambia would definitely be a hit. Lesser known than other African safari destinations but promising a truly authentic safari experience, taking an elephant safari and seeing Victoria Falls from a helicopter would be amazing experiences and create some incredible holiday memories.

Iona - Head of Supplier Relations

Your favourite getaway so far?

There are so many places that I’ve loved visiting for different reasons, but Cambodia and Vietnam top my favourites. There’s just so much to see and do in these countries that I have a huge list of high points, including my interactions with the local people, the delicious food, the diverse scenery (such as the limestone islands of Halong Bay), and the life and vibrancy of the Old Quarter of Hanoi, found in its hectic labyrinth of alleys and streets. Angkor’s temples are rightly legendary too – the architecture and setting is astounding.

Where’s next?

I’m going to challenge myself to climb Kilimanjaro, the world's tallest freestanding mountain. Experiencing the transcendent view from the summit at sunrise, along with an incredible sense of achievement on reaching the top, would be really awesome. I gain peace, wellbeing and gratitude from hiking in incredible scenery and you can’t over-value those things.

Amanda - Chief Web Editor

Your favourite getaway so far?

I love everything about Mexico – the culture, the food, the Mayan monuments, and the incredible beaches. I would urge anyone who visits to spend some time in Mexico City. The contrasts are incredible. You can cover ancient ruins, Diego Rivera murals, and incredible contemporary restaurants in a day. Arriving into its seething heart from the airport is something I’ll never forget.

Where’s next?

I’ve been to Brazil and really fell for the atmosphere and friendliness of the people (no exaggeration; expect to be invited to parties and encouraged to abandon all British reserve when you dance!). Now I’d like to visit the Pantanal wetlands to see a different side to the country. Spotting giant anteaters, jaguar and giant otters in the wild sound like a truly winning combination for someone who already adores more traditional safaris, and I’d like to visit the area before many tourists cotton on.

Kevin - Head of Sales and Marketing

Your favourite getaway so far?

Hot-air balloning over the alps - launch in Switzerland and not knowing whether you'll land in Austria, Germany, France, or Italy! In our case Italy. Adventure with style! I've also been lucky enough to see Thessaly (Greece), the Ardennes, Milan and Le Mans from similar viewpoints. A lot of our tours have balloon trips included and if you haven't tried it I can thoroughly recommend it.

Where’s next?

Bolivia and Peru - My wife grew up in Bolivia and now we're almost child free we're keen to retrace some of the adventures and places she was so familiar with in her childhood. A return to the Inca Trail is an absolute must.

Suzanne - Product Team Leader

Your favourite getaway so far?

Peru. I love its amazingly diverse landscapes and experiences – dune buggying in the desert at sunset; walking in the Colca Canyon with the late afternoon sun bathing the walls in a golden glow; Rainbow Mountain’s amazing colours; seeing the mist lift over Machu Picchu… the list goes on. I really liked the people too, and felt privileged to learn about Pachamama and their culture and beliefs.

Where’s next?

Chile – it’s always appealed to me for its epic, vast and contrasting landscapes and because I would get to use my Spanish. I’d love to go walking in Patagonia with its mountain vistas and glaciers and stargazing in the Atacama desert would be a pinch-me magical moment for me.

Ritwik - Technical Operations Manager

Your favourite getaway so far?

I absolutely loved my time in China. The fact that the big cities seemed familiar to cities back in India while distinctly maintaining their own identity filled me with wonder. In terms of touristy stuff, the trek on the Great Wall was challenging at times but lead to spots with breathtaking views over the hills while the Forbidden City across Tiananmen Square leaves you in awe with its splendour. The variety of food on offer is paradise for a food junkie like myself who loves to experiment, though sometimes the pungent smells can be an attack on the senses. What was most fascinating was the nightlife in China, which was full of colours and sounds, going through to the early hours of the morning. To top it all off, the serene walks around the idyllic countryside through the paddy fields makes for the ideal beginning for a day full of adventure.

Where’s next?

I wish to explore the many facets of Brazil, starting with a trek up Corcovado to meet Christ the Redeemer, idling around on the Rio beaches and exploring the safaris along the Paraguay river for a view of wildcats and otters. The tour through Pantanal seems like an amazing opportunity for adventure with splashes of exotic cuisine, luxurious outback locations and comes bundled in with the phenomenal nightlife on offer by Rio.

Helena - Office Administrator

Your favourite getaway so far?

My family is Australian so we visit the country regularly, but my favourite getaway has to be the first time we drove along the Great Ocean Road. We spent three days driving by the glimmering Pacific and through wild Australian countryside, watching the sun set between the roughly sculpted pillars of the Twelve Apostles and visiting eerie little towns savaged by bushfires. My fondest memories of the trip were driving along the ridge of a mountain, so high that we were surrounded by the mist of a low-hanging cloud, and listening to waves crashing against the cliff outside our hotel in the quaint coastal town of Port Campbell.

Where’s next?

I’ve never visited South America and I’m desperate to go; my ideal itinerary would include the most vibrant cities, stopping at Mexico City, Lima and Cusco, Rio, and Buenos Aires. Everything from the street-food to the vibrantly-coloured houses call to me, and as a big history nerd I’d love to explore the ancient Aztec, Mayan and Incan temples and citadels. It’s almost a crime that I’ve never seen Machu Picchu, a must-do for everyone- but I barely speak a word of Spanish at the moment, so maybe I should start there.

Shivani - Sales Manager

Your favourite getaway so far?

Coming from an Indian Family, I was always curious to explore the vast diversity of India. Traveling alone for basketball tournaments since I was 12 years of age, I had the opportunity to experience various glimpses of India; the gorgeous Taj Mahal, the historical forts of Rajasthan, the majestic Charminar, the great spiritual Golden Temple and other adrenaline-pumping adventures such as river rafting in Ludhiana and paragliding in Pragpur. My favourite part about travelling in and around the various states of India is having the opportunity to sample the diverse cuisines the country offers. Being a foodie, the extensive spread of sweets and savouries always wins my heart.

Where’s next?

Now that I have moved from India to the United Kingdom, I am looking forward to travelling around Europe in the upcoming months. It would be awesome to go to Iceland and enjoy whizzing through the snow in an Arctic truck during winter, along with visiting the IceHotel and Northern Lights in Sweden. With the summer springing upon us, I would love to stroll down the Turkish beaches with its crystal clear waters and explore the Patara National park famous for its incredible wildlife. To put the cherry on the top, the idea that fills my heart with excitement is to conclude the tour with a romantic hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia.

Rosa - Travel Consultant

Your favourite getaway so far?

I taught English in Vietnam for a while and I really got to love the place and the people. Everything is different – from the customs to something as simple as crossing the road, but it’s all culture shock in the best way. The most fantastic thing I did was whizzing around Ho Chi Minh on the back of my friends’ scooters and exploring the parts of the city that tourist buses can’t reach [NOTE: that’s why we use Soviet-era motorcycles, army Jeeps and good old bicycles on our trips].

Where’s next?

I’m a massive foodie and fervent meat lover, so I’m really keen to take our trip to Buenos Aires and Rio. Imagine all the rare steak! Mix that with iconic sights such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf mountain, and it’s a winning combo for me!

Inigo - Marketing and Product Executive

Your favourite getaway so far?

For me, nothing has quite beaten my experiences in Tuscany. Basking in Italian sunshine whilst sipping ice cold beer in amongst the leafy vineyards is hard to beat. Last year I was lucky enough to explore the tiny hilltop village of Vinci - the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci. There I met some other travellers and we’ve been friends since!

Where’s next?

During my time in Tuscany I visited the stunning town called Otranto, but I never knew you could get a private tour with the towns’ mayor. Sadly I also missed out on some of the great food the area has to offer. The place I’d really love to visit is Sweden, the idea of wandering through vast pine forests and sleeping up in the trees absolutely ignites my imagination. Awesome Experiences even offers a private foraging guide who will show you all kinds of hidden woodland nibbles.

Sophi - Head of Sales and Administration

Your favourite getaway so far?

Since I was young I chose to watch the latest David Attenbourgh documentary over Cartoons, I found our planet and its different cultures and species intoxicating. I have had a thirst for travel that is yet to be quenched! I’ve been to 5 out of 7 continents including North America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australasia, where I travelled and worked in Australia for a year. It is almost impossible to choose a favourite getaway, but the one that had it all was West Canada. Nothing beats waking up in the morning on majestic Vancouver Island, jumping in your kayak for a guided sea safari to see the local orca (killer whale) pods, Eagles, Humpback whales, Minkie Whales and curious steller sealions. No to mention the food! Sock eye salmon…. Yes please!

Where’s next?

Since joining Awesome Experiences, I have been trying to narrow down where to take my next trip, but after speaking to the team members who have been I will be doing our Whale Shark & Butterfly Migration in Mexico. If Canada, Africa and Australia have taught me anything, it is that there is nothing quite like seeing animals in their natural habitat. I really want to feel the Frida Khalo vibes, I can’t wait!

Jon-Paul - Product Manager

Your favourite getaway so far?

Western Canada is by far one of the most beautiful places I have visited. So good in fact that I have returned every year for the last 5 years. I really should give somewhere else a chance too! My favourite trip was heading over to Vancouver for a few nights stay, there is so much to see and do in this city – it’s unbelievable. Whether you are down at Granville Island trying out the food and beer by the sea, to going up to see the Grizzly bears up at Grouse mountain, some 4000 feet above – this city does have it all. A bike ride around Stanley Park is certainly something to tick off the list too. After Vancouver boarding a luxury cruise ship for 7 nights, visiting all the highlights of Alaska. Alaska certainly is one of those destinations where a cruise really works well. Witnessing the glaciers crumble and tumble in the early morning from my private balcony was a spectacular experience. My experience was topped off by a trip from Vancouver to Banff, aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train. Travelling through the heart of the Rockies in such a way is a truly magnificent experience.

Where’s next?

It has to be the Caribbean over Christmas. I absolutely loved it when I was last there in 2017 and I feel a return trip is long overdue. Sun, sea, sand, friendly people, great music & atmosphere - plus of course a tasty rum punch or two, to kick start the relaxation!

William - Founder / Chief Executive

Your favourite getaway so far?

I have done so many of these trips myself that I loved- which is why I created this company- but if I was to single out one it would probably be Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda which was incredible. The sheer size of these creatures is amazing and you get staggeringly close to these gentle giants. We do offer this trip in Rwanda, but personally if I had more time I would probably do our Uganda gorilla experience as you get to do a full safari as well - and I might well do just that!

Where’s next?

I’ve actually just booked one of our 3 night Viennese Balls in Austria, but my main holiday plan is to experience our Head to Toe Chile; it is one of the few major Latin American countries I have never experienced and both the Atacama Desert (complete with stargazing) and hiking the glaciers of Patagonia sounds awesome. I also like wine so the time around Santiago will be welcome - and I may tag on our trip to see the incredible stone heads of Easter Island. Maybe I will see Suzanne there as I see she plans to go there too!

Sara - Head of Product

Your favourite getaway so far?

California and Western USA – having a young family has meant holidays have mainly centered around the pool and beach in recent years, but our first family adventure holiday to California ticked all the boxes and was an amazing experience. Everywhere we visited was a highlight; the bright lights of Las Vegas, the sheer expanse and awesomeness of the Grand Canyon, the fun of Disney, cycling and people watching on Venice Beach and the cool chilled beach vibe of San Diego.

Where’s next?

A safari is top of the list for our next family adventure. With two animal loving children our Family Safari Adventure in Zambia would definitely be a hit. Lesser known than other African safari destinations but promising a truly authentic safari experience, taking an elephant safari and seeing Victoria Falls from a helicopter would be amazing experiences and create some incredible holiday memories.

Iona - Head of Supplier Relations

Your favourite getaway so far?

There are so many places that I’ve loved visiting for different reasons, but Cambodia and Vietnam top my favourites. There’s just so much to see and do in these countries that I have a huge list of high points, including my interactions with the local people, the delicious food, the diverse scenery (such as the limestone islands of Halong Bay), and the life and vibrancy of the Old Quarter of Hanoi, found in its hectic labyrinth of alleys and streets. Angkor’s temples are rightly legendary too – the architecture and setting is astounding.

Where’s next?

I’m going to challenge myself to climb Kilimanjaro, the world's tallest freestanding mountain. Experiencing the transcendent view from the summit at sunrise, along with an incredible sense of achievement on reaching the top, would be really awesome. I gain peace, wellbeing and gratitude from hiking in incredible scenery and you can’t over-value those things.

Amanda - Chief Web Editor

Your favourite getaway so far?

I love everything about Mexico – the culture, the food, the Mayan monuments, and the incredible beaches. I would urge anyone who visits to spend some time in Mexico City. The contrasts are incredible. You can cover ancient ruins, Diego Rivera murals, and incredible contemporary restaurants in a day. Arriving into its seething heart from the airport is something I’ll never forget.

Where’s next?

I’ve been to Brazil and really fell for the atmosphere and friendliness of the people (no exaggeration; expect to be invited to parties and encouraged to abandon all British reserve when you dance!). Now I’d like to visit the Pantanal wetlands to see a different side to the country. Spotting giant anteaters, jaguar and giant otters in the wild sound like a truly winning combination for someone who already adores more traditional safaris, and I’d like to visit the area before many tourists cotton on.

Kevin - Head of Sales and Marketing

Your favourite getaway so far?

Hot-air balloning over the alps - launch in Switzerland and not knowing whether you'll land in Austria, Germany, France, or Italy! In our case Italy. Adventure with style! I've also been lucky enough to see Thessaly (Greece), the Ardennes, Milan and Le Mans from similar viewpoints. A lot of our tours have balloon trips included and if you haven't tried it I can thoroughly recommend it.

Where’s next?

Bolivia and Peru - My wife grew up in Bolivia and now we're almost child free we're keen to retrace some of the adventures and places she was so familiar with in her childhood. A return to the Inca Trail and absolute must.

Suzanne - Product Team Leader

Your favourite getaway so far?

Peru. I love its amazingly diverse landscapes and experiences – dune buggying in the desert at sunset; walking in the Colca Canyon with the late afternoon sun bathing the walls in a golden glow; Rainbow Mountain’s amazing colours; seeing the mist lift over Machu Picchu… the list goes on. I really liked the people too, and felt privileged to learn about Pachamama and their culture and beliefs.

Where’s next?

Chile – it’s always appealed to me for its epic, vast and contrasting landscapes and because I would get to use my Spanish. I’d love to go walking in Patagonia with its mountain vistas and glaciers and stargazing in the Atacama desert would be a pinch-me magical moment for me.

Ritwik - Technical Operations Manager

Your favourite getaway so far?

I absolutely loved my time in China. The fact that the big cities seemed familiar to cities back in India while distinctly maintaining their own identity filled me with wonder. In terms of touristy stuff, the trek on the Great Wall was challenging at times but lead to spots with breathtaking views over the hills while the Forbidden City across Tiananmen Square leaves you in awe with its splendour. The variety of food on offer is paradise for a food junkie like myself who loves to experiment, though sometimes the pungent smells can be an attack on the senses. What was most fascinating was the nightlife in China, which was full of colours and sounds, going through to the early hours of the morning. To top it all off, the serene walks around the idyllic countryside through the paddy fields makes for the ideal beginning for a day full of adventure.

Where’s next?

I wish to explore the many facets of Brazil, starting with a trek up Corcovado to meet Christ the Redeemer, idling around on the Rio beaches and exploring the safaris along the Paraguay river for a view of wildcats and otters. The tour through Pantanal seems like an amazing opportunity for adventure with splashes of exotic cuisine, luxurious outback locations and comes bundled in with the phenomenal nightlife on offer by Rio.

Helena - Office Administrator

Your favourite getaway so far?

My family is Australian so we visit the country regularly, but my favourite getaway has to be the first time we drove along the Great Ocean Road. We spent three days driving by the glimmering Pacific and through wild Australian countryside, watching the sun set between the roughly sculpted pillars of the Twelve Apostles and visiting eerie little towns savaged by bushfires. My fondest memories of the trip were driving along the ridge of a mountain, so high that we were surrounded by the mist of a low-hanging cloud, and listening to waves crashing against the cliff outside our hotel in the quaint coastal town of Port Campbell.

Where’s next?

I’ve never visited South America and I’m desperate to go; my ideal itinerary would include the most vibrant cities, stopping at Mexico City, Lima, Cusco, Rio and Buenos Aires. Everything from the street-food to the vibrantly-coloured houses call to me, and as a big history nerd I’d love to explore the ancient Aztec, Mayan and Incan temples and citadels. It’s almost a crime that I’ve never seen Machu Picchu, a must-do for everyone- but I barely speak a word of Spanish at the moment, so maybe I should start there.

Shivani - Sales Manager

Your favourite getaway so far?

Coming from an Indian Family, I was always curious to explore the vast diversity of India. Traveling alone for basketball tournaments since I was 12 years of age, I had the opportunity to experience various glimpses of India; the gorgeous Taj Mahal, the historical forts of Rajasthan, the majestic Charminar, the great spiritual Golden Temple and other adrenaline-pumping adventures such as river rafting in Ludhiana and paragliding in Pragpur. My favourite part about travelling in and around the various states of India is having the opportunity to sample the diverse cuisines the country offers. Being a foodie, the extensive spread of sweets and savouries always wins my heart.

Where’s next?

Now that I have moved from India to the United Kingdom, I am looking forward to travelling around Europe in the upcoming months. It would be awesome to go to Iceland and enjoy whizzing through the snow in an Arctic truck during winter, along with visiting the IceHotel and Northern Lights in Sweden. With the summer springing upon us, I would love to stroll down the Turkish beaches with its crystal clear waters and explore the Patara National park famous for its incredible wildlife. To put the cherry on the top, the idea that fills my heart with excitement is to conclude the tour with a romantic hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia.

Rosa - Travel Consultant

Your favourite getaway so far?

I taught English in Vietnam for a while and I really got to love the place and the people. Everything is different – from the customs to something as simple as crossing the road, but it’s all culture shock in the best way. The most fantastic thing I did was whizzing around Ho Chi Minh on the back of my friends’ scooters and exploring the parts of the city that tourist buses can’t reach [NOTE: that’s why we use Soviet-era motorcycles, army Jeeps and good old bicycles on our trips].

Where’s next?

I’m a massive foodie and fervent meat lover, so I’m really keen to take our trip to Buenos Aires and Rio. Imagine all the rare steak! Mix that with iconic sights such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf mountain, and it’s a winning combo for me!

Inigo - Marketing and Product Executive

Your favourite getaway so far?

For me, nothing has quite beaten my experiences in Tuscany. Basking in Italian sunshine whilst sipping ice cold beer in amongst the leafy vineyards is hard to beat. Last year I was lucky enough to explore the tiny hilltop village of Vinci - the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci. There I met some other travellers and we’ve been friends since!

Where’s next?

During my time in Tuscany I visited the stunning town called Otranto, but I never knew you could get a private tour with the towns’ mayor. Sadly I also missed out on some of the great food the area has to offer. The place I’d really love to visit is Sweden, the idea of wandering through vast pine forests and sleeping up in the trees absolutely ignites my imagination. Awesome Experiences even offers a private foraging guide who will show you all kinds of hidden woodland nibbles.

Sophi - Head of Sales and Administration

Your favourite getaway so far?

Since I was young I chose to watch the latest David Attenbourgh documentary over Cartoons, I found our planet and its different cultures and species intoxicating. I have had a thirst for travel that is yet to be quenched! I’ve been to 5 out of 7 continents including North America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australasia, where I travelled and worked in Australia for a year. It is almost impossible to choose a favourite getaway, but the one that had it all was West Canada. Nothing beats waking up in the morning on majestic Vancouver Island, jumping in your kayak for a guided sea safari to see the local orca (killer whale) pods, Eagles, Humpback whales, Minkie Whales and curious steller sealions. No to mention the food! Sock eye salmon…. Yes please!

Where’s next?

Since joining Awesome Experiences, I have been trying to narrow down where to take my next trip, but after speaking to the team members who have been I will be doing our Whale Shark & Butterfly Migration in Mexico. If Canada, Africa and Australia have taught me anything, it is that there is nothing quite like seeing animals in their natural habitat. I really want to feel the Frida Khalo vibes, I can’t wait!

Jon-Paul - Product Manager

Your favourite getaway so far?

Western Canada is by far one of the most beautiful places I am yet to visit. So good in fact that I have returned every year for the last 5 years. I really should give somewhere else a chance too! My favourite trip was heading over to Vancouver a few nights stay, there is so much to see and do in this city – it’s unbelievable. Whether you are down at Granville Island trying out the food and beer by the sea, to going up to see the Grizzly bears up at Grouse mountain, some 4000 feet above – this city does have it all. A bike ride around Stanley Park is certainly something to tick off the list too. After Vancouver boarding a luxury cruise ship for 7 nights, visiting all the highlights of Alaska. Alaska certainly is one of those destinations where a cruise really works well. Witnessing the glaciers crumble and tumble in the early morning from my private balcony was a spectacular experience. My experience was topped off by a trip from Vancouver to Banff, aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train. Travelling through the heart of the Rockies in such a way is a truly magnificent experience.

Where’s next?

It has to be the Caribbean over Christmas. I absolutely loved it when I was last there in 2017 and I feel a return trip is long overdue. Sun, sea, sand, friendly people, great music & atmosphere - plus of course a tasty rum punch or two, to kick start the relaxation!

What is an Awesome Experience? - William explains his idea

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