I love being on water. Doesn't matter if its the ocean or a lake, I just enjoy the freedom of drifting along and watching the world slide by. I really like doing this on Tonli Sap in Cambodia and I loved being at sea off the coast of Croatia.
Staff Spotlight: Ben Jowett
What is your favorite travel memory?
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
Yes, as a financial planner I looked at the finances of individuals. Their situations tend to be static and my task was to develop and implement improvements over time. In business the situation is never static; currencies fluctuate, income and expenses are lumpy and never arrive at the same time and suppliers come and go. Keeping track of all the variables has been an exciting challenge that I have greatly enjoyed.
Which destination is most underrated? Conversely, which is most overrated?
My most overrated destination is Barcelona. Not because it is not a great city, it is! But, there were so many pick-pockets and other undesirables that they destroyed the pleasure of being there. My most underrated destination is Siem Reap. It is just a great little town that has so much going on there.
What unique qualities does your company possess?
Experienced and qualified people with a track record of successfully delivering programs over many years.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
A Chinese student with broken English pleaded for a job with us. We were impressed by her determination but worried about her lack of language skills. We started her on two days a week. She worked hard, tried hard and was scrupulously honest and committed. Our staff worked with her and now she speaks beautiful English, writes good emails and is a most committed employee. I am proud of her and my team for what they have achieved.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
The people that work for you are the biggest factor in your success. Finding and keeping good people is the challenge in business. But, I would also add that if you cannot handle your cashflow then you and all your staff will be unemployed in no time!