Travel has never simply been my career.

It’s been my life’s passion.

When I was just fourteen years old, I knew I wanted to work in travel.

Like many people, I imagined becoming a flight attendant. Instead, that dream led me into the travel industry—and more than three decades later, I still can’t imagine doing anything else.

For over 30 years I’ve had the privilege of helping people discover the world, creating journeys that are as unique as the people taking them.

Because no two travellers are ever the same.

More Than Just Planning Holidays

While I enjoy creating beautifully planned itineraries, the most rewarding part of my job comes after my clients return home. I love hearing about the unexpected moments, the unforgettable meals, the hidden places they discovered and the memories they’ll cherish for years to come. Those stories remind me why I’ve loved working in the travel industry for more than 30 years. And perhaps the greatest compliment I can receive is hearing a client ask, “Where are you sending me next, Sarah?”.

Why I Created The Travel Lab

After many years in the travel industry, I knew I wanted to create a business that reflected the way I believe travel should be planned. For me, that means taking the time to listen, understand what’s important to each client and thoughtfully curate every journey without rushing the process. The Travel Lab allows me to do exactly that. Every itinerary begins with a conversation, and from there we work together to build, refine and shape your journey until every detail feels just right.

Why Use a Travel Manager?

People often ask me, “Why shouldn’t I just book everything online?” My answer is always the same—you absolutely can. In much the same way you could cut your own hair instead of visiting a hairdresser. The difference isn’t simply making a booking—it’s knowing what to book, and being there when you need someone most. It’s knowing which airline is best for your journey, finding that beautiful boutique hotel tucked away in the heart of Rome, and understanding the little details that transform a good holiday into an unforgettable one. And when the unexpected happens, you’ll have someone in your corner who knows exactly what to do. Over the years, I’ve helped clients through overseas medical emergencies, bereavements, volcanic eruptions and countless travel disruptions. That’s the difference experience makes.

How I Work

I believe the planning process should be just as enjoyable as the journey itself. That’s why everything begins with a conversation. I take the time to understand what inspires you, what you’d like to experience and how you enjoy travelling before creating an itinerary that’s thoughtfully tailored to you. From there, we’ll refine every detail together until everything feels just right—from flights and accommodation to transport, experiences and those little touches that make all the difference. Once your plans are confirmed, I’ll manage every booking, coordinate every supplier and ensure you have everything you need before you leave. My goal is simple: to make your journey feel effortless, so all you have to think about is enjoying the experience ahead.

A Few of My Favourite Places

Travel has given me the opportunity to experience some extraordinary places, and like many travellers, there are destinations I’ll never forget. Africa will always hold a special place in my heart. Having been born there, returning as an adult was an incredibly emotional experience. Europe is another place I never tire of recommending because every visit reveals something new, whether it’s a hidden village, a local café or a different corner waiting to be explored. And, like many of my clients, I still have my own travel wish list—from a safari lodge in Tanzania and the vineyards of Bordeaux to Cinque Terre, the Maldives, India and a European river cruise. I think that’s one of the wonderful things about travel: there’s always another journey to dream about.

Travel Has Taught Me…

After more than 30 years in the travel industry, I’ve learnt that travel is constantly evolving. Flights change, entry requirements shift and sometimes the unexpected happens. Over the years I’ve supported clients through everything from volcanic eruptions and overseas medical emergencies to last-minute itinerary changes, and those experiences have reinforced one simple truth: it’s not just about making bookings—it’s about having someone who knows how to navigate the unexpected with confidence, so you can continue enjoying your journey.

Beyond Travel

When I’m not planning holidays, you’ll usually find me walking my dog, swimming in the ocean, discovering hidden local eateries with family and friends or listening to a great podcast or audiobook.

I also spend time supporting people in aged care—a role that’s incredibly rewarding and a reminder that life’s greatest experiences often come from simply connecting with others.

Let’s Start Planning

Whether you’re planning your first overseas adventure, a long-awaited family holiday, business travel or the trip you’ve always dreamed about, I’d love to help you experience the world with confidence. Every journey I create begins by understanding what’s important to you, because I believe the best travel experiences are thoughtfully curated, personally managed and designed around the people taking them. After all, the best journeys don’t begin with a booking—they begin with a conversation.

Where will your next journey take you?

Let’s create something unforgettable.