Original Travel: Redefining Truly Tailor-Made Luxury Travel in the UK

Original Travel is one of the United Kingdom’s most respected names in luxury, tailor-made travel. Founded with a clear belief that travel should never be generic, the company has spent more than two decades creating imaginative, detail-driven holidays designed entirely around individual travellers. From complex multi-generational journeys to intimate city breaks and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Original Travel has built a reputation for expertise, creativity, and personal service that sets it apart in the competitive luxury travel sector.

This article provides a comprehensive, in-depth overview of Original Travel, its founders, its philosophy, its specialties, and the reasons it continues to be recognised as a leader in bespoke travel experiences.

Original Travel: Company Overview

Founded with a Vision for Bespoke Travel

Original Travel was founded in 2003, emerging at a time when mass tourism dominated the market. Instead of offering fixed packages, the founders chose a different path: creating fully customised journeys built around personal interests, pace, and purpose. This founding vision remains central to the brand today.

Headquarters and Location

The headquarters of Original Travel is located in London, England, placing the company at the heart of the UK’s travel, finance, and creative industries. This London base allows the business to attract experienced travel specialists and maintain close relationships with global partners.

Contact and Accessibility

Original Travel maintains a professional and accessible presence for clients seeking expert guidance.

• Phone: 020 3958 6120
  This direct communication approach reinforces the company’s commitment to personal service rather than automated systems.

The Founders Behind Original Travel

Nick Newbury – Founder and Former CEO

Nick Newbury is the driving force behind the creation and early growth of Original Travel. He conceptualised the business in 2002 and led it as Founder and CEO from day one until 2020. Under his leadership, Original Travel experienced nearly two decades of uninterrupted growth, becoming one of the UK’s most respected bespoke travel companies.

Nick Newbury’s role focused on long-term vision, strategic planning, financial direction, business development, and brand positioning. His leadership helped Original Travel navigate market shifts, economic challenges, and industry disruption while maintaining a strong reputation for quality and innovation. Since stepping down as CEO, he continues to support the business as an Advisor to the Board, offering deep sector insight and strategic guidance.

Tom Barber – Co-Founder and Director

Tom Barber is a Co-Founder and Director of Original Travel and remains actively involved in the business. From the earliest days, Tom Barber has been central to shaping the company’s creative identity and product offering.

His primary responsibility lies in product development, ensuring that every destination, hotel, and experience meets the brand’s high standards. In addition, he oversees key aspects of marketing, branding, creative direction, and copywriting, helping Original Travel maintain a distinctive voice and strong emotional connection with its audience.

Tom Barber’s long-term involvement ensures continuity, authenticity, and a consistent focus on originality rather than trend-driven travel.

Alastair Poulain – Co-Founder

Alastair Poulain is the third Co-Founder of Original Travel, playing a crucial role in the company’s formative years from 2003 to 2015. During this period, he held board-level responsibilities across operations, sales, marketing, finance, and human resources.

Like many early-stage founders, Alastair Poulain worked across all areas of the business before narrowing his focus to senior operational and leadership roles. His contribution helped establish the strong internal structure that supported Original Travel’s early growth and long-term stability.

What Makes Original Travel Different

A Truly Tailor-Made Approach

Unlike traditional travel agencies, Original Travel does not rely on pre-packaged itineraries. Every journey begins with an in-depth consultation, allowing travel experts to understand the client’s interests, preferences, travel style, and expectations. This process ensures that each holiday is unique and purpose-built.

Expert-Led Planning

Original Travel’s team consists of destination specialists who possess first-hand knowledge of the regions they design trips for. This expertise allows them to offer insider access, honest recommendations, and thoughtful alternatives that go beyond guidebook suggestions.

Specialties

Wide-Ranging Travel Expertise

Original Travel is known for a broad and carefully curated range of specialties, including:

Luxury Family Travel

Designing stress-free, enriching holidays that cater to both adults and children without compromise.

Safaris and Wildlife Experiences

Expertly planned safaris that prioritise ethical practices, exceptional guiding, and unforgettable encounters with nature.

Rail and Train Travel

Slow, immersive journeys that celebrate scenic routes, cultural depth, and sustainable travel.

Road Trips and Big Short Breaks

Carefully planned itineraries that maximise limited time while maintaining comfort and flexibility.

Sabbaticals and Extended Journeys

Longer trips designed for deeper cultural immersion, personal growth, and meaningful exploration.

Multi-Generational and Bonding Holidays

Complex travel arrangements that balance different ages, interests, and energy levels within one seamless itinerary.

Commitment to Responsible and Sustainable Travel

Ethical and Environmental Awareness

Original Travel integrates responsible travel principles into its operations, supporting environmental sustainability and community-based tourism. The company’s foundation initiatives focus on protecting cultural heritage, supporting economic development, and safeguarding vulnerable communities.

This ethical approach aligns with modern travellers who seek meaningful experiences without negative social or environmental impact.

Company Culture and Workplace Values

A Hybrid and Flexible Work Environment

Original Travel promotes a hybrid working model, encouraging collaboration through office presence while supporting flexible working arrangements. Employees typically spend several days per week on-site, fostering creativity, shared learning, and strong team culture.

Attracting Industry Talent

With its emphasis on expertise, autonomy, and passion for travel, Original Travel continues to attract experienced professionals who value quality over volume.

Why Original Travel Continues to Lead the Market

Consistency and Credibility

Having operated continuously since 2003, Original Travel has built long-term relationships with global partners, suppliers, and clients. This consistency enhances trust and reliability.

Recognition and Reputation

The company is frequently recognised within the travel industry for its specialist knowledge and high service standards, reinforcing its position as a leading luxury travel brand.

Focus on Detail

True to its philosophy, Original Travel believes that “life is in the detail.” Every element of a journey is carefully considered, from hotel selection to pacing, logistics, and personal touches that elevate the overall experience.

Quick Info

Conclusion

Original Travel stands as a benchmark for what bespoke luxury travel should be. Founded by Nick Newbury, Tom Barber, and Alastair Poulain, the company has remained faithful to its original vision while evolving with the needs of modern travellers.

With its London headquarters, expert team, broad range of specialties, and unwavering commitment to tailor-made experiences, Original Travel continues to redefine how discerning travellers explore the world. Its success lies not in volume, but in craftsmanship, insight, and the belief that no two journeys should ever be the same.

NewsDip.co.uk