"The Beyond Dreams feeling that we at Avila Reizen transfer to others: that is pure magic!"

From National Geographic Expeditions to luxury expedition cruises with Ponant, Avila's global voyages take you to breathtaking destinations. However, from December 7 to 11, the travel agent chooses a five-day destination MASTERS EXPO – The Magical Edition. In an interview, co-founder Tim van der Wel provides a glimpse of the magical veil.

When did the entrepreneurial magic start for you?

''I don't really come from an entrepreneurial family and I was never so concerned with 'later' in my youth. Yet from a young age I have been enterprising in the field of discovery, experimenting and free thinking. When I started traveling a lot in my twenties, I started to think more and more about setting up my own organization, mainly out of a desire to be free and to be able to do something meaningful at the same time. After I met my wife Hilda – who comes from an entrepreneurial family – the ball started rolling faster. This ultimately resulted in the founding of Avila Travel. From that moment on, I really grew into entrepreneurship.”

What is the most magical moment of your career?

''Many moments come to mind when I ask this question. Such as being appointed official agent of National Geographic Expeditions for the European market, being named the best provider of long-distance travel in the Netherlands, special collaborations and a nomination at the most renowned international fair for 'High End Travelling' for our project in Venezuela with our Avila Foundation. I find it very difficult to name one moment specifically. However, we are quite successful in transferring the 'Beyond Dreams' feeling that we have at Avila Reizen to others: that is pure magic!''

“In my opinion, we offer the most beautiful and meaningful travel experiences that our precious planet has to offer”

What is your motto?

"The magic word that almost everything in life revolves around is balance." 

If you could make a magic potion, what entrepreneurial talents would it contain?

"A super talent in communication, sharp analytical skills, vision, love, perseverance, responsibility and a touch of optimism."

What magical novelty will you present at MASTERS EXPO in December?

''In my opinion, we offer the most beautiful and meaningful travel experiences that our precious planet has to offer. Experiences that can transform people and allow you to make valuable memories with loved ones. It is really a treat that we have been able to build our company around something so beautiful. I can definitely recommend a visit to our stand to get inspired."

What are the trends in travel in the coming year?

''People want to find the perfect balance between discovery and relaxation; we want a trip to enrich our lives, provide inspiration and deepen relationships. But people also want to learn something, experience something, but also contribute something to the planet. People are increasingly choosing to invest in experiences instead of materialistic things. Away from the crowd, small-scale, stylish.”

MASTERS EXPO

MASTERS EXPO is the only premium business fair in Europe, where more than 40.000 visitors experience the most special offers in the field of modern luxury and future-proof business. From 7 to 11 December, more than 350 national and international parties – trend-setting and unifying leaders – will participate in MASTERS EXPO in the RAI in Amsterdam. To attend? Order your tickets here.