Amanda Teale runs the most successful luxury travel and lifestyle company you’ve probably never heard of, partly because she rarely, if ever, advertises or seeks media attention. Minerva Private Travel thrives on word of mouth, with a deep pocket of wealthy clients whispering stories of unique and totally unique holiday and travel experiences.
Clients come to Teale with the confidence that no two Minerva-planned trips are the same. In the spirit of the great international hotel concierge who can do anything for the elite traveler (except the illegal, of course), Teale’s company can plan a custom adventure from scratch based on a client’s desires, or provide resources for travelers to enhance segments of a trip they’ve designed themselves.
Teale took a break from planning his trip to Newdigate, UK, to talk about what inspires him while planning trips that have the power to change hearts and minds.
Amanda Teale
Minerva Private Travel
InsideHook: Could you describe what Minerva does? If you had to explain it casually to an acquaintance at a cocktail party?
Amanda Teale: We pride ourselves on delivering personalized service and experiences that transcend the ordinary. Our commitment goes beyond booking flights and hotels. We provide premium service, anticipating needs and ensuring a seamless journey. It’s like having a personal concierge by your side, and we become trusted travel companions.
Do you think there is a limit to what people are willing to invest in such a trip?
Luxury is not just about price. It’s about making people feel like you really care about their journey, their experience, their dreams and making them feel truly special. A lot of people miss out on that.
What led you to this particular field? How did you find yourself in a position to plan and organize these particular experiences?
I have always been a person who loves to please others and has always dreamed of traveling. Ever since I was a child, the allure of travel has captivated me. There is a certain magic in the ascent of airplanes that I find infinitely fascinating. My favorite thing to do as a child was to go to the airport and watch the planes take off. This mix of desires drives me to elevate each experience, constantly looking for innovative ways to improve and enrich my clients’ journey.
Is it true that you don’t advertise or seek customers because they all come to you?
Yes. We rely on word of mouth. That’s the first rule I made when I started my company and I’ve stuck to it. It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it.
What are your customers looking for from you in terms of experience? Is tailor-made the way of the future in the high-end luxury sector?
Clients come to Minerva for our knowledge, passion and dedication to delivering an exceptional experience. Every request is different. We can book a ranch, take over a private island or simply manage a flight from Los Angeles to New York. Our clients know that no matter how big, complex or simple their project is, they will receive the same level of service and I believe that is our unique selling point.
How do you manage Minerva’s 24-hour concierge system?
We make sure to always be available for our customers. I rely on the help of my incredible team and the simple use of WhatsApp. Whether a customer contacts us from the East Coast of the United States to the far south of Italy, we will always be there for them. This is part of our commitment to the customer.
Do you see any changes or evolution in the world of luxury travel?
I see a growing demand for privacy on land and in the air (for convenience and to avoid disruption). For my clients, when flying commercially, going through the airport is no longer an option, if it can be avoided. Tarmac service is in high demand and we book door-to-door transportation from the plane to the car door. We can also provide private security and a private immigration process. This type of service is now the norm for the luxury traveler – and the offerings are increasing, I am happy to say.
Where would you like to see your business in five years?
I look forward to continuing to have the best people in the business on my team. The greatest achievement in my opinion is providing an environment where the people who work for you love their jobs, love coming to work, and believe in your business as passionately as you do..
Tell us some stories about the most incredible experiences you’ve had and the craziest requests you’ve fulfilled.
We placed 10 white BMWs perfectly aligned in a private suite at the airport, on the tarmac, ready to transport our clients to the plane door. It was a magnificent sight and a special feeling for the clients who felt like royalty.
We privatized one of the most romantic locations on the entire Amalfi Coast in Italy for a breathtaking proposal. I am delighted to say that she said yes.
I would like to think that I was the one who organised the rain and lightning, but that part was down to the nature of Ibiza. We produced the most sensational night and atmosphere ever recorded for a show at the Ushuaia Beach Hotel. We placed our guests in the upper VIP area to coincide with the natural phenomenon, thanks to our excellent relationship with the club. Guests still talk about it.
We often accompany our clients on trips at their request (especially in small groups) so that they don’t have to worry about anything. I also sometimes go to the airport personally to meet clients, if I’m in the right place at the right time. If not, I often send a member of my team. We do this not only to make them feel special, but mainly because I really enjoy seeing them and welcoming them.
It’s all part of the service.
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