Shaye Jolley

When I’m, not at work or travelling, I’m… 

Working on my next sewing project, litter picking on Brighton Beach or planning my next trip! 

What was your first great travel experience? 

My first trip to Asia was in 2022, just after Cambodia reopened following COVID. I got to see Angkor Wat at sunrise with only about 50 other people. Sometimes there can be a crowd of thousands, so I felt really lucky to experience it in such a quiet and peaceful way. Watching the sun come up over the temples was surreal, and I remember just standing there thinking how amazing it was to be in a place with so much history and beauty. That was the first time I realised how special travel can be, and how it makes you feel connected to the world. 

What are your top three places in the world? 

Thailand, Zimbabwe and The Maldives 

Which destination exceeded your expectations and why? 

George Town in Malaysia. It’s known as the street art capital of Asia and for good reason. I spent a whole day cycling around the city trying to spot as many of the black steel rod artworks as I could. They’re tucked away on buildings, around corners and in places you’d never expect. It’s also one of the most multicultural cities I’ve ever been to, with a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European architecture, food and culture. It quickly became one of my favourite stops on that trip. 

What is the one essential item you always pack? 

A deck of cards. 

Which Travel Nation trip would you most like to take? 

Untouched French Polynesia holiday: Rangiroa, Tikehau and Fakarava 

What is the greatest wildlife experience that you’ve ever had? 

On safari in Chobe National Park, we were mock charged by the biggest elephant I’ve ever seen. I honestly didn’t think it was going to stop, and it’s something that’ll stay with me forever. Seeing an elephant that close in the wild was incredible. A little terrifying, but completely unforgettable. 

What is your favourite national park and why? 

Du Gia National Park in Northern Vietnam. It’s a bit unconventional, but I spent a few days motorcycling through the area and the landscape honestly took my breath away. Towering limestone mountains, rice terraces carved into the hillsides, waterfalls tucked into valleys, and tiny villages where everything slows down. It’s hard to put into words just how beautiful and peaceful it felt. 

Where is your favourite beach and why? 

Sunset Beach on Koh Lipe, Thailand. I love the laid-back vibe, the beach bars, and the coral you can snorkel to straight from the shore. If you know the right people, you can head out on the water at night to see the bioluminescent algae lighting up in the boat’s wake. It’s honestly magical. 

Which passport stamp makes you most proud? 

Taiwan. I think it’s somewhere people often overlook or wouldn’t think to visit, and it’s not a place you hear many people talk about. That’s exactly why I’m proud to have been. It felt like discovering something a bit different. 

If you had just 24 hours in a big city which one would you choose? 

Buenos Aires, Argentina. I’ve never been, but it’s always drawn me in for the culture, the food and the idea of wandering the streets late into the evening. It feels like the kind of place you could just get completely lost in and love every second. 

What do you miss most from home while you are away? 

There’s not much I miss, but probably the kitchen. I love to cook, and while I enjoy trying amazing food all over the world, I also love coming home and trying to recreate the flavours I’ve found on my travels. 

Why do you love to travel? 

Travel makes me feel free and curious. I love learning about different cultures and traditions, understanding how people live and feeling part of a place for a little while. It’s the connections that stay with me most. The unexpected moments, the conversations with people you'd never have met otherwise, hearing their stories and sharing yours.

I never imagined I’d get to travel as much as I have, or that this would become my career, but I’m so glad it has. I love the planning just as much as the travelling. There’s something really special about putting a trip together for someone, then hearing how much they loved it. It’s my way of sharing the excitement and joy that travel brings. If you’re thinking about going somewhere new, just go. The world’s full of amazing things waiting to be seen.