PHOTO: © EXPLORA JOURNEYS
THE BASICS
Name: Chris Austin
Title: President, North America
Company, city: Explora Journeys; based in Miami, Florida, reporting to the company’s headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
First job: I began as a barback washing glasses and quickly fell in love with hospitality. After university I worked as a sales executive for the Sheraton Skyline Hotel London Heathrow.
Where to next: Lake Como for a holiday
A LITTLE BIT MORE
What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life?
Jude Law — we’re similar in age and he captured a nuanced, sophisticated presence in films like The Talented Mr. Ripley.
What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in your current industry?
I’d pursue interior design. It’s my second passion and a rewarding outlet for creative, thoughtful work.
What is your favorite book, movie or television show?
I enjoy the James Bond films; Daniel Craig’s era is outstanding and Skyfall is a personal favorite. I also appreciated Saltburn.
What historical figure, dead or alive, would you love to have dinner with?
Margaret Thatcher — the Iron Lady. I’d be fascinated by her perspective and leadership.
THE BUSINESS
What is your most recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it?
When I interviewed with Explora Journeys I asked how blank the pages were. I was inspired by the chance to start from a blank slate and help turn a family’s vision for a distinct ultra-luxury cruise brand into reality.
What is your favorite aspect of the job?
Building a world-class, committed team of consultative sellers united by one vision and one goal. I enjoy fostering a culture that aims to overachieve while proving to our family owners that their dream is a game-changer.
What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken?
Joining Explora Journeys was a significant risk: a brand-new name with no recognition and everything to build from scratch. The uncertainty was real, but the hard work has been rewarding.
Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry?
Richard Branson — a visionary who follows through. His drive and willingness to take bold risks are inspiring.
AS A TRAVELER
Tell us about a travel nightmare: Most travel nightmares involve canceled flights or missed connections. I believe attitude matters: you can’t control everything, so don’t stress unnecessarily. Recently, a baby cried for eight hours on a flight; thankfully good noise-cancelling headphones helped.
Share a comical travel experience: Family holidays were full of funny moments. Once my mother turned up wearing the same dress as another guest, our travel agent appeared unexpectedly at the same resort, and when I was five I opened a cage of chickens in a local market because I hated to see them confined.
What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why?
I appreciate every mode of travel for what it offers, but I have a soft spot for cruise ships. There’s a romantic, transformational quality to sailing into a destination.
What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels?
The best service is anticipatory and personalized: a sun lounger prepared with Pellegrino and towels because you enjoyed it the day before, a restaurant making your favorite pasta off-menu, or a barman having your cocktail ready when he sees you. Simple, thoughtful gestures and a sincere smile can transform someone’s day for both guest and provider.