About Élan Escapes
A personal travel service focused on getting every detail of your cruise, destination wedding or holiday just right.
Ali Varey – the person behind Élan Escapes
I’m Ali Varey, founder of Élan Escapes, and the person you work with directly from the moment you get in touch. Élan Escapes is intentionally one person led, so every conversation, decision and detail is handled by me.
I trained in the travel industry and worked for a tour operator in London before having a varied career in business, including over 20 years in project management. This is where I learned to manage complexity, work to timelines, anticipate challenges and deliver to a high standard. That approach now underpins how I plan holidays for my clients.
I returned to travel to build something of my own. I work with over 100 accredited suppliers, bring extensive destination knowledge and operate under an ABTA member for added protection and peace of mind. I’m also working towards Cruise Ambassador accreditation with CLIA , having completed my Level 1 certification training and continuing to build toward full affiliation within the cruise sector.
My service comes at no additional cost to you, as I receive a commission from suppliers once you book and the holiday has been taken.
What to expect when you work with me
I shape every cruise, destination wedding or holiday around you, guided by experience.
Personal
understanding
We begin with a conversation about the ideas you have and what you want from your time away.
Thoughtful
planning
Using destination knowledge and trusted partners, I supply up to three quotations which will be closely aligned to your preferences. Decisions are made carefully, with attention to detail.
Careful
coordination
I oversee all elements from planning through to travel, ensuring everything comes together. This is where those important finishing touches are carefully adjusted.
Personal
touch
While you’re away, I remain available. Whether something needs changing or you simply have a question, I’m here.
How your escape comes together
Working with Élan Escapes is straightforward, personal and unhurried, and designed to give you confidence at every stage. Here’s what you can expect.
Discovery
Tell me your story
Our first conversation is about you. I'll ask questions that help me understand not just your destination wish list, but how you like to travel, what energises you and what would make this journey truly memorable. This stage sets the foundation, allowing me to make informed recommendations rather than assumptions.
Curation
I design your journey
Using my destination knowledge and trusted global partners, I curate an itinerary that reflects your preferences and priorities. Every recommendation is considered, from accommodation to those small details that elevate a trip from good to exceptional. You'll receive a clear, thoughtful proposal.
Refinement
Perfect every moment
We review and refine your escape together until it feels exactly right. This is where those important finishing touches are carefully adjusted, ensuring the itinerary reflects your preferences and that you are completely happy.
Journey
Experience the extraordinary
While you’re away, I’m available. Whether you would like to make a change or simply have a question, I'm here. I’ll be ensuring your escape unfolds as it should, and you can travel knowing someone familiar with your plans is overseeing things behind the scenes.
Explore our bespoke planning services
Bespoke
holidays
Explore
collection
Luxury
weddings
Explore
collection
Ready to start your journey?
If you’d like to explore ideas or begin shaping your next escape, let’s talk about the possibilities together.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Élan Escapes different from a traditional travel agency?
Élan Escapes is a personal travel planning service, not a traditional agency. You work directly with me throughout – there’s no team, no handovers and no one unfamiliar with your plans. My focus is on the right experience for you, not on volume or price comparison.
Do you work with a limited number of clients at once?
Yes, and deliberately so. I choose to work with a manageable number of clients at any one time so that every escape receives the level of attention it deserves.
What type of clients does Élan Escapes work best with?
If you appreciate detail, judgement and a tailored approach over searching for the cheapest option, we are likely a good fit, particularly when life is busy and you want every detail handled with care and considered organisation.
Can you plan destination weddings as well as holidays?
Yes. For destination weddings, I work in partnership with Perfect Weddings Abroad, specialist destination wedding planners with dedicated UK consultants and experienced overseas coordinators. I guide you through the options and manage all the travel arrangements for you and your guests, while their expert team handles the wedding planning and in-resort coordination.
Do you work with clients across the UK?
My focus is on clients in the south east, though I'm always happy to have a conversation if you're based elsewhere.