THE LAST WORD

MANAGING DIRECTOR, AAT KINGS

V&T has the last word with Hans Belle of AAT Kings.

Hans Belle joined AAT Kings in 2017 after many years at Sabre. He is driving the continued evolution of AAT Kings and Inspiring Journeys, the newly revamped and, thus far, highly successful, luxury small group portfolio. With the most comprehensive range of travel style options in Australia and New Zealand; encompassing fully Guided Holidays, Short Breaks and Day Tours, this organisation is a brand to watch. aatkings.com

When did you start out in the travel industry?

I started in my 20s working for CIT Travel before moving onto Sydney International Travel with Fred and Sima Oertli as a young and naive wholesale consultant. From that point on, travel and tourism was well entrenched in my blood. I worked for a few more organisations before starting my own business, which I successfully ran for several years.

What is it you love about your job and working in the travel industry?

The people, the travel experiences,

The unexpected. At AAT Kings, we talk about the amazing destinations and amazing experiences we uncover for our guests. Since moving to AAT Kings I have developed a far deeper connection for Uluru, the great expanse of the Northern Territory and the incredibly rich Indigenous culture we have in Australia.

What are you most excited about with AAT Kings?

I’m most excited about the product innovations that we’re currently working towards. Especially in growing out our Inspiring Journeys' portfolio. We know there’s a demand for this style of travel and we believe we have the right combination of immersive experiences, dining highlights and of course, boutique accommodation options.

With new itineraries scheduled to launch each year, this is a portfolio to watch. For next year, we have a fantastic walking itinerary in Tasmania featuring the first Indigenous walking trail experience. We also have a brilliant gourmet-focused itinerary launching for Western Australia.

AAT Kings has almost 150 tours and experiences in Australia. Have you been on many and, if so, what are your top three places in Australia?

With our broad network across Australia and New Zealand, my first year at AAT Kings involved numerous site visits as well as work-related travel for The

Travel Corporation.

I’ve since managed to do touring in the Northern Territory encompassing Uluru, Darwin and Alice Springs. Our experiences in Far North Queensland are a great destination for relaxation and invigoration. There’s still plenty more places to add to my list to visit. My three favourite places would undoubtedly be Uluru in the Northern Territory, the Great Ocean Road in Victoria and Hobart in Tasmania.

New Zealand is another favourite for guests of AAT Kings and Inspiring Journeys. What are the most popular places in New Zealand with your guests?

The South Island is immensely popular with our guests. Especially so with ‘The Southern Drift’ itinerary from Inspiring Journeys, our luxury small group portfolio. With highlights like a visit to Franz Josef Glacier, overnighting at Milford Sound and iconic Aoraki Mount Cook, it’s no surprise.

You live in Sydney, where do you like to take international or interstate visitors?

We visit the Blue Mountains, not only because we operate immersive small group day tours to the destination, but because it is genuinely spectacular. You have to visit the beaches of Sydney (pick any, they’re all fantastic). A visit to Sydney wouldn’t be complete without an experience involving Sydney Harbour.

Having said all that, I’m a big fan of walking and hiking, so we take guests to hike through Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the Cremorne Point Walk, the Spit to Manly Walk and last but not least, the Bondi to Bronte Walk.

What are your favourite restaurants in Sydney?

For me restaurants are just as much about atmosphere and friends as they are about the cuisine. The usual suspects would be ARIA, Mr. Wong and Rockpool for those special occasions but I’m an avid fan of informal cafés and restaurants: The Bathers Pavilion, The Grounds of Alexandria and Xenos café are regular haunts.

Which places in the world would you love to visit that you haven’t been to before?

One of the challenges and joys of working in travel is the fact that there is so much of the world we want to explore and experience. On my current list would be parts of Scandinavia, South Africa and Russia.

What tips do you have for people starting out in the travel industry?

Embrace the opportunities. Early on I had the chance to work in finance, sales, wholesale, retail and then eventually airline marketing.

Understanding the entire travel value chain is not only an incredibly rewarding opportunity it keeps you fresh, motivated and offers great career options. •