Claire Dean
Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!
Office Spotlight - Claire Dean
Written by:Claire Dean
Published: 2022-06-08
Your Name:
Claire Dean
Your position in Valencia Travel:
Project Manager
How Long have you worked for Valencia Travel?
I have worked for Valencia Travel since October 2019
What do you love about working in the Travel industry?
I have worked in the travel industry for over 20 years in different capacities. I began as a Tour Leader leading tour groups throughout Peru and South America and now I am office-based, developing innovative and exciting new adventures for our clients.
What is your favourite place to visit in Peru?
Peru is a destination with so many exciting and incredible places to visit and working in tourism is certainly an advantage to experience all the interesting sights. There are always new destinations to visit in Peru and new sights being discovered! When I get time away from work the first place I think of are there beaches in the North of the country, there are numerous, secluded beaches for surfing, relaxing, watersports and enjoying the regional food!
Where would you like to travel given the opportunity?
I still didn’t get the chance to visit Morocco and the North African culture and history fascinates me. I will get there one day!
What is your favourite Peruvian Dish / Drink?
My favourite Peruvian dish has to be Parihuela a spicy seafood soup from the north of Peru. Crammed with lobster, prawns, clams and whatever the catch of the day is. To wash it down I would choose a Peruvian Inti Palka wine (Cabernet Sauvignon) to pair with this hearty meal.
What is your most memorable moment working for Valencia Travel?
My most memorable experience was when all of the office staff did the 5 Day Ausangate trek. We actually did it during the pandemic so this remote route was even more tranquil and naturally stunning… such an excellent way to reconnect with nature after being in lockdown for so long! Plus, we did it in 2 and a half days so it was an excellent work out with welcoming hot springs at the end of it…the perfect solution for those aching legs!
Where do you see yourself in one years’ time?
We are in the process of developing our travel destinations to 12 different countries outside of Peru. So I welcome the opportunity to visit these countries once more and see our programmes “in action” and enjoy what these countries have to offer. Colombia is top of the list as I have yet to visit that country and I know it is an amazing destination!
What is the best travel tip you can give to visitors to Peru?
The best advice I can give to travellers is to keep an open mind and go with the flow. Challenging events or new experiences sometimes and regularly do happen, after all, that is why we travel, isn’t it? 😉 A sense of humour and a relaxed attitude will get you a long way…. Learn from the local people in Peru and go with the flow!