Midweek Interview with Topdeck Travel global MD Janine Salame

Midweek Interview with Topdeck Travel global MD Janine Salame

Welcome to the latest edition of Travel Weekly’s Midweek Interview, this time featuring Topdeck Travel’s global managing director, Janine Salame.

The challenge for the industry is…

In tour operations, growing and maintaining relevance with an ever-evolving customer. As leaders, continuing to challenge the status quo.

The things I like about my job are…

Working with a culturally diverse group of passionate people in the Topdeck and Back-Roads Touring brands across APAC, the UK and the Americas.

And the frustrations are…

Not being able to get a good cup of coffee anywhere at 5am.

If I didn’t work in travel, I would be…

Running a social enterprise back in South Africa.

My favourite airline is…

There are a few; however, the most consistent product and customer experience is with British Airways.

My proudest moment was…

Having survived boot camp-style training as an undercover Topdeck chef on the road for 60 days across Europe in 2015.

The naughtiest thing I ever did was…

Well, those cookies in Amsterdam were delicious!

I try to relax by…

Taking my English Bulldog for walks in the parks in the beautiful Chiswick in London.

The last time I feared for my life was…

In March this year when I was in a taxi in Mauritius driving at a speed of 120 kilometres and hour along the small, windy roads.

If I can, I always try to avoid…

Negative and energy-sapping people.

I really wish I had…

I am blessed and happy with what I have.

The best advice I’ve ever received was…

Don’t f**k it up.

I don’t understand why people…

Don’t speak up openly and honestly, and are afraid of conflict.

My greatest weakness is…

Impatience with people who talk a good talk, but don’t get things done.

And my greatest strength is…

Mastering the art of a very good barbeque.

If I won a $1 million lottery (aside from travelling), I would…

Invest it.

If I was prime minister, I would…

Get rid of bureaucracy and ensure 100 per cent diversity.

If I could be someone else for one day, I would be…

My English bulldog.

I’ve always wanted to travel to…

Bora Bora.

My favourite holiday was…

A camper van in Portugal.

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