Luxury Adventure Without the Stress: Tunbridge Wells Travel Expert Brings Back Exclusive New Zealand Insights
After an elite training trip across New Zealand’s South Island, Claire Bowman of Plum Travel is ready to create once-in-a-lifetime journeys for local travellers who want luxury without the hassle.
Tunbridge Wells, Kent — June 2025
Claire Bowman, founder of independent travel consultancy Plum Travel in Tunbridge Wells, has just returned from an exclusive educational trip across New Zealand’s South Island — one that’s earned her the status of Advanced New Zealand Specialist, a credential held by only a select few UK agents.
The familiarisation trip, hosted by high-end operator Audley Travel, saw Claire travel with a group of expert travel designers to experience New Zealand’s luxury offerings in person — from a glacier landing and gourmet food safari to a scenic island hike and cruise on Milford Sound.
“My clients are busy professionals who want unforgettable holidays, but don’t want to spend hours researching or risk getting it wrong,” Claire said. “This trip has given me the connections and first-hand knowledge to design adventures to New Zealand that are truly extraordinary — and completely stress-free for my clients.”
Highlights of the journey included:
- A helicopter landing on the Tasman Glacier next to Aoraki / Mount Cook, followed by a scenic skiplane flight.
- Stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve — the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Jet-boating and ‘funyaking’ through the crystal-clear waters of Dart River.
- Exclusive experiences like a private farm tour in the Southern Alps, and a cultural food tour of Christchurch.
Throughout, Claire stayed in luxury lodges and boutique hotels to gain an appreciated of the type of accommodation and hospitality her clients can expect while in New Zealand.
“Booking online or through a large operator often means hours on the internet, uncertainty, and one-size-fits-all packages,” Claire explained. “I now have first-hand knowledge of the routes, guides, and experiences that take a trip from good to outstanding. My job is to make it seamless.”
Founded in Tunbridge Wells 12 years ago, Plum Travel is designed for discerning travellers who want more than just a holiday. Claire’s bespoke, personal approach helps her clients avoid overwhelm and access experiences they wouldn’t find on Google — whether it’s wine tasting in Marlborough or hiking amongst volcanoes.
To mark her return, Claire is offering a complimentary consultation to help local residents explore what’s possible for their next big trip — whether it’s a honeymoon, sabbatical, or bucket list adventure.
Contact:
Claire Bowman – claire@plumtravel.co.uk | 01892 710810
Website: www.plumtravel.co.uk
Instagram: @plum_travel
Facebook: Plum Travel
LinkedIn: Plum Travel
Claire Bowman – claire@plumtravel.co.uk | 01892 710810
Website: www.plumtravel.co.uk
Instagram: @plum_travel
Facebook: Plum Travel
LinkedIn: Plum Travel
About Plum Travel
Plum Travel is an independent travel consultancy based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Founder Claire Bowman is a qualified Advanced New Zealand Specialist and Aussie Specialist, with 12 years of experience designing luxury, tailor-made holidays for adventurous, discerning travellers.
Plum Travel is an independent travel consultancy based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Founder Claire Bowman is a qualified Advanced New Zealand Specialist and Aussie Specialist, with 12 years of experience designing luxury, tailor-made holidays for adventurous, discerning travellers.
