Founder & CEO

Jake Chiem

Jake is the founder and CEO of The Travelcation Group, a company celebrated for its bespoke and personalised travel booking experiences. Under his leadership and with the support of a highly experienced team, the company has expanded into new regions over the past few years.

With a career spanning two and a half decades, Jake has worn many hats in the travel industry—including roles in retail, corporate travel, wholesale, and tour operations. He has managed multiple successful travel agencies and has been honoured with numerous awards such as Best Travel Adviser, Best Travel Manager of the Year, and Best National Sales Manager. Travel Weekly magazine even named him the sixth most successful travel agent of the year.

Jake’s passion for travel is evident in his personal adventures across 56 countries. He has experienced everything from staying in a Ger tent in Mongolia to relaxing in 5 star overwater bungalows in Tahiti. He’s flown in every travel class, cruised the Mediterranean, learned Tai Chi at the Shaolin Temple in China, and gone on safari in Africa. Some of his favourite experiences include seeing Broadway shows in New York, sailing down the Nile in Egypt, participating in the water festival in Bangkok, cycling through Paris, enjoying seafood in Nha Trang, and scuba diving in the pristine waters of Fiji.

His ultimate goal is to help clients realise their own travel dreams. With extensive experience in both domestic and international markets, Jake is committed to making the trip planning process as easy and stress free as possible for every traveller who contacts The Travelcation Group.

Product Assistant

Grace Generoso

Grace, a dedicated and passionate travel enthusiast, has devoted her career to making dreams come true for those seeking unforgettable travel experiences. With over five years of experience in the travel industry, her greatest joy is exploring the world, a passion that she brings to her role every day. Working in the product team, Grace is responsible for sourcing an array of incredible properties and crafting eye-catching holiday packages that capture the essence of each destination.

Her love for the great outdoors, coupled with an appreciation for good food and great company, allows her to connect deeply with the desires and aspirations of travellers. She inspires clients with innovative ideas, meticulously planning every detail to bring their dream trips to life. Grace’s enthusiasm for all things travel shines through in her work, where she combines her personal experiences and professional expertise to offer genuinely bespoke itineraries.

As a vital product team member, Grace’s role is pivotal in ensuring that every holiday package is appealing and offers a unique and memorable experience. Her ability to understand and cater to diverse tastes and preferences has made her an invaluable asset in creating travel experiences that resonate with clients. Her dedication and skill in sourcing the best properties and destinations contribute significantly to the success and reputation of the Travelcation Group.

Co-founder

Damon Low

Damon is the co-founder of The Travelcation Group and the creative force behind its distinctive branding and visual identity. With nearly 30 years of experience in marketing, he brings passion and enthusiasm to every aspect of his work.

His love affair with travel began with his first overseas trip to Japan. Having studied Japanese in school, Damon was thrilled when his teacher took him to Tokyo. This eye opening experience introduced him to a world beyond Sydney and ignited a lifelong passion for exploring new cultures.

Since then, Damon has journeyed across the globe, immersing himself in diverse experiences. He has climbed the stairs of Notre Dame in Paris, explored the Valley of the Kings in Egypt, made rice paper in Vietnam, hiked along the Great Wall of China, wandered the streets of Budapest, savoured pizza in Italy, visited the ancient ruins of Tulum in Mexico, and tried his luck in Las Vegas.

From that first trip to Japan, he never imagined his travel experiences would become an integral part of his career. As co-founder of The Travelcation Group, Damon is key in creating the branding, look, and feel of the company.

General Manager | AUNZ Product Manager

Karen Murray

Karen is a seasoned travel professional with 27 years of experience in the Australian travel industry. She currently serves as the General Manager of The Travelcation Group and is also the owner of Magenta Travel. Renowned for her expertise in itinerary planning, Karen has built a reputation for creating well-organised and unforgettable travel experiences while maintaining long-term relationships with her clients.

Since embarking on her career in the travel industry in 1996, Karen has held various roles that have honed her skills and knowledge. She has worked with a major domestic wholesaler, managed teams in both retail and wholesale call travel centres, handled customer helplines, overseen the Queensland Travel Centre in Adelaide, and served as an assistant manager at Phil Hoffman Travel. In 2007, Karen transitioned to being a successful self-employed work-from-home travel professional. Expanding her expertise further, in 2022, she began business mentoring with the ASE Group, assisting participants in the Self Employment Assistance Program. In this role, Karen mentored adults embarking on self-employment for the first time, helping them develop business plans and client strategies.

Karen’s passion for travel was ignited by childhood family holidays to destinations like the Whitsundays, New Zealand, North Stradbroke Island, and Caloundra. A transformative experience as an exchange student in French Canada at the age of 17 solidified her belief that travel can profoundly enhance one’s mindset and life. This pivotal moment led Karen to leave her political university degree behind and pursue a fulfilling career in the travel industry.

Her expertise in itinerary planning encompasses fully organised independent self-drive trips, cruising, iconic long-distance train journeys, and special luxury getaways. Karen’s deep love and extensive product knowledge of Australia and New Zealand shine through in her work. She is always eager to help her clients discover the beauty of these countries and create unforgettable memories.

Karen is dedicated to making every travel experience seamless and memorable, ensuring her clients can explore the world with confidence and joy.

Product Manager

Tahnee Inverno

Tahnee is a dedicated Product Manager at The Travelcation Group, overseeing an extensive portfolio of island destinations across the Pacific, Asia, and Australia. Based in Perth, Western Australia, Tahnee brings over 12 years of experience in the travel industry to her role, ensuring that the company offers the finest hotels, tours, and activities to its customers.

Since starting her career in 2009, Tahnee has been committed to delivering exceptional travel experiences. Her passion for travel is driven by a love for different cultures, lifestyles, and unique adventures. She has explored numerous destinations around the globe, including Europe, Canada, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, New Zealand, the UAE, Hong Kong, and Macau. Tahnee has stayed in a diverse range of accommodations, from charming beach bungalows and luxurious private villas to iconic Shangri-Las, Ritz Carltons, elegant chateaus, and adventurous tree houses. This extensive travel has given her a deep understanding of various travel needs and preferences.

Tahnee’s career in the travel industry is both diverse and impressive. She has managed an award-winning retail travel store for five years, run her own mobile travel agency, and worked with online agencies in ticketing, corporate travel, and customer support. These experiences have equipped her with the expertise to understand and meet the needs of The Travelcation Group’s clients, allowing her to develop a highly sought-after product range.

Her comprehensive knowledge and unwavering commitment make Tahnee an invaluable part of The Travelcation Group. She is always eager to help clients discover the beauty of island destinations and create unforgettable memories through meticulously planned and personalised travel experiences.

Groups & Inbound Manager

Jasmine Baker

Jasmine Baker is the Groups and Inbound Travel Manager at The Travelcation Group, bringing a rich and varied 21 years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry. Her journey in travel began with a passion for exploring new places, which has blossomed into a fulfilling career. Jasmine finds her greatest joy in planning trips not just for herself, but for others, constantly learning about new destinations and deepening her knowledge of places she already loves.

Throughout her career, Jasmine has represented some of North Queensland’s most esteemed resorts, including Bedarra Island Resort, The Elandra, and Castaways Resort & Spa. With a decade of specialised experience in luxury resort accommodations, her in-depth knowledge of these prime destinations makes her an invaluable asset to the team.

Jasmine’s love for travel extends beyond her professional life. Her top five favourite destinations are as diverse as they are beautiful: Singapore; the Maldives; Dharamsala, India; Shikoku, Japan; Nusa Lembongan, Bali; and Gimmelwald, Switzerland. However, it’s the Swiss Alps that hold a special place in her heart. The allure of majestic mountains, enchanting icy waterfalls, and idyllic snow-capped vistas, paired with the cosy comfort of cheese, chocolate, and wine by the fireplace, make it her number one choice.

Her most remarkable travel experiences are as varied as her interests. From adventurous white water rafting down the White Nile in Uganda and challenging motorbike rides in Nepal, to serene moments enjoying cheese and beer atop the Swiss Alps and wildlife spotting in British Columbia, Jasmine embraces every aspect of travel. As a self-proclaimed foodie, her ultimate travel highlight was an unforgettable dining experience in Brussels, featuring garlic mussels, crusty bread, crisp white wine, a selection of 100 local Belgian beers, and waffles topped with Belgian chocolate, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream.

Jasmine’s dedication and passion for travel were recognised when she was awarded the Tourism Tropical North Queensland Young Achiever of the Year in 2018. Her wealth of experience, love for food and adventure, and commitment to excellence make Jasmine Baker an exemplary figure in the world of travel and tourism.

Travel Expert

Richelle Schneider

Richelle brings 15 years of extensive experience to her role at The Travelcation Group, demonstrating a deep commitment to the travel industry. Her passion for exploring new destinations and helping others experience their dream trips epitomises the spirit of exploration and dedication that our company values.

Richelle’s career has been fuelled by her enthusiasm for discovery, combined with her expertise in managing travels for young families and specialising in airfares. Her profound knowledge of the USA as a destination adds substantial value to our team, allowing her to create unique and memorable travel experiences that cater to a diverse range of client needs.

Her top five favourite destinations are New York, Memphis, Berlin, Prague, and Langkawi. However, Germany holds a special place in her heart as her favourite destination because of her family connections. The familiar food, language, and people of Germany bring a sense of home to her travels, enriching her passion for the country.

One of Richelle’s most memorable travel experiences was spending Halloween night in Salem, Massachusetts, a trip that was as fun as it was eye opening, showcasing her love for immersive and culturally rich experiences.

Richelle’s dedication to the travel industry not only enhances her ability to provide exceptional travel advice but also inspires her colleagues. She brings a blend of professional expertise and personal insight to every project, making her an indispensable asset to the Travelcation Group. Her enthusiasm for helping clients discover the world ensures that each itinerary is not just planned but passionately crafted, turning simple trips into lifelong memories.

Travel Expert

Elena Vartazarian

Elena believes that travel is more than just a checklist of places to visit. To her, it’s about fully immersing oneself in a destination and experiencing it with all senses. This means indulging in local cultures, languages, food, and interacting with locals to gain a deeper understanding of a place.

She developed a passion for travel early on, having traveled extensively with her family and on a student budget. Later on, she enjoyed luxurious holidays with her husband, and now shares the joy of travel with her two sons. Elena was born in Iran and raised in Australia, and has explored various countries in Southeast Asia, the South Pacific, Europe, USA, Canada, and recently, Armenia and the surrounding regions.

Elena has had many remarkable travel experiences, including cheering on the Socceroos at the 2018 World Cup in Sochi, walking the streets of Yerevan with Armenians during the Velvet Revolution, and observing turtles nesting in Borneo. She has traveled through various modes of transportation, including cycling, buses, trains, cruises, and driving, which enables her to recommend the best options for any traveler.

Elena has worked in the travel industry for more than 15 years, specialising in leisure and corporate travel. She currently focuses on family holidays with kids and has learned that different life stages require different travel styles. Whether it’s domestic or international travel, Asia or Europe, or organised tours or self-drive holidays, Elena can help plan the perfect trip. She invites travellers to share their travel dreams and allows her to create the best imaginable trip for them.

Travel Expert

Sascha McRae

Sascha discovered a deep passion for exploration at an early age. From embarking on solo trips as a curious 8-year-old to relocating to Galway, Ireland, in search of thrilling adventures at 17, it was evident that Sascha’s destiny was intertwined with the world of travel.

Having grown up in Canada, Sascha’s youthful years were filled with enchantment while living in the captivating city of Galway. Spending a total of five years there, the rugged landscapes of the west coast and the cozy thatched cottages adorned with warm peat fires along the Connemara Coast left an indelible mark on Sascha’s heart.

Sascha also found a deep connection with Spain, having enjoyed the sun-drenched charm of Marbella and explored the vibrant regions surrounding it. A stint in the northern Basque country further fueled Sascha’s passion for the diverse cultures and traditions of Spain.

With close family residing in a Moroccan village for the past 25 years, Sascha has had the privilege of using it as a base for countless Moroccan adventures. Witnessing the evolution and growth of local communities over the years has been a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Having explored North America, Europe, North Africa, New Zealand, the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, and various destinations within Australia, Sascha’s extensive travels have broadened their understanding of diverse cultures and customs.

For the past 15 years, Sascha has found immense joy and fulfillment as a travel agent. Their mission is to assist individuals in discovering the culinary delights, musical rhythms, and unique customs of the world, whether it be in their own backyard or in far-flung destinations. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to providing seamless and stress-free experiences, Sascha is dedicated to transforming clients’ dreams into unforgettable realities.

With Sascha as your trusted travel professional, you can expect personalised itineraries that capture the essence of your desired adventure, turning it into a seamless and stress-free dream waiting to come true.

Product Team

Cristopher Arceo

With 16 years of experience in the travel industry, Cris brings a deep and practical understanding of travel technology, product procurement, and itinerary design. As part of our Product Team at The Travelcation Group, he plays a key role in shaping unique travel packages and exclusive offers tailored specifically for the travel trade.

Cris is responsible for curating well crafted itineraries and marketing ready experiences that meet the high standards expected by both our partners and their clients. His meticulous approach ensures every product is not only marketable but delivers real value, quality, and memorable experiences for travellers.

He began his career as a Ticketing Agent and quickly rose through the ranks thanks to his strong attention to detail and customer first approach. Over the years, he has led teams, streamlined operations, and consistently delivered exceptional service with measurable results. His dedication was recognised when he was awarded Top Ticketing Agent of the Year at Teleperformance, earning a perfect record with zero retail loss and an impressive 98 percent customer satisfaction rating.

Cris is fuelled by a love of travel and a genuine passion for sharing unforgettable experiences. He thrives on exploring new cultures and turning inspiration into real, bookable journeys for agents and their clients.

Palawan in the Philippines holds a special place in his heart. From the turquoise lagoons of El Nido to the colourful coral gardens just beneath the surface, snorkelling there remains one of his most treasured memories.

Cris’s blend of creativity, precision, and real world experience makes him an integral part of the Product Team and a key contributor to the success of The Travelcation Group.

Travel Expert

Raffaella Gatto

Raffaella is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable travel professional who thrives on sharing her passion for exploration with her clients. From a young age, she developed a deep appreciation for the wonders of the world and a curiosity to discover new cultures and experiences.

Growing up in a multicultural environment, Raffaella was exposed to diverse traditions and perspectives, which sparked her desire to embark on her own global adventures. Her love for the industry led her to pursue a career in travel, where she could turn her personal passion into a profession.

With years of experience in the field, Raffaella has cultivated a wealth of knowledge about various destinations around the globe. From popular tourist hotspots to hidden gems off the beaten path, she is well-versed in curating unique and memorable travel experiences tailored to her client’s preferences.

Raffaella takes great pride in her role as a travel consultant, as it allows her to play a pivotal part in creating lifelong memories for her clients. She understands the importance of personalized attention and strives to exceed expectations by crafting meticulously planned itineraries that cater to every detail and desire.

Whether it’s a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous hiking expedition, or an immersive cultural tour, Raffaella’s expertise and dedication ensure that each trip is carefully designed to meet and surpass her clients’ expectations. Her goal is to provide exceptional service, ensuring that every aspect of the journey is seamless and memorable.

With Raffaella as your trusted travel consultant, you can expect a seamless and unforgettable travel experience. Her passion, knowledge, and commitment to excellence will guide you towards creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Travel Expert

Ben Howard

Ben is The Travelcation Group’s go to expert for all things ski, with nearly two decades of experience in the travel industry and a lifetime of passion for snow covered adventures. Now based in Tokyo, he brings a unique combination of local knowledge, deep destination expertise, and a love for the mountains that shapes everything he does.

Skiing has always been at the heart of Ben’s travel story. He has lived and worked in some of the world’s most renowned alpine regions, from managing ski condominiums in Japan to exploring the full range of New Zealand’s South Island ski fields. Whether it is the powder filled slopes of Niseko, the quiet backcountry runs of Nagano, or the high energy atmosphere of Queenstown and Wanaka, Ben knows the best places to ski, stay, and unwind after a day on the mountain.

His personal favourite is Nagano, where he spent nearly two years living among the lesser known resorts that offer deep snow, peaceful villages, and a strong connection to Japan’s cultural traditions. From soaking in a local onsen to discovering tiny izakayas tucked away in snowy laneways, Ben helps travellers find the moments that turn a ski holiday into something truly special.

Beyond skiing, Ben’s travel experience spans Australia’s East Coast, the North and South Islands of New Zealand, and almost every corner of Japan. He has worked in five star resorts, organised diving holidays, and handled bookings for island retreats in the Great Barrier Reef. His knowledge of destinations like Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, and Far North Queensland adds an extra layer to his ability to design both snow and sun getaways.

Ben’s top destinations include Nagano, Niseko, Queenstown, Seoul, and Busan, with Japan remaining his standout favourite thanks to its mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. He has even road tripped from Hokkaido to Kagoshima, exploring coastal highways, surf spots, and hidden regional gems along the way.

Whether you are planning your first ski trip or looking to return to the slopes in style, Ben brings experience, precision, and a genuine passion for helping others enjoy the snow as much as he does. His insight and attention to detail make him an essential part of The Travelcation Group and a trusted partner for travellers chasing their next unforgettable ski holiday.

Travel Expert

Julie Revett

Julie is a professional travel planner who is dedicated to finding the best holiday deals and making the process of planning a vacation stress-free and fun. With 20 years of travel experience, Julie has explored a wide range of domestic and international destinations including Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, China, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Mauritius, Fiji, New Zealand, Paris, England, Scotland, USA, and Canada. She has also sailed on several cruises.

Julie’s clients trust her to listen to their needs and provide tailored recommendations based on her first-hand knowledge of various destinations. Her priority is to ensure her clients are satisfied with their travel experiences. Many of her clients come from referrals from friends, colleagues, or family who have enjoyed their holiday planning experience with Julie.

Julie is passionate about travel and is committed to providing the highest level of personal service, reliability, and enthusiasm to her clients. When it comes to booking the perfect holiday, Julie is the go-to professional to ensure that you get the most out of your travel experience.

Product Team

Rae Abon

Rae is a key member of the Product Team at The Travelcation Group, bringing seven years of valuable experience in the travel industry. She plays an important role in developing creative travel packages, setting strategic offers, and keeping deals fresh and appealing. Alongside her work in product development, Rae also manages the company’s social marketing, ensuring each offer is presented beautifully and reaches the right audience.

Her passion for travel is inspired by a love for discovering new cultures, tasting global cuisines, exploring natural landscapes, and learning the stories behind each destination. Rae began her career with the Lufthansa Group, where she gained strong skills in reservations, coaching, and ticketing. She later became a Senior Travel Experience Agent with an online travel agency, where she handled bookings for flights, hotels, and car rentals.

Rae’s favourite destinations reflect her mix of calm and colourful tastes, including Batanes, Palawan, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Her top pick is Coron in Palawan, which she loves for its stunning scenery, local cuisine, cultural richness, and soft white sand beaches.

One of her most memorable experiences was visiting Disneyland in Hong Kong. It was a long held dream that brought pure joy and reminded her why travel means so much.

Rae’s creativity, care, and knowledge make her an essential part of the Product Team. Her ability to shape exciting travel packages and present them in a way that truly connects with people helps bring the magic of travel to life.

Travel Expert

Connie Adams

Connie’s journey in the travel industry is nothing short of inspiring. With a career spanning over 22 years, her passion for travel has only deepened, driven by a genuine love for exploring new destinations and experiencing diverse cultures. This love is not just personal; it’s what motivates her every day to help others fulfil their dream vacations. Starting her adventure in the heart of Sydney CBD at a Flight Centre retail shop, Connie quickly made her mark. Her expertise and passion took her to Brisbane CBD, where she continued to shine. Her career further evolved with roles at Harvey World Travel (now Helloworld) and a fulfilling stint working from home with TravelManagers. These experiences have not only broadened her horizons but have also allowed her to share her wealth of knowledge with travellers eager to explore the world.

Connie’s travel favourites are as diverse as her career. Italy tops her list, holding a special place in her heart with its mouth-watering food, rich history, and personal family ties in Sicily. Spain follows closely, with its irresistible blend of vibrant dance, historical richness, and culinary delights. New York City, with its electrifying energy, iconic shopping spots, and cinematic landscapes, also captivates her. For relaxation, Fiji’s serene islands offer the perfect retreat, while Canada’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife provide a stunning backdrop for adventure.

One of Connie’s most cherished travel experiences was a safari in Kenya, awarded for her outstanding sales performance. This adventure, including stays at the now-closed Treetops Lodge and various Mara properties, offered an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of Kenya’s wildlife, leaving lasting memories. Throughout her career, Connie’s excellence has been recognised through numerous awards, including a plaque for 10 years in partnership with TravelManagers, and accolades for her sales achievements with Etihad Airways and a top sales Wildlife Safari.

At the core of Connie’s expertise is crafting bespoke itineraries for Italy, focusing on luxury hotels and villas that promise an unparalleled travel experience. But Connie is more than just a travel expert; she’s a fun, bubbly person with a zest for life, always eager to meet new people, explore new places, and indulge in different cuisines. Her passion, expertise, and warm personality make her an invaluable asset to any traveller looking to create unforgettable memories.

Travel Expert

Treacy Scott

Treacy is a seasoned travel expert with extensive knowledge of New Zealand and worldwide destinations. Her career in the travel industry started during her high school days, where she pursued a course in Travel & Tourism. She kickstarted her career in an Information Centre, where she booked activities, accommodations, and transportation for travellers visiting New Zealand. Through work trips, she had the privilege of exploring the South Island and indulging in exciting activities like Sky Dives, Bungy Jumps, Canyon Swings, Milford & Doubtful Sound Cruises, Glacier Ice Cave Walks, and Helicopter Snow Landings, among others.

Treacy’s specialty is in crafting tailor-made New Zealand itineraries that showcase the country’s most popular tourist attractions and hidden gems. She has lived in Perth, Western Australia, for the last 9 years, where she has broadened her expertise to encompass worldwide travel. Treacy has explored numerous destinations across Australia, from the stunning coastlines to the Dunsborough and Margaret River Wineries. Additionally, she has had the opportunity to travel overseas, with visits to the United Kingdom, Paris, Germany, Switzerland, Greece, the Greek Islands, Dubai, Rarotonga, and Fiji.

Treacy takes pleasure in creating personalised travel experiences that her clients will cherish for years to come. She works meticulously to ensure that every aspect of a holiday is tailored to meet her client’s needs, making each journey an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Product Team

Mark Lester Dungo

Mark is a valued member of the Product Team at The Travelcation Group, bringing six years of dedicated experience in the travel industry. Combining his passion for exploration with a commitment to providing outstanding service, Mark excels in helping clients create unforgettable experiences and discover new destinations.

Throughout his career, Mark has developed strong expertise in all aspects of flight reservations. He is also adept at organising comprehensive travel arrangements, including hotels, cruises, rental cars, and tours, catering to both retail and group clients. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of a trip is flawlessly planned and executed.

Mark’s hard work and dedication have been recognised through his inclusion in one of the best Sales Teams, highlighting his ability to consistently meet and exceed client expectations while contributing to the success of his colleagues. This accolade underscores his commitment to excellence and teamwork within The Travelcation Group.

When it comes to travel, Mark’s top destinations include Bali, Phuket, Boracay, Bangkok, and Sydney. Bali is his favourite, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Bangkok also holds a special place in his heart, offering an amazing travel experience with its bustling markets, stunning temples, and rich cultural heritage, making every visit an adventure.

Beyond his professional life, Mark is passionate about LGBT rights and is committed to promoting inclusivity and equality in everything he does. He believes that travel is a powerful way to connect with people and make a positive impact, fostering understanding and acceptance across diverse cultures.

Mark’s dedication to his clients, combined with his expertise and passion for travel, make him an indispensable part of The Travelcation Group. His ability to blend exceptional service with a genuine love for exploration ensures that every traveller he assists embarks on a memorable and enriching journey.