Intrepid Travel, a well-known tour company, is making strides to expand into the hotel industry with the recent hire of Celine Hurelle. Hurelle, who brings 24 years of experience from Accor, will be working closely with Intrepid’s executive team to identify strategic opportunities for acquiring accommodations that align with the company’s commitment to responsible travel.
Currently, Intrepid Travel owns and operates two hotels – one in Australia and one in Vietnam. The Daintree Ecolodge in Tropical North Queensland, Australia, is a 15-room property that was acquired by Intrepid in late 2023. In Vietnam, the company has a three-year lease agreement for the 19-room Hoi An Field Boutique Resort and Spa, with a significant portion of its business coming from Intrepid groups. Surprisingly, Vietnam emerged as the most popular destination for Intrepid travelers in 2023.
In addition to its owned properties, Intrepid Travel has entered into a 50-50 joint venture with CABN, an off-grid accommodations company in South Australia. This partnership is a reflection of Intrepid’s commitment to innovative and sustainable travel solutions. Prior to joining Intrepid, Celine Hurelle held various senior roles within Accor, spanning different countries such as Australia, France, and Thailand. Notably, she served as the global head of the Sofitel brand, showcasing her expertise in strategy, brand management, and commercial leadership.
Hurelle, who holds dual French-Australian citizenship, expressed her enthusiasm for joining Intrepid Travel, citing the company’s dedication to responsible tourism and impressive growth trajectory. Based at Intrepid’s global headquarters in Melbourne, Australia, Hurelle’s appointment signals the company’s intention to further expand its presence in the hotel sector and solidify its position as a leader in sustainable travel.
Intrepid Travel’s strategic move to bring Celine Hurelle on board highlights a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. With a strong focus on responsible travel and sustainability, Intrepid is poised to make significant strides in the hotel industry, offering unique and eco-friendly accommodations to its discerning clientele. Hurelle’s extensive experience and passion for the travel industry make her a valuable addition to the Intrepid team, propelling the company towards a future of growth and success.
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