Ahipara Luxury Travel on exclusive global list

Ahipara Luxury Travel on exclusive global list

Specialist luxury travel firm Ahipara’s Jean-Michel Jefferson is the only New Zealand based agent to make the 2014 Travel + Leisure worldwide A-List of top travel specialists.

Only 133 agents from around the world have made the list this year. For Jefferson it is the third time running - an extraordinary feat to achieve from a base in Central Otago.

Jefferson, who came to the country from an executive career in Moscow with his New Zealand born wife Karen and their four children for the lifestyle, says he and the Ahipara team are delighted to have held the ranking.

“Travel + Leisure I consider one of the most influential publishers when it comes to people reading up on potential destinations they would like to explore,” Jefferson says. “The list recognizes that we are not a booking agency - we're a global leader in innovative, personal, responsive and experiential tourism based in New Zealand.”

Travel + Leisure’s print edition reaches more than six million, an online edition 38 million readers a month and has a social media following of two million with the bulk between 25 and 54 years. The list is in the September issue.

Amy Farley, Travel + Leisure columnist and “trip doctor” says there is a reason the term advisor is used to describe the members of the 2014 A-List.

“These destination experts offer much more than booking services. They offer insider insights, unparalleled access, the ability to create a seamless itinerary, and value,” Farley says.

Jefferson says each itinerary for Ahipara’s clients is unique and is often far off the beaten tourism track.

“One of the secrets to our success is some beautiful people who work with us to show our clients not only the real New Zealand, but also the wonderful characteristics of true Kiwis,” Jefferson says. “This recognition is as much for them despite my name being the one on the list.”

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