"Climate Change is the Biggest Threat of Our Time”

AFTER A successful 70-people trip to Antarctica in December 2017, Vasim Shaikh, Founder & MD, The Q Experiences is ready to curate six extraordinary curated journeys in 2018.

“Our journeys will include Antarctica, Polar Bear migration, the Arctic Circle, African safari on bush planes, biking tour in Corsica where guests can experience their stay in vineyards, McLaren ice-drive in Finland during the northern lights and a special honeymooners experience titled the ‘Q Romance’,” said Shaikh on his recent trip to the capital.

“India Reimagined is another multi-destination inbound unique expedition, currently being curated, and will be out in 2019,” said Shaikh. “I am always extra careful while planning these journeys since we cater to a very niche class of guests who have been our loyal customers. Keeping in mind their food choices, hotels and travel preferences, we have always tried to give them an all-inclusive journey. That’s why I always say, ‘We curate stories for guests and not itineraries,” added Shaikh, who feels privileged to have visited 50 countries and seven continents, “all stamped on my passport.”

In December, 70 people travelled to Antarctica, Machu Picchu, Amazon, Argentina and Patagonia. “This year, we plan to ring in the New Year taking 100 people starting from December 27 and will add more curated journeys like private jet tours. With Michelin star chef Atul Kochhar, who uses his extensive experience of travelling and research as he artistically combines Indian and British cuisines, designing fresh and innovative dishes, the journey becomes a unique one, especially with those who look forward to interacting with him on his special vegetarian and regional cuisines. So you relish the cuisines, and you can learn the innovative ones at the Chef’s master class on the cruise,” said Shaikh who is planning multiple departures to Antarctica this year and is confident to clock in 20-25 percent growth in 2018.

But the biggest threat lies in the future, Shaikh feels, “Climate change, especially global warming, is arguably the biggest challenge for the planet today, and can lead to renewed focus on environment-friendly practices. As a travel entrepreneur, it is worrisome at the moment as I take my cruise to Antarctica every year and find ways to introduce and educate my guests about efficient-energy solutions. So to create awareness in order to save our plant is the need of the hour.”