Sam Growdon
She/Her
Based in Hong Kong
French & basic Japanese
Trip budgets start at $500/night
Sam Growdon
Ask me about
My Story
South African-Born, Hong Kong-based, travel-obsessed Global Citizen. Creative Director turned Travel Advisor with a love of art, design, fashion and yoga. Mantra: Travel opens the hearts and minds of every human.
Travel Style
A city-girl who thrives on finding unique places and experiences. The history, art, architecture and human stories we learn while traveling excite me. I'm obsessed with beautifully designed hotels, trying new foods, testing my language skills and soaking in the culture of new and unique places. I use my experience of visiting 50+ countries and living in 6 to design bespoke itineraries, and immersive experiences that go beyond typical tourism. I’ll transforms your travel dreams into reality, whether you're seeking a serene getaway, an adventurous expedition, or an exclusive cultural immersion.
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Reviews (29)
Michelle E.
9 months ago
We just returned from the most incredible family trip to Japan—thanks entirely to Sam, our wonderful travel agent. From start to finish, Sam planned an itinerary that balanced culture, adventure, relaxation, and—miraculously—kept both our young sons and my parents delighted the entire time.
In Tokyo, Sam secured us amazing seats to a sold-out baseball game, which turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. The boys were starry-eyed, the energy in the stadium was electric, and we’ll be talking about it for years. The behind the scenes tuna market auction and tour were amazing!
In Osaka, we explored hidden gems we never would have found on our own, from tiny local eateries to the most fun, hands-on arcades.
And then Kyoto—where Sam truly outdid herself. She arranged a private ramen-making experience that was so much more than a cooking class. We all got to roll up our sleeves (even my picky eater got involved!) and learn from a local chef in a cozy kitchen tucked away from the tourist trail. We laughed, we slurped, we made memories that will last forever. The hotel was our favourite of the trip-Ritz Kyoto. It’s setting as perfect and the service made us feel at home,
Every hotel was perfectly chosen, every transfer seamless, and Sam even provided thoughtful tips on where to find the best snacks between shrines. Her ability to cater to three generations of travelers with such care and creativity is something truly rare.
If you're planning a trip to Japan—or anywhere else for that matter—do yourself a favor and call Sam. You’ll come home with more than just souvenirs; you’ll come home with stories, joy, and a deep sense of connection to the place you've visited.
Jeremy I.
10 months ago
Sam was brilliant. She provided us with various options, all of which met our needs before we selected the private villas at Saii Lagoon. She was extremely helpful and put a lot of thought into ensuring we had an amazing stay in the Maldives.
Carol Ann R.
10 months ago
“Sam was delightful and I have already engaged her for my next trip to Sri Lanka. Along the way, she was there to help with my questions as well as make changes. I am so happy to have found her.”
Robert G.
10 months ago
Sam was exceptionally professional and thorough with our booking. There was a lovely welcome card in the room and she arranged a few complimentary extra's with the hotel that were greatly appreciated.
Victoria K.
a year ago
Sam was a pleasure to work with. She helped us land exactly where we wanted to be.
Michelle E.
9 months ago
We just returned from the most incredible family trip to Japan—thanks entirely to Sam, our wonderful travel agent. From start to finish, Sam planned an itinerary that balanced culture, adventure, relaxation, and—miraculously—kept both our young sons and my parents delighted the entire time.
In Tokyo, Sam secured us amazing seats to a sold-out baseball game, which turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. The boys were starry-eyed, the energy in the stadium was electric, and we’ll be talking about it for years. The behind the scenes tuna market auction and tour were amazing!
In Osaka, we explored hidden gems we never would have found on our own, from tiny local eateries to the most fun, hands-on arcades.
And then Kyoto—where Sam truly outdid herself. She arranged a private ramen-making experience that was so much more than a cooking class. We all got to roll up our sleeves (even my picky eater got involved!) and learn from a local chef in a cozy kitchen tucked away from the tourist trail. We laughed, we slurped, we made memories that will last forever. The hotel was our favourite of the trip-Ritz Kyoto. It’s setting as perfect and the service made us feel at home,
Every hotel was perfectly chosen, every transfer seamless, and Sam even provided thoughtful tips on where to find the best snacks between shrines. Her ability to cater to three generations of travelers with such care and creativity is something truly rare.
If you're planning a trip to Japan—or anywhere else for that matter—do yourself a favor and call Sam. You’ll come home with more than just souvenirs; you’ll come home with stories, joy, and a deep sense of connection to the place you've visited.
Jeremy I.
10 months ago
Sam was brilliant. She provided us with various options, all of which met our needs before we selected the private villas at Saii Lagoon. She was extremely helpful and put a lot of thought into ensuring we had an amazing stay in the Maldives.
Carol Ann R.
10 months ago
“Sam was delightful and I have already engaged her for my next trip to Sri Lanka. Along the way, she was there to help with my questions as well as make changes. I am so happy to have found her.”
Robert G.
10 months ago
Sam was exceptionally professional and thorough with our booking. There was a lovely welcome card in the room and she arranged a few complimentary extra's with the hotel that were greatly appreciated.
Travel ideas (8)
Ultimate Sri Lanka Itinerary
Add Sri Lanka to your travel list! With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and warm, welcoming people, Sri Lanka has a little something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the stunning beaches, explore ancient ruins or go on an adventure in the lush rainforests, this beautiful island has it all. And let's not forget about the delicious food and tea! From mouth-watering curries to fresh seafood, your taste buds will thank you. So why not pack your bags and make Sri Lanka your next travel destination?
Ultimate Sri Lanka Itinerary
Add Sri Lanka to your travel list! With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and warm, welcoming people, Sri Lanka has a little something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the stunning beaches, explore ancient ruins or go on an adventure in the lush rainforests, this beautiful island has it all. And let's not forget about the delicious food and tea! From mouth-watering curries to fresh seafood, your taste buds will thank you. So why not pack your bags and make Sri Lanka your next travel destination?
From the Skies in Cappadocia!
Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia was a bucket-list item for me, and to do it with girlfriends was incredibly special. One of the oldest and most incredible parts of Turkey, Cappadocia is filled with unusual rock formations that give this region it's otherworldly landscape. These rock formations known as "fairy chimneys" – tall spires of rock carved over thousands of years by erosion, but look almost sculptured by hand. The ancient caves in this area also add to it's unique geology. One of the top attractions is the complex network of cave dwellings and underground cities - some of which are 8 levels descending 60 meters! Many of these caves were once churches and places of worship; carved chapels feature elaborate murals giving real insight to the lives of those that have lived in the surrounding valleys for centuries. Cappadocia is a surreal landscape and an unforgettable experience, especially seeing it from the sky.
From the Skies in Cappadocia!
Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia was a bucket-list item for me, and to do it with girlfriends was incredibly special. One of the oldest and most incredible parts of Turkey, Cappadocia is filled with unusual rock formations that give this region it's otherworldly landscape. These rock formations known as "fairy chimneys" – tall spires of rock carved over thousands of years by erosion, but look almost sculptured by hand. The ancient caves in this area also add to it's unique geology. One of the top attractions is the complex network of cave dwellings and underground cities - some of which are 8 levels descending 60 meters! Many of these caves were once churches and places of worship; carved chapels feature elaborate murals giving real insight to the lives of those that have lived in the surrounding valleys for centuries. Cappadocia is a surreal landscape and an unforgettable experience, especially seeing it from the sky.
Best Beaches in Cape Town
Cape Town's beaches are gorgeous and some of the best in the world! While there are other beautiful beaches in other countries, many of them are private, overly crowded with sun-gazers or cultivated for tourists. Cape Town’s beaches are public beaches of natural beauty and rarely over-crowded. The best time of year to visit Cape Town is November through to March – it’s hot and sunny and also a superb time to escape the northern hemisphere winter too. Keep reading for my top 5 best beaches in Cape Town.
Best Beaches in Cape Town
Cape Town's beaches are gorgeous and some of the best in the world! While there are other beautiful beaches in other countries, many of them are private, overly crowded with sun-gazers or cultivated for tourists. Cape Town’s beaches are public beaches of natural beauty and rarely over-crowded. The best time of year to visit Cape Town is November through to March – it’s hot and sunny and also a superb time to escape the northern hemisphere winter too. Keep reading for my top 5 best beaches in Cape Town.
4 Day Shopping, Culture and Sightseeing in London
See iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Wander through the city's iconic parks. Eat traditional fish and chips in famous pubs and shop the English capital's luxe departments stores. You won't run out of things to do in London. So, pack your (empty) bags and make belly space for world's best tea and scones!
4 Day Shopping, Culture and Sightseeing in London
See iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Wander through the city's iconic parks. Eat traditional fish and chips in famous pubs and shop the English capital's luxe departments stores. You won't run out of things to do in London. So, pack your (empty) bags and make belly space for world's best tea and scones!
2-Week US Road Trip : Los Angeles to Sedona
A road trip from Los Angeles to Phoenix is a must-do for any traveler. It has beautiful scenery and many chances to have fun. It also offers some of the most famous places in the country. From the bustling city of Los Angeles to the beachfront paradise of San Diego and the majestic natural wonders of Sedona National Park. So pack your bags, fuel up the car, create a jammin' playlist, and hit the road!
2-Week US Road Trip : Los Angeles to Sedona
A road trip from Los Angeles to Phoenix is a must-do for any traveler. It has beautiful scenery and many chances to have fun. It also offers some of the most famous places in the country. From the bustling city of Los Angeles to the beachfront paradise of San Diego and the majestic natural wonders of Sedona National Park. So pack your bags, fuel up the car, create a jammin' playlist, and hit the road!
Italy Undiscovered - Summer Days in Pesaro
Pesaro is an undiscovered gem and the perfect four-day beach holiday. Positioned perfectly in the middle of Italy’s eastern coastline, it’s a great stop on a trip from Milan to Bari or Venice to Lecci — or if you’re looking for a small town without masses of tourists that still delivers on Italian sandy beaches, excellent seafood, warm hospitality and gelato for days. There is just enough to do for those who like culture and activities, but the main attraction is the warm friendly vibe, beach, sun and Adriatic waters. Maximum summer vibes with minimum effort.
Italy Undiscovered - Summer Days in Pesaro
Pesaro is an undiscovered gem and the perfect four-day beach holiday. Positioned perfectly in the middle of Italy’s eastern coastline, it’s a great stop on a trip from Milan to Bari or Venice to Lecci — or if you’re looking for a small town without masses of tourists that still delivers on Italian sandy beaches, excellent seafood, warm hospitality and gelato for days. There is just enough to do for those who like culture and activities, but the main attraction is the warm friendly vibe, beach, sun and Adriatic waters. Maximum summer vibes with minimum effort.
3 Day Trip to Yangshuo, China
Featured for eternity on the Chinese 20 Yuan note and a stamp, the iconic Karst mountains of Yangshuo (or as some folks refer to them, Sugar Loaf Mountains) in Guilin, China are even more stunning than on your social media feed. If you’re coming from Hong Kong, it’s a quick and easy 3.5-hour train ride, or a great add-on to a Southern China trip.
3 Day Trip to Yangshuo, China
Featured for eternity on the Chinese 20 Yuan note and a stamp, the iconic Karst mountains of Yangshuo (or as some folks refer to them, Sugar Loaf Mountains) in Guilin, China are even more stunning than on your social media feed. If you’re coming from Hong Kong, it’s a quick and easy 3.5-hour train ride, or a great add-on to a Southern China trip.
5 Days of Beauty, Food and Culture in Seoul
Seoul may be the mecca of Tik-Tok K-beauty trends, multi-floor cosmetic stores and aesthetic doctors and spas. But it is also a city filled will delicious food, interesting culture, antique stores, shopping malls and cool markets. So while you might head to Seoul for the beauty treatments, be sure to bring an empty stomach and a suitcase!
5 Days of Beauty, Food and Culture in Seoul
Seoul may be the mecca of Tik-Tok K-beauty trends, multi-floor cosmetic stores and aesthetic doctors and spas. But it is also a city filled will delicious food, interesting culture, antique stores, shopping malls and cool markets. So while you might head to Seoul for the beauty treatments, be sure to bring an empty stomach and a suitcase!
Ultimate Sri Lanka Itinerary
Add Sri Lanka to your travel list! With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and warm, welcoming people, Sri Lanka has a little something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the stunning beaches, explore ancient ruins or go on an adventure in the lush rainforests, this beautiful island has it all. And let's not forget about the delicious food and tea! From mouth-watering curries to fresh seafood, your taste buds will thank you. So why not pack your bags and make Sri Lanka your next travel destination?
Ultimate Sri Lanka Itinerary
Add Sri Lanka to your travel list! With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and warm, welcoming people, Sri Lanka has a little something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the stunning beaches, explore ancient ruins or go on an adventure in the lush rainforests, this beautiful island has it all. And let's not forget about the delicious food and tea! From mouth-watering curries to fresh seafood, your taste buds will thank you. So why not pack your bags and make Sri Lanka your next travel destination?
From the Skies in Cappadocia!
Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia was a bucket-list item for me, and to do it with girlfriends was incredibly special. One of the oldest and most incredible parts of Turkey, Cappadocia is filled with unusual rock formations that give this region it's otherworldly landscape. These rock formations known as "fairy chimneys" – tall spires of rock carved over thousands of years by erosion, but look almost sculptured by hand. The ancient caves in this area also add to it's unique geology. One of the top attractions is the complex network of cave dwellings and underground cities - some of which are 8 levels descending 60 meters! Many of these caves were once churches and places of worship; carved chapels feature elaborate murals giving real insight to the lives of those that have lived in the surrounding valleys for centuries. Cappadocia is a surreal landscape and an unforgettable experience, especially seeing it from the sky.
From the Skies in Cappadocia!
Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia was a bucket-list item for me, and to do it with girlfriends was incredibly special. One of the oldest and most incredible parts of Turkey, Cappadocia is filled with unusual rock formations that give this region it's otherworldly landscape. These rock formations known as "fairy chimneys" – tall spires of rock carved over thousands of years by erosion, but look almost sculptured by hand. The ancient caves in this area also add to it's unique geology. One of the top attractions is the complex network of cave dwellings and underground cities - some of which are 8 levels descending 60 meters! Many of these caves were once churches and places of worship; carved chapels feature elaborate murals giving real insight to the lives of those that have lived in the surrounding valleys for centuries. Cappadocia is a surreal landscape and an unforgettable experience, especially seeing it from the sky.
Best Beaches in Cape Town
Cape Town's beaches are gorgeous and some of the best in the world! While there are other beautiful beaches in other countries, many of them are private, overly crowded with sun-gazers or cultivated for tourists. Cape Town’s beaches are public beaches of natural beauty and rarely over-crowded. The best time of year to visit Cape Town is November through to March – it’s hot and sunny and also a superb time to escape the northern hemisphere winter too. Keep reading for my top 5 best beaches in Cape Town.
Best Beaches in Cape Town
Cape Town's beaches are gorgeous and some of the best in the world! While there are other beautiful beaches in other countries, many of them are private, overly crowded with sun-gazers or cultivated for tourists. Cape Town’s beaches are public beaches of natural beauty and rarely over-crowded. The best time of year to visit Cape Town is November through to March – it’s hot and sunny and also a superb time to escape the northern hemisphere winter too. Keep reading for my top 5 best beaches in Cape Town.
Travel photos
