The co-founders of women-led luxury travel agency Alchemist Travel on why having a holistic travel experience matters - TATLER
In the third of our four-part series spotlighting female entrepreneurs in Singapore this International Women’s Day, we speak to the co-founders of Alchemist Travel, a women-led luxury travel agency
Paulo Coelho’s novel The Alchemist tells the story of a shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of treasure, only for him to realise the true treasure was the journey itself.
Like Coelho’s mythical novel, women-led luxury travel agency Alchemist Travel hopes to take travellers on memorable journeys. Founded by Lauren Raps, Jo Hendry-Prior and Steph Wetherell, the Singapore-based Alchemist Travel (whose name is inspired by Coelho’s novel) was created through their collective passion for responsible travel.
Having extensive experience within the luxury travel industry, the trio wanted to create a travel agency that inspires travellers to think differently about how they explore the world. On top of providing travellers with “exceptional support and cutting-edge tools”, the agency also encourages travellers to make a positive impact on the destinations they visit.
For the trio, coming together to create the agency was a natural step. Hendry-Prior shares: “The luxury travel space is quite a sociable industry. Steph and I worked together for many years at a travel agency, and we met Lauren several times through the industry before becoming great friends. When the time came to build something of our own, it felt like a natural and exciting collaboration.” The friends-turned-business partners explain that their strengths complement each other perfectly while working together.
With various travel agencies available just a quick search away, the trio wanted to create something that would “immediately resonate with luxury travellers”. For example, the agency’s properties and partners are carefully curated to ensure they genuinely support local communities, preserve cultural heritage and contribute to conservation. This is in hopes of helping travellers make a positive impact while experiencing the most authentic and enriching moments.
Redefining Luxury Travel
Being in the industry for years, the trio have seen a rise in solo female travellers, whether it’s a three-week adventure across South America or just a quick break away from the city.
“This trend is fuelled in large part by greater financial independence… as well as a growing emphasis on self-care and wellness,” Wetherell highlights. More workplace flexibility also means that women have the opportunity to travel during off-peak seasons as compared to traditional holiday periods.
The co-founder also noticed an increase in married women embracing these solo trips. She continues: “As more women embark on these journeys and share their positive experiences, these misconceptions are quickly being dispelled, inspiring others to follow suit.”
While there is a common misconception that solo travel is lonely, dangerous or too challenging, Wetherell explains that it can be incredibly empowering. She continues: “[Solo travel can] boost confidence as women navigate new destinations on their own. It also helps break down stereotypes, proving that traveling alone is not only safe but enriching.”
Without compromising on what others want to see or do, solo travellers can dive deeper into the culture and experiences of a destination. Solo trips can also mean having more time and freedom to engage with locals and fellow adventurers.
Travelling solo can be daunting. To ensure a sense of security, Wetherell recommends staying connected to loved ones and keeping them updated on your whereabouts and experiences. She shares how the agency also helps its solo travellers feel at ease by arranging female guides, keeping its drivers on call to avoid using local taxis and more.
Below, the co-founders provide more insight on solo female travel, eco-friendly initiatives, the future of travel and more.
How does Alchemist Travel define sustainable travel?
Jo Hendry-Prior (JH): Alchemist Travel defines sustainable travel as a holistic approach that balances luxury and environmental responsibility, ensuring that travel experiences benefit both travelers and the destinations they visit. This includes committing to environmental stewardship through working with properties and suppliers that have eco-friendly practices, promote cultural preservation and invest in initiatives that empower communities.
Alchemist Travel also focuses on carbon offsetting through projects like tree planting while offering personalised experiences that align with clients’ values and raising awareness about the importance of sustainable tourism. Ultimately, our goal is to redefine luxury travel as an opportunity for meaningful experiences that foster positive change in the world.
What specific initiatives or partnerships do you have that promote eco-friendly travel?
JH: At Alchemist Travel, we promote eco-friendly travel through various initiatives and partnerships aimed at sustainability and conservation. We offset carbon emissions from our clients’s trip through tree planting initiatives in Southeast Asia, which also create local jobs and improve education.
Two per cent of all of our profits go towards the Alchemist Travel Foundation, and are invested in grassroots education and conservation projects. We collaborate with eco-conscious properties, wildlife conservation organisations, and cultural preservation initiatives that support local artisans and communities. Additionally, Alchemist Travel educates travellers on sustainable practices by engaging with communities to develop tourism initiatives that align with their values.
Can you discuss the impact these sustainable practices have had on your clients’ experiences?
JH: Alchemist Travel’s sustainable practices significantly enhance our clients’ experiences by fostering meaningful connections with local communities and providing authentic, unique encounters that reflect the authenticity of each destination. Clients gain a deeper understanding of the destination and through our guidance, they become more aware of how to make responsible travel choices and the impact they can have.
Many find emotional fulfillment in knowing their trips positively impact local communities, biodiversity and cultures, allowing them to enjoy luxury travel with a sense of purpose. Knowing they are supporting community and conservation initiatives enriches their experience, and clients often leave inspired to adopt sustainable practices in their own lives. We aim to create a more meaningful and impactful journey for our clients that has a lasting impact not only on them but on the destinations they visit.
How can women prepare emotionally and mentally for the challenges of solo travel?
Steph Wetherell (SW): For anyone planning a solo trip who might be a little nervous about it, it’s helpful to start small. Get comfortable with spending time alone by going out for dinner by yourself or attending an event solo to build your confidence.
It’s also important to research your destination thoroughly. Knowledge is power and will help you feel more prepared if you are familiar with the local customs and what you can expect. At Alchemist Travel, we will ensure you have local contacts to guide you with any questions you have while you’re away, but the unscripted moments are often the most rewarding—be open to experiences which present themselves which aren’t necessarily on the itinerary.