OUR STORY

Travelling Whale pledges a donation of 1% of our annual profits to the UK charity Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust. Here’s our story.

Our name ‘Travelling Whale’ was inspired by a fascinating article about how Great Whales help combat climate change. With our philosophy ever front of mind — which is that we can all travel more sustainably — we are committed to creating positive change in the travel industry, in the collective quest to protect the planet. 

 

It seems an auspicious start that we met a decade ago, while on holiday in Girona, Spain. Our friendship was instant. We are both intuitive about finding the best places to eat, we love dogs (ask us our dog-friendly hotel tips) we’re maximalist experientialists, and we love swapping travel tips.

 

While enjoying a lot of time exploring hidden corners from Asia to Latin America and stocking up on travel secrets and stories along the way, we knew we should properly grow up, get home to the UK, and get real jobs. Hattie pursued a passion for travel by working for a specialist tour operator, while Annabel worked in finance, travel and the charity sector before a career break to allow for more exploring the world. 

 

It was in a pub garden in 2018 (the setting for the genesis of many a greatest idea, history surely tells us) that we dreamed up a plan to create a new kind of travel company which promised sustainable adventures based on our own extensive travelling experiences, but also demonstrated our appreciation that it is possible to travel better. Just as we were ready to take the plunge, Hattie was diagnosed with breast cancer and spent two years courageously navigating her treatments. With Annabel losing her mum aged 12 to the same disease, we recognise the importance of pursuing our passions and everyone living life to its fullest. As soon as Hattie was given the all-clear in 2020, we wasted no time bringing Travelling Whale to life. 

 

Thank you for joining us on our journey — together, let’s show how small ripples can make big waves. 

 

Love from

Annabel & Hattie xxx