Area/Topic
Mexico, Latin America, Business

Alex Veka
Founder
Vibe Adventures

Passionate traveler, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner on a mission to make authentic, responsible, and mind-broadening travel accessible to adventurers and curious souls worldwide.

"Originally from Belarus, I've lived, studied, and worked in seven countries before finding my second home in Mexico. With over 50 countries visited and counting, I'm a perpetual learner, speaking several languages and deeply interested in history, geography, and cultures. Armed with a formal Ph.D. and countless lessons from the "university of life," I'm now channeling my passion into running Vibe Adventures, a travel startup offering a simpler way of booking adventure holidays worldwide."

https://vibeadventures.com/

summary
Alex Veka, founder of Vibe Adventures, shares his journey from being a passionate traveler to starting his own travel company. He was inspired by childhood experiences, including participating in programs for Belarusian kids affected by the Chernobyl disaster and traveling to the Netherlands. Alex's love for geography and his desire to explore the world led him to study tourism and eventually work in the travel industry. He met his Mexican wife in China and they embarked on a road trip from Mexico to Argentina, which laid the foundation for Vibe Adventures. Alex's passion for travel and technology drives his goal of making booking experiences easier. Alex Veka discusses his experiences in travel and tourism, from working in hospitality to starting his own adventure travel company, Vibe Adventures. He shares his love for Mexico and the vibrant life it offers. Alex also talks about his mission to simplify and make it easier for people to book adventure holidays worldwide. He highlights the importance of providing authentic local experiences and the need to cater to the changing preferences of millennial and post-millennial travelers. Alex mentions his future plans to add an agent portal to his platform and create a dynamic packaging feature that combines flights with multi-day adventures.

takeaways

• Childhood experiences, such as participating in programs for Chernobyl-affected kids and traveling to the Netherlands, sparked Alex's passion for travel.
• Alex's love for geography and his desire to explore the world led him to study tourism and work in the travel industry.
• Meeting his Mexican wife in China and embarking on a road trip from Mexico to Argentina inspired the creation of Vibe Adventures.
• Alex's goal is to make booking experiences easier through the use of technology. Traveling to different countries and experiencing different cultures can be a dynamic and exciting adventure.
• The hospitality industry can be limiting in terms of career growth and flexibility.
• Starting your own business in the travel industry allows for more freedom and the opportunity to create unique experiences for travelers.
• There is a need for simplifying the booking process for adventure holidays and providing authentic local experiences.
• Millennial and post-millennial travelers prefer independent and customizable travel experiences.
• The future of travel booking involves combining flights with multi-day adventures through dynamic packaging.

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Africa, Safaris, Conservation, Guiding

Ant Kaschula
Founder
Private Guided Safaris

I am a born & bred, fourth generation Zimbabwean who's professional guiding career spans more than two decades. I have travelled the length and breadth of the African continent and I have guided or lead safaris or expeditions in twenty-one different African countries.

As the holder of the most highly respected professional guiding qualification in the world coupled with a Masters degree in Ecology and interests ranging from Botany, Bushcrafts & Fly Fishing to Entomology & Recreational Flying, provides me with the background to impart an incredible breadth & depth of knowledge to my guests.

I am an ExCo member of the Zimbabwe Professional Guide's Association and am involved in ensuring the high levels of training and examining of the next generation of professional guides is maintained.

I have a ceaselessly questioning mind and as per one of my mentor’s sayings – have, eyes for seeing and not just looking, which means that very little goes undetected by my radar and no stone is left unturned in my quest to provide my guests with that 'perfect moment’.

In terms of being a specialist, I am most happy whilst leading walking safaris through big game areas and particularly enjoy spending time with elephants on foot.

Having had the privilege of spending much of my adult life exploring the continent’s wildest landscapes, what has become more and more apparent are the threats faced by these rapidly diminishing refuges. Truly passionate and dedicated to the long term safeguarding of these areas, I tend to direct my support, and that of some of my philanthropic guests, towards protected areas which are managed by organizations that are moving the needle in terms of protecting Africa’s remaining wild spaces.

https://www.privateguidedsafaris.com/

summary
Ant Kaschula, founder of Private Guided Safaris, shares his journey and passion for the African wilderness. He explains why he chose the name Private Guided Safaris instead of using his own name, highlighting the importance of providing a high level of service rather than focusing on an individual. Ant discusses his early experiences in the bush and how they shaped his career as a safari guide. He also talks about the boarding school experience and the strong bonds formed with friends during that time. Ant emphasizes the unique opportunities for walking safaris in Zimbabwe and the intimate and personal experiences they offer. Ant Kaschula emphasizes the importance of having a private guide on a safari trip, as they provide personalized service and create a unique and unforgettable experience. He highlights the value of staying in remote and exclusive locations, where guests can have a more intimate and authentic wildlife encounter. Ant also discusses the benefits of direct communication between the travel agent, the guide, and the clients, as it allows for better coordination and customization of the itinerary. He encourages travelers to be open-minded and trust the expertise of their guide when planning their safari adventure.

takeaways

• Choosing a business name that focuses on providing a high level of service rather than an individual can be beneficial for future growth and scalability.
• Early experiences in the bush can have a profound impact on shaping a career in safari guiding.
• Boarding school can provide unique opportunities for personal growth and strong friendships.
• Zimbabwe offers exceptional opportunities for wal

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.

Area/Topic
Worldwide, Trekking, Lifestyle

Jim Young
Founder & Director
Adventurous Ewe

From the heart of Snowdonia in North Wales, Jim founded Adventurous Ewe after years of guiding overland expeditions and trekking through many remote patches of the planet. This combined with his profound passion for and knowledge of the world’s diverse environments, wildlife, cultures, and customs have equipped him with many stories to share.

Having lived and led expeditions across the rugged terrains of Africa, the mystical landscapes of Asia, and the vibrant locales of South America, Jim's experiences are as rich and varied as the destinations he explores. His charisma and familiarity with these regions, especially Morocco, make him something of a local celebrity, greeted warmly with endless handshakes and the familiar chants of "Jim!" echoing through the dusty streets of Imlil.

An accomplished high altitude guide, Jim holds a plethora of certifications, including Mountain Leader, Mountain Bike Leader, and Advanced Wilderness First Aid. He is also a certified 4-Star Level 2 Kayak Instructor, Rescue Boat Operator, and skilled bike mechanic. Despite his extensive qualifications, Jim is equally known for his hearty laughter and the occasional 'really bad' joke, bringing lightness and joy to every expedition.

At the heart of Jim's philosophy is a commitment to crafting unique, thrilling travel itineraries that go beyond standard travel packages. He thrives on creating experiences that are not only adventurous but also deeply connective, allowing travelers to explore the soul of each destination. When he's not scaling mountains or charting new, unexplored routes, Jim indulges in his love for sea kayaking, kite surfing, and journeying through the world’s wildest places. Accompanying him on many of his adventures is his beloved dog, Moshi, a steadfast companion in both spirit and adventure. Jim's life is a testament to the belief that travel should be more than just visiting a place; it should be an immersive journey that transforms and inspires.

https://www.adventurousewe.co.uk/

summary
Jim Young, founder and director of Adventurous Ewe, shares his journey from working in the family business to becoming an adventure travel leader. He started with overland trips in Africa and then expanded to South America, the Middle East, and Asia. Jim recounts some of his most challenging adventures, including driving on the Friendship Highway from Kathmandu to Beijing and getting stuck in the Tibetan Plateau. He also discusses the transformative experiences of his guests, who often start out nervous and unsure but grow in confidence and resilience throughout the trip. Jim emphasizes the importance of breaking down challenges into smaller parts and enjoying the journey. Jim Young shares his experiences in the travel industry, including the challenges and rewards of running a travel business. He emphasizes the importance of following your passion and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Jim also discusses the impact of travel on mental health and the value of experiencing different cultures. He shares his excitement for new trips and itineraries, including cycling in Rwanda and treks to K2 Basecamp and Norway/Sweden. Overall, Jim's message is to embrace adventure and take the leap to explore the world.

takeaways

• Adventure travel can be a transformative experience, allowing individuals to grow in confidence and resilience.
• Breaking down challenges into smaller parts can help manage feelings of overwhelm and allow for a

Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers at bigworldmadesmall.com.