Sarah Rimington

A bit about me…

After university, I spent many years working in the travel industry, when I was lucky enough to travel to some incredible places. Having done a bit of part-time lecturing on a local travel and tourism management degree course I decided to take the plunge and gain my teaching qualifications and become a full time lecturer. I was a lecturer and course leader for 7 years, until I couldn’t resist the urge to move back into the industry. Combining travel and education means I get the best of both worlds.

What drew you to the travel industry?

Growing up in a small village in Wales, from a young age I wanted to travel and explore new and exciting places, I hoped working in the travel industry would help me do that – and it did!

What do you love most about your job?

I love seeing the excitement building amongst the students (and teachers!) at pre-trip information evenings. As well as hearing all about their adventures when they return. When our trips help inspire a student’s thirst for travel and learning that’s great to hear! I also love working with a team of people that are completely dedicated to providing the best possible service and experience for our customers.

Which of Discover the World Education’s destinations is your favourite?

Difficult to choose! Probably New Zealand, the Fiordland National Park in the south island is spectacular, best experienced by boat and on foot on one of the many great hiking trails, or by air if you have the chance! As cities go, Queenstown, with its incredible scenery and vast array of adventurous activities is pretty hard to beat.

What are some of your most memorable travel moments?

Definitely kayaking at dusk on a beautifully clear and still evening on the Milford Sound in New Zealand, when all the day tourist boats had gone and only our boat remained. I felt so incredibly small on the water next to the imposing cliffs of the fjord, a memory I will never forget.

Which excursion or activity would you most recommend?

River tubing on the Alcantara Gorge in Sicily. It is a beautiful gorge and what better way to see it than hurtling down the crystal clear rapids, with your friends, in a giant rubber ring. It is such good fun, and a highlight of the trip for many students.

Do you have any top tips for organising an unforgettable school trip?

If you are new to organising a trip, haven’t travelled to the destination before, are wanting to try something different, or just want a bit of extra help, set aside an hour and we will come in, with lots of different ideas to help you plan the perfect itinerary for your group and your budget. There’s nothing I enjoy more than sitting down face to face, with a map and cup of tea, and planning a trip that’s just right for you.

Have you found any hidden gems on your travels that you can share?

The unique lava rock formations at Dimmuborgir in North Iceland. There are walking trails of various lengths through the vast field of towering pillars, and a longer hike will take you up to the top of the nearby Hverfjall crater. It is a great place to hear some of the Icelandic folklore tales – Dimmuborgir is home to a homicidal troll and her mischievous sons, the ‘Yule Lads’.

What is your must-pack item?

A portable power charger – there’s nothing worse than your phone dying half way through the day if you are using it to take photos.