From our years working in travel we have learnt one overriding fact: that different people have very different needs. A family with young children, for example, is likely to be looking for safe and sandy beaches blended with a few key sights, and all pegged to a gently-paced itinerary and relaxing hotels. An energetic couple, on the other hand, would more likely be drawn by the promise of adventure and action, whether a 4WD safari through the Outback, surfing the rollers of the Indian Ocean or diving the Great Barrier Reef. Similarly, a well-heeled couple may prefer to be guided towards the most sumptuous country houses, the most therapeutic spas, those memorable vineyards and award-winning museums rather than being forced to wade through brochure pages devoted to the highest bungee jump or intrepid hikes through tropical rainforests.

In 1989 Jerry Bridge, after travelling extensively around the world, created the successful travel company Bridge The World, winning the coveted 'Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Tourism Industry by an Individual' award from the Australian Tourist Commission in 2004. After selling the company to an online travel specialist, Jerry decided to channel his experience into a new venture in partnership with David Wickers.

For 17 years, David was the Chief Travel Correspondent on The Sunday Times, and on three occasions was voted Travel Writer of the Year. As a result of his first hand experiences, including extensive travel throughout North American, Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, he is in a unique position to know what it takes to create the perfect holiday experience - and, in particular, what one should expect from a truly top tour operator.

Annette Morrissey, our Sales Director, has worked in the industry for the last decade and, over the last 20 years, has experienced an amazing diversity of holidays in Australia Canada, New England, California, Hawaii and Florida. She has also lived and worked in New Zealand.

Ever since travelling to Australia and New Zealand, living there for two years and totally falling in love with the place, Rachel Bottomley has spent the last ten years helping to arrange holidays for others to her favourite destinations. She has also travelled widely throughout North America and this year is undertaking a number of trips to North America. She now brings her enthusiasm, knowledge and passion for these countries to Bridge & Wickers as its Product Director.