If you haven’t heard about our First Choice Insiders programme yet, it’s about time you did. @owenwillis is one of the amazing travel creators we’ve partnered with to get you that on-the-ground info and inspo you’re after.
Our Insiders pick the trips they really want to go on and bring all the details back to you – videos, pics and loads of local recs – on social, our website, and you can find their full itineraries right here on Inspire. Go along on these journeys with them, and see what hits the spot for you. They’re all set to be your eyes and ears on the ground and, who knows, maybe they’ll show you a place you never thought you’d pick before.
So, get started and meet our sun worshipper and party lover, @owenwilliss…
First of all, tell us a bit about yourself!
Hello! I’m Owen, a 22-year-old content creator from London. I’ve lived in the city all my life, and if you’ve ever visited, you’ll know how important it is to escape often haha!
How many countries have you travelled to so far?
I’ve visited 22 countries so far, which is amazing because I never thought I’d be a big traveller. Then, two years ago I got the bug for it and now I can’t stop.
What’s your earliest holiday memory?
I was 9 years old when we went on our first family holiday to a wedding in Granada, Spain. We hired a car and my six siblings and I bundled in the back, and we drove the whole way – it was so much fun. It’s such a core memory and it’s deffo when I developed my love for the beach.
Where’s the last place you visited?
I recently spent some time in Bruges, Belgium to visit the Christmas markets with six of my pals, which was SO cute and so much fun. Think churros, beer and festive markets. Big wintry vibes.
What’s your ultimate bucket list destination, and why?
New York City baby! Growing up in London, NYC has always been on my list as I imagine the vibes are similar. Also, I absolutely love a bagel, so it’s a no-brainer.
Is there a destination you love to revisit? Or are you the type of traveller that can’t stand going back to a place you’ve already ticked off your list?
The south of France… I would go back every weekend if I could. If you’ve ever been to Nice, Cannes or Monaco, you already know that it’s one of the most beautiful parts of Europe. There truly is nowhere like it – the beaches, the crystal blue sea and the rosé on tap? Sign me up.
How do you approach planning your travels? Are you more spontaneous or do you like to plan things down to the last detail?
I’m not a planner… I tend to just show up and see – the best plans are the ones you haven’t made yet. I like to see where the wind takes me, and it drives my friends up the wall haha.
What’s the number one thing you look for in a destination? Food, sights, culture, or something else?
Food, sunshine and nightlife are my big ticks when planning a trip… AKA the holy trinity.
Tell us your biggest travel ick – we’re talking bare feet on the plane, clapping when the plane lands…
People who aren’t ready at airport security – we have places to be people, seriously…
Is there a travel hack you discovered that changed the game for you?
Wearing like jeans or normal clothes on a long-haul flight, then getting changed into PJs or something super comfy a couple of hours in. It tricks your brain into feeling extra cosy, which makes it so much easier to fall asleep… It’s a complete game changer, thank me later.
Tell us about…
…the most beautiful place you’ve visited
Syros Island, Greece – it’s STUNNING. The tiny island is so untouched and beautiful, plus there are cats everywhere…
…the most memorable place you’ve visited
I went to Amsterdam last summer and it was so magical and outdoorsy. It’s all canal-side dining, boat
trips and cycling – we truly did it all.
… the most surprising place you’ve visited
I went to Budapest a few years back and I LOVED it. I didn’t really know what to expect but it
was such a fun city with so much to do. It was really affordable, and the people were so friendly, too.
If you want to get to know our other Insiders and find out more about the programme, you’ll love our Insiders Hub.
Keep an eye out for the ‘Insider pick’ tag when you’re browsing our best deals and in your holiday search results, too.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Author: @owenwillis
Last updated: 06/03/2025
You may also like
@owenwillisInsiders)
)
)
)
)