ABOUT
I fell in love with travel, hospitality, and wellness a long time ago - not because they're industries, but because they're about connection. Real connection.
I've spent my life and career chasing authenticity - in travel, in business, in how we show up for each other - and that's exactly the energy you'll find here.
Hello there! It's so nice to meet you - I'm Clara.
behind the brand
Same heart,
bigger vision.
Today, JWC Collective is home to all the work I love:
Over time, it became clear that the brand needed to evolve and grow with me.
Once upon a time there was Journey with Clara - my little corner for sharing travel, stories, and a little everyday magic.
Once upon a time there was Journey with Clara - my little corner for sharing travel, stories, and a little everyday magic. Over time, it became clear that the brand needed to evolve and grow with me. Today, JWC Collective is home to all the work I love: travel design, hospitality consulting, and wellness offerings. Same heart, bigger vision.
a short story with big dreams
- a short story with big dreams -
Clara
I'm the friend who's always dreaming up the next adventure, rearranging a hotel room to make it flow better, or sneaking a yoga mat into my carry-on (because... priorities). I'm a lifelong explorer - the kind who left England, built a life in Belize, worked across the Caribbean, and eventually landed in the States. For most of my life, I was told to pick a lane. Be one thing. Fit in a box. Turns out, I'm not a one-lane kind of person - and I've finally stopped fighting that. Best decision I ever made.
After years in hospitality leadership - running resort marketing teams, managing properties as a GM, and building brands - while simultaneously teaching yoga wherever life took me, I've learned something: that magic happens in the spaces between things. I see how work and play connect, how movement informs business, how the smallest details can create unforgettable moments. That's my superpower, and I bring it to everything I do - whether I'm planning your next trip, guiding a business through change, managing an event, or teaching yoga and leading retreats.
If you want someone who'll just tell you what you want to hear, I'm probably not your person. But if you want someone who brings curiosity, asks thoughtful questions, and cares as much about how something feels as whether it works on paper, let's talk.
not all heroes wear capes - some bring itineraries!
Consider me your new travel & business bestie
I believe in grace over grind and intentional living over chaos. This is the space where meaningful work flows with purpose. Life isn't always about doing more, it's about doing what matters.
Wholeness over Hustle
Wholeness / Hustle
Driven by a mindset of wonder I have a natural urge to ask questions, explore new ideas and understand how things work. I bring this superpower to everything I do, without apology.
Spirit of Curiosity
From shared stories to the magic of being truly seen and heard, I believe in building real relationships - on the road, in business, and everywhere in between. Because every connection matters.
Connection Matters
I believe in doing the right thing. Whether it's how I treat clients, plan a trip, or show up in my personal life - honesty, kindness and respect are non-negotiable and shape how I live and work.
Integrity, Always
I'm not here for cookie-cutter anything. Everything I create - be it a travel plan, retreat, brand vibe, or consulting strategy - is uniquely crafted with care and intention. Less haste, more heart.
Crafted with Care
the things i live by - in life, travel, wellness & business
- the things i live by - in life, travel, wellness & business -
My Personal Compass
I care. Sometimes too much. We live in a world that's increasingly disconnected, and I genuinely believe that needs to change - whether that's how we travel, how we work, or how we show up for each other. When you work with me, you're not just getting an itinerary or a strategy deck. You're getting someone who's genuinely invested in your goals, your experience, and making sure you feel taken care of.
The truth
Now the really human part...
Now for the really human part...
England - where my story began and my 'Mary Poppins' accent was born, along with a love for cozy pubs and a well-timed sarcastic comment! #noimnotaustralian
E
No journey is ever truly complete without a tail-wagging welcome home from my two naughty-but-nice rescue dogs, Benjamin Franklin & Bailey Moon.
D
Being celiac means I have to be creative in the kitchen and strategic on the road. I also never leave the house without a selection of GF snacks, which I may or may not share.
Being celiac means I have to be creative in the kitchen and strategic on the road. I also never leave the house without GF snacks, which I may or may not share.
C
The first place I lived overseas - where work was intense, adventures were endless, diving became sanity, and every day felt like a lesson wrapped in a tropical Belizean breeze.
The first place I lived overseas - where work was intense, adventures were endless, diving became sanity, and every day felt like a lesson in a tropical Belizean breeze.
B
I'll say yes to almost any adventure - especially if it involves boots, maps, the ocean, beautiful mountain trails, or, most recently, skydiving! Next up... maybe base jumping?
A
Life's greatest adventure is surely the journey itself - sometimes messy, often beautiful, but always worth it. And since it inspired my company, it deserves its spotlight here!
J
Aged 21, I went on a charity trek for the blind - and Iceland stole my heart. It's where I made some hard life decisions that shaped the life I live now. A truly life-changing place.
I
From boutique to unique, I love a good hotel stay - until my Hospitality Operation brain kicks back into gear and starts making notes because... once a GM, always a GM!
H
I've had some lessons, and I can hit the ball... mostly, but not necessarily in a straight line. Progress aside, I do look good in a skort, which is clearly my real golf superpower.
G
Near or far, my family (both original and chosen!) is full of amazing people who keep me grounded, make me laugh, and have been surviving my dance moves since birth.
Near or far, my family (both original and chosen!) is full of amazing people who keep me grounded, make me laugh, and have survived my dance moves since birth.
F
Nothing makes me feel more alive and grounded than being by the ocean - chasing waves, or just daydreaming on the shore. Clearly, my inner mermaid is still in charge...
O
An acquired taste, the Negroni is my cocktail of choice to start any dinner date. I won't tell you how to make it, but I will absolutely tell you if you've made it wrong!
N
I've decided that the only reasonable explanation for why I love the ocean so much is that I simply must have been a mermaid in a past life. Fight me on it, and you will lose.
I've decided that the only logical explanation for why I love the ocean so much is that I simply must have been a mermaid in a past life. Fight me on it, and you will lose.
M
Full of secret hidden corners, quirky cobbled streets, and enough rain to make every sunny moment feel magical -London is the city I once lived in that still has my heart.
L
I believe in good vibes and the cosmic boomerang that is the moral law of karma. It reminds me to notice the good, stay focused on acts of kindness, and live a life of purpose.
I believe in good vibes and the cosmic boomerang that is the moral law of karma. It reminds me to notice the good, stay focused on kindness, and live a life of purpose.
K
Naturally. You can take the girl out of England, but you'll never take her love of tea. Loose leaf, properly brewed and never - everrrrrrrrr - microwaved. You have been warned.
Naturally. You can take the girl out of England, but you'll never take her love of tea. Loose leaf, properly brewed and never - everrrrrrrrr - microwaved. You've been warned.
T
I'm a proud anatomy nerd and a qualified Sports Massage Therapist. I even used to write a monthly column about it in Yoga Magazine. Yep, I really know what I'm talking about.
I'm a proud anatomy nerd and a qualified Sports Massage Therapist. I even used to write a column about it in Yoga Magazine. Yep, I really know what I'm talking about.
S
The crumble choice of champions! If I close my eyes, I can still taste my Mum's rhubarb crumble with custard. Tart, bold, and unapologetically fruity... a bit like me, really.
The crumble choice of champions! If I close my eyes, I can still taste my Mum's rhubarb crumble with custard. Tart, bold, unapologetically fruity... a bit like me, really.
R
For backup and keeping the vibes high, I turn to my trusty (ooh, shiny!) crystals and quartz, because, yes - I am one of those people. Besides, a little sparkle never hurt anyone.
Q
My first creative outlet, I've been playing the piano since I could sit up. It's where I go when I need to unwind and reset or pretend that I'm performing at the Royal Albert Hall.
P
My yoga practice is absolutely essential to my wellbeing, both physically and mentally. It's also a great way to justify the weird poses I get into queueing for life's little waits.
Y
The Ancient Greek concept of hospitality is Xenia - a bond of trust and friendship (hey bestie!). Also, yay me for finding an X word. The universe supports cleverness... and Google.
The Ancient Greek idea of hospitality is Xenia - a bond of trust and friendship (hey bestie!). Also, yay me for finding an X word. The universe supports cleverness... and Google.
X
Whether it's a story, a plan, or a cheeky note - writing is the one thing I do for myself, almost as much as I do for others. One day I'll finish my book... but alas, today is not that day.
Whether it's a story, a plan, or a cheeky note - writing is the one thing I do for myself, almost as much as I do for others. One day I'll finish my book... but alas, not today.
W
I hate vacations... said no one ever. Haven't met me yet? That's cute. Stick around, I'll show you what it's like when a pro does all the planning and you just get to sip cocktails.
V
Rare, magical, legendary - the unicorn is basically my spirit animal. Real? Absolutely! They're the national animal of Scotland. Let's not fight about it; the case is long closed.
Rare, magical, legendary - the unicorn is basically my spirit animal. Real? Absolutely! They're the national animal of Scotland. Let's not fight about it; the case is closed.
U
A whole section for the letter Z? Why yes! Surely, by now, you've figured out I am an overachiever. You tell me I can't, I'll show you I can! Let's start with the elephant in the room. You say 'zee', I say 'zed'... tomayto/tomarto.
Leading the charge, we have zen - for the deep breaths you'll need while reading this - but more importantly, the state I aim to live in but don't always succeed. Meditation helps, and I believe everyone should do more of it - if only to sit down and be quiet for a while!
Second up, we have zodiac. For what it's worth, I'm an Aries sun with a Virgo moon and Aquarius rising. If you know, you know. If you don't - you're welcome. TLDR: I'm an ambitious perfectionist with an energetic and loyal nature.
If you're thinking - ‘how on earth do the position of the stars and planets when you were born make any difference to your life’ - you do you. I've already broached the subject of Unicorns and Mermaids (and you're still here), so I think we can agree we're well past that debate.
A whole section for Z? Yep! Surely, by now, you've figured out I'm an overachiever. You tell me I can't, I'll show you I can! Let's tackle the elephant in the room. You say 'zee', I say 'zed'... tomayto/tomarto.
Let's start with zen - for the deep breaths you'll need while reading this - but more importantly for the state I aim to live in but don't always succeed. Meditation helps, and I believe everyone should do more of it - if only to be quiet for a while!
Second up, zodiac. I'm an Aries sun with a Virgo moon and Aquarius rising. If you know, you know. If you don't - you're welcome. TLDR: I'm an ambitious perfectionist with an energetic and loyal nature.
If you're thinking - ‘how on earth do the position of the stars and planets make any difference to your life’ - you do you. You've already read about Unicorns and Mermaids (and you're still here), so I think we can agree we're well past that debate.
Z
creating travel and business plans - yes, really - I love what I do!
staycations and spontaneous little adventures
plants... especially the ones that survive me
interpretive (and questionable) kitchen dancing
interpretive kitchen dancing
books, audiobooks, podcasts
the great British bake off
listening to old favorite music albums
gluten free sourdough
GF sourdough
my dogs... and other people's dogs
mushroom coffee
copious amounts of freshly brewed tea
my latest loves & little luxuries
- my latest loves & little luxuries -
Current Coordinates
New York
Iceland
New York City has a way of pulling you in, and over the years I've spent time there both for work and for play. From the iconic tourist spots - the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Grand Central Station - to the hidden corners that make every city hum, it never seems to lose its energy. Perhaps it's the buzz of the city, and how much it reminds me of London, and yet it's unmistakably it's own. Brooklyn, in particular, holds a place in my heart - its streets, shops, and effortless creative vibe. I could happily cozy up in a coffee shop or wine bar for hours - and have done! I confess, I always travel to New York with at least half an empty suitcase... I'm weak to the fashion, whether it's brand name or a unique thrift store finding. Whether its work trips or wanderings, New York always leaves me alive with ideas and inspiration.
- New York
Iceland
Iceland arrived in my life exactly when I needed it, and though it may sound cliché, the trip truly changed my life. At 21, I joined a charity trek to raise money for the RNIB. Not only did I meet some incredible people, but I had the privilege of walking alongside, and supporting, blind and partially-sighted trekkers. We navigated glaciers in crampons, explored the natural beauty of the raw, untouched wilderness, wild-camped under the breathtaking Aurora Borealis while sipping Brennivin (schnapps!), and finished with a post-trek celebration in Reykjavik. At that time in my life, I was navigating some significant challenges and life lessons, and I credit Iceland with giving me the clarity I needed to step forwards in my life. It's not an exaggeration to say that without this trip, I wouldn't be who I am, or where I am today.
- Iceland
London
London
London
London
What can I say about my beloved city of London... there are so many reasons to love it! I grew up just outside of London, and lived in the city until I moved overseas. It's been over a decade since I left and I still miss it every day. It's the place I had my first corporate job, trained to be a yoga teacher, landed my first writing gig for a magazine, and took my first steps into the world of hospitality. Any client that books a trip to London with me is always in for a world of insider information - I know every nook and cranny of the city and love to share my secrets with curious travelers. My ideal day in London would start with a yoga class and a catch up with friends over coffee, some wandering to explore Borough Market and Covent Garden, then end with an amazing meal and some live music. It's my favorite city in the world.
- London
Paris
Paris
There's something about Paris that tugs at my heartstrings, and it's not just because it's the city of love, lights and romance. I was working in corporate London when I first visited in my 20's. I'll never forget a rainy night cruise down the Seine as I caught my first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower with its sparkling lights and beauty. I returned with my sister (real life bestie!) on a girls trip for her 40th birthday. We drank too much bubbly and pretended that our champagne flutes were binoculars at the top of the Tower. I'm endlessly drawn to Montmartre with its cobbled streets, and I could sit for hours enjoying the city views from the Sacré-Cœur. Paris is also my husband's favorite European city so far, and it's easy to see why... the fashion (okay, that's for me), the architecture, and the energy - it never fails to enchant.
- Paris
Colorado
Colorado
Colorado was the first place I ever visited in the USA on my own... and at the tender age of 17, it felt like a really big deal! The trip was to visit my big brother, who still lives there today, making it special for so many reasons. Fast-forward a (not insignificant) number of years, and it is probably the state I have visited the most without ever living there. I learned to snowboard in Breckenridge, fell in love with the idea of rock climbing at Garden of the Gods, bought my first pair of skateboard shoes in Boulder, and tasted taffy for the first time in Estes Park. More recently, my visits to Colorado have included work in Denver, always paired with a sneaky visit to my brother. I never tire of the crisp mountain air and beautiful views. And with direct flights from Texas now, I'm already planning my next adventure!
- Colorado
Belize
Belize
In 2015, I moved overseas for the first time, and Belize became my temporary home - first in Placencia as Director of Sales & Marketing at Naïa Resort & Spa, then as Consultant and interim General Manager at The Ellysian, proudly working for The First Lady of Belize. After that, I took my first steps as a fully-fledged Hospitality Consultant, collaborating with numerous boutique properties on the island of San Pedro and beyond. Belize was pivotal in my career, and the lessons I learned there helped shape the person I am today. It also cemented my love of travel - my inner mermaid was perfectly content exploring the reefs on a dive trip whenever possible. From the food to the people, the sea and the rainforest - I loved it all. Had it not been for meeting my husband there, it's quite possible I may never have left!
- Belize
Puglia
Puglia
Italy holds a big piece of my heart - it's literally in my genes. Though my family roots are in Salerno, it's Puglia, in the heel of Italy's boot, where I've spent the most time. Before I moved overseas, I used to teach a yoga retreat there each spring and the memories of those trips - and many more - will always make me want to return. From the crystal-clear waters of the coast, to the famous limestone trulli of Alberobello - Puglia is beautifully laid-back, with a photo opportunity around every corner. And the food - oh, the food! Even if you love Italian cuisine, you haven't truly tasted it until you've been to Puglia; the ingredients are so fresh and delicious. I could wander the charming and historic streets of Monopoli for days, taking dips in the water and exploring the local markets, and still feel like I haven't had enough.
- Puglia
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
My first trip to Costa Rica did not start well. I was teaching a yoga retreat at the beautiful Blue Spirit in the Guanacaste Province, and I was SICK! Thankfully, my flight wasn't full, and the cabin crew couldn't have been kinder - giving me a row to myself, as many pillows as I needed, and copious amounts of hot tea throughout the flight. Upon arrival, I walked through the rainforest to take a dip in the salty Pacific Ocean - and like magic - I was healed! What followed was truly one of the best weeks of my life: teaching yoga in the most incredible surroundings, eating fresh, healthy meals, surfing, and exploring the rustic roads of Nosara with a coconut in hand. Everything about it stole my heart, and while I don't have plans to teach a retreat there again just yet, I can promise - manifestation-willing, it's going to happen!
- Costa Rica
Bermuda
Bermuda
Once upon a time, all I knew of Bermuda was that it had a triangle, and I wanted no part of it. As a child, the idea of it terrified me! These days, it holds one of my fondest memories: celebrating one of my very best friends' weddings. We had the absolute time of our lives! I recall being surprised at how English it felt, with its cozy pubs and love of cricket. We spent a glorious week roaming around the island on mopeds, cliff diving, and swimming in the most incredible shades of blue ocean. Of course, the highlight of the trip was the wedding itself - getting to be a bridesmaid on the beach was a dream come true. It's a trip I'll never forget, and I'm secretly hoping that my friends decide they want me to plan an anniversary group trip there because I won't be able to pack fast my suitcase fast enough to return!
