Paul Tavener

With more than 20 years of experience in the travel industry, Paul Tavener founded Marvellous Escapes with a simple vision: to create tailor-made rail holidays that place the client at the heart of every journey. Having held senior positions with some of the travel industry’s most respected brands, including Virgin Holidays and Viking Cruises, Paul brings extensive expertise across sales, commercial strategy, operations and customer experience.

A passionate advocate of rail travel, Paul specialises in Switzerland, Italy and luxury rail journeys around the world. From iconic routes such as the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and GoldenPass Express to legendary experiences aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, he believes some of the world’s greatest holidays are experienced by rail. For Paul, train travel is about more than simply reaching a destination. It is about immersing yourself in the landscapes, cultures and experiences that unfold along the way.

The idea for Marvellous Escapes was born from a desire to offer something different. Rather than fixed itineraries, Paul wanted to create truly bespoke rail holidays tailored to each client’s interests, pace and travel style. Today, that philosophy remains at the heart of the business, supported by a team of specialists who share his passion for exceptional service and unforgettable travel experiences.

Paul believes the best holidays are those that encourage travellers to slow down, embrace new experiences and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a cooking class in Milan, an opera performance at La Scala or simply enjoying a coffee while spectacular scenery passes by the train window, he believes the most memorable moments are often the ones you never expected.

Away from travel, Paul lives in London with his family, is a dedicated Queens Park Rangers supporter and speaks Mandarin. His ambition for Marvellous Escapes remains clear: to become the UK’s most trusted specialist in tailor-made rail holidays.