Last month we received an “Outstanding contribution to Taiwan Tourism” award for putting the tiny island on the world stage across TV, online and a roadshow around Australia.
It’s not very often we speak about ourselves. In fact many Aussies would say it feels a little “Un-Australian” to shine the light on yourself. But I am curious… why? It feels wonderful to bring the stories of literally thousands of “other” people who have been part of our Places We Go TV series from every corner of the globe to life, so why does it feel a little funny to put our hand up too?
I would like you to join me to raise a glass to our incredible team at Places We Go.
Every single member of our team are first-class storytellers, who put so much passion into this. Why do we do it? Because we, like you, are travellers, and we know it’s never just the places we go, it’s the people we meet that capture our hearts. Once we’ve met a local who is openly sharing their backyard, we can’t help but both celebrate them and go the extra mile to really tell their story.
We’ve been on the road for the past 12 years, produced over 120 hours of TV, have a global audience of 300 million people, and have published two best-selling travel books, and yet we have never been inclined to ‘put in for an award’; we’ve always been far more interested in helping others share their stories, and in turn, hopefully inspiring the world through travel.
But I have got to say, it felt pretty wonderful to be sitting in a packed room in southern Taiwan just a few weeks back for the 2019 Taiwan Tourism Awards and see Places We Go acknowledged for its outstanding contribution to tourism.
I thought of all the wonderful locals we interviewed on one of my favourite islands, and it gave me a lump in my throat.
As our name came up on the big screen, I looked around to catch the eye of our photographer Bruce. His smile was beaming across his face.
And then, of course, I was wishing our entire Places We Go family; Clint, Emma, Russell, Kevin, Tom, Tai, Eileen, Bev, Dave were there to celebrate…
After the awards, we enjoyed a celebratory lunch with our wonderful hosts and friends at Taiwan Tourism, all sharing stories of how this tiny island in the Pacific has captured our hearts. The joy of the people. Pure Joy.
Above all, a big thanks to my amazing team.
Congratulations Jen and the entire team at Places We Go! We were lucky enough to see you at the Brisbane Roadshow last year, Taiwan has certainly captured our hearts (the Lantern Festival is definitely on the bucket list!). It is always fantastic to catch up with the team from Taiwan Tourism as well (and fight over the delicious mooncakes they bring). All the best!
So deserving. The best travel show on TV. Your show talks to the bulk of travellers and highlights things that we can all see and do.
Thanks so much for your comment Keith! If only you knew how many times we all mention your name among on Places We Go family. It is so wonderful to have such a loyal supporter. Hope all is well and you are able to plan some interesting travel this year? Jen 🙂
So unbelievably proud of you and your entire team. From being there the day the seed was planted to now, it’s an incredible journey and one so thoroughly deserved. Well done my bf xx