Curtis
months with Esto
countries visited
Meet Curtis
Hi, I’m Curtis, and I’m a Tour Designer at Esto. My greatest feeling in this role is knowing I’ve helped give students an experience they might never usually get the opportunity to have — and one they certainly won’t forget. That sense of purpose is what really drives me, and it’s why I’m always keen to be the best possible support for the teachers I work with.
I’m coming up to two years at Esto, and I still get a real buzz from delivering incredible trips for schools. I remember the excitement when school trips were announced when I was a student, so knowing I now help create that same feeling from the other side is pretty special. Every tour has lots of moving parts, and I genuinely enjoy fitting everything together — being detail‑oriented, positive, and honest so there’s clarity at every stage and teachers feel heard and supported throughout.
One of my favourite things about working at Esto is how flexible and collaborative we are. No two groups are the same, and I love working to what each individual group needs to make their trip the very best it can be. As a keen traveller myself, discovering new destinations or seeing familiar places in a new way is an added bonus to a role I already love.
Outside of work, I’m usually spending time with family and friends, planning my next holiday (always need one booked to keep me motivated), and trying to stay active — whether that’s the gym, football, padel, or attempting to enjoy running… somewhat reluctantly.
Venice
The history is fascinating, the little cafés tucked away around the islands are incredible, and when you see buildings already disappearing beneath the water, it really hits you how special it is just to be witnessing it.
Rome
Keeping things Italian, the most impressive landmark I’ve visited has to be the Colosseum and looking around the Sistine Chapel is truly breathtaking. As a city steeped in history it is truly fascinating, and I can’t forget the incredible pasta dishes!
Munich
One of my fondest travel memories is cycling around Munich in the summer with my friends! It’s a city full of tradition and history, but it’s the parts you least expect that make you fall in love with the place, like watching people surf along the river that runs through the city’s English Gardens! The weather can’t always be relied upon admittedly, however that makes it feel even more like home.
Curtis
“Travel is not a reward for working, it’s an education for living” – Anthony Bourdain
Curtis’ top tips
Give their brains a break
Be wary of information overload, particularly on travel days – a jam packed itinerary is brilliant, however it can be overwhelming for some students if the days are too content heavy or they’re exhausted from a day of travelling.
Let us help you explore new places
If it’s your first time visiting a destination, and nervous about it, please let us know as it’s almost certain that a member of our team have been themselves, and in some cases with one of our groups! We can also help you with an inspection visit prior to your group’s departure, which alongside the pre-departure and on tour support will help put your mind at ease.
Don’t be afraid to try something different
It’s understandable to stick with what you know, but sometimes it’s good to try something new, even if it’s just a new restaurant on one night. It can help bring students out of their shell and you may even find some new favourites…
Let’s talk trips
We love to talk school trips, so let’s start a conversation! Our team of expert Tour Designers are ready and waiting – simply drop us a message or give us a call.
