Kieran Murphy
Managing Director
Prior to joining Steppes Travel in 2008, I worked at Thomson Tui, STA Travel and Discover the World with more than 20 years of experience in the travel industry. My travels have taken me on numerous adventures throughout Europe and North America, and while living in Spain I worked on a sail boat carrying tourists between Cullera and Ibiza. Furthermore, I have lived and worked in South Africa, Australia, Spain, America (San Francisco and Los Angeles) and China. Whilst working in the south of Shanghai as a teacher, I would spend every other weekend travelling and exploring the wonders of Beijing, Hong Kong and rural China. Although my passion lies with the people and cultures of Egypt, I equally enjoy spending long weekends visiting friends in Spain or family in Ireland.
Countries you sell
I don't sell that much anymore as I am busy managing Steppes Travel & Steppes Discovery (Discovery Initiatives). That said, I do muck in when required and enjoy offering my expertise to Egypt, North Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Arctic enquiries.
What has been your favourite travel experience?
An early morning balloon flight over the Nile which swept through the Valley of the Kings and then over the roof tops and quiet streets at sunrise.
Favourite/most impressive natural wonder?
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia.
Best hotel/lodge you have stayed in?
Tree Tops Lodge in Rotorua, New Zealand.
What has been your most remote travel experience?
A trek into the lesser known grand canyon of Australia at sunset.
Most embarrassing travel experience?
Walking naked to the toilets from my Ice Suite at the Ice Hotel, forgetting I was on full view to a bar bustling with vodka drinkers - many of whom I had just hosted on a husky excursion.
Best piece of travel advice
Always confer with an experienced specialist before you book your holiday, and while travelling always keep a $50 note and £50 note in your back pack and day pack for emergencies.
Where would you most like to go back to?
Camps Bay in Cape Town, South Africa.
Luxury when you travel?
PG Tips tea bags.