With the travel industry still in early recovery from the global pandemic, it may seem an odd time to launch a new travel business.

But not for former Sir Thomas Rich's School pupil Sam Colbert-Smith, who has launched Golden Tales Travel this month specialising in trips to the Far East.

Growing up in Cheltenham and a graduate in Geography & International Relations, Mr Colbert-Smith first discovered his love of travel as a young teenager while on a trip of a lifetime with his family to Vietnam.

Since then, he has also been a frequent visitor to Southeast Asia and began to dream about one day owning his own travel agency.

After reaching a low point in his previous career during lockdown, and also losing his grandmother, the 25-year-old decided to put his inheritance money to good use, change career path and start his own business.

With the support of well-known high street firm Hays Travel Group, Mr Colbert-Smith was able to gain ABTA & ATOL protection to become an accredited travel agency. The certification is said to provide customers with financial protection as well as backing from Hays.

He said: "The business is currently all online, however I have ambition to build a brand that can one day have a place on the high street.

"Moving forward, I can't think of anywhere better to open a shop than my hometown of Cheltenham to offer tailor-made travel solutions to the discerning traveller."

Golden Tales Travel said it hopes to work alongside local guides, operators, hotels, resorts, eco-lodges, homestays and transport providers to provide unforgettable experiences to its customers.

Mr Colbert-Smith added: "In such difficult times, when we have all been denied many of the things we love to do, I felt that the Covid pandemic could actually be a great time to set up a travel business.

"Everyone I know is desperate to get away and I believe there will be a huge demand once people are allowed to travel again, particularly while watching the Olympics taking place in the stunning country of Japan.

"I am incredibly excited and cannot wait to share all my passion and knowledge with fellow travel lovers."

For more information, visit www.goldentalestravel.com or call 020 3909 0434.