New horizons
If there is one person in Dubai who knows how to discover the world in style, it’s Maryanne Haggas. Modern-day explorer, Maryanne has travelled to some of the most beautiful and unique destinations, but unlike some who choose to keep their special getaways a secret, she wants to share them with like-minded adventure-seekers.
Kicking off 2020, she has launched a luxury travel club that offers members discounted rates on unforgettable destinations. She already has over 50 boutique hotels and privately- owned villas across Asia and Europe on board, and the club also creates one-of-a-kind experiences.
“We swap traditional five star properties with boutique hotels, stuffy restaurants take a back seat to vibrant, hidden local gems and personalised services whisk you from comfort to adventure and back.”
The Peaks collection has been created to fulfil members desires to travel frequently and stay in some of the world’s most beautiful hotels for less. But that’s not all. The first six months of your membership will cost absolutely nothing allowing you to take a peak into new luxury, whilst saving on bookings and experiences.
Ready to sign up?
What was your favourite subject at school?
I didn’t really excel in the classroom so tended to turn my attention to sports – I definitely became more interested in ‘work’ post-school.
What was your first job?
After a year of internships at fashion houses (there were a few interesting tales from my time at Tom Ford) and magazine titles, I worked for a Fashion PR Agency called Goodley PR in the ‘cupboard’ handling samples.. anyone who has been in a similar position can relate – this is no easy (and very time-consuming!) task.
What inspired you to launch The Peaks?
Have you ever longed for a holiday off the beaten track? Yet still wanted a comfortable bed at the end of the day? Have you dreamt of surfing, or trekking or walking among elephants and giraffes, while still dining on the best, authentic local cuisine? Have you ever craved adventure and comfort at the same time? And have you struggled to find a travel platform that can deliver this elusive balance? Today, luxury travel is about more than just five-star hotels and fine dining. More and more we are not seeking opulence nor do we want to wear dinner jackets and high heels on our holidays. Indulging in luxury travel for its own sake is no longer enough. We want experiences. We want memories. The Peaks was created to give our members exactly what they want. We are here to help you make the most of your time, your trip, your memories and your experiences because we know your time is the ultimate luxury. Every club has its purpose, ours is to offer you a peak into new luxury.
What can we expect from this new platform?
A high-end travel club, The Peaks provides a new experience and a peak into new luxury by allowing members the chance to explore the best in the boutique, bespoke and beautiful at discounted rates, and indulge in personalised, one-of-a-kind experiences, both around the world and close to home. Offering members the chance to enjoy the world’s most alluring hotels, privately- owned villas and unique experiences, The Peaks’ collection has been created to fulfil members’ desires to travel frequently to incredible destinations and stay in some of the world’s most beautiful hotels for less. We swap traditional five star properties with boutique hotels, stuffy restaurants take a back seat to vibrant, hidden local gems and personalised services whisk you from comfort to adventure and back. To truly enjoy a destination, our members will need the best local tips from the savviest explorers. Luckily, The Peaks Plans offers first-hand information and advice on each destination, covering everything from driver recommendations and tour guides to cafes and shopping suggestions. With the help of local gurus at each of our handpicked hotels, plus the talented team at The Peaks, The Peaks Plans covers all the essentials at each destination.
Meanwhile, The Peaks Perks unlocks offers for our members, giving them access to our partners’ discounted products and services. In need of a last minute bikini or some new sunglasses? The Peaks Perks has all basis covered when it comes to pre and post travel plus the trip itself!
The fun doesn’t stop there. To entice people to sign up and become a member before our official launch, we are giving away a three-night stay with Teardrop Hotels in Sri Lanka. People simply have to sign up for free via www.wearethepeaks.com, tag their travel companions and like and follow us across social media.
Which is your favourite travel destination?
This is very tricky! Picking one is almost impossible. There are places I love for many different regions – Sri Lanka would be high up on my list of favourite destinations – it seems to offer everything from epic surf and sandy beaches to safari experiences, hiking and all forms of adventure. The Maldives definitely has some of the best diving I’ve ever experienced.
What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?
Failure is nothing to be afraid of – what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger after all!
Which fashion brands can we find in your work wardrobe?
A comfy jumpy from Onjenu, a pair of Hermes Sandels, a Chinti & Parker jumper, Mercy Delta shirts, Hayley Menzies cardigans and some Rixo dresses.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
Don’t try to impress everyone. The unhappiest people are those who care the most about what other people think. Also don’t be afraid of being afraid! Sometimes the one thing you need for growth is the one thing you are most afraid to do – it is always possible to find light, even in the darkest of places.
And what is the worst?
People who say ‘if you keep quiet and keep your head down and just work hard, people will notice you and reward that’ – it’s all lies, that’s how you get taken advantage of – always speak up, voice your opinions – be heard, not just seen!
What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
There have been lots of challenges in life – but you know what, I like a challenge, and seem to perform better under stressful and high pressure circumstances. If I had to pick one, I would say learning to not worry about what other people thing. Personality begins where comparison leaves off – it’s important to back yourself, be unique, be confident and be proud in what you are trying to achieve – you’re own opinions matter and sometimes people lose sight of that, especially when imposture syndrome kicks in!
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