During ILTM Cannes, the world’s premier event for luxury travel professionals, we sat down with Marijke Vos, founder and owner of Intiq First Class Travel, a boutique private travel concierge specialising in tailor-made experiences. Against the backdrop of this vibrant marketplace, where the world’s most elite travel brands converge, Vos spoke passionately about the future of high-end travel—especially the growing potential of Saudi Arabia.
“It’s about stories, not just luxury”
“I went to Saudi Arabia for the first time in January,” Marijke said, her excitement evident. “It’s such a fascinating place. There are incredible landscapes, rich culture, and a sense of history that feels so alive. For me, travel isn’t just about luxury—it’s about storytelling… and Saudi Arabia has so many stories waiting to be told.”
She spoke passionately about how the Kingdom offers something different, a blend of authenticity and exclusivity that appeals to travellers looking for more than just the usual luxury escape. And as Saudi Arabia continues to grow as a travel destination, Marijke sees tremendous potential. “It’s still under the radar, and that’s part of its charm,” she said. “A lot of my clients want to go somewhere new—somewhere their friends haven’t been yet. Saudi is perfect for that. You have these untouched beaches along the Red Sea and incredible historical sites like AlUla. It’s all there.”
One common concern about visiting Saudi is safety, but Marijke dismissed those fears based on her own experience. “I travelled there alone as a European woman and felt completely safe,” she explained. “It’s not just a secure place to visit; it’s incredibly welcoming. That’s something I make sure to emphasise when talking to my clients.”
She also noted that Saudi Arabia works well for families. “If you’re travelling with kids, it’s amazing. The people are warm and hospitable, and there’s a lot to do that makes for lasting memories.”
From personal passion to professional expertise
Marijke’s career in luxury travel stems from her lifelong love of exploring the world. “Travel has always been part of who I am,” she said. “My parents were big on exposing me to different cultures from a young age. They didn’t just show me luxury—they showed me authenticity, and that shaped how I see travel today.”
Marijke began her career in the hospitality and tourism industry at the age of 20, gaining over 15 years of experience before establishing her own company. Seven years ago, she channelled her passion into Intiq First Class Travel, a boutique private travel concierge specialising in tailor-made experiences.
“I don’t sell pre-packaged trips,” she explained. “I craft unique journeys based on what my clients love, down to the smallest detail.”
She shared a personal anecdote to illustrate this attention to detail. “One time, a client sent me a photo from their trip, and I had it framed and waiting for them in their next hotel room with a note. Those little touches—those moments of connection—are what make travel truly special.”
The role of events like ILTM Cannes
For Marijke, attending events like ILTM Cannes is a critical part of delivering the best for her clients. “This is where I meet the people who make it all happen—hotel managers, private jet operators, yacht brokers. It’s about building relationships so I can offer my clients the best possible experiences.”
This year, her focus includes not just bringing Dutch or other European clients to Saudi Arabia but also encouraging travel from Saudi Arabia to the Netherlands and Europe. “It’s all about fostering connections,” she added.
Thanks to her visit, Marijke is convinced Saudi Arabia is a destination more travellers should know about. “There’s still some hesitation from people who think it’s too new or unprepared, but that hasn’t been my experience at all. It’s vibrant, safe, and culturally rich. It’s just waiting to be explored.”
Looking ahead: Saudi and beyond
Marijke is particularly excited about upcoming developments like the new GCC visa, which will make it easier to visit multiple countries in the region. “It’s such a great opportunity for travellers who want to see Saudi, Oman, and the UAE in one trip. You get such a variety of experiences in one region.”
She also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing luxury infrastructure. “They’re investing heavily in resorts, boutique hotels, and even cruises. It’s becoming a destination that balances exclusivity with authenticity.”
Travel that feels personal
For Marijke, luxury travel isn’t just about the obvious perks. It’s about creating meaningful connections. “I know my clients inside out—their preferences, their quirks, their special moments. It’s about making them feel seen and cared for at every step of their journey.”
That personal touch is what sets her work apart. “One of my favourite moments is when a client comes back and tells me the trip was unforgettable—not because it was luxurious, but because it felt like it was made just for them.”
Why now is the time to visit Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia opens up to the world, Marijke is encouraging her clients to consider it. “It’s such an exciting time to go,” she said. “It feels fresh and full of potential. There’s so much to discover—beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and a history that’s been preserved so well.”
For Marijke, Saudi Arabia isn’t just a destination; it’s an opportunity to experience something new and meaningful. And as she continues to introduce her clients to the world’s best-kept secrets, she’s certain Saudi Arabia will soon become a must-visit for travellers who want something truly special. “It’s a place that stays with you,” she said simply. “And that’s what travel should be.”
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