Life Before Swoop
I've always been drawn to nature, stunning landscapes, and hiking adventures. Growing up, I was fortunate to experience incredible places, from the canyons of Arizona to the snowy peaks of the Dolomites, sparking my passion for travel and the wilderness.
My enthusiasm for all things Hispanic began as a teenager while spending summers as an au pair in Spain. Determined to master the language, I studied Spanish and Linguistics, followed by a one-way flight to Chile. I spent two years teaching English in Santiago, seizing every chance to explore this magical country from top to bottom—no mean feat for the world’s longest country!
I visited every corner of Chile and much of Latin America. It was amazing to contrast the glacial landscapes of Patagonia with the deserts of Atacama, the intensity of Iguazu Falls, and the sprawling winelands of the central valleys.
After returning to the UK in 2017, I couldn’t shake my connection with Chile and Argentina. Since then, I’ve shared my love for these countries with customers and have been fortunate enough to return several times.
Day to Day at Swoop
I'm based in Bristol, Swoop’s HQ, where I also get to connect daily with our global team and partners in Chile and Argentina, sharing ideas and our love for Patagonia.
No two trips to Patagonia are the same which makes my job so exciting. I love engaging with customers to find out about their interests and expectations for their trip, in order to create a truly tailor-made experience every time.
Why I Love Patagonia
Visiting all seven continents has given me a huge appreciation for the wildly different landscapes and experiences found across the world. I'm lucky enough to have travelled to some magnificent places, but nothing compares to the magic I feel when I return to Patagonia.
For me, experiencing that “wow” factor is unbeatable. Some of my most memorable moments have been those when I've turned a corner and been greeted with breathtaking views, leaving me speechless. Those experiences are exactly what Patagonia delivers in abundance.
I love Patagonia because it truly has something for everyone. Wildlife enthusiasts can come face to face with whales on a submarine vessel in Peninsula Valdes, walk amongst penguin rookeries on remote islands, or seek out the elusive puma in Torres del Paine.
If wilderness is your thing then there are some amazing untouched pockets of Patagonia; you can drive for days through the majestic scenery of Aysen and not see another soul, take an epic road trip down Ruta 3 - driving through local villages and remote estancias, or embark on a multi-day hike through the rugged landscapes of Tierra del Fuego (“the ends of the earth”).
I'm always excited to see what my next trip will bring. I end up discovering something new every time, whether it's catching that first glimpse of a snow-capped volcano, hiking on top of a glacier, or enjoying a seafood barbecue on a windswept beach with a local fishing family.
My Photos
A great view of the Baker Neff River Confluence in Aysén
Coming face to face with a southern right whale in Peninsula Valdes
Trekking on Glacier Grey!
Exploring the ends of the earth in Tierra del Fuego
Checking out the Marble Caves in Aysén
My Next Adventure
I’m often drawn to distant and exotic destinations, and most of my travels over the past few years have taken me outside of the UK. But, I'm conscious not to overlook the opportunities and adventures waiting right on my doorstep.
For my next trip, I’d love to explore Scotland and its breathtaking hiking trails and landscapes. Some of the National Parks and coastal areas look amazing.
I'd love to find out if any of the views rival those I've experienced in Patagonia!
Glenfinnan, Scotland - Bjorn Snelders