Intrepid Travel, a renowned tour company, has taken a significant step towards expanding its presence in the hotel industry by appointing Celine Hurelle. With 24 years of experience at Accor, Hurelle will collaborate with Intrepid’s executive leadership to identify potential opportunities for acquiring accommodations that align with the company’s commitment to responsible travel. Currently, Intrepid operates two hotels, one in Australia and one in Vietnam.
In Australia, Intrepid owns and runs the Daintree Ecolodge in Tropical North Queensland, a 15-room property that was acquired in late 2023. In Vietnam, the company has engaged in a three-year lease agreement for the Hoi An Field Boutique Resort and Spa, a 19-room establishment. Remarkably, about 85-90% of the business at the Hoi An Field Boutique Resort and Spa comes from Intrepid groups, underscoring its popularity.
Apart from its ventures in Australia and Vietnam, Intrepid is also involved in a 50-50 joint venture with CABN, an off-grid accommodations provider in South Australia. Hurelle’s extensive experience at Accor, where she held senior positions in various countries, uniquely positions her to drive Intrepid’s growth in the hotel sector. Notably, she served as the global head of the Sofitel brand, showcasing her expertise in strategy, branding, and commercial leadership.
Based at Intrepid’s global headquarters in Melbourne, Australia, Hurelle’s appointment signifies the company’s commitment to its expansion strategy. Holding dual French-Australian citizenship, she brings a global perspective to the role and is enthusiastic about leveraging her skills to propel Intrepid’s growth. Hurelle’s admiration for Intrepid’s dedication to responsible travel is evident, as she looks forward to contributing to the company’s continued success.
Intrepid Travel’s decision to venture into the hotel industry with the addition of Celine Hurelle demonstrates its vision for growth and diversification. With a strong portfolio of properties and strategic partnerships, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the evolving travel landscape. Hurelle’s appointment adds a wealth of experience and expertise to Intrepid’s leadership team, paving the way for a promising future in the hospitality sector.