With over 30 years of experience in the tourism industry, Liz brings a deep knowledge of Ireland, the UK, and Italy to Sheenco. Her dedication to building lasting relationships aligns perfectly with one of Sheenco’s core values. As our Head of Product and Partnerships, Liz is committed to curating exceptional experiences for our clients, ensuring every journey is truly unforgettable. You can contact her by email at reservations@sheencotravel.com or call her on toll free 888-6743-244. We asked Liz to tell us a bit about herself …
Tell us about yourself!
I grew up in Dublin and on leaving school, I really didn’t know what I wanted to do. I took a one year Diploma course in tourism and really from there I never looked back! I have worked in front office, reservations offices for standalone hotels and then moved into Central Reservations Office management for two hotel groups. The next step was 11 years spent in a DMC which managed trips to Ireland for many many tour operators abroad and for the past 7 years I have specialised in developing products for the US Market, focusing on Ireland, UK & Italy. I love the product area of the business and curating the best possible experiences for our clients. Each year I attend many travel trade events to meet people in the industry and find out what’s new.
What’s your favourite place in Ireland or/and the UK?
This is hard! I have favourite places all over.
I have been lucky enough to travel around a lot of Ireland and it’s all beautiful. Some favourites include Dingle and Clare. Also, having grown up in the 80’s and seeing the violence in Northern Ireland it is now such a pleasure to visit places like Belfast and Derry and see just how much they have prospered from the Peace process and the benefits they are reaping from tourism to their cities now.
Scotland has been a discovery for me. My first time there was in 2014 and I have traveled all over. My favourite places there are the more remote parts like Shetland, the Isles of Harris & Lewis and Orkney – just magical places! The cities are also great, I have been to Edinburgh and Glasgow many times but also Stirling, Inverness and Perth have much to offer.
England has such a varied history and lots to offer. Being a big musicals fan, I love the opportunity to go to London and see a show in the West End. For the history and movie lover there’s Bath, Oxford, Windsor and so many more undiscovered places.
What has been the most memorable/ favourite place you have been?
I would say Italy. It’s like my spiritual home – when I arrive there it just feels like home to me. I love the chaos of Naples and the peace of the Tuscan countryside in equal measure. It’s a combination of great food, wine, weather and history all rolled into one! I love walking around with no agenda and just discovering things by accident there.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to spend time with my nieces and bring them to explore new places and experiences.
I also like to volunteer at big events in my city from time to time. The last time was a Tall Ships event in Dublin when I used some vacation days to act as ship liaison officer for the ships while they were in the city. This pic is the French ship Belem which dates from 1896. I have in the past also volunteered with Special Olympics Ireland as a committee member for the Dublin Region and been a volunteer at the events themselves.
What is your favourite city?
Soooo hard – can I have more than one??
USA – Boston. I just love this city, love wandering around the North End, visiting all the historic places and just the general feel of the city. I have great friends there who have been good enough to show me around a lot of the city and surrounding areas.
Europe – Florence, Naples, London
Florence and Naples for the amazing food & wine, history and scenery!
London for its cosmopolitan vibes!