In a time like no other, where almost the entire world has come to a standstill, the travel industry is facing a challenge that nobody could have seen coming. This week, we spoke to the CEO of EFR Travel Group, Edward Rom, to find out how a business at the forefront of corporate and leisure travel survives a global pandemic, and to reflect on the things that matter closer to home.

1. How has EFR Travel been managing during these unprecedented times for the world and for travel?

I think we’ve managed the process very well. We have satisfied all clients’ requests for refunds and re-bookings and have reshaped the business for the new normal and we are awaiting the markets to restart in the forthcoming months so we can get back to exploring the world!

2. Tell us a bit about the history of EFR and how it all began…

From leaving school when I was in my late teens, I have always worked in travel. I had my first business when I was 23, but in hindsight I was too young and inexperienced for it. We had to close the business and I took my clients to another travel business from that period to 2001. I then decided it was time for another crack. My father-in-law leant me £100,000 to start the business and I’ve never looked back. I paid the money back within two years and then gradually grew the business to what it is today.

3. When it comes to booking a holiday, what do you think a travel specialist can offer that you can’t do yourself?

We offer the full service. The group is a one-stop travel shop for leisure, golf, cruising, corporate, and jet travel, as well as offering a concierge service to all clients. We pride ourselves on the contacts we have in the industry, and the knowledge our team has is really second-to-none. It means we can offer the full service and meet our clients’ requirements all the way from the start of the enquiry until they return home.

4. Given the circumstances, you must have been spending much more time at home. Where’s home for you and how are you finding it?

I live in Aldenham and we have always loved living amongst a Jewish community, I think it brings togetherness and a warmth, and when you need help there is always someone around that you can count on, which is more important than ever these days.

5. Chopped liver or chicken soup? Both!

6. Snow or sun? Sun

7. Adventure or R&R? R&R

8. Football or golf? Golf, without question. I am totally spoilt for golf, especially as I am a member of Wentworth Golf Club which, in my opinion, offers some of the best golf you can play.

9. Aside from golf, what else are you passionate about?

My greatest passion is my family. My wife of 31 years has been the greatest asset and support in helping me grow the business, and I am extremely grateful to have an amazing family around me. We love to support charities close to our hearts and, being a patron of Chai and Rays of Sunshine, we ensure help is given to those in need which is so important to us.

10. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, what destination would you choose and why?

Maldives. Having returned in December I just loved the tranquillity and casual barefoot way of life which is so relaxed and removed from one’s daily routine.

11. What’s the most memorable meal you’ve ever had and where was it?

Now that’s a tough one. It’s so difficult to pinpoint one, but I’d have to say Le Gavroche. We go once a year with the family, and we always look forward to the ambiance, the food and the exceptional service we receive. Michel Roux’s hospitality is second to none.

12. And how about your most surreal travel experience?

Being stuck in LA for seven days during the Ash Cloud and then getting home on the first plane that landed in the UK.

13. If you could recommend one trip for our readers to go on when the world opens up again, what would it be?

This would depend on what the clients would be looking to gain from the trip but if it is just R& R – there is no better place than the Maldives.

Visit the EFR Travel Group website here