Ellena Kkolos, Editorial Assistant

What attracted you to Secret Escapes? I adore travelling and writing, and luxury goods are my opiate of choice, so naturally Secret Escapes was perfect because it incorporates all three. Because it’s a fairly young company, there’s so much scope for growth, and to potentially be a part of that seemed very exciting. Eat, sleep, travel, repeat.

What attracted you to Secret Escapes?

I adore travelling and writing, and luxury goods are my opiate of choice, so naturally Secret Escapes was perfect because it incorporates all three. Because it’s a fairly young company, there’s so much scope for growth, and to potentially be a part of that seemed very exciting. Eat, sleep, travel, repeat.

What was your first week at Secret Escapes like?

It was pretty crazy, but the UK editorial girls took me under their wings and helped me cope with the magnitude of little things and style nuances to learn. Everyone is really friendly and approachable – I knew I was in good hands within my first few moments.


How did you find the recruitment process at Secret Escapes?

Super-efficient. Within the space of a few weeks, I’d gone through the entire process and committed to moving from Bristol (which I love) to London (which I love even more)! SE didn’t waste any time too which is a blessing – it’s not nice to be on the other side waiting helplessly. I instantly accepted the offer because I loved the vibe I got from the office and the girls interviewing me – it was the perfect fit.

What did you dream of being when you were growing up and why?

It was always a battle between a fashion designer, a Greek popstar and a writer. Needless to say, my lack of talent for the first two meant my writing ambitions prevailed!

What has been your best memory so far?

The Tiki takeover (yes, the office has its own Tiki Bar) and Christmas buffet were quite special. Even though joining just before Christmas meant things in the office were super busy, the festivities going on kept everyone happy and excited.

What makes Secret Escapes different to where you have worked before?

The fact that there are more than eight people on the team is a start! Everyone is passionate about the job they’re doing – they work really hard but know how to have fun, so the environment is always positive and productive. I don‘t think there are many companies that have such a harmonious balance, with a team of people who genuinely love their job.

Finally …. What has been your favourite holiday destination and why?

There are so many places I’ve loved – Sicily, Amsterdam, New York – but New Orleans is like nowhere I’ve ever been. The mix of cultures, beautiful colonial architecture, the vibrant outdoor social scene, live jazz music, amazing food and the spooky presence of voodoo are just a few things that make it one of the coolest cities I’ve explored.

Posted in Meet the Escapers