In this post:
A Word from Michele
It is with a tinge of sadness that I announce that TLFL has now been transferred to its new owners Eugene and Katrina. I originally launched the website in 2016 after I left a 23-year career in Air Traffic Control for a kidney transplant. I had no clue what I was doing running a website, but I did have a pretty good knowledge of how to find a bargain for luxury travel. With around £200 I set up the website myself from scratch and went on a steep learning curve. I remember it took me 10 days just to work out how to centre the logo by writing code!
I was lucky, and the website took off very quickly when I was the first journalist in BA’s new Gatwick lounge at the South Terminal, only 3 months after I started. Shortly after that, I was already getting 15,000 views a month and it continued to grow from there. Since then, the website has had millions of views and has afforded me the privilege to experience things that I never would have done.
One of my favourite memories was being aboard BA for Heathrow’s first-ever dual take-off. It was the day the US reopened after over 18 months of the border being closed. The emotional scenes as families reunited and the staff cheered and waved flags will stay with me forever. I have also been lucky enough to fly on some amazing flights, such as the Virgin Atlantic A330neo press flight, where I got to meet Richard Branson and was serenaded by the onboard band and of course, BA’s first A350 with club suites. I’ve visited some amazing places such as Bodo in the Arctic Circle with Finnair and the Bahamas with Virgin. Some of the hotel experiences have also been once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as the Jumeirah Saadiyat Island in an amazing suite, the Anantara overwater bungalow in Ras Al Khaimah and the Hyatt Kotor Bay recently.
The great news (well, for me – not sure how my readers feel!) is that I am not going anywhere for a while. I will be writing every week for TLFL.
I chose the new owners carefully as I was lucky enough to have a lot of interest in the website and several offers. The new owners are passionate about travel and have a wealth of experience of frequent flying and luxury travel. Funnily enough, Eugene has been a reader of this website for many years and we often messaged about various topics over the years. Little did we realise that he would be one of the future owners!
I would like to thank all my readers for their support in making TLFL a success and it has been lovely to meet so many of you over the years and hear your travel success stories. I know many of you have been reading the website for many years.
So over to Eugene and Katrina to introduce themselves….
Eugene and Katrina: Continuing a Legacy of Luxury Travel
We are thrilled to introduce ourselves as the new owners of “Turning Left for Less,” a blog that has become a beacon for luxury travel enthusiasts under the outstanding guidance of Michele. For the past eight years, many of you have followed Michele’s journey, discovering the best deals and insights into luxury flights and hotels. We want to take a moment to congratulate Michele on the amazing job she has done in building such a vibrant community of readers who share a passion for exploring the world in style.
This is an opportunity we could not miss, and we are embracing it wholeheartedly. Our goal is to continue Michele’s legacy by providing you with even more value, offering insights into the best luxury travel deals, and sharing our personal experiences in the world of high-end travel. We aim to bring you the latest on luxury flights and hotels while adding our unique perspective and ensuring that the blog remains a trusted source for all things luxurious.
Rest assured, we won’t be making any drastic changes. We’ve been avid readers of the blog for the past 5 years, and know how valuable it is. Instead, we aim to build on Michele’s foundation, adding a touch of our experiences and ensuring that every piece of content is designed to enhance your travel adventures. Whether it’s finding hidden gems or making the most of your air miles and credit card vouchers, we’re here to guide you through every step of your journey.
The good news is, Michele is very much still an important part of the team. Michele will be helping us continue to grow the blog by writing every single week.
Thank you for welcoming us into this wonderful community. We are excited to embark on this new chapter with you, continuing to inspire your travels and helping you embrace the thrill of exploring the world in comfort and style.
About Eugene
I didn’t have many opportunities to travel until I was 16, when I took my first holiday abroad in Spain. This experience revealed the vast world beyond my hometown and began a lifelong love affair with travelling. By the age of 21, I had taken my passion to new heights – quite literally – by earning my private pilot’s licence. Flying gave me a fresh perspective on the world and a ticket to endless adventures. It’s safe to say I’ve never looked back.
These days, my travel itinerary is full of luxury destinations: I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy safaris in South Africa, blissful beach escapes in the Maldives, and epic road trips through California’s stunning landscapes. I have a keen eye for the best hotels, business and first-class flights you can get through deals with air miles/Avios and credit card vouchers. Whether I’m soaking up the sun on a secluded beach or exploring the enchanting streets of Venice (a favourite I visit annually), my adventures are all about embracing life’s richest experiences.
- My top tip for travelling – Don’t over plan! Often the most spontaneous parts of your trip are the best bit.
- One thing I’d never travel without – Antibacterial wipes
- The upcoming trip I’m most looking forward to? A tier point run to the US.
- The best way to find the top places to eat in a new destination? It has to have a great setting and be backed up by positive reviews on TripAdvisor
- My dream holiday – Following the Formula 1 circuit around the world for a whole season
About Katrina
My wanderlust was sparked by my father’s job in the hotel industry, which took our family on exciting holidays all around the world. Those childhood adventures planted the seeds of a lifelong love for travel and a curiosity about the world. Thanks to my Dad’s career, I was lucky enough to experience some of the best luxury travel, and have learnt to appreciate the finer details that make a trip truly memorable.
As an adult, I seek out the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. I’m a fan of laid-back beach days, but I also love the buzz of a city. My travel style leans more towards culture and cuisine than adrenaline-fueled adventures, and some of my favourite moments have been enjoying the stunning scenery and mouth-watering food found in my favourite spots like Italy and Cape Town. Whether it’s the rich history of Rome or the spectacular views of Table Mountain, I love to find the magic in every destination.
- My top tip for travelling – Research places to eat before you go
- One thing I’d never travel without – A good book. And now I travel with a toddler in tow, a pair of comfy shoes
- The upcoming trip I’m most looking forward to? Dubai – It’s a great luxury winter sun destination and combines my love for beach and city.
- The best way to find the top places to eat in a new destination? Articles and reviews on TripAdvisor. Seeing pictures of the food is a must, presentation is a large part of the fine dining experience for me
- My dream holiday – Bora Bora
About Katrina & Eugene as a couple
As a couple, we’ve always loved to travel. Our partnership blends a love for luxury adventures, a love for each other, and a skill for business. We met over 16 years ago and immediately bonded over our shared passions. Our complementary skills have seen us develop a thriving business, become parents to a lively toddler, and dog-parents to Ralph the Poochon. We’re a really good team and are looking forward to channelling our skills into helping others enjoy luxury travel as much as we do.
Our travel journey began with a cultural getaway to Athens and has since taken us to every corner of the globe. For us, travel is about more than just ticking destinations off a list; it’s about creating unforgettable memories and sharing our experiences with the world. In our new roles, we can’t wait to continue bringing news and the best luxury offers to Turning Left for Less. We aim to inspire others to embrace the life of luxury travel with the best flight, hotel, and points deals, showcasing the best of luxury destinations and adding in some family-friendly adventures too.
Travel isn’t just something we do – it’s who we are.
65 comments
Awww, I’m going to miss the daily mistake/s on your posts! Such a grammar nerd I couldn’t help myself😂. I too had a kidney transplant 15 years ago so always love reading all your blogs, reports etc. I keep thinking one day my travelling might stop when my kidney gives up the ghost but you keep me upbeat 😎. Thank you
Wow, who knew there are so many fellow transplant warriors out there! Just over a year since my new kidney and really enjoying being able to travel again.
Glad you are back to travelling after your transplant. Happy travels!
Fear not John. I am good for a spelling mistake too!
Thank you, Michele, for your efforts in putting this site together. It is really useful!
Your candor and warmth are also appreciated! Am looking forward to more of the same with Eugene and Katrina at the helm. Good luck.
Cheers John.
Congratulations Michele on the successful development – and now the transfer – of your unique business. (Your choice of business name had me hooked from the start!)
Enjoy your new found freedom – which will no doubt be spent on further travel opportunities – and we’ll enjoy continuing to read of your experiences
And welcome Eugene & Katrina! What an amazing opportunity for you both (plus your toddler!) and we’ll look forward to reading your take on the best ways in which to experience the joys of travel in the future!
As recent “retirees” we can’t wait to expand our areas of exploration (in relative comfort of course!) and will be welcome all the tips you can share!
Thank you Lynn, we hope we can help with your future exploration!
Good luck for your future to both old and new owners!
I have enjoyed reading Michele’s site and the very occasional comment, and wish you everything you wish for the future.
And good luck to Our new owners; I hope it continues to do well and develops further.
John
Thank you John!
Thank you Michele for creating such a fabulous blog and very best wishes to the new owners, Eugene and Katrina in developing it in the future.
I look forward to many more adventures and good deals that I can incorporate into my own future TLFL travels.
Cheers David.
Best of luck Michelle. Hope there will still be Xmas drinks party for you to return to. So we can catch up with you. Congrats on such a great handover. Look forward to reading about great travel tips etc ongoing.
Thanks Polly. Hopefully see you again at a future event.
Thanks Polly.
Thank you Michele, my wife, Lynn, and I started travelling near continuously a few years before Covid off the back of one of your articles on securing a sensibly priced business class flight by flying out of the EU, from your extremely helpful lists of outbound cities and destinations, along with prices. An absolute godsend. Off to Cape Town this coming Friday (via Helsinki with Qatar) we are staying at the wonderful Marine Hotel in Hermanus to do some whale watching. Our thanks goes out to you and the team for providing us with the information and inspiration to get out and see the world. Love and best wishes, Stuart & Lynn
Thanks Stuart & Lyn. That’s so great you have managed to travel so much making use of the deals. Jealous of your South Africa trip. Love that area!
Enjoy Cape Town! It’s mine and Eugene’s favourite destination!
Good luck to all of yoy. Pictures of Ralph please.
Thanks Amanda. I’m sure we can slip in the odd picture of Ralph here and there so keen an eye out.
Congratulations Michele, Eugene and Katrina!
Reading your blog has become a daily ritual for me (just like doing Wordle). I’ve really enjoyed your reviews, travel tips & competitions over the years and look forward to hearing more great tips from Eugene & Katrina.
Thank you Wilma.
Thank you Michele. I’ve really enjoyed reading your site for the last few years.
Wish you all the best in your future plans
Thank you.
Hi I would like to know what is the best way to get progression on tier points and are the awarded after each flight or on your return? Also is it possible to have Gold for life? Thanks
Hi Nick,
Thanks for your questions.
Tier Points are usually awarded a couple of days after each flight has been completed.
35,000 Tier Points is the mammoth number needed to achieve Gold for Life.
At the moment if you book 5 nights with British Airways Holidays including either a hotel or car hire and cover 5 nights you will earn Double Tier Points. This can be a great way to climb the ladder quickly.
Hope that helps.
Thank you Michelle. As a relative newcomer I have been absorbed by your work since I found you.
Before you go, perhaps you could share how you find best value routes and tier Point runs, especially ones that don’t originate in the UK?
Thanks Steve. I’ll look at doing something on this in the next few weeks.
Congratulations to you all and so pleased TLFL had transferred into such good hands. I was delighted to come across your website a few years ago and have really enjoyed reading the travel articles, news, updated and tips – such good information. With best of wishes.
Thanks Connie.
Very best wishes Michele. I’ve followed the site since meeting you at a travel fair in Feb 2020, and we all remember what came after that. TLFL away invaluable as the world slowly returned to normal. I really enjoyed being able to write for you recently too. It’s great you’re not letting go completely. And a warm welcome to Katrina and Eugene!
Thanks Jane.
Thank you Jane.
Well it looks like I’ll be saying “adieu” but not goodbye to an old friend and hello to two new ones! I have and will look forward to my daily read. Thank you Michele for setting up this informative yet friendly site and welcome Katrina and Eugene.
Thanks Janette.
Enjoy partial retirement Michele and Welcome, Eugene and Katrina!
Thanks Oran
Cheers Oran.
Thank you Michele for setting up such a brilliant website. I’ve loved reading the blog every day. I hope you enjoy having a bit more time to yourself, I can strongly recommend retirement – I’m absolutely loving it.
Welcome to Eugene and Katrina and all the very best to you at the helm of TLFL
Thanks Juliet. Not going to be fully retiring for quite a while but looking forward to some more free time. Glad to hear you are still enjoying yours!
Really appreciate the warm welcome, Juliet.
I’d like to add my thanks to Michele and wish luck to Eugene and Katrina.
Cheers Clive.
Well done, congratulations and best wishes to all!
Thank you.
Many congratulations Michele on building such a successful blog then transferring it so smoothly.🙌🙌🙌 Your blog with one other are a daily read for me and have helped headline a good deal or deadline to be aware of more than a few times… and given great ideas other times.
Enjoy your relative freedom, well deserved, and welcome and good luck Katrina and Eugene 😎
Thanks Martin.
Thank you Martin.
Oh Michele. Thank you. I have learned so much from you. Wishing you every success in the future but you will be sorely missed. TLFL has been my goto for everything since before the pandemic.
Katrina and Eugene. Looking forward to seeing what you do with the best travel blog out there.
Thanks Andrew.
Michele, thank you for a wonderful daily inspiring read. I have really enjoyed your hard work to help people like me keep up to date with travel news and the best places to stay and travel. Enjoy your partial retirement.
My best wishes to Eugene and Katrina for taking on the mammoth task of following you and building on such a successful blog. Good luck.
Thank you Susan.
Massive shoes to fill. You’re right there.
Congratulations Michelle.
I’d love to the follow the F1 calendar too Eugene. One day.
Wouldn’t it be great! Expensive but great!
Michele, many congratulations! It takes a lot of hard work to build an influential and well-respected blog and you should be commended for all your efforts. I’ve always enjoyed reading you and have often followed your good advice. Thank you – and good luck to the new team!
Cheers Ben.
Thank you Michelle, I’ve been following this blog for several years and found it really helpful. Good luck to the new owners and I look forward to following you too 🙂
Thanks Dawn.
Congratulations & all the best for the future. I started dialysis 2 weeks ago.
Thank you Michele! All the very best for whatever ventures you are involved in, I am sure you will bring much passion, drive and intelligence to them.
Eugene and Katrina – welcome and I hope you enjoy your newfound project and I look forward to reading some alternative perspectives and tips on travel. Go for it!
Thanks Andy.
Thanks for everything, TLFL has been my gateway drug to being hooked on premium travel!
Good luck to eugene and katrina. As a new parent, some coverage on travelling with young children whilst not giving up totally on the luxury side would be great. Finding already that the facilities for babies at hotels in UK & overseas are so variable regardless of price point. An issue I previously had no awareness of whatsoever.
It has been my drug for over 5 years too! Thankfully Michele is still writing plenty so I get to get my fix too!
I hear you totally about travelling with kids. Our little man is just over 2 and has been on 12 return holidays so far so I would like to think we have a really good understanding for the challenges parents face.
We are thinking about ways we can add valuable content such as travelling with a children however we really want to be sensitive to the current readers so we want to be smart with it. Watch this space!
Makes sense, I previously would have not been interested in the slightest, and id imagine a pretty small group of subscribers chasing down gold status each year whilst travelling with young kids half the time!
Ikos Odisia reviews coming this weekend where we chat about how kid friendly it is and how adults only friendly it is too. It should add some balance.
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