Avila Travel Hilda Gonzalez van der Wel

Owner of Avila Reizen

Hilda Gonzalez

Because of my half-Chilean, half-Venezuelan roots, the first long-haul trip of my life was to the Netherlands. What has now become my home country was, at the time, an exotic adventure and a wonderful experience. The historic cities made a particular impression on me, but I also learnt that, for me, it is culture and connecting with people that really bring a journey to life. This undoubtedly ties in with what has long been close to my heart: my desire to be involved in social projects. When I met Tim in Venezuela, alongside my work as a lawyer in Caracas, I was also involved in projects aimed at helping disadvantaged people and offering them opportunities; and even today, at Avila Reizen, I enjoy focusing on issues such as sustainability and supporting the local community.

Travel...

...and I absolutely love the travel industry. Ever since the early days, I’ve been building relationships with unique accommodation providers, embassies and the media to build the right connections, and during the many trips I’ve taken over the past twelve years, I’ve developed a particular fondness for exceptional boutique accommodation and what I might best describe as ‘once-in-a-lifetime experiences’. Together with Tim, we have steered Avila Reizen towards becoming a specialist in experiential travel. I look back with satisfaction, enjoy the present and look forward to the future with a smile. Especially now that we’ve started a family and can show our children the wonders of our beautiful world.