Gabriele Giuffrida
Born in Sicily (Italy) I discovered the pleasure of travelling during my childhood, going all around Italy on board of an old FIAT with my father…
I graduated in Economy of Tourism and then completed a master in Tourism Management at Venice’s University. For 15 years, I lived and travelled throughout the 5 continents, working in tourism as guide and product manager for different Tour Operators.
Back to Italy in 2000, I founded Mandala Tour, the first Sicilian Tour operator specialised in adventure holidays. On 2012 I moved to France, following my french wife. I live now in "Haute Savoy" an amazing region located between the Alps and the Mediterranean.
I finally created here the branch office of Mandala Tour, splitting my time between hiking around the nicest corners of France and providing tips and recommendations to discover France off the beaten path.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I'm specialist in adventure holidays and I can customized tailor made trips in some of the most beautiful regions of France. Dordogne, Provence and Brittany are my favourites and best known destinations. I love their wonderful nature, the authentic cultures and the amazing food and wine experiences..."
How did you get involved in travel?
"When I was 17 years old, I did my first trip alone crossing Europe by train from Sicily to North Cape (Norway). It was a great experience discovering the Scandinavian countries and their amazing nature. From that moment I decided to work in tourism, travelling all around the world....
Life is too short to visit the world.... the easiest solution was to make travelling my own job!"
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"I discovered the passion for adventure travel after a pilgrimage tour in Tibet around Mt. Kailash on 2001. It was the most difficult trip of my life, but also the deepest experience for my personal growth."