The Secret Life of Luxury Travel: How One Woman Redefined Concierge Services

Jaclyn Sienna India established her luxury travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with a determination to succeed despite lacking initial clients. At the time, she would receive calls from potential customers who had seen her articles and expressed interest in various trips, while she had no actual clients to serve. To maintain the appearance of success, she would tell them her services were fully booked with high-net-worth individuals.

Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy has proven effective. She now counts numerous world leaders, including former President George W. Bush, and celebrities like Mariah Carey among her clientele, all of whom earn over $100 million annually. India’s unique appeal lies in her ability to provide experiences that even her affluent clients cannot easily access.

“My clients have immense power and connections, but what differentiates me is the care I provide,” India said, drawing from her five years of experience as a server to understand customer needs. She emphasizes that personal attention and genuine interest are indispensable.

India’s extensive network includes over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector, enabling her to create bespoke travel and dining experiences. She interprets her clients’ visions quickly, utilizing her connections to fulfill their desires.

While luxury is undeniably part of what she offers, India is selective about the experiences she promotes. For example, she does not recommend the renowned French Laundry restaurant in Napa, finding it less exciting compared to other dining options like Single Thread Farms.

Sienna Charles is known for crafting extraordinary experiences, such as arranging a candlelit dinner in Versailles or a brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, India often combines meals with unique encounters, like breakfasts with the Hermes family or lunches with the Fendi family in Rome.

At times, her clients have simpler requests. When President Bush visited Ethiopia, India ensured he had his favorite comfort foods: peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, along with a warm welcome from local children wearing Texas Rangers baseball caps.

Ultimately, India prioritizes authenticity and personal connections, stating, “The world is not just luxury. The world is everything, and my clients desire genuine experiences.” She maintains her commitment to exploring every option—from conversations with taxi drivers to engaging with restaurant staff—to find the most intriguing and authentic offerings for her clientele.

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