My Expertise



James Jefferson
Hi, I’m James — founder of Journeys by JJ, and an Independent Travel Expert with a genuine passion for designing trips that feel seamless, thoughtful, and completely stress-free.
In 2023, I took a career break from government to travel the world — spending a year across five continents and visiting 19 new countries, bringing my total to over 35. From tuk-tuks in Sri Lanka to trekking the Himalayas, island-hopping through Indonesia to scuba diving off Gili T, and hiking volcanoes in Mexico to road-tripping Australia’s east coast — the experience completely reshaped how I think about travel.
More than just memories, it gave me real-world insight — into what makes a trip meaningful, and how to design experiences that feel genuinely personal. That’s the foundation of Journeys by JJ – Independent Travel Expert, where I help busy professionals book tailored holidays with confidence and ease. Everything is professionally arranged under the trusted Independent Travel Expert network, with full financial protection and ATOL cover where applicable — from flights and accommodation to cruises, packages, and more.
If you love to travel but don’t have time to research, plan, or book it all — I’m here to help through Journeys by JJ, with expert guidance and a client-first approach.
When you book with me, you’re getting more than a trip — you’re getting a carefully crafted journey, built around your preferences, backed by trusted protection, and delivered with personal care.
Let’s find your next journey — and make it one to remember.
Through My Lens
Every photo in this gallery was taken by me, on my own travels — from quiet alleyways in Kyoto to sun-soaked rooftops in Puglia. These aren’t stock images; they’re real moments from real journeys.
I believe the best travel is lived and felt — and sometimes, a single image can say more than a whole itinerary.
Browse the gallery for inspiration, atmosphere, and a glimpse into the kind of considered, culturally rich experiences I love to create for my clients.
Where I’ve Been
This map tells the story of a traveller turned travel expert.
From the lantern-lit streets of Kyoto to the surf towns of Sri Lanka, I’ve explored more than 30 countries across five continents — often solo, always with curiosity. These journeys have shaped the way I plan: thoughtfully, creatively, and with genuine, real-world insight.
Every destination I book is informed by places I’ve personally experienced — so when we plan your trip, it’s grounded in knowledge, not guesswork.
Let’s find the next one together.