Community is a powerful part of what makes Fora tick. Our advisors come from a variety of industries and backgrounds, each bringing valuable insight into their role as an entrepreneur. We asked West Coast Fora Advisor Timadge Berkhadley to share her insights on growing a travel business — and her favorite destination.
Specializing in groups and couples travel, Timadge is making her mark in an industry traditionally lacking in diversity. She uses her background in tech to inform her travel advising business, pairing digital savvy with personalized service to bring a fresh perspective to the world of luxury travel.
Connect with Fora Advisor Timadge to get started planning your next trip.
How did you get started with Fora?
I became a Fora advisor in January 2023, initially planning trips for myself and family. I came across an article by another Fora advisor highlighting the perks they could offer — free breakfast, room upgrades — which immediately caught my attention. I had recently left my job and was exploring new opportunities, so I looked into Fora, and the rest was history.
Image courtesy of Timadge Berkhadley
Why is travel advising a good fit for your skill set?
With a background in sales, I developed strong communication skills and a natural ability to connect with clients. Selling products and services had always come easily to me, so transitioning into luxury travel felt like a seamless fit. The main learning curve was understanding the travel industry itself.
What is the most challenging part of running your own travel business?
Beyond working directly with clients, I manage all backend operations — coordinating with hoteliers, VIP-ing clients, handling payments, creating itineraries and following up. It’s a lot to juggle as a one-person team, especially since I also work full-time for a tech startup in a completely different industry.
Images courtesy of Timadge Berkhadley
What resources have helped you grow your business?
Referrals and word-of-mouth are incredibly valuable, and I prioritize building relationships that position me as the go-to travel expert for my clients' future vacations. While I'm actively developing my social media presence, particularly on Instagram and my website, Uniqtrips, my most effective tool is my itinerary builder. Creating visually appealing itineraries is crucial for my clients. It allows them to truly visualize themselves in the experience, which is key to building excitement or that FOMO.
Tell us about a favorite destination.
Turkey is a hidden gem for North American travelers, offering a seamless blend of history, culture and luxury. Situated between Europe and Asia, it provides a unique fusion of East and West, reflected in its architecture, cuisine and hospitality.
From the bustling streets of Istanbul, where ancient palaces meet world-class shopping and fine dining, to the tranquil turquoise waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean, Turkey offers an array of experiences for every type of traveler. History enthusiasts can explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the landscapes of Cappadocia and the grandness of Topkapi Palace for a deep dive into Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. With luxury resorts, Michelin-starred dining and tailored VIP experiences, Turkey is an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking both adventure, culture and elegance.
Images courtesy of Timadge Berkhadley
What are your go-to activities in Turkey?
Turkey offers an incredible range of experiences. Exploring the ancient city of Ephesus provides a fascinating look into Roman history, while the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is a must-see for its breathtaking architecture and cultural significance. A hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s stunning rock formations is an unforgettable experience.
Other favorites include unwinding in a traditional Turkish bath (hammam), navigating the vibrant Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, and savoring Turkey’s rich and diverse cuisine. For nature lovers, Pamukkale’s striking white travertines and a cruise along the stunning Turquoise Coast are also highly recommended.
What are your favorite restaurants in Turkey?
Sunset Grill and Bar: Upscale, fine-dining restaurant with beautiful views of the city and Bosphorus.
Ulus 29: Michelin-recommended restaurant with modern cuisine.
Olden 1772: Upscale modern Turkish cuisine.
What hotels do you recommend in Turkey?
Image courtesy of The Peninsula Istanbul
Sirkeci Mansion is a great option for budget travelers. It's in an ideal location between the Spice Bazaar and Sultanahmet area of Istanbul. It also has a lovely terrace and restaurant onsite.
The Peninsula Istanbul is for the client who wants a chic five-star luxury experience. Situated on the European shores of the Bosphorus Strait, the property was once a cruise terminal. The hotel offers a blend of opulence and tranquility, with beautifully appointed rooms and suites, lush gardens and a range of amenities, including multiple restaurants, swimming pools, a spa with hammams and even a shopping arcade. It is walking distance to all the best shops and in one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in all of Istanbul.
Fora’s Peninsula PenClub partnership perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Mandarin Oriental, Bosphorus, Istanbul is a newer luxury hotel located on the Bosphorus Strait in the upscale Besiktas neighborhood. It stands out for its prime waterfront location with breathtaking views. What truly sets it apart is its exceptional service and guests feeling pampered from arrival to departure. The hotel offers multiple dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, as well as an indoor pool. Its location allows easy access to both the historic sites of Sultanahmet and the vibrant nightlife of the Bosphorus, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion.
Fora’s Fan Club partnership perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.