From Germany to Japan
— A Luxury Travel Career

From Publishing in Germany to a Luxury Travel Career in Japan

For some, a career path is a straight line. For others, it’s a journey of discovery, guided by a compass of passion and a desire for growth. Susann, a Travel Coordinator at Xperisus, belongs to the latter. Originally from Germany with a background in publishing, her love for travel and a deep-seated appreciation for Japanese culture led her to a new life and career in Japan.

After seven years in the travel industry, a feeling of stagnation sparked her search for a new challenge, which she found at Xperisus. Join us as we explore Susann’s journey, her professional philosophy, and her unique perspective on what makes working at Xperisus a truly rewarding experience.

Why Xperisus? – A Quest for a Deeper Connection to Japan

Could you walk us through your career path and what led you to Xperisus?

“My journey began in Germany, where I studied Publishing. It was an exchange semester in Oxford, however, that truly ignited my interest in travel. My husband and I had traveled to Japan many times and fell in love with it, so in 2018, we decided to move here to live and work.

I started my career in the travel business, and it quickly became a passion of mine to make clients’ dreams of experiencing Japan come true. However, after seven years, I felt I was stagnating. I needed something more. That’s when I discovered Xperisus. The position offered a more global, B2B-focused approach within the luxury sector, which I found fascinating.

But the ultimate deciding factor was the company’s vision. During my interviews, I was deeply impressed by our shared goal: to show travelers the real Japan through a focus on authentic experiences. The idea of creating lifelong memories for guests, of connecting them to the heart of Japanese culture, resonated with me on a profound level. That’s the mission I wanted to be a part of.”

The Joy of Creating Lifelong Memories

What is the most rewarding part of being a Travel Coordinator?

“The most rewarding part is seeing clients leave Japan happy and fulfilled. It’s also about building amazing relationships with the travel agents we work with, fostering a partnership that brings them back to us again and again.

We pour so much thought into every single detail of a tour, and it’s incredible to see it all come together. It’s not about just ticking off sights A, B, and C; it’s about crafting a narrative. We want our clients to truly understand Japanese culture and dive deep into the experience. I feel a great sense of pride in my work when I know we’ve provided an experience that is truly unique, authentic, and unforgettable.”

Finding Calm in Complexity

This role can be demanding. How do you navigate its challenges?

“Communication is a huge part of this role, and it can certainly be challenging. Clients might change their minds, or we might face time constraints during peak seasons. In those moments, you have to be creative, find alternatives, and keep clients updated every step of the way.

But it’s through these very challenges that you learn and grow. You learn to prioritize, to streamline your processes, and to manage complexity with a calm and organized approach. You learn that clear, efficient, and empathetic communication is key. Every challenge is an opportunity to refine your skills.”

The Speed and Autonomy of a Start-up Culture

What does Xperisus’s “start-up spirit” mean to you in practice?

“Xperisus truly lives and breathes the start-up spirit. We are evolving so quickly, and I absolutely love it. What’s most empowering is the level of responsibility and autonomy you are given. You are in charge of your own work and have the freedom to develop in the direction you want. Our opinions matter here, and you really feel that. This environment of rapid, collaborative evolution is what makes our culture so exciting.”

Feeling the Momentum of Company Growth

As an insider, when do you most feel the company’s rapid growth?

“The energy is palpable. It’s always exciting to get updates from management and see the innovative projects other teams are developing. The most tangible sign of our growth is the constant influx of new talent. We are hiring many new people who bring fresh perspectives and help us get closer to our ambitious goals. It’s wonderful to be in an environment where sharing knowledge is part of the daily fabric.”

The Common Traits of High-Performers

What are the most essential skills and attitudes needed to excel in this role?

“Strong communication and being highly organized are crucial. You need to be good at managing many tasks at once, working quickly while taking care of every minute detail. Our team is also very diverse, and we rely on each other’s personal strengths. This collaborative spirit allows us to achieve a higher level of excellence together.”

Collaboration and a Shared Vision

Could you describe your team’s dynamic?

“As a sales team, we are constantly exchanging information and asking for advice. This culture of sharing is fundamental to our success. What I truly appreciate is the transparency from the management side as well. You always know the company’s vision and the next steps. This shared understanding keeps us all aligned and motivated.”

Exploring Beyond the Golden Route

As the company accelerates its growth, what are you excited to take on?

“I am excited to continue developing our partnerships with agents. Personally, I want to challenge myself by proposing more off-the-beaten-path travel. My goal is to inspire clients to return to Japan to experience its deeper, less-traveled beauty. I also want to attend more luxury travel shows to spread awareness of our unique services. The luxury travel industry is always evolving, and I am eager to learn and grow with it.”

The Ideal New Teammate

What kind of person would you be excited to work alongside?

“A new colleague who is dedicated and passionate about luxury travel is always a fantastic addition. We value diversity and new approaches. Since we all come from different professional backgrounds, exchanging ideas is incredibly enriching. A collaborative spirit is essential.”

A Message for Future Candidates

Finally, what would you say to someone who is intrigued by Xperisus?

“I am a strong advocate for following your passion. I can say with confidence that Xperisus offers incredible opportunities for those who are passionate about this work. We are a tight-knit team, and we thrive because we play to our individual strengths. Yes, it can be challenging as expectations are high, but the work is also immensely rewarding. Here, you are given the responsibility and the autonomy to truly shape your own future. If you feel that spark of passion, I encourage you to take the leap.”