> ABOUT US
GMW
Signature Journeys
Bespoke travel — thoughtfully designed, personally experienced. GMW Signature Journeys isn’t a travel agency — it’s a curated travel experience built entirely around you. Whether you’re craving a one-on-one journey or a meaningful group escape, every trip we design is personal, immersive, and one of a kind. We believe that true travel isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about slowing down, going deeper, and creating space for moments that stay with you. Every journey starts with a conversation — and ends with stories you’ll want to tell again and again.
Bespoke Travel Planning
Every journey starts with a personal conversation. From there, we create a custom itinerary tailored to your wishes, travel style, and personality.
Personal Travel Companion
You’re not alone – unless you want to be. One of our dedicated travel companions joins you on the trip, taking care of every detail with calm professionalism and the warmth of a trusted friend.
Seamless Organization
From flights and transfers to daily planning and thoughtful surprises — we handle everything, so you can stay in the moment and simply enjoy.
Meaningful Experiences
Whether it’s a private dinner with locals, hidden natural gems, or handpicked boutique stays – we focus on moments that connect you to the place, the people, and yourself. All tailored to your personal preferences.
> WHO’S BEHIND GMW Signature Journeys
Meet Gerald
With over 30 years of global travel and travel organization experience and more than 100 countries and territories explored, Gerald Meyer-Waeterling is the heart behind GMW Signature Journeys. He doesn’t just plan journeys — he joins them, offering insight, spontaneity, and good company every step of the way. Gerald’s approach is grounded in empathy, cultural curiosity, and a true passion for human connection. Whether you’re sipping tea in a remote mountain village or navigating a bustling market anywhere in this beautiful world — he’s right there with you, making sure every moment feels personal and effortless.
Tunisia
Tunis
Rwanda
Nyungwe
National Park
India
Taj Mahal
> ALL YOU WANT TO KNOW
FAQs
We get it — planning something unique and personal brings up a lot of questions. Whether you’re curious about how it all works, who you’re traveling with, or where you can go, you’re in the right place. This FAQ is designed to give you clarity, peace of mind, and maybe even spark a few new ideas. And if your question isn’t answered here? Just reach out — we’re happy to help.
What is GMW Signature Journeys?
GMW Signature Journeys offers two types of bespoke travel services:
- Traveling with a Friend – a personal, tailor-made journey with one of our travel experts by your side.
- Exclusive Group Gatherings – curated luxury experiences for like-minded people who want to connect, relax, or learn in stunning locations.
What is “Traveling with a Friend”?
This service is for those who want to take an extraordinary journey but would rather not travel alone. We take care of all the research, planning, and bookings for a trip that’s 100% tailored to you — and you’ll be accompanied by a travel expert who feels more like a good friend.
These are not simple round trips from A to B — they’re immersive, often multi-region adventures based entirely on your interests and preferences.
How does “Traveling with a Friend” work?
- Let’s meet (virtually): We start with a video call to get to know you and your travel dreams.
- Rough sketch: We create a first itinerary based on your preferences and present it in a follow-up video meeting.
- Fine-tuning: With your feedback, we refine the plan into a detailed final program.
- Booking: Once approved, we handle all bookings.
- Let’s go! We meet at the starting point of your journey — and then the adventure begins.
Throughout the trip, your travel buddy will join you for meals, drinks, and activities — always nearby when you want company, and respectful when you prefer alone-time.
If unforeseen events like weather changes or strikes occur, your travel buddy will help adjusting plans to keep your experience amazing.
What are “Exclusive Group Gatherings”?
These curated trips bring together like-minded individuals in one-of-a-kind accommodations for:
- Workations – connect and network with inspiring people
- Masterminds – deep dives into topics for professionals and creatives
- Retreats – share passions (e.g. scuba diving, golf) in luxurious settings
Each trip is hosted by a travel expert who ensures everything runs smoothly. Extra services (like coaches, chefs, photographers, etc.) can be arranged on request.
Who is your travel buddy?
Currently, your travel buddy will be Gerald Meyer-Waeterling, the founder of GMW Signature Journeys. As the concept grows, more travel experts will join the team.
Who is Gerald?
Gerald is a passionate globetrotter with 30+ years of experience in organizing leisure and business travel. He’s a member of the Traveler’s Century Club (TCC) and has visited over 100 countries and territories. Based in Germany (but once an honorary Aussie), he speaks fluent English and German, with a dash of French.
Where can I travel with GMW Signature Journeys?
Pretty much anywhere in the world — except high-risk regions. Check the map on our site to see where Gerald’s been (spoiler: not just a few places and still counting). That said, it’s not about him – it’s about where you want to go.
Why should I choose the “Traveling with a Friend” service?
- You want a once-in-a-lifetime trip that’s your style – nothing off the shelf.
- You don’t feel like traveling alone – or simply want good company.
- You prefer a personal companion over a group experience.
- You’re too busy (or just not into) doing all the research and bookings.
- You want someone by your side who knows how to handle everything — with a smile.
- You have special needs (diet, fitness, disability, etc).
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Why should I choose the “Exclusive Group Gathering” service?
- You want to connect with like-minded people around a shared interest.
- You love the idea of networking, learning, or just chilling in a unique setting.
- You value luxury, comfort, and a beautifully organized experience.
- You want everything handled so you can focus on the moment.
Can I travel with a friend or partner I already know instead of a travel buddy?
Yes! If you’d prefer to travel with someone from your circle, we can plan and organize everything for you both — and we won’t include a travel buddy unless requested.
Can I join an existing group trip instead of organizing my own?
Absolutely. Check out our upcoming “Exclusive Group Gatherings” on the website. Join, relax, and connect — no planning stress required.
Can I gift a “Travel with a Friend” journey to someone?
Yes, and what an amazing gift that would be! Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a retirement treat or a once-in-a-lifetime surprise, we’ll help you design the perfect experience for them.
What if I have special needs (FITNESS, diet, disability, etc.)?
No worries — everyone is welcome.
- Food restrictions? We’ll take care of that in advance.
- On a fitness plan? We’ll choose suitable accommodation and support you throughout.
- Mobility challenges or other needs? We’ll discuss this in our first meeting to ensure your travel expert is the right fit and your needs are fully supported.
What is the cost?
This is not for low-budget travelers.
- Traveling with a Friend: You cover the travel expenses for yourself and your travel buddy plus a daily fee, depending on trip length, destination, and luxury level.
- Exclusive Group Gatherings: Prices vary and are published with each trip on our website.
How much time will I spend with my travel buddy?
Your travel buddy is there to enjoy the trip with you – joining you for activities, meals, and fun. Of course, everyone needs rest and personal space (you included!), so it’s a flexible arrangement – just like real friends on the road.
Can I book at short notice?
We recommend booking at least 2 months in advance to give us time to craft something truly unforgettable. That said, if you’ve got spontaneous energy – get in touch and we’ll see what we can do!
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
We understand that plans can change. We’ll go over cancellation policies and options during the planning phase. Our goal: to be as flexible as possible while respecting the terms of partners we book with.
How can I ask more questions or book a first meeting?
Just fill out the contact form on our website or send an email to
info@gmwsignaturejourneys.com – we’d love to hear from you!
> TRAVEL MAP
Discover the world – and all the places we’ve already been
This map highlights the countries and territories we’ve explored so far. And if your dream destination is not marked yet? Then we’ll add it together.
Discover just how vast the world is – and how close it can feel with the right travel companion
We list countries and territories according to the guidelines of the Travelers’ Century Club. The Travelers’ Century Club (TCC) divides the world into 330 territories, including not only sovereign states but also clearly defined geographic, political, or cultural regions such as islands, overseas territories, and autonomous areas. The goal is to capture travel experiences more precisely than traditional country lists.
Antarctica
Atlantic Ocean
Caribbean
Central America
Europe
Greek Aegean Islands (Cyclades, Dodecanese, Northern Aegean Islands)
Indian Ocean
Middle East
North America
Pacific Ocean
Our Approach
Discover the World
No two people are the same. Neither are our journeys.
Each trip is crafted from scratch — built around who you are, what moves you, and how you want to experience the world. We don’t do templates. We do personal. Fully, deeply, and with heart.
01
It’s not just business. It’s connection.
Whether you travel one-on-one or in a group — it’s all about trust, empathy, and understanding. Your travel companion is not a guide on autopilot, but someone who listens, adapts, and makes your journey feel safe, fun, and meaningful.
02
You dream it — we handle the rest.
Planning a trip can be exhausting. We take that weight off your shoulders. From research to bookings, from logistics to local surprises — everything is handled with care and clarity, so you can simply enjoy the ride.
03
Places are beautiful. People make them unforgettable.
We believe in travel that goes deeper — beyond checklists and clichés. It’s about conversations, insights, unexpected laughter, and the kind of experiences that shift something inside you.
04
> Real stories. Real journeys. Real connections.
Blog & Stories
Read reflections, trip reports, and behind-the-scenes moments from recent GMW Signature Journeys. Get inspired, learn from others — or just enjoy some beautiful travel moments. Our blog is a space for storytelling: the unexpected, the moving, the hilarious, the unforgettable. Because sometimes the best part of a journey is how it lives on in the stories we share.
Djibouti – Between Fire, Salt and the Sea
– Travel Stories –Djibouti Between Fire, Salt and the SeaGetting There and First ImpressionsDjibouti is a small country in the Horn of Africa that most people know very little about — and therefore rarely consider as a travel destination. The purpose of this trip was...
The Azores – A Journey Through Volcanic Beauty
– Travel Stories –The Azores A Journey Through Volcanic BeautyGetting There and First ImpressionsThe Azores is an archipelago of nine volcanic islands scattered across the North Atlantic Ocean. You can reach them easily by flying from Portugal or the U.S. They’re...

