> WHO’S BEHIND
GMW Signature Journeys
Hi, I’m Gerald – founder of GMW Signature Journeys and your personal travel designer. My own love affair with travel began early, driven by curiosity, creativity, and a desire to truly connect with people and places.
Over the years, I’ve stayed in way more than a thousand hotels, from very simple to super luxurious, explored over 100 countries and territories, and – most importantly – learned what makes a journey unforgettable. I created GMW Signature Journeys because I wanted to offer something different: a more human, more thoughtful and more personal approach to luxury travel, and a new possibility for people to experience the feeling of friendship during an extraordinary trip.
Gerald Meyer-Waeterling
“To me, travel is about new experiences and building relationships. A good journey will create memories that will last a life long.”
> WHO’S BEHIND
Philosophy & Inspiration
Behind GMW Signature Journeys is Gerald – a believer in meaningful moments and mindful travel. For him, it’s not just about five-star hotels or ticking off bucket lists. It’s about soul. About slowing down, diving deep, and discovering the unexpected – within a destination, and within yourself.
The idea for GMW Signature Journeys was born somewhere between a road trip through the Baltic states of Lithuania / Latvia / Estonia and mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda – moments that showed him how transformative travel can be. Gerald realized that not everyone is blessed with having a partner one can share such amazing experiences with. Travel with a friend has the potential to escape routine, leave loneliness behind, and rediscover joy in shared adventure.
His philosophy? Travel is not a product. It’s a craft. Every journey is curated with heart, intention, and a sense of wonder. That’s why GMW Signature Journeys are never off-the-shelf – they’re tailor-made. Inspired by real conversations, real passions, and your unique rhythm.
Whether you dream of a sunrise hike on Table Mountain or a tasting weekend in Champagne – Gerald listens and will do his utmost to turn your dreams into a reality.
Because travel, when done well, is the most personal thing in the world.
COUNTRIES AND TERRITORRIES VISITED
TCC (TRAVELERS' CENTURY CLUB), MTP (most traveled people) and nomadmania
YEARS TRAVEL ORGANIZATION EXPERIENCE
7 QUICK FACTS ABOUT ME
How would you describe yourself – in one sentence?
A curious globetrotter with a thing for planning in detail – but never without space for spontaneity.
How many countries and regions have you traveled to?
Never enough.
Best food you’ve ever had on a trip?
I’m cursed with a sweet tooth, so I’d say ice cream from Gelateria Cremi in Arezzo, Tuscany – pure dolce vita in a cone.
What’s always in your luggage?
An open mind – it doesn’t take up space but makes every trip lighter.
What can’t you travel without?
Clearly my phone – no wait, that’s what I can’t live without. What I truly can’t travel without is a plan flexible enough to throw out the window.
City that stole your heart instantly?
Sydney – for its people, the perfect climate, and that rare mix of beach life and culture.
Your personal signature travel motto?
Never stop trying out something new.