…She is a real person!
One of the most common questions we hear at Wendy Wu Tours is – is Wendy Wu a real person? She absolutely is!
Born in Tibet, Wendy has overseen Wendy Wu Tours’ exponential growth from one small tour to China 22 years ago, to a global entity that takes thousands of travellers to Asia each year.
Potala Palace, Tibet
Today, March 8, is International Women’s Day – a global day to celebrate the achievements of women. The theme for International Women’s Day 2017 is Be Bold for Change. So, we caught up our bold founder and mentor, Wendy Wu.
How did growing up in Tibet and China influence you?
It gave me a love of mountains and challenges. I love climbing mountains and overcoming challenges. The bigger the challenge, the more I am motivated to conquer it! I also spent a lot of time travelling with my parents through China as a child. It instilled in me a love of China and the different experiences people can have in such a vast country.
What did you learn from the first tours you sent to China over 22 years ago?
So many things that have made Wendy Wu Tours the market leader for Asia travel. China is a very big country and there are so many different places, cultures, heritage sites, food, etc to see, do and try. Early on, I discovered that to plan an excellent itinerary, the highlights of interesting cities and the countryside should be included. Travellers love opportunities for cultural exchanges. These generally make travel to a country like China so special.
Wendy on the 1st Chinese New Year tour
What do you think is the biggest issue facing women today?
Unfortunately, some women must choose between a career and family. They are made to feel inferior if they choose to devote themselves to raising a family and taking up supportive roles. I would love all women to be able to make their mark in the world in their own right – however they choose that to be! I am very lucky that my husband is supportive of my career. He encourages my love of travelling the world and helping others to do so.
Who has been the biggest influence on your success?
I have many mentors both inside and outside of Wendy Wu Tours. There are way too many to mention and I would hate to forget anyone!
Wendy with Christine & Amanda – the 1st Wendy Wu Tours team!
What keeps you motivated and driven on an everyday basis?
I have a strong desire to build and belong to something far greater than myself and to do something extraordinary!
Who are your female icons?
Margaret Thatcher and Marie Curie. Margaret Thatcher broke the mould for women in politics in Britain. I spend a lot of my time in London and I still see evidence of this today. There are many women in high-achieving political and business roles. Marie Curie has long been an icon of mine for many years. I studied chemistry when I was younger and the discoveries she made were ground-breaking.
What advice would you give to women considering starting their own business?
Just do it! Set your goals towards an exciting career, no matter if you are starting your own business or joining a wonderful company. As long as you aim high and are dedicated to what you do, you will find fulfillment.
Wendy Wu at a function in Sydney
Would you like to explore some of Wendy’s most favourite places in China and Tibet? Check out our amazing range of tours!
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