Anna Koh and Tay Lay Suan founded Stilettos Travel, Singapore’s first and only travel company dedicated to women’s travel. They offer a unique buddy-pairing service, helping women find like-minded travel buddies.

How did you come up with the idea for this company?
Tay Lay Suan: We noticed that travel agencies could not cater specifically to our needs, interests and safety requirements. On top of this, we found our female friends often unable to find travel companions.

What were the biggest challenges you faced?
TLS: Women-only tours have been around in the West for more than 10 years. However, getting Asian customers to buy into this new concept takes time and patience.

Do you have any advice for budding entrepreneurs?
TLS: Be prepared to do what it takes and don’t be afraid of making mistakes. After all, you only live once.

How do you see the business growing over time?
Anna Koh: Singaporeans love traveling. Women, whether single, married or retired do it. We expect our business to show healthy growth.

Why was the Singapore market suitable?
AK: Ladies in Singapore are adventurous, mature and sophisticated. They want to interact with foreign people and experience overseas culture. At the same time, they enjoy doing feminine things and like to travel without their family in tow.

What do you think of the startup scene in Singapore?
AK: Definitely vibrant! New businesses are sprouting everyday and the founders are younger too.

What are your expansion plans?
AK: Our target is to add 10 new locations in the next 12 months. We will also extend our reach to women outside of Singapore, to the entire region.

Advertisement

Leave a Comment