Katie Barratt

Wine Educator & Journey Director

For Katie Barratt (a.k.a The Wine Fairy), one of Art In Voyage’s two permanent wine educators and experts, wine is so much more than what is in the bottle. It is the stories beyond the glass, the people, the vineyards, the secrets of the cellar. It is the culture, the history, and the joy that wine brings. It is the emotion, the beauty, and the magnificent scenery. Wine is a magical experience. Well, it can be, if you let it.

Katie is passionate about demystifying the mysteries of wine and sharing joy, knowledge, and laughter with anyone who’s willing to join her. Katie has dedicated her life to learning about wine. Through her studies and 27 years of experience in hospitality, food and wine, she delivers to her guests a wealth of knowledge, enhancing their experience and understanding of everything food and wine.

Her extensive travel experience also makes Katie a unique journey director for Art In Voyage, one who always goes above & beyond for her guests and their entertainment.

One on One with Katie

In which city did you grow up?

Great Haywood UK and Johannesburg SA

When did you first realize that travel meant something more to you?

When I went to Canada in 1998

5-Star Hotel or Private Villa?

Either works, just no tents please.

What’s the one travel tip that you always share with all your friends/guests?

Always leave a little space in your suitcase for wine

What are your top 3 cities or towns?

Paris, Cape Town, Knysna

What has been your most spiritual travel experience?

Following the footsteps of St Francis of Assissi on our trip to Italy

Who will you never travel with again?

Now that would be telling...

What is the most stand out restaurant experience you’ve had recently?

Chef's Table at The Belmond Mount Nelson

What was your biggest travel faux pas?

No such thing, other than getting on a boat.

New York, Milan or Hong Kong?

New York

What’s the most adventurous travel experience you’ve ever had?

South African Safaris... Walking in the African Bush with the The Big 5

What’s next on your travel bucket list?

It's a long list but probably London and Paris.

What do you do to relax and unwind in your personal time?

Go to a movie, walk on the beach, drink wine and exhale.

Plane, train or automobile?

Option 1

French Riviera or Swiss Alps?

French Riviera

When did you know that your career would be travel related?

Option 1

If you could invite 5 celebrity guests along on your next vacation, who would they be?

Graham Norton, Queen Elizabeth 2, David Attenborough, Michael Buble, James Martin

What home comfort do you miss the most when travelling?

My Chanel Collection

Which country makes the best coffee?

Italy

Canon, Nikon, Sony, Hasselblad or Fuji?

Doesn't matter, I'm in front of the camera, not behind it.

Katie's gallery