In this edition we talk to Matthew Upchurch, the inspirational CEO of luxury Travel Network, Virtuoso. Matthew sits on many Industry and Customer Advisory Boards and is in the Travel and Cruise Hall of Fames. Matthew talks about the early years of Upchurch Travel, Allied and Percival and ultimately the launch of Virtuoso. Matthew covers some key milestones, strategic decisions and a little luck that allowed Virtuoso to grow exponentially in the face of challenges including: the removal of airline commissions, global events such as 9/11 and the advent of the Internet and introduction of online power houses: Expedia and Travelocity. Enjoy the first part of this fascinating travel success story !