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Sophie

Malerba

6 years of experience
London
United Kingdom (UK)

Contact Options

Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.

About

I’m a people person and that’s why I love guiding.  I particularly enjoy getting to know new people, understanding what makes them tick, and ensuring that they have the best day for them.  Surprising people and showing them the unexpected is always on the cards, in addition to story telling to weave everlasting memories.

I have been a London Blue Badge Guide for 6 years, however my entire career has been working in the luxury travel business, both in Italy and in in the UK.  Although London is a big city, having nurtured great working relationships throughout the years, it often feels like one big happy family.

During lockdown I have set my dreams into motion, combined my two careers and created a new business, authentiCity, with my fellow Blue Badge colleague Pepe Martinez.  We are known in the industry for offering hugely creative itineraries and a top level of service, and now have set ourselves the challenge of showcasing unique, cutting edge and truly insider tours.  More than ever, the pandemic has shown that London is more than historic buildings, it’s the hugely creative and inspiring people that make the city, and we want to introduce them to guests on our tours and experiences.  

Tours Offered & Destination Knowledge

Bus ToursCultural/Specialty ToursFood & Drink ToursGeneral Walking ToursLarge Group ToursLocal GuidePrivate ToursTour Business Owner/Operator

Destination:

- London

- Day trips from London

Tours:

- Behind the Scenes

- Neighbourhood Tours

- Art Galleries & Street Art

- Fashion

- Gastro Tours

- Theatre

- Sport

Fun Fact!
If I was a colour, I would be orange.
Hobbies & Interests
I love spending time with friends and family, finding a unique buy, going to the theatre, city breaks, trying new restaurants, discovering new art. Anything pop up usually floats my boat.

Testimonials

"Sophie is a savant! Her knowledge of Art and English History is astounding. But, it is her sensitivity and love for both that draws one into a world of beauty and intrigue. Sophie was our perfect travel companion, always keen to our desired pace and needs, and as you must know her, charming, sweet, and fun! As we say in the states, a perfect ten!"

"The evaluations of your guided tours are excellent, so I would like to thank you for your amazing job!"

"I cannot thank you enough for all of your help.  You made the trip for all of us so much fun and so interesting.  The Food Tour and the street art were a big hit with everyone.  We did, in fact, make it Greenwich!!  Really nice day trip - thanks so much for the tip about heading up there.  We toasted you at dinner on Friday and had ice cream at Gelupo as you suggested!"

Details

Gateway Airport(s)

LHR, LGW, LCY, LTN, STN

Licenses

London, UK

Training

Blue Badge London

Language(s)

English, Italian

Additional Education

Masters in Business Administration

BA French & Hispanic Studies

General Availability

Good Availability

Photo Album