Our
Story
Welcome to a new era of business travel.
When we think about business travel, we often imagine jet-setting executives, luxurious hotels, and high-stakes meetings. But beneath this glamorous façade lies a reality many don’t see: the loneliness, the isolation, and the mental toll of constant movement. This is the problem RAVL seeks to solve.
At the heart of RAVL's mission is a deep understanding of human connection. Our founder, Andy Cairns, spent 25 years as a management consultant, travelling extensively. During those travels, Andy experienced the profound loneliness that comes with being away from home, away from loved ones, and away from a support network. He saw firsthand the impact this had on his mental health and productivity. But he also saw an opportunity—a chance to turn this isolation into connection, this solitude into community.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Andy pitched the idea to his good friends David Plane and Neil Eagleton, both frequent business travellers. They immediately saw the value in this vision. The three became co-founders, united by a common goal: to transform the business travel experience and address the hidden challenges it presents.
RAVL was born from a simple but powerful idea: to transform every business trip into an opportunity for connection and growth. It's not just about finding someone to have dinner with—it's about creating meaningful relationships, sharing experiences, and building a community of travellers who support each other, no matter where they are in the world.
Imagine a platform where every journey is enriched with new possibilities. You arrive in a new city, and instead of spending the evening alone in a hotel room, you connect with fellow travellers who share your interests. You attend curated events that go beyond the usual networking mixers—events that are designed to foster real connections, from wellness activities to cultural experiences.
Our research shows that 73% of business travellers feel negative emotions while on work trips. This isn’t just about feeling sad; it has real implications for mental health. Studies indicate higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues among frequent travellers. RAVL addresses these challenges head-on by promoting social interactions that can prevent serious health outcomes.
RAVL is about more than just professional networking—it's about holistic well-being. By connecting travellers through shared experiences and interests, we improve their ability to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. We promote healthier lifestyles, better sleep, and overall improved quality of life.
Think about the impact on productivity. Contrary to popular belief, frequent travel can reduce productivity. The fatigue, stress, and disconnection from normal routines can take a toll. But when travellers feel connected and supported, their focus and efficiency improve. RAVL turns business travel from a necessary burden into an enriching experience that boosts performance.
Let's talk about relationships. Business travel often strains personal relationships. The absence from home, the disruption of family life—these are real issues. RAVL helps to mitigate this by creating a support network that makes travellers feel less alone and more engaged, even when they're miles away from home.
RAVL is more than an app—it's a movement. We partner with local businesses to offer special deals and discounts, encouraging travellers to explore their destinations and support local economies. We organise events that go beyond the usual, bringing together professionals in ways that foster genuine connections.
Andy Cairns
A 25-year veteran of management consultancy, business transformation and technology implementation, Andy is a frequent business traveller who understands the frustrations of life on the road.
David Plane
An experienced medical sales professional, accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Dave is a serial entrepreneur and investor of a number of interesting organisations.